COVID-19 has proven to be a formidable, damaging virus. There are reported complications from COVID-19 infection affecting all different parts of the body, which has led many to wonder whether the virus could be damaging to patients’ teeth as well. 

Here, we’ll discuss the potential of tooth damage from COVID-19 and what you can do to reduce your risk of oral health problems. 

The COVID-19 Pandemic

Since the COVID-19 pandemic only emerged two years ago, there are still many unanswered questions about its impact on people’s long-term health. More research needs to be done into potential tooth damage from the virus. However, early studies have shown that COVID-19 may have the potential to impact the teeth. [Read more…]

There’s a significant connection between diabetes and various oral health risks. Unfortunately, people with diabetes have a higher risk of developing gum disease, mouth infections, and dry mouth. 

If you have diabetes, it’s extremely important to consistently practice good oral hygiene and visit your dentist twice per year for routine exams. Not only will this help keep your mouth healthy, but it can also help with blood sugar management.  [Read more…]

You’ve probably heard that stress can negatively impact your mental and physical health. But, did you know that stress can also harm your teeth over time? Some of the most common effects of stress on oral health include:

Grinding and Clenching

Stress can cause grinding or clenching of the teeth, which is often involuntary. Most people who grind and/or clench their teeth tend to do so in their sleep, but it can also occur during the day.  [Read more…]

The fall season is upon us, and that means several delicious foods are officially in season. While many treats traditionally enjoyed in autumn aren’t good for your teeth, other fall goodies can actually benefit your oral health. 

This fall, make sure to reach for the right foods for your dental health, such as:

Pumpkin

Pumpkin is the quintessential fall flavor. Luckily, it also provides numerous benefits for the health of your mouth. Pumpkin is rich in:

• Vitamin A, which helps your mouth produce a healthy amount of saliva to remove bacteria from between the teeth. Vitamin A can also support the healing process for damaged, diseased gums. 
• Magnesium, which works together with calcium to form a strong enamel on your teeth and prevent decay. 
• Zinc; consuming enough zinc can help you avoid dental problems including bleeding gums and weak bones.

[Read more…]

Many dental appliances simply don’t last forever, especially if they’re put under strain from clenching or grinding. To preserve your oral health and prevent discomfort, you may need to occasionally have your appliance adjusted or replaced by your dentist.

If you have dentures, crowns, or a bridge, read on to learn the signs that your appliance needs servicing. 

Inflammation and Pain

Swelling, redness, and pain around your dental appliance is a telltale sign that something is wrong. In this case, the appliance may be damaged, allowing plaque and bacteria to accumulate around it. Inflammation may also indicate that the appliance doesn’t fit correctly, causing it to dig into the gums. [Read more…]

Tooth decay can result from multiple factors, including poor oral hygiene, bacteria in the mouth, and consuming sugary foods or drinks. Once a tooth has begun to decay, it’s important to get it treated promptly to avoid further damage. The best way to deal with your case of tooth decay will depend on the extent of the damage and your personal needs. 

Stages of Tooth Decay

Tooth decay occurs in stages. If it’s caught in an early stage, the decay can be resolved with less intensive treatments. 

The five main stages of tooth decay include: [Read more…]

Dental emergencies can often be stressful and painful, making it crucial to take action quickly. Seeking out professional care as soon as possible is important for all dental emergencies, but you may have to wait for a short period of time before seeing your dentist, especially if the emergency occurs outside of office hours. Understanding what to do immediately after a dental emergency occurs can help ensure the best possible outcome for your oral health. 

Common dental emergencies include:

Broken Permanent Tooth

Eating something very hard blows to the mouth, and even untreated cavities can result in broken teeth. If one of your teeth breaks, the first step that you should take is to find the tooth fragment, if possible. If you do find one or multiple fragments, keep them to bring them to your dentist. If the broken tooth resulted from a mouth injury, clean the injured area with warm water, cover it with a cold cloth, and schedule an emergency appointment with your dentist.  [Read more…]