Dental Health Blog
Expert advice, tips, and information about dental health from Dr. O'Kane and the team at Castlemill Dental.
How Long Should Retainers Be Worn?
After finishing an orthodontic treatment, your dentist will recommend that you wear a retainer so that the teeth don’t shift back to their original position.
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The Effect of Diabetes on Dental Health
If you have diabetes, you are more prone to dental health problems. That’s why it’s important to see your dentist regularly.
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What Happens During a Dental Cleaning?
It is always important to have your teeth cleaned by a professional on a regular basis, as this is the best way to prevent issues such as cavities and periodontal disease.
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When Can Dental Problems Wait (Or Not)?
It is always important to seek professional help if you are experiencing issues with your teeth and gums. Examples include bleeding, severe pain and swelling.
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The Main Causes Of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer affects hundreds of thousands of people all over the world. Knowing its main causes can help us take measures to prevent its appearance.
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Early Detection of Dental Diseases
Regular check-ups with your dentist are vital in detecting oral health problems at an early stage. Treating dental problems early not only helps reduce the impact they have on your teeth but also on y...
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Does a Tooth Gap Need Fixing?
A gap between teeth can be the result of genetics or lifestyle. Some gaps are harmless but other gaps can cause dental problems:
Read MoreDamon Braces
Damon Braces
Read MoreGum Disease Silent Assassin
Gum Disease Silent Assassin
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Orthodontic Trends in Recent Years
It is now easier than ever before to enjoy an attractive and straight set of teeth. This is due in large part to advancements in orthodontics, thanks to new technology and materials.
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Repair or Replace? Dealing with a Broken Tooth
Chipping or cracking a tooth can be a slightly traumatic experience. One of the issues involves whether a repair will suffice or a replacement is in order. Let us look at three situations as well as w...
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Partial Denture Can Replace Your Missing Teeth
Partial dentures can be a good option to replace one or several missing teeth. The custom-made dentures are designed to look natural and your dentist can advise if you are a suitable candidate.
Read MoreInsignia Braces – The future of braces is now!
If you’re self-conscious about your teeth and you’d love a new smile, you might be considering braces. However, many patients find braces to be a daunting prospect.
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All About Sensitive Teeth and Gums
Sensitive teeth and gums can result in discomfort and avoiding certain foods and drinks that are hot, cold or acidic:
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Foods that Benefit Your Oral Health
Did you know that specific foods can actually reduce the chances of dental problems? These foods boast a number of benefits, so it is wise to take a look at three choices which can add a bit of much-n...
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Gingivitis: The Causes and Your Treatment Options
Gingivitis is a serious condition which affects the teeth and gums. While one of the most common causes is poor oral hygiene, other factors such as hormonal changes and even specific medications can c...
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All-on-Four Implants
If you are missing an entire upper or bottom row of teeth, you might talk to your dentist about All-on-Four dental implants. This involves either a bridge or a denture that are firmly attached to your...
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Sleep Apnoea: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
Sleep apnoea is a health condition that involves the blockage of the airway during sleep. The blockage reduces the inflow of oxygen, resulting in breath shortness and snoring.
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The Value of the Tooth Fairy
A child has 20 baby teeth which they will begin to lose between age 5 to 7, to be replaced by their 32 adult teeth. For years parents have used the idea of the tooth fairy to mark the loss of each bab...
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E-Cigarettes Can Damage Your Gums
Although e-cigarettes are considered a healthier alternative to traditional cigarettes, research suggests they may be equally detrimental to oral health:
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Bad Habits Which Can Harm Your Teeth
There are a number of bad habits we can fall in to which have a harmful effect on our teeth and gums. Replacing these habits with better solutions can improve our oral health.
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The Importance of Cleaning the Tongue
Regular dentist appointments play a key role in the health of the body overall. If the tongue is not cleaned as part of a good oral care routine, it can lead to an increase in unhealthy microbes reach...
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Dental Care after Middle Age
Taking good care of our teeth is a lifetime’s work that starts in the earliest years. Proper brushing and flossing, seeing a dentist regularly and watching what we eat and drink are all part of a good...
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The Basics Of Dental Care For Schoolchildren
Every child should have a solid dental routine in place by the time they start going to school. Here are the basic principles to keep in mind:
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Proper Dental Care Tips for Adults
It is necessary for every adult to practice good oral hygiene. Whether at home or on vacation, ensure that you’re keeping your teeth and gums clean and healthy.
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Reasons To Choose Composite Fillings
Materials used in fillings have advanced in recent times with composite fillings used more often now than amalgam. Composite fillings are tooth-coloured and are designed to blend in with your teeth.
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Snoring, the Main Symptom of Sleep Apnoea
While heavy snoring can be annoying to your partner, it can also be an indication of something more serious, a condition called sleep apnoea. This occurs when the airways close when you’re sleeping, m...
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How Cosmetic Dentistry Could Work for You
If you are thinking of improving the appearance of your smile, you should consult with your dentist about cosmetic dentistry. Modern cosmetic dentistry can provide solutions to a number of dental issu...
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Dental Problems Which May Need Emergency Treatment
Emergency! You have an issue with your teeth or gums which needs immediate attention from a dentist. Treating such emergencies early can prevent further serious problems developing.
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10 Tips to Beat Bad Breath
Most people do not usually realise they have bad breath and often need a loved one to tell them. Regular dentist check-ups can help prevent dental problems which may cause bad breath.
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Signs You May Have a Cracked Tooth
A cracked tooth is not always visible and can be hard to detect. An untreated cracked tooth can lead to further pain and dental issues, therefore you should visit your dentist if you suspect one of yo...
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Causes & Prevention of Cavities
Cavities are holes in the teeth caused by tooth decay. Tooth decay occurs when bacteria in the mouth produce acid which destroys the enamel and the layer beneath it.
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How to Look After a New Filling
There are some precautions you should take to protect a dental filling and allow the mouth to heal. Your dentist will advise you on the type of filling used in the cavity and the length of time it wil...
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The Causes of Receding Gums and Treatment
Gums protect the tooth roots, so when gums recede there is an increased risk of tooth loss. A receding gumline is when the gums pull from the teeth and expose the roots.
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The Harm Acid Reflux Can Do to Your Teeth
The powerful acids in the stomach can occasionally move up into the esophagus, causing a condition called acid reflux. This in turn can cause heartburn, a common issue that can hurt your teeth.
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Busting Dental Myths
Brushing teeth twice daily is the recommended routine but the dentist will also stress that WHEN you brush your teeth is equally important. Many believe that brushing at any time of the day is adequat...
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How Effective is a Root Canal in Saving A Natural Tooth?
When the root of a tooth dies due to decay, the best option is root canal therapy rather than extraction. A dentist can advise you on the benefits of a root canal.
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Gum Disease Linked to Health Conditions
Gum disease is a common oral condition, but research indicates it is linked to other serious health issues. Inflammation and bacteria associated with gum disease could affect other areas of the body.
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How Often Should We Have a Dental X-Ray?
It is very common for a dentist to x-ray your mouth in order to determine the state of his or her teeth. Still, how often should such a procedure take place and what problems can it solve?
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Avoid These Foods and Drinks to Keep Your Teeth Healthy
There are certain foods and beverages that are bad for your teeth:
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How to Prevent White Spots on Teeth
White spots on teeth are caused by too much acid and sugar, dental fluorosis, poor dental hygiene, and enamel hypoplasia.
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Vaping and the Dangers it May Pose to Oral Health
E-cigarettes contain a liquid which is burned and inhaled, but they may pose as much risk to oral health as traditional tobacco products. Anyone who engages in vaping should keep to regular dentist ch...
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How Many Years Will Dental Veneers Last?
A dentist will often recommend veneers if you have crooked, stained or chipped teeth. It is still a good idea to take a look at how durable these appliances are in order to appreciate how long you can...
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Causes of Sensitive Gums
Taking care of the gums is a vital component of good dental health as they are the basis for good dental structure. Any damage to, or infection of, the gums can impact negatively on the teeth and even...
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Can Gum Disease Cause Tooth Pain?
While there are many times when painful teeth can result from cavities or decay, you might be surprised to learn that gum disease may play a role. What causes such pain and what steps should be taken...
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How Will a Dentist Clean and Polish Your Teeth?
The best way to maintain a set of pearly whites is to visit your dentist on a regular basis. How will this professional polish your teeth to a bright shine? Let’s take a look at this process in a bit...
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Which Dental Conditions Are Hereditary?
Some people are predisposed to developing certain dental conditions:
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The Benefits of Water Flossing Over Traditional Dental Floss
Water flossing involves a powerful but thin stream of water aimed at the teeth to remove plaque and food particles:
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Dental Implants and Gum Disease
A dental implant is basically a false tooth consisting of a dental crown on top of a post which is affixed to the jaw. Durable and lifelike, implants are not affected by cavities like real teeth but a...
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What Options are There to Treat Crooked Teeth?
Not only are crooked teeth inconvenient, but studies have shown that they can be linked to lung problems and coronary issues. Crooked teeth are more difficult to clean, which leads to plaque buildup a...
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Easy Ways to Keep Your Smile Healthy
Adhering to these simple habits will keep your oral health in good condition all year long:
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Do’s And Don’ts After Root Canal Surgery
A root canal procedure can restore your smile and prevent further damage to your teeth, but be sure you know what you should and shouldn’t be doing after having it done.
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Teeth Whitening When You Have Implants or Dentures
For a bright, white smile, there’s nothing better than a professional teeth whitening. If you intend to get either a dental implant or dentures, you should know a few things about whitening.
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Plaque and Bad Breath
When plaque is allowed to form on the teeth it is a breeding ground for bacteria and this leads to bad breath. Therefore, preventing plaque build-up is key to avoiding this embarrassing problem. Follo...
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Treatments for a Dental Abscess
An abscess is a swollen area filled with pus; typically, it is caused by an infection or gum disease. An abscess usually forms at the bottom of an infected tooth and can be extremely painful. It usual...
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Why Does My Jaw Ache and How Can I Prevent it?
Waking up with a jaw ache in the morning is not something you have to put up with. By consulting with your dentist you can be advised on the causes and treatment for jaw ache.
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Gum Disease Can Lead to High Blood Pressure
While healthy teeth and gums are beneficial for your smile, were you aware that periodontal (gum) disease might negatively impact your blood pressure? Let’s look at a few reasons why you should see a...
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Why Are My Gums Receding?
Your dentist may mention that your gums are receding. When the gums pull back and expose tooth roots it can cause sensitivity and possible tooth loss.
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The Relationship Between Jaw Tightness and Bruxism
If you have a stiff or tight jaw, you might be unknowingly grinding your teeth. This is a condition known as bruxism and it should be diagnosed by a dentist. One of the most common causes is top and b...
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Replace Missing Teeth with an Implant-Supported Bridge
While a traditional bridge is supported by the surrounding teeth, an implant-supported bridge is attached to dental implants fixed into the jaw. This method is generally preferred by dentists for rest...
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Lumps and Bumps on the Roof of your Mouth
There are several reasons for lumps or sores to appear on the roof of your mouth.
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Why do Teeth Turn Yellow?
Unless yellowing teeth are simply due to the aging process, there can be a number of reasons why teeth can turn yellow or become discoloured. The obvious candidates that lead to discolouration include...
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Symptoms Of An Improper Bite
An improper or misaligned bite is not always visible. These are some symptoms that may appear unrelated but are in fact common signs of this condition.
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What Is Causing my Receding Gums?
“Receding gums” means that your gums are pulling away from your teeth. This can result in sensitivity and can also be a sign of something more serious. Causes of receding gums include:
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Here’s What You Should Know About Dental Veneers
Dental veneers can transform your smile and boost your confidence. Veneers are thin layers of porcelain that are affixed to the front surface of teeth.
Read More Take Care of Your Toothbrush
Many people make very basic mistakes when storing their toothbrushes and these errors can lead to problems with teeth and gums. Three of the most important storage instructions are:
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How To Deal With Dental Phobia
If dental phobia is stopping you from visiting the dentist, your teeth may develop serious problems. You can alleviate your dental phobia by:
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Oral Health Linked to Seemingly Unrelated Conditions
It is always prudent to seek the advice of a dentist if you encounter problems with your teeth or gums. Still, the condition of your mouth could very well indicate additional issues that might not imm...
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Learn More About Dental Fillings
Composite resin fillings only have a lifespan of 5-7 years whereas amalgam fillings can last for 10-15 years:– Once a filling wears out it leaves teeth vulnerable to decay and new cavity formation.– M...
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Sedation Dentistry To Ease Your Dental Fears
Many of us are hesitant to consult a dentist and fix issues with our teeth due to a fear of pain. The great news is that there are numerous forms of sedation which will address this issue. Three commo...
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The Best Snacks for Healthy Teeth
There is a lot of attention being paid to the amount of unhealthy snacks kids eat with worries about the amount of sugar they are consuming and the effect on their health and teeth.
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Main Causes of Black Teeth
Whether a child or an adult, if a tooth starts to discolour or turn black it is time to visit the dentist as it could be due to dental decay.
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NEVER Skip Teeth Cleaning Appointments
Having your teeth properly cleaned once a year should be a minimum. But some people choose to give this important appointment a miss. Having the dentist clean and polish the teeth is a painless proced...
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Could Vaping Harm Your Gums?
Smoking electronic cigarettes (known as vaping) is preferred by those who do not enjoy traditional cigarettes. However, there are still dangers to teeth and the gums. Three potentially serious outcome...
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Ways To Restore Your Natural Smile
Restorative dentistry is a type of dentistry that treats missing teeth, cavities, broken teeth, chips and cracks and stains. Here are some restorative dentistry options.
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Top Oral Care Tips for Tongue Piercings
There may be a bit more than meets the eye regarding tongue piercings. Are you aware that your teeth and gums are often at risk? What advice will the average dentist provide in order to prevent any un...
Read More The Surprising Applications of Dental Bonding
A hard resin known as composite dental bonding is often utilised to address superficial issues with your teeth, like chips and cracks. Some benefits may indeed surprise you. Let’s take a quick look at...
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The Three Main Types of Gum Grafts
A gum graft involves replacing lost or damaged tissue that leave the roots of the teeth exposed. Depending upon the individual in question, a dentist will choose one of three procedures.
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All You Need To Know About Dental Sealants
Sealants comprise a thin plastic coating that is bonded to the chewing surface of your teeth (like a raincoat).
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What Are Signs of a Cracked Tooth?
Although we all try to take care of our teeth, a cracked or chipped tooth can occur from time to time. What are some of the main signs that you need to see a dentist?
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Detecting a Cracked Tooth
Even the most experienced dentist can have difficulty detecting a cracked tooth as the damage can often be microscopic and invisible to the human eye. If a cracked tooth appears to be the cause of pai...
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What To Do With A Chipped Tooth
Our teeth are strong but physical trauma and oral diseases can cause cracks and chips. Accessories like tongue rings and conditions like bruxism can crack our teeth. So, how do you manage cracked teet...
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The Importance of Flossing Every Day
You brush your teeth twice a day and you see your dentist twice a year. But are you flossing? Flossing is an integral part of a good oral hygiene regimen because it reaches those parts of your teeth y...
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Should You Be Worried About Mid-Life Tooth loss?
A new study underscores the need to take care of teeth and gums throughout your life. The study found that there is a link between middle-age tooth loss and coronary heart disease.Three major findings...
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Causes of White Spots on Gums
White spots on the gums could be caused by something as simple as failing to brush your teeth properly. In most cases these white spots or patches will quickly disappear or can be easily treated by a...
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Why Do You Experience Bad Taste In The Mouth?
Bad taste in the mouth usually occurs when one is on medication or has the flu. However, it could also be a sign of more serious issues which need to be checked by your dentist or doctor.
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Gingival Grafts: What Are They and Who Needs One?
If gum disease isn’t treated at an early stage, gums recede and a gingival graft may be required to restore healthy gum tissue:
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Don’t Trust in toothpaste Alone
A recent study of nine commonly-available toothpastes designed for sensitive teeth has found the claims to be untrue.
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Tooth Loss and Coronary Heart Disease
A recent study has definitively linked losing teeth with higher chances of developing coronary heart disease (CHD). This 18-year project illustrated that those who lost two or more teeth were 23 per c...
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The Link Between Smoking And Poor Dental Health
Smokers are at a higher risk of developing dental problems.
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Top Techniques When Brushing Your Teeth
Your dentist recommends that you brush your teeth for two minutes twice every day (preferably in the morning and the evening). It is still necessary to know which surfaces to address in order to reduc...
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The Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment
A dentist may identify a condition in your child’s teeth or mouth development that would lead to a recommendation of orthodontic treatment. This may be when your child is as young as seven. There are...
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Understanding Periodontal Surgery
Periodontal surgery, often referred to as gum surgery, may be necessary for a variety of dental conditions. Periodontal surgery is used primarily in the treatment of gum disease to repair damage cause...
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How Much Pain Can You Expect After a Root Canal?
If you have a severely damaged tooth, your dentist might recommend a root canal. While the procedure itself is nearly painless, some discomfort may occur immediately after.
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How to Protect Your Dental Implants
Dental implants will often represent permanent solutions to chipped, lost or otherwise damaged teeth. However, they can occasionally become damaged. What are three excellent methods which will help to...
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Alternatives to Braces for Teenagers
Teenagers simply do not want to wear braces no matter the condition of their teeth. Ugly, old-fashioned braces were the standard solution offered by a dentist for problem teeth but those days are gone...
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What Are the Differences Between Fillings and Root Canals?
Our teeth will encounter problems from time to time. Still, are there any ways to tell the difference between a problem that can be addressed with a filling and one which could require a root canal? L...
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Can teeth sensitivity be treated?
Do your teeth hurt when you eat, drink, breath in cold air or even brush? Sensitivity is a common dental problem that can be prevented and treated.
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Filling or Root Canal?
Most cavities in teeth are treated with a simple filling but more severe cases may require root canal treatment. As soon as you notice a cavity, or suspect one is present, you should have it seen to b...
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The Appeal of Modern Dental Implants
Why are a growing number of individuals choosing permanent dental implants to replace lost or broken teeth? You might be very surprised to learn the numerous advantages that these titanium marvels are...
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Top tips to relieve tooth sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity can be painful but there are several things you can do to manage it.
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Foods that stick on teeth
Having food stuck in your teeth is not only annoying. It is normal for food to get stuck in-between teeth but some edibles stick more than others.
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Risks Attached To Cleaning Teeth Too Often
Most people want to keep their teeth in the best condition possible but there is a risk in overdoing dental care. Brushing twice daily and flossing once is recommended but many people exceed these gui...
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Are Natural Methods to Clean Your Teeth Safe?
While natural remedies may seem to be ideal ways to protect the teeth and gums, the average dentist will tend to disagree. What are some interesting findings in regards to these methods? Let’s take a...
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Natural Solutions for Tooth Pain
While there are numerous reasons why your teeth may hurt, there are also many natural solutions to take into account. Seeing a dentist is critical and yet, these remedies can help to reduce temporary...
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The Negative Effects Of Overbite
An abnormal bite can give rise to several dental problems.
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Top Tips to Improve Your Smile
If you have “problem teeth,” you might want to improve your smile. You will be pleased to learn that there are a handful of innovative options that can help.
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How to protect your enamel
Your tooth enamel protects your teeth from damage and decay so it’s important to keep it strong. There are several things you should bear in mind when you are brushing your teeth.
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Could my medication be causing my dry mouth?
If you have a dry mouth it could be the result of your medication.
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A Look at Some of the Causes of Jaw Pain
Not only can jaw pain be annoying, but it could also signal an issue with your teeth or gums. It is always important to speak with a dentist at the first signs of trouble because:
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Same-Day Implants: Your Solution to a Beautiful Smile
Same-day implants can represent viable alternatives if you are looking to quickly replace a missing tooth (or teeth). A dentist will install an implant and a crown within a single visit. What are some...
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Healthy Eating for a Healthy Smile
Good oral care is essential for healthy teeth but diet also plays a significant role in our dental well-being. If an apple a day keeps the doctor away then perhaps fruit and vegetables might keep your...
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Dental Implants General Information
For many years dentures were the accepted way of replacing damaged or missing teeth. Nowadays, dental implants are the preferred option for many and with good reason.
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Care for Baby Teeth in Children
The full set of baby teeth will be in place before attaining the age of six years. Care for baby teeth is absolutely important even though they will later fall off.
Read More Some Reasons Why Your Gums May Bleed
Bleeding gums are cause for concern, although they are not always or exclusively a symptom of gum disease.
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Why you should never avoid going to the dentist
Avoiding going to the dentist due to fear may lead to serious dental problems such as tooth loss.
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Mind the gap: treatment options for a gap-toothed smile
If you have a gap between your teeth, particularly at the front, you may wonder what your options are.
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Managing bruxism (teeth grinding)
Bruxism causes significant damage to your dental health, including tearing your gum tissue to wearing down your tooth enamel. It would be wise to visit a dentist if you grind your teeth.
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A successful smile – what’s the secret?
A recent study asked participants to rate 3D computer-animated smiles that varied in terms of angle, number of teeth, symmetry and the number of teeth visible.
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More signs that you have sleep apnea
Sleep apnea is a common condition among adults, but it can go unnoticed or undiagnosed. Here are other symptoms, besides the common ones of loud snoring, headaches, fatigue and mood swings.
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Causes of a Dead Tooth
A dead or “non-vital” tooth occurs when blood flow to the tooth ceases. There are a number of reasons why this happens and ways to avoid the problem. Should a dead tooth occur, there are also treatmen...
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Spotlight on dental fluorosis
Dental fluorosis is caused by a lack of minerals in tooth enamel and presents as white or brown stains on children’s teeth, meaning they can become self-conscious about their smile.
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Gum Recession Treatment
Gum recession can be an embarrassing problem. The good news is gum recession treatment is now far less painful and less complicated than ever before.
Read More Flossing As It Should Be Done
Flossing is an important oral health routine. To safeguard tooth health, flossing must be carried out correctly.
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