While the typical idea of a healthy smile may involve a set of gleaming-white teeth that are perfectly aligned, the reality is that it all starts with the gums. Thus, gum health should never be ignored. As you continue reading, learn how the soft tissue in your mouth can become infected or harmed, and how it can impact your total wellness.

When you visit a dentist, it takes a concerted effort to deliver the care that you need. Any dentist knows that to function at his or her best requires the assistance of a highly skilled, friendly and hard-working staff. Because they are so invaluable to the function of dental practices, the first week in March has been designated as Dental Assistants Recognition Week. As you continue reading, learn 4 reasons to say thank you to dental assistants!

For many children, losing baby teeth and getting their set of adult pearly whites is an exciting time. However, what if those highly anticipated permanent teeth start to come in before the baby teeth fall out? While seeing a tooth start to pop up in front of or behind a baby tooth can be somewhat alarming, there’s no need to panic. Two rows of teeth in kids is a phenomenon known as “shark teeth.” Read on as we break down what causes this condition and what you should do if your child develops it.

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month! And while we’re in the midst of winter, there’s no better time to focus on keeping your little one’s smile healthy. With all the coughing and sneezing that comes with this time of year, many parents unknowingly put their child at risk of numerous oral health issues. Thankfully, a few simple precautions and healthy habits can go a long way in keeping that precious smile safe if they get sick. Here are the best tips for protecting your child’s teeth during cold and flu season.

Valentine’s Day is almost here! Are you ready? Whether you’re going out on a first date or have been dating your special someone for a while now, you want to look and feel your best. However, with so many dating tips out there, it can be overwhelming trying to figure out just how to do that! Thankfully, research suggests that the answer could be as easy as brightening your smile. Read on to find out how a professional teeth whitening treatment can help you ace your Valentine’s Day date.

You should be seeing your dentist at least twice a year for regular cleanings and checkups. However, approximately a third of Americans don’t see their dentist as often as they would like to. It is easy to forget to call and make an appointment and before you know it, it’s been years since you’ve had a dental checkup. If this sounds like you, read on. A dentist shares some tips to help you keep up with your dental visits and know how to prepare for one.

Dentures are probably the most common tooth replacement option out there. They are a great solution and are life changing for people who are missing most of or all of their teeth. However, one drawback is that they can become ill-fitting over time and cause you discomfort. But this should be the lease of your worries if you have loose dentures. They can cause you to develop many different health issues. Continue reading to learn about why dentures can become ill-fitting and the different health problems that can arise as a result.

Have you ever thought about all of the bacteria that is around you? Since they are too small to see, it is easy to forget that they’re there. Many of us try not to think about how many microorganisms are around us at all times. The truth is that they are everywhere and even in our mouths. You can’t feel them or taste them, but there are entire colonies existing beneath your tongue. Continue reading to learn more about oral bacteria and what they do.

Has your dentist ever discovered something that surprised you during your dental checkups? Maybe it was a small crack you couldn’t see or a cavity that hadn’t started to hurt yet. Dental professionals are highly trained to spot issues that we can’t see or feel, including problems with our overall health. In fact, studies suggest that over 90% of systemic conditions present symptoms in your mouth that your dentist may notice before you do. Here are five health issues your dentist may be able to detect during your dental checkup.