Month: January 2014

An Unauthorized Biography of Plaque

Plaque. You hear about it in mouthwash commercials. Your dentist warns you about it at every checkup. Gum disease and tooth decay, the two most prevalent oral health problems in the U.S., are caused by plaque buildup. Today, we’re taking a closer look at the life and legacy of this sticky, yucky, bacteria-laden substance.

Dental Crown or Veneers: Which One Should You Choose?

Traditionally, dental crowns have been considered a restorative technique while porcelain veneers have fallen into the category of cosmetic dentistry. However, thanks to advances in dental materials and techniques, the line separating veneers and crowns is blurring. Use our simple guide to understand the ins and outs of these two restorations.

You Might be a Bruxer If . . .

You may not have heard the term “bruxism,” but you’ve probably heard of teeth grinding and jaw clenching, two related subconscious behaviors often caused by stress, anxiety, allergies, or TMJ disorder. Treating bruxism is a simple process involving a custom-fitted mouthguard designed by your dentist. However, many bruxers (people living with bruxism) don’t seek treatment… Read more »

How to Extend the Life of Your One Visit Teeth Whitening

You’ve decided to dramatically brighten your smile with the help of a one visit teeth whitening session with your dentist. You’re happy with the results and just can’t stop grinning at yourself in the mirror. But without proper care, your enamel will begin to accumulate miniscule stains that counteract the effects of even the most… Read more »

The Smart Consumers’ Guide to Teeth Whitening

In a survey conducted by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the majority of respondents said that if they could change anything about their smiles, they would make their teeth whiter. Bright, natural-looking teeth can make you appear younger, healthier, and more attractive, but how do you choose the right teeth whitening product for your… Read more »

Three Myths (and Three Truths) about Porcelain Veneers

You’ve done your research, checked out some before and after pictures, talked to your dentist, and decided that porcelain veneers might be your best option for achieving the radiant smile you’ve always wanted. You share the good news with your friends on Facebook and then, suddenly, you’re inundated with well-intentioned advice telling you how you’re… Read more »

Doubts About Dentures? Mansfield Dentists Dispel Myths

The earliest known replacements for teeth date back to approximately 2500 B.C. when some ingenious would-be dentist thought to substitute animal teeth (usually from dogs or wolves) for those lost to tooth decay and infection. Throughout the years, people used anything and everything to restore missing teeth, including wood, ivory, and teeth extracted from human cadavers. Thankfully, dentists Dr…. Read more »

A Geography of Oral Cancer

Every year in the United States, more than 42,000 new cases of oral cancer are diagnosed. Of those cases, nearly 50% will not survive beyond five years of receiving a diagnosis because the cancer wasn’t discovered until it had reached an advanced stage. Key to survival is early detection, and key to early detection is… Read more »