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It’s something that many parents fear, the dentist telling you that your son or daughter may need braces. We’ve all heard that they’re expensive, but we also know that they’re necessary for some kids so that when they’re older, they have nice, straight teeth.

Braces are an orthodontic cure for what’s commonly called a “bad bite”. This means that the teeth are crowded, crooked, or don’t align properly to allow a person a natural, healthy bite. Sometimes the upper and lower jaws don’t come together the right way when an individual bites down, due to misalignment, and even though the teeth are straight, the bite is not. (more…)

The tongue is the red headed stepchild of dental care. We spend a good deal of time and attention on our teeth, brushing, flossing, whitening, straightening, capping, filling, and replacing. But what about the tongue? Did you know your tongue is the leading culprit for bad breath?

Bacteria from the food we eat sticks to the tongue, especially the back, or anterior, portion. These bacteria produce foul odors that produce bad breath. By cleaning the tongue regularly, we can clear away the bacteria and solve what for some is a serious problem. (more…)

Mouth sores can not only be painful, but sometimes embarrassing as well. They can also signify deeper issues, and should not be taken lightly. Your dentist can help treat these problems but it’s ultimately up to you to maintain proper oral hygiene and regular visits. Knowing what these types of oral health issues are, they’re symptoms, and causes, can help.

Canker Sores
These are small ulcers inside the mouth, with a white-ish base (center) and a red border. Canker sores are not contagious, and there may be only one or several. These types of sores often return, as they are believed to be caused in part by immune system malfunctions, bacteria, or viruses.

Aside from health issues like intestinal problems, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn’s disease, other issues can increase the likelihood of a canker sore. Stress, allergies, or extended fatigue, as well as a cut or reactions from certain foods can also contribute to canker sore development. (more…)

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Chronic teeth grinding, or bruxism, can lead to serious problems, including severe erosion and fracturing of the teeth, jaw pain, facial pain, headaches, and even loss of hearing.

The causes of teeth grinding are not fully understood. It is thought that anxiety, frustration, stress, misaligned teeth (malocclusion), sleeping disorders, and excessive A-type personality traits are major contributors. Since teeth grinding often occurs at night, suffers may not become aware of their condition until symptoms are somewhat advanced. (more…)

Early childhood tooth decay, caused by baby bottles. Photo courtesy ADA.org

As early as six months, when children cut their first teeth, are they susceptible to decay. In extreme cases, babies and young children have had to undergo restorative and reconstructive surgeries to handle the problems caused by what’s commonly called “Baby Bottle Tooth Decay”.

The good news, however, is that this problem can be prevented. (more…)

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Here’s a list of foods, beverages, and a few other things that cause your teeth to stain. Be on the lookout and consume in moderation. Drinking through a straw helps reduce tooth staining. Best anti staining advice — stop smoking! Second best anti staining advice — stop smoking!

• Antibacterial mouthwashes
• Apples
• Berries
• Balsamic vinegar
• Beets
• Blueberries
• Coffee, especially black. Creamers blunt the effects. Avoid drinking extremely hot coffee - it increases the staining effect.
• Curry
• Dark colored colas
• Dark colored fruit juices

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