If you have a purple spot on your lip, you’re probably wondering what caused it and whether or not it’s a serious condition. If it doesn’t go away on its own or you’re concerned, definitely visit your healthcare professional for a diagnosis. In the meantime, we’ll break down the potential causes so you can go into your appointment informed and come out with a treatment plan that keeps you smiling.
Your dentist or dental hygienist may have recently told you that a dental impression will be part of a restorative or preventative procedure you need. From crowns to dental implants to mouthguards, a dental impression is a common tool used to create a mold of your teeth and gums. While getting an impression can sometimes be uncomfortable, it should never cause pain. Still, if you’re someone who has an active
Did you know the American Dental Association recommends taking your child to the dentist before their first birthday? By establishing a dental home early, you can decrease your child’s risk for tooth decay and help dental visits become positive experiences. Though sitting still while a stranger pokes inside their mouth may not sound like a good time, a kid-friendly dentist can make oral exams and teeth cleanings fun for your
Achoo! From itchy, watery eyes to swollen tongues and obstructed airways, allergies from pollen, foods, and medications can really mess us up. Did you know that you can even be allergic to toothpaste? Though rare, the literature on toothpaste allergies suggests about 0.1-0.3% of the population displays a contact allergy to toothpaste. If you’re one of the few, don’t expect to sneeze every time you brush your teeth. Find out more about toothpaste allergy
Need to get a tooth extracted and concerned about complications? We’ve got you covered. With today’s modern procedures and follow up care, most extractions are safe and straightforward. In some cases, complications can arise, including getting a bone infection after a tooth extraction (which is unlikely). Here’s what to look for if you’re concerned about complications developing after your tooth extraction. We’ll also look into treatment and prevention, so you
From a very early age, you’re encouraged to ask questions – to parents, to teachers, and even to coaches. That same curiosity should be encouraged at the dentist’s office. Asking questions to your dental professional is an important part of your long-term healthcare. Here are 10 common dental questions everyone should ask at their next appointment. 1. How Often Should I Get a Dental Checkup? Dental health varies from person
While the name herpetic gingivostomatitis may sound severe, this condition is quite common and very treatable. So, let’s take a closer look at what it is and how it’s treated. Gingivostomatitis, also known as primary herpetic gingivostomatitis (PHG), is a highly contagious infection of the mouth and related tissues. According to the National Library of Medicine, this infection primarily affects children under age six. In most cases, it’s caused by the herpes
Do you have a drawer stuffed with unopened personal care items? Extra toothbrushes and toothpaste can help people in need. Instead of hanging onto these items “just in case,” find a place near you where you can donate them to people who need them right now. Your bathroom shelves will be lighter, and your community will be stronger. Need for Personal Care Items Necessities such as laundry soap, deodorant, toilet
If you’ve ever had the displeasure of accidentally biting your cheek while chewing food, you might recall a sore forming in the area. While mouth sores caused by cheek biting are usually no cause for concern, what if you notice a sore in the mouth that’s filled with blood? Finding a blood blister in the mouth may be worrying, but rest assured that these blisters are generally harmless and may heal on
Everyone in your family has unique oral care needs throughout their lives. The good news is that there are dental offices that cater to various family oral care needs! You just have to know where to look and what to ask for. Learn more about family dental groups and why they may be a good fit for you. Family dentist vs. General dentist Family dentistry has been around for a
Of all the possible sores found in the mouth and on the lips, some of the most common ones are caused by herpes, a type of sexually transmitted infection (STI). Read on to learn about how prevalent herpes inside the mouth is among Americans, how it’s contracted, and treatments that can relieve the symptoms. How Common Is Herpes in the Mouth? According to the World Health Organization, about 67 percent of the
If you have been prescribed chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash, chances are your dentist has told you that you have a mild form of gum disease called gingivitis. It might seem a little scary, but this prescription mouthwash could be a simple solution to getting your smile back on track to health and confidence. Chlorhexidine gluconate oral rinse contains a chemical called chlorhexidine, which destroys harmful mouth bacteria, treats gingivitis, and promotes