The caries risk assessment was developed by the California Dental Association with the UCSF School of Dentistry as a way to determine your risk of cavity-causing tooth decay. With the results of the caries risk assessment, dental professionals are better able to take proactive, preventive measures specifically tailored to your individual needs to help you protect your teeth. This tool has become the standard of care in dentistry and is probably already being
When we think of bad breath, we often think of oral hygiene or food as the culprit. But even with squeaky-clean teeth and a healthy diet, you might still find yourself with a case of bad breath, also known as halitosis. How can this happen when you’re doing everything right? Well, the answer could be coming from your lungs or sinuses. In this article, we’ll explore this lesser-known cause of
If you’ve noticed your breath isn’t smelling too fresh lately, you may be wondering what you can do to treat halitosis. Luckily, most cases of halitosis are easily treatable, starting with improving your oral hygiene at home. But to find the most effective halitosis treatment for you, the most important thing is to first identify the root cause. Read on to find out what’s causing your halitosis and how to
We’ve all had bad breath at some point – first thing in the morning or after our favorite garlicky dish, for example! That said, it can be embarrassing and make us feel a little self-conscious. In most cases, we can avoid bad breath simply by practicing good oral care. Sometimes, however, bad breath is caused by other conditions like dry mouth, which has little to do with poor dental hygiene. The
Fluoride is a cornerstone of dental health, commonly found in oral care products we use at home. While you may be familiar with types like sodium fluoride, this article dives into stannous fluoride, also known as tin (II) fluoride. We’ll explore its unique properties and how it stands apart, revealing its specific benefits in toothpaste in preventing oral health concerns. What is Stannous Fluoride? Curious about stannous fluoride and its
Curious about how teeth whitening really works? The key is hydrogen peroxide. This isn’t just a common ingredient; it’s a powerful one, used by both at-home products and dental professionals to deliver results. Hydrogen peroxide works by penetrating the tooth enamel to oxidize and break down the molecules that cause stains. When used properly and as directed by the manufacturer’s instructions, whitening products or treatments with hydrogen peroxide is an
A denture is a removable replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissues. Two types of dentures are available — complete and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when all the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. Complete Dentures Complete dentures can be either “conventional” or “immediate.” Made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has begun to heal, a conventional
Gum recession is the process in which the margin of the gum tissue that surrounds the teeth wears away, or pulls back, exposing more of the tooth, or the tooth’s root. When gum recession occurs, “pockets,” or gaps, form between the teeth and gum line, making it easy for disease-causing bacteria to build up. If left untreated, the supporting tissue and bone structures of the teeth can be severely damaged,
What Is Dry Socket? Dry socket is a complication that can happen after you have a tooth pulled. The socket is the hole in the bone where the tooth was removed. After you have a tooth pulled, a blood clot forms in the socket to protect the bone and nerves underneath. But sometimes this clot doesn’t form, moves out of place, or dissolves. That leaves the bone and nerve exposed
What Is Bruxism? Bruxism is clenching, grinding, or gnashing your teeth, either while you’re awake or asleep. Most people probably grind and clench their teeth from time to time. Occasional teeth grinding doesn’t usually cause harm, but when it happens regularly, you can damage your teeth. Bruxism can lead to other health problems, too. Types of Bruxism A mouth guard, also called a night guard, can help protect your teeth
What Is an Abscessed Tooth? An abscessed tooth is one that is infected in or around the root, creating a pocket of pus. Anyone, from children to the elderly, can get one. If you have one, it won’t get better on its own. You need treatment from a dentist or endodontist, which is a specialist who can help save your tooth. If you don’t treat it, the infection can spread
What Is Gum Disease? Gums are the tissues that surround your teeth and hold them in place. Gum disease is an infection of this tissue. Your dentist might call it periodontal disease or periodontitis. Gum disease starts when bacteria grow in your mouth. Bacteria build up when you don’t brush your teeth or floss well enough. Without treatment, gum disease can cause swelling, redness, pain, and tooth loss. Almost half
