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What Causes Lisping?

A lisp is a speech disorder that affects how someone pronounces certain sounds. Lisps commonly develop during childhood. Nearly 1 in 12 children between the ages of 3 and 17 had a disorder related to voice, speech, or swallowing in 2012.1 Speech disorders, including lisps, are most prevalent in children between the ages of 3 and 6, at 11%.2 Many children grow out of their lisps, though some may persist

What Is Fluoride & Is It Safe?

The use of fluoride in drinking water and toothpaste is a controversial topic. Both proponents and opponents of fluoride have scientific evidence to support their positions. As with most controversial issues, the truth is somewhere in the middle. There are both tangible benefits and notable risks to fluoride use. The right amount can strengthen teeth and prevent tooth decay, but higher doses can be harmful. Why are Most Dentists Pro-Fluoride?

How to Clean Invisalign Retainers

Clear retainers work best when they stay clean, smooth, and well-fitting. Because they sit snugly against your teeth, they can quickly pick up a thin film of saliva, bacteria, and food particles. Without a simple cleaning routine, that film can harden, cause odors, or make the plastic look cloudy. The safe steps below protect both your retainer and your oral health. Why You Should Clean Invisalign Retainers A clean retainer

What to Do if Your Temporary Crowns Look Bad

A temporary dental crown is a cap placed over your tooth while you wait for a permanent crown. Conventional dental crowns take a few weeks to manufacture in a lab. Your dentist will install a temporary version to protect your tooth during that time. Because you only wear them briefly, temporary crowns aren’t as high-quality as their permanent counterparts. They may not look like a natural part of your smile.

How to Clean Your Tongue and Prevent Bad Breath

Key Takeaways Like the rest of your mouth, the tongue requires cleaning to stay healthy The best way to clean your tongue is by using a tongue scraper You can also brush your tongue, rinse, and use antibacterial mouthwash Cleaning your tongue can help prevent bad breath and other oral health issues Talk to a dentist if your tongue has uneven patches, discoloration, or pain 3 Ways to Clean Your

Supplemental Dental Insurance Plans

What is Supplemental Dental Insurance? Supplemental dental insurance is a plan that fills any gaps in your existing dental insurance coverage. You may need a supplemental dental insurance plan if your: Employer doesn’t offer dental insurance Current dental insurance plan doesn’t cover everything you need Technically, all dental insurance plans are supplemental. Medical insurance policies typically don’t include dental care, so you or your employer must purchase a separate one.

Which composite resin is right for your practice?

Like most dentists, I have been using the same composite resin for decades. It’s the composite resin that I used in dental school 30 years ago and in most of the offices I associated with. I rarely gave much thought to the compressive or flexural strength or even the ingredients. Now that I am starting my own dental practice, the responsibility for every decision is on me, including which composite

How to Use an Electric Toothbrush

Tooth brushing is a crucial part of maintaining good oral health and hygiene. An electric brush can be more effective than a manual toothbrush, but only if you use the proper technique. Electric toothbrushes use oscillating rotations or vibrations to remove food particles from your teeth and help prevent tooth decay. The brush head may either move back and forth or spin in a circle. Below, you’ll find the correct

11 Causes of Jaw and Ear Pain

Summary There are many reasons your ear and jaw may hurt simultaneously. Temporomandibular disorders commonly cause discomfort in the jaw, face, and related muscles. Other common causes include infections, injuries, and arthritis. Most causes of ear and jaw pain aren’t life-threatening. However, see your doctor if you experience severe pain or signs of infection. Seek immediate treatment for pain that begins after an injury. You may be able to relieve

What Are My Options for Replacing a Lost Tooth?

Tooth loss can trigger a chain reaction in your mouth, affecting your jawbone and other teeth. But don’t worry, you’ve got options. This article will explore the common causes of tooth loss and explore the various replacement options available, from dental implants to bridges and dentures. We’ll also guide you through the factors to consider when making this important decision. What Can Cause Tooth Loss? Your mouth with a missing

Can You Swallow Your Tongue? (Plus Seizure First Aid)

Can You Swallow Your Tongue? You might have heard someone say, “Careful, you might swallow your tongue.” Although it’s an alarming expression, there’s no truth behind it. Swallowing your tongue is physically impossible. It’s tethered to the floor of our mouths by a small band of tissue called the lingual frenulum. Additionally, there are several muscles attached to the tongue that control movement. So, while a seizure or fainting spell

What Do Red Dots on the Tongue Mean?

The tongue’s surface contains tiny bumps called fungiform papillae. These small raised bumps have taste buds and temperature receptors. They also give the tongue a rough texture to help us eat. Fungiform papillae are normally the same color as the rest of the tongue, but they can become red from irritation. Some conditions can also cause red dots or red bumps on the tongue. Let’s discuss them more and figure

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