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How Long Do White ‘Tooth-Coloured’ Fillings Last?

Are you fed up with your metal filling disrupting the shade of your teeth every time you smile and laugh? Or maybe you’ve been struggling with symptoms of tooth decay (pain, sensitivity and bad breath), and you need a filling to prevent more damage? White fillings (also known as tooth-coloured fillings) are the discreet alternative to amalgam metal ‘silver’ fillings. But do they have the same lifespan and are there

‘Anesthetic Intelligence’: Dentistry’s most important ‘AI’?

The most “intelligent” way to boost your practice? Most experts say, “Numb patients in the gentlest way possible, and don’t waste their time (or yours) making them wait.” New local anesthetic drugs that can lower injection pain, reduce waiting time, and increase reliability are in development.  Why is this important?  In a recent survey, 58% of dental patients said, “The worst part of the dental visit is the injection.” The

Shine Bright with Confidence: The Ultimate Guide to Caring for Your Veneers

Introduction Thinking about veneers, or already sporting a perfect smile thanks to them? Veneers are a fantastic way to enhance your appearance and boost your confidence. However, to ensure they last as long as possible, proper care is essential. This blog post will guide you through everything you need to know about caring for your veneers to keep them in pristine condition for years to come. By the end of

Clinical tip: Repositioning a luxated tooth

Ready for another clinical tip that can help your dental practice and patients? Dr. Doug Smail returns with advice that can be a big benefit for younger patients who come into your practice after an accident. Learn more about CDOCS and how it can boost your clinical game. Video transcript “Hi, Dr. Doug Smail from CDOCS, and today’s tip of the day video is on setting the traumatically luxated tooth

Can Orthodontics Change Your Face Shape? What to Expect Over Time

Orthodontic treatment is often associated with straighter teeth, but many people also wonder whether it can change the way the face looks. This question comes up frequently, especially when someone notices subtle shifts in their profile or facial balance during treatment. While orthodontics does not alter facial structure in dramatic ways, it can influence certain aspects of facial appearance over time. Understanding what changes are possible, and what is not,

1st case of anesthesia-induced bone death in healthy patient

A healthy man had bone tissue death in his jaw following an anesthesia injection for a cavity, which is believed to be the first reported case of this complication. The case report was published on January 21 in the International Journal of Surgery Case Reports. This case highlights the importance of using a proper technique to prevent osteonecrosis, or avascular necrosis, which occurs when the blood supply is interrupted, resulting

1 in 10 overdoses on medication for dental pain

Approximately 80% of patients reported taking an analgesic like ibuprofen for dental pain, with about 10% of them accidentally overdosing on it. The study was published on January 17 in Basic and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology. A significant number of patients with dental pain may overdose, putting themselves at risk of severe systemic complications, which shines a light on the need for improved patient education and safer strategies for managing

New Year, New Benefits! Insurance-Friendly Dentistry in Searcy

As 2025 kicks off, it’s the perfect time to make the most of your renewed dental insurance benefits. Many plans reset at the start of the year, so now is the time to schedule treatments and maximize your coverage. At Neaville Family Dentistry, we’re here to help you navigate your insurance and achieve a healthy smile this year. Why Use Your Benefits Early? It’s tempting to put off dental care,

Opinion: It’s time to reevaluate the fluoride conversation

Fluoride has long been hailed as a miracle ingredient for preventing tooth decay. But as a dentist with more than 40 years of experience, I’m here to tell you that it’s time to reevaluate the conversation. For years, fluoride’s benefits have been sold as a one-size-fits-all solution, especially in water fluoridation, yet the recent federal court ruling challenges this status quo. First, let’s bust a few myths. Fluoride isn’t a

Smile Brighter with the Right Dental Fillings

In today’s world, dental health plays a crucial role in our overall well-being and confidence. But how much do you know about the types of dental fillings available? Whether you’re facing your first cavity or looking to replace an old filling, understanding your options can make a world of difference. This guide will walk you through the various types of dental fillings, their benefits, and which might be the best

Nonopioids top opioids for 3rd-molar surgery pain

Surgeons often prescribe opioids preemptively, though a combination of ibuprofen and acetaminophen may be the preferred choice for pain after third-molar extractions, according to a study recently published in the Journal of the American Dental Association. Patients taking nonopioids experienced a better first-night’s sleep, less postoperative pain interference, and fewer side effects, the authors wrote. “The ibuprofen and acetaminophen combination managed pain better for the first 2 days and led

New study highlights importance of best practices with infection control, pain management

The use of antibiotics and the subject of antibiotic resistance is one of the hot topics in medicine today, including dentistry. A recent news briefing by the American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine (ASRA) touched on that subject and discussed new infection control guidelines for regional anesthesia and pain management. During the news conference, a study (published on January 21) was highlighted that includes guidelines, developed over four

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