What Is Orthotropics?

Orthotropics is a branch of dentistry that treats misaligned bites (malocclusions) by correcting oral and head posture. Learn more about which children may benefit from this treatment and how an orthotropic specialist helps to correct tooth alignment. What Is Orthotropic Treatment? According to the North American Association of Facial Orthotropics (NAAFO), this specialty focuses on facial growth guidance. Studies have shown that facial growth can be negatively affected by postural

Enamel Hypocalcification: Definition, Causes, and Treatment

Calcium plays an important role in your oral health. This mineral strengthens your tooth enamel — the outer shell that defends against cavities and decay. But what happens when your enamel does not have enough calcium? Find out more about hypocalcification and its causes and treatments. What Is Hypocalcification? Hypocalcification occurs when your tooth enamel contains an insufficient amount of calcium. This insufficiency causes your enamel to be thin and

Can You Get Diabetes from Eating Too Much Sugar?

Can you get diabetes from eating too much sugar? The answer is complicated, but diets and lifestyles can lead to this disease. Learn more, here. Milk chocolate bars. Cherry pie. Sweet tea. Like most of us, you probably have favorite sugary treats you find impossible to give up. But if you enjoy an excessive amount of the sweet stuff, can you get diabetes from eating too much sugar? The answer

Retainers for Teeth: What Are They and Why Wear Them?

Now that your child’s braces are finally off, they probably think that their orthodontic treatment is over. Unfortunately, this isn’t entirely true. Straightening their teeth is only half the battle. The other half is keeping them that way. That’s where dental retainers can be quite useful. Many people wear retainers for many years after getting their braces off to keep their teeth straight and their smile bright, but getting your child to

Cheek Biting: What You Need To Know

We’ve all been there, and we all know how much it can hurt. Maybe it’s been in the middle of a fall, or perhaps it was a response to stress, but biting your cheek can be painful. While an accidental cheek bite is nothing to worry about, some people may be biting their inner cheek more often than they realize. It could be the sign of a more serious problem.

What Does an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Do?

Your general dentist helps keep your mouth healthy with regular exams, restorations, and simple cosmetic procedures. They stay busy placing crowns, fitting dentures, and assessing your risk for tooth decay and gum disease. So when an oral health issue arises that requires more complicated procedures, they might refer you to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Find out more about oral and maxillofacial surgeons and the procedures they perform. What Is

Tongue Cancer: Symptoms, Detection & Treatment

When it comes to common types of cancer, tongue cancer isn’t one that typically comes to mind. It’s important to be aware of tongue cancer, as it can affect our oral health and ability to eat and speak. While it can cause a frightening head-spin to think about a tongue cancer diagnosis, remember to stay calm, learn the facts about tongue cancer, how to detect it, and understand treatment options.

Braces Colors: How To Choose Your Perfect Shade

Braces can feel like a huge commitment, but their many benefits make them worth it! And what’s more, there are ways to make the process more enjoyable. While you might not have the smile you want yet, you can customize the colored rubber bands surrounding the brackets on your braces, commonly known as ligatures, so you feel confident about your smile. Alternatively, if your orthodontist recommends an alternative type of

Fun Holiday Treats For Kids With Braces

There’s a lot for your kids to get excited about during the holidays; the fun decorations, a break from school, spending time with family, the music, the magical stories, and of course – unwrapping presents! The best thing of all might be all the fun, delicious holiday treats they get to eat. But if your child has braces, indulging in some traditional snacks could damage the brackets and wires on

How Oral Health and Heart Disease Are Connected

According to Delta Dental, however, there is now evidence of two specific links between oral health and heart disease. First, recent studies show that if you have gum disease in a moderate or advanced stage, you’re at higher risk for heart disease than someone with healthy gums. And second, your oral health can provide doctors with warning signs for a range of diseases and conditions, including those in the heart.

What a Lump on the Jawline Could Indicate

If you noticed a lump along your jawline this morning, many conditions could be the culprit. Is the lump small or large, soft or firm, mobile or fixed, painless or tender? Any treatment will depend on the cause, so keep reading to learn more about lumps on the jawline. What Causes a Lump on the Jawline? A bump, mass, or swollen area along the jawline might cause a fright. However,

Dead Nerve In A Tooth: Causes And Treatment

If your dentist has found a dead nerve in your tooth, don’t panic: Your tooth can be saved. But if you find yourself in this situation, it’s beneficial to understand just how and why you ended up with a dying or dead nerve and what your treatment options are so you can keep your smile pain-free and shining. Dental Anatomy 101 To understand what a dead nerve in a tooth