Last week I discussed clenching, which is vertical force put on teeth. Grinding or bruxism is lateral (excursive) forces put on teeth that cause teeth to rub together and wear. Both of these are very destructive to teeth, joints, and muscles.

Some people present with symptoms relating to these two issues, but more often than not, people do not have symptoms. We dentists know that patients who present with signs of tooth wear are riskier to treat. Riskier because the “issues” are often times, and maybe even most often, not treated. This is a significant reason for tooth structure breakdown and shorter life-span dental work.

There are many reasons people grind or clench their teeth.… (Read More)

Visiting your dentist every six months for cleanings and examinations is one of the main ways to protect your mouth, teeth and gums from bacteria growth and the many problems that come along with it. However, your local dentist says you stand to gain even more from preventive dentistry – it’s an educational opportunity for you as well. As you read on, you’ll discover what questions you should be asking at your next visit so you can maximize your time.

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There are many reasons people get headaches, and many medications and suggestions on how to prevent them. You may have heard that reducing stress in your life can help reduce headaches. Although methods of relaxation are important to get through the stresses of life, it may not be enough to prevent headaches, especially in the subconscious (i.e. sleeping).

Studies have shown a link between tooth grinding, clenching and headaches. For people who grind or clench, the muscles that open and close the jaw can become painful from overuse, causing a range of symptoms from tension to migraine headaches to jaw joint (TMJ) problems to tooth pain.

Bruxing (grinding) and clenching teeth is defined as abnormal… (Read More)

In a recent poll I read, people were asked if they would choose a cosmetic makeover, liposuction, facelift, or teeth whitening if money was no object. 52% of those surveyed said they would choose teeth whitening. While there are many ways to whiten teeth, including professionally in the dental office, consumers are spending over $1 billion per year on over-the-counter (OTC) whitening products. People want whiter teeth because it makes them look better.

Almost all whitening products will lighten teeth to a certain extent because they all contain hydrogen peroxide or a derivative. The controlled environment of the dental office and the quality of the materials used usually provides the most predictable and most effective… (Read More)

Despite the generalized notion that people should visit a dentist bi-annually, I am more a proponent of individualized frequency recommendations based on a few factors. We are not all the same; therefore, each of us has our own specific needs.

Results from a recent Gallup-Healthways poll of 355,334 Americans indicate that more than one-third of the population, 34% to be exact, did not visit a dentist last year at all. Over 50% of the population said they visited the dentist one time or less last year.

In a study reported in The New York Times and other major media, a report by the Journal of Dental Research indicates “little evidence supports biannual preventive care for… (Read More)

Do your gums bleed when you brush or floss? This isn’t a toothbrush or flossing problem, it’s the first sign of periodontitis. Around 50% of American adults suffer from mild, moderate, or severe periodontal (gum) disease. The first stage of this disease is called gingivitis. Keep reading to learn the differences between gingivitis and periodontitis as well as how a mild health issue like bleeding gums can progress into something much worse.

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