Have you just been informed that you need a scaling and root planing? This may sound intimidating; however, it is simply a “deep cleaning” that is designed to get your early gum disease under control. In fact, since we know that gum disease can pose a serious threat to both your oral health and body health, you should welcome the opportunity to reverse this condition with a deep cleaning from your dentist.

What is scaling and root planing?

A scaling and root planing is performed by your dentist. It is a deep cleaning that can remove stubborn plaque and tarter from beneath the gum line, something that your toothbrush can’t do. Plaque is a colorless yet sticky film that can accumulate and harden over time. Plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) contain bacteria that can multiply beneath the gum line and cause an infection. Without treatment, this infection can eventually destroy the surrounding tissues and bone, resulting in tooth loss. (more…)

Are you under the assumption that cavities are the only dental issue that children face. The truth is, children and adults share many of the same oral health risks. Here are five common dental concerns that you should be aware of as your child’s smile transforms from baby teeth to adult teeth:

#1 Tooth Decay – There’s no question that cavities are a child’s primary threat. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tooth decay is one of the most common chronic conditions children in the United States experience. However, dental caries are completely preventable with proper nutrition, routine dental visits and diligent oral hygiene at home. (more…)

Dental professionals agree that your oral health is strongly linked to your overall health. This makes it imperative to visit your dentist on the recommended sixth month basis. At these routine checkups, your dentist can reveal areas of concern that you may not even know you have. Not all oral health conditions are obvious. Silent threats to your oral health, such as beginning stages gum disease, small areas of decay or minor cracks in your teeth, can greatly compromise your total body health if not treated in a timely manner. Evidence of excess plaque buildup and harmful bacteria can absolutely affect more than your smile.

Is your mouth clean? Or are you at risk for the following:

Heart Disease and Stroke

Multiple studies suggest that when plaque and bacteria are allowed to accumulate in our mouths, the risk for dangerous inflammation elsewhere in the body is increased. Gum disease is an infection that can enter the bloodstream. It has proven to be directly linked to clogged arteries, stroke, and heart disease. (more…)

Getting braces as an adult can be difficult to commit to. While many adults refuse to endure the aesthetic sacrifice, others just can’t commit to the frequent appointments or the expense of lengthy treatment. There are also adult patients who believe they’ve “missed the boat” for orthodontics because they never underwent treatment as a child. Fortunately, orthodontic treatment is no longer restricted to metal brackets and bands, and it’s not just for kids. In fact, there is a newer, highly preferred solution to straighten your smile as an adult – Invisalign.

With Invisalign orthodontics, effectiveness, comfort and aesthetics can all co-exist. Invisalign uses clear (nearly invisible) aligners that are changed out every two weeks until the teeth are in their ideal position. Invisalign is also removable, so you’ll never be held down by your orthodontic treatment when you want to eat, brush your teeth or enjoy a special event. (more…)

If you’re a parent of an athlete, you may pat yourself on the back every time you remember to pack a sports drink in your child’s bag for practice or a game. However, you may want to rethink that drink. When it comes to your child’s smile, sports drinks can be especially harmful. In fact, studies show that sports drinks are up to three times more harmful than sodas!

Why are sports drinks so bad? They are high in sugar and acidity, which is a deadly recipe for your pearly whites. More specifically, your tooth enamel is in danger when you sip or consume sports drinks consistently. Enamel is a hard, protective layer of your tooth. When acids, sugars and bacteria combine, they eat away at this outer enamel and the underlying dentin layer is more exposed. (more…)