Oral Health

Many prescription drugs can make gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) more likely. In most cases, these drugs make your mouth dryer. Less saliva means bacteria aren't washed away as well and can cause gingivitis. Prescription medicines that can cause... Full Answer

Tooth enamel is the thin outer covering of the tooth and the strongest substance in the body. It's what makes your teeth white and it exists to protect the crowns of healthy teeth. Tooth decay is the destruction of tooth enamel. When... Full Answer

Your teeth are covered with a sticky film called plaque that can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. Plaque contains bacteria, which following a meal or snack containing sugar can release acids that attack tooth enamel. Repeated attacks can... Full Answer

Like many other aspects of our health, there is a genetic component to teeth from the way they look to their overall health--not all teeth are created equal. With that said, it is very important to take care of your teeth and gums in order to try to... Full Answer

No, not everyone will need dentures at some point in their life. In the past, it was an assumption that as we age we would lose our natural teeth. But, that’s not the case for today’s older adults who are keeping their natural teeth... Full Answer

Different types of dentures may be made of slightly different materials. In general, dentures are made of acrylic resin and metal. The base of partial dentures is often made of metal covered in plastic, and teeth are made of plastic.  Metal is... Full Answer

Dental x-rays serve as a valuable tool to your dentist when evaluating your oral health because many diseases in the mouth cannot be seen. Dental x-rays do not hurt and may help identify decay, bone damage or loss, and the position of... Full Answer

How often x-rays should be taken depends on your present oral health, your age, your risk for disease, and any signs and symptoms of oral disease. For example, children may require x-rays more often because their teeth and jaws are still developing and... Full Answer

X-rays are an important diagnosing tool for oral disease. Watch as Dr. Maria Lopez Howell explains how your dentist uses your x-rays while planning your treatment. Full Answer

Dental x-rays are a useful tool when helping your dentist detect damage and disease not visible during a regular dental exam. How often x-rays should be taken depends on your present oral health, your age, your risk for disease, and any signs and... Full Answer