Is grinding your teeth just a common reaction to stress, or is something more going on? While some people only fall into the habit of clenching their jaw when they are upset, other people will develop a tendency to do so, particularly while they sleep. This frequent grinding problem is known as bruxism, and it can cause real concerns for your oral health. One problem relates to the condition of your teeth. Simply put, you can clench your jaw with enough force to cause damage, and some of that damage is severe enough to require restorative dental care. You can also create issues with your jaw joints, and develop frustrating TMJ problems. (more…)

Some patients will need traditional bracket and wire braces to correct their dental alignment issues. However, others can see their needs met with Invisalign. Invisalign offers a discreet and removable means of moving your teeth. A sequence of clear plastic aligners will be provided to you. While you can take them out to eat, and to clean your teeth, it is recommended that you leave them in as much as possible. If you are worried about how they make you look, you can rest easy, as their clear plastic material is difficult for people to notice. (more…)

How much of a difference can one dental visit make? Hopefully, your next routine appointment with your dentist will lead to nothing but a clean bill of health, and your dentist’s approval. However, you could go in for a checkup and learn that you have a cavity that is developing. Your dentist can make arrangements to remove the cavity, and use a filling to restore your tooth. If you have a cavity, but forgo a checkup, the decay can worsen while it goes undetected by you. When you do recognize the issue, it may be serious enough to call for a root canal. Routine care offers important cavity protection, but this is not the only benefit. You can also receive an important dental cleaning, and a full review for any potential problems. (more…)

A dental crown is not a short-term stop gap protection for a tooth. Once placed, the restoration is meant to be permanent. Many patients equate crowns with cavity care – while they are often used to support teeth that have suffered advanced decay, they can help in other situations, too. For instance, a person whose tooth is functionally inhibited by damage can avoid losing their tooth, and eliminate difficulties biting and chewing, by having a crown placed. With good daily care, your dental crown can last for many years. That being said, if you do have a problem, do not hesitate to tell your dentist. A broken or lost crown will leave your tooth vulnerable. (more…)

A snoring problem can make people self-conscious, and reluctant to admit they have a problem. While you may not like the idea of telling strangers you snore, seeking help can be important if you suffer from sleep apnea. This condition, which causes loud snoring, can also lead to a range of worrying health issues. If you have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), telling your dentist about your issue can lead to a successful treatment thanks to a special oral appliance that keeps your airways clear. When you eliminate this problem, you can improve your health, and secure a good night’s rest for you…and your partner. (more…)