What is an Amalgam Filling?

There has been great debate in the public about the materials we use to fill teeth that have decay (cavities). There has been a movement away from amalgam fillings (metal) due to the concern for its mercury content and the health hazards a leaking filling might cause. Not to mention the appearance of the silver fillings are not the most esthetic and today patients want a solution that is both esthetic and durable. While there isn’t any concrete data to verify the toxicity of this material, many providers such as myself have chosen to not use this material due to an alternative material that is more natural-looking and just as strong. (more…)

Can you remember the last time you had an uncomfortable conversation with a close talker? Most people associate bad breath with onions and garlic, and many times it is just a single occurrence. Bad breath, or halitosis, however, is estimated to be the third most frequent reason for people to seek dental care—behind tooth decay and periodontal disease (gum disease).

(more…)

Dry Mouth – Xerostomia

Many common medications have the side effect of causing dry mouth (xerostomia), which can adversely affect oral health. Dry mouth is a recipe for disaster. Our saliva contains natural antibodies which help fight off bacteria, and decreased salivary flow limits the number of antibodies available and will put you at a higher risk of developing tooth decay and periodontal disease.

Remember, if your mouth often feels dry, then it’s possible that you may already have some level of dry mouth.  

With the beginning of 2014 comes the return of our New Year’s resolutions. Each of us has our own personal list of goals and accomplishments we wish to achieve. Many of these resolutions revolve around health and fitness and so I’d like to talk a little bit about some daily routines that you may implement into improving your oral and systemic health this New Year. Here are 14 easy ways to help protect your teeth for 2014:
(more…)

The holiday season has arrived and with that so have the festivities! I have always loved the holiday season because of time spent with friends and family, but also because I get to enjoy one of life’s true joys… food! From turkey to pecan pie to wine, it is my unquestioned favorite time of the year. It probably is for most of you as well! Without trying to be a downer though, it is important to emphasize that what we eat during this time does affect our health in many ways. My personal motto is simple, enjoy what you want to… in moderation. That being said, there are foods that bring a higher rate of decay to our teeth (cariogenicity).
(more…)

The next time you pop a pill, ask yourself this question: What will this medicine do to my mouth and teeth?
(more…)