Dental Health Blog

Quick Summary Retainers prevent teeth from shifting back after alignment because periodontal ligaments need approximately one year to stabilize in their new position, and without them, teeth naturally drift toward areas of less dense bone created during orthodontic...

Quick Summary Dark chocolate with 70 percent cocoa or higher contains antioxidants like polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins that can support oral health by strengthening tissues and inhibiting harmful bacteria. Milk chocolate and white chocolate lack these benefits...

Quick Summary Animal teeth have evolved for specific survival needs, from crabeater seals using multi-pronged teeth to filter krill like a strainer, to beavers whose orange teeth contain iron that hardens enamel and grow continuously to offset wear from chewing trees....

Quick Summary Modern dentures are made from plastics and acrylic resin and range from traditional removable options to implant-supported zirconia hybrids that prevent jawbone loss and eliminate slipping or falling out. Mini implants start at $650 per implant and can...

Quick Summary Dental sealants are white plastic coatings applied to the deep grooves of molars to block bacteria and food particles from causing decay in hard-to-clean crevices. The application is quick, painless, and non-invasive, involving cleaning the tooth,...

Quick Summary Nail biting can chip, crack, and wear down your teeth, shift them into malocclusion or create gaps, and may require crowns, veneers, or bonding that can break if the habit continues. The pressure from biting nails can cause root resorption, and bacteria...

Quick Summary Dry mouth affects about one-tenth of the population and reduces saliva's ability to protect your teeth from bacteria, bad breath, and decay. Common causes include over 400 medications that list dry mouth as a side effect, as well as smoking, drinking,...

Quick Summary Beyond standard brushing and flossing, you can improve your oral health by replacing your toothbrush every 3-4 months to prevent bacteria buildup, using an electric toothbrush to avoid damaging enamel, and adding a tongue scraper to eliminate bad breath....

Quick Summary Dental anxiety affects 9 to 15 percent of Americans, but most patients can overcome fear through gradual exposure, communication with their dentist, and modern comfort techniques like Kovanaze nasal spray or nitrous oxide. Modern dental technology has...