Common Concerns
Expert answers to everyday oral care concerns.
Cavities and Tooth Decay
What are Cavities?
"Cavities" is another way of saying tooth decay. Tooth decay is heavily influenced by lifestyle, what we eat, how well we take care of our teeth, the presence of fluoride in our water and toothpaste.
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Plaque and Tartar
What is Plaque?
Plaque is a sticky, colorless film of bacteria and sugars that constantly forms on our teeth.
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What is Tartar?
Tartar, sometimes called calculus, is plaque that has hardened on your teeth.
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Gum Disease
What are the Stages of Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an inflammation of the gums that can progress to affect the bone that surrounds and supports your teeth. It is caused by the bacteria in plaque, a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth.
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What is Gingivitis? Signs and Symptoms
What is Gingivitis? Gingivitis — an inflammation of the gums — is the initial stage of gum disease and the easiest to treat. The direct cause of gingivitis is plaque - the soft, sticky, colorless film of bacteria that forms constantly on the teeth and gums.
Read "What is Gingivitis? Signs and Symptoms" article
Canker Sores, Cold Sores and Infections
Oral First Aid at Home
You probably have a first aid kit in your home to handle life's minor bumps and bruises. But are you prepared for a dental emergency?
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What are Canker and Mouth Sores?
Mouth irritations and oral lesions are swellings, spots or sores on your mouth, lips or tongue. Although there are numerous types of mouth sores and disorders, among the most common are canker sores, cold sores, leukoplakia and candidiasis (thrush).
Read "What are Canker and Mouth Sores?" article
Sensitivity
What is Tooth Sensitvity?
Tooth sensitivity is a common name for dentin hypersensitivity or root sensitivity. If hot, cold, sweet or very acidic foods and drinks.
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What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity is something that affects a number of people. It is often caused by eating or drinking something hot, cold, sweet or acidic.
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Treatment Options for Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is due to the exposure of dentin, the part of the tooth which covers the nerve, either through loss of the enamel layer or recession of the gums.
Read "Treatment Options for Tooth Sensitivity" article
Bad Breath
Halitosis
Bad breath is breath that has an unpleasant odor. It's also known as halitosis. This odor can occur from time to time, or it can be long lasting, depending on the cause.
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Bad Breath - Do You Have It?
Most people are unaware of the fact that they have bad breath, or “halitosis” as
dental professionals refer to it. Actually, one in four people have bad
breath and some studies have reported that approximately 50 percent of
the adult population does have . In fact, it is estimated that nearly
60 million people will suffer from chronic halitosis in the United States.
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TMJ/TMD: Temporomandibular Disorders
What is Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ)?
TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder, means that the hinge connecting the upper and lower jaw isn't working properly. This hinge is one of the most complex joints in the body, responsible for moving the lower jaw forward, backward and side-to-side
Read "What is Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ)?" article
Bruxism/Tooth Grinding
Bruxism: Signs and Symptoms
What is Bruxism?
Read "Bruxism: Signs and Symptoms" article
Wisdom Teeth
What are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last molars on each side of the jaws. They are also the last teeth to emerge,
Read "What are Wisdom Teeth?" article
Dry Mouth
What is Dry Mouth?
Dry mouth means you don't have enough saliva, or spit, to keep your mouth moist. Everyone has a dry mouth once in a while, especially if you're nervous, upset or under stress. But if you have a dry mouth all or most of the time, it can be uncomfortable and can lead to more serious health problems or indicate that a more serious medical condition may exist.
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