Recent guidelines published by the European Federation of Periodontology (EFP) have underlined the importance of educational interventions. It’s critical to explain to patients how gingivitis progresses into more severe forms of periodontitis, causing a greater degree of inflammation, irreversible damage to the supporting structures of the teeth, and a more severe array of oral health concerns. Most patients with mild to severe gum disease know there is a problem, but again, equate it to their teeth. They often experience symptoms like loose or misaligned teeth caused by alveolar bone loss , or experience pain when chewing and attribute it to tooth sensitivity. Compromised gum health doesn’t always occur to them.

Woman using ADA-accepted Waterpik water flosser.
Water flossing is a way to clean between and around your teeth. A water flosser is a handheld device that sprays streams of water in steady pulses. The water, like traditional floss, removes food from between teeth.

Does the word “dentist” give you goose bumps and make you immediately want to call your mom? These are the top five treatments that make you scared but really shouldn’t.

Your teeth can easily decay as they age because they come in contact with so many sugars, acids and more over the years. This happens on a daily basis. Plaque is made when your mouth bacteria mixes with sugars in the foods and drinks you ingest. That plaque sticks to your teeth, and the acids in it break up the minerals (demineralize) in your teeth, decaying them. Decay spreads from there. Over time, you will see your teeth start to change from white to gray to black as decay sets in. This can happen all over.

When people think about discomfort during pregnancy, they usually picture back pain, sore hips, and swollen feet. Another more surprising symptom you might experience is sensitive teeth. Rest assured that you’re not alone! Other women experience this odd symptom, too. Learn the reasons behind sensitive teeth during pregnancy and how to deal with it.

Cancer is a frightening diagnosis no one wants to hear, but nearly 50,000 Americans will receive the news that they have oral cancer this year. Fortunately, this condition is highly preventable and treatable—as long as it’s detected early.

Any woman over the age of twelve is familiar with the effects hormones can have on your life.  A lesser known fact about hormones is that they can impact your oral health too. Since oral health is so important to overall health, understanding how hormones play a part is valuable as well.  So, during Women’s Health Week, we are exploring hormones and your oral health.