Category: Oral Health

Is Dentin Decay Reversible?

Your teeth contain a second layer after enamel called dentin. So what happens when decay hits dentin? When you look at your teeth, you’re seeing the strong outer covering known as enamel. But did you know your teeth consist of another layer called dentin, and it’s not visible to the naked eye? Teeth are made…

What Hurts Worse: Getting a Tooth Pulled or a Root Canal?

Are you hesitant to get a tooth pulled or have a root canal? Stop worrying! With anesthesia, an extraction or root canal is virtually painless. Your dentist has two options for treating a severely decayed or damaged tooth. You can either undergo a root canal or tooth extraction. Which one is performed depends on the…

How Long Do Mouth Sores Take to Go Away?

Mouth sores can be bothersome, but they usually don’t last very long, with one caveat. Any sore lasting more than two weeks should be checked by your dentist. In addition to cavities, mouth sores are among the most common oral ailments. While painful, mouth sores usually don’t indicate a serious medical condition and typically resolve…

Will a Gum Veneer Help Your Receding Gums?

Don’t like seeing that gap between your teeth and your gums? A gum veneer can fix your receding gums. Gum recession is a common dental problem among older adults. The Cleveland Clinic estimates 88 percent of people over 65 have receding gums. But seeing a gap between the top of your teeth and your gums…

Will I Get Side Effects from Dental Anesthesia?

Are you worried that your dental procedure will be painful? Fortunately, dental anesthesia helps take away all of the discomfort! Let’s be honest, dental work can hurt! And if you’re nervous about the prospect of a painful experience, you’re not alone. One study estimates between 10 percent and 30 percent of people feel anxious about…

What are the Different Types of Dental X-rays?

X-rays are often performed in a dental office so your dentist can assess the health of your teeth and gums. Are you visiting your dentist soon? Chances are you’ll get an X-ray. Dental X-rays are a standard diagnostic tool allowing dentists to see what is going on in your mouth. Your dentist will also perform…

How Does My Period Affect Gum Health?

Menstruation causes many changes in a woman’s body, but did you know that it can also affect the gums? Menstruation affects the body in so many ways. Most women experience weight gain, irritability, and food cravings in the days leading up to their period. Yet you may be surprised to learn that the menstrual cycle…

What’s a Normal Tooth Extraction Healing Time?

Are you feeling nervous about getting a tooth pulled? There’s no need! With these tips, you’ll heal in no time. No one wants to get a tooth extracted, but sometimes it must be done. If a tooth is so severely decayed that it cannot be saved by a filling, crown, or root canal, it must…

How is Debridement Different From Other Cleanings?

Sometimes you may need more than standard dental cleaning. That’s where a full mouth debridement comes in. Suppose you went to the dentist and were told you needed a full mouth debridement instead of a regular cleaning. Naturally, you may wonder, “What is a debridement, and why do I need it?” A full mouth debridement…

Should I Take Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen After Tooth Extraction?

You don’t need a prescription to reduce pain after tooth extraction. Everything you need can be found in your home or local drugstore. Ouch! You just had a tooth pulled. Although you understand the tooth needed to be extracted because of severe decay or breakage, you’re in pain right now and want it to stop.…