What is it? Tooth sensitivity is something that affects a number of people. It is often caused by eating or drinking something hot, cold, sweet or acidic. Under normal conditions, the underlying dentin of the tooth (the layer that immediately surrounds the nerve) is covered by the enamel in the tooth crown, and the gums [...]

Every tooth has a specific job or function (use the dental arch in this section to locate and identify each type of tooth): Incisors— the sharp, chisel-shaped front teeth (four upper, four lower) used for cutting food. Canines— sometimes called cuspids, these teeth are shaped like points (cusps) and are used for tearing food. Premolars— [...]

What is the Right Way to Floss? Proper flossing removes plaque and food particles in places where a toothbrush cannot easily reach — under the gumline and between your teeth. Because plaque build-up can lead to tooth decay and gum disease, daily flossing is highly recommended. To receive maximum benefits from flossing, use the following [...]

Toothpastes Choosing a toothpaste can be confusing. When buying toothpaste for your child, look for one that contains fluoride and tastes good. Some toothpastes also are approved by the American Dental Association (ADA). The ADA Seal of Acceptance means that the toothpaste’s manufacturer has proven that the toothpaste is safe and effective. Some manufacturers choose [...]

To supplement your at-home brushing and flossing, your dentist or hygienist may suggest one or more of the following: • Interdental cleaners — These cleaners work better than floss for people who have large spaces between their teeth. Some look like tiny brushes. Others look like three-sided, wide toothpicks. These cleaners also work well in people [...]

Taking Care of Your Teeth Thanks to better at-home care and in-office dental treatments, more people are keeping their teeth throughout their lives. Some diseases and conditions can make dental disease and tooth loss more likely. But most of us have a good deal of control over whether we keep our teeth into old age. [...]

While plaque is the primary cause of periodontal disease, the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) says that other factors are thought to increase the risk, severity and speed of gum disease development. These can include: o Tobacco use — one of the most significant risk factors associated with the development of periodontitis. People who smoke [...]

A number of products are available to control infection and reduce inflammation. What it Is Why it’s Used How it’s Used Colgate Total – triclosan and fluoride toothpaste Over-the-counter toothpaste containing the antibacterial triclosan The antibacterial ingredient reduces plaque and resulting gingivitis. The fluoride protects against cavities. Used like a regular toothpaste Peridex or generic [...]

-Curettage — a scraping away of the diseased gum tissue in the infected pocket, which permits the infected area to heal. -Flap surgery — involves lifting back the gums and removing the tartar. The gums are then sewn back in place so that the tissue fits snugly around the tooth. This method also reduces the [...]

The endodontist will review the risks of the procedure at the consultation appointment. The main risk is that the surgery may not work and the tooth may need to be extracted. Depending on where the tooth is located, there may be other risks. If the tooth is in the back of your upper jaw, the [...]