Dental decay, also known as dental caries, begins first inside the tooth. A white spot appears on the enamel where the tooth has started to weaken inside. At this stage, the tooth can repair the weakened area with the help of fluoride and minerals in saliva. But if the decay continues and breaks through the [...]

To understand what happens when your teeth decay, it’s helpful to know what’s in your mouth naturally. Here are a few of the elements: - Saliva: Your mouth and teeth are constantly bathed in saliva. Although we never give much thought to our spit, this simple fluid is remarkable for what it does to help protect [...]

An abscess is a limited area of pus formed as a result of a bacterial infection. The body’s immune system reacts to the infection, and sends white blood cells to the area to try to get rid of the bacteria. Pus is a mixture of live and dead white blood cells, enzymes and parts of [...]

It takes more than just brushing. OK, so you know about brushing and flossing. But there are other steps you should take if you want to keep your teeth for a lifetime. Some people assume they will lose their teeth as they age. That doesn’t have to happen. David A. Albert, D.D.S., M.P.H., suggests these [...]

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. If not removed through daily brushing and flossing, plaque can build up and the bacteria infect [...]

A drug used to regenerate bone in patients with osteoporosis might also be a useful therapy for those who suffer from bone wounds and bone loss because of gum (periodontal) disease according to researchers at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. The study, published online and in print by the New England Journal of [...]

A Case Western Reserve University study may have found a new treatment option for people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis: periodontal therapy. People who suffer from both gum disease and rheumatoid arthritis(RA) reduced their arthritic pain, number of swollen joints and the degree of morning stiffness with non-surgical periodontal therapy, according to the study findings “It [...]

“In a way, it’s really quite an old story, because back in the early 19th century there was a therapy called focal sepsis, and people believed that infections in the mouth caused disease in the whole body,” Watt said “As a result, they used to take everyone’s teeth out.” Watt said such a response was [...]

Part One Why do I need to come back in 3-4 months? My insurance only covers two cleanings per year. You have a chronic bacterial infection called periodontal disease.  By measuring the pockets surrounding your teeth, evaluating the gum tissue, and reviewing your radiographs, your dentist and hygienist have discovered the infection in your gums. [...]