We are proud to be sponsors of Carolina Boxer Rescue! We love to support our community and the people in it who are doing important work. Carolina Boxer Rescue has been making a difference in the lives of shelter dogs since 2001. Founded by three North Carolina women, the organization has saved over 3,500 shelter dogs from facing euthanasia. Carolina Boxer Rescue’s goal is to provide forever homes to dogs who are stray, abused, impounded,… Read more »
Bad Breath: Causes and Remedies
Bad breath—also known as halitosis—can be embarrassing, and most people’s go-to solution is to chew a piece of gum or a breath mint. These will only help for a minute or two. Furthermore, these are often high in sugar which will end up making the problem worse. If you persistently have bad breath, you may want to rethink your oral hygiene routine. Bad Breath Causes To get rid of bad breath, you must first identify… Read more »
Signs of Gingivitis
You hear it every time you go to the dentist: “make sure you brush and floss your teeth regularly.” Some people take this to heart and have incorporated it as their daily routine, while others may promise to do so only to give up on it a few days later. Not flossing may not seem like a big deal, but the reality is lack of proper oral hygiene can lead not only to bad breath… Read more »
Is there such a thing as Over-Brushing Teeth?
What is Over-Brushing? Over-brushing can include brushing the teeth too hard, too frequently, or for too long which can cause pain and also damage the tooth structure. Some of the effects of over-brushing teeth are as follows: It can cause tooth abrasion, the wearing away of the tooth structure, which will make the teeth more sensitive and more susceptible to decay. It can weaken the teeth as you’re wearing away the outer tooth structure. It… Read more »
Stained Teeth: Causes, Preventative Measures & Treatment Options
There are many contributing factors to discoloration or staining of teeth, some of which can be prevented or treated with proper care. While stained teeth can be due to genetics or aging, it is often caused by diet, hygiene, and other lifestyle choices. Some of the most common causes of teeth discoloration are as follows: Poor Dental Hygiene – Lack of brushing and flossing on a daily basis using proper brushing techniques and ADA approved… Read more »
Oral Hygiene Best Practices
Oral hygiene is an extremely important part of your daily routine and habits. There are many factors that go into maintaining good oral hygiene practices such as brushing your teeth, flossing, making regular trips to the dentist for exams & cleanings, and keeping a balanced diet. There are proper ways to use these various dental aids that will help keep your mouth healthy and your smile beautiful! Proper Brushing Techniques You should brush your teeth… Read more »
Gum Abscess: Causes & Course of Treatment
A gum abscess or tooth abscess is caused by an infection that generally stems from the nerve of the tooth or an infection from the gum pocket. With an abscess you may experience pain, swelling, redness in the gums, and possibly a fever. The infection in the tooth or surrounding supporting structures, such as the gums or bone, is caused by the following: Periodontal Disease Tooth Decay A Cracked or Damaged Tooth Trauma to the… Read more »
Dry Socket: Steer Clear of these Habits to Avoid this Painful Complication
Dry socket is a painful complication that can occur after a tooth extraction. After the extraction, a blood clot will form, which is part of the natural healing process. If that blood clot is removed before the healing process is complete, it leads to exposed nerves and bone. The condition is not life threatening, however, it is extremely painful and should be immediately addressed with your dentist. While the etiology of dry socket is technically… Read more »
Receding Gums: Causes and Treatment Options
By Dr. Laura Kearney What are Receding Gums & Who is at Risk? When your teeth are healthy, the gum tissue will fit around each tooth perfectly. With receding gums, the gums begin to pull away or recede from the teeth. When the gum tissue pulls away from the tooth, it can leave the tooth roots exposed. Due to the fact that the root surface does not have hard enamel covering it the root can… Read more »
Jaw Strain Treatment Recommendations
By Dr. Laura Kearney The jaw joints consists of a ball, socket, and disk. Any component of the jaw and/or the muscles associated with it, the way your teeth move and/or come together, systemic conditions, stress or trauma can cause jaw symptoms. The following are a few (easy, non invasive) steps that take care of the majority of jaw symptoms. A few people will need additional more invasive treatment. Consult with your dentist to… Read more »