FAQs for a Chipped, Cracked, or Fractured Tooth
By Dr. Laura Kearney Teeth can become chipped, cracked, or fractured in a variety of ways including eating hard foods, biting your nails, or grinding your teeth. It is rare for this to happen to a healthy tooth that does not have any decay or fillings. However, if your tooth is already compromised, there is more of an opportunity for a chip, crack or fracture to occur. What is the recommended treatment of a… Read more »
What You Should Know About Wisdom Teeth Extractions
By Dr. Laura Kearney Wisdom Teeth Removal Teeth extraction services and wisdom teeth (third molars) removal is one of Dr. Laura Kearney’s most common surgical procedures performed at our dentist office. Dr. Laura Kearney has 15+ years experience performing tooth extractions. The majority of people will need to get their wisdom teeth removed.There are some instances when a patient will not need to get their wisdom teeth extracted. This is the case for patients who… Read more »
Dry Mouth: What You Need to Know
By Dr. Laura Kearney What is Dry Mouth? Dry mouth, also known as Xerostomia by its medical name, is exactly what it sounds like. It occurs when a patient’s mouth doesn’t have enough saliva to keep it wet. What Causes Dry Mouth? It may be caused by certain medications, salivary gland problems, certain medical conditions or continuous mouth breathing. Certain medications can cause a patient’s mouth to become extremely dry. Medical issues such as salivary… Read more »
What Is the Worst Candy for Your Teeth? Try Our Tricks and Treats for Healthy Teeth
By Dr. Laura Kearney Halloween is a favorite holiday for many children and adults alike. What’s not to like? You can dress up in costumes and receive free candy. Halloween shouldn’t be scary for dental health. Continue reading to learn about the worst candy for your teeth, tricks for healthy teeth, and healthy treat alternatives. Worst Candy For Your Teeth Some of the worst candies for your teeth include: Sticky or chewy candy such as… Read more »
Tooth Enamel and Erosion
By Dr. Laura Kearney What is Tooth Enamel? Tooth enamel acts as an outer layer to help protect your teeth from mechanical, thermal, and chemical insults. As time goes on, your teeth are worn down from the different items you consume, oral habits, and also from normal wear and tear. What Causes Tooth Enamel to Erode? There are several potential causes that lead to tooth enamel erosion. These include drinking excessive amounts of sodas, energy… Read more »
Bad Breath Causes
By Dr. Laura Kearney Dental Health Issues Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease) and tooth decay can actually cause bad breath (halitosis). The health of your gums has a direct impact on the health of your teeth and mouth. To keep your gums clean and healthy, be sure to floss once a day and brush your teeth at least twice a day to remove bacterial plaque. Poor Oral Hygiene Habits If you look closely at your tongue,… Read more »
Do You Have Dental Phobia? Learn How To Ease Your Fear Of The Dentist.
By Dr. Laura Kearney What is Dental Phobia and Dental Anxiety? Dental phobia, or fear of the dentist, is something many patients face. This dental fear could stem from a negative experience at a dental office, fear of pain, an embarrassment about teeth appearance, or a number of other causes. Overcoming this dental anxiety is highly recommended to maintain a healthy and beautiful smile. Below are a few coping techniques that we recommend. These skills… Read more »
Dental Sealant Importance
By Dr. Laura Kearney What are dental sealants? Dental sealants are a thin plastic coating applied onto the chewing surfaces of your teeth. Sealants help reduce and prevent tooth decay by creating a physical barrier on your teeth. Tooth sealants are most effective on your back teeth as these are often areas that can be hard to reach when brushing and flossing. Why should a patient consider getting dental sealants? Dental sealants are recommended by… Read more »
What Are Cavity Fillings? What Can I Do To Avoid Them?
By Dr. Laura Kearney Tooth and cavity fillings: the dreaded words and feeling that is often associated with it. At Dr. Laura Kearney, we ensure that you are comfortable and at ease when getting a tooth filling. Getting your tooth filled should not be painful. If you ever experience pain while getting a tooth filled, you should let your dentist know immediately. The cause of this pain could be a need for more anesthetic or… Read more »
Is Teeth Whitening Safe? Get the Facts.
By Dr. Laura Kearney What is teeth whitening? Tooth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatments requested by patients. Tooth whitening is a bleaching process that lightens the discolorations of tooth enamel and dentin. Common tooth whitening services include a mild solution in a custom fitted mouth tray that is worn over your teeth. The active ingredient in the gel solution, enters the enamel and dentin, and bleaches the discolored areas. The… Read more »
