We get it. When compared to life-threatening illnesses, gum disease just doesn’t seem like that big of a deal. Perhaps it’s the fact that gum disease doesn’t have any painful or gruesome symptoms until it reaches a later stage. Maybe it’s that we don’t rank our gums high on the list of “very important body parts.” However, over half of the American population has gum disease and in addition to holding the top-spot for causes of adult tooth loss, gum disease has been linked to an increased risk for heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, and respiratory illness. Today, we’re taking a brief tour of how gum disease progresses and touching on some common treatment options. (more…)
Three Groups of People Who Benefit from Sedation Dentistry
Have you ever wondered who goes in for sedation dentistry? This practice, sometimes inaccurately referred to as sleep dentistry, has helped dentists manage their patients’ discomfort during a procedure since nitrous oxide was first introduced in the mid-1800s. Since that time, the field has expanded to include oral conscious (pill) sedation and intravenous (IV) sedation techniques. Today, we’re taking a closer look at three groups of people who benefit greatly from dental sedation. (more…)
Look, Feel, Checkup: Identifying the Signs of Oral Cancer
Ideally, we should all perform an oral cancer self-check every few months. Like breast and testicular self-checks, and oral cancer self-check consists of a careful visual and manual (touch-based) scan of your head, neck, and the inside of your mouth. Your chances of surviving oral cancer in the long term depend on early detection, and early detection depends on self-awareness and regular preventive dental care appointments. Follow a Look, Feel, and Checkup protocol to stay on top of your oral health. (more…)
Frequently Asked Questions about Oral Biopsies
Your dentist has located a patch of cells, a lesion, or a small bump that needs to be analyzed so an accurate diagnosis can be made and treatment plan developed. To achieve these goals, you will need an oral biopsy, a procedure during which your dentist or oral surgeon removes a small section of the abnormal area for analysis. Oral biopsies are generally associated with oral cancer. However, they are useful in diagnosing a wide range of oral pathologies (diseases of the mouth). Today, we’re answering a few frequently asked questions about this vital procedure. (more…)
Understanding Your Oral Cancer Treatment Options
Although oral cancer is not one of the more common or well-known types of cancer, it has a relatively low survival rate because it is often not treated until it has already reached a late stage. In fact, the five year survival rate only averages about 57% nationwide. Identifying the signs of oral cancer while they’re still in the early stages is key to successful treatment and long term survival. Treatment options for oral cancer vary depending on the stage the patient is diagnosed with and where in the mouth the cancer is located. Some common treatment options include: (more…)
Exploring Oral Pathology: A Closer Look at Three Diseases of the Mouth
When we think about dentists, and what dentists do, we tend to focus solely on their role as care providers for the teeth and gums. However, general dentists are the first line in identifying and, in the case of dentist with specialized training in oral surgery, treating serious oral health issues. Today, we’re discussing just a few oral pathologies often seen in the dental chair. (more…)
A Patients’ Glossary of Dental Implants
If you’re interested in replacing your missing teeth with implants, you’ve probably just begun researching your options. As your research continues, you’ll need to know some key terms. Over the past few days, we’ve answered frequently asked questions about the cost of dental implants and discussed whether the procedure is worth the investment in time and money. Today, we’re getting down to the nitty-gritty of dental implants and supplying a handy guide to some frequently used terms. (more…)
Four Dental Technology Trends to Look for in 2014
You might think your dentist is boring and old fashioned, but general dentists and dental specialists get to deploy some of the coolest, most cutting-edge technology in their offices every day. And, as the industry diversifies and the price of equipment drops, more dentists can utilize lasers, 3D imaging, and digital technology to provide better, faster, more convenient patient care. (more…)
Why Do Dental Implants Cost So Much?
In yesterday’s post, we discussed whether receiving dental implants was worth the investment in time and money. Determining the return on investment for the procedure is a highly personal matter, but for the right patient, dental implants can provide a new lease on life. However, the cost intensive nature of the treatment presents an obstacle for many people interested in dental implants. Today, we discuss why dental implants are more expensive than other tooth replacement. (more…)
Are Dental Implants a Good Investment?
Once an adult tooth is lost, it’s gone forever . . . or is it? Dental implants provide a secure, long-lasting tooth replacement option that features a true-to-life design meant to mimic the crown and root structure of a natural tooth. Moreover, dental implant posts can be used to replace one tooth or a full arch of missing dentition. However, before proceeding with a dental implant procedure, mindful patients must consider whether the sizeable investment in time and money involved is worth it. (more…)
