Dental Health: Seeing a Dentist after Years of Neglect

If you're experiencing issues such as extreme tooth sensitivity or tenderness, it's easy to think that the answer is to have the tooth extracted. However, a better answer may be to get a root canal. During a root canal, the pulp that is hidden deep within the tooth is taken out. Learning more about the benefits of root canals can help you see why getting one is a superior alternative to tooth extraction.

Even if you brush and floss your teeth daily and visit the dentist every six months, you could still be doing things that could damage your teeth. Your teeth are strong, but they can still endure harm. It is very important to pay attention to your daily habits and make sure they are not damaging your pearly whites. Here are five ways you could be hurting your teeth. Brushing with Too Much Force

When wearing flexible dentures, the fit is almost so seamless that the dentures quickly feel like they are your natural teeth. Like your natural teeth, flexible dentures are susceptible to developing stains if they are not properly cared for. Poor maintenance can end up stripping the polish that protects your flexible dentures. Once the polish goes, your dentures will easily soak up stains from the foods and beverages you consume. In order to get the staining removed, you may need to get the dentures replaced entirely.

While watching your favorite television shows or browsing the internet, do you often wish you had the same smile as some of your favorite celebrities? It is not impossible to have beautiful teeth. Even if you have a missing tooth and are dealing with discoloration, there are some ways to enhance your smile so that it looks flawless. Whiten Your Teeth at Home or in the Dental Office If you have noticed some discoloration and are unhappy about it, whitening options are available.

While there are many over-the-counter products that can be used to help whiten teeth, when you want a bright white smile fast your best bet is to have your teeth professionally whitened by your dentist. A professional teeth whitening treatment can have amazing results, but it is typically more expensive than using teeth whitening products from a drug store. Use the following tips to help protect your investment and maintain your beautiful white smile:

Periapical periodontitis is a form of extreme gum disease that develops around the root of your tooth. This occurs when bacteria are able to penetrate your dental pulp. Bacteria often seep into your dental pulp by way of a cavity that was left untreated. When periapical periodontitis occurs, you will need to see a dentist in order to get the bacteria fully removed from your tooth. This procedure is often time-consuming and intensive.

How do you feel when you smile? The answer should be "happy." However, even if you have healthy teeth, they may not have the most symmetrical of appearances. Life happens, and perhaps that's showing up in your teeth. Porcelain veneers could vastly improve the look of your smile. Cosmetic dentists remove a minute amount of the tooth's surface then affix a thin layer of dental ceramic to your teeth. If you have cosmetic worries about your smile, consider having porcelain veneers applied.

It takes creativity and ingenuity to get young children interested in dental hygiene. This is especially true for children who are elementary-school age. Teach them early how important it is to protect their teeth. Getting kids to practice good dental hygiene can be hard when they start school because you won't be around to encourage healthy eating choices or brushing after snacks and meals. These tips will help you encourage healthy dental habits that will stick with your children throughout school.