Distinctive Dentistry Blog

Did you know that 54,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer every year? Despite being treatable, 43% of those diagnosed won’t survive longer than 5 years. One person every 24 hours succumbs to oral cancer, largely because of late detection. Often, it’s not found until it has metastasized. Regular screenings can detect oral cancer early. April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, dedicated to raising awareness of the importance of routine screenings. Dentists are often the first to spot the signs of oral cancer during semi-annual dental appointments. Here’s why you shouldn’t skip your next cleaning and checkup.

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Cavities aren’t the only threat to your dental health. Gum disease is equally devastating. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, at least 50% of adults in the US have a form of the infection. It’s caused by bacteria found in plaque and tartar buildup from poor oral hygiene habits. Without treatment, it can lead to several dental and health complications. Although gum disease is common, it’s easy to prevent. Here are 5 simple tips to keep your gums healthy.

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The average American eats 43 quarts of popcorn during their lifetime, whether that’s topped with butter, kettle-cooked, or comes in a steaming hot bucket at a movie theater. The unfortunate side of popcorn being one of the most popular snacks in the nation is that the kernels are often the cause of dental emergencies. Read on to learn more about how popcorn can impact your smile, and why you should eat with caution.

With spring right around the corner, you’re likely making a list of what rooms you plan to deep clean in the next couple of weeks. From moving the couch and rugs in the living room and vacuuming underneath them to cleaning out under your sink, there are so many areas of the home that haven’t been touched in a year! You can refresh your oral hygiene routine at the same time as you’re cleaning your bathroom, too, ensuring that your smile stays as spick and span as your deep cleaned home. Read on for four ways you can refresh your dental routine while you’re spring cleaning.

While TMJ disorders are painful, many people may be tempted to let them go untreated. While addressing symptoms like headaches and neck pain with over-the-counter pain relievers may work for a while, allowing a TMJ disorder to progress can lead to negative consequences for your overall health and your quality of life. Here’s a brief overview of why you should have your TMJ problems treated as soon as possible.

Dentists are big fans of fluoride. This naturally occurring mineral is renowned for its ability to prevent tooth decay, leading it to be added to most public water supplies across the country. It’s also a central cavity-fighting ingredient in toothpaste, but did you know that it can also be found in many common foods? Here’s a brief list of foods that are naturally high in fluoride for the next time you’re craving a snack that will be kind to your smile.

If you’ve never had oral surgery or a major dental treatment before, the thought of committing to the dental implant process can feel overwhelming and nerve-wracking. Fortunately for you, there are countless upsides to this treatment that you can focus on whenever you feel anxious, like the fact that after it’s all done, you’ll be able to enjoy a complete, healthy, and natural-looking and feeling smile again! Read on for five reasons you shouldn’t feel fearful about getting dental implants to ease some of your nervousness.

Dentistry has come further than many people realize. Nowadays, certain procedures – such as gum recontouring for correcting a gummy smile – can be performed with a state-of-the-art laser. This approach has several advantages over traditional dental instruments. Below is a brief look at laser dentistry and why it can be a great choice.

The dawn of a new year presents a perfect opportunity to begin your journey towards a healthier, brighter smile. And what better way to take your first steps than by creating some New Year’s resolutions for better oral health? If you need some guidance in coming up with some ideas, continue reading.

Ensuring good oral health requires regular dental checkups and cleanings every six months. During these appointments, your dentist examines for any oral health issues and cleans your teeth to eliminate plaque and tartar buildup. Seize the opportunity to pose important questions about your oral health during these visits. Here are six questions to ask your dentist at your next appointment, ensuring you have the information needed to maintain a healthy and strong smile.