Oral Piercing
While many people think this trend looks cool, it has many possible and harmful side effects. Common symptoms after oral piercing include pain, swelling, infection, an increased flow of saliva (“spit”) and injuries to the gums: And the jewelry itself can be hazardous or cause other problems: Since oral health is important for overall health, […]
Tobacco
The American and Canadian Dental Associations, along with all North American regional dental associations and societies have been at the forefront of the battle against tobacco-related disease, working to educate the public about the dangers inherent in tobacco use and encouraging dentists to help their patients break the cycle of addiction. The dental community has […]
Oral Health and Seniors
Aging and oral health North Americans are generally leading longer and healthier lives. Today’s seniors are also enjoying good oral health, keeping their natural teeth longer than previous generations. The maintenance of good oral health is stressed throughout one’s life. It remains a very important cornerstone to good overall health and quality of life. Neglect […]
Allergy to Latex
Latex allergy is a hypersensitivity to the naturally occurring protein found in rubber which may cause symptoms to arise. These symptoms may be as mild as skin irritations (contact dermatitis), hives, itchy eyes, and runny nose, to more severe occurrences such as asthma and life-threatening anaphylaxis. The symptoms and signs associated with anaphylaxis include: Many […]
The Link to Heart Disease
Poor dental hygiene (lack of brushing and flossing) can lead to other health problems not related to the mouth, including problems associated with the heart. Inflammation, which is the human body’s natural response to irritation, injury, or infection of tissue, has been shown to be a is a major risk factor for heart disease. While […]
Medication and Oral Health
There are some medications that can have an adverse effect on your mouth and teeth. Tetracycline StainingIn North America, in the 60’s and early 70s, children who were exposed to an antibiotic called tetracycline developed varying degrees of dental problems, including discoloration of the teeth. The medication had a negative effect when either given to […]
Infection Control
Universal PrecautionsWith increased public awareness of global bacterial and viral outbreaks, we would like to provide you with some information about how modern dental offices are required to practice infection control. Universal precautions were described in directives and guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Dental Association in […]
Oral Hygiene Instruction
Oral hygiene instruction is helpful and educational information meant to teach and guide our patients to prevent new cavities, and maintain healthy teeth and gums. At your initial oral hygiene visit, your hygienist will instruct you onthe proper methods of brushing and flossing. Follow-up visits will be to further assess your progress in maintaining good […]
Facts About Fluoride
IntroductionBoth the Canadian Dental Association (CDA) and the American Dental Association (ADA) support the use of fluorides in dentistry as a safe and effective preventative measure against dental caries. Historically, fluoride as a decay preventative has been extensively researched for well over 50 years, and the research has been consistent in proving its safety and […]