What are Dental Crowns and Tooth Bridges? Both crowns and most bridges are fixed prosthetic devices. Unlike removable devices such as dentures, which you can take out and clean daily, crowns and bridges are cemented onto existing teeth or implants, and can only be removed by a dentist. How do Crowns Work? A crown is [...]

The signs and symptoms of cavities vary, depending on their extent and location. When a cavity is just beginning, you may not have any symptoms at all. As the decay gets larger, it may cause signs and symptoms such as: Toothache Tooth sensitivity Mild to sharp pain when eating or drinking something sweet, hot or [...]

While tooth decay is often the primary cause of a toothache, it's important for you to have a complete oral examination to determine the cause. Other causes of a toothache can include the following: Infection Gum disease Grinding teeth (bruxism) Tooth trauma An abnormal bite Tooth eruption (in babies and school-age children) TMJ/TMD (Temporomandibular Joint [...]

Have you ever experienced a jolt of pain when you ate ice cream or sipped hot tea? If so, you may have some level of enamel erosion. A tooth's outermost covering is called enamel. This translucent layer is thin but extremely strong. In fact, it's the hardest tissue in the human body. Enamel acts as a [...]

How can I take care of my toothbrush? To keep your toothbrush and yourself healthy, make sure you let it dry out between uses. Toothbrushes can be breeding grounds for germs, fungus and bacteria, which after a while can build up to significant levels. After using your toothbrush, shake it vigorously under tap water and [...]

Mouthrinses are used for a variety of reasons: to freshen breath, to help prevent or control tooth decay, to reduce plaque (a thin film of bacteria that forms on teeth), to prevent or reduce gingivitis (an early stage of gum disease), to reduce the speed that tartar (hardened plaque) forms on the teeth, or to [...]

Introducing your children to good oral health is very important. Some kids need help and encouragement, while others require you to be more creative with your oral hygiene care ideas. Here are some different tips and tricks that you can try to help your little one keep their smile happy and healthy. Make tooth brushing [...]

If you have been told you have periodontal (gum) disease, you’re not alone. Many adults in the U.S. currently have some form of the disease. Periodontal diseases range from simple gum inflammation to serious disease that results in major damage to the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. In the worst cases, teeth [...]

Clinical studies have shown that chewing sugarless gum for 20 minutes following meals can help prevent tooth decay. The chewing of sugarless gum increases the flow of saliva, which washes away food and other debris, neutralizes acids produced by bacteria in the mouth and provides disease-fighting substances throughout the mouth. Increased saliva flow also carries [...]

Dr. Dan Massie and Amy visited Unity Point in Carbondale Illinois to meet Pre-K students. They informed the students on the benefits and importance of brushing, flossing, oral hygiene, and visiting the dentist! They had a great time and the kids were fascinated with the giant tooth brush and oversized teeth! Hopefully their visit answered some [...]