Erin M. Prach, DDS Blog

You just learned that you need a tooth-colored filling to repair a cavity. You know it’s necessary, but you’re not in a hurry to schedule treatment, especially since the coming months are likely to be busy. With this kind of mindset, you not only jeopardize your smile, but you also risk losing the benefits available through your dental insurance. Learn why it’s best to move ahead with restorative treatment now instead of waiting until next year.

Some dental procedures can leave you with temporary soreness or tenderness. Whether you’ve had a filling, crown, or something more serious like treatment for a dental emergency, your dentist may recommend an over-the-counter (OTC) pain medicine to help you stay comfortable while your mouth heals. With many options on the market, how do you know what’s best for you? The right choice depends on the type of procedure you’ve had, your health history, and any other medications you may take.

Most dentists do everything possible to preserve natural teeth because they are always the best option for your oral health. However, there are situations where removing a tooth is the healthiest choice. When a tooth is severely damaged or threatens the health of surrounding teeth and gums, an extraction can relieve pain and prevent more serious complications. Here are some of the key benefits of tooth extraction when it is recommended by your dentist.

Have you ever noticed an unusual sore or lesion on your lip or inside your mouth? It can be alarming and make you self-conscious about your appearance. While most are nothing more than bothersome canker sores, others can be far more serious and indicate oral cancer. If you’re unsure how to tell the difference between the two, read on to learn what you should look for and when you should seek professional help from your dentist.

Known as the enamel, the outer layer of your teeth is the hardest substance in the human body, capable of handling up to 200 pounds of force. But although they are strong, your pearly whites aren’t completely indestructible, and many foods that may be a regular staple in your diet can even cause them to chip or break. Here’s a closer look at some foods that are dangerous for your smile, so you can avoid damaging dental emergencies before it’s too late!

When it comes to your smile, it makes sense that you want it to leave a good impression. However, one of the most common cosmetic dental imperfections, tooth stains, may stand in the way of you and a confident “Hello!” Read on to learn about the causes and different types of dental stains, and how you can brighten your smile safely and achieve proven results.

Your dentures probably fit perfectly when you first got them, but have you ever wondered why they don’t stay that way? No, you’re not imagining things. The fit of a denture can change over time—and it’s not because your prosthetic stretched like a sweater. Your jawbone naturally changes shape after tooth loss, but this doesn’t mean you have to toss your teeth. A denture reline is a common and effective way to regain stability. Here’s how it works.

Several treatments out there are designed to give you a full smile you love by restoring your missing teeth. As you look into your options, you might see that dental implants often come out on top. They are regarded as the gold standard because of their effectiveness and stability. That said, they are often more pricey upfront, but this investment can save you money later on. Here’s what you should know.

Do you have a teenager at home who feels so self-conscious about flaws in their teeth that they avoid smiling? Unfortunately, if they’re overly worried about being judged for the way they look, they might also develop feelings of anxiety or depression.

Although many dentists offer various cosmetic services to enhance patients’ smiles and boost their confidence, it’s natural to wonder whether your child is too young to undergo them. Continue reading to learn more about different options that might benefit your teen!

If you are about to get dental insurance after some time away from the dental office, you are likely excited to get back on track with your routine cleanings and checkups. This way, you can have any issues resolved and ensure that your oral health is in good shape. However, there is sometimes a waiting period for insurance. Continue reading to learn more about dental insurance and how waiting periods work.