David M. Weinman, DMD Blog

Gum disease may start as a mildly uncomfortable condition, but given enough time it can lead to a wide range of oral health issues such as gum recession or loose teeth. If your gum disease is especially severe, there’s a chance that your dentist might suggest having your teeth extracted. Will this help cure your gum disease in Westfield, or is there another reason why you might need to have your teeth removed? Here are the facts.

Don’t like what you see when you smile in the mirror? You’re not alone. Many people are unhappy with their teeth for several different reasons, including dental misalignment. If you want to straighten your teeth, you may be considering cosmetic dentistry. With options like Invisalign and veneers, it’s easier than ever to get the stunning grin you’ve always wanted! Although they’re both great choices, how do you know which one is best for you? Read on to learn about the differences between these two services to help you make the right decision.

Once you’ve had a tooth removed, your mouth will need some time to heal. Naturally, you can expect some discomfort during this time (although fortunately there are plenty of steps you can take to manage the pain, which your dentist can walk you through). But if you haven’t had a tooth extracted before, it can sometimes be hard to tell what kind of discomfort is normal and what kind is telling you that something has gone wrong. The following covers the basics of what you can expect during the healing of a tooth extraction – including which symptoms mean that everything is going according to plan and which symptoms mean that you need to call your dentist immediately.

Sleeping after wisdom tooth extractions in Westfield can be a challenge. The discomfort, soreness, and tenderness experienced after this type of oral surgery can leave you feeling as if the recovery process will last forever. Fortunately, there are ways to make it a seamless and successful experience. Consider these three tips to make sure you get the sleep you need while allowing your mouth to heal after tooth removal.

Your permanent teeth may seem sturdy and immovable, but in reality, there are several reasons why they might shift out of place over time. This is actually fairly normal, but that unfortunately does not mean it’s healthy. Shifting teeth can change your bite, and that in turn can put your dental health at risk. Have you noticed that your teeth seem to be in a different position than they used to be? If so, a dentist can help you narrow down the cause and point you towards possible solutions. Below are some reasons for why teeth move as well as potential treatments.

If you had your wisdom teeth removed at some point in your life, you’re likely expecting the same for your child eventually. Of course, some obvious questions come to mind, not the least of which is, “When should it be done?” Having an idea of the proper age for wisdom teeth removal can give you an idea of when you might need to bring your child to the dentist for an evaluation. The following post covers some of the basics of wisdom teeth and when they might need to come out.

If you’re an older teen or young adult who’s concerned about oral health, one of the questions that’s sure to be on your mind is, “When should I worry about wisdom teeth?” The last thing you want is to let your mouth suffer from extensive damage and pain because you waited too long. By being aware of why wisdom teeth have to be removed and the various signs that they need to come out in the near future, you can protect your smile and your overall quality of life.

Taking care of your smile requires visiting the dentist every six months for a regular dental checkup and cleaning. While some people are diligent in maintaining these appointments, you might find excuses to cancel or continuously reschedule. As a result, your risk for tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer increases, all of which can wreak havoc on your mouth and body. If these common dental issues do not cause you much concern, a local dentist explains the dangers of these oral health problems and why regular visits can stop them before they ever start.

February is largely known for being the month of love, but did you know that it’s also Children’s Dental Awareness Month? That’s right! Each year, the American Dental Association sponsors this event to raise awareness about the importance of good oral health. Why should you and your little one be celebrating this month?

The expected lifespan of a dental crown is usually around 10 to 15 years. But of course, that’s not always going to be the case; unfortunately, accidents that crack, chip, or even loosen a crown can happen at any time. A lost dental crown isn’t always an emergency, but it can sometimes reach that level – especially if the tooth it was attached to remains exposed for too long. The following steps can help you take care of a missing crown and protect your smile until your dentist can help.