Hypophosphatasia: What You Need To Know

While the term Hypophosphatasia may have us scratching our heads, this inherited disorder affects 1 in 100,000 newborns, and sabotages the development of healthy bones and teeth. With varying forms of the disorder and signs and symptoms appearing at unspecified times from birth through adulthood, it’s a good idea to become familiar with its implications…

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Chlorine and Oral Health

Given the hot and muggy conditions of summertime in Georgia, it’s no wonder that many end up spending their days at water parks and swimming pools. When it comes to keeping pools clean and sanitary, chlorine is a necessary antimicrobial agent that kills bacteria, while keeping pool levels safe for swimming. Yet, most are unaware…

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Dental Sealants: Prevention Power

Have you struggled with cavities your whole life? Or–are you noticing that more cavities are popping up as you age? Although most commonly recommended for children and teens, Dental Sealants can benefit anyone, at any age. As a highly effective approach, sealants act as a barrier to tooth decay, and are applied to the biting…

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Smoking and Oral Health

Did you know–smoking is a leading cause of preventable disease and death in the United States? Nearly half a million deaths are related to some form of smoking every year, while it’s estimated that 40 million adults continue to smoke. The easy accessibility and high addiction rate of smoking seems to propel this number, especially…

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Does Oil Pulling Benefit Oral Health?

For those that haven’t heard of oil pulling, or “swishing,” it is a natural alternative for ridding the body of bad bacteria. The process involves swishing with a tablespoon of vegetable or coconut oil for 20 minutes before spitting it out. While it cannot replace brushing and flossing, it’s believed that oil pulling can boost…

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Braces: Breaking It Down

Usually recommended to improve a patient’s orofacial (mouth and face) appearance, Braces are a popular form of orthodontic treatment that can benefit those of all ages. Dental concerns such as crooked or crowded teeth, overbites and underbites, and disorders of the jaw are a few problems addressed by braces. While the result is a straighter,…

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What is a Dead Tooth?

When a tooth has no access to blood flow, whether due to decay, trauma, or heavy wear, it is considered a non-vital, or Dead Tooth. To best understand how a tooth is classified as dead, consider the three layers of a tooth: enamel, dentin, and pulp. Containing blood vessels and nerve fibers, the pulp of…

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Are Sports Drinks Causing Permanent Damage To Teeth?

With the consumption of sports and energy drinks on the rise, especially among adolescents, dentists are focusing more and more on patient education regarding the downside of these drinks. Studies published by the Academy of General Dentistry report that the high acidity levels in sports and energy drinks erode the glossy outer layer of the…

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The Truth About Thumb Sucking

As a natural reflex for children, thumb sucking is a common soothing technique, bringing safety and security to a child’s world. For tired parents, it may seem like a gift that helps their child fall asleep. Even so, can thumb sucking affect your child’s teeth? When should you intervene and try to help your child…

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Do You Have An Abscessed Tooth?

p>As a painful infection between the gums and teeth or near the tooth’s root, an Abscessed Tooth results in throbbing and shooting pain. Many describe the pain associated with an abscessed tooth as a gnawing, severe toothache. Even so, symptoms of abscessed teeth range from general discomfort to open sores and rapid swelling. To better…

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