Dr. Mark J. Warner, DDS, owns Mark Warner DDS General Dentistry in Fairfield, California, and specializes in everything from getting a better bite to cosmetic dentistry. In the articles below, he talks about how to keep your teeth looking good, and explains specific dental practices and techniques to help you achieve – and maintain – a beautiful smile.
What to Look For in a Dentist
A dentist should know the latest techniques and be able to perform all sorts of procedures. But that’s not all. If your dentist doesn’t have a friendly manner and a caring, supportive staff, you are better off looking elsewhere.
How to Fix Crowded Teeth
Crowded teeth are not only unsightly, they can also be a breeding ground for bacteria, which can cause health conditions such as heart disease and even dementia. Luckily, there are modern ways to fix crowded teeth easily and (almost) invisibly.
What to Look For in a Mouthwash
Not all mouthwashes are created equal. Some mask bad breath for only a short period of time, while others actually kill the bacteria which can contribute to bad breath. Some people need a specialized mouthwash to deal with certain problems.
Which is the Right Toothbrush for Me?
A soft toothbrush with rounded bristles is usually best, and how you brush can also effect your oral hygiene as well as the state of your gums. Finally, electric toothbrushes usually do the job better than manual brushes.
What Causes Morning Breath?
Bacteria which have accumulated on your teeth overnight (yuck) usually are the culprits for this all-too-common condition. Sometimes, however, the reason we have bad breath in the mornings is due to periodontal disease, which needs to be examined by a dentist pronto.
How to Spot Tooth Sensitivity
If your teeth are sensitive to hot, cold or overly sugary foods, you are probably suffering from tooth sensitivity. Sometimes this is caused by over-brushing; other times a fissure or a cracked tooth or cavity could be at fault. See your dentist to discuss treatment options.
Senior Dental Care Tips
Older people are more prone to suffer from dry mouths, which can lead to dental decay. They should be careful when brushing their teeth, be sure to floss regularly and see their dentist often.
What Does an Oral Surgeon Do?
Many dentists choose to refer specific cases to an oral surgeon. They can do lots of things which a general dentist does not always do, such as remove impacted wisdom teeth and deal with jaw problems.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are made from a composite resin and are good when a person needs to protect primarily the back teeth from cavities. They form a protective seal and cover the tooth so decay cannot set in.
Paying for Cosmetic Dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry can be expensive and insurance will not always pay for it, although you have a better chance of it being covered if some restorative work is involved. The good news is that almost everyone is happy with the results.
Preventing Tooth Loss
Gum disease, if not treated, can actually lead to tooth loss. The problem is that people often do not recognize the symptoms right away. It’s important to see your dentist for regular checkups to make sure nothing has gone amiss in your mouth.
Are Dental Crowns Right for Me?
Crowns can be fitted easily and painlessly, and they look realistic, fitting in nicely with the rest of your teeth. For many people who have a tooth with a problem, having a crown fitted – especially a porcelain one - is a logical option.
What is Dental Tomography?
A new way of taking computer images of teeth – and 3-D images as well – allows dentists to see the hard tissues inside your mouth and under the gum more easily, meaning the teeth and bones.
Should I Get Dental Implants?
Dental implants are not for everybody, but for people who are the right candidate they can work amazingly well. Sometimes they are used for partial bridges or dentures to help your smile keep on looking good for years to come.
Information on TMJ
TMJ can cause a lot of pain in the jaw, and can negatively impact how people chew. It can cause other health problems as well, such as headaches.
Is It Tooth or Sinus Pain?
It is easy to confuse teeth pain with sinus pain, and many people see the dentist with what they believe to be toothache, only to discover they actually have a problem with their sinuses.
What Are Implant-Supported Dentures?
Partial dentures need to be attached to adjacent teeth. What if there are none? That is where implant-supported dentures come into play, which can work wonders.
What Are Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
Sometimes wisdom teeth do not erupt from the gum, which does not necessarily cause a problem. Sometimes, however, they do cause a problem. It is always a good idea to have a dentist look at your wisdom teeth, or your children’s wisdom teeth, even if they are not yet visible.
What is Nasmyth’s Membrane?
If your young child has a greenish hue to his teeth, it could be Nasmyth’s Membrane. Usually this membrane comes off with normal brushing and chewing, but sometimes a dentist needs to deal with it.
Should I Get My Tongue Pierced?
No! A pierced tongue may sound grand, but if you have ever had a tongue infection you may have a change of heart. And studs can actually be aspirated into the lungs, which can potentially be fatal.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
