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For decades, one of the most dreaded dental procedures had been the root canal. Modern dental technology has taken the pain out of the process, however, the procedure remains relatively the same. Root canal treatment s attempt to save a seriously damaged or infected tooth. A root canal surgery involves removing the damaged area of…Read More »

Large families have household expense concerns. One health requirement that can quickly scuttle even the most carefully planned budget is providing regular dental treatment for their children. As they grow, our children develop dental conditions that must be carefully monitored. Children’s teeth are softer than adults’ and therefore prone to decay. EDP Dental Plans realizes…Read More »

A study by the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) indicates that slightly more than half of the Millennials, those aged 20-34, have scheduled a dental visit within the past year, as compared to more than 62% of adults aged 35-64. The NHANES survey also notes that among adults age 20-64, Millennials are the…Read More »

For some the thought of going to the dentist evokes fear and avoidance. They do not like the sound of the drill, the heat, having injections in their mouths, even having general anesthesia for some procedures. What happens next can really hurt for those without dental insurance. The high cost of cleanings, x-rays and checkups…Read More »

Causes and Treatments Losing a tooth is expected in children and putting a lost tooth under a pillow in exchange for a reward is practiced in many cultures. After all, a new one grows in shortly after. When we age, however, tooth loss is not associated with regrowth. A lost tooth is gone forever. Since…Read More »

Over the last 15 years, dazzling bright smiles, once associated only with movie stars and celebrities, have become far more accessible to consumers. Pharmacy shelves are lined with gels, toothpastes, appliances, strips, and other means by which we can cosmetically whiten our teeth a few shades. For those seeking a longer lasting solution, many dentists…Read More »

A cosmetic dentistry procedure, dental bonding adheres tooth-colored resin to restore a tooth’s shape and appearance. This is done by first applying the material to the tooth then hardening it with a special light. This creates a chemical bond and permanently restores the tooth. There are numerous conditions where the bonding process provides an effective…Read More »

After a root canal there are several options for restoring the appearance of the affected tooth. In cosmetic and restorative dentistry, dental crowns are the preferred restoration technique as they not only restore but can also improve the outward appearance of a tooth. Most often this procedure bolsters damaged teeth but is also employed to…Read More »

Ever rising costs for health insurance and declining dental insurance enrollments are usually cited as the reason for eliminating a dental coverage option. For individuals as well as families, this means electing one of two alternatives: paying entirely out of pocket for dental expenses, or finding a dental insurance alternative such as EDP Dental Plans…Read More »

Everyone at every age needs to take care of their teeth. However, access to affordable dental care may be difficult if not impossible for some. Conventional dental insurance coverage may be offered by an employer, however it is often an optional expense, and many find that a preferred dentist is not a plan participant. Additionally…Read More »

For most of us, the thought of going without dental care is not acceptable. We understand that a checkup and two cleanings every year reaps health benefits that far outweigh their cost. But what about those who work for themselves, or for companies that do not offer dental insurance coverage? It comes as a shock…Read More »

It is easy for many individuals to sign up without hesitation for an entertainment venue or a gym membership that advertises the service will cost only a few dollars a month. The hope is that by making that purchase they are setting themselves on the path to enjoyment and wellbeing, or fitness and improved health….Read More »

The Problem Traditional Dental Insurance Plans For many, routine dental care has become cost prohibitive. Most individual dental insurance plans cost over $500 per person per year whether the insured visits the dentist or not. Along with these annual costs, the copay at the time of service will typically be over 20% for fillings and…Read More »

When seeking to pare down their budgets, most heads of households know that health coverage will be one of their biggest expenses. They know that taking care of their family’s health can not be overlooked. Just the same, some will cancel their dental coverage citing its cost, and elect instead to pay as they go….Read More »

Most who have dental insurance signed up for it through their employer. They accept whatever benefits and limitations their carrier imposes and crosses off the box next to the entry “get family dental insurance” on their mental TO DO list. Done! Older persons who are retired and living on a fixed income, unemployed or self-employed…Read More »

Bargain hunters understand that everything has its price and are determined to receive the best value for their money. They also know that just because a commodity or service is cheap, that it is not necessarily poor quality. In fact, that item or service may just be very competitively priced. When evaluating discount dental plans,…Read More »

EDP Discount Dental Plans’ Key Features and Benefits: Fewer employers are offering dental coverage with their health insurance packages. If they are making this coverage available to their staff, the premiums are not always budget-friendly. What many have discovered is a more affordable option for those seeking affordable dental health coverage – dental plans. While…Read More »

Even with two working parents, household finances can still be tight. Trying to receive value for every dollar they spend, more heads of households are seeking to rein in their family’s medical expenses. Some are taking a closer look at the health insurance that their employer offers, including their dental insurance, and exploring other options…Read More »

Our salaries, at best, advance incrementally each year while the cost of living rates also steadily rise. With less money entering a household, everyone must look to save by spending less without sacrificing value. One major expense in any household is healthcare, whose costs also rise annually. No one wants to sacrifice their health over…Read More »

Why do some of us have one or more teeth that are sensitive to hot and/or cold or even acidic foods and drinks? What causes this and what can be done about it? To begin, it is not only what we ingest that can trigger tooth sensitivity. Breathing frigid air, for example, can set off…Read More »

Birth defects, or the loss of our natural teeth due to an injury or as we age, can cause embarrassment and cause some to withdraw socially. A prosthodontist, one of the 9 specialists recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA), is a dentist who specializes in esthetic dental restoration and tooth replacement. Ensuring that teeth…Read More »

Sometimes people need to locate a new general dentist for any number of valid reasons. Perhaps they have moved, or their long-time dentist is retiring. Maybe the dental office that served them well as a newly-married couple a decade ago, does not have a pediatric dentist on staff for their entire family that now includes…Read More »

When you are referred by your dentist to a specialist for a procedure, you’ll doubtless have questions during the initial consultation. Here we’ve prepared a list of questions you should ask to ensure you both reach an understanding of both the procedure and the steps you can take to ensure an optimal outcome. Questions to…Read More »

When your complaints of swelling and tooth pain require a root canal procedure to remedy, your dentist will refer you to an endodontist. This is a dental specialist who will have completed additional years of training to specifically perform root canal, root-end surgeries and the treatment of traumatic tooth injuries in children and adults. Here…Read More »

It’s not too soon to start baby dental care! The time to begin to take care of your baby’s teeth is before he or she develops them. Even though these “milk” teeth will not be around for a long time, it is essential to take care of them to ensure the health of your baby’s…Read More »

Smoking and teeth are not a good combination. It is widely understood that smoking may have a number of adverse effects on smokers’ health. By the action of smoking as an oral activity, it is very important that smokers take extra care of their mouth and teeth. Proper oral care can minimize issues that arise…Read More »

Many may not be aware, but cancer can invade the mouth. Also the earliest signs of oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancer could easily be mistaken for other, less serious ailments such as a cold or even a toothache. Below some of the most common symptoms of oral cancer are listed. Should you experience any of…Read More »

Root canal treatments have greatly improved over the years. Nevertheless, a root canal is still a serious procedure. It’s reserved primarily for dead and/or severely infected teeth. If you’ve been experiencing trouble with one or more teeth, it’s possible that you will need such a procedure. Here are a few things to watch out for….Read More »

Both veneers and crowns are dental restorations that can give you a more beautiful smile. However, there are important differences between the two techniques. For many prospective clients, cost is the primary factor. The following basic information can help you make a decision when it comes to restoring your own teeth. Dental veneers vs. dental…Read More »

If you were blessed with good genes and take care with your oral hygiene routine, you may be tempted to delay or skip dental visits. While you might believe that you don’t need regular professional attention, this way of thinking can lead to problems down the road. Read on to find out why proper dental…Read More »

Insurance is as American as apple pie. But just as apple pie may not be the best choice for your teeth, insurance may not be the best choice for your dental coverage. Maybe you weren’t previously aware that alternatives existed. Here are the differences between insurance and discount dental plans, so you can pick the…Read More »

Medical professionals are finding more links between oral health and overall health. Believe it or not, lactose intolerance and dairy allergies can affect your teeth and your dental visits. What Is Lactose Sensitivity? The word “sensitivity” means different things to different people. Some people use “allergy” and “sensitivity” interchangeably. Technically, an allergy is an immune…Read More »

Are you considering purchasing an electric toothbrush? If you’ve always used a manual brush, you may wonder what benefits a power toothbrush offers. Our tips can help you make that buying decision and get the tool that works best for you. Conventional Toothbrushes The standard toothbrush works with the movement of your hand and forearm…Read More »

Gum tissue bleeds when it is inflamed. Such is the case in patients who have gum disease—either gingivitis (early-stage) or periodontitis (advanced). When plaque builds up, the bacteria can cause redness, swelling, bleeding, and eventually tooth loss. Mild bleeding that occasionally results from flossing is usually nothing to be concerned about. But if your gums…Read More »

There is no history as to when wisdom teeth began to be known by that term. Linguists, who study word origins, believe that because these are the last teeth to appear and so much later than our adult teeth, that we are considered mature or “wiser.” Most people develop one or more of their four…Read More »

Appearances are more important in business and in personal attraction than ever before. There have been numerous studies about job applicants with similar resumes. The applicant that is perceived to be more attractive usually gets the job offer. Perceptions of attractiveness include straight teeth and a perfect smile. For this and many other reasons, it…Read More »

Your mouth hurts. You have a toothache. But there is no inflammation or discharge at the base of the tooth, just pain so insistent you cannot think about anything else. Chances are you do not have a tooth infection, but a sinus infection causing tooth pain. How Can a Sinus Infection Be Causing Tooth Pain?…Read More »

Fifty years ago when you visited your dentist for a filling, there were only two choices available: a gold or silver amalgam. While not particularly cosmetic, metal tooth fillings were durable and the amalgam relatively inexpensive. Concerns over the possibility of toxins leaching from the amalgam over time, however, prompted further development of substances to…Read More »

How Silver Foil Improved America’s Dental Health Early 20th century scientists were trying to discover the cause of extensive tooth staining in residents who lived near a bauxite factory (today known as Alcoa Aluminum). They discovered that their water supply contained high amounts of fluoride (a byproduct that occurred while processing bauxite). While unsightly, those…Read More »

70 is the new 50. We are living longer and appearing more youthful and vibrant than our grandparents at the same age. Therefore it is especially important to continue sound oral health practices into our senior years. Dental care for seniors is essential to maintain or to regain one’s vitality. Now more than ever it…Read More »

Flossing is an integral part of keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Flossing regularly in addition to brushing twice a day is effective at keeping plaque and tartar buildups to a minimum. But what about those back teeth that you just can’t seem to reach? Do you have problems reaching into the back of your…Read More »

It is understood that regular care is required to ensure tooth and mouth health. But for some individuals with certain health problems, an extra attentive regimen is needed to prevent possible damage. One medical condition that requires such special attention is diabetes. It is possible to prevent diabetic dental damage but first one must understand…Read More »

Brushing your tongue is an underutilized dental practice that will likely alleviate any bad breath issues and lead to even better dental checkups. The importance of brushing one’s tongue is overlooked by most of us for one reason or another: either it triggers a gag reflex, or we are unaware of it, or we think…Read More »

Bad breath is an unpleasant and embarrassing condition. We often worry about our bad breath offending others, and certainly never want to be its recipient! Yet our primary cause for concern, however, should be about the causes of bad breath and what it means to maintain our oral health. Everyone has bad breath from time…Read More »

Loss of tooth structure or enamel is called tooth erosion. It is a serious dental condition as tooth erosion is permanent; however, it is also avoidable. We know to brush after meals, but did you know that food containing vinegar, such as salad dressing and pickles, are corrosive to your enamel? Highly acidic foods such…Read More »

You bite into or sip a favorite treat and cause extreme nerve pain which makes enjoying these food items impossible. There are several reasons for this pain: receding gums, cracked or worn teeth or a broken filling. Our teeth become very sensitive when a nerve is exposed.  When experiencing this type of pain, be sure…Read More »

Here are some facts about teeth you may not know about; some are entertaining however, most will help you keep your pearly whites in top shape.  Too much fluoride can be bad for your teeth. In the 1950s fluoride was believed to make our teeth harder and more decay resistant. Problem is it is now…Read More »

Do you ever feel as though your mouth is not making enough saliva to swallow or speak easily?  Nearly everyone has experienced this unusual sensation. However for those who experience dry mouth frequently, the condition may be a symptom of other health issues. Dry Mouth Causes and What to Do About It Occasional dry mouth…Read More »

You should know that oral health is closely linked to the health of your entire body. Tooth and mouth decay not only lead to oral health problems but are also a symptom of deeper nutritional problems. Simply put: good teeth = sound health. Most Americans think we eat a healthy diet; however, this may not…Read More »

Sometimes the first time someone learns they have Bruxism (nocturnal teeth grinding) is from their mate as it occurs during sleep. Sufferers may have experienced this nighttime habit throughout their lives, however. Teeth grinding has many causes: an abnormal bite, crooked teeth, even anxiety or sleep apnea may be behind this malady. Grinding your teeth…Read More »

Fact:  If you want to keep your teeth, you must pay attention to the health of your gums. Healthy gums snug up to our teeth, helping to keep them in place. A receding gum line occurs when gums start to pull away from the teeth.  If you notice this is happening in your mouth, don’t…Read More »

Professional athletes would not leave the locker room without them, even race car drivers consider them an important part of their uniform.  What protective gear is this?  Mouth guards. Mouth guards should be worn by everyone at every age who participates in contact sports.  These include wrestling, boxing, lacrosse, basketball, field and ice hockey, football,…Read More »

Having a healthy mouth is important at all stages in life. In addition to brushing and flossing daily and eating right, taking supplements can give your teeth and gums a boost toward supporting oral health. You didn’t know that there are vitamins you can take for your teeth? Some may already be part of your…Read More »

It is a common question for dentists: How often should one brush their teeth? Actually, according to the American Dental Association (ADA) it is not the number of times you brush, but how you brush that matters to maintain your dental health. So gentle brushing more than twice a day may not cause dental problems,…Read More »

Strong healthy teeth are a sign of youth and vitality. Once lost, it is beyond the financial reach of most of us to have a cosmetic dentist give us something to smile about again. As children we learn the importance of developing sound dental hygiene practices. These are meant to be carried out for the…Read More »

There is a reason that Show and Tell is a popular game with very young children. Children are superb mimics. When you want your child to learn a good behavior or sound habit, be sure to practice what you are preaching. When they are very young, let them watch you brush your teeth. They will…Read More »

If your dentist has recommended dental crowns, it’s important to understand what they are and how they will benefit your teeth before proceeding with treatment. Crowns are tooth-shaped synthetic caps placed on top of a tooth that conceals visible area of a tooth above the gums. They serve many functions, helping to secure weak, broken…Read More »

If you are unhappy with your teeth, it can affect both your personal and professional life. To greatly improve your smile, dental bonding may be the best corrective option. Bonding is a relatively inexpensive cosmetic technique which is often completed in just one single treatment with little to no preparation. Bonding helps correct or mask…Read More »

Imagine that you’re having your routine dental cleaning and your dentist mentions that your wisdom teeth are growing in. Don’t panic. Erupting wisdom teeth is typical for teenagers and adults ages seventeen to twenty-five, and is considered somewhat of a rite of passage. And believe it or not, removing wisdom teeth is not always necessary….Read More »

When it comes to your child’s well-being, oral health matters. Early childhood dental visits are essential in preventing cavities, tooth decay and other dental problems. In fact, parents are advised to bring their children to the dentist within six months of their first grown tooth or as early as their first birthday. Why see a…Read More »

There are many different types of dental floss, so it’s difficult to know which types are the most effective. The “right” kind of floss is the one you use every day. Whether you have a personal preference about the flavor or thickness of floss, the most important floss is the one that does the job daily.

Maintaining oral hygiene is essential to your overall health. That’s why finding a high quality dentist is just as important as finding the right family physician. Having a great dentist ensures that you and your family receive the best dental care possible.

When it comes to buying dental health products, it’s important to know which products are best for you and your family. Even though most supermarkets and drug stores carry similar products and brands, you want to ensure that what you bring home is safe, effective and risk-free. So, how can you tell which products are ideal for your oral health?

Thorough brushing is essential for peak dental health. To make bushing more fun and effective, there are a variety of toothbrushes from which to choose, including manual brushes in different colors, shapes, sizes.

There are so many brands of whitening toothpastes at your local store, and many wonder if they are worth the additional expense. Tooth whitening toothpastes can be an effective way to get a deep clean, but only if they’re used regularly over time.

When was the last time you shopped for a toothbrush? Being faced with so many choices can make it difficult to make a decision. Mostly any type of brush will get your teeth clean, but which one is best for you? In order to find your ideal toothbrush, you’ll need to narrow down your choices based on a few categories.

On hectic mornings, using mouthwash right after careful brushing might seem like an unnecessary, time consuming task. However, mouthwash is effective at killing germs and freshening breath, so it’s very important not to skip this step during your oral care routine.

Getting your child to brush his or her teeth in the morning and before bed can be frustrating. It’s difficult—and sometimes impossible—to make little ones fully understand the benefits of good oral hygiene. Luckily, there are some innovative children’s toothbrushes that can help take some of the pressure off of frazzled parents!

With so many teeth whitening products available, it’s difficult to know which ones are safe and effective. Fortunately, there are certain foods that help to clean, strengthen, and naturally whiten teeth. In fact, many oral health benefits can be found in common foods that may already be in your kitchen!

Most of us strive to attain a beautiful, gleaming white smile. If your pearly whites have faded over time due to drinks like coffee and red wine, there are a variety of teeth whitening treatments that can help. But before you begin, be sure to do your research on the best available options.

When it comes to receiving the best level of oral health care, it’s important to know which dental specialists suit specific dental treatments. Even if you take good care of your oral health, the unexpected may happen, such as trauma to the mouth. Therefore, over the course of your lifetime, you may require treatment from a prosthodontist.

If you have sensitive gums and teeth, you know that eating, drinking and sometimes even talking can be an excruciating experience. Sensitivity can stem from many things, such as brushing too hard, grinding your teeth, plaque build-up, gum disease, tooth decay, or root exposure. Many acidic foods and tooth whitening products can also cause this condition.

Today’s fillings are a vast improvement over the cavity remedies of the past. However, filled teeth are more vulnerable than natural teeth. Care must be taken to prevent damage to fillings. Here are five things that people who have dental fillings should avoid consuming.

A mouth guard is a specially shaped piece of soft material that covers the teeth and gums. It is used to protect the mouth from injury. If you participate in any activity that carries a risk of blows to the face or falling, you’ll need to wear one. There are various types of mouth guards designed to suit the user.

In order to avoid dentures or dental implants in the future, it’s important to take proactive measures to care for your existing teeth. But what’s the best way to protect your teeth? Is it brushing all day long? Wearing a mouth guard all day? Luckily, the answer is far simpler and more convenient.

Chipped teeth are more than an aesthetic issue. Depending on the severity of the breakage, a chip may lead to eating difficulties, pain, or infection. Read on to find out what to do for a chipped tooth.

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a condition in which people rub their teeth together forcefully, usually during sleep. It’s important to know a little about bruxism so that you can spot it and seek treatment promptly before damage occurs.

The best way to handle a missing tooth depends on when the tooth loss occurred. Read on for advice on how to handle tooth-loss emergencies as well as seek help for filling in those longtime empty spots.

A cracked tooth not only hurts but can also lead to tooth loss without prompt and correct treatment. Teeth—and enamel in particular—are fairly durable. However, chronic physical stress, accidents, and outright carelessness can cause breakage. Luckily, dentists can make most cracked teeth good as new.

To many children, maintaining oral health is about as appealing as eating vegetables and going to bed on time. As a parent or guardian, you must make an effort to encourage your child to keep good oral hygiene habits. Follow these helpful tips to give little smiles a good start in life.

If having your teeth worked on doesn’t rank on your list of favorite activities, take a few minutes to read these highlights of dental history. You just might develop a new appreciation for the art of density and those who practice it!

More and more people are whitening their teeth, either professionally or at home. While a glowing smile gives anyone a more attractive, healthy appearance, teeth whitening can pose risks if not done safely.

Cavities are the most common disease of the mouth, affecting 85 to 90 percent of adults worldwide. The longtime standard procedure for managing cavities has been the dental filling. However, modern technology has led to the development of dental sealants, which can prevent cavities in the first place. For you and your family’s oral health, it’s important to know the differences between these two weapons against cavities.

Since not all teeth are visible—even in the widest smile—it’s impossible to know how many teeth a given person has without a thorough inspection. You may be curious if you have too many or too little teeth in either yours or your child’s mouth. There is an average number of teeth for both children and adults.

Most people do not want to visit the dentist more often than they have to. But how often is that? Even if you have no significant dental issues, you should still schedule regular checkups and cleanings. Although semiannual dental visits have been the gold standard for years, the ideal timetable for having your teeth cleaned is an individual matter.

Biting into an ice cold frozen fruit bar, sipping a hot cup of tea . . . if the thought of doing either leaves you cringing, you probably have sensitive teeth. Tooth sensitivity can interfere with your everyday life. Find out what causes such sensitivity and what you can do to manage it.

Brushing at least twice daily is a must for healthy teeth. But there are ways to make your brushing efforts even better to improve your oral hygiene. Step up your current brushing techniques with these useful tips. Back-and-forth scrubbing is one of the most common brushing techniques, but this approach is not suitable for your entire mouth.

Your lungs, skin, and most of your body are all negatively affected by smoking. Effects on teeth can be just as harmful. If you need a few more reasons to quit smoking, There is nothing beneficial about smoking. Effects on teeth include significant. yellowing.

Eating and drinking should be enjoyable for everyone. Tooth sensitivity can make these activities fairly unpleasant, even painful. Read on for some tips on how to manage sensitive teeth. Limit certain foods if your teeth are sensitive.

A friendly smile is one of the easiest ways to put others at ease. If that is not enough motivation to put a grin on your face, here are five additional reasons to smile more often: 1). Boost Your Relationships: You are probably drawn to those people who smile more often.

Like the prosthodontist and the periodontist, the endodontist is a dental specialist who trains for several additional years after graduating from dental school. This specialist has approximately six to seven years of dental training, making him or her an expert in endodontics.

As an adult, brushing your teeth is automatic. However, getting children to brush their teeth is a habit that takes time to build. Patience, persistence, and the following incentives can prove extremely helpful. Children’s toothbrushes offer exciting colors, patterns, lights, and music.

Sugar may be “Enemy Number One” to your teeth, but there are healthy foods that can actually build strong teeth. Add more of the following foods to your diet and your teeth will be less susceptible to cavities, chips, cracks, and breakage. Milk and cheese help to build strong teeth with their calcium content.

There are several types of dental specialists who receive training above and beyond what is taught in dental school. These specialists choose to focus on a particular area of interest. One such dental specialist is a Prosthodontist. The Branch of Prosthodontics A prosthodontist is a specialty dentist who is trained to restore the mouth to a natural-looking, functional state by repairing damaged natural teeth, replacing missing teeth, and addressing facial disfigurements.

After investing time and money in your smile, the last thing you want to do is undo your efforts. The following five lifestyle practices may actually be harming your teeth. Strict low-calorie and elimination diets are likely harming your teeth. Such diets are often unbalanced, failing to provide essential nutrients for good oral health.

Your diet certainly does affect oral hygiene. Excessive sugar and starch have the potential to cause cavities and create plaque buildup. However, these types of carbs are not the only culprit behind dental problems. If not eaten carefully, even nutritious foods can be problematic.

The mouth is a breeding ground for bacteria, which build up as plaque if not removed thoroughly. Plaque can lead to cavities, tartar, gingivitis, and ultimately, tooth loss. The good news is that bacterial growth can be controlled through good oral hygiene. Several elements of dental care contribute to optimal health of the mouth and teeth.

As is the case with doctors, dentists may choose either to establish a generalized practice or specialize in an area. A specialist attends regular dental school and then pursues several more years of education in their chosen specialty field. A periodontist is one such dental specialist.

Brushing your teeth properly removes harmful plaque that would otherwise cause cavities. Proper brushing technique doesn’t only concern the act of brushing, but also its frequency. The answer to ‘How many times per day should I brush?’ seems easy; the American Dental Association (ADA) generally recommends brushing your teeth twice per day.

Everyone wants pearly white teeth and a healthy mouth, but very few are aware of the correct way to brush or floss. We know that regular brushing, flossing and dentist visits are an integral part of good dental hygiene, but what are other lesser-known ways to improve oral health?

If you are one of the millions of Americans whose dental insurance has recently changed or become too expensive, low-cost dental plans are an ideal alternative. Those who buy dental insurance typically do so to keep their teeth, gums and mouth healthy without having to pay excessive rates.

Gingivitis (also referred to as gum or periodontal disease) is gum inflammation that is caused by plaque and bacterial growth. In early stages, bacteria from plaque build-up will cause the gums to become inflamed, which leads to bleeding during tooth brushing. If gingivitis is left untreated, it may advance to periodontitis, wherein the inner layer of the gum and underlying bone structure pull apart and the teeth are no longer firmly planted in their individual sockets.

Everyone who desires a bright smile and excellent oral health cannot achieve those goals without the help of a quality dentist, no matter how good their daily brushing and flossing routine is. At EDP, we believe everyone should have access to a friendly, reliable and highly skilled dentist. That is why we prescreen all our dental health professionals before accepting them into our network.

Fear of the dentist is an unfortunate, yet common occurrence. While this may affect individuals in varying ways, here are some tips that can be helpful to anyone who dislikes going to the dentist. A good bedside manner, skillful hands, extensive knowledge, comfortable atmosphere and passion for dentistry are all good qualities one should look for in a dentist.

While daily brushing and flossing is the cornerstone to a successful oral health routine, getting your teeth checked regularly (every 6-12 months) by a dentist ensures a healthy mouth. Tobacco, diabetes, pregnancy, gum disease and poor oral hygiene are among the reasons to see your dentist more often than twice per year.

Bruxism is a tooth grinding condition wherein an individual grinds or clenches their teeth unconsciously. This can occur during the day or at night and is often related to stress. Over time, tooth grinding can damage the mouth, gums, jaw and teeth.

Gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) occurs when the bacteria in plaque builds up between the gums and teeth, causing the surrounding tissue to become inflamed. If left untreated, it can cause first the gums, and then the underlying bone structure, to recede and deteriorate, leading to tooth loss. Bleeding gums are a common symptom of periodontal disease.

Tooth decay occurs when foods that contain carbohydrates (sugars) are left on the teeth. The bacterium that lives in the mouth combines with these foods, turning them into a corrosive acid. This acid combines with saliva to form plaque, which adheres to the teeth. The acid in the plaque then dissolves the tooth’s enamel, creating painful holes called cavities. Here, we review the most effective methods for preventing tooth decay.

Those who choose to buy a dental plan usually do so for a few important reasons: They want to keep their teeth, gums, mouth, and smile clean and healthy without having to worry about the high costs that come with dental care, or the limitations dental insurance can present. Dental plans allow access to high quality dental care that promotes preventive services such as routine cleanings, as well as advanced procedures to correct a wide range of gum, jaw, tooth and mouth issues.

During childhood, our teeth typically appear whiter than they do as we progress into adulthood. A darker hue, yellowing, or stains related to tea, coffee or wine occur more easily as we age. Tooth whitening is often used to correct this. One way to achieve a brighter, healthy smile is to receive a mix of professional tooth whitening from your dentist’s office or you can buy over-the-counter remedies from your local drug store. Your dentist will use strong agents that can transform the look of your front eight teeth in just a single office visit as well as advise on any issues that may arise, such as increased tooth sensitivity.

Brushing, flossing and regular dentist visits may already be an important part of your regular oral health and hygiene routine, but are you aware that brushing your tongue is just as essential? Here are the benefits of brushing your tongue: Your minty mouthwash is only a temporary fix for bad breath.

Flossing is about more than just removing unwanted food matter from your teeth; many of its oral health benefits are just as important as those of brushing. Here, we review some highly worthwhile benefits of flossing. Regular flossing can significantly lessen bad breath by removing trapped food from between teeth that a toothbrush leaves behind.

The critical service your dentist provides often requires the assistance of other dental professionals. Dental Hygienists and Dental Assistants both serve vital functions in a dentists’ office. What is the difference between their duties?

Through the ages, advanced civilizations have been concerned about their dental health. Below are a few interesting dental facts and procedures used by ancient and modern practitioners. And, while oxen hooves are no longer an ingredient in your toothpaste, you’ll learn more about the effective tools and practices dentists in the New York area may use.

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), children should visit the dentist by their first birthday. It is important that a child’s newly-erupted teeth (cutting at 6-12 months of age) receive proper dental care and benefit from proper oral hygiene habits right from the beginning.

In addition to general dental care professionals, the field has many specialists dedicated to restoring and preserving your oral health. Here is a list of the many different types of dental specialists, and a description of their expertise.

The dental industry is continually evolving, with new technologies to both maintain sound dental health and to diagnose potential issues for preventative treatment. Here is a short list of some of the latest technologies you might see on your next dentist visit:

Going to your first dental visit with a brand new care provider means you’ll be exposed to a whole new set of procedures, preferences, and personalities at their office. So what can you do to make this change a seamless one while acquiring useful knowledge that will help you get the best care possible? Ask questions! Here are some useful questions to ask at your first dentist visit with your new dental care provider.

Most likely your company offers dental insurance along with your medical insurance, and if you’re like most others in need of dental care, you’ll sign up for it. But dental insurance is rife with all of the pitfalls that medical insurance is: expensive annual deductibles, lengthy waiting periods, tiresome claim forms, restrictive exclusions, and higher associated costs (paying your co-pay, paying bi-weekly for coverage, and then paying for that which is not covered.)

When searching for affordable dental coverage, you’ll want to first understand the difference between a dental plan and a dental insurance program; each one has its own benefits. The popular web resource, Lifehacker, reviewed both types of dental coverage. They concluded that: “In the final analysis, experts say the new [dental plan] companies might be worth a look.