It’s easy to not think about getting older when we’re young, but as each birthday passes, we start to become more and more aware of how the years have affected our health, our appearance, and many other things. However, it’s not all bad news. In fact, your dentist in Ann Arbor has some new information about how dental health relates to the aging process. 

Brushing Your Teeth Can Slow Aging

As unbelievable as it sounds, new research from scientist Andrew Steele suggests that taking care of your oral health throughout your life can slow the aging process. How can this be? Well, there’s already a connection between oral health and overall health, particularly when it comes to gum disease and the inflammation that goes with it. 

How Gum Disease Affects Health

Many studies show a strong correlation between gum disease and an increased risk for some health problems including heart disease and dementia. Gum disease occurs when there’s a buildup of bacteria in the mouth that causes an infection in the gum tissue. In the early stages, gum disease can be treated by your dentist in Ann Arbor. However, the longer gum disease goes without intervention, the more severe it becomes and can reach a point where it can no longer be cured. This will cause the body to operate in a constant state of inflammation. Inflammation can reduce how well your immune system works and put you more at risk for age-related disease. 

Tooth Loss

Gum disease can also lead to tooth loss, among other things. Tooth loss is concerning for many reasons, including inhibiting what you can chew and how you look, and it can even weaken the jaw bone. The good news is that there are many restorative dentistry options available to help replace lost teeth, such as dentures and implants. 

How Dentistry Can Slow Aging

The best thing you can do for your oral health and overall health now and as you get older is to take excellent care of your teeth. This includes: 

• Brushing your teeth twice a day
• Flossing once a day
• Limiting sugary and acidic foods
• Seeing your dentist in Ann Arbor at least twice a year

Cosmetic Dentistry

Time can also take its toll on the appearance of your smile. A daily cup of coffee can stain your teeth and gum recession can make you look “long in the tooth”, both of which can make you appear older. Thankfully, there are numerous forms of cosmetic dentistry that can transform your smile, such as: 

• Professional smile whitening
• Porcelain veneers
• Dental crowns
• Bonding

If you’re concerned about the health of your teeth or the way your smile looks, talk with your dentist in Ann Arbor. They’ll work with you to find the best treatment for you. 

We’re always accepting new patients at all of our dental offices in Ann Arbor, Canton, Farmington Hills, and Livonia. 

You wake up at least a few times a week with soreness in your jaw and a dull ache in your head. Are you dehydrated? Did you bite down too hard on something? Did you sleep in an awkward position? While all of these things are entirely possible, did you know that grinding or clenching your teeth while you sleep could be to blame? Also known as bruxism, grinding your teeth while you sleep is more common across Farmington Hills than you might think.

What Are the Common Signs of Nighttime Teeth Grinding?

Bruxism can be a tricky health issue to detect easily because the signs or symptoms could be mistaken for another condition. Unless the sound of your teeth grinding is loud enough to make you wake up (or your bed partner), it can be challenging to know the extent of your issue. Unfortunately, about 80 percent of teeth grinding episodes aren’t noisy. It’s not until a patient visits their Farmington Hills dentist that they make the connection. 

Usually, a person figures out that they are grinding their teeth after a visit to their dentist by describing the list of symptoms they’re experiencing. If you think you’re grinding or clenching your teeth at night, get to know the common signs and symptoms and a few reasons why you might be doing it. It’s a good idea to see us if you’re experiencing:

• Headaches
• Neck pain
• Broken or chipped teeth
• Loosening teeth
• Soreness in your jaw

You might not have any symptoms at all! That’s why it’s a good idea to schedule a consultation with us. 

What Could Be Causing Me to Grind My Teeth At Night?

The Sleep Foundation says that while nocturnal teeth grinding still remains somewhat mysterious, many contributing factors can lead to your bruxism. Everything from an increase in your daytime stress levels or anxiety to caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco consumption can lead to damaging grinding and clenching. Make sure you also talk with your dentist in Farmington Hills about what medications you’re currently taking. Certain pills, such as antidepressants, can lead to teeth grinding. 

When Should I Get Help for My Teeth Grinding and Clenching?

If you have persistent pain and frustration, it’s important to get the help you need and deserve. You’re experiencing the discomfort grinding and clenching can put tremendous pressure on your teeth, with up to 250 pounds of force. While bruxism is not fully curable, you can take steps to reduce how often it occurs, its impact on your oral health, and the discomfort associated with the common symptoms. It’s essential to speak with a professional like your Farmington Hills dentist about sleep bruxism and teeth grinding. We also identify if it’s connected to other conditions like sleep apnea or acid reflux. 

Are you ready to get help for your teeth grinding? Take the first step and contact us today. We’ll find answers to your questions and figure out what solution will be best for you. You might benefit from a custom-fitted nightguard that will help to protect your smile from further damage while you work on a treatment plan. 

Our dental offices in Ann Arbor, Canton, Farmington Hills, and Livonia are always happy to welcome patients. 

In honor of Root Canal Awareness Week, which occurs each May, your dentist in Livonia thought it would be fun to talk about this treatment that patients often dread. Why? Because it has a bad reputation for being painful — when the total opposite is the actual truth. Root canals are probably one of the most recognized and misunderstood dental services used today, with over 41,000 completed treatments on patients every single day, according to the American Association of Endodontists (AAE). The AAE also says more than 15 million root canals are performed each year in the United States. 

If root canals are that bad, why are they so popular? 

The Tooth Truth About How Root Canals Work

As scary as you might think it’s going to be to have a root canal, there’s really nothing to worry about, thanks to your dentist in Livonia, who has some of dentistry’s most innovative technology. Having a root canal today is not a lot different from having a deep filling. There’s little or no discomfort because a local anesthetic is used to numb your tooth and surrounding gums for complete comfort. During the actual procedure, the :

• Inside of your damaged tooth is thoroughly cleaned
• Infected pulp and nerve tissue are removed
• Tooth is cleaned to avoid further damage

You won’t feel pain, maybe just some pressure. Sometimes patients experience tenderness in their gums following a root canal, but acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) will certainly help. 

Root Canals Actually Get Rid of Pain (Not Cause More)

Instead of causing you more dental discomfort, think of your root canal as the solution that can get rid of:

• Pain when chewing or biting
• Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold
• Pimples on the gums
• Swollen or tender gums
• Discolored gums or teeth
• Chipped or cracked teeth

A 2011 review of 72 studies of root canal patients looked at pre-treatment, treatment, and post-treatment pain. These results showed that while the pain was high in patients before their root canal, it dropped moderately within one day of treatment, before dropping even more substantially to minimal levels within a week. 

Prevention is Always Best

While we use root canals as tooth-savers, it’s best to avoid having to have the treatment altogether, right? To prevent the need for future root canals or other dental issues, always brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss once. Using a fluoride toothpaste or mouth rinse is also beneficial for protecting your teeth from harmful bacteria that can cause tooth decay that leads to needing a root canal. We know you’ve probably heard this before, but try to limit the amount of sugary food and refined carbohydrates you eat. Sometimes these foods stick to your teeth and cause cavities.

The last step is the most important, and that’s to make sure you see your dentist in Livonia every six months for a checkup and a hygiene cleaning. Get scheduled for an appointment — today!

Welcoming new patients at our dental offices in Ann Arbor, Canton, Farmington Hills, and Livonia. 

Did you know there have been studies showing that older women with gum infections are more prone to developing common forms of cancer? Women with optimal oral health are less likely to get various forms of cancer. Your dentist in Canton wanted to take a moment to shed some important light on how critical it is to maintain good oral health, especially in your gums. 

What is Periodontal Disease?

When conducting their studies, researchers focused on what we call periodontal or gum disease. There are two forms of the disease:

• Gingivitis – This is the mildest form of gum disease, and it causes the tissue around your teeth to become red, swollen, and bleed more easily. Gingivitis can be mildly uncomfortable, but it’s generally reversible with help from your dentist in Canton and good at-home dental care. 
• Periodontitis – When you don’t treat gingivitis properly, it can worsen into a condition called periodontitis. Over time, plaque can spread and grow beneath your gum line and allow bacteria to irritate your gums. This can stimulate a chronic inflammatory response elsewhere in your body that can cause your body to break down its own bone and tissue that help support your teeth. 

It’s essential to treat your gums with care, ensuring they stay healthy enough to support your teeth for a lifetime of comfortable oral health. 

What Did the Study Find?

Researchers found that compared to women with no issues with their oral health, women who had trouble with their gums and teeth were 14 percent more likely to develop cancer. The most significant risk was developing cancer in your esophagus, which is three times higher in women with periodontal disease. The study also found that, “Women with periodontal disease were also 31 percent more likely to be diagnosed with lung tumors, 73 percent more likely to get gallbladder cancers, 13 percent more likely to have breast tumors, and 23 percent more likely to have melanoma.” If left untreated, periodontal disease can also lead to tooth loss, diabetes, and other chronic conditions. 

The Connection Isn’t All Clear

There are still questions about the exact causes of the connection between periodontal disease and cancer; it’s not 100 percent clear. Doctors think it’s due to the bacteria present in your mouth that travel to other parts of your body. The bacteria destroys your gum tissue, forming pockets where infection thrives. This is what ends up in your bloodstream. It can get stuck in other sites around your body, causing inflammation that could lead to cancer. 

As you can see, going to your dentist in Canton for regular checkups and cleanings is important, especially if you’re a woman who is aging gracefully. Call us today to schedule an appointment or hygiene cleaning. We can help answer any questions you might have about your gum health and taking care of your smile. Take the time to care for yourself and your oral health, and enjoy all of the benefits that come with it. 

Accepting new patients at all of our dental offices in Ann Arbor, Canton, Farmington Hills, and Livonia. 

Summer in Ann Arbor is one of the most exciting times to call this area home, with so many places to visit and things to do. When summer rolls around, it can be super easy to get out of our regular routines, including how you take care of your teeth at home. As you enjoy camping, swimming, cookouts, vacationing, and more, we have tips to keep your oral and overall health in check as temperatures rise.

No Ice, Ice Baby

When the thermometer begins to soar, it’s so easy to run to your freezer for a big cup of ice. Be very careful chewing on hard items like ice because they can damage your teeth. If your drinks have ice in them, try to avoid chewing on them or drink something cool without ice altogether. 

Make Your Back-to-School Appointment

One of the biggest tips your Ann Arbor dentist can give you is to remember to schedule your family’s back-to-school visits now so that when summer winds down, you’re ready to go. Appointments can fill up fast in the fall, so call us now to get scheduled for your cleaning. 

Limit Sugar and Sweets

Sugary foods and beverages are everywhere, especially during summertime when it’s easy to splurge on a vacation. Sodas and alcoholic drinks are packed with sugar, not to mention all of the delicious dishes that will come your way. Try to limit your sugar intake, and remember to brush your teeth after meals — ideally, twice a day, while flossing once. 

Make Sure to Stay Hydrated

Drinking water benefits both your oral and overall health. Drinking water is good for you every day, but it can be necessary for the summer when it’s easy to become dehydrated, especially in excessive heat. You’ll want to avoid dry mouth that promotes bacterial growth due to having less saliva in your mouth that helps to wash away plaque. Prevent tooth decay and promote your overall health by staying hydrated and happy this summer. 

Have Toothbrush Will Travel

Don’t forget to take your toothbrush with you if you’re heading out of town for a summer vacation. Keep your toothbrush free from bacterial growth in your luggage by properly storing it during travel. Make sure your toothbrush remains dry until you arrive at your destination. Brushing and flossing on vacation are still important!

Watch Out for the Sun

Don’t forget to wear plenty of sunscreen on your body this summer, including your lips! Why? Because your lips are very sensitive and susceptible to getting sunburn, just like the rest of your body. Remember to always apply a lip balm with a sun protection factor or SPF of at least 15. Over time, consistent sunburns on your lips can lead to other health issues, including skin or oral cancer. In short, don’t forget to pack your lip balm and protect your lips while you’re enjoying the outdoors. 

As your trusted dentist in Ann Arbor, know that we’re here to help with all of your dental needs during the summer months and beyond. Call us for an appointment today!

We’re always welcoming new patients at all of our dental offices in Ann Arbor, Canton, Farmington Hills, and Livonia.

Cavities are one of the most common dental problems your dentist in Livonia sees and treats every day. Now, while a teeny, tiny cavity may seem like no big deal, the truth is, it’s important to treat any area of decay quickly to keep other problems from popping up. If cavities aren’t treated quickly, they can lead to an abscess or even tooth loss. However, a cavity may not always be easy to recognize on your own, so it’s important to know what to look out for. 

4 Signs of a Cavity

Symptoms of a cavity can differ from person to person and can be pretty subtle, so much so that you may never have feelings of discomfort and you may not know decay is present until your next appointment with your dentist in Livonia . Here are some common tell-tale signs that a cavity may be lurking in your tooth. 

1. Toothache

The most common sign of a cavity is, of course, a toothache. Tooth pain can occur suddenly, and there are many times when a toothache does not have any clear sign as to what caused the pain in the first place. However, any pain in the mouth is typically a sign that something is wrong, and you should schedule an appointment with your dentist in Livonia . Most often, lingering tooth pain that lasts for a few days is a sign of a cavity. 

2. Sensitivity

Similar to a toothache, tooth sensitivity may also be a sign of a cavity. Unlike a toothache, however, sensitivity usually causes shooting pain when eating or drinking something hot, cold, or sweet and may not be persistent. Sensitivity can occur when the protective layer of tooth enamel is worn away, leaving nerves and roots exposed to heat, cold, sugar, as well as the bacteria that cause cavities. 

3. Staining

There are also some key signs of a cavity that are visible such as tooth staining. While some types of discoloration are natural, such as staining due to coffee, tea, or red wine, other stains can indicate a problem. If you notice a new tiny white spot on your tooth or darker areas of brown or gray, it’s likely that decay is present and is progressing deeper into the tooth. Any new signs of discoloration should be discussed with your dentist. 

4. Pitting

Another visual cue that a cavity may be forming is a pit or hole in a tooth. These two symptoms may also start with a small white dot and progress into pitting. Now, keep in mind, some of the most common places for cavities to develop are between the teeth where you won’t necessarily be able to see the pitting. This is one of many reasons why it’s so important to see a dentist near you every six months. 

How to Prevent Cavities 

Besides seeing your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings, exams, and x-rays, it’s also important to make sure you’re taking great care of your smile at home. Some of the best ways you can help prevent cavities are to: 

• Brush and floss every day
• Drink water throughout the day
• Limit sugary sweets and drinks 
• Eat a well-balanced diet

We recommend that every patient visit the dentist at least every six months to check for any early signs of decay when a cavity is typically easy to fix with filling. More severe cavities may require additional treatment such as a root canal or extraction. We’re always accepting new patients at all of our dental offices in Ann Arbor, Canton, Farmington Hills, and Livonia.

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of just-brushed teeth, and your dentist in Canton recommends that all patients brush their teeth two times a day and floss once a day. But where does mouthwash play a role in your oral hygiene routine? Should you use mouthwash every day? 

Different Types of Mouthwash

Mouthwash can be a helpful addition to your oral hygiene routine as it can help kill mouth bacteria that could otherwise lead to cavities and other problems. While there are a variety of different types of mouthwash available, most over-the-counter options aim to kill these bacteria and prevent decay. It’s important to note that some mouthwash is alcohol-based, and others are non-alcohol-based.

• Alcohol-Based

If your mouthwash gives you that burning sensation when you rinse with it — it most likely contains alcohol. Alcohol-based mouthwash may seem like it’s working better because of this tingling, but that’s not necessarily true. 

• Non-Alcohol-Based

Some patients find the feeling of alcohol-based mouthwash too intense. A good alternative for this would be a non-alcohol-based mouthwash. These products can still help remove bacteria just without the burn. 

If you choose to use mouthwash, make sure you choose one with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. Additionally, your dentist in Canton can recommend the best mouthwash for you.

The Best Way to Use Mouthwash

Mouthwash can be used every day if instructed by your dentist. However, make sure to also follow the instructions on your specific product, including how often to use it and how much to use. Keep in mind, mouthwash isn’t recommended for children under six years of age as they may not have the proper mechanics to swish and spit effectively. 

Mouthwash Isn’t a Substitute for Brushing

Even though rising with mouthwash can further kill off bacteria, it is not meant to substitute for brushing and flossing. Mouthwash isn’t designed to be used on its own to keep teeth decay-free. It’s still important to brush and floss your teeth daily, as well as see your dentist in Canton at least twice a year for professional cleanings and exams. 

Signs You Should Stop Using Mouthwash

While most patients shouldn’t experience any side effects of mouthwash, it is possible. Here are some signs that you should stop using mouthwash and talk with your dentist in Canton: 

• Dry mouth
• Teeth staining
• Sensitivity after using the mouthwash
• Canker sores or mouth sores

If you do experience any of these side effects, discontinue use and talk with your dentist. Additionally, if you have known allergies, make sure to check labels carefully before purchasing. 

Your dentist is here to help you make the best decisions about your oral health. Make sure you talk about any concerns you have about using mouthwash at your next appointment. We’re always happy to help. 

We’re always accepting new patients at all of our dental offices in Ann Arbor, Canton, Farmington Hills, and Livonia.

Your dentist in Farmington Hills usually recommends that all patients visit us at least twice a year. However, we understand that any number of things can keep you from seeing your dentist as often as recommended. Perhaps you have a fear of the dentist or life simply got in the way of scheduling your next appointment, either way, you’re now ready to get back. Here’s what you need to know. 

Communicate With Your Dentist in Farmington Hills

One of the most important things you can do when you’re visiting your dentist after a long time is to be upfront and honest with your dentist and dental team. Explain your individual situation as well as any fears or worries you may have. We promise to welcome you with open arms and pride ourselves on our ability to care for patients in a gentle, caring, and non-judgmental way. 

Expect That You May Need Some Treatment

Dentists recommend visits every six months because our oral health can change quickly, and it’s important to catch any problems or potential problems early. However, if it’s been a few years since your last visit, that’s ok. We’re just glad you’re back. You should expect that some things in your mouth may have changed since your last checkup, and you may need some more initial treatment to get your smile back to optimal health. Entering your appointment with the mindset can help put you at ease. 

Stay Stress-Free

We understand that seeing your dentist can be stressful, especially if it’s been a while since your last checkup. Scheduling your appointment first thing in the morning or at the end of your day can help ease any additional stress. Also, if you can, consider giving yourself plenty of time to get to your appointment. That way you won’t be faced with additional stressors such as traffic or worry about being late. 

What To Expect

Knowing what to expect when you walk into the office can help you relax. First, you will be welcomed by our caring and friendly team. They may ask you to complete or confirm any paperwork, such as your health history form. Then, you’ll have a gentle exam, perhaps with new dental x-rays, so we can get a thorough understanding of your current oral health. The most important thing to remember throughout your appointment is to communicate with your team. Your dentist in Farmington Hills and the entire dental team is here to help you with anything you need. 

If it’s been a while since you’ve seen a dentist, we welcome you to schedule an appointment at our office. Our team is dedicated to caring for every member of our community and will work with you to get your smile back in the best shape possible, no matter how long it’s been since you’ve sat in the dental chair!

We’re always accepting new patients at all of our dental offices in Ann Arbor, Canton, Farmington Hills, and Livonia.

Cutting back on sugar can be difficult because it’s in so many foods and drinks, and sometimes in surprising amounts. But reducing your sugar intake or eliminating it from your diet altogether can certainly help your overall health as well as your dental health. After all, there’s a reason your dentist in Ann Arbor isn’t a huge fan of the stuff. Sugar is often considered the leading cause of cavities. But the truth is, even if you don’t eat sugar, you can still get cavities. 

What Is a Cavity? 

Cavities are so common in the United States that the CDC says 90% of Americans over the age of 20 have had at least one cavity in their lifetime. These tiny areas of tooth decay, if left untreated, will only become bigger and deeper and also become more difficult to treat. Cavities begin as a small hole or pit in a tooth where acid or bacteria has attacked the enamel. During this stage, cavities can easily be fixed with a filling from your dentist in Ann Arbor. However, cavities that continue to progress can sometimes require more complex treatment such as a root canal or even tooth extraction.

Surprising Things The Cause Cavities

We’ve already shared that many people think cavities are a problem of eating too much sugar, and while that may be the case, there are other reasons why a cavity develops. 

• Dry Mouth

If a patient’s mouth is dry it’s more likely that they will have cavities. Usually, saliva will help neutralize acids and rinse away bacteria that can cause cavities. But when saliva production is too low and the mouth feels too dry, bacteria and acids are left lingering around to cause damage to the enamel and, you guessed it, cause cavities. 

• Carbohydrates & Acids

Besides sugar, there are other foods that can increase the risk of cavities. The two most concerning are acidic foods, such as citrus fruits and foods with a lot of carbohydrates. Acidic foods and drinks further aid in the mouth acid’s ability to weaken enamel while carbs fuel the bacteria, allowing them to thrive. 

• Bad Brushing or Flossing

There are many reasons why it’s important to brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day, but one of the main reasons is to prevent cavities. Brushing your teeth in the morning and at night will remove plaque and plaque acids that have built up throughout the day. Flossing reaches those tricky areas that a toothbrush can’t reach and where cavities are more likely to develop. 

Cavity Symptoms

Patients may experience different symptoms, but some of the most common signs of a cavity include: 

• Pain when you bite
• Tooth sensitivity
• Brown, black, or white spots
• Toothache
• Pits or holes in a tooth

If you think that you may have a cavity, call your dentist in Ann Arbor to schedule an appointment. 

Even though cavities are incredibly common, there are things you can do to reduce your risk of getting one. Make sure you brush and floss your teeth regularly, limit your intake of sugary, acidic, or high-carbohydrate foods, and drink plenty of water daily. Of course, you should also see your dentist every six months for a checkup. 

We’re always accepting new patients at all of our dental offices in Ann Arbor, Canton, Farmington Hills, and Livonia.