Mention the word ‘cancer’ and most people shudder.  A common human response, we try to bury our heads in the sand or wish the concept away unless we actually have to deal with a diagnosis personally.  But many cancers are curable when detected early – and oral cancer is no exception. Detecting oral cancer symptoms early can be instrumental in treatment.

Gum disease can become a serious problem for one’s oral health.  Bacterially-infected gums and soft tissues, if left untreated, can deteriorate to the point of tooth loss.  But recent studies point to even larger dangers of gum disease.

Orthodontia typically is associated more with discomfort and expense than a beautiful smile.  But today’s braces are far from the torturous devices of horror movies – and often not nearly as terrifying to our bank accounts.

Everybody wants their smile to be as white as possible, right?  And by now we’re all well aware of cosmetic dentistry’s various teeth-whitening options, from whitening toothpastes to bleaching. 

Not to freak you out, but a recent study from the University of Manchester in England says that one uncovered toothbrush stored in a bathroom could be home to more than 100 million bacteria.  The same study found the dreaded E. coli bacteria present - which is notorious for causing diarrhea – as well as staphylococci bacteria, which can cause skin infections.

Although most parents know about  Early Childhood Caries (or cavities), also known as ECC, and the dreaded resulting cavities, covered cups for small children – notably sippy cups – can be detrimental to young teeth, too. Early Childhood Caries also goes by another name: Baby Bottle Tooth Decay.