Patient Education / Dental Education Library
Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that erupt in the back corners of the upper and lower adult mouth. Most people experience problems from wisdom teeth because they erupt too close to existing permanent teeth, causing crowding, improper bites, and pain.
Simple toothaches can often be relieved by rinsing the mouth to clear it of debris. A broken, fractured, or displaced tooth is usually not a cause for alarm as long as decisive, quick action is taken — including rinsing, applying a cold compress, and contacting your dentist promptly.
Teeth grinding, also called bruxism, can severely damage your teeth and jaws over time. It causes abnormal wear on chewing surfaces, can lead to chronic jaw and facial pain, and may result in headaches. Common therapies include a special appliance worn during sleep and biofeedback.
If you wince with pain after sipping hot coffee or chewing ice, you likely suffer from sensitive teeth. Hot and cold temperature changes cause teeth to expand and contract, developing microscopic cracks that allow sensations to reach the nerves — affecting at least 45 million adults in the U.S.
Plaque is a film of bacteria that forms on your teeth and gums after eating foods that produce acids, including carbohydrates, candy, bread, and cereal. Long-term plaque can lead to tooth decay, gum irritation, receding gums, and eventually serious bone loss around tooth structures.
Oral cancer is one of the most common cancers today and has one of the lowest survival rates, with thousands of new cases reported each year. Fewer than half of all people diagnosed are ever cured, making early detection through regular dental checkups critically important.
Any cut to your face or the delicate soft tissues inside your mouth should be addressed immediately to prevent further tissue damage and infection. If a traumatic injury involves a broken facial bone such as the jaw or cheek, maxillofacial surgery may be required.
One of the most common jaw disorders involves the temporomandibular joint, which connects your lower jaw to your skull. People with TMD often experience a clicking or popping sound when opening their mouths, along with frequent headaches, neck aches, and tooth sensitivity.
Gingivitis is the medical term for early gum disease caused by long-term exposure to plaque. Early warning signs include chronic bad breath, tender or swollen gums, and minor bleeding after brushing. Although gum disease is the major cause of tooth loss in adults, it is largely avoidable.
Fluorosis is a condition caused by too much fluoride exposure. While fluoride in normal doses promotes strong teeth and fights cavities, fluorosis can occur when fluoride-containing toothpastes or rinses are swallowed, causing aesthetic problems such as abnormally darkened or stained teeth.
