MONDAY, March 30, 2020 (HealthDay News) — Dentists, hygienists and other dental professionals are at high risk for work-related exposure to coronavirus, but they can take steps to protect themselves. “We have really good ways to prescreen patients: by taking their temperature, asking them questions regarding travel in the lastContinue Reading

WEDNESDAY, March 25, 2020 (HealthDay News) — Your teeth provide a detailed account of your life, much as a tree’s rings record its history, a groundbreaking study shows. “A tooth is not a static and dead portion of the skeleton. It continuously adjusts and responds to physiological processes,” said leadContinue Reading

TUESDAY, Feb. 25, 2020 (HealthDay News) — Too many patients who go to U.S. emergency rooms for dental problems are prescribed antibiotics and opioid painkillers, a new study claims. The findings show the need for continued efforts to combat both opioid abuse and overuse of antibiotics, the U.S. Centers forContinue Reading

TUESDAY, Feb. 4, 2020 (HealthDay News) — American dentists often prescribe more than the recommended supply of opioid painkillers to patients, a new study finds. Not only that, they are more likely to prescribe more powerful opioids, the researchers found. In this study, the researchers analyzed data on nearly 550,000Continue Reading

(HealthDay News) — Plaque is a sticky film containing bacteria that covers your teeth, says the American Dental Association. After a meal or snack, the bacteria can release acids that attack tooth enamel. Multiple attacks to the enamel can break it down, triggering cavities. With daily brushing and flossing, plaqueContinue Reading

(HealthDay News) — Keeping your retainer clean can prevent cavities and infection, says the California Association of Orthodontists. Brushing your teeth and caring for your retainer also can ensure that your smile stays healthy. To keep your retainer clean, the association suggests: Wash your hands before and after wearing yourContinue Reading

(HealthDay News) — The leading cause of gum disease is plaque, says the American Academy of Periodontology. However, other factors can affect the health of your gums. The academy mentions these risk factors for gum disease: Old age. Tobacco use. Genetic predisposition. Stress. Medications, such as antidepressants or oral contraceptives.Continue Reading

(HealthDay News) — Both manual and electric toothbrushes can be effective for brushing your teeth, says Mayo Clinic. For people with arthritis or other conditions that make brushing difficult, an electric toothbrush may be the better option. The bristle movement of an electric toothbrush may remove more plaque and helpContinue Reading