Are Your Teeth Sensitive To Temperatures?

If you wince from the cold when biting into ice cream, or from that hot cup of tea or coffee hitting your teeth in the morning, then you may have sensitive teeth. This is a common condition; in fact, at least 45 million people suffer from sensitive teeth at least once in their lifetimes. While they can be painful and a bit of a burden for some people, sensitive teeth are, more often than not, highly treatable, and you may find relief by visiting your Pecan Tree dentist’s office.

Do You Have Bleeding Gums?

When you hear about oral health, more than likely you think about tooth cavities. While this can be an important factor pertaining to teeth health, your gums are also very important. Your gums not only play an important role in just your oral health, but in your overall well-being as well. In most cases, swollen and bleeding gums are a potential sign of gum disease. There are a number of different things that cause gum issues. Whatever the issue, there are steps that can be taken to minimize gum damage and discomfort.

What Is Your Tooth Enamel Made Of?

Did you know that the protective layer around your teeth, called enamel, is the strongest substance that your body produces? In fact, healthy tooth enamel is stronger than any other substance on earth except for diamonds. Nevertheless, your enamel isn’t indestructible. Without proper care and maintenance, your tooth enamel can lose its incredible resilience and fall victim to tooth decay or damage. Your Grand Prairie dentist, Dr. Quinn Smith, explores the strength and vulnerability of human tooth enamel and how you can help protect yours from danger.

Are You Contemplating OTC Teeth Whitening?

Although not all stained teeth are unhealthy teeth, the changes in tooth color can significantly detract from your smile’s visual appeal. Teeth whitening is a procedure that lightens teeth and helps remove stains and discoloration. Whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures that Dr. Smith performs to greatly improve how your teeth look. Yet, many people choose, or seriously consider choosing, an over-the-counter whitening product, mistakenly believing that the results will be the same. Unfortunately, that’s rarely the case, and rather than a brighter smile, you may end up with damaged, sensitive teeth that still exhibit the stains OTC teeth whitening couldn’t address.

TMJ Disorder and the Quality of Your Life

Dental discomfort, such as a toothache, can have a significant influence on more than just your immediate dental health. When severe enough, the pain can affect your daily tranquility and overall quality of life. Besides aching teeth, dental discomfort might also encompass sore, painful jaw joints, along with trouble fully opening and closing your jaw. Known as TMJ disorder, the jaw dysfunction can often generate other symptoms, as well, including severe headaches and chronic tinnitus (pain and ringing in the ears). Though not everyone automatically associates headaches with their dental health, your Grand Prairie dentist, Dr. Quinn Smith, urges you to seek a professional TMJ assessment if you’ve been unable to find relief for your persistent aches and pains.

What is Bruxing?

Bruxism is defined by the Merriam-Webster online dictionary as, the habit of unconsciously gritting or grinding the teeth especially in situations of stress or during sleep. It's derived from the Greek word brychein meaning “to gnash teeth.” Bruxism can be done consciously or unconsciously, and can be mild or excessive. Usually, mild bruxing will not result in problems, but excessive bruxing can. Your Grand Prairie, TX, dentist, Dr. Quinn Smith, can evaluate your teeth for signs of bruxism, and discuss your need for treatment.

How Spring Allergies Affect Teeth

Budding trees and colorful flowers make spring come alive, but, for seasonal allergy sufferers, allergies reawaken as well. 

While people commonly think of symptoms like sneezing and watery eyes, your allergies could be the root cause of your dental pain as well. Sinus problems often manifest as tooth pain with the beginning of pollen season.