Need a dental crown? Crowns, often called tooth caps, are one of the most common dental treatments. Their main purpose is to protect the sensitive interior of a tooth after damage or extensive restoration. There’s a lot of confusion about crowns: Can you glue one back on yourself? How should you care for it? Which … Read more

Many of you asked what I keep in my vitamin cabinet after the informal poll in the last edition of Mondays with Mark — and one supplement consistently stands out. There is one supplement that holds a truly “hallowed spot” in our family’s vitamin and supplement drawer: magnesium. At family gatherings we even check on … Read more

One common stereotype about dentists is that we oppose all sugar and candy. Avoiding sweets helps, but it’s not the whole story. There are many foods that actively support stronger teeth and healthier gums, reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, and help your mouth look and function its best throughout your life. … Read more

Has it been a while since your last dental visit? Many people write in saying they want to return to the dentist but feel anxious, ashamed, or unsure how to begin after a long break. If that sounds like you, here are practical, compassionate steps to make getting back to dental care easier. When you … Read more

Teeth whitening is a multibillion-dollar industry, yet not every product or method is safe or effective. Drawing on more than three decades of clinical experience and an understanding of stricter EU regulations for over-the-counter whitening products, this article summarizes the most reliable, evidence-based approaches to whitening and protecting your smile. First, two types of whitening … Read more

Q I’m in a great deal of pain after my wisdom teeth were removed. Is there anything I can eat that will get me some quick relief? I don’t want to sit around and eating ice cream while I’m recovering because I know it will just make me feel gross after a few days. A … Read more

The world is shifting from analogue to digital, and dentistry is no exception. Advances in technology have transformed dental care, making appointments faster, more precise, and more comfortable for patients. Modern tools and workflows let dentists deliver better results with fewer visits, greater predictability, and less invasive procedures. Below are key ways technology is reshaping … Read more

Ever heard of “EDC”? It stands for Every Day Carry—the small set of essentials you take with you wherever you go. I’m often on the move: driving between Napa and San Francisco to help with my grandkids, mountain biking with Roseann, or flying to visit one of our three daughters. A few reliable items keep … Read more

Your dentist emphasizes brushing and flossing, but what about tongue scraping? Tongue scraping is an underrated part of oral care. A neglected tongue can harbor bacteria, produce unpleasant odors, and affect overall health. If you haven’t tried tongue scraping yet, the good news is that it’s quick and easy — only a few seconds each … Read more

Saliva is often overlooked despite playing a central role in oral and overall health. Normal saliva production is essential for a healthy mouth, helping prevent cavities and supporting digestion. Below we review what saliva is, the benefits of healthy saliva, how the mouth produces it, and practical steps to maintain a healthy salivary flow. What … Read more