A root canal saved one of my patients. Another told me it ruined their health. That contrast—so common, so extreme—is exactly why many people feel stuck when faced with this choice. If you’ve had a root canal and wonder whether it was the right decision, or if you’re weighing the option and don’t know who … Read more

A new type of toothpaste is gaining attention as an alternative to fluoride. Hydroxyapatite (HAp) promises to protect and strengthen teeth — but how well does it work, is it safe, and should you consider using it? This article explains how HAp toothpaste works, why I recommend it as a fluoride-free choice for many patients, … Read more

Run your tongue over your teeth right now. If you just ate or haven’t brushed in a while, you’ll notice a thin film on the surface — that film is plaque. It’s what you’re trying to remove when you brush and floss. You may not always see it, but you can feel when it’s there. … Read more

Retainers are devices you wear after your braces come off to keep teeth in their corrected positions. They can be either permanent (fixed) or removable. A permanent, or fixed, retainer is a thin metal wire bonded to the inner surfaces of the teeth. The wire is glued in place to prevent teeth from drifting back … Read more

Gum disease doesn’t simply resolve on its own. It must be addressed early to prevent irreversible damage. This newsletter is brought to you by our sponsor, BIOptimizers, makers of my favorite magnesium supplement—use code ASKTHEDENTIST for Black Friday discounts and gifts with purchase. Let’s rethink sugar. For decades, dentists have warned that sugar causes cavities … Read more

Between 25% and 50% of children will need braces or other orthodontic treatment during childhood. Research suggests that breastfeeding can reduce the likelihood a child will require orthodontics later in life. Breastfeeding is widely known to support infant development: it strengthens the immune system, may lower the risk of obesity, and offers many other health … Read more

These items don’t have flashy branding or elaborate ad campaigns, but they’re the staples I reach for every time I visit the drugstore. 1) Distilled white vinegar (and/or baking soda) If your retainer starts to develop an odor, skip the Efferdent tablets. Many cleaning tablets contain persulfate, an ingredient the FDA has flagged for allergic … Read more

When you’re searching for a good dentist, dental insurance should be part of the decision. Is the provider in-network? What services are covered? How much will you owe out of pocket? I spent years managing dental offices, handling insurance billing and patient communication, so I can tell you firsthand: dental insurance is complicated. This article … Read more

Even though temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are common—affecting an estimated 10 to 30 million Americans—they are often misdiagnosed and undertreated. Because TMD symptoms can involve the jaw, ears, nose, throat, face, neck, upper back, and even the eyes, patients are frequently shuffled between dentists and ENT specialists. That back-and-forth can lead to misinterpretation of symptoms and … Read more

“Sleeping like a baby” evokes a night of deep, restorative rest. For infants and children, sleep is essential for growth, brain development, and overall health. Unfortunately, many newborns and children do not get high-quality sleep. Signs such as snoring, mouth breathing, and teeth grinding or clenching can indicate sleep-disordered breathing or obstructive sleep apnea in … Read more