McComb Family Dental Blog

One of the first things that many patients wonder upon first getting dentures is whether it’s okay to wear them 24 hours a day. Surprisingly, the answer is no; while it might not seem like it would cause any problems, you never want to fall into the habit of keeping your dentures in your mouth too long. So how many hours a day can you wear your dentures? And why is it so important for you to remove them? Here’s what you need to know.

Whether you’re missing several teeth or all of them, modern dentures can effectively rebuild your confidence, bite, and speech. Unfortunately, however, there is a common misconception that oral health is no longer a priority once you’ve lost your teeth. That’s simply not the case! To prevent further tooth loss, keep your gums healthy, and ensure your new smile stays in pristine condition, it’s more important than ever to prioritize dental care. With this in mind, read on to learn a few bad habits you should avoid with dentures.

Every physical feature you have can be traced genetically to a ancestor. Your mom may have passed down your eye color, or your dad may have given you his nose. Unfortunately, some health risks can also be passed down from generation to generation. When it comes to oral health, your family history with gum disease, the number one cause of tooth loss, may increase your chances of getting it yourself.

In order to overcome the hand genetics has dealt you, here are ways you can keep your teeth, gums, and smile healthy and strong!

Have wrinkles? You may think you’ve developed them because of smoking, sun damage, or mere aging. However, there’s another reason you may be surprised to learn about – teeth grinding. Believe it or not, it’s one of the main causes of premature wrinkles around the mouth. Not only can bruxism wear down your teeth, but it can make you appear older than you are. Continue reading to find out why that is and what you can do to stop this habit from aging you!

Have you ever caught yourself grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw? Maybe it’s going on when you aren’t aware of it, as well. You may need to speak with your dentist about receiving treatment for bruxism. Side effects of bruxism include headaches, tooth or jaw pain, and overly worn teeth. Night guards create a barrier between your top and bottom teeth and are commonly used to lessen the effects of this condition. If your dentist gives you a night guard to protect your teeth from bruxism, follow these tips to ensure it remains in good condition and you get the most value from it.

Taking proper care of your teeth and gums is essential for a healthy smile. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly will help ensure that gingivitis and periodontitis don’t happen to you. While you’ve likely heard those words used in a dentist’s office before, you may not be completely sure of what they mean. In this blog post, you’ll learn more about these stages of gum disease and what you can do to keep your gums in optimal condition.

As a tobacco smoker, a person is most likely used to hearing about the possible health consequences of continuing with the habit. But when it comes to their oral health, they may not have been informed about the potential impact on their gums. Read on to learn about the link between smoking and periodontal disease that could eventually lead to tooth loss, according to your implant dentist in McComb.

Just how popular are youth sports in America these days? It is estimated that 20-25 million youths participate in competitive sports. Unfortunately, along with increased participation comes an elevated incidence of injury. It is believed that more than 35 percent of all unintentional injuries to children and adolescents occur during sports competitions or practice. Of those injuries, 10-20 percent are maxillofacial (relating to the jaws and face), according to the American Dental Association (ADA). Here are some sports where a sports mouthguard, aka sportsguard, is very important, and some injuries that can occur without one, according to your dentist in McComb.

A lost dental filling can be frightening. You might even begin to panic. This common occurrence may cause much uncertainty, but you must remember to stay calm and realize there are steps you can take to ensure the health and safety of your smile. If you’re waiting to see your dentist to have your filling re-bonded or replaced, make sure to follow these steps to avoid further damage to your vulnerable tooth.

At your last dental appointment, did your dentist recommend a dental crown? If you put off treatment in hopes of saving money, you may unintentionally be doing the opposite. In short, neglecting much-needed restorative care can be disastrous for your smile and your wallet. To learn why, read on!