Ozempic and other GLP-1 medications were originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes. But when patients reported losing weight after being prescribed the medication, it became a breakthrough drug for those whose long-term battles with obesity and overweight had never been won. Although most people focus on the advantages of these medications, every prescription drug…
Did you know that your head is connected to the rest of your body? And that your teeth, gums, tongue, etc., are part of your head – which is connected to the rest of your body? While these questions may seem absurd, many people typically don’t consider that poor oral health affects your overall health….
Even those who take excellent care of their oral health can still face tooth loss. Depending upon your individual situation, options for prosthetic teeth restorations can include a dental bridge, partial denture, full dentures and dental implants. Although dental implants are popular for their ability to look, feel and function like your natural teeth, they…
This is the time of year in which you’re probably busier than ever! From planning holiday family gatherings to buying presents to making travel plans, it’s easy for some things to slip your mind. But if you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) through your employer’s health plan, don’t forget to use the remaining balance…
The holiday season is that one time of year when people typically give themselves a pass to indulge in the types of foods and drinks they otherwise consume in moderation — as well as slack off a bit on their usual oral hygiene routine. However, the “holiday season” seems to get longer every year, with…
Experiencing a dental emergency is a situation we all hope we never have to face. But what type of situation requires a call to your dentist for immediate attention? People who tend to be cautious may consider a non-throbbing toothache an emergency, while stoical types might think they can tough out a cracked tooth until…
It’s time for a pop quiz! What’s the hardest substance in the human body? If you answered “bones,” sorry! The correct answer is enamel! Because tooth enamel is 96% mineral, it’s stronger than bones, which are composed of living, soft tissue. But although enamel is tougher than bone, it isn’t indestructible — and it can’t…
The introduction of Invisalign® clear aligners in 1999 gave many teenagers and adults wanting to straighten their teeth a highly desirable alternative to traditional metal braces. Since that time, some companies – most prominently SmileDirectClub —developed a business model in which those wanting fast results at a discounted cost could bypass being treated by an…
You may have heard the terms “tooth abscess” or “abscessed tooth,” without quite understanding the condition itself. Although not discussed as frequently as tooth decay and periodontal (gum) disease, a tooth abscess can lead to serious — even life-threatening — complications if not treated in a timely manner. Here’s what you need to know about…
Fluoride is an essential mineral in the battle against tooth decay. In its natural form, fluoride is found throughout the earth’s crust, and released from rocks into the soil, water and air. Fortunately, its ability to be synthesized in a laboratory allows fluoride to be used as an important ingredient in most toothpastes and some…
