What Are the Bumps?
Being aware of your oral tissues can help you address problems like tooth decay or oral cancer as easily as possible.
A common concern among dental patients is when they come in for an exam, experiencing a hard knot or bump on their jaws, along the sides of the teeth. These areas are called tori.
Tori are bony growths that usually occur inside of the lower jaw, outside of the upper molars, or along the roof of the mouth. Although it is not certain what causes them, they may gradually grow throughout the years or during periods of stress.
Typically tori are slow growing, vary in size and are harmless. You may only need to have them removed if they interfere with a prosthesis such as a denture.
During your exam we will monitor the size and shape of the tori for changes between your dental appointments.
How Is Your Sleep?
Snoring and sleep apnea are a problem that affects thousands of patients, as well as their family members.
If one person can’t sleep well at night, neither will the loved one that they share a bed with.
For everyone’s sake, it’s important to find a way to improve the sleeping of the person involved.
Sleep apnea treatments can be invasive, loud and uncomfortable.
Thankfully there is a way that we can address your snoring or sleep apnea problems with a simple oral appliance.
Your customized appliance will position your oral tissues in a way that prevents them from blocking your airway.
This omits snoring and the constant waking that sleep apnea causes.
As a result, you and your loved ones get a much better night’s rest.
We will work with you to formulate a plan that helps you sleep better and possibly eliminate CPAP equipment.
Call us today so we can discuss your options!
The Truth About Plaque
Plaque is a soft layer of biofilm that builds up across your teeth and gumlines between meals.
It is the result of bacteria inside of your mouth breaking down sugars in the food that you eat (even natural sugars, like those found in milk or juice.)
If plaque isn’t removed thoroughly each day, it begins to etch away the enamel surface. The result is a demineralized area and eventually a cavity.
Thorough brushing for at least two minutes twice each day is essential, as well as flossing to remove plaque between the teeth and under the gumlines.
Tartar is made from calcified plaque deposits that have not been removed within 24 hours. Gradually the tartar accumulates along and below the gum tissues, causing swelling or bleeding when you brush and floss.
Schedule a cleaning at least every six months to remove tartar buildup and get tips on improving your hygiene routine.
