Gingivitis Vs Periodontitis – Know the Difference
Key Takeaways What Is the Difference Between Gingivitis and Periodontitis? About 42% of US adults aged 30 and older who have natural teeth have periodontitis, and 7.8% have the severe form, according to CDC national survey data. The difference between the two conditions comes down to damage. Gingivitis is inflammation limited to the gums and […]
Deep Cleaning vs. Regular Cleaning: Key Differences and Which One Do You Need?
Key Takeaways Deep Cleaning vs. Regular Cleaning: What’s the Difference? Your dentist recommends one of two cleanings at your checkup. Regular cleaning removes plaque from tooth surfaces. On the other hand, deep cleaning treats bacteria trapped below the gumline. The choice between deep cleaning vs. regular cleaning depends largely on the health of your gums. […]
How Painful is a Root Canal? | Tips to Manage Pain
Key Takeaways A root canal helps to relieve tooth pain caused by infection, not cause it, and the procedure itself is typically painless thanks to local anesthesia. During treatment, patients feel pressure and mild vibration rather than pain, and catching signs like lingering sensitivity or swelling early means simpler treatment. Most soreness peaks within the […]
Root Canal vs. Extraction: Which Should You Choose for a Damaged Tooth?
Key Takeaways Understanding Your Treatment Options For Damaged Teeth When a tooth is badly damaged by either decay, infection, or trauma, many people wonder whether they should choose a root canal or extraction. Learning about root canals vs. extractions can help you decide which one is better for your teeth. A root canal treatment removes […]
Bonding vs. Veneers: Which is the Best Option for Your Smile?
Key Takeaways Which Is Better: Bonding or Veneers? Maybe it’s a chip from biting down on something hard or a stain that toothpaste never quite lifts. Either way, fixing it usually comes down to a choice between two options: bonding vs. veneers. Bonding is a tooth-colored resin applied directly onto the tooth, ideal for small […]
How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?
Key Takeaways: Can Professional Treatment Make Your Teeth Look Whiter? Stained or dull teeth can make you hesitant to smile. And we can’t have that. Teeth whitening offers a simple fix, brightening your teeth and giving your confidence a real lift. But results are not one-size-fits-all, and they do not last forever. At Anoka Dental, […]
Maryland Bridge: What It Is, Types & Who Can Get One
TL;DR What Is a Maryland Bridge Restoration? Maryland bridge is a tooth replacement option designed for patients who need to fill a single missing tooth gap, particularly in the front of the mouth, without altering the teeth on either side. Unlike a traditional bridge, which requires crowning the adjacent teeth to anchor the replacement, a […]
What to Do If Your Dental Crown (Cap) is Broken or Chipped?
TL;DR What Should You Do When You Have a Broken Dental Cap? If you have a broken dental cap (crown), the most important first step is to call your dentist and get an appointment scheduled, ideally the same day or next day, depending on how much pain or sensitivity you’re experiencing. A damaged crown is […]
Should You Floss Before or After Brushing? What Experts Say for Better Oral Health
TL;DR What Is The Right Order for Flossing and Brushing? Many people follow a daily brushing routine without considering the order of steps. Therefore, a frequent topic of discussion during dental cleanings is whether to floss before or after brushing. As dentists, we generally recommend flossing first, as it removes plaque and debris from between […]
Red Gums: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & When It’s Gingivitis
TL;DR What Do Red Gums Tell You About Your Oral Health? Red gums are one of the earliest and most reliable signs that something in your oral environment has shifted. Healthy gums are firm, pale pink, and fit snugly around each tooth. When gum tissue becomes visibly red, swollen, or tender, your body is signaling […]