Use of antibiotics in children with dental decay: For decades, antibiotics have greatly benefited the medical community’s efforts to fight bacterial infections. However, we now face a new challenge with bacteria becoming resistant to this treatment modality as a consequence of widespread (and often unnecessary) use. Providers are now learning to be more prudent in

Overview One national agency estimates that advances in dental research save Americans more than $4 billion a year. Dentistry today has the most sophisticated, high-tech equipment ever available, allowing the dentist to treat and diagnose with remarkable precision. Such technology also vastly reduces, and in some cases eliminates, much of the pain and discomfort for

Oral piercing (usually on the tongue or around the lips) is one of the more disturbing fashion trends in recent years. Many people fail to realize that that even precautions taken during the installation of a piece of piercing jewelry are not enough to stave off harmful, long-term consequences such as cracked or chipped teeth,

What effects can smoking have on my oral health? Are cigars a safe alternative to cigarettes? Are smokeless tobacco products safe? The American Dental Association has some alarming news that you should know on its web site at http://www.ada.org. The American Dental Association states that it “has long been a leader in the battle against

Oral Changes with Age Is tooth loss inevitable in your later years? How much should adults be concerned about cavities? Here you’ll find helpful answers to some frequently asked questions about oral health questions you may have as you get older. As many people get older, they often overlook their oral health when considering other

Naturally occurring latex has been linked in recent years to allergic reactions in people who use such products as latex gloves. The proteins in the latex, which can also become airborne, can cause problems in vulnerable people such as breathing problems and contact dermatitis. Some allergic reactions, including anaphylactic shock, have been more severe. Many

Standards and Best Practice With all of the increased media attention on infection outbreaks such as AIDS and multi-drug resistant strains of viruses, it’s no wonder people have heightened concerns about infection control during a medical procedure. Gloves, gowns and masks are required to be worn in all dentist offices today, a far cry from

What’s in a Filling? Fillings, known clinically as amalgams, are synthetic materials that are used to restore a portion of a tooth damaged by decay or traumatic injury. There are different types of materials used to fill cavities, including gold and metal alloys. Conventional amalgams are the silver-colored material many people have had placed in