Timberlake Dental

Are Your Hormones Making Your Gums Bleed?

What is hormone-induced gingivitis? Hormone-induced gingivitis is a type of gingivitis that occurs specifically during changes in hormonal levels .  It is a very common condition that we see frequently in our office.  Hormone-induced gingivitis causes a patient to have gums that are swollen, red, tender, and bleed easily.   The tenderness and bleeding often make […]

Do I Really Grind My Teeth?

Some of our patients are surprised when we tell them that we see evidence in their mouths of teeth grinding, or bruxism.  Many people have no idea that they are grinding their teeth.  And what happens very frequently is they come back in six months and say, “You know . . . I think I […]

Are Dental X-rays Safe?

We are often asked by our patients about the safety of dental x-rays.  Many people are concerned about the levels of radiation they are exposed to when diagnostic x-rays are taken.  Since exact measurements are difficult to obtain, this article will use averages and comparisons to help you understand what levels of radiation you are […]

Mouthwash:  Which One is Right for You?

Because of the vast number of mouthwashes available to us today, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you.  A recent Crest survey found that 52% of Americans say they do not believe that mouthwash and rinses have any health benefits.  As dentists, we believe that using a mouthwash is very […]

Teeth Whitening Options

Most everyone wants white teeth!  It is the fastest and least expensive form of cosmetic dentistry.  Whitening your teeth brightens your smile, making it the first thing people notice about you. There are several different ways to whiten your teeth. When Should You Whiten Your Teeth? The short answer is: whenever you want! A longer, […]

What, Exactly, is a Root Canal?

What is a root canal? A root canal is the anatomical term to describe a portion of a tooth.  Teeth are hollow, and the internal chamber that contains the nerves and blood vessels inside the tooth is called the root canal.  The nerves and blood vessels are also called the pulp. What is root canal […]

pH: A Surprising Cause of Cavities

How does the pH of your mouth affect your risk for cavities? Most people know and understand that a diet high in sugar can be detrimental to their oral health.  But many people are unaware of the dangerous effects of acid to tooth structure.  In recent years, we have seen an increase in cavities among […]

What is Gingivitis?

A lot of people hear this word from their dentist and are not really sure what it means.  Have you been told that you have gingivitis by your dentist or dental hygienist?  Do you sometimes see blood when you spit your toothpaste out in the sink?  This blog will describe what gingivitis is, what it […]

Special Needs Dental Care

Millions of Americans have special health care needs.  When it comes to dental care, these special needs include any physical or mental disability that creates challenges in preventing and/or treating dental disease.  This encompasses a wide range of factors, from a mild case of rheumatoid arthritis that makes flossing difficult to severe physical and mental […]

Can a Sinus Infection Make my Teeth Hurt?

Spring is here.  And with it come seasonal allergies.  It is very common for dentists to see an increase in “toothaches” during this season.  We put “toothaches” in quotes because while the tooth definitely aches, it is not a tooth problem.  Many patients will call us with a toothache and come in for an evaluation, […]