North Garland Family Dental Blog

Hearing that you need a tooth extracted can feel alarming, but dentists don’t recommend extractions lightly. In most cases, removing a tooth is suggested only when keeping it would pose a greater risk to your oral health. Understanding the common reasons for tooth extraction can help you feel more confident about the recommendation and what it means for your smile.

Did you know that an estimated 90% of adults have experienced tooth decay at some point in their lives, making it one of the most common global diseases? Thankfully, your dentist can repair cavities with tooth-colored fillings for resilient, lifelike results.

These repairs often last 10+ years if properly cared for, but they’re not invincible. For instance, they can be dislodged during an injury or eventually wear down and fall out, leaving the underlying tooth vulnerable to further harm. Continue reading to learn about 4 steps you can take to get help quickly if you’ve just lost a restoration!

If you fly frequently for work or pleasure, you’re likely already quite familiar with security protocol at the airport. You know what size items are allowed in your carry-on baggage, and you’re familiar with the ins and outs of passing through security.

But if you’ve lost teeth and are considering replacing them with dental implants, you might worry that you’ll have challenges with metal detectors in the future. Continue reading to learn more about why you can safely set your fears aside and proceed with your desired treatment!

Everyone loves the confidence that comes with a bright, white smile. With so many whitening products available online and in stores, it’s easier than ever to achieve that look at home. But just because something is easily accessible doesn’t mean it’s always safe to use.

While store-bought teeth whitening kits can deliver temporary results, using them too often—or choosing products that aren’t approved by the American Dental Association (ADA)—can lead to unwanted side effects.

Here’s what you should know about whitening safely and effectively.

Calcium is one of the most important minerals for your body and your teeth rely on it just as much as your bones do. Without enough calcium, teeth can become weak, brittle, and more prone to decay. The good news is that with the right diet and habits, you can give your smile the support it needs to stay strong and healthy for years to come.

Although the American Dental Association recommends having a checkup and cleaning every six months, only about 45% of the U.S. population sees their provider annually, according to some sources. Unfortunately, if you don’t feel like you have a trustworthy dentist you can count on, you might avoid everything potentially smile-saving care.

If you or your loved ones are on the market for a new provider and are unsure what type of dentist to see, continue reading to learn 3 excellent reasons to consider booking an appointment with a family practitioner!

Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments today—but if your teeth aren’t in great shape to begin with, whitening can actually do more harm than good. If you have untreated cavities or tooth decay, using whitening products (even over-the-counter ones) can lead to pain, sensitivity, and more serious dental issues.

Before brightening your smile, it’s crucial to understand the risks and talk to your dentist first.

If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and wished for a more radiant, youthful smile, you’re not alone. Many adults, especially those over 50, wonder whether it’s “too late” to improve their smiles through cosmetic dentistry. The truth is, age is not a barrier to achieving the smile you’ve always wanted. In fact, cosmetic dentistry can be even more impactful for older adults looking to restore confidence and oral function. So, are you too old for cosmetic dentistry? Absolutely not. Here’s why.

Preparing for cosmetic dentistry is an exciting time in anyone’s life. After all, you’ll soon have a gorgeous new grin to share with the world. In fact, it’s completely understandable that you may feel a little impatient to get your treatment underway, but don’t worry. If you’re embarking on a smile makeover, here’s how long you can expect some popular treatments to take, and how soon you can showcase your dazzling results (hint: it’s sooner than you think!).

Like all parts of the human body, teeth naturally change and develop as they age. Unfortunately, the years can leave your smile with many unsightly blemishes like chips, cracks, stains, gaps, and even tooth loss. Luckily, your cosmetic dentist is trained and equipped to address these issues with a range of aesthetic treatments designed to enhance your smile’s beauty. Here are a few of the ways in which your teeth can show their age as well as a few of the methods your dentist may employ to restore their youthful appearance.