Dentistry

The jawbone not only securely holds the roots of a tooth in place, but is also dependent on healthy teeth to stimulate bone cells. When a tooth is extracted or lost, bone tissue in that area recedes since the tooth’s roots are gone and are no longer able to enhance jawbone density. Bone deterioration after tooth loss can be a very serious problem in that it can create significant risks to surrounding teeth. In fact,... Continue Reading

The team at Smile for Life Dental want to be here for you in cases of a dental emergency during this unprecedented and challenging time. While our office is currently closed for routine procedures and other elective dental care options, our dentists are on standby for dental emergencies and can treat patients who are suffering from concerns that require immediate attention. In many cases, what qualifies as a dental emergency may vary; however, here is... Continue Reading

Many of us across the United States are under shelter-in-place orders or are simply doing our part to follow social distancing guidelines by remaining at home as much as possible. In fact, to achieve maximum levels of risk-management during the Coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic, Smile for Life Dental has temporarily closed, with the exception of treatment availability for dental emergencies. Since routine and preventative dental care options are so limited for individuals across America during this extraordinarily... Continue Reading

One of the most common concerns relating to smile aesthetics is the yellow discoloration that often affects the teeth over time. Some level of tooth yellowing is likely for most individuals at some point, even those who take great care of their teeth. While tooth discoloration can eventually develop from tobacco use, regular consumption of foods and beverages containing ingredients that can stain the teeth (like berries, tea, coffee, and wine), or poor oral care,... Continue Reading

A single missing tooth or several missing teeth can have serious effects on dental function, aesthetics, and overall oral health. Fortunately, Dr. Dean Lodding and our team of dentists at Smile for Life Dental offer a full range of restorative dental treatment options that can replace missing teeth with exceptional results. The best option for you will ultimately depend on how many teeth are missing and other factors; however, rest assured that there are plenty... Continue Reading

It may be surprising to learn that certain types of dental treatment can effectively treat common signs of aging and provide a more youthful and refreshed look. A combination of treatments like those that are often part of a Smile Makeover, or even just a single dental treatment such as porcelain veneers can serve as a kind of “dental facelift,” helping individuals reduce the appearance of wrinkles, renew dental aesthetics, and address other concerns that... Continue Reading

Gums that bleed while flossing can be due to a number of issues; however, if it is a common occurrence, it may likely be a sign of periodontal (gum) disease. To be sure, bleeding gums while flossing and performing daily oral hygiene routines could be caused by factors other than gum disease. These include a vitamin deficiency, a reaction to certain medications, ill-fitting dentures, or even the fact that you may have just started flossing... Continue Reading

A tooth infection can endanger your oral health and your general health. Caused by a buildup of bacteria that affects the nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues inside the tooth’s pulp, a tooth infection can result from severe decay, an untreated cavity, a fracture in the enamel, or even just poor oral hygiene routines. Some of the symptoms of a tooth infection include extreme pain and/or pressure in the tooth, an abscess that creates a... Continue Reading

Our dentists believe that smoking just before dental implants are placed, and anytime after the procedure, can have a significantly negative effect on a variety of levels. In addition to increasing the risk of infection, smoking may dramatically slow the rate of healing after surgery. Plus, research has shown that there are high implant failure rates among individuals who smoke. Smoking can be detrimental to both soft oral tissues and bone tissue, which can severely... Continue Reading

After a professional teeth whitening treatment, you’ll naturally want to keep the results of your whiter, brighter smile going for as long as possible. While the effects of teeth whitening won’t be permanent, they can last for extensive periods as long as you take a few precautions, particularly when it comes to the food and beverages you consume after you’ve had the treatment. Knowing the types of food that can be helpful and which ones... Continue Reading