Westgate Dental Care Blog

Dentists think about what exists inside the mouth all the time. Their education and hands-on experience lead them to consider the pros and cons of all the bacteria that live in the mouth, but have you ever wondered how many of these microbes live among your teeth and gums? Keep reading to learn the truth and how you can ensure only the best stay behind.

Dental embarrassment and anxiety are some of the most common reasons people choose not to go to the dentist. Many people worry that they’ll be judged for not flossing enough, skipping checkups, or having dental problems. Some even put off making an appointment for years because they feel ashamed of how their teeth look. But this isn’t helping you, and the truth is, your dental team is here to help, not criticize. Here’s why you don’t need to feel embarrassed when you schedule your next visit.

If crooked or otherwise misaligned teeth are making you feel self-conscious about your appearance, you may be considering Invisalign clear aligners. This treatment can often go a long way toward enhancing your smile and boosting your self-esteem, but it’s important to note that its benefits don’t end there!  Below are 4 reasons to get Invisalign that don’t have anything to do with your appearance.

While Invisalign aligners are a more comfortable, discreet way to straighten your teeth, you may still be eager to determine when your new smile will be ready. The good news is that although exact treatment times will vary from person to person, most conclude well before they would with traditional braces. Here’s a closer look at what you can expect from Invisalign, and how to help keep your gorgeous grin right on schedule!

Not all tooth discoloration is the same. While yellowing is common, some people may notice their teeth turning gray instead. Gray teeth are different in the fact that they often stem from genetics, dental trauma, and other issues that make whitening toothpaste and store-bought strips ineffective. The good news? Your cosmetic dentist has several effective treatments that can brighten your smile. Continue reading to learn more about gray teeth and how modern cosmetic dentistry can help.

It’s no secret that beyond family time and catching up with friends, the holidays are all about food. But if you’re trying to protect your teeth, you might wonder which holiday dishes are best for your oral health. Fortunately, you don’t have to skip your favorite meals to keep your smile bright. Many of your favorite traditional foods are, in fact, dentist-approved! Here are some delicious holiday options you can enjoy without worrying about being on your dentist’s naughty list.

Are you considering correcting your ‘bad bite’ with Invisalign? This dynamic orthodontic treatment works faster and more comfortably than traditional braces, and its discreet appearance makes it perfect for older patients and responsible teens who don’t want to draw attention to their smiles. Unfortunately, however, many patients don’t think they can use Invisalign, because they don’t know if the trays will work for their particular problem. Here’s a closer look at which bite issues it can fix, and a few that it unfortunately can’t.

Millions of people turn to Invisalign every year to straighten their smiles. These clear aligners slip over your top and bottom teeth to gradually straighten them over time. But what if you only need one arch corrected? Can you cut the treatment in half to save time or money? Well, it depends. Keep reading to see when single-arch Invisalign makes sense and when your dentist might recommend a full mouth approach.

Laser dentistry is an FDA-approved technique that is designed to treat soft and hard tissues and structures inside the mouth. Whether it’s teeth or gums that need treatment, this unique device delivers a more comfortable approach and positive results. If you are considering laser dentistry for an upcoming procedure, here are four benefits you can expect.

It can be tempting to set an alarm on your phone and allow yourself to take a 30-45-minute nap during the day. When fatigue sets in because of poor rest the night before, it can seem harmless to curl up on the couch and get a bit of shut-eye. Unfortunately, this habit can have a negative effect when it comes to bedtime, especially if you have sleep apnea. Learn why you should avoid napping and how you can start getting better rest at night.