Westgate Dental Care Blog

Ever wonder how fluoride became a staple in dental care? This tiny mineral has made a big impact on teeth for decades, and its history might just surprise you! From naturally fluoridated water to toothpaste tubes lining store shelves, fluoride’s story is packed with curious discoveries, contentious public debate, and real science. Keep reading to see how it earned its place in modern dentistry.

Gum disease is incredibly common. Did you know that nearly half of Americans over the age of 30 have gum disease at one stage or another? There are two types of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is the first stage, and when it is addressed early on, it can be completely reversed when treated timely. When left to progress, periodontitis can develop. This condition cannot be cured, only managed. Continue reading to learn some of the signs of gingivitis so you can take action!

There are plenty of good reasons to exercise on a regular basis. No doubt you’re already thinking of a few! Well, researchers at Colgate found another one: consistent activity can reduce your risk of gum disease and promote your gum health. According to their study, non-smokers who habitually exercise are 54% less likely to develop gum disease.

To learn how working out can keep this unpleasant oral condition away from your smile, keep reading.

Do you struggle with high blood pressure? There are various different factors that can contribute to this. One that you may not be thinking about is gum disease. This is an infection of the gum tissue that affects nearly half of Americans over the age of thirty! Fortunately, while gum disease is very common, it is also preventable. Continue reading to learn about the connection between high blood pressure and gum disease, as well as how you can keep your gums healthy going forward.

Dental crowns are built to be strong, but they don’t last forever! Over time, daily wear and tear can weaken your restoration, leading to discomfort or even damage to the tooth underneath. So, how do you know when it’s time for a replacement? Continue reading to find some key signs that your dental crowns may need to retire.

Do you know someone who appears much older than they really are? Do they always look tired? If so, it may be that they’re suffering from untreated sleep apnea. They may not even realize they’re exhibiting symptoms, but one of the most common is signs of aging. Whether it’s you or a loved one who may be dealing with this type of situation, read on to learn what to look for and how professional help can ensure you start getting the rest you need.

When going to bed, do you tend to sleep under the covers or on top of them? Do you have fans going? Are you the kind of person who cranks up the thermostat or do you prefer to keep it cool? All of these factors can play a role in your quality of rest. What you may not realize is that when you suffer from sleep apnea, the temperature in your bedroom can help or hinder your symptoms. Keep reading to learn how to keep this area comfortable so that you can get the sleep you need.

As temperatures drop and winter sets in, your mouth health can face a few chilly challenges. From dry mouth to increased tooth sensitivity, winter can be tough on your smile. Luckily, there are ways to combat these common issues and keep your mouth healthy all season long. If you want to learn how to keep your oral health in check this winter, continue reading.

Imagine what could happen in the future if dentists could detect issues like cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues before they start! This is quickly becoming a reality thanks to artificial intelligence (AI). Although this breakthrough technology is not available in every dental office, it has the potential to completely change the game for oral health. Read on to see why AI-powered gum disease detection is so exciting and why early detection matters.

A brain abscess is an area of pus-filled swelling within the brain. If this condition is not promptly diagnosed and treated, it can easily become life-threatening! In many cases, the cause of brain abscesses remains unknown. However, new research indicates that in certain instances, oral bacteria might be to blame. This blog post delves further into this startling connection.