Highland West Dental Care Blog

Dentures are the tried-and-true solution for tooth loss and have a long history of successfully rebuilding smiles. However, your jawbone starts to thin after teeth go missing, eventually causing your restoration, which was initially designed to fit like a glove, to become destabilized.

Fortunately, there are various types of denture glues that can help keep your replacement teeth more firmly in place. If you’re struggling to pick the right product, continue reading to learn about 3 of the options and who might benefit from them!

(more…)

Did you know that your jawbone connects to your skull via two sliding-disc joints, called the temporomandibular joints (TMJ)? Under normal circumstances, these give your mouth a full range of motion; forward and back, side to side, and open and closed.

But if you suffer from bruxism or have a bite misalignment, the added pressure placed on these joints can trigger a temporomandibular disorder (TMD) that can contribute to other symptoms, including headaches. If you’ve been suffering from recent migraines and  are unsure if your jaw might be the cause, continue reading to learn more about it!

(more…)

Harmful oral bacteria feed on sugar and excrete acid that erodes dental enamel, which makes up the outermost layer of the teeth. Unfortunately, enamel will not heal itself after being damaged, and a destructive infection such as a cavity can lead to an agonizing toothache or permanent tooth loss. Here’s a quick guide to how cavities form, how they can be prevented or treated, and how you may be able to tell if you have one in a hard-to-see area of your smile.

(more…)

For one reason or another, the timing was never quite right for you to replace your missing teeth with dental implants. Now, years have gone by, and you’re worried that you might no longer be a good candidate for treatment. Will you simply have to settle for a set of traditional dentures?

As it turns out, you might not be “too late” after all! With some strategic treatment planning, your dentist can help you successfully receive a dental implant restoration.

(more…)

Oftentimes, you hear about all of the delicious foods that are harmful to your smile and other areas of your body. The good news is that not all foods cause issues. In fact, there are some snacks that can do wonders for your teeth and gums. Your oral health can benefit from a balanced diet! Read on to learn more about some of the scrumptious foods and drinks that you can freely enjoy without worrying about your smile.

(more…)

Sometimes when you eat, particles of food can become stuck between your teeth, causing aching or discomfort. Naturally, your first instinct may be to remove it with the help of a wooden toothpick. But unfortunately, despite their confusing name, these little devices aren’t actually good for your teeth. Here’s why when it comes to your smile, toothpicks are the wrong choice, and what you should do to safely remove trapped food from your teeth!

(more…)

If your dentures crack, break in half, or no longer fit properly, it can be a major disruption. After all, even though they aren’t your natural teeth, dentures play an essential role in your daily life. From eating and speaking clearly to smiling with confidence, they’re a vital part of your routine—which is why a broken denture does count as a dental emergency.

(more…)

No one wants to experience a dental emergency. Losing or chipping a tooth can be alarming, and while your dentist can certainly help, you’d probably rather avoid the incident altogether. Fortunately, there are ways you can protect your pearly whites and reduce your risk of having a dental emergency!

Your dentist will be able to provide more personalized tips, but these four simple tricks will get you off to a good start.

(more…)

Dental implants are a life-changing treatment, offering a permanent and natural-looking solution for missing teeth. Because they are a major investment in your smile and oral health, it’s important to feel confident and well-informed before making the commitment.

Asking your dentist the right questions during your dental implant consultation will help you understand the process, what to expect, and how to prepare for a successful outcome.

(more…)

Our 3D-CBCT X-ray Machine in action. One of the many ways our office ensures the best outcomes for our patients.

(more…)