Oral Health

Though thin and partially translucent, tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the body and has the critical job of protecting teeth from constant use and the continual assault of chemicals in food and drink. Enamel also guards tooth nerves against hot and cold food and beverages. That’s why enamel loss often causes tooth sensitivity.…

Are floss picks as good as regular floss? Floss picks vs regular floss? While it’s better to floss with a floss pick than to not floss at all, it’s important to note that floss picks can only clean a part of the tooth’s surface. Dr. Longenecker recommends traditional floss or dental tape. Here’s why: A…

Suspect you might have obstructive sleep apnea? It’s important to see your doctor right away. If left untreated, it can become life-threatening. Does your bed partner tell you that you frequently stop breathing during the night? What if you sleep alone? Here are some signs that you may have sleep apnea: Loud snoring Sudden awakenings Difficulty…

If you are a woman, you have probably heard about the high rate of osteoporosis in the country, and the state of Maryland is no exception. Did you know that several studies have suggested a connection between osteoporosis and oral health? Osteoporosis can often progress without any outward symptoms. However, there may be clues in a person’s mouth…

1. Protect Your Gums It’s not only severe cavities that can damage a tooth until it is beyond saving. Gum disease that leads to bone loss is just as detrimental. Gum disease is caused by a buildup of plaque that creates pockets of infection between the gums and tooth roots. This leads to periodontitis, gum…

I’m Craig Longenecker of Hereford Dental Health – Craig Longenecker DDS in Monkton. Today’s topic is mini dental implants, sometimes called “immediate implants”. Though they are not as well known as traditional dental implants, mini implants are also being used successfully in the Monkton area to improve smiles. Like their larger diameter counterparts, mini implants…

Do you have unexplained pain or clicking sounds in your jaw? They can be the result of a serious jaw condition. Some conditions with the jaw and the muscles that control it are known as temporomandibular disorders (TMD). But it’s also also called TMJ, because that’s the acronym for the name of the joint. Technically,…

Today’s post is for new Monkton parents. It contains useful guidance about caring for baby’s and toddler’s teeth. How should I clean my toddler’s teeth? For infants, gently wipe their gums with a piece of gauze or soft cloth. The ADA does not recommend any toothpaste for infants. When your child is three, a pea-sized…