Infants are born with a natural sucking reflex, and it is common for this reflex to evolve into a comforting behavior. Pacifiers can soothe a crying infant. However, parents often worry that a pacifier is dangerous for a baby’s teeth. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises parents that pacifiers are generally safe for babies…
Restorative Dentistry
Sleep Disorders Affect Work Performance And Career Progression

Lack of sleep during the work week Many people struggle with lack of sleep but they don’t realize how it affects their work and career. The workweek can be hectic, and it is not uncommon for people to doze off from mild exhaustion. Can you relate? Perhaps you get adequate hours of sleep, but the…
Into The Thick Of It, The Skinny On Toothpaste

Welcome to our blog! Today’s article answers some common questions about toothpaste. Why does toothpaste seem gritty? The abrasive aspect of toothpaste is to assist in removing dental plaque and food from the surface of the teeth. Forceful brushing becomes unnecessary for dental patients when the abrasives in the toothpaste can snag the mouth’s lingering…
Gently Now (Protect Your Gums When You Brush)

Everyone wants nice, pearly whites so, naturally, we should brush our teeth more, right? The only dilemma with that is many individuals brush their teeth too aggressively, leading to receding gums. You don’t want that. Gum recession is when your gum line exposes more of your teeth, or in severe cases, your tooth root. It…
Five Facts About Enamel Erosion

Our teeth work hard and are consistently under attack. It’s no wonder that nature encases them with an armor of enamel—the hardest substance in the body. Unfortunately, enamel erosion is extremely common, though largely preventable. Enamel’s chief enemies are acidic foods and beverages. Other factors that can weaken enamel or wear it away are some…
What are The Differences Among Clear Aligner Systems?

If you are researching orthodontics, you have probably heard about clear aligners. They offer several advantages over traditional metal braces. The most popular advantage is the fact that they are nearly invisible. Millions of men and women have aligned their teeth with aligners in the past twenty years since they were introduced. We’re here to…
Questions To Ask Your Urgent Care Dentist

Sometimes Monkton residents research their mechanic or hairdresser more thoroughly than their dental professional. Shouldn’t your oral health be far more critical? At Hereford Dental Health – Craig Longenecker DDS, we love to answer questions about all facets of dentistry. What Training and Experience Do You Have? You may have questions about a dentist’s training and…
Tell Your Dentist Which Prescription Meds You Are Taking

It’s standard practice for healthcare providers to find out which medications their patients are taking. Our patients sometimes wonder why we ask them about prescription medications before their dental treatment. Here’s why: Some medications—prescription or over-the-counter—can influence oral health or dental treatment. Bleeding Issues Heparin/warfarin and other anticoagulants can bring about abnormal…
Dental Implants Prevent Physical and Psychological Problems

Do you have missing teeth? Then you are not alone. Even though the U.S. is one of the most advanced countries in the world, tooth loss is common. In middle age, it tends to become more common. According to Harvard Medical School, the average adult has lost 12 permanent teeth by the age of 50.…
The Hereford Dental Health – Craig Longenecker DDS Guide To Veneers

It’s easy to see why Monkton smile makeover patients and cosmetic dentists love porcelain veneers. They correct a multitude of cosmetic flaws and deliver brilliant results for my Parkton area patients. If you are considering beautifying your smile with porcelain veneers, you want a trusted dentist with extensive experience performing this treatment. The porcelain veneer…