Blue Wave Dental Blog

A smile makeover is about much more than fixing a chip here and there. It’s a carefully planned cosmetic dentistry treatment that tries to get a bird’s-eye view of your entire smile and how it fits your face. When dentists begin treatment, they look at several aspects of your teeth to “get it right.” Read on to learn five important aesthetic elements of smile makeovers, so you can articulate your desires to your dentist.

Many patients delay beautifying their smiles because they worry that cosmetic dentistry might be painful. However, modern techniques make treatments simple and painless. If you’re thinking about improving your smile, understanding what comfort protocols are in place and how each procedure feels can ease your anxiety. Here’s what to expect before your makeover begins.

You already know that brushing, flossing, and preventive dentistry protect your teeth, but did you know they may also protect your waistline? It may sound far-fetched, but studies from the University of Debrecen, published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine, and others suggest that poor oral hygiene can negatively affect your metabolism. Keep reading to see how your mouth and body are connected and find some strategies to keep your whole body happy.

Most people think brushing twice a day is enough to keep their smile healthy, but your dentist might disagree! While brushing is an essential part of every oral care routine, it’s just one part. The truth is, many patients skip some steps that could quietly undo their good work over time. If you want to go from “good” to “great” oral health, here are a few oral hygiene habits you should reincorporate into your routine.

Exercise has many benefits from improved strength and endurance to a calmer mind and better mobility. However, your mouth might not feel the same way about your routine as you do. Many athletes and fitness enthusiasts don’t realize that certain workout habits can quietly harm their oral health. Without proper support, these small issues can lead to big dental emergencies. The good news is that with a little awareness, you can enjoy your exercise routine and keep your smile healthy. Here’s how.

Jaw pain can be annoying at best and alarming at worst—especially when it seems to be isolated to one side of your mouth. You might think it’s just from chewing too much gum or sleeping awkwardly, but there could be more going on. Some causes are minor, while others require a dentist’s attention right away. Here’s what could be behind your one-sided jaw pain and when you should declare a dental emergency.

Has sipping a cold drink or biting into something sweet ever made you wince? Chances are, you have some tooth sensitivity, a common issue for 1 in 8 people across the US. But is it something to worry about? Sometimes, it’s a minor issue. Other times, it’s a red flag for something more serious. Continue reading to see how to tell the difference and learn when it’s time to declare a dental emergency.

Traveling overseas can be a life-changing experience! But when a dental emergency strikes in an unfamiliar country, it can quickly go from exciting to stressful. Whether it’s a chipped tooth, sudden pain, or a crown that’s gone rogue, being prepared can make all the difference. Continue reading to learn what to do if your smile suddenly needs saving abroad.

If you have ever clenched or ground your teeth, you are not alone. According to one estimate, bruxism affects up to 30% of people. While this condition can harm your natural teeth, you may wonder how it might influence your experience if you wish to replace missing teeth with dental implants. This blog post discusses what you need to know about the relationship between bruxism and dental implants. It also shares steps you can take to protect your oral health.

Cavities are one of the most common problems in natural teeth. According to some estimates, more than 90% of adults have had at least one cavity in their lifetime. But what if some or all of your natural teeth have been replaced by dental implants? Do you still need to worry about cavities, or can you relax a bit when it comes to oral hygiene? This blog post explains some important facts for you to keep in mind.