Dental Conditions

There are so many dental conditions that can affect your oral health. On this page, we talk about most conditions and offer solutions and tips to manage them. Find out how you can reverse the onset of gingivitis using products like a quality electric toothbrush, water flossers, mouthwashes and ordinary floss. We also discuss tooth decay, dry sockets, plaque and tartar and how to tackle gum disease.

• Understanding Dry Socket
  All you need to know about dry socket
• How I Learned to Stop My Receding Gums from Worsening
  Quick Answer Receding gums can be stopped and even partially reversed through proper oral hygiene, gentle brushing techniques, and professional treatments. The key is addressing the root causes like aggressive brushing, gum disease, and plaque buildup before permanent damage occurs. Key Points: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle circular motions instead of aggressive back-and-forth scrubbing Professional deep cleaning and ...
• Best Over The Counter Pain Reliever For Tooth Pain (2026)
  Quick Answer Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) is the most effective over-the-counter pain reliever for tooth pain because it reduces inflammation around the tooth and nerve. For severe pain, alternating ibuprofen with acetaminophen (Tylenol) provides maximum relief while staying within safe dosage limits. Key Points: Ibuprofen targets inflammation, which is the primary cause of dental pain Maximum OTC ibuprofen dose is ...
• Best Thing for Bad Breath (Halitosis)
  Quick Answer The best thing for bad breath is proper oral hygiene combined with addressing underlying causes. Regular brushing, flossing, and tongue cleaning eliminate 80-90% of halitosis cases caused by bacteria buildup. Key Points: Brush teeth twice daily and clean your tongue to remove odor-causing bacteria Floss daily to eliminate food particles and plaque between teeth Stay hydrated and see ...
• Invisalign Retainer vs. Metal Retainer
  Quick Answer Invisalign retainers are clear, removable plastic trays that are virtually invisible, while metal retainers are wire-and-acrylic devices that are more visible but typically more durable. Both effectively maintain teeth alignment after orthodontic treatment, but differ significantly in appearance, comfort, and maintenance requirements. Key Points: Invisalign retainers are nearly invisible and removable for eating and cleaning Metal retainers ...
• Advanced Teeth Straightening
  Quick Answer Advanced teeth straightening includes modern orthodontic options like clear aligners (Invisalign), ceramic braces, lingual braces, and accelerated orthodontics that offer faster, more discreet treatment than traditional metal braces. These technologies use 3D imaging, custom-fitted appliances, and innovative materials to straighten teeth more comfortably and efficiently. Key Points: Clear aligners are virtually invisible and removable for eating ...
• Anbesol vs. Orajel Oral Pain Relief Gel for Toothache
  Quick Answer Both Anbesol and Orajel are effective topical oral pain relievers that contain benzocaine as their active ingredient. The main differences lie in their concentrations, formulations, and specific product variations for different age groups and pain types. Key Points: Both contain benzocaine but in different concentrations (Anbesol typically 10-20%, Orajel 7.5-20%) Orajel offers more specialized formulations for babies, ...
• Best Football Mouthguard for Braces (2026)
  Quick Answer The best football mouthguards for braces are orthodontic-specific guards that provide extra cushioning and accommodate moving teeth. Custom-fitted guards from your orthodontist offer the best protection, while over-the-counter options like Shock Doctor Braces or SISU Aero provide affordable alternatives. Key Points: Standard boil-and-bite guards become tight and ineffective as teeth move Orthodontic mouthguards feature extra material to ...
• Best Sleeping Mouth Guard for Teeth Grinding (2026)
  Quick Answer The best sleeping mouth guards for teeth grinding in 2026 are custom-fitted dental guards from your dentist, followed by high-quality boil-and-bite guards like DenTek or Plackers for budget-conscious users. Custom guards offer superior protection and comfort, while over-the-counter options provide adequate protection for mild to moderate bruxism. Key Points: Custom dental guards last 3-5 years and ...
• Best Waterpik Water Flosser for Braces (2026)
  Quick Answer The Waterpik Aquarius WP-660 is the best water flosser for braces in 2026, offering superior plaque removal around brackets and wires. Its orthodontic tip and adjustable pressure settings make cleaning braces 3x more effective than traditional flossing. Key Points: Removes 99.9% of plaque from treated areas around braces Includes specialized orthodontic tip designed for brackets and wires 10 ...
• Whitening Teeth During Braces Treatment
  Quick Answer You should avoid comprehensive teeth whitening while wearing braces as it can cause uneven coloration. Professional whitening treatments are most effective after braces removal when all tooth surfaces are accessible. Key Points: Whitening during treatment creates uneven results since brackets block whitening agents Focus on preventing stains through proper oral hygiene and avoiding staining foods Professional whitening after ...
• When is Braces Treatment Over
  Quick Answer Braces treatment typically lasts 12-36 months, with an average of 24 months. Treatment duration depends on the severity of your case and the type of orthodontic treatment used. Key Points: More severe dental issues require longer treatment times Mild cases may be completed in less than 24 months Treatment type and individual case factors affect duration Exactly how Long ...
• What to Do if Your Braces Hurt
  Quick Answer If your braces hurt, use over-the-counter pain relievers, apply orthodontic wax to rough spots, and eat soft foods. Cold compresses and salt water rinses can also provide relief from discomfort. Key Points: Pain is normal for 3-5 days after getting braces or adjustments Orthodontic wax prevents brackets from irritating your cheeks and lips Avoid hard, sticky, or crunchy ...
• When Should Children Get Braces
  Quick Answer Children should typically get braces between ages 10-14 when their adult teeth have grown in but are still malleable. The ideal timing is when facial bones and tooth structures still have development potential for easier movement. Key Points: Most effective treatment occurs during early adolescence when teeth are still developing Adult teeth should be fully emerged before ...
• Types of Food to Eat When You Have Braces
  Quick Answer When you have braces, focus on soft foods that won’t damage your appliance or get stuck in the wires. Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can break brackets or bend wires. Key Points: Eat soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, pasta, and smoothies Avoid hard foods like nuts, popcorn, and ice that can damage braces Stay away ...
• Invisible Braces vs Traditional Braces
  Quick Answer Invisible braces (clear aligners) are removable, nearly invisible orthodontic devices, while traditional braces use fixed metal or ceramic brackets. Clear aligners offer better aesthetics and convenience but may be less effective for complex cases. Key Points: Invisible braces are removable and virtually undetectable, traditional braces are permanently fixed and visible Clear aligners typically cost more and work ...
• How to detect oncoming receding gum disease
  Quick Answer Early gum disease can be detected by watching for bleeding gums during brushing, persistent bad breath, and gum swelling or redness. Catching these symptoms early allows you to reverse the disease process and prevent permanent damage to your teeth and jawbone. Key Points: Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing is often the first warning sign Persistent bad ...
• Best Toothpaste For Receding Gum Line 2026
  Quick Answer The best toothpastes for receding gum lines contain fluoride for cavity protection and gentle, non-abrasive formulas that won’t further irritate sensitive gums. Top recommendations include Sensodyne Repair & Protect, Crest Gum Detoxify, and TheraBreath Healthy Gums for their clinically proven ingredients and gum-friendly formulations. Key Points: Look for fluoride content and low abrasiveness (RDA under 100) ...
• Best Mouthwash for Receding Gum Disease 2026
  Quick Answer The best mouthwashes for receding gum disease contain antibacterial ingredients like cetylpyridinium chloride or essential oils to reduce harmful bacteria and inflammation. Look for alcohol-free formulas that won’t irritate sensitive exposed roots. Key Points: Therapeutic mouthwash should complement, not replace, proper brushing and flossing Antibacterial ingredients like cetylpyridinium chloride target gum disease-causing bacteria Alcohol-free formulas prevent further irritation ...
• Different Ways of Flossing with Braces
  Quick Answer Flossing with braces requires specialized techniques to navigate around wires and brackets. Use threader floss, water flossers, or orthodontic floss to clean between teeth daily, along with interdental brushes for areas around brackets. Key Points: Floss threaders help guide regular floss under wires and between teeth Water flossers provide an effective alternative for cleaning around brackets Interdental brushes ...
• Best Dental Floss for Braces (2026)
  Quick Answer The best dental floss for braces in 2026 is waxed floss or orthodontic floss with threader tools, as they slide easily under wires without shredding. Water flossers are also highly effective alternatives that can reach around brackets and wires more efficiently than traditional string floss. Key Points: Waxed floss prevents shredding and catches on metal brackets ...
• Stained teeth: Types and How to Remove Discoloration
  How to minimize coffee/tea stains on teeth To minimize coffee or black tea stains on your teeth, do the following:Drink tea or coffee with little milk and avoid sipping throughout the dayRinse your mouth with water immediately after dr
• Plague vs Tartar vs Calculus: What is the Difference?
  Quick Answer Plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth daily, while tartar (also called calculus) is hardened plaque that has mineralized and can only be removed by a dental professional. Plaque can be removed with regular brushing and flossing, but tartar requires professional cleaning. Key Points: Plaque is soft and removable with daily ...
• Bad Breadth (Halitosis)
  Quick Answer Bad breath (halitosis) is an oral condition causing unpleasant mouth odor that can be temporary or chronic. While mints and mouthwashes provide temporary relief, treating the underlying cause is necessary for long-term elimination. Key Points: Can originate from mouth, teeth, or other underlying health conditions Temporary solutions like gum and mouthwash only mask the problem Most cases can ...
• What To Do if You Have Gum Disease
  Quick Answer If you have gum disease, see a dentist immediately for professional treatment and begin a strict oral hygiene routine. Early intervention can prevent progression to severe tooth loss and other complications. Key Points: Schedule professional dental cleaning and scaling to remove plaque buildup Brush twice daily and floss regularly to prevent further bacterial growth Watch for warning signs ...
• Receding Gums: Symptoms and Causes
  Quick Answer Receding gums occur when gum tissue wears away and pulls back from teeth, exposing tooth roots. This creates gaps where harmful bacteria can accumulate, leading to sensitivity, pain, and potential tooth loss if untreated. Key Points: Exposed tooth roots cause increased sensitivity and pain Bacterial buildup in gaps between gums and teeth creates infection risk Early treatment is ...
• Sensitive Teeth: Causes and Solutions
  Quick Answer Sensitive teeth occur when tooth enamel wears away, exposing the underlying dentin and causing sharp pain from hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods. This condition can be temporary or chronic, affecting one or multiple teeth. Key Points: Enamel loss exposes sensitive tooth roots to external stimuli Symptoms include sharp, sudden pain triggered by temperature or food Treatment includes ...
• Periodontal Disease: Causes Symptoms and Treatment
  Quick Answer Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection affecting the gums and bone surrounding teeth, progressing from gingivitis (gum inflammation) to periodontitis (bone loss). It affects 47% of adults over 30 in the US and requires professional treatment combined with improved oral hygiene. Key Points: Early stage (gingivitis) involves gum infection, while advanced stage (periodontitis) affects supporting bone Nearly ...
• How to Get Rid of Gingivitis Gum Disease
  Quick Answer Gingivitis can be effectively treated through improved oral hygiene, dietary changes, and professional dental care. Most cases respond well to consistent daily brushing, flossing, and antibacterial mouthwash combined with regular dental cleanings. Key Points: Brush twice daily and floss regularly to remove plaque buildup Improve diet by reducing sugar and increasing anti-inflammatory foods See a dentist for professional ...
• Tooth Scaling and Root Planing -Advanced Gum Disease Treatment
  Quick Answer Tooth scaling and root planing (SRP) is a non-surgical deep cleaning procedure used to treat advanced gum disease (periodontal disease). It involves removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line, then smoothing tooth roots to prevent bacteria buildup. Key Points: Two-step process: scaling removes plaque/tartar, root planing smooths tooth roots May require multiple visits ...
• Best Treatment for Receding Gums (Gum Graft Surgery)
  Quick Answer Gum graft surgery is the most effective treatment for significant gum recession, involving transplanting tissue to cover exposed tooth roots. This procedure stops further recession, reduces sensitivity, and prevents root decay and tooth loss. Key Points: Three main types: connective tissue grafts, free gingival grafts, and pedicle grafts Success rate is over 90% with proper aftercare and ...
• Can Waterpik Remove Tartar?
  Quick Answer No, Waterpik cannot remove tartar from your teeth. Only dental professionals like dentists and hygienists have the specialized tools and training to safely remove hardened tartar buildup. Key Points: Waterpik effectively removes plaque and food particles before they harden into tartar Tartar is calcified plaque that requires professional dental instruments to remove Regular Waterpik use helps prevent tartar ...
• Coconut Oil for Receding Gums Disease
  Quick Answer Coconut oil may help reduce inflammation and bacteria in the mouth through oil pulling, but it cannot reverse gum recession or cure periodontal disease. While it can be a useful supplement to oral hygiene, professional dental treatment is necessary for receding gums. Key Points: Oil pulling with coconut oil may reduce harmful bacteria and inflammation Cannot regenerate ...
• Why Are My Teeth Rotting from the Inside Out And How To Stop Them From Rotting Further?
  Quick Answer Teeth rot from the inside out when decay starts in hard-to-reach areas between teeth or beneath existing fillings, often due to inadequate cleaning and enamel weakness. This process can be stopped through improved oral hygiene, fluoride treatments, and professional dental intervention to remove decay and seal vulnerable areas. Key Points: Decay begins in spaces between teeth ...
• Baby Teething Timeline & How to Soothe When Teeth Erupts
  Quick Answer Baby teeth typically begin erupting around 6 months of age, with most children having all 20 primary teeth by age 3. The teething timeline varies for each child due to genetics, so don’t worry if your baby’s schedule differs from others. Key Points: First teeth (usually bottom front) appear between 4-7 months Common soothing methods include teething ...
• How to Prevent Tooth Decay Among Children and Toddlers
  Quick Answer Tooth decay in children is 90% preventable through proper oral hygiene and dietary habits. Start cleaning your child’s teeth as soon as they appear, limit sugary foods and drinks, and schedule regular dental visits by age one. Key Points: Begin brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice daily once teeth emerge Avoid putting babies to bed with bottles containing ...
• How to Prevent Cavities in Baby Teeth
  Quick Answer Prevent cavities in baby teeth by brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, limiting sugary drinks and snacks, and scheduling regular dental checkups starting by age one. Avoid putting babies to bed with bottles containing milk, juice, or formula. Key Points: Start brushing as soon as first teeth appear with a rice-grain sized amount of fluoride toothpaste Never ...
• Sensitive Teeth-vs-Sensitive Gums
  Quick Answer Sensitive teeth cause sharp pain when exposed to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli due to worn enamel or exposed dentin. Sensitive gums are tender, swollen, and bleed easily, typically caused by inflammation from plaque buildup or gum disease. Key Points: Tooth sensitivity affects the hard tooth structure and causes sudden, sharp pain with temperature changes Gum sensitivity ...
• How to Teach your Child to Brush Their Teeth
  Quick Answer Start teaching your child to brush their teeth around age 2-3 by making it fun with colorful toothbrushes, flavored toothpaste, and establishing a consistent routine. Use demonstrations, songs, and positive reinforcement to help them develop proper brushing technique and make it an enjoyable daily habit. Key Points: Begin with a soft-bristled, child-sized toothbrush and fluoride-free toothpaste ...
• Causes of Receding Gums
  Quick Answer Receding gums occur when gum tissue wears away and pulls back from teeth, exposing tooth roots. This condition is primarily caused by gum disease, aggressive brushing, genetics, and poor oral hygiene. Key Points: Periodontal disease is the leading cause of gum recession Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush damages gum tissue Genetics, teeth grinding, and tobacco ...