Cleaning & Exam

How Often Should You Go to the Dentist?

June 14, 2026

Most people should go to the dentist about every six months for a routine dental exam and professional cleaning. However, the right schedule is not the same for everyone. Some low-risk patients may be told to come less often, while patients with gum disease, diabetes, frequent cavities, pregnancy-related gum changes, dry mouth, smoking or tobacco […]

Why You Should Be Brushing Your Tongue

November 12, 2018

Yes, you should brush your tongue every day. Your tongue harbors a large share of the bacteria in your mouth, and cleaning it helps fight bad breath, supports fresher breath, and keeps your whole mouth healthier. Brushing your teeth alone isn’t enough. Key Takeaways Your tongue harbors bacteria in its textured crevices that brushing your […]

To Polish or Not To Polish Teeth

December 8, 2015

The short answer: Yes, in most cases you should polish your teeth. Professional polishing safely removes surface stains and leftover plaque, leaves teeth smooth and bright, and does not erode healthy enamel when performed by a dental professional. Key Takeaways Professional teeth polishing is safe and does not erode healthy enamel when performed by a […]

The Best and Worst Foods for Your Teeth

December 22, 2013

The short answer: The best foods for your teeth are crunchy vegetables, fruits with high water content, and foods rich in calcium and phosphorus. The worst are sugary, sticky, and starchy snacks that feed the bacteria behind tooth decay. Key Takeaways Calcium- and phosphorus-rich foods like cheese, yogurt, lean proteins, and nuts help build and […]

Halloween Candy and Your Teeth: 5 Dentist-Approved Tips

October 31, 2011

The best way to enjoy Halloween candy without harming your teeth is to eat sweets in one sitting right after a meal, then brush or rinse soon afterward. Limiting how often sugar touches your teeth — not necessarily how much you eat in a day — is what keeps cavities at bay. Key Takeaways Frequency […]

The 6 DOs and DON’Ts of Pregnancy Gingivitis

July 29, 2011

Pregnancy gingivitis is a common, mild gum inflammation caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy — and it’s very manageable. It usually appears as red, swollen, tender gums that bleed easily, and the best protection is good oral hygiene plus regular dental care, which is safe throughout pregnancy. Key Takeaways Pregnancy gingivitis — red, swollen, bleeding […]