Recent Blog Articles
How do trees and green spaces enhance our health?
A muscle-building obsession in boys: What to know and do
Harvard Health Ad Watch: New drug, old song, clever tagline
Concussion in children: What to know and do
What color is your tongue? What's healthy, what's not?
Your amazing parathyroid glands
When — and how — should you be screened for colon cancer?
Co-regulation: Helping children and teens navigate big emotions
Dog bites: How to prevent or treat them
Will miscarriage care remain available?
Dental Health Archive
Articles
Is snuff really safer than smoking?
The FDA authorized a brand of smokeless tobacco to use language in its advertising claiming that using snuff reduces risk of lung cancer compared to smoking cigarettes. Technically this is true, but it's not the health advantage the product's maker would like consumers to think it is.
Easy ways to keep inflammation in check
Certain healthy habits can fight chronic inflammation, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, maintaining good oral health, and reducing stress. If adopting all those habits seems daunting, taking little steps in their direction can help. For example, a person might eat fatty fish twice a week, since it contains omega-3 fatty acids known to reduce inflammation; or go for a quick daily walk, since exercise may increase the production of hormones that help keep inflammation in check. The combined effects of many little habits can eventually add up to keep people healthier.
7 things your dentist wants you to know
Oral health and overall health are strongly linked. Harmful bacteria and inflammation can trigger or worsen conditions throughout the body, including cardiovascular problems and diabetes. People should brush twice a day for two minutes and clean between teeth. Oral care product claims can be misleading. The American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance can help people choose oral care products by verifying product claims.
You don't say? Myths about teeth
Many myths and misunderstandings about teeth and tooth health persist, such as what stains can be lightened, how cavities are formed, and whether fluoride is actually safe.
Some heart patients need antibiotics before dental work
People with certain heart conditions, including a replaced or repaired heart valve, should take antibiotics before invasive dental procedures. This helps prevent endocarditis, a serious heart infection often caused by bacteria from the mouth.
What's the right way to brush your teeth?
When you brush your teeth, how much thought do you give to what you're doing? Regular brushing keeps plaque from forming on your teeth and gums healthy, but you do need a good toothbrush and proper brushing technique.
How can I stop grinding my teeth when I'm asleep?
Teeth-grinding during sleep is common. People with the habit may wake up with sore teeth, headache, or earache. Over time, it can lead to broken teeth or jaw pain and clicking. A dentist can create a fitted mouth guard or prescribe muscle relaxants.
Braces aren't just for teens
Many people get braces later in life. This helps ward off problems caused by crooked teeth or a misaligned bite, such as malnutrition, increased risks for cavities and gum disease, and some chronic illnesses. Getting braces can also create space for implants to replace missing teeth. There are two main types of braces. One consists of a row of tiny brackets glued onto the teeth, and a wire that runs through the brackets. The other type of braces consists of a series of aligners—thin, clear plastic molds that are worn on top of the teeth 22 hours per day.
The senior’s guide to dental care
Gum disease and heart health: Probing the link
Recent Blog Articles
How do trees and green spaces enhance our health?
A muscle-building obsession in boys: What to know and do
Harvard Health Ad Watch: New drug, old song, clever tagline
Concussion in children: What to know and do
What color is your tongue? What's healthy, what's not?
Your amazing parathyroid glands
When — and how — should you be screened for colon cancer?
Co-regulation: Helping children and teens navigate big emotions
Dog bites: How to prevent or treat them
Will miscarriage care remain available?
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