Dental implants are widely regarded as the gold standard for replacing missing teeth. They restore function, appearance, and oral health more effectively than dentures or bridges. While the initial cost of implants is higher than other tooth replacement options, many patients find that implants provide better value over time. Understanding why can help you make a more informed decision about your oral health.

Sure Smile aligners are a convenient way to straighten your teeth discreetly, but sometimes a tray may not fit as snugly as it should. When an aligner feels tight, loose, or just won’t seat correctly, it’s natural to worry about whether you need a replacement or if your treatment is at risk. Fortunately, most fitting issues can be addressed without starting over.

Knowing the right steps to take can help you protect your smile and keep your Sure Smile treatment on track.

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common condition that can cause worn enamel, jaw soreness, headaches, and cracked teeth over time. If you’re interested in straightening your smile with SureSmile aligners, you may be wondering whether grinding your teeth will disqualify you from treatment or if your aligners might become damaged in the process.

Fortunately, many people who grind their teeth are still candidates for clear aligners, and in some cases, wearing them can even provide benefits for your teeth and jaw.

Traditional braces aren’t the only orthodontic treatment available. Sure Smile is becoming increasingly popular as it’s a metal-free alternative that uses plastic aligners instead of brackets and wires. They help you get a healthier bite, but what if it’s just your top teeth that need correcting? Are you able to get these trays on that arch only? Here’s what you need to know.

Your mouth is full of bacteria, and while some of them are good germs that help with digestion and other processes, many of them contribute to common oral concerns. For example, if the wrong ones penetrate your connective tissues, they can cause an infection that starts small but can progress into a much more serious problem.

However, you might avoid contacting your dentist for help if you’re functioning under a misconception about this condition and how it’s treated. Continue reading to read about 3 myths about gum disease you shouldn’t believe!

Feeling a little “long in the tooth?” Ever wondered what this idiom has to do with getting older? The truth is, it was first coined in reference to horses, who as they age often experience receding gums. Unfortunately, however, our equine friends aren’t the only ones who suffer from this condition. Humans can lose periodontal tissue as they get older, too. Here’s why you might be experiencing gum recession, and why if you are, it’s time to see your dentist for gum disease treatment.

Did you know that seniors are significantly more likely to develop gum disease than younger adults? For example, sources report that an estimated 60% of people who are 65 years or older have some form of periodontal problem compared to only about 42% of those who are 30 to 64 years old. Not only that, but advanced gum disease is also the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.

Fortunately, this condition can also frequently be prevented. If you’re a senior and are concerned about your connective tissues, read on to learn about 3 factors that increase the risk of gum disease so you can avoid potential problems!

Regular exercise truly does do the body good. In addition to helping you maintain a healthy weight, it also builds muscle, increases energy, improves sleep, and it can even benefit your smile, too. Here’s how staying fit can protect your teeth and gums and help you live a longer, happier life!

Porcelain veneers are an investment in both your smile and your confidence. Whether you have temporary veneers while waiting for your permanent set or you have just completed the process, what you eat and drink can affect how long they last and how good they look. Making small changes to your diet can help protect your veneers and keep your smile looking its best for years to come.

Losing a dental crown isn’t the end of the world, but it’s still an issue you should fix quickly. Your uncapped tooth will face more dangers and put your smile at risk otherwise. Of course, you’ll first need to answer a pressing question: What should you do if you lose a dental crown? Your South Portland dentist is here to ensure that happens. To that end, here are four steps you should take if you’ve lost a dental crown.