Our teeth are really pretty remarkable. You might think of them as basically bones, but they are actually complex living systems. Inside, they are quite soft and full of sensitive nerves, but their outer enamel is actually the hardest substance in the body. This notwithstanding, it is not invulnerable. Using fluoride can help strengthen it. But how? Tooth enamel is... read more »

You’ve probably heard of enamel, but do you know what it is? Do you recognize the terms “dentin,” “cementum,” or “pulp”? These are the four main parts of your teeth that work hard every day to keep your mouth healthy. Enamel is the white calcified tissue on the surface of your teeth. It protects the dentin from acid and plaque... read more »

Modern sedation dentistry allows us to offer sedation options for those patients who struggle with dental anxiety. Dental anxiety prevents patients from getting the care they need. But you don’t need to let your fears prevent you from having a healthy smile. At our dental practice, we can help. We offer our patients sedation dentistry to deliver quality care along... read more »

Most people with untreated sleep apnea struggle with snoring issues. This can have a serious negative impact on the quality of your sleep which carries over into other aspects of your life. Modern medical science recognizes the challenges of sleep apnea and now there are several treatment options available to you. It’s important to have the severity of your sleep... read more »

Oral health starts in the home, with daily attention to your brushing and flossing habits, and making six month dental checkups a priority. But, what happens if you experience dental problems in between visits. What are some signs that you may need dental intervention? Halitosis Prolonged bad breath, or a “metallic” taste in the mouth is caused by bacteria in... read more »

The American Dental Association seal of acceptance is a logo you should look for when choosing an oral hygiene product for your smile. This logo is a small square that has green lettering inside. The green lettering says “ADA Accepted. American Dental Association.” If the product you choose has this symbol on it, that means that the product has been... read more »

Many people grind their teeth from time to time. If teeth grinding, which is also called bruxism, only occurs occasionally, it usually does not harm the teeth. However, regular bruxism can damage the teeth and cause other oral health issues. Teeth grinding and clenching often occurs during sleep and can be caused by a misaligned bite, crooked or missing teeth,... read more »

Not only is it important to brush and floss regularly, it is imperative that you do so with proper technique. Proper dental hygiene will help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, in the morning and at night. When selecting a toothbrush, select one with soft bristles and a head that is small... read more »

Does embarrassment about the appearance of your stained, chipped, crooked teeth always have you hiding your smile in family photos? Well hide no more, because Dr. Ellis K. List can give your smile a complete makeover when we apply dental veneers. These thin shells cover the cosmetic flaws of your teeth, completely transforming your smile’s appearance so it can look... read more »

Oral cavity cancer is on the rise, and while in the past it occurred most in males over forty, oral cancer is becoming more common among women and younger patients. It can be found anywhere in the mouth and throat, and while it is deadly, it is highly survivable when caught early. Early detection is vital for successful treatment! And... read more »