Dec. 14, 2010 -- An FDA panel met today to begin hearing testimony regarding the agency's position that dental fillings that contain mercury pose no danger to the public.

In 2009, the FDA declared the fillings, known as dental amalgams, safe. However, they have since received several petitions criticizing that decision.

Of particular concern to (More)
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One zing to the nerve of a tooth after a sip or bite of food is enough to send even the hungriest bear running from the kitchen. Sensitive teeth can seriously limit the enjoyment of your favorite fare.

So if ice cream meeting your tooth has you seeing stars, the layer beneath the surface of your tooth (called dentin) has become exposed, says Eric Sung, DDS, professor at UCLA's School of Dentistry. This happens when the hard outer covering of a tooth -- (More)
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Oct. 26, 2010 -- A new study suggests eating foods rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), such as salmon and nuts, may help prevent gum disease or periodontitis.

Periodontitis is a common type of gum disease in which the gum tissue separates from the teeth and allows bacteria to build up. If untreated, the condition can lead to bone and tooth (More)
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Oct. 18, 2010 -- Heart attack and stroke risk may rise in the month following invasive dental treatments such as tooth extractions, a study shows.

The risk returns to normal levels within six months, according to the study published in Annals of Internal Medicine.

This is not the first time (More)
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Disembodied dentures smiling back at you from a glass. A sunken-in, toothless face. Hours in a dental chair, awaiting expensive implants.

If images like these give you the heebie-jeebies, take heart. Although tooth loss is common, it's not an inevitable (More)
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Sept. 7, 2010 -- Parents worried about mercury in amalgam dental fillings now have a new bugbear: BPA from dental sealants and "white" fillings.

Bisphenol A -- BPA -- is a resin used in many kinds of plastics, including some water bottles and metal food can liners. Emerging evidence suggests, but does not prove, that BPA can have harmful effects on (More)
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Your mouth is more than just a pretty smile. It's also a gateway to your overall health. Keeping that gateway clean may keep you healthier longer -- and looking younger.

"Just as white, straight teeth convey youth, a smile with crooked, discolored, worn, or missing teeth is associated with an aged look," says Edmond Hewlett, DDS, professor of restorative (More)
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Healthy teeth depend on healthy gums. Gums protect the base of the teeth, where connective tissue anchors them to bone. Left untreated, gum problems can lead to tooth loss. Fortunately, there's plenty you can do to keep gums healthy.

2 Types of Gum Disease

Gum disease takes two forms: gingivitis and periodontitis.

Gingivitis occurs when bacteria collect in tiny pockets at the gum line, causing inflammation. The most common symptoms are (More)
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Given all the chewing, crunching, biting, and gnashing they do, our teeth are surprisingly resilient. Still, everyday wear and tear and the natural aging process take a toll.

Here's what happens to teeth as we age -- and what you can do to keep your teeth strong and sparkling for a lifetime.

Preventing Acid Erosion

By far the biggest threat to teeth is sugary and starchy food. These carbohydrates ferment, causing the bacteria in the mouth to (More)
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Regular brushing and flossing remain your best protection against tooth decay and gum problems. But a tooth-friendly diet can also help keep your smile bright and your gums healthy.

A balanced diet that provides adequate nutrition can help promote healthy teeth. Many nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin D, calcium and others, are essential to oral health. The food pyramid is your best guide.

Along with eating a healthy diet, it's smart to limit (More)
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