Where Did the Lead Apron Go?
Where Did the Lead Apron Go? Wait — no lead apron for my dental X-rays? Isn’t that what protects me from radiation? And is it really safe to take X-rays without one? If you’ve been going to the dentist for a few decades, having a heavy lead apron draped over you probably feels like part […]
Prophy vs. Periodontal Maintenance: What’s the Difference?
Prophy vs. Periodontal Maintenance: What’s the Difference? Why does my cleaning appointment sometimes change names? You may hear “prophy” at one visit and “periodontal maintenance” at another. They can feel similar—but they serve different purposes and what you need depends on the health of your gums. What exactly is a “prophy”? A prophy (regular cleaning) […]
Are Dental X-Rays Safe? Understanding Radiation in Modern Dentistry
Dental Health Matters Are Dental X-Rays Safe? Dental X-rays use extremely small amounts of radiation and help dentists detect problems early—often before they cause pain or serious damage. Are dental X-rays something patients should worry about?Many patients ask “Are dental x-rays safe?”. It’s a good question. Dental X-rays are one of the most useful tools […]
New Year, New Goals: Why Your Smile is the Best Resolution for 2026
New Year, New Goals: Why Your Smile is the Best Resolution for 2026 By Dr. Paul Doodes – Dental Health Matters, Park Blvd Dentistry It’s that time of year again. The celebrations are all cleared up and we’re all looking at our calendars, setting goals, and perhaps feeling that familiar January spark to start fresh. […]
Geriatric Dental Care – Special Care for an Important DemographicCaring for Geriatric Patients: What Are the Special Considerations for Their Oral Health?
Caring for Geriatric Patients: What Are the Special Considerations for Their Oral Health? As we age, our oral health faces unique challenges. Geriatric patients, in particular, have specific needs that require tailored care. What are these needs, and how do we at PBD cater to them? How Do Long Medical Histories Affect Geriatric Dental Care? […]
What is Bruxism?
Do You Grind Your Teeth? What is Bruxism? Bruxism is the unconscious grinding, clenching or gnashing of the teeth, typically at night. There are two types; awake bruxism and the more common and typically more severe sleep bruxism. Sleep bruxism is typically more severe the force generated has profound effect on the teeth, TMJ and […]
What is a Canker Sore?
What is a Canker Sore? Canker sores, or aphthous ulcers, are small, painful lesions that develop inside the mouth. Though they aren’t contagious, they can make eating, drinking, and talking uncomfortable. What Causes Canker Sores? The exact cause isn’t clear, but several factors contribute: Types of Canker Sores Canker sores can range from minor (3-10 […]
Class V Resins: A Vital Tool for Protecting Exposed Dentin
Understanding Gum Line Resins: A Vital Tool for Protecting Exposed Dentin Gum line resins – officially called Class V resins – have become an essential tool for protecting exposed dentin. These restorations play a crucial role in maintaining dental health and preventing further complications. I’ve seen firsthand how effective these resins can be in both […]
What Does Medical / Dental Clearance Mean?
As dentists, we understand the intricate connections between oral health and overall well-being. One area where this connection is particularly crucial is in the context of major surgeries. Dental clearance, or the evaluation of a patient’s oral health before undergoing surgery, plays a pivotal role in ensuring safe and successful outcomes. Here, we will explore […]
The Important Role of Bone Grafting After Tooth Extraction
Tooth extraction is sometimes unavoidable. However, what many patients may not realize is that the story doesn’t end with the removal of the tooth. If left unattended, an extracted tooth can lead to significant consequences. Here, we’ll explore the importance of bone grafting after tooth extraction, an important step in maintaining both the health and […]