Marc S. Elson DDS, A Professional Corporation

Did you know that, if periodontitis is not treated, eventually the bones, gums, and tissue that support the teeth are destroyed? This is due to the body’s immune system, which, in response to bacterial toxins, will start to break down the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place.

Dentists are the diligent professionals behind most healthy smiles, and they provide a range of corrective and preventative services, such as straightening, repairing and removing decay from teeth, in addition to providing advice on diet, flossing and other keys to good oral health.

Do you replace your toothbrush after you’ve been sick? Experts say that you should replace your toothbrush after you have an episode of the flu, cold, or any other viral infection. Notorious microbes can implant themselves on the toothbrush bristles, leading to re-infection.

Despite what television ads would lead you to believe, chewing sugar-free gum after meals isn't as effective as brushing your teeth. Although the gum will help freshen your breath and clean your teeth more than if you did nothing, the only way to get your teeth really clean is to brush.

Do you ever worry about the safety of dental x-rays taken during your appointments? Since the radiation present is a very small dose, we’re able to get an accurate picture of what’s going on in your mouth without putting your health at risk.

Teeth whitening is a lot safer than it once was. Years back, when at-home teeth whitening products started coming out, they contained harsh abrasives that took away the stain, but also took away some of the protective enamel. Today, such abrasives are no longer used.

If you suffer from very dark teeth stains, then regular home teeth whitening products will not make much of a difference, since they are not strong enough to handle severe cases. We can create a treatment specifically for you and your needs.

Mouthwash is a surefire way to freshen your breath. Use a mouthwash that is sugar and alcohol-free. Sugar is already bad for your teeth and we all know that alcohol stings. Too much alcohol can actually dry out the tissues in your mouth and make them more susceptible to bacteria.

If there is blood in the sink while you brush, that is a warning signal you should not ignore. While it's possible you simply flossed or brushed incorrectly, bleeding gums also can indicate gum disease. You should call to set up an appointment as soon as possible.

So how exactly does composite bonding work to transform the appearance of those teeth that have become chipped or worn? Here, the tooth will be coated with a resin or plastic cover that will then be bonded into place using a high intensity light.

If you have had a piercing in your mouth, it is particularly important that you make regular visits to the dentist. The bacteria in the mouth can invade the pierced area, leading to serious oral diseases and severe damage to the tongue, mouth, teeth, and gums.

Thinking of getting a new piercing? Be careful. People with oral piercings especially those with long-stem, barbell-like tongue jewelry have a higher risk of gum disease. Jewelry worn inside the mouth can also damage teeth and increase your production of saliva.

If you have a tooth that’s badly decayed over the years, it may be impossible to maintain a natural looking shape after removing the decay. Placing a crown over that tooth may help restore your natural smile.