John R. Vitale, DMD

Bad breath is caused by a variety of factors including dry mouth, infection, allergies to medication and periodontal disease. If you brush and floss regularly and still have bad breath you should see a dentist to help determine the cause.

Having a bright, white smile is possible! You can visit your dentist for a professional teeth whitening treatment or purchase an over-the-counter teeth whitening product to apply yourself.

Maintaining proper oral health by brushing, flossing and visiting the dentist regularly is important to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Eating a healthy diet and avoiding bad habits such as chewing ice are just some

Not everyone needs to get their wisdom teeth removed but if they are causing crowding of the other teeth, swelling and inflammation they should be extracted or surgically removed.

Fluoride is a mineral found naturally in water and soil that helps to build the enamel on teeth which protects them from decay. Children should be exposed to fluoride while they are young and their tooth enamel is being formed.

Sleep apnea is a disruption in your breathing cycle while you are sleeping and could be fatal. A dentist can help by providing an oral appliance to wear at night to help open the airway to allow for normal breathing.

Root canals are sometimes necessary but today they can be done quickly and with very little discomfort due to modern technology and advances in the dental field.

Your diet directly affects your oral health. Eating foods rich in calcium, iron and B vitamins will help your teeth stay strong and your keep your gums healthy. Avoiding sticky, sugary foods, sports drinks and soda will help prevent tooth decay.

Taking care of your teeth now can ensure that you have a health smile for life. Visiting the dentist on a regular basis to get your teeth and gums examined is a critical step in identifying and preventing any potential issues.

There are many forms of tooth trauma including knocked-out teeth, chipped teeth and teeth that have been pushed up into the gums. Learn what to do in a dental emergency and the different methods used to repair the teeth.