EPO Dental Specialists' Blog

A healthy smile relies on more than brushing and flossing. The American Dental Association recommends a cleaning and checkup every 6 months. However, many people skip seeing a dentist because they are concerned about the cost. If you’re among the 59% of Americans with dental insurance, you can get the care you need for minimal out-of-pocket expense. Here are 4 ways to maximize dental insurance benefits to achieve your best smile, even if money is tight.

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So, let’s say you’re seeing your dentist for an oral health problem. Following a thorough exam, the latter explains that you need root canal therapy. Should you feel upset or afraid of this development? Not at all! Instead, you ought to feel relieved that you’re going to receive a root canal. You could even consider your upcoming treatment as good news. Read on to learn three reasons why root canals are ultimately a good thing.

Nearly half of American adults over the age of 30 are suffering from gum disease to one extent or another. While it is very common amongst adults, gum disease is not as apparent in children, but teens and younger kids are still at risk for the condition. Fortunately, gum disease is usually easy to treat when caught early on. Continue reading to learn more about gum disease in children, its causes, and how it can be treated and prevented.

According to the American Association of Endodontists, 25 million root canals are performed annually. The procedure is designed to save severely damaged or infected teeth from extraction. Root canal therapy has over a 95% success rate, offering a long-term solution that can last for decades to a lifetime; however, some patients need to have the procedure repeated. Although it’s rare, there are situations when root canal retreatment is necessary. Here’s what you need to know to save your tooth. 

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When you have diabetes, you’re more likely to develop a wide range of health issues. However, there are other ailments related to the condition you might not expect. For instance, did you know that diabetes also increases your risk of gum disease? That means your excess blood sugar can even affect your teeth and gums.

Thankfully, your local dentist can help prevent that outcome. Here’s a summary of the connection between diabetes and gum disease, including ways diabetics can avoid the latter.

Your teeth are strong and resilient for the most part, but they’re not indestructible. If you find yourself with a severely damaged or infected tooth, it’s likely that your dentist will recommend root canal therapy to save it. However, you may be wondering to yourself, wouldn’t just pulling the problematic tooth be easier? The answer might surprise you! Read on as we weigh the pros and cons of each of these services so you can determine if a tooth extraction or root canal in Richardson is the right choice for you.

Pregnancy can be such a beautiful thing. If you’re expecting a bundle of joy, there are likely numerous things that need to be done in preparation for the arrival of your little one. Even though maintaining a healthy smile is probably not high on your to-do list, it most certainly should be. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can wreak havoc on your oral health, which is why it’s incredibly important to take special care of your teeth and gums. Read on to learn more about pregnancy gingivitis and what you can do to prevent it.

Regarding food and gum disease, you probably focus more on avoiding harmful items. In other words, you don’t eat sugary products that could cause tooth decay, tartar buildup, etc. However, did you know that there are foods that could help your gums too? As it turns out, certain diets can promote healthy gum tissue when followed consistently. To prove it, consider the oral benefits of the four vitamins and minerals listed below.

You know that sleepy feeling you get after eating a big meal? Some people refer to it as the “itis.” While passing right out on the couch isn’t necessarily a big deal, it can spell trouble when it comes to your oral health. Look no further than gingivitis and periodontitis. Both are stages of gum disease, but it is helpful to know the differences if your dentist references them. Read on to learn from your periodontist in Richardson the details of each problem for your gums as well as how to tell if you have them and how you can prevent gum disease.