Are you happy with your smile? If not, cosmetic dentistry can help transform your teeth and give you the radiant smile you’ve always wanted. Whether you’re looking to brighten your smile, align your teeth, or replace missing teeth, our dentist in Auburn can help you achieve the smile of your dreams.

What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry combines art and science to improve the appearance of your teeth while also enhancing their health and function. Through various treatments, cosmetic dentistry can address issues like misalignment, discoloration, or missing teeth. Even small changes can significantly boost your confidence and improve your overall outlook on life.

Popular Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures

At Mount Auburn Dental, we offer a wide range of cosmetic procedures tailored to your specific needs. Here are some of the most popular options:

• Smile Makeover
  A smile makeover involves a combination of cosmetic dental procedures designed to improve the overall appearance of your smile. Whether your teeth are healthy but misaligned or need more extensive work, a smile makeover can help you achieve a flawless look.
• Teeth Whitening
  Professional teeth whitening can make your smile up to eight shades brighter. If you’ve tried over-the-counter options but are looking for more dramatic results, professional treatments can provide a fast and safe way to remove stains and discoloration.
• Veneers
  Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that cover the front of your teeth. These are ideal for improving the shape, size, and color of your teeth, giving you a natural and attractive smile. Veneers can correct issues like chipped, cracked, or discolored teeth, making them a versatile option for many patients.
• Dental Implants
  If you’re missing a tooth, dental implants are a durable and natural-looking solution. Implants are surgically placed into your jawbone, and once they fuse with the bone, a custom crown is placed on top to restore both appearance and function.
• Orthodontic Treatment
  If you have crooked or misaligned teeth, orthodontic treatment can gradually straighten them over time. Braces or clear aligners can help align your teeth, resulting in a more balanced and beautiful smile. Many adults are choosing orthodontic treatment to correct their teeth and improve their bite.

Start Your Smile Transformation Today

If you’re ready to enhance your smile and boost your confidence, Mount Auburn Dental is here to help. Our experienced team of professionals will work with you to design a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs.

Contact our dentist in Auburn today to schedule a consultation and learn how cosmetic dentistry can transform your smile!

If you’ve noticed red, swollen, or bleeding gums, you may be dealing with gingivitis, a common yet mild form of gum disease. The good news is that with proper oral care and guidance from our dental team, gingivitis can be reversed before it progresses to more serious conditions.

What is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease, which, if left untreated, can lead to periodontitis, the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Gingivitis occurs when plaque, a sticky layer of bacteria, builds up on your teeth and gums. This leads to inflammation and irritation of the gum tissue. Typical signs of gingivitis include:

• Red, swollen, and tender gums
• Gums that bleed easily, especially when brushing or flossing
• Sensitivity to hot or cold foods
• Persistent bad breath

Who is at Risk for Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is quite common, with over half of all adults aged 30 and older experiencing some form of gum disease. While anyone can develop gingivitis, several factors increase the risk:

• Poor Oral Hygiene: Inconsistent brushing, flossing, and lack of professional cleanings can lead to plaque buildup.
• Smoking: Tobacco use weakens the body’s ability to fight infection and increases the risk of gum disease.
• Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, menopause, and other hormonal changes can make gums more susceptible to infection.
• Medical Conditions: Conditions like diabetes can increase the likelihood of developing gingivitis.
• Medications: Certain medications may cause dry mouth or gum tissue changes that increase the risk of gingivitis.

What Causes Gingivitis?

The primary cause of gingivitis is the accumulation of plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) on your teeth. When plaque isn’t removed through regular brushing and flossing, bacteria can irritate the gums, leading to inflammation.

Other factors that contribute to gingivitis include:

• Crooked teeth that are harder to clean
• Smoking or chewing tobacco
• Dry mouth from medications or medical conditions
• Poor nutrition, including a lack of essential nutrients

How is Gingivitis Treated?

The treatment for gingivitis begins with a professional dental cleaning. During this appointment, our team will remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line. If necessary, a procedure called scaling and root planing may be performed. This involves deep cleaning the roots of your teeth to encourage healing and restore gum health.

In addition to professional care, ongoing maintenance is essential. You should:

• Brush and floss daily to keep plaque at bay
• Use mouthwash to help reduce bacteria and promote healing
• Visit our office regularly for cleanings and check-ups

Prevention and Regular Check-ups

The best way to prevent gingivitis is by maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist in Auburn regularly for exams and professional cleanings. At Mount Auburn Dental, we provide preventive services designed to keep your smile healthy for life. Don’t wait to address the signs of gingivitis. Schedule an appointment with us today to restore and protect your gum health!

Jaw cancer is a rare form of oral cancer that can develop when an oral cavity cancer spreads to the jawbone. Though it’s a serious condition, being proactive and aware of the symptoms can help ensure the best possible outcome. At Mount Auburn Dental, we understand how unsettling a diagnosis of jaw cancer can be. We are here to provide support and encourage early detection through regular visits to your dentist in Auburn.

Symptoms of Jaw Cancer

While many jaw cancers are benign, meaning they do not spread to surrounding tissues, some can be more aggressive. These tumors may spread to other areas, resulting in significant health complications. Common symptoms to watch for include:

• Jaw Pain: Jaw pain is often linked to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. However, if you experience persistent or severe jaw pain, it’s essential to see your dentist to rule out the possibility of oral cancer. Tumors in the jaw may spread to nearby bones and tissues, potentially displacing teeth and causing pain.
• Jaw Swelling: Swelling on the side of the face or in the mouth is a key sign of jaw cancer. This can occur in various areas, including the roof of the mouth or beneath the teeth. If swelling persists or worsens, it’s critical to consult a dentist promptly.
• Lumps on the Jaw: Any unusual lumps, particularly on the gums or the roof of the mouth, should be examined by your dentist if they do not resolve within two weeks. While lumps may be related to infections or benign growths, they can also signal cancer in the jawbone.
• Loose Teeth: One of the most common forms of malignant jaw cancer is squamous cell carcinoma, which can reach the jawbone through the tooth sockets. A tumor in the jaw can cause teeth to loosen or shift, signaling the need for immediate attention.

How Jaw Cancer Develops

Several factors contribute to the development of jaw cancer. The primary causes include:

• Tobacco Use: Smoking and chewing tobacco are the leading causes of jaw cancer.
• Poor Nutrition: A diet lacking in essential nutrients can increase the risk.
• Poor Oral Hygiene: Neglecting oral care can lead to an increased risk of infections that may contribute to jaw cancer.
• Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol use can also be a risk factor.
• Genetics and Viruses: Certain genetic conditions and viruses, like HPV, can increase the likelihood of developing oral and jaw cancers.

How to Reduce the Risk of Jaw Cancer

While some risk factors are beyond your control, there are steps you can take to reduce your chances of developing jaw cancer:

• Avoid tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption
• Eat a balanced, nutritious diet
• Maintain regular oral hygiene practices
• Visit your dentist in Auburn regularly for exams and cleanings, ensuring that any potential issues are detected early.

At Mount Auburn Dental, we perform oral cancer screenings during your regular check-ups to catch any abnormalities. Early detection is key to effective treatment, and our team is committed to providing you with the best care possible.

If you notice any signs or symptoms of jaw cancer, don’t hesitate to contact us. Schedule your dental exam and cleaning today to protect your oral health and well-being.

Acid reflux, also known as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), is a condition many people experience from time to time, often resulting in a burning sensation in the chest, commonly referred to as heartburn. However, when acid reflux becomes a frequent issue, it can also harm your oral health. At Mount Auburn Dental, we understand how challenging managing acid reflux can be, and we want to help you protect your smile from its effects.

What is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acids flow back up into the esophagus, causing irritation and discomfort. The stomach produces acid to help digest food, but if it escapes into the esophagus, it can lead to painful sensations in the chest, bad breath, difficulty swallowing, and a sour or acidic taste in the mouth. In more severe cases, the condition is referred to as GERD. Frequent acid reflux episodes can have a lasting impact on your dental health.

How Does Acid Reflux Affect Your Teeth?

Repeated exposure to stomach acids can seriously damage your teeth. Similar to how acidic foods and drinks wear down tooth enamel, the acid in your stomach can erode the protective outer layer of your teeth. Over time, this leads to increased tooth sensitivity, discoloration, and an increased risk of cavities. The enamel erosion caused by stomach acid is irreversible, making it essential to take preventive measures to protect your teeth.

In addition to enamel loss, stomach acid can irritate your gums, increasing the risk of gum disease. Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults, so addressing acid reflux early on is key to preventing long-term damage to both your teeth and gums.

Protecting Your Teeth from Acid Reflux

While managing acid reflux with medications prescribed by your doctor is essential, there are steps you can take to protect your oral health as well:

1. Rinse Your Mouth: After eating or experiencing acid reflux symptoms, rinse your mouth with water to help wash away any stomach acid and neutralize its effects.
2. Wait to Brush: Avoid brushing your teeth immediately after experiencing acid reflux or consuming acidic foods and drinks. Brushing too soon can damage the enamel that has softened due to acid exposure. Wait at least an hour before brushing.
3. Avoid Acidic Foods and Drinks: Limit your consumption of foods and beverages that trigger acid reflux, such as citrus, coffee, chocolate, and spicy foods.
4. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help flush out acids from your mouth and neutralize harmful effects.
5. Elevate Your Head While Sleeping: Sleeping with your head elevated can reduce acid reflux episodes, helping protect your teeth while you sleep.

Why Regular Dental Visits are Crucial

For patients with acid reflux, regular dental check-ups are more important than ever. At Mount Auburn Dental, our team closely monitors your oral health to catch any signs of acid erosion or gum disease early. If we detect significant damage to your teeth, we may recommend restorative treatments such as dental bonding, crowns, or even root canal therapy to alleviate pain and prevent further damage.

If you suffer from acid reflux, don’t wait until your teeth are damaged. Schedule a visit with our dentist in Auburn to discuss how you can better protect your smile. Our goal is to keep your teeth healthy for years to come with proactive care and treatment. Contact Mount Auburn Dental today to schedule your appointment!