Sleep apnea is one of the most dangerous sleep disorders. It is marked by temporary pauses in breathing that can happen up to hundreds of times throughout the night. While you may not know you have sleep apnea episodes during the night, the daytime consequences can be quite obvious and severe. In fact, untreated sleep apnea has been linked to many cardiovascular diseases, including high blood pressure, heart failure, stroke and heart arrhythmias. (more…)

Have you ever heard your dentist use the term “occlusion” or “malocclusion” during one of your appointments? If you are not familiar with this word, it essentially refers to your bite, or the way your top teeth fit on your bottom teeth when you close your mouth. Most commonly, malocclusion (or a “bad bite) is discussed alongside orthodontic treatment options. (more…)

Dental anxiety or dental fear is what keeps 9% to 15% of Americans from receiving dental care each year. Whether it is the mere mention of the word “dentist” or the thought of an extensive dental procedure that sends your heart racing, there are ways your dentist can help. While most modern dental practices are equipped with highlighted comfort amenities, such as blankets, soothing music and TV entertainment, there is another remedy that is sure to help you relax. Sedation dentistry allows patients with mild to moderate dental anxiety to undergo dental procedures without suffering panic or stress. (more…)

Hearing the term “root canal” may make you cringe. However, it is important to understand that a root canal is no more painful than getting a cavity filled. In fact, root canal therapy is likely your only chance at saving your tooth and alleviating your relentless toothache. Most patients are already experiencing significant discomfort at the time that they are told they need a root canal. (more…)

Has wearing a mask throughout the day made you more aware of your bad breath? Bad breath, or halitosis, is an embarrassing condition. If you don’t treat it at its source, your efforts of mints and chewing gum can be quite futile. Chronic halitosis goes beyond “garlic breath” after eating Italian or the common morning breath that we all experience when waking up. Patients who suffer from bad breath on a daily basis, regardless of what they’ve eaten or if they’ve brushed that morning, should consider working with a dentist to get to the root cause. In some cases, bad breath can be a warning sign of something more serious going on in your mouth or your body. (more…)

Did you know that improving your smile can transform your overall appearance? A pretty smile can help you feel more confident, look younger and even boost your career. If there are reasons why you hide your smile, it’s time to do something about it. Cosmetic dentistry offers a variety of opportunities to improve your smile. (more…)

Aging brings on a host of unwanted concerns, from facial wrinkles to weakening joints. However, did you know that your dental health can also reveal certain problems as you get older. In fact, if you are a senior adult, you are at greater risk of facing dental concerns such as dry mouth, shifting teeth and oral cancer. Here’s why these issues matter. (more…)

If you have a child who is afraid of going to the dentist, you are not alone. Let’s face it; there are many adults that find the dental office to be an intimidating environment. The sights, sounds and even smell of a dental office can create anxiety in many patients. At Soft Touch Dentistry, we go out of our way to change the way kids (and adults) view dental care. Our office environment is comfortable, inviting and includes a variety of kid-friendly amenities. However, your child’s anxiety can be significantly lowered if you prepare them for the dentist in the right way. How you speak to your child about his or her upcoming appointment is more important than you may think.  Once you’ve arrived at our office, we will gladly take it from there. (more…)

As we continue to navigate the nation’s pandemic, a strong immune system is more coveted and valued than ever before. Your immune system, or your body’s ability to fight off sickness and disease, is connected to every part of your body – including your mouth. Not only does what you put in your mouth (food, drinks, medicine, etc) affect your immune system, but the health of your mouth plays a very significant role too. In fact, your dental health is very closely linked to your whole-body health and immune system. (more…)

The pain from an infected tooth can be unbearable. In fact, you may find it impossible to eat and difficult to even concentrate. While it is often really tough to do so, don’t ignore the pain. An infected tooth is a warning sign that you need an emergency dentist. Not treating the infection could lead to worsening pain, tooth loss and threats to your overall health. (more…)