Blog: General Dentistry

Quick answer: Most bad breath starts in the mouth. Bacteria feed on bits of food left on the teeth, gums and tongue, and they leave behind a smell. A dry mouth, gum disease, strong foods, tobacco and dentures that are not cleaned well can all make it worse. Brushing twice a day, cleaning between your teeth every day and keeping …

Quick answer: You may need a night guard if you grind or clench your teeth, especially while you sleep. Many people do not realize they do this until a dentist notices worn or chipped teeth, or until a partner hears the grinding. Other signs can include a sore jaw in the morning, dull headaches, and tightness in the face or …

By Dr. Nairy Sekayan, DDS, Finer Smiles Dental Practice, Encino, CA

Quick answer: Many people do well with a professional dental cleaning and exam about every six months, and that is the schedule we most often recommend at Finer Smiles Dental Practice. But the American Dental Association advises tailoring visits to each person's risk of disease, so some patients need …