Common Root Canal Myths

There is quite a lot of mythology regarding the dreaded root canal floating around in our society, but much of it is either outdated or entirely untrue. Today, we will debunk many of the root canal therapy myths and the fear they cause patients everywhere when their dentist suggests the treatment. Understanding Root Canal Therapy…

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The State of Soda Tax

There are a number of controversial things appearing on local ballots across the country, but for many cities one of the big ticket items is centered around condemning sugary drinks to the same “sin tax” currently enjoyed by alcohol and tobacco. Is this so-called “soda tax” actually going to be effective, and why is it…

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Benefits of Digital X-Rays

For over 100 years, the utilization of x-rays in dental care has provided dentists and patients alike with a way to see tooth decay, bone issues, and other unseen problems from the inside. There are, however, drawbacks to the radiation necessary for this inside view; in addition, the technological limitations of printable x-ray sheets are…

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Consider Pouring Out the Mouthwash

Nearly every US bathroom has the same things sitting on the sink each morning. It is common to expect toothpaste, toothbrushes, and, of course, mouthwash. Of all oral health care products, perhaps the most heavily marketed of the bunch is this last one. While we do see advertisements for toothpaste, it is far more common…

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Alcohol & Oral Health: Duller Smile

In our previous blog, we talked about the dangers associated with increased oral cancer rates from alcohol abuse. Many of us, however, don’t habitually misuse alcohol; still, by drinking beer, mixed drinks, and even wine, you could be diminishing your smile in a number of ways. Alcohol & Common Oral Health Damage While alcohol doesn’t…

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Alcohol & Oral Health: Cancer

It is no secret that alcohol, especially in excess, is unhealthy. Many people (correctly) associate alcohol consumption with liver damage, some still point to reduced healing times and brain damage, yet very few understand the emerging link that is being identified between alcohol excess and oral cancer. Why might alcohol, in contrast with other drinks,…

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Toothpaste: How Much is Too Much?

We all know how to brush our teeth, right? For most people, proper brushing was taught to them by their parents, which was taught by their parents, and so on. Yet, the truth is not quite that spot on. In Missoula alone, we have found that many adults, when asked by our dentist, cannot agree…

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Fluoride Myths Part 2: Rinsing

As we’ve briefly explored in our previous blog, Fluoride Myths Part 1: Drinking Water, the integration of trace amounts of fluoride can have tremendous benefits for overall dental health. T fluoridation of our drinking water supplies has had a dramatic impact on our dental health, it is not the only myth abound regarding fluoride. Another…

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Engaging Kids in Dental Care

Parents routinely struggle with teaching children proper dental habits that will translate into lifelong oral health. Your friendly, local Missoula dentist at Bitterroot Dental has some key tips and techniques that can help to engage children of all ages with their own oral health. Start Young As with any habit, the earlier you begin to…

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Fluoride Myths Part 1: Drinking Water

It seems as though the only time that fluoride concerns arise, the issue it at hand is on one of two things: A city’s water supply and household toothpaste. In both instances, there are far more misconceptions abound than actual data. We’ve heard that fluoride is a poisonous and dangerous substance, which is an exaggerated…

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