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What Dental Sealants Are and How They Protect Teeth

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At Elke Cheung Dentistry in Norwalk, CT, preventive care is at the heart of everything we do. One of the most effective ways to protect your teeth—especially for children and teens—is through dental sealants. These simple, painless treatments provide a strong barrier against cavities, helping keep your smile healthy for years to come. In this blog, we'll explore precisely what dental sealants are and how they help protect your teeth. What Are Dental Sealants? Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars). These areas often have grooves and pits that are difficult to clean with regular brushing. Ultimately, sealants act like a shield, preventing food particles, plaque, and bacteria from settling into these vulnerable crevices. How Dental Sealants Protect Teeth Prevent Cavities:  By sealing the grooves of teeth, sealants reduce the risk of decay in hard-to-reach areas. Safe and Painless:  The application ...

UNDERSTANDING BRUXISM: CAUSES, SYMPTOMS, AND TREATMENTS

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  Do you often wake up with a sore jaw or a headache? If so, you might be grinding your teeth at night—a medical condition known as bruxism. Many of us grind or clench our teeth occasionally, but when it becomes a regular habit , it can lead to more serious dental issues. In this blog, we'll dive into what causes bruxism, how to spot it, and what you can do about it. Continue below to learn more. WHY DO WE GRIND OUR TEETH? Bruxism can be a bit of a mystery, but here are some common reasons why it happens: Stress and Anxiety : Have you ever had a rough day and found yourself clenching your teeth? When stressed or anxious, we might grind our teeth without realizing it. Sleep Disorders : Conditions like sleep apnea can interrupt your breathing during sleep, causing you to grind your teeth as a response. Medications and Substances : Certain medications, especially those for depression and anxiety, can lead to bruxism. Plus, habits like drinking too much coffee or alcohol or using ...

THE PROS AND CONS OF ELECTRIC VS. MANUAL TOOTHBRUSHES

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  Choosing the right toothbrush is a vital decision for your oral health. With so many options available, you may wonder whether an electric toothbrush is better than a manual one. Both have advantages, and the best choice depends on your individual needs, preferences, and oral health concerns. In this blog, we will explore the pros and cons of electric and manual toothbrushes to help you decide which is the right fit for you, especially if you have cavities, dental implants, missing teeth, or other specific oral health needs. ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSHES Electric toothbrushes have become popular for their advanced cleaning technology and ease of use. Many people find them more effective than manual toothbrushes, but they aren't without drawbacks. Pros of Electric Toothbrushes Electric toothbrushes are often more effective at plaque removal because they provide thousands of brush strokes per minute, leading to a deeper clean than manual brushing. For individuals prone to cavities, a...