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What Your Tongue Says About Your Oral Health

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  When you think about oral health, you probably picture brushing your teeth, flossing, and regular dental check-ups. But have you ever taken a close look at your tongue? That little muscle in your mouth can tell you quite a bit about your overall oral health, even offering clues about specific medical conditions. At Dr. Cheung’s office, we believe a healthy smile starts with understanding all aspects of your mouth, including your tongue. In this blog, we'll offer a straightforward guide to what your tongue’s color, texture, and appearance might be trying to tell you. The Normal, Healthy Tongue A healthy tongue is usually pink with a light white coating. It should be moist, relatively smooth, but with a slightly bumpy texture from tiny nodules called papillae. These papillae contain taste buds and help you enjoy the flavors of your favorite foods. If your tongue looks like this and doesn’t cause discomfort, that’s a great sign you’re maintaining good oral hygiene. What Changes in Y...
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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 ...
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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 ...
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