What Causes Cavities? 

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Approximately 91% of Americans over 20 years of age have experienced cavities at some point. Additionally, nearly 30% of Americans over 20 have untreated cavities. These statistics are staggering, especially considering that people can avoid most cavities with proper preventive care. So, how does a cavity actually start? The Formation of Cavities The Role of … Read more

Understanding Periodontal Disease

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Periodontal Disease: From Prevention to Treatment As we wrapped up National Dental Hygiene Month in October, Reflection Dentistry wants to provide information about the different stages of gum disease. The Importance of Regular Periodontal Assessments Your hygienist likely discusses with you the measurements of your gums at least every 12 months. These measurements help determine … Read more

Gum Recession: How to Prevent it

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Even with excellent homecare and regular dental visits, you may still experience gum recession at some point in your life. In fact, it affects, to some degree, the majority of our population. According to Oral B, “Gum recession is when the margin of the gum tissue surrounding the teeth wears away, or pulls back, exposing … Read more

Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD)

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“Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are disorders of the jaw muscles, temporomandibular joints, and the nerves associated with chronic facial pain. Any problem that prevents the complex system of muscles, bones, and joints from working together in harmony may result in temporomandibular disorder.” (Johns Hopkins) TMD’s usually occur between the ages of 30 and 50, but can … Read more

Does Cannabis Use Negatively Impact Oral Health?

cannabis

Legalization and Its Impact Washington State legalized recreational cannabis (marijuana) consumption in 2012. The increase in cannabis use since its legalization allows us to better see its effects on oral health.  As health professionals, we understand the benefits cannabis use can have in treating various ailments. However, we also need to educate consumers about its … Read more

Autoimmune Series: The Oral Health Impact of Sjogren’s Syndrome

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Understanding Sjogren’s Syndrome Sjogren’s Syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that affects the moisture-producing glands. In this condition, the body’s immune system attacks these cells, causing them to stop working. Consequently, this impacts saliva glands, tear ducts, and other organs. For oral health, the primary concern arises when the syndrome affects saliva glands, thus reducing saliva … Read more

Autoimmune Series: Inflammatory Bowel Disease Effects on Oral Health

Inflammatory Bowel Disease Effects on Oral Health- Reflection Dentistry - Dentist Near Me, Tumwater Dentist, Olympia Dentist

A group of Autoimmune diseases called Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) cause chronic inflammation in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Specifically, Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis are the two main diseases identified in this group. Over time, the symptoms of chronic inflammation damage the GI tract. Consequently, this can lead to discomfort and painful symptoms for those … Read more

Autoimmune Series: Rheumatoid Arthritis and Oral Health

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We’re kicking off a new blog series here at Reflection Dentistry! For the rest of 2019, we will be highlighting different autoimmune diseases bimonthly and discussing their impacts on oral health, and vice versa. Autoimmune diseases are wide-ranging diseases that affect many systems of the body but commonly, the diseases cause the body to begin … Read more

The Truth about Methamphetamines and Oral Health

Methamphetamines and Oral Health - Reflection Dentistry - Dentist Near Me, Tumwater Dentist, Olympia Dentist

This month we’re focusing on a difficult subject; drug addiction. It’s heartbreaking to hear about the rising rates of drug addiction in our country and even worse to hear about a loved one struggling with addiction. As dental professionals, we are trained to look for oral signs of drug abuse. While it may be a … Read more

The Mouth to Heart Relationship

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Many people think of hearts and Valentine’s Day when you mention February. In the medical/dental world, we think about American Heart awareness month. You’ve heard us say time and again that oral health is linked to overall health. Most individuals treat their mouth separately from the rest of their body without realizing that what goes … Read more