Hooks Family Dentistry Blog

When someone eats whatever they want as often as they want and never seem to gain any weight, you may hear people say that they have a fast metabolism. This makes it seem like metabolism is the secret to maintaining a slim waist, but it’s so much more than that. In fact, research shows that having an unhealthy smile can impact your metabolism in a negative way. Read on to learn what metabolism is, how poor oral health can affect it, and some tips to care for your smile.

Approximately 178 million people in the U.S. are missing at least one tooth, according to the American College of Prosthodontists (ACP). There are an estimated 40 million Americans who are missing all of their teeth.

Those are startling figures, but the truth is that nobody has to live that way with several tooth replacement options available to them, including dental implants and dentures. Dentures are a popular option and tough to beat when the cost is factored in, but do they check all the boxes?

One issue related to tooth loss is bone reduction in your jaw. Keep reading to learn from your dentist in Altavista if dentures or implants can address jawbone preservation.

You’re getting ready to make an appointment with a cosmetic dentist to discuss porcelain veneers and they’re going to change so much about your smile for the better. But you’ve still been trying to get past the gum disease you were diagnosed with last month.

The truth is, you’re going to need to keep resolving the gum disease issue at the top of your priority list. Keep reading to learn from your dentist in Altavista about what it is, how it can impact your smile, and why it needs to remain your focus before scheduling any cosmetic work.

Many years ago, metal dental crowns were the only available solution for restoring damaged or decayed teeth. Thankfully, advancements in the field have led to the creation of metal-free crowns, which allow you to enjoy a healthier and more natural-looking smile! Although there may have been several good reasons for using metal crowns in the past, there are now even more reasons to get rid of them. That said, here’s why you should think about replacing a metal crown with a metal-free one.  

To many people, you can’t beat a hot cup of coffee to get the day started. It gives you the energy to hit the ground running. Coffee also has valuable health benefits. A study in Annals of Internal Medicine found that individuals who drink a cup of coffee a day are 12 percent less likely to die from cancer, stroke, diabetes, and heart diseases.

However, there are still concerns when it comes to drinking coffee frequently. Overconsumption can have negative effects on your dental health. Read on to find out how this morning drink can affect your teeth and what you can do to protect them from your dentist in Altavista.

Have you been told by your dentist that you’re in need of a root canal? You may already know that root canals aren’t as painful as you initially thought, and they actually end up relieving the discomfort that you’re feeling. However, you may be worried about the impact that it will have on your wallet. There are several different factors that contribute to the cost of root canal therapy. Continue reading to learn what they are so you know what you can expect.

Do you get queasy every time you think about seeing your dentist? You’re certainly not alone. Studies show that between 50%-80% of all Americans have some degree of dental anxiety, ranging from mild to severe. Luckily, there are several techniques to help soothe your worries. Read along for six ways you can make your next dental visit a more bearable experience.

If your child is like most, they are often found running around during the summer months with a juice box or sports drink in their hand. While you might assume these beverages are completely harmless, the truth is that they are common contributors to tooth decay. If you’re wondering what the cause of your children’s cavities might be, a dentist explains why you’ll want to swap out these summertime favorites for healthier options.

The purpose of dental x-rays is to give dentists a better look at the inside of the mouth where they cannot see with the naked eye. By finding dental issues early, they can be treated, and patients are much more likely to make a full recovery. However, parents are often concerned about the safety of dental x-rays and how they affect their children. Read on to learn more about dental x-rays and the many benefits that they have for your kids’ oral health.

Gum disease is easily preventable by brushing your teeth twice and flossing at least once a day. However, it is still incredibly common. Approximately half of adults over the age of 30 are suffering from gum disease at one stage or another. In addition to proper oral hygiene, it is important that you are getting all of the essential vitamins and minerals that you need for optimal gum health. Continue reading to find out which ones you should incorporate into your diet.