People who are infected with herpes simplex virus tend to be able to feel a cold sore coming on.  Symptoms like tingling, soreness, and redness serve as warning signs and are a good indicator to begin treatment. Although a cold sore will heal eventually on its own, antiviral medications taken by mouth as well as topical creams may shorten the... read more »

You may find this surprising, but most people are unaware of cavities because cavities are completely painless. The outer layer of the tooth, the enamel, has no nerves. People are caught off-guard when diagnosed because they have not had any symptoms. When the cavity enters the underlying dentin the tooth may begin to feel sensitive. The most common symptoms are... read more »

During April, we continue our focus on Oral Cancer Awareness. The lifestyle habits that increase the chances of developing Oral Cancer include the use of smokeless or chewing tobacco, smoking, and also exposure to the sun. It is a myth to consider chewing tobacco a ‘safer’ form of tobacco use as compared to smoking. The chemicals in the juice of... read more »

For patients considering wisdom teeth removal, you may be concerned about the healing process following the surgery, how you may feel, and how you need to care for your surgery site. Sutures will be likely placed at the site of each wisdom tooth removed. An important part of the healing process is the blood clotting at the site. Occasionally the... read more »