While most everyone understands what cavities are, and know how they are treated with fillings, people tend to know less about root canal infections and their related treatment. Of course, far more people have had a cavity filled than have had root canal therapy. While more than 170 million cavities are filled in the U.S. every year, dentists only perform about 15 million root canal procedures per year.
The link between functional dental health and its benefits to overall health have been well established, but did you know that the cosmetic element of dental health can boost emotional well-being? Conversely, those with visible dental limitations or deficiencies affecting their smiles may suffer from a loss of self-confidence.
Most everyone experiences a case of dry mouth on occasion, some to the point at which that parched mouth makes it difficult to swallow, speak or eat. Known as “xerostomia,” dry mouth is a decrease in the amount of saliva produced in one’s mouth. In fact, salivary flow tends to decrease in most individuals as they age, and many people experience excessive dry mouth due to age-related medical conditions and medication side effects.