Smart Mouth Blog™

Whether you wake up with mysterious jaw pain, persistent headaches, or teeth that feel increasingly sensitive, bruxism—the clinical term for teeth grinding—is usually the culprit. It is so prevalent in our stress-laden society that roughly one in ten adults unconsciously wage war against their own teeth every single night! But…

Retirement is a season of life meant for joy, freedom, and connection — whether it’s traveling to see family, chasing after grandkids, or finally taking that dream vacation. But for many people over 50, there’s one thing quietly standing in the way of fully enjoying this new chapter: their smile….

Moving to a new town comes with a long list of to-dos: unpack boxes, find the nearest grocery store, update your address, and—eventually—choose a new dentist. For many families and retirees settling into Bluffton or Hilton Head, finding the right dental practice isn’t just a box to check; it’s an…

What if taking care of your teeth and gums did more than prevent cavities and bad breath? What if it could protect your brain? At our recent charity pickleball tournament to benefit the local nonprofit, Memory Matters, their team was very excited to talk about the new research that is…

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health. For decades, it has been added to public water supplies, toothpaste, and professional dental treatments to help prevent tooth decay and strengthen enamel. Despite some misconceptions, scientific research overwhelmingly supports fluoride’s safety and effectiveness. Let’s…

Think you know everything there is to know about cavities? Cavities are actually one of the most common dental issues. By the time most people hit their mid-30s, 80% will have had at least one. But while common, they’re also misunderstood. Let’s bust some myths, learn some fun facts, and get the…

If fear is preventing you from going to the dentist, you’re not alone. Studies suggest that around 80% of American adults suffer from some degree of dental anxiety, ranging from a mild aversion to an intense phobia. Regular dental visits are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums, so it’s…

If one of your New Year’s resolutions is to maintain better oral health, then we’re here to help.  For healthier teeth and a brighter smile in 2025, I recommend implementing each of these 10 dental health resolutions ASAP! But even if you pick just one, you’ll be on your way…

When you need to replace missing teeth, dental implants and dentures are the most common choices. Though very different, they have something in common: they can both restore your smile and confidence. What Are Dental Implants? Dental implants are artificial teeth that are surgically implanted to replace lost or extracted…