Lancaster Family Smiles Blog

Rather than just a cleaner smile, maybe you plan to get a straighter one in 2025. This goal would definitely make for a great New Year’s resolution! With that said, a question arises: Should you opt for Invisalign or braces? You’ll need to choose one or the other before you start the alignment process. Luckily, your Lancaster dental practice is here to settle the matter. Read on to learn about metal braces, Invisalign, and which option suits your grin best.

Dental enamel is very strong. In fact, it’s the strongest substance in the entire body. However, it isn’t completely indestructible. If you have a tooth that is decayed or otherwise damaged, a dental crown can be made and placed over your damaged tooth to prevent it from additional harm. However, many patients worry that their procedure will be painful. Fortunately, you have nothing to worry about. Here’s what you can expect.

Holidays are filled with fun and time spent with loved ones, but let’s face it. They can be stressful! There’s plenty of new research showing how stress can negatively affect your general health, which begs the question – can it also impact your oral health?

As it turns out, the answer is yes! Keep reading to learn how holiday anxiety and these uncomfortable dental symptoms are related.

There’s a lot to be thankful for this time of year, including your oral health. But while you’re raising forkful of turkey in honor of your teeth this Thanksgiving, don ‘t forget to celebrate the biggest cheerleader on your oral health team: your dentist. Here are five important reasons why you should appreciate them all year long!

Do you have a sensitive gag reflex or mild to moderate dental anxiety that makes even your routine dental exam and cleaning stressful? While your first instinct might be to skip going to the dentist altogether, there may be a better way. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) sedation has been helping patients feel relaxed and comfortable during oral health procedures for decades. This safe sedation is great for a variety of patients of all ages. Here’s everything you need to know about whether this treatment is right for you!

Even if you know that a tooth extraction is truly necessary for protecting the health of your smile, you may still be nervous about having one performed. Oftentimes, it can help to learn more about the procedure itself; it’s easier to stay calm if you have a clear idea of what to expect. Below is a brief look at the tooth extraction process and what it will feel like at each stage.

When you first get a dental crown, you should only see your treatment’s upsides. That’s only natural – the cap will quickly protect your tooth and blend with your smile! However, you may notice a black line around your dental crown after enough time passes. Never fear – your Lancaster dentist knows just what to do in these situations. Here’s a primer on why black lines form around dental crowns and how to treat them.

Did you know that an estimated 36% of Americans have dental anxiety? However, some patients experience so much worry about visiting their provider that they avoid important procedures that can improve their oral health, like tooth extractions.

It’s natural to feel nervous about having a troublesome tooth removed but rest assured; your dentist wouldn’t recommend it if they didn’t think it was necessary. Although they typically try everything to protect and preserve your natural teeth, if you have one that’s too decayed or damaged to be mended, then taking it out is the next best option.

Continue reading to learn about four additional benefits of this procedure to put your mind at ease!

In the quest for a perfect smile, many people face the dilemma of choosing the right orthodontic treatment. While traditional braces have been a common choice for decades, Invisalign has emerged as a popular alternative, offering unique freedoms that make it an attractive option. Unlike metal braces, Invisalign is a clear aligner system that provides flexibility, comfort, and convenience. Here are some of the key freedoms that Invisalign can afford you.

Dental fillings are a common restorative procedure used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay, wear, or trauma. While fillings are highly effective in restoring the function and appearance of teeth, their longevity is not indefinite. The lifespan of a dental filling can vary based on several factors, including the type of material used, the location of the filling, and the patient’s oral hygiene habits. Understanding how long dental fillings typically last can help patients maintain their dental health and plan for future dental care.