The Official Blog of Dr. Joe Kravitz, DDS, MS

What is a Sinus Lift?

What is a Sinus Lift?

This term is actually an incorrect anatomical term. The more proper professional term is subantral graft. Sub means below and antral means sinus. This type of bone graft lengthens bone in the upper back jawbone (maxilla). The bone is lengthened below the maxillary sinus and above the bone. At no time does the subantral graft [...]

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Shockingly Painful Lower Dentures

Shockingly Painful Lower Dentures

“Why does my lower denture hurt when I bite down?”  inquired a patient named Emily. Emily had a new lower denture that caused pain every time she bit down on food. It felt like a shock wave (also called paresthesia) traveling up her jaw, into her neck and behind her head. Emily did not want [...]

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If Your Teeth are Temperature Sensitive

If Your Teeth are Temperature Sensitive

What is temperature sensitivity? When your teeth detect changes in temperature, both cold and/or hot; it’s the discomfort you feel when you eat, drink and breathe. It can either be cold or hot sensitive. Causes There are many causes of temperature sensitivity which may include: Bite pressures, Cavities, Gum disease, Cracks, Stress, Acid destruction, Food, [...]

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Beware of H. Pylori Mouth and Stomach Infections

Beware of H. Pylori Mouth and Stomach Infections

This is a series of scientific review articles that I will be sharing with you regarding research findings related to the danger of this relatively unknown bacteria – Helicobacter pylori. This bacterium is known for causing H. pylori infections in the stomach and upper duodenum of the GI system. Origins of H. pylori H. pylori [...]

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Fixing Cracks in Your Teeth

Fixing Cracks in Your Teeth

What are cracks? A crack, also known as a fracture, is a vertical or horizontal line(s) in your teeth, above and below the gum line. Cracks can be visible or invisible to you. Causes There are several reasons for cracked teeth: large fillings and other dental work, root canals, posts, excessive bite pressure from tooth [...]

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How to Deal with Anxiety at the Dentist’s Office

How to Deal with Anxiety at the Dentist’s Office

What is anxiety? Also known as worry, is a process by which the mind creates an unhealthy emotional response such as fear, uneasiness or dread. The mind changes the focus from healthy to unhealthy thoughts. It can range from mild to severe levels of anxiety. Causes The unhealthy part of the mind is responsible for [...]

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Recommended Home Care for Your Dentures

Recommended Home Care for Your Dentures

Eating and drinking is necessary to provide adequate nutrition for survival. There are acids present in food and drink that are necessary for digestion; however, the presence of acids in your mouth is unhealthy.  People only have 7 minutes to protect themselves against dental diseases such as cavities and periodontal (gum) disease. Therefore, the following [...]

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I Have Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

I Have Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

What is dry mouth? Dry mouth is a condition whereby the salivary glands either reduce or stop the production of saliva (hyposalivation). Saliva is made up of protective enzymes, proteins, mucus, antibacterial chemicals, electrolytes and water. Saliva is produced by the major salivary glands, which are located in the cheeks and underneath the tongue. FACT: [...]

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Arnica: Improve Comfort After Dental Implant Surgery

Arnica: Improve Comfort After Dental Implant Surgery

Swelling and bruising is a natural side effect of surgery in the mouth. Mast cells around a wound secrete fluids that cause swelling and pain. Over-the counter medications such as anti-inflammatories and narcotics may prevent discomfort and pain associated with dental surgery; however, there are risks with any medication. Risks with medications may produce health [...]

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How Can a Denture Wearer Improve Taste?

How Can a Denture Wearer Improve Taste?

Taste (gustation) is defined as the ability to detect flavors from food, minerals and poisons. Taste is one of the five senses and is a basic function of life. Taste helps to improve the quality of life and detects poisons to protect you. There are around 10,000 taste buds in the mouth. Each taste bud has [...]

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