Metro Refresh Dentistry Blog

Clear aligners are designed to fit snugly over your teeth as they gradually guide them into new positions. Occasionally, you may put in a new aligner and notice that it feels unusually tight, doesn’t seat completely, or seems to have a gap between the tray and your teeth. While some pressure and tightness can be normal with a new aligner, an aligner that clearly doesn’t fit should not simply be forced into place. Here is a step-by-step guide for handling the situation.

When you have a dental problem, it can be tempting to focus only on the symptom. Maybe your jaw hurts, you grind your teeth at night, or certain teeth seem to wear down faster than others. While treating those symptoms can provide relief, it’s also important to ask an even bigger question: could an underlying bite or alignment issue be contributing to the problem?

Orthodontics does more than straighten teeth for a more uniform smile. By improving the alignment of your teeth and bite, orthodontic treatment can sometimes address contributing factors behind certain oral health concerns.

Dentures have helped people restore their smiles for centuries, but they have come a long way from their early beginnings. Thanks to advances in dental materials, technology, and treatment techniques, today’s dentures are more comfortable, functional, and natural-looking than ever before. If you wear dentures or are considering them as a tooth replacement option, it’s fascinating to see just how much they have evolved over time.

When it comes to dental checkups, many people assume that their teeth get checked and that’s it. As a full denture wearer, you might imagine that you don’t need to see your dentist anymore, but this isn’t the case at all. It’s still important that you have your routine visits to ensure your oral health is in great shape. Here are three reasons why you shouldn’t skip your preventive dental care.

If you are missing one or more teeth, dental implants can provide a long-lasting and natural-looking solution. One of the most common questions patients ask is, “How many dental implants do I need?” The answer depends on several factors, including how many teeth are missing, the condition of your jawbone, and the type of restoration you choose.

If you have rheumatoid arthritis (RA), you may wonder whether you’re a good candidate for dental implants. Because RA is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects inflammation, healing, and sometimes bone health, it’s a valid concern. The good news is that having rheumatoid arthritis does not automatically disqualify you from getting dental implants. Many patients with RA successfully receive implants with proper planning and care.

If you’re considering veneers to enhance your smile, you may be wondering whether your diet will need to change. The good news is that veneers are designed to function like natural teeth, so you can continue enjoying most of your favorite foods. However, there are a few temporary and long-term considerations to keep your veneers looking and functioning their best.

Porcelain veneers are a popular way to transform your smile, correcting concerns like discoloration, chips, gaps, and uneven teeth. While many patients love the results, it’s natural to wonder about potential side effects—especially tooth sensitivity. Because a small amount of enamel is removed during the veneer process, some people experience temporary sensitivity. The good news is that this sensitivity is usually mild and short-lived.

Here’s what you should know about veneers and how they may affect tooth sensitivity.

Porcelain veneers are designed to be strong, beautiful, and long-lasting. With good care, they can often last 10 to 15 years—or even longer! Still, they aren’t meant to last forever. Over time, daily use, your habits, and even changes in your oral health can wear them down. If you’ve had your enhancements for several years, you may wonder when it’s time for a replacement. Here are some of the most common signs of worn veneers.

Facial pain can be alarming, especially when it appears suddenly or becomes severe. In many cases, the source of facial pain is a dental emergency that requires prompt treatment. Because the teeth, jaw, and facial nerves are closely connected, dental problems can cause pain that radiates through the cheeks, jaw, ears, or even the eyes. Here are 4 dental emergencies that commonly cause facial pain and shouldn’t be ignored.