Each of us has experienced a sore or swollen roof of the mouth at one time or another in our lives. This condition normally goes away after a few days and doesn’t usually require any type of dental treatment. For most people, having a swollen, and even painful palate is not a serious condition.

Dr. Schau and her team provide services that have the ability to do more than just protect our oral health. Dentists have the ability to gain a snapshot of our overall health just by taking inventory of our dental health. Swollen bleeding gums and foul breath can tell a story that reaches far beyond a cavity and gum disease.

If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact a dentist as soon as possible.

Mouthwash is used to help rinse away bacteria or food particles after you brush and floss each day. Using mouthwash is an additional way to help protect your teeth and gums. Knowing the differences between mouthwashes can help you choose the right one to incorporate into your oral hygiene routine.

Do TMJ disorder and tinnitus or ringing in the ears share a connection? Furthermore, what does it mean if you have a headache accompanied by ringing in your ears? This post will cover the link between TMJ disorder (TMD) and the most common ear noises, such as hissing, buzzing, crunching, ringing, pulsating, roaring, and clicking.

Tooth decay occurs. Fortunately, our Saginaw, MI dentist’s office can use tooth-colored filling materials to repair cavities and restore your smile. But, fillings may eventually come out if certain conditions occur (such as when the cavity gets too large).

Oral piercings are popular among young adults and adolescents. Piercings are the cool thing to have, and they give people a way to express themselves. Piercings can interfere with your speech or your ability to chew and swallow. Many people also wonder if their choice to have a piercing can lead to infection.

When you think about taking care of your body, chances are drinking enough water is high on your list. But did you know that drinking water helps your dental health, too? That’s especially true if your water is fluoridated. Your Saginaw, MI dentist, Dr. Schau, and team want to help you keep your mouth healthy, and here’s how water can help you do it.

Invisalign Teen is a modern, invisible way to straighten teen teeth without the problems that can stem from traditional metal braces. Invisalign helps straighten teeth without the use of wires and brackets. Instead, Invisalign involves using a series of aligners that are custom-made for your mouth and bite. They are clear making them almost invisible. Teens wear them over their teeth and change them out for new aligners about every two weeks. They gradually shift the teeth into the desired position.

Professional whitening is effective at removing years of stains and discoloration from the teeth. Whether you're looking to boost your confidence or are going to be attending a wedding, reunion or another big event, a bright and white smile is sure to improve your appearance.

Should you use an electric toothbrush, or stick with the traditional manual toothbrush? With so many products on the market, it can be difficult to make a decision. The traditional manual toothbrush can give you a thorough clean and remove plaque without much difficulty. However, if you’re looking for a better clean or having trouble brushing, an electric toothbrush can give you the extra assistance that you need.

Dental implants are the most successful method to enhance your smile and restore self-esteem. To prevent dental implant problems, you must learn how to care for them properly.

When deciding on a restorative solution it is important to look at all of your options to help you decide on the best option that works for you. A common question patients face is if they should choose a dental bridge or dental implants when they are looking for a tooth replacement solution.

Did you know that there’s a link between poor oral health and pneumonia? Taking proper care of your teeth and gums and going to the dentist twice a year can do more than just prevent cavities and keep your teeth bright: it can also impact other areas of your health.

Most people know a little first aid and what to do in a medical emergency. You may remember how to do the Heimlich maneuver if someone is choking. But what are you supposed to do if you encounter a dental emergency? The thing about emergencies is you never know when they are going to occur. Obviously, you didn’t schedule for your tooth to break when you bit into that corn on the cob!

You may have heard your Saginaw dentist recommend flossing once a day, possibly more than once. Although most Americans know they should floss, only about one-third of them actually do.

March is National Kidney Month, making it a great time to enhance your knowledge of your kidney health! Thousands of people suffer from kidney disease and do not realize they may also be subject to oral complications, such as infections and other health issues. In fact, one’s oral health status can be a reliable indicator of renal infections.

The benefits of fluoride stretch back into the 19th century with groundbreaking dental research done right here in Michigan. It is through the pioneering works of dentists working in public health that we discovered its role in preventing widespread tooth decay. That’s why Dr. Schau and team encourage you to make sure you’re getting the right amount of fluoride through your toothpaste and water.

The best starting point to see if dentures are an option is to see your dentist. They can help determine if another treatment option might be more suited to your particular situation.

Oral cancer is divided into two categories. Some occur in the oral cavity, while others are found in the oropharynx or throat. A professional oral cancer screening improves the chances of early detection, which may result in better treatment outcomes.

When your child is uncomfortable, it can be worrisome. Young children start teething about the age of 6 months and have a set of 20 teeth by the time they’re 30 months. The process can cause discomfort for about a week, three or four days before the tooth comes in and about three days after the tooth erupts through the gum. If you’re ever concerned about your child’s teething, talk to your Saginaw, MI dentist.