Stec & Stines Cosmetic & Family Dentistry Blog

The diverse selection of treatment options has caused cosmetic dentistry to grow in popularity. People from all walks of life are choosing to revamp their unattractive smiles. Although you might believe cosmetic dentistry is a relatively new field of specialty, it has a rather extensive history. Thankfully, it has come a long way since using urine for teeth whitening. Here are just a few of the advancements that have occurred over the years.

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After sitting down in the dental chair for your checkup, you may not have anticipated a blood pressure check to be a part of the process. You may be thinking to yourself, “Why does my dentist take my blood pressure?” After all, it’s a dentist’s office, not a medical clinic—how is it even relevant for a dental procedure?

For many dentists, especially oral surgeons, measuring blood pressure is quickly becoming an essential component of routine cleanings and regular checkups. Read on to learn four reasons why this is a new, and crucial, addition to your dental experience. 

After finishing a cool drinking, nothing feels better than chewing leftover ice. What better way to cool down in hot weather than with a delicious treat?

Unfortunately, chewing on ice can damage your teeth, enamel, and gums, which can lead to serious dental problems. It can be difficult to break out of this habit, but there are alternatives you can try so you can still get your fix. Read on to learn more about how chewing ice is damaging your teeth and get tips for breaking the habit.

As you’re undergoing treatment with Invisalign to straighten your teeth, you want to be sure to care for them properly so that you can have a healthy and successful experience. To help out, a local dentist has compiled a list of 6 tips that will ensure your clear aligners function properly. Therefore, you can have a clear path to achieving the smile of your dreams!

More than likely, you’ve heard your fair share of horror stories about what cavities can do to your teeth. Thus, you’ve always been encouraged to brush your teeth to help prevent tooth decay. By taking a more detailed approach, though, you can better fortify your dental health. As you continue reading, learn about 5 oral hygiene best practices that will take your dental care to the next level!

Gingivitis affects an alarming 80% of the United States population, so there’s a good chance you might know at least one person with it. Perhaps you have it or suspect that you might. You may have a few questions about it, and it’s important to know the facts and how it can be treated. Keep reading to learn more.

Are you missing one, a few, or an entire arch of teeth? You’re far from alone. In fact, over 140 million Americans are struggling with tooth loss. Fortunately, there is a lifelike, durable, long-lasting solution to fill the gaps in your smile: dental implants. This state-of-the-art tooth-replacement solution is used by a whopping 500,000 patients each year! If you are interested in making the switch from dentures or simply want to learn more about this smile-rebuilding option, keep reading to learn the basics of dental implants.

Did you know that February is Heart Health Month? Did you also know there is a connective link between the mouth and body, particularly your cardiovascular system? What you may not realize is that the heart can be positively or negatively impacted by what goes on inside your oral cavity. The health of your teeth and gums can leave the rest of your immune system vulnerable to potential infection if you are not careful, so what can you do? A dentist explains the link and what steps you can take to keep your smile and your heart in optimal shape.

Invisalign was first used in 1997, and since then the treatment has become more and more refined. That said, it’s still relatively new compared to other forms of orthodontics, so finding a truly skilled provider can be somewhat tricky. However, there are dentists who have been trained in using this treatment to ctreat straighter, healthier smiles without braces. Below are 6 tips that will give you a better idea of how to find an Invisalign provider that’s right for you.