Wisdom teeth usually erupt in the late teens or early twenties. Often, they come in at the wrong angle and can cause serious dental issues. Sometimes they remain impacted, which can lead to potential infection. For this reason, many people have their wisdom teeth removed. Dr. Steven Van Wicklen, your South Austin dentist, wants to… Read more »
Posts By: Tooth Fairy
Your South Austin Dentist Offers Tips for Seniors
Dr. Steven Van Wicklen has practiced dentistry in Austin, TX, for over 25 years. His emphasis on quality care, with a sincere focus on patient comfort and rapport, is just as evident now as it was back in 1985. With his friendly, professional staff and the welcoming environment that his office conveys, it’s no surprise that… Read more »
Why Coconut Oil Might Be Good for Your Teeth
A presentation given recently at the Society for General Microbiology’s autumn conference is the latest in a score of studies aimed at discovering unconventional methods of addressing cavity prevention. The study outlined the ways in which enzyme-modified, or digested, coconut oil might join the ranks in the war against tooth decay. Already known to be… Read more »
All about Invisalign from Your South Austin Dentist
There was a time, not that long ago, when the only option for straightening crooked or misaligned teeth was classic bracket-and-wire braces. Over the years, a variety of clear and color options for the brackets and rubber bands used in orthodontic practices became available, but the fact remained that when you had braces on your… Read more »
South Austin Dentist: Endodontics and Root Canal Therapy
What is endodontics? Endodontics is a branch of dentistry dedicated to dental pulp. Pulp is the soft tissue inside the crown of a tooth. Dental pulp produces dentin, sends nutrients to tissue, and senses pressure and extreme temperature through a network of nerves and blood vessels. The pulp is housed in the root canal. What… Read more »
Poor Oral Health Affects Performance of Children in School
A new study published in the American Journal of Public Health argues poor oral health may contribute to bad academic performance of children in school, highlighting the importance of dental care during childhood. The Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC study looked at the correlation between the oral health and academic achievement records of close… Read more »
South Austin Dentist Discusses the Harm of Smoking
According to the National Center for Health Statistics, those who smoke are twice as likely to develop poor oral health. That is not a surprising statistic when you consider the number of oral health issues related to smoking. Some believe smoking only leads to the cosmetic issue of stained teeth and embarrassing bad breath. However, smoking also… Read more »
Five Foods That Promote Good Oral Health
One of the best ways to fight cavities is to practice good oral hygiene. That means brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing once a day. You should also visit your dentist every six-months for a dental checkup and cleaning. Another way you can deter cavities and promote healthy gums and teeth… Read more »
Is A Cavity-Free Future Possible with the Keep 32 Molecule?
Imagine a world with no toothaches, no need for fillings, and no guilt (as far as teeth go) with eating a cupcake. That’s the world two scientists—one from Yale University, and one from Universidad de Santiago in Chile—envisioned when they discovered the Keep 32 molecule. This molecule is touted with the ability to destroy the… Read more »
Test Your Knowledge of Preventive Dentistry
Dental Examination Quiz from South Austin Dentist Q1. True or false: Brushing with a hard bristled toothbrush can actually do more harm than good for your smile. Q2. A dental checkup includes which of the following? A. Cavity detection B. Gum disease risk assessment C. Oral cancer screening D. All of the above Q3…. Read more »