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Plaque is a sticky, colorless film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. While it may seem harmless, plaque can cause serious dental problems when it isn’t removed regularly. Understanding what plaque does—and why daily oral care matters—can help you protect your smile for the long term. How Plaque Builds Up Plaque forms when […]

If you notice blood when brushing or flossing, it can be easy to brush it off as normal. However, bleeding gums are not something to ignore. In most cases, they are an early warning sign that your gums need attention—and addressing the issue early can help protect both your oral and overall health. What Causes

If you’ve ever woken up with bad breath or a fuzzy feeling on your teeth, you’ve experienced what’s commonly known as “morning mouth.” While it’s completely normal, morning mouth is a sign that important changes are happening in your mouth while you sleep. Why Morning Breath Happens During the day, saliva helps wash away food

Professional teeth whitening provided by a dental office is the safest and most reliable option. These treatments use clinically tested whitening agents under professional supervision, ensuring effective results while protecting your enamel and gums. Dentists also evaluate your oral health beforehand to make sure whitening is appropriate for you, especially if you have cavities, gum

When most people think about oral health, they focus on their teeth and gums. But did you know that the health of your mouth can also affect your heart? Research continues to show a strong connection between oral health and overall wellness, including cardiovascular health. The Link Between Gum Disease and Heart Health Gum disease,

The beginning of a new year is the perfect time to take a closer look at your dental insurance benefits. Many dental plans reset annually, which means understanding your coverage now can help you maximize benefits, reduce out-of-pocket costs, and stay on track with your oral health goals. At River Valley Smile Center, we believe

Dental fillings are one of the most common restorative treatments, designed to repair cavities and protect your tooth from further damage. But many patients wonder: how long do fillings actually last? The answer depends on several factors—including the type of filling and how well you care for your smile. Average Lifespan of Dental Fillings Most

The start of a new year is all about fresh beginnings, healthier habits, and taking care of yourself—and your smile deserves to be part of that plan. Scheduling a dental checkup early in the year is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect your oral health and set the tone for a

Brushing your teeth is one of the best habits you can have for a healthy smile—but did you know that brushing too hard can actually do more harm than good? At River Valley Smile Center, we often see patients who are surprised to learn that their brushing technique is wearing down their enamel and irritating

Tooth pain is your body’s way of telling you that something isn’t quite right. It can range from mild sensitivity to sharp, persistent pain that interferes with daily life. Understanding the most common causes of tooth pain can help you know when it’s time to schedule a visit with your dentist. Tooth Decay and Cavities