Riviera Family Dentistry of Mesquite Blog

Have you noticed that your jaw feels sore recently? There are many potential reasons for your tenderness, including new wisdom teeth. These third molars arrive years after your other adult teeth grow in, often between 17 and 25 years old.

It’s believed our ancestors evolved them for necessity, but today, they tend to be problematic and are no longer needed for survival. As a result, they’re considered a vestigial feature and are removed more often than not. Continue reading to learn about 3 reasons why your provider might recommend having them extracted!

(more…)

Have you always wished you could improve the alignment of your smile, but felt as though you ‘missed the boat’ by not getting braces when you were a teen? Many adults erroneously believe that if they didn’t receive orthodontic treatment when they were younger, it’s simply too late to straighten their teeth now. But the good news is that with Invisalign, you’re never too old to get a gorgeous, evenly spaced smile! Here’s a closer look at how treatment works for adults, and why there’s no time like the present to get the gorgeous, perfectly aligned grin you’ve always wanted!

(more…)

Finishing Invisalign treatment is a big milestone. After months of wearing aligners and watching your smile transform, it’s exciting to finally see your results fully revealed. But the journey doesn’t quite end when the last tray comes off—this is where the retainer phase begins.

Retainers play a crucial role in keeping your teeth in their new positions. Without them, teeth can gradually shift back over time, which can undo the progress you worked so hard to achieve. So how long do you actually need to wear one?

(more…)

Invisalign has become one of the most popular orthodontic treatments for teens and adults who want a straighter smile without the look of traditional metal braces. The clear aligner system is discreet, removable, and generally more comfortable than brackets and wires, which makes it an appealing option for many patients.

Even though Invisalign is known for being convenient, it still requires commitment and consistency to achieve the best results. Before you begin treatment, it’s helpful to understand how the process works and what daily life with aligners is really like.

(more…)

Dentures are meant to restore confidence, function, and quality of life for patients with missing teeth. When they fit properly, they allow you to speak clearly, eat comfortably, and smile with ease. But when dentures no longer fit correctly, they can create more than just daily discomfort—they may also contribute to serious oral health concerns if left unaddressed.

One of the most important issues linked to ill-fitting dentures is chronic irritation of the oral tissues. While this may start as a minor inconvenience, long-term irritation combined with other risk factors can increase the likelihood of more severe conditions developing over time.

(more…)

Denture sores can be uncomfortable and frustrating, especially when they interfere with eating or speaking. These sore spots often develop when dentures rub against the gums or don’t fit properly. The good news is that with the right care and adjustments, you can relieve discomfort and prevent future irritation.

Here are 4 effective ways to get rid of denture sores.

(more…)

When they get a new pair of dentures, many people are surprised to realize they can’t immediately begin using their prosthetics just like they could their real teeth. Although yes, that is the intention of these restorations, the truth is that new dentures take a little getting used to. In fact, most people take about 30 days to adjust to them. Here’s a closer look at this important period, and how you can speed up the process so you can begin enjoying all the incredible benefits of your newly restored smile!

(more…)

Did you know enamel is the hardest substance produced by the human body? It’s stronger even than bone, but unfortunately, that doesn’t mean it’s invincible. For example, you might consume too many sugary foods, which attracts acid-producing bacteria that erode the protective outer layer, which can contribute to cavities, gum disease, and other issues.

You might also accidentally chip, crack, or break a tooth chomping on foods that are hard or crunchy, which often requires an emergency dental visit to address. If you’re afraid you might harm your smile, continue reading to learn about 3 potentially problematic foods to avoid!

(more…)

Feeling jaw pain that seems to appear out of nowhere can certainly be worrying. You might notice it when you chew, talk, or yawn first thing in the morning. And while it’s fairly common, it’s not something you should ignore. Several issues can cause this discomfort, some minor, others more serious. However, you often won’t be able to find the source without a professional. Here are some of the common causes of jaw pain, and how your dentist can help you find relief.

(more…)

A toothache can be alarming, but when the pain suddenly disappears, many people assume the problem has fixed itself. Unfortunately, a disappearing toothache isn’t always a good sign. In many cases, it can indicate that the underlying issue is getting worse—not better. Understanding why tooth pain might fade and what it means for your oral health can help you avoid serious complications down the road.

(more…)