Author: Sherri Merritt

Dentistry is evolving beyond just teeth and gums. Today, forward-thinking dentists are expanding their focus to include airway health and sleep—two areas that profoundly affect not only oral health but overall well-being. The mouth is the gateway to the body, and dentists are uniquely positioned to detect signs of airway and sleep disorders that can lead to chronic fatigue, cardiovascular issues, metabolic disorders, and more. By integrating airway and sleep

Temporary crowns play a crucial role in restorative dentistry, serving as interim solutions while permanent restorations are being fabricated. Although they are not meant to be long-term restorations, temporary crowns must be carefully made to ensure patient comfort, proper function, and gum health. Three critical factors in successful temporary crown fabrication are achieving thin margins, ensuring accurate occlusion, and properly cleaning excess cement. Each of these aspects contributes to the

Sleep apnea is a serious and often overlooked condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, sleep apnea can lead to severe health issues such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and chronic fatigue. While CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machines have long been the standard treatment, oral dental appliances are emerging as an effective and more comfortable alternative for many patients. In this

Over the last decade, dental imaging technology has evolved rapidly, offering better clarity, faster results, and more precise diagnostics. One of the biggest game-changers has been the widespread adoption of Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT). Once primarily used by specialists like oral surgeons and endodontists, CBCT is now making its way into general dental practices across the country. In 2025, more general dentists are investing in this advanced imaging technology to

One of the most challenging situations in a dental practice is handling patients who insist on receiving a regular prophylaxis (prophy) when they have been diagnosed with periodontal disease. These patients may resist the recommended treatment, often due to a lack of understanding, financial concerns, or fear of the more extensive procedures required to manage periodontal disease. As a dental professional, it’s crucial to approach these situations with patience, education,

Tooth loss has long been a major dental concern, affecting both oral health and overall systemic heatlh. While traditional solutions like dentures and bridges have been common treatments for missing teeth, dental implants are rapidly becoming the gold standard in modern dentistry. Patients and dentists alike are recognizing the benefits of implants, making them the preferred choice for long-term tooth replacement. Here’s why dental implants are revolutionizing tooth restoration and