Lakewood Complete Dentistry Blog

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the complex structure that attaches the jawbone to the skull and gives it the wide range of movement necessary for comfortable and functional chewing and speaking. Unfortunately, this important joint can be forced out of alignment by injuries and frequent strain, and this can lead to many types of body pain like migraines. Here’s a quick look at how this can happen and how your dentist can address the problem.

The temporomandibular joint is one of the most complex joints in the body. This means that there is a lot that can go wrong, and it isn’t always easy to address. When this joint isn’t functioning as it should, it is known as temporomandibular joint dysfunction, or TMD. If you are in the middle of a flare up, it’s especially important to take much needed steps to avoid aggravating the situation worse. Continue reading to learn which things you should avoid at this time.

It is believed that Alzheimer’s affects more than 6.5 million Americans, and gum disease afflicts about 47% of adults in the U.S. who are over the age of 30. For these two statistics to be mentioned together, dentists and researchers are studying how they are connected and what patients can do to prevent declines in oral and physical health. Since June is Brain Health and Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, read on to learn more about the link and what you can do to ensure a healthier smile and sharper mind.

Graduation is a major milestone, whether your student is finishing high school, college, or another educational program. Along with caps, gowns, and family photos comes the excitement of new opportunities, job interviews, and important life events. As graduates prepare for this next chapter, many families look for meaningful gifts that offer lasting value.

One thoughtful option is cosmetic dentistry. A healthy, attractive smile can boost confidence and help graduates make a positive impression as they enter the workforce, continue their education, or celebrate special occasions. Here are several cosmetic dental treatments that can make a memorable graduation gift.

Your gums play a crucial role in supporting and protecting your teeth. But when gum tissue becomes overgrown, it can affect both the appearance of your smile and your overall oral health. Also known as gingival overgrowth, this condition occurs when excess gum tissue extends over more of the tooth surface than normal.

Tax season isn’t exactly anyone’s favorite time of year. But at least there’s one silver lining: getting a refund. After all, who doesn’t like having a little extra cash? If you’re not sure what to spend yours on this year, considering spoiling your smile. All three of these dental ideas are great ways you can use your 2025 tax refund!

With spring allergies right around the corner and a miserable winter flu season still wreaking havoc across the country, it can be a difficult time of year to protect your oral health. While it’s true that most of the uncomfortable symptoms of these illnesses tend to occur in the lungs and sinuses, they can also cause a great deal of problems in your mouth. Here’s a closer look at five common oral health issues that can occur this time of year, and how to protect yourself from their damaging effects.

Invisalign clear aligners offer a kind of flexibility and subtlety you don’t get with traditional braces. This is why millions of people choose this orthodontic treatment to straighten their teeth and realign their smile. But even though your colleagues or peers may not be distracted by them, you may wonder if yours will prove problematic when entering the dating scene. Learn how to worry less and wear your Invisalign aligners like a pro with these 3 tips.

If you think back to the past year, could you have tightened up your oral hygiene routine? Although it might not have been too bad, there might be some habits you want to build and others you want to break. With 2026 right around the corner, there is no time like the present to make resolutions to better your dental health. Here are five simple ones you can consider to ensure a problem-free smile.

The holiday season includes a few of the biggest travel days of the year since so many people go to visit family and old friends, but it can be hard to keep your teeth clean and healthy when you’re on a trip. The fare offered at fast food restaurants and gas stations is usually high in sugars, starches, and acids that can be quite harsh on your enamel and leave you more vulnerable to nasty oral infections. Here are a few tips to help you keep your smile in great shape when traveling over the holidays.