Island Coast Dentistry Blog

The Link Between Chronic Stress & Your Oral Health

February 3, 2026

Woman stressed out grabbing her hair.

Stress is a common part of modern life, but when stress becomes chronic, it can affect far more than your mental well-being. Long-term stress can have a significant impact on your physical health, including your oral health. Many people do not realize that ongoing stress can contribute to a variety of dental problems. Understanding this connection can help you protect both your smile and your overall health.

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How Much Mouthwash Should You Use?

Person pouring mouthwash into cup.

Mouthwash is a helpful addition to your oral hygiene routine, offering benefits such as freshening breath, reducing bacteria, strengthening enamel, and helping prevent gum disease. However, many people are unsure about how much mouthwash they should use to get the best results. Using the proper amount ensures effectiveness while avoiding unnecessary waste or irritation. Here is a helpful guide to using mouthwash correctly.

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The Surprising Link Between Your Oral Health and Memory

December 30, 2025

Model of skull and brain

Brushing and flossing are great ways to prevent a wide range of cavities and gum disease. However, did you know that taking care of your smile can also protect your memory? It may seem like an odd correlation, but it’s essential to understand how maintaining your oral health can impact your brain. Here’s what you need to know and tips to keep your grin pristine.

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Dental Health Issues Can Run in the Family; Here’s How to Keep Your Smile Happy and Bright

December 16, 2025

Lady shows inflamed gums

Everyone wants to have a beautiful and healthy smile, but some people may have more difficulty keeping their teeth in good shape than others. In many cases, this can be because an individual’s genetics make them more vulnerable to issues like gum disease and tooth decay. Here’s a brief overview of a few oral health issues that may be inherited and how you can help your smile stay in great shape.

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Here’s Why Whiter Teeth Aren’t Necessarily Healthier Teeth

November 25, 2025

Smiling couple

A bright, white smile is often associated with beauty, confidence, and good health. Many people invest in whitening products or cosmetic treatments hoping to achieve that perfect shade. But while white teeth may look healthy, tooth color alone doesn’t tell the full story. In fact, some dental issues can develop even when teeth appear flawless on the outside.

Understanding the difference between cosmetic appearance and true oral health can help you make better decisions for your smile.

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Do You Need to Take Antibiotics Before a Dental Visit?

November 13, 2025

Woman taking a pill

Many of us have taken antibiotics for one reason or another. Whether you had an ear infection or you had to take them after a procedure, they have the purpose of treating and preventing bacterial infection. However, did you know that they are sometimes used in dentistry when patients have certain medical conditions? Read on to learn about some of the cases where you may require antibiotics before a dental appointment.

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Mending Mouths: 3 Reasons to Choose Tooth-Colored Fillings

October 16, 2025

Dentist demonstrating tooth-colored filling on large model tooth

In the past, dentists relied on amalgam mixtures of metal to fill cavities, which often consisted of options like tin, silver, copper, zinc, or gold mixed with liquid mercury as a bonding agent. Although repairs made with these materials are strong enough to withstand the pressure of biting and chewing, they don’t do much to improve your appearance.

Thankfully, most providers today utilize tooth-colored options that can be customized to match your natural smile seamlessly. Continue reading to learn 3 excellent reasons to consider treating tooth decay with this lifelike alternative to traditional amalgam fillings!

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My Invisalign Aligner Is Missing! What Should I Do Now?

October 13, 2025

Lady frets about something

Invisalign is an excellent way for many people with mild to moderate misalignments to straighten out their teeth without the irremovable metal parts and frustrating dietary restrictions that come with traditional braces. While losing an Invisalign clear aligner can delay your treatment, your dentist will be happy to provide an appropriate solution to help keep your orthodontic process on track. Here’s a quick guide to how you can keep track of your aligners and what to do if you cannot find your appliance.

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5 Myths About Cosmetic Dentistry, Busted!

September 17, 2025

Patient smiling into mirror in dentist's chair.

Cosmetic dentistry has come a long way over the years, offering safe, effective, and natural-looking ways to enhance your smile. Yet, despite its growing popularity, many people still hesitate to explore cosmetic treatments because of lingering myths and misconceptions. These misunderstandings can prevent patients from discovering the confidence and benefits that come with a beautiful, healthy-looking smile. Let’s debunk 5 of the most common myths about cosmetic dentistry so you can make informed decisions about your oral health and appearance.

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5 Details You Should Know Before Getting Invisalign

September 4, 2025

Woman holding Invisalign clear aligner.

Invisalign has become one of the most popular ways to straighten teeth and for good reason. These nearly invisible aligners offer a comfortable, discreet alternative to traditional metal braces. However, while Invisalign can deliver amazing results, it’s not as simple as just wearing clear trays. Before you start treatment, it’s important to understand what to expect so you can set yourself up for success.

Here are 5 key details you should know before getting Invisalign.

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