In some cases, minor surgical therapy can change a patient's life forever.

The Gummy Smile procedure is one such treatment. It helps patients smile more, adds self-confidence and promotes better health for the rest of their lives. When patients return for their follow-up visits, they usually say they never knew their teeth could look so good and cannot understand why they waited so long to have the procedure done. They love their new smiles and they usually want to share stories about family, friends and co-workers taking notice immediately.

If you have an exposed tooth root, it's usually the sign of a problem. Coast Dental Periodontist Michael Quinn explains the possible causes of exposed tooth roots and how they can be fixed. The pictures help tell the story.

Can brushing and flossing actually save your life? Researchers are asking that question as they learn more about the link between gum disease and heart disease.

Researchers have found that people with gum disease are almost twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease as people without gum disease, according to the American Academy of Periodontology. Periodontal disease can also worsen existing heart conditions, researchers report.

Wall Street Journal health reporter Melinda Beck details the link between your oral health and your overall health. Find out why a visit to your dentist is more important than ever!

There are many things to worry about while you're pregnant, but your dental visit should not be one of them!  Annual dental exams and routine cleanings not only safe during pregnancy, they're recommended.

If you're expecting a baby, here are 10 things you need to know about your trip to the dentist.

Diabetes affects almost 26 million Americans, which is more than 8 percent of the U.S. population. The condition often requires them to make lifestyle changes, including what they eat, how they exercise and the medications they take. It also requires them to change the way they take care of their teeth and gums. Here's what you need to know.

Three of our four adults have some form of periodontal disease. It can be shocking when you're diagnosed and you can have a lot of questions. One of the first ones asked is often, "Can my children get periodontal disease, too?"

Dr. Michael Quinn, a Periodontist with more than 14 years of experience, explains the risk factors for children and whether you need to take action.

Lasers are revolutionizing how people live, work and play. Now they're revolutionizing medical and dental care.

"We’re seeing tremendous results," said Dr. Chuck Laun, a senior doctor with Coast Dental. Dentists are using lasers to treat periodontal disease, perform biopsies, treat lesions, ensure accurate impressions for molds, and improve cosmetic procedures. Patients are noticing the difference.

One of our Coast Dental Facebook fans posed this question:  Should you floss before or after you brush your teeth?
We took an informal poll and it turned out about half of our friends and family members did it one way, and the other half did it the other way.  Does it make a difference?
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It's a goal we all have: We want to walk into the dentist's office, hear that our teeth look great, get a routine cleaning, and then not have to think about going to the dentist again for another six months.

It can come as a shock when that doesn't happen.   You might think you're taking great care of your teeth: You brush twice a day, you floss somewhat regularly, and occasionally use a mouthwash.  So how can a dentist diagnose you with periodontal disease?