Cochell Family Dentistry Blog

Most people don’t think too much about their gums — until something goes wrong with them. Even if you think your gums are in perfectly good shape it is wise to be aware of subtle signs that indicate a problem is developing. Then, you will be able to seek professional help before the issue worsens to the point where extensive treatment is necessary. Let’s discuss how you can tell if your gums are healthy and… (Read More)

Do you want 2020 to be the year you embrace a new and improved smile? Maybe you’re tired of the stains, discoloration, chips, or cracks and are ready to take the next step in your oral health journey. If so, hear from a cosmetic dentist who shares which treatments are available that can fully transform the aesthetic of your smile, giving you the look you desire as you start the new year. (Read More)

Since it’s November, now is a good time to start thinking about your dental insurance benefits. Does your carrier’s plan run on the calendar year? If it does, then you are running out of time to utilize those benefits to the fullest – and both your wallet and your smile could end up paying a hefty price for it! Read on to learn why you should make an appointment with your dentist in Salem and… (Read More)

When it comes to scheduling dental procedures of any kind, many people tend to put it off until it’s absolutely necessary. While the reasons for this are many, some individuals point to fear, anxiety, or even time or financial constraints as to why they wait. With the end of the year quickly approaching, getting the most out of your dental insurance benefits is crucial to minimizing your costs at the dentist’s office. If you’re… (Read More)

At one time (not that long ago), dentists almost always pulled teeth that had cavities or other problems. Fortunately, modern dentists focus on prevention and restoration and only recommend extractions as a last resort. One of the main procedures used to repair a damaged tooth is a dental filling. Nearly everyone has gotten one at some point, but it’s still quite common for patients to be unsure of how fillings work. Another common question is,… (Read More)

Each year, dentists treat more and more patients suffering from gum disease. Also known as periodontal disease, more than 65 million people in the United States have some form it, many of whom don’t even realize they have symptoms. If you think your teeth are the only aspects of your smile you need to keep healthy, you’ll be surprised to learn just how crucial this soft tissue is to your overall well-being. Read on to… (Read More)

You just received your new porcelain veneers, and you couldn’t be happier with the results. Their sleek and natural look have other talking about how beautiful your smile is, which makes you grin bigger and bigger. But suddenly, while enjoying a nice glass of ice cold water, you start to chew and before you know it, you’ve chipped your brand new veneers. Although porcelain veneers are made to withstand much of the normal wear… (Read More)

Don’t you just hate it when you have a toothache and there doesn’t seem to be much you can do about it? The pain radiates through your mouth and head, leaving you wondering when you’ll have some relief. Toothaches can occur because of a wide variety of issues, but if you’re wondering what might be causing yours, let a dentist share 5 reasons you are experiencing pain in your teeth and what you can… (Read More)

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to work with your spouse or significant other? While many couples say they could never do, Drs. Travis and Christel Cochell make it look easy! As a family-led dentistry practice, they oftentimes work together to co-diagnose and formulate treatment plans for the same patients. Why? Because they can each bring their own unique skills, talents, and knowledge to provide patients with a higher level of… (Read More)

If you deal with tooth or jaw pain because you grind your teeth at night or throughout the day, you are not alone. Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a surprisingly common condition. Some estimates say that as much as 16 percent of the population deals with bruxism, many of them not realizing what is causing their discomfort. But there is good news — you can find treatment and relief by visiting… (Read More)