Mariya Barnett, DDS Blog

If you’ve looked in the mirror and noticed a dark line along the edge of your dental crown, you’re not alone. While it can be surprising to see, this black or gray line doesn’t always mean something is wrong with your oral health. In many cases, it’s simply the result of the type of crown that was used.

The good news? Today’s dental materials offer natural-looking alternatives that can eliminate the dark line and restore your confidence in your smile.

Scroll through social media for just a few minutes, and you’re bound to see someone showing off dramatic “before and after” photos using a whitening toothpaste, charcoal powder, LED light kit, or whitening strips they picked up at the local store. These products promise a brighter smile at a fraction of the cost of professional treatment, making them incredibly appealing.

But are these over-the-counter whitening products really as effective as they claim? The answer is a little more complicated than a simple yes or no.

If you’ve recently had a dental crown placed, or you’re considering getting one, you’re probably wondering how long it will last. The short answer is that it depends largely on you! While dental crowns are durable restorations designed to withstand everyday use, they aren’t indestructible. On average, a crown can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, and with the right care, many last even longer. That said, the habits you practice every day play a huge role in determining whether your crown lasts as long as it should. Here’s what you can do to make the most of your restoration.

If your dentist has recommended a dental crown, you might be feeling a little uncertain about what the process actually looks like. That’s completely understandable; most people have heard of crowns but aren’t quite sure what getting a dental restoration feels like. The good news is that getting a crown is a routine procedure, and knowing what to expect ahead of time can make the whole experience feel much more manageable. Here’s what you need to know.

If you have temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, then you may be all too familiar with the jaw pain it causes. You might be looking for ways you can get it treated, but who should you call? While you might want to reach out to your primary care physician, your dentist might be a better option. Here’s more about this condition and why your oral healthcare provider can be the person for the job.

March has arrived, meaning that the longer, warmer days of spring are just around the corner. But that’s not the only reason to have a sunnier disposition this month; there are also several religious celebrations and other events that take place this time of year that give you plenty to look forward to.

However, many of March’s festivities feature different foods and drinks that might hurt your dental health if you don’t take the proper precautions. Continue reading to learn about 3 foods that can be harmful so you can safeguard your smile!

When it comes to relationships, most people think about personality, communication, and shared interests. But what about your smile? The truth is, your oral health can affect your confidence, your breath, and even how comfortable you feel getting close to someone. But don’t panic! Many common dental issues are both treatable and preventable. Keep reading to see how your smile might be hindering your love life and learn how you can fix it.

Did you make a reasonable New Year’s resolution in 2026? Adding a small habit like flossing to your routine can make a big difference, but it requires a small amount of time and effort. However, even something as simple as flossing can be difficult to remember. How can you make sure you achieve your resolution? Follow these tips!

Dental insurance can be confusing. Period. It doesn’t help that there are so many terms you don’t typically come across in your day-to-day life. “Waiting period” is one of those terms that can trip people up and also happens to be vital to figuring out how much coverage you can expect for your appointment. Let’s talk about it so you can schedule accordingly and save money on dental care!

The holidays are filled with festive meals, sweet treats, and indulgent traditions—many of which aren’t exactly friendly to your teeth. While there’s nothing wrong with enjoying your seasonal favorites, being aware of the risks can help you avoid cracked teeth, cavities, and other emergencies during this busy time of year. Here are some of the most common holiday foods that can cause dental trouble and how to enjoy them more safely.