David Leader, DMD, MPH
Dave Leader is an Associate Clinical Professor at Tufts Dental School in Boston, and a family dentist in Malden, Ma. Dr Leader is the Chairman of the Council on Dental Benefit Programs of the Massachusetts Dental Society. The Scleroderma Foundation named Dr Leader their 2008 Doctor of the Year. Dr Leader recently completed a Master of Public Health degree with a concentration in Health Communication at Tufts University and Emerson College in Boston. Married, father of 3 (one will attend Mount Sinai Medical School in NYC, one New England College of Optometry Class of 2015, and one will attend UMASS Lowell for Engineering).
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Education/Experience
Private Practice since 1985, Associate Clinical Professor, Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, MPH student, Tufts University, 85 DMD, Tufts University; 81 BA Art History, Emory UniversityMotto
Teach thy tongue to say I do not know, and thou shalt progress. MaimonidesAffiliations
The Malden Observer, Leader Dental Associates of Malden, Massachusetts, Tufts University School of Dental MedicineFavorites
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Displaying Results 1 - 122 (of 122) for All Content
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Winter RideA 17 syllable explanation for keeping my motorcycle ready to ride all winter. -
Diabetes - Can Your Dentist Uncover Your Secret?The Harvard University School of Public Health published guidelines in the January 2011 Journal of the American Dental Association advising dentists to screen patients for diabetes. Is this the future of dentistry? -
Do You like Your Smile?It is possible that you might not like the way your smile looks without knowing exactly what it wrong. Dentists have experience and tools available to help. -
How to Get Healthier with Twitter"Whoever said things have to be useful?" said Twitter co-founder Evan Williams. Evan, I agree that everything does not require utility. However, I hope that it does not bother you that the public health industry has found utility in Twitter. -
Treating Tooth Decay - More Than a Filling!CAMBRA, Caries Management By Risk Assessment, is a new system to aid dentists in diagnosis and treatment of high risk patients. -
How to Replace a Tooth Yourself Using TemptoothTemptooth is a simple technique for temporarily replacing single teeth with a safe material. -
Why Do I Need Bifocal Lenses?Ben Franklin's advancement was to create a single lens with two different strengths so that the wearer need not change glasses when looking near and far. -
How to Evaluate Medical ResearchHow trustworthy is medical research? How can health care providers and consumers evaluate studies? -
How Gum Disease Affects Your HealthStudies link periodontitis to cardiovascular disease including stroke and heart disease, diabetes and low birth weight. Dentists know this. -
Are You Paying Too Much for Dental Care?Understand why dentists must charge high fees and why insurance companies limit coverage. -
Why Choose a Dental School?Patients get quality care at a low price and the joy of graduation. -
Do the Elderly Need Dentists?There is never a birthday after which a dentist is not needed. There is no age that needs a dentist more or less. -
When Children Have Dental EmergenciesWhat to do when your child has a dental emergency. -
Students Volunteer at Clinic in Malden, Ma to Improve Oral HealthSharewood is a free clinic in Malden, Ma. where dental, medical and college students help the underserved. -
An Oral Health Checklist for Scleroderma PatientsSome scleroderma patients find it necessary to be more knowledgeable and proactive when caring for their oral health. -
Diabetes and Gum DiseaseA study published by the Cochrane Collaboration, shows that treating periodontal disease improves the condition of patients who have one form of diabetes, Type 2 or non-insulin dependent.
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What Does an Optometrist Do?Optometrists are eye doctors. Optometrists study all aspects of nonsurgical eye care in a four year program after college. Their degree is the "Doctor of Optometry" or "OD". Many people only see an Optometrist for an eye exam every year.
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How to Save Money on Dental CareThere are many inexpensive techniques to keep teeth healthy and prevent expensive dental set backs.
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Will Medicaid Enrollees in Massachusetts Lose Dental Coverage (Again)?The MassHealth Fact Sheet-FY11 H2 is misleading and works against the best interests of the Commonwealth.
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When Complete Dentures Are the AnswerWhile most people prefer to maintain their own, natural teeth, saving teeth is not always in the patient's best interest. When is it time to consider replacing all of the teeth with full dentures?
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Understanding Early Childhood CariesThe most common chronic disease of children - caries - is the most preventable.
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What is Informed Consent?Patients should also understand that physicians and dentists use informed consent to perform a dual purpose - inform their patient and protect themselves in case of legal action.
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Review: the Oral-B Triumph 9900 Electric Toothbrush with SmartGuideAttractive design, high build quality, and dependable electronics support the non-traditional brush of the Oral-B Triumph 9900 with SmartGuide.
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Avoid Infection by Avoiding AntibioticsSometimes, an antibiotic may be more likely to cause an infection than cure one.
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Oral-B Super Floss EvaluatedThere should be a special prize for any product that simplifies flossing. Oral-B's Super Floss is such a product.
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Oral-B Professional Care SmartSeries 5000 Rechargeable Power Toothbrush ReviewThe Oral-B Professional Care SmartSeries 5000 Rechargeable Power Toothbrush is a valuable device for maintaining oral health and appearance.
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Bridge or Implant - What is the Best Way to Replace a Tooth?Today, there are more options than before. Two of the most common techniques to replace a single tooth are the three unit fixed bridge and the implant retained crown.
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Colorectal Cancer ScreeningThe American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates that in 2009, there will be over 100,000 new cases of colon cancer, nearly 41,000 cases of rectal cancer and nearly 50,000 deaths from colorectal cancer.
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Removable Partial DenturesDentists help patients base their choice on comfort, cost, convenience and health. For cost and convenience, it is hard to beat removable partial dentures.
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Is the Internet the Best Choice for Oral Health Information?While it is possible to use the Internet to find information on any subject such as oral health, it may be difficult to determine which information is trustworthy.
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Reasons to Call Your DentistThere are many indications you should see a dentist, some are serious.
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What Causes Cavities?If the patient and the dentist do not understand the cause of tooth decay, repairs are short lived.
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(SB) Small dental practice near Boston still strongThe economic downturn affects a small dental practice near Boston.
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Massachusetts Dentists Lobby for Pro Oral Health LegislationOn May 20, 2009, more than 100 members of the Massachusetts Dental Society (MDS) will swarm the statehouse to support legislation promoting oral health in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
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Cosmetic Dentistry "Please Straighten My Front Teeth"There are many techniques for straightening front teeth or making them appear straight. Read this article, then speak with your dentist.
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Sensitive Teeth - Diagnosis and TreatmentThe treatment for sensitive teeth ranges from brushing with a special toothpaste to expensive dental treatments. Prevention is much easier.
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Volunteers Provide Medical and Dental Care in Great Barrington, MassachusettsCountry wide, VIM staff include over 7500 volunteer physicians, dentists, optometrists, nurses, dental hygienists and other support staff. The only VIM clinic in Massachusetts is in Great Barrington.
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The Dental ExaminationDentists and dental hygienists are very serious about regular dental examinations. It may be the most important service we provide.
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Porcelain Laminate Veneers - What Are They Good For?What are porcelain laminate veneers good for? Why should people consider veneers?
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GERD Gastroesophageal RefluxGastroesophageal Reflux Disease or GERD is a common ailment. It can cause esophageal ulcers and cancer. Also, GERD causes dental disease. This article outlines diagnosis and treatment of GERD.
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Ditropan (Oxybutynin) Causes Xerostomia/Dry Mouth/Cotton MouthThe same chemical trickery that Ditropan uses to aid bladder control causes xerostomia, dry mouth or cotton mouth.
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My Experience with Canker SoresA physician misdiagnoses an outbreak of canker sores as a Herpes simplex infection. Most dentists learn the difference early in dental school.
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Mouth Sores? See Your DentistDentists know how to diagnose and treat the most common oral infections and conditions.
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A New Patient's First Visit to Tufts University School of Dental MedicineThere are 57 dental schools in the United States and 10 more in Canada. Additionally, there are many more schools of dental hygiene. What is the first appointment like for a new patient?
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Oral Surgery - Before and AfterExpect dentists to spend time with their patient before and after the surgical procedure to ensure success than during the procedure.
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When Mouth Pain is Not Dental PainThere are some very interesting causes of oral-facial pain that dentists should consider. Some are more common. Some are quite unusual. Some diagnoses herald chronic disease. Some diagnoses demand a quick trip to the hospital emergency room.
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Motorcycle Rental with Eagle RiderEagle Rider is an international chain of over 80 motorcycle rental centers in the United States, Europe, Mexico and Australia.
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Riding the Yamaha Zuma 50cc ScooterThe Yamaha Zuma is an economical, reliable scooter, and it's fun to ride. No wonder it is so popular.
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What is Root Canal Treatment?What is root canal treatment? Why do we need it? Who should provide this treatment?
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Foods for Healthy Teeth/Protecting Teeth with Healthy NutritionToday, more than ever, mothers need to know what foods will support the oral health of their children.
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Disability Plates for Motorcycles in MassachusettsThe Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) distributes blue plates and placards to motorcyclists who are eligible.
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Studies Question Wisdom Tooth ExtractionMany do not realize that there is a controversy in the dental community regarding the advisability of prophylactic wisdom tooth (third molar) extraction.
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Consumers Will Ride the Internet to Motorbike InformationIt is no wonder that motorbikes are becoming the new status symbol for the smart consumer. Smart consumers will ride the Internet to sites with sales and information of motorbikes and accessories.
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Licensing Mopeds, Scooters and Motorcycles in MassachusettsAs gas skyrockets and the skies warm, people flock to buy motorbikes. It is important to understand the rules of motorbikes.
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Fighting Cavities, Dentistry's Most Important RoleThe more dentistry expands and improves, the more society pressures dentistry to treat the classic dental problem, tooth decay.
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The Close Relationship of Medicine and DentistryDentists and physicians understand that oral health is likely to impact on any medical condition, and many medical conditions and their treatments may affect oral health.
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Jaw Pain, the TMJ, and Your DentistThe most vexing of dental ailments effects the muscles and joint that allow for the lower jaw to move.
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Morning Sickness and Oral HealthWhat causes morning sickness? What can women and their significant others do to help them feel better? What does any of this have to do with oral health?
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How Dental Insurance is Improving Subscribers' HealthDental insurance companies recognize the relationship between oral health and general health.
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How to Become a Dentist: Are You Ready?From college to dental school and beyond, it is not easy to become a dentist.
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Are Improvements to the MassHealth Dental Program Increasing Access to Care?The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is changing MassHealth. Are these changes attracting enough dentists to become providers for MassHealth? What does organized dentistry think of the changes? Are MassHealth insured finding it easier to obtain care?
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The Denture Owners ManualWhen buying a car or a motorcycle, there is the all important Owner's Manual. Consider this article the Denture Owner's Manual.
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Bad Tastes in Your Mouth in the Morning? Patients Beware of GERD!There are a few common causes of bad taste. The some causes should receive treatment. There is no treatment for other causes.
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Root Canal Treatment or Dental Implant - Which is Best?Patients and dentists often face a complex dilemma - whether to save a tooth using root canal treatment and a permanent restoration (a filling or a crown), or remove that tooth and replace it with a dental implant and a crown.
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Sports Mouthguards: Which is the Best?There are three kinds of mouthguards. Which is the best?
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How to Become a Patient at Tufts Dental School in Boston, MassachusettsTufts University School of Dental Medicine (TUSDM) is a premier teaching institution and a premier oral health care facility. Dentists all over New England refer their patients to Tufts for general and specialty treatment.
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Pain After Dental TreatmentTeeth with new fillings, crowns, and root canal treatment may develop pain due to the original decay, trauma, the filling material, bonding agents or technique. The pain may subside in a few days, weeks or not at all.
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The Skin of Your Teeth: Porcelain and Composite Veneers and LumineersThere are a variety of techniques to whiten teeth. A dentist guides a fictitious patient in her choice of treatment.
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How Rheumatoid Arthritis Affects Oral HealthPeople who suffer with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) live with an array of symptoms that range from mild to debilitating. The obvious effects of RA are on the joints of the the hands, wrists, knees and feet. Less well known are the myriad effects on oral health.
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Motorcycle and Scooter Helmet Visor ArtCombine the tinted visor and a rich design, and find a new addition to the cyclist's design arsenal, helmet visor art.
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How to Relieve Motorcycle and Scooter Throttle Hand PainTo maintain speed, the rider must grip the throttle and hold it in position. The constant gripping force tires the muscles of the hand. Work past the pain, or mask the pain with medication, and repetitive strain injury can result.
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Oral Health Side Effects of MedicationsMany medications have unintended results called side effects. When medications cause oral health side effects, your dentist can be very helpful.
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Pedodontist - The Dentist for Children"... you take your child to a Pediatrician and not your own primary-care Doctor. So why would you not take your child to a Pediatric Dentist, instead of your own General Dentist?"
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Doral to Administer MassHealth's Dental Program Beginning in FebruaryDoral Dental USA, a for profit subsidiary of Dental Services of Massachusetts AKA Delta Dental Of Massachusetts, will become the administrator of Massachusetts' Medicaid dental plan.
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Tighten Loose DenturesMany people find that pastes and powders are enough to tighten their loose dentures. When adhesives don't work, there are ways your dentist can help.
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New England Roads Are an Amusment Park for Motorcyclists and ScooteristsPart travelogue, part equipment report, and instructions on what to pack for a long motorcycle tour, those who prefer two wheel travel over four will find plenty of entertainment and education in this piece. Three men ride 600 miles through New England.
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The American Dental Association's New Guidelines for Dental X-raysDentists around the world will read "The Use of Dental Radiographs - Update and Recommendations," by the American Dental Association's Council on Scientific Affairs. What will change?
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Can You Get Rid of Canker Sores? Dealing With Aphthous UlcersCanker sores or aphthous ulcers are an uncomfortable condition that lasts a short time and does not require treatment. What causes this problem? How is it treated?
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The American Dental Association's New Fluoride GuidelinesAccording to the American Dental Association, some people may not benefit from professional fluoride treatments.
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Scooters - 11 Reasons Not to Buy OneAs gas prices soar, more articles tout the advantages of riding to work on two wheels. While more people join the scootering crowd, it becomes very important to remember why scooters are not right for all.
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Bisphosphonates, Osteonecrosis of the Jaw, and Your DentistBisphosphonates are an important and useful family of medications. Recently, a side effect of these medications causes some to question their value. Learn valuable ways to prevent Osteonecrosis of the Jaw, and keep taking bisphosphonates.
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Medium Size Scooters Are Great Beginner BikesA lightweight motor bike with moderate power is easy to handle at high and low speeds than a powerful sport bike. While any two-wheeled vehicle has inherent danger, riding small to midsize bikes will reduce some of those risks for new riders.
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Halitosis: Many Causes and Treatments of Bad BreathVarious ailments, foods and hygiene practices affect mouth odor. There is not a single way to treat halitosis.
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Reality TV Show Idea: Applying to CollegeCollege applications are a rite of passage for most high school graduates. A reality show follows a small number of high school seniors and their families from the end of their junior year of high school until they receive their college acceptances.
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100 Miles on a Genuine Stella ScooterThe Genuine Stella is a new scooter that is exactly like a classic Vespa with the front brake upgraded to a disc and an electric starter. The fit and finish may not be as high as the Italian job, but the price (under $3000.00) is not as high either.
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The Honda Reflex Scooter - Can't Live Without ItThis scooter can carry an adult at comfortable highway speeds and get 60 miles to the gallon. This trouble-free motorbike does not require special attention or excessive maintenance. The price of $5500.00 for the base model makes this scooter expensive.
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New Vaccine from Merck Prevents Cervical Cancer, Genital Warts and May Help Prevent Oral CancerMerck's new human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccine prevents most cervical cancer and venerial warts. Additionally, it may help prevent some oral cancer.
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Dental Floss: Cleaning Between TeethFlossing is the standard of care for cleaning between teeth. Manufacturers offer many devices and medicaments that clean between teeth, but not one matches the effect of floss.
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How to Replace One Missing Tooth - Bridge or ImplantWhen adults loose a tooth, the first job of the dentist is to assist their patient with the decision of how to replace that tooth.
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How to Recement a CrownIn many cases, people can temporarily recement their loose crown just like a dentist.
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Sugar and Artificial Sweeteners and Tooth DecayWhich sweeteners are natural sugars, which are not, and which are safe for kids?
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Root Canal TreatmentRoot canal treatment is the removal of tissue and debris from the inside of a tooth's root and filling the space with an inert material to prevent infection or reinfection. A tooth may require this treatment due to infection, trauma and misalignment..
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Choosing Which Toothpaste You Should BuyToothpaste manufacturers provide so many kinds of toothpaste for two reasons. First, people have different dental problems and benefit from different toothpastes. Also, more kinds of toothpaste mean more shelf space for that manufacturer.
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Risk Factors for Oral CancerOral cancer can be disfiguring and deadly. Nearly 30,000 new cases of oral cancer will be diagnosed in the United States this year. Over 7,000 oral cancer related deaths are expected.
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Choosing a DentistChoosing a dentist is not the same as finding a life partner or even a business partner. Some people will go to the dentist near their home or office. Others will scour the yellow pages. Suggestions for locating the dentist who is right for you.
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Effort to Expose MassHealth Dental System and Improve Care for PoorHealth Care for All v. Mitt Romney is an effort to expose the weaknesses in the MassHealth dental system. The primary problem is the small number of providers.
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US District Court Rules that Massachusetts Medicaid Must ImproveJudge Zobel Rules that Massachusetts must improve Medicaid dental program for enrollees under 21 years old. Many improvements will be on-line soon.
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Choosing a First GuitarAfter choosing to play guitar, the next decision is which guitar to purchase.There are a few major styles of guitar. Steel string acoustic, classical guitars, and electric guitars. The wrong choice may discourage a new gutarist.
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Buying a 50 CC Scooter in MassachusettsSome believe that there are advantages to purchasing a small 50 cc scooter or moped as a first motorbike. In Massachusetts, some disadvantages make buying a 50 cc bike a mistake for many.
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Porcelain Veneers - Straighten Teeth FastPorcelain veneers can change the color and shape of teeth in a dramatic way. For many people, years of stain and wear, or misalignment are corrected in days with veneers.
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Gum Disease - Prevent Periodontitis and Tooth LossSometimes, the only way to know if you have gum disease is to ask a dentist to examine your teeth. There are different types of gum disease. Early gum disease is easy to treat. Later, the cost of treatment may seem prohibitive.
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The Masonic Child ID Program (CHIP)The Mason's CHIP began in New York to aid with finding missing and runaway children. Soon after, the first CHIP event in Massachusetts was held in 1996. Since its inception, over 225,000 different children have been processed by CHIP volunteers.
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Which Toothbrush Should You Buy?The most important question for a dentist is which toothbrush design to recommend to patients. Michael Garvey's job is to educate dental office staff on the advantages of Oral-B products. Independant testing oraganizations disagree with Oral-B.
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Tongue Piercing Source of Possible InfectionDon't pierce your tongue or lip. If you choose to pierce, against medical advice, carefully research your choice of piercer as you would a dentist or physician.
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Scleroderma and DentistryScleroderma affects dental health 4 ways. By making the mouth smaller and the lips tighter, causing dry mouth, and by causing depression. Medications to treat scleroderma have oral health effects, as well.
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Raise Your Self-Esteem with an Extreme Dental MakeoverTelevision shows like "Extreme Makeover" demonstrate how modern dental techniques can improve appearance. Improved appearance can help to increase self-esteem.
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A Weekend at a Dental ConventionDentistry is always changing. Dental conventions are an important and fun way that dentists and associated professionals stay up to date.
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Extensive Dental Treatment for a ChildCaries is the most common disease of childhood. Nearly half of all 4-year-old children have at least one cavity. Dentists and physicians recommend early dental visits.
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Dental Emergency?There are times when a dentist is needed right away. What is an emergency? What should you do if you have one?
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Caring For Baby TeethYour child's first dental appointment should be before his or her first birthday. Baby teeth are very important to children's mental and physical health.
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Veterinary DentistryGood dental health will help your cat or dog live longer and be healthier. If you think that your pet may have a dental problem due to odor or their behavior, please speak with their vet.
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Whitening Teeth with Bleach and FillingsSome of the techniques that turn back the dental clock are very simple and inexpensive. Tooth colored fillings can replace aging silver ones. Then, you may decide to whiten your teeth.
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Inexpensive Dental Care in MassachusettsIn Massachusetts, there are dental services available to low-income families to help them afford dental treatment. This article lists some of those programs and locations.
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Help Wanted - Opportunities in Dentistry in MassachusettsInside each dental office, there are a variety of positions representing a wide range of education, experience and training. As the school year begins you may find yourself considering a dental career.
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Dental ImplantsWhen a single tooth is lost and must be replaced there are few alternatives. The implant-supported crown is the solution that will look and feel the most like the tooth it replaces.
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A Guide to Dental InsuranceThink of dental insurance as a gamble with low odds and rules that benefit the house. Know what you are getting and how your insurance plan works.
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Misaligned Teeth - MalocclusionDental treatment, growth, habits and accidents are all causes of uneven bites. All types of malocclusion are treatable.
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Brain Injury PreventionAbout 1.5 million people suffer from traumatic brain injuries (TBI) every year. Prevention is important and involves common sense measures that are readily available.
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The Art of Denture FabricationThe new denture wearer learns to use new dentures to talk, eat and smile. Recreating or improving a smile with false teeth is an art. The dentist is most successful if no one notices the final product.
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Dentures - Are They Right for You?Dentures are a poor replacement for natural teeth. Complete dentures never feel like the teeth they replace. For the dentist who offers this treatment option there must be compassion and sensitivity. For the patient there must be understanding.
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XerostomiaXerostomia is the lessening or lack of saliva. It may be the side effect of medication, radiation treatment or the autoimmune disease, Sjogrens syndrome. Usually, the best treatment is advice from your dentist or hygienist on how to decrease the effects.
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Thumb Sucking: Breaking the HabitFinger habits such as thumb sucking start before birth. This habit can be very hard to break. This article discusses ways that parents can help their children stop.