General Dentistry

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Gold wall clock above a small shelf holding a plant, a book and a glass, with a waiting-room armchair blurred behind.

Root Canal Cost in Massachusetts: 2026 Prices by Tooth

How much does a root canal cost in Massachusetts? Real 2026 prices by tooth type, what the crown adds, how insurance applies, and financing — from a Marlborough dentist.

June 14, 2026
9 min read
Illustration: four stages of tooth decay in a molar — a white spot on the enamel, a small brown spot through the enamel, decay into the dentin, and decay reaching the pulp.

What Does a Cavity Look Like? Signs, Stages & Fillings

What does a cavity look like? Early cavities show as white spots, then brown or black stains and visible holes. Here is how to spot decay at each stage, when it needs a filling, and what a filling costs.

June 14, 2026
9 min read
The 3D CBCT imaging unit at Innova Smiles in Marlborough, MA.

Hyperdontia: Symptoms, Causes & When to Remove Extra Teeth

What is hyperdontia (supernumerary teeth)? Learn why extra teeth grow, mesiodens symptoms, removal steps, and treatment options for kids and adults.

June 13, 2026
9 min read
Medical illustration showing a mouth ulcer with white center and red-pink border, and a hand with a dental probe near small circular lesions.

Canker Sores vs. Cold Sores: Causes & Treatment Guide

Canker sores and cold sores look similar but have entirely different causes and treatments. One is viral and contagious; the other is not. Here is how to tell them apart and when mouth sores need professional attention.

June 10, 2026
8 min read
Bedside table with ice water, cold compress, and comfort items arranged for post-procedure recovery.

Dry Socket After Tooth Extraction: Prevention and Treatment

Dry socket is the most common complication after tooth extraction, affecting 2-5% of extractions and up to 30% of wisdom tooth removals. Learn how to prevent it, recognize the symptoms, and what to do if it happens.

June 10, 2026
9 min read
Warm dental office reception area with a gold wall clock, wooden shelf displaying a white vase with eucalyptus, blue book, and amber candle.

How Long Does a Root Canal Take? 30–90 Minutes by Tooth

How long does a root canal take? Most appointments take 30 to 90 minutes. See molar vs. front tooth timelines, pain expectation & recovery steps.

April 18, 2026
8 min read
Illustration: soft, cool foods for the first days after an extraction — a green smoothie without a straw, yogurt with pear slices, applesauce, mashed avocado, scrambled eggs and mashed potatoes.

What to Eat After a Tooth Extraction: Day-by-Day Guide

A day-by-day guide to what you can (and should avoid) eating after a tooth extraction, from the first 24 hours through full healing. Includes meal ideas and nutrition tips to speed recovery.

April 18, 2026
9 min read
Dentist examining the jaw joint of a patient experiencing TMJ pain.

Jaw Popping & TMJ: Causes and Treatment Options

Jaw popping and clicking are among the most common signs of a TMJ disorder, which affects up to 10 million Americans along with jaw pain and headaches. Learn what causes a popping jaw, when it is worth treating, and the options, from simple self-care to night guards and targeted muscle-relaxation therapy.

March 4, 2026
9 min read
Smiling female dentist in white coat and blue scrubs consulting with patient in modern, bright dental office with overhead light and X-ray display visible.

Wisdom Teeth Removal: Cost, Recovery & Expectations

Wisdom teeth causing pain or swelling? Learn what affects removal cost, the recovery timeline, comfort options, and why Innova Smiles in Marlborough is MetroWest's trusted choice for comfortable third-molar surgery.

March 3, 2026
9 min read