
What is Dental Prophylaxis?
A dental prophylaxis is a thorough dental cleaning that we provide for patients. Most patients receive a dental cleaning twice a year during routine appointments. Dental prophylaxis can also include a dental exam, fluoride treatment, or scaling and root planing for gum disease. Dr. Riley Hewgley provides dental prophylaxis treatment

Gum Disease Risk Factors
If your gums bleed when you brush and floss, it may be a sign of gum disease or periodontitis. Periodontitis is linked to the development of health problems such as diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. However, regular preventative dental care and comprehensive treatments can reverse the damage done by periodontitis.

Dr. Riley Hewgley Reviews
Dr. Riley Hewgley is a member of the American Dental Association and the North Carolina Dental Society. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive dental solutions to patients in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, and the surrounding areas. By providing complete general, restorative, and cosmetic services, Dr. Hewgley helps patients revitalize

Can Sports Mouthguards Treat Teeth Grinding?
Custom sports mouthguards are used to protect teeth during contact sports. However, sports mouthguards cannot treat bruxism, or teeth clenching and grinding. Dental mouthguards, or nightguards, are worn at night to stop tooth damage caused by bruxism. Although they seem similar, sports mouthguards and nightguards cannot be used interchangeably. Chapel

How to Handle a Dental Emergency
In the event of a dental emergency, please call Tarheel Dentistry at (919) 551-8847 as soon as possible so we can get you the care you need. Common dental emergencies to be aware of include a severe toothache, broken dental restorations, or a knocked-out tooth. Chapel Hill, North Carolina dentist

How to Improve Your Gum Health
Patients who neglect their gum health are at risk of developing further dental problems, including periodontitis, or gum disease. Gum disease can affect the health and function of your teeth and gums, as well as the supporting bone structure. At Tarheel Dentistry, Dr. Riley Hewgley treats periodontitis and dental concerns

In the Know: Tooth Extractions
Two top reasons for tooth extractions are damaged or decayed teeth. If teeth are not properly aligned, or if a tooth cannot pass through the gums, it will have to be removed. Other reasons for tooth extractions include severe pain caused by an impacted tooth, infected teeth or gums, gum

Why is Flossing So Important?
Flossing is a frequently skipped step of a home oral health routine, yet flossing every day can help prevent serious health conditions such as severe gum disease. While you may not enjoy having to floss every day, there are many reasons why so many dentists urge patients to do it

Patient Safety & New Office Protocol
Dear Current and Future Patients: We hope this letter finds you and your family in good health. Our community has been through a lot over the last few months, and all of us are looking forward to resuming our lives in the “new normal.” While many things have changed as