Root Canal vs Tooth Extraction: Which Is Right for You?
February 10, 2026
A tooth may crack for several reasons. Some of the common causes include direct trauma due to an accident or sports injury, and chronic teeth grinding.
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Effective TMJ Exercises to Ease Jaw Tension and Discomfort
February 10, 2026
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint. It’s the joint that connects your jaw to your skull and allows you to open, close, and move your mouth.
Understanding How Long Braces Take to Straighten Teeth
February 10, 2026
Braces correct bite issues, tooth gaps, prevent uneven wear on teeth, and improve the appearance of your smile.
What Happens When You Burn Your Tongue and How to Treat It?
February 9, 2026
Ouch. We all know that sensation very well. When you couldn't wait to take that first sip of hot coffee or soup, and regretted it right away. Burning your tongue is something most people experience multiple times.
Dental Floss Guide: How to Choose the Best Dental Floss for Your Smile
February 9, 2026
Sometimes, even after brushing, there are pieces of food that like to play hide-and-seek, and they’re really good at it. But don’t worry, because dental floss is your secret weapon for finding those hidden plaque and food particles.
What Causes Tooth Discoloration and How You Can Treat It?
January 13, 2026
Tooth discoloration: sounds like a pretty formal way to say “my teeth aren’t as white as they used to be,” doesn’t it? And it is. We dentists refer to your teeth taking on any shade other than their original, near-white shade as tooth discoloration.
How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?
January 13, 2026
Professional teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures today, with millions of Americans opting for the procedure each year. Whether you’re prepping for wedding photos, a job interview, or just want those pearly whites to shine a little brighter every time you flash a smile, teeth whitening offers immediate aesthetic benefits.
How Much Does Professional Teeth Whitening Cost?
January 13, 2026
Professional teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures today, with millions of Americans opting for the procedure each year.
Why Are My Teeth Yellow?
November 18, 2025
If you’ve ever spent time with an interior decorator, gone shopping for a wedding dress, or considered what color to paint your walls, you know that “white” isn’t just one color - it’s a spectrum. When it comes to teeth, you may be surprised to learn that they’re not naturally bright white. We often hear questions from our patients like “Why are my teeth yellow, even though I brush twice a day?”
Understanding Periodontal Disease: Causes, Treatment & Prevention
November 18, 2025
Periodontal disease is the term dentists use to describe gum disease. It’s a common condition that affects the gums, which surround and support your teeth.
The Ultimate Guide to Teeth Whitening: Options, Benefits, and Aftercare Tips for a Brighter Smile
November 18, 2025
We all have our vices. Things like a couple of glasses of red wine with dinner, that cup of joe (or three) to start your day, and smoking all take a toll on the color of your teeth. Whether you are getting ready for your wedding day, aren’t ready to give up on the things…
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Get Your Smile Vacation-Ready: Summer Dental Tips
July 22, 2025
Summer is here—time to travel, unwind, and enjoy the sunshine! But before you head out, take a moment to prep your smile with this easy Pre-Vacation Dental Checklist. From scheduling a cleaning and whitening treatment to packing a travel-sized dental kit and mouthguard, we’ve got all the tips to keep your smile healthy and photo-ready. Don’t let a dental issue interrupt your summer fun—get ahead of it now and enjoy every moment with confidence!
A Legacy of Smiles: 23+ Years of Trust at Riccobene Associates Family Dentistry
June 17, 2025
Janice King, a patient of Riccobene Associates Family Dentistry for over 23 years, shares how the welcoming, judgment-free care at the Garner office helped transform her smile and boost her confidence. Her experience highlights the practice’s dedication to patient education, trust, and long-term, compassionate care.
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The Importance of Night Guards: Protecting Your Teeth While You Sleep
May 7, 2025
Grinding or clenching your teeth at night—known as bruxism—can lead to jaw pain, headaches, worn enamel, and even TMJ disorders. Night guards offer a simple, effective way to protect your teeth while you sleep by creating a barrier that reduces pressure and friction. Custom-fitted night guards provide superior comfort and protection compared to over-the-counter options, helping prevent long-term dental damage and improve sleep quality.
ANNOUNCING THE COMPLETION OF LINE DEMPSEY’S TENURE AT CLEAR
October 14, 2024
Riccobene Associates Family Dentistry proudly announces the completion of Line Dempsey’s tenure as a Board Member and President for the Council on Licensure Enforcement and Regulation (CLEAR). Dempsey has been an invaluable asset to CLEAR, leveraging his extensive experience in regulatory practices and compliance to advance the organization's mission of promoting effective licensure and regulation.
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Clayton, NC Smiles On Us Day 2024
October 1, 2024
Riccobene Associates Family Dentistry hosted its Smiles on Us – Free Day of Dentistry event on September 7 in Clayton, NC, providing free dental care to the community. Open from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., the event served 170 patients, offering exams, cleanings, fillings, and extractions, with services totaling over $84,000. The Clayton office, established in 2007 and recently expanded to 26 operatory rooms, is part of Riccobene Associates’ mission to deliver high-quality, accessible dental care across North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia, with over 75 locations.
RAFD, Chief Compliance Officer, Line Dempsey is CLEAR President-Elect.
October 2, 2021
Riccobene Associates Family Dentistry is pleased to announce the election of Mr. Line Dempsey as President-Elect for the Council on Licensure, Enforcement and Regulation (CLEAR). CLEAR is an association of individuals, agencies, and organizations that comprise the international community of professional and occupational regulation. Line Dempsey is the Chief Compliance Officer for Riccobene Associates Family…
Welcome Lorri Detrick – Chief Operations Officer
October 2, 2021
Riccobene Associates Family Dentistry (RAFD) has hired Lorri Detrick to fill its Chief Operations Officer role. Prior to joining RAFD, Ms. Detrick most recently spent several years in professional consulting, engaging with clients around operations, technology, and M&A buy- and sell-side projects. Before consulting, she served as Chief Operations Officer for six years at a…
Smilestones has partnered with Riccobene Associates Family Dentistry
July 14, 2021
Dear Dental Family, I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you for your trust and confidence in allowing me to take care of your dental needs over the past 12 years. I have enjoyed every minute. It has been my singular honor to be your dentist. I am…
Transitioning From Dentures To Implants
October 26, 2020
For patients who are missing one, a few, or an entire arch of teeth, dentures can be a life-changing restorative option. However, their shorter lifespan, uncomfortable movement, and high-maintenance cleaning regimen cause many patients to make the transition to dental implants. After all, they have a whopping 95% success rate and can last 20+ years!…
4 Ways Your Smile Changes as You Age
June 8, 2020
It’s no secret, as you age, so does your smile. Teeth wear down as we chew our way through a lifetime of meals. Did you also know, teeth can move and shift well into adulthood? Here’s a roundup of 4 common changes orthodontists see in patients as they age: 1. Bottom teeth crowding As you…
Now Scheduling Treatment for all Dental Services!
May 4, 2020
Schedule An Appointment Today! Find an office nearest you!
Thank You to Our Teachers!
May 4, 2020
We sure do appreciate our teachers. It is now more important than ever to highlight the amazing work of our North Carolina educators. While the COVID-19 pandemic has brought about many challenges, day in and day out our local teachers are rising to meet these challenges. Their dedication, hard work and sacrifice deserve our…
Common Signs You Need Your Wisdom Teeth Extracted
May 1, 2020
Wisdom teeth are our third set of molars that usually come in during your late teens to early twenties. Over time our jaws have shrunk, leaving little room for the extra row of teeth, which is why they can cause pain and need to be extracted. Besides pain, what are some of the common signs…
