Using music to manage dental anxiety

by Cierra Eaton |

Every time I told someone that I wanted to be a dentist, the most common response I received was, “No offense, but I hate dentists.” But why do people fear the dentist? Dental anxiety is a very common problem that may cause patients to avoid making regular visits to the dentist. Patients with dental anxiety have been shown to have a higher risk of periodontal disease and subsequently, tooth loss from delayed treatment. Common symptoms of dental anxiety include loss of sleep before the appointment, nervousness, crying, nausea, trouble breathing or panic attacks. With this in mind, how can dentists help reduce that anxiety and stress for the sake of their patients’ well-being?

I’m a music lover, so I definitely plan to have music playing in my future dental practice. For me, any genre of music can help reduce my stress levels, yet I often find myself gravitating towards “easy listening” music for this purpose. This observation raises an interesting question: can playing a certain style of music subconsciously ease a patient’s dental anxiety? Studies have shown that music can be used to lower blood pressure, reduce pain, relieve anxiety, and influence mood. This suggests that dentists can use music to their patients’ benefit, rather than simply for enjoyment.

Classical music has been shown in many studies to be one of the most relaxing styles of music. A 2011 systematic review published in the JBI Library of Systematic Reviews examining the effectiveness of of musical intervention on dental anxiety found that patients exposed to soothing piano music prior to treatment reported statistically significant lower intraoperative dental anxiety scores. A 2008 study published in the Medscape Journal of Medicine also found that patients listening to slow movements of Mozart’s piano sonatas exhibited a reduction in systemic stress hormone levels, which was subsequently associated with a reduction in blood pressure and heart rate. While the exact physiological mechanisms of how this occurs still require further investigation, it is suggested that music serves to engage cognitive attention, which can distract patients from pain.

All types of music can be used to help reduce pain and dental anxiety, but classical and soothing, piano music have specifically been found to reduce intraoperative tension, blood pressure and heart rate. So, next time you are treating a patient with dental anxiety, consider giving your patient a few moments to listen to soothing classical music, or even their favorite tunes, to feel more comfortable in the chair. If anything, this small gesture can go a long way in building more harmony in your patient-provider relationship.

~Cierra Eaton, Missouri-Kirksville ’18

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Sources:

Using music to manage dental anxiety. (2016, May 13). Retrieved June 21, 2016, from http://www.asdablog.com/musical-management-of-dental-anxiety

5 Ways to Fresher Breath in the Morning

5 Ways to Fresher Breath in the Morning

Love waking up to the smell of coffee? Think twice before you reach for a cup! Your daily dose of Joe — and other habits that can easily escape your notice — could be giving you a bad case of morning breath. But fear not! Bad breath, or "halitosis", doesn't have to ruin your day. Nip the problem in the (taste)buds by giving these simple tips a try:

1. Cut the caffeine.

Coffee isn't the only beverage in town that can leave your breath less than fresh. Gulping down certain teas and energy drinks for a morning buzz may result in bad breath if they contain caffeine, which can inhibit the production of saliva. When the mouth is too dry, it allows oral bacteria, the main purveyor of halitosis, to flourish. To jumpstart the mind and body without this unpleasant side effect, turn to morning stretches and a refreshing smoothie or citrus-infused water instead. If you have to consume caffeinated beverages, be sure to hydrate with multiple glasses of water.

2. Stop smoking.

Besides putting you at risk for lung cancer, smoking cigarettes can stain your teeth and cause your breath to smell bad, dealing your oral health a double whammy. From the combustion of chemical additives to the tiny smoke particles left in your throat and lungs, it's almost inevitable that your breath ends up tasting and smelling stale. If you feel the urge to take a puff in the morning, distract yourself by doing light chores, or going for a quick walk. Obviously, a smoking habit may cause a more chronic breath problem, so quitting cigarettes and other forms of tobacco is your best bet for a more permanent solution.

3. Don't skip breakfast.

Pass on the coffee and cigarettes, but eat breakfast — and a nutritious one at that! After a long night's sleep, your mouth could benefit from a boost in saliva production, and a good meal is the perfect way to do it. Grab an apple for its high water content and crunchiness, both of which can help cut down on odor-causing bacteria. Yogurt and eggs can also promote saliva production while giving you a healthy serving of calcium and vitamin D. Get creative, but be selective, as some of your favorite breakfast foods may include not-so-breath-friendly ingredients such as garlic or onions.

4. Do a better job of brushing and flossing.

You're running late, but if there's one thing you shouldn't rush, it's your morning dental routine. From stuck food particles to gingivitis and even nasty tonsil stones, it all adds up to one major case of halitosis if left unchecked. For mornings where standard brushing and flossing doesn't seem to do the trick, get a deeper clean by scraping the gunk off your tongue and gargling with mouthwash. If you find yourself flying out the door and forgetting about your oral hygiene frequently, keep a travel-sized dental kit in your bag or at the office for convenience.

5. Check (and change) your sleeping habits.

More often than not, bad breath is noticeable the moment you wake up. The problem may not be what you eat or drink, or even how your brush and floss. Instead, it could be how you breathe during your sleep. Breathing orally throughout the night can quickly turn your mouth into a haven for oral bacteria, resulting in a parched sensation and an unpleasant odor. Depending on the severity of the situation, your dentist may recommend surgery, but something as simple as having a glass of water, sugar-free lozenge, or a humidifier on hand at night can help keep your mouth moist.

Let Your Dentist Have a Look

In some cases, morning breath that persists despite your efforts to remedy it may signal something more serious, from cavities and tooth infections, to diabetes and liver and kidney problems. Play it safe by seeing your dentist. He or she can help you determine and treat the root cause more efficiently, and provide you with a personalized treatment plan to rid yourself of the problem for good.

7 Surprising Foods That Are Staining Your Teeth

7 Surprising Foods That Are Staining
Your Teeth

Wine, coffee and tea–it's the trifecta of tooth-staining foods that almost everyone knows to avoid in order to protect their pearly whites. These beverages, however, are just the beginning of a long list of foods that can sabotage your smile, and chances are that many are flying undetected right under your very nose! From condiments to candy, put these sneaky offenders on your radar to keep tooth discoloration at bay.

Common Tooth-Staining Foods

1. Tomato-Based Meals
The high acidity level of tomatoes coupled with their bright red color can pack quite the punch on the enamel of your teeth. From your mom's homemade spaghetti sauce or soup, or your favorite brand of ketchup, constant exposure to even the smallest of doses can be damaging.

2. Curries
As rich in color as they are in flavor, many spice blends rank high in staining power, due to brightly colored ingredients such as turmeric and saffron. Over time, their pigments can leave a yellowish tint on your teeth.

3. Dark Sauces
Whether it's food infused with soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, or other dark liquid, you can bet that eating enough of it will also dim your smile. If it's the base of your meal, there's a definite risk to the enamel of your teeth, but even side dips can be just as harmful because they are often more concentrated.

4. Clear Soda
Dark sodas already get a lot of notoriety for discoloring teeth, but don't switch to clear soda just yet! While its lighter color can make it seem like the better choice for those who love soda, it's still high in sugars that can eat away at tooth enamel and leave them prone to staining.

5. Fruit Juices and Berries
Fruit is undeniably nutritious, and many juices now come with no sugar added, but fructose is still a form of sugar, and it is bad news for tooth enamel. In fact, the darker color of certain fruits and juices–such as blueberry or grape–can have a staining effect similar to wine.

6. Sports Drinks
Because their makers often do a masterful job of promoting rehydration and electrolyte replacement, it's easy to overlook the sugar content and bright, fluorescent colors. Similar to soda and fruit juice, however, both the pigment and sugary nature of these drinks can leave your teeth less than white in no time.

7. Hard Candies and Popsicles
If they can turn your tongue into a rainbow of colors in a matter of seconds, just think of what they can do to your teeth! Even if consumed occasionally, prolonged sucking puts the surface of your teeth in direct contact with sugar, acid and dye–resulting in tooth decay as well as discoloration.

Tips To Prevent Tooth Staining

Cutting out many of these problem foods can go a long way in keeping your smile sparkling, but it may be unrealistic to avoid certain foods completely. Here's how you can help protect your teeth from sugary, acidic and/or colorful food:

• Eat thoroughly, but quickly to minimize any contact with the tooth's surface
• Use a straw to help bypass most of your teeth when drinking beverages
• Drink plenty of water during and after meals to wash away food particles
• Brush and floss your teeth after meals to help prevent stains from setting in
• Use whitening toothpaste to help remove stains and keep teeth sparkling

Professional Treatment Options

In addition to practicing good hygiene and being more mindful about your diet choices, professional dental care can do wonders in keeping your smile bright. Seeing your dentist regularly for a cleaning and checkup can help prevent and detect tooth staining, and there are many cosmetic whitening procedures that can remedy existing discoloration, whether mild or severe. Schedule a visit with your dentist for the optimal treatment plan for you.

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Sources:

7 Foods That Are Secretly Staining Your Teeth. (2014, Feb. 7). Retrieved June 5, 2015, from http://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/foods-that-stain-teeth

Foods and Habits That Stain Your Teeth. (2009, Nov. 10). Retrieved June 3, 2015, from http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/foods-stain-teeth-feature?page=2

Lee, Robert. (2014, October 24). 7 Foods and Drinks that are Staining Your Teeth. Retrieved June 2, 2015, from http://esteemdental.com/7-foods-drinks-staining-teeth/

Mystery Solved: The Story on Canker Sores

Mystery Solved: The Story on Canker Sores

Canker sores are quite literally a sensitive issue, but someone has to talk about it! What are canker sores (or "stomatitis"), why do they appear, and what can be done about them? Anyone who's ever had mouth sores can attest to the fact that they are just as embarrassing as they are painful, but simply suffering through them does you no good. Get the facts on this common problem to take control of the situation before another outbreak.

How to Tell If It's a Canker Sore

Because they are similar in name and can appear within fairly close proximity of each other, canker sores are often confused with cold sores. An easy way to tell the difference right off the bat is by checking to see if it's on the inside or outside of your mouth. Cold sores, which are viral and highly contagious in nature, will appear outside of the mouth, on or close to the lip area. Canker sores, on the other hand, are not contagious and emerge along the insides of your cheeks, gums and the roof of your mouth. If you spot an inflammation with a white center and red border inside your mouth, and it causes sensitivity or soreness when talking or eating, it's most likely a canker sore.

What Causes Canker Sores

Considering that stomatitis is often chronic, those who experience canker sores due to an injury, or eating something overly acidic, might actually consider themselves lucky. Otherwise, recurring flare-ups can be expected, especially if your case is connected to underlying conditions such as:

·  Stress	·  Menstruation	·  HIV & Other Blood Disorders
·  Food Allergies	·  Crohn's Disease	·  Lupus
·  Genetics	·  Immune Disorders	·  Fatigue
·  Orthodontic Treatment	·  Vitamin Deficiencies	·  Chemotherapy

It is also worth noting that canker sores tend to be more common in teens, young adults and women.

Ways to Ease the Pain

On average, canker sores usually last between 7 and 10 days. While there is no way to rid yourself of a canker sore once it emerges, there are plenty of things you can do to alleviate the discomfort until it heals, such as:

• Try an over-the-counter gel or painkiller for immediate relief
• Steer clear of spicy, acidic and/or hot foods to avoid aggravating open sores
• Rinse with water or mouthwash regularly to keep the sores free of food particles
• Brush and floss with extra care to prevent unnecessary contact and/or added trauma

Understanding what caused the outbreak can also help you take preventative measures to minimize the chance of future flare-ups. If sores are food or allergy related, for example, simply steering clear of triggers can keep stomatitis at bay.

When Professional Care is Necessary

If painful sores persist past the ten-day period, are over a half-inch wide, and/or are accompanied by other symptoms such as diarrhea, joint pain, rashes or fever, see a dentist as soon as possible. Depending on the severity of your situation, he or she may prescribe medication, surgery, or recommend diagnostic tests. Even if your symptoms are mild, a dental exam can help rule out serious health concerns that could be causing the problem, and give you peace of mind.

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Sources:

Canker Sore. (2015, March 19). Retrieved June 1, 2015 from http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/canker-sore/basics/causes/con-20021262

Canker Sores: Causes and Treatments. (2009). Retrieved June 1, 2015 from https://www.deltadentalins.com/oral_health/canker-sores.html

Fact or Fiction? Five Popular Tooth Myths Debunked

Forget the tooth fairy! Far too many tales are being told about teeth and it's time to clear the air. Popular claims that range from scary to wacky and everything in between are about to be debunked. Find out if you've been acting on bad advice.

1. "White teeth are healthy teeth."

Pearlier does not necessarily mean healthier. In some instances, extremely white teeth can signal a lack of calcium or an excessive intake of fluorides. Whitening ingredients integrated in many toothpaste and mouthwash products can also create the image of perfection, but don't let your brighter smile deceive you. Just beyond the surface may lurk cavities, gum disease and other dental issues.

2. "Pregnant women should hold off on dental care until after the baby is born."

On the contrary, getting regular professional dental care, if not increasing the number of visits, is strongly encouraged during this time. According to the American Dental Association, pregnant women are more likely to develop gingivitis, a condition caused by an infection of the gums that can result in bleeding, sensitivity and loss of tooth support. "Pregnancy tumors", or mulberry-shaped lumps between the teeth can also emerge, although they are non-cancerous. They should go away after pregnancy, but can also be removed by an aesthetician. Pregnant women should be sure to inform their dentist of their pregnancy so treatment plans can be adjusted accordingly. Certain procedures and medications may be tabled to avoid any risks to the baby's health.

3. "Food that is too hot or cold will crack your teeth."

Yes, cracks or "craze lines" can be a result of extreme temperature changes absorbed by your teeth, but these are typically too shallow to pose a major threat to your oral health. If you do spot a crack, it's always wise to have a dentist look at it; in the rare instance that the crack is a deep one, chewing can cause it to widen and expose sensitive nerves.

4. "Don't worry too much about brushing baby teeth, because they fall out anyway."

Yes, baby teeth eventually fall out — but passing poor dental habits on to your child can cause a lifetime of oral health problems. Teaching your child to brush and floss regularly can save him or her from painful cavities and gum disease now and in the future.

5. "Bleaching your teeth is bad for you."

Nowadays, in-office bleaching services use PH neutral solutions that are perfectly safe for your teeth. The treatment may cause tooth sensitivity, but only temporarily. If anything, it is the popular whitening trays bought over the counter that may prove problematic; prolonged immersion of the teeth in highly concentrated gels can cause lasting trauma. There is always a chance that an element of truth exists in the things you hear, but unless the advice comes from your dentist, don't let it impact your approach to oral care. Get a professional opinion on dental matters or questions that interest you during your next appointment, or if you're pressed for time, call your dentist for immediate clarification.

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Sources: Borreli, L. (2014, October 10). Oral Hygiene: 6 Dental Care Myths That May Be killing Your Pearly Whites.Retrieved June 1, 2015 from http://www.medicaldaily.com/oral-hygiene-6-dental-care-myths-may-be-killing-your-pearly-whites-306697 Davis, H. (n.d.). 8 Popular Tooth Myths Debunked. Retrieved June 1, 2015 at http://www.popularmechanics.com/science/health/g1249/8-popular-tooth-myths-debunked/

Oral Health and Myth

A New York Dental Office, we are regularly asked questions about oral health, and some of the things we hear are based on myth rather than reality. It is normal for dental myths to circulate throughout the community, but a few can lead to unhealthy habits, so it is important to visit our dental office to ask questions if you have them. This way, we can make sure you are armed with the correct information that can lead to healthy teeth and gums. In the meantime, here are some truths you should know.

Myth #1: Natural sugar is not bad for your teeth.

The Truth – All sugar is bad for your teeth. Whether it is found in fruit juice, honey, etc., the more sugar and starch that you eat and drink, the more likely you are to get cavities. We recommend that you brush your teeth after eating and rinse your mouth after drinking juice, milk, or anything else high in sugar.

Myth #2: Baby teeth do not matter since they are going to fall out anyway.

The Truth – Baby teeth are incredibly important. We encourage parents to take care of their children’s baby teeth by brushing and flossing them on a daily basis and visiting our dental office for a professional cleaning once or twice a year. This allows us to keep their teeth healthy and cavity-free. Remember that your child’s teeth will hurt if they get a cavity, just like it would if you got a cavity. Taking care of them is not optional if you want to keep your children healthy and comfortable.

Myth #3: If my gums bleed, I should avoid brushing them.

The Truth – Gums that bleed typically do so because of gum disease. Yes, you can irritate your gums by brushing too aggressively, but if you are applying steady pressure, they should be fine. Brushing them is a way to help them return to better health because any plaque that is presently irritating them needs to be removed. If they continue to bleed, visit our office for a dental examination and deep cleaning.

Myth #4: Hard toothbrushes are the best for your teeth.

The Truth – It is easy to understand why it would seem like hard toothbrushes are the best. In truth, they can damage your teeth. Aggressive brushing can lead to erosion, and when the enamel erodes, it will not grow back. When too much of it is lost, you could have sensitive teeth that can only be helped with another dental procedure, such as the placing of a dental crown or a bonding procedure. To protect your teeth and keep them clean, we recommend using a soft or electronic toothbrush. By brushing with even pressure for two minutes at a time, you can get your teeth sparkling clean without the risk of being too aggressive.

We invite you to call New York Dental Office and schedule an appointment to ask all your oral health questions at 212-838-6226. This way, you can receive the information you need for lifelong oral health while making sure you are not operating under any dental myths.

Dental veneers in have made their mark on the world of cosmetic dentistry

Dental veneers in have made their mark on the world of cosmetic dentistry by providing customers with a great way to replace tooth enamel that has become damaged, discolored, or otherwise unattractive. For many people, this is a long-term solution since the veneer will be cemented in place and hence is not something that can be removed very easily. As a result, many of our patients want to know how long dental veneers typically last without needing to be repaired or replaced. The answer to this question is usually at least 10 years, but there are a sufficient number of factors that come in to play, which can influence that number in either direction. There have been numerous studies on this exact issue as many cosmetic and other dentists want a clear answer on how long their patients can expect dental veneers to last. One study conducted on the longevity of dental veneers found the following. In 96 percent of the participants, we found the veneers lasted a minimum of five to six years. This group was overlapped with a second group of 93 percent, whose dental veneers lasted between 10 and 11 years. A third significant group found that their dental veneers lasted between 12 and 13 years, accounting for 91 percent of the studied population. After 13 years, we found a small drop off in longevity, with only 71 percent of the participants reporting that their dental veneers lasted between 15 and 16 years. Even with these kinds of odds, it is relatively safe to say that your dental veneers will last at least 10 years as long as you take good care of them. When considering dental veneers, in terms of longevity, it is important to look at the whole picture. This means that you have to be willing to understand that there is a great deal of human interference that can cause the veneers to fail earlier than they should. The two leading causes of failure, as recorded in studies, have a direct correlation with how people treat their teeth. Teeth are not tools and should not be used as such, since treating them in this calloused manner can damage the enamel and cause the dental veneer to fracture or crack. We have found that in more than 45 percent of cases where the dental veneer failed, there was a fracture involved. This means that the person was doing something with their teeth that they should not have been or were placing undue pressure on the tooth. Additionally, there is 28 percent of dental veneers that failed because they had a crack, again a manifestation of some kind of physical trauma placed on the veneers. It is up to you, as the user, to ensure that you are not putting undue pressure on either your teeth or your dental veneers. The other area where you can impact how long your dental veneers last is by making sure that you have great oral hygiene. In up to 20 percent of cases, we find that bad oral hygiene leads to veneer loss.

7 Things to Know About Root Canals

Get the Facts

If you’ve been told you need a root canal, you may be more than a little anxious. Root canals—the removal of infected soft tissue inside a tooth, called pulp—have a bad reputation. And it may be tempting to delay the procedure. But take heart: root canals aren’t as scary as you might think. Here’s what you should know before the procedure.

1. Don’t Be Fooled If Your Pain Goes Away

An infection of the tooth’s pulp, which is composed of nerves and blood vessels, can be painful. But if this pain goes away, don’t assume your tooth has healed. As the infection progresses, the pulp begins to die and pain often disappears.
But other symptoms—like oozing pus or facial swelling—will occur as the infection travels to the roots. Don’t delay treatment based on symptoms.

2. Antibiotics Aren’t an Alternative Treatment

It may seem reasonable to believe that antibiotics will help your condition because the medicine treats bacterial infections. But antibiotics only work by reaching the site of infection through your blood. Because the bacteria that cause pulp infections are located within the root canal system, antibiotics can’t get where they need to go to work.

3. The Procedure Shouldn’t Be Painful

Many people think of pain when they consider having a root canal. But the procedure is designed to alleviate pain, not cause it. Before the root canal, you’ll be given a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and surrounding area.
The entire procedure should feel similar to having a cavity filled. If you’re concerned about pain, talk about it with your dentist.

4. You May Be a Sore Afterward

Although the procedure itself shouldn’t be painful, you may be a little sore or sensitive for a few days afterward. Simple pain relief medication can help. Ask your dentist whether over-the-counter or prescription medication is right for you.

5. You Should Protect Your Tooth

After your dentist or endodontist, a dentist that specializes in dental pulp health, performs the procedure, he or she will often place a temporary filling in the tooth. If so, your dentist will restore your tooth with a permanent filling or crown at another appointment.
Before it’s fully restored, it’s important to protect your tooth because it’s susceptible to fracture. Ask your doctor how to protect it, such as not biting or chewing with it.

6. Your Tooth Isn’t Invincible

Unfortunately, having a root canal doesn’t guard your tooth from cavities and gum disease. But the tooth should last a long time if you care for it properly. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss, and visit your dentist regularly. Crowns typically last 10 to 15 years.

7. It Can Protect Your Smile

If the soft tissue of your tooth is infected, the only alternative to a root canal is removing the tooth. But it’s important to keep as many of your teeth as possible. Among other problems, pulling one tooth can cause other teeth to shift, changing your smile.

Big Plans Deserve Bright White Smiles

DO YOU HAVE A graduation, reunion, vacation, or wedding coming up? These occasions mean LOTS of photographs. Are you ready? Whether you’re in the wedding party, a parent to the bride or groom, or just prepping yourself to see old friends, you want to look your best for all those photos.

Your Smile Is The FIRST Thing People Notice

While you’re shopping for the perfect dress, or weighing in at the gym, consider this:

• Most people list a smile as the FIRST thing they notice about a person.
• 96% of adults believe an attractive smile makes you more appealing to the opposite sex.
• Since yellowing teeth are a sign of age, whitening is one of the quickest, most effective ways to look and feel younger.

The good news is that we offer great whitening options for our patients.

Our one hour in-chair process using Award winning Opalesence Boost get great results. It works best if you have your teeth cleaned within one month before the whitening process. It cleans the outside of the teeth to remove stains and then soaks into the teeth to bleach the teeth whiter with peroxide. We then apply desensitizing paste to help reduce any tenderness from the process.

Call us at 212-838-6226 for an appointment.

Dental Laminates Can Improve Your Smile

If you are looking for a solution that will improve your appearance – try dental laminates.  In our dentist office, we treat patients throughout New York that are looking to change how they look - namely their smile.  This is understandable considering that both men and women state that an attractive smile is the best quality that someone can have, and people with a beautiful smile are even more likely to be hired for a new job or to get a raise.  In a highly competitive world – your smile matters.  But what if your teeth are yellow, stained, damaged, or a funny shape? In this case, you can visit our cosmetic dentist office for treatment.

Technology has continued to improve to the point where there are few if any, aesthetic issues with your teeth that we cannot correct.  Whether you have gaps in between your two front teeth, they are crooked or are dull in appearance – we can help.  Even if your teeth are too small for your appearance, we can correct that too.  For this reason, we recommend that you schedule a consultation so that we can examine your teeth and gums, take x-rays and create a treatment plan that will address all of your needs.

Very often, we recommend dental laminates.  This is a diverse solution that works well to restore damaged teeth or to correct aesthetic challenges.  Laminates are bonded to the surface of your natural teeth, so you do not need oral surgery to take advantage of this option.  This means that your recovery time would be far less than if you were to use dental implants to replace your current teeth.  In most cases, this is unnecessary because we can keep your current teeth in place and simply change their appearance.  By leaving them, your roots and tooth structure remain intact, giving your jawbone the stimulation it needs to avoid resorption.  However, if you do need to have a tooth replaced, we can provide you with implants along with your dental laminates.

To create laminates in the perfect size, shape, and shade, we will being by making an impression of your teeth, taking measurements and reviewing a shade card with you.  That way you can select a shade of white that you are comfortable with.  Everyone has their ideal shade of white, so we want to make sure that your laminates fit within your expectations.  While they are being created in the dental lab, we will go to work preparing your teeth.  Since they are bonded to the surface of your teeth, we will remove a portion of the enamel before doing so.  This will ensure that they lay flat and that your teeth do not look overly large.  Since this is often done before your dental laminates are ready, we will secure a temporary set to your teeth to protect them while you wait for the final version to be finished.  Once done, we will remove your temporaries and permanently bond your laminates in place. This will give you a beautiful and natural-looking new smile.

Tooth Colored Fillings Can Restore Your Tooth

Tooth colored fillings are one of those essential components to a dentist visit. When you have cavities, we have to work to remove the decay and then replace the portion of the enamel that we have removed. In addition, the decay tends to eat away some of the enamel, which also has to be replaced. Most people understand that a cavity is caused by bacteria, which leaves a small hole in the tooth. What most of our patients, who come in for dental fillings, do not know is that much of the time your teeth can repair themselves with the help of the minerals in saliva, fluoride, and water. Saliva contains vital minerals like calcium and phosphate, which the enamel can use in self-preservation. However, over the course of time the repeated introduction of food acids leads to a depletion of the natural mineral necessary to sustain a tooth. Often you may notice a white spot on the tooth when this is happening. The bacteria, which occurs naturally in your mouth, forms a thin layer of film over the teeth known as plaque. Every time starchy foods or sugars are introduced to the teeth, the bacteria in this plaque produces acid. Eventually, the acid wears the enamel down, and you find yourself needing Tooth colored fillings.

When it comes to dental fillings, we are passionate about constantly improving the technology that makes dental fillings even better for our patients. There are a number of people who remember that not so long ago when we used to place fillings they were made of metal or amalgam. Today there are a number of different options, including white fillings. Tooth colored fillings can be the same color as your natural teeth, which means they are barely even seen. This allows us to fill teeth closer to the front while giving you a better looking filling. The innovation, however, continues.

A few years ago a laboratory at the University of Maryland Dental School developed a new type of filling that not only fills in the cavity but also works to ensure that if there are any residual bacteria left in the cavity, the filling will kill it. To do this, the filling incorporates silver nanoparticles and ammonia. These two components are both known to kill bacteria. Enamel has the ability to heal itself, and with the help of this new technology we would be able to encourage this healing so that the tooth can replace the tissue lost to decay. While there is still a lot of testing that needs to be done on this technology, and some concerns with the use of silver nanoparticles with regard to how they relate to the overall wellbeing of a person, we are definitely on the road to creating solution that work to kill all bacteria and give the enamel the opportunity to heal naturally.

New York Dental Office  >  Dentistry

The Ins and Outs of Using Dental Veneers

What are dental veneers?

Dental veneers are wafer-thin pieces of porcelain that are used to replace damaged enamel on your teeth in order to rejuvenate your smile. Also referred to as porcelain veneers, dental veneers have a wide range of applications, allowing us to restore your teeth if they are broken, cracked, or chipped, among other things. The dental veneers are extremely thin, which allows them to be easily placed onto the teeth in a way that looks natural. In fact, dental veneers are so natural looking, that most of our patients will even forget which of their teeth have been repaired with the veneers.

How are dental veneers placed?
Before dental veneers are actually placed, we need to determine if you are a good candidate for the product. Typically most people are, but we will schedule an initial first consultation to determine if there are any underlying problems that may prevent you from getting dental veneers and would require different treatment options. During this consultation, we would conduct a smile analysis, which tells us what kind of a smile you are hoping to achieve, and what products can be used to help get you there. We sometimes do a cosmetic imaging to demonstrate the type of smile that dental veneers can help you to achieve.

Once we decide on dental veneers as a great option, we will schedule fitting and placing appointments. The first appointment begins with shaving away a small portion of the enamel. Usually, dental veneers do not require more than a few millimeters to be shaved away. The reason for shaving the enamel is so that the porcelain can fit flush with the tooth, making sure to maintain the natural contour of the tooth, and ensuring that the porcelain veneers look and feel like real teeth. Next, we will make an impression of your teeth and send it along with notes to the dental lab.  While they are creating your permanent veneer, you will need to wear a temporary one that will be removed in a week or two.We will make sure that the color, shape, and size of the veneers gives your teeth a look of perfection and once we have achieved that, the dental veneers will be cemented in place using dental cement.

What are dental veneers used for?
Dental veneers are extremely malleable solutions, so we use them for a wide range of solutions. The most common, and commonly read about, reason people chose veneers is the desire for a perfect Hollywood type smile. This means perfectly shaped, perfectly white teeth. To do this veneers are an excellent choice since they can cover most imperfections perfectly. As such porcelain veneers can be used to correct minor alignment issues, to ensure that you have not unsightly spaces or gaps between your teeth, and to ensure that the teeth are all the right length and size. Veneers are also used to improve and whiten teeth that are stubbornly refusing to respond to the traditional tooth whitening formulas. As we mentioned earlier, one of applications that dental veneers have is to fix broken, chipped, or cracked teeth. This solution is used because the porcelain veneers do not require a great deal of the normal enamel to be removed. Unlike a dental crown, the veneers fit in with the enamel after a few millimeters has been shaved off.

Teeth Whitening  >  Cosmetic Dentist

What You Should Know About Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Wisdom Teeth Extraction
A wisdom teeth extraction is the surgical procedure by which one or more wisdom teeth are removed. Wisdom teeth are the four permanent adult molars located at the very back of your mouth, two on top and two on the bottom. Their rather imaginative name stems from the fact that they erupt much later than the other permanent teeth (approximately between the ages of 15 and 25). The person has already achieved adulthood and is, supposedly, 'wiser'.

Many people have wisdom teeth that erupt normally and cause them no problems. However, countless others are not quite as lucky, in which case wisdom teeth extraction is the simplest course of treatment since our softer, easier to chew, processed and cooked foods have made them largely redundant. While the jury may still be out, many believe that primitive societies needed this third molar in order to be able to chew their coarser food.

While some oral surgeons and dentists recommend wisdom teeth extraction as insurance against future problems, many others are of the opinion that routine prophylactic removal is ill-advised, and wisdom teeth should only be extracted if they develop problems. Wisdom teeth that are symptomatic, i.e., aren't causing problems should be left alone. Most problems with wisdom teeth occur at the time they erupt, i.e. between the ages of 15 and 25. It is very rare that someone over the age of 30 develops any problem with these third molars. During a consultation, we will let you know whether or not yours should be removed.

When Wisdom Teeth Extractions Become Necessary
Many of the problems that surround wisdom teeth are connected with the fact that many people's jaws are not large enough to accommodate a third molar. In these cases, the tooth is said to be "impacted" which means it is so wedged in between the jawbone and the tooth beside it that it cannot emerge normally. In some cases, the wisdom tooth remains under the gums. In others, it erupts only part of the way or at an angle with the top of the tooth facing one of the two sides, or even forward or backward.

An impacted wisdom tooth can cause a number of serious problems including damage to the tooth immediately next to it, or even to the bone itself. If the tooth has only emerged slightly above the gum line, a flap of gum tissue has been known to grow over the tooth. Bacteria from food can flourish in this 'protected' area causing an infection and tooth decay. Besides which, if there isn't enough space for the tooth to erupt properly, often means that it will be hard to reach and, therefore, hard to manipulate a toothbrush around it. Thus if a wisdom tooth is impacted (doesn't have room to grow normally), causing an infection, pain or other complications, it is more than likely that you will have to have it pulled.

The Surgery
Wisdom tooth extraction is almost always performed on an outpatient basis in our clinic. However, if you are considered a high risk for complications or are having all four wisdom teeth extracted at the same time, it may be necessary to have the surgery in a hospital.

Most often, just like most other extractions, wisdom teeth are removed using a local anesthetic that will completely numb the area. Once again, should you opt to have all four teeth removed in one go, a general anesthetic may be used, in which case, you should  not eat or drink anything a certain number of hours before the surgery.  If we have to cut into the gum and remove any bone that is covering the tooth, it is likely that some stitches will be necessary. These will either dissolve over time or be removed at a later date. Regardless, we will ensure that your wisdom teeth extraction is completed in a way that allows you to relax and feel comfortable.

New York Dental Office  >  Tooth-Colored Fillings

Visit a Cosmetic Dentist to Improve the Appearance of Your Gums

As a cosmetic dentist, we are best known for the services that we provide in the realm of appearance. Our primary goal, our bread and butter if you will, consists of helping people to have a better smile. To do this, we work hard on giving you perfect teeth. As a result of the association, many of our patients know us by the work that we do and the procedures that have become common as more people visit us to discuss how their teeth look. Some of the more frequent procedures that we, as a cosmetic dentist, perform are teeth whitening to give you that perfectly white smile, straightening of teeth with braces or Invisalign, replacing of teeth with either bridges, dentures, or dental implants, and fixing teeth that are cracked, chipped or broken with dental veneers or a dental crown. While most of these have applications beyond the cosmetic, they are largely associated with how the teeth look and hence have fallen within our repertoire.

There are a couple of other procedures that we perform, which have even more crossover between the health and function of the teeth and gums, and how they look aesthetically. These are gingivectomies and gum contouring.

There are numerous, cosmetic dentist, procedures that have found use both aesthetically and in the protection of the health of a person's mouth. Among these, gingivectomies are one of the most frequently used for both. A person who has a gum diseases or periodontitis will often find that their gums become separated from their teeth as a result of the illness. This creates an extremely unattractive smile, but more importantly it creates these deep pockets within the gums that allow plaque to build up. Since it is virtually impossible to clean in these pockets, the plaque builds up and becomes a breeding ground for infections. A person who already has an existing condition does not need the added complication of frequent bacterial infections, and so we can remove these pockets. To do so, we will numb the gums around the site with a local anesthetic, so as to perform the procedure without causing discomfort. Then the loose gum tissue will be surgically removed using a scalpel, radiosurgery, or lasers. While we are removing the excess tissue, we will also be sculpting your gums. This is done to prevent your gums from losing their shape after the procedure is completed. Finally, we cover the gums with putty to allow them some time to heal and become normal again.
The gums are an integral part of the mouth. They are responsible for supporting and protecting the teeth and are also an important part of your smile. We know that when the gums get too long they can cause you to have a gummy, and hence unattractive smile. When they get too short, often as a result of gum recession or some other condition, they can expose the root and cause your teeth to appear too large. A gum contouring, done in the clinic where we would lengthen, shorten, or shape your gums, can solve any of these issues very easily and painlessly. As a cosmetic dentist, these are only some of the ways that we can improve the appearance of your gums and smile.

Dental Implant  >  Invisalign Dentist

What Does Science Have To Do With Teeth Whitening?

The science behind teeth whitening is what makes it so effective.  If you use teeth whitening as a way to brighten your teeth and give yourself a better smile, you have stumbled upon the most effective, and inexpensive, way to improve yourself. There is a solution available to you at virtually any price point. So regardless of whether you come in to see us, your teeth whitening specialist or do your whitening at home with a do it yourself kit, you can get your teeth whitened for a very affordable price. Still, the level of results you get will be based on what is happening inside of your tooth (science).
How it works.
A chemical process, teeth whitening should always be carried out with the supervision or oversight of a dentist. This is not because the products available over the counter are harmful, but working with our office can ensure that you have no conditions that could hinder the whitening or become exasperated by the teeth whitening process. Teeth whitening involves a chemical interaction between the chemicals used to whiten and your teeth's organic make up. In order to make the teeth appear whiter, we need to make them more colorless. All matter reflects natural light, bending it so that the brain sees that particular frequency as a unique color. For the teeth, this color is white. Teeth whitening products work because of the oxidization process. However, many of the solutions you buy in the store on remove surface stains and do not start the process of oxidization.
The peroxides used in our solution quickly penetrate the enamel and release free radicals into the organic make-up of the teeth. These free radicals cause the tooth to appear more colorless, and to the brain makes them appear whiter. Since this is a chemical process, it is always advisable to be under the care of a dentist before engaging in teeth whitening. It is also advisable to be careful not to overdo it when it comes to the use of these products. Repeated and frequent exposure to peroxides can cause the teeth to become overly sensitive, and may lead to other challenges.
The two main components used in the manufacture of teeth whitening solutions are carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide. Typically when you are whitening at home, with a do it yourself kit, the solution is hydrogen peroxide based. In the clinic, we will use a carbamide peroxide based solution, which also contains around 35% hydrogen peroxide. Our solution is stronger and produces better results than what you can buy in the store.
Why so many people need to whiten their teeth.
Given the exposure most people have to a variety of foods that stain and discolor their teeth, whitening is a very good option. If you stop and think about the enormous amount of coffee, alone, that is consumed and the effect these gallons can have on teeth, you begin to realize the price your teeth pay for living in the fast paced modern world. On average, 54% of adults drink at least one cup of coffee each day, 68% of those within the first hour of the day. There are over 53 thousand coffee shops to serve you a pick me up, accounting for over $4 billion in imports each year. In terms of this spending a few hundred dollars to fight off the discoloring effects of the chromogen rich coffee we drink, sounds like a bargain. 

Dental Veneers  >  Cosmetic Dentist

Tooth-Colored Fillings Are Ideal For All Ages

We use tooth-colored fillings to restore our patients teeth and highly recommend them.  Many of our patients don’t understand why a filling is necessary in the first place so we get a lot of questions about it.  Contrary to popular belief, this is not an optional dental treatment but necessary for restoring the appearance and, more importantly, the functionality of a tooth.

When you eat throughout the day, sugar and bacteria are placed on your teeth and gums.  When you brush and floss, most of it is removed.  However, bacteria will often remain in the mouth, trapped in harder to reach places.  The bacteria can then create acid which will start to attack your teeth.  As it does, the tooth starts to decay or die.  How large of an area that experiences tooth decay will depend on how long you go in between teeth cleanings.  By having your teeth cleaned twice a year, we can catch and treat it right away.

In order to treat a cavity, the decayed portion of the tooth is removed.  This will leave a small or large indent or hole in your tooth.  You cannot live like that because you would experience discomfort and irritation every time that you bit down.  Instead, the tooth must be restored.  In order to do so, we will use tooth-colored fillings.  In this situation, once the decayed portion is removed the tooth needs to be cleaned. Once done, a tooth-colored ceramic material will be applied to your tooth and shaped into place.  A dental light will then be used to cause the material to harden.  Once done, you will have a durable filling that makes it possible to use your tooth like normal again.

In our dental office, we prefer to use tooth-colored fillings because of how natural they look.  The results are just as effective as traditional amalgam but when you smile, no one will see a mouth full of metal.  In fact, these fillings blend in so well that it is nearly impossible to tell which tooth ever had a cavity to begin with.  Most of our patients even forget which of their teeth were worked on.  This speaks volumes when you compare it to a smile of someone who has had a lot of amalgam fillings.

If you have a mouth full of metal currently, we can help by removing your old fillings and giving you new ones.  This procedure needs to be completed anyway since fillings are not meant to last forever.  Replacing them early simply helps to accomplish a cosmetic or appearance goal while addressing a future health need. Remember, that fillings are an essential part of restoring the tooth structure and keeping your natural teeth in place.  If you go too long without dental care, the original space that you had the filling in may expand, creating the need for a larger filling. Regular dental checkups can prevent this from happening or at least identifying if it has so that you can receive an updated filling to protect your tooth.

Oral Surgery May Be Necessary As Part of Your Orthodontics Procedure

We perform oral surgery for patients with a variety of oral health concerns.  What many people don’t realize is that when getting an orthodontics treatment, surgery is often part of the overall process. This is because when straightening your teeth, there are multiple aspects that must be addressed.  In our office, we can help you to straighten your teeth with a smile makeover or work with your orthodontist to address any challenges that they are unable to correct.

In order to understand why, it helps to understand what must be addressed when using orthodontics to straighten your teeth.  First, your teeth must be moved into position.  If you have teeth that came in crooked, there are gaps in between them, or they are behind each other, braces or aligners can typically be used to move them into position.  Before doing so, however, there must be enough room in the mouth for all of your teeth and, at times, the palate must be expanded using an oral appliance.

As a provider of oral surgery, we often work with orthodontics offices when a tooth is simply not responding to braces or aligners.  There are times, were certain teeth simply aren’t moving into position and in this situation, the only choice is to leave the tooth intact or replace it with a dental implant.  An implant functions like a natural tooth and by securing a titanium post into the jawbone, it will behave like one as well.  In fact, the body will think that the post is a natural root due to the process of osseointegration.  While we typically don’t recommend replacing your teeth for no reason, if you have undergone years of orthodontics, leaving one crooked tooth can be beyond frustrating. If this happens to you, we can finish the process by replacing the tooth with a straight and beautiful one. 

The second aspect of straightening your teeth is correcting your jaw.  If you have a misaligned jaw, it will negative influence your smile and even your facial appearance.  For example, if you have a severe overbite, underbite, or crossbite, it won’t matter how straight your teeth are, your entire appearance will still suffer.  This makes aligning your bite critical.  This can often be done by an orthodontist using oral appliances.  This is a non-invasive method and by using things like rubber bands strung from an upper to lower bracket, the jaw can start to move into position.  However, if the jaw is too far misaligned, it may not respond to oral appliances, creating the need for oral surgery.

Correcting your jaw is more important than simply improving your appearance. A misaligned jaw, can place undue pressure onto your teeth and cause damage, irritation, and even headaches.  For this reason, many people will seek to correct their jaw and oral health issues, regardless of whether or not they like their smile.  As an oral surgeon, we can examine your mouth and provide a recommendation for the steps you should take to correct your smile.  

In our office, we provide dental laminates for those that are looking to improve the appearance of their smile.  Laminates, also known as veneers, are an excellent way to create a uniform smile – one without stains, chips, cracks, etc.  They can even close gaps in between teeth and change their overall shape and size, making them incredibly versatile.  Since they are created to match the shade of your other teeth, you can use a laminate over one or all of your teeth in order to create a perfect smile.
If you are considering transforming the appearance of your smile, we invite you to call and schedule a consultation so that we can discuss the goals that you have and the best way to achieve them.  We will start the process by completing a thorough examination and taking x-rays.  This will provide us with information we need to make a recommendation regarding how to proceed.  Simultaneously, we will look for any signs of infection or cavities because health issues need to be corrected before starting any cosmetic work.  If your teeth and gums look healthy, we will make an impression of your teeth so that we can send the dental lab the information they need to create the laminates.
It can take the lab one to two weeks to prepare your dental laminate, during which time your teeth will need to be prepared.  In order to do so, we will need to remove a portion of the enamel from the surface of your teeth.  The laminate serves to replace that enamel and this process ensures that it lays flat instead of protruding out from the other teeth.  Since the enamel serves to protect your teeth, once it has been removed, a temporary will need to be worn until your permanent laminate is ready.  This is typically secured with a water-based removable glue that can easily come off when it is time to make the switch.  Given that it is designed to be removable it is important to practice caution while eating to ensure that it doesn't accidentally become dislodged.  Fortunately, it is only worn for a short time before you come back in.
Once the lab is finished completing your dental laminates, you will come back in for the bonding procedure.  In this appointment, we will check to make sure that the laminates have been created to our exact specifications and after removing your temporaries, will place them onto your teeth to double check how they look. If any small adjustments are necessary, now is the time to make them.  Next, we will place dental cement onto your tooth and secure the laminates in place, bonding them with a special dental light for strength and durability.  Once hardened, your teeth will look amazing and you can go about life eating your favorite foods and enjoying your new smile.  There are no restrictions on what you can do so long as you treat your dental laminates as though they were a natural tooth.  For example, you can't eat ice or chew a pencil now, nor should you in the future.

Cosmetic Dentist  >  New York Dental Office