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Just the Basics: Dental Hygiene Edition | New York Dentist

If there is anything we know about our teeth, it’s that we need to take care of them if we want to keep them. Because if we don’t, there are a myriad of dental issues that can arise. But how do you know if you’re doing a good job? Believe it or not, but many people think they have it down pat and they are mistaken. The average person spends around 30 seconds brushing their teeth; dental professionals recommend a minimum two minutes. To celebrate National Dental Hygiene Month, let’s break down proper dental hygiene technique. If these tips sound familiar, you’re in great shape…

  • Brush twice a day for at least two minutes each session
  • Floss once a day before you sleep
  • Limit daily snacks, especially those full of sugar
  • Visit the dentist every 3-6 months for regular checkups and cleanings

When brushing your teeth, time alone isn’t the only factor – you need to make sure that every surface is brushed and cleaned as thoroughly as possible to keep those cavity creeps at bay. Do not focus solely on the ones people can see. Use short, gentle strokes, paying extra attention to your gums, back teeth and all areas around dental work to give yourself the best cleaning.

Flossing is one of those things everyone pretends they do, but rarely do. When it comes to flossing, follow the following technique:

Start with about 18 inches of floss, hold it between your thumbs and index fingers, then gently slide it in between the gaps of your teeth. Slowly move the floss back-and-forth to bring it away from your teeth without causing any harm. Your dental appointments are going to be a breeze!

If you have questions or concerns about dental hygiene, make an appointment today with Dr. Philip Schnall at 212-247-7059 or visit our website at www.philipschnalldmd.com.

Dr. Schnall proudly serves New York and all surrounding areas.

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When You Love a Cup o’ Joe | New York Dentist

Whether you brew your own or stand in line to get it, your day doesn’t start without your first cup of coffee. Everyone’s cup is different, but regardless of the style you choose, it’s become a ritual to your morning. And if this describes you, today is a very special one – because today is National Coffee Day.

Coffee is one way to get our early morning jolt of energy, but it isn’t a mystery that the energizing beverage isn’t exactly the best for our teeth. Not only does coffee stain your teeth, but it can also contribute to the buildup of plaque and tartar, while accelerating the progression of gum disease.

Gingivitis, or an inflammation of your gums caused by plaque, and periodontitis, a more advanced version of gingivitis that results in a gap between your teeth and your gums. When caught in the beginning gingivitis stage, it can be treated and, hopefully preventable in the future. Periodontitis, on the other hand, is more difficult to treat and, due to the gap between the teeth and gums, may cause your teeth to become loose and fall out.

When you drink coffee, it is affecting your mouth by lowering the temperature of your mouth and gums while reducing the blood flow to your gums, which does not allow your gums to get all of the necessary oxygen they need to continue functioning properly.

When it comes to gum disease, saliva plays a major role in prevention. It contains oxygen and specialized enzymes which help prevent gum disease by killing the unnecessary bacteria in your mouth. Drinking coffee can cause dehydration and reduce the amount of saliva you produce, thus increasing your chances of developing gum disease.

If you have questions or concerns about coffee, make an appointment today with Dr. Philip Schnall at 212-247-7059 or visit our website at www.philipschnalldmd.com.

Dr. Schnall proudly serves New York and all surrounding areas.

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The Benefits of IV Sedation | New York Dentist

When we need to have a dental procedure done, it never ceases to make us a bit skittish. After all, surgery is never a fun thing to do. But there really isn’t anything to fear – the dental industry understands that patients are nervous and have developed IV sedation as an option prior to the procedure, so you can rest at ease. Because you may be a bit hesitant, here are some of the benefits of having IV sedation during your next dental procedure:

  • IV sedation kicks in right when it’s first administered, and the drug dosage can be altered to fit each individual patient.
  • A safe level of deep sedation can be reached with IV sedation, as where oral sedation and inhalation sedation can be unpredictable. IV sedation is safe and effective.
  • Certain treatments can be performed at a fast pace and with fewer office visits with the help of IV sedation.
  • With IV sedation, your gag reflex is greatly diminished. If you are using IV sedation for gag reflex, then your dentist may try inhalation sedation first.
  • IV sedation allows patients to be conscious, while also relaxing them. This allows them to cooperate with the dentist instructions and be relaxed at the same time.
  • Recovery time is typically shorter with IV sedation. This is mostly because the drug dosage can be tailored.

Now that you’ve gotten a little more familiar with sleep dentistry, you don’t need to worry about that dental procedure you’ve been dreading. Get that much need dental procedure done. Don’t let your dental anxiety or sensitive gag reflex keep you from visiting the dentist.

If you have questions or concerns about the effects of IV sedation, make an appointment today with Dr. Philip Schnall at 212-247-7059 or visit our website at www.philipschnalldmd.com.

Dr. Schnall proudly serves New York and all surrounding areas.

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How Do Dental Crowns Work? | New York Dentist

When you damage your teeth, it is important to let your dentist examine them for any problems that may arise in the future. But you need not worry – chances are, a dental crown will be the suggested fix. Crowns are placed on top of damaged teeth or implants to restore the tooth’s shape, function and structure. It may sound fancy, but it’s a common procedure. Here is a quick breakdown of what to expect from a dental crown procedure:

The procedure for fitting or installing a dental crown typically takes two separate dental visits, with usually a week or two of interval in between each appointment. During the first appointment, you dentist prepares the tooth by filing it down, but it there is significant damage, the tooth may need to be filled in so a crown can be applied. After preparing the tooth to the proper shape, your dentist will take an impression of it and the surrounding teeth, then send it away to a dental lab. It is there at the lab that a dental technician will create the permanent crown. But in the meantime, your dentist will have to place a temporary crown to protect the damaged tooth during your first visit until the final crown is ready.

Once ready, you will return for a second visit where your temporary crown is removed and replaced by the new crown using a special adhesive to bond it to the tooth. Once the procedure is done, the dentist will then explain to you what you should expect after (such as the adjustment period) and how to take better care of your crown.

If you have questions or concerns about dental crowns, make an appointment today with Dr. Philip Schnall at 212-247-7059 or visit our website at www.philipschnalldmd.com.

Dr. Schnall proudly serves New York and all surrounding areas.

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Garlic: Your Mouth’s Best Friend? | New York Dentist

Some of our favorite dishes have it. The Italians have made it a staple in every dish they serve. There is even a festival in Gilroy, CA every July. In fact, the only ones that don’t enjoy it would be vampires. Yes, we are talking about garlic – that gloriously smelly delight that graces our kitchens and taste buds. And with every good comes a bad and garlic is no different. The more we enjoy it, the more it is invading our mouths, leaving us with some of the stinkiest breath around. But have you ever stopped to think that garlic is actually helping our smiles? It may be hard to believe but it’s true. Garlic is one of the most multi-faceted foods we have. And since April 19th is National Garlic Day, let’s celebrate our favorite smelly friend…

Gum disease prevention. Garlic has thiosulfinate, a bacteria-reducing compound that specializes in reducing the production of plaque, the first stage of gum disease.

Promotes dental hygiene. We all know that garlic is guaranteed to give us some of the worst breath, so garlic is actually helping us maintain healthy dental practices as we are more prone to brush after eating garlic.

Get a good night’s sleep. Did you know garlic helps you sleep? Those that suffer from sleep apnea can benefit from its anti-inflammatory properties that can also help open up your airways and reduce enlarged tonsils.

Toothache relief. If a toothache or headache has occurred, munching on a clove of garlic can help relieve some of your pain naturally.

If you have questions or concerns about garlic, make an appointment today with Dr. Philip Schnall at 212-247-7059 or visit our website at www.philipschnalldmd.com.

Dr. Schnall proudly serves New York and all surrounding areas.

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A Smile Is Contagious | New York Dentist

It’s tough to deny the fact that a smile is contagious. If you’re in a bad mood, something as simple as a smile can lift your spirits. And if you have the smile on your face, the world just seems to feel a little bit brighter. Yes, our smile is one of the most powerful tools we have to make the world a better place.

Because our smile is so important, it is vital that we take care of it with proper daily dental hygiene and a healthy, balanced diet. Make sure to brush at least twice a day for a minimum of two minutes, floss to get into those areas missed by your toothbrush, and rinse thoroughly to remove any of those cavity-causing bacteria.

A healthy balanced diet is not only good for our overall health, but also for our teeth. Fruits and vegetables are a great way to get vital nutrients into our systems, but there are some in particular that add a dental boost. Crunchy foods like apples and carrots increase saliva production, which is our mouth’s natural cleanser. Dairy products include lots of calcium, which is ideal for strong teeth and gums. Staying away from excessive sweets and junk food is also going to help keep your grin the brightest it can be.

So, before you start your day, take a moment to put a smile on your face. Not only will it help your general disposition, but it can spread to everyone you meet. Say cheese!

If you have questions or concerns about your smile’s health, make an appointment today with Dr. Philip Schnall at 212-247-7059 or visit our website at www.philipschnalldmd.com.

Dr. Schnall proudly serves New York and all surrounding areas.

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Improving Hygiene with Oral Appliances | New York Dentist

When creating our ideal smile with the help of our dental professional, it is important to know that this may lead to the use of removable dental appliances, like dentures or bridges. If this is the case, you need not worry – today’s dental advancements can now give you the most natural-looking smile possible. While these dental miracles are going to give you a fantastic smile, you are in charge of maintaining that smile. This includes hygiene.

When you receive your new smile, your dentist is going to give you a set of do’s and don’ts to follow – pay attention. These words of advice are not only going to ensure that your new smile is going to last as long as possible but will also prevent future issues due to the development of pathogens that can lead to oral thrush, pneumonia and other systemic diseases.

Many will soak their appliances in an OTC solution dissolved in water. This is fine for aesthetic maintenance, but they do nothing for the harmful pathogens. Best solution is a nice soak in an all-purpose antimicrobial cleanser.

We know that toothpaste is necessary for proper dental hygiene, but it isn’t for removable dental appliances. Most toothpastes are too abrasive and can cause tiny scratches, and these tiny scratches are the perfect hiding place for bacteria and other fungal colonies.

In order to maintain your dental health while using dental appliances, make sure to thoroughly disinfect your appliances and clean the areas they are placed. No sense in keeping pristine dentures if you plan on placing them in an unclean mouth. Keeping both clean and disinfected will keep your renewed smile around for years to come.

If you have questions or concerns about dental appliances, make an appointment today with Dr. Philip Schnall at 212-247-7059 or visit our website at www.philipschnalldmd.com.

Dr. Schnall proudly serves New York and all surrounding areas.

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Gum Disease Prevention at Home | New York Dentist

Periodontal disease is one of the most common problems Americans face – as many as half of American adults have some level of periodontal disease, and that percentage increases at higher ages. Periodontal, or gum, disease can take many forms – from mild gingivitis, with symptoms like red inflamed gums to severe periodontal disease, where pus from infections can push teeth from their socket.

Fortunately, there are things you can do at home to help prevent periodontal disease. First and foremost – brush at least twice a day (ideally after each meal), and floss at least once a day. Periodontal disease typically starts with plaque and tartar on the teeth – brushing and flossing helps remove that plaque before it can harden into tartar.

Controlling bacteria in the mouth can be done with a few home remedies. Saltwater rinses (2 teaspoons of salt in a glass of warm water, swirled in your mouth for up to 60 seconds) and hydrogen peroxide (food grade, equal parts 3 percent hydrogen peroxide and water, swirled in your mouth for a few seconds and then spit out) can help combat bacteria in your mouth, and sugar-free gum with Xylitol has antibacterial properties as well as encourages the production of saliva to help wash food particles from your mouth.

While there’s no substitute for professional dental visits, taking good care of your mouth at home will help keep periodontal disease at bay. If you see red, inflamed, or bleeding gums, skip the home treatment and visit a professional – it’s best to treat periodontal disease before it becomes a serious problem.

If you have questions or concerns about gum disease prevention, make an appointment today with Dr. Philip Schnall at 212-247-7059 or visit our website at www.philipschnalldmd.com.

Dr. Schnall proudly serves New York and all surrounding areas.

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Drink Up! It’s National Drink Wine Day | New York Dentist

Our smile is very important to us, so it is important that we take care of it. Because if we develop tooth decay, we may not be keeping our teeth much longer. Thankfully, there are things we can do that can prevent cavities beyond brushing and dental visits. The following are a handful of not-so-well-known tips for cavity prevention. And since February 18th is National Drink Wine Day, you’ll be happy to know wine is actually on this list…

Wine. Red wine is generally not considered great for teeth because of the stains, but one study suggests that many of the individual chemical components in both red and white wine can actively fight the bacteria that lead to tooth decay and cavities.

Raisins. Within the same vein, scientists have found that some of the chemicals present in nature’s candy, including polyphenols and flavonoids, may actively fight oral bacteria that lead to cavities.

Use a straw. We really shouldn’t have sugary drinks in our diet, but a good way to minimize damage to healthy teeth is by sipping that soda through a straw, so there is minimal contact with your teeth.

Cheese. Some researchers believe that casein, a protein found in cheese, may have a protective property that promotes healthy teeth and could help with cavity prevention.

Chewing gum. Chewing sugar-free gum has long been recommended to avoid bad breath and cavities. Even more so if it’s made with xylitol, a natural sugar substitute.

Dental sealants. To prevent tooth decay, many dentists recommend dental sealants, a protective coating that’s applied to the surface of the back teeth.

If you have questions or concerns about cavity prevention, make an appointment today with Dr. Philip Schnall at 212-247-7059 or visit our website at www.philipschnalldmd.com.

Dr. Schnall proudly serves New York and all surrounding areas.

 

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Give Your Smile a Makeover with Porcelain Veneers | New York Dentist

When we have a flawed smile, it can lead to other issues. If teeth are missing or crooked, it can cause your other teeth to respond to these flaws by moving and/or shifting. In order to fix this, it’s time for a visit to the dentist for a smile makeover. One option to improve your smile? Porcelain veneers.

Porcelain veneers offer superior benefits over other cosmetic dentistry procedures, such as dental crowns or braces. The fingernail-thin shells, which are adhered to the front surface, solve a myriad of aesthetic problems with just one treatment. Here is a list of the top 10:

Natural looking. Porcelain is a translucent material that mimics the look, luster, and feel of enamel.

Whiten. When adhered to the front surface of your teeth, veneers you’re your teeth look instantly whiter.

Straighten. Veneers offer a great alternative for patients with crooked teeth who do not want to endure the process of having their teeth straightened with dental braces.

Fix. Veneers can fill in and improve the look of teeth that are chipped or broken.

Fill in gaps. Veneers can be customized to repair smiles with unsightly gaps.

Youthful. A whiter, brighter, more lustrous smile can immediately you’re your face a more youthful appearance.

Conservative. Unlike other cosmetic procedures that require removing a large portion of healthy, natural teeth, veneers can be applied with little alteration.

Protection. Once applied, the veneers also serve to provide a protective shield to the front surface of teeth.

Stain-resistant. Porcelain is stain-resistant, which will make your smile stay brighter and whiter longer.

Gum friendly. Gum tissue is not irritated by porcelain.

If you have questions or concerns about porcelain veneers, make an appointment today with Dr. Philip Schnall at 212-247-7059 or visit our website at www.philipschnalldmd.com.

Dr. Schnall proudly serves New York and all surrounding areas.