What Is a Dental Bone Graft? | Central Park West Dentist

When you have jaw issues and there needs to be a reconstruction done in order to return your smile back to beautiful, a dental bone graft may be necessary. Once complete, it will allow your jaw to regenerate bone tissue, making your jaw stronger. Yes, it does sound quite overwhelming, but it is actually quite common. Here are the four variations of bone grafts, based on the condition of your smile:

Socket preservation. Sometimes called ridge preservation, this type of graft is placed in the socket immediately after a tooth extraction to fill the void and prevent the socket from caving here.

Ridge augmentation. Ridge augmentation increases the width and volume of the jawbone so it can provide a stable foundation for implants or other restorative options.

Sinus lift. If the upper back teeth are missing, the sinuses can drop down and invade the space once occupied by the teeth roots. To address this problem, your oral surgeon or periodontist can perform a sinus lift, raising the sinus back to its proper position. A dental bone graft is then placed underneath the sinus, creating a solid foundation for dental implants later on.

Periodontal bone graft. Infection from gum disease can erode the bone that supports the teeth. This can cause the teeth to become loose. A periodontal bone graft is placed around an existing tooth to reduce mobility and provide additional support.

In most cases, bone grafts for dental implants must heal completely before the actual implant is placed. Because each person is unique, recovery times vary. In rare instances, your dentist may be able to place a bone graft and a dental implant at the same time. But this is decided on a case-by-case basis.

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

Dr. Philip Schnall proudly serves Central Park West and all surrounding areas.

Root Canals: What to Expect | Central Park West Dentist

Proper dental care is imperative if you want a good dental checkup. We all know this. It’s ingrained in our heads as children – brush your teeth twice a day if you don’t want cavities. And as adults, we realize this is very true, because you’ve landed yourself a root canal. But what can you expect from this dental experience?

A root canal is a treatment to repair and save a badly damaged or infected tooth, rather than remove it. The procedure involves removing, disinfecting and filling the affected area of the tooth or the pulp. The most common reasons for the pulp to be damaged is a cracked tooth, or the development of a very deep cavity, as well as repeated dental treatment to the tooth, or trauma. Below is a list of steps of what you can expect from top to bottom.

X-ray. After a thorough check-up of your teeth, the dentist will take a few x-rays to double check if you really need a root canal and to see where the decay is located.

Anesthesia. Once you’re found to need a root canal, the endodontist or dentist will then administer local anesthesia to the affected tooth.

Pulpectomy. The dentist or endodontist then makes an opening to remove the diseased tooth pulp.

Fillings. Once the diseased pulp has been removed, the dentist then fills it with a gutta-percha material and finishes it off by sealing it with cement to prevent further bacterial growth.

After your procedure, your dental professional will give you some tips to a smooth recovery. Make sure to take them all to heart to avoid infection and other issues as it heals.

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

Dr. Philip Schnall proudly serves Central Park West and all surrounding areas.

Fixing Your Smile vs. Keeping Your Smile Healthy | New York Dentist

We all think that if we want something fixed inside our mouth, we go to a dentist. But that isn’t always the case. The dental profession is broken up into many different segments, each having their own specialty inside your mouth. We all want a fantastic smile, but how you want your smile to look will define which dental specialty you will likely focus on – aesthetic or cosmetic.

There is a difference between cosmetic procedures and aesthetic procedures, and this is why – cosmetic dentistry will improve the look of your teeth, one of the bits that creates your smile (i.e., whitening or veneers). Aesthetic dentistry, on the other hand, deals more with your smile and the way it looks on your face. Think of cosmetic dentistry like playing college ball, aesthetic like going pro.

Another big difference between cosmetic and aesthetic dentistry is the end goal. Aesthetic dentistry uses techniques available to modern medicine to give you a more natural, healthy look. Aesthetic dentists use techniques like regular cleanings, root canal removal, and the restoration of teeth with fillings or bridges to make your teeth look normal and healthy. The goal is to give you healthy teeth that function properly so that you can look your best and eat and talk normally.

Cosmetic dentistry is a little different from aesthetic dentistry. Cosmetic dentistry uses more advanced and invasive methods to make your teeth look a little better than what is considered perfect. Cosmetic dentistry includes techniques like teeth whitening, braces, veneers and a wide variety of other techniques. The idea is to give you bright, white, straight teeth that are picture perfect.

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

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

Eating too much Sugar Will Eventually Ruin Your Smile | New York Dentist

34.2 million Americans have been diagnosed with diabetes. And we all understand that sugar is what causes cavities. If we eat too much and don’t look after our teeth afterwards, we are likely to have begun to develop some issues at your next dental checkup. But too much sugar can contribute to the development of diabetes. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, glucose is present in your saliva and when diabetes is not controlled, high glucose levels in your saliva help harmful bacteria grow, and more dental issues than just cavities. These bacteria combine with food to form a soft, sticky film called plaque. Some types of plaque cause tooth decay or cavities, while others cause gum disease and bad breath. This is why diabetics need to be extra careful – because they are prone to gum disease more than non-diabetics. Even further, when blood glucose is high, this gum disease may have the potential to affect blood glucose control and contribute to the progression of diabetes.

It can be said that overconsumption of sugar may be a major cause of two of the most prevalent diseases in the world, i.e., gum disease and diabetes. National surveys have found that the average American consumes around 77 grams of sugar every day, and the recommended amount is a fraction of that. Overconsumption of sugar leads not only to cavities and gum disease, but also can predispose you to prediabetes and even diabetes. So, while you are celebrating the holiday season, keep your sugar intake in mind. And if you find you are overindulging, make sure you practice proper dental hygiene after every sweet treat.

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

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

Cavity Prevention: Your Guide to Halloween Candy | New York Dentist

It’s that time of year again, folks – the spookiest night of the year. And we are all prepared for those tiny ghosts and goblins to haunt our houses, looking for tasty treats. But before you head out for candy in that plastic pumpkin, keep these tips in mind to maintain a healthy smile:

Candy corn. Even though candy corn is a Halloween candy trademark, it is one of the worst Halloween candies for your teeth because of the high amount of sugar, which can lead to tooth decay if neglected.

Caramel apple lollipops. Caramel apple suckers are also a huge symbol of Halloween, but they are extremely bad for your teeth. Not only do they have a caramel coating that can get stuck in your teeth, but they also have a high amount of sugar that can cause tooth decay.

Chewy candy. Chewy candy like Starburst and gummies can hit the spot sometimes. And while some are made with fruit juice, they can stick in the crevices of your teeth, unable to be removed by your toothbrush alone. 

Filled chocolates. Candy bars are one of the most popular items to give out on Halloween, but chocolates filled with caramel, cream, or coconut are bad for your teeth. They stick to your teeth like chewy candy, allowing bacteria to feed on it and cause tooth decay. 

As you indulge in those Halloween sweets, make sure to give your teeth a quick brushing afterwards. And if you don’t have a toothbrush handy, give your teeth a quick rinse until you get home to help prevent cavities. In fact, if you have little ones, make this a family affair. Crank on the tune “Monster Mash” and brush your teeth together!

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

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

Autumn Leaves and Tooth Sensitivity | New York Dentist

As the days get shorter and the weather gets chillier, we begin to change up our diets a bit – drinks go from iced cold to piping hot. Unfortunately for some of us, this causes some major issues in our mouths.

Thankfully, there are some things you can do to prevent your teeth from becoming sensitive to your favorite autumn treats. By taking these proactive measures, you will not only decrease your chances of developing tooth sensitivity, but will also maintain your mouth’s overall good health:

Avoid acids. One of the easiest ways to keep your smile is to improve your diet. Instead of junk foods and acidic drinks like sodas, try eating more fruits and dairy as snacks. They will naturally scour stains from your teeth while producing saliva to wash any sugars left away.

Be gentle. One of the main reasons your tooth enamel may be thinning is due to your brushing. Brushing harder doesn’t clean your teeth better. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. For best results, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and hold it at a 45-degree angle while you brush gently in a circular motion.

Cool it on bleaching. We all want bright, Hollywood smiles, but overbleaching will begin to have an adverse effect on your teeth as it begins to wear down your enamel, exposing the discolored layers hiding beneath.

Don’t grind your teeth. Believe it or not, if you find that you are clenching your teeth or waking with headaches, see a dentist. Clenching your teeth will wear enamel, so you may need a mouth guard.

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

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

Invisalign Is the Answer to Fixing Your Adult Smile | New York Dentist

Many patients are familiar with braces – metal fastened to teeth that we all saw growing up. However, many patients grow through childhood and into adulthood with unsolved dental problems, and if you asked those patients if they would fix their crooked smile, odds are the answer would be yes. The American Association of Orthodontics indicates that approximately 25% of people wearing braces are adults. That’s a lot of patients. But despite the large number of patients currently wearing braces, in most parts of the country you probably don’t see many adults with braces. What’s the secret? Invisalign.

Invisalign is a series of treatments where clear plastic aligners are custom created for an individual patient. Each aligner is worm for a specific period of time, slowly and slightly correcting the patient’s bite. As the patient completes the specified time with each aligner, the teeth slowly shift into their proper position.

The aligners should be worn as often as possible – generally 20-22 hours each day. They can be removed while you eat, and when you brush your teeth, but are generally worn while awake and asleep. Because the aligners are removed while you eat, you’re free to eat virtually anything you’d normally eat – meaning there are no food restrictions.

Nearly all bite issues can be corrected with Invisalign, though some dentists will recommend against Invisalign in certain cases where Invisalign may be significantly more costly and difficult than traditional orthodontic treatments. To determine if you’re an Invisalign candidate, schedule an appointment soon for a full evaluation.

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

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

Why You May Have Developed Gum Disease | New York Dentist

No one wants gum disease. And while it can be prevented with proper dental care, there are some things that can happen that will cause you to develop gum disease. Because gum disease is typically painless, you may not even know you have it. Only a dental professional can diagnose you.

But what causes gum disease? Plaque is the primary cause of gum disease. However, other factors can contribute to periodontal disease, including:

  • Hormonal changes, such as those occurring during pregnancy, puberty, menopause, and monthly menstruation, make gums more sensitive, which makes it easier for gingivitis to develop.
  • Various illnesses may affect the condition of your gums. This includes diseases such as cancer or HIV, because they interfere with the immune system. Diabetes’ effects on the body’s ability to use blood sugar makes patients with this disease at a higher risk of developing infections, including periodontal disease and cavities.
  • Medications can affect oral health, because some lessen the flow of saliva, which has a protective effect on teeth and gums.
  • Bad habits such as smoking make it harder for gum tissue to repair itself.
  • Family history of dental disease can be a contributing factor for the development of gingivitis.

Gum disease may progress without producing obvious signs, even in the late stages of the disease. Although the symptoms of periodontal disease can often be subtle, it can present some warning signs. But even if you don’t notice any symptoms, you may still have some degree of gum disease. In some people, gum disease may affect only certain teeth, such as the molars. Only a dentist or a periodontist can recognize and determine the progression of gum disease.

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

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

Eating After You’ve Gotten a Dental Filling | New York Dentist

Now that we are enjoying the summer sun, we are becoming surrounded (and tempted) by so many frozen delights and sugary treats. And if we aren’t looking after our teeth, this can become an issue when it comes to our next dental appointment. Because if you don’t, it is likely that you will have yourself a cavity. And while it isn’t the end of the world, it isn’t something we want because it can lead to sensitive teeth. We need a filling.

A dental filling is a minor procedure but should be taken quite seriously. Dental fillings tend to necessitate a local anesthetic, so your teeth will be incredibly sensitive for a while. Here are some things to keep in mind while you’re healing:

Hot and cold foods. Because your filling is a sensitive area, stay away from foods that are too hot or too cold. It will be easier, less painful, and more comfortable for you to eat your food at a neutral temperature. Say yes to salads and sandwiches, no to soups and milkshakes until your mouth feels better.

Avoid gum and sticky foods. This tip not only applies to all dental work but avoiding sticky foods is safer for your teeth altogether. And yes, that includes the Halloween favorites, like caramel or taffy. After your filling, the material used to fill in the tooth will still be somewhat malleable. In that case, you want to avoid chewing excessively for the sole purpose of making sure your filling stays right.

Getting a filling isn’t a life-altering issue, but it will take a few days to heal. You can avoid this altogether by practicing good dental hygiene after the spooky times have subsided.

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

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

Why Does My Breath Stink? | New York, NY

Has anyone ever randomly offered you a stick of gum? Do people stand back when you speak? You may have a case of halitosis, or bad breath. And while most cases of bad breath can be remedied with a stick of gum or a quick brushing. But if you find that it is a consistent occurrence, it could be a result of something more serious.

Obviously, the first option is to look at your dental hygiene practices. Do you brush for at least two minutes twice a day? Do you floss and rinse? Not being diligent with these daily tasks will not only lead to bad breath but also gum disease and other dental maladies.

The medical condition dry mouth (xerostomia) also can cause bad breath. Saliva is necessary to moisten the mouth, neutralize acids produced by plaque, and wash away dead cells that accumulate on the tongue, gums, and cheeks. If not removed, these cells decompose and can cause bad breath. Dry mouth may be a side effect of various medications, salivary gland problems, or continuous breathing through the mouth.

Many other diseases and illnesses may cause bad breath. Here are some to be aware of: respiratory tract infections such as pneumonia or bronchitis, chronic sinus infections, postnasal drip, diabetes, chronic acid reflux, and liver or kidney problems.

Don’t worry – there are a few things you can do to prevent your traditional forms of dragon breath. Here are tips to keep in mind going forward:

  • Practice good oral hygiene
  • See your dentist regularly
  • Quit tobacco products
  • Drink lots of water
  • Keep a log of the foods you eat

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

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