Month: April 2023

Apart from the name of a well-known and delicious condiment, “tartar” can also refer to a serious dental problem that is more common than one might think. If your teeth are not as white as they used to be or if you experience bad breaths, chances are you probably have tartar buildup. Continue reading to learn about tartar removal methods, as well as prevention tips to help save your smile.

What is Tartar?

When one does not brush and floss on a regular basis, a sticky film of bacteria known as plaque forms on the teeth. Tartar, also known as dental calculus, is a hardened deposit that forms on the teeth when that plaque is left to accumulate over time.

Tartar is often yellow or brown in color and, if left untreated, can cause a variety of dental problems like tooth decay and gum disease.

Different Methods of Tartar Removal 

There are different methods that can be used, depending on the severity of the tartar buildup.

Professional Dental Cleaning

The most common method of removing tartar buildup is professional dental cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, where a dental hygienist will use special tools to remove tartar from your teeth. 

Scaling and Root Planning

This is a more intensive procedure that involves a thorough cleaning of the teeth and gums and may require local anesthesia. 

Home Remedies

There are also some home remedies for tartar removal that you can easily find on the Internet, from using baking soda and gargling vinegar to even munching sesame seeds. 

These methods, however, are not as effective as professional cleaning. If not done correctly, they may even harm your teeth and gums.

Prevention Tips to Reduce The Need for Tartar Removal

It’s nice to save money on tartar removal appointments, but it’s even nicer not to have to go to those appointments.

Here are some pointers to help you avoid the need for tartar removal:

• Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
• Daily flossing to eliminate plaque buildup between teeth
• Use an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria
• Avoid sugary and acidic foods and beverages
• Quit smoking or using tobacco products

Conclusion

If left untreated, tartar buildup can cause serious dental problems and harm your public image. Understanding prevention tips for tartar buildup can help you keep a good appearance and improve your oral health.

However, a visit to a reputable dental clinic for tartar prevention advice or to have your tartar problems removed is still highly recommended. If you are currently living in the Big Apple, then the NYC Dental Smile Team is the place to be!

Our experienced team of doctors with years of practical experience is pleased to offer professional tartar removal and other dental services, as we believe that “the power of a healthy smile is a joyful thing.”

Click here to make an appointment today!

A bright, white smile is a sign of good health and hygiene. However, many people suffer from teeth discoloration, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including food and drinks, aging, and smoking. In this article, we will explore teeth whitening as a solution to teeth discoloration and answer the question: is teeth whitening permanent?

Different Methods for Whitening Teeth

Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental treatment that can make a significant difference in the appearance of teeth. It’s normal for teeth to become discolored over time due to aging, food and drink stains, tobacco use, and poor oral hygiene. Fortunately, there are several methods available for teeth whitening that can effectively remove stains and restore a brighter, whiter smile.

In-office teeth whitening

In-office teeth whitening is a popular method that is done by a dental professional. This method involves applying a bleaching gel to the teeth and activating it with a special light. The procedure typically takes about an hour and can significantly whiten teeth in just one session.

Take-home teeth whitening kits

Take-home teeth whitening kits are also popular and can be provided by a dental professional. Most of the time, these kits come with a tray that fits your teeth and a whitening gel. The patient wears the tray with the gel for a specified amount of time each day until the desired level of whitening is achieved.

Over-the-counter teeth whitening products

Over-the-counter teeth whitening products are widely available and can include whitening toothpaste, whitening strips, and whitening gels. While these products can be effective to some degree, they typically take longer to achieve noticeable results and may not be as effective as professional teeth whitening methods. Some teeth whitening may even have side effect if not use with the right amount. 

Is Teeth Whitening Permanent?

Teeth whitening will not last forever. Over time, teeth may become discolored again due to aging and lifestyle factors. However, with proper maintenance, results can last for a significant amount of time.

The longevity of teeth whitening can vary depending on the individual and the method used. In general, professional teeth whitening methods tend to last longer than over-the-counter products. A meticulous oral care routine can help the results last from six months to two years.

How to Keep Your Teeth Whiter Longer?

Once you’ve achieved your desired level of teeth whitening, you’ll want to take steps to maintain your results for as long as possible. Here are some tips for keeping your teeth whiter longer:

Avoid staining foods and beverages

Foods and drinks that are high in color can stain teeth over time.  To maintain a brighter smile, try to avoid or limit foods and drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, berries, and tomato sauce.

Practice good oral hygiene

Brushing and flossing regularly can help remove surface stains and prevent new stains from forming. It’s also important to visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings. Having a good oral care routine can help you save money and pain further down the track. So don’t underestimate the importance of regular dental visits for a professional clean, book your appointment today.

Drink with a straw

Drinking through a straw can help minimize contact between staining liquids and your teeth.

Consider touch-up treatments

Over time, teeth may become discolored again even with proper maintenance. Consider touch-up treatments to maintain your results, such as using an at-home whitening kit or scheduling periodic in-office whitening treatments.

=> Maybe you’ll be interested in: How Often Can You Get Your Teeth Whitened Without Damaging Them?

Conclusion

Teeth whitening is an excellent solution to restore your bright, white smile. At New York City Smiles, we take pride in educating each and every team member to adhere to our unique techniques, which aim to broaden the scope of conventional practice. If you’re looking to take control of your dental health and transform your smile, our clinic is the right choice for you. With our proactive approach, comprehensive training, and patient education initiatives, our team of experts is confident to help you achieve your goals. 

Don’t wait any longer – schedule an appointment with us today and take the first step towards a healthier, brighter smile!

A dental crown is a tailored procedure for providing coverage and protection to a damaged or decayed tooth. Besides its practical applications, this tooth-shaped cap can also serve cosmetic purposes.

Because a dental crown could be on a patient’s tooth for a long time to serve the above purposes, which can be up to a decade, choosing the most suitable dental crown material that fits your budget and goes well with your mouth interior is very important. 

If you are curious about the types of dental crown material out there and which type suits you best, this blog post is for you.

4 Common Types of Dental Crowns 

Currently on the market, there are four well-known types of dental crown materials for dental patients: 

• Porcelain (famous for its natural appearance),
• Metal (often chosen for its durability and strength),
• Ceramic (known for its strength and natural-looking appearance),
• Resin (a more affordable option to match the color of natural teeth).

Here is a further breakdown of those four material types of dental crowns.

Porcelain Dental Crowns

For patients looking for a natural-looking dental restoration, porcelain dental crowns are a favored option. 

They are popular due to their natural appearance and ability to match the color of adjacent teeth, particularly the front teeth. They may, however, be more susceptible to chipping or cracking than metal or ceramic crowns. 

Typically, porcelain crowns can last for 10 – 15 years and are recommended for patients with healthy gums and sufficient tooth structure. 

Metal Dental Crowns

If you want a sturdier and more durable option for your mischievous set of teeth, you can go with metal as your crown material.

They are commonly used for molars and back teeth because of their resistance to breaking or chipping. However, they are less aesthetically pleasing than other materials and may be more noticeable in the mouth.

Patients with strong biting forces and a history of teeth grinding should consider metal crowns, which can last for 20 – 30 years when maintained well.

Ceramic Dental Crowns

Ceramic dental crowns are a good option for patients who care about their appearance.

They are highly aesthetic, and they can easily blend in with the surrounding teeth. Regardless, they may not be as durable as other materials and are more likely to crack or chip if you bite strongly. 

Ceramic crowns are recommended for patients who do not have a history of teeth grinding or clenching, and if properly cared for, they can last for 10 – 15 years. 

Resin Dental Crowns

Because of their plastic nature, resin dental crowns are a more cost-effective alternative to the above types.

They can be color-matched to natural teeth and are less likely to cause wear on opposing teeth than other materials, but they may be less durable and more prone to fracture than other materials. 

Resin crowns are suggested for patients who do not grind their teeth and have weak biting forces. They typically have a lifespan of 5 – 10 years and may require replacement more frequently than other types.

4 Types of Dental Crown Materials Comparison

For a quick summary of the aforementioned four types of dental crown material, here is a table highlighting the main details of those four in terms of comparable criteria:

 

	Porcelain	Metal	Ceramic	Resin
Advantage	Has a natural appearance	Strong resistance to breaking	High aesthetic	Cost-effective
Disadvantage	More expensive and prone to chipping	Not as good looking	Could break when biting heavily	Less durable, easier to fracture
Longevity	10 – 15 years	20 – 30 years	10 – 15 years	5 – 10 years
Suitable cases	Patients with healthy gums and tooth structure	Patients who bite strongly and grind their teeth many times	Patients who do not grind or clench their teeth	Patients with no teeth-grinding and weak biting forces

 

Since each type of dental crown has its pluses and minuses, the best option for a patient must be based on various factors. In order to best choose a material that suits them, patients must communicate effectively with their dentist to obtain information about:

• What is the purpose of a dental crown?
• How to maintain dental crowns?
• What is the most suited material for the patient’s specific dental problems?
• Are there any special care instructions for a dental crown? 
• What food to avoid with dental crown?

Conclusion

Choosing the right dental crown material can be a challenging task, but we hope this article has helped you understand the differences in lifespan and the purpose of each type and the material that is within your budget.

It’s important to consult with a trusted dental professional to determine which types of dental crown material suit you best. If you’re in NYC, our team at New York City Smiles would be happy to be that trusted dental partner of yours.

We are committed to empowering, perfecting, and protecting our patients’ oral health. We aim to keep you smiling and make your overall well-being our top priority.

Source

C. (n.d.). Dental Crowns: Why Would You Need One? Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/10923-dental-crowns

Types of Materials Available for my Dental Crown – Lasting Impressions Dental Group Houston TX. (2020, October 12). Lasting Impressions Dental Group Houston TX. https://www.lastingimpressionsdentalgroup.com/blog/types-of-materials-available-for-my-dental-crown/

5 Tips to Care for Your Dental Crowns: A Briter Smile: Cosmetic Dentistry. (n.d.). 5 Tips to Care for Your Dental Crowns: A Briter Smile: Cosmetic Dentistry. https://www.abritersmile.com/blog/5-tips-to-care-for-your-dental-crowns

Dental Crowns: How Long Do They Last? – Abbadent Dental and Implants Dubuque Iowa. (2019, August 12). Abbadent Dental and Implants Dubuque Iowa. https://www.abbadent.com/blog/dental-crowns-how-long-do-they-last/

Dental crowns are a common dental procedure that can help restore the appearance and function of damaged teeth. In contrast to their common nature, however, their price may vary depending on a variety of factors.

Because a dental crown is a long-term investment, knowing everything about the cost of a dental crown is always a good idea for dental patients. This blog post was written to aid you with exactly that.

Factors Affecting the Cost of A Dental Crown

The cost of a dental crown can vary, depending on several factors, with the most prevalent ones being:

Material 

Dental crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, gold, and resin. The choice of material significantly impacts the overall cost, with gold and porcelain crowns generally being more expensive than resin or metal-based options.

Crowns that serve an aesthetic and natural purpose, such as zirconia and gold and metal alloy crowns, necessitate more customization, thus the higher price. The types of dental crown material can play an important factor to how long a dental crown can last too.

On the other hand, crowns that only need to be sturdy and durable, such as all-ceramic or PFM crowns, are easier to manufacture and can be added to your tooth faster, but they may cost more if you also want them to be more beautiful.

Dentist’s Experience and Expertise 

The cost of a dental crown may also depend on the dentist’s level of expertise and experience. Highly skilled and experienced dentists may charge more for their services.

Geographic Location 

Dental costs tend to vary by location, with urban areas and regions with higher costs of living often having higher dental fees.

Type of Dental Practice

The cost of a dental crown may vary depending on the type of dental practice you visit. Private practices, for example, may charge more than a dental clinic associated with a dental school or a government-run facility.

Keep in mind that some additional costs might incur. Read on to learn about them.

Additional Costs to Consider

While getting the desired dental crowns to your teeth is a very important part of the procedure, there are other steps that must be taken for a successful dental upgrade. 

Here are some additional charges that may increase the cost:

• Consultation fees: as in the evaluation of your teeth and gums to determine if you are a candidate for a crown, and if so, which type of crown would suit you best.
• X-ray fees: taking X-rays allows your dentist to accurately assess the condition of your teeth and gums, ensuring that the crown is placed correctly and fits perfectly.

• Teeth cleaning fees: plaque or tartar buildup on your teeth can interfere with crown placement and lead to complications during and after the process, hence the necessity of a thorough teeth cleaning.
• Possible complications and associated costs: these could arise during the procedure, such as the need for root canal therapy or an emergency appointment.

All of these factors can come into play in finding the answer to how much a dental crown would cost you.

Maybe you’ll be interested in: How to Take Care of Dental Crowns?

NYC Dental Smile Team Has A Better Option JUST FOR YOU!

If you’re in the New York City area, then your quest for the best dental clinic can safely end here! We here at NYC Dental Smile Team can absolutely provide a high-quality and affordable dental crown option for you!

If you’re looking for an affordable and high-quality dental crown option, consider visiting NYC Dental Smile Team!

We provide a variety of dental crown options at reasonable prices, and our experienced dental team can assist you in selecting the best option for your needs and budget. This fits perfectly with our mission of empowering, perfecting, and protecting our patients’ oral health while keeping them smiling.

Our dental crown replacement cost is also reasonable, so please do not hesitate to schedule additional appointments with us!

To schedule your first appointment with us, please click here!

For numerous reasons, teeth whitening has grown in popularity over the past few years. Some people might desire a whiter smile due to discolored teeth. Or perhaps all you want is to feel more confident.

Whitening products have served as the solution for many. Yet, if you’ve ever whitened your teeth, you could have experienced momentary dental sensitivity or even gingival irritation. This is both normal and expected. Thankfully, there are a few simple ways to handle the discomfort and sensitivity after and during teeth whitening.

What causes Teeth Sensitivity after Whitening?

As a result, you could have brief bouts of tooth discomfort or sensitivity following teeth whitening with:

• Cool foods or beverages.
• Food that is sweet, sour, or acidic.
• Air.
• Brushing your teeth.

Carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide are to blame for the sensitivity of the teeth after whitening. These are the components included in tooth whitening solutions the most frequently. By igniting a chemical reaction with the chromogens on the teeth, they both function. The bacteria known as chromogens grow on our teeth and stain them.

A lighter tint of the tooth is produced when chromogens and the peroxides in whitening treatments interact. The pulp or nerve inside the tooth, however, can occasionally become inflamed as a result of exposure to these peroxides.

How long does Teeth Sensitivity last after Whitening

After having your teeth whitened by a professional, they may be sensitive for a few days, weeks, or even months. Your individual situation and the potential tooth sensitivity will determine how long it lasts.

While it is hard for our experts to predict how long your teeth might remain sensitive, they may be able to predict whether you will suffer tooth sensitivity following a whitening session based on the quality of your current teeth and your past sensitivity history.

Find out more about “How Often Can You Get Your Teeth Whitened Without Damaging Them?“

How to Get Rid of Sensitive Teeth Pain right away after Whitening

Temporary tooth discomfort and sensitivity are the most frequent adverse effects from utilizing teeth whitening treatments. Nonetheless, there are certain suggestions you may take to lessen the possibility of discomfort following the treatment. By using the suggestions below, you can get sensitivity alleviation.

Take Pain Relievers

Prior to having your teeth whitened, using an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen might help lessen sensitivity and discomfort. After your treatment, you can keep using this medicine to control any remaining sensitivity.

Use a Desensitizing gel

Desensitizing gels can quickly relieve the discomfort associated with tooth whitening. You should do this prior to receiving therapy. Rinse with water after leaving the gel on your teeth for the suggested amount of time.

Use desensitizing Toothpaste

Using a desensitizing toothpaste is one of the easiest and most efficient ways to alleviate dental sensitivity after whitening.

As suggested by the name, these kinds of toothpaste contain components that are not only soothing for those who have sensitive teeth but also work to lessen the sensitivity of the teeth as a consequence.

Make sure to brush your teeth with a toothpaste designed specifically for teeth desensitization within the initial 48 hours following your teeth whitening procedure. You might even choose to use this toothpaste permanently if you were susceptible to sensitive teeth prior to having your teeth whitened.

⇒ Maybe you’ll be interested in: Why is My Tooth Sensitive After a Filling?

How to Prevent Sensitive Teeth after Whitening

Ask your doctor to prescribe or suggest a prescription-strength toothpaste or gel that is specially made to lessen sensitivity after teeth whitening.

Use a straw to drink

Anyone looking for advice on how to stop their teeth from becoming sensitive after bleaching might want to think about spending money on a high-quality reusable drinking straw.

Consuming liquids, especially cold ones, can be extremely unpleasant for people who have sensitive teeth if the liquid makes contact with the teeth. With a drinking straw, you may enjoy a beverage without worrying that the liquid will contact your teeth and bring you pain or suffering.

Avoid both hot and cold liquids

Avoiding hot and cold beverages is another easy and extremely efficient method you may use if you’re curious to know how to get rid of tooth sensitivity after whitening.

The last thing you should do if your teeth are sensitive after being whitened is drink something ice cold or extremely hot since these high temperatures can severely exacerbate your teeth’s sensitivity and cause you a lot of pain and discomfort.

Drinking beverages at room temperature is preferable, and as before, use a straw to prevent the liquid from coming in contact with your now very sensitive teeth.

Gently brush your teeth

If you’re wondering how to stop experiencing tooth sensitivity after whitening, switching to a toothbrush with softer bristles and brushing more slowly and gently can really make a significant impact.

Conclusion

Teeth whitening can be a great way to improve the appearance of your smile, but it can also cause sensitivity. The majority of whitening products may cause moderate tooth sensitivity and gum inflammation. However once your whitening procedure is through, this usually goes away within a few days.

The idea is to whiten your teeth with the least amount of discomfort possible. And the first step in doing this is involving your dental care professional. If you’re thinking about getting your teeth whitened, our team of professional dentists at NYC Dental Smiles is the best choice for you.

A bright and healthy smile is essential for a confident appearance. Daily oral hygiene is crucial for maintaining strong gums and healthy teeth. This practice not only keeps our mouth fresh and clean but also helps us feel more comfortable eating whatever we desire.

Despite our best efforts to maintain good oral health, dental diseases can occur. In this article, we will go over the most common dental diseases and how to prevent them.

Why Is It Important to Know About Dental Diseases?

Dental diseases can affect anyone, regardless of age or socioeconomic status. These diseases, if not prevented or treated promptly, can cause pain, discomfort, and even tooth loss.

Moreover, some dental diseases are associated with other major health issues, even certain types of cancer like oral cancer. This is because the health of your mouth is inextricably linked to the health of your entire body.

Gum disease, for example, has been linked to a higher risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. The reason is that gum disease can cause inflammation in the body, which can lead to artery narrowing and an increased risk of heart attack or stroke. Furthermore, because of their weakened immune systems, diabetics are more susceptible to gum disease.

Understanding the signs and symptoms of common dental diseases can help you take preventive measures and, if necessary, seek early treatment.

What Are The Most Common Dental Diseases?

Considering the severity of dental health concerns, it’s important to be aware of the most common dental diseases that can affect us. To assist you with this, let’s take a look at the six most frequently encountered diseases that dentists treat in patients. 

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay, also known as cavities, is one of the most common dental diseases in humans. The buildup of plaque on the teeth produces acid, which eats away at the tooth enamel. Tooth decay symptoms include toothache, sensitivity, and visible holes or pits on the tooth surface.

Gum Disease

Also called periodontal disease, gum disease is caused by plaque and bacteria accumulation around the gum line. Common gum disease indications are red, swollen, and bleeding gums; bad breath; and receding gums. If left untreated, this can result in tooth loss or even worse.

How to Get Rid of Bad Breath After Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Oral Cancer

Cancer of the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat is a serious disease. It is usually caused by smoking and drinking, and in some extreme cases, by the HPV virus. Its symptoms include persistent sores in the mouth, difficulty swallowing, and mouth tissues’ color or texture changes.

Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is a common dental problem caused by a number of factors, such as tooth decay, gum recession, and teeth grinding. Sharp pain or discomfort when eating or drinking hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods are symptoms of tooth sensitivity.

Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is a sleep disorder in which a person clenches or grinds their teeth. Teeth grinding can lead to tooth damage, jaw pain, and headaches over time.

Root Infection

A root infection, also known as a dental abscess, is a bacterial infection that occurs in the root of a tooth. It can cause excruciating pain, swelling, and fever. A root infection can spread to other parts of the body and become life-threatening if left untreated.

Tips for Preventing Dental Diseases

As the danger of untreated oral diseases can be alarming, how can one battle against them on a daily basis? 

Don’t worry, because there are three simple steps anyone can take in their daily lives to avoid common dental diseases.

Brushing and Flossing Regularly

This is the most effective and simple method of preventing dental diseases. It aids in the removal of plaque and bacteria from the teeth and gums, thereby lowering the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Eating a Balanced and Nutritious Diet

This is necessary to maintain good oral health. Sugar and carbohydrate-rich foods can increase the risk of tooth decay, whereas calcium- and vitamin D-rich foods can strengthen the teeth and bones.

Avoiding Tobacco and Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Tobacco and alcohol could become significant risk factors for oral cancer and other dental diseases. By quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption, the risk of developing these conditions can be largely reduced.

Conclusion

Understanding the most common dental diseases and putting simple preventive measures in place can help you maintain good oral health and avoid serious dental issues.

There is no better way to avoid dental diseases than to visit the dental clinic often to do dental check-ups and listen to dentists’ recommendations. If you are in the NYC area, let the NYC Dental Smile Team be that trusted dental clinic of yours!

Feel free to make an appointment with us today for any concerns about your dental health, as your overall well-being is at the center of everything we do. Our skilled dentists can help diagnose and treat dental diseases, as well as make personalized recommendations for maintaining good oral hygiene.

Click here to contact us!