What to Expect From Wisdom Teeth Removal in Green Brook Township

If you are considering a wisdom teeth removal in Green Brook Township, call our office and schedule a consultation. Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed. If there is room in your mouth for this third set of molars and they grow in properly, you could continue to live with them without experiencing any irritation. However, most people do not have enough room, and they grow in impacted as a result. This can lead to discomfort while also creating space for food to become trapped.

Signs you need to have your wisdom teeth removed:

Soreness or pain.

If your wisdom teeth hurt or the area is sore, you may need to have them extracted.

Gaps.

If you have a gap in between your wisdom tooth and your back molar, this can become a space where food becomes trapped and plaque builds up. If you are constantly reaching for a toothpick to remove food from this area, you should consider an extraction.

Your teeth are moving.

If your teeth appear to be shifting out of place, it could be because your wisdom teeth are pushing them forward. If you have already had braces to straighten and align your teeth, this is a risk you may not want to take. When you visit us for a wisdom teeth removal in Green Brook Township, we can examine your teeth and determine if they are moving due to your wisdom teeth or another issue like a tongue thrust or even oral cancer.

The process of removing wisdom teeth:

When we complete a wisdom teeth removal, we have several ways of doing so. If the tooth has already started to grow in and is coming in straight, we can typically pull it out of the socket after giving you anesthesia. This is the fastest way to do so since it does not require oral surgery. If, however, your tooth is impacted or still under the surface, we will need to create a flap in the gum tissue that will be lifted up so we can access the tooth below. If there is any gum tissue or bone on top of the tooth, it will need to be cut away so we can reach the tooth and try to lift it out of the socket. There are times where this will not be enough to loosen it, and in this scenario, we will need to break the tooth into several pieces and remove them one at a time. Next, we will clean the area to ensure no debris remains and the area does not become infected. Afterward, we will lay the flap back down and suture it in place. This entire process is done using anesthesia so you do not experience any discomfort.

Afterward, we will place gauze on the area to stop the bleeding. We also recommend you use an ice pack for 15 minutes at a time and take ibuprofen to reduce the swelling. You may experience discomfort for a few days, so be careful to continue icing and stick with foods that are soft and easy to eat.

Dental Implants  >  Cosmetic Dentist

How Dental Implants Can Change Your Life

If you have lost some of your teeth, you may not realize what a big difference dental implants can make. For many people, dental implants are life changing. This compilation of three ways dental implants can change your life is just the beginning of the many benefits they can provide.

Dental Implants Help You Stay Young Looking

Dental implants not only improve the necessary function of your teeth, but they can also drastically improve your appearance, making you look years younger. Implants make your smile fuller, filling in drooping areas of your cheeks, jawline, and lips. Once you receive dental implants, you will immediately notice that your facial skin is firmer, and your wrinkles are less noticeable. No matter what your age is, when you lose teeth it tends to make you look a decade older or more because you do not have a strong structure to keep your skin taut, and you develop a sunken appearance in your face. If you go without teeth too long, you may even lose bone structure since there are not teeth in place to keep your jawbone and other teeth from shifting.

Dental Implants Improve Your Chances of Succeeding in Your Career

Your smile is the first thing the majority of people will notice about you and one of the most vivid memories they will hold of your face. If you have less than impressive teeth, it may give off a false impression of your hygiene and happiness. Make a great first impression by receiving quality dental implants that look and feel real while also greatly improving your smile.

People who smile more often give off the impression of being more confident and content in life. When you are trying to succeed in life, it is important to look and feel confident so you can surpass your expectations and other's expectations of you. Allow us to give you more confidence and success by providing you with dental implants that perfectly fill in your already beautiful smile.

Dental Implants Make it Easier to Eat a Healthy Diet

When you are missing teeth, it is often easier to opt for foods that are not challenging to chew, but these foods also tend to have less nutritional value. Not getting proper nutrients can lead to the loss of more teeth, bone loss, weight loss, blood sugar problems, and long-term health risks. When you are ready to enjoy a proper meal again, complete with all the vitamins and minerals necessary to maintain a healthy lifestyle, dental implants can provide you with this power. Dental implants can also help you eat foods that you miss that you may not have been able to eat in years. Eating the foods you love makes life more enjoyable and provides you with a long life.

The procedure to receive dental implants typically only takes two to three visits, and within a few months, you will have strong, working teeth again. The artificial tooth roots that hold your replacement teeth in place are made of a titanium metal that fuses with your jawbone to create the strongest possible substitute for missing teeth. Dental implants can act on their own as replacement teeth, or they can be used to support dentures or dental bridges as needed.  The options and benefits of dental implants are numerous and can change your life for the better in a few simple visits to our Green Brook Township office.

Dental Implants  >  Cosmetic Dentist

How Wisdom Teeth Extraction Works

When patients need a wisdom teeth extraction, it can be intimidating. According to the University of Washington's Dental Fears Research Clinic, 75 percent of adults harbor some level of fear over having a dental procedure completed. Fortunately, we are very experienced at removing teeth and can make sure that the entire process goes smoothly with as little pain as possible.
All dentists can remove teeth, but only certain dentists are experienced enough to go by the title of an oral surgeon. When a wisdom tooth breaks through the surface, there is a chance that a normal dentist can pull it out. If it is impacted or still below the surface, patients need to see an oral surgeon instead of a traditional dentist.

We understand how to make the process of a wisdom teeth extraction as painless as possible. An inexperienced dentist can take longer to remove the impacted tooth and cause the patient unnecessary swelling and pain.

If your tooth is impacted, the wisdom teeth extraction will typically have the following process:

• We will thoroughly clean the teeth and gums. It is important to remove any lingering bacteria and plaque from the mouth prior to undergoing oral surgery or any cosmetic procedures. Following a cleaning, we will put the patient under sedation, so that he or she does not feel any pain.
• We then cut open the gum. The gum tissue above the wisdom tooth will be cut open and lifted so that we can access the area.
• We will remove any small parts of bone in the way. At times when the gum tissue is opened up, there will be bone above part of the tooth. We may need to remove the piece of bone in order to extract the tooth.
• We may wiggle the tooth to ease it out of the socket. Using a dental tool, we will grasp the tooth and gently move it back and forth to see if it will easily come loose from the bone and ligaments that are holding it in place.
• We may need to break up the tooth. When a tooth is not responding, it may need to be broken or cut up into smaller pieces and removed one piece at a time.
• Removal and cleaning. After completely removing the tooth, we will thoroughly clean the area and the area in order to prevent any sort of infection.
• We will replace the gum tissue. We will lay the gum tissue back down and use stitches, if necessary, to hold everything in place and promote healing.
• We will use gauze to stop the bleeding. We will hold gauze in place to help and stop the bleeding. Eventually, the body will form a blood clot so that this is no longer necessary.

Wisdom Teeth Extraction in Green Brook Township

After a wisdom teeth extraction takes place, there is a necessary  recovery process. It can take a couple of weeks to feel completely normal. During the timeframe of the recovery process, most patients experience some level of swelling. Ice packs and pain medication can assist and make patients feel more comfortable. Patients need to consume foods that are soft and cool during this time frame. Things with extreme temperatures may cause pain, so it is safe to stick with Jello, applesauce, pudding, yogurt and other soft foods. To learn more or to schedule an appointment call today.
Live in Green Brook Township, NJ and have questions about wisdom teeth extraction? Give us a call at (732) 424-8483.

Family Dentist  >  Dentist

A Dentist Answers Frequently Asked Dentistry Questions

As a dentist in Green Brook Township , there are certain questions that people ask on a regular basis. We want to inform our patients and will answer any questions that you may have so that you can make an educated decision about your oral health care. By discussing procedures in detail, we are confident that you will feel better about any upcoming procedure. Since many of our patients have similar questions and concerns, here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

Does dental work hurt?

With millions of people suffering from dental anxiety, this question is often on the top of our patient's list. The good news is that dental care does not hurt when you visit our office. We have a variety of ways to help calm your nerves. One way is to provide pain medication so that you can relax and feel comfortable, regardless of whether your teeth are being cleaned or you are having major dental work done.

How quickly will I recover?

Most dental procedures have a short recovery time. For example, after treating your cavity, you will most likely feel better later that day. If you are having something major, like oral surgery, the recovery time can be several days. We will go over specifics of the recovery process during your consultation. As a local dentist, we do remind patients that regardless of what procedure is being performed, you can speed up the recovery by not touching the site, rinsing your mouth regularly, and preventing anything from touching that area until it is fully recovered. Avoiding strenuous activity is also important.

Why do I need to have my crown replaced?

Many people are under the impression that once a crown or another restoration is placed, it will remain there forever. While this would be nice, it is simply not the case. A restoration can wear out just like anything can. It is easy for a restoration to become chipped, for example, if you grind your teeth at night. Simultaneously, if you are repeatedly getting infections, this will put your restoration at risk. The best thing, you can do, is to keep your teeth and gums in good health and have regular teeth cleanings in order to prolong the lifespan of your restoration. If it does become worn out, you need to replace it so that your damaged tooth can continue to be protected.

Dentist in Green Brook Township

Which dentist's opinion is right?

When patients visit more than one dentist it can lead to confusion. Dentistry, like many things, gives a provider several options for how to proceed. For example, if your tooth has fallen out you can replace it using dentures, a dental bridge, or a dental implant. All are correct options, and the one that you select is really up to your lifestyle and goals. Each dentist may have a preferred procedure based on their skill set but what you select is entirely up to you. As a local dentist, we believe that it is important to present the facts and let our patients evaluate which solution is right for them.
Live in Green Brook Township, NJ and have questions for a dentist? Give us a call at (732) 424-8483.

Cosmetic Dentist  >  Dental Office

Why Our Patients in Green Brook Township Love Mini-Dental Implants

Mini dental implants are an excellent way to replace missing teeth. At our Green Brook Township dentist office, we regularly provide them to patients who have lost several of their teeth or are experiencing complete tooth loss. The benefit to mini implants is that you are able to have a secure prosthetic that will remain in place and not need removal on a nightly basis, as dentures require.

Mini dental implants are an incredibly popular treatment with our patients and below are a few reasons why:

#1 Mini dental implants look natural

When you replace missing teeth with dental implants, you get the benefit of a new tooth that looks exactly like your natural tooth. Dental implants are a standalone solution that does not use your surrounding teeth for security. Dental implants do not require wires or clasps, as other products do. As a result, the tooth stands independently and looks incredibly natural.
When creating the dental crown or tooth portion of your implant, we take measurements and an impression of your mouth as well as matching the existing shade of your natural teeth. This way, once we place the implant, you will not be able to tell the difference between your natural tooth and the mini dental implant.

#2  Mini dental implants are secure

One of the biggest complaints we hear from people who have lost a tooth or several teeth is that they do not feel secure with their dental reconstruction. This may seem like a small nuance, however, it is actually an incredibly big deal because it influences what you think about when you go out to eat with your friends or exercise.
If you are thinking about your teeth all the time, then they become a hindrance. One of the biggest benefits of replacing teeth with implants is that we surgically place and secure them to your jawbone. Mini dental implants are as secure as your natural teeth. As a result, you do not have to struggle with extra worry about your teeth.

#3 Mini-dental implants are convenient

When comparing the solution to traditional and dental implants, many people prefer the mini dental implants over other options.  Mini dental implants will frequently work for patients that have lost a portion of their bone density due to tooth loss and resorption. Traditional implants are longer and thinner, so they require your jawbone to be denser.
The problem is that after tooth loss you will begin to go through resorption where the body leaches calcium away from your jawbone for use elsewhere. The result is a jawbone that is weak and in need of a bone grafting procedure prior to placing implants. Mini-dental implants are shorter and wider so they very often do not require this initial step. As a result, the process can be completed much faster.
If you would like to discuss mini-dental implants further or find out if a procedure is right for you, call and schedule a consultation with our Green Brook Township dental office today.

Cosmetic Dentist  >  Teeth Whitening Service

Modern Dentures Are More Comfortable and Convenient

If you need to replace your teeth, consider the benefits of modern dentures. While they have been around for centuries, they used to be ill-fitting and uncomfortable. If you imagine dentures and picture someone with loose and overly large teeth, thing again. They are now more natural-looking, comfortable, and easier to wear than ever before. The key is to see a Green Brook Township dentist who can fit you for the perfect set.

Why We Recommend Dentures

#1 - As a temporary solution

Very often, we provide patients with a temporary set to wear while they determine how they want to replace their teeth in the long term. Also, since cosmetic restorations can take time, many patients will wear a denture throughout the process. For example, if you were to replace missing teeth with dental implants, we would need to implant a titanium post under the gums and secure it to the jawbone in each place you are missing a tooth.
While this is sturdiest and most dependable solution long-term, it still takes some time to complete the process and for the patient to heal. This makes it necessary to wear a temporary solution for up to several months. Fortunately, we can provide you one that will make your smile appear intact.

#2 - For partial tooth loss

If you have lost one or several teeth, we can fit you for a set of partial dentures that will restore your smile. We will secure your replacement teeth to a gum base that is molded to leave room for all your remaining teeth. These can either be flexible or they can be secured using wires and hooks.

#3 - For complete tooth loss

We can also create a full set of dentures to replace all of your teeth. If you have lost them earlier and now have a set of dentures that does not fit you properly, we can create a new set for you as well. This is done by making an impression of your mouth and taking precise measurements. We will have the dental lab create your new teeth using our direction, so we can ensure they are the right size for your frame. In this case, we do not need to worry about them matching your surrounding teeth, as we do with partials, but they still need to match the overall size and shape of your face.
We are experts at ensuring that they do, so when you have your false teeth in, it looks as though you have a natural set instead. By being precise with your fitting, we can also ensure that they fit snuggly and securely so as not to slip out of place while you are eating or speaking.

Visit Our Green Brook Township Office for Dentures You Can Enjoy Wearing

Our goal is to provide you with a set of teeth that will replace the ones you have lost and do so in a way that you are comfortable with. Your new teeth will look and feel as good as possible, so you can live confidently.

Cosmetic Dentist  >  Dental Implants

We are an Emergency Dentist for Kids in Green Brook Township

Every Green Brook Township parent will benefit from having an emergency dentist in Green Brook Township on speed dial.  You never know when something will happen that will cause your child to have a dental emergency.  A child can accidentally fall on the playground, be hit by a ball during practice or wake up with a terrible toothache.  Not knowing is part of life, but having a plan is part of being a prepared parent. Fortunately for parents, being prepared is now easier than ever.  We provide emergency dental care and are happy to help your family stay well.

We are an emergency dentist for kids 

#1 We enjoy working with children

We treat both children and adults. We love kids and want to give them our very best.  As a parent, you can take comfort in the fact that our entire office is designed with children in mind.  From the waiting room to the examination areas, we have them decorated in ways to help the children feel comfortable.  You will find toys, books, televisions and friendly smiles when you bring your child to our office.

#2 Our hours are convenient

As an emergency dentist for kids, we know that you cannot control when or if an accident will happen.  You also cannot control if your child will have a dental emergency as a result.  We will not make you wait until Monday morning or a week later to schedule an appointment.  Instead, we offer flexible appointment times so that our patients can be treated right away after an emergency.

#3 We use sedation to make kids comfortable

After a traumatic event that causes a dental emergency, it is likely that your child will be very upset.  They may be in pain or emotionally traumatized.  Visiting the dentist does not make that worse, and at our clinic, it will not.  We use sedation so that your child can relax and feel at ease while being in our office. Overall, sedation is incredibly effective for creating a positive experience.

#4 Our staff is friendly

When you bring your child in for an emergency dentist appointment, you will be greeted by a friendly face.  Our team is warm and welcoming so that your child will feel as though they are somewhere familiar and comforting.  This helps, especially after a traumatic incident.  As an emergency dentist, we understand that your child could be feeling emotional when you bring them in and it is our job to help them to smile again.
You can count on us to provide professional care and the attention that your child needs to become well again.  As an emergency dentist office, we will work to schedule them immediately so that your child does not need to live with discomfort or irritation.

Children's Dentist  >  Dental Office

Preventing Sports Injuries with Preventive Dental Care for Kids in Green Brook Township

When it comes to preventive dental care for kids in Green Brook Township, we do it all.  Our focus is on keeping your children healthy now and as they get older.  Beginning from a very young age, we work to teach children healthy habits, show them how to care for their teeth and clean their teeth on a regular basis.  However, there are things that happen outside of our dentist office that we worry about – sports injuries is one of them.  It is incredibly common to damage a tooth while playing sports, even in kids.  We can work to prevent these injuries.

Step #1 – Keep their teeth strong.

If you want to prevent an injury, start by strengthening their teeth.  We can do so using a fluoride treatment in our office.  Fluoride is a mineral that when placed directly onto the teeth can help to strengthen them in order to reduce cavities.  Studies find that fluoride reduces decay by 30 percent.  However, strong teeth are also helpful when it comes to avoiding dental damage.

Step #2 – Keep their teeth healthy.

As a provider of preventive dental care for kids, we want to be sure that your child has healthy teeth. This is done by cleaning them twice a year in order to remove plaque and tartar that has built up over time.  Simultaneously, we encourage you to feed your children a mouth-healthy diet of nuts, dairy products, lean protein, and vegetables.  Avoiding things like soda and candy are also important to oral health.

Step #3 – Treat problems as they arise.

If your child has tooth decay or an infection, bring them to a dentist right away.  We will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and the infection, prior to restoring the tooth.  The sooner we can remove the decay, the sooner we can return your child's teeth to good health.  As a parent, you need to know that when your child has even a small portion of decay, their tooth is at a greater risk for permanent damage. Preventing sports injuries start with restoring their teeth to good health.
Step #4 – Give them a mouthguard.
Your child will benefit from wearing a mouthguard while practicing and playing sports.  A mouthguard will serve as a protective barrier between your child's teeth and a fly ball, elbow, or hockey stick.  In sports, everything is flying around and doing so at a fast pace.  It is hard for children, or even adults, to avoid common sports accidents because of it.  Since you cannot control what will come your child's way, what you can do is give them a mouthguard to wear so that when it does, that ball cannot come in direct contact with their teeth.  Mouth guards prevent hundreds of thousands of sports injuries every year, so this is certainly a wise solution.
You can count on us to provide preventive dental care for kids in Green Brook Township that addresses all of your child's oral health care needs.  To learn about how we can protect their teeth, call and schedule an appointment.

Family Dentist  >  Dental Office

Dental Implants: Facts About This Innovative Technology

Despite dental implants having been around for a very long time, they are anything but an old technology. As changes have happened, medical science has allowed dental implants to become a technology that is head and shoulders above the competition. Some of our patients in Green Brook Township, especially those that are considering changing away from some of the more traditional prosthetics to an implant, have questions about why implants are so much better. For starters, a dental implant is inserted directly into your jawbone by a skilled dentist, oral surgeon or periodontist. This allows the titanium implant to fuse perfectly with the organic tissue. This gives your implant the strength and stability the jawbone offers to your natural teeth.

There really is no comparable advancements made by dentures, which still use adhesive to be bonded inside the mouth, and bridges, which are still being cemented in place. Even more impressive, when you have dental implants inserted you are getting the strongest, most durable, and best-looking solution to tooth loss. The fact that the device is inserted below the gum line means that we have a blank slate above the gum to give you the most impressive looking, realistic teeth.

When it comes to dental implants, the fact that they are a surgically installed prosthetic, which is also permanent, makes people want to know all the answers before they make an educated decision. For patients who already have a prosthetic device, they want to be sure they are making the right decision in terms of longevity, how long will these devices last, acceptance by the body, and how long the recovery time will take. These are perfectly normal questions about any procedure.
Longevity wise, dental implants have been known to last as long as thirty years, and as little as seven years. The life cycle of an implant is hard to predict because there are so many variables. For example, you have no idea of know if you will be in an accident, or develop some kind of gum disease in the future. On the other hand, we know that good oral hygiene habits and dietary habits can help you with ensuring that the implants last longer. Implants are typically very successful. The installation success rate varies, study to study, from 93% to 98% with the vast majority of cases being completely successful. Naturally there are other factors that influence how well the install does, and how successful it will be.

To account for all the factor that could influence an installation, and the longevity of your dental implants, we do the installation in steps. At the end of each step, you will have the opportunity to recover for between ten and fourteen days.  When you return we will double check all the work we have done, make sure nothing changed, make any changes that may be needed, and then proceed to the next step. This allows our Green Brook Township office to be much more effective with the installations and also allows you a shorter recovery time after the entire process is completed. Typically, after the dental implants are in place, you will need to rest and not use the tooth for about 2 weeks.

Cosmetic Dentist  >  Teeth Whitening Service

Why You Need a Dental Cleaning

If you have questions about why you need a regular dental cleaning, consider how valuable it is to prevent the discomfort of a future toothache. It is easy to assume that a dental cleaning isn't as important as other dental services, but in reality cleaning your teeth is your first defense against serious dental problems like gum disease.  Without a thorough cleaning, you are opening yourself up to other dental expenses like fillings for cavities and oral surgeries due to periodontal disease. Cleanings are vital for retaining healthy teeth and gums, and a professional dental cleaning is your first step in fighting the war against dental caries.

General Oral Hygiene

Proper at-home oral hygiene is essential and should not be taken for granted, but many people are brushing their teeth every day and still missing important areas of their teeth. Additionally, the vast majority of people fail to floss daily, which is critical for gum health and for preventing plaque and bacteria buildup between and around the teeth. Brushing your teeth twice a day does not mean you are removing all plaque and grime. A dental cleaning is a necessity when it comes to accessing hard to reach areas and removing anything that is left behind, including plaque deep within your gums.

Periodontal Disease
If you do not have a professional dental cleaning, plaque will most likely build up on your teeth and under your gumline which will result in tartar and bacteria. Tartar is a hardened plaque that harbors bacteria that will break down your bone structure and infect your gums; this process is called periodontal disease. Periodontal disease and other forms of gum disease can result in gum recession, constant discomfort, facial swelling and even tooth loss. If you want to avoid these detrimental symptoms and infections,  you should make bi-annual dental cleaning a priority.

Teeth Stains
 A very common physical complaint among people is that their teeth are stained and yellow. They struggle with this unappealing aspect of themselves daily, yet they don't take the easiest measure to remove stains - a dental cleaning. Dental cleaning involves the use of an abrasive toothpaste and buffing and polishing tools that generously remove stains from teeth. If you have been brushing at home and using whitening strips from the drug store, yet you still don't have the whitened teeth you desire, plaque build up may be the reason. If plaque remains on and around your teeth, it creates a barrier between your teeth and the chemicals in your whitening strips. As long as this barrier exists, you will never be able to whiten your teeth to the fullest extent. A cleaning in our Green Brook Township office can help with this common problem. After we clean your teeth, you will immediately see a difference in the shade of your teeth.

To prevent bad oral hygiene, teeth staining, gum bleeding and swelling, and periodontal disease visit our Green Brook Township office for a dental cleaning. These undesirable symptoms are just a few of the important reasons you should be having your teeth cleaned once a year at least, but twice a year is encouraged. We can rid your teeth of stains and harmful bacteria and plaque that could lead to dental caries and other deleterious problems.   

Dental Office  >  General Dentistry

Green Brook Township Teeth Whitening Can Impact Your Smile and More!

Teeth whitening is a simple way to make your initial Green Brook Township social interactions so much better. If you think this is a profound statement, you are probably wondering how anyone could make the leap from teeth whitening to better social interactions. Here is why we believe that if you have whiter teeth, you are going to make a good first impression. How smiles affect society has been a subject of many studies, with the results more or less all pointing in the same direction. What we have found is that over 53 percent of people notice your smile before anything else, and given that the majority of first impressions are made within the first 15 seconds, how your smile looks plays a major impact on what people think of you at first. Amazingly, 52 percent of all participants polled said that they would actually smile more if they had better-looking teeth, and 26 percent acknowledged that they could have better-looking smiles if they took the time to visit the dentist.

When you are in a situation that many of us find uncomfortable, like meeting someone for a first date or having to do a presentation, the natural tendency should be to smile. A bright smile can put people at ease and makes a better impression. Eighty-nine percent of people claim that a great-looking smile makes a person more attractive. With teeth whitening being one of those simple procedures that greatly enhances your smile, it is the perfect place to start winning friends and influencing people.
Teeth whitening is among the simplest of solutions to improve a smile and is very popular. For patients who want to whiten their smile, there are three ways you can go about doing it. First, you can go to the store and purchase an over-the-counter whitening kit. These do-it-yourself solutions are effective but lack the supervision of a qualified dentist. Other patients prefer to come in and get a recommendation for their whitening solution. They also do the work at home but under the indirect supervision of their dentist. Finally, most patients prefer the option of coming in and having us do all the teeth whitening work in the controlled and medically oriented dentist office. Even if you chose option one, you should still make sure that you get a full dental examination before starting the whitening process, to ensure that you have a successful treatment.

For some patients, there are things that can preclude you from getting your teeth whitening done. Among the most common reasons why people find they cannot whiten their teeth is the use of dental fabrications. Dental fabrications include things like porcelain veneers, bonding, and dental crowns, which are used to repair damage to the teeth. If you use a fabrication on the front-facing teeth, you will not be able to bleach them since these synthetic materials cannot have their color changed. If you still want whiter teeth, you may want to consider veneers or another solution we can recommend.

Cosmetic Dentist  >  Dental Veneers

Services from a Green Brook Township General Dentist

At our Green Brook Township general dentist office, we can keep your teeth clean, healthy and beautiful.  Our services include teeth cleanings, dental restorations, teeth whitening, dental bonding, dental crowns, dental veneers, dental bridges, dental implants, smile makeovers and more.  Regardless of the challenge, you are having with your oral health, we can help.  One area of our practice that is important, but often overlooked, is our ability to treat gum disease. As a general dentist, we recommend that patients visit our office for an annual comprehensive periodontal evaluation to assess signs and likelihood of developing periodontal disease. The recommendation stems from the growing rate at which people in the U.S. develop periodontal disease, a severe form of gum disease. If you have had or currently have periodontal disease, you may be among one of every two American adults over 30 years old who have gum disease. The facts surrounding periodontal disease are startling, but before you become too concerned, remember that visiting our office can help in many ways.

The Risks of Periodontal Disease
According to data from the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), approximately 65 million or more adults have periodontal disease. This number continues to grow with age, but it can be limited, starting with you. If you have periodontal disease, don't hesitate to receive treatment before you suffer detrimental results. The health risks related to periodontal disease include diabetes and cardiovascular disease. In addition to these serious diseases, you can also sustain tooth loss, gum recession, chronic mouth discomfort, and teeth and jawbone shifting as a result of untreated gum disease. Our general dentist office can treat you before these symptoms occur, and we can help repair your dental structure following related damage.

Who Is at Risk?
Men have a higher risk of developing gum disease than women by nearly 20 percent; however, women become more at risk for gum disease and tooth decay during pregnancy due to a natural increase in bacteria production and a weakened immune system. Smokers also have an incredibly high risk of developing periodontal disease since their soft and hard oral tissues are constantly exposed to toxins. Some patients are genetically predisposed to suffer from gum recession and periodontal disease, which is why it is so important to receive your annual evaluation from a periodontics office. Those who have poor oral hygiene, only brush once a day, and do not floss are more likely to have gum disease at some point in their lives. Around 70 percent of adults 65 and older have periodontal disease. Anyone who has a disease that compromises their immune system is also more likely to receive oral infections.

If you fall into any of these risk categories, please don't hesitate to visit our general dentist office to learn more and increase your likelihood of maintaining healthy teeth and gums. If no treatment is necessary at the time of your visit, we can share habits you should include in your daily routine to reduce your chances of gum disease.

We can help you keep your gums and teeth disease-free by providing you with necessary treatments to remove excess plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) buildup. Once you know your risk of developing gum disease, you will be better armored to fight the detrimental condition. We can provide you with some necessary repairs if you have sustained damage as a result of gum disease. For more information about periodontal disease and the treatments, we offer to help, visit our general dentist office as soon as you can.

Dental Office  >  Dentist

Dr. Ellen Rado DDS Attends the 12th International Symposium on Periodontics and Restorative Dentistry in Boston

As a top-rated restorative dentist and provider of dental implants, Dr. Ellen Rado DDS attended the 12th International Symposium on Periodontics and Restorative Dentistry, which was held in Boston Massachusetts on June 16th - 19th. This event attracts the top rated dentists from throughout the country and the world. This gathering of industry peers and experts seeks to acknowledge those who have set the highest standard for restorative dentistry and periodontics care. Designed to promote and highlight real innovation, this event provides all attendees with new best practices that can be implemented in their own dental offices. There were 85 experts and thought leaders in oral surgery, endodontics, restorative dentistry, and periodontics along with orthodontics who gave presentations to attendees. Some of the topics covered were -

• The most recent innovations in implant placement.
• Best practices for implant restorations.
• Orthodontic treatments in combination with implant placement.

Topics Covered at The 12th International Symposium on Periodontics and Restorative Dentistry
Sessions were held covering all topics related to implant dentistry. As a restorative dentist, Dr. Rado attended the sessions in order to gain valuable insight that can be applied in our dental practice for the benefit of our patients.  The topics included -

• Various strategies for predictable regenerative therapies
• Periodontal regeneration
• Premium aesthetics for longevity
• Treatment planning
• And much more!

All aspects of preparing for the placement of dental implants, actually placing them, helping to regenerate healthy bone, and the longevity and aesthetics of dental implants were covered.

Visit Our Dental Office to Improve the Outcome of Your Dental Implants Placement

If you are missing some of your teeth, you have options when selecting a dentist to replace them. We understand this and encourage you to call our office and schedule a consultation with Dr. Rado.  When it comes to replacing your teeth with dental implants, the provider that you select is going to directly influence how successful the procedure is overall, the longevity of your implants, and your comfort level.  Dr. Rado spends time continuing her education, finding new and improved ways to complete or enhance the success of a dental implant procedure. Attending this symposium is one example of her commitment to continuing education as a means of enhancing patient outcomes and improving the level of care that she's able to offer patients. With a focus on, and a passion for, the health and aesthetics of our patients' smiles, Dr. Rado is truly the best in restorative dentistry.

Dental Implants Are the Most Secure Way to Replace Missing Teeth

If you are currently wearing dentures or are unaware of how dental implants can benefit you, we encourage you to visit our office for a consultation. Dental implants are the most secure way to replace missing teeth because this is the only option that is surgically placed. Dr. Rado will implant a small titanium post under the surface of your gums and secure it to your jawbone. The two will fuse together in order to create a secure root system that your new tooth can be attached to. As a result, your replacement teeth will look, behave, and feel exactly like your natural ones. To learn more about this option or to experience some of the new and improved methods for placing dental implants, visit our office to speak with Dr. Rado.

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Visit a Dentist for Kids in Green Brook Township

For pediatric dental care in Green Brook Township, visit a dentist for kids. Ellen Rado DDS can provide your child with the special attention needed for an enjoyable dentist visit. Our staff is specialized in working with children of every age and can provide your child with a comfortable, fun environment so they will look forward to coming back to the dentist every appointment. We can offer your child comprehensive, preventative, and restorative pediatric dental care. To learn more about the preventative techniques a dentist for kids at our office provides, continue reading.

What is the purpose of preventative pediatric dental care?

Children are susceptible to developing cavities for many reasons. Many children are still learning proper brushing and flossing techniques and need extra care to remain on course for lifelong healthy teeth and gums. Parents often also need another influential person in their child’s life to help instill in them the importance of good dental care, and visiting our dentist for kids office can help provide that extra influence. Even younger kids with all baby teeth need to visit our office because baby teeth hold a space for adult teeth. If baby teeth become infected, it can lead to infection in the gums and affect the growing adult teeth. Bring your child in by age one or when their first teeth erupt through the gums.

What specific actions do you take to provide preventative pediatric dental care?

A dentist for kids in our office can provide deep teeth cleaning, buffing, polishing, and flossing to ensure all bacteria and plaque is removed from your child’s teeth twice a year, so cavities are less likely to develop. For most children, we also recommend fluoride treatments. Fluoride treatments provide necessary minerals that your child’s teeth need to remineralize before decay remains permanent. We can also apply dental sealants that will serve as an extra layer of protection over the chewing surface of your child’s teeth. If your child is active during recess or plays sports, we can fit them for a customized preventative mouthguard to stop sports injuries from harming their face, teeth, and jawbone. Visiting Ellen Rado DDS for pediatric dental care in Green Brook Township also gives us the opportunity to evaluate the growth of your child’s teeth to determine if they may need early orthodontics care. For a longer list of our services, read below.

Proper preventative pediatric dental care involves:

• Helping your child develop healthy dietary habits for strong growing teeth
• Instructing on daily brushing and flossing techniques
• Encouraging regular visits to a dentist for kids
• Assessing cavity proneness and taking necessary preventative measures
• Evaluating of teeth and gum development
• Possibly encouraging pediatric orthodontics treatments
• Providing restorations for knocked out teeth and cavities as needed

Our office for pediatric dental care in Green Brook Township provides all of these important preventative practices and more, so your child can maintain a healthy dental structure into adulthood. A dentist for kids in our office is trained to work specifically with children, so we know how to interact with a child on their level and provide them with the care they trust. Make your child’s first appointment today to jumpstart healthy teeth for life.

Get a Beautiful Smile Makeover from a Cosmetic Dentist in Green Brook Township

If you are in need of several teeth improvements, you should visit a cosmetic dentist in Green Brook Township for a beautiful smile makeover. You shouldn't remain unhappy with your smile when you can choose from several dental treatments in order to custom-design the smile you have always wanted. If you are concerned about pricing or options, don’t be. We are happy to work with you to develop a smile makeover plan that fits your needs and your budget. Continue reading to learn more about how convenient it is to get a smile makeover from a cosmetic dentist in Green Brook Township.

We Can Develop a Time Frame Just for You

Depending on how extensive you want your smile makeover to be or how minimally invasive, we can work with you to develop a timeframe that fits your needs for appointments and recovery period. If you only choose one or two treatments or procedures, you can complete your smile makeover in as little as one appointment.

We Can Ensure Your Experience Is Comfortable

Our cosmetic dentist in Green Brook Township office knows how to give you the comfortable procedure you desire. We are skilled in providing you with the quality numbing techniques you need to go through the entire procedure without feeling a thing. You won't have to worry about being in discomfort while receiving your smile makeover. We can also offer appliances that will help you keep your mouth open if a long procedure is necessary, so your jaw muscles do not get fatigued.

What a Smile Makeover Is

A smile makeover is a combination of more than one cosmetic dentistry improvement that will result in a custom-created, more beautiful smile. Some examples of treatments you can combine to make your own smile makeover are teeth whitening, dental bonding, porcelain veneers, dental crowns, or even dental bridges and implants for tooth replacements.

What a Smile Makeover Can Correct

If you have crooked, gapped, discolored, chipped, crowded, or worn-looking teeth, you can benefit from a beautiful smile makeover from a cosmetic dentist in Green Brook Township. We are experienced in dealing with all kinds of smiles with all types of imperfections, so we know exactly how to perfect your teeth, no matter what the problem is.

Most People Are Great Candidates for a Smile Makeover

At our cosmetic dentist in Green Brook Township office, most individuals are great candidates for a smile makeover. If you have generally healthy teeth and gums, you can receive virtually any dental cosmetic improvement procedure you want. For some procedures, it is necessary that the patient does not have extensive dental health problems, like untreated cavities or gum disease, as these will affect your results. Visit us for your consultation, so we can determine what smile makeover options you are a good candidate for.

If you have any reservations about your teeth and gums, visit a cosmetic dentist in Green Brook Township today. Before you know it, you can receive the smile makeover you deserve that will give you more confidence and a brighter smile.

The Benefits of Dental Sealants and Who Should Get Them

Dental sealants, which are also known as 'fissure sealants' are simply a protective plastic coating applied in liquid form to the back teeth, which are the most susceptible to decay. While shallow grooves and fissures do not need sealing, the small ones do, because they cannot be adequately cleaned with a toothbrush, the bristles of which are too large to reach into these areas. The sealant bonds into the tiniest grooves in the molars then dries and forms a hard protective shield over the enamel of each tooth.  This keeps food out of these grooves, thus preventing the buildup of bacteria which avoids decay. The smooth surface formed by the sealant is also easily cleaned.

Once a tooth has developed a cavity; it is considerably more difficult and more expensive to repair the damage. Dental sealants are considered both a safe and painless way to protect your teeth from developing decay and cavities and is a minimal intervention approach to dental care.

Who Should Get Dental Sealants?
Children and teenagers are usually good candidates for sealants because fissure decay often begins early in life. Having a sealant applied to your child's teeth just as soon as their permanent set comes in, protects them during some very cavity prone years.  However, adults who do not have fillings or decay can benefit from sealants as well. This is especially true in the case of people who are at a higher risk for caries. This includes people who have

• Early signs or a history of dental caries
• Deficient or too thin enamel on their teeth
• Deep pits and/or fissures on their molars
• A diet high in refined sugar or carbohydrates
• Poor oral hygiene and plaque control
• Orthodontics appliances

·        
Dental sealants are not used on people who are at a much lower risk for tooth decay, including individuals who have exceptional oral hygiene and a balanced diet, teeth with shallow pits and grooves that can be well cleaned with a toothbrush, or previously restored pits and fissures.

How Are Dental Sealants Applied?
It only takes a few minutes for us to apply a sealant to each tooth, which is a simple and painless process. The teeth that are to be sealed are thoroughly cleaned and dried. An acid solution is then applied to the surface of each tooth to create a rough surface which helps the sealant bond to the tooth. After rinsing and re-drying the tooth, the sealant is painted onto each tooth, and an ultraviolet light used to 'cure' and harden the sealant.

How Long Do Sealants Last?
Dental sealants do wear down in time but, depending on the material used, can last from anywhere from five to ten years. However, they do have to be regularly checked  (at least on an annual basis) for any signs of chipping or wear. If either has occurred, we will probably add or replace some of the sealant in order to ensure that your teeth are still being protected from decay.

If you subscribe to the idea that, as Benjamin Franklin once said... "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure", then do make an appointment with us and protect your teeth for many years to come.

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The Facts About Dental Fillings

You, or your child, may need dental fillings in order to protect your tooth and to keep it safe after damage or an infection.  Fortunately, there are several options available for people needing a filling and they now come in tooth-colored materials that make it difficult to tell that dental work had ever been completed. At Cute Smiles 4 Kids of San Antonio, we are experts at providing the care your family needs while keeping smiles beautiful.

Most often, a filling is used when treating a cavity.  If you, or your child, has a cavity the infected or decayed area will need to be removed.  This will leave a small hole or at least dent that needs to be filled in.  If it is left open and exposed, it will become an excellent resting place for bacteria, leading to future oral health problems.

Dental fillings are also used to restore teeth that have become worn down or damaged from an accident.  Chipped or broken teeth can also be treated with a filling.  This is most often seen when people grind their teeth.

The Process
If the dentist decides that a dental filling is necessary, they will numb the area before doing any work.  This is typically done with local anesthesia so that the patient doesn't feel any pain but is still awake during the procedure. A dental tool will then remove the damaged area of the tooth.  Once the damaged or decayed area has been completely removed it will be cleaned to make sure that there are no lingering bacteria.

If you have a standard metal filling, it will then be placed into the clean area and smoothed out to blend in with the tooth as much as possible.  If you have a tooth-colored filling, it will need to be placed in layers.  After each layer, a special light is used to harden the material before the next layer is placed. This process helps to create a natural appearance that patients desire.

Types of Fillings
There are several types of dental fillings to choose from, and the decision must be made based on personal preference, goals, cost, and lifestyle.

Gold fillings. These are extremely durable and can sustain hard chewing without needing to be replaced for ten to fifteen years.  They are easier to look at than silver fillings but also more expensive.

Silver fillings.  These will also last for ten to fifteen years but will not blend in with your tooth, and additional area may need to be removed from the tooth in order to make space for it.

Composites.  A composite or tooth-colored filling will blend in with your tooth and be bonded to it for additional strength.  They do take longer to place, extending a dental visit by at least twenty minutes.  Additionally, they only last for around five years vs. ten to fifteen.

As a patient, it is important to review your options with the dentist prior to deciding which type of dental filling is right for you.

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Wisdom Teeth Extraction and Oral Surgery

It is common for people to need wisdom teeth extraction at some point in time.  The back molars are the last teeth to come in and more often than not, they need to be removed either by having them pulled or through oral surgery.  There are several reasons for this including not having enough room in your mouth or the tooth becoming impacted.

A general dentist will conduct an examination to determine if your tooth can be pulled.  If it has already broken through the surface and is growing in straight, this is a viable option.  The procedure is typically done with local anesthesia with minimal recovery time.

Typically, they don't grow in straight and break through the surface like they should.  In this case the general dentist will refer a patient to an oral surgeon for a wisdom teeth extraction.  This procedure is more complicated and needs to be done by a specialist.  Having it performed by a general dentist could lead to unnecessary pain and swelling.

How the Process Works
In your initial consultation for wisdom teeth extraction, the oral surgeon will examine your teeth and gums to determine how impacted the tooth is and the best way to proceed.  The day of the surgery you will be given anesthesia to help with the pain.  The exact amount should be determined after discussing your pain tolerance and any potential anxiety with your surgeon.

The surgeon starts by cutting open your gum and lifting up the flap.  Underneath there may be bone that has to be cut away and removed in order to reach the tooth.  The tooth is attached to ligaments and bone, both of which need to be cut away in order to pull out the tooth.  If it is severely impacted or won't loosen up with wiggling, it will need to be broken into several pieces and removed one section at a time.

Once the tooth is completely removed the surgeon and their staff will clean the entire area prior to laying the gum down and using stitches.  If they are necessary, dissolvable ones will typically be used so that they don't need to be removed at a later date.  Gauze is placed initially to help stop the bleeding until the body forms a natural blood clot.

After the bleeding has stopped and the anesthesia is worn away a patient is released to go home and recover.  Someone else needs to drive as the effects of anesthesia can linger.  It may take several weeks to fully recover from the procedure and during that time patients should eat soft foods that don't require chewing.  Things like applesauce, Jello, yogurt, ice cream, and popsicles are ideal.  Warm soup is also a good way to get nutrients but be careful not to drink it when it is too hot as your teeth and gums may be sensitive during this time frame.  You may also need to come back in for a follow up appointment to make sure that everything is healing properly.

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We Provide Emergency Care for These Common Oral Health Problems

You may need emergency care if your tooth starts to hurt in the middle of the night, it becomes damaged during softball, or your face starts to swell.  You never know when an emergency will strike, and if it does, there is no time to wait a week for an appointment to open up.  That's why we offer the extended hours and last minute appointments our patients need to feel better quickly.
There are certain things you can do to avoid many dental emergencies.  This includes practicing good oral hygiene like brushing and flossing throughout the day and getting your teeth cleaned twice a year.  This will help your teeth to be in good condition so that they are stronger.  Additionally, you can wear a mouth guard while playing sports in order to protect your tooth from a flying ball or elbow jab.  By doing so, you may prevent some common injuries and the need for a quick trip to the dentist.

There are, however, many times where patients that do have healthy teeth still have a need for emergency care.  Here are some common reasons why you may need a fast appointment along with the signs to watch for.

    Swelling in your face.  If your notice that your jaw or face becomes swollen, schedule an immediate dental appointment. This could be caused by a dental abscess; a dangerous condition to leave alone.  An abscess is a severe infection and can make you sick.  In order to treat it, we have to drain the fluid so that the healing process can begin.

    Massive pain.  If your teeth are in severe pain, you may have a bad cavity or an infection.  By examining your teeth, we can determine what the problem is and how best to treat it.  This may require a root canal and if so we can complete the procedure while keeping you entirely comfortable.
    Bleeding that won't stop.  The mouth is a sensitive area and if you start to bleed, give us a call.  We can look for the source of the bleeding and provide treatment.  Make sure to avoid aspirin since this can make it difficult for the blood to clot.

    Swollen and painful gums.  If your gums start to hurt, swell and bleed you may have gum disease or a condition called pericoronitis.  We can treat it by removing bacteria from under your gums or cutting away the extra gum tissue that is creating your pericoronitis.  This will help you to start feeling better and eliminate the symptoms.

    Broken tooth.  If you break or chip your tooth, come see us right away so that we can restore it.  We may use a crown or veneer to do so.  Come in as soon as possible so that your tooth won't hurt or become infected.

    Missing crown.  If you have a crown that falls off, we can replace it right away so that your tooth isn't exposed to air, food, or any bacteria.

We provide emergency care and welcome your calls regardless of when the emergency strikes.

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Visiting Our Childrens Dentistry Office Help Save Young Teeth

In our childrens dentistry office, we know that the foundation for a lifetime of healthy permanent teeth is laid during the first years of life. It is exceedingly important to instill good oral hygiene habits very early on. This routine should involve regular visits to a kid's dentist. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that every child should first visit their dentist within six months from the time they have their first tooth.

Unfortunately, the AAPD also says 50% of all children have never visited a dentist. Which is probably why an estimated 20 percent of all children in the US, under the age of 6, suffer from some level of early childhood caries. And there is good reason for this...  The enamel on the surface of primary teeth is not as densely mineralized as the enamel on the surface of permanent teeth, which makes them more susceptible to cavities.

As a childrens dentistry office, we are an important weapon in the fight against childhood caries.  We specialize in the oral health care of children from birth through adolescence. Over and above the usual four years of dental school, we have additional training, and therefore, have the qualifications and the know how to take care of children's teeth and gums through the various stages of childhood.

Saving Primary and Young Permanent Teeth
In our childrens dentistry office, we will offer you good advice on how to get your child started on an excellent oral hygiene routine, and what should be done to avoid dental caries. However, in the event a cavity has already developed, we do our best not to remove any teeth because 'baby' teeth are guides for the permanent teeth that will replace them.  Additionally, because the jaw has not fully developed, removing young permanent teeth can cause a malocclusion, or a misalignment of the upper and lower teeth, and is therefore also not the best option. However, a lot can be done to save primary teeth.

As your child's dentist we will first ensure that the decay is limited to the tooth itself, in which case filling the tooth is a relatively simple matter. However, if the cavity is a very deep one,  it is entirely possible that the bacteria has reached the pulp of the tooth, which is the softest part of the tooth that lies at its root, and supplies the tooth with blood and nutrients.  If left untreated, infected pulp could very well damage the permanent tooth lying below. Luckily, there are several treatment options based on the state of the tooth. These include a partial or complete removal of all the pulp tissue, or in the case where the decay has not yet infected the  pulp, we will seal off, or 'cap' the exposure and restore the tooth.

Prevention is Better Than Cure.
While there are a number of proven and safe methods of treating young teeth, dental caries is a very preventable problem. It is a great deal easier and far less expensive, to avoid dental disease by taking some very simple steps. Regular tooth brushing and flossing, restrictions on sugary foods and snacks, etc. can all help. However, regular visits to our childrens dentistry office are very important because, early oral examinations play a crucial part in the detection of the beginning stages of tooth decay & other oral health problems.

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