All posts by MPDStaff

It is a new year here in the Bronx and Invisalign has some major advantages over the old metal braces that go beyond the cosmetic dentistry side. Obviously it is more appearance friendly to have almost invisible braces compared to clunky metal in your mouth, but what are the other major benefits of Invisalign?

Traditional Metal Braces

There are medical risks with metal braces. A common side effect of metal braces is headaches. This is caused from the installation causing the area of the mouth to think that it has been through trauma and swelling happens because of this. There are also mouth sores from the metal brackets rubbing against the sensitive tissues of the mouth.

Metal braces are attached to your teeth, so if you are experiencing migraines from the metal braces, you will have to wait for that next orthodontic appointment for the orthodontist to loosen them. It is not uncommon for patients to have to go back to their orthodontist to get the wires loosened after their braces were tightened too much and they are in serious pain. This can mean waiting for the orthodontist to be able to see you when they can fit you in to their schedules. The emergency room or your local urgent care is not going to do this.

Invisalign

The Invisalign clear aligners are removable. Invisalign works by switching the clear Invisalign aligner with a new one every couple of weeks. This system uses 3-D computer imaging technology to plan out the aligners from start to the position of the teeth that is desired. It gently moves the teeth along without trauma to the mouth. The patient can simply remove the Invisalign aligners without having to go to the orthodontist if there is any extreme discomfort. You only have to see your orthodontist every couple of months to make sure the system is working well for you and check on the alignment progress being made.

The Invisalign process does not include mouth sores like metal braces does. The slick and flexible material in the Invisalign aligners does not cause any harm to the sensitive mouth tissues. Mouth sores and damage to the tissues from metal braces can lead to serious infections and other conditions in the mouth. Invisalign removes this danger to your health.

You can also remove the aligners to brush and floss your teeth. This leads to better overall mouth health. Metal braces trap food, cause stains, and damage your teeth.

Downsides of Metal Braces

Root loss, tooth decay, and breakage is a major problem with metal braces. There can be a formation of plaque around the bracket and the glue that keeps the bracket connected to the teeth with metal braces. It is impossible to clean this off every day and it can lead to breakage from cavities caused from this buildup.

Another cosmetic issue is when you get the metal braces off, that wonderful day is turned into a not so wonderful day, because of the staining around the brackets. It will look like an outline of the brackets by the time you get them off. Think of a bathing suit line on your teeth. Fixing this staining caused by the metal braces is not included in the price of the metal braces.

Root loss has been in patients that had extended metal braces put on their teeth by their orthodontist. The root loss is caused by the teeth being pressured into moving to forcefully and damaging the roots. The roots are the lifeline to the teeth. Shortening and damaging them is not good at all. The Invisalign aligners gently move the teeth with care. There is not any harsh pulling on the roots with Invisalign and no root damage.

Did you could end up being allergic to the metal in metal braces? Orthodontic patients can be sensitive to the metal in the braces and have some extremely awful reactions. It is not an uncommon occurrence with traditional metal braces either. Oral lesions and another condition that is called “Burning Mouth Syndrome”, because it feels like your mouth is burning, can be some symptoms of an allergic reaction to the metal braces. Some other symptoms are fatigue, skin rashes, and headaches can all be symptoms of an allergic reaction to the metal in the braces.

There is a lot of force being place on teeth enamel and roots with traditional medal braces. This can, of course, lead to breakage in the teeth. These are all caused because of the abrasive technique involved in straightening the teeth with metal braces. Invisalign aligners gently align the teeth without the risk of these awful circumstances. There is less trauma to the teeth, gums, and mouth.

Caring for braces can take time and patience. Metal braces limit what you can eat and clean out of them. Your favorite foods are no longer your friend when you have metal braces. It is not fun to have to think about if you can clean what you are about to eat out of your braces before each meal. Invisalign aligners are easy to clean and you can discretely remove them before you eat. To clean the Invisalign aligners, you just use some baking soda or basic denture cleaner and a soft tooth brush.

Benefits of Invisalign

You can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing when you use the Invisalign system. The clear retainers are not notable and are removable and clear. Nobody is going to notice your way of straightening and perfecting your teeth. They are no clunky like braces and are made to fit your original mouth perfectly. 3D computer imaging technology is used to make sure you have a perfect fit to your mouth with each aligner at every step.

The Invisalign system of perfecting your teeth allows you to go on that blind date, to be in your friend’s wedding, and to ace that job interview with confidence. Your smile is one of the most important parts of you and a nice smile can change your life! Your insurance may cover Invisalign just like it does the old metal braces.

Call Morris Park Dental today at (718) DR.SMILE (718-377-6453) to schedule a Bronx Invisalign consultation today and you’ll be on your way to a great smile! Click here to request a dental appointment online.

What is it cosmetic dentistry? How do I select a good Bronx cosmetic dentist in the new year?

Cosmetic dentistry mostly deals with the appearance, rather than the health of the teeth; although the both of them are obviously not mutually exclusive. For example, when you get white fillings, they can be considered cosmetic because they “look” better, but at the same time, they can also be healthier because they require less removal of tooth structure. In more complex cases however, cosmetic dentistry can be a lifesaver, because other results which might be acceptable health-wise are just not as good-looking or functional. Cosmetic dentistry in the Bronx involves all dentistry that’s not strictly necessary for health reasons. Much of it is a matter of personal preferences, needs, and opinions. While we all feel we know a beautiful Bronx smile when we see one, there is no perfect smile. That’s because each person has a different perception of what is beautiful; you and your cosmetic dentist may even have a difference of opinion. So it’s important that you discover what you really like and then communicate that to your dentist.

Choosing a Bronx cosmetic dentist is crucial, as it is for any other health medical professional. The first step would be to look at your smile and determine what you want to change. Your cosmetic dentist may have some other apprehensions and concerns when you visit, but it’s best to arrive having your own wish list; then together, you can work along to decide what best steps to take toward your new smile!

Cosmetic Procedures: Examples

The myths behind Amalgam and Composite fillings

What’s the big Idea about amalgam fillings? Can it really really kill you?

The Facts: Pro of white fillings – they look more real, because it is the same color as your natural tooth, to most patients, it’s more pleasant to smile and laugh and not see dark coverings on their teeth. Con of amalgam fillings-Some cosmetic dentists would also argue that it reduces the chance of undetectable decay leading to a silent destruction of tooth structure until pain indicates the need for treatment, and that amalgam can expand over the years, possibly causing a tooth to crack. On the other hand, conservative dentists agree that every time you remove a filling, you remove a bit more tooth substance, plus you irritate the tooth with more trauma. Every time you remove a filling and put another in its place, you may cause the risk of killing the nerve of the tooth and in turn, needing more complex treatment (Root Canal). So having a lot of amalgam fillings replaced for cosmetic reasons may not be such a good idea after all. A filling should not be replaced unless it is damaged, broken, or has decay around the edges or underneath. Amalgam fillings can last for a very long time (some sources estimate 14 – 40 years or even longer – it’s not unusual for an amalgam filling to last a lifetime). So the very fact that you have a mouthful of them and haven’t seen a dentist in a while doesn’t mean they need to be changed. Amalgam has its advantages – for example, it tends to be self-sealing which means that amalgam fillings resist recurrent decay better than white fillings. A dentist should not replace fillings that don’t need to be replaced. If a dentist tells you that amalgam is toxic and have to be removed, snatch off that bib and run. So, it is ultimately up to the patient and the dentist to make a wise and educated decision about which route to go.

What about Tooth Whitening?

Tooth whitening is very a very common and highly requested treatment. It doesn’t appear to carry any major health risks. The most common side effect is temporary sensitivity. That’s why it’s a good idea to consult with a trusted dentist first before considering whitening your teeth- for people with super sensitive teeth, whitening would not be immediately recommended. The lower the concentration of the bleaching agent is, the less likely it is that there will be sensitivity. That would mean that you’ll have to do it over a longer period of time, in order to get the wanted results. Teeth whitening usually to work best with a custom tray made by a dental professional. Something to note: Teeth whitening or bleaching will NOT lighten existing dental work like bonding, sealants, white fillings, crowns, or bridges. You should also be aware that the bleaching isn’t permanent and you’ll have to re-do it every so often. So if you have bleaching done and dental work which matches the whitened shade, you will need to keep up the bleaching. In this case, bleaching will be a long-term commitment. There is some debate about the safety of tooth whitening for purely cosmetic purposes. Not much detailed proven research has been done conclusively.

Veneers & Cosmetic Crowns

Veneers are often placed for cosmetic reasons, sort of like plastic surgery. What are they exactly? They are thin pieces of porcelain which are glued over the front of the teeth, because they are severely discolored, or badly misshapen. Because they require the removal of tooth structure, they’re “unhealthier” than doing nothing (assuming it’s done purely for appearance’s sake) and the procedure carries some risk of doing damage to the tooth. They will also be need to replaced 10 or 20 years down the line. Veneers are NOT reversible, so you’re stuck with them for the rest of your life. So it is imperative to make sure that this is what you want. Because results vary substantially from one dentist to another, it is a patient’s responsibility to do their research, and make sure to have a look at photos of previous veneers dentists have done. You’ll notice massive differences in what dentists think looks aesthetically pleasing – for example, some cosmetic dentists seem rather don’t mind the boxy, chiclet horse like teeth look…. Remember, it is YOUR money that you are spending, make sure that you will be very happily satisfied with your results. Placing crowns for the purpose of improving appearance is a little more invasive than veneers. It involves shaving off more tooth structure. Note: Both veneers and crowns inflict trauma to the treated teeth and may then make root canal treatment necessary at a later stage. Also, some people have reported that they were not informed as to how much tooth structure would actually be removed and then were shocked and saddened when they found out. Always make sure that you understand what a cosmetic procedure involves before making a decision!

What You Should Know About Dentures

For years, dentures have been considered a tried and true method for tooth replacement in many cases. However, they come with their own set of issues. The main problem is that dentures rest on teeth and gums for stability. This can very well encourage bone loss, tooth decay, and periodontal disease. Nevertheless, dentures can be relined every few years to compensate for bone loss and any compromised facial integrity. There have been modern advances in dentures, as there have been in many other areas of dental healthcare, and an overdenture retained by implants may be an option. Overdentures are a combination of traditional dentures and the newer science of dental implants to prevent bone loss that could result from dentures alone.

Aesthetic and Cosmetic Dentistry… The controversy and the Truth.

There is a difference to be made between aesthetic dentistry, and cosmetic dentistry. Aesthetic dentistry implies restoring teeth to their normal appearance. Cosmetic dentistry involves improving the shape, the color, or arrangement of teeth to make them look better to the eye of the beholder, which often can mean they can “look fake”. Ideally, all dentistry should be aesthetically pleasing especially where front teeth are concerned. Many dentists advertise themselves as providing “cosmetic dentistry”, even though what they really mean is that they are providing aesthetic dentistry. The reason why they use the term “cosmetic dentistry” is because that’s what people google for. The aesthetic/cosmetic distinction is very blurry. The terms are interpreted differently even within the dental community – with some dentists referring to “aesthetic dentistry” when they really mean “cosmetic dentistry” and vice versa.

My dentist is ‘Conservative’ what does that mean?

Conservative dentistry incorporates dental treatments aimed to preserve existing teeth. Conservative dental services include fillings, cosmetic dental services as well as root canal treatments. A conservative dentist believes in the power of natural teeth, and will do all they can to have you retain your actual natural born teeth. They will try all the necessary procedures that would contribute to the salvaging of the teeth as much as possible before simply giving up on a tooth that may seem perhaps like “a lost cause”. That is why if you may have a not so conservative, more so traditional or aggressive dentist, it would be recommended to visit another professional for a second opinion, if your tooth has to be extracted.

Call Morris Park Dental at (718) DR.SMILE (718-377-6453) to schedule a Bronx cosmetic dentist consultation today and you’ll be on your way to a great smile! Click here to request a dental appointment online.

We’ve all made New Year’s resolutions about many different things every year. Some people make the resolution to save, others to meet that special someone, and many others want to lose weight and look great. Well, here at Morris Park Dental, let us direct your attention to a different kind of New Year’s Resolution… Oral and Dental Health!

I. Don’t wait until “it hurts” to get it checked out
One of the biggest and most common mistakes made by people is not going to see their dentists for their regular check-ups. If you visit your Bronx dentist at least once or twice a year, your Bronx dental team could oversee and prevent dental health problems early. You could even save money, and time, because the facts are this: Someone who goes to the dentist seldom will most likely require more than a simple dental procedure. More extensive and expensive treatment will most likely be required, which will lead you to have a less enjoyable visit. So, brush your teeth and floss every day, twice a day, (even after every meal for those A+ patients) make your regular 6 month full-mouth exam and cleaning, and actually keep your appointment! (Click here to schedule your appointment at Morris Park Dental now or call (718) DR.SMILE (718-377-6453) )

II. STICK to Good Oral Habits This Year
And we mean it! Even if you have to place a Sticky Note on your mirror.
Who likes the feel of that thin layer of temporary plaque on your teeth? No one does! Plaque though, doesn’t just feel gross; it is actually harmful bacteria that can build up on your teeth and gums every day… This is why brushing and flossing regularly is very essential. Many people avoid flossing because they don’t know how, or because they think it’s too much work, or because they find it disgusting. Well the truth is, brushing only, will NOT remove ALL of the plaque from your teeth. Plaque also grows in between teeth and below the gumline, the only way to reach those areas, would to floss them. If you have a hard time flossing, we urge you to ask your hygienist, dental assistant or dentist properly instruct you the way to do this (trust me, you might even start to enjoy it)

Facts: Did you know that decay and gum disease often begin below the gumline, and in between the teeth? Did you know that bleeding, swollen gums, gingivitis, and other gum diseases can develop if proper and regular brushing and flossing is not prevalent? Did you know that mouth diseases could affect the rest of your body?

Try this at home: THE FLOSS CHALLENGE! (For those who don’t believe that flossing makes a difference)

1. Eat a hardy meal, with your favorite meats, greens, pastas, and desert.
2. After your meal, and a little bit of digestion, go brush your teeth. (BRUSH ONLY)
3. Notice how ‘fresh and clean’ your mouth feels! You may think, “Oh, my teeth are brushed, my mouth is clean, there’s no need to floss”
4. Now take your floss of choice, (not those little individual ones, but the floss in the dispenser) floss in between each tooth… notice anything? Yep! Those are food particles, plaque, and many other foreign objects left behind from before.
5. Now marvel at the fact that flossing is absolutely essential to the contribution of a clean and healthy mouth. Even after thorough brushing, of the surfaces, your teeth are not completely clean! So I’m hoping that you are now a believer and you will brush AND floss regularly.

III. Stay Away From Bad Oral Habits!
Are you a smoker, or a heavy drinker? Please continue to read this, and head these lifesaving warnings. Virtually everyone knows by now, that the use of tobacco may harm your mouth gravely, in more ways than one. It increases the risk of cancer, tooth discoloration, cavities, dry mouth, gum recession, dry socket and sometimes it may even cause you to have a lower pain tolerance.
Facts: Did you know that smokeless tobacco is just as harmful to your oral and overall health? Did you know that smokers are twice as likely to lose their teeth and have gum diseases, compared to non-smokers? Did you know that your high risks can decrease after quitting smoking, or using smokeless tobacco?

For those who binge drink or consume high amounts of alcohol on a regular basis, listen up. You’ve always heard that alcohol can affect your liver, your overall health, etc… but that is not all that it can affect. Taking in an excessive amount of alcohol may affect your oral health as well, causing increased gum recession, gum disease, and more. So limit your alcohol intake, and take good care of your oral hygiene.

Get help, get support, and if you fall, just get back up, don’t just stay down! It’s a new year, and anything is possible.

IV. Your Teeth Are What They Eat
Who would have thought that eating well would be important to dental health? Well I guess that New Year’s resolution of losing weight can finally kick off right now. Studies show that poor nutrition can actually affect the immune system, which increases susceptibility to numerous common oral disorders. So, drink plenty of water, eat lots of fruits, vegetables and nuts.

Facts: Fruits and Vegetables contain antioxidants that can improve your body’s ability to fight bacteria, and inflammation; this helps not only to protect your teeth and gums, but also helps you to heel well and fast. Did you know that raw and crisp fruits and veggies i.e. crunchy apples, crunchy raw carrots and celery can contribute to cleaning plaque from teeth, and even freshen your breath?

V. Educate Yourself and Your Children this year
Starting very young is not at all frowned upon, in fact, it is to be applauded. Take your children to go see the dentist and to get acquainted with the staff, have them sit in the chair, just to get the feel of it, before an actual dental appointment visit, so he or she doesn’t feel intimidated, scared or perhaps traumatized. Ask for permission of your dentist and the staff first, it usually shouldn’t be a problem, as long as they have previous knowledge.

Infants: If you live in an area without fluoridated water, you can make sure your kids get their fluoride by using tablets, drops or gel and by having topical fluoride treatments applied at the dental office (you can find that out by calling your local water company or your local health department.) Using fluoride toothpastes and rinses are also effective. A healthy and balanced diet is not just important for adults, but children as well. Children especially need calcium, which helps build strong bones and teeth. Good sources of calcium are milk, cheese and yogurt. Research shows that eating cheese after meals seems to prevent the effects of decay-causing acids. As much as possible, avoid giving your kids snacks containing sugar or starch.

By the age of 3: Children should be brushing their own teeth under adult supervision. Only a pea-sized amount of toothpaste is necessary. Start flossing your child’s teeth daily when all the primary teeth are in or when teeth are touching each other.

By the age of 8: Children should be able to brush and floss by themselves, with occasional checks. Turn brushing and flossing into a fun and daily routine. Make it fun by having your child pick out his or her own colorful toothbrush, with perhaps their favorite cartoon character and bubble gum-flavored floss.

Here is a tip: Today, many of the kids’ shows feature dentist appointment episodes, or how to brush your teeth episodes. Take advantage of these, to help your child see that it is actually a good thing and show them by your example how fun, but yet how important and necessary it is to have good oral hygiene habits.

VI. Take A Plan Of Action NOW!
Get yourself a journal, take up a new hobby, or revisit an old one. Undoubtedly, you will work hard this year, so take care of your body, and it can take care of you. Ultimately the body does not just consist of one or two limbs, nor does it just run on one or two organs. The entire body is an inclusive machine that works together with every inch of it involved. This does not exclude your mouth.
Write down your goals. Number them. Be honest, and realistic. Write down what practical steps you will take to reach those goals. Document your actions every week to monitor your progress, obstacles, and positive outcomes. By the end of the year, go back and read your journal from beginning to end, and see what you’ve accomplished. In dentistry, caring for your mouth is more than just brushing flossing, or check-ups, but it is about your overall health, and happiness. We want to help to contribute to those things, in any way possible. Therefore this New Year, make the resolution to take better care of your mouth, don’t you think it deserves it? It helps to feed you every day; it makes kissing that cute little baby of yours special. It is the least you can do for your mouth… and yourself.

Click here to schedule your appointment at Morris Park Dental now or call (718) DR.SMILE (718-377-6453) and stick with those new years dental resolutions!)

As the holidays approach, we are all reminded of how fortunate we are to have the resources to provide our loved ones with generosity and gifts straight from Santa’s Workshop. Unfortunately, Santa will not be able to make it many houses this year because many families do not have the support structure. That is where Morris Park Dental is playing its part. We have set up a donation box inside our waiting room to help ease the burden of parents all over the city. By being a registered Toys for Tots center, rest assured your donation will reach a needy family this holiday season.

Please consider bringing in a new, unwrapped toy for children of all ages to donate to Toys for Tots before December 31st. To show our thanks for your generosity, Morris Park Dental is offering a $79 exam, cleaning & x-rays special for all patients without insurance that bring in a toy (normally $189). Patients with insurance who bring in a toy will receive a complimentary take-home teeth whitening tray.

These are the things that bring us together as a community. The love and commitment to each other is what makes the Bronx so special and at Morris Park Dental we are committed to spreading that message.

Please call Morris Park Dental today at (718) DR.SMILE (718-377-6453) or click here to schedule an appointment.

Warmest wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season.

Did you know that most flexible spending plans (also known as FSA or flex plans) and dental insurance plans expire December 31st, 2014? You could be losing thousands of dollars!

By delaying dental treatment, you are risking more extensive and expensive treatment down the road. The yearly maximum usually renews every year (on January 1, if your plan is on the calendar year) If you have unused benefits, these will not rollover! You have paid your premium every month and you have EARNED your benefit. When the new year begins, you will need to meet that deductible again and this years benefit will be lost. The end of the year is fast approaching! Call us today at (718) 863-5077 or click here to schedule your appointment and maximize your insurance benefit before it’s too late!

We strive to provide you with the best dental care at an affordable rate. Please give us a call at (718) 863-5077 if you need help reviewing your treatment plan or benefit plan, and budgeting your dental expenses for both 2014 and 2015.

Please call Morris Park Dental today at (718) DR.SMILE (718-377-6453) or click here to schedule your appointment before it’s too late!

We look forward to hearing from you soon.

Best wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season!

At this time of year, many of you are making a back-to-school checklist for your kids. New clothes and school supplies are a given. But have you given any thought to their dental care?

Tooth decay is one of the biggest health issues among children, accounting for over 51 million hours of school time lost every year. What’s more, poor dental health in youth can lead to chronic problems like discomfort, difficulty chewing and the need for painful and expensive procedures down the road.

An annual back-to-school dental checkup is an easy way to help prevent these problems. It’s so important, that several states — including New York — actually require children to get a dental exam before entering public school.

Regular dental exams do more than catch tooth decay. They also let us see if teeth are growing in properly, monitor the results of their brushing and flossing techniques (and give lessons, if necessary), and apply fluoride treatments or protective sealants that can prevent decay before it happens. If your kids play sports or engage in other activities that might cause oral injuries, we can fit them for protective mouth guards.

If your kids are in college, planning dental checkups during school breaks can ensure that they’re receiving regular professional dental care. And even if they’re too young for school, your kids are probably old enough to go to the dentist. The ADA recommends babies start seeing a dentist when their first tooth comes in, usually when they’re between 6 and 12 months old.

So while you’re making back-to-school plans, plan on bringing your kids in for a dentist visit. And for extra credit, try these fun tips for sending them to school with a smile:

Buy new toothbrushes: While they’re getting new notebooks, pens and other supplies, why not let them pick out a new toothbrush? While you’re at it, pick up two — one for home and one to bring to school.
Make a dental care kit for school: To encourage them to brush after lunch and snacks, buy a zippered plastic-lined bag and include a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss.
Pack dental-friendly lunches and snacks: Fruit, nuts, string cheese and bottled water are all good choices. Avoid sticky foods like raisins or fruit leather, as they can cause cavities.
Start a reward system: Encourage good dental exams like you encourage good grades — with a prize like a night at the movies, a new video game or other coveted item.

Need to make an appointment for your kids, or even yourself? Call (718) DR.SMILE (718-377-6453) to schedule it today or click here to request an appointment online.

While you are certainly aware that sugar is one of the main causes of many dental problems, what you may not realize is how it can lurk in the most unsuspecting places. For example, there are sugars that appear naturally in many foods – even milk!

It is for this reason that we recommend that parents don’t put their babies to sleep with a bottle of milk. As milk pools in a child’s mouth, the sugars mix with bacteria in the mouth to make a milk acid, which can then attack the tooth enamel to produce cavities.

Make a habit of reading the labels on any packaged foods that you buy. Ingredients should be listed by weight, so if sugar is shown at the top of the list you know it is a major ingredient in the product. Note that sugars also include corn syrup, molasses, dextrose, fructose, glucose, sucrose and honey.

Medicine isn’t even immune to sneaky sugars – because as Mary Poppins well knew, “A spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down…” Read the ingredients of liquid cough syrup and other medications. Sometimes your doctor can recommend sugar-free alternatives.

Sticky sweets like toffee or sweets that linger in your mouth like hard candies and lollipops compound the effects of sugar as they remain in your mouth longer than a quickly dissolving chocolate bar, for example.

Excess sugar can wreak havoc not just on your teeth, but elsewhere in your body too, so make a habit of reading the ingredients in any packaged foods before you buy them, be aware of low-sugar or sugar-free alternatives in your daily diet, and if you do choose to eat a sugary food aim for one that will not linger in your mouth for extended periods of time.

If you experience an occasional sharp, intense pain in your mouth when you bite down that then disappears when you release your bite, or if you feel pain when you are eating or drinking something hot or cold, you may have a cracked tooth!

Identifying the source of cracked tooth pain can be a pain in itself! Not only can a crack be invisible to the eye during your checkup, but oftentimes it cannot even be seen on an x-ray. To compound the problem, identifying where the pain is originating isn’t easy either, as the crack may actually be more of a hairline fracture, running vertically along the tooth. It’s also common to feel pain in a tooth at the top of your mouth when the crack is actually on the bottom, or vice-versa.

If you suspect you may have a cracked tooth, make sure that you note when and where you feel the pain, and mention it to us when you’re in for your next checkup (or sooner if it’s bothering you) in order to have the best chance of saving your tooth.

Unlike a broken bone, a cracked tooth never heals naturally. Once we identify the cracked tooth, we’ll recommend a treatment–whether it’s bonding, a root canal, or another option–that will allow you to eat in comfort without the fear of a sharp jolt of pain that characterizes a cracked tooth.

Why Bronx Invisalign is a Better Choice Over Regular Braces

Morris Park Dental’s Brooklyn cosmetic dentist can improve your smile with Invisalign clear braces. Invisalign has many advantages over traditional metal braces. With Invisalign you get:

Flexibility – You can remove the device whenever you want so you can eat, brush your teeth, and floss normally. You can even remove your Invisalign device if you are having your photograph taken.
Comfort – Invisalign does not cause the gum or mouth irritation sometimes found with metal braces.
More time – You will need fewer office visits compared to the number of visits required for metal braces.
More normal appearance – the clear device offers almost invisible teeth straightening.
Better dental hygiene – Since you can remove the device, you can brush and floss normally rather than having to work around metal braces and possibly miss certain parts of your teeth.
Comparable cost – The cost for Invisalign is about the same as the cost for traditional braces.

The Invisalign treatment process is simple and straightforward. Your NYC dentist will take x-rays and make impressions of your teeth to create your custom Invisalign aligners. At each appointment, you will receive the next set of aligners and you will be able to see the progress as your teeth become straighter. Most adults complete the process in about a year and the treatment time for teens is about the same as with traditional metal braces.

Contact Morris Park Dental in the Bronx for more information about getting a beautiful smile with the comfort and convenience of Invisalign.

Dental Implants Bronx Beats Other Tooth Replacement Options

Dental implants offer advantages to bridges or false teeth because the dental implants are actually replacement tooth roots, so the improvement isn’t only a cosmetic opportunity to look better, but the implant also allows the patient to have a replacement tooth that tends to feel better and function better than a bridge or false teeth, taking away issues such as problems with speech, food particles causing pain, and of course, convenience.

How to Prepare for Surgery

The plan for surgery can vary depending on each patient and their course of treatment. Each patient can expect to have a complete and very thorough examination and evaluation of their mouth and teeth. The dentist will take X-rays and will make models of the mouth and the teeth. The actual treatment will vary in each situation, dependent on variables such as how many teeth are being replaced and the health and condition of the jawbone.

Each situation may be different, but sometimes an oral and maxillofacial surgeon may be involved. These doctors are specialists in working with the mouth, jaw, and face. A periodontist may also be involved to ensure that the structures of the mouth are satisfactory before the procedure takes place.

The Dental Team Prior to Surgery

The dental team will remove the tooth or remnants that will be replaced while preparing the jawbone for surgery. Preparing the jawbone may require bone grafting to better ensure the success of the new tooth. Once the jawbone heals properly, an oral surgeon will implant a metal post into the jawbone. Once the jawbone heals, the surgeon will then put an abutment, which is an extension of the implant metal post and then the crown (new tooth) is inserted.

After the Dental Implants Bronx

The entire process may take from three to nine months including healing time. Much of the time for the process to be complete is spent waiting for the growth of the new bone. Immediately after surgery a patient can expect some swelling of the gums and face, as well as some minor bruising to the same area. This is a surgery, so there is likely to be some pain at the site of the procedure as well as some minor bleeding. Pain medications and antibiotics will be prescribed by the oral surgeon.

Click here to read more about dental implants.

For most people, the dental implants work great and the effort to have naturally looking and natural feeling teeth is worth the effort. Call (718) DR.SMILE (718-377-6453) or click here to Book an appointment at Morris Park Dental today!