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Monthly, your Belleville and Parsippany NJ dentist will be compiling blogs written on topics such as dental hygiene, maintenance, news and more for your consideration. It is our strong belief that the more familiar our patients become with these topics, the more likely they are to benefit from applying the tips and information to their own oral health regimens.
 
To suggest a topic, please Contact Us today.
Otherwise, please enjoy our monthly blogs below!
September 2018
Common Dental Injuries in Sports
As the weather changes, kids, teens, and adults alike are shifting into a new season of sports. Our athletes participating in football, field hockey, soccer, and other potentially aggressive contact sports are all at risk for several kinds of injuries, including dental. According to the American Dental Assistants Association, 5 million Americans lose teeth in sports-related injuries every year.
 
Your Parsippany dentist wants to share the kinds of tooth injuries that athletes can suffer from and the complications connected to them. No matter the sport, it’s always important to wear the necessary protective gear that can help avoid any traumatic injuries.
 
Chipped and/or Cracked Teeth
 
When a player sustains an abrupt blow to the face, they’re extremely likely to suffer from a cracked or fractured tooth. This can vary in levels of severity, but the pain is very real! If an athlete doesn’t wear a mouthguard or any other protective gear used to shield the facial area, the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation estimates that they’re 60 times more likely to damage their teeth. This damage can also turn into long-term issues, all which can be avoided with the right safety gear.
 
With a cracked tooth, some of the symptoms you may suffer from include:
• Sharp tooth pain when you bite down on something, although it dissipates after
• Dull, aching tooth pain that comes and goes, but isn’t constantly present
• Pain and difficulty eating and drinking, especially with extremely cold/hot foods
 
Fractured Roots of Your Tooth
 
Tooth injuries aren’t only limited to the visible part of your smile. Damage can be done to the inside of your teeth where the roots reside. If a crack in your tooth exposes the inside of your tooth, any sort of bacteria or food particles can worm their way inside and force you to deal with a lot of pain. In this area, infections can grow and spread faster than you may realize. Saving your tooth with a root canal treatment may be the next step in protecting your smile.
 
Tooth Being Knocked Out (or Knocked In)
 
There are some famous hockey players with smiles to remember – mostly because they could be missing one of their front teeth! The aggressive contact of many sports can cause a tooth to be knocked out, but it’s also possible for a tooth to be shoved back into the jawbone area instead.
 
The chances of a tooth being knocked in, also known as tooth intrusion, have a low likelihood, but it’s still an extreme dental injury involving your permanent teeth that should be considered. While the chances are low, it’s still more likely to happen to children since the area that holds the tooth sockets don’t have the same strength as an adult’s.
 
Sports-related dental injuries have the potential to cause long-term dental problems, no matter what age, so your Parsippany dentist strongly advises all athletes to wear the proper protective gear like mouthguards and helmets with facial protection. If you have any questions about finding the best gear to save your smile for a particular sport, don’t hesitate to call us today at 973-882-5005 and we’ll be happy to help.
 
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August 2018
Brushing Habits to Break
Brushing your teeth has become a staple in your routine since you were a child, working every day to maintain a strong and healthy smile. Your 07054 dentist understands that there are some habits you can easily fall into, especially ones that you may not even notice are harmful! Thankfully, that’s what we’re here for. Below, we’ll break down some brushing habits that could be doing more damage to your teeth than good.
 
Keeping Your Toothbrush for Too Long
 
Even though your toothbrush doesn’t look any different after three months use, we still recommend getting a brand new one. The bristles will start to fray and break with months and months of use, which is one of the most notable signs that you’ll need to switch your brush. With a brand-new toothbrush, your teeth will be getting the best possible scrub to get rid of the food particles and bacterial build-up.
 
Not Brushing for Two Minutes
 
By brushing your teeth for two minutes, twice a day, you’re ensured to reach and properly clean the intricate, small spaces of your mouth. We know that two minutes seems like a long time, so we recommend keeping a timer on hand if you think you’re not meeting this time. The average time that people brush their teeth for is around 45 seconds, which isn’t nearly long enough, so be sure to slow it down – and don’t forget to brush your tongue, too!
 
Using a Brush with Rough Bristles
 
It’s a common misconception that rough toothbrush bristles will give you a better cleaning. While scrubbing hard on some surfaces will get the dirt out, that isn’t the case for your smile. The surface of your teeth, called your enamel, is very sensitive and if it’s weakened or damaged by rough bristles, you could experience dental sensitivity and have a tough time enjoying hot or cold food and drinks. Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush on your teeth and gums during your dental routine.
 
Are there any other teeth-brushing tips that you’re looking for to get the healthiest smile? Don’t hesitate to ask your 07054 dentist by giving us a call at (973) 882-5005 today. Make sure to schedule your next cleaning, too!
 
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July 2018
Prepare Your Smile for Vacation
When you begin planning a vacation, it’s hard to focus on what needs to be done before you head off for ultimate relaxation. Before you go, we believe that having a peace of mind about your smile is important, so you can fully enjoy your trip without worrying about cavities, tooth pain, and any other dental issues. Below, your dentist in Belleville discusses helpful travel tips to make sure that you have a wonderful vacation with a healthy and strong smile.
 
Make an Appointment before You Leave
 
Prevention is the first step that patients of all ages should take to protect their smile. We know that your mind is drifting away into vacation mode, but we want to care for your teeth to the best of our ability, so you don’t have to worry about a thing before you go! With our thorough exam, we’ll be able to spot any issues you could be experiencing and work to solve them.
 
Know how to Handle an Emergency
 
There’s no such thing as being too prepared! Let us know about your vacation and talk to us about what to do if you experience a dental emergency. Sometimes, it can be tough to know what’s an emergency and what isn’t, so ask about the best way to contact us and how to treat certain situations to see what can wait and what needs to be addressed.
 
Properly Care for Your Dental Tools
 
Air drying your toothbrush is the safest way to keep your brush at home, but what do you do on vacation? When packing your toothbrush, make sure to protect it with a resealable bag, but don’t keep it in there the entire time. If you keep the toothbrush in the bag, the moisture of your bristles invites bacteria and can get you sick, which is something you certainly don’t want to happen on your time off!
 
Get Back on Track When You Get Home
 
It can be hard to get back into the swing of things after a nice, relaxing vacation, but we encourage you to do so. Sometimes after indulging in too many sweets while you’re enjoying yourself on a break, your dental routine can fall off. When going back to work and getting back on schedule, make sure to include flossing and brushing your teeth twice a day, every day.
 
First and foremost, it’s important to make an appointment with your dentist in Belleville. Give our office a call at (973) 751-6600 and we’ll help you schedule the best date and time for your visit (hopefully before you’re off on vacation)!
 
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June 2018
Men's Oral Health Awareness

See how Your Belleville Dentist Shares Awareness about Men’s Oral Health

 
Oral and dental health is important for men and women alike, but there are differences between them that can put one or the other at a higher risk for certain issues like cavities, gum disease, and other common dental problems. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, men are more likely to neglect oral health issues that they're experiencing, which makes them more likely to suffer from these difficult occurrences. For Men's Health Month this June, your Belleville dentist will explain the challenges that men can face and what the next best step is.
 
Taking the First Leap and Going to the Dentist
 
It can seem inconvenient or simply unnecessary to go to the dentist, which will stop patients of all ages from visiting our office for months, maybe even years at a time. Unfortunately, skipping this crucial step to your health will result in furthering any problems that you may not currently know about.
 
Many oral and dental health issues aren't noticeable to the naked eye, which is why you always have x-rays completed during your routine visits. If there's something underneath the line of sight that you can't recognize, the problem will only get worse and can cause pain, infection, and potential tooth loss. While these appointments are typically harmless, it can be nerve-wracking to take this step - many patients haven't gone to the dentist in a very long time and they would rather avoid unwelcome news if they can, even though it won't solve any problems.
 
Gum Disease Strikes before You Know It and Needs to be Addressed
 
One of the most common, but preventable diseases that people of all ages face is periodontitis, also known as gum disease. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, nearly 57% of men have some form of infection in their gums. Because of this, men are more likely to suffer from other overall health issues, including heart disease, prostate issues, and more.
 
Inflammation is the main cause of both gum disease, as well as the connection to the other health problems. When inflammation occurs in the gums, it can damage your blood vessels if bacteria gets into the bloodstream. By brushing twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and maintaining a balanced diet, men are more likely to live a longer, healthier life. 
 
Although June is coming to an end, your Belleville dentist wants male patients of all ages to understand the importance of oral and dental health and how we're able to help. Give our office a call today at 973-751-6600 and we'll be able to schedule your appointment on the best date and time that works for you.
 
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May 2018
Maintain Dental Care on Vacation

When you’re getting ready for a vacation, you have countless things on your mind – the places you’ll go, the people you’ll see, the food you’ll eat – that you don’t always remember the important items to pack like your trusty toothbrush, your favorite toothpaste, and a container of floss. Maintaining proper oral and dental hygiene when you’re traveling and on vacation can be tough to remember in between the fun activities and adventures, but your 07109 dentist wants to give you the best tips to remember that your oral hygiene isn’t on vacation, even if you are!

 
Indulging in Snacks? Don’t Forget to Floss!
 
One of people’s favorite parts of vacation are all the different foods, drinks, and treats that they’ll be enjoying that they otherwise don’t get to when they’re at home. Unfortunately, since your teeth aren’t so used to the new meals, you could be dealing with more sugar than you might have expected.
 
On your trip, try to carry around a small, travel-sized container of floss so you’re able to clean your teeth in between your meals. It’s better than doing nothing, which allows the bacteria to build-up and stick around for much longer than necessary. Your teeth will be grateful, and your smile will stay strong!
 
Don’t Let Your Morning and Nighttime Routine get Interrupted
 
It can be easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of fun you’re having on vacation that you can forget to brush and floss before falling asleep from exhaustion. Make sure that, as you’re packing for your big trip, you pack a case that’s designated for your morning and nighttime routine for brushing and flossing your teeth.
 
With the help of this case, every time you go to the bathroom in the morning and night, you won’t forget to care for your smile. Getting ready for your day with a healthy, minty grin and ending the night with a satisfying brush before going to bed will make you AND your smile happier than you know!
 
We understand that vacations are important for you and your family to take a much-needed break from work, but we want to make sure that your oral hygiene isn’t taking that same, extended break. If you’re looking for more helpful tips, or you want to schedule an appointment before you take off this summer, give your 07109 dentist a call today at (973) 751-6600 for a cleaning and thorough exam.
 
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April 2018
April is National Facial Protection Month
Have you ever watched a high-action sport and seen a tough collision or a player in pain? While much of their uniforms include protective gear on their legs, arms, and head, there is one important piece of equipment that should never be ignored or forgotten and that is a mouth guard.
 
Your Belleville dentist wants our patients to know that the month of April is National Facial Protection Month, where the American Dental Association, the American Association of Orthodontists, and many other academies and associations discuss the importance of staying safe and protecting your teeth by wearing a mouth guard.
 
A mouth guard, also known as a mouth protector, helps cushion any blows to the face that an athlete may experience. This minimizes the risk of chipped or broken teeth, injuries to your lips, tongue, cheek, or jaw, and gives you the extra protection you need to maintain your healthy smile while staying active.
 
Some examples of sports that need their players wearing mouth guards are:
• Boxing
• Hockey
• Football
• Basketball
• Soccer
 
Those are only some of the sports that require this athletic piece of equipment – there are numerous other sports where players can experience this kind of trauma, so it's important to protect your smile at all costs.
 
Custom-made mouth guards are the ideal choice for any sport. Your teeth will properly fit in place, there'll be no movement or shifting when wearing the custom mouth guard, and it'll provide the utmost comfort. There are other options for mouth guards, including a stock version or a boil-and-bite version, but don't hesitate to ask us what's best for your smile!
 
According to the ADA and the AOO, children between the ages of 7 and 11 are the most vulnerable to sports-related mouth injuries. This is a great time to introduce children to sports and see if they would like to pursue it in the future, but parents need to be sure to share their knowledge of mouth guards, like why they're important to wear during sports, so they can protect their smile now and in the future. Athletes are at least 60% more likely to suffer from a dental injury if they're not wearing a mouth guard.
 
Interested in learning more? Don't hesitate to ask us! Contact your Belleville dentist by calling (973) 751-6600 and schedule a consultation with our office to learn more about the different mouth guard options for you or your family. Stay athletic and stay safe!
 
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March 2018
Foods that Can Brighten Your Smile

Integrate These Foods Suggested by Your 07109 Dentist for a Healthier Smile

 
When it comes to your dental care and its relationship to food, we commonly find many lists of some of your favorite meals that aren’t good for your smile. It can be discouraging to note all the delicious and tasty foods that are harmful to your teeth. Instead of that, your 07109 dentist lists all the foods that ARE good for your teeth, as well as the benefits that they provide. Knowing this list can help you incorporate these foods into your daily diet and help you smile more, too.
 
Strawberries
 
These sweet fruits contain an enzyme that’s called malic acid. As you eat them, the strawberries that encounter your teeth and the malic acid can help remove dull and yellow stains, working to make your smile brighter. Strawberries are quite acidic in nature, so try not to overdo it, but enjoying a small batch occasionally will benefit both your diet and smile.
 
Carrots and Celery
 
These two veggies may not have a lot of flavor to them, but they work to naturally clean and floss your teeth as you’re eating them. They also increase saliva stimulation, which serves as your mouth’s self-cleaning agent. If you’re dealing with bad breath, try snacking on a few of these veggies to remove the built-up bacteria and potentially get rid of the smell.
 
Yogurt, Milk and Cheese
 
Dairy products contain lactic acid that can help protect your teeth against bacterial build-up and eventually tooth decay. The protein found in most yogurt works together with your teeth by binding and preventing attacks from acid attacks. Hard cheeses are also great for teeth whitening, as they can help remove food particles that are trying to hide in between the hard-to-reach places.
 
Looking for more helpful tips to both improve your diet and your smile? Give your 07109 dentist a call today at (973) 751-6600 to schedule your appointment or consultation.
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February 2018
Share the Importance of Children’s Dental Health Month
Learn the Benefits of Top Children’s Dentistry with Your Dentist in Belleville
 
Each February, the American Dental Association works with thousands of dentists, orthodontists, and other dental professionals around the United States to promote the importance of pediatric dental care by celebrating National Children’s Dental Health Month. This information spreads to parents, friends, caregivers, and more, so our children can continue to grow healthy and strong. Having a healthy smile goes a long way, so your [KEYWORD] wants to share helpful habits and why regular check-ups are important to further improve the chances of a long-lasting smile for kids.
 
Baby Teeth are Just as Important as Adult Teeth
 
Don’t let the myths fool you! Baby teeth are extremely important and should be taken care of just as well as adult teeth. While these teeth eventually fall out and are replaced with the adult ones, these baby teeth are valuable for overall development and are holding the space for the permanent teeth coming in after. That’s why these teeth need to be properly taken care of by flossing and brushing twice a day, every day.
 
Tooth Decay is Extremely Common in Children
 
While it’s very preventable, tooth decay is very common in children due to lack of education and standard routine. We want all parents to know the simple steps they can take for preventive measures to ensure the safety of their children’s smiles. Try switching out certain snacks that contain a high amount of sugar for more fruits and vegetables, as well as incorporating more fun activities while brushing their teeth like short games and small prizes.
 
Keep Up with Routine Check-Ups and Cleanings
 
The professionals are here for a reason! We want to properly clean and take care of your children’s teeth in between their daily routine of brushing and flossing. By keeping up with these appointments, your children will also be able to learn the importance of a healthy smile with the help of a dentist, who can answer any questions or concerns either the kids or parents have.
 
Prevention is one of the strongest components to a strong and long-lasting smile. Let your dentist in Belleville help by scheduling an appointment at our office today. Call 973-751-6600 to ask us any questions to pick the best date and time to bring your child in for their visit!
 
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January 2018
Why You Should Avoid Snacks
 
What makes snacks so appealing? Is it because they're quick? Is it because they're so easily accessible to enjoy? Is it because it feels like you're enjoying something you know you shouldn't, but it's just so tasty? If you've answered yes to these questions, then you're one of the many people who are tempted by delicious and convenient snacks. Unfortunately, while many of your favorite snacks are consumed on a daily basis, they may not be good for your health, including your smile.
 
Below, your Parsippany, NJ dentist breaks down the dangers of snacking and how your smile is one of the first parts of your body that is negatively affected by this habit.
 
What makes snacking so harmful?
 
Having a healthy, but fulfilling breakfast, lunch and dinner is ideal when it comes to taking care of your body. If you're skipping meals or replacing them with snacks, you're not getting the proper nutrition your body needs.
 
You also be may snacking on something unhealthy that affects your teeth, too. Snacks that are either sugary or salty come in direct contact with your teeth and can weaken your enamel. When you have these snacks multiple times a day, you're continuing to break down the protective structure of your enamel, which can lead to sensitivity and other dental issues.
 
How can I snack smarter?
 
If you want to snack smarter, try to minimize the amount of snacking you do. When you snack in between meals, you're giving your mouth a limited time to try and protect your teeth. Throughout the day, your mouth creates saliva, which contains calcium and phosphates that neutralize acids and correct the pH levels in your mouth. If you continue to snack in between meals or replace an important meal with snacking, you're not allowing saliva to do its job!
 
Instead of the salty or sweet snacks that you may love, try switching them with foods that are good for your teeth, like carrots, celery, vegetables, strawberries, cucumbers, and other raw fruits and vegetables. Not only will these improve your diet, but they'll work with you to stimulate your saliva glands and continue to correct those pH levels.
 
While snacks don't have to be completely ruled out of your routine, your Parsippany, NJ dentist urges you to make some conscious changes on what you're snacking on and how often so you can protect your teeth. If you are interested in learning more about snacking options or how to take care of your teeth if you snack, simply give our office a call at (973) 751-6600 today.
 
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December 2017
New Year, New Smile
The new year is right around the corner! 2018 gives everyone a brand new start and the motivation to work on a list of achievements that will benefit them in a number of ways. You may already have some resolutions that you’ve been working on! One of the most popular goals that people set is to have a healthier, everyday lifestyle. What better way to start than with the help of your 07109 dentists to ensure that your dental health is in the best shape it can be?
 
Below, we’ll list some resolutions that you can work on RIGHT NOW to begin your journey into 2018 with a stronger, healthier smile.
 
Enjoy More Fruits and Vegetables
 
Remember when your parents told you to eat more fruits and vegetables as a kid? Well, we hope this habit stayed with you as you grew up! There are numerous health benefits to eating fruits and vegetables and many of those benefits apply to your teeth and gums. If you don’t consume clean and healthy foods and drinks, your oral and dental health are one of the first areas affected.
 
In the new year, try to integrate fruits and vegetables if you’re looking for a snack instead of chips and candy. Nutrients found in fruits, veggies, and nuts can fight against bacterial build-up. Vegetables like celery and fruits like apples can help clean bacteria and plaque that get stuck in between your teeth.
 
Cut Back on Alcohol Consumption
 
Excessive alcohol consumption can be extremely harmful for your overall health, but your oral health can take a heavy hit if you’re not careful. Alcohol can damage and weaken your gums, causing them to recede, which can lead to weakened enamel or a potential loss of teeth. It’s true that if you use tobacco products on a daily basis, have a poor diet, and consistently consume excessive amounts of alcohol, you’re at a much higher risk for periodontitis, more commonly known as gum disease.
 
Finally – Visit Your Dentist!
 
Keeping up with your appointments will help you prevent oral and dental health issues and allow us to monitor and solve any problems before they require a more comprehensive treatment. With these regular visits, you’ll receive a thorough exam and cleaning, as well as tips and advice on how to improve your smile in areas that may need additional help.
 
Let 2018 be the year that you’re proud to share your smile with friends, family and more! To start your year off right, call your 07109 dentists at 973-751-6600 to schedule an appointment for your routine cleaning or ask us about other services that may benefit and improve your dental health.
 
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November 2017
Protect Your Holiday Season Smile
The holidays are here and your schedule is filling up fast! The next month and a half may be a little hectic, but don’t forget to keep up with your oral hygiene routine every morning and night. There are going to be family dinners upon family dinners with an overwhelming amount of delicious food. Unfortunately, not all of these tasty meals are going to be too nice to your smile. Below, Belleville, NJ dentists discuss the best way to maintain a healthy smile during these busy holiday gatherings.
 
There will be some dishes that you only have during the holiday season – stuffing, cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie, and more – that make your mouth water just thinking about them. Your taste buds could be going crazy, but your teeth and gums may start to ache. There will be countless sugary treats spread across the table, but if you indulge in too much, you’re quickly causing bacteria build-up and putting you at a higher risk for cavities and decay.
 
Thankfully, there are a couple of tasty things that don’t totally ruin your teeth. Cranberry, a popular addition to a holiday meal, contains compounds that fight against certain bacterial allies so there’s a lesser chance of plaque build-up. Red wine also contains compounds, like polyphenols, that can halt the plaque-forming process and limit the amount of acid that the bacteria produces.
 
While these are certainly tips to look forward to since you now know that your entire meal isn’t destroying your smile, too much of a good thing can still be a bad thing. Having too much cranberry or red wine can still negatively affect your teeth – their deep, dark colors have the ability to stain your enamel and make your smile look a bit dimmer than before. Your holiday meals typically contain so much sugar, starch, and carbohydrates that there could be little to no benefits even if you enjoy some wine or cranberry.
 
Our goal is to help you identify the foods and drinks that can harm your oral health and try balancing it by maintaining your dental routines and avoiding having too many delicious but dangerous meals.
 
To protect your smile during this holiday season, be sure to schedule an appointment with your Belleville, NJ dentists. Don’t forget that the end of the year is fast approaching, so we want you to get the most out of your insurance benefits! Call our office at (973) 751-6600 to pick the best date and time for your visit.
 
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October 2017
Avoid a Spooky Smile
During the month of October, children and adults across the US are anticipating the spookiest day of the year, Halloween. Between the creative outfits and the delicious sweets and treats, there’s a lot to look forward to on this popular holiday. Of course, we want you to be careful about enjoying too much candy since it’ll hinder your overall health, including your smile, but there’s more to dental care than just monitoring the amount of sweets you eat. Below, your Belleville dentist wants to discuss other potential, harmful instances you can run into on your Halloween night.
 
Start Out the Night Right – With a Clean Smile
 
There are tons of costumes that go above and beyond, helping trick-or-treaters and others who dress up to look exactly like their ideal design. Sometimes, this includes wearing fake or false teeth. Whether you’re looking for fangs to complete your vampire aesthetic or you need to add some gold to your grin with your swanky, rich outfit, these additions can help bacterial build-up.
 
Once you get your new (temporary) smile, make sure it’s properly cleaned and you feel comfortable wearing it in your mouth. If it’s uncomfortable or causing you pain, it could tear up your gums and potentially cause bleeding. We highly recommend forgoing the additional smile if it’s hurting you. If you feel comfortable, then make sure to brush your teeth before wearing them for an extended period – the latest bacteria and debris won’t have anywhere to hide and won’t linger while you’re out having fun.
 
Don’t Wear Your New Smile for Too Long
 
While you don’t want to downplay your outfit, you also want to make sure that your teeth and gums are healthy and unharmed. We highly suggest limiting the amount of time that you wear your fake teeth to reduce the chance of any damage or discomfort. Obviously, these teeth aren’t made to bite and chew like your natural smile, so we want you to avoid using them as such. Remove your plastic teeth when eating or drinking to avoid any difficulty or potential damage.
 
Be Careful – Not Everything is Safe for Your Smile
 
Besides plastic teeth, there are other costumes that may require a “mouthpiece.” For instance, if you’re playing the popular Sherlock Holmes, your costume may come with his infamous pipe. But if you’re not entirely sure of how it was made, you may want to either complete a thorough cleaning or avoid the piece altogether. Your oral health is much more vulnerable than you think and on this night of costumes and candies, your teeth could be in danger!
 
Believe us: we want you to have a fun and special Halloween night! But we simply wouldn’t be doing our part of your Belleville dentist if we didn’t give you some helpful tips and tricks to protect your teeth. We hope you have a wonderful Halloween and don’t forget to schedule your visit with us by calling our office today at (973) 751-6600.
 
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September 2017
Importance of Caring for Children's Teeth

Help Your Children Share their Strong and Healthy Smile with the Right Snack Choices

 

We’re all familiar with tasty sweets, chocolates, and candies that we love to indulge in. It’s no surprise that children are big fans of those treats, too. Unfortunately, too much of something as delicious as candy can be detrimental to your smile, especially against baby teeth. That’s why we believe it’s extremely important to establish good, healthy habits to help children avoid cavities, decay, early tooth loss, and other oral health problems.

 

There are numerous ways that candy is intertwined in a child’s life. Sometimes, it’s reflexive, like giving them candy or chocolate to stop them from being upset. Other times, it’s a reward for doing well in class or in a public situation. This can be used as a default tactic, but we highly encourage patients to not use this method. Instead, we want children to know how candy can hurt their teeth and why they shouldn’t have such a large amount in one sitting and so frequently.

 

What are the best snacks and drinks for my child to have?

Some of the best snacks for children to play are, of course, fruits and vegetables. While they’re not always the ideal snack for kids, their teeth will be thankful. Some of the most convenient and tasty are bananas, tangerines, carrot and celery sticks. Rice cakes and plain popcorn are also great alternatives.

 

Because of their convenience, parents are likely to buy dried fruits since they don’t expire nearly as fast as fresh fruits do. Unfortunately, dried fruits can be extremely high in sugar and are quite sticky. They can get in hard-to-reach places in your teeth and can cause bacterial build-up. Try to avoid enjoying these as often as fresh fruits, but note that they can be a better alternative than other candies and snacks.

 

Instead of sodas and sugary fruit juices, try to switch their daily beverage to water. Another great drink for children to have is plain milk. Don’t be afraid to ask us which kind of milk, whether it’s whole milk or skimmed milk, that is best for your children’s teeth.

 

Protect your family’s smile by avoiding too many sweets and treats

No matter how old you are, candy is still dangerous to your oral and dental health. We want to share this information with our patients because children’s teeth are extremely sensitive and aren’t as strong as adult teeth. It’s important to take care of their baby teeth to make sure this area is healthy enough for their adult ones to grow in. If children suffer from cavities and decay when they have their baby teeth, their adult teeth are also at risk.

 

If you’re interested in learning about more tips to protect your child’s smile, whether it’s about food, drinks, or bad habits, please feel free to call your Belleville dentist at 973-751-6600 today.

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August 2017
Common Brushing Mistakes

Stay Healthy with these Brushing Tips and the Help of your Belleville Dentist

 

To ensure the best oral health, we believe that you should brush your teeth twice daily, once in the morning and once at night, to ensure the best oral health possible. Don’t worry, we understand – you lead a busy schedule that may cause you to skip or forget your daily dental routine, but we don’t want bacterial build-up to get the best of you and harm your teeth. Below, we’ll discuss a few mistakes that may occur while brushing your teeth and what you can do to correct them.

 

Before you start, you have to make sure that the toothbrush you have is the best one for you. There are tons of various kinds of toothbrushes available, but we highly recommend using a soft bristle brush that has a head size you’re comfortable with. If you have a toothbrush with the head that’s too big for your mouth, you could be missing some areas that you’re supposed to brush. This is where the bacteria can build up and cause cavities, decay, and more. Electric toothbrushes are also a viable option, but make sure you’re still performing the right technique.

 

Speaking of technique, you’re probably wondering – what is the best technique to brushing your teeth? There are several notes that you have to remember during your morning and nightly routine, including brushing for at least two minutes, making sure you’re cleaning every area of your mouth (yes, this includes the very back), and holding your brush at the right angle to reach all of those tough spots.

 

Something you may not have known is that brushing your teeth for too long is harmful! Your teeth, while strong and durable, can also become sensitive if it’s exposed to the ingredients in toothpaste for too long and too often. You’ll weaken your enamel, which will cause sensitivity when enjoy hot or cold foods and drinks.

 

Another note to take down is knowing when to get rid of a toothbrush. It’s recommended that you replace your toothbrush every three months, or after you’ve been sick with something contagious like a cold or flu. When you see your bristles starting to fray, that’s when you know it’s time to go! Even if you don’t see them fray, the bristles aren’t cleaning at their full potential and we want you to have the best brush each and every day.

 

By correcting some of these common mistakes while brushing your teeth, you can be working towards the best, healthiest smile for you. Couple these practices with your routine, bi-annual visits with us by calling us today at our Belleville location at (973) 751-6600 or our Parsippany location at (973) 882-5005 to schedule your appointment.

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July 2017
You Cracked a Tooth… Now What?
The sound and pain of cracking or chipping a tooth can be terrifying. Not everyone has been there, so if you have experienced this feeling, consider yourself among the minority. Depending on the severity, there are many ways you can recover from this travesty. 
 
Repairable – In the Front 
 
Maybe you fell and broke your fall with your front teeth (if that is the case, we are very sorry that this happened to you) … or perhaps you were trying to open a bottle of champagne and accidently corked yourself in the mouth (trust us, you’ll be laughing about that later on in life). Either way, chipping a front tooth (or teeth) can be a scary experience. 
 
The first time you smiled in a mirror, your heart probably sank. Worry not, though, 90% of front tooth damage is repairable! Here are a few ways: 
 
- Dental Bonding (composite material that is shaped to replace the missing parts of the tooth and cured)
- Veneers (porcelain cover for the front)
- Crowns (porcelain cover for entire tooth) 
Ultimately, you don’t need to worry too much about your cracked or chipped tooth. At least not for long! 
 
Irreparable – Any Tooth
 
If your tooth is so heavily damaged that the root is impacted from the chipping or crack, you’ll find that more drastic measures will need to be taken to save your smile. You may find in some cases that the tooth is complete unsalvageable and will require extraction. 
 
If your tooth is salvageable, it will require a root canal and a crown. This is often the case with severely damage molars. If the root can be repaired, you can keep your natural root and simply have a crown placed on top. 
 
However, if your tooth is not salvageable (could be the case with both molars and front teeth), you will likely need it extracted. You can either get a bridge or an implant to replace the missing tooth or teeth. A bridge will crown the outer teeth (the teeth around the missing tooth) and a filler tooth will be firmly affixed between them. A dental implant will replace the tooth altogether with an anchoring screw. 
 
What is the Next Step? 
 
If you have a cracked or chipped tooth, schedule an appointment with your 07109 dentist right away. They will be able to determine what your best solutions will be. The longer you wait, the more likely it will become irreparable and require extraction! Please call 973-751-6600 to schedule an appointment at Belleville Dental Center today.
 
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June 2017
When Teeth Removal is a Must
With proper teeth care, most people try to avoid removing a tooth. In the mind of many people, a tooth is only removed because there is no hope for the tooth. And this is the case sometimes. However, this is not always the reason for removing a tooth. 
 

Why Teeth are Removed?

 
There are several reasons why teeth are removed, and it is important that you realize this does not mean that you did not take care of your teeth. Even those who brush and floss twice daily still have some issues with their teeth, as many teeth issues are genetic. Some of the reasons why the teeth may be removed:
 
1. There are extra teeth coming into the mouth that are not needed
2. Baby teeth sometimes have to be removed in order for permanent teeth to come in straight
3. Certain drugs, like those for cancer, can weaken the teeth and these have to be removed
4. If the tooth is causing an infection, then these teeth are almost always removed
5. Wisdom teeth are constantly removed from people due to lack of room or having infections set in
 

How Teeth are Removed?

 
There are two main ways in which teeth removal occurs in the dental office. These extractions are:
 
1. Simple Extraction: this is performed when the tooth can be seen in the mouth. These are rather common, especially if baby teeth are being removed. 
 
2. Surgical Extractions: These are a bit more in-depth, as they are used when the tooth may be broken off into the gum line, it has yet to break through into the mouth. These are done by specialists called oral surgeons. Many people find that this is who their wisdom teeth are removed. 
 
It is important to remember that teeth removal is often a must for the health of the person’s mouth. It is important that you go see your dentist about any tooth related injury you may have and ensure that you are following their directions to a “T” in order to stay healthy! 
 
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May 2017
Oral Care Routine

Checklist for Brushing Properly

 

You may think you have been brushing your teeth correctly, but there are many facets that entail maintaining proper oral health. There are many different factors that go into optimizing your dental hygiene. Below are some suggestions from your Belleville NJ dentist, Belleville Dental Center, on how to make the most of each time you brush your teeth.

 

1. Time Spent Brushing

 

The time spent brushing your teeth is the top priority when it comes to brushing. Many people do not adhere the recommended two minutes, the average brushing length of an American being just fort-five seconds! Ideally, the best length of time is three minutes, encompassing one and a half minutes on both the upper and lower teeth. Listening to your favorite song to get those optimum three minutes in is the best way to do it. Feel free to dance while you brush!

 

2. Clean Every Part of the Mouth

 

Complete dental health includes more than just focusing on brushing your teeth. Tartar and plaque buildup occurs near the gums and requires just as much attention as your teeth.  The tongue is also a place where build up can occur, causing bad breath. Using a tongue scrapper can assist in reducing the amount of buildup on the tongue and flossing can help remove plaque on the sides of the teeth and reduces gum inflammation.

 

3. Perfect Your Technique

 

Brushing up and down does not cover the entire surface area of each tooth. Make sure you clean your teeth completely, by brushing in a circular motion on each tooth. Start by brushing the front of your teeth in a circular motion, and then proceed to the inner portion of your teeth, making sure to clean the top and bottom of your molars in the process.

 

4. Think Beyond the Brush

 

It takes more than just a toothbrush to meet all of a patient’s dental hygienic needs. Flossing regularly and properly helps reduce plaque buildup. Using a water pick can help remove plaque and tartar in those hard to reach places. A water pick is especially helpful for those with braces. A mouthwash at the end of brushing and choosing a toothpaste that is effective will help solidify your stellar oral care routine! Consult our office about choosing the appropriate toothpaste and mouthwash for your specific needs.

 

Keeping up with dental health keeps your mouth healthy, your breath fresh and your teeth white. Call our office today to schedule your regular cleaning or to ask us any questions regarding your oral care health.

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April 2017
The Importance of Family Dentistry

Know the Importance of visiting your family dentist in  Belleville, NJ

When it comes to your family, you want everyone to have top oral and dental health. The best option for your family is to find a dentist that offers numerous services for family members of all ages. There are countless benefits to going to one family dentistry that can take care of your smile, as well as your children’s.
 
The key to top quality dentistry is prevention. There are several procedures that are available at a family dentistry that includes cleanings, exams, x-rays, and other common dental work to ensure that your smile is healthy. According to the American Dental Association, it is highly recommended to visit the dentist at least twice a year for routine check-ups and cleanings. If you’re not taking care of your teeth by brushing and flossing twice a day and keeping up with your visits, you’re putting your smile at risk.
 
If you don’t make a point to visit our family dentistry, you could suffer from the following symptoms:
·         Bad breath
·         Cavities
·         Toothaches
·         Stained
·         Tooth decay
·         Weak or loose teeth
·         Tooth loss
 
These are only some of the things that a patient can suffer from if they don’t regularly visit the dentist. Your smile is more sensitive and unique than you may think, so it’s important to know if your teeth are in any risk of problems or concerns.
 

How You Can Help Educate about Family Dentistry

While the steps to proper oral hygiene are well known, many people may not understand how beneficial it is for you and your family to keep up with your dental care. Your teeth deserve to be treated with the best care around, so here are some helpful tips to maintain a healthy smile:
 
·         Brush your teeth every morning and night
·         Floss your teeth during your brushing routine
·         Avoid foods and drinks that stain and weaken your teeth
·         Schedule your visits to your family dentist in advance
·         Share these tips with family, friends, and children
 

Take Your First Step Today – Schedule an Appointment with Your Family Dentistry

To get your smile on the right track, call us today to schedule your appointment for a routine cleaning and exam. We’re able to provide you with even more helpful information for your unique and individual smile so your teeth can shine for years to come.

 

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March 2017
Fight the Myths Harming Your Smile

Get Rid of Dental Myths and Fears with the Help of Your Dentist in Belleville NJ 

 

Dentistry is one of the most important and beneficial practices that people of all ages can benefit from. Your smile is something that you want to last for a lifetime, but if you don’t take care of it, then there will be more consequences than you think. Unfortunately, there are countless dental myths and widespread rumors that stop people from visiting the dental, whether it triggers their phobia or tricks them into believing something that simply isn’t true.

 

While some myths seem inconsequential, there are others that can negatively affect your smile in the long run. Below, your Dentist in Belleville NJ discusses some popular myths within dentistry and debunks them for the safety and enhancement of your oral health.

 

MYTH: Baby Teeth aren’t Important – They’ll Just Fall Out, Anyway
There are countless news stories and articles that continue to stress the importance of pediatric dental care and monitoring baby teeth. While the baby teeth will eventually fall out, you want to make sure that their mouth and gums are still in top shape for their permanent teeth that are soon to come. If the roots of the baby teeth are rotten and decayed, the surrounding gums will also rot and their adult teeth coming in will be affected by this, as well.

 

MYTH: I’m Too Old to Get Braces Since My Teeth Won’t Change
Orthodontic treatment is for everyone, not just for teenagers and young adults! There are several ways braces and aligners can improve your smile and it doesn’t matter how old you are. The numbers of adults in their 30s and 40s that are receiving orthodontic treatment is growing and we want to keep it that way. Dental misalignment can be extremely harmful for your oral and dental health if not properly corrected, regardless of your age.

 

MYTH: I Don’t Eat Candy, So My Teeth are Perfectly Healthy
While limiting the amount of candy and sweets you’re enjoy is certainly beneficial for your smile, there are numerous foods and drinks that contain much more sugar than one may think. Sodas, fruit juices, and snacks contain harmful ingredients that damage the surface of your teeth, your gums, and more if you aren’t monitoring the things you eat and drink.

 

There are countless myths that harm your smile if they aren’t debunked and corrected and that’s why we’re here! If there are some myths or fears that you’re concerned about regarding your oral and dental health, don’t hesitate to contact your Dentist in Belleville NJ to schedule an appointment or consultation. Call us today at (973) 751-6600 or (973) 882-5005 and start improving your health in more ways than one!

 

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February 2017
What Are the Different Causes of Loose Teeth?

Learn the causes of loose teeth from your Belleville NJ Dentist 

 

People of all ages often suffer from tooth loss, which can often leave negative effects on a person’s confidence and self-esteem. It can result in a lacking smile, one that leaves patients unsatisfied and embarrassed. Tooth loss often starts when your tooth starts to detach itself from the jaw bone. So, what are the causes of loose tooth?

 

Causes of Loose Teeth

 

· Gum Disease

One cause of tooth loss is untreated gingivitis. During the early stages of gum disease, patients would often experience inflamed and bleeding gums. Although this is usually painless, the more you prolong this problem, it can cause periodontitis.  Periodontitis is a more serious gum disease that causes severe irritation and inflammation in your gum area. As this disease progresses, your gum tissue slowly deteriorates and eventually loosens your tooth, thus leads to tooth loss.

 

· Osteoporosis

Another reason would be osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a health condition wherein the bones in your body slowly weakens and becomes less dense. Loose tooth often occurs when bone density around the jaw lessens. People with osteoporosis are more at risk of loose tooth compared to others.

 

· Tooth Trauma

Tooth trauma can also cause your tooth to loosen.  For minor mouth trauma, it often takes a day or two for the tooth to loosen out. But for harder mouth trauma caused by accidents, it would cause an immediate effect. The damage is inflicted in the supportive ligaments that connect the tooth to the jaw bone. It can lead to a medical condition called bruxism. Bruxism can cause the tooth to loosen because of the constant grinding and clenching.

 

· Pregnancy Hormones

Pregnant women often experience loose teeth because of the high levels of estrogen and progesterone in their body. These hormones cause the tooth to loosen and move from side to side.  Usually, this event is temporary and doesn’t lead to tooth loss.

 

There are many reasons why your tooth would loosen. If you feel this is happening and disregard this issue, you may not only lose the one tooth, but those surrounding it, as well! Visit your Belleville NJ Dentist if you’re experiencing any issues with your teeth like the ones mentioned above.

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January 2017
History of Toothbrushes & Toothpaste

Learn how People Used to Clean their Smile in Early Centuries and how far We’ve Come with Our Modern Tools!

 
When we brush our teeth every morning and night, we don’t always think about where it all started. How was toothpaste created? How did we know that we needed something like this to clean and improve our teeth? How did we figure out the right tools to properly clean our teeth? Below, your dentist in Parsippany NJ will discuss the history of toothbrushes, toothpaste, and how we’ve dramatically progressed for the better of our smile.
 

History of Toothbrushes

If you can believe it, tooth brushing tools date way back to around 3500 BC! The Egyptians had created the cleaning utensil by fraying the ends of a twig, which created the “bristles.” There were even tombs in the ancient Egyptians that had contained these tooth-sticks right alongside their owners. The Chinese developed a type of “chewing stick” that was made out of aromatic tree twigs that helped freshen their breath around 1600 BC.
 
The type of toothbrushes that we’re more familiar with is believed to have been created in the 15th century by the Chinese, who created bristles from pigs’ necks and attached the bristles to a bone or bamboo handle that they can use. Eventually, when this invention was brought from China to Europe, the idea and design were adapted and the Europeans often either used softer horsehairs or feathers as their bristles.
 
Around 1780, the first toothbrush of a modern design was created by William Addis in England. The bristles were still made out of swine bristles and the handle was carved out of battle bone for a secure structure. In 1844, the design was improved when the first 3-row bristle brush was executed.
 
With the invention of nylon by Du Pont, natural bristles were replaced with nylon bristles, which was highly preferred. The modern toothbrush that we all know and recognized was officially created in 1938 and the first electric brush was created in 1939. Electric toothbrushes didn’t even make it to the United States until 1960—it was called the Broxodent.
 

History of Toothpaste

Did you know it’s recorded that toothpaste was invented way before toothbrushes? Egyptians are believed to have started using a personal-made paste in order to clean their teeth around 5000 BC. Going down the line, Greeks and Romans are also known to have used a type of toothpaste, as well as people in China and India first using toothpaste around 500 BC.
 
The reasoning for toothpaste then is the same now—people were concerned about keeping their natural smile, so they wanted to use a type of cleansing paste that will keep their teeth and gums clean, their teeth bright, and their breath fresh. However, the ingredients greatly varied overtime. The Greeks and Romans combined an abrasive mixture of ingredients that included crushed bones and oyster shells; the Romans added more of a flavor to it to beat bad breath, so they included darkened charcoal and bark. The Chinese had also used a wide variety of substances and ingredients, but ones that we feel much more comfortable with like ginseng, salt, and herbal mints.
 
Around the 1800s, more modern toothpastes began to develop. Early versions of toothpaste included soap and chalk. In England around the 1860s, their ingredients also included ground charcoal. The first type of toothpaste was usually powder, but around the late 1850s and towards the 1870s, new toothpaste that came in a jar was introduced and Colgate began to produce it. The toothpaste tube that we’re all familiar with made its way into our lives in the 1890s.
 
It wasn’t until the second half of the twentieth century that toothpaste became what we’re all extremely familiar with today. In 1914, toothpastes that contained fluoride were introduced, helping fight cavities, stimulate saliva, and improve other areas of oral and dental health.
 
Thankfully, we’ve come a long way! Even though your toothbrush and toothpaste are simple tools that you use on a daily basis, they’ve gone through tons of changes to make them the most beneficial, everyday routines you could participate in.
 
To learn more or to schedule an appointment or check-up with your dentist in Parsippany NJ, call our office today at (973) 751-6600 or (973) 882- 5005. 
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December 2016
Resolutions for a Healthy Smile

View Some New Year’s Resolutions by Your Belleville NJ Dentist so Your Smile can Shine Bright for 2017

 
The New Year is just around the corner! While everyone has had their ups and downs, we want to make sure that all of our patients are looking forward in a positive light to see what 2017 can bring us. As always, it’s important to make new year’s resolutions in order to improve and better yourself, whether it’s your overall health or your relationship with others. Today, your Belleville NJ dentist will discuss some of the things that your smile could benefit from with a resolution to take better care of your smile.
 
First Thing is First – Schedule Your Appointment
The first step is always the hardest, but it’s also the most important. If it’s been a while since you’ve visited the dentist, you’re not alone. Did you know about one-third of U.S. citizens don’t see a dentist yearly (source)? Whether you think it’s time-consuming or you’re afraid, making time to better your oral and dental health will only benefit you in the long run. Booking an appointment is the most important step to taking care of your teeth. You may not think anything’s wrong, but just because you can’t see or feel if there’s an issue doesn’t mean it’s not there.
 
Floss, Floss, Floss!
Remember to floss on a daily basis can be difficult, but find ways to help remind you! Unfortunately, brushing your teeth isn’t enough to get rid of the build-up of plaque and bacteria that gets stuck in the hard-to-reach places. Try to get into the habit of flossing by putting the container in a place where you’ll see it every day, like next to your toothbrush or even in your bedroom. Buy some extra containers to carry around with you to places you frequent – your car, your work, your bag or pocket, just so you can still floss even if you forgot to do so at home.
 
Kick Bad Habits
Whether it’s your love for sweets and treats or your inkling to use tobacco products, there’s no better time to quit than now. While candies are certainly delicious, they do much more harm than good. The ones that are sticky and sweet are the ones that do the most damage, ruining your enamel and causing cavities. If you don’t monitor the amount of sugar you consume, your teeth won’t be happy! This goes for bad habits like smoking cigarettes and other uses of tobacco products. They not only stain your smile, but can quickly cause cavities, decay, and other severe dental issues that can lead to tooth loss.
 
Start working on your New Year’s resolutions by contacting your Belleville NJ dentist today and scheduling your first appointment for 2017! Call us today at 973-751-6600 and have a Happy New Year!
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