Try some of these fun dental facts to help get them interested and inspired to learn how to take care of their mouths and teeth. The habits they create now will stick with them and benefit them for a lifetime.

It is recommended that x-rays are avoided during pregnancy, unless it is essential that one be taken to help address a dental emergency. If an x-ray must be taken, a second lead vest should be used to help cover the abdominal area. Additionally, the dentist should take care to avoid using local anesthetics that contain epinephrine (a vasoconstrictor) and drugs that can cross the placental barrier. Tylenol is usually considered to be fine by most OBGYNs for controlling discomfort. Penicillin and Erythromycin are usually considered acceptable antibiotics when the risk of infection outweighs the risk of taking these medications. Check with your OBGYN first before starting any type of medication. Anxious patients should avoid taking barbiturates, anti-anxiety medications (such as Valium) and Nitrous Oxide when pregnant.

I teach through many mediums- whether it is within the walls of my practice, at New York University’s College of Dentistry, or while lecturing at North Shore University Hospital.  I have been utilizing this blog to answer the questions we most frequently receive and it is an extension of my enjoyment to be involved in education.

One question that I frequently receive is in regards to composites (tooth-colored fillings) and what the advantages of a tooth-colored filling are over a silver (amalgam) filling.

The composite resin fillings have come a long way in recent years. Their strength and longevity are now comparable to that of silver fillings, but with much-enhanced esthetics. The dentist has the capability to match the filling shade exactly to the shade and color of your tooth so that no one else will ever know you had a cavity. Another advantage of these tooth-colored restorations is that the preparation is relatively conservative. Only decay is removed, and the filling is then bonded to the area that has been prepared. Silver fillings do not have the same bonding capacity, and therefore rely on on mechanical retention to hold the filling in place. As a result, good tooth structure is taken away create the ideal depth and undercuts required to achieve adequate retention. another advantage of composite restorations if that they are typically less sensitive to hot or cold, as metal tends to conduct temperature more readily.

Tooth-colored restorations are yet another great reason to smile.

I welcome any questions you may have and again, I hope all of the teacher’s of the world have a great day and know you are celebrated.

While this is a rare form of cancer, Adam has brought to life through his struggle the reminder of its impact. In my opinion, it is just another example of how short life can be. Your dentist and hygienist will screen for oral cancers at every visit.  Take the time to maintain your preventative care and put yourself first.

Read more about Adam on the Beastie Boys’ website, and the Times has also put together a nice look at his accomplishments.

 
With each passing day, more and more patients are able to recognize how the transformation  of a smile can change a life. They know that it will help them or their loved one to land that job, find that special someone, or just give them that extra edge in business and social networking.  They can appreciate how a beautiful smile can take years off of one’s appearance, increase self confidence and make that person more approachable and distinguished.

For answers to your cosmetic dentistry questions you can look through The Patient’s Guide to Dentistry available here, or set up a consultation where we can answer any questions you may have in person.

After all, what more important of an investment can you make than the one in yourself?

• Difficulty in chewing or swallowing
• Numbness of the tongue
• Hoarseness
• Ear pain
• Difficulty when moving the tongue or jaw
• A lump or a thickening of the soft tissues in the mouth

If any of the above symptoms last for more than two weeks, a thorough exam and any necessary lab tests would become indicated.