A Good Toothbrush for Good Oral Hygiene

Gum disease is a major risk factor for developing serious health conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Brushing regularly with a good toothbrush can keep your gums and teeth healthier. Choose a toothbrush with bristles that are most comfortable for you and fits your mouth. Soft-bristled toothbrushes are usually the most comfortable and safest option because brushing too hard can damage your tooth enamel and gums.

Over time with usage, germs from your mouth accumulate in the toothbrush bristles and grow bacteria. So be sure to change your toothbrush at least every 3-4 months or when the bristles are frayed, as recommended by the American Dental Association (ADA).

Remember to brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day and visit your dentist regularly. Visit R+R Dental for more oral hygiene tips and information.

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The Facts About Sedation and Anesthesia in Dentistry

The Facts About Sedation and Anesthesia in Dentistry
Sedation allows dentists to create a state of relaxation to manage the anxiety, fear and pain patients may experience during dental procedures. There are several different types of sedation in dentistry:

• Local anesthesia is administered by injecting medication into tissue or by applying a medication topically to an area to eliminate sensation.
• Minimal sedation is used most frequently in dentistry and usually involves taking medications orally. All bodily functions remain normal and the person is able to breathe on his or her own. The patient may respond normally to verbal commands and may experience some degree of amnesia about what happened during their dental appointment. Nitrous oxide or "laughing gas" may be used to achieve minimal sedation and in combination with a recommended dosage of oral medication.
• Moderate sedation is achieved by using medications that can be taken orally or intravenously (IV). Patients who undergo moderate sedation are awake and respond to touch and/or verbal commands. All bodily functions remain normal, and the patient does not need assistance breathing.
• Deep sedation can be achieved by injecting medication, giving oral medications, and in combination with gases. Patients who are deeply sedated are not easily awakened but may respond to some stimulation. Patients may need some breathing assistance at deeper levels.

Patients who are minimally sedated, inhale nitrous oxide through a mask during their dental appointment and/or may take a recommended dosage of a single oral sedative medication. Moderately sedated patients generally have taken a medication or a combination of medications while in the dental office. The medication causes the patient to become sleepy and feel relaxed. The dentist will give the patient specific instructions and you will be asked to avoid driving while you are on the medications.

What kinds of medications are involved?
To reach a level of minimal sedation, a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen (30-50 percent) may be used, possibly in combination with a minimal dose of an anti-anxiety (benzodiazepine) pill. In combination with nitrous gas, it is important that patients take only one type of drug under minimal sedation. Moderately sedated patients also generally take benzodiazepines. The most common benzodiazepines prescribed by dentists include Valium®, Halcion, Xanax, and Ativan. Patients who are deeply sedated may receive benzodiazepines combined with opioids.

Is sedation safe?
Sedation is safe although you should talk to your dentist and/or the specialist and gain a thorough understanding of how it works and what is expected of you before the procedure. Your medical history will be examined comprehensively to ensure safe sedation and your vital signs will be monitored throughout the entire procedure to confirm that your blood pressure, pulse rate, and blood oxygen levels are normal.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of sedation in dentistry?
Minimal and moderate sedation reduce anxiety that is typically associated with dentistry and allow the patient to relax. The amnesia usually associated with these methods also is a plus for many patients. However, sedation in dentistry does have disadvantages. Minimal sedation usually cannot be administered to patients with respiratory problems like emphysema or asthma or those who are sensitive to the class of drugs used for minimal sedation. With moderate sedation, the level of sedation cannot be adjusted without administering additional medications and sensitivity to certain medications can be a factor. Also, the patient should be prepared for supervision after the dental visit until the effects of the medications have passed. This applies to sedation administered both orally and intravenously. With intravenous deep sedation, a needle has to be put in the arm or hand, so it may not be the most relaxing method if you are afraid of needles. It is possible to experience complications, such as hematoma (a localized swelling filled with blood) at the site where the needle entered. In addition, recovery from IV-administered or oral medications may not be complete at the end of dental treatment, so the patient should be prepared to be escorted home by a responsible adult.

R and R Dental is a professional, family-owned New York Cosmetic and General dentistry practice. We are experienced family and cosmetic dentists who invite new patients of all ages to visit us for a more comfortable and enjoyable dental care experience. For appointments or more about Nitrous Oxide Sedation and Anesthesia call (516) 544-0823 or Schedule an Appointment online. Please visit www.randrdental.com for more information.

What Is Root Canal Therapy?

What Is Root Canal Therapy?         
Root canal therapy is a procedure that removes the damaged or dead pulp. The canal is reshaped and filled with gutta percha, a rubber-like material, to prevent recontamination of the tooth. The tooth is then permanently sealed. More than 95 percent of root canal therapies are successful.

Underneath your tooth's outer enamel and within the dentin is an area of soft tissue called the pulp tissue. While a tooth's pulp tissue does contain nerve fibers, it is also composed of arteries, veins, lymph vessels, and connective tissue. Each tooth's nerve enters the tooth at the very tip of its roots. From there, the nerve runs through the center of the root in small “root canals,” which join up with the tooth's pulp chamber.

Why do I feel pain?
When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed due to a deep cavity or fracture, the blood supply to the tooth may be lost and the tooth pulp may die. Damaged or dead pulp causes increased blood flow and activity in the tooth's cells. Pressure may build within a tooth that cannot be relieved, causing pain that is commonly felt when biting down, chewing, or consuming hot or cold foods and drinks.

What is involved in root canal therapy?If your general dentist recommends a root canal, he or she will perform the treatment or refer you for treatment to an endodontist, which is a specialist who treats injuries, diseases, and infections of the tooth pulp. A space is created into the tooth's pulp chamber, which, along with any infected root canal, is cleaned of all diseased pulp and reshaped. Medication may be inserted into the area to fight bacteria. Depending on the condition of the tooth, the crown may then be sealed temporarily to guard against recontamination or the dentist may immediately fill the canals. Temporary fillings are usually removed and the pulp chamber and canals are filled on the next visit. If the tooth is still weak, a post may be inserted above the canal filling to help rebuild the tooth. Once filled, the area is permanently sealed. Finally, a gold or porcelain crown is normally placed over the tooth to strengthen its structure and improve its appearance.

Why might I need treatment?
Without treatment, the infection will spread and bone around the tooth will begin to degenerate, possibly causing the tooth to fall out. Pain usually worsens until you are forced to seek dental attention.         

How will I feel after treatment?
There may be some inflammation around the gum tissues, which may cause discomfort for a few days. This can be controlled by an over-the-counter pain reliever. A follow-up visit to your dentist will help him or her review how the tissue is healing. From this point on, brush and floss regularly, avoid chewing hard foods on the treated tooth, and see your dentist on a regular basis for cleanings and examinations.

Are there options to root canal therapy?
The only alternative to root canal therapy is to extract the tooth; however, this alone can cause the surrounding teeth to move, resulting in a bad bite. Though a simple extraction may be perceived as less expensive, the empty space left behind will require an implant or a bridge, which ultimately can be more costly than root canal therapy.

R and R Dental is a professional, family-owned New York Cosmetic and General dentistry practice. We are experienced family and cosmetic dentists who invite new patients of all ages to visit us for a more comfortable and enjoyable dental care experience. For appointments or more about our root canal therapy procedures call (516) 544-0823 or Schedule an Appointment online. Please visit www.randrdental.com for more information.        

Quick and Easy Tips for Improving Bad Breath

Quick and Easy Tips for Improving Bad Breath
Bad breath is an unpleasant problem that can be embarrassing and difficult to deal with. Bad breath comes from bacteria accumulating in your mouth that causes inflammation which gives off noxious gases and odors that smell like sulfur. The key to fighting bad breath is practicing good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly. Brushing and flossing your teeth after every meal is ideally recommended to help reduce the odor-causing bacteria from accumulating in your mouth. Here’s 9 easy tips to help improve bad breath:

1) Drink more water to cleanse bacteria and debris in your mouth
2) Avoid drinking a lot of coffee
3) Substitute coffee by drinking herbal and green teas
4) Don’t smoke or use tobacco products
5) Reduce alcohol consumption to prevent dry mouth
6) Chew sugarless gum to help saliva flow
7) Have a healthy, balanced diet and regular meals
8) Avoid garlic, onions and spicy foods
9) Breath mints are a temporary fix but the sugar will actually stick to your teeth and mouth

For more oral health articles and news visit your friendly and caring Cosmetic and General Dentists at R+R Dental.

Mouth and Heart Connection: The Link Between Cardiovascular Disease and Gum Disease

Mouth and Heart Connection: The Link Between Cardiovascular Disease and Gum Disease
Cardiovascular disease is a class of disease that affects the heart and/or blood vessels. It is estimated that more than 80 million people in the United States have one or more forms of cardiovascular disease. These forms include high blood pressure, coronary heart disease (acute heart attack and angina pectoris), stroke, and heart failure. Studies have shown that there is a link between cardiovascular disease and periodontal (gum) disease, the chronic inflammation and infection of the gums and surrounding tissue. Forms of gum disease, such as gingivitis (gum inflammation) and periodontitis (bone loss), can be indicators for cardiovascular problems, which is why it is important for individuals at risk for cardiovascular disease to visit a dentist on a regular basis, practice good oral hygiene, and keep their dentist informed of any oral and overall health issues.

It's been suggested that the inflammatory proteins and bacteria associated with gum disease enter a person's bloodstream and can cause various effects on the cardiovascular system. A study published in the February 2005 issue of Circulation examined the presence of the bacteria known to cause periodontitis and the thickening of the blood vessel wall typically seen in heart disease. After examining samples from more than 650 participants, the investigators concluded that the presence of the same bacteria known to cause periodontitis was associated with an increased level of blood vessel thickening.

What can I do to keep my gums and heart healthy?
Practicing proper oral hygiene is essential to maintaining healthy gums. This includes flossing regularly, brushing twice a day with antibacterial toothpaste, and visiting a dentist at least every six months. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help improve both your cardiovascular health and your overall health.

What do my physician and dentist need to know?
It is important to keep all medical professionals up-to-date on your oral and overall health issues. Inform your physician if you have been diagnosed with a form of periodontal disease or are experiencing any issues with gum inflammation. Likewise, inform your dentist if you have been diagnosed with any form of cardiovascular disease, have experienced any cardiovascular problems, or have a family history of cardiovascular disease.

What other risk factors are associated with cardiovascular disease?
Individuals who are most at risk for cardiovascular disease include those over age 65, African-Americans, Hispanics, and males. While these particular factors cannot be changed, there are some risk factors that you can change through lifestyle management and/or medical treatment to reduce your risk for cardiovascular disease. These risk factors include smoking, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, physical inactivity, obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, and stress. If you have questions, be sure to ask your dentist at R+R Dental or your physician.

R and R Dental is a professional, family-owned general and cosmetic dentistry practice in New York. We are experienced family and cosmetic dentists in New York who invite new patients of all ages to visit us for a more comfortable and enjoyable dental care experience. For appointments or more about our general dentistry services call (516) 544-0823 or Schedule an Appointment online. Please visit www.randrdental.com for more information.   

Quick Facts to Improve Your Child’s Oral Health and Teeth

An important responsibility of parents is teaching their children to follow proper diet and oral care and reinforcing these lessons to minimize tooth decay and trips to the dentist. Consuming too many sugars, carbohydrates and starches leads to tooth decay when it remains on the teeth. Help your children learn and understand by following these easy tips that healthy food choices makes a significant difference:

1) Do not put your baby to bed with a bottle of formula, milk or juice
2) Prevent your children from snacking frequently to minimize bacteria and plaque growth
3) Avoid sugary, sticky and chewy foods that stick to teeth
4) Brush and rinse immediately after snacking or eating sugary, sticky and chewy foods
5) Monitor your child’s diet and include more foods that have good sources of calcium to build stronger teeth
6) Encourage your child to drink more water instead of juice and soda
7) Brush with a fluoride toothpaste and floss daily
8) Visit your family dentist regularly for check-ups to detect developing dental problems early on

For more informative oral health articles and news visit your friendly and caring Family and General Dentists at R+R Dental.

Dental Fact: Fight Tooth Decay by Practicing Simple Teeth Cleaning Daily

Tooth decay is a major and common problem that destroys your teeth affecting your tooth enamel and dentin. Tooth decay starts as a result of plaque buildup if you don’t clean your teeth and gums properly.

Prevent tooth decay by brushing properly twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, floss between your teeth, and visit your family dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams. Remember to brush your teeth after each meal and before going to bed. R and R Dental encourages you to practice good oral hygiene to avoid bigger problems from happening.

Choosing a Dental Insurance Plan For Your Family

Choosing a Dental Insurance Plan For Your Family
What is the best dental insurance plan for me and my family? Although there is no perfect dental insurance plan, some plans will be better than others for you and your family. Dental insurance plans primarily differ in how much you have to pay. Although no plan will pay for all of the costs associated with your dental care, some plans will cover more than others. With any dental insurance plan, you will pay a basic premium, usually monthly, to buy the dental insurance coverage. In addition, there are often other payments you must make. These payments will vary by plan, but they are essentially deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance.

Consider these questions when selecting a dental plan:
      

• How much will it cost me on a monthly basis?
• Are there deductibles I must pay before the insurance begins to help cover my costs? After I have met the deductible, what part of my costs are paid by the plan?
• Which dentists are part of the plan?
• Where will I go for care? Are the offices near where I work or live?
• If I use dentists outside of a plan's network, how much more will I need to pay to receive care?

If you have access to dental insurance, it's a good idea to elect coverage. But if you can't get dental coverage through work, you might be able to buy an individual dental insurance policy.

What types of dental plans are available?
Dental insurance plans usually are described as either indemnity (fee-for-service) or managed care. Indemnity and managed care plans differ in their basic approach. The major differences concern choice of providers, out-of-pocket costs for covered services, and how bills are paid. Usually, indemnity plans offer a greater choice of dentists than managed care plans. Indemnity plans pay their share of the costs of a service only after they receive a bill. Managed care plans have agreements with certain dentists to give a range of services to plan members at reduced cost. In general, you will have less paperwork and lower out-of-pocket costs if you select a managed care-type plan and a broader choice of dentists if you select an indemnity-type plan. Managed care plans are dental PPOs, POSs, and dental HMOs. Some dentists, called non-participating or insurance-free dentists, do not accept any insurance in their practice.

A number of companies offer dental discount plans. For a monthly or annual fee, you get access to a network of dentists who will work for discounted rates. However, there are no guarantees that your dentist will provide services for the discounted rate for the entire term of your plan membership. Be sure to check with your dentist to make sure he or she is a member. You also may want to talk with your dentist about other financing arrangements. Many dentists are willing to work with your financial constraints.

R and R Dental is a family-owned cosmetic and general dentist in New York. Contact us about the insurances we accept for your cosmetic and family dental procedures. For appointments or more about our general dentistry services call (516) 544-0823 or Schedule an Appointment online. Please visit www.randrdental.com for more information.

Brushing for Two: Dental Care and Pregnancy

Brushing for Two: Dental Care and Pregnancy
If you're planning to become pregnant or suspect you're already pregnant, it's important that you see a dentist right away. Pregnancy may cause unexpected oral health changes due to hormones (particularly an increase in estrogen and progesterone) which can exaggerate the way in which gum tissues react to plaque. Research continues to show that overall health and oral health coincide, so it's especially important for you to maintain good oral hygiene throughout your pregnancy. Visiting your dentist will allow him or her to assess your oral condition and map out a dental plan for the remainder of your pregnancy.

When plaque isn't removed, it can cause gingivitis (red, swollen, tender gums that are more likely to bleed). So-called "pregnancy gingivitis" affects most pregnant women to some degree and generally begins to surface as early as the second month of pregnancy. If you already have gingivitis, the condition is likely to worsen during pregnancy. Untreated gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease that includes bone loss.

Research suggests a link between pre-term delivery, low birthweight babies, and gingivitis. Excessive bacteria can enter the bloodstream through your gums; the bacteria can travel to the uterus, triggering the production of chemicals called prostaglandins, which are suspected to induce premature labor.

You can prevent gingivitis by keeping your teeth clean, especially near the gumline. You should brush with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day and after each meal when possible. You also should floss each day. Good nutrition keeps the oral cavity healthy and strong; in particular, you should get plenty of vitamins C and B12. More frequent cleanings from the dentist also will help control plaque and prevent gingivitis.

Pregnant women are at risk for developing pregnancy tumors (inflammatory, non-cancerous growths that develop between the teeth or when swollen gums become irritated). These localized growths or swellings are believed to be related to excess plaque. Normally, the tumors are left alone and will usually shrink on their own after the baby's birth. However, if a tumor is uncomfortable and interferes with chewing, brushing, or other oral hygiene procedures, your dentist may decide to remove it.

Routine exams and cleanings can be performed throughout pregnancy; however, non-emergency procedures should only be performed during the second trimester of pregnancy. Dental emergencies that create severe pain can be treated during any trimester, but your obstetrician should be consulted during any emergency that requires anesthesia or whenever medication is prescribed. X-rays should only be taken for emergency situations. Lastly, elective and cosmetic procedures should be postponed until after the baby's birth. Because every woman is different, it's best to discuss and determine a treatment plan with your dentist.

R and R Dental is a family-owned cosmetic and general dentist in Long Island, New York. We provide professional and premium quality cosmetic and family dental care and welcome all new patients looking for a dentist in New York to visit us for a more enjoyable dental care experience. For appointments or more about our general dentistry services call (516) 544-0823 or Schedule an Appointment online.

Happy New Year from R+R Dental !

R and R Dental wishes everyone a Happy New Year! Start the new year fresh and visit us for a checkup and cleaning. For appointments call (516) 544-0823 or Schedule an Appointment online.