R+R Dental welcomes you to visit us on Thursday, March 14, 2013 at 754 South Broadway in Hicksville, NY 11801 for New York Invisalign Day. For more information about this special event and our Invisalign procedures, visit your friendly and experienced R+R Dental Family and Cosmetic Dentists.
We are providing this special opportunity for you to come and learn all about Invisalign clear braces in Long Island, NY and how it can give you that attractive smile. R+R Dental's Invisalign Day is also a great chance for you to get Invisalign treatment for a great bargain amongst other special cosmetic dentistry specials that we will be offering. Please schedule your appointment in advance, as space is limited and will fill up quickly. Call us today at (516) 544-0823.
R and R Dental is committed to promoting healthy family oral hygiene and quality cosmetic and general dentistry in New York. Our friendly and caring staff offers a more relaxing and enjoyable dental experience in Long Island, New York. www.randrdental.com / (516) 544-0823
R and R Dental Cosmetic and Family Dentistry
Thursday, February 21, 2013
Friday, January 25, 2013
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.
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.
R+R Dental Specials and Promotions
Visit R+R Dental today in New York and check out our current dental treatment Specials and Promotions. New Patients are welcome, bring in your new patient coupon today for a special package!
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
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:
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.
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.
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.
Friday, January 18, 2013
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.
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.
Thursday, January 17, 2013
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.
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.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)