How to Handle Tooth Sensitivity

Do your teeth hurt every time you eat something cold (or hot)? Does brushing and flossing cause you pain? If so, you may have a condition known as tooth sensitivity. You are in good company, however, as one in eight Americans suffer from overly sensitive teeth. If you are one of these people, keep reading for some tips on fixing your sensitive bite.

Tooth sensitivity is usually the effect of worn-down enamel. This can be caused by either bad dental habits or severe dental issues. The following five things are bad habits that may be contributing to your sensitive teeth:

1.      Brushing too hard

2.      Using too much mouthwash

3.      Whitening toothpaste

4.      Eating acidic foods

5.      Grinding teeth

If your teeth are sensitive, think about whether or not you do these things and try to cut back. If not, sensitivity may be caused by a more serious issue such as:

1.      Too much plaque

2.      Cracked tooth (causing pain beyond just sensitivity)

3.      Gum disease/receding gums

4.      Tooth decay

5.      A recent major procedure, i.e. root canal

Talk to your dentist if you think one of these problems may be the cause of your tooth sensitivity.Obviously, if you are concerned about the condition of your teeth, you should talk to your dentist. The best way to cure sensitive teeth is to stop any bad habits that may be wearing the enamel and allow time to take its course. However, there are a few things you can do to speed up the process. There are special enamel-building toothpastes you can purchase that help strengthen enamel, which may help decrease sensitivity. You can also get a fluoride gel put on at the dentist which will help to strengthen your enamel. Ask your dentist for more information on how to strengthen enamel.

If you are concerned about wearing away your enamel, there are some steps you can take to decrease the likelihood of that happening.

·        Use a soft bristled tooth brush and don’t brush too hard

·        Reduce or eliminate acidic foods from your diet

·        Stop clenching or grinding your teeth – mouth guards can help with this, or you can ask your dentist for other ideas

·        Visit your dentist regularly

Having sensitive teeth may seem like a minor problem, but it is usually caused by weakened enamel, which can lead to more serious dental issues over time. If you notice a sensitivity to extreme temperatures or pain when brushing, talk to your dentist. It is best to treat problems like this before they turn into something much worse. If you live in the 5 Towns area, contact us at (800) 223-0801 today to schedule an appointment.

How to Choose a Toothbrush

If you've ever walked down the dental hygiene aisle at the grocery store, then you know that there are many different options of toothbrushes available. Choices like electric, manual, flexible handle, narrow head and more make for a difficult decision in the toothbrush buying process, especially if you don’t know what you’re looking for. How do you know what the best toothbrush is for you? Are certain toothbrushes better than others? If you’re looking for a new toothbrush, keep reading for some tips on how to make the decision that is right for you.

When looking for a toothbrush, there are two main things to take into consideration: the size of the head and the hardness of the bristles. For size, it is important that the brush can easily access all surfaces of the teeth. Most adults use a head half an inch wide and 1 inch tall. Bigger toothbrushes are available, but may be harder to use and prevent the brush from effectively reaching all the teeth. If you are unsure of what brush size to get, look for an age recommendation on the package. Getting a toothbrush that is age specific will help ensure that it is the right size for you.

Toothbrushes also come with different types of bristles: hard, medium, and soft. Most people find the soft bristles to be the most comfortable. Soft bristles are also recommended by dentists as medium and hard bristles can damage the gums and enamel. In addition to using a brush with soft bristles, try to find bristles that are round-tipped as well. This will be the safest and most comfortable option.A common question many people have when buying a new toothbrush is whether or not an electric toothbrush is more effective than a manual toothbrush. The truth is that both manual and electric toothbrushes are equally effective in cleaning teeth. The real difference is in the ease of use – electric toothbrushes are somewhat easier to use. Electric toothbrushes are also often preferred by children, because they are more fun to use, so you may consider going the electric route if your child needs some encouragement brushing.When buying a toothbrush, there are other factors you may want to consider as well.

·       Straight: toothbrushes with straight handles are easy to control

·        Angled: angled handles assist in reaching hard to clean areas

·        Non-slip grip: prevents the toothbrush from slipping while brushing

·        Flexible: flexible handles help reduce gum injury from over brushing

·        Conventional/rectangular: effectively reaches every tooth

·        Tapered/diamond: narrower and easier to reach posterior teeth

·        Flat: all bristles are the same length

·        Rippled/wavy/V-shaped: better contact with areas around the tooth

·        Multilevel trim: reaches hard to clean areas

·        “Polishing up”: helpful in removing surface stains

Toothbrush handles, head shapes, and bristle styles all serve different purposes, so no one is better than another. These choices should be based on personal preference.If you decide to go for an electric toothbrush, check out one from this list of top electric toothbrushes from About.com.

1.      Phillips Sonicare Elite Electronic Toothbrush System: With two different speeds, two types of heads, and a built in timer, many sources agree that this is the best toothbrush you can get because of its ease of use.

2.      Oral-B 4000 ProfessionalCare SmartSeries Electric Toothbrush: This toothbrush also comes with a built-in timer, and has four different modes with pulsating and oscillating actions. It is also rechargeable, so you don’t have to deal with the hassle of batteries.

3.      Cybersonic 3 Electric Brush: This toothbrush is the only dental tool you need! It includes two brush types, tongue cleaning, sonic floss, a breath freshener, and even tooth bleaching. It is also known to be the fastest electric toothbrush in the world.

4.      Waterpik Sensonic Professional Toothbrush SR – 1000: Specially designed to be gentle yet powerful, this toothbrush removes plaque in a way that increases efficiency and decreases inconvenience.

5.      Oral-B CrossAction Power Electric Toothbrush: Highly effective in removing stains in addition to plaque, this toothbrush also comes with a specially designed head that helps keep toothpaste on the brush.

You may also want to look for a toothbrush with ADA Seal of Approval to ensure an effective toothbrush. Toothbrushes should be replaced every three months or once they are worn out. If you have any questions about what kind of toothbrush to use, talk to your dentist. They will be able to best determine which type of toothbrush would best fit your dental needs. If you live in the 5 Towns area, contact us at (800) 223-0801 today to schedule an appointment.

Overcoming Dental Fear

Are you afraid of going to the dentist? Studies show that about 15% of Americans suffer from dental anxiety or phobia. There are many different factors that may contribute to this fear; however, it is important to overcome dental fears, otherwise it may have a negative effect on your health. Keep reading for some tips to help set your mind at ease at the dentist.

If the fear of excruciating pain from the drill or other procedure is what’s keeping you from going to the dentist, there are some steps you can take to help make the idea less scary. First, do your research. Familiarize yourself with the procedure so that you know exactly what to expect every step of the way. Learn about the technology used; today’s advanced technology makes many procedures painless. Ask your dentist, too, as his technique may be different from what is normally done.

If you are still hesitant, keep your eyes closed and ask your dentist if you can put in your headphones and listen to music while he is working on your mouth. If you can’t see or hear what’s going on, it may help reduce any pain or discomfort you might otherwise experience.

The needle numbs your mouth for the procedure, but what numbs your mouth for the needle? If you’re afraid of that sharp needle piercing your soft gum tissue, talk to your dentist. Depending on the procedure, the dentist may be able to use another means of numbing, such as nitrous oxide. If not, he may be able to use a strong numbing gel to desensitize the area before the needle goes in. It may also help to close your eyes, so that you do not see the needle being put in your mouth.

In some cases, people may be avoiding the dentist because they are embarrassed by the condition of their teeth. If you are embarrassed by your teeth, talk to your dentist. It is a dentist’s job to provide you with dental care – regardless of the state of your teeth. Chances are the dentist has seen much worse, and the only way to repair your smile is to see a dentist. Voice any insecurities you have to your dentist. He or she will be able to ease your mind about getting dental care.

Severe dental anxiety can have negative effects on your health. Letting fear keep you from seeing the dentist can result in poor dental health, which in turn can affect your overall health.If your teeth and gums become chronically infected, this can affect speech patterns and the ability to chew and digest properly, and even lead to heart disease. Because the effect of avoiding the dentist extends beyond dental health, it is important to overcome any dental fear and go in for regular cleanings.

Dental anxiety keeps many people from visiting the dentist, but that can have detrimental effects on oral health. If fear or nervousness is keeping you from seeing the dentist, talk to your dentist about your concerns. He or she should be able to provide you with what you need to make your experience comfortable. If you live in the 5 Towns area, contact us at (800) 223-0801 today to schedule an appointment.

The Benefits of Using Mouthwash

Do you use mouthwash? 52% of Americans are unaware that mouthwash holds any value in dental or health care. While mouthwash is not a necessary part of oral hygiene, it is highly recommended by dental professionals. Using mouthwash has many benefits; however, a lot of people do not use it or even know what kind to get. Read on to learn more about the benefits of mouthwash and tips for using it.

Using mouthwash has many benefits. First, it decreases cavities. If the mouthwash has fluoride in it, it helps to strengthen the enamel, therefore building up a stronger resistance against cavity-causing plaque. Mouthwash also helps disinfect the mouth, reducing the amount of bacteria that may cause decay. Another benefit to using mouthwash is that it helps prevent gum disease. Antibacterial mouthwash can help eliminate bacteria under or around the gums that may lead to a periodontal infection. Because of this, mouthwash can also help to soothe canker sores inside the mouth, since it kills any bacteria in the area that may be causing irritation. Lastly, many mouthwashes provide a solution to halitosis, leaving you with fresh breath after using.

Though the benefits of using mouthwash outweigh the drawbacks and many of these are case-by-case, they should still be considered before using mouthwash.  Though mouthwash can help reduce canker sore irritation, if the alcohol content is too high, it could potentially have the opposite effect. Another problem with mouthwash is that while it does freshen your breath, it simply acts as a “mask” and only lasts for a short time. If a long-term solution is required, mouthwash would not be the best option.

There is also some controversy over whether or not alcohol-containing mouthwash causes oral cancer. While it has never been proven nor disproven, some mouth rinses containing alcohol have been carefully reviewed by the American Dental Association and given the ADA Seal of Acceptance. If you are going for an alcohol-containing rinse, it is best to look for one with the seal, as it is the safest bet.

There are many types of mouthwash that each serves a different purpose. The one that is best for you is the one that best meets your personal dental needs.

·        Fluoridated: Some mouthwashes contain fluoride. Though we typically do not need this fluoride as we get plenty from our toothpaste and water, it can help as reinforcement for strengthening teeth.

·        Antiseptic: Antiseptic mouthwashes are specially formulated to stop bacterial growth and treat infection in the mouth. If you are especially prone to cavities or gum disease, this type of mouthwash can help prevent that.

·        Cosmetic: The main purpose of cosmetic mouthwash is to disguise bad breath, not to reduce decay. If you’re simply looking for a way to freshen up your breath, cosmetic mouthwash is a good option.

·        Total Care: Total care mouthwashes contain antibacterial ingredients which help to reduce the buildup of plaque and prevent gum disease.

·        Natural: Natural mouthwash is alcohol and fluoride free. Many people find that some natural mouthwash is helpful in soothing pain following a tooth extract.

You can make your own natural mouthwash at home with ingredients you probably already have. Here are some recipes you can use if you want to make your own mouthwash.

·        Basic mouthwash: 1 cup of water + 1 teaspoon baking soda + 3 drops peppermint essential oil

·        Disinfectant mouthwash: 1 cup of water + 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

·        Hydrogen peroxide mouthwash: 1 part hydrogen peroxide + 1 part water

·        Salt water rinse: 1 cup water + 1 teaspoon of salt

Dentists highly recommend using mouthwash because it can help kill bacteria in your mouth that may lead to cavities or gum disease. Mouthwash should never be used as a substitute for brushing or flossing; however, it is a great supplement to these things. If you decide to use mouthwash, you can ask your dentist for a recommendation, she will know which kind is the best for you. If you live in the 5 Towns area, contact us at (800) 223-0801 today to schedule an appointment.

Get The Facts About Your Teeth!

Get the facts on your dental health by checking out these great sites from around the web. Alina Bergan DDS offers both general and cosmetic dentistry options. Visit us on our website or call us at (800) 223-0801 to schedule an appointment at our Cedarhurst office today!

·        Get details about the Zoom! teeth whitening system and how it works on LiveStrong.com.

·        Find an overview of tartar on WebMD.com. You’ll learn how tartar forms and how it can cause dental problems if not properly removed.

·        Your dental health is important for your overall health. Find out how keeping your teeth and gums healthy with regular visits to your dentist can lower your risk of developing dementia in this article.

·        Learn how to make the most of your regular dental checkups on OralB.com.

·        X-rays help your dentist spot any problems during your regular checkups. Learn how often you should receive dental x-rays in this article on Colgate.com.

Common Conditions That Can Affect the Health and Appearance of Your Smile

When your teeth and gums are healthy, chances are your overall health is good, too. However, your oral health may be affected by seemingly unrelated conditions. If you suffer from diabetes, osteoporosis, or acid reflux, you may need to schedule appointments with your family dentist more often than others and take extra precautions to maintain your dental health.

Diabetes
People with diabetes are more likely to develop serious gum disease than those without diabetes. Diabetics have a lower white blood cell count, making them more susceptible to the bacteria that cause gingivitis. If you suffer from diabetes, protect your gums by using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush, floss at least once per day and ask your dentist to recommend an antibacterial mouthwash. In some cases, insurance companies will actually increase the frequency of your cleaning visits benefits if you are a diabetic, because it can be so compromising to your dental health.  Visit your dentist right away if you experience any pain or inflammation.

Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition that causes a loss of density in the bones, including the jawbone. According to the National Institutes of Health, tooth loss affects one third of the 10 million Americans over age 65 who suffer from osteoporosis. If you have osteoporosis, you can help keep your teeth healthy by eating a calcium-rich diet, maintaining your oral hygiene, avoiding tough foods, and visiting your dentist regularly to ensure that your jawbone remains strong.

Acid Reflux
Acid reflux occurs when stomach contents flow back up into the esophagus, causing a painful sensation in the chest and throat called heartburn. The refluxed substance is acidic and can erode tooth enamel, resulting in tooth decay and sensitivity to certain foods and temperatures. If you have acid reflux, your dentist may recommend that you use a softer toothbrush, fluoride treatments, and a mouthguard to protect your teeth while you sleep.

Medications and Chemo Therapy
Certain medications and/or chemo therapy can lead to increased problems in the mouth as well. Dryness or acidity changes in the mouth can be quickly problematic for oral health.

Diet
It’s amazing how eating certain things can ravage your mouth!  Sugared drinks are notorious, but other foods can do surprising damage. For example starchy foods such as pretzels and white bread, can be sticky and cause trouble, too.  If you want to keep your dentist busy, chewy, sticky candy is very bad, in fact, the material we use to assist in removing crowns from the mouth are very much like a sticky candy (without the yummy taste!).

Dr. Alina Bergan DDS, is dedicated to ensuring that your smile stays healthy. Whether you suffer from one of the above conditions or simply need a check-up, you can visit us in Cedarhurst for general, advanced, and cosmetic dentistry care. If you live in the 5 Towns area, contact us at (800) 223-0801 today to schedule an appointment.