Happy New Year!

Happy 2014 From Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S. and Staff!

Don’t forget about your teeth this festive season!

As the year draws to a close, our bodies are likely to be faced with a battering of bad foods and drinks. As we indulge in fatty and sugary foods, our intake of alcohol goes up and late nights become the norm in the lead up to the New Year, we need not forget about the health of our bodies. While many of us can see the obvious effects of festive season over-indulgence in the form of weight gain and a generally tired appearance, there’s one part of our bodies that we rarely give a second thought to – our teeth.

At this busy time of year, where routine goes out the window, who has time to think about our oral hygiene routine? Well, maybe you should.

Not only could you be paying the price come January, but at the time of the year when we’re likely to be getting up close and personal in the form of hugs, dancing with friends and family, and kisses under the mistletoe, many of us could be putting people off without a second thought.

In a recent survey by Wrigleys (the makers of chewing gums like Extra) over 70 per cent of people say bad teeth or bad breath would be their biggest turnoff if they were to kiss someone at midnight on New Year’s or at a holiday party, with over a quarter ranking fresh breath at the most important factor when preparing for the seasons parties.

So how can you make sure your breath is fresh and our teeth and oral care is in top form ready for the festive season?

Regular brushing, flossing and mouth washing will minimize buildup of acid-producing plaque which not only causes bad breath, but also damage to your pearly whites. Dentists also encourage regularly chewing of sugar-free gum after meals (such as Extra), to increase the production of acid-buffering saliva, to neutralize the oral environment. This however is NOT a substitute for tooth brushing.

On behalf of the team at Alina Bergan D.D.S, we wish you and your family a happy and blessed New Year!

Who Is a Good Candidate for Veneers?

Are you looking for a way to give your smile a makeover? If so, speak with your dentist about the benefits of veneers. Veneers are made from porcelain or a composite material, and are fitted over the surfaces of the teeth, correcting minor flaws and discoloration. To learn who is a good candidate for this cosmetic dentistry procedure, keep reading:

Those with healthy gums:

Before getting veneers, you will want to ensure that your gums are healthy and that you are not suffering from gum disease. Since gum disease can cause tooth loss and other damage to the teeth and gums, veneers are not a good option for those with mild to severe gum disease.

Those with only minor tooth decay:

If you have major tooth decay or tooth loss, veneers may not be your best cosmetic option. Because the surface of the tooth must be removed prior to placing the veneer, it is essential that your teeth are strong and healthy.  Furthermore, severe tooth decay can affect one’s bite, which can then affect the longevity and effectiveness of the veneers.

Those with minor cosmetic issues:

Veneers cannot correct for severely crooked teeth. They can, however, address gaps between the teeth, discoloration to the enamel, and minor cracks and chips. If you have minor cosmetic issues that you want to address, then veneers may be your best option, providing the white, straight smile you’ve been looking for.

With just two sessions—one to mold the veneers and another to attach—and little to no pain, dental professionals can give you custom-made, natural-looking veneers that give you the smile you always wanted.

If you’re in the 5 Towns area and would like to learn more about veneers or other cosmetic dental options, check out Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S..Visit us online or call us at (800) 223-0801for more information or to schedule an appointment.

What Is TMJ Disorder and How Is It Treated?

Have you been experiencing severe jaw pain while chewing or simply opening your mouth? Your dental pain could be indicative of temporal-mandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. Review the following information and schedule a consultation with your family dentist to learn more:

Diagnosing the Disorder

In order to begin treatment for TMJ disorder, your family dentist must formally diagnose you with this disorder. If your jaw pain has become unbearable, schedule an appointment with your dentist. You may also discuss your jaw pain and potential TMJ disorder symptoms during your routine dental examinations.

Identifying TMJ Disorder Symptoms

Before your dentist appointment, pay close attention to your symptoms. Common symptoms of TMJ disorder include headaches, earaches, and general soreness. Make sure you notify your family dentist if you experience increasing difficulty with simple jaw-related tasks, such as opening and closing your mouth. Sudden jaw pain or clicking of your jaw may also indicate that you have TMJ disorder.

Seeking Treatment

While your TMJ disorder symptoms may be uncomfortable, there are effective ways to manage your symptoms and reduce your pain. For example, oftentimes, TMJ disorder is a result of a misaligned bite. By replacing missing teeth, straightening teeth, and filling in spaces between your teeth, your dentist can help to correct bite problems, helping to relieve your symptoms. Other TMJ disorder treatment options include a mouth piece to reduce grinding and jaw clenching and in severe cases, surgery.

At Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S, we pursue non-surgical TMJ disorder solutions to avoid the costs and recovery of corrective surgery. Jaw pain is a serious dental symptom that should be addressed immediately. Don’t endure your TMJ disorder symptoms for another day—schedule an appointment with us by calling (800) 223-0801.

Enhance Your Smile at Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S.!

A variety of corrective and cosmetic dentistry procedures are currently available to enhance your smile. Read the articles below for more information on whitening your teeth and treating TMJ disorder. For more information, speak with the expert family dentist at Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S. by calling (800) 223-0801.

·         Learn about revolutionary Zoom! teeth whitening treatments on Zoom’s official website.

·         Before your teeth whitening treatment at Lake Grove Dental, find out what to expect by reading this Oral B article.

·         Look for these TMJ disorder symptoms to find out if your jaw pain could be caused by this disorder.

·         If your dentist has recently diagnosed you with TMJ disorder, review this National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research article to learn about this dental condition.

·         This guide from AAOMS.org can help you understand more about TMJ disorder.

Tips for Caring for Your Dentures

Many dental patients wear dentures as a convenient and comfortable tooth loss solution. To ensure your dentures remain comfortable and clean for years to come, it’s imperative to exercise proper oral care. Use these denture care techniques to protect your dentures and preserve your oral health.

Practice Regular Dental Hygiene

The health of your dentures and gums depends on regular dental hygiene. Just like natural teeth, dentures require cleaning multiple times throughout the day. Remember to brush your dentures carefully. Damaging the plastic parts of your dentures can result in costly repairs. Before putting your dentures in your mouth after cleaning them, brush and rinse your natural teeth and gums. Regular dental hygiene will help ensure good oral health and keep your dentures looking great.

Soak Your Dentures Overnight

Never sleep with your dentures in your mouth, as this could allow lingering bacteria to infect your gums. Purchase a denture cleaning solution and soak your dentures in a mixture of the cleaning solution and cool water. A thorough oral solution should cleanse your dentures throughout the night so they look clean and feel refreshed in the morning.

Schedule Regular Dental Appointments

Attend regularly scheduled dental appointments to ensure your dentures are being worn properly. Poorly-fitting dentures can cause sores and gum sensitivity. Alert your dentist of any discomfort or pain resulting from wearing your dentures. Be sure to schedule appointments with your dentist for professional cleanings and oral examinations. Even if you wear full upper and lower dentures your gums should be examined at least once per year for signs of infection or oral cancer. Your dentist will also assist you with any oral hygiene questions and tips regarding the care of your dentures.

If you need a new pair of dentures, schedule an appointment Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S. today. Our experienced, gentle dentist specializing in cosmetic dentistry services, such as teeth whitening, as well as dental reconstruction through dental implants and dentures. Check us out online or call (800) 223-0801 today to learn more about our 5 Towns location.

Understanding the Importance of Regularly Visiting the Dentist

Regular visits to your family dentist aren't just something to mark on your calendar twice a year—they’re an important part of your oral health care routine. Here’s why regular dental visits are so important:

Regular Professional Cleanings

Getting a professional cleaning at your dentist’s office is essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Brushing and flossing regularly remove most of the plaque buildup from your teeth, but some parts of your teeth can be hard to reach—and sometimes your regular brushing habits just aren’t enough.

Over time, plaque deposits on your teeth harden into tartar, which cannot be removed at home. Tartar can lead to gum inflammation and disease as well as dental caries, or cavities. Your family dentist has specialized tools designed to remove tartar, so regular visits will ensure that your teeth remain clean—and healthy.

Regular Dental Exams

At most every visit, your dentist will perform a thorough checkup and inspection of your teeth, mouth, and jaws. He will look for signs of tooth decay, either visible on the surface of your teeth or via x-rays of your teeth and jaw. He will also look for signs of gum disease and perform an oral cancer screening.

All of these services are designed to keep your teeth, mouth, and body healthy. A small problem is much easier to deal with than a large one, so it’s important to visit your dentist for screenings and checkups regularly to avoid letting any condition go untreated for too long. This can result in the need for aggressive dental treatment or, in some cases, permanent damage.

Maintain great oral health with regular visits to your family dentist at Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S. We offer general and cosmetic dentistry services for you and your family in our comfortable, state-of-the-art dental office. Check us out online or call (800) 223-0801 today to learn more about our 5 Towns location.