How to Floss Teeth

As your dentist will tell you, flossing is one of the best things you can do for your smile and overall oral health.

This video from Colgate features a guide on how to floss areas that your toothbrush can’t reach. You’ll learn how to hold the ends of the floss, how to maneuver between each tooth, how to use care when flossing, and much more. You’ll also find out how to glide the floss underneath the gum line to prevent tartar buildup.

Flossing is highly beneficial, but flossing alone is not enough to keep you from developing poor oral health. You’ll need to see a dental health professional routinely, so visit Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S. for the care you need. We provide a wide range of services for each member of your family. To learn more or schedule a consultation, visit our website or call us at (800) 223-0801 today.

How is Your Dental Hygiene?

You know that brushing and flossing are important components of daily dental care; but even if you commit to these good habits, your teeth may not be as healthy as you think. Poor dental health could be a sign of whole-body health complications to come, so look below for tips on how to evaluate your dental hygiene, and remember to visit your family dentist regularly.

Are Your Gums Red or Swollen?

Red, swollen, and bleeding gums are often the sign of infected oral tissues. If you floss every day, bleeding should not result. When food is allowed to settle between the teeth and underneath the gums, bacteria begin to eat away at the gums, causing gingivitis. This can cause the gums to feel tender and uncomfortable. If your gums become inflamed and bloodied after brushing or flossing, you’re not getting your mouth clean enough each day. You’ll need to adjust your dental hygiene routine and visit your dentist for gum disease treatment. If infection worsens, you could suffer from receding gums and tooth loss.

Do Your Teeth Hurt?

If you experience pain when you bite down, you could be suffering from a cavity. Do you have sensitivity to sweets, hot or cold? These things can also mean there is tooth decay or an infection. Cavities are most common on the chewing surfaces of the molars and in-between teeth where food gets trapped. It is important to take special care when brushing the chewing surfaces of your molars in order to remove all hidden food particles and acids. Flossing removes particles in-between teeth. However, if tooth decay has already begun, you’ll need to visit your dentist for a filling. During your dental appointment, talk to your dentist about fluoride and how it can strengthen weakened enamel.

How is Your Breath?

Bad breath could be a sign that you need to brush your teeth, but it could also be a sign of infection or tooth decay. If you suffer from persistent bad breath, schedule a dental exam right away. Your dentist can give you tips on how to maintain fresh breath.

If you need more help improving your dental hygiene, contact Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S. we specialize in superior dental care using the latest in preventative and cosmetic dental technology. Visit our website or call us (800) 223-0801 to make an appointment today.

The Advantages of Dental Implants

Dental implants are a great option for individuals who have lost one or more teeth due to injury, failed root canal therapy, extreme tooth decay, and periodontal disease. According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, approximately 69% of adults between the ages of 35 and 44 have lost at least one permanent tooth, while 26 % of adults will have lost all of their permanent teeth by age 74. Read on for more information on the advantages of dental implants.

Permanent Solution to Tooth Loss

Unlike dentures and removable bridges, dental implants give patients a permanent solution to tooth loss. Titanium implants are surgically placed within the jawbone; upon this titanium root, a natural-looking replacement tooth is affixed. Surgical placement allows the dental implant to fuse to the jawbone itself in a process known as osseointegration, providing unparalleled stability and reducing the need for future restorations.

Reduced Risk of Bone Loss

Dentures and bridges sit along the gum line rather than extend into the jawbone, causing them to move or slide along the gums, increasing the risk of jawbone erosion and weakening. Dental implants, on the other hand, stimulate the jawbone just as your natural teeth would in order to maintain the integrity of your jawbone and facial structures. Furthermore, dental implants do not rely on any preexisting neighboring teeth for support.

Natural-Looking Results

Dental implants are designed to look and function just like your natural teeth. In fact, many patients find their dental implants are stronger than their own teeth and can last a lifetime when properly cared for.

The best way to determine if you are an ideal candidate for dental implants is to set up a consultation with your dentist. Restore your smile by contacting Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S at (800) 223-0801 or visiting us online.

The Truth Behind Root Canal Myths

There are many myths surrounding the root canal procedure, including the myth that the procedure is painful and traumatic. Unfortunately, many people forgo needed treatment because of the bad reputation root canals have. But if you ask your dentist about the facts, you might be surprised by the truth about root canals. Below are a few root canal myths, debunked.

Myth: A Root Canal Will Take a Long Time

Fact: Barring complications, a root canal can take less than two hours. Modern technology has enabled dentists to work quickly and efficiently, minimizing the amount of time you spend in the dentist’s chair. After the procedure is done, you may need to go back to the dentist for a checkup to ensure that there is no infection, but the root canal itself is a one-visit procedure.  We will often refer patients to an endodontist, a dentist who specializes in root canals.  They have special training and equipment to make the experience as quick and pain-free as possible.

Myth: Root Canals are Painful

Fact: Root canals are done to ease tooth pain. Swelling and pain are sometimes the result of nerve damage in a tooth, and the root canal procedure works to ease those symptoms by clearing out the infected tissue. With the use of modern anesthesia and medication after the procedure to minimize tenderness, a root canal can be no more painful than getting a filling.

Myth: A Root Canal will Kill the Tooth, so I’m Better Off Just Getting It Pulled

Fact: Root canals are intended to save the tooth, not remove it. Root canals clean and disinfect the tooth, leaving the structure of the tooth intact and therefore preserving the smile. Having a tooth pulled, however, can cause other teeth to shift and can lead to more dental problems later on.

Myth: My Teeth Don’t Hurt, so I Don’t Need a Root Canal

Fact: You do not always feel the pain of an infected tooth. During a routine checkup, your dentist will examine your teeth and take x-rays. If he or she sees signs of decay or infection, then your dentist will examine the tooth closer and tell for sure whether or not you need a root canal. An undetected infection could cause serious damage if left untreated, as well as generally leaving you not feeling well.  

Whether you are in need of a routine checkup or have a painful, inflamed tooth that needs immediate attention, we can help. Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S.offers regular dental care, cosmetic dentistry services, and advanced procedures.  To learn more or schedule an appointment, call us at (800) 223-0801.

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.