• Restorative Dentistry: Your Options for a Full Smile Makeover

    Woman with a healthy, beautiful smile.

    Restorative Dentistry – Regain Your Smile

    Restorative dentistry offers a beacon of hope for those looking to rejuvenate their smiles. This field encompasses a range of procedures designed to repair or replace damaged or missing teeth, improve oral health, and enhance the cosmetic appearance of one’s smile. Among the many options available, some of the most transformative include teeth whitening, contouring/tooth reshaping, bonding, bridges, veneers, dental implants, tooth-colored fillings, and comprehensive smile makeovers.

    Teeth Whitening stands out as a popular choice for those seeking to brighten their smile, effectively removing stains and discoloration to reveal a whiter, more radiant set of teeth. It’s a simple yet powerful way to enhance your smile’s aesthetic appeal.

    Contouring/Tooth Reshaping is a subtle art that involves altering the shape, length, or surface of one’s teeth to create a more harmonious appearance. This procedure can correct minor imperfections and bring a balanced look to your smile.

    Bonding utilizes tooth-colored materials to repair chips, cracks, or gaps in teeth. It’s a quick and effective way to restore the integrity and appearance of teeth with minor damage.

    Bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth, bridging the gap between existing teeth with artificial replacements supported by crowns on either side. This solution restores functionality and aesthetics to your smile.

    Veneers offer a transformative approach to correcting cosmetic flaws. These thin, custom-made casings cover the front surface of teeth, addressing issues such as discoloration, misalignment, or uneven sizes.

    Dental Implants are a durable and natural-looking option for replacing missing teeth. They involve anchoring a titanium post in the jawbone, topped with a custom crown, to mimic the look and function of natural teeth.

     Tooth-Colored Fillings provide a more aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional metal fillings, blending seamlessly with your natural tooth color to repair cavities without compromising the look of your smile.

    Smile Makeovers involve a comprehensive assessment and combination of various restorative and cosmetic procedures tailored to achieve your dream smile. This customized approach considers your facial appearance, skin tone, hair color, teeth, gum tissue, and lips to design a perfect smile.

    Restorative Dental Care Options to Suit Your Needs

    Each of these options offers its own set of benefits, catering to different needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking to address functional issues, enhance the cosmetic appearance of your teeth, or both, restorative dentistry has a solution. A consultation with a skilled dentist can help determine the best approach for your situation, ensuring that you receive personalized care designed to achieve lasting results. With advancements in dental technology and techniques, achieving a full smile makeover is more accessible and effective than ever, offering a pathway to not only improved oral health but also a boost in confidence and quality of life.

    Looking for restorative dental care?

    Park 56 Dental in New York is your top solution, delivering quality care since 1997. Our expert team provides personalized treatments spanning pediatric to sedation dentistry. Experience the difference with a complimentary consultation, where we’ll address your sensitivity concerns and guide you toward optimal treatment options. Enjoy a comfortable visit with our modern practice and diverse insurance plan acceptance. Schedule with us today online or at 646-679-3973 and take the first step toward tackling tooth sensitivity with confidence!

  • Everything You Need To Know About Dental Implants

    Young woman confident about her smile.

    What are Dental Implants?

    Whether you’re talking about veneers, bridges, or crowns, dental implants are prosthetic teeth that are permanently secured into the mouth. They are a great solution for people who have one or more missing teeth.

    The bottom line is that if you have missing teeth, they must be replaced as soon as possible. It is essential to have all your teeth. If one tooth goes missing, your bite will be compromised, and more teeth could suffer from that misalignment. Not only that, a missing tooth is unsightly. Let’s go over all the information concerning dental implants.

    What are Implants Made Of?

    Dental implants are created using ceramic and metal together to craft a tooth that looks nearly identical to the original tooth. A dentist can craft teeth out of these materials and even match the color of your other teeth. Some dental implants are made from titanium or zirconium oxide. Some implants are made of gold alloys, or cobalt-based alloys.

    Implants are made of three parts:

    1. Implant Body: This is a piece made of metal that is screwed into the gums and fixed to the jaw.
    2. Abutment: An abutment is fixed into the screw and is meant to secure the new prosthetic tooth.
    3. Crown: The crown is the ceramic and metal piece that fits onto the abutment. This is what will look exactly like your old tooth.

    Are You a Candidate for Implants?

    You may be a candidate for dental implants. There are many factors that will affect your candidacy. These factors include:

    • Are you missing at least one tooth?
    • Are you healthy enough for surgery?
      Receiving implants means going under sedation and it requires oral surgery. If your body isn’t healthy enough for surgery, you are not a candidate for dental implants.
    • Did you lose your tooth or teeth due to gum disease? If the answer to this question is yes, you aren’t a candidate for dental implants. But never fear! If you get that gum disease under control, you will be able to eventually be a candidate for dental implants.

    What are the Pros and Cons of Dental Implants?

    Pros:

    • Appearance-Cosmetically, implants are likely to look more like your original teeth. This is why some people prefer them to dentures or just leaving the tooth missing.
    • Keeps the surrounding bone and gums healthy-When you lose a tooth and receive a dental implant, the surrounding teeth, jaw, and gums recognize it and don’t wither away, like they would do if you left the space empty.
    • Keeps nearby teeth stable-nearby teeth are less likely to shift when there is a replacement tooth.
    • The ability to chew is preserved-This is the most practical reason to get dental implants.

    Cons:
    There are no real cons to getting dental implants. There are however some risks involved.

    • Possible harm to surrounding teeth during insertion.
    • Shifting of teeth or changes to bite.
    • Implant failure-sometimes the implant doesn’t work like it should or it comes out.
    • Gum damage-Dental implants can sometimes cause gums near the tooth to become less healthy tissue.
    • Issues with cleaning around implant, possibly leading to the loss of other teeth.
    • Numbness after surgery

    Conclusion:

    Dental implants can be a wonderful solution to a missing tooth or missing teeth. They are a particularly positive choice for someone who has one to several missing teeth, but not completely missing teeth. They can boost confidence, improve bite, and complete your smile.

    Park 56 Dental
    If you are thinking about dental implants or other dental procedures, the best place in New York is Park 56 Dental. Voted the number one dentist in the New York area, we have everything you need for perfecting that beautiful smile. For more information about dental implants or to ask any questions about your teeth, visit our website or give us a call at (646) 679-3973.

  • Is Cosmetic Dentistry Right for You?

    Happy patient after having cosmetic dentistry services.

    It’s no secret that a captivating smile leaves a lasting impression. However, not everyone is born with perfect teeth. Cosmetic dentistry offers a solution for crooked, damaged, or not-so-pearly whites, allowing everyone to enjoy the benefits of an impeccable smile.

    Why Do People Seek Out Cosmetic Dentistry?

    Cosmetic dentistry provides a path to flawless teeth, improving your appearance and self-esteem. Still, people often seek cosmetic dentistry for more than just aesthetic purposes. By addressing a range of dental issues, cosmetic dentistry can enhance the functionality of your teeth, leading to improved oral health and overall well-being. You may want to seek out cosmetic dentistry if your teeth are:

    • Misaligned
    • Decayed
    • Gapped
    • Chipped or cracked
    • Small or misshapen
    • Stained or discolored

    Cosmetic Dentistry Options

    Numerous cosmetic dentistry procedures are available, depending on your unique needs:

    • In-office Zoom! whitening is a popular option to instantly brighten your smile, effectively tackling discoloration in just three 15-minute applications within one hour.
    • Tooth contouring reshapes teeth that don’t look quite right, which is perfect for making minor corrections.
    • Bonding is when a tooth-colored material is bonded to a damaged tooth, filling in chips and cracks.
    • Veneers are custom-made shells that cover the front of your teeth, perfect for tackling various cosmetic concerns, including gapped, chipped, stained, or misshapen teeth.
    • Bridges replace missing teeth, bridging the gap and restoring your smile.
    • Implants provide a permanent solution for replacing missing teeth, enhancing functionality and aesthetics.
    • Metal-free fillings match your tooth color, fixing decay invisibly for a completely natural look.
    • Complete smile makeovers take a comprehensive approach, combining various cosmetic procedures for a total transformation.

    What You Should Know

    Before embarking on your cosmetic dentistry journey, consider the following:

    • Assessment: A thorough dental evaluation is the first step. Your dentist will help you identify the best cosmetic dentistry options for you.
    • Timeline: Some procedures require multiple visits or recovery time, so plan accordingly.
    • Cost and insurance: Cosmetic dentistry is an investment in your appearance and health, but not all procedures are covered by insurance. Discuss your options with your dentist and insurer.
    • Expectations: Cosmetic dentistry can significantly improve your smile, but it’s essential to set realistic expectations.
    • Maintenance: Regular check-ups, good oral hygiene, and a healthy lifestyle are recommended to extend the life of your cosmetic dentistry work.

    Choosing a Cosmetic Dentist in NYC

    Finding the right dental practice to perform your cosmetic procedure is critical to ensuring a pleasant experience and successful outcome. At Park 56 Dental, we know you expect personalized, quality dental care. That’s why we offer a relaxing, spa-like environment right in the heart of New York. We’ve been voted the top dentist in NYC, and with good reason. Specializing in general dentistry, prosthodontics, endodontics, sedation dentistry, and more allows us to focus on treating each patient’s individual needs.

    Are you ready to enhance your smile? Contact us at (212) 826-2322 to schedule your cosmetic dentistry assessment. The smile you’ve always dreamed of is within reach!

  • How Fixing Your Teeth Can Make You Look More Youthful

    When we think of looking more youthful, we often think of anti-aging products, makeup or wardrobe changes, and diet and exercise. However, one key aspect of looking youthful is often overlooked–our teeth. Our teeth can greatly impact our appearance and how we are perceived by others. Whether it’s fixing crooked or chipped teeth, whitening discolored teeth, or replacing missing teeth, getting the perfect smile can make you look years younger. In this blog, we’ll explore how fixing your teeth can make you look more youthful and confident.

    Straight Teeth

    One of the most common ways fixing your teeth can make you look more youthful is by straightening them. Straight teeth not only look more aesthetically pleasing, but they also give the impression of youthfulness. Crooked teeth can make you look older, whereas straight teeth can make you appear more vibrant and lively. Additionally, straight teeth are often associated with good dental hygiene, which reflects positively on your overall health. Invisalign is a popular method for straightening teeth without the visual distractions of brackets and wires.

    Whiter Teeth

    Another way to achieve a youthful smile is to whiten your teeth. As we age, our teeth naturally become less white due to wear and tear, diet, and lifestyle factors. Whitening your teeth can instantly lift years off your appearance and give you a more youthful glow. A brighter smile can also improve your self-confidence, leading to a more youthful and outgoing personality.

    Fixing Chipped Teeth

    Chipped, cracked or broken teeth can also make us look older than we actually are. When we have missing or damaged teeth, we may avoid smiling or try to hide our teeth, which can make us seem less approachable and friendly. Fixing chipped teeth can restore our confidence and make us look more youthful and polished.

    Replacing Missing Teeth

    Missing teeth affects our speech and eating habits and can also make us look older. When teeth are missing or not properly aligned, it can make our face appear sunken or sagging. Replacing missing teeth can give us fuller, younger-looking faces and boost our confidence when smiling and speaking.

    Health Benefits

    In addition to the aesthetic benefits of fixing your teeth, there are also numerous health benefits. Straightening teeth can improve your bite and chewing ability, making it easier to digest food properly. Whitening teeth can remove harmful bacteria and improve overall oral health. Fixing chipped or broken teeth can prevent further dental problems such as cavities or infection, leading to improved overall health.

    Park 56 Dental’s Cosmetic Treatments Can Make You Look More Youthful Today!

    Fixing your teeth can be a simple and effective way to look more youthful and confident. Whether it’s through straightening, whitening, fixing chips or breaks or replacing missing teeth, achieving a perfect smile can do wonders for your appearance and overall health. At Park 56 Dental in New York, we offer a variety of dental services to give you the perfect smile you deserve. Schedule an appointment today and start your journey towards a more youthful and confident you!

  • Why Should You See a Cosmetic Dentist?

    Are you unhappy with your teeth? If you find yourself covering your mouth when you laugh and smiling with closed lips for photos, you could benefit from seeing a cosmetic dentist. While general dentistry aims to preserve oral health, a cosmetic dentist focuses on improving the way your smile looks and feels. Here are the top reasons to see a cosmetic dentist.

    • Yellow, stained teeth: Years of eating and drinking tooth-staining foods and beverages can leave your teeth looking yellow and dull. Fortunately, extrinsic stains like these are easy to remove with Zoom!® in-office whitening. In less than an hour, your teeth will be several shades whiter. Use at-home whitening products between visits to help your look last as long as possible.
    • Discoloration: Intrinsic tooth discoloration can’t be corrected with whitening. Fortunately, you still have options! Veneers, or tooth-colored shells adhered to the front of your teeth, may be the best choice for giving your smile a bright new look.
    • Uneven teeth: If your teeth have worn unevenly, they may now appear pointy, jagged, or misshapen. They may even be different sizes or lengths. Tooth reshaping/contouring is the cosmetic dentistry solution to this problem. With a specially designed tool, the dentist can gently reshape your uneven teeth for a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
    • Missing teeth: Whether you had an infected tooth extracted or a traumatic injury left you with a gap in your smile, you can fill the hole with dental bridges or implants. A bridge anchors to dental crowns installed on the two adjacent teeth, while implants are self-supporting fixtures that mount directly to your jawbone.
    • Broken, chipped, or fractured tooth: When a tooth is damaged, it’s important to act quickly to save it. Your options include dental crowns, veneers, and bonding (applying composite resin to the surface of the tooth to repair it).
    • Cavities: Tooth decay can lead to cavities, which require a filling. If you currently have amalgam (metal) fillings, you can replace them with tooth-colored fillings made of composite or porcelain. This way, you can smile as wide as you want without anyone noticing your dental restorations.
    • Crooked teeth: If you want a straighter smile, but you don’t want metal braces, consider what Invisalign® has to offer! The clear, plastic aligners are virtually invisible, gradually shifting your teeth into the desired position without anyone even knowing you have braces.
    • Gummy smile: Excess gum tissue can affect your self-confidence and discourage you from smiling. Luckily, this condition is treatable using techniques such as dental crown lengthening, orthodontics, and oral surgery.

    If you’re ready to enhance your smile, visit Park 56 Dental, the best cosmetic dentist in New York. We provide an array of personalized treatments designed to restore your self-confidence, many of which can be completed in one office visit. For more information about cosmetic dentistry, or to schedule a free consultation, please call us at (212) 826-2322 or contact us online today.

  • Being Voted NYC’s Best Dentist

    If you’re looking for the best dentist in NYC, look no further than Park 56 Dental Group. We’ve been voted NYC’s best dentist, and it’s no wonder. We provide personalized, quality dental care to a clientele that appreciates our comfortable, spa-like environment.

    Our status as the best dentist is confirmed by our many five-star reviews. Clients say we’re “very thoughtful, caring and all around well organized”, “kind and wonderful”, “compassionate and professional”, and that our practice “makes going to the dentist a pleasure”. One customer characterized our staff by saying the “entire office was informative, compassionate and worked together like a team.” What makes us the best dentist in NYC? We think it’s a combination of several factors.

    • Comprehensive Services: We provide routine dental services and so much more! Taking care of your teeth is an important part of caring for your overall health, so visiting the dentist regularly is vital. We provide oral cancer screenings for your peace of mind, and our cleanings and oral exams can save you from dental care problems and a wide range of health issues. We also offer pediatric, prosthodontics, endodontics, oral surgery, Invisalign®, emergency and sedation dentistry
    • Expert Cosmetic Dentistry: Our restorative dentistry will improve your smile and boost your confidence. The services we provide include teeth whitening, contouring/tooth reshaping, bonding, bridges, veneers, dental implants, tooth colored fillings, and smile makeovers.
    • Quality Care in a Comfortable Facility: We’re committed to providing your entire family with safe, gentle, high-quality dental care. We’re sensitive to your needs and want you to be comfortable while we provide you with the best care possible. Feel free to stop by our office and take a tour of our facilities.
    • Patient-centered Practice: Our knowledgeable, compassionate dentists and staff excel at providing personalized care, and we’ll work together to meet your individual needs. We’ll answer any questions you may have, providing expert advice, and we’ll help if you struggle with dental anxiety. We want you to feel comfortable, safe, and relaxed at our office, and we even offer sedation dentistry for patients who request it. You can meet our team, take a walk through our office and treatment areas, and learn more about the treatments we provide.

    If you want to trust your dental care to the very best dentist in NYC, call Park 56 Dental Group. We offer pediatric, prosthodontics, endodontics, oral surgery, Invisalign®, emergency, and sedation dentistry, all at the highest level of treatment. We serve the Midtown, Central Park, Upper East Side, Park Avenue, and all surrounding Manhattan and New York areas, with a patient-centered practice that has hours to fit your schedule. Schedule your complimentary consultation today by contacting us online or calling us at (212) 826-2322.

     

  • Celebrities Who Have Had Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures

    The first stanza of a poem by Phyllis McGinley, called “Reflections Dental” reads:

    How pure, how beautiful, how fine
    Do teeth on television shine!
    No flutist flutes, no dancer twirls
    But comes equipped with matching pearls.
    Gleeful announcers all are born
    With sets like rows of hybrid corn.

    Have you noticed that every celebrity seems to have perfect teeth? Are they born that way? Actually, many celebrities choose cosmetic dentistry procedures to make them look more perfect. Did you suspect the stars on this list of improving their pearly whites?

    • Tom Cruise: His winning smile is the result of whitening, straightening, and an upgrade to porcelain veneers.
    • George Clooney: Although his smile was always gorgeous, his history of tooth grinding shortened his teeth until they were lengthened with veneers
    • Gary Busey: Speaking of having teeth lengthened, Gary Busey opted for outsized veneers after an accident.
    • Mike Tyson: He had a gold tooth and a gap, but then he had the gap narrowed and traded in the gold for veneers. Surprisingly, because it was his signature look, he had the gap added back!
    • Hillary Duff: After chipping a tooth on a microphone during a show, she decided to get a full set of veneers instead of a single repair.
    • Ben Affleck: He used to have an overbite, but after lengthening, porcelain veneers, crowns, and whitening, he’s got a dazzling smile.
    • Victoria Beckham: Posh Spice’s teeth used to be less than posh, but she’s had them fixed with a set of veneers.
    • Jim Carrey: He once had a broken tooth capped, and he removed that cap for his snaggle-toothed Dumb and Dumber smile. Since then, he’s gone for veneers.
    • Morgan Freeman: He was successful when he had gapped teeth, but in recent years he’s gotten whitening and used veneers to straighten his teeth.
    • Miley Cyrus: The slightly crooked teeth of this child smile were replaced with veneers once she grew up.
    • Catherine Zeta-Jones: Teased as a child over crooked teeth, she fixed her alignment with orthodontics and upgraded her smile with veneers.
    • Chris Rock: The success of Lethal Weapon allowed him to spend $150,000 on a new smile!
    • Zac Efron: His charming gap-toothed grin has been replaced with the perfection of veneers, but he wore false teeth to play Bundy.
    • Nicolas Cage: He had two teeth pulled for the 1984 film “Birdy” but has since gotten a full set of veneers.
    • 50 Cent: Shot in the face in 2000, he lost a tooth a gained a gap. He later fixed his teeth with whitening and veneers.

    Do any of these names surprise you? Here’s some good news: the same procedures used by celebrities are available for you. At Park 56 Dental Group, we offer dental care, including smile restoration, providing the highest level of treatment. We serve the Midtown, Central Park, Upper East Side, Park Avenue, and all surrounding Manhattan and New York areas, with a patient-centered practice that has hours to fit your schedule. Contact us online or call us at (212) 826-2322.

  • Teeth Whitening Aftercare

    Getting your teeth whitened is so rewarding! Once you’ve had a teeth-whitening procedure done, you’ll probably be flashing your beautiful new smile at everyone you see. If you want to keep it beautiful and white, though, you’ll need to take care of your smile. Here are some tips to keep your teeth bright and shining for as long as possible.

    • Be mindful of colored food and beverages. Especially during the first 48 hours after your teeth-whitening procedure, avoid eating or drinking anything that’s deeply colored. Wine, tea, coffee, cherries, chocolate, beets, berries, soda, juice, and dark sauces should be avoided in favor of foods that are light in color. You’ll also want to avoid chewy foods for a while because they can leave a stain. If you do decide to drink a colored beverage, use a straw to avoid staining your teeth.
    • Don’t eat acidic foods. Soda, pickles, and citrus, for instance, can be damaging after teeth whitening. Teeth-whitening treatments weaken the tubules of tooth enamel, opening them up. This makes your teeth more prone to stains and decay, and acidic foods worsen this weakness.
    • Eat foods that will help your teeth stay white. White meat, bananas, cauliflower, potatoes, white beans, rice, white rice, and pita bread are all good foods post-whitening. Certain foods can even help clean your teeth, helping them to stay white. Crunchy fruits or vegetables, especially apples, celery, carrots, and green beans, can enhance saliva production, which cleans the teeth and counteracts acids. These crunchy vegetables can even remove temporary stains. Eating more dairy products and foods high in calcium will help keep your teeth healthy and defend against decay.
    • Take care of sensitive teeth. After the whitening procedure, your teeth may be sensitive. Avoid foods that are too hot or too cold, and use dental hygiene products designed specifically for sensitive teeth.
    • Don’t overdo it when you’re caring for your teeth. Brush after every meal, or when you’ve eaten a staining or acidic food. Do it gently, to avoid causing yourself pain or stripping the whitening. Floss at least once a day to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Don’t immediately do any more whitening, even if you aren’t satisfied with the whiteness of your teeth, because that can harm your enamel.
    • Don’t smoke! Smoking can stain your teeth, causing yellow and brown discoloration that’s extremely difficult to remove. What’s more smoking is terrible for your oral health, as well as your overall health. If you smoke, quit. If you don’t smoke, never start.

    At Park 56 Dental Group, we offer teeth whitening, along with pediatric, prosthodontics, endodontics, oral surgery, Invisalign®, emergency, and sedation dentistry, all at the highest level of treatment. We serve the Midtown, Central Park, Upper East Side, Park Avenue, and all surrounding Manhattan and New York areas, with a patient-centered practice that has hours to fit your schedule. Schedule your complimentary consultation today by contacting us online or calling us at (212) 826-2322.

     

  • Smile Restoration Services

    At Park 56 Dental, nothing is more important than our patients’ oral health. If you have missing, discolored, decayed, or crooked teeth, we can help! Learn about our smile restoration services to find a solution that works for you.

    Dental Implants

    Missing teeth are among the most noticeable oral health problems. When decay or a traumatic injury results in tooth loss, dental implants are often the best restorative option available. An implant features a screw-like titanium body, which takes the place of the missing root. Then, a tooth-colored crown is cemented on top of the implant. The result is a functional, natural-looking replacement tooth that can last decades with proper care.

    Dental Bridges

    As another option for treating tooth loss, dental bridges “bridge the gap” between two teeth without implanting anything into the gums. Bridges can be placed more quickly and cost less than implants, but they require healthy surrounding teeth to prevent the gums and jawbone from degrading. We can help you decide if implants or bridges are best for your tooth loss scenario.

    Dental Veneers

    Do you have chipped, misshapen, or stained teeth? With veneers, you no longer have to hide your smile! Veneers are thin, tooth-colored shells that adhere to the front of your natural teeth. They can be whatever shape, size, and color you want to achieve the desired aesthetic effect. Thanks to their durable porcelain construction, you can expect veneers to last many years with proper care.

    Root Canals

    If one of your teeth has a deep cavity or diseased nerve, it may be possible to save the tooth with a root canal treatment. While root canals have a reputation for being painful, the intent is to remove pain and swelling. Our dentists can complete this procedure in one to three office visits. By the end of your treatment, you’ll be ready to show off a healthy, pain-free smile!

    Invisalign

    Have you always wanted straighter teeth but balked at traditional metal braces? Invisalign is the answer! This treatment uses a series of clear, plastic aligners to straighten your smile over an average of nine to 15 months. Invisalign is comfortable, removable, and BPA-free for your safety. Best of all, the aligners are virtually invisible, so no one will even know you’re wearing them!

    Zoom! Whitening

    Many at-home products claim to whiten your teeth, but only in-office Zoom! whitening can give you the results you want in a single, one-hour visit. Remove years of staining and brighten your smile by an average of eight shades with this safe, simple, and relaxing process. Our dentist will ensure your teeth are healthy and eligible for whitening before treatment begins.

    Are you ready to fall in love with your smile like never before? The dentists at Park 56 Dental have the skills and experience needed to perform restoration services for our New York City patients. If you are dissatisfied with your smile for any reason, please contact us at (212) 826-2322 and schedule a consultation today!

  • Questions to Ask During Your Next Dentist Visit

    Dentists advise most patients to schedule an oral exam and cleaning twice a year. Each visit is your chance to learn more about your oral health and the treatments available to keep your smile healthy. Write down anything you want to ask during your next dentist visit. You may choose to ask some of the questions we’ve compiled here.

    • Why do my teeth hurt? If you are experiencing toothaches or sensitivity, tell your dentist right away. Potential causes include tooth decay, cracked teeth, exposed roots, whitening products, orthodontic work, and fillings. Such problems aren’t always apparent during an exam, and your dentist can only recommend treatment if you speak up.
    • Is whitening treatment right for me? Tooth whitening treats surface stains caused by coffee, tea, and other dark-colored foods and drinks. It does not address intrinsic discoloration, however. Your dentist can help you determine if whitening or another procedure, such as bonding or veneers, is most appropriate.
    • How can I strengthen my teeth? If you’re worried about weak enamel or cavities, your dentist may recommend fluoride treatment. You can also improve the strength, appearance, and functionality of your smile with cosmetic bridges, fillings, or implants.
    • What toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss should I use? With so many dental products out there, it never hurts to ask your dentist which ones they recommend. If you have weak enamel, sensitive teeth, gum recession, or other oral health concerns, you can receive advice specific to your situation.
    • Should I use mouthwash? Brushing and flossing get plenty of attention, but your dentist may also recommend a therapeutic or prescription mouthwash to treat gingivitis, tooth sensitivity, inflammation, excessive gum bleeding, chronic staining, or other oral health concerns.
    • Do you recommend wearing a mouthguard? Many people grind their teeth at night without knowing it. An observant dentist should recognize the signs of tooth grinding, also known as bruxism, even if you don’t ask about it. These signs may include receding gums, damaged enamel, popping jaw, and complaints of morning headaches. Your dentist can fit you with a custom mouthguard to ease your symptoms and protect your oral health.
    • Could I be at risk for oral cancer? Tobacco use, heavy drinking, excessive sun exposure to the lips, and a weak immune system all increase your oral cancer risk. Early detection is critical for successful treatment, so request screenings often, even if you don’t think you have cancer.
    • Why do I need dental X-rays? Most dentists recommend bitewing X-rays once a year and a full-mouth series every four to five years. X-rays reveal what’s happening beneath the surface, which is vital for diagnosing problems and pursuing the proper treatment.

    Looking for personalized answers to these and other oral health questions? Please contact Park 56 Dental at (212) 826-2322 and schedule an appointment at our NYC dentist office today! Our knowledgeable team can address all of your concerns and help you make the best choices for your oral health.