General Dentist 07506 | Can Exercise Damage Your Teeth? 

General Dentist 07506Exercise is important to good health, but can it have a detrimental effect on our teeth?  Studies have shown that exercise and fitness habits can result in an increase in dental decay and tooth erosion.  Exercise can impact our oral health in many ways, including: 

 

Decreased Saliva Flow:  Breathing heavily through the mouth during exercise can result in a reduction in saliva and cause the mouth to dry out.  Saliva is filled with minerals that work to fight bacteria, protect tooth enamel, and prevent decay.  To prevent decay caused by a dry mouth, learn to breathe through the nose during exercise and hydrate with water before, during, and after your workout.  You can also brush your teeth before you exercise to reduce the presence of bacteria and plaque. 

 

Jaw Clenching:  Athletes often clench their jaw when straining to lift weights.  This pressure can result in wear and even cracked teeth.  To protect teeth from the effects of clenching, consider using a mouthguard.  These can be purchased at most drugstores or sporting goods stores or our dentist can make a custom fitted mouthguard for you. 

 

Consuming Sports Drinks:  Studies have shown that sugary sports drinks are up to 30 times more erosive to the teeth than water.  The citric acid they contain can soften the tooth enamel so much that even brushing can cause tooth damage.  Taking frequent, small sips of sugary liquids increases the chance of tooth decay.   Avoiding the use of sports drinks and hydrating with water instead can prevent these negative effects.  If you feel you must use sports drinks, don’t drink small amounts over an extended period of time, rinse your mouth with water afterwards, and avoid brushing immediately after consuming. 

 

Contact our office to schedule your next preventative dental appointment. 

 

 

Dental Veneers in Hawthorne | The Benefits of Adult Dental Sealants 

Dental Veneers HawthorneAlthough dental sealants are often associated with pediatric dentistry, they can be a beneficial option for adults as well. A dental sealant is a protective, plastic film that helps prevent tooth decay. 

 

Even with at home oral health care, there are areas of the mouth that can be difficult to reach, making it tough to properly clean. Our dentist can determine whether dental sealants are a viable option in helping give you extra protection from tooth decay. 

 

Our goal is to make every one of your dental visits as comfortable as possible. Applying dental sealants is a quick procedure, which offers substantial benefits. According to the American Dental Association, adult sealants are an effective solution to cavity prevention and in preventing the progression of an early non-cavitated tooth lesion. 

 

With proper at home care and regular professional cleanings, dental sealants can last up to 10 years while effectively preventing tooth decay. 

 

Contact our office for more information about dental sealants and to schedule a cleaning with our dentist. 

Professional Whitening 07506 | Look 10 Years Younger 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hawthorne NJ Dentist | To Floss or Not To Floss?

By now, you have likely seen news reports questioning whether flossing is necessary for your oral health. 

We want to answer your question right away with an absolute YESCleaning between your teeth is an essential part of caring for your teeth and gums. 

Whether you use traditional string dental floss, a water flosser, an interdental (between teeth) brush, or other form of interdental cleaning, it is important that you clean between your teeth correctly and on a daily basis. 

Unfortunately, in the quest for catchy headlines, many news agencies have been providing a great deal of incomplete and inaccurate information. 

Here’s the truth: Plaque and bacteria can be prevented from building up between teeth when flossing is done correctly on a daily basis. 

Why does that matter? Build-up of plaque and bacteria between teeth is one of the leading causes of periodontal disease, a condition which not only affects your mouth, teeth, and gums, but has been linked to complications with diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and many other systemic health issues. 

The next time you visit our office, ask your hygienist to show you the most effective way to clean between your teeth. For more information on flossing and interdental cleaning or to schedule an appointment, please contact us. 

Jonathan Dental Spa Phone: (973) 423-4460 Url: https://jonathandentalspa.com/ 1111 Goffle Road Hawthorne , NJ 07506

Hawthorne NJ Dentist | One Tool for Better Gum Health

Loose teeth, bad breath, and painful, bloody gums – these are among the signs and symptoms of periodontal, or gum, disease. Unfortunately, periodontal disease can also begin without any obvious symptoms. If left undiagnosed or untreated, you could be at risk for irreparable damage to your teeth and gums. The good news is that periodontal disease is preventable. In fact, one of the most effective tools for preventing the disease only takes a minute of your time each day. 

Floss to the Rescue 

Dental floss is an effective and easy to use tool that can be among your best defenses for preventing periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is caused by a buildup of plaque and bacteria. Even if your daily oral hygiene routine already includes a thorough brushing that lasts for two minutes, at least twice each day, you should be flossing daily as well. Dental floss is highly effective at cleaning areas where your toothbrush cannot reach. Small gaps and tight spaces between teeth catch food debris and sugars and acids from drinks all day long. Flossing helps to clean out these tough to reach spaces. 

Facts Behind Flossing 

According to a survey referenced by the American Dental Association, only 40% of Americans floss each day. The same study showed a clear link between regular intra-oral care and better oral health. Unfortunately, many people also lie about how frequently they clean between their teeth. A study from the American Academy of Periodontology found that 27% of adults lie to their dentist about their flossing habits. 

Tips for Flossing Correctly 

It can be confusing to figure out the best way to use dental floss. Try cutting off about 18 inches of floss and wrapping most of it carefully around your middle finger. Use roughly one inch to clean between each pair of teeth. Using your thumb and index finger, carefully slide the floss between your teeth. Floss to your gumline, but be gentle. Avoid cutting your gums. Work your way through your 18 inches of floss by using a new, clean section between each pair of adjacent teeth. 

It only takes about a minute to floss your teeth each day, but these minutes contribute to a lifetime of optimal oral health. Floss is among the most effective tools at your disposal to keep your gums clean and healthy. Get into the habit of flossing your teeth regularly – your gums will thank you. 

For more information about gum health, or to schedule a visit to our office, please contact our team. 

Jonathan Dental Spa Phone: (973) 423-4460 Url: https://jonathandentalspa.com/ 1111 Goffle Road Hawthorne , NJ 07506

Hawthorne NJ Dentist | Celebrity Smiles: How Do They Do It?

Celebrities seem to have it all – perfect hair, perfect skin, perfect body and perfect teeth. It seems impossible to achieve the level of flawlessness that many celebrities attain. Believe it or not, having a celebrity-worthy smile is not nearly as impossible as you think. 

Teeth Whitening 

If you suffer from a less-than-white smile, professional teeth whitening could be a good option for you. Tooth discoloration can be caused by many different factors such as diet, hygiene habits, aging and genetics. Depending on the cause of discoloration, teeth whitening can be a safe, non-invasive way to make your smile “celebrity white.” 

Dental Veneers 

If you need to change the shape, size, length or color of your teeth, dental veneers could completely change your smile. Veneers are custom made just for you and are fixed to the outside of your tooth. They look like your natural teeth and can be used to solve a myriad of issues like gapped, worn or even broken teeth. Many celebrities use dental veneers to make their teeth look like they are naturally perfect when in reality, the teeth underneath are anything but.   

Dental Implants 

Even the most skilled dentists can’t save every diseased tooth. In those cases, the tooth must be removed. Losing a tooth can highly impact your smile and make many feel self-conscious. Dental implants are a safe, effective way of replacing a lost or pulled tooth. Not only are they safe, but dental implants can last many years if properly cared for. Celebrities will often use dental implants if they have a tooth that can’t be saved to keep their smile ready for the paparazzi. 

We’re excited to help you achieve the celebrity look without the celebrity prices. If you’re ready to have a red-carpet-worthy smile, please contact our office. 

Jonathan Dental Spa Phone: (973) 423-4460 Url: https://jonathandentalspa.com/ 1111 Goffle Road Hawthorne , NJ 07506

Dentist in Hawthorne | Optimal Gum Health for Seniors

07506 Dentist

For seniors, it is imperative that gum health is a top priority. As you age, your risk of developing periodontal (gum) disease increases. Periodontal disease is both preventable, and in many cases, reversible. When left untreated, it can lead to more serious complications such as bloody or swollen gums, and even tooth loss. Even more alarming are the numerous studies connecting periodontal disease to other serious illnesses. Here’s what you need to know about gum health as you age.

Periodontal Disease and Your Overall Health

Periodontal disease has been linked to serious health issues. In fact, a recent study conducted by the University of Southampton and King’s College London uncovered a link between periodontal disease and an increase in the rate of cognitive decline in those who suffer from early Alzheimer’s disease. In patients with periodontal disease, the study found cognitive decline underwent a rapid change, occurring six times as fast on average.

Periodontal disease has also been found to increase your risk of developing heart disease or having a stroke. Risk factors for these serious issues increase with age, among other causes, and it is especially important to limit potential risk factors where possible. This can be as easy as improving your gum health with a visit to our office.

The Numbers You Need to Know

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, moderate or severe periodontal disease was found in over 14% of seniors aged 65 to 74. The number increases to more than 20% for those over 75 years of age. Men were found to be more likely than women to have moderate to severe periodontal disease. Smoking was also found to have a significant impact. The same study showed 32% of current smokers had periodontal disease, compared to 14% for those who never smoked.

Steps You Can Take

As you age, it is essential to keep up with your gum health. Doing so is an important link in lowering your risk factors for other serious ailments such as heart disease, stroke, and the impacts of Alzheimer’s disease. You can keep your gums healthy by brushing twice each day for a full two minutes. Be sure to regularly floss your teeth as well. Flossing is an effective way to clean the hard-to-reach cracks and gaps where plaque builds up. Schedule a visit with our team for a complete gum evaluation. We can work with you to devise a course of action to ensure healthy gums.

1111 Goffle Rd., Hawthorne, NJ 07506

Resources:

https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/datastatistics/finddatabytopic/gumdisease/periodontaldiseaseseniors65over.htm

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/03/160310141330.htm

Dentist in Hawthorne |8 Great Ways to Improve Your Smile

Dentist Near Me

We all know the importance of a first impression and its lasting effects on that individual. We value our reputation, and sometimes when we aren’t expecting, a client or friend confronts, we have not seen in a while. The first thing we do smile, say hello, and maybe even notice their smile. Perhaps you and your significant other are taking some much-needed time for yourselves and going out for a night on the town to enjoy a simple dinner and a movie. Inevitably, you will smile, and you’ll to look your best. If we yearn for that perfect smile, there are many options out there available to you, some perhaps at your local dentist’s office to get back to looking our best and achieving this is possible through such procedures as teeth whitening, braces, and brushing and flossing.

For one study, it focused on smiling as it pertains to success and love, looking at when asked the participants responses with the majority agreeing that appearance is an indication of: 

  • Professional success (68)

  • Financial success (64%)

  • Trustworthiness (52%)

  • 8 Great Ways to Improve Your Smile

    1. Whitening your teeth.
    2. Crowns
    3. Veneers
    4. Bonding
    5. Braces
    6. Implants
    7. Brushing and flossing
    8. Regular dentist visits

    It’s clear that through a simple measure of how someone who is being perceived to have a great smile is also looked upon in higher regard, maybe even helping our confidence through an interview or feeling confident when taking that family picture. These are the solution to improving your smile, all that’s left if for you to make that time and enjoy your foolproof way of achieving and improving your smile. The how has now been answered and the when we will take back our smiles and do so with confidence. Below you will find links to some of those, and how to set up an appointment with our office. Finally, in most instances, it is as simple as adding a tooth whitening kit. For more information on these different options available to you, or to schedule your appointment contact our office below.

    Annual checkups to our dentist can often provide us with additional options furthering our smile. If we want a foolproof smile, we must take the first step and visit to our dental office and get routine cleanings.

    1111 Goffle Road
    Hawthorne, NJ 07506

    Phone: (973) 423-4460

    Hawthorne Dentist | Be Wary of These Beverages

    Dentist Near Me

    It’s common knowledge that plenty of beverages are not good for your health. The excessive amounts of sugar, caffeine, or alcohol found in a lot of popular drinks have well-documented impacts on your body. However, you may not be aware of the immediate impacts that these beverages can have on your teeth. Below is a list of some common beverages and tips for enjoying them responsibly.

    Soda, Juice, and Energy Drinks

    The high sugar content in these drinks can have a negative impact on your physical health. Less obvious however is the effects that they can have on your teeth. As with any sugary food, prolonged exposure can lead to the damage and decay of your enamel, opening the door for cavities and other issues to occur.

    Coffee

    Many popular coffee drinks contain just as much sugar as sodas and juices. However, even people who drink their coffee black run the risk of damaging their smile. Excessive coffee consumption can stain your teeth, though the amount of discoloration experienced varies from person to person.

    Wine, Beer, and Liquor

    Though it seems obvious that red wine can stain your teeth, all wines pose a similar risk of damage. Likewise, darker beers can gradually stain your teeth depending on the frequency of consumption. While hard liquors generally don’t pose as much of a risk to your enamel on their own, the mixers they’re often served with can.

    How to Protect Your Teeth

    After consuming one of these beverages, your first impulse might be to brush your teeth as soon as possible. However, rushing to brush could actually be doing more harm than good. All of the aforementioned beverages contain high levels of acid. This acid has a softening effect on your enamel, and the pressure applied during brushing can potentially further this softening. Instead, it’s recommended that you follow sugary or acidic drinks with water and wait 30 minutes to brush. It is also beneficial to swish the water around as you drink it, as this will help gently rinse off all of your teeth and allow the enamel to harden before you brush.

    Watching your diet can benefit your teeth as much as it benefits the rest of your body. However, moderate consumption of any of these beverages won’t cause an issue provided you maintain a proper oral care routine that includes regular brushing and flossing, as well as professional cleanings at least twice a year. Contact our office today to schedule your next appointment!

    1111 Goffle Road
    Hawthorne, NJ 07506

    Phone: (973) 423-4460

    07506 Dentist | 5 Interesting Dental Facts

    Dentist in Hawthorne

    Did you know your oral health can impact your overall health? We’ve compiled a list of 5 tidbits about your teeth and oral health.

    Say Cheese

    Cheese has been found to promote dental health by helping prevent tooth decay. The calcium and phosphorus found in cheese help neutralizes acid in the mouth. Acid can create dental erosion, which can cause decay that may require filling. Cheese creates a protective film around teeth and helps remineralize the enamel.

    Keep Smiling

    Your smile can make a difference. Studies have found that 50% of people consider a smile the first facial feature they notice. One study found that 88% of us remember people with beautiful smiles whenever we meet new people. This means attractive smiles are key to being more noticeable and remembered.

    Toothbrush Time

    Don’t forget to replace your toothbrush at least once every three months. You should get a new toothbrush after recovering from any sort of viral infection, flu, or cold. You are more likely to be re-infected if these bacteria implant themselves on the bristles.

    You’re Unique

    In your lifetime, you only get two sets of teeth— baby teeth and permanent teeth. It is important to take proper care of your permanent teeth. Did you know that no two people have precisely the same set of teeth? Your teeth are as unique as a fingerprint. This is the reason teeth are used by investigators for identification. Your tongue also has a unique print, though it is not commonly recorded.

    F.Y.I on Floss

    Floss is a lot more useful than you may think. If you skip out on your daily flossing, you can miss cleaning up to 40% of your tooth surfaces. Flossing can also help prevent gum disease by removing plaque near the gum line. Floss has other alternative creative uses. The next time you are looking for a fun holiday project, grab some dental floss and a handful of cereal to string for the tree. Floss works well for repairing a bead necklace too!

    Bonus Fact: Health professionals are rated among the most trusted people in the U.S so make sure to call our dentist and make an appointment today!