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How to deal with a chipped tooth

Posts Tagged ‘ Forked River dentist ’



How to deal with a chipped tooth

Posted on: May 29th, 2024 by admin

It’s an unfortunate side effect of life, but chipping a tooth is something we all have to deal with at times. Whether you or your child has experienced a minor mishap resulting in a broken or chipped tooth, don’t panic! This article will walk you through the steps of what to do when this unfortunate situation occurs. We’ll discuss what actions are recommended and how to ensure that your smile gets back to its original state as soon as possible.

First, it’s important to assess the damage. Are there any large pieces missing or is the chip small and contained? Is the fracture a simple surface fracture or one that has penetrated deeper into the tooth? While you can’t tell for certain just how deep it goes, it’s important to note how long it is and how much has been chipped away.

Next, rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. This will help prevent infection as well as reduce any swelling or pain. Take pain relief medication if necessary and avoid chewing with that tooth until you can get it fixed.

The best thing to do next is to contact a dentist as soon as possible. They are trained to handle situations like this and will be able to provide you with the best course of action. The dentist may be able to repair the tooth in one appointment, or they may need to place a temporary crown over it while they perform further repairs.

If you’re unable to get to your dentist near Forked River right away, there are a few things you can do to protect the tooth in the meantime. Avoid eating hard foods or anything that could cause further damage. You may also be able to apply a DIY dental repair kit with resin and other materials that can help build up the surface of your chipped tooth until you can get it fixed professionally.

By following these steps, you can be sure that your smile is taken care of and will soon look as good as new! Be sure to contact a trusted and knowledgeable dentist with any questions or concerns you may have. They will be able to help you restore your tooth to its original condition in no time. Good luck!

What you NEED to know about flossing!

Posted on: April 3rd, 2024 by admin

Look, we understand. A lot of people just don’t like to floss. In fact, up to half of all Americans don’t floss as often as they should.

But since flossing helps protect you from oral infections, bad breath, gum disease and more, this is really not a good thing!

Take a look at these 10 things you may not know about flossing and perhaps you’ll change your mind about this all-important hygiene habit.

  1. Some dentists in Southern Ocean County recommend flossing before you brush, not after, to help the fluoride from your toothpaste get between your teeth. However, this advice is not universal. There remains debate over whether or not this actually has any impact. Most dentists agree, though, that the most important thing is that you floss in the first place.
  2. If your gums bleed when you floss, you may be flossing improperly or at irregular intervals. Flossing on a regular basis with a good technique is essential.
  3. If you are not using clean floss for each tooth, you risk transferring bacteria around your mouth!
  4. Floss comes in flavors. You can find all the expected stuff – mint flavors, fruit flavors – and even bacon!
  5. If you have bridgework or wider spaces between your teeth, it may be best to use wide floss, also known as dental tape. This will give better coverage and ensure they remain cleaner and healthier.
  6. If you have closely spaced teeth, consider using waxed floss. This can be easier to slide between your teeth.
  7. Listen for the squeaking sound. You can hear when unwaxed floss is moving against clean teeth. This tells you that plaque has been removed.
  8. According to the American Dental Association, only about 50% of Americans floss daily, and 18% don’t floss at ALL.
  9. 27 percent of people LIE about how often they floss!
  10. If using floss feels weird to you, ask your Barnegat dental hygienist about other options. There are products that can provide the same sort of cleaning, including rubber-tips cleaners, pre-threaded flossers, tiny brushes, and more.

If you want to learn more about the importance of flossing, good flossing techniques, and how we can help, reach out to us at 609-698-1155 to set up an appointment with our hygienist, or contact us on Facebook.

Why you should have regular dentist and hygienist appointments

Posted on: September 27th, 2023 by admin

Most of us have been guilty of postponing a dental appointment at some point in our lives. However, attending dental checkups at regular intervals is crucial to maintaining optimal oral health. Let’s walk you through why making regular appointments with your Ocean County dentist and dental hygienist is so important.

1. Prevents Dental Problems

One of the primary reasons why you should make dental appointments regularly is because it can prevent dental problems. Your dentist can identify issues such as cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues in their early stages. This means that they can be treated promptly, avoiding major dental concerns and costly dental procedures down the line. A preventive approach to oral health today will help you save a lot of money and pain tomorrow.

2. Helps Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Though brushing and flossing your teeth every day is important for good oral hygiene, visiting a dental hygienist near Forked River can help you stay on top of your teeth cleaning practices. A hygienist can deep-clean your teeth, remove plaque and tartar, and identify areas where you may need to focus on your brushing and flossing. Regular checkups with a dentist and hygienist can help you stay committed to a routine that keeps your teeth and gums well-cared-for.

3. Identifies Overall Health Issues

Did you know that your dentist can identify oral health issues and can spot other health problems? In addition to dental issues, you dentist can also identify possible symptoms of diseases in other parts of your body. For instance, a dentist may identify warnings signs related to heart disease, diabetes, and even dehydration. Early detection is the key to success in treating certain illnesses. So, making regular dental appointments with your dentist helps you maintain overall physical and oral health.

4. Provides Timely Treatment

Regular dental checkups give your dentist a chance to catch dental problems early before they progress and become severe. Early detection often means that the treatment is much less invasive and less painful. By making regular dental appointments, you can avoid prolonged pain, discomfort, and the need for costly dental procedures.

5. Helps You Manage Dental Phobia

Many people suffer from dental phobia, which is an intense fear of visiting a dentist. The fear can be due to several reasons such as negative experiences, discomfort, or anxiety. However, regular dental appointments can help you manage dental phobia by getting you more comfortable with the process, helping you understand what to expect and realizing that dental visits can be virtually painless.

Conclusion

Good oral health is essential for overall well-being, and making regular dental appointments in Manahawkin is an essential part of that. Besides preventing dental problems, maintaining good oral hygiene, and identifying overall health issues, it also helps you manage dental phobia. So, make the most of your dental appointments, and don’t skip them! They say prevention is always better than cure, right?

How to Care for Your Teeth in Forked River, NJ

Posted on: February 15th, 2023 by admin

The first line of defense in the war against all things that harm your mouth – tooth decay, gum disease and more – is a deceptive simple weapon: your toothbrush. It’s the tool that will give you great teeth in Forked River!

The toothbrush has been around for millennia, though not always as we know it. The ancient Egyptians frayed tiny branches in order to create their toothbrushes. The 15 Century Chinese used natural bristles to create something very much like to the brushes we use today. But it was less than 100 years ago, in the 1930s, when nylon was invented and toothbrushes finally became modern.

Modern toothbrushes have been refined and redesigned over the decades, with many fine adjustments helping them become more effective at keeping your teeth clean.

But without YOU, your toothbrush can’t do its job properly. Here is what you need to know:

How to Brush Properly

A surprising number of people do not brush their teeth properly. Even though this is part of our daily routine and it seems like it should be easy, over time even the best of us can develop up bad habits. Once formed, bad habits are hard to break – and when they are bad brushing habits, they can make your brushing far less effective.

Here is some advice to keep in mind:

  • Brush twice a day, three times if possible
  • Each brushing session should last two minutes
  • Use short strokes when you brush
  • Don’t forget to brush your tongue (gently)!
  • Brushing too hard can damage your enamel, so don’t do it!

A good way to be sure that you brush effectively is to divide your mouth into four quadrants: bottom left, bottom right, top left, top right. Brush in each quadrant for 30 seconds, using short, and gentle strokes and/or swirls. If you do this two to three times per day, you’ll be well on your way to taking amazing care of your teeth!

Once you’ve mastered brushing, the next step is to keep your toothbrush in good shape.

 

How To Care For Your Toothbrush

Your toothbrush is your best tool for ensuring you have a healthy mouth, so naturally you’ll want to take care of it. Toothbrushes that are a gnarled, mangled mess won’t do a good of keeping your mouth fresh and clean.

In order to keep yours in great shape, follow these tips:

  • Do not ever share your toothbrush!
  • Be sure to brush gently; let the bristles do the work
  • Be sure to thoroughly rinse the toothbrush after you’re done
  • To keep microorganism growth to a minimum, don’t store your toothbrush in a closed container
  • Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months

Remember, your toothbrush is the single most important part of your oral health routine. Treat it poorly and it will treat your mouth poorly. Treat it well, however, and you can have many years of excellent oral health. When you visit your dentist near Forked River, they’ll notice the difference!

And isn’t that what this is all about? Having the healthiest mouth possible?

Here’s why most people get dental implants (and why you might get them, too)

Posted on: December 7th, 2022 by admin

Do you know the most common reasons people get dental implants? If not, don’t worry – you’re about to find out! In this article, we will discuss some of the most common reasons people opt for dental implants. We’ll also describe the different types of dental implants and how and why each type is used. Finally, we’ll help you decide which type of implant might be best for you depending on your symptoms and circumstances.

So, without further ado, let’s get started!

One of the most common reasons people get dental implants is to replace one or more missing teeth. If you have lost a tooth (or teeth) due to injury, disease, or some other reason, dental implants can provide a great way to restore your smile. Not only do dental implants look and feel like natural teeth, but they also help to prevent bone loss in the jaw and can improve your overall oral health.

Another common reason people get dental implants is to support a denture or bridge. If you have a denture or bridge that is loose or uncomfortable, dental implants can provide added support and stability. This can make it easier to eat and speak and can improve your overall quality of life.

Finally, some people get dental implants for cosmetic reasons. If you are unhappy with the way your teeth look, dental implants can give you the boost of confidence you need to smile with pride.

Now that you know some of the most common reasons people get dental implants, let’s discuss the different types of implants in more detail.

  • Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant. They are placed directly into the jawbone and are used to support a single tooth, a denture, or a bridge. Endosteal implants are made of titanium and have a small screw-like structure. Once in place, they provide a sturdy foundation for replacement teeth.
  • Subperiosteal implants are placed under the gum but on top of the jawbone. They are used for people who do not have enough bone height for endosteal implants or for people who cannot have surgery to place endosteal implants. Subperiosteal implants are made of metal framework that fits over the jawbone. Once in place, they provide a stable base for replacement teeth.
  • Mini dental implants are a smaller version of endosteal implants and are used to support a denture or bridge. Mini dental implants are less invasive than other types of dental implants and can be placed in a single visit. They are also less likely to cause damage to surrounding teeth.
  • Zygomatic implants are placed in the cheekbone and are used for people who have lost all of their teeth in the upper jaw. Zygomatic implants are longer and wider than other types of dental implants and provide a strong foundation for replacement teeth.

Now that you know the different types of dental implants, you may be wondering which type is right for you. The best way to determine this is to consult with a qualified oral surgeon. They will evaluate your individual needs and recommend the type of implant that is best for you.

No matter what your reason for getting dental implants, it’s important to choose a reputable and experienced implant Forked River dentist. At our Barnegat office, we have over decades of experience placing and restoring dental implants. We use the latest technology and techniques to ensure that your procedure is safe, comfortable, and successful.

If you are interested in learning more about dental implants or if you would like to schedule a consultation, please contact us today. We would be happy to answer any questions you have and help you determine if dental implants are right for you.

25 Facts About Dental Implants

Posted on: January 19th, 2022 by admin

We all want the best possible smiles. We all want to look great. And we all want good oral health.

Following tooth loss, damage, or other issues that may require corrective work, often the best way to get these things is with dental implants.

No, these are not traditional dentures. Dental implants are relatively new, but are quickly becoming the option of choice for many in the southern Ocean County, NJ area, including Manahawkin, Forked River, and Barnegat. Consider these facts to see how popular these procedures are:

  • About 1/4 of Americans over the age of 74 have lost all their teeth.
  • Among those between the ages of 35 and 44, over 2/3 have at least one missing tooth.
  • Approximately 30 million Americans are missing all their teeth in at least one jaw.
  • Some 500,000 people get dental implants every year.
  • Since 2006, over 5.5 million dental implants have been placed.
  • About 3 million Americans have dental implants.
  • The dental implant market in the United States has grown to $1 billion.
  • Despite all this, a mere 10 percent of dentists perform implant procedures.

The desire for dental implants is nothing new. In fact, humans have been experimenting with implants and ways to care for our teeth for thousands of years! Take a look:

  • Dental implants were being installed as far back as 600 AD.
  • Dental braces are even older, dating to about 2,000 BC.
  • The ancient Mayans used shell pieces to replace lost teeth.
  • The Greeks spent time philosophizing on ways to straighten teeth.
  • The modern toothbrush was invented about 1400 years ago in China.

Thanks to advances in dental technology, modern dental implants have taken off and are benefiting countless dental patients near Forked River, Manahawkin, and other southern Ocean County towns. Consider these facts:

  • Dental implants boast a 98 percent success rate.
  • Titanium alloys and other modern materials are used in dental implants.
  • Dental implant surgery is painless.
  • Modern dental implants have a decades’ long safety record under their belt.
  • Titanium can fuse with bone, allowing implants to help stimulate bone growth.
  • Modern implants will usually last your entire life.

Dental implants are about more than just cosmetic fixes, too. They have genuine benefits that can help you in several ways, including:

  • They prevent jawbone loss by stimulating bone growth.
  • They help you maintain your appearance, with no “sunken” jaw issues.
  • Implants help you speak better because they recreate the condition your jaw should be in.
  • Implants are more permanent than traditional dentures.
  • Cavities are a thing of the past; dental implants cannot get them.
  • They can prevent shifting of your teeth.

As you can see, dental implants are far from something to fear. Quite the opposite! They are a revolution in dental care that are here to stay. That’s why we’re proud to offer them in Barnegat, NJ!

Throw Your Old Toothbrush Away!

Posted on: August 11th, 2021 by admin

Take a look at your toothbrush. It is a familiar part of your daily routine, something you see early every morning (or at least we hope so) and just  before bed every night (ditto). Your toothbrush is your friend

But the fact of the matter is, that toothbrush is probably due for replacing.

If you’re like a lot of people, you probably brush your teeth a little more energetically that you need to. With time, the brush’s bristles will begin to fray, looking like a used broom or paintbrush. The bristles may even be a touch off-white now, too. Those are all sure signs that it’s time to replace your brush with a new one.

And trust us, you don’t want to use a toothbrush that is past its useful life. If you do, it just won’t do the job that it’s designed to do.

Toothbrush picture Barnegat Manahawkin Dental Office

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If you brush your teeth the way we’ve taught you here at Bayside Dentistry, a dentist serving Manahawkin, Forked River, Barnegat and all of Ocean County, the signs might not be as obvious. They may not jump out at you, but small changes in your toothbrush will make it less effective in doing its job. They include:

  • Slight curve/slant to the bristles – This can happen after using it over a long stretch of time. Though it can often be barely noticeable, this can prevent the bristles from reaching around the gum line and between your teeth.
  • Loss of elasticity – Modern toothbrush bristles are made to be elastic and bendable. This is to allow the brush to provide the gentle sweeping movement necessary for the most effective brushing. As the bristles’ elasticity wears down, your brushing becomes less effective.
  • Harboring bacteria – No matter how clean you keep your brush and its holder, over time bacteria will begin to make a home there. This makes fighting plaque and germs even harder.

A good rule of thumb is to replace your toothbrush every three to four months. If you are seeing the family here at Bayside regularly, you already know that having a new, fresh toothbrush is essential to your oral health. Some things we recommend to ensure it lasts a long while include:

  • Air dry it; do not store it in a closed container. This helps prevent bacteria growth
  • Rinse your toothbrush thoroughly after each use. This keeps the bristles flexible
  • Don’t share your toothbrush with others! The reasons why should be obvious
  • Brush firmly but gently. Many people brush too hard, wearing out their brush faster
  • Replace it every 3-4 months

Doing what you can to make sure your toothbrush is well taken care of is one of the easiest things you can do to be sure you have good oral health. Doing so will guarantee that every time you brush, your teeth they are as clean as can be, your breath is fresh, and your future trips to Bayside will be as smooth as possible.

And let’s be honest, isn’t the whole reason you visit us here at Bayside in the first place to have healthy teeth? We serve Manahawkin, Lacey / Forked River, Barnegat, and all of Ocean County!

Have These Symptoms? Go See A Dentist NOW!

Posted on: January 13th, 2021 by admin

If you’re like most people, you’ll invent a host of reasons to avoid seeing your dentist. Don’t worry, we’re not insulted. We’re used to it by now!

But the fact of the matter is, if you begin to experience one of these five conditions, you really need to see your dentist as soon as possible. It may help you avoid a lot of misery down the road!

Toothache

A toothache is nothing to take lightly. The pain you’re experiencing is a sign that something is wrong. You may feel as if you can tolerate the pain or that you can “tough it out,” but letting a toothache go unaddressed is asking for trouble. Whatever the cause of your pain, your condition could worsen. In a worst case scenario, you could even end up losing the tooth. Better to address it early, when there’s a good possibility the issue can be fixed with minimal fuss.

Chronic Bad Breath

Everyone gets bad breath every now and then. It’s common and can be easily triggered by the things we eat. A normal bout of bad breath is nothing to worry about. Chronic bad breath, on the other hand, is a sign of deeper problems that must be addressed. It may be “only” as serious as gum disease, which you’ll want to catch early to begin treatment. It can also be a sign of more serious issues than that. If you suffer from chronic bad breath, it’s important to have your dentist take a look as soon as possible so serious problems can be treated early.

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Cracked or Chipped Teeth

One of the most common problems any dentist in Ocean County, NJ near Forked River will deal with are cracked and chipped teeth. The good news is that modern cosmetic dentistry is effective and affordable, with many options available to you. The bad news is, left unaddressed, some issues like this become more than a cosmetic issue. Cracked teeth can cause persistent pain and can lead to serious infections that may put your other teeth in danger, too. Even if you don’t mind how they look, at the very least you should have your dentist examine them to be sure your teeth are in no danger of future issues.

Jaw Pain

Pain in the jaw can come from a number of courses, including toothaches, sinus infections, and more. If you are feeling persistent jaw pain, have it examined by your Ocean County, NJ dentist near Manahawkin to determine the source of the problem. As with anything, the key to avoiding serious issues is to catch them early.

Bleeding Gums

If you experience bleeding gums during/after brushing, there may be an issue that needs addressing. In many cases bleeding gums are merely caused by improper brushing techniques. That is easy to fix. In other cases, however, they may be a sign of gingivitis or other underlying issues. As with all such issues, catching them early gives you the best chance of avoiding more serious complications.

If you experience any of these conditions and live in Barnegat, Forked River / Lacey, Manahawkin, or other areas of Southern Ocean County, call to make an appointment today!

The Truth About Improving Your Smile

Posted on: December 15th, 2020 by admin

There are few things more important than our smile. It is a key factor in the first impression we give people. It tells others the kind of person we are, the mood we are in, and how we look at life. Yet too many of us are afraid to embrace our smile. We are self-conscious. We don’t let our smile shine the way we should. Reasons we don’t smile as big and beautifully as we should include:

  • Our teeth lose their shine with age
  • We have crooked or misaligned teeth
  • Years of coffee and alcohol have yellowed our teeth
  • A lack of confidence
  • We are miserable

pexels-photo-312492The thing is, hiding your smile does you a great disservice. Your smile does more for you than you realize. In many ways, it can be your most alluring feature. Here are things your smile does for you:

  • Makes you more attractive than makeup, according to a recent study
  • Give people a good first impression of you
  • Can brighten your own mood; the more you smile, the more you’ll want to smile
  • Puts those around you in better spirits
  • Boosts your confidence and self-esteem
  • Gives your customers/clients the impression that you are offering great service

And that list only just begins to scratch the surface of how beneficial your smile can be for you. No matter your field, no matter your walk of life, no matter the nature of your social life, your smile is truly a BIG DEAL. Knowing that, you’ll probably consider asking your dentist in Barnegat what they can do to help you improve your smile. It’s a good question! The basics, of course, always apply:

  • Brush at least twice daily
  • Minimize your intake of coffee and soda
  • Floss regularly
  • Consider asking your dentist for a whitening treatment

But what if you already do these things? What if your issues with your smile are much bigger than something a little brushing could solve? Then you might consider some cosmetic dentistry. Cosmetic procedures are easy, affordable, and can do amazing things for your appearance. Here are some of the basic procedures to know about:

Veneers – Typically made or porcelain, these are shaped to conform to your teeth and then placed over them, allowing you to restore perfect whiteness while also addressing minor straightening and “snaggletooth” issues.

Whitening – Simple, safe, fast and effective, in-office whitening treatments can greatly enhance your smile at little cost.

Composites & Implants – Intended for those who have lost teeth, this is a way to fill gaps in your mouth with a natural look. They are also used for those with unsightly dark fillings.

Straightening – One of the oldest and most common cosmetic dentistry procedures, this process is a method to (you guessed it) straighten your teeth. There are several ways to accomplish this, depending on your needs. If any of these options sound right for you, contact a dentist serving Barnegat, Manahawkin, and Forked River today for more details!

Before You Buy Toothpaste, Keep This In Mind

Posted on: October 14th, 2020 by admin

Toothpaste is one of the most important tools in your oral health arsenal!  But keep in mind that your Ocean County dentist will tell you that you have to choose the right type of toothpaste if you want your brushing to be as effective as it can be.

Wait, there can be a right and wrong kind of toothpaste? Actually, yes! You really can use the wrong type of toothpaste!

The fact is, not all toothpastes are made to work the same. They can be designed to address many different dental needs, depending on whatever the folks at your dental office serving Manahawkin tell you you should address first. An essential part of making good decisions about your oral care is knowing which toothpastes are the right choices for your family.

Experts in dentistry near Manahawkin will suggest you follow these five tips when making a choice:

1) Fluoride!

Don’t make the mistake of thinking every toothpaste contains fluoride. They don’t! Some “natural” toothpaste brands are free of fluoride. These are good for very young children under the age of six – fluoride can actually discolor teeth in young children – but once they are older, follow the recommendation of your dental office serving Manahawkin and use a toothpaste with fluoride. It’s one of the most vital ways in which brushing can help you battle cavities.

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2) Whitening!

Whitening toothpastes are bigger than ever and easily available. But do you need one? They are fine options that might help slow down staining, but don’t expect dramatic results. They might be able to lighten your teeth by up to a shade, though even that would be a great result. The truth is, if you have sensitive teeth you should not use whitening toothpastes because they have chemicals that can make your teeth more sensitive.

3) Who’s Using It?

Remember that there are toothpastes made specifically for adults, and there are toothpastes made specifically for children. Always read labels carefully so you understand who the intended user is. For further advice, an a dentist in Ocean County for their input. Remember that a brand of toothpaste may not be suitable for the whole family!

4) ADA Approval!

Look for the American Dental Association seal of acceptance on your toothpaste. Any brand that is proven to be safe and effective will have that logo. It doesn’t matter the style you choose – whitening, all natural, baking soda, and others – if it doesn’t have the seal of approval by the ADA, take a pass. Your dentist near Manahawkin will give you the same advice.

5) Chronic Dental Problems?

Be sure to inform your dentist serving Manahawkin if you have chronic tooth problems that you are feeling on a regular basis. Pain, temperature sensitivity, and other chronic maladies are a sign there may be an underlying issue that needs to be addressed. You may be surprised to learn that your dentist may even be able to suggest a new type of toothpaste to help with your symptoms, such as desensitizing toothpaste.

Ready to start brushing? They get in the bathroom and do it, then visit your dental office near Manahawkin for a check up to see how well your teeth are doing.