Post-Op Tooth Extraction Care

There are many reasons why a tooth may need to be extracted. Tooth decay, gum disease, or even for orthodontic purposes name a few. After the tooth is removed, you may need stitches and you will need to follow strict instructions that our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists will give you. After the surgery, you will need to rest and you should expect the extraction site to bleed a little following extraction. In addition, here are a few things to remember during post-op care.

If bleeding continues for longer than 24 hours you should call our office immediately. Once you return home after the surgery you should rest, but do not lie flat. This could prolong the bleeding. One of our doctors will prescribe you pain medication, as well as cleaning solution for the extraction site, so if you become sore take as directed. It’s important to limit yourself to soft foods such as gelatin, pudding, yogurt, mashed potatoes, etc. so that the stitches are not punctured. When drinking, make sure you do not use a straw, because the sucking motion can loosen your sutures and slow the clotting process.

If you are experiencing tooth discomfort or have questions about post-op aftercare, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.oysterbaydentists.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in Oyster Bay, NY, call 516-922-5730.

Extraction Site Preservation

When removing a tooth, it is important to consider what will be done with the empty space after that tooth is removed. Wisdom teeth are in the back of the mouth so that site has the ability to heal on its own with no complications. However, if it is necessary for one of our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists to remove another tooth, plans must be made and this is where extraction site preservation comes into play.

If a tooth is removed and nothing is done with the extraction site, the jaw bone will degenerate and change shape during healing. This can cause teeth to shift and can create problems in your bite that can affect the ability to speak and chew. Just imagine chewing food with no teeth and how uncomfortable that would feel. Options for filling the space include dental implants and bridges. What you choose to do with your extraction site is your choice, and our doctors are always open to a conversation on what to do with your extraction site before removing a tooth.

If you’ve recently had teeth extracted and have questions about the site preservation process, give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.oysterbaydentists.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in Oyster Bay, NY, call 516-922-5730.

Benefits of Dentures

The Oyster Bay Family Dentists offers a wide variety of restorative options for missing teeth, but here we are going to discuss the benefits of dentures. For people who have lost their teeth due to gum disease, tooth decay, or injury, dentures can restore their smile and help them with everyday tasks such as eating and speaking. There are two main types of dentures: full and partial. Our doctors will help you choose the type of denture that’s best for you based on how many teeth are going to be replaced.

Complete (full) dentures are used if you’re missing teeth in your upper (maxillary) or lower (mandibular) jaws. Partial dentures are used on patients who only have some teeth missing on either jaw. Complete dentures replace all of the teeth, while partial dentures fill in the spaces created by missing teeth and prevent other teeth from shifting position. Your dentures may feel awkward for a few weeks until you become accustomed to them, however, you will decrease your risk of periodontal disease as well as ease the stress of your jaw while wearing them.

If you have missing teeth, give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.oysterbaydentists.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in Oyster Bay, NY, call 516-922-5730.

Consequences of Missing Teeth

Although tooth loss is typically associated with the elderly, missing teeth can occur in adults for a variety of reasons. Whether you’ve lost a tooth to decay, or injury, tooth loss can rob you of much more than the ability to chew and properly digest food. It can have serious social, psychological and emotional consequences as well. Here at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists, we don’t want you to experience the consequences of a toothless grin. This is why we offer a wide variety of restorative and cosmetic options to give you the smile you’ve always dreamed of.

The most obvious effect of missing teeth is aesthetic. When a tooth is lost, the facial muscles begin to sag, making you appear older than you are. Additionally, missing teeth will make it more difficult to chew and may even affect the way you speak. The more teeth a person is missing, the more challenging the task to replace them can become. It can also be costly. It is important to have regular dental visits with us to prolong the life of your teeth. 

If you have missing teeth, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.oysterbaydentists.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in Oyster Bay, NY, call 516-922-5730.

Why Invisalign is Often a Favorite Over Braces

Invisalign is often the favorite option when it comes to orthodontics. Because of the versatility, convenience, and near invisibility, The Oyster Bay Family Dentists offer Invisalign here in our Oyster Bay,  NY dental practice.

Just like braces, Invisalign is able to treat a wide variety of misalignments. It works by creating clear plastic trays that are changed out about every two weeks. Over time, the tray aligners move your teeth into their directed position.

With braces, you wear them all the time. This means you have to be careful with what you eat. No eating sticky, hard, or crunchy items anymore. This can be tough when they are your favorites. With Invisalign, you take the trays out to eat, so you do not have to avoid any types of food.

Invisalign also makes dental care a breeze. You will not have to worry about brushing around brackets and wires, being careful not to break them. No special supplies are needed either. You can brush and floss just as you always have.

In addition to the convenience factors, patients love that Invisalign is nearly invisible. No one can tell you are straightening your teeth unless they are looking at your teeth very closely. No more photos with “metal mouth”.

If you are looking to straighten your teeth, be sure to inquire about Invisalign. To schedule an appointment with The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in Oyster Bay, NY, call us at (516) 922-5730 or visit our website, www.oysterbaydentists.com. 

How Dental Implants Are Installed

When replacing missing teeth, it is nice to know you can depend on it without worrying about it coming loose or needing to be replaced again. Because dental implants are so close to a natural tooth, The Oyster Bay Family Dentists of Oyster Bay, NY offer dental implants to our patients looking to replace missing teeth.

Dental implants are the most stable and strong tooth replacement option out there. They work by implanting a titanium post into the bone socket so that it bonds with the jawbone. A crown is then placed on top that looks and feels like a real tooth. Each crown is custom-created in a dental laboratory so it is the perfect fit for every patient.

To place a dental implant, first, there will be a surgical incision made. The titanium implant post is inserted and allowed to heal. During the healing time, you will wear a temporary crown to protect the area. After the healing is complete, an abutment is placed onto the implant to serve as the base for the permanent crown. The custom-made permanent crown is then cemented into place. With good care, a dental implant can last for a lifetime.

If you are looking to replace one or more teeth with a permanent option, dental implants may be right for you. To schedule an appointment with The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in Oyster Bay, NY, call us at (516) 922-5730 or visit our website, www.oysterbaydentists.com. 

Baby Tooth Care

When teeth first come in, your child may start to fuss. This is because he or she has sore or tender gums and the eruption of those little tooth buds are causing them pain. Parents often, when should I start cleaning my child’s teeth? The answer is that daily dental cleaning should start as soon as your infant’s first tooth appears. To help prevent the buildup of plaque bacteria that can lead to decay, The Oyster Bay Family Dentists highly recommend regularly cleaning your newborn’s gums with a damp washcloth following feedings.

While most babies don’t start getting teeth until they are six months old, infant dental care is important from the very beginning. In addition to cleaning your baby’s gums with a damp cloth, you can also gently rub their gums with a clean finger, a small, cool spoon, or a wet gauze pad. You can also give the baby a clean teething ring to chew on. It’s important to care for your baby’s teeth from the start because his or her gums act as placement holders for permanent teeth.

If you have a question about your child’s tooth care, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.oysterbaydentists.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in Oyster Bay, NY, call 516-922-5730.

Night Guards

Attention all teeth grinders – the earlier you catch the damage, the better your prognosis. Many people clench or grind their teeth to the point of destructiveness. Most people are completely unaware that they do it because they often do it while they sleep. Grinding your teeth can damage enamel, wear down teeth, cause jaw pain, or irritate your gums. Before this happens, one of our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists can provide you with a dental appliance called a night guard that will provide a significant reduction in your tooth’s wear and tear.

If you grind your teeth you should consider a night guard. The night guard, which is very similar to a mouth guard worn by athletes, provides a barrier between your top and bottom teeth while you sleep. All of our night guards are custom-fitted for comfort and to allow for proper breathing. At the office, one of our doctors will take an impression of your teeth and have the night guard created by a dental lab. Night guards are very durable and can be used for up to ten years.

If you are a teeth grinder, give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.oysterbaydentists.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in Oyster Bay, NY, call 516-922-5730.

Electric vs Manual Toothbrush

Here at The Oyster Bay Family Dentist’s our doctors aren’t picky about what type of toothbrush you use because the important thing is that you are brushing your teeth correctly. However, we thought we would tell explain how brushing your teeth with an electric toothbrush compares to manual brushing.

It’s possible to brush your teeth effectively with a manual toothbrush. However, an electric toothbrush can be a great alternative to a manual one, especially if you have arthritis or other conditions that make it difficult to brush well. Although almost any toothbrush can do an effective job, research suggests there is one electronic toothbrush bristle configuration that seems to be better at removing plaque and preventing gum disease.

If you choose an electric toothbrush, make sure the toothbrush is comfortable to hold and easy to use. It’s important to remember that the purpose of a toothbrush is to remove plaque and to stimulate the gums to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Whether you choose an electric toothbrush or a manual one, remember that what’s most important is daily brushing and flossing.

If you have questions about oral hygiene, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.oysterbaydentists.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in Oyster Bay, NY, call 516-922-5730.

Basics of Bruxism

Do you ever wake up from a night’s sleep with sore teeth and jaws? You could be grinding your teeth. The medical term for occasional teeth grinding is called bruxism and although this condition does not usually cause harm, when teeth grinding occurs on a regular basis the teeth can be damaged and other oral health complications can arise. At The Oyster Bay Family Dentists, our doctors can develop an individualized treatment plan to help alleviate this condition.

Stress, anxiety, smoking, heavy alcohol, caffeine, depression and sleep disorders are all possible causes of teeth grinding. Treatment for teeth grinding depends on the cause. In some cases, chronic teeth grinding can result in fracturing, loosening or loss of teeth. Patients may benefit from a mouth guard to stabilize the jaw and prevent tooth damage that is caused by grinding.

If these bruxism symptoms sound all too familiar, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.oysterbaydentists.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in Oyster Bay, NY, call 516-922-5730.

Notes on Novocain

When you think of the dentist’s office, The Oyster Bay Family Dentists are almost certain that you’re wondering about your pain-free options. Depending on the procedure at hand, you will either be given a local or general anesthetic. Local anesthesia allows the patient to remain awake, while general anesthesia allows the patient to sleep. If you are told you’ll be receiving a local anesthetic, “Novocain” probably comes to mind. Novocain is commonly used to suppress pain in patients who remain conscious. During your consultation, our doctors will determine if Novocain is appropriate for your treatment plan as well as if it is the best option for you.

Novocain is normally injected into an area during oral surgery and other dental procedures to numb the surrounding tissues. Like any medication, however, side effects include numbness around the injection site that can last for several hours, a tingling sensation around the injection site, as well as minor swelling around or near the injection site. Novocain is a good option for some, but not for others. Be sure to provide us with as much information about your medical history as possible so that you and our doctors can make an informed decision.

If you would like to discuss sedation options, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.oysterbaydentists.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in Oyster Bay, NY, call 516-922-5730.

Dental Anxiety in Kids

Dental anxiety is something we understand that some of our patients have. The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in Oyster Bay, NY want all of our patients to feel comfortable. Dental anxiety often starts out in childhood. Take some of these tips for easing your child into their dental appointments so they are comfortable, happy, and relaxed

Playing “dentist” at home can help kids become familiar with the examination and cleaning process. Have your child sit back in a chair or couch and open wide. Look in their mouth and count each tooth you see. This helps little kids understand what happens during an appointment and feel more comfortable with it during the real appointment.

Also, kids who start going to the dentist at an early age are usually more relaxed because they have been going as long as they can remember. Kids should start seeing the dentist as soon as they have their first tooth, or at least by the age of one.

Good behavior can also be reinforced by treating them afterwards. This can be simple rewards like a treat afterwards, taking them to the park, or letting them pick dinner. Just be careful to not offer the reward before the visit because this may make them think there is something to be afraid of.

Since dental anxiety usually begins in childhood, it is important to help your child feel relaxed during his or her dental appointment. To schedule your child’s appointment with The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in Oyster Bay, NY, call us at (516) 922-5730 or visit our website, www.oysterbaydentists.com. 

Dental Care with Arthritis

Arthritis and other conditions that affect the use of your hands can end up affecting your oral health. It may not be the first thing you think of when you think about difficulty with hand use, but it is important to recognize when you begin having the issue. The Oyster Bay Family Dentists of Oyster Bay, NY want their patients to know how to take good care of their teeth even with difficult hand use.

First, it can be difficult to grip a toothbrush and move it around to all the areas of the mouth. Fortunately, there are toothbrushes that can make this easier. If it is difficult to grip things or it hurts to move your hand around so much, consider an electric toothbrush. They basically do all of the work; you just need to hold them in the right position. They also tend the have thick handles, which are easier to grip. There are also toothbrushes made especially for those with arthritis. They help you get a good grip on the handle.

Secondly, holding floss can be difficult, as well. Try wrapping the floss around your fingers so that the floss will be held nice and tight. It also helps to tie the floss in a loop. If this is too painful, there are floss picks available where most dental supplies are sold.

Last, but not least, be sure you choose a toothpaste with an easy-open cap. Make sure to look for a toothpaste that has a flip cap instead of one that screws on. They are easier to open, plus they do not become stuck as easily when toothpaste makes them sticky.

Arthritis and other hand conditions may make simple tasks a little more difficult, but there are ways to help yourself out. In addition, it is important to make your routine dental appointments for cleanings and examinations. To schedule with The Oyster Bay Family Dentists of Oyster Bay, NY, call our office at (516) 922-5730 or visit our website, www.oysterbaydentists.com. 

A Brush-Up on Kids Oral Care

Baby teeth are vital to the development of adult teeth, along with speech and eating patterns. The Oyster Bay Family Dentists of Oyster Bay, NY want all of our patients to keep a healthy smile. Check out some of our reminders for helping kids keep good oral hygiene.

Even before a baby’s first teeth grow in, their gums need to be tended to. They should be wiped down with a soft cloth after feedings. As soon as the first tooth appears, it should be brushed with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride is important for keeping cavities away. As soon as two of their teeth touch, they will need to be flossed. Babies and kids will need help with flossing until they can do it on their own.

Kids should begin seeing a dentist as soon as their first tooth grows in, or by the age of one if their first tooth hasn’t grown in by then. As they grow older, their dentist may want to protect their molars with seals. This keeps cavities out of the pits and grooves of molars, especially during their cavity-prone years.

One last tip is to limit thumb-sucking and pacifiers. These actually disrupt the proper placement and growth of baby and adult teeth, which can eventually lead to dental problems, speech problems, and even problems with eating.

To schedule your child’s first dental appointment, contact The Oyster Bay Family Dentists. Our Oyster Bay, NY office can be reached by calling (516) 922-5730 or by visiting our website, www.oysterbaydentists.com. 

How Smoking Affects Dental Implants

By now, mostly everyone knows about the endless list of ways smoking can harm your body. However, did you know that it can also affect the success of dental work like dental implants? Since the smoke enters your body first through your mouth, it can really have a major effect on your soft tissues. The Oyster Bay Family Dentists of Oyster Bay, NY want our patients to understand the ways smoking can affect your future oral health. Keep reading to learn more.

Smoking physically changes the gum tissues in your mouth and the blood vessels surrounding them. The top layer of skin cells in the gums develops a condition called keratosis, which is the thickening of the tissues. The salivary glands within these tissues become blocked off and damaged, which creates dry mouth. The superficial blood vessels in the mouth begin to constrict, so they do not supply enough blood to the area. These effects create problems with healing, immune strength, and bacteria. When there is decreased blood flow, the area can take longer to heal after implant surgery. In addition, a dry mouth promotes gum disease. Over time, these issues will cause more bone loss in the jawbone around an implant, increasing the risk of the implant falling out.

Smoking wreaks havoc on the lungs, the circulatory system, oral health, among many other body systems. It is also a known cause of cancer. The best thing to do is to quit or never start. To schedule an examination, an oral cancer screening, or an implant consultation with The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in Oyster Bay, NY, call us at (516) 922-5730 or visit our website, www.oysterbaydentists.com. 

Invisalign for Discreet Straightening

Invisalign is a way to straighten teeth without the pain, hassle, or looks of braces. The Oyster Bay Family Dentists of Oyster Bay, NY offer Invisalign to their patients looking to straighten their teeth comfortably and conveniently.

Invisalign is a teeth aligning system made of a series of clear, smooth plastic trays. The trays are completely customized to fit your teeth. Using a computer system, each tray will be created with minor adjustments so your teeth gradually shift into place. The trays are switched out every two weeks and you will visit with your dentist every four to five weeks to pick up your new trays and to make sure the process is going as planned. The Invisalign trays are to be worn for twenty to twenty-two hours per day. They are convenient because you can take out them when you eat and brush your teeth.

There are no restrictions on what you can eat with Invisalign, so you do not have to avoid certain types of food like you do with braces. You can also brush and floss normally, unlike with braces where you need special dental supplies. Invisalign is also nearly invisible; the clear, fitted plastic is all that covers your teeth. The smooth plastic is also more comfortable than metal braces.

If you have thought about straightening your teeth but were deterred by the thought of braces, Invisalign may be right for you. To schedule an appointment with The Oyster Bay Family Dentists of Oyster Bay, NY, call our office at 516-922-5730 or visit our website, www.oysterbaydentists.com. 

Custom, Natural-Looking Dental Crowns

It is ideal to keep our natural teeth, which is why we attempt to restore teeth before we pull them. The Oyster Bay Family Dentists of Oyster Bay, NY are able to offer natural-looking dental crowns to restore both the strength and the look of teeth.

Dental crowns are caps that replace the outermost part of your tooth. Your tooth is first reshaped so that the crown can fit on it. An impression is then taken of the tooth and the area surrounding it. A dental laboratory will use the impression to create a custom crown that will have the look and feel of one of your natural teeth. The laboratory process can take between two and three weeks, so your dentist will place a temporary crown so you can still use your tooth normally during that time. When the permanent crown is ready, it is cemented into place. Crowns need to be taken care of like regular teeth to ensure they have a long life in your mouth.

If you are interested in learning more about our custom crowns, be sure to schedule an appointment with us or check out our website. Appointments may be made by calling our Oyster Bay, NY office at 516-922-5730 or by visiting our website, www.oysterbaydentists.com. 

Defining a Family Dentist

Family dentistry, like general dentistry, provides services related to the general maintenance of oral hygiene and tooth health. Family dentists are responsible for ensuring that plaque buildup around the teeth is kept to a minimum, that tooth decay is eliminated, that cavities are filled, and that gums remain healthy. The Oyster Bay Family Dentists accept patients of all ages, making our family dentistry office a convenient choice if you have children or seniors in your home.

The Oyster Bay Family Dentists offer a full range of procedures to restore and maintain your oral health and to keep your teeth looking their best. We provide routine care, fillings and other services for adults and seniors. In addition to general dental care, we offer dental implants, orthodontic care with Invisalign, endodontic, restorative dentistry and cosmetic dentistry.

If you are searching for a family dentist, look no further and give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.oysterbaydentists.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in Oyster Bay, NY, call 516-922-5730.

Choosing the Proper Mouthwash

Mouthwash or rinses are used for a variety of reasons: to freshen breath, to help prevent or control tooth decay, to reduce plaque, to prevent or reduce gingivitis, to reduce the speed that tartar forms on the teeth, or to produce a combination of these effects. While shopping for mouthwash at your local drugstore, it is important when searching for the rinse that’s right for you to look for the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval. Mouthwash has many beneficial qualities and our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists would like to explain a few. Active ingredients vary depending on the type of mouth rinse, but are normally placed into four general groups.

• Antimicrobial agents act directly on oral bacteria to help reduce plaque, decrease the severity of gingivitis and control bad breath.


• Fluoride helps reduce tiny lesions (tooth decay) on tooth enamel and make teeth more resistant to decay.


• Astringent salts can serve as temporary deodorizers that mask bad breath.


• Odor neutralizers act by chemically inactivating odor causing compounds.

If you have questions regarding oral hygiene, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.oysterbaydentists.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in Oyster Bay, NY, call 516-922-5730.

Keep Your White Teeth White

While we have options here for professional teeth whitening, it is still nice to know how to prevent staining and keep your newly whitened teeth bright. The Oyster Bay Family Dentists want all of our patients to be confident in their smile. Take some tips for keeping a white smile!

Keep ‘Em Clean

Teeth become stained because of plaque and frequent contact with stain causing food. We will get to the food later. The main thing you need to do to keep a white smile is to keep clean teeth. Brush your teeth three times per day. Brush once in the morning, once after lunch, and once before bed. This will keep plaque from sticking around for too long. Also, do not skip flossing. This should be done every day and is a big part of keeping stains away. Plaque that sticks around for too long can cause yellowing or darkening of the teeth and it can hold in stain-causing debris close to your tooth enamel.

Avoiding Stain-Causers

Speaking about stain-causers, there are foods and drinks that can cause stains when consumed frequently. Dark drinks like coffee, cola, and tea are among them, along with dark foods like blueberries, balsamic vinegar, and beets. Smoking and other use of tobacco can also darken teeth over time. Stick to keeping these foods and drinks at a minimum. If you absolutely cannot go without your morning coffee, rinse with water afterwards and brush your teeth after a half an hour (brushing too soon after eating or drinking can lead to acid erosion). You may also want to try sipping dark beverages through a straw to minimize contact.

To learn more about the professional whitening procedures we use, be sure to contact us. To set up an appointment with The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in our Oyster Bay, NY office, call us at (516) 922-5730 or visit our website, www.oysterbaydentists.com. 

Facial Prosthetics

Cancer can take a lot from you, sometimes including your confidence. The Oyster Bay Family Dentists of Oyster Bay, NY want to help our patients who have lost a facial feature to regain their confidence. This is why we provide prosthetics.

Unfortunately, during your battle with cancer, there may be surgery needed to remove the cancerous lesion. Surgery following a traumatic injury can result in the same condition. In the case where facial features are lost or altered, patients may not feel like themselves. It is our goal to create realistic prosthetics to help our patients look and feel like themselves again.

We can create prosthetics for the following areas:

• Nose


• Ear


• Eye


• Orbital with Ocular

Our expert doctors work to create a prosthetic that will look and feel like your own. We have been helping patients who are healing from cancer or another trauma look like themselves again here in our Oyster Bay, NY office.

If you are in the process of healing from the removal of part or all of your nose, ear, eye, or orbital, we can help you. To schedule an appointment in our Oyster Bay, NY office, call us at (516) 922-5730. Appointments may also be made through The Oyster Bay Family Dentists website, www.oysterbaydentists.com. 

Choosing the Right Toothpaste

When stepping foot into the dental health aisle at the drugstore, our staff at The Oyster Bay Family Dentist understands that the selections of toothpaste can be overwhelming. Should you go for tartar control, fluoride, sensitive, or whitening toothpaste? How do you decide? When it comes to choosing the toothpaste that is best for you, it’s important to consider your unique oral health needs. The best way to discover what those are is by scheduling an oral exam with one of our doctors here in Oyster Bay, NY. In the meantime, here are some options to consider while browsing:

• ·        Anti-cavity: This type of toothpaste contains fluoride. Fluoride plays an active role in preventing decay, and it actively strengthens tooth enamel.


• Anti-gingivitis: If you spit blood in the sink, this is an early sign of gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease. Anti-gingivitis toothpaste helps reduce oral bacteria and can be very effective at stopping gingivitis in its tracks.


• Desensitizing: If you’ve ever bit into an ice cream cone and felt a sharp pain in your tooth’s nerve, this type of toothpaste will provide relief by blocking the tooth’s pain signal to the nerve.


• Tartar-control: This toothpaste does exact what it says, however, the best way to remove tartar is by scheduling a professional dental cleaning with one of our doctors.


• Whitening: This toothpaste contains chemicals that are able to help maintain the natural color of your teeth.

If you have questions regarding oral hygiene, don’t hesitate to give us a call. To learn about services we provide at our practice, visit www.oysterbaydentists.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists of Oyster Bay, NY, call 516-922-5730.

Stages of Gum Disease

If you want to keep your permanent teeth for a lifetime, then you need to practice a proper oral hygiene routine on a daily basis. If you don’t, you’re already headed down the road toward gum disease. Gum disease is an inflammation of the gums that can progress to affect the bone that surrounds and supports your teeth and there are three stages that you need to be aware of. You should always schedule professional cleanings and oral exams with The Oyster Bay Family Dentists twice a year to avoid this condition.

• Gingivitis – This is the earliest stage of gum disease, an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup at the gum line. If daily brushing and flossing do not remove the plaque, it produces toxins that can irritate the gum tissue, causing gingivitis. This is when you’ll notice blood in the sink after you complete your brushing routine. However, at this early stage, damage can be reversed, since the bone and connective tissue that hold the teeth in place are not yet affected.


• Periodontitis – This is the second stage of gum disease. By this point, the supporting bone and fibers that hold your teeth in place are irreversibly damaged. Your gums may even begin to form a pocket below the gum line, which traps food and plaque.


• Advanced Periodontitis – This is the final stage of gum disease, and the fibers and bone supporting your teeth are officially destroyed. In this case, your teeth may begin to shift or loosen and your bite may also be affected. If aggressive treatment can’t save them, the teeth will need to be extracted.

If you experience gum inflammation, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about services we provide at our practice, visit www.oysterbaydentists.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists of Oyster Bay, NY, call 516-922-5730. 

Rotary Endodontics for Smoother Root Canals

With the technological advances in dental equipment, many dental procedures have changed over the years. One of these advances we use here in our office called rotary endodontics has improved the process of a root canal, making the procedure, quicker, quieter, and more comfortable. Root canals used to have a scary reputation, which is why The Oyster Bay Family Dentists of Oyster Bay, NY have chosen to utilize rotary endodontics.

In the past, performing a root canal included using a manual file made of steel. Rotary endodontics uses an electric drill that has a much more flexible file made of titanium alloy. The more flexible file lets us drill deep into the root canal without stretching or damage. This means a much more comfortable experience during and after a root canal. Root canals are now usually no more uncomfortable than having a cavity filled. Rotary endodontics also make root canals a much quieter process, so those who get anxious about hearing the drilling will be able to relax more. Rotary endodontics also makes the process of a root canal quicker, a benefit for both the patient and the dentist.

Our patients' comfort and health are our top priorities which is why we choose to update our office with advanced technology. To learn more about the technology we use here in our Oyster Bay, NY office, call The Oyster Bay Family Dentists at (516) 922-5730 or visit our website, www.oysterbaydentists.com. 

Ridge Augmentation

When teeth are not replaced soon after they go missing, the bone tissue that used to hold the tooth in place starts to deteriorate. When the ridge becomes smaller, this makes it difficult to place successful dental implants. The Oyster Bay Family Dentists of Oyster Bay, NY perform ridge augmentations for those who lost bone tissue so dental implants are a replacement option.

Dental implants are often considered the best option for replacement as they are able to last a lifetime. If the ridge where the implant is placed into has lost bone tissue, the implants will not hold in place. While replacing the tooth as soon as possible is ideal, sometimes when a tooth goes missing, a patient may not have the money, insurance, or time to have an implant installed. This is why we offer ridge augmentation, to make dental implants possible again when patients are ready for them.

Ridge augmentation involves taking bone graft material and placing it where the bone has been lost. The area is stitched up and allowed to heal for a few months before the implant is placed. During this time, the bone graft material will also promote the ridge to grow even more. When the ridge is healed, it will be big and strong enough to hold a dental implant.

To learn more about ridge augmentation, contact us or visit our website. To set up an appointment with The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in Oyster Bay, NY, call us at (516) 922-5730 or visit our website, www.oysterbaydentists.com. 

Handling Dental Emergencies

At The Oyster Bay Family Dentists, we understand that accidents happen and knowing what to do when one occurs can mean the difference between saving and losing a tooth. If you or your child experience some sort of trauma to your mouth for whatever reason, please give us a call immediately. Meanwhile, in the midst of a dental emergency, utilize these tips to ensure a smooth recovery. 

• For a knocked-out permanent or adult tooth, keep it moist at all times. If you can, try placing the tooth back in the socket without touching the root. If that’s not possible, place it between your cheek and gums, or use a tooth preservation product that has the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of acceptance.


• For a cracked tooth, immediately rinse the mouth with warm water to clean the area.


• If you bite your tongue or lip, clean the area gently with water and apply a cold compress.


• For toothaches, rinse the mouth with warm water to clean it out. Gently use dental floss to remove any food caught between teeth.

To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.oysterbaydentists.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with The Oyster Bay Family Dentists of Oyster Bay, NY, call 516-922-5730.

Tips for a Nice Smile

The Oyster Bay Family Dentists offer a wide variety of cosmetic options to improve the appearance and health of your smile and with instant photo sharing taking over the internet, we always want you to be camera-ready. However, if there is any reason you can’t go the cosmetic route at this moment, we’d like to provide you with some tips that will help you show off the smile you already have!

• Be natural – when it’s picture time, smile gently. That way, your face looks relaxed. Your mouth opens slightly, and your lower lip matches the curve of your upper teeth.


• Check your teeth and gums – getting your smile camera-ready sometimes calls for a little behind the scenes prep work. If your pearly whites have yellowed with age, try an over-the-counter whitening product or pay us a visit! Also, don’t forget about taking care of your gums. They play a critical role in your nice smile. So keep them in good shape by brushing, flossing, and rinsing with a mouthwash every day.


• Practice – your perfect smile may not happen overnight, but if you have a big photo event like a wedding or a graduation coming up, it doesn’t hurt to try out your grin in front of the mirror!

If you wish to enhance the appearance of your smile, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.oysterbaydentists.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with The Oyster Bay Family Dentists of Oyster Bay, NY, call 516-922-5730.

Cracked Tooth Syndrome

If you grind or clench your teeth on a daily basis, you may be putting yourself at risk for cracked tooth syndrome. Unlike teeth with obvious fractures, teeth with cracked tooth syndrome usually have fractures that are microscopic and difficult to identify on X-rays. Sometimes, the fracture will develop below the gum line, making it even more difficult to identify. Fortunately, our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists can perform a thorough examination of your oral cavity to detect and treat the problem if it occurs.

You may suffer from cracked tooth syndrome without knowing because the pain is not always consistent when present. The tooth may be painful only when you eat certain foods or when you bite in a specific way. To diagnose the problem, our doctors may use a sharp instrument called an explorer to feel for cracks in the tooth and will inspect the gums around the tooth for irregularities. He or she may also take X-rays although X-rays often do not show the crack.

If you have a tooth that is causing you pain, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.oysterbaydentists.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists of Oyster Bay, NY call 516-922-5730.

Senior Teeth Care

As we age, our bodies become weaker and the same applies to our teeth. If you are over the age of 60, maintaining good oral health habits now is especially important because unhealthy bacteria in the mouth not only can harm your teeth and gums, but they may be associated with serious medical conditions. Regardless of age, however, our staff at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists of Oyster Bay, NY encourages you to visit us at least twice a year for dental exams and professional cleanings.

Even if you brush and floss regularly, you may face certain issues in your senior years when it comes to your oral health. This is because advancing age puts many seniors at risk for a number of oral health issues, such as darkened teeth, dry mouth, root decay, gum disease, and a diminished sense of taste. Even at 55 plus years, adults can still develop tooth or root decay if gum recession has occurred. To summarize, you only get one set of permanent teeth, so it’s crucial to take care of them for our entire lives. Don’t forget to brush and floss your teeth daily!

If you or a loved one is due for a dental exam, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.oysterbaydentists.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists of Oyster Bay, NY call 516-922-5730.

Common Reasons for Tooth Extractions

As much as you may think our staff at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists of Oyster Bay, NY enjoys pulling teeth, it’s truly no pleasure of ours. In fact, before one of our doctors even considers extraction, every effort will be made to repair and restore your tooth first. However, sometimes tooth extractions are unavoidable. Although permanent teeth are meant to last a lifetime, this isn’t always the case. You’re probably most familiar with wisdom teeth extractions, but aside from wisdom teeth removal, other reasons for extractions may include:

• Severe tooth damage/trauma – some teeth have such extensive decay and damage (broken or cracked) that repair is not possible.


• Orthodontic treatment – people getting braces may need teeth extracted to create room for teeth that are being moved into place.


• Some teeth may need to be extracted if they have the potential of becoming infected.


• Extra teeth – extra teeth may block other teeth from erupting, therefore, will require extraction.

If you have a tooth that is causing you pain, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.oysterbaydentists.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists of Oyster Bay, NY call 516-922-5730.

Are You Cleaning Your Tongue?

Keeping your mouth clean is vital to your oral and overall health. The Oyster Bay Family Dentists of Oyster Bay, NY want to make sure our patients are doing all they can to maintain a healthy mouth. If you are not brushing your tongue already, read on to find out why you should!

The tongue is filled with those tiny taste buds that can collect and hang on to bacteria and debris. Just like how a layer of plaque can form on teeth, a film of bacteria can also form on the tongue. It can contribute to more cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.

To clean your tongue, you just need a simple toothbrush. You can use the same toothbrush you use to brush your teeth. Some patients prefer to use a tongue scraper, which is also fine. Take the toothbrush or scraper and place it at the back of your tongue. Press down firmly and drag the toothbrush down your tongue to the tip. Keeping doing this until your tongue looks clean. Rinse off the toothbrush with each stroke. You should brush your tongue every time you brush your teeth.

To learn more about dental hygiene or to schedule your exam and cleaning, call The Oyster Bay Family Dentists of Oyster Bay, NY at (516) 922-5730 or visit our website, www.oysterbaydentists.com. 

Cosmetic Periodontal Surgery

While there are many ways to improve your smile through your teeth, we have some patients who are unhappy with their smile for a different reason. “Gummy smile” or recessed gums can often make teeth appear too short or too long. This is why here in Oyster Bay, NY, The Oyster Bay Family Dentists perform cosmetic periodontal surgery.

We know that a perfect smile is a route to great confidence. When you are self-conscious about smiling or laughing, it can really have an effect on your self-esteem. For those with excess gum tissue, uneven gum lines, or recessed gums, cosmetic periodontal surgery can help you.

Cosmetic periodontal surgery consists of gum grafts, crown lengthening, or both. When gums have shrunk due to gum disease or genes, we can take a soft tissue graft from another area of your mouth and place it where the gums are needed. They heal into a beautiful and healthy gum line. In other cases where there is too much gum tissue that makes teeth appear short, we can simply remove the excess gums and create a new gum line that shows off more of your teeth. In certain cases where the gum line is very uneven, we will use both procedures.

If you are unhappy with your gum line, you do not have to leave it the way it is. To schedule a consultation with The Oyster Bay Family Dentists of Oyster Bay, NY, call our office at (516) 922-5730 or visit our website, www.oysterbaydentists.com. 

Gum Grafting in Oyster Bay, NY

Gum disease can leave gums with deep pockets and irreversible recession. After gum disease is cleared up, it is essential to fix damaged gums to avoid another infection. The Oyster Bay Family Dentists of Oyster Bay, NY perform gum grafting for their patients with recessed gums.

The gums should fit around the teeth snugly. They should be loose enough so you can floss, but tight enough so that bacteria and other debris cannot fall down into them. Gum disease is a major contributor to gum recession, although it is not the only case where patients have recessed gums. Some patients just have the genes for a smaller amount of gum tissue.

In order to add gum tissue and cover the exposed tooth roots, we take soft tissue from the palate or from another area of the gums and move it over to where extra tissue is needed. We stitch the gums down so that they can heal and promote further gum growth. The end result is a healthy gum line that keeps bacteria out.

To learn more about gum recession and gum grafting, schedule a consultation with us. You can schedule a consultation in our Oyster Bay, NY office by calling (516) 922-5730 or by visiting The Oyster Bay Family Dentists website, www.oysterbaydentists.com. 

How to Get Kids to Happily Brush and Floss

Getting kids to brush and floss their teeth isn’t always easy, but it is so important. Strong oral hygiene skills built at a young age will carry on through adulthood. The Oyster Bay Family Dentists of Oyster Bay, NY want to give our patients ideas for making dental care a little more interesting for kids.

Interactive games are great ways to teach kids about almost anything. Use safe online resources like games and fun videos to teach your child why it is important to brush, floss, and visit the dentist. They will have fun and get a better understanding for why dental health is essential.

Games at home are also another good way to get kids brushing. Make a “monkey-see-monkey-do” game out of it. Brush and floss your own teeth in the mirror alongside your kids and have them copy you. Kids love to imitate and see it as a fun game. At the same time, they will be learning the proper way to brush!

Use something fun to keep track of the time they spend brushing. A musical timer or a toothbrush that plays music can often entice your child to participate in brushing. You want to be sure that they are not only brushing but doing a thorough job.

Kids’ oral health is important because their baby teeth are the place markers for their future adult teeth! To schedule your child’s next appointment with The Oyster Bay Family Dentists here in Oyster Bay, NY, call our office at (516) 922-5730 or visit our website, www.oysterbaydentists.com. 

Pocket Reduction Surgery

Gum pockets from gum disease can perpetuate the infection. They allow bacteria to reach deep down into the gums and make it difficult for removal. To clear up gum disease when pockets have been formed, often, a pocket reduction is necessary. The Oyster Bay Family Dentists of Oyster Bay, NY are experienced in pocket reduction surgery and we perform it right here in our office.

Gum pockets are formed when plaque and tartar irritate the gum tissues and cause the tissue to pull away from the teeth. These now receded gums have formed deep pockets where bacteria collect. The gums need to be fixed so that they are snug with the tooth. They need to be accessible for daily cleaning but snug enough so that bacteria cannot enter them.

Pocket reduction surgery will be performed after a scaling and planing procedure. This procedure removes the bacteria from under the gums and smooths down rough patches on teeth where bacteria could hide. The pocket reduction surgery then involves securing the gum tissue back in a natural place. We stitch them into place to heal in a natural line.

Gum disease is detrimental to your oral health. To schedule an appointment with The Oyster Bay Family Dentists of Oyster Bay, NY, give our office a call at (516) 922-5730. Appointments may also be made through our website, www.oysterbaydentists.com. 

Occlusal Adjustments in Oyster Bay, NY

Patients with a sore jaw after chewing, sensitive areas in the mouth, and easily injured teeth may have a misaligned bite. This can cause major pain, damage, and trouble eating. Fortunately, The Oyster Bay Family Dentists of Oyster Bay, NY can perform occlusal adjustments on our patients right here in our office!

An occlusal adjustment makes minor changes to the teeth so that they can line up correctly. When teeth are misaligned, biting and chewing can create uneven pressure on the jaw. The jaw joints and the muscles surrounding them can become fatigued and sore. Teeth also experience unnatural pressure. They can become worn down in areas which can lead to sensitivity and injury. Fractures are common with misaligned teeth.

In order to correct this problem, we use advanced computer technology to detect the abnormalities in the bite. We can precisely identify areas of the mouth that need adjustments. To adjust these areas, we use a very fine filling stone. Our technology allows us to make the adjustments as accurately as possible so that there is not any extra enamel being filed than is needed.

If you are experiencing an uneven feeling jaw, soreness and sensitivity, you may want to come in for a visit. To schedule with The Oyster Bay Family Dentists here in Oyster Bay, NY, call our office at (516) 922-5730 or visit our website, www.oysterbaydentists.com. 

Tender Teeth

Does eating anything hot or cold make you say, “Ouch?” If so, you may have what’s known as tooth sensitivity. The first step to reducing your pain is to improve your oral hygiene routine. If you are not brushing at least twice a day or flossing at least once a day, then our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists recommend that you start. However, if your oral hygiene routine is at its prime, we’d like you to take into consideration what might be causing this mouth malady.

• You’re brushing too hard – over time, if you brush with too much force, you can wear down the protective layers of your teeth and expose the microscopic hollow tubes or canals that lead to your dental nerves. When these tubules are exposed, tooth sensitivity is a result.


• You’re eating too many acidic foods – If the pathways to your nerves are exposed, acidic foods will cause you pain.


• You have tooth decay – If you have tooth decay, it’s easy for bacteria to accumulate in these tiny crevices, which causes acid build-up and enamel breakdown.


• You’re a tooth grinder – Grinding your teeth can wear down your enamel. This exposes the dentin and causes sensitive teeth.

If your teeth are tender to the touch, please give us a call. To learn more about dental hygiene as well as the services we provide at the practice, visit www.oysterbaydentists.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in Oyster Bay, NY, call 516-922-5730.

Types of Teeth and Their Functions

Most of us know how important it is to look after our teeth, but how many of you know what the different types and their functions are? As humans, we have 32 permanent teeth (including wisdom teeth) and a total of 20 primary teeth. These choppers just don’t help us bite and chew, they play an important role in speaking and support many aspects of our facial structure.

Our staff at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists thought it would be neat to inform you about the four main tooth types in the mouth and their responsibilities. We’d also like to remind you to take care of them by brushing and flossing on a daily basis!

• Incisors – located at the front of the mouth, these teeth have a sharp biting surface and are used for cutting or shearing food into small chewable pieces.


• Canines – located at the ‘corners’ of the dental arches, these teeth have a sharp pointed biting surface. Their function is to grip and tear food.


• Premolars – Unlike incisors and canines, these teeth have a flat biting surface. Their function is to tear and crush food.


• Molars – The molars are the largest teeth in the mouth and they too have a large flat biting surface. The function of these is perhaps the strongest of all as they chew, crush, and grind food.

If you have questions about your pearly whites, don’t hesitate to give us a call. To learn more about dental hygiene as well as the services we provide at the practice, visit www.oysterbaydentists.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in Oyster Bay, NY, call 516-922-5730.

Don’t Let Tartar Torture You

If you’ve ever licked your tongue and felt something fuzzy on your teeth, that fuzzy business is called plaque. When plaque is not removed in a timely manner, it sits on the teeth and mineralizes into tartar. Tartar is a mineral buildup that’s fairly easy to see, if above the gum line. However, you don’t want it there because it can lead to more serious conditions, such as cavities and gum disease. Once tartar forms on your teeth our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists are the only ones who can remove it. This is one of the reasons why it’s important to schedule regular dental checkups twice a year.

Tartar can make it harder to brush and floss like you should and this is what leads to cavities and tooth decay. Any tartar that forms above your gum line can be harmful to you. That’s because the bacteria in it can irritate and damage your gums. Your best bet for preventing tartar buildup is to brush regularly twice a day, choosing an American Dental Association (ADA) approved tartar-control toothpaste, and flossing between your teeth at least once a day.

If you have questions regarding your oral hygiene routine, please give us a call. To learn more about dental health as well as services we provide at the practice, visit www.oysterbaydentists.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in Oyster Bay, NY, call 516-922-5730.

The Proper Brushing Technique

Here at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists, we want you to keep your permanent teeth for a lifetime and this begins by brushing them twice a day for at least two minutes. We know that two minutes sounds dreadful and you probably think you’re wasting your time, however, if you don’t look forward to the dental drill, you might want to prevent cavities before they begin. The most important part of tooth care begins at home, so the next time you stand in front of the sink, utilize this American Dental Association (ADA) approved brushing technique:

• Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against the gums.


• Move the brush back and forth gently in short (tooth-wide) strokes.


• Brush the outer tooth surfaces, the inner tooth surfaces, and the chewing surfaces of the teeth.


• Use the tip of the brush to clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, using a gentle up-and-down stroke.


• Brush your tongue to remove bacteria.

If you have questions regarding your oral hygiene routine, please give us a call. To learn more about dental health as well as services we provide at the practice, visit www.oysterbaydentists.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in Oyster Bay, NY, call 516-922-5730.