Tuesday, August 30, 2016

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.

Wednesday, August 24, 2016

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.

Thursday, August 18, 2016

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.

Wednesday, August 10, 2016

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

Thursday, August 4, 2016

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