Taking a Closer Look at Dental Anxiety

Many people never go to the dentist because they are nervous about having dental work done. Unfortunately, ignoring oral health issues will only make them worse. Gingivitis is easily reversed, for example, but advanced periodontal disease requires far more intensive treatment. If you’ve been delaying an appointment because of your nerves, it’s time to talk with your dentist about sedation dentistry.

This video introduces the concept of sedation dentistry. Patients can use a sedative, such as laughing gas or an oral medication, to help them feel better about sitting in the dentist’s chair. While sedated, time will seem to pass more quickly and few to no memories of the experience will be retained.

With sedation dentistry available in NYC, there’s no reason to be nervous about your upcoming dentist appointment. Just call Park 56 Dental at (646) 783-3529.

Which Foods Are the Healthiest for Your Teeth?

Every January, countless people make New Year’s resolutions to lose weight and eat healthier. As an added bonus, many of the same foods that are good for your waistline are also good for your teeth. Dentists recommend eating plenty of fresh, natural foods that are low in sugar and high in calcium. Leafy greens, fruits, and nuts are all at the top of the list.

Apples

Apples are naturally sweet, making them a great alternative to desserts and snacks with added sugar. By choosing an apple instead of a few cookies, you’ll reduce the amount of sugar your teeth are exposed to, which can help fight tooth decay. Apples have other benefits as well. The crunchy, fibrous texture of the apple stimulates the gums and triggers the production of saliva. Saliva is important for washing away particles of food and bacteria.

Leafy Greens

Dairy products aren’t the only foods that are high in calcium. Leafy greens like kale and spinach are also chock-full of this important mineral, which helps keep your teeth and bones strong. Look for ways of incorporating more leafy greens into your diet, such as by adding spinach to your tacos or pizza. When you make salads, you can make your own sugar-free salad dressing from olive oil, vinegar, and freshly cracked pepper.

Almonds

Almonds are often included on lists of superfoods. They contain lots of calcium and protein to help protect your teeth. And since they are naturally free of added sugar, almonds make the perfect snack or salad topper.

Cheese

While cheese is too high in calories to be considered a diet food, it’s actually very good for your teeth. Enjoy small amounts of cheese in moderation to boost your calcium intake. Cheese may also offer a protective benefit beyond its calcium content. Research suggests that eating cheese will raise the pH level of the mouth, which reduces the risk of enamel erosion and tooth decay.

Even if you follow a smile-friendly diet, it’s still important to get a professional teeth cleaning every six months. Park 56 Dental provides comprehensive preventive, general, and restorative dentistry services. You can call our dental clinic in NYC at (646) 783-3529 to request an appointment.

How Long Does Laughing Gas Last?

If you have mild dental anxiety, your dentist may recommend nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas. This is the mildest level of sedation dentistry. It won’t put you to sleep, and you’ll still be able to respond to the dentist’s requests and questions. Laughing gas has an excellent track record of safety in both adults and children.

About five minutes before beginning the procedure, the dentist will apply a face mask to administer the inhaled gas. You’ll start feeling relaxed within a matter of minutes. Once the dental procedure is completed, the dentist will turn off the gas. You may continue to receive oxygen for a few minutes, which will help you regain alertness faster. Generally, it only takes a few minutes to shake off the effects of the gas. However, for safety’s sake, the office staff may ask you to remain for about 15 minutes to ensure that you’re fully alert before driving.

The team at Park 56 Dental is certified and licensed to administer sedation dentistry in NYC. Schedule an appointment today by calling a friendly staff member at (646) 783-3529.

How to Get the Most from Your Invisalign Treatment

Invisalign can dramatically improve your smile without the need for metal brackets and wires. However, to get the best possible results, it’s important to follow the strategies recommended by your dentist for getting the most out of your treatment. Your dentist will review the ins and outs of Invisalign with you. This information will also help you maximize your treatment results.

Wear Your Aligners

One of the things that patients like the most about Invisalign is that the aligners can be removed for eating and for brushing and flossing. However, this clear benefit can have a downside if you aren’t vigilant about wearing your retainers as much as possible. You should aim to wear your aligners at least 22 hours per day. If you don’t, not only is it likely that your treatment time will be extended, but also the condition you’re treating may get worse. If each set of new aligners seems to fit worse the last, then there is a good chance you haven’t been wearing them consistently enough.

Avoid the Chewing Habit

Many people have a habit of chewing on pen lids, nails, ice, and other non-food items. Although it may seem harmless, this habit is bad for your teeth and a disaster for your Invisalign aligners. It’s important to focus on breaking this habit when you’re undergoing Invisalign treatment, so that your aligners stay snug against your teeth and they don’t become damaged.

Wear Your Retainer

Your aligners are just part of your Invisalign treatment plan. Once your teeth are in the desired positions, your retainer will help to keep them there. Wearing your retainer is critical to ensuring that your teeth don’t shift back to their previous positions, so follow your dentist’s instructions regarding your retainer carefully.

Are you interested in learning more about how Invisalign could help you get the smile you want? Schedule an appointment at Park 56 Dental to find out more about Invisalign in NYC and our other treatments. To make an appointment for a consultation, call (646) 783-3529.