The Most Common Dental Problems

Good dental hygiene is essential for maintaining a healthy smile, but even the most diligent brushers and flossers are still prone to common dental problems. At Park 56 Dental in New York, we believe that knowledge is power when it comes to protecting your teeth and gums. Read on to learn more about the most common dental issues, as well as tips for preventing them.

Cavities

Cavities occur when bacteria build up on teeth and produce acid that breaks down enamel, leading to a hole in the tooth. Many people mistakenly believe that only children get cavities, but adults can suffer from them as well. The best way to prevent cavities is to brush and floss regularly, use mouthwash after meals, eat healthy foods low in sugar and starch, and maintain regular check-ups with your dentist.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums caused by an accumulation of plaque at the gum line. It can lead to redness or swelling of the gums, bleeding while brushing or flossing, bad breath, and receding gums. To prevent gingivitis, make sure you’re brushing twice a day for two minutes each time using proper technique; use interdental cleaners such as picks or brushes; rinse daily with an antiseptic mouthwash; avoid smoking; and schedule regular dental cleanings every 6 months at Park 56 Dental in NYC.

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay occurs when bacteria builds up on tooth enamel due to poor oral hygiene habits or diet. It can cause sensitivity in cold or hot foods/drinks, pain when chewing food or biting down on hard objects like ice cubes or pens, discoloration of teeth (brown spots), visible holes in teeth (cavities), and bad breath. To reduce your risk of tooth decay, make sure you are:

• Brushing twice a day for two minutes each time with fluoride toothpaste.
• Flossing daily.
• Eating healthy foods low in sugar/starch.
• Avoiding sugary drinks like soda.
• Scheduling regular checkups with your dentist.
• Rinsing your mouth out with water after consuming any sugary snacks/drinks.

Stained Teeth

Stained teeth are often caused by drinking coffee, tea, or wine, smoking cigarettes, or cigars, or eating brightly colored foods like blueberries. They may also be caused by aging; as we get older, our enamel thins out and our teeth become more yellow or grayish in color.

Chipped Tooth

Chipped teeth occur when something hits your tooth hard enough for it to break off. This can lead to pain and swelling around the affected area if the nerve endings are exposed. A dentist at Park 56 Dental can fix it using bonding materials or a crown.

Impacted Teeth

An impacted tooth is one that doesn’t have enough room to grow properly due to overcrowding or misalignment of the other teeth in your mouth. Impacted teeth often appear crooked or stuck in place and may cause pain while eating or talking. If this happens, it’s best to see your dentist right away so they can assess the situation and recommend a treatment plan for you.

Cracked Tooth

A cracked tooth occurs when something hard hits your tooth with enough force to cause it to crack or break into pieces. This type of damage can range from extremely small cracks that don’t cause any pain but still need attention from your dentist at Park 56 Dental, all the way up to large cracks that require an emergency visit and possibly even root canal therapy.

Schedule an Appointment with Park 56 Dental Today!

Taking good care of your teeth is essential for maintaining good oral health over the long term and preventing more serious problems from developing down the road. By following these tips—and scheduling regular check-ups with Park 56 Dental in NYC—you can help ensure that your smile stays healthy now and into the future!

Issues That Can Cause Tooth Pain

Does your tooth hurt? You’re not alone. Millions of people suffer from tooth pain every year, and it can be a challenge to figure out the cause. Park 56 Dental in New York is here to help you sort through the possibilities. Let’s examine some of the common issues that can cause tooth pain.

Tooth Decay

One of the most common causes of toothache is decay or cavities in the teeth. When food particles remain on the teeth, they are broken down by bacteria which produce acids that erode away at tooth enamel. This eroding action causes holes in the teeth (cavities) which can be quite painful when exposed to hot or cold temperatures or when pressure is applied to them. Visiting your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings can help prevent this type of pain by catching any cavities early and treating them before they become too severe.

Gum Disease

Gum disease occurs when poor oral hygiene allows bacteria to build up on your teeth and gums, leading to inflammation and infection in the area around your teeth. Gum disease can lead to receding gums, loose teeth, bad breath, and even tooth loss if left untreated — not to mention plenty of painful symptoms! A good preventive measure for avoiding gum disease is to brush two times a day for two minutes each time, flossing once per day as well as seeing your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.

Infection

A dental infection occurs when bacteria enter an area inside or around a tooth where it doesn’t belong – such as an abscessed tooth/root canal or wisdom teeth coming through improperly – leading to swelling and pain. If an infection has reached this point, it will likely require professional treatment by a dentist such as antibiotics or even extraction in some cases. Regular visits with your dentist will help keep infections at bay by identifying any potential issues early on before they have a chance to escalate into something more serious requiring more intervention from your dental team.

How to Avoid Tooth Pain

One of the worst sensations is tooth pain; it’s sharp, agonizing, and often comes out of nowhere. Most tooth pain is caused by tooth decay or an abscessed tooth, but there are several steps people can take to help avoid toothaches. Brushing twice daily for two minutes, as well as flossing every day can help ensure that food does not get stuck in between teeth and cause issues. Additionally, remember to use toothpaste with fluoride; this helps protect the enamel on our teeth, which is the protective outer coating to the tooth. Also, be sure to rinse the mouth after meals, and stay away from sugary drinks and snacks. Too much sugar can erode tooth enamel over time. Taking these simple steps can help you prevent tooth pain in the long run.

Visit Park 56 Dental Today!

No one likes dealing with tooth pain, but unfortunately, it’s something that many people experience at some point in their lives. At Park 56 Dental in New York, we understand how difficult it can be when trying to identify what might be causing the discomfort. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or book online!

Simple Ways to Motivate You to Floss Every Day

Good oral hygiene is important for a healthy mouth, and one of the most effective ways to achieve it? That’s right—flossing! Flossing is one of the most important habits you can adopt to maintain good oral health. According to research, only 4 out of 10 adults floss daily and only 1 in 3 actually flosses correctly. Daily flossing helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. But sometimes it’s hard to remember to do it every day. So here are some simple motivators that might help you get into the habit of regular flossing.

Find a Flossing Product That Works for You

The type of floss you use matters! Many people don’t realize that different types of floss work differently for different types of teeth and mouth needs. Waxed, non-waxed, disposable floss sticks, electric or water flossers—there are so many options available! If one type of product isn’t working well with your teeth and gums, try another! Experiment with different products until you find the perfect one for your personal oral hygiene routine.

Keep Your Floss in Sight

If you have your dental floss handy, you are more likely to remember to use it every day! Try keeping an extra package at the office or even in your pocket or purse wherever you go. You should also keep a container on the sink or bathroom countertop as a constant reminder that it’s time to floss every day!

Set A Goal

One of the best ways to make sure you stick with something is to set a goal. Make a goal that you can realistically achieve, like “I will floss at least twice a week for the next month.” Once you reach that goal, reward yourself by doing something special or purchasing something nice! This will help motivate you to keep going and eventually make daily flossing part of your routine.

Create A Chart

If setting goals isn’t quite your thing, another way to motivate yourself is by creating a chart or calendar that tracks your progress. Every day after you floss, mark it off in your chart or on your calendar as a reminder that you achieved your goal for the day. Seeing this progress can give you an added boost of motivation and encouragement!

Use A Reminder App

If neither of these methods seem like they’d work for you, consider downloading a reminder app onto your phone or laptop. With this type of app, all you have to do is set the time when you want it to remind you each day–it could be right before bedtime, so it becomes part of your nighttime routine–and then just follow through with the action when the reminder goes off!

Get Flossing!

Flossing every day is an important part of maintaining good oral hygiene and overall health. And while remembering to do it can be difficult at times, there are several easy strategies available that can help motivate and remind us so that we don’t forget! Whether it’s setting goals and rewarding yourself for reaching them, using visuals like charts and calendars, or using apps on our phones for reminders—these simple strategies can help ensure we stick with our daily flossing routine.

If any questions remain about flossing or other dental-related topics such as teeth whitening services offered at Park 56 Dental in New York City, please contact us today!

Dental Issues That Can Trigger Headaches

A toothache can be extremely painful, and so can a headache. When they occur at the same time, it can be excruciating. Why does this happen? There can actually be a connection between dental issues and headaches. Here, we will take a closer look at why these two things are related and how dental issues can trigger headaches.

• The first factor that connects dental issues and headaches is the trigeminal nerve. This is one of the largest nerves in your head and provides sensation to most of your face. It is also the nerve that relays pain signals for almost all headaches and toothaches. That’s why a toothache or damage to a tooth can lead to a migraine. The pain in the affected tooth irritates the trigeminal nerve, and that causes a migraine headache, with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
• If you grind your teeth, it can cause referred pain in the head. This means that even though you feel the pain in your head, it doesn’t actually have anything to do with your head. Why does this happen? It actually goes back to the trigeminal nerve. When you grind your teeth, the sensation travels through the nerve and causes a headache. Even if you don’t get a headache, though, tooth grinding, also called bruxism, can cause jaw and face pain, as well as damage to your teeth.
• Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) is a major cause of headaches. With TMJ, a problem with the jaw joint and surrounding muscle causes pain, not just in the joint and muscles, but also in teeth and head. There are two temporomandibular joints, and these are the joints that connect your jaw to your skull. When you clench your jaw or grind your teeth, it can cause TMJ pain, and so can chewing gum and other things that cause your jaw to work harder to chew. If your bite is misaligned or you are missing a tooth, your jaw muscles will have to work harder when you chew, and this can become painful. If TMJ is causing you to have headaches or migraines, your dentist will be able to determine this by examining your teeth, jaw, and muscles.
• An infection can trigger nerve pain. If you have a broken or decayed tooth, you can develop a bacterial infection. When that happens, the bacteria can invade the pulp chamber of the tooth, destroying the sensitive pulp and causing pain, fever, and swelling. If bacteria invade the jaw, an abscess can result, and this can lead to further complications, like a sinus infection or, worse, a serious condition like meningitis or an infection in a major organ.

Preventing dental issues can help prevent headaches, and a big part of keeping your mouth healthy is having the right dentist. At Park 56 Dental Group, we offer pediatric, prosthodontics, endodontics, oral surgery, Invisalign®, emergency, and sedation dentistry, all at the highest level of treatment. We serve the Midtown, Central Park, Upper East Side, Park Avenue, and all surrounding Manhattan and New York areas, with a patient-centered practice that has hours to fit your schedule. Schedule your complimentary consultation today by contacting us online or calling us at (212) 826-2322.

The Link Between Dental Health and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic inflammatory condition, happens when the immune system attacks bodily tissues instead of an invading organism. This ailment primarily affects the joints, and it can also impact other body systems. However, what you may not know is that rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can complicate your dental health.

What does RA have to do with your mouth? Scientists have long been investigating a link between RA and periodontal disease. Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a condition that inflames the gums, causing them to pull away from the teeth, which leaves the teeth vulnerable to plaque, cavities, and, ultimately, tooth decay. About 35 percent of the general population has gum disease, but a recent study from John Hopkins Arthritis Center shows that, for RA patients, that number jumps to 70 percent.

What’s the connection? It comes down to inflammation. Because rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory disease, it makes sense that it would contribute to the gum inflammation of periodontal disease. There’s more to it than that, though. Research indicates that the same bacteria that cause periodontal disease can also trigger RA. Infection caused by this particular type of bacteria can prompt an inflammatory response that causes rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. So, even as the inflammation of RA can contribute to gum inflammation, poor dental health can lead to symptoms of RA.

How can you use this information to your benefit? A recent study found that when people who suffered from severe rheumatoid arthritis treated their gum disease, their RA side effects improved. Further, as doctors and dentists learn more about the specific bacteria that can be triggers for both gum disease and RA, it will become easier to identify people at risk for rheumatoid arthritis before they even experience any symptoms.

Inflammation from rheumatoid arthritis can contribute to other dental conditions as well, like Sjogren’s Syndrome, which decreases the moisture in your eyes and mouth. Sjogren’s Syndrome can also lead to dysfunction of major organs, so if you have RA, it’s important to have your dentist check your salivary flow to rule out Sjogren’s Syndrome. TMJ disorders can also be aggravated by RA inflammation.

What can you do to protect your health? While most people should have a dental check-up and teeth cleaning twice a year, those with a family history of rheumatoid arthritis should probably go more often. Your dentist can identify an increase in gum inflammation that may be a warning sign for RA and may be able to help you prevent symptoms.

Caring for your dental and overall health starts with finding the right dentist. At Park 56 Dental Group, we offer pediatric, prosthodontics, endodontics, oral surgery, Invisalign®, emergency, and sedation dentistry, all at the highest level of treatment. We serve the Midtown, Central Park, Upper East Side, Park Avenue, and all surrounding Manhattan and New York areas, with a patient-centered practice that has hours to fit your schedule. Schedule your complimentary consultation today by contacting us online or calling us at (212) 826-2322.

Dental Health Resolutions for 2023

It’s that time of year again, when people make their New Year’s resolutions. What’s your goal for the year? Most people choose something that has to do with their health, but too few make dental health resolutions. This year, why not shake things up and improve your dental health? Here are some suggestions for you, of dental health resolutions for 2023.

• Keep up with the basics. Brush your teeth twice a day, and pay attention to your technique. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, held at a 45-degree angle to the gumline, brush your teeth gently, for at least two minutes, using circular motions to clean off plaque and bacteria without damaging your gums. Floss at least once each day, using a water flosser or traditional string floss. Keeping up with these simple habits will not only reduce your risk of tooth decay, but can also lower your risk of serious illnesses like cardiac disease or even Alzheimer’s.
• Swap sweet drinks for water. Reducing your sugar intake is important for your oral health, and sugary drinks are at the top of the list of things to avoid. Because sweet drinks prolong your teeth’s exposure to sugar, they do significantly more damage than other kinds of sugary treats. Drinking water, on the other hand, is good for your oral health as well as your overall health. When you’re well-hydrated, you produce the right amount of saliva, and drinking water during the day helps keep your teeth clean between brushings. What’s more, tap water has added fluoride, which can strengthen your tooth enamel.
• Improve your diet. Eating a more nutritious diet may already be on your New Year’s resolution list, especially if you’re trying to lose weight. What you may not realize, though, is that eating well is a big part of maintaining good dental health. The nutrients you consume when you eat fruit, vegetables, legumes, and nuts can protect against inflammation and bacteria, and this helps keep your teeth and gums healthy. Raw fruits and vegetables help remove plaque from your teeth, and dairy products contribute calcium that strengthens your teeth.
• Say no to smoking. Actually, say no to all tobacco products! Using tobacco causes bad breath, tooth discoloration, cavities, gum disease, and many other health conditions, including throat, lung, and oral cancer. Smokers are also more likely to lose their teeth than other people. Make this the year you quit, seeking professional help if you need to, and your health will begin to improve.
• Reduce dry mouth. Saliva plays an important role in maintaining your oral health. Not only does it wash away food and debris, but it actually helps strengthen your enamel and neutralize your mouth’s pH level. If you have dry mouth, it can lead to dental problems, so combat it by drinking plenty of water, chewing sugar free gum, drinking milk or consuming dairy products, and limiting alcohol consumption. You can also talk to your dentist about medications you’re taking and if they could be causing this problem.
• Make a habit of seeing your dentist. Having a dental check-up and cleaning twice a year helps keep your teeth clean and healthy. What’s more, seeing you every six months allows your dentist to spot minor issues more easily, before they turn into serious problems. This will save you not just pain and inconvenience, but also money, since major dental issues can be far more expensive than simple maintenance. Your dentist can also recommend treatments to address any dental problems you may be experiencing, like an improper bite or damaged tooth.

At Park 56 Dental Group, we offer pediatric, prosthodontics, endodontics, oral surgery, Invisalign®, emergency, and sedation dentistry, all at the highest level of treatment. We serve the Midtown, Central Park, Upper East Side, Park Avenue, and all surrounding Manhattan and New York areas, with a patient-centered practice that has hours to fit your schedule. Schedule your complimentary consultation today by contacting us online or calling us at (212) 826-2322.

How to Avoid Wisdom Teeth Infections

Many people experience wisdom teeth infections at some point in their lives. While wisdom teeth are not necessary, they can cause problems if they do not come in properly. If your wisdom teeth are impacted or crowded, they may be more likely to develop an infection. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid wisdom teeth infection. In this blog post, we will discuss the symptoms, risks, causes, and treatment of wisdom teeth infections as well as how to avoid them.

What Are the Symptoms of a Wisdom Tooth Infection?

Wisdom tooth infections can cause several different symptoms. These symptoms may include pain, swelling, redness, and difficulty opening your mouth. You may also experience bad breath, a foul taste in your mouth, and a fever. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should see a doctor as soon as possible.

What Are the Risks of a Wisdom Tooth Infection?

Wisdom tooth infections can lead to several complications if they are not treated properly. These complications may include damage to the surrounding teeth, jawbone loss, and tissue death. If the infection spreads to other parts of the body, it can potentially be fatal. Therefore, it is very important to see a doctor if you think you may have an infection.

What Causes Wisdom Teeth Infection?

There are several things that can contribute to wisdom teeth infection. Impacted or crowded teeth are more likely to develop an infection because they are difficult to clean properly. If you have diabetes or a weakened immune system, you may also be more susceptible to developing an infection.

How to Treat an Infection

If you think you may have a wisdom tooth infection, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible so that you can begin treatment. The most common treatment for wisdom tooth infection is antibiotic therapy. Antibiotics can help kill the bacteria that are causing the infection and reduce inflammation. Sometimes surgery is necessary to remove the infected tooth or drain the abscess that has formed.

How to Avoid an Infection

The best way to avoid wisdom tooth infection is to practice good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly. Brush and floss your teeth twice a day and try to avoid eating sugary or sticky foods that can get stuck in your teeth. If your wisdom teeth are impacted or crowded, your dentist may recommend having them removed before they have a chance to become infected.

When Should I See a Doctor?

If you think you may have a wisdom tooth infection, it is important that you see a doctor right away so that your condition does not worsen. Your doctor will likely perform a physical examination and take x-rays of your mouth to make a diagnosis. He or she will then determine what course of treatment is best for you based on the severity of your condition.

Contact Park 56 Dental Today!

Wisdom teeth infections can be painful and dangerous if left untreated. It is important to practice good oral hygiene and see your dentist regularly in order prevent them. Be sure see your doctor right away if any of the following symptoms: pain, swelling, redness, difficulty opening your mouth, bad breath, foul taste in mouth, or fever. These could be signs of an underlying problem requiring immediate medical attention.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned in this blog post, please contact Park 56 Dental as soon as possible. We can help you get the treatment you need to avoid an infection and keep your smile healthy and beautiful.

Tips on How to Save Money on Your Oral Health

When it comes to saving money, few people think about their oral health care routine. However, there are several ways that you can save money on your oral health care without skimping on the quality of products that you receive. Here are a few tips to get you started.

Buy Products at Larger Supermarkets for Lower Prices

You can find good quality oral health products at your local supermarket for a fraction of the price you would pay at smaller stores. Look for brands that you trust and be sure to read the labels to make sure you are getting what you need.

Buy products from your dentist.

Sometimes it is worth it to buy directly from your dentist because they will be able to tell you exactly what you need so you don’t waste money on things you don’t. Dentists often have special deals or package pricing that can save you money in the long run.

Look at Your Local Pharmacy

Pharmacies stock oral health products and often have discounts and multibuys available. Many people don’t realize that pharmacies carry a wide variety of oral health products, and they are often very reasonably priced. Be sure to check the sale flyer before you shop so you know what deals are available.

Don’t Forget About Discount Stores

Discount shops such as dollar stores or discount department stores often have good deals on oral health products as well. Be sure to check the expiration date before you buy to make sure you are getting a good deal.

Practice Prevention

Preventive dentistry saves you time, money, and aggravation in the long run. Tips to avoid expensive dental treatments include brushing twice daily, flossing once daily, using mouthwash, and visiting your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups.

Consider Your Diet to Safeguard Your Teeth

Eating sugary and acidic foods can damage your teeth over time and lead to cavities and other problems. Limiting these foods in your diet can help keep your teeth healthy and prevent costly dental treatment down the road.

Use Dental Insurance If You Have It

If you have dental insurance, be sure to use it! Most insurance plans will cover at least a portion of the cost of preventive care, such as teeth cleanings and X-rays. Regular preventive care can help you avoid more expensive dental problems down the road.

Look Into Dental Payment Plans When Needed

If you need dental work that is not covered by insurance, or if you don’t have insurance, ask your dentist about payment plans. Many dentists offer financing options that can make dental care more affordable.

Learn About the Child Dental Benefits Schedule

The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) is a government-funded program that provides free or low-cost dental care for eligible children aged 2-17 years old. If you have kids, see if they qualify for the CDBS.

Why Choose Park 56 Dental in New York?

The team at Park 56 Dental is proud to offer our patients high quality, affordable dental care in New York in a comfortable and convenient setting. Our experienced staff is devoted to providing each patient with individualized attention and care. Contact us today to schedule an appointment! We look forward to meeting you soon!

Foods That are Secretly Ruining Your Teeth

There are certain foods that everyone knows are bad for your teeth, like sticky candy and sugary sodas. Other foods, though, are a little sneakier. In fact, you may be eating a healthy diet and still be damaging your teeth. Don’t worry, if your favorite foods are on this list, you don’t have to give them up forever. Just make sure that you’re aware of the damage they can do, eat them in moderation, and keep up with your oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups.

• It might surprise you to learn that fresh fruit can damage your teeth. It’s a healthy choice for a snack, but some fruit is also high in enamel-eroding acid and cavity-causing sugar. Apples, citrus fruits, and strawberries all fall into this category, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t eat them. Just make sure to rinse your mouth with water to help clean the sugars and acid from your teeth.
• Dried fruit is worse than fresh fruit when it comes to oral health. They’re a great source of fiber, but they contain a lot of sugar and they’re sticky enough to cling to your teeth. All that sugar stuck to your teeth creates the perfect environment to welcome bacteria and cause cavities.
• Popcorn is a nearly irresistible snack, but it’s not great for your teeth. First, it’s high in carbs, which turn into sugars and feed bacteria. Then, the kernels and other particles can get stuck in your teeth or lodged in your gums. Popcorn bits between the teeth help bacteria grow, and when you pull kernels from under your gums, they leave gaps where bacteria can invade. If you can’t resist snacking on popcorn, make sure to brush and floss afterwards.
• What you drink can be just as damaging as the things you eat. Diet soda may seem like a good alternative to regular soda, but the acid in the soda can damage your enamel, and the artificial sweeteners promote the growth of bacteria. Fizzy waters with natural flavors are a better option because they don’t have sugar or sweeteners. Wine, coffee, and tea can all stain your teeth, and sports drinks tend to be loaded with sugar. Limit these beverages, and when you do drink them, make sure to follow up with a glass of water to rinse your teeth.
• Watch how you eat nuts. When choosing a nut butter, pick one without added sugars. If you’re eating almonds, choose slivered almonds to reduce the risk of cracking your teeth.
• Pickles can wear down your tooth enamel. Sweet pickles are especially bad for your teeth because of the added sugar, but even dill pickles have acid that’s very damaging. To cut the acidity, enjoy pickles in moderation and rinse your mouth with water after eating them. Eating cheese with your pickles can also help neutralize the acid.
• Beware of bread. Bread may seem harmless enough, but when your saliva breaks down the starch in bread, it converts it to sugar. White bread is the worst, because it sticks to your teeth, so choose whole grain bread for your sandwiches.
• Water is great for your teeth, unless it’s frozen. When you chew on ice, you can chip away your tooth enamel and even break your teeth. Instead of chewing on ice, reach for celery sticks or baby carrots for that satisfying crunch.

No matter what you eat, regular dental appointments are the key to keeping your teeth healthy. When it’s time for a check-up, choose the practice that was voted best dentist in NYC! At Park 56 Dental Group, we offer pediatric, prosthodontics, endodontics, oral surgery, Invisalign®, emergency, and sedation dentistry, all at the highest level of treatment. We serve the Midtown, Central Park, Upper East Side, Park Avenue, and all surrounding Manhattan and New York areas, with a patient-centered practice that has hours to fit your schedule. Schedule your complimentary consultation today by contacting us online or calling us at (212) 826-2322.

How to Care for Your Teeth During the Holidays

The holidays are upon us! What a whirlwind of a season, as we dash from one event to the next. Many of these events are full of rich foods and sweet treats, and there’s often no time to think about much beyond the next thing on the calendar. Whatever you do during the holidays, take care not to neglect your dental care. Here are some tips for keeping your teeth fresh, clean, and healthy, all the way into the new year!

• Make sure you’ve got healthy food in the mix. While you’re nibbling, munching, and feasting, intersperse healthy snacks with your decadent treats. Crunchy fruits and vegetables are great for your teeth, and so are cheese and whole grains.
• Take care not to overdo the sweets. This time of year, temptations are omnipresent! Popcorn balls, candy canes, and other sticky sweet treats are particularly bad for your teeth, but that doesn’t mean you have to forgo them entirely. Just stick to one dessert and then brush your teeth, to reduce your risk of tooth decay.
• Don’t use your teeth as tools. Cracking nuts, pulling out wine corks, opening packages, and all the other ways you can use your teeth instead of heading to the toolbox or kitchen drawer for a more suitable tool should be outlawed. The last thing you want to do this holiday season is end up with a broken tooth, so use your teeth only for eating and smiling.
• Drink plenty of water and keep your drinks light. Water is good for every system in your body, and it can help fill your stomach so that you don’t overeat. What’s more, it’s extremely helpful in washing away bacteria before plaque can form on your teeth. If you want to drink something other than water, steer clear of sugary beverages and choose drinks that are light-colored, as well. You’ll be doing your teeth a favor by keeping them clean and white.
• Stick to your routine. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, even if you’re on the go. Facilitate this by keeping a toothbrush and small tube of toothpaste handy at all times, in your purse, briefcase, or car, so that you can take care of your teeth even if you’re away from home.
• Don’t wait to fix any dental issues. Even if you’re out of town, don’t let a broken tooth or lost filling go without treatment. Call a local dental office for an emergency appointment; most dentists are prepared to accept visiting patients at this time of year.
• Schedule a cleaning for after the holiday season. You want to start the new year with a gorgeous smile and a healthy mouth, right? Go ahead and make your post-holiday checkup now, so that as soon as this hectic season draws to a close, you can get back into the swing of taking care of yourself.

When you’re ready to schedule your post-holiday dental check-up, choose the practice that was voted best dentist in NYC! At Park 56 Dental Group, we offer pediatric, prosthodontics, endodontics, oral surgery, Invisalign®, emergency, and sedation dentistry, all at the highest level of treatment. We serve the Midtown, Central Park, Upper East Side, Park Avenue, and all surrounding Manhattan and New York areas, with a patient-centered practice that has hours to fit your schedule. Schedule your complimentary consultation today by contacting us online or calling us at (212) 826-2322.