Worst & Best Candy For Your Teeth On Halloween

Halloween is just around the corner, and it's the time of year when kids and adults alike indulge in delicious treats and candies. But as Dr. Lattienlli, the renowned dentist from Manhattan, New York, would tell you, not all candies are created equal when it comes to your dental health. In this blog post, we'll explore the best and worst candies for your teeth during the Halloween season.

The Best Choices

Dark Chocolate

Dr. Lattienlli agrees that dark chocolate is one of the best options for your teeth during Halloween. It contains less sugar than milk chocolate and is less likely to stick to your teeth. Additionally, dark chocolate contains compounds that can be beneficial for your overall health.

Sugar-Free Gum

Sugar-free gum can be a good choice for your teeth because it stimulates saliva production, which helps neutralize acids in the mouth and rinse away food particles. Look for gum with xylitol, a sugar substitute that may help prevent tooth decay.

Sugar-Free Hard Candies

While it's best to limit candy consumption, sugar-free hard candies are a better alternative for your teeth compared to their sugary counterparts. They don't contribute to tooth decay and can satisfy your sweet tooth.

Nuts

Nuts, like almonds and cashews, are not candies, but they make for a healthier snack option during Halloween. They are low in sugar and can help stimulate saliva production, promoting better oral health.

The Worst Choices

Sticky and Chewy Candies

Sticky and chewy candies, such as gummies, taffy, and caramel, are notorious for adhering to your teeth and creating a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. The longer these candies remain in your mouth, the higher the risk of cavities and tooth decay.

Sour Candies

Sour candies are acidic and can erode tooth enamel. Additionally, they often contain a high amount of sugar, making them a double threat to your dental health. Dr. Lattienlli advises staying away from these acidic treats.

Lollipops

Lollipops are another risky choice for your teeth, as they expose your teeth to sugar for an extended period. Sucking on a lollipop can also lead to a dry mouth, which is less effective in cleaning away food particles and bacteria.

Jawbreakers and Hard Candies

Jawbreakers and hard candies are hard on your teeth, and they can lead to chipped or cracked teeth if you're not careful. They also dissolve slowly in your mouth, prolonging the exposure to sugar.

Dr. Lattinelli Manhattan’s Best Dentist

As Halloween approaches, it's essential to make wise choices when it comes to indulging in sweet treats. Dr. Lattienlli, the renowned dentist from Manhattan, New York, recommends opting for candies that are less harmful to your teeth, such as dark chocolate, sugar-free gum, and sugar-free hard candies. Conversely, it's best to avoid sticky and chewy candies, sour candies, lollipops, and hard candies that can contribute to tooth decay and other dental issues.

Remember that moderation is key, and maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing, is crucial after enjoying Halloween treats. By making informed choices and practicing proper dental care, you can have a happy and healthy Halloween season!

Your Guide to a Successful Dentist Visit

Back to Dr. Lattinelli's blog, dental health fans, welcome! Regardless of how much you enjoy going to the dentist, maintaining good oral hygiene is vital for your all-around wellness. To have smooth, stressless dental visits follow our guidance.

Schedule Your Appointment

Scheduling an appointment is key to starting off a successful dentist visit properly. Early detection and prevention demand regular check-ups of dental health. A suitable window in your calendar requires careful planning to ensure enough time to address any issues.

Prepare Your Dental History

Compiling a list of prior treatments, surgeries, and current meds before an appointment is crucial if you want to provide thorough dental history details. To your dentist, share this information so it may play a crucial role in assessing your oral health and designing treatment plans.

Arrive Early

Showing up early, which is recommended, is key to your scheduled appointment date. Through this process, paperwork and schedules become more manageable. With extra time to prepare oneself mentally, one can relax.

Communicate Your Concerns

Fearless dialogue about dental issues is encouraged by your dentist. Thanks to your dentist, many people can now better manage their dental anxiety during appointments. Open communication allows your dentist to grasp your needs and provide suitable care accordingly.

Bring a List of Questions

Before your visit, write down any questions regarding oral health treatments, or dental hygiene processes. To avoid forgetting, make sure to remind yourself while seated. With expertise in dentistry, your dentist acts as an informative resource.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Consistency in an oral hygiene routine is crucial leading up to an appointment. Twice daily brushing, everyday flossing, and using mouthwash per dental instructions. By practicing good oral hygiene, you give dentists fewer things to worry about and make their jobs more manageable.

Be Honest About Your Habits

Tell your dentist anything that may harm your oral health, like smoking, drinking too much, or grinding your teeth. Dental care decisions depend on it; learn how this information shapes your customized therapy strategy now!

Follow Post-Appointment Instructions

Post-appointment instructions should be taken seriously by you following your dental examination. Health optimization requires dodging certain foods, sticking to meds, or tweaking one's brushing/flossing habits. To achieve robust oral care, sticking to these directions is fundamental.

Schedule Future Appointments

Before departing the dental office, plan ahead for future appointments by making reservations. The key to avoiding dental complications and recognizing problems before they escalate is consistency in dental care.

You and your dentist are co-pilots towards great oral health. To ensure that every trip to the dentist goes smoothly, stick to established protocols and keep the lines of communication open. Here at Dr. Lattinelli's Dental Practice, see you at your next appointment by smiling!

Be sure to call Dr. Latinelli for a consultation at 212 -752 -7188. We're also located at 121 EAST 60TH ST., 10TH FLOOR NEW YORK, NY 10022.

Common Causes and Treatments for Sleep Apnea 

There are few things more beneficial to our quality of life than a good night's sleep. Millions of Americans struggle to get a decent amount each night, and some have more trouble than others. There are a variety of factors that determine a person’s sleep quality, such as diet, stress, medication, and what their daily activities might be. Sleep Apnea, a common symptom of losing sleep, happens when a person's breathing is obstructed, and they have difficulty maintaining a consistent sleep pattern. If left untreated, this condition can lead to other health issues such as diabetes, stroke, depression, heart disease, and high blood pressure. While the causes of sleep apnea vary from one another, a recent medical survey found that oral health had a direct impact. 

Dental Issues That Might Indicate Sleep Apnea

There are a number of issues that you might be experiencing during the day that may be a direct result of sleep apnea. These include such matters as grinding teeth, a sudden or abnormal upswing in cavities, and frequent jaw pain and headaches. Some of these symptoms might occur if you have a shorter lower jaw and a narrow upper airway; it might even have to do with the particular shape of the roof of your mouth. 

Symptoms to Keep an Eye Out For 

While it takes a medical professional to diagnose sleep apnea properly, there might be recurring symptoms that you notice during the day that might be an indication of the condition. If you notice that you’re fatigued during the day or have a dry mouth or sore throat when you first wake up, these are usually indicative of sleep apnea. 

Other Causes That Can Lead to Sleep Apnea 

If you’re unsure of what might be the cause of your sleep apnea, there are certain behaviors that are linked to the condition. Sleep apnea can be caused by being overweight, and the position in which you sleep, and it can also be caused by excessive tobacco and alcohol use. A medical professional can assess your habits and help determine what the root cause may be. 

The Offices of Dr. Lattineli 


If you’ve been experiencing symptoms that might indicate sleep apnea, your oral health might be an underlying cause. For information on appointments and some of the other services we have to offer, give our offices a visit at drlattinelli.com.

Can You Drink With Invisalign?

Whether a newcomer or a traditional braces veteran, you don't necessarily need to forgo relishing your favorite drinks on your Invisalign journey. This is because it is usually possible to drink with Invisalign, but there is a lot you need to know. So, read on to discover insights from Dr. Lattineli into drinking with Invisalign aligners.

Can You Drink with Invisalign?

The journey to aligned teeth mandates donning clear aligners for 20 to 22 hours daily. However, one question most newbies ask is, can you drink with Invisalign? 

Unfortunately, no (and yes; any fluid that isn't water is unwise to drink with Invisalign. While certain fluids seem benign, they might impair trays and your overall dental health. But don’t fret, as there are ways to drink with Invisalign. 

Is There A Way You Can You Drink With Invisalign?

Safeguarding both trays and dental integrity during drinking poses difficulties, but mitigating these issues is possible by using the following:

Avoid Alcohol-Free and Alcoholic Beverages

No beverage gains a free pass (barring water) – most alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks have acidity and sugar. Therefore, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks pose the same risks to Invisalign and should be avoided. 

Uphold Tray Hygiene

If you are going to drink with your Invisalign, you need to uphold your Invisalign hygiene. This means that you need to remove and clean them (and the tray) after every meal as this will help to eliminate residue that breads oral bacteria. 

Practice Straw Sipping

You know you shouldn’t, but if you want to enjoy beverages like smoothies or milkshakes, you can use a straw to minimize contact between the liquid and your aligners. This reduces the chances of the liquid coming into direct contact with your aligners and potentially staining or damaging them. However, it's important to position the straw behind the aligners to avoid pushing them out of place. Essentially, if you drink with them, do so responsibly. 

Avoid Stain-Inducers

When wearing Invisalign, you should opt for clear sodas and light juices over teeth-tinting culprits like coffee, tea, and dark red wines, in addition to using a straw. Yet, be careful, as even lighter-colored fluids bear concealed sugars, fizz, and acids that could potentially harm or stain your Invisalign.

Drink Quickly To Avoid Exposure

With Invisalign, how quickly you consume a beverage matters. Quick sips curb aligner-fluid contact. Similarly, prolonged interaction spurs staining or accentuates acid's enamel impact. So, although it might be pleasant, learn how to drink quickly – but not too quickly so as to choke. 

Seek Professional Invisalign Counsel From Dr. Lattinelli

After reading this piece, you now know more about whether you can drink with Invisalign, as well as beneficial tips for drinking with it. As you can see, Invisalign poses many challenges surrounding what you can and cannot drink. Still, these dental devices have numerous benefits despite their difficulty when it comes to drinking. 

In our experience, those who choose Invisalign quickly become used to the challenges of drinking with them. Once you know how to do so, you’ll soon see that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. 

So, for those on or considering the Invisalign path, the journey begins by connecting with a local Invisalign provider with the knowledge and skill set necessary to assist you; one such provider is Dr. Lattinelli. Contact us here, and we’ll be in touch.

Do Electric Toothbrushes Help Whiten Your Teeth?

Many of our Manhattan clients want to know more about teeth-whitening techniques, an instrumental way to achieve a more perfect smile. Fortunately, most of the best oral-care practices, geared toward fighting bacteria, also help whiten teeth.

Since we know brushing our teeth is so essential for cleanliness AND aesthetics, what should we do to select the right brush? Is there any extra advantage to using an electric toothbrush?

Electric Toothbrushes vs. Traditional Toothbrushes

So, again, the best way to enhance the appearance of one’s teeth would be to address plaque accumulation, which can turn into tartar if it gets out on hand. This involves using whatever will get your teeth the cleanest.

According to newer PubMed research, there may be advantages to going the electrical toothbrush route. That’s because the electrical brushes have built-in oscillating, which facilitates vibrating bristles and a more circular motion, per most dentists’ recommendation. Plus, there’s something to be said about a brush that does most of the work for you.

Perhaps especially for children, if this would ensure effective brushing every morning and evening, then it can’t be all bad. However, since there's not a clear-cut difference between electrical and non-electrical brushes, let’s look at other ways to achieve whiter teeth.

Other Teeth-Whitening Strategies

  1. Focus on Consistent Teeth Cleanings - This is perhaps the most rudimentary general dentistry service we offer, and it's entirely affordable. The research has been clear for quite some time: regular teeth cleanings are a terrific way to whiten teeth, prevent dental caries, protect gums, and more.
  2. Use the Best Toothpaste - Select a brand with adequate fluoride, but pay attention to any other dental issues you may have. If you’re struggling with tartar, then it’s more important to focus on tartar control toothpastes to both clean and whiten your teeth.
  3. Try Whitening Strips - The effectiveness of these strips (or trays) varies from one person to the next, but they have been shown to work sometimes.
  4. Consider Professional Teeth Whitening Services - Dr. Lattinelli’s office specializes in teeth whitening service, which goes even further than conventional tactics. Dentists have access to lots of state-of-the-art tools that can safely clean tooth enamel. This goes even further than basic teeth cleaning to include even specialized light treatments.

If you wish to receive professional teeth whitening, teeth cleaning, or almost any other dental procedure, then JCL Dental is your preferred resource in Manhattan. We look forward to helping you finally achieve those pearly white teeth you had as a child. Contact us anytime to learn more by calling 212-752-7188.

Will Drinking Coffee Stain your Veneers?

Keeping your veneers bright and shiny can seem like a difficult task.  Certain foods and drinks are known to stain, diminishing your white, beaming smile.  Many veneer wearers are concerned that they’ll never be able to drink coffee again.  The good news is that there’s no need to forego your favorite cup of joe!  Here at Dr. Latinelli’s we can help with whitening your veneers even if they do become stained!

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Veneers are made of high-quality porcelain, which is even more stain-resistant than your natural teeth.  While they are harder to stain, they can become discolored over time from exposure to drinks like coffee.  There are several things you can do to keep your teeth as white as possible!  Try using a straw with all beverages other than water so that the liquid doesn’t touch your teeth.  You can also sip on water between sips of coffee to rinse your teeth.  Brushing your teeth about 20 minutes after consuming coffee with a soft-bristled toothbrush will also wash away the coffee and prevent discoloration.

You may only have one veneer, or you may have a full smile of them.  Either way, it’s important to keep an eye on their color.  While they are stain-resistant, they are not stain-proof.  There are some habits you should adopt to keep your teeth as white as possible, especially if you do drink coffee and other dark drinks like tea, wine, or soda, regularly.  First, brush your teeth for a full two minutes twice a day!  Follow it up with flossing and rinse with mouthwash.  This will not only help to scrub away staining substances, but it will keep your teeth and gums healthy by eliminating bacteria.  Quitting unhealthy habits like smoking will also greatly reduce the risk of discoloration.  Try to avoid eating sugar to prevent cavities, and while you can certainly have coffee, keep the consumption of dark beverages to a minimum.  Finally, come visit us at the office for a checkup and cleaning every six months.

At JCL Dental, Dr. Lattinelli and our entire team are dedicated to working with you and your smile’s individual needs!  For any questions, please give us a call at (212) 752-7188.  We are conveniently located at 121 East 60th Street, 10th Floor, in New York, New York.  We can assist with your veneers as well as general dentistry, restorative dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, treatment of TMJ disorders, snoring and sleep apnea, and emergencies!  

What to Avoid After a Professional Teeth Cleaning

Today, let’s talk about one of our most essential oral care services: professional teeth cleaning (and what not to do afterward). This is an important topic because, believe it or not, you have it in your power to avoid many dental complications with simple everyday best practices.

So, here’s a review of why professional teeth cleaning is essential along with what to avoid after you visit us.

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Why Professional Teeth Cleaning Matters

Things to Avoid Following Professional Teeth Cleaning

  1. Eating 30 Minutes Afterward - This might be the most obvious thing to avoid. If nothing else, it’s nice to savor a sparkling clean mouth for a while. The primary reason, however, is to allow the fluoride from the treatment to take proper effect. It takes just a little while for it to bond with the tooth enamel, which is essential for strengthening and safeguarding teeth.
  2. Hot Foods or Drinks (for a Few Hours) - Hot foods and drinks will also have an adverse effect on the new fluoride in your mouth. It’s also not a great idea to expose potentially sensitive gums (post-cleaning) to hot items.
  3. Skipping Brushing - Even on the day you visit the dentist, it’s still a good idea to brush and floss your teeth before bed. As usual, we recommend doing this gently unless you have specific directions not to brush.

Visit Dr. Lattinelli in Manhattan for Experienced Dental Care

We hope this encourages you to take advantage of our effective, affordable, fast, and convenient teeth cleaning services. This is the best way to save money and avoid painful oral conditions in the long run. Plus, we pride ourselves on a friendly staff who always seeks to make you feel welcome each visit.


So, come see us soon for Manhattan’s best oral care at JCL Dental with Dr. Lattinelli. Call us anytime to schedule an appointment for teeth cleaning at 212-752-7188.

Can You Get Cavities With Porcelain Veneers?

The process of undergoing porcelain veneers is a spectacular solution available to patients for correcting unsightly teeth. People often ask if it is possible to still get cavities if they decide to obtain porcelain veneers. Dr. Lattinelli answers this common inquiry and also discusses how to keep veneers in optimal condition. 

upper east side dental implants

Porcelain veneers do not suffer from cavities, but be aware that the teeth underneath the veneers are vulnerable to decay. Veneers or no veneers, your oral health regimen must be followed consistently to prevent cavities from manifesting. If decay occurs, you will need to have the corrosion removed by a dentist and then go through the veneer adhesion procedure once again.  

Maintain your veneers properly…

To reap the best possible appearance and lifespan from your veneers, it is crucial to treat them with great care. Thankfully, veneers can be properly cleaned exactly just as you would for your natural teeth. Brush your teeth for two whole minutes two times per day to get rid of food particles, bacteria, and any other harmful debris. Floss every day to remove plaque that can accumulate between your teeth which creates the perfect breeding ground for cavities. Never use toothpaste that contains abrasive ingredients since they can scrape the sleek surfaces of your veneers. Swish and gargle with mouthwash on a routine basis to destroy unhealthy germs, prevent plaque buildup, and ward off gingivitis. You should use a new toothbrush every three or four months to guarantee that your teeth and gums are afforded quality cleaning. It is beneficial to drink an adequate amount of water each day and develop a diet that is loaded with nutrients to keep your teeth, mind, and body at peak health. Try to consume foods and drinks that are particularly high in sugar only on rare occasions.

See your dentist regularly…

Individuals who fail to stick with an effective daily oral care routine leave their teeth and gums vulnerable to unfavorable dental issues like tooth decay and gum disease. When you add visiting your dentist regularly for examinations and cleanings to up-to-par oral hygiene at home, you then have a winning combination. Your dentist has the opportunity to nip concerning issues in the bud so that they do not become huge dental nightmares, can remove unyielding tartar, and can verify that your porcelain veneers have remained in perfect shape.

Dr. Lattinelli is a trusted dentist who expertly performs a host of dental services from routine examinations to cosmetic enhancements. JCL Dental is located at 121 East 60th Street in Manhattan and you may call the office at (212) 752-7188 to schedule an appointment.

Can Dental Implants be Performed in One Day?

When it comes to reconstructive dental surgery, many patients have taken an interest in having implants done instead of partial dentures or expensive route canals. However, having this procedure done is a point of contention for some, as they have little interest in waiting several weeks for the work to be completed and would prefer to have it done as quickly as possible. In recent years there have been several advertisements promising that this procedure can be done in a matter of hours and not days. Is there any truth to these claims? Today we’ll be answering these questions to the best of our ability. 

cosmetic dentist manhattan

Making Sure Implants Are Right for You 

While you might want to get implants, they might not the ideal situation for you. A dentist who’s offering a rushed procedure might be more interested in getting paid than your actual benefit. Be sure to consult with a dentist who has your best interests in mind. 

Time is a Necessity 

Dental implants are a procedure that shouldn’t be rushed by any means. The process involves taking detailed scans of the patient's teeth and jawline and ensuring that the materials are safe for the patient. Dentists who rush this procedure can often overlook several important factors, such as allergies or other pre-existing patient issues. A dental expert will exercise caution with the patient’s jawline and make certain that the implants are going in the proper place. Someone who rushes through this process puts the patient at risk for larger problems, such as infection or an implant that’s not properly fitted. 

Patience is a Virtue 

It goes without saying that a dentist skilled at their craft will take the necessary time and precautions to ensure that their patient receives the best treatment possible. Each patient is different, and the rate at which your implants will be ready will all depend on the state of your jawline, the size and scale of the implants, and how busy your caregiver is. Rest assured; the best things take time. And to avoid possible infection or ill-fitting implants, it’s best not to rush the procedure in any way. 

The Dental offices of Dr. Lattinelli 


If you’re considering dental implants or any other important procedure, we’re here to offer a gentle hand and the best advice. For appointments and information about our offices, you can visit us online at www.drlattinelli.com.

Do You Have to Always Wear a Retainer after Invisalign?

So, you've completed your Invisalign treatment and achieved the beautiful smile you've always wanted. Congratulations! But now you may be wondering, "Do I have to wear a retainer after Invisalign?" The short answer is yes, wearing a retainer is crucial to maintaining the results of your Invisalign treatment. In this blog post, we'll explore why wearing a retainer is essential and how it helps preserve your new smile.

Retainers Ensure Teeth Alignment

While Invisalign aligners effectively straighten your teeth, they are not the end of the journey. After the active treatment phase, it's important to use a retainer to prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original positions. Teeth have a natural tendency to move, and without a retainer, they can gradually shift and undo the progress you've made.

Stabilizing Bone and Soft Tissues

Wearing a retainer helps stabilize the bones and soft tissues surrounding your teeth. During orthodontic treatment, your teeth are guided to new positions, and the bone and tissues need time to adapt and stabilize. The retainer holds the teeth in their new positions while the supportive structures adjust, reducing the risk of relapse.

Preventing Bite Issues

 In addition to maintaining tooth alignment, retainers also play a role in preventing bite issues. Your bite is the way your upper and lower teeth fit together when you close your mouth. Without a retainer, there's a possibility that your bite may become misaligned again over time, leading to discomfort and potential dental problems.

Retainer Types and Wear Schedule

 There are different types of retainers, and your orthodontist will recommend the most suitable one for you. Some common options include removable retainers (similar to Invisalign aligners) and fixed retainers (thin wires bonded to the back of your teeth). The wear schedule will depend on your specific case, but typically, you'll be advised to wear the retainer full-time initially and then transition to wearing it only at night.

Long-Term Maintenance

 Wearing a retainer is not just for the first few months after Invisalign treatment. To maintain the results of your orthodontic work, it's important to commit to long-term retainer wear. Your orthodontist will provide guidance on how frequently to wear the retainer and when to schedule follow-up visits to monitor your progress.

Remember, each person's orthodontic needs are unique, and the duration of retainer wear may vary. It's crucial to follow your orthodontist's instructions and attend regular check-ups to ensure that your smile remains beautiful and healthy in the long run.

Wearing a retainer after Invisalign treatment is essential for preserving your newly aligned teeth. Retainers help maintain tooth alignment, stabilize bone and tissues, prevent bite issues, and ensure long-term results. Be diligent in wearing your retainer as instructed by your orthodontist to enjoy the benefits of a stunning and healthy smile for years to come.

If you feel like taking the plunge and finally fixing your smile, and looking into veneers, be sure to call Dr. Latinelli for a consultation at 212 -752 -7188. We're also located at 121 EAST 60TH ST., 10TH FLOOR NEW YORK, NY 10022.