Dental Services to Help You Maintain Healthy Teeth

Upper East Side Cosmetic Dentistry | Manhattan Dentist

Regular dental visits help you maintain healthy teeth and gums. During a dental check-up, your mouth is checked for overall oral health and to see if there are any areas that could causes problems in the future. Dr. Joseph C. Lattinelli DMD and associates care for you and your oral health. That is why we offer a full array of dental services for all of your dental needs.

During your first visit, you will have an initial oral examination. We do this in order to get a full picture of your current oral health, and discuss with you any goals you might have. This initial oral examination includes a visual examination, periodontal probing, diagnosis, and treatment recommendations. X-rays are also taken for diagnosis of decay of teeth.

If we find during your initial oral examination or your regular cleaning any problem areas, we can take care of them in our office. We offer:

Implants
Veneers
Crowns and Bridges
Teeth whitening
Invisalign
Root canal therapy
LASER dentistry
Cosmetic contouring
Extractions
Cosmetic fillings
Scaling and root planning
Specialty dentures

So you don’t have to go to multiple offices for your oral health needs. In order to reduce your risk of tooth decay and gum disease, we recommend you brush your teeth twice a day, and floss daily.

Finding a dentist is sometimes a stressful experience, but it doesn’t have to be. You can trust your oral health to Dr. Lattinelli and associates. Dr. Lattinelli is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and has over a decade of experience in private practice. If you would like more information on our many services, or would like to schedule an appointment, contact our dentistry office at 212-752-7188.

Looking to Get Dental Implants?

Midtown NY Dental Implants | Upper East Side Cosmetic Dentist

Are you embarrassed by your failing or missing teeth? Do you find yourself trying to cover your mouth when you smile? If the condition of your teeth bothers you, it’s time for you to take control and regain your self-confidence, and dental implants makes it easier than ever before. If you’re looking for dental implants, we can help.

In the past, dentures were the only answer for people who wanted to replace their missing teeth, but relatively recent advancements in dentistry have made it possible for people to replace individual teeth with dental implants, an artificial tooth that feels and looks like a natural tooth. Dental implants are made from biocompatible synthetic material like metal or ceramic, and Dental Implants are specifically designed to match your natural teeth, so you can recapture your self-esteem.

There are, however, certain specifications for people who want dental implants. Implants require strict dental hygiene, proper bone density and a healthy immune system. As a result, unfortunately, not everyone will be a candidate for dental implants, but if you take care of your teeth and you feel that your bone density and immune system are strong enough, Upper East Side dental implants may be an option for you.

Stop being afraid of flashing your smile. Don’t let your teeth be a source of embarrassment for you or your family. Dental implants can be a great alternative to dentures, so if you’re looking for a safe and natural way to make your smile beautiful again, look no further than Dental Implants.

If you would like more information on Dental Implants, contact our dentistry office at (212) 752-7188.

Do You Get Toothaches But You're Unsure Why?

Lenox Hill Toothache Causes | Upper East Side Cosmetic Dentist

Toothaches can be caused by a variety of conditions, contact our dentist if you are unsure why. It may be as simple as food debris lodged between two teeth, or it could be a serious medical condition. There are some steps you should take to eliminate simple causes of toothache before they become serious.

Food lodged between teeth can cause pressure on the tooth nerve, creating discomfort. Using a disinfecting rinse might remove it without further action. You can also floss your teeth, always a good idea for regular hygiene, but using floss may remove the debris causing pain.

If a tooth has been broken or cracked, you should arrange an appointment with the dentist, but this is not immediately an emergency. Rinse your mouth well with warm water. If you experience swelling of the gums or mouth, a cold compress on your cheek near the point of discomfort can help reduce swelling and pain. Avoid ice packs unless the swelling is more severe, and if you use one only place it on your cheek for 15-20 minutes maximum per hour. Longer periods can cause nerve damage.

If you have a tooth that has been knocked out, first rinse your mouth and the tooth with warm water. While waiting to see the dentist, attempt to put the tooth back into its normal place. If you cannot get it to fit back into place, hold the tooth by the top, or crown, and place the tooth in warm milk, saline solution, or your saliva. This will protect the tooth until the dentist can look at it.

If you are able, you can take ibuprofen to control the pain and swelling. Never place an aspirin tablet in your mouth directly on any tooth problem. This is a home remedy that should not be used since the acids in the aspirin can cause damage to the tissues in your mouth.

Small cracks or fractures in teeth can often be reduced by simply grinding the damaged areas. As long as the crack or fracture doesn't reach the inner pulp of the tooth, the repair may be that easy. Your dentist can and should evaluate any tooth damage, don’t try to assess it yourself.

Dr. Joseph C. Latinelli is your Manhattan cosmetic dentist. He is located at 121 East 60th Street, 10th Floor, and can be reached at (212) 752-7188. Call him before you have your next tooth emergency, and he will help you keep your best smile.

Detecting Oral Cancer

Lenox Hill Oral Cancer | Upper West Side Cosmetic Dentistry

Our dentist is interested in more than just your teeth. Your entire mouth is under our care. That’s why, during your checkups, our dentist will check for any signs of oral cancer. The American Dental Association has recommendations to help your dentist check for signs of oral cancer. If any symptoms are present, you will probably be seen again in a few weeks and if symptoms persist, be referred to a specialist.

Our dentist look for:

Red or white patch
Sore that bleeds easily or doesn’t heal
Thick or hard spot
Lumps
Rough or crusted area
Numbness
Pain
Change in the way your teeth fit together

Be sure to tell our dentist about any of these symptoms right away.

You can avoid many of the risk factors associated with oral cancer. Smoking puts you at risk, as does drinking more than two drinks a day. Even smokeless tobacco products can increase the risk of oral lesions. A diet low in fruits and vegetables also seems to increase the chances of oral cancer. Excessive exposure to the sun can cause lip cancer. It’s best to avoid these behaviors to decrease your risk, and be sure to visit our dental office regularly.

Preventing Tooth Decay

Tribeca Tooth Decay | Murray Hill Cosmetic Dentistry

No one wants cavities, or to have to have their teeth drilled and filled. Tooth decay is caused by bacteria and acids, which cause plaque that clings to the teeth. The acid in the plaque dissolves tooth enamel, leading to cavities. They are unsightly, painful, and expensive, so the best method to prevent cavities is by preventing tooth decay with regular visits to our dental office.

One great way to start preventing tooth decay is by avoiding sugary and starchy foods, like cereals, soda, fruits, cakes or candy. Carbohydrates such as pretzels and chips can remain on the tooth surfaces. Eat nutritious and balanced meals and limit snacks. Make sure you brush your teeth regularly, at least twice a day. The American Dental Association recommends using fluoride toothpaste while brushing after each meal and before going to bed. You also should clean between your teeth using floss or interdental cleaners.

Visiting our dentist regularly for professional cleanings is essential in preventing tooth decay. You should see our cosmetic dentist Hygienists at least twice a year. After your oral exam, your dentist might recommend a dental sealant to prevent tooth decay. This is a plastic protective coating that is applied to your chewing teeth. Your dentist may also recommend the use of supplemental fluoride, or a fluoride rinse. Taking these easy steps will help you prevent tooth decay, and keep you in good oral health!

Remarkable Effectiveness of Root Canal Therapy

Lenox Hill Dental Office | Upper West Side Dentist

Many patients hear the words "root canal" and go into a panic, not fully understanding what the procedure entails. Our Upper West Side dentist is here to keep you informed and let you know about the remarkable effectiveness of root canal therapy. This is an advanced procedure that usually results in little or no pain and discomfort, while restoring a weakened tooth to its previous, healthy strength.

The root canals are tiny passageways that branch off from the top of your teeth, down to the tip of the root. Every tooth has one to four of them. Should your tooth become infected, the infection can spread through these canals to the pulp of the tooth-the inner chamber containing blood vessels and nerve endings. If this infection should worsen, it can affect the roots as well. Root canal therapy is an effective method of removing these infections, stopping their spread, and saving the still-healthy portions of the tooth.

Root canal therapy works by drilling a small hole in the surface of the infected tooth. Diseased tissue is removed through this hole, and the inside of the tooth is cleansed and disinfected. The canals are reshaped, and both chamber and canals are filled with a material designed to prevent further infection. A permanent seal is eventually made over the hole via a crown on the tooth. This procedure is relatively painless, completely safe, and decidedly effective.

It is vital that you have the health of your teeth checked regularly by our Manhattan cosmetic dentist, as well as maintaining a strict regimen of good dental hygiene. If an infection is caught early enough, a root canal can save you from having to have one of your teeth removed. Our dental office technicians are expertly trained in this practice, and promise you the best care you can possibly receive.

Maintaining Good Dental Care Habits

Manhattan Good Dental Habits | Upper East Side Dentist Office

Oral health begins with the most basic of good habits - clean teeth through proper daily care. Your parents and our dentist were right all along; brushing your teeth two times a day, for at least two minutes each session, goes a long way toward keeping your mouth and smile healthy. Cavities can be averted by keeping tooth surfaces clean, while gum disease is prevented by keeping the area where teeth and gums meet clean.

The ADA – and our dentist – recommend that you utilize a soft-bristled tooth brush that fits your mouth properly. You should be able to reach every area of your mouth comfortably so as to leave no surface untouched. Electric or battery-operated toothbrushes may minimize plaque and gingivitis more so than brushing manually. Good technique includes holding the brush at a slight angle, with the bristles aimed at the base of the tooth and the gum line. Move the brush with short back-and-forth movements. No area of the mouth should be neglected, so be sure to clean all surfaces of the tooth, including the outside and inside surfaces. Brushing your tongue is also a key element to a clean mouth that is often overlooked.

In order to keep your brush in its most effective condition, rinse with water after every brushing and store upright as it air-dries. Closed containers can promote the growth of bacteria and should be avoided on a daily basis. A new toothbrush (or replacement head for an electronic brush) should be purchased when bristles become frayed or worn down, which is usually about every three to four months.

While brushing goes a long way towards good oral health, there are many areas of the mouth that are only reached by flossing. Tight spaces between the teeth and areas along the gum line can harbor bacteria and particles of food, making daily flossing important. Make sure you have a gentle touch, rubbing the floss against the teeth and not cutting towards the gum. You can also choose to use an inter-dental cleaner — such as a special wooden or plastic pick, stick or brush – to clean besides teeth as an alternative to conventional floss. Some people may also choose to utilize an oral irrigator — a device that targets a concentrated flow of water at the teeth. Take note, an oral irrigator doesn't replace daily brushing and flossing, since it will not remove plaque.

Finally, to avoid gum disease, cavities and other oral health problems, visit our cosmetic dentistry office regularly for cleanings and exams. Remember, early detection and treatment of problems with your gums, teeth and mouth will help guarantee a healthy mouth and smile for years to come. Dr. Lattinelli provides superior dental care to the Upper East side of Manhattan, as well as a full array of dental services to gain and maintain a beautiful smile!

Caring for your Baby's Teeth!

Lenox Hill Baby Teeth | Manhattan Dental Office

When you have a new baby, the care and attention required is almost endless! Don’t forget that your baby’s tiny teeth need attention, just like yours. Our cosmetic dentist has a few easy steps to add to your your daily routine with baby, and establish good dental habits early in life. You can even start oral care before those adorable baby teeth come in.

Before baby teeth show the first signs of arriving, use a soft, moistened washcloth or gauze to gently wipe down your baby’s gums at least twice a day. This is especially important after feedings and before bedtime. This will wash off any bacteria that may be clinging to the gums. If it isn’t wiped off it can create a sticky plaque that damages infant teeth as they grow in.

When those tiny buds of teeth do start breaking through the surface, it’s time to start using a toothbrush. Be sure to choose one appropriate for babies, and look for a toothbrush with a soft brush, small head and a large handle. At first, just use a wet toothbrush with no paste. Then you can start using a tiny amount of toothpaste, moving up to about a pea sized amount of toothpaste when the child is three. Brush gently all around baby’s mouth, front and back. It’s up to you to care for your baby’s teeth until they can brush and rinse without assistance, usually around the age of 6. Make sure your baby visits our Upper East Side dentist by the age of one for a checkup, and they will be on their way to a lifetime of good oral habits.

What is Gum Disease?

Manhattan Gum Disease | Upper East Side Dental Office

We hear a lot about gum disease, but what is it, really? The truth is the signs of periodontal disease can be very subtle, so it's important to see our Manhattan cosmetic dentist regularly for check ups. If you have red, swollen or tender gums, you should definitely make an appointment. Other noticeable symptoms include gums that bleed when you brush, bad breath, receding gums, loose or shifting teeth, or pockets between gums. These may be signs that you have gingivitis or periodontitis.

Gingivitis is gum inflammation, where bacteria in plaque build up, causing the gums to be inflamed and irritated. Left untreated, it can advance to periodontitis. At this stage, the inner layer of the gum and bone pull away from the teeth and form pockets where debris can collect. It can become infected, and the body’s immune system starts to fight the bacteria as it grows beneath the gum line. Toxins start to break down the bone, and the teeth are no longer anchored in place. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.

In addition to regular visits to your dentist, proper plaque control can prevent and reverse gum disease. Proper habits include professional cleanings at least twice a year, and daily brushing and flossing. The American Dental Association also recommends antibacterial mouth rinses that can reduce bacteria that cause plaque. Visit our dental office if you see any of the signs of gingivitis or gum disease.

Root Canal Advantages & Treatment

Lenox Hill Root Canal Therapy | Manhattan Dentist

Root Canals have a reputation for being a huge ordeal, but in reality they are pretty similar to having a routine filling, and usually can be completed in one or two appointments with our Upper East Side dentist. There are many advantages to a Root Canal instead of removing the tooth, like efficient chewing, protecting other teeth, and a natural smile. It helps to understand exactly what a Root Canal is, and how it can save your natural tooth.

Inside your teeth is a soft tissue called the pulp that runs down both roots. It contains blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue. This tissue can become inflamed or infected from deep tooth decay, repeated dental procedures, faulty crowns, or a crack or chip in the tooth. During a Root Canal the pulp is removed, the tooth is cleaned and disinfected, and then filled and sealed with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha.

You should see our Manhattan cosmetic dentist immediately if you have any signs that Root Canal therapy is needed. These include severe toothache, pain when chewing or application of pressure, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, discoloration or darkening of the tooth, swelling and tenderness in nearby gums, or recurring pimple on the gums. Sometimes, there are no symptoms, which is why it is so important to see our Upper East Side dentist for a check-up every 6 months.