To drink with a straw or not to drink with a straw? And does it really make a difference in terms of the health of your teeth? Dr. Lattinelli brings you pertinent information about these often puzzling questions.
There seems to be a common belief that it is better for your teeth to consume beverages through a straw rather than directly from a glass or other type of drinking container. The theory behind this thought is that drinking through a straw decreases the staining of the teeth from liquids such as coffee and tea, and lessens the harmful effects of sugary drinks. In reality, these substances come into contact with your teeth with or without the use of a straw.
When the end of the straw is resting between your lips and in front of your teeth, the forward-facing surfaces of the teeth are tainted by sugar that is plentiful in sodas and juices. If the straw is situated between your upper and lower teeth, the back-facing veneers of the teeth are affected. Drinking from straws can lead to additional unfavorable results like unsightly wrinkles around the mouth that are aging in appearance and suffering from bloating or gas.
The only successful technique for sheltering your teeth when drinking from straws is to place the tip of the straw on the back portion of your tongue. The result of this process is that the liquid does not touch the teeth since it is directly transported to the back of your throat.
An alternative method of safeguarding your teeth is by thoroughly brushing them at least 30 minutes after drinking beverages other than water. Remember, teeth are more sensitive after ingesting acidic foods and beverages; therefore, you should never brush too soon afterward as your teeth’s enamel can be compromised.
If you are searching for a sure way to maintain the integrity of your teeth, make a resolution to give up soda and juice altogether. On occasions when you may consume either beverage, follow the drink with a full glass of water. The same holds true after enjoying coffee or tea. Just as water acts to combat and neutralize acid, it also creates a line of defense against staining.
Dr. Lattinelli’s dental practice offers the finest services regarding oral care. Whether you require routine preventative appointments, necessary procedures, or are considering cosmetic enhancements, Dr. Lattinelli is a highly capable and revered provider in the dental industry. Our prestigious office is located at 121 East 60th Street in Manhattan and we may be contacted by calling (212) 752-7188.
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A mouthful of pearly-white teeth is undoubtedly an enviable attribute. Many people dream of this possibility for themselves and wonder about over-the-counter products. Crest Whitestrips commonly come to mind when considering which type to purchase. But do they really work?
Crest Whitestrips are generally thought to be safe for very sporadic use; however, if you do not use them exactly as intended, or apply them too often, the strips may harm your teeth and/or gums. Crest whitening kits contain various chemicals that can irritate sensitive mouth tissue. Keep in mind that discoloration of the teeth can occur if the strips fail to adhere uniformly to the teeth.
What are the culprits that cause teeth to have negative changes in shade? The enamel becomes tarnished by staining, while dentin is discolored by aging, insufficient nutrition, trauma, or smoking. Crest Whitestrips glaze the teeth with a gel that contains hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. The gel is pressed against the teeth for a few minutes to seep into the enamel layer and actually bleach the teeth. Grey-tinged teeth tend not to whiten as effectively as teeth that are yellow in hue. The strips will only whiten natural teeth and will not work on veneers, bonding, or any other artificial enhancements.
It is important to be aware of potential concerns. Hydrogen peroxide is an ingredient in Crest Whitestrips that can destroy good bacteria that fight against cavity formation, gum disease, bad breath, and other unfavorable conditions. Sodium hydroxide is the pH-balancing ingredient in white strips. Since it is corrosive towards anything it touches, it can create sensitivity in the teeth. Another ingredient, PEG-8, can lead to hives in some people if it comes into contact with the tongue, cheeks, or gums. Pyrophosphate is the substance that is supposed to offer tartar protection in Crest 3D White Whitestrips Stain Shield. However, numerous studies have shown that it is ineffective in decreasing plaque or tartar accumulation.
Persistent dental diligence is the key to attaining and maintaining the whitest teeth possible. The best prevention to keep your teeth from yellowing is to adhere to proper oral care in your daily routine, cut down on foods and beverages that cause staining (and rinse your mouth after consumption), and make it a habit to drink plenty of water each day.
It is crucial that you visit your dentist for recommended routine appointments in order to achieve optimum dental health. Ask about solutions for dry mouth, teeth grinding, or any other concerns that you may have.
Dr. Lattinelli’s dental practice is a leader in the field of state-of-the-art oral health care and cosmetic dentistry. Please inquire about our safe and professional teeth whitening methods and find out if you are an ideal candidate. We are conveniently located at 121 East 60th Street in Manhattan. Kindly contact our office by calling (212) 752-71880 to arrange an appointment.
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If you’re an adult who feels anxious whenever you have to go to the dentist, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. As a matter of fact, this phobia that many of us experience during the formative years of childhood has a habit of carrying over. A recent study even concluded that almost 80% of American adults feel nervous about going to their dentist for their bi-annual check-ups and cleanings. So much so, that this condition has a name–odontophobia. Bot to worry, there are ways in which you can reduce its effect and the anxiety of visiting the dentist.
Practice Makes Perfect
While this might feel like we’re preaching to the choir, the best way to reduce anxiety over going to the dentist is to maintain the practice of highly effective oral hygiene. Maintaining this consistency with brushing and flossing will build your confidence in your oral health, and your trips to the dentist’s chair will be fewer.
Talk with the Dentist Before any Procedure Begins
Communication is the foundation of all human interaction. Before you go in for your appointment, make it a point to touch base with your dentist and explain that you have anxieties about having an examination done or any procedure for that matter. Ask questions, and understand that there are few dental issues that a trained medical professional hasn’t seen before. They’ll be more than happy to explain to you what they’re about to do.
Don’t Be Scared While You’re in the Chair
While this might seem easier said than done, there are techniques you can employ while you’re sitting in the dentist’s chair that can do a lot to limit the amount of anxiety you’re feeling. Here are a few essential tips that can be a huge help.
- Bring Headphones or Earbuds. The sound of drilling and other instruments might be a trigger and distracting yourself can help lessen their effects.
- Breathing Exercises. Finding some breathing exercises that alleviate stress is easy in this modern age of information. You’ll be surprised how effective they can be at taking your mind off the various feelings of anxiety.
- Bring a Stress Ball. Sometimes, it’s the little things that make all the difference. Just keeping your hands occupied while you’re getting worked on can take your mind away from the stress that’s occurring.
Dr. Lattineli
The offices of Dr. Lattinelli are fully aware of the stresses that many people have with visiting the dentist. We’ll take care of you and your teeth, and be extra gentle while doing so. Visit drlattinelli.com for more info.
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Invisalign works wonders when it comes to creating beautiful teeth that are unveiled with each and every smile. It is an absolutely fantastic cosmetic dental procedure that a large number of people are pursuing nowadays. Dr. Lattinelli provides information below about the Invisalign process that many potential clients may not already know and can help with the decision to go forward and arrange a consultation.
Generally speaking, people tend to shy away from situations that they are unfamiliar with due to fear of the unknown. It can often be difficult for patients to take the first step and speak with an orthodontist about the possibility of wearing Invisalign to correct imperfect teeth. It is important to avoid negative self-talk that may prevent you from moving forward and making an inquiry about Invisalign, as overthinking the procedure and wondering if it is right for you without doing anything else will not give you answers. By consulting with a dentist, you will get the information and facts as they pertain to your specific situation.
The way the system works is that patients wear aligners in their mouths in order to straighten the teeth. These aligners are not universal as each and everyone is fabricated carefully and uniquely to fit precisely in an individual’s mouth. The majority of our patients are impressed to see results before their eyes within the first two to three months of wearing the aligners. Another extremely appealing feature is that clients are able to whiten their teeth simultaneously while undergoing the Invisalign procedure. This is made possible by adding a whitening treatment to the custom trays that are worn. And who doesn’t welcome the idea of multitasking!
Unfortunately, there are a significant number of people who go through their lives believing that they’ve missed the chance to have gorgeous teeth. They may think that they are past the age to start corrective dental work and just have to accept less than favorable smiles. It is never too late in life to change things that bother us or affect us negatively when help is available. No matter your age, whether you are 15 or 115, Invisalign may be just what the dentist orders!
Dr. Lattinelli’s dental practice is a renowned establishment in the community that has earned repeat clientele. Second to none in the oral health field, Dr. Lattinelli provides a wide spectrum of services to his patients. Dr. Lattinelli’s practice is situated at 121 East 60th Street in Manhattan, NY and you may schedule a consultation regarding Invisalign by calling (212) 752-7188. Thank you for taking an interest in our dental practice and we hope to meet with you in the near future.
Porcelain veneers are one of the many cosmetic dentistry procedures that are readily available to clients today. There is no reason to go through life hiding your less than desirable teeth from the world. We have an ideal solution…porcelain veneers! Why porcelain veneers? This wonderful cosmetic process works miracles for patients to obtain absolutely gorgeous smiles. Dr. Lattinelli is thrilled to provide the appealing advantages of porcelain veneers.
A dental veneer is an extremely slim casing that is manufactured out of tooth-colored porcelain or composite that gets cemented over the outer surfaces of the teeth in order to resolve dental concerns. No matter what your particular condition is, porcelain veneers can come to the rescue.
Everyday living definitely takes its toll on the teeth. The natural aging process causes teeth to wear down. Over the years, teeth are more susceptible to chipping, cracking, or an overall uneven appearance. Veneers can seemingly turn back the hands of time and rejuvenate your smile.
Discoloration of the teeth is a common issue. Certain medications, smoking, tea, coffee, and some soft drinks, are a number of culprits that can contribute to the staining and tarnishing of our teeth. Tooth discoloration that is too difficult to correct with a teeth whitening process can easily be remedied by the utilization of porcelain veneers.
Uneven teeth can occur from normal wear and tear or the act of grinding or gnashing of the teeth. Aside from leading to cosmetic concerns, this can also cause bite problems. Genetics plays a part in the appearance of the teeth as well. Genetics causes some people to have abnormal gaps between the teeth that unfortunately become wider with age.
Veneers are considered a type of cosmetic dentistry since they create stunning smiles that showcase even, highly attractive teeth. Besides boosting your smile, veneers require either no removal of tooth structure or just a very minor amount. And there are some styles of veneers that do not need the underlying teeth to be prepared whatsoever. Another terrific feature of veneers is that they are extremely durable. They have the ability to withstand many years of usage before replacement is needed. Furthermore, porcelain veneers also serve to protect teeth and can even take away the necessity to undergo more substantial procedures.
Dr. Lattinelli’s dental practice is second to none when it comes to caring for all aspects of dental health. We provide our patients with services from routine oral checkups to an expansive list of cosmetic procedures. Our revered establishment is conveniently located at 121 East 60th Street in Manhattan. Kindly contact our office at (212) 752-7188 to arrange your consultation concerning porcelain veneers.
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If you’re suffering from stained, discolored, or even missing teeth, you should consider seeking dental assistance. A good cosmetic dentist can help with all these ailments and more. Left untreated, you could suffer very serious oral health consequences, so it’s worth paying attention to the warning signs of trouble.
We’d like you to be aware of these important signs indicating that you should see a cosmetic dentist.
Signs You May Need Cosmetic Dentistry
- You have stained or discolored teeth.
- Some of your teeth are chipped or completely missing.
- You experience anxiety when you smile or open your mouth.
- Your face appears to be changing shape as a result of missing teeth.
- You’re having trouble chewing your food (resulting from even just a small chipped tooth).
- You need expert help figuring out what’s wrong with the appearance of your teeth or gums.
As you can see, cosmetic dentistry covers a lot. These are a sample of the problems Dr. Lattinelli can help remedy, often with simple and painless procedures.
JCL Dental – The Best Cosmetic Dentistry in Manhattan
Sometimes the distinction between “cosmetic” and “serious health concern,” can be smaller than you think. It’s important not to be too dismissive of what you think is a minor concern. Instead, why not let an experienced dental professional take a look at it for you?
Dr. Lattinelli offers these popular and effective treatment options for cosmetic dental needs:
- Teeth Whitening
- Invisalign
- A great option for children or adults trying to reduce the stigma of orthodontics treatment.
- Clear Aligners
- Veneers
- Cosmetic Bonding
- Microabrasion
- This minimally-invasive procedure makes a huge difference in tooth stains by taking away a thin layer of the tooth’s enamel.
Dr. Lattinelli can also help you address the embarrassment of missing teeth with realistic and functional dentures or dental implants. He can even get to the bottom of jaw pain and TMJ disorders. It never hurts to have a well-trained and caring dentist preempt the common dental maladies with proven treatments.
JCL Dental is eager to help patients restore confidence in their appearance and heal oral health maladies. He receives numerous positive reviews from patients all throughout New York. Therefore, if you need competent and reliable cosmetic care, feel free to contact us soon at 212-752-7188.
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There’s no wrong time to get dental implants, as they can greatly improve your quality of life from an oral-care perspective. However, we’ve seen a certain hesitancy when it comes to getting this procedure done for various reasons, and we’d like to explain why you don’t have to wait to do this.
Check out this helpful advice on why you shouldn’t wait too long to get dental implants.
Why Get Dental Implants Sooner?
- It’s an opportunity to replace a problematic tooth or row of teeth with something that lasts several years.
- Dental implants can actually prevent your other teeth from moving and shifting as much.
- You can provide pain relief for your jaw bone by getting an implant. In simple terms, missing teeth contribute to jaw pain because that void causes your jaw to compensate and work harder than normal.
- This is often a much more comfortable and convenient alternative to dentures, which are harder to keep clean and limit the variety of foods you can consume.
- Missing teeth also have the tendency to produce a sagging appearance on your face, around your cheeks. Dental implants can help you avoid this deterioration of facial skin.
- It’s also easier to speak properly with implants, whereas dentures might make annunciation more difficult while you’re getting used to them.
- This is a great opportunity to help your self-esteem, too. Missing or damaged teeth are a big source of pain, frustration, and even depression for some patients.
Upper East Side Dental Implants with Dr. Lattinelli
Dental implants are one of our most popular procedures at our Upper East Side location. We have several approaches to this as well. So, whether you’d benefit from one implant, an arch of four implants, or even implant-supported dentures, we’re confident that we can find the correct dental solution for you.
We even have something called Mini Dental Implants (MDIs) if we see that traditional implants are not the best fit for you. These carry the added advantage of a smaller diameter, even less intrusion, no sutures, and minimal procedural discomfort. Feel free to review all of our dental services on our website to learn more about the various techniques we perform for our patients in New York.
Dr. Lattinelli is the best cosmetic dentist in Manhattan with more than a decade of experience treating patients with diverse oral-care needs. If after reading this you think you might benefit from dental implants, then we’d love to schedule a consultation. There’s no pressure to make a snap decision and we’ll gladly go through every option with you. Contact us soon to learn more, at 212-752-7188.
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While it’s sometimes not discussed at great lengths, oral cancer is a very real and viable threat. Each year there are upwards of 54,000 cases, as reported by the American Cancer Society. The entire month of April is focused on the increased awareness of oral cancer as well as the actions we can take to help prevent it. Knowing what the early warning signs are can mean all the difference between life and death.
Signs & Symptoms of Oral Cancer
While only a medical professional, mainly an oncologist can determine if a patient has developed oral cancer, there are early symptoms and warning signs that if spotted early enough, can be an indication of a bigger problem.
- A sore throat that persists and doesn’t go away over time
- Noticeable lump or thickness developing in the soft tissues of the oral cavity
- A gradual or sudden change in voice that’s noticeably raspy or hoarse.
- Sudden ear pain that wasn’t present before
- Difficulty in talking, chewing, swallowing, or initiating any movement of the mouth or jaw
- A sudden or gradual feeling of numbness in the jaw or mouth
- If you have dentures or a partial, any difficulty or uncomfortable feeling from placing them in your mouth. Or sudden difficulty during use.
These warning signs are not a certain indication of oral cancer. However, if you find that they persist for over a week, see a doctor immediately to have them evaluated.
5 Contributing Factors to the Development of Oral Cancer
The exact cause of cancer is still unknown, but research has determined that there are a number of contributing factors that have been linked to oral cancer. Again, these might not directly cause cancer to develop. However, research has shown that these contribute to the cause.
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
HPV is one of the most commonly contracted STDs in the United States. Certain cancers in the head and neck area have been found in people who have previously contracted HPV.
- Tobacco & Alcohol Use
If you use tobacco-related products or have an excess of more than 1-2 drinks daily, you are susceptible to oral cancer. If you decide to smoke and drink, exercise in moderation.
- Gender & Age
While the disease doesn’t tend to discriminate, studies have shown that men are far more likely to contract oral cancer than women. Most of the people who end up contracting oral cancer are over the age of 55.
Dr. Lattineli & His Team at JCL Dental
Because April is oral cancer awareness month, making an appointment to ensure your mouth is a healthy one is of the utmost importance. JCL dental can make sure you stay ahead of the curve in terms of preventative care. For more information and appointments, visit us online at https://www.drlattinelli.com/.
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Having a perfect smile is not only a confidence booster, it’s also beneficial to your oral health. A smile without overlapping or crooked teeth can actually prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and tooth loss. Dental aligners such as Invisalign can help you achieve the perfect healthy smile. Here are some reasons to consider straightening your teeth with clear aligners.
Proper Teeth Alignment
The importance of having your teeth aligned is to keep your gums protected while having good cleaning access to the teeth. Your smile should have the perfect balance of close, even contacts with enough space for brushing and flossing in between. Teeth should also have enough tightness to keep your gum tissue healthy and protected against infection and inflammation.
The benefit to Your Jaw
Having your teeth straightened not only protects your mouth but also helps improve your jaw. When you have proper teeth alignment your upper and lower jaw meet. This allows your top molars to fit into the grooves of your bottom molars correctly. Getting your teeth straightened eliminates the possibility of having an overbite or underbite. Alignment also allows you to bite and chew your food comfortably while avoiding jaw pain and teeth grinding.
Dental Aligners
Dental Aligners are a quick and comfortable solution to correcting your smile. Aligners are made out of clear material similar to plastic so they won’t be noticeable in your mouth like braces. Braces move your teeth all at once while aligners shift individual segments of teeth. You’ll wear your first set of aligners for 22 hours a day for about 1-3 weeks. After this, you’ll get a new mold fitted to slightly adjust the new alignment of your teeth.
Invisalign
Invisalign is a well-known name when it comes to clear aligners. The Invisalign procedure can benefit everyone from teens to adults. Invisalign provides both comfort and convenience since all you need to do is get a new aligner tray every two weeks. The aligner will do its job as you go about your day without anyone noticing! You can still enjoy whatever type of food you like and won’t have to cut anything out of your diet. The tray is also easy to clean and is about the same cost as other straightening procedures. Invisalign can usually be paid for through insurance or a flexible plan.
If you want to achieve the perfect smile you’ve been dreaming of, Dr. Lattinelli is here to help. The team at JCL Dental is ready to help you along your dental aligner journey. Visit our office located at 121 East 60th St.10th Floor New York, NY 10022, or call today for a consultation to get started! 212-752-7188
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If you’re looking for a way to improve your smile but feel nervous about dental procedures, veneers may be the best option for you. Veneers are a noninvasive procedure that can change your life by giving you a permanent new smile. Here are a few other benefits of dental veneers and why you should consider them.
Veneers are a Quick Fix
Veneers are thin pieces of medical-grade porcelain that are cemented to your teeth. They can easily cover up multiple cosmetic dental issues. If you have chipped, missing, or misshapen teeth, veneers act as a camouflage to these problems. If your smile has gaps you may think your only option is receiving braces. Veneers can easily cover up gaps instead of going through the process and pain of moving your teeth. If you’re unhappy with stained or discolored teeth, veneers can also be your solution.
Noninvasive Procedure
Dental procedures can be a stressful or scary situation. Luckily getting veneers is one of the less invasive options. First, your dentist will remove ½ millimeters off the front surface of your treated teeth, this amount is even less than what’s removed during the crown process. After the removal, your veneers will be placed with special cement. You will only receive a small amount of anesthesia or maybe none at all. After your veneers are in place you can enjoy the results immediately!
Naturally Beautiful
One thing people love most about veneers is the natural appearance the result creates. Your dentist will take impressions of your teeth so the veneers can match the color of your tooth enamel and the natural contour of your teeth. Dentists also sculpt each veneer to make sure to give you the most natural look. Each veneer is unique to you and will fit the shape of your face. Besides giving you a beautiful new smile, veneers will also feel comfortable in your mouth.
Easy Maintenance
After receiving your veneers you may feel overwhelmed to keep them in the best condition possible. Another great benefit to veneers is that they’re actually simple to maintain. You won’t have to do any special routine; it can stay the same as if you were caring for your normal teeth. Brushing twice a day and flossing at least once will help keep your new smile looking its best. Regular check-ups or cleanings with your dentist will also help keep that pearly white shine.
You don’t have to live the rest of your life unhappy with your smile. Veneers are a great quick and easy fix to give you the naturally beautiful smile you’ve been dreaming of. If you’re ready to start the process, the team at JCL Dental is here to help. Our office is located at 121 East 60th St., 10th Floor New York, NY 10022. Give us a call today to schedule your appointment! 212-752-7188
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