Periodontitis is a chronic bacterial infection which affects a patient’s gums and the bone which supports the teeth. It can affect a single tooth or many teeth.

Gingivitis is often the first sign of periodontal disease and typically characterized by red or swollen gums that are prone to bleeding when brushed. Often caused by poor oral hygiene, gingivitis is often relatively mild and easily treatable by a dentist, along with an improvement in dental hygiene care. Tobacco and alcohol use can often increase the likelihood of a patient developing gingivitis, as can certain medications.

Left untreated, gingivitis can progress into a more serious condition, known as periodontitis. This condition affects the bone supporting the tooth, eroding the jawbone and causing gums to recede. This can lead to the loosening of teeth and eventually the affected teeth may have to be removed altogether.

In addition to sore, bleeding gums, periodontal disease may also show other symptoms, including:

• Persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth that doesn’t go away with brushing or use of mouthwash;
• Gaps appearing between teeth, leading to increased sensitivity to heat and cold;
• A change in the way in which teeth fit together while biting, perhaps through a tendency to grind teeth;
• A build-up of pus between the teeth and gums.

If a patient experiences any of these symptoms, a visit to a dentist is recommended in order to begin treatment and prevent further problems later. A dentist will examine the patient’s teeth, and perhaps use x-rays to determine the severity of the periodontitis and its effect on the gums and jawbone.

Treatments for periodontitis vary depending on the severity of the condition. In early stages, treatment may involve a thorough dental cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist and a recommendation for improving oral hygiene at home. However, if the disease is more advanced, the dentist may perform a scale and root planing treatment to remove deep-set bacteria.

To learn more and to schedule your consultation in the Glen Head area, contact the office of Dr. Richard Sousa at 516-484-6600 today.

A dentist often stresses the importance of a regular dental care routine, and during pregnancy this is no different; in fact, it may be prudent to increase the level of care during the pregnancy, especially if problems begin to occur.

For most women, some changes in their oral behavior may be observed. Gums may bleed more easily and appear inflamed or swollen. These changes are known as ‘pregnancy gingivitis’ and can begin early in the pregnancy term, running through until close to the due date.

Pregnancy gingivitis is a common condition and is often caused by a change in the woman’s hormone level. A dentist will check for signs of periodontal disease, as hormone levels may stimulate the growth of bacteria which cause gingivitis, while the body’s immune system may alter the way it reacts to the bacteria.

Some women may develop ‘pregnancy granuloma’, which is a small lump that grows on the gums. This condition affects only a small percentage of pregnant women, and often occurs during the second trimester. The lump is, however, completely harmless – if a little painful – and disappears soon after the child’s birth.

Increased tooth erosion may occur in women who experience severe morning sickness, and frequent bouts of vomiting can often lead to the erosion of the tooth enamel at the back of the teeth. However, a dentist can advise on protecting the tooth enamel should severity or frequency of vomiting become a cause for concern.

Other oral issues that may occur during pregnancy include dry mouth and excessive saliva production. Dry mouth can be easily treated with plenty of fluids, or sucking on sugarless candies; while excessive saliva is often a short-term complaint and disappears on its own relatively quickly.

Despite these issues, a regular visit to the dentist is perfectly safe, and normal dental treatments can usually be carried out without issue. Major dental surgeries, dental x-rays or reconstructive treatments may have to wait until after childbirth, however. If in doubt, discuss any issues with a dentist, who can advise and reassure.

Contact our experienced team at East Hills Dental Associates, serving Glen Cove and the surrounding areas, for more information.

If there are details about your smile that prevent you from smiling openly and proudly, speak to your cosmetic dentist about the possibility of porcelain veneers. Porcelain veneers can be used to conceal a broad variety of imperfections such as gaps and spaces between the upper or lower front teeth.

Spaces and gaps can appear between the front teeth for a number of reasons. Our individual anatomy and genetics can influence the position of our teeth. Lifestyle habits such as thumb sucking and tongue thrusting can create forces on the teeth that may result in excessive spacing. Many adults who received orthodontic treatment during childhood may notice that the teeth begin to drift apart without the help of a retainer.

Veneers are an ultra-thin shell of porcelain which resembles natural tooth enamel. By slightly reshaping the front surfaces of the natural teeth, your cosmetic dentist can design porcelain veneers that will eliminate those spaces. Your dentist will plan the treatment with you in advance to ensure that the final result reflects your ideal smile. The exact shade and shape of the teeth can be customized for a natural appearance and comfortable fit.

Your veneers will be bonded to the front surfaces of your teeth and will remain firmly in place as you chew and bite. You may care for your new teeth as though they are natural teeth. Brushing and flossing are necessary for the health of the underlying tooth structure and the surrounding gum tissue, although no special oral hygiene products are required.

Millions of patients are turning to cosmetic dentistry for solutions to a number of esthetic concerns. The results continue to be impressive and patients are finding that they can be proud of their smiles again. To discuss ways to improve your smile, contact our Long Island cosmetic dentist, Richard A. Sousa DDS, today.

In terms of gum disease or gingivitis, these symptoms are easily recognizable in the early stages. Bleeding is never considered normal in the oral cavity. Bleeding during brushing and flossing, with or without tenderness, is an issue that should be discussed openly with your dentist.

As bleeding gums are an early indicator of gum disease, addressing the issue as soon as possible may be the best way to protect your health. In fact, bleeding is a sign of infection in the body. When the infection can be limited to a small area and treated appropriately, it can be resolved and the body can return to a healthy state. When the infection is not addressed, it becomes chronic and more widespread, posing a risk to your overall health.

From an esthetic standpoint, bleeding gums can be unattractive, as well as project an unpleasant odor. There is typically redness and inflammation to accompany the bleeding. These symptoms may cause the gums to look puffy, swollen, and irregular, negatively impacting your smile.

Generally, where there are signs of infection above the gum line, damage is also occurring below the gum line. As gum infections progress, the underlying bone and connective tissues become involved. Failure to address the infection at this level can lead to bone loss, as well as tooth loss.

Don’t ignore bleeding gums, even in the absence of pain or tenderness. Our dentist has the expertise to treat the earliest stages of gum disease in order to prevent any future risk to your smile or your health. Call the office of Dr. Richard A. Sousa, serving Manhasset, at 516-484-6600 to discuss your treatment options.

Your implant dentist understands the urgency of complete tooth replacement. With All-on-4 dental implants, it is possible to have high quality replacement teeth in a single day. A full upper or lower denture, with the help of at least four dental implants, can enhance your health and improve your self-confidence.

Research has proven that dental implants are an example of the absolute highest level of tooth restoration. They are permanently anchored into the jaw bone and readily accepted by the human body. When placed strategically as a set of four, implants create a stable foundation for a complete denture.

With proper diagnostic records, such as x-rays and a review of your medical history, a single-day treatment plan can be developed. In the same visit, your dental implants can be placed into the bone and a custom denture can be affixed. By the end of the procedure, most patients can resume a soft diet, as well as a perfectly normal lifestyle.

In essence, the implants act as a set of artificial tooth roots. With proper oral hygiene, the bone around the implants is preserved and the artificial tooth roots can absorb the forces of biting and chewing. In fact, bone loss is virtually halted, which helps to maintain the structure of your facial profile.

Achieving a strong, stable smile in a single day is indeed a reality. The pleasure of chewing, smiling, and speaking without dentures that click and slide gives many patients the confidence that they need to get through their day. The idea that one can begin life with a new set of teeth in one day is revolutionary.

Contact our implant dentist with East Hills Dental Associates, in Nassau County, today to schedule an appointment for your All-on-4 dental implants.

Your implant dentist will conduct a thorough dental exam and review your general overall health to make sure you are a good candidate for dental implants. Patients that are at risk for implant failure are those suffering from autoimmune diseases like diabetes or those who have periodontal disease. Smokers are advised to quit before embarking on the implant process as smoking is a major contributor to implant failure.

Your implant dentist will also discuss the commitment required for a successful dental implant. Infection can result in implant failure so keeping the implant area flossed and clean during the healing process is critical.

Once the decision to move forward has been reached, a dental implant is surgically placed in the gum tissue where the tooth has been lost. The implant resembles a small screw, and is made of titanium or a similar metal that is designed to fuse to the bone.

After the implant has healed, which is typically four to six months, the strength and stability the implant offers to the replacement tooth is much like the benefit obtained from the roots of our natural teeth.

When your implant dentist is satisfied that the implant has healed and has successfully anchored to the bone, it is time to place the final restoration. This restoration has been fabricated to match the shape and shade of the surrounding teeth making it virtually undetectable.

The implant has now become part of your permanent dental anatomy. The restoration that was affixed to the implant is secure and functions much like your natural teeth. The ability to eat the foods you love, speak with confidence, and smile without hesitation are restored.

Moving forward, caring for your dental implant is no more difficult than observing the excellent oral hygiene habits of daily flossing and brushing at least twice per day. A visit to our Long Island dentist twice per year for a professional cleaning and exam will allow you to enjoy your dental implants and restoration for many years. For additional information, call the office of Dr. Richard Sousa at 516-484-6600.

A denture is a dental appliance made up to replace the number of teeth needed. A partial denture is the solution when only a few teeth are missing. However, when the entire upper or lower arch must be replaced, a complete denture is needed.

Replacing missing teeth is critical to our ability to eat, speak and smile. Tooth loss is not to be taken lightly as missing teeth can result in the shift of remaining teeth and bone loss over time. These facts can result in a poor diet, diminished overall health and even a change in facial appearance.

Dentures are made from acrylic resin which allows your dentist to match the shape and shade of the surrounding teeth making your partial denture indistinguishable from your remaining teeth.

When replacing either the upper or lower arch (or both), your dentist will help you select the closest fit to enhance your appearance while offering you comfort and functionality.

Whether you are fitted with a complete or partial denture, an adjustment period is generally needed to get used to your new dental appliance. Quite often saliva production is increased and the ability to eat and speak requires a little time to feel natural again.

Taking care of your denture is like taking care of your own teeth with a few exceptions. A partial denture should be removed before brushing your permanent teeth. Toothpaste and gel can contain abrasives that can scratch a denture. You should only use a product intended for dentures to brush your dentures.

When not in your mouth, it is best to store your denture in a glass of water or cleaner. A denture can dry out making it susceptible to cracking or breaking.

Never place your denture in boiling water to clean it, as heat can warp your denture.

The dentist will probably have you return to the office several times during the initial period of wearing your new denture to make sure you are getting the benefit of a perfect fit and to make the adjustments needed for you to get the most out of your new dental appliance.

To learn more and to schedule your consultation, call the office of Dr. Richard Sousa, serving Long Island, today.

For a cavity on the chewing surface of the tooth, a porcelain onlay would be best. For dental decay in between teeth, a porcelain inlay is the appropriate treatment.

What makes porcelain onlays and inlays such a beneficial course of action?

• The aesthetics of porcelain trumps any other material we have today. Porcelain will not fade and is stain resistant. Porcelain is designed to match tooth color making it the choice of many patients who desire the natural look you can obtain versus gold or metal restorations.
• The porcelain onlay is designed to withstand the chewing pressure a tooth sustains during the course of a normal day. Your dentist might recommend composite resin to repair a small cavity, but when faced with a larger restoration, a porcelain onlay offers durability and strength to the treated tooth.
• With porcelain inlays and onlays, your dentist is able to reduce the amount of your natural tooth that must be removed for treatment as compared to a dental composite or crown.

At the onset of treatment your dentist will prepare the tooth and take an impression that will be used to fabricate the restoration. A temporary will be placed on the tooth to protect it until treatment is completed. When placing the onlay or inlay, the restoration is fitted to the tooth. And because it is made of porcelain, there is no possibility of shrinkage as sometimes happens with a traditional filling.

Your dentist will ensure an exact fit and permanently place the restoration. Any adjustments will be made to make sure the margins are correct and your bite is precise.

Taking care of your onlay or inlay requires nothing more than the excellent oral hygiene habits you already practice of flossing daily and brushing twice per day. A visit to our Glen Cove dentist twice per year for a professional cleaning and exam will help ensure your onlay or inlay will serve you well for many years. Call East Hills Dental Associates at 516-484-6600 if you are in need of filling a cavity.

The primary reason that so many patients select composite resin for dental fillings is the aesthetic beauty they provide. Your cosmetic dentist can match the shade of the filling material so closely to the natural color of your tooth, a filling can be completed in your smile line and go entirely unnoticed.

In addition to dental fillings, this same material can be used to cover stain or uneven tooth discolorations due to medication, diet or lifestyle habits. Minor cosmetic repairs are also suitable to being restored with cosmetic resin such as correcting gaps between teeth, reshaping teeth to even out a misshapen smile or covering an exposed root due to gum recession.

Besides its aesthetic value, composite resin will offer durability and strength to the tooth that is treated. This is due to the material being placed on the tooth in small increments and hardened in stages with either a curing light or a laser. The composite resin is placed in or on an area that has been treated with a coating of a bonding agent which prepares the tooth to accept the material and adhere securely. This application process also results in the reduction of sensitivity to hot or cold.

Another advantage to composite resin fillings over amalgam is much less of the tooth is impacted using the composite material. Also, over time the silver amalgam can become even more discolored giving it a darker appearance than when first put in.

As previously mentioned, dental amalgam contains mercury. The material used in making tooth colored fillings is a plastic resin, and there have not been any health hazards associated with the use of composite resin making it the completely safe choice for dental repairs.

Once your cosmetic dentist has finished your restoration, it will be adjusted for utmost comfort levels and polished to most closely match the surrounding teeth. In one visit you will have a completed dental repair that rivals the appearance of your natural teeth.

Composite resin is the most logical and aesthetically pleasing product available today to correct minor cosmetic issues and repair dental cavities. Contact our experienced dental team serving Nassau County to learn of all the options available to satisfy your dental needs.

A root canal is a process in which the nerve and pulp contained in the root of the tooth are removed. A tooth can have one to four canals within the roots of the tooth and each one contains the pulp and nerve that will be removed during the endodontic procedure. At the completion of a root canal, the area is completely cleansed and filled with an infection fighting material to aid in the healing process.  The opening is then sealed to prevent further damage or infection, often with a dental crown.

The primary reason for a root canal is to save a tooth that is either severely decayed or infected, but enough of the tooth is salvageable to undergo the process. Once a tooth has matured and erupted through gum tissue, the nerve inside the root of the tooth does not serve any needed specific purpose except to detect hot or cold. So removing the nerve does not impact the value of saving the tooth.

When a tooth gets to a point where a root canal is recommended, it is usually because there is infection present or there is a crack or break in the tooth that is allowing food, beverages or air to reach the nerve causing a zinging sensation.

Before starting a root canal, the dentist will prepare the area by sealing off the tooth with a rubber dam. This is to keep the area dry during the procedure and to prevent any fluids used during the procedure from being swallowed.

Generally the patient is given an anesthetic to “freeze” the area. Depending on which tooth and how many canals are involved, a root canal can be a quick procedure or can take an hour or longer. Keeping the patient comfortable and calm during the procedure allows the dentist to work as quickly as possible.

The dentist wants to make sure all canals are treated because leaving one canal of the tooth untreated can result in root canal failure and the need to retreat.

Root canal therapy allows a patient to keep a tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted, so although no one wants to experience a root canal, the value of this treatment to save a tooth is priceless.

If you are in need of a root canal in the Long Island area, please contact the office of Dr. Richard Sousa at 516-484-6600.