Category: Post

Achieve a Perfect Smile with Advanced Dental Specialists, Your Trusted Orthodontist in Berkeley Heights, NJ

Welcome to Advanced Dental Specialists, your trusted orthodontic clinic in Berkeley Heights, NJ. We specialize in providing exceptional orthodontic services to help you achieve a perfect smile. With our expert orthodontists and state-of-the-art treatments, we are committed to delivering personalized care and outstanding results.

Choosing the Right Orthodontist in Berkeley Heights, NJ

When it comes to orthodontic care, it’s crucial to select an experienced and reputable orthodontist. At Advanced Dental Specialists, we take pride in our team of skilled orthodontists who possess extensive knowledge and expertise in the field. With their compassionate approach and dedication to patient care, our orthodontists strive to provide the highest level of treatment while ensuring your comfort and satisfaction.

Comprehensive Orthodontic Services in Berkeley Heights, NJ

At Advanced Dental Specialists, we offer a comprehensive range of orthodontic services to address various dental concerns. Whether you require traditional metal braces, discreet ceramic braces, or the convenience of clear aligners like Invisalign, our orthodontists will customize a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. We utilize advanced technologies and techniques to deliver efficient and effective results, ensuring your journey to a straighter smile is smooth and successful.

Our Commitment to Exceptional Orthodontic Care

At Advanced Dental Specialists, your oral health and satisfaction are our top priorities. From your initial consultation to the completion of your orthodontic treatment, we provide personalized care in a warm and welcoming environment. Our team takes the time to understand your goals and concerns, guiding you through every step of the process with clear communication and attention to detail. With our commitment to excellence, you can trust that your orthodontic journey with us will be both comfortable and rewarding.

If you’re searching for an orthodontist in Berkeley Heights NJ, look no further than Advanced Dental Specialists. With our skilled orthodontists, wide range of services, and commitment to exceptional care, we are dedicated to helping you achieve a perfect smile. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards transforming your dental health and confidence.

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common oral health condition that affects the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. It typically occurs due to the accumulation of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, on the teeth and along the gum line. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other oral health complications. Here’s an overview of the symptoms, causes, and treatments of gum disease:

Symptoms of Gum Disease:

1. Swollen or inflamed gums: Gums that appear red, swollen, or tender.
2. Bleeding gums: Gums that bleed easily, especially during brushing, flossing, or eating.
3. Receding gums: Gums that pull away from the teeth, making the teeth appear longer.
4. Persistent bad breath: A constant bad taste or odor in the mouth that does not go away.
5. Loose or shifting teeth: Teeth that feel loose or start to move out of their normal alignment.
6. Changes in bite: A change in the way the teeth come together when biting down.
7. Pus or discharge: The presence of pus between the teeth and gums or a discharge from the gums.
8. Gum sensitivity: Gums that are sensitive to touch, temperature, or pressure.

Causes of Gum Disease:

1. Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing lead to the buildup of plaque and tartar, which can irritate the gums.
2. Bacterial infection: The bacteria in plaque can cause an infection that triggers inflammation and damages the gum tissues.
3. Smoking and tobacco use: Tobacco use weakens the immune system and hampers gum tissue healing, making it easier for gum disease to develop.
4. Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can make the gums more susceptible to gum disease.
5. Diabetes: Individuals with diabetes are at higher risk due to reduced ability to fight infections.
6. Certain medications: Some medications, such as oral contraceptives and certain heart medications, can affect oral health and contribute to gum disease.
7. Genetic factors: Some people may have a genetic predisposition that makes them more susceptible to gum disease.

Treatments for Gum Disease:

1. Professional dental cleaning: The dentist or dental hygienist will perform a deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planning to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line.
2. Medications: Antibiotics or antimicrobial mouth rinses may be prescribed to control bacterial infection and reduce inflammation.
3. Gum surgery: In advanced cases, surgical treatments like flap surgery, bone grafts, or tissue regeneration may be required to repair damaged gum and bone tissues.
4. Lifestyle changes: Improving oral hygiene practices, quitting smoking, managing underlying health conditions like diabetes, and making healthy lifestyle choices can help control gum disease and prevent its progression.
5. Ongoing maintenance: Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are essential to monitor the condition, remove plaque and tartar, and maintain good oral health.

If you experience any symptoms of gum disease or have concerns about your oral health, it is advisable to consult a dentist for a proper evaluation and personalized treatment plan. Early detection and intervention can help prevent further damage and preserve your oral health.

At Advanced Dental Specialists, we understand the importance of hydration in maintaining a healthy mouth. Water is always beneficial to your teeth and gums. Drinking water, along with regular brushing and flossing, is one of the most effective ways to prevent cavities and gum disease. Simply drinking water throughout the day can prevent plaque buildup and protect your tooth enamel—read on to learn more.

Drinking water helps to keep your mouth clean.

Drinking water helps to prevent cavities and gum disease by rinsing away harmful bacteria and food debris. Water is beneficial to your teeth because it keeps your mouth clean! Plaque cannot form in a clean, hydrated mouth. Acids in plaque, food, and beverages can erode tooth enamel, but drinking water dilutes acids, which helps protect your teeth. A simple glass of water can clean away stains, reduce bacteria that cause bad breath, and protect your tooth enamel. The more water you drink, the brighter your smile will be!

Drinking-Water Helps with Dry Mouth

Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a condition in which plaque accumulates because the mouth does not produce enough saliva. Saliva is essential in helping to protect your teeth and gums. Saliva, like water, washes away food debris and combats cavity-causing bacteria. Acid from plaque buildup damages teeth and causes lesions that can lead to cavities, but saliva helps to prevent plaque acid attacks. Minerals in your saliva also aid in the strengthening and rebuilding of tooth enamel; without enough saliva, your teeth are more vulnerable to damage. Water keeps your mouth hydrated and stimulates saliva production.

Drinking-Water Aids in the Restoration of Tooth Enamel

Another reason that drinking water is beneficial to your teeth is remineralization. Your tooth enamel contains more minerals than your bones. Drinking water containing trace minerals and fluoride aids in the restoration and strengthening of your enamel. Minerals and fluoride, on the other hand, are typically found only in tap water and mineral water. Filtered and bottled water frequently lack essential minerals, whereas distilled and reverse osmosis water contains no minerals or fluoride at all. If you prefer filtered or distilled water for its purity, ask Advanced Dental Specialists about scheduling a series of fluoride treatments at your next appointment.

If you’re thinking of whitening your teeth, you’re undoubtedly wondering how long it will take. There is no simple answer. The amount of time depends on the condition of your teeth prior to the whitening process, the type of treatment you choose, and what caused your teeth to become stained in the first place. Some methods can be completed in as little as 60 minutes, while others can take weeks. Let’s go deeper!

Common Methods of Teeth Whitening

1. Teeth whitening is done professionally. This is the quickest and most effective method for whitening your teeth. This easy process can take anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes, and patients walk away with teeth that are 2-3 shades lighter than when they arrived.

2. Whitening strips are the most popular approach, and people like them. However, these are not always the ideal option for people with sensitive teeth. If you pick this strategy, you must be really devoted because they must be worn for 1-2 hours every day for 2-3 weeks.

3. Whitening rinses are typically the procedure that takes the longest to produce results. Every day, try using the rinse for a few minutes.

4. UV lamps combined with gel are really popular right now. The gel is often peroxide-based and is intended to be used in conjunction with a blue UV light. According to reports, UV light activates the peroxide and speeds up the whitening process. If you use it on a daily basis, you should see benefits in 10-14 days.

5. While brushing your teeth, whitening toothpaste contains enzymes that remove stains. If you do this twice a day, you should expect to see effects in two to six weeks.

Begin Whitening Your Teeth Today

Consider going to a professional whitening service if you want to whiten your teeth. It’s both safe and effective, and Advanced Dental Specialists are now accepting new patients! Make an appointment for a consultation online today. We will assist you in determining the best option for you and your individual smile.

People are anxious to go out on the road and travel now that the weather is warming up and COVID epidemic restrictions are being relaxed across the country. What are your plans for this year? If you have a large summer trip planned, the ADS team would like to remind you that oral health care should never be neglected while on vacation. Here are a few pointers to help you maintain good dental hygiene even when you’re not at home.

How to Keep Your Teeth Clean While Camping

While some individuals like to spend their vacations at resorts and beaches, others enjoy the peaceful tranquillity of nature. If you’re going camping this summer, you can keep your teeth clean even if there isn’t running water. Bring lots of bottled water with you so you can brush your teeth twice a day. To reduce your environmental impact, spit and rinse into an empty water bottle. You can also carry floss; however, make sure to dispose of all old floss and water bottles in a sealed trash container, as some animals, such as bears, are attracted to their minty odors.

Traveling with Good Oral Healthcare

Nothing like a road trip to give you that sense of adventure you’ve been looking for. Just make sure you don’t forget about your oral health on the way. Each passenger should bring a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss, and store them in a convenient location in the vehicle. That way, when you stop for gas or a toilet break, you may clean your teeth, which is

especially important if you’ve been nibbling on sugary treats while driving.

Taking Care of Your Teeth While Flying

You could be on a plane for 18 hours or more, depending on where you’re traveling! We don’t advocate spending so long without cleaning your teeth, so bring a toothbrush, floss, and TSA-compliant travel toothpaste with you. That way, you can always clean your teeth after your in-flight snack, or floss if a piece of food gets stuck between your teeth. Additionally, before boarding the plane, get a large bottle of water, as dry mouth and dehydration can provide an ideal breeding environment for bacteria.

We hope you have received all the necessary information; for additional information, please visit our blog section or call us at (908) 679-8551.

Dental implant candidates must have healthy gums and enough bone to sustain the implant. See your dentist or make an appointment with us for a comprehensive evaluation to see if you qualify for our low-cost dental implants.

The Benefits of Dental Implants

• Dental implants provide numerous advantages, including
• Improved appearance. Dental implants look and feel just like natural teeth. They are joined to your bone and form an integral element of your jaw.
• Improved comfort. Dentures are no longer uncomfortable since dental implants are implanted into your bone.
• Increased self-assurance. Dental implants provide you with the beautiful smile you’ve always wanted, boosting your confidence.
• They improved oral health. Dental implants function and feel like natural teeth, and they are easier to clean. Also, dental implants don’t require adjacent teeth to be cut down like a dental bridge, so all your other healthy teeth remain untouched.

Lasts a long time. Dental implants are one of the most effective dental surgeries available.

Why are Dental Implants Used?

You’ll discover there’s a better approach to improving your quality of life after you grasp the process and benefits of dental implants. Whether it is a recent incident or something you have lived with for years, losing even one tooth is like losing a key part of yourself and maybe tough to adjust to.

That is why our affordable dental implants allow you to start afresh! Our dentists can provide replacement teeth that appear, feel, and operate exactly like natural teeth using titanium tooth roots. Dental implants can open the door to improved self-esteem and peace of mind.

The Treatment Procedures

• The titanium implant is placed in the bone as the initial step. For about 3-5 months, the implant will be hidden beneath the gum. The implant should fuse to the bone throughout this time.
• The second stage of the surgery is exposing the implant and inserting a post known as an Abutment. This completes the foundation for the placement of your new teeth. In some cases, the doctor may elect to insert the post during the initial operation. Following the placement of the post, the doctor will take an impression of the area and send it to the lab along with other information such as shape, color, and size. The lab will precisely create a crown based on the imprint.
• The final step is to insert the new tooth. This replacement tooth should blend in with your existing teeth thanks to procedures that assure appropriate size, shape, and fit.

In 1975, the American Diabetes Association designated November as Diabetes Awareness Month, and we now use this month to educate the public about diabetes signs, symptoms, and prevention. Because of the specific effects diabetes has on our patients’ oral health, we have a unique viewpoint on it in the dental community.

What Is the Impact of Diabetes on the Body?

Diabetes is a disorder that hinders the body from properly processing sugar, resulting in a buildup of glucose sugar in the bloodstream. These increased glucose levels can cause organ damage over time. Damage to the blood vessels places additional strain on the heart and produces circulation issues, which have a detrimental influence on every system in the body, including the eyes, kidneys, nerves, lower limbs, and even the gums.

Diabetes Causes Which Oral Health Issues?

Talk to your dentist if you have diabetes or are prediabetic, and keep an eye out for any of the following symptoms that could be related:

Gum Disease – For maximum performance, your gums require a healthy blood flow, which diabetes might deprive them of. If you experience significant bleeding while brushing or flossing, or if your gums recede, this could be an indication of gum disease. If left addressed, this could result in tooth loss and other complications.

Diabetes might affect your ability to make saliva, causing thirst and parchedness. Drinking more water can help, but it is an only a short-term treatment. It is critical to discuss the underlying causes of dry mouth with your doctor and address them before your situation worsens.

Changes in Taste – Diabetes might lead you to lose your sense of taste partially or completely. If you have this symptom, it could mean that your diabetes is advancing and that you need medical attention.

Infections in the Mouth — Because diabetes affects the immune system, you may have a more difficult time controlling germs and fungi in your mouth. Thrush is a frequent ailment caused by an overgrowth of the candida fungus. If you have thrush, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible.

Difficulty Healing – Wounds might take substantially longer to heal if you have diabetes. Cuts and sores in your mouth may not heal correctly as a result. This can result in infection and other problems, so it’s critical to address the underlying issue rather than merely treating the symptoms.

While diabetes is the major cause of a slew of health problems, making lifestyle adjustments can help you keep it under control. Speak with your doctor about lifestyle changes including diet, exercise, stopping smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption that can help you control your blood sugar and prevent further organ damage. With diabetes, you can live a long and healthy life, but the sooner you address your problems, the higher your chances of avoiding the worst symptoms.

Tooth decay can occur when acid is produced by plaque that accumulates on your teeth.

If plaque is allowed to accumulate, it can lead to additional issues such as dental caries (holes in the teeth), gum disease, or dental abscesses (pupil collections at the ends of the teeth or in the gums).

Tooth decayTooth decay symptoms

 may not be painful. However, if you have dental caries, you may suffer from:

• Toothache – either continuous pain that keeps you awake or intermittent sharp pain with no obvious cause
• Tooth sensitivity – you may experience tenderness or pain when eating or drinking something hot, cold, or sweet; grey, brown, or black spots on your teeth; bad breath; and an unpleasant taste in your mouth

Tooth Decay Treatments

The treatment of tooth decay is dependent on how far it has progressed.

• For early-stage tooth decay, your dentist will discuss the amount of sugar in your diet as well as the times you eat. They may use a fluoride gel, varnish, or paste to treat the affected area. 
• Fluoride protects teeth by strengthening the enamel, making them more resistant to plaque acids that cause tooth decay.
• Your dentist may recommend a filling or crown, which entails removing the dental decay, applying a local anesthetic to numb the tooth, and filling the hole.

Tooth Decay Prevention

Although tooth decay is a common issue, it is often completely avoidable. Keeping your teeth and gums as healthy as possible is the best way to avoid tooth decay. For instance, you should:

• Visit your dentist on a regular basis – your dentist will determine how frequently you need to see them based on the condition of your mouth, teeth, and gums.
• Reduce your intake of sugary and starchy foods and beverages, especially between meals and within an hour of going to bed – Some medications may contain sugar, so it’s best to look for sugar-free options. whenever possible, free alternatives
• Take care of your teeth and gums – brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and using an interdental brush at least once a day.

Taking care of your child’s teeth

Good eating habits, such as limiting sugary snacks and drinks, can help your child avoid tooth decay. Regular dental visits at a young age should also be encouraged.

It is critical to teach your child how to clean their teeth properly and on a regular basis. Your dentist will be able to show you how to do this. Younger children should use a children’s toothpaste, but read the label to learn how to use it properly.

Children should still brush their teeth twice a day, preferably before going to bed.

How plaque contributes to tooth decay

Bacteria in your mouth form a film over your teeth called dental plaque.

When you consume high-carbohydrate foods and beverages, particularly sugary foods and beverages, the bacteria in plaque convert the carbohydrates into energy while producing acid.

If plaque is allowed to accumulate, the acid can begin to break down (dissolve) the surface of your tooth, resulting in cavities.

Plaque and bacteria can reach the dentine once cavities have formed in the enamel (the softer, bone-like material underneath the enamel). tooth decay occurs more quickly.

Bacteria will enter the pulp if it is not treated (the soft center of the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels). At this point, your nerves will be exposed to bacteria, causing your tooth to become painful.

The bacteria can cause a dental abscess in the pulp, and the infection can spread into the bone, resulting in a different type of abscess.

The American Dental Association has designated February as National Children’s Dental Health Month in order to educate children and their caregivers about the importance of good oral health habits, but we know that teaching children how to properly care for their teeth is especially important so that they will carry those healthy habits into adulthood. Here are some of the reasons why good dental health habits are so important for children:

Your Oral Health Has an Impact on Your Overall Health

You may believe that having a healthy mouth is only about having a bright smile. Nothing could be further from the truth. There is a link between the health of your teeth and gums and the health of the rest of your body, regardless of your age. Medical science has established a link between poor oral health and a variety of other problems that can arise later in life. Bacteria can enter your bloodstream through your gum tissue or enter your digestive tract or respiratory tract if you don’t keep your mouth clean. This can result in conditions such as:

• Endocarditis
• Cardiovascular Illness

• Pneumonia
• Complications during pregnancy and childbirth

While these conditions primarily affect adults, developing good oral health habits early in life reduces your chances of developing them as you get older.

Children and Poor Oral Health Statistics

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 20% of children aged 5-11 in the United States have at least one untreated decayed tooth. Approximately 13% of adolescents aged 12 to 19 have at least one untreated decayed tooth. Untreated tooth decay can lead to gum disease and tooth loss in the future, as well as increase your chances of developing serious health problems as you age.

The good news is that tooth decay can be easily avoided by following a strict oral hygiene regimen. Brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, using mouthwash, and flossing once a day or after meals are all part of it. It also entails going to the dentist every six months. Children may be resistant to maintaining their oral health routine, but it is your responsibility as a caregiver to ensure they do so on a daily basis. Your child’s dentist is also a valuable resource in your efforts to instill healthy habits in your child. Fluoride treatments administered by your dentist can prevent approximately one-third of cavities in children, and dental sealants can prevent up to 80% of cavities for years.

The holidays are almost here, and with them comes a smorgasbord of delicacies you’ve probably been looking forward to all year. Your taste buds are ecstatic and ready to savor every moment. Meanwhile, your teeth and gums are trembling in fear of the impending onslaught.

You can still enjoy the holidays without jeopardizing your white, bright smile or the health of your teeth and gums if you follow these ten simple dental tips.

1. Consume These Tooth-Healthy Foods

Holidays provide numerous opportunities to reconnect with friends, mix and mingle, and, of course, nibble and munch.

You should definitely allow yourself to splurge a little and enjoy some decadence that won’t be available for another 12 months. But make sure to balance it out with crunchy fruits and vegetables (carrots are a great choice), whole grains, and plenty of water. Your teeth will appreciate it, and so will your wallet!

2. Avoid These Foods That Are Bad for Your Teeth

Sticky, hard, chewy, gummy, or sugary foods may be delicious, but they are not good for your teeth and gums. This includes the ubiquitous candy canes, soft mint chews, ice cubes, chestnuts, and other traditional holiday fares.

It can be difficult to say no to these once-a-year treats. However, if you can practice looking at a candy cane (or whatever forbidden item is in your sights) and visualizing an expensive dental filling charge instead, this can serve as a useful deterrent while you look for a safer alternative.

The holidays are almost here, and with them comes a smorgasbord of delicacies you’ve probably been looking forward to all year. Your taste buds are ecstatic and ready to savor every moment. Meanwhile, your teeth and gums are trembling in fear of the impending onslaught.

3. Maintain Your Oral Health Routine on a Daily Basis

Set an intention to stick to your daily oral health routine as much as possible. Twice-daily flossing, brushing, and gargling may not be the most enjoyable part of your holiday schedule, but they are like a trip to Disney World for your teeth and gums, as well as a get-out-of-the-dentist-chair pass.

You can look forward to a clean bill of dental health in the New Year with just a little extra planning and effort now.

4. Arrange for a Post-Holiday Checkup and Cleaning Now

Because this isn’t your first holiday season, you’re probably already aware of how busy you’ll be. You’re probably also aware that, despite your best intentions and promises, there will be times when you won’t floss, brush, gargle, or do any of the other things you know you should do to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

That’s fine. The good news is that you can schedule your post-holiday cleaning and check-up right now so that when the holidays are over, you can help your teeth stay clean, bright, and cavity-free from the first day of the New Year.

5. Drink plenty of water on a daily basis.

Drinking water has numerous advantages, especially during the holidays when you are more likely than ever to be out and about and want to look and feel your best. Water, for example, can keep your skin looking young, hydrated, and blemish-free.

Water can help with digestion and elimination as well as freshening your breath. Water can also keep you satiated so you don’t have to add “go on a diet” to your list of New Year’s Resolutions yet again. But one of the best benefits of water is that it can clean away newly formed bacteria, preventing you from waking up one morning with a sore tooth and an emergency trip to the dentist.

6. Never Use Your Teeth to Open Presents.

Teeth are useful for a variety of tasks, including chewing and enunciating. However, they do not make good tools. Using your teeth to open bottles, packages, snack bags, and other similar activities is a recipe for disaster.

This activity will weaken the enamel and the more fragile edges of your teeth over time, resulting in cracking and breakage, as well as an expensive cosmetic repair job.

The holidays are almost here, and with them comes a smorgasbord of delicacies you’ve probably been looking forward to all year. Your taste buds are ecstatic and ready to savor every moment. Meanwhile, your teeth and gums are trembling in fear of the impending onslaught.

7. Suck on Cinnamon Gum

Cinnamon gum contains a substance known as “cinnamon aldehyde.” This essential oil gives the gum its crisp, spicy flavor, but it does more than just stimulate your salivary glands. It can also detect and destroy bacteria that cause cavities. This is an excellent method for reducing bacteria formation in between brushes.

Cinnamon, on the other hand, can keep your breath fresher for longer, which is especially useful if you can’t resist that garlic-laden dip!

8. Beverages that are light in color or clear are preferable.

If you’ve spent the entire year whitening and brightening your teeth, the last thing you want to do is wake up on New Year’s Day and wonder why your once-white teeth have turned a pale-ish pink. Yes, red wine, like the tasty cranberry juice in those New Year’s Eve cosmopolitans, is said to be high in cancer-fighting antioxidants. However, both are potent tooth stains that can quickly undo all of your hard work from the previous year.

Choose light-colored or clear beverages to keep your teeth as white as possible this holiday season. They’ll still be delicious, but they won’t make your teeth look any worse for wear.

9. Nibble on Cheese While Drinking

During the holidays, everyone enjoys a sip of nog or a swig of bubbly. Adult beverages, on the other hand, are notorious for their high acid content, which wears away relentlessly at your protective tooth enamel over time.

Snack on a chunk of cheese in between sips to reduce the acid content without interfering with your enjoyment. The alkaline in the cheese neutralizes the acid in the beverage, demonstrating the truly miraculous nature of food science. Best of all, they both taste delicious!

10. Bring a teeth-cleaning kit with you to parties.

If you’re like most people, you won’t be sitting at home twiddling your thumbs too much during the upcoming holidays. And you won’t be eager to carve out time each night when you finally get home for brushing, flossing, and gargling.

So, what should you do? Packing a small to-go teeth cleaning kit that you can take to parties is one of the best compromises. This will not only prepare you to be rescued if you end up

The holidays are almost here, and with them comes a smorgasbord of delicacies you’ve probably been looking forward to all year. Your taste buds are ecstatic and ready to savor every moment. Meanwhile, your teeth and gums are trembling in fear of the impending onslaught.

with spinach dip wedged between your two front teeth, but it will also help you remember to care for your teeth during this especially hectic time of year.