Gentle Dental Care, LLC

Gentle Dental Care, Llc

• INVISALIGN®

  Are You Looking for a Dentist who does Invisalign®? Look no further than Gentle Dental! Invisalign® braces are clear plastic aligner trays that provide orthodontic patients with straight teeth and an even, healthy smile. These trays are custom-fabricated to apply precise pressure and gradually move teeth into better alignment. This non-invasive approach to correcting tooth and bite alignment problems is an alternative to metal and tooth-colored braces. It is especially beneficial for patients who feel self-conscious about wearing traditional braces. If you get Invisalign it can help to correct the following issues: Crooked teeth Unevenly spaced teeth Overcrowded teeth Mild to moderate bite problems Why Choose Invisalign®? You should strongly consider Invisalign® because it offers three main benefits compared to traditional braces. First, the trays are clear plastic. Unlike other “invisible” braces that still feature metal wires, there is no metal at all in the Invisalign® trays. This makes them even less noticeable than both tooth-colored ceramic braces and lingual braces (the kind attached to the tongue-side surface of the teeth). Once you get used to talking normally with the trays in your mouth, other people may not even be able to tell you are wearing braces. Second, there are no brackets or ties. This means there are no protruding components that can irritate the tongue, gums and other sensitive oral tissues. You do not need to coat Invisalign® braces with dental wax to stay comfortable. Third, these trays are removable. You can (and should) remove the trays for each meal and during tooth brushing and flossing. You can eat a normal, healthy diet without restricting foods that might get stuck in or damage metal braces. Since the trays do not interfere with normal hygiene by making flossing more challenging, you may be less likely to experience tooth decay and gingivitis as a side effect of orthodontic treatment. Contact the experts at Gentle Dental Care to learn more about Invisalign® tray’s benefits. Who is a Candidate for Invisalign®? If you are considering getting Invisalign®, you must be willing and able to wear the trays as instructed for best results. Invisalign® is most commonly used to correct mild to moderate tooth crookedness and spacing issues. Patients with severe bite problems are usually treated with traditional braces instead because they can be augmented with additional orthodontic appliances like bands or headgear. If you have fixed dental restorations such as bridges or dental implants, you may not be a good candidate for Invisalign® treatment. Invisalign® Procedure Overview invisalign braces edison new jersey The treatment process starts with a visual dental exam and a consultation. Photos, x-rays and computer imaging are used to create a precise treatment plan that will deliver the results you want. This digital technology lets you see what your final smile will look like before you even start using Invisalign®. Molds of your upper and lower teeth are sent to the Invisalign® laboratory so your aligner trays can be custom made. All of the trays used during your treatment are created at the same time. Once your trays arrive, installation is as simple as placing them over your teeth. You must wear these trays at least 22 hours per day. Every two-to-three weeks, you will move on to the next set of trays in your treatment series. This way, you keep constant, gentle pressure on your teeth to move them into the correct position. You will need a quick checkup visit every six weeks or so to ensure treatment is progressing as planned. Invisalign® trays don’t require any special care. You can simply brush them gently and rinse them with warm water whenever you take them out. Because Invisalign® braces are typically used for less severe bite misalignment, treatment may last six-to-18 months. However, some patients need more time to achieve their desired results. After you are finished with your aligner trays, you will be fitted with a retainer. You must wear this retainer as directed to keep your teeth from drifting back to their old position. More Information about Invisalign® While Invisalign® braces are very comfortable compared to metal braces, they may cause initial soreness by placing pressure on your teeth. You may experience a recurrence of soreness each time you switch to a new set of trays. Over the counter pain relievers may help with this symptom. These clear plastic aligner trays generally cost about as much as traditional braces. Some dental insurance plans cover a portion of treatment costs. Other affordable payment options are available for patients without insurance.

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• EMERGENCY DENTIST

  We realize that dental emergencies can’t always wait and we can most likely get you in the same day. As emergency dentists in Edison, NJ we provide many services and have evening and Saturday hours to accommodate the needs of many patients. At Gentle Dental Care we realize that you don’t have to be a hockey player to experience a dental emergency. Knocked out or broken teeth, lost fillings or crowns, toothaches and objects stuck between your teeth can occur at any time. Don’t ignore injuries to your teeth. Most likely the situation will only worsen with time and in some cases can require hospitalization if not treated promptly. At Gentle Dental Care, LLC we perform many emergency procedures such as extractions including wisdom teeth, root canal therapy, bonding and crowns to restore broken teeth and repair broken dentures or partial dentures. These are just some of the procedures we perform as emergency dentists. Located on Oak Tree Road we are convenient to many adjacent towns including Metuchen, South Plainfield, Colonia, Iselin , Scotch Plains and others. Don’t ignore injuries to your teeth or gums; read on to know how to handle the situation, and make sure to visit us as soon as possible. You may need an emergency dentist for the following reasons: Knocked-Out Teeth If you have knocked out your tooth, retrieve it and rinse it off with water. Rinse your mouth out with warm water as well. Do not scrub the tooth or remove any tissue fragments, because if you leave them in place the tooth has a chance of being saved. If it is possible, try to put the tooth back in place. Make sure it is facing the correct direction! If this is not possible, place the tooth in a small container of milk or in water with a pinch of salt. Knocked-out teeth have a higher chance of being saved if you see your dentist within the first few hours after the incident, so be sure to act quickly. Chipped Or Broken Teeth If you have chipped or broken a tooth, you will need to save any pieces that you can. As with a knocked-out tooth, rinse your mouth out with warm water and rinse the tooth pieces as well. If there is bleeding, place a piece of gauze over the spot and leave it there until the bleeding stops. If you are in pain you can apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth or cheek. This will also help to reduce any swelling. Sharp teeth can cut up your tongue or cheek and can be extremely uncomfortable. Call your dentist immediately. Lost Fillings Or Crowns If you have lost a filling or a crown, call your dentist right away. To temporarily fill the gap for a lost filling, you can use sugarless gum or dental cement. Do not use sugar-filled gum, as this will be sure to cause pain. If you’ve lost a crown, make sure to find it and bring it with you to the dentist. Clove oil (found at your local drug store or in the spice aisle of the grocery store) can help to reduce pain and sensitivity in the affected area. If it is possible, you should try to reattach the crown to the tooth. Using over-the-counter dental cement or denture adhesive will help secure it until you can get to the dentist’s office. Toothaches Thoroughly rinse your mouth with warm water to make sure it is clean. Floss your teeth gently to remove any food or other debris that could be stuck in your teeth. You can take over-the-counter pain medication to help the pain, but be careful not to put it against your gums, as this could burn the gum tissue. See your dentist if the toothache does not go away. Objects Between Teeth Using dental floss, try to remove the object gently. If you are unable to dislodge the object, call your dentist right away. Do not attempt to remove the object using a pin or any other type of sharp or metal object. It is always important to handle your teeth and gums with care to avoid damaging or scratching them. Remember if you need an emergency dentist, we at Gentle Dental Care, LLC can take care of you in a timely and efficient manner. Call (732) 549-5660. We hope to be the practice of choice when looking for an emergency dentist in Edison, NJ.

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• DENTAL IMPLANTS

  Dental Implants? Look No Further Than Gentle Dental In Edison, NJ! If you’re missing a tooth, you’re not alone. The American Dental Association reports that over 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth. This can be due to gum disease, excessive decay, or something like a sports accident. But failure to replace that missing tooth or teeth can lead to far more problems than a gap in your smile. At Gentle Dental in Edison, NJ, we recommend replacing that missing tooth with a dental implant. It is by far the most effective replacement option, with the implanted tooth providing long-lasting function exactly like that of a normal tooth. Dental implants are prosthetic replacements for missing or severely damaged teeth. This treatment option delivers an unprecedented level of patient satisfaction. Tooth implants provide a natural-looking appearance and long-lasting function. They are the gold standard for smile makeovers and dental restoration. If you have lost one or more teeth to fractures, gum disease or tooth decay, this procedure could bring back your beautiful smile. We provide surgical placement as well as the restoration of dental implants. Benefits Of Dental Implants: Implants can be used to fully restore teeth that are too badly damaged or decayed for repair with an amalgam filling, a porcelain inlay/onlay or a crown. A dental implant restores normal chewing and biting ability. Most patients can resume a normal, healthy diet that includes a wide variety of foods after treatment is complete. Tooth implants offer a conservative solution compared to a traditional bridge. Only the tooth that is being replaced is affected. The teeth on either side of the missing tooth are not ground down and capped. Patients can opt to have one or several teeth replaced with implants. Dental implants can also support dentures. These implant-supported dentures tend to be more stable and comfortable than those held in place with adhesive. Replacing a missing tooth with an implant helps prevent other teeth from shifting out of alignment over time. Keeping teeth straight and even promotes better oral care. It makes proper brushing and flossing easier, which reduces the risk of cavities and gum disease. Since the prosthetic tooth is load-bearing (you can bite and chew with it), an implant may also help limit further jaw bone loss in the treated area. Long-term success rates with implants range from 90-95%. Many patients enjoy their dental implants for life with no need for replacement or repair. This procedure is designed for patients who need smile reconstruction. Adults and older children who have their permanent teeth can be treated with implants. There is no upper age limit for this treatment. The most important factor in success rates for implants is bone density. Patients who have very advanced periodontitis (gum disease) may not have enough bone left to hold an implant. They may need one or more bone grafting procedures before they can get tooth implants. Smokers have more complications during healing than non-smokers, so if you smoke, you need to stop before you undergo this dental treatment. Dental Implants Procedure Overview Tooth implants rely on osseointegration to create a stable connection between a titanium implant and the jawbone. During osseointegration, the bone grows into direct contact with the implant, holding it firmly in place. Below you will find a brief overview of the treatment process provided by Gentle Dental’s Edison, NJ office: Consultation – This includes a full oral exam, medical history, x-rays and a CT scan. This information is used to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants as well as what size and shape of implant to use. Preparation – If you have a tooth root in place, this is removed. The gum is opened slightly to expose the jawbone. Placement – A tiny hole is drilled in your jawbone and the titanium implant is screwed or fitted in place. Healing – This phase lasts 3-6 months. During this time, your jawbone heals around the implant. Abutment – A small metal post is attached to the implant and your gum is allowed to heal again (this recovery period is much shorter). Restoration – A custom fabricated porcelain crown that looks like your natural teeth is fitted to the abutment. More Information About Dental Implants This dental treatment generally has a higher up-front cost than traditional crowns and bridges. The restoration process also takes much longer. However, the investment in time and money can more than pay for itself with a reduction in dental interventions over your lifetime. Just be sure to practice excellent dental hygiene so you don’t lose more teeth!

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• Dental Implants

  Why Do I Need To Replace A Missing Tooth? Missing teeth are more than an embarrassment in the form of a gap in your smile. Here are the problems created when a missing tooth is not replaced:dental implant edison nj The teeth adjacent to the missing tooth tend to slide over to fill the space. This is because there is no longer any pressure on the adjacent teeth to stay in place. This movement can change your bite and overall dental health. Biting and chewing create enormous force. This force is sent downward through the teeth into the jawbone below. It is this energy that signals the jawbone to keep regenerating new bone mass, keeping it healthy. When a tooth is missing, the jawbone beneath it doesn’t receive this energy and begins to deteriorate. Over time this deterioration can create a sunken appearance in the lower face. A missing tooth can make a person embarrassed about his or her smile, particularly if a front tooth is missing. A missing molar can inhibit chewing, keeping the person from eating certain types of foods. Missing teeth can create a whistling sound when a person speaks. Why Should I Have A Dental Implant Versus A Bridge? Once placed, a dental implant behaves just like a normal tooth, enabling the person to eat whatever they want again. This isn’t possible with a bridge, which requires the person avoid certain foods that can damage the bridge. Also, when placing a bridge, the teeth on both sides of the gap need to be crowned to anchor the bridge. In preparation, those healthy teeth need to be ground down to accommodate the crowns. Implants do not affect the adjacent teeth at all. Implants also have a much longer lifespan than any bridge. How Do I Know If I Could Have A Dental Implant? The one key to candidacy for an implant is the mass of the patient’s jawbone. If there is sufficient mass, then an implant is appropriate for almost any person of any age. However, if the tooth or teeth have been missing for a length of time, there may have been jawbone resorption and deterioration. In these cases, the jawbone may need to be built up with bone grafts to create enough mass to hold the implant. Plus, any other dental issues such as gum disease need to be addressed before the implant process can proceed. How Are Dental Implants Placed? At Gentle Dental we begin the implant process with your consultation. This includes a full oral exam, x-rays, and a CT scan. From this information we can decide if your jawbone mass and density are right for implants. We use this information to also decide on the size and shape of the implant. From there, the implant process involves four steps.tooth implant dental edison nj 1. Placement — The implant gets its name from the actual portion anchored into the jawbone. This “implant” is made of titanium and is screw shaped. Once we expose the jawbone, we sometimes will drill a tiny hole to make room for the implant. Then the implant is screwed down into the socket that held the former tooth root. 2. Osseointegration — Now the implant has to become a part of the jawbone. This process where the bone grows around the implant is called osseointegration, and it takes from three to six months. 3. Abutment — Once the implant is firmly in the jaw, we attach a post, called an abutment, to it. Once placed, we allow the gums to heal for six additional weeks. 4. Crown — When the gums are ready, we attach the false tooth, called a crown, to the abutment. The tooth is made from porcelain and matches the shape and color of the surrounding natural teeth. No further recovery is necessary, and you’re good to go and enjoy your new tooth. Can I Use Dental Implants To Anchor Dentures? People missing many teeth may not opt to have all the teeth replaced with implants. In these cases, implants are still effective as anchors for partial or even full dentures. Strategically placed implants give dentures much more stability, enabling the wearer to eat different foods with much more confidence and comfort. How Long Do Dental Implants Last? How long your dental implant or implants will last depends on your home hygiene. With good care, along with regular visits with the Gentle Dental team for professional cleanings and exams, your implants can last for decades, even the rest of your life. Do Dental Implants Require Special Care? Caring for a dental implant is no different than caring for your natural teeth. Daily brushing and flossing are all that’s required. If you have any questions about getting dental implants please feel free to give us a call at (732) 549-5660 or schedule a consultation appointment. We hope to be your practice of choice when looking for dental implants in Edison, NJ!

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• FAMILY DENTIST

  Are You Looking For A Family Dentist? Look No Further Than Gentle Dental! We are located in Edison, NJ, which is near Metuchen, NJ. At Gentle Dental, we see patients of all ages, shapes and sizes. Family dentistry offers comprehensive diagnosis, preventive care and treatment of common dental problems for patients of all ages. Since it’s never too early or too late to start taking better care of your teeth, picking a dentist who can take care of your whole family is always a smart choice. Remember that good dental hygiene practices are learned at home and at the dentist’s office. It’s very beneficial to have a professional in your corner to provide advice on the most effective ways to promote oral health at every stage of life. What Does A Family Dentist Do? Some of the most common services, treatments and procedures performed at Gentle Dental include: Oral Health Examination: This involves a visual examination of the teeth, gums and jaw to check for signs of decay, disease, bite misalignment, crooked or poorly spaced teeth and other abnormalities. X-rays, TMJ and oral cancer screenings fall into this category. Prophylactic Cleaning: This is a basic preventive treatment that includes removing minor plaque and tartar buildup to reduce the risk of gingivitis and cavities. It leaves teeth feeling fresh and clean. Getting a preventive cleaning every six months is ideal for most children and adults. Gum Disease Intervention: Treatments for moderate gingivitis and early stages of periodontitis involve scaling teeth. This just means scraping off tartar below the gum line where it builds up and causes gum irritation. It may also involve root planning (smoothing the tooth root so bacteria and plaque can’t build up as easily). Fluoride Treatment & Dental Sealant: These preventive treatments are usually recommended for children to limit tooth decay. However, adults can also request these procedures. Fluoride gel is applied topically a couple of times per year. Dental sealant is brushed onto the chewing surfaces of molars where tiny grooves in the enamel can’t be adequately cleaned by toothbrush bristles. Sealant generally lasts several years. Root Canals: An infection in the pulp of a tooth is the most common cause of toothache. Family dentistry includes root canal procedures to relieve pain and stop the spread of bacterial infection. This treatment involves removing infected tooth pulp and restoring the tooth with a filling or crown. A less extensive treatment called a pulpotomy is used for baby teeth. Extractions: Extractions range from pulling baby molars that have splintered to removing decayed or damaged adult teeth. A family dentist can also perform wisdom tooth extractions. This procedure is easiest to do before children reach their late teens. Fillings & Crowns: These basic tooth restoration procedures are designed to fill in areas of tooth decay or damage. You can get metal amalgam and composite fillings as well as metal and ceramic crowns from a family dentist. Fillings are appropriate for patients of all ages. Ceramic crowns are most often recommended to restore adult teeth. A baby tooth can be treated with a less expensive but very durable stainless steel crown to restore function until the tooth comes out naturally. Tooth Whitening: This cosmetic procedure is intended for adult patients with a buildup of staining on their teeth from food and beverage consumption, smoking and other lifestyle habits. Discoloration in children’s teeth is sometimes caused by issues that surface whitening doesn’t address. So, kids may need different cosmetic treatment than adults to achieve whiter teeth. Why Choose A Family Dentist In Edison, NJ? Picking one practice for the majority of your care makes it simple for everyone in your family to get their teeth examined, cleaned and treated on a regular basis. Dealing with a single dental practice makes payment and insurance claim handling simpler. You can even set aside a “tooth day” for several family members to get a cleaning in a single trip. In addition, you get to build a relationship with your dentist, dental hygienist and other staff members over time. This makes everyone in your family feel more comfortable since they are receiving care from professionals they know and trust. You can assure this type of quality when choosing a family dentist. Having all your family’s dental records in one place ensures better continuity of care. It’s easier to spot emerging oral health problems when the same family dentistry practitioner sees you and your kids on a regular basis. Early detection and treatment that is based on full and accurate records offers the best chances for a successful outcome. If you have any questions about our family dentist procedures, please feel free to give us a call. We hope to be your practice of choice when looking for a family dentist.

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• DENTAL TEETH CLEANING

  What Is A Dental Teeth Cleaning? Dental cleaning is the most common dental service among all other procedures in the city of Edison, NJ, which incidentally is one of the cities in the US that boasts of its excellent local dental practice. Teeth cleaning, which also referred to as dental prophylaxis, is professional teeth cleaning that patients are required to have in order to maintain good dental health. Dental cleaning is a preventive dental treatment that involves taking out plaque and tartar that have built up and have become deposited on the surfaces of the teeth. The pellicle that coats the teeth contains calcium, which an element that aids in making the teeth strong. However, despite the benefits of calcium, pellicle formation results to calcium deposits building up, which, over time, transforms into plaque and tartar. Dental cleaning polishes the teeth at a level that cannot be achieved with regular oral hygiene like brushing and flossing. It makes teeth surfaces smooth and clean, effectively curtailing bacterial growth. The common procedures included in teeth cleaning in the city of Edison NJ are scaling of the teeth, tooth polishing, and tooth debridement in cases where too much tartar has accumulated. It is recommended by dentists that a cleaning be done about twice a year, but if you have an exceptional dental care routine, your dentist might recommend that you have it done only once a year. What Are Teeth Cleaning Procedures Like? Dental clinics in the city of Edison, NJ are equipped to perform not only the standard methods of teeth cleaning. They are also able to offer teeth cleaning services using state-of-the-art systems to make sure that the local residents have the best care available to them. Your dentist will first try to break off the larger pieces of tartar using an ultrasonic instrument that uses pulses or tickling vibrations to break large pieces of tartar to knock them loose while spraying a mist of water to wash away the debris and maintain the proper temperature in the area. This device will emit a whistling or humming sound, much like when you use an electric toothbrush. The pressure can be adjusted depending on the amount of tartar that you have on your teeth. After removing the larger pieces of tartar, your dentist will then use fine hand tools called scalers and curettes to get the smaller tartar deposits and to make the tooth surface smooth by applying gentle pressure while scraping off the deposits. Once the tooth surface is smooth, a prophylactic paste is applied and will be spun around the surface of the teeth to make it smooth and shiny. To finish the procedure, your dentist will apply fluoride to your teeth to strengthen the teeth because the acid from the bacteria that thrived in the tartar weakens the tooth surface.

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• DENTAL FILLINGS

  What Are Dental Fillings? Patients in Edison, NJ come into the dental clinics asking to have a dental filling procedure to solve their problems with tooth decay. When your tooth has decayed, your dentist prevents further damage by removing the decay, cleaning out the affected area and putting a filling in the area where the decay used to be in order to restore normal function and normal tooth shape. Getting a dental filling is the most common way of restoring teeth and it is important to seal or close off these areas where the decay was to avoid any further damage to the tooth. If a patient has a broken or cracked tooth, or a tooth that has broken down from excessive tooth grinding, getting a filling is also an option to restore the tooth. What Are The Types Of Fillings That You Can Choose From? Silver Amalgams are the most commonly used filling material and are made of 50% mercury mixed with silver, copper, tin, or zinc. This is most popular type mostly because it is the least expensive compared to the other dental filling available in the market. With proper oral care, silver amalgams can last to as long as 10 years. Composite fillings are popular with patients as well because it has a very high aesthetic value since its color is very close to tooth material. However, composite fillings are not as durable as silver amalgams and are more expensive. Ceramic or porcelain fillings are both durable and has high aesthetic value since the color is also very close to match the natural color of the patient’s tooth. This type of filling may be expensive compared to the first two mentioned but it is well worth it since porcelain resists stains and cannot be scratched easily like resin. Glass ionomers are made from a combination of acrylic and glass. This type of medical filling is not as durable and will last for less than 5 years. This is also the recommended choice for children since the glass ionomers are designed to release fluoride, which can improve the child’s oral health to strengthen and protect it against further damage. Gold fillings are not so popular because it is the most expensive but dentists guarantee that it is sturdier, not corrosive, and can last for more than 15 years. What Is A Dental Filling Procedure Like? A local anesthetic will be applied to numb the area and the decay will be removed using a drill, air abrasion, or a laser. The decay will be removed and the dentist will make sure that the area is clean and no debris is left before filling the tooth. Your choice of filling is then put in and shaped and molded to look like your original tooth.

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• TEETH BLEACHING

  Do You Know The Difference Between Teeth Whitening And Bleaching? Patients at Edison, NJ often mistake teeth bleaching and teeth whitening to be the same. Clinically, products and procedures are categorized under bleaching if they can make the teeth whiter than their natural color. Bleaching will usually involve using products with active ingredients such as hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide. Whitening is different because it refers to procedures or products that restore the natural color of teeth. This is done by removing stains or any debris that might be on the teeth surface. As a person gets older, it is natural for teeth to get stained or get darker. Whiter teeth can help you to look and feel younger. What Are Your Teeth Bleaching Options? A patient has an option to, first, have an in-office teeth procedure or, second, purchase over-the-counter teeth bleaching products. In-office teeth bleaching procedures mean having it done at your dentist’s office. This is always preferred over self-medication because the whole procedure will be supervised and is sure to work because your dentist will use stronger bleaching agents as compared to those contained in OTC products. In-office treatments have immediate effects and you can bleach the teeth up to 10 times lighter than its normal shade. Over the counter products of home bleaching systems are very popular because they are less expensive and are very accessible. However, OTC bleaching products are not customized to your tooth color and condition so you cannot guarantee the result that you want to achieve. It is always best to consult your dentist first to know which option is best suited for you. What Are The Risks That You Should Know About Tooth Bleaching? All dental practitioners in Edison, NJ know that every dental procedure has attached risks and they each make sure that every patient that comes in for a consultation is aware of not only the benefits of the bleaching procedure but more importantly the risks and disadvantages of getting teeth bleaching. If it’s not done properly a patient may suffer chemical burns from the bleaching gels because of its high concentration. A patient may also suffer from over bleaching if this procedure is not done by a properly trained dental professional. There is also a risk of experiencing too much pain and sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.

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• DENTAL BONDING

  What Is A Dental Bonding Procedure? In Edison, NJ there are now alternatives to standard dental methods that are less invasive and yet as effective as the traditional ones including dental bonding. Dental or composite bonding is one of the easiest procedures and it is the least invasive. Bonding is a procedure that involves applying a resin material to your tooth and securing it in position by using a special light that permanently bonds the resin material. The resin is very similar to your tooth composition and restores the tooth to its original appearance and can sometimes make it look even better than before. Bonding is more preferred by patients since this can be applied and finished with just one visit and there is no need to remove or damage that much tooth structure, plus the patient doesn’t have to be without teeth since this procedure does not require the appliance to be sent to the dental laboratory. Why Should I Consider Getting Dental Bonding? Dental bonding is usually recommended to repair decayed, scratched chipped or even cracked teeth. For those who are having a problem with their gums receding, dental bonding can be used to protect the exposed tooth root. This can also be a solution for improving the appearance of badly discolored teeth. Some dentists also use dental bonding as a substitute for amalgam fillings. Dentists also recommend this procedure to those who have a problem with gaps in between their teeth or someone who wants to change the contour of their teeth to improve its appearance. Some dentists also use dental bonding as a substitute for amalgam fillings. What Are The Benefits And Risks Of Dental Bonding? What’s making dental bonding very popular among patients in Edison NJ is the fact that is not as invasive as the other procedures. The result is very natural since it uses resin, which can be manipulated to replicate the appearance of the tooth. The procedure is simple and does not require the patient to come back to have it installed, one visit is enough to see the immediate results. However, as promising as this may sound, the drawback is that they are not as durable as the other restorative procedures and the bond can easily chip and break. What Is Done During A Bonding Treatment? This procedure does not require as much preparation like other restorative procedures like crowns or veneers. This procedure will last for about 30-60 minutes. The dentist will first pick a resin color that best matches the patient’s tooth color. Once this is done, the dentist will prepare the tooth for bonding by roughening up the tooth surface and will then apply a conditioning liquid. The resin is placed on the tooth and molded to blend into the tooth structure. A laser or ultraviolet light is then applied to harden the resin, after which the dentist will polish the dental bond to attain the appearance of a natural tooth surface.

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• VENEERS

  Teeth are like fingerprints — every person’s are different. And without exception there aren’t any perfect teeth out there. Most people have some cosmetics defects: chips, stains, gaps between teeth, uneven teeth, etc. Fixing these issues can be very involved, but another option simply makes the teeth cosmetically beautiful — veneers. Gentle Dental Care deliver our New Jersey patients with the highest standard of dental care. Contact us here to discuss veneers or our other dental services. What Are Dental Veneers? A veneer is a very thin, shell-like layer of dental material that is bonded over the tooth’s surface to cover any surface damage and to improve the appearance of the tooth. At Gentle Dental, we use veneers to mask imperfections and give the patient a beautiful smile. Veneers can improve the appearance of a single tooth or can be used on all the visible teeth. Our dentists are able to change the color, shape, length and size of the veneer depending on the structure of the patient’s natural tooth. If the patient has any existing tooth damage, this is a proven way of protecting the tooth and preventing any further damage to it. When getting veneers, a patient can choose between getting a composite veneer or a porcelain veneer. Gentle Dental Care also gives patients the option of having the veneer fabricated directly in the mouth or have it done at a dental laboratory. What Is A Veneer Procedure Like? Placing veneers onto your teeth requires two visits to Gentle Dental Care in our Edison office. During the first visit, we prepare your teeth for the veneers. That process starts with your dentist making impressions of your mouth, ordering dental x-rays to fully evaluate your oral structures, and creating a personalized treatment plan to address each patient’s specific problems. Next, an anesthetic to numb the area is applied and we remove about ½ millimeter of the tooth’s enamel to make room for the veneer. A model of your tooth will be made and is sent to the technician who will fabricate your veneer at the dental laboratory. While waiting for your veneer to be finished, your dentist will provide you with temporary veneers that you can use. Once your veneer arrives from the dental laboratory, your dentist will call you in to have this bonded to your tooth. To prepare the veneer for bonding, Gentle Dental’s dentists will first check if the colors of the veneer and your tooth match. We also see if there is any need to make adjustments in the shape and size of the veneer. The tooth is then polished and etched to make sure that a secure bond is achieved and cement is applied to the veneer before placing it on the tooth. Once it is put in place, curing light will be used to stimulate the binding chemicals in the cement to harden. This creates a stronger bond between the tooth surface and the veneer. Once the dentist is sure that the veneer is secure, he will make final adjustments on the appearance if necessary. Why Should I Choose To Have Veneers? Veneers can dramatically change your smile. Gentle Dental Care experts apply veneers on our patients to cover the following types of imperfections: Small gaps between teeth Slightly crooked teeth Misshapen teeth Minor fractures Chips Heavily stained or discolored teeth What Should I Expect From Getting Veneers? The end result in getting a veneer is achieving an aesthetically pleasing appearance that closely mimics the look and feel of natural teeth. For most patients it will be like the damage never existed and the veneer may even look better than the patient’s normal tooth. Choosing to get porcelain veneers is also a benefit since the gum tolerates porcelain very well. Therefore, getting veneers not only restores the tooth, it is also an effective preventative measure that maintains good dental health. What Will My Veneers Be Like? After receiving your veneers, you will have flawless teeth for everyone to see. All of the minor flaws will be covered and your teeth will be uniformly shaped, uniformly white, and beautiful. Veneers usually last around 10 years, at which time they can be replaced with a new set for the next decade. The longevity of your veneers depends heavily on your home hygiene. Do Veneers Stain Like Natural Teeth? Unlike your natural teeth, veneers are resistant to tooth staining and discoloration. Avoid whitening toothpastes, as their abrasive formula can dull veneers. How Much Do Veneers Cost? We will discuss the cost of your veneers when you are first contemplating the procedure. Costs vary between porcelain and composite veneers; prices are calculated by the number of teeth to be covered. For questions on financing, please call 732-549-5660.

  Link: VENEERS

• DENTAL CROWNS & BRIDGES

  What Are Dental Crowns And Why Should I Get One? In cities like Edison, NJ, dental crowns are definitely one of the most effective solutions in restoring and improving a patient’s smile. The anatomy of the tooth defines the crown as the part that can be seen or is visible in a person’s mouth. A dental crown is essentially a cap that is shaped like a tooth that your dentist will place over your damaged tooth to be able to cover the imperfections and improve its overall appearance and to restore its strength and function. Once the dental crown is cemented in place, it can either partially or fully cover the visible part of your tooth, depending on the damage to your tooth surface. If a patient has a tooth that will require a large filling and there is not much tooth to work with, then a crown can cover the tooth and provide support to its structure. For a weak tooth that is too worn down, fractured or is already threatening to fracture, there would be a need to hold the fractured parts together to be able to save the tooth, then crowns would be the best restoration to do this. Dental crowns can also be an option to cover a dental implant or hold dental bridges in place. They are also recommended for installation right after a root canal is done on a tooth because this procedure may result to weakened tooth structure, thus making the tooth more prone to breaking. Dental crowns can be used to protect baby teeth from getting any further damage or decay, and also to protect teeth when they become severely damaged and are no longer capable of supporting a filling. What Should I Expect From A Dental Crown Procedure? To be able to complete the whole procedure of installing dental crowns, patients would usually have to come in multiple times to their dentist’s office. During preparation, the dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area and will lay the groundwork for the installation of the dental crown. These preparations will vary depending on the current condition of the tooth. For example, if the tooth is fractured, then a buildup is made to bring back as much tooth structure to attach the crown to. A dental impression is made and reference for the patient’s dental color is taken. Your dentist will be providing all of these to the dental technician who will fabricate your dental crown and will install temporary crowns for you to use until your crown is available. When your crown is ready, adjustments for a perfect fit is made prior to cementing it permanently into place.

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• WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL

  Leave Them To The Caveman Wisdom teeth — now there’s a good one. Considering the host of dental problems this third set of molars can cause, “wise” shouldn’t be associated with them in any way. At Gentle Dental we offer wisdom tooth extraction. What Are The Wisdom Teeth? Anthropologists actually classify human wisdom teeth as “vestigial organs” — body parts that have become functionless due to evolution. That means wisdom teeth haven’t served as much more than an annoyance since back when we were getting chased around by saber-toothed tigers. Back then, there were two reasons to have a third set of molars. First, our diet consisted of leaves, nuts, roots, and some very tough meat that required greater chewing power and caused greater tooth wear. To accommodate these extra teeth our jaws were longer than they are now. But as our diets have changed to less roots and more Greek yogurt, evolution has made our wisdom teeth superfluous. Problem is no one told them, and they still try and make their way into our mouth. The sequence of our molars coming in is this: first set erupts around age six, second set around age 12, and the third set erupts between the ages of 17 and 25. In theory, we are “wiser” at that point, hence the name wisdom teeth. Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need To Be Extracted? Like our tailbones or appendix, wisdom teeth are no longer required equipment, but come in they still do. Unfortunately, evolution has shortened our jaws quite a bit and now there isn’t any room. So, when your wisdom teeth try and enter your mouth they usually become impacted, or blocked, by the other teeth. They sometimes come in sideways. Often they come in surrounded by jawbone. Sometimes they partially erupt, creating pockets in the gums where bacteria love to accumulate. With very, very few exceptions wisdom teeth do not work well with our modern dental alignment so they need to be manually extracted. If left in place, wisdom teeth will invariably cause the other teeth to be pushed out of position and cause other problems. When Is The Best Time To Extract The Wisdom Teeth The best time to have the wisdom teeth extracted is when the patient is between the ages of 15 and 18. This is because at this point, the wisdom tooth roots are only two-thirds formed (remember, they can erupt anywhere up to around age 25). The longer you wait, the more likely their removal will be much more difficult. What Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction Like? X-rays will show the descending wisdom teeth, which is another reason to keep your teenager on a schedule of regular twice-yearly professional exams and cleanings. The extraction of the wisdom teeth can be simple, if the teeth have fully erupted, but this is rare. In most cases, the wisdom teeth are impacted in some way. They often need to be broken and taken out in sections to minimize the impact on surrounding gum tissue and the jawbone. This is considered minor surgery. What Are The Possible Problems With Extraction? The main risk involved with extraction of the wisdom teeth is infection, but diligent maintenance at home, such as rinsing with saltwater solution, can usually prevent this from happening. Dry socket is also a possible complication, where the blot clot that forms after extraction to protect the bone and nerves either becomes dislodged or dissolves, exposing the nerves. This is painful, but easily treated. Dry socket is rare. In the vast majority of wisdom tooth extractions, patients adopt a soft diet, keep the extraction areas clean, and are back to normal in a week or so. There can be some swelling in the first few days, especially if the teeth were impacted.

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• PERIODONTAL DISEASE TREATMENT

  What Are Periodontal Diseases? In general, periodontal diseases or gum diseases are a result of prolific bacterial growth in the mouth and is one of the leading causes of tooth loss because of the consequent destruction of the tissues that support and hold the teeth. In Edison, NJ a significant number of patients acquired some disease at some point in their lives, and one of the earliest symptoms of periodontal distress is gingivitis or gum information, which normally precedes gum disease and gradually progresses to information. As the bacteria in plaque builds up, the gums become infected and inflamed and this may lead to bleeding when the patient brushes his teeth. At this stage, the teeth will still be firmly planted in the gum tissue, although, if left untreated, the inner layers of the gums and parts of the underlying bone may begin to pull away from the teeth and form pockets that become the breeding place of the infection. As periodontal disease progresses, more gum tissue is destroyed and it will no longer be able to hold the teeth in place, resulting in tooth loss. What Causes Periodontal Diseases And What Are The Symptoms? The primary cause of periodontal disease is the buildup of plaque, however, other factors such as hormonal changes in pregnancy, puberty, or menopause; underlying health conditions like diabetes, cancer, HIV, or other immune deficiencies; oral medications including anticonvulsants and anti-angina drugs; bad lifestyle habits like smoking; poor oral hygiene; or a documented family history of dental disease could all contribute to the development of the disease. Symptoms of periodontal disease include bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, a bad taste in the mouth, swollen or tender gums, receding gum line, or teeth that begin to come loose or start to shift. How Can Periodontal Diseases Be Prevented? Periodontal diseases can be successfully prevented if the patient practices proper plaque control. This method involves going into the dentist’s office for a professional cleaning appointment at least twice a year, supplemented by regular brushing to remove plaque from the accessible surfaces of the teeth, and flossing to eliminate food that has become stuck in between the teeth or under the gum line. How Are Periodontal Diseases Treated? Treatment options for the management of gum disease depend on what stage the disease is in, the patient’s overall oral health, and response to previous treatment. Nonsurgical treatment options include professional dental cleaning or scaling and root planing, which is a deep cleaning procedure. Both methods remove plaque and tartar buildup from above and below the gum line. Surgical treatments for periodontal diseases include flap surgery, bone graft grafting, soft tissue grafting, guided tissue regeneration, and bone surgery. Surgical options are usually used when the gum tissue surrounding the teeth become unhealthy and the disease cannot be corrected using the nonsurgical options.

  Link: PERIODONTAL DISEASE TREATMENT

• TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT DISORDERS

  Temporomandibular Joint Disorders The temporomandibular joint is the hinge that connects your jaw to the rest of your skull. To talk, chew, or simply yawn you need the joint to function correctly. When it doesn’t you have a temporomandibular disorder (TMJ or TMD). Any TMJ is basically a problem with your jaw and the muscles in your face that control it. TMJ can be mild, activating only when biting into hard pieces of food and shooting pain through the jaw joint. Or it can be severe, such as when simply opening your mouth causes pain. For obvious reasons, TMJ can be very debilitating. At Gentle Dental, we are often the first line in treating TMJ, as patients incorrectly think the pain is a result of a problem with a tooth. Other patients may first seek out an ear nose throat (ENT) specialist as their symptoms lead them to believe they could have an ear infection. What Is TMJ Therapy? Gentle Dental Care’s dental facilities in Edison, NJ are equipped and ready to provide locals with TMJ therapy. Temporomandibular Joint disorders (TMJ or TMD) are a group of conditions that result to pain and compromised function on the jaw joint and the muscles that are responsible for jaw movement. In mild cases, biting through hard pieces of food makes the pain shoot through the jaw joint, which can be terribly irritating. For severe TMJ disorders, even eating or talking create so much pain that it becomes debilitating. TMJ therapies are treatments that seek to eliminate the cause of pain and tightness in the jaw joint. Whenever you have pain caused by the simple function of your temporomandibular joint, this would be considered a temporomandibular disorder. As this joint is critical to everything from talking to eating, pain associated with it can seriously impact your life. Unfortunately, many people don’t bring up their issues with TMJ pain when in our offices, thinking it is not a dental problem. You might consider seeing a dentist to check for TMJ disorder if you experience any pain while chewing, if you feel any pain in the jaw, in the neck or face. Also, TMJ therapy might be recommended for a jaw that locks, or if you feel any painful clicking or popping in that area. TMJ disorders are usually caused by pressure caused by too much grinding and clenching of the teeth, dislocation of the disc and soft cushion between the ball and socket, and cases of osteoarthritis in the TMJ. What Are The Types Of TMJ Therapies? Usually when TMJ disorders present itself as pain in the jaw, patients in Edison NJ would consult with their dentist first. But for less obvious symptoms like headaches, ringing in the ear and neck pain, some residents consult with an EENT since they suspect this might be due to an ear infection. There are 2 types of TMJ therapy, surgical and non-surgical treatments. Most cases of TMJ are treated by non-surgical methods. These treatments do not cure TMJ disorders but just help alleviate the pain to restore normal function. Your dentist might suggest trying out other treatments before resorting to surgical TMJ therapy. These are some of our TMJ treatments at Gentle Dental Care: Using a bite splint. We create a custom-fit bite splint. This is a plastic mouth guard that is placed over your upper or lower teeth to make them slide smoothly against each other, instead of clenching. This relieves pressure on the joint and stops the corresponding pain. Physical therapy. We employ methods to help you overcome the muscle clenching. This may involve biofeedback and stretching exercises. Ultrasound. Deep heat can be applied to the joint. Radio wave energy. Radio waves stimulate the joint. Laser therapy. Laser energy can lower pain and inflammation, allowing greater range of motion. Medication. Prescribing anti-inflammatory medications helps to reduce the pain, but also to reduce the inflamed muscles that are restricting jaw movement. Other options may be anti-anxiety medications or muscle relaxers. Botox. This famous wrinkle reducer works by stopping muscles from contracting. It has proven effective in some TMJ cases. If these and other options are exhausted, the Gentle Dental team may recommend surgery. There are various procedures that can be performed depending on the severity of your problem. It is important that you consult your dentist so that a personalized treatment plan can be planned for you. What Causes TMJ? TMJ/TMD disorders are still somewhat of a mystery to the medical world. Dentists believe most issues arise from muscles that move the joint and from problems with the joint parts. Possible causes are pressure from too much grinding and clenching of the teeth, dislocation of the disc and soft cushion between the ball and socket of the joint, and osteoarthritis in the joint.

  Link: TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT DISORDERS

• ROOT CANAL

  Root Canal Treatment Anatomically speaking, a root canal is a chamber inside the root of the tooth that is made up of the pulp chamber, the main canals, and smaller canals that branch out to connect the main root canals to one another, or to the surface of the root. These chambers are hollow spaces that run through the center of the roots and contain soft tissues including the blood vessels, nerves, and other connective tissues. These structures are known collectively as the pulp of the tooth and are important for the nourishment and sensory responses of the tooth. Gentle Dental Care provides full root canal treatment at our office in Edison, New Jersey. What Diseases Can Affect The Root Canal? When the tooth becomes cracked, chipped, or has an extensive cavity causing part of the pulp is exposed, the patient will start to feel discomfort. As this condition is left untreated and the pulp remains exposed, the infection process will progress and the pulp will become inflamed and damaged, this results in varying levels of pain when the patient talks, bites down, eats, or closes his mouth. At this point, root canal treatment could be recommended by the dentist to relieve the pain being experienced by the patient, and also to avoid extracting the tooth and compromising the overall structure and functionality of the patient’s mouth. What Is Root Canal Therapy? When the pulp in the root canal becomes diseased and it’s already starting to cause the patient pain, root canal therapy, or endodontic therapy, may become necessary to get rid of the infection and protect the tooth from further contamination. This procedure is composed of a series of steps that is designed to remove the pulp, decontaminate the hollowed out chamber, desensitize the remaining nerve endings, and seal the cavity. This process essentially “kills” the tooth to save it from extraction. What Should I Expect From A Root Canal Treatment? Prior to a retail treatment, our doctors usually conduct an x-ray examination to assess the full extent of damage to the tooth. A local anesthetic will be administered to the patient to eliminate discomfort during the procedure. The dentist starts by removing the decayed parts of the tooth and creating an opening that will give him access to the root canal. The pulp, blood vessels, and all other cellular structures will be removed to hollow out the chamber, after which it will be clean and reshaped in preparation for the filling material. The empty root canal will be filled with a sealer composite compound to protect it from becoming wet with saliva. And, optionally, to restore the tooth, a dental crown may be placed on top of it.

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• DENTURES

  What Is A Denture? A denture, what is also commonly called as false teeth, are artificial devices that are fabricated to take the place of missing teeth in the patient’s mouth. In Edison, NJ, dentists often give their patients practical design options that would best fit their needs and their lifestyle. Dentures are typically supported by the tissues within the oral cavity, and may be attached to either the mandibular or the maxillary arch of the mouth, depending on where the gaps created by the missing teeth are located. What Are The Advantages Of Using A Denture? For patients who know the discomfort and inconvenience caused by missing teeth, dentures will be able to help them improve their chewing ability and allow them to enjoy their food more. It will also help restore a more natural appearance to the patient’s face because it replaces the missing support that the teeth normally give the lips and the cheeks. Patients are also able to speak and pronounce their words better. Most importantly, wearing dentures will boost the patient’s self-esteem because it gives back his confidence to interact with other people without having to worry about missing teeth. What Are The Types Of Dentures? Depending on the patient’s personal requirements, behavior, and overall way of life, different types of dentures could be recommended by the dentist for their use. Partial dentures are recommended for people who have some missing teeth on the mandibular or maxillary arch of the mouth. Removable partial dentures are typically made up of fabricated teeth that are attached to a pink plastic base and it is held securely in place by metal clasps that can attach to the existing teeth. On the other hand, fixed partial dentures are also referred to as the “crown and bridge dentures” and are often cemented into place to maintain the appearance of a complete set of teeth. Complete dentures are those that are used to replace all of the missing teeth on a particular arch in the patient’s mouth. The prosthetic teeth used in this type of denture are attached to a gum colored base that is supported by a metal framework to help keep the denture snugly in place. How Do I Take Care Of My Dentures? Always handle your dentures with care because they can be easily breakable otherwise. Just like natural teeth, clean your dentures regularly using a soft bristled brush and a denture cleaning solution to remove food particles and plaque buildup on the surfaces. For removable dentures, put the prosthetic in a container with soaking solution or tepid water when it is not being used. Consult your dentist for best care practices that you could use to take care of your dentures in order to maintain its functionality for a longer period of time.

  Link: DENTURES