The doctors at Northfield Dental Group want patients to understand the contributing factors to tooth decay, which can help prevent future dental problems.

Tooth Decay Causes

Several factors cause tooth decay, such as the interaction of bacteria, sugars, and acids in the mouth. When you drink and eat beverages and foods that contain high amounts of sugar, bacteria in the mouth feed on these sugars and produce acids as a byproduct.

These acids can weaken the enamel and gradually dissolve minerals from the tooth surface. It can lead to the formation of cavities over time. Factors such as poor oral hygiene, infrequent dental visits, dry mouth, and certain medical conditions can also increase the risk of tooth decay.

Are Some People More Prone to Tooth Decay?

While tooth decay can affect anyone, various factors may make specific individuals more susceptible to developing cavities. The first factor is genetics.

Genetics plays a role in determining an individual’s susceptibility to tooth decay. Some people may inherit genetic factors affecting saliva composition or tooth structure, which makes them more prone to cavities.

Another factor that causes decay is dental anatomy. The shape and arrangement of teeth can influence the risk of tooth decay. Teeth with deep pits and fissures are more prone to decay. If teeth have crowded and overlapping surfaces, cleaning them may be more difficult. This can allow bacteria and food particles to accumulate and contribute to decay.

Moreover, saliva helps to maintain oral health by neutralizing acids, remineralizing the teeth, and washing away food particles and bacteria. Individuals with dry mouth, or reduced saliva flow due to medications, medical conditions, or radiation therapy, have more chances of tooth decay.

Book Your Regular Dental Check Up in New Jersey

While tooth decay can affect anyone, some individuals may be more prone to developing cavities due to genetic, anatomical, and lifestyle factors. You can maintain good oral hygiene by understanding your risk factors and taking proactive steps.

If you want to opt for regular dental check-ups, call us at (973) 736-0111 and schedule your appointment with Northfield Dental Group. Our experts can help you prevent tooth decay and preserve your dental health. If you’re concerned about your risk of tooth decay or have symptoms of dental problems, don’t hesitate to contact us.

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Use Fluoride Regularly

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that is great for oral health. It keeps your teeth healthy by strengthening the teeth and preventing cavities from occurring. Tooth decay is caused by the acid released from bacteria that feed on sugary foods. Fluoride is effective at repairing the damage caused by these acids in a process known as remineralization.

It is easy to get your hands on products containing fluoride, including mouthwash and toothpaste, but drinking water containing this important mineral is also an easy way to protect your teeth.

Establish and Maintain Good Dental Hygiene

Brushing and flossing are directly related to oral health. Brushing removes plaque from the surface of the teeth and gum line, and flossing is excellent for getting rid of anything missed by brushing and rinsing. Together, these two activities can help ensure you achieve a thorough cleaning, which is key to a healthy mouth.

Attend Your Scheduled Check-Ups

If you want to keep your teeth healthy for life, it is essential that you attend regular dental checkups. During these appointments, your teeth and gums are cleaned, harmful plaque and tartar are removed, and your teeth will be examined for overall health. X-rays may be taken at some appointments, which helps detect issues that may not be easily seen but can lead to extensive damage if not treated.

Many patients can maintain great oral health with dental cleanings every six months, but Dr. Ivan Stein and Dr. Allan Stein of Northfield Dental Group may recommend a different schedule based on your unique needs.

Quit Smoking

It is no secret that smoking is bad for you, but did you know it can severely impact the health of your smile? Those who smoke or use tobacco products are at an increased risk of gum disease, tooth decay, tooth loss, and even oral cancer. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do to boost your oral health.

Healthy Teeth in New Jersey

For high-quality dental services in New Jersey, choose Northfield Dental Group, where Dr. Ivan Stein and Dr. Allan Stein are dedicated to providing outstanding patient care. Contact us today to schedule your appointment or use our online form to get started.

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Take Your Time

When it comes to brushing correctly, taking your time to clean your entire mouth is key to good oral health. Make sure you are taking the recommended two minutes to brush, using that time to brush the upper right and left and lower right and left sections of teeth for 30 seconds each. Doing so will ensure you reach all teeth.

Angle the Toothbrush

Although it may not seem like a big deal, how you hold the toothbrush can make all the difference for an effective session. Holding the brush at a 45-degree angle targeting the gumline will help you reach the area where plaque often builds up, effectively eliminating this sticky substance.

Use Circular Motions

While brushing, use small, circular motions to remove plaque and debris. This technique will allow your toothbrush to reach bacteria on the teeth’s surface as well as the gum line.

Be Gentle

Some people brush aggressively, either by habit or as a perceived way to eliminate more germs from their teeth, but this act can hurt the gums and cause irritation, all while still leaving behind plaque. Gentle brushing is an effective way to clean your teeth without causing damage.

Thoroughly Rinse

After brushing, don’t forget to thoroughly rinse away all toothpaste, bacteria, and leftover food to complete your session.

Other Brushing Tips

Keep these things in mind as you brush your teeth to ensure you are maintaining a healthy and clean mouth.

Use a good toothbrush: Toothbrushes come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and levels of bristle hardness. Make sure you choose the right one for you. Look for toothbrushes with a comfortable brush head size for your mouth; those that are too large or too small can make brushing less effective. Also, ensure you are using a brush with the appropriate bristle firmness so that you avoid irritating the gums. Lastly, consider a toothbrush with a comfortable handle grip, as this will ultimately influence how well you are able to clean your teeth.

Don’t skip the fluoride: Fluoride is an important mineral that is naturally found in certain foods. It strengthens the teeth and lowers the risk of developing cavities. Using toothpaste and mouthwash containing fluoride can help keep your smile healthy for years to come.

Healthy Teeth in New Jersey

Brushing is an essential part of your dental hygiene routine, but you should also be attending regular dental appointments to maximize your oral health. Book an appointment by calling us today.

The post What is the Correct Way to Brush Your Teeth? Brushing Techniques appeared first on Northfield Dental Group.

1. Gum Disease Is Prevalent

The rate at which people have gum disease is much higher than most would guess. Researchers have found that nearly half of all adults 30 and older have gum disease (of varying stages). This data is a worrying indication that people do not take good care of their periodontal health.

2. Gum Disease Gets Worse with Time

Gum disease has stages, gingivitis being the first. In this phase, patients may notice bad breath and red, inflamed gums. When it is not addressed, gingivitis can progress to early periodontitis. Once advanced periodontitis strikes, the gums bleed frequently and can excrete pus. Moreover, teeth sensitivity mounts, making it difficult to chew.

3. Gum Disease Is Treatable

A patient’s first and best line of defense against gum disease is regular brushing and flossing. However, those who have already developed the condition have options to improve their periodontal health. In its earliest stages, periodontitis can be addressed with scaling and root planing. This is a popular treatment that eliminates plaque and tartar underneath the gumline while simultaneously smoothing the tooth roots, which allows the gums to reattach to the teeth. In cases of advanced periodontitis, surgery may be necessary to shrink the bacteria-filled pockets in the gums.

4. Gum Disease Can Result in Lost Teeth

People often associate missing teeth with tooth decay and traumatic accidents. However, statistically speaking, gum disease is a far more common cause of tooth loss. Infected gums slowly pull away from the teeth, thereby weakening the bone and tissue that holds teeth sturdily in place. Once loose, these teeth are liable to fall out or necessitate an extraction.

5. Gum Disease Poses Problems for Overall Health

Those who believe gum disease only affects the mouth are mistaken. It can also seep into the bloodstream and raise the risk for heart disease, diabetes, stroke, dementia and rheumatoid arthritis. Physicians strongly encourage their patients to address any periodontal health issues to better prevent this list of life-threatening conditions.

Have an Expert Dentist Examine Your Periodontal Health

Do you have bleeding gums? Do you want to have a dentist examine and (if need be) treat your gums for better oral health? Let the dentists at Northfield Dental Group help. For an appointment, please call (973) 736-0111.

The post 5 Important Facts to Know about Gum Disease appeared first on Northfield Dental Group.

Temporary Crown Damage

Losing a temporary crown or filling at dinner can be embarrassing. Beyond this, it can be very painful. This is a time to seek emergency dental care. In the meantime, you may fill the space with a piece of sugarless gum. Our on-call emergency dental care can help from there.

A Lost or Broken Tooth

If you lose a tooth in a sports injury or due to another blunt force trauma injury, submerge it in a glass of whole milk if you can, and pursue immediate emergency dental care. In the case of either a knocked out or broken tooth, time is of the essence as the sooner you receive dental care, the more likely you are going to be able to preserve the tooth. If you believe a tooth is cracked, seeking dental care is also a good idea.

Preventing Sports-Related Tooth Injury

Maintaining regular dental care appointments, keeping up with oral hygiene, seeking care for any cavities or concerns and wearing appropriate protective gear are the best ways to prevent dental sports injuries. Custom-fitted mouthguards are especially important. They are helpful for any sport or high-contact activity, but are critical in athletic activities like football, martial arts, hockey or boxing—a fitted mouth guard can prevent oral injury with minimal distraction and maximum comfort.

Remember that not all mouth guards are created equal! The dentists at Northfield Dental Group have many years of experience in mouth guard fabrication and fitting and can help you secure the appropriate protective gear for your athletic activity of choice to decrease your risk of injury.

In the event of a dental sports injury, in certain cases, our providers may be able to travel to the site of sports injury for on-site care.

Contact Northfield Dental Group

If you are experiencing a dental injury, remain as calm as possible and call us immediately. If a tooth has been lost, place it in a cup of whole milk when possible. If you are calling after hours, listen to the message for details on how to contact our emergency on-call dentist.

The post When to Call the Dentist About a Tooth or Mouth Injury appeared first on Northfield Dental Group.

Common Symptoms

A loose tooth may sometimes become apparent during eating or flossing. The dentists at Northfield Dental Group can assess your symptoms to determine whether gum disease is an underlying cause. Remember, dentists care for not only the health of your teeth but also your gum health!

Other symptoms of gum disease or early-onset periodontal disease (gingivitis) that may coincide with a loosened tooth include:

• Gum redness
• Swollen and/or bleeding gums
• Gum recession
• Chronic bad breath (halitosis)
• Tooth sensitivity
• Pain while chewing
• Changes in tooth gaps
• Changes in denture fit

Periodontal or Gum Disease

Teeth grinding or clenching can sometimes cause tooth loosening. Injury from blunt force to the face or mouth are other potential causes. However, advanced gum disease (advanced periodontitis) can be the cause of loose teeth in adults. In advanced periodontitis, bacteria infect the gums and eventually degrades the surrounding healthy tissue and jawbone. Left unchecked, gum disease can cause significant bone deterioration.

Causes and Risk Factors

Brushing, flossing and regular dental cleanings and care are critical for gum disease prevention. Without proper, consistent dental hygiene, tartar eventually builds into the spaces between our gums. Early symptoms of poor gum health like redness, bleeding or pain may be present at the onset of gum decay. It is important to note that early-stage periodontal disease may not include pain and can only be diagnosed via appropriate dental care.

Besides poor oral hygiene, some common periodontal disease risk factors include:

• Severe, chronic stress
• Diabetes
• Certain medications
• Smoking
• Heredity
• Hormonal fluctuations (pregnancy, etc.)
• Poorly fit filings or dental bridges
• Immunodeficiency disorders

The great news is that early gum disease treatment can reduce inflammation, kill infection and prevent further damage to the gums and teeth. Our dentists can determine whether gum disease is the cause of your loose tooth and what care you need. The earlier the treatment, the better.

Contact Us

Northfield Dental Group can determine whether gum disease is the cause of your loose tooth and what treatment you may need. Contact us to schedule an appointment for consultation at Northfield Dental Group.

The post Is Gum Disease the Culprit Behind Your Loose Tooth? appeared first on Northfield Dental Group.

Our skilled dentists at Northfield Dental Group offer tooth-colored fillings and porcelain dental crowns to restore a healthy sheen to your smile.

The Difference Between a Filling and a Crown

Everyone’s oral health is unique. Some are prone to more bacteria and plaque buildup than others, especially those with crooked, overcrowded teeth. Untreated dental plaque leads to cavities that must be addressed quickly to avoid severe injury to the tooth and root. Both fillings and dental crowns fix decay, but which one is best for you depends on the integrity of your tooth.

A tooth with minor decay and tooth damage is often treated with a filling. A filling is done by removing the decayed tooth area and filling it with either amalgam fillings that are silver or composite resin made to match the shade of your tooth.

When decay has done extensive harm to the tooth’s structure, a dental crown is necessary to strengthen the tooth before it requires extraction. After the damage is drilled away, the tooth is prepared for the crown which acts as a cover for the vulnerable tooth. The entire structure is capped by the dental crown, down to the gum line.

The Cosmetic Benefits of a Dental Crown

Dental crowns can treat more than tooth decay. We offer porcelain dental crowns that mimic the natural sheen of your teeth. They can improve your smile by concealing cracked, chipped, misshapen or severely discolored teeth along with those damaged by cavities. Dental crowns fortify fragile teeth but have the added benefit of cosmetic improvements, making you excited to flash your pearly whites in your everyday life.

How to Care for Fillings and Dental Crowns

Both fillings and dental crowns are cared for in the same manner as your given teeth. Make sure you brush your teeth twice a day, floss once a day and rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash — and most importantly, schedule regular dental exams and cleanings with your dentist. Proper oral hygiene will ensure your dental crown lasts 5-15 years.

Do You Have a Toothache? Contact Northfield Dental Group

Never ignore a toothache, as it will only put your oral health in jeopardy the longer you wait. Contact Northfield Dental Group in West Orange to schedule your dental exam.

The post Do You Need a Filling or a Crown? appeared first on Northfield Dental Group.

It can be tempting to skip your next dental visit, especially if you are not experiencing any oral pain or symptoms. But our dentists encourage you to keep up with your regularly scheduled appointments. Here’s why:

Cavity Detection

Nearly everyone develops a cavity at some point, and in general, the earlier a cavity is detected, the better. Unfortunately, early cavities often do not cause noticeable discomfort or visual changes to the teeth. During routine dental exams, your dentist will use special instruments to evaluate your tooth surfaces and identify early-stage cavities. If any decay is found, the dentist should be able to intervene before it becomes a serious issue.

Gum Disease Detection

Teeth are not the only thing dentists look at during biannual visits. Your dentist will give your gums a thorough check for any signs of disease. The effects of undetected or untreated gum disease can be devastating; as it advances, it can damage the structures holding your teeth in place. Gum disease has also been linked to systemic health problems like heart disease and diabetes.

Professional Cleaning

By seeing your dentist twice a year, you can prevent dental problems before they start. Dental hygienists use meticulous techniques to clean and polish all of your tooth surfaces, including those not easily accessible with your toothbrush and floss. Getting rid of bacteria, plaque and tartar can minimize your risk of cavities, gum disease and other destructive oral issues. Your hygienist can offer helpful tips to practice at home to take care of your teeth and gums.

Check Existing Restorations

Dental restorations like fillings and crowns are durable, but they do not last forever. Restorations can wear down or develop chips or cracks that threaten their integrity. During your dental visit, your dentist will examine any existing restorations to ensure they are strong and intact. If your dentist discovers a defective or decayed restoration, you can discuss options to repair it.

Northfield Dental Group Is Here to Help

The team at Northfield Dental Group has years of experience seeing all types of patients and making them feel comfortable and well cared-for. If you are nervous about seeing a dentist or if it has been awhile since your last visit, we will quickly put you at ease. To request an appointment with our team, please call or email us today.

The post Why It Is Essential to See Your Dentist Every Six Months appeared first on Northfield Dental Group.

Brush Daily

No doubt you hear this advice incessantly, but with good reason — brushing twice a day is critical for your overall health and keeping your smile whiter and more attractive. It may be obvious, but do not skip this step!

Get Regular Dental Cleanings

Check-ups are not just about cavities — they also leave you with a brighter smile. In these appointments, your hygienist will work to remove surface stains and polish your teeth, which should leave a whiter appearance. Furthermore, when the hygienist smooths out your enamel, it helps to prevent future stains.

Improve Your Diet

What you consume has a strong effect on the color of your teeth. Foods and drinks known to cause stains include:

• Coffee
• Tea
• Cola
• Wine (especially red)
• Dark berries
• Soy sauce

It is also advisable to watch the acidic foods you eat like citrus fruits, pickles, tomato sauces and — again — coffee because they can wear away at your enamel which leaves you more susceptible to teeth discoloration.

Fortunately, not all dietary suggestions are about avoidance. There are some foods that can actually help whiten your teeth naturally, such as:

• Celery
• Apples
• Strawberries
• Cheese/dairy
• Broccoli

Seek Teeth Whitening Treatment

Even if you actively take steps to prevent future discoloration, that will not not necessarily fix the yellowing that has transpired from years of bad habits. To reverse previous damage, the smartest bet is to get your teeth professionally whitened.

At Northfield Dental Group, we offer a hydrogen peroxide-based treatment that can leave your teeth as much as eight shades whiter. The whole process is done in under an hour, and the results tend to last for at least a year, provided you continue to take care of your teeth in that time.

Try Dental Veneers

If the color is just one of many complaints you have about your teeth, you may be a good candidate for dental veneers. With veneers, you can choose the size, shape, straightness and color of your teeth to give you the kind of smile you have always dreamed of.

To discuss any of these teeth whitening options with a doctor at Northfield Dental Group, call (973) 736-0111 for an appointment.

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To help you understand exactly how you can lower your risk of oral health problems, the team at Northfield Dental Group answers your questions about preventative dental care here.

What is the most effective way to lower my risk of cavities and gum disease?

Brushing and flossing your teeth daily are the most effective ways to keep your mouth clean and free of decay or disease. Our team recommends brushing at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing once a day (preferably at night). Brush and floss slowly and deliberately, making sure not to skip any teeth or spaces in between your teeth.

Why is it important to see my dentist regularly?

Routine visits to your dentist involve two steps: a professional cleaning and a thorough exam.

During the cleaning, a skilled hygienist will use instruments to remove bacteria and plaque from your teeth that you cannot reach with a toothbrush or floss. If not removed, the plaque can lead to dental disease.

During the exam, the dentist will examine every nook and cranny of your mouth, looking for signs of cavities, gum disease, oral cancer and other problems that threaten your oral health. Some exams will involve taking a set of X-rays to look inside and between your teeth and below the gumline.

Should I still see my dentist if I don’t have any pain or symptoms?

Yes. Some dental diseases do not cause noticeable pain or symptoms in their early stages, so you wouldn’t know if a problem had developed. Left undiagnosed and untreated, these problems can become worse over time, causing pain and disrupting normal chewing and biting function.

Does my diet affect my oral health?

Yes, the foods and beverages you consume can affect the health of your teeth and gums. Naturally occurring bacteria in your mouth feeds off the sugars in sweets, sweetened beverages and starchy snack foods, releasing acids that destroy tooth enamel. Acidic foods and beverages, such as orange juice, cola and vinegar, can also cause the gradual erosion of tooth enamel.

What are some signs that suggest I might need to see my dentist in between routine exams and cleanings?

If you think something may be wrong with your teeth or gums, do not delay making a dental appointment. Identifying and treating a problem early is usually quicker and less invasive than addressing it after it has advanced.

Signs that something may be wrong include tooth pain or swelling, bleeding gums, bad breath that doesn’t go away and changes in the way your upper and lower teeth bite together.

For more information about preventing dental disease, please contact the team at Northfield Dental Group today.

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