Advanced Risk Factors for Cavities
July 29, 2013
You already know that it takes regular brushing and flossing plus good nutrition and regular checkups, to defend your smile from cavities. But oral care and nutrition are only two risk factors you should be aware of in having a cavity-free smile. In today’s post, we’d like to highlight a few more risk factors that you might not even be aware of. If you have questions about any of them, don’t hesitate to give Randolph Dental Care a call.
Existing decay
Did you realize that having cavities in the past makes you more vulnerable to having cavities in the future? That’s because decay weakens the protective layer of enamel on the outside of our teeth. To protect your smile, treat cavities early, before they have a chance to become more developed. You should also make sure you’re getting enough fluoride, which attract minerals important for having healthy teeth.
Family history
Some patients grew up in a home where good oral hygiene wasn’t a priority. But we’re not just talking about poor oral hygiene when we talk about family history. Some patients are more vulnerable to cavities because of heredity. If you’ve noticed a pattern of cavities in your family, make sure you’re brushing and flossing regularly, and that you’re visiting Dr. Goldstein a minimum of twice a year.
Dry mouth
Among the different things that saliva does, one is flush bacteria out of your mouth. Another is that it helps neutralize acid, which can harm tooth enamel. In cases of dry mouth, teeth are more vulnerable because there’s nothing to get rid of bacteria or take care of the acid. That’s why, if you struggle with dry mouth, it’s important to drink water throughout the day, so that your mouth stays moist. Xylitol mints or gum may also help.
Do you have questions about any of these risk factors, or do you need to schedule an appointment with Dr. Goldstein? Call Randolph Dental Care today. We serve patients from Randolph, Rockaway, Mendham, Chester, Morristown, Denville, Morris County, and surrounding areas.
Four Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
July 16, 2013
Tooth sensitivity is a common complaint of dental patients, but there’s no single cause. In today’s post, we’ll detail some of the most common culprits and explain how treatment or prevention might be possible.
Aggressive Brushing
One part of achieving a healthy smile is brushing on a regular basis, but there’s a difference between brushing thoroughly and brushing aggressively. Patients who brush too hard with a hard-bristled brush can damage their teeth and gums, causing sensitivity. To prevent sensitivity caused by aggressive brushing, don’t be afraid to ask Dr. Goldstein of Randolph Dental Care for brushing tips. We’re dedicated to educating our patients and helping them achieve effective daily care.
Teeth Grinding
The medical term to describe a teeth grinding problem is bruxism. Patients who struggle with bruxism grind their teeth unconsciously, often while asleep. Bruxism is triggered by stress and the affliction can seriously damage teeth. Under the right conditions, teeth can even become cracked, making it possible for bacteria to get inside a tooth and exposing the porous layer of dentin beneath the outer layer of enamel. If you struggle with teeth grinding, talk to Dr. Goldstein. Bruxism can be effectively treated with a custom-made night guard.
Gum Recession/Gum Disease
Gum recession is one of the most common causes of sensitivity, which itself is caused by advanced gum disease. As the gums recede, more of the patient’s teeth are exposed, including that crucial layer of dentin. Things that are hot, cold, or acidic can send shockwaves through the dentin to the inner pulp, or the nerve of the tooth. To prevent sensitivity caused by gum recession, see Dr. Goldstein for periodontal therapy at the first sign of gum disease. Treating gum disease early will help you preserve your oral health and protect against sensitivity.
Age
Patients between the ages of 25 and 30 experience more sensitivity than patients of other ages. If you’re in your mid-twenties and have noticed any changes in how sensitive your teeth are, Dr. Goldstein may be able to help.
Do you struggle with tooth sensitivity on a daily basis? Call Randolph Dental Care to set up an appointment with us. Dr. Goldstein serves patients from Randolph, Rockaway, Mendham, Chester, Morristown, Denville, Morris County, and beyond with excellent general, cosmetic, and restorative care.
The History of Dental Implants
July 2, 2013
We think of dental implants as a modern solution to missing teeth—and for dental implants as they are now, that’s true. But there’s also evidence to show that, throughout history, people have been bridging gaps in their smiles with a wide variety of materials.
Some of the earliest evidence includes a 1,300 year-old mandible found among Mayan ruins. Specially shaped shells had been implanted into the jaw to replace missing teeth.
Evidence from ancient Rome and ancient Egypt has also been found. In the case of Rome, a cast-iron implant was found in the jaw of a Roman soldier, while it’s believed that gold wires were used by Egyptians. Other materials that have been used throughout history include ox bone, semi-precious stones, copper, ivory, and rubber.
The first contemporary implant was placed in 1965. Through a test with titanium and a rabbit femur, the scientist Per-Ingvar Brånemark discovered that titanium could form a bond with bone tissue, which led to the placement of the first implant in a human skull.
Today, dentists like Dr. Goldstein of Randolph Dental Care are restoring smiles with dental implants on a regular basis. Dental implants mimic the natural structure of teeth with a crown on top and an implant, which acts as a prosthetic root, underneath. They’re versatile enough to replace a single tooth, multiple ones, or even an entire row. Best of all, Dr. Goldstein’s Randolph dental patients can have both stages of an implant procedure completed right in our office.
Are dental implants the right restorative service for you? During a consultation at Randolph Dental Care, Dr. Goldstein will talk to you about the dental implant process and recommend a personalized treatment plan, whether it involves dental implants or another service entirely.
Call us today to reserve your appointment. We serve patients from Randolph, Rockaway, Mendham, Chester, Morristown, Denville, Morris County, and beyond.
Stress and Inflammation
June 18, 2013
Given how fast life moves today, and with the pressure to always stay “connected,” it’s no wonder our society is so stressed. But regardless of where your stress ultimately comes from—finances, work, or somewhere else—learning how to manage your stress is important. That’s because stress impacts not just your overall sense of well being but your oral health as well.
Specifically, we’re talking about inflammation and its relationship to both.
Inflammation is triggered by the body’s immune system. When it works as it’s supposed to, it can be beneficial. But a patients struggling with stress may find that their body has trouble regulating it. When that happens, the body can begin to use inflammation against itself, leading to problems with oral and overall health. In 2012, the ADG reported that, in talking about the link between stress and oral health, the immune system plays a definite role.
What does this mean for patients of Randolph Dental Care? It means that learning how to manage stress is important. It also means that regular checkups and professional cleanings should be a priority, as should a regular brushing and flossing routine. Remember to brush at least twice a day, floss at least once a day.
If you have questions about the connection between stress, inflammation, and oral health, call Randolph Dental Care today to reserve an appointment with Dr. Goldstein. Our office is proud to serve patients from Randolph, Rockaway, Mendham, Chester, Morristown, Denville, Morris County, and beyond.
The Connection between Hormones and Oral Health
June 4, 2013
When you think about your oral health, do you ever think about what connection it might have to your body’s hormones? In most cases, probably not, but a very real connection does exist.
When the body’s hormones fluctuate, a patient can become more vulnerable to gum disease, one of the most common oral health conditions a patient can face. Women are especially vulnerable because of the hormonal changes they experience throughout life. Puberty, pregnancy, and menopause are all examples of when vulnerability is high, but it doesn’t stop there—women who are taking birth control should also be careful. There’s even an increased risk a day or two before the start of a woman’s next period.
So, what does this mean for patients of Dr. Goldstein?
It means sticking to a good brushing and flossing routine and coming to our Randolph dental office twice a year for checkups and a professional cleaning. What’s more, if you’re taking birth control or are pregnant, it’s important to let your doctor know. Dr. Goldstein can also offer nutrition tips during your next appointment. Foods that are high in sugar or starch can contribute to potential issues with the teeth and gums.
Do you need to schedule your next visit with Dr. Goldstein? Call Randolph Dental Care today to reserve your appointment. Our office serves patients from Randolph, Rockaway, Mendham, Chester, Morristown, Denville, Morris County, and beyond.
Relieving Pain through Equilibration
May 15, 2013
Sometimes it’s not a big, dramatic dental service that ends up making the most difference in your life; it can actually be something small and quick.
That’s exactly what you can expect from equilibration. If your upper and lower teeth don’t match up the way they should, this small service can help you improve your quality of life in just a matter of minutes and without requiring extensive work.
Misalignment, also known as malocclusion, can result in painful symptoms like headaches, migraines, and pain in your neck or face. What’s more, it can cause jaw joints to shift permanently out of place and even cause teeth to break or become loose.
It’s true that in some cases, a treatment like oral appliance therapy may be necessary. In others, the problem may be fixed by simply reshaping of the surfaces of teeth by even just a millimeter or less. That’s exactly what equilibration involves. Just listen to what one of Dr. Goldstein’s patients had to say about the process and what it’s meant to her.
Are you worried that correcting your bite issue will require extensive work? It may not. Call Randolph Dental Care today to reserve a consultation with Dr. Goldstein. During your appointment, Dr. Goldstein will examine your teeth to see if equilibration is right for you.
We serve patients from Randolph, Rockaway, Mendham, Chester, Morristown, Denville, Morris County, and beyond. We look forward to helping you!
Are You Setting a Good Oral Health Example?
May 1, 2013
You know how important regular visits to the dental office and good brushing and flossing techniques are. Your commitment to oral health probably didn’t develop on its own. Odds are, you had someone in your life—a parent, a grandparent, or some other family member—who set a good example and taught you the importance of both.
So of course it’s going to be the same for your own little one. Help your child understand the importance of diligent care by making it a habit to brush together until your child is old enough to do it on their own.
If you have questions about how to do that, Dr. Goldstein would be happy to offer you tips or any extra information you might need. With his years of experience and his dedication to prevention, he can offer advice on how to brush and floss more effectively, advice that you can then pass on to your son or daughter.
Developing healthy habits isn’t solely about brushing and flossing, though. It’s just as important to emphasize regular checkups and cleanings. With a regular checkup and cleaning, a doctor like Dr. Goldstein can keep an eye out for common oral health conditions like tooth decay and gum disease—conditions that need to be monitored and treated as soon as possible. Plus, with a cleaning, there’s a chance for extra stubborn bacteria, plaque, and calculus to be removed, getting teeth cleaner than brushing and flossing alone could have.
Do you have questions about how you can set a better example for your child? Call Randolph Dental Care to reserve an appointment. During your visit, Dr. Goldstein can answer any questions you might have, in addition to offering advice.
We serve patients from Randolph, Rockaway, Mendham, Chester, Morristown, Denville, Morris County, and beyond.
A Smile Makeover Just In Time for Spring and Summer
April 11, 2013
With the recent change in season and warmer weather on the way, you can look forward to spending more time outdoors with friends and especially, especially as Memorial Day and the Fourth of July roll around. When those times come, don’t you want to be able to smile with confidence?
At Randolph Dental Care, Dr. Goldstein offers a range of effective cosmetic services to help patients from Randolph and beyond create gorgeous, dazzling smiles.
Our cosmetic services include:
Using one or more of these services, Dr. Goldstein and his Randolph team can help you make dramatic changes to your smile. But which service is right for you?
That’s a question we can answer during a routine exam or consultation.
When you come to see us, we’ll thoroughly examine your smile to determine what your exact needs are. We can also use your visit to explain all of our cosmetic dentistry services. Dr. Goldstein will create a personalized treatment plan based on your needs and goals for your smile. We’ll talk to you about those goals during your visit, and we’ll also answer any questions you might have about the services we recommend.
Are You Ready To Get Started?
If you’d like to get started on a smile makeover this spring or summer, call Randolph Dental Care today to schedule an appointment. We’re happy to provide personalized care to patients from Randolph, Rockaway, Mendham, Chester, Morristown, Denville, Morris County, and beyond.
Will Dentists Be Able to Regrow Teeth In the Distant Future?
March 28, 2013
Earlier this month, Science World Report published an article on something that could change dentistry in the future. As reported in the Journal of Dental Research, doctors are getting closer and closer to helping patients replace missing teeth with new teeth grown from a patient’s own stem cells. That means that one day doctors may not have to rely on artificial restorative solutions. Instead, a completely new tooth could be grown in the patient’s mouth, resulting in a completely natural new smile.
The process works using a combination of specific cells taken from a patient’s gum tissue. When the right cells have been singled out and combined, the mixture is transplanted to a patient’s jaw, where the tooth will develop over time. The procedure is still being researched and developed, but in the future this could become an alternative to a service like dental implants.
Until that day, though, dental implants are still the best way to restore what a patient has lost. Dental implants mimic the structure of teeth by replacing both a missing tooth and the missing root underneath. What’s more, besides replacing a single tooth, dental implants can also be used to replace a full row of upper or lower teeth. That makes dental implants one of the most versatile dental services currently available
To find out if dental implants are right for you, call Dr. Goldstein’s Randolph dental office. During a consultation at Randolph Dental Care, we can diagnose your situation and help you understand if dental implants are the best solution for you.
Dr. Goldstein serves patients from Randolph, Rockaway, Mendham, Chester, Morristown, Denville, Morris County, and beyond.
Dr. Goldstein Provides Complete Dental Implant Service for Randolph and Beyond
February 22, 2013
As we mentioned in our last post, dental implants are rising in popularity. Thanks to the unique way they interact with the jaw, more and more patients are enjoying restored smiles each year. And with the increased demand, more dentists are including dental implants in their list of services.
But just because a dentist offers dental implants, that doesn’t mean they can perform the entire procedure in one location. It takes a special devotion to implant dentistry to provide comprehensive implant care.
At Randolph Dental Care, Dr. Goldstein can provide you with the complete care you need, without having to refer you to another doctor for part of your procedure. For both the surgery and the restoration, you’ll visit our Randolph dental office, where the team you already know and trust will gently transform your smile with this unique and highly effective restorative dentistry service.
The dental implant process comes in two phases. In the first, Dr. Goldstein will carefully insert your implant(s) into your jaw. Because the material that dental implants are made from is biocompatible, eventually your implant(s) will fuse with the bone tissue in your jaw, stimulating growth and creating a strong foundation for your new teeth.
Once this has happened, it’s time for the restoration phase of your procedure. During the restoration, your prosthetic tooth (or teeth) is attached and your procedure is completed.
Do you have other things you’d like to find out about dental implants? Our Randolph team would be happy to answer your questions. Call us today. We’re proud to serve patients from Randolph, Rockaway, Mendham, Chester, Morristown, Denville, Morris County, and surrounding areas.
