Implant & General Dentistry of Long Island

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• Cosmetic Dentistry

  Home » Services » Cosmetic Dentistry COSMETIC DENTISTRY If you're like most people, you've always wanted to change just one thing about the way you look. Maybe you think your nose is too big, or your hair is too curly, but if it's your teeth that you've always wanted to change, you've come to the right place. Cosmetic Procedures: Dental Bonding Porcelain Veneers Teeth Whitening Tooth Colored Fillings

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• Dental Bonding

  Home » Services » Cosmetic Dentistry » Dental Bonding DENTAL BONDING Dental Bonding Everyone has at least some cosmetic imperfections with their teeth. Dr. Glasser uses dental bonding to mask those flaws and give the patient a perfect smile. And in most cases bonding can be done in a single appointment! WHAT IS DENTAL BONDING? Dental bonding is a cosmetic alternative to porcelain veneers. Using a composite resin made from a combination of tooth-colored plastic and glass, Dr. Glasser can repair decayed, chipped, fractured, or deeply discolored teeth. He sculpts the resin, applying it layer by layer, until satisfied. Then the tooth is polished to a beautiful finish. Dental bonding is a less expensive alternative to porcelain veneers or crowns. WHAT PROBLEMS CAN BE MASKED WITH DENTAL BONDING? Dental bonding can cosmetically cover many problems: Minor chips Small cracks Uneven teeth Teeth stained in the dentin (interior) Crooked teeth Gaps between teeth Dr. Glasser also uses composite resin for tooth-colored fillings, but bonding is considered to be a separate, purely cosmetic procedure. It is important to remember that bonding is only cosmetic; any problems such as decay or deep cracks need to be addressed before bonding can be done. WHAT IS THE DENTAL BONDING PROCEDURE? Your teeth are first cleaned. If you have staining from coffee or red wine, Dr. Glasser may recommend whitening your teeth first to return them to their natural color before selecting the composite resin color. After selecting the color to match your other teeth, we then lightly etch the enamel of the tooth or teeth being bonded. This creates a better surface for the resin to bond to. We also apply a conditioning liquid to further aid adherence. Now Dr. Glasser applies the resin in small increments. The consistency is akin to putty at this point, and the contour and depth are built up in layers. There is an element of sculpting involved in this process. Dr. Glasser will usually cure the resin in various layers by applying a curing lamp. When satisfied with the shape of your bonded tooth, the final step is to test the bite to make sure there aren’t any high points and the like. When you are satisfied, we polish the cured resin and it blends perfectly with your adjacent teeth. The entire process takes just an hour or two, depending on how many teeth you are having bonded. WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF DENTAL BONDING? Dental bonding is a less expensive option for cosmetically improving your teeth. But there are pros and cons to this procedure. Advantages Bonding is a cheaper alternative to porcelain crowns or veneers. Bonding can be done in a single visit, usually requiring just an hour or so. The resin color is matched to your natural teeth very accurately. The procedure is painless, and doesn’t require anesthetic. The procedure is completely non-invasive. Bonding is applied over the tooth, so it doesn’t require removing any enamel, as is necessary for placing veneers or crowns. Disadvantages Chewing hard foods and grinding your teeth can make the bonding crack or chip. Although it resists staining better than your natural enamel, composite resin isn’t as stain resistant as dental porcelain. Excessive bite force or trauma can cause the bond to detach. Bonding isn’t meant for large areas. 5. Bonding doesn’t return strength to a damaged tooth, as a crown does. Bonding doesn’t respond to whitening. HOW IS BONDING DIFFERENT THAN HAVING PORCELAIN VENEERS? Dental bonding and porcelain veneers are both solely cosmetic procedures, covering minor damage and flaws on the teeth. But their application is entirely different. With bonding, composite resin is applied, sculpted, and then cured and polished. Veneers are thin porcelain shells that are applied to the fronts of the teeth. To make room for the veneers, from 0.3 mm to 0.5 mm of the tooth enamel is shaved off. With bonding, enamel is not removed. Veneers are very resistant to staining, more so than resin. Veneers last longer but are more expensive. Veneers require two appointments, bonding only one. HOW LONG DOES DENTAL BONDING LAST? If you follow a good home hygiene routine and avoid chewing ice and your fingernails, your bonded teeth will look great for a decade or so. Your resin can wear down over that time, and it can become slightly stained. At that point, it can be redone. DO I NEED TO PROVIDE SPECIAL CARE FOR MY BONDED TEETH? Bonded teeth don’t require any special care, just a regular good home hygiene routine. Call us: 631-423-6767 to schedule an appointment or for more information on any services we offer.

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• Porcelain Veneers

  Porcelain veneers are very thin, tooth-colored shells of ceramic that are custom-fit and bonded to the front of the teeth. They can give you a bright, white, even and attractive smile. Veneers make it possible to correct a variety of problems, including spaces between the teeth, chips, yellowing or stains and misshapen or crooked teeth. A veneer placed on top of a tooth can quickly and easily help you achieve a beautiful smile! Will porcelain veneers look like normal teeth? Porcelain veneers are custom-made in a dental laboratory to look exactly like the patient's natural teeth, making them virtually undetectable. They are truly among the best of the restorative options when it comes to their similarity in appearance to healthy tooth enamel. Another benefit is that they are resistant to future staining due to coffee, tea or cigarettes. Since veneers are so thin, light shines through them, helping them blend in beautifully with natural teeth. How durable are porcelain veneers? How long will my porcelain veneers last? Your porcelain veneers can last from seven to 20 years. The lifespan can be dictated by changes with the underlying teeth or surrounding gum tissue. Usually if a veneer happens to detach it can usually be re-bonded to the tooth. As mentioned above, patients need to know heading into this procedure that porcelain veneers are a lifetime commitment, due to the need to remove the slight amount of enamel from your teeth to make room for the veneers. So when your current veneers run their course you’ll need to have a new set placed. The Procedure Porcelain veneer placement will require three appointments: Diagnosis and treatment planning Preparation Bonding Diagnosis and treatment planning: This initial appointment provides an opportunity for you to take an active role in designing an improved smile. Our dentists will discuss with you the corrective abilities and limitations of this procedure and help you plan the changes you would like to make. Preparation: The second appointment will last approximately one hour. Although the porcelain veneers are very thin, the teeth receiving them are lightly buffed to compensate for the added thickness of the veneers. The tooth is typically reduced by approximately one half of a millimeter. This portion of the procedure may be performed with little or no local anesthesia. Next, an impression is taken of the teeth and sent to the lab for creation of the custom-made veneer. A temporary veneer can be placed if the patient is uncomfortable with the appearance of the natural teeth. The veneer is usually ready one to two weeks later. Bonding: At your third appointment, your dentist will initially hold the veneers in place on your teeth with water or glycerin to determine that they are perfect in fit and color. The color of the veneer can still be adjusted at this time by altering the shade of the cement used to adhere it. Once the color is finalized, chemicals are applied to the tooth to optimize the bonding. Dental cement is then applied between the teeth and the veneer and a special light is used to quickly harden the cement. You can expect this visit to take between one and two hours. How do I care for my porcelain veneers? Porcelain veneers do not require special maintenance. All that is necessary is twice-daily brushing for two minutes and flossing once a day. Use non-abraisve toothpaste. Porcelain veneers are highly stain resistant, so you do not need to worry about whitening them. Maintenance of your new veneers: Treat your veneers just like natural teeth and brush and floss normally. You will not damage your veneers by brushing and flossing, although using non-abrasive toothpaste is recommended. Careful home dental care will result in long-lasting esthetic success of your new veneers. You may experience sensitivity to hot and cold after the placement of your veneers. This is caused by the reduction of enamel on the prepared teeth. Sensitivity is a very common residual effect that typically dissipates in one to two weeks. If sensitivity persists beyond that time, please call the office. If you clench your teeth and have been diagnosed with bruxism, please inform us. Your dentist may recommend wearing a soft night guard to minimize the amount of stress placed upon your teeth while you sleep. We hope that your new veneers achieve your goal of improving the appearance of your teeth. With proper home care and regular dental visits, they will surely help you to smile proudly from now on. What problems can Dr. Glasser address with porcelain veneers? Veneers are the ultimate restoration for: Revitalizing the surface of a tooth Concealing chips Covering badly stained, discolored teeth Closing gaps between teeth Masking alignment problems Covering cracks or wear Providing an alternative to orthodontic work They are only cosmetic

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• Teeth Whitening

  TEETH WHITENING Everyone wants to have white teeth, but it’s hard to give up our morning coffee, those tasty raspberries, and that glass of red wine with dinner. Unfortunately, all of those foods and beverages conspire to leaves stains on our teeth. So, does the simple passing of the years. The end result can be dull, dingy teeth with a yellow tint. Sounds like it’s time to come see Dr. Glaser and have professional teeth whitening in our Melville offices. WHAT IS TEETH WHITENING? At Dr. Glaser’s we offer both in-office and at-home professional whitening. These options use carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide to break up the pigment that has lodged in the enamel layer on our teeth. These options can whiten your teeth up to seven shades, giving you the bright white smile that’s been missing. WHAT CAUSES TEETH TO BECOME STAINED? The enamel that is the protective outer layer of our teeth has two aspects to it that surprise people. First, despite being the hardest tissue in the human body, tooth enamel is slightly porous. This enables the teeth to, in effect, breathe. After all, our teeth are living tissue. That characteristic, however, also allows staining agents to get into the enamel and lodge. Second, your enamel is unique. Every person’s enamel color is slightly different, some a little darker, some more prone to staining, etc. These are typical reasons your teeth become stained: Foods — Raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, even dark chocolate all contain pigments that can make their way into tooth enamel. Drinks — Coffee, tea, red wine, darker fruit juices, and cola drinks leave stains. Smoking — Nicotine makes the enamel yellow. Genes — Darker enamel tones are usually passed on from your parents. Drugs — Tetracycline, a popular antibiotic used especially in the 60s, was found to make the dentin in teeth grey. There are now recommendations to not use tetracycline with children due to this problem. Fluorosis — If a person has too much fluoride, or if it is ingested, it can cause fluorosis, which stains the teeth a grey color. Those last two items on that list involve another type of staining that occurs in the dentin, the inner portion of the tooth. This staining usually is the result of a drug reaction — tetracycline is the main culprit here — and it cannot be whitened. For stains in the dentin, Dr. Glaser places porcelain veneers over the front surfaces of all the stained teeth. Porcelain veneers not only cover interior stained teeth, but they can also make all of the covered teeth appear basically perfect, covering imperfections such as chips and misshapen teeth. HOW DOES TEETH WHITENING REMOVE STAINS? The concept behind teeth whitening isn’t all that different than removing a stain from a shirt. Stains work their way into the enamel, which is somewhat porous. The active ingredients in whitening gels penetrate the enamel and break up the pigment in the stains. Our professional teeth whitening options lighten your teeth anywhere from five to seven shades, depending on your degree of staining. HOW IS TEETH WHITENING DONE? Dr. Glaser offers both in-office teeth whitening and at-home whitening, where we provide custom-made trays and professional gel to use at home. For our in-office whitening, we use silicone trays filled with a 22-25% carbamide peroxide whitening gel. Before we apply the trays to your teeth, we protect your lips and gums with a barrier. Then we place the trays on your teeth and activate the gel with a blue LED light. The process takes approximately one hour, and your teeth are dramatically whiter. For our at-home teeth whitening, we take impressions of your teeth to use for creating custom-fit trays. These trays provide a superior fit that you won’t find in store-bought whitening kits. We then provide you with professional strength hydrogen peroxide gel, along with detailed instructions on how to use this at home. At home, you fill the trays with the whitening gel, and you wear the trays for 30 minutes. You can do this at night while watching TV or reading. You follow this plan for two weeks and your whitened teeth should be about the same shade as we can achieve in-office. HOW IS YOUR IN-OFFICE TEETH WHITENING DIFFERENT THAN OTC PRODUCTS? Sometimes patients wonder out loud why they should use Dr. Glaser’s professional teeth whitening options instead of simply heading to the drug store and buying an over-the-counter kit. There are two very important differences between the teeth whitening we offer in our Melville office and whitening kits you can buy at the grocery store. First, we use far stronger concentration whitening gels. Professional whitening gel is stronger because trained dental hygienists are using it, so the possibility for improper application isn’t there. That’s why home whitening kits have to be far weaker, in case the gel gets on the person’s gums and lips.

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• Tooth Colored Fillings

  What are Tooth-Colored Fillings? In the 1970's, "white fillings" came into common use. These "tooth-colored fillings" were made of a plastic dental resin filled with microscopic filler particles and were called composites. When dental composites were first introduced, they could only be used in the front teeth, because they weren't strong enough to withstand the chewing pressure of the back teeth. Today, these fillings are colored to match the patient's teeth and are practically invisible to the untrained eye. Tooth-colored fillings can be used for aesthetic and/or medical purposes. These tooth-colored fillings can replace old and worn dental amalgam, gold or other metal fillings. What are Tooth-Colored Fillings made of? The composites of today have been vastly improved over the ones developed nearly forty years ago. Modern-day composite fillings are a mixture of resin, glass or quartz and porcelain ceramics. These materials are more resilient and long lasting. Dr. Glasser is proud to offer tooth-colored fillings to his patients and encourages patients to take advantage of their natural appearance. Tooth-colored fillings are bonded directly to the affected tooth to restore small areas of decay or to replace current fillings. They are placed in the same way as traditional metal fillings, but may take a little longer to perform. The tooth must be kept dry and free of saliva. After the decay is removed, Dr. Glasser applies an adhesive to the tooth along with the white composite filling, which is then hardened into place with a special light. CALL US: 631-423-6767 TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT OR FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ANY SERVICES WE OFFER.

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• General & Family Dentistry

  Your teeth are strong, durable structures that must withstand massive amounts of pressure each day. It is important to protect your teeth and keep them strong through daily brushing and regular professional care from a licensed and experienced general dentist. General dentistry involves the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of a wide range of dental conditions for patients of all ages, as well as the maintenance of overall oral health. This comprehensive care from a general dentist is usually the only source of care patients require for their dental needs. There are several different dental specialties, but general dentistry encompasses the basics of these specialties. You can prevent dental conditions by seeing your dentist on a regular basis. Regular visits to the dentist are recommended at least once every six months in order to maintain proper oral hygiene and screen for any potential problems. Receiving regular checkups can help improve your dental health and prevent major problems from developing. These checkups involve full mouth cleaning as well. A dental checkup appointment may also include X-rays to provide your doctor with full, detailed images of your teeth that can help detect early signs of decay or disease. These images can be viewed together by the doctor and patient in order to determine any potential problems and decide upon the best treatment options. Digital X-rays are becoming more and more common and produce immediate images that can be easily managed. Some of the common services included in general dentistry are: Restorative Dentistry Many dental conditions damage the tooth and cause aesthetic and functional changes that require special treatment. These services can repair or replace teeth depending on the extent of their damage. Restorative dental procedures include fillings, dental crowns and bridges, porcelain veneers, dental implants, dental bonding, dentures and root canals. Cosmetic Dentistry Many people seek cosmetic dental care after certain dental conditions or because of an overall dissatisfaction with the appearance of their teeth. These procedures can improve the color, shape and size of your teeth and enhance your overall smile as well. Cosmetic dental treatments often improve self-confidence as well as patients are now able to face the world with a healthy, beautiful smile. Some of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments include teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, bonding and full mouth reconstruction. Gum Disease Treatment Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a common dental condition that plagues many patients. Gum disease can be managed through treatments such as scaling and root planing, charting and practicing thorough, proper home care. Surgery and other advanced treatments may be performed for later stages of the disease. While there are specialists for many of these dental treatments, they are also included in general dentistry and can be performed by most dentists. Complicated issues may be referred to a specialist such as a periodontist or prosthodontist, while age-specific issues may benefit from seeing a pediatric or geriatric dentist. Certain dental procedures require the use of anesthetic aids. Depending on the complexity of the procedure, your doctor may administer a local anesthetic, nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or IV sedation. These help minimize pain and discomfort during the procedure and reduce some of the anxiety many patients experience. Although most procedures only require local anesthesia or nitrous oxide, it is important to consider the risks of anesthesia before undergoing the procedure. It is important for patients to work together with their dentist to maintain their oral health through daily care. General dentistry covers most patients' dental needs regardless of their age or desired treatment. These treatments restore health and beauty to your smile and leave you feeling more confident and comfortable than before, all while maintaining excellent oral health. -rays are one of the most common procedures used to diagnose a wide variety of conditions in nearly every area of the body. Although x-rays are usually effective in identifying abnormalities, their method for doing so is somewhat outdated. Despite an increasingly digital world, x-rays still use sheets of film that require processing much like film in a regular camera. Digital x-rays are performed similarly to conventional x-rays, but use a special imaging detector that "reads" the body part rather than exposing it on film. This is the same technique used for regular digital cameras. Digital x-rays allow for faster results and delivery to other doctors, as the images can be viewed on a computer rather than having to send the actual film. This technique also exposes patients to less radiation, a minor risk involved in conventional x-rays.

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• Endodontics

  WHAT IS ENDODONTICS? Endodontics is a dental specialty that focuses on conditions and treatments within the inside of the tooth and the dental pulp, such as restoring chipped or cracked teeth, root canal and apicoectomies. In Greek, “endo” is the word for “inside” and “odont” is the word for “tooth.” What does endodontics treat? Endodontics treats problems of the dental pulp, the soft tissue within the tooth that contains blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue and helps create the surrounding hard tissues that make up the outside of the tooth. The pulp stretches from the crown of the tooth all the way to the tips of the roots and into the surrounding tissue. Dental pulp is vital to the growth and development of healthy teeth, but is not necessarily needed once the tooth has fully matured. When is treatment needed? Endodontic treatment is performed when the pulp becomes infected or inflamed. This may occur as a result of decay, repeated dental procedures, a crack or chip in the tooth or an injury with no visible signs of damage. When the pulp is affected, it can lead to pain or the development of an abscess, as well as increased sensitivity, tenderness and discoloration. Problems within the dental pulp can often be identified through X-ray images that identify the damage. Occasionally, this damage does not show up on an X-ray despite the patient’s complaints of related symptoms. In these cases, a root canal may be performed as a diagnostic procedure to help identify tiny holes or cracks in the tooth that may be the cause of dental pulp damage. Although sometimes referred to as the practice of root canal therapy, endodontics actually encompasses a wide range of surgical and nonsurgical procedures that help keep the teeth free from diseases and injuries of the pulp and surrounding tissue. Like any other dental procedure he performs, Dr. Glasser strives to maintain good oral health with endodontic treatments. Endodontic Procedures Root Canal A root canal is the most common endodontic procedure, and one of the most common dental procedures overall. There are over 15 million root canals performed in the US every year. A root canal can help both diagnose and treat damage within the dental pulp. The pulp can become damaged from a cracked tooth or dental infection and should be removed to prevent further damage to the tooth such as a toothache, bone loss, discoloration and swelling. A root canal is performed in by drilling a hole in the tooth to reach the inside. Dr. Glasser then thoroughly cleans the inside of the tooth and fills the hole to seal the tooth and prevent any dirt or bacteria from entering the tooth again. A temporary filling is placed as well. This procedure is performed under a local anesthetic in Dr. Glasser’s office. Follow-up appointments are then needed to restore the appearance of the tooth with a permanent filling or crown that will help prevent further damage. The success rate for root canal procedures are reported as high as 95 percent. Although often associated with major pain and discomfort the root canal procedure performed by Dr. Glasser is not usually painful. Apicoectomy Also known as root-end resection, an apicoectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove damaged pulp that is located in the bony area at the end of the tooth. This damage may have been persistent after a root canal procedure because of its tricky location. During an apicoectomy, the surrounding tissue is opened and the infected tissue, as well as the end of the root, is removed by Dr. Glasser. A small filling is placed in the root to seal the area and prevent future damage and the area is stitched to help it heal. Over time, the bone will heal around the end of the root. This procedure is performed in Dr. Glasser’s office under local anesthesia and usually takes 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the location of the tooth and the complexity of the root structure. Dr. Glasser also performs other types of endodontic surgery for more severe cases. Do endodontic procedures hurt? After endodontic treatment, patients may experience pain, swelling and increased sensitivity in the treated area for the next 24 to 48 hours. After recovery, most patients report that their treated tooth feels the same as their natural teeth and have no problems eating, speaking or smiling. Dr. Glasser aims to achieve successful results with minimal side effects for all of the endodontic procedures he performs. Call us: 631-423-6767 to schedule an appointment or for more information on any services we offer.

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• Periodontics

  Periodontics is a branch of dentistry that involves conditions and diseases of the supporting structures of the teeth. These supporting structures include the gingival (gums), alveolar bone, cementum and the periodontal ligament, collectively known as the periodontium. Periodontics is derived from the Greek language and literally translates as the study of that which is around the tooth. The practice of periodontics typically focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease, also commonly known as gum disease. Periodontal disease is actually a broad term that encompasses several different conditions of the gums, including gingivitis and periodontitis. These are common conditions that affect millions of people as a result of smoking, genetics or poor oral hygiene. Fortunately, most cases of periodontal disease are not serious and can be effectively treated through conservative treatment methods. Treatment is especially effective when performed by a highly trained and experienced dentist like Dr. Glasser. Periodontal Disease Periodontal disease can develop as a result of many different factors. Some of these factors include: Smoking Heredity Poor hygiene Stress Medication Pregnancy or menopause Diabetes Obesity Many cases of periodontal disease do not cause any symptoms until the condition progresses to an advanced stage. It is important to seek medical treatment at the first sign of any symptoms, and to also see Dr. Glasser for routine checkups to detect problems as soon as possible. Common symptoms of periodontal disease include: Red, swollen, tender gums Bleeding Receding gums Sores in the mouth Loose or separating teeth Pus between the teeth and gums Bad breath Change in bite Gingivitis Gingivitis is a mild form of periodontal disease that causes the gums to swell, redden and bleed easily because of inflammation. Gingivitis is the most common type of periodontal disease, and is often caused by a buildup of plaque and bacteria in the teeth because of poor hygiene, or as a side effect to certain drugs, an infection or poor nutrition. Patients do not usually experience pain or discomfort but should seek prompt treatment when symptoms arise because of potential complications of gingivitis. Periodontitis Periodontitis often develops as a result of untreated gingivitis. If plaque spreads below the gum line, it can create toxins that may chronically inflame the gums and bone, eventually destroying these structures. Periodontitis can lead to the formation of pockets that are susceptible to frequent infections and can continue to destroy the gums and bone. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss, higher blood sugar levels and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Early stages of periodontitis may not cause any symptoms, but as the condition worsens patients may experience swollen gums, new spaces between the teeth and bad breath. There are several different types of periodontitis, some of which include: Aggressive Periodontitis This condition occurs most often in healthy patients who have a sudden onset of the disease and experience rapid bone destruction and pocket formation. Chronic Periodontitis Chronic periodontitis is the most common form of the disease and causes progressive detachment and bone loss, gradually causing pocket formation and gum recession. Periodontitis from Systemic Diseases Periodontitis sometimes develops as a side effect of other conditions such as heart disease, respiratory disease and diabetes. These cases usually begin at a young age. Necrotizing Periodontal Disease This condition is an infection caused by necrosis of the supporting structures within the teeth, and commonly affects people with other systemic conditions. Treatment Treatment for periodontal disease usually focuses on removing the plaque buildup in the teeth to restore your mouth to its previous healthy state. For early, mild cases of periodontal disease, Dr. Glasser often recommends a deep cleaning, performed as a scaling or root planing. Although these conservative treatments can often help eliminate the main cause of the disease, many patients will require regular treatment from Dr. Glasser in order to help maintain a healthy mouth. More advanced cases of periodontal disease may require surgical treatment to repair the condition. Periodontal surgery may include pocket reduction, regeneration, crown lengthening or soft tissue grafts to help restore damaged teeth and gums. Patients will also need maintenance care after these procedures in order to ensure that the dangers of periodontal disease will not return. When patients lose teeth as a result of periodontal disease or other reasons, they may choose dental implants to restore the missing teeth. Dental implants are a major part of periodontics as well, as they are placed and fused to the bone within the gums.

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• Oral Surgery

  Anesthesia Many people experience anxiety about visiting the dentist and this can keep them from seeking proper dental care. Dental anesthesia allows patients to feel a sense of comfort about complex or lengthy procedures. This may enable some patients to undergo elective procedures they have previously feared. Several methods are used to help to control pain, lessen discomfort and assist in relaxation. Depending on the type of anesthesia used, discomfort during the dental procedure can be significantly reduced or completely eliminated. Types of Anesthesia Anesthesia can be administered through several different methods to reduce or eliminate discomfort during dental procedures. Your dentist will determine which type of anesthesia is best for you based on the type of procedure and your personal preferences. Local anesthetic is injected into the mouth to numb the area to be treated and block the nerves that transmit pain. It is commonly used during fillings, treating gum disease or preparing teeth for crowns. Sedation is usually administered by inhaling nitrous oxide, or laughing gas. This form of anesthesia is commonly combined with local anesthetic to help relieve anxieties. General anesthesia is the strongest form of anesthesia available for dental procedures, and involves intravenous drugs to produce a temporary loss of consciousness. Dentoalveolar Surgery Dentoalveolar surgery relates to procedures of the teeth and bones of the mouth, especially extractions and for supportive measures. Exposures Exposure is a surgical procedure performed on teeth that are unerupted or impacted. Your dentist will first place braces on the teeth to open up space for the impacted tooth and surgically expose the crown of the tooth by removing gum tissue and overlying bone. The dentist then repositions the tooth with additional orthodontic treatments. The entire exposure process usually takes about two years to complete, but prevents unnecessary tooth loss. Placement of Temporary Anchorage Devices Temporary anchorages devices are used in orthodontics to provide extra support needed to correctly shift a tooth. It is a system of small screws that are embedded into the bone to act as an anchor. Performed using a topical anesthetic, they can be inserted into the bone between the roots of teeth or on the palate.Temporary anchorage devices can also speed treatment time and minimize the need for space maintainers or headgear appliances. Stem Cell Harvesting Teeth are one of the most abundant sources for stem cells in your body. These undifferentiated, immature cells have the ability to grow into any type of specialized cell and are being investigated in therapies for a myriad of conditions. Loose baby teeth, wisdom teeth removal or a scheduled tooth extraction provide perfect opportunities to bank the stem cells found in the pulp of your teeth. Following an extraction, we place your tooth in a StemSave'sTM recovery and transport system. This will keep your tooth healthy and nourished while it is being rushed to the lab, where the viability of the cells is tested. If the cells are healthy, they will be cryogenically preserved, stored and monitored until you need them. Tori Removal A tori is a bony growth that can form on either the upper or lower jaw. Associated with bruxism, tories fluctuate in size. The procedure of removing a tori entails reducing the amount of bone that has built up. The oral surgeon will most likely use a laser that can safely eliminate all excess bone as well as soft and hard tissue in the area without damaging any nearby structures. After the removal is complete, the laser can be used to reshape the tissue before suturing takes place. Wisdom Teeth Extractions The wisdom teeth, or third molars, develop between the ages of 15 and 25. Most mouths are too small to support wisdom teeth, making an extraction procedure necessary. If not removed, the wisdom teeth may cause pain, infection and swelling of the face or gum line. Extraction of the wisdom teeth involves opening the gum tissue and removing any bone that covers the tooth. The connecting tissue will be separated so that the entire tooth can be removed. The area is then sutured closed and covered with gauze to control bleeding. Most wisdom teeth procedures can be performed in your dentist's office under local anesthesia, although some patients may require general anesthesia if all four teeth are to be removed at once. When recovering from wisdom teeth extraction, patients will be prescribed painkillers to speed up the recovery process and reduce pain. Patients should eat only soft foods and liquids for the first few days after surgery. Patients should also gently rinse their mouth with warm salt water to relieve swelling and pain. If needed, stitches are removed within a few days. Our Recent Blog For more infomation click here to read our recent blog: "THE BASICS OF ORAL SURGERY"

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• Implant Dentistry Long Island

  Tooth loss is a common condition that can occur as a result of disease, trauma or poor dental hygiene. The best treatment for tooth loss is to replace the missing tooth, which can help prevent gum damage and tooth damage, as well as restore comfort and confidence in social situations. A dental implant is an artificial tooth root used to support tooth replacement structures such as crowns, bridges and dentures. Dental implants help patients regain the ability to eat, speak and smile without the pain and embarrassment of missing teeth. Dental implants are titanium cylinders that are surgically implanted into the jawbone to replace the roots of the missing tooth. The replacement structure is supported by the implant, and looks and feels like a natural tooth. Implants offer permanent results and full functionality, which can result in people not knowing that you lost teeth in the first place. They do not sacrifice the strength of neighboring teeth like traditional bridges do, preserving your overall tooth health with added strength and reliability. Patients with implants should care for their implants the same way that they do for regular teeth, as these replacements do not require any special maintenance. Benefits of dental implants Dental implants offer many benefits over other tooth replacement methods. Implants provide a natural replacement that looks and feels like your own tooth. Since the implants are drilled directly into the gum and act as a natural tooth root would, patients can enjoy the same comfort and confidence they experienced before tooth loss. Implants provide sturdy, long-lasting results by preventing bone loss and gum recession. Enhanced Esthetics Reduction of Bone Loss Preservation of Adjacent Teeth Easier Eating Procedure Dental implants are placed during a series of appointments over several months. During the first procedure, Dr. Glasser places the titanium anchors in the jaw. Over the next three to six months, the anchors heal and fuse to the bone, a period known as osseointegration. Small posts are attached to the implant to help provide stability for the replacement tooth. After the anchors heal, Dr. Glasser fits the patient for replacements, which can be installed during the next appointment. Implant surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure under local or general anesthesia in Dr. Glasser’s office. A crown can be used to replace one tooth, a bridge can replace several teeth, and a full bridge or full denture can replace all teeth. The replacement teeth can be treated just like natural teeth and require regular home care and dental visits. Candidates for Dental Implants Dental implants are recommended for patients in good general and oral health. A certain amount of bone in Click here for more in depth information about dental implants. is required to support the implant, so a bone graft procedure may be required. Dental implants can be used for people who have gum disease or problem teeth, currently wear dentures or have bone loss. Most people see successful results from dental implants. Implants are not recommended for children because their jaw bones are not fully developed and can affect the appearance and function of the implant. To find out more about dental implants, call Dr. Glasser’s Long Island office and schedule a consultation. Missing teeth can become a thing of the past, as patients can restore their smile with the convenience and effectiveness of dental implants. Dental Facts More than 1/3 of the population of the United States is missing one or more teeth! There are so many dental, medical and even psychological effects associated with missing teeth, that I would like to mention some of the significant points that apply to them: Dental Consequences: Difficulty Eating - there is an up to 90% reduction in the biting forces necessary to chew food. This results in an inability to chew or bite through foods. Raw fruits and vegetables, steak, chicken, and rolls or bagels can often be a challenge. Most often denture patients are relegated to eating a soft diet or swallowing partly chewed foods. Denture Instability - due to the excessive force transferred to the underlying jawbone, the jawbone begins to atrophy and eventually erodes. This then gives less support to the denture resulting in further instability and resorption. Jawbone Atrophy - over a period of twenty years of denture use, excessive atrophy can occur to such a point where the patient is no longer able to wear dentures. At this point the patient becomes so dentally handicapped that basic function and appearance has reached maximum compromise. Dental Adhesives - are a messy but necessary means to hold the denture to the gumline. Esthetic Deficiencies Medical Consequences: Shorter Life Expectancy - Due to a loss of function and diminished sense of taste, full denture patients suffer from a higher rate of systemic disease.

  Link: Implant Dentistry Long Island

• Sedation Dentistry

  Many people experience anxiety about undergoing dental work or even visiting the dentist at all, a fear known as dental phobia. This can keep them from seeking proper dental care and may be compromising their dental health. Relief for patients with dental phobia is now available through sedation dentistry available at Dr. Glasser’s office. WHAT IS SEDATION DENTISTRY? Sedation dentistry involves the use of medication to provide a relaxing and anxiety-free experience for people undergoing dental treatment. Sedation allows people to feel more comfortable undergoing complex and lengthy procedures. Although sometimes referred to as “sleep dentistry,” most patients remain awake after taking sedation medication and experience a sleepy feeling, but cannot remember anything about the procedure afterwards. There are several different methods available to achieve varying degrees of sedation, all depending on the type of procedure and preference of the patient. SEDATION VS. ANESTHESIA Although sedation produces a relaxed state, it does not produce the same effect as anesthesia, which is used for most dental procedures. Patients will still require local anesthesia through injection to help reduce the pain of the procedure. Sedation simply helps relieve the nerves and anxiety that often accompany seeing a dentist. Dr. Glasser usually injects the anesthesia after the patient is sedated to reduce anxiety about the actual injection. BENEFITS OF SEDATION DENTISTRY Many patients are uneasy at just the thought of undergoing dental work. Sedation allows these patients to gain a sense of comfort about the often complex and lengthy dental procedures they are about to undergo. It may also influence some patients to undergo elective procedures that they may have been apprehensive about before. Sedation dentistry lets patients feel as though their lengthy procedures last for only a few minutes. Patients that benefit from sedation dentistry include those who: Have a low pain threshold Have sensitive teeth Trouble sitting still in the dentist’s chair Have a bad gag reflex Need a large amount of dental work done TYPES OF SEDATION Sedation can be administered through several different methods, depending on the overall health and level of relaxation required by the patient. Dr. Glasser use nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, to help most patients achieve the relaxed sensation they desire. This is done by placing a mask over the nose that lets the patient breathe in the gas. The sedated feelings begin anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes after inhaling. Numbness throughout the cheeks and gums also begins quickly. Other methods for sedation include orally or intravenously. Dr. Glasser will work with each patient to determine which type of sedation is best for them. Depending on a patient’s anxiety levels, different degrees of sedation may be required. These varying degrees include: Conscious Sedation Dr. Glasser commonly uses conscious sedation, a state that lets patients feel relaxed but also remain awake and able to respond to commands. You will not remember most of the procedure with this sedation. Deep Sedation Patients with more anxiety may feel more comfortable with deep sedation, which provides a state somewhere between consciousness and unconsciousness. In this state, patients cannot respond to commands and may need breathing assistance. Unconsciousness Unconsciousness is also occasionally used but requires general anesthesia and brings about added risks. This is usually only used for oral surgery. RISKS OF SEDATION DENTISTRY Although the risk of using sedation is low, mild side effects can occur. Some patients may experience nausea, drowsiness or lightheadedness. Sedation is not recommended for patients who are claustrophobic, have a blocked nasal passage, are obese or have obstructive sleep apnea. Because of potential side effects and the length of sedation, you may need someone to drive you home once your procedure is complete. It is important to discuss the individual risks of sedation dentistry with Dr. Glasser, who can help you decide if you can benefit from this technique. CALL US: 631-423-6767 TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT OR FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ANY SERVICES WE OFFER.

  Link: Sedation Dentistry

• Pediatric Dentistry

  Scheduling Pediatric Dental appointments for children are important to evaluate the teeth and gums as well as to educate the young patient for a lifetime of dental hygiene. Dr. Glasser talk with you about pediatric dentistry and your child's oral health and hygiene, including teething, fluoride, brushing and flossing, cavities, sealants and orthodontics. Pediatric Dental Care During a check-up we will evaluate: How many teeth are and should be present Loose teeth Cavities Gum health Bite and habit evaluation Tongue and speech Fluoride use Diet and health history Home care and prevention Preventing tooth decay and other dental diseases Tooth decay doesn't discriminate by age. It can affect adults, teens and even your infant or toddler. As parents, it's our role to set our children on the path of good oral health. Pediatric Dentistry cavity prevention is a vital part of that. When food remains on the teeth, it is consumed by bacteria that are naturally present in the mouth. These bacteria convert the food into acid, ultimately contributing to the production of plaque, a sticky substance that clings to the teeth. The acids in plaque will harm the enamel of the tooth, creating cavities. How to avoid tooth decay in children Tooth decay is a serious problem and can ultimately lead to infection, pain and loss of teeth. Here are a few simple steps you can take to prevent tooth decay in your child: Never put your baby to sleep with a bottle containing anything except water. Putting your child to sleep with a bottle containing juice or milk is one of the biggest culprits when it comes to early childhood cavities. Start to teach brushing habits. Once most of your child's baby teeth are in, it's time to start brushing at least twice a day. Supervise independent brushing. As children become familiar with brushing, they often want to do it themselves. This is okay, but until they're at least five, make sure their teeth are indeed clean and that they're not swallowing any toothpaste. One year "well baby" examination Pediatric Dentistry Melville Long Island According to The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, your child should have their first dental visit between the ages of 6 and 12 months. During this well-baby dental exam, we look for early dental issues, talk about proper care of your baby's teeth and start to address your child's fluoride needs. We will examine your baby for signs of decay and other dental problems. Early detection is key; the earlier your child comes in, the sooner we can catch and address any problems. We also will teach you about the proper care of your baby's teeth. You will be shown how to clean your child's teeth and gums using a soft washcloth. A child's first pediatric exam is a great time for new parents to ask questions and voice their concerns. We will discuss issues with teething, avoiding cavities, good feeding practices and when to schedule your child's first complete dental exam with X-rays. Call us: 631-423-6767 to schedule an appointment or for more information on any services we offer.

  Link: Pediatric Dentistry