• Chester Hill Dentistry • 

Cosmetic Dentist Westchester NY on Mouth Vigilance

As not only a cosmetic dentist in Westchester NY, but as a dentist, in general, our office recommends that all patients set up twice yearly dental cleanings and exams with us. The idea of these appointments is to get all of the “hard to reach” stuff with our special tools and to diagnose and then take steps towards treating problems before they develop further. We understand and have seen that sometimes in between these 6 month intervals, other problems can arise and you may ponder to yourself, “Can’t this just wait until my cleaning date?”

In the following blog, we will discuss a few signs or symptoms of potentially greater damaging dental issues that you should NOT ignore, and instead should make an appointment with us sooner, rather than later.

The first sign to be aware of is bad breath. While bad breath may stem from something as innocent as a going too heavy on the garlic at lunch, it can also be an indicator of other dental issues. Gum disease, teeth decay or abscess, even oral infections have been linked to original symptoms of bad breath. It may also be a sign that you are not properly brushing or flossing daily, leaving behind particles that not only cause the stench, but can thus result in the decay and other issues listed previously.

A loose tooth may be common place for those young ones shedding their first set of teeth, for older adults, it can be not as natural. Loose teeth can often be the result of serious gum disease or in a worst case scenario, oral cancer. Of course other events, such as trauma to the mouth, can cause loose teeth- but all of these scenarios still beckon the need to visit your cosmetic dentist in Westchester NY fairly soon.

Lastly, any long term sores, pain or swelling of the mouth can also be indicators of more seriousissues. All of these can be a sign that the mouth is suffering from infection, disease, decay or worse. And while all of these issues seem like they might not be able to get much worse- they can. They can all lead to whole body health issues such as heart or lung problems, jaw or structural issues and tooth loss…all of which no one wants to suffer through.

While some of these issues may be hard to notice yourself (bad breath in particular), you should stay vigilant over the health of your mouth at all times. If you have any questions about unusual or potentially unhealthy oral health problems, make sure to contact your cosmetic dentist in Westchester NY at (914) 939-2132 as soon as possible.

Cosmetic Dentist in Westchester NY discusses Cosmetic Treatment Options

A great smile is one of the first appearances that people notice, which is why cosmetic dentistry has been gaining more and more popularity amongst patients. A healthy smile not only feels its best, but also looks its best. Some of the most popular cosmetic procedures asked of your cosmetic dentist in Westchester NY are teeth whitening, porcelain veneers and Invisalign.

Why Should I Consider Teeth Whitening?

Over time, your teeth could become discolored or stained. This discoloration could be caused from a variety of factors including your diet, medications, age, or tobacco and alcohol use. Just like hair and eye color, everyone’s teeth come in all different sizes and colors. Maybe a patient feels like their teeth have become discolored over time, or maybe a patient is not happy with their natural shade. If so, your Westchester NY cosmetic dentist is here to help! Dr. Chi Fu uses a chemical process to bleach your teeth with either a system patients use at home or during an in-office procedure at our Westchester NY cosmetic dentistry. Teeth whitening works best with customization, because we know that not all patients teeth are the same. With a custom mouthpiece tray, Dr. Chi Fu is able to ensure that the right amount of whitening solution reaches your teeth. Because whitening products are not meant to clean teeth, it is still important to practice regular oral hygiene by brushing twice a day and flossing once a day.

Veneers, Veneers, Veneers!

Another popular cosmetic procedure involves a custom shell, typically made of porcelain, that acts as a cover to the front and sides of your teeth. Many patients choose porcelain veneers to improve teeth with:

• Spaces between them
• Chips or wear-and-tear
• Misshapen
• Crooked
• Permanently stained

Invisalign: The Clear Alternative to Braces

Another cosmetic procedure offered by your Westchester NY cosmetic dentist is Invisalign. This procedure offers the benefits of orthodontia work without the use of metal braces. With Invisalign, cosmetic dentistry patients have the freedom to straighten their teeth without having the hassle of metal braces affecting their smile. Invisalign consists of a customized series of clear aligners that are worn over a prescribed period of time. Unlike braces, you’ll be able to remove the clear aligners when you eat, brush or floss. It is important to their success that you keep the aligners in at all other times.

Your cosmetic dentist in Westchester NY wants to help patients feel good about their smile, so that you’ll always feel that sparkle and shine! If you’re interested in a cosmetic procedure feel free to call us at (914) 939-2132.

Westchester NY Dentures Care from Dr. Fu

Though the practice of replacing missing teeth with certain appliances, such as dentures, is centuries old practice- it doesn’t mean that it can’t be a frustrating experience for patients new to them. Though the science and makeup of dentures have advanced over time, some of the problems related to the appliance have not. As leading Westchester NY dentures provider, we are here today to share some solutions to various issues, as well as some caretaking tips, related to your dentures.

Always an important part of oral health, regular maintenance and cleaning of your dentures is needed for them to remain in top shape. Unless instructed to otherwise, you should take your dentures out nightly and have them soak in an approved cleaner. In the morning, you should brush them with a soft bristle toothbrush and a denture cleaning solution, not toothpaste. Though warm soapy water could also be utilized if you do not have a cleaning solution, your Westchester NY denture dentist can provide you with information on some excellent ones.

While handling the dentures around the sink whilst cleaning, make sure not to drop them- for they are extremely delicate. A single fall to the floor or on some porcelain can do some damage that may result in the need for a new appliance. Place soft towels nearby or take the needed precautions to make sure a mishandling doesn’t lead to serious denture damage.

Besides thoughtful handling and cleaning, a new diet and the fit of the appliance can also be issues that pop-up for new dentures patients. No matter your age, the mouth’s structure can shift over time and cause your set of dentures to not fit as they used to. Your dentist has the ability to make improvements for this, and if bothered, make sure to make an appointment to have them re-fit.

If this ill-fit or an overall new mouth feeling is having a detrimental effect on your appetite, try taking small bites and eating softer foods to benefit your diet. Evenly chewing with both sides of the mouth, not rushing and avoiding sticky foods can also help lead to a more successful meal with your dentures.

As a top Westchester NY dentures providing dentist, we have had patients deal with all of these issues and many more. We want you to know you can reach out to us anytime to address these issues or to schedule an appointment by calling (914) 939-2132.