Do Electric Toothbrushes Help Whiten Your Teeth?

Many of our Manhattan clients want to know more about teeth-whitening techniques, an instrumental way to achieve a more perfect smile. Fortunately, most of the best oral-care practices, geared toward fighting bacteria, also help whiten teeth.

Since we know brushing our teeth is so essential for cleanliness AND aesthetics, what should we do to select the right brush? Is there any extra advantage to using an electric toothbrush?

Electric Toothbrushes vs. Traditional Toothbrushes

So, again, the best way to enhance the appearance of one’s teeth would be to address plaque accumulation, which can turn into tartar if it gets out on hand. This involves using whatever will get your teeth the cleanest.

According to newer PubMed research, there may be advantages to going the electrical toothbrush route. That’s because the electrical brushes have built-in oscillating, which facilitates vibrating bristles and a more circular motion, per most dentists’ recommendation. Plus, there’s something to be said about a brush that does most of the work for you.

Perhaps especially for children, if this would ensure effective brushing every morning and evening, then it can’t be all bad. However, since there's not a clear-cut difference between electrical and non-electrical brushes, let’s look at other ways to achieve whiter teeth.

Other Teeth-Whitening Strategies

Focus on Consistent Teeth Cleanings - This is perhaps the most rudimentary general dentistry service we offer, and it's entirely affordable. The research has been clear for quite some time: regular teeth cleanings are a terrific way to whiten teeth, prevent dental caries, protect gums, and more.
Use the Best Toothpaste - Select a brand with adequate fluoride, but pay attention to any other dental issues you may have. If you’re struggling with tartar, then it’s more important to focus on tartar control toothpastes to both clean and whiten your teeth.
Try Whitening Strips - The effectiveness of these strips (or trays) varies from one person to the next, but they have been shown to work sometimes.
Consider Professional Teeth Whitening Services - Dr. Lattinelli’s office specializes in teeth whitening service, which goes even further than conventional tactics. Dentists have access to lots of state-of-the-art tools that can safely clean tooth enamel. This goes even further than basic teeth cleaning to include even specialized light treatments.

If you wish to receive professional teeth whitening, teeth cleaning, or almost any other dental procedure, then JCL Dental is your preferred resource in Manhattan. We look forward to helping you finally achieve those pearly white teeth you had as a child. Contact us anytime to learn more by calling 212-752-7188.

Will Drinking Coffee Stain your Veneers?

Keeping your veneers bright and shiny can seem like a difficult task. Certain foods and drinks are known to stain, diminishing your white, beaming smile. Many veneer wearers are concerned that they’ll never be able to drink coffee again. The good news is that there’s no need to forego your favorite cup of joe! Here at Dr. Latinelli’s we can help with whitening your veneers even if they do become stained!

Veneers are made of high-quality porcelain, which is even more stain-resistant than your natural teeth. While they are harder to stain, they can become discolored over time from exposure to drinks like coffee. There are several things you can do to keep your teeth as white as possible! Try using a straw with all beverages other than water so that the liquid doesn’t touch your teeth. You can also sip on water between sips of coffee to rinse your teeth. Brushing your teeth about 20 minutes after consuming coffee with a soft-bristled toothbrush will also wash away the coffee and prevent discoloration.

You may only have one veneer, or you may have a full smile of them. Either way, it’s important to keep an eye on their color. While they are stain-resistant, they are not stain-proof. There are some habits you should adopt to keep your teeth as white as possible, especially if you do drink coffee and other dark drinks like tea, wine, or soda, regularly. First, brush your teeth for a full two minutes twice a day! Follow it up with flossing and rinse with mouthwash. This will not only help to scrub away staining substances, but it will keep your teeth and gums healthy by eliminating bacteria. Quitting unhealthy habits like smoking will also greatly reduce the risk of discoloration. Try to avoid eating sugar to prevent cavities, and while you can certainly have coffee, keep the consumption of dark beverages to a minimum. Finally, come visit us at the office for a checkup and cleaning every six months.

At JCL Dental, Dr. Lattinelli and our entire team are dedicated to working with you and your smile’s individual needs! For any questions, please give us a call at (212) 752-7188. We are conveniently located at 121 East 60^th Street, 10^th Floor, in New York, New York. We can assist with your veneers as well as general dentistry, restorative dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, treatment of TMJ disorders, snoring and sleep apnea, and emergencies!

What to Avoid After a Professional Teeth Cleaning

Today, let’s talk about one of our most essential oral care services: professional teeth cleaning (and what not to do afterward). This is an important topic because, believe it or not, you have it in your power to avoid many dental complications with simple everyday best practices.

So, here’s a review of why professional teeth cleaning is essential along with what to avoid after you visit us.

Why Professional Teeth Cleaning Matters

Thorough Cleaning You Can’t Get at Home - While brushing and flossing can address the lion’s share of plaque and bacteria around teeth and gums, you may need teeth cleaning for tougher problems. Whenever plaque becomes tartar, only the dentist has the best tools to remove it safely.
Reduce the Chance of Serious Problems - Patients can limit their risk of gum disease, loose teeth, missing teeth, and other painful ailments by getting their teeth cleaned a few times a year.
Detecting Problems Early - Then, if oral disease occurs, it pays to catch it fast and treat it before it worsens. This happens more often for patients who make regular visits for cleanings.
Most Insurance Carriers Cover Them - It’s not an expensive treatment at all, especially when your dental/medical insurance includes it.

Things to Avoid Following Professional Teeth Cleaning

Eating 30 Minutes Afterward - This might be the most obvious thing to avoid. If nothing else, it’s nice to savor a sparkling clean mouth for a while. The primary reason, however, is to allow the fluoride from the treatment to take proper effect. It takes just a little while for it to bond with the tooth enamel, which is essential for strengthening and safeguarding teeth.
Hot Foods or Drinks (for a Few Hours) - Hot foods and drinks will also have an adverse effect on the new fluoride in your mouth. It’s also not a great idea to expose potentially sensitive gums (post-cleaning) to hot items.
Skipping Brushing - Even on the day you visit the dentist, it’s still a good idea to brush and floss your teeth before bed. As usual, we recommend doing this gently unless you have specific directions not to brush.

Visit Dr. Lattinelli in Manhattan for Experienced Dental Care

We hope this encourages you to take advantage of our effective, affordable, fast, and convenient teeth cleaning services. This is the best way to save money and avoid painful oral conditions in the long run. Plus, we pride ourselves on a friendly staff who always seeks to make you feel welcome each visit.

So, come see us soon for Manhattan’s best oral care at JCL Dental with Dr. Lattinelli. Call us anytime to schedule an appointment for teeth cleaning at 212-752-7188.

Can You Get Cavities With Porcelain Veneers?

The process of undergoing porcelain veneers is a spectacular solution available to patients for correcting unsightly teeth. People often ask if it is possible to still get cavities if they decide to obtain porcelain veneers. Dr. Lattinelli answers this common inquiry and also discusses how to keep veneers in optimal condition.

Porcelain veneers do not suffer from cavities, but be aware that the teeth underneath the veneers are vulnerable to decay. Veneers or no veneers, your oral health regimen must be followed consistently to prevent cavities from manifesting. If decay occurs, you will need to have the corrosion removed by a dentist and then go through the veneer adhesion procedure once again.

Maintain your veneers properly…

To reap the best possible appearance and lifespan from your veneers, it is crucial to treat them with great care. Thankfully, veneers can be properly cleaned exactly just as you would for your natural teeth. Brush your teeth for two whole minutes two times per day to get rid of food particles, bacteria, and any other harmful debris. Floss every day to remove plaque that can accumulate between your teeth which creates the perfect breeding ground for cavities. Never use toothpaste that contains abrasive ingredients since they can scrape the sleek surfaces of your veneers. Swish and gargle with mouthwash on a routine basis to destroy unhealthy germs, prevent plaque buildup, and ward off gingivitis. You should use a new toothbrush every three or four months to guarantee that your teeth and gums are afforded quality cleaning. It is beneficial to drink an adequate amount of water each day and develop a diet that is loaded with nutrients to keep your teeth, mind, and body at peak health. Try to consume foods and drinks that are particularly high in sugar only on rare occasions.

See your dentist regularly…

Individuals who fail to stick with an effective daily oral care routine leave their teeth and gums vulnerable to unfavorable dental issues like tooth decay and gum disease. When you add visiting your dentist regularly for examinations and cleanings to up-to-par oral hygiene at home, you then have a winning combination. Your dentist has the opportunity to nip concerning issues in the bud so that they do not become huge dental nightmares, can remove unyielding tartar, and can verify that your porcelain veneers have remained in perfect shape.

Dr. Lattinelli is a trusted dentist who expertly performs a host of dental services from routine examinations to cosmetic enhancements. JCL Dental is located at 121 East 60th Street in Manhattan and you may call the office at (212) 752-7188 to schedule an appointment.

Can Dental Implants be Performed in One Day?

When it comes to reconstructive dental surgery, many patients have taken an interest in having implants done instead of partial dentures or expensive route canals. However, having this procedure done is a point of contention for some, as they have little interest in waiting several weeks for the work to be completed and would prefer to have it done as quickly as possible. In recent years there have been several advertisements promising that this procedure can be done in a matter of hours and not days. Is there any truth to these claims? Today we’ll be answering these questions to the best of our ability.

Making Sure Implants Are Right for You

While you might want to get implants, they might not the ideal situation for you. A dentist who’s offering a rushed procedure might be more interested in getting paid than your actual benefit. Be sure to consult with a dentist who has your best interests in mind.

Time is a Necessity

Dental implants are a procedure that shouldn’t be rushed by any means. The process involves taking detailed scans of the patient's teeth and jawline and ensuring that the materials are safe for the patient. Dentists who rush this procedure can often overlook several important factors, such as allergies or other pre-existing patient issues. A dental expert will exercise caution with the patient’s jawline and make certain that the implants are going in the proper place. Someone who rushes through this process puts the patient at risk for larger problems, such as infection or an implant that’s not properly fitted.

Patience is a Virtue

It goes without saying that a dentist skilled at their craft will take the necessary time and precautions to ensure that their patient receives the best treatment possible. Each patient is different, and the rate at which your implants will be ready will all depend on the state of your jawline, the size and scale of the implants, and how busy your caregiver is. Rest assured; the best things take time. And to avoid possible infection or ill-fitting implants, it’s best not to rush the procedure in any way.

The Dental offices of Dr. Lattinelli

If you’re considering dental implants or any other important procedure, we’re here to offer a gentle hand and the best advice. For appointments and information about our offices, you can visit us online at www.drlattinelli.com.

Do You Have to Always Wear a Retainer after Invisalign?

So, you've completed your Invisalign treatment and achieved the beautiful smile you've always wanted. Congratulations! But now you may be wondering, "Do I have to wear a retainer after Invisalign?" The short answer is yes, wearing a retainer is crucial to maintaining the results of your Invisalign treatment. In this blog post, we'll explore why wearing a retainer is essential and how it helps preserve your new smile.

Retainers Ensure Teeth Alignment

While Invisalign aligners effectively straighten your teeth, they are not the end of the journey. After the active treatment phase, it's important to use a retainer to prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original positions. Teeth have a natural tendency to move, and without a retainer, they can gradually shift and undo the progress you've made.

Stabilizing Bone and Soft Tissues

Wearing a retainer helps stabilize the bones and soft tissues surrounding your teeth. During orthodontic treatment, your teeth are guided to new positions, and the bone and tissues need time to adapt and stabilize. The retainer holds the teeth in their new positions while the supportive structures adjust, reducing the risk of relapse.

Preventing Bite Issues

In addition to maintaining tooth alignment, retainers also play a role in preventing bite issues. Your bite is the way your upper and lower teeth fit together when you close your mouth. Without a retainer, there's a possibility that your bite may become misaligned again over time, leading to discomfort and potential dental problems.

Retainer Types and Wear Schedule

There are different types of retainers, and your orthodontist will recommend the most suitable one for you. Some common options include removable retainers (similar to Invisalign aligners) and fixed retainers (thin wires bonded to the back of your teeth). The wear schedule will depend on your specific case, but typically, you'll be advised to wear the retainer full-time initially and then transition to wearing it only at night.

Long-Term Maintenance

Wearing a retainer is not just for the first few months after Invisalign treatment. To maintain the results of your orthodontic work, it's important to commit to long-term retainer wear. Your orthodontist will provide guidance on how frequently to wear the retainer and when to schedule follow-up visits to monitor your progress.

Remember, each person's orthodontic needs are unique, and the duration of retainer wear may vary. It's crucial to follow your orthodontist's instructions and attend regular check-ups to ensure that your smile remains beautiful and healthy in the long run.

Wearing a retainer after Invisalign treatment is essential for preserving your newly aligned teeth. Retainers help maintain tooth alignment, stabilize bone and tissues, prevent bite issues, and ensure long-term results. Be diligent in wearing your retainer as instructed by your orthodontist to enjoy the benefits of a stunning and healthy smile for years to come.

If you feel like taking the plunge and finally fixing your smile, and looking into veneers, be sure to call Dr. Latinelli for a consultation at 212 -752 -7188. We're also located at 121 EAST 60TH ST., 10TH FLOOR NEW YORK, NY 10022.

Does Invisalign Work Permanently?

Invisalign is a popular cosmetic dental procedure that works its magic by transforming not-so-perfect teeth into a mouthful of gorgeous ones. Dr. Lattinelli offers pertinent information about this process and addresses the subject of Invisalign as a permanent solution.

Patients ranging from children to adults often have a level of anxiety about how they will look once the Invisalign procedure is completed. They almost always feel a huge sense of relief once they see that wearing these remarkable braces barely changes the way they look. Since Invisalign braces are clear of color they are hardly noticeable, unlike their glaringly apparent metal peers. In fact, people usually don’t even realize that someone is wearing them.

Invisalign is ideal for straightening teeth and can also be utilized as a method to correct a patient’s overbite or underbite. Not only is treating an abnormal bite a cosmetic treatment for vanity purposes, but it safeguards the health of the jaw and facial bone structure also.

Now that we’ve discussed the advantages, do the benefits of Invisalign last forever? The textbook answer is that yes, the point of Invisalign braces is to give a person a straight set of teeth for a lifetime. You must be aware, however, that if you fail to care for your teeth and your Invisalign components properly while wearing them, if you make it a habit to miss your scheduled appointments, or if you do not show up at all until the day arrives to have them removed, you are significantly lowering the likelihood that Invisalign will permanently straighten your teeth.

After the apparatus is professionally detached from your teeth, you will probably be required to wear an Invisalign retainer to keep your newly straightened teeth from shifting out of place. This implementation is usually the norm when it comes to the discipline of orthodontics and cosmetic dentistry. You must follow instructions without fail to help your teeth remain as marvelous as they looked when the Invisalign was initially removed!

Dr. Lattinelli is a highly respected dentist in Manhattan who has earned repeat clients due to his overall expertise. His sought-after establishment offers patients a comprehensive range of services such as performing regular checkups, pinpointing and rectifying oral health issues, and also transforming people’s smiles as well as increasing their self-images by way of numerous cosmetic procedures. We are situated at 121 East 60th Street in Manhattan and you may arrange an appointment with Dr. Lattinelli by calling (212) 752-7188. Our entire staff ensures the very best in all-around patient satisfaction and contentment. Thank you for taking an interest in our prominent dental practice.

What Are The Different Types of Dental Implants?

Whether you’ve lost your teeth or had to have them pulled, finding out that you need dental implants can feel very overwhelming. There are several different types of implants that you can get, and the office of Dr. Lattinelli is here to help you understand which is the best for you! There are three common types of dental implants to choose from, and we’re going to explain each to you.

First things first, we’re going to explain exactly what dental implants are. They are made from pure titanium and are very small in size. They are designed this way so that they can fit into the bone underneath your gums. They mimic regular natural tooth roots! You may just need one tooth replaced or have several teeth that have been lost or pulled, but implants are a great way to return your smile to its original beauty.

The first type of dental implant is the Endosteal implant. It is the most common and works best for those who still have a healthy jawbone. The implants are fused directly to the bone, so they can’t have any damage for endosteal implants to work. They resemble screws in shape, and false teeth are fitted directly onto them. Once the implants have been placed into the jawbone there needs to be adequate time for it to heal and fuse before the tooth can be placed onto the screw.

The next type of implant is Subperiosteal implants, which are the second most common. The main difference with these is they rest on top of your bone and under your gum, rather than being fixed directly into your jawbone. This is done with a metal frame that’s placed under your gum with an attached post. Once the gum heals around the frame it will be held in place and false teeth are then secured to the poles coming out of the gum. This is best for those without enough jawbone for an implant, or for those who want a less intense oral surgery.

Finally, we have the Zygomatic implant. This is the least common implant and is only used where there is not enough jawbone left for an Endosteal implant. Since there isn’t bone for it to be secured into, the implant is placed directly into the cheekbone, and the false teeth are placed on it once it heals. No matter what type of implant you may need, Dr. Lattinelli is here to help. Give us a call at 212-752-7188 with any questions you have or to schedule an appointment. We are conveniently located at 121 East 60^th Street on the 10^th Floor in New York City, New York.

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How Long Do Veneers Last?

Veneers are an increasingly popular dental cosmetic treatment used to improve the appearance of teeth. They are thin, custom-made shell that is designed to cover the front surface of the teeth, hiding any imperfections or discolorations. Veneers can be used to improve the appearance of teeth that are chipped, cracked, discolored, or misshapen. But many people wonder how long veneers last before needing to be replaced.

Different factors

The lifespan of veneers can vary depending on a few factors, including the type of material used, how well they are cared for, and how much wear and tear they are subjected to. Here's a closer look at what to expect when it comes to the longevity of veneers.

The most durable

Porcelain veneers are the most popular and durable type of veneer. They are made from a high-quality ceramic material that is strong and stain-resistant, making them a popular choice for people looking for a long-lasting cosmetic solution. When cared for properly, porcelain veneers can last up to 15 years or more before needing to be replaced.

Resin Veneers

Composite resin veneers are another popular option. They are made from a composite material that is bonded to the surface of the teeth. While they are less expensive than porcelain veneers, they are not as durable and typically last between 5-7 years before needing to be replaced.

All about care

Ultimately, the lifespan of your veneers will depend on how well you care for them. Proper oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly, is crucial for maintaining the longevity of your veneers. It's also important to avoid chewing on hard objects, such as ice or pens, as this can damage the veneers and shorten their lifespan.

Grinding your teeth

If you grind or clench your teeth, your dentist may recommend wearing a nightguard to protect your veneers while you sleep. This can help prevent damage caused by grinding or clenching, which can significantly reduce the lifespan of your veneers.

Seeing your dentist

Regular dental check-ups are also important for ensuring the longevity of your veneers. Your dentist can monitor the condition of your veneers and identify any potential problems early on, allowing you to address them before they become more serious.

The lifespan of veneers can vary depending on several factors. Porcelain veneers are the most durable and long-lasting option, with a lifespan of up to 15 years or more. Composite resin veneers are less expensive but typically last between 5-7 years. Proper oral hygiene, avoiding hard objects, and wearing a nightguard if necessary can help extend the lifespan of your veneers. Regular dental check-ups are also crucial for identifying and addressing any issues early on. By taking good care of your veneers, you can enjoy a beautiful, confident smile for many years to come.

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Gingivitis & Alzheimer's

Gingivitis and Alzheimer’s may seem unlikely to be related if only given a passing thought. However, could there be a link between gingivitis and Alzheimer’s disease? Dr. Lattinelli provides alarming information that addresses this very question.

In recent years, scientists have been researching a bacteria called Porphyromonas gingivalis, commonly referred to as P. gingivalis, as a potential contributing agent of Alzheimer’s disease. This devastating pathogen triggers gum disease and is responsible for causing gingivitis in its early stages. It is possible that insufficient oral hygiene can not only often result in gingivitis, but may ultimately contribute to Alzheimer’s disease if left untreated. Medical experts have found that Alzheimer’s patients have a significantly increased rate of gingivitis and advanced periodontal disease compared to their non-gingivitis counterparts.

It is believed that the “bad” bacteria that lead to gum disease eventually travel to the tissue of the brain. The bacteria may have a point of entry by way of the empty spaces of missing teeth. The prevalence of dementia rises in correlation with the more teeth that are lost in patients. Tooth loss is commonly a result of periodontal disease which seems to link infected gums to Alzheimer’s disease. At least one study has shown that people with the least number of teeth remaining in their mouths had the highest threat of developing dementia.

Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, causes inflammation to occur. Scientists have connected this disease to inflammation of the brain, usually noted in Alzheimer’s disease. The P. gingivalis, or gum disease bacteria, travel to the brain and multiply over time. The inflammation causes dementia and Alzheimer’s-like manifestations.

In conclusion, maintaining good dental health has numerous advantages that go way beyond the integrity of your mouth. Benefits range from being able to showcase a beautiful smile and preventing tooth loss to perhaps even preventing Alzheimer’s disease. You can do your part by staying on course by sticking to routine checkups and undergoing treatment if diagnosed with any conditions including periodontal disease or gingivitis. Your mouth, body, and mind will all thank you for adhering to proper oral care.

Dr. Lattinelli is a renowned medical professional in the community. His trusted dental practice provides a thorough scope of services, from conducting routine examinations, diagnosing and correcting oral health concerns, to performing various cosmetic procedures. Dr. Lattinelli’s office is located at 121 East 60th Street in Manhattan and you may schedule an appointment by calling (212) 752-7188. Optimum patient care and comfort are always our most important goals. Together, we can make sure that your oral health is the very best it can be.