Arestin to Fight Gum Disease

During a scaling and root planing, often times an antibiotic will be added to the area to continue the fight against gum disease. Dr. Brandon Huang of New York Dental Studio in New York, NY chooses to use Arestin, a self-dissolving antibiotic.

When gum plaque builds up and causes a bacterial infection, the irritated gums begin to pull away from the tooth and create deep pockets. These pockets allow bacteria to reach deep down by the tooth’s root. In order to clear up the gum disease, the bacteria must be removed. Scaling removes bacteria from the tooth and its root. Planing smooths the surface of the tooth so that bacteria cannot harbor in rough patches. Though scaling and planing removes a lot of the bacteria, often it cannot reach the deepest part of the pocket. This is where an antibiotic comes in.

In the past, antibiotic fibers would be placed into the gums and would have to be removed at a later date. These days, Arestin is around. Dr. Huang places Arestin into the gums and it dissolves on its own, so there is no need to take it out. Arestin also is time-released, so it continues to kill bacteria long after it is applied.

If you have irritated gums, the time is now to come in to see Dr. Brandon Huang, DDS of New York Dental Studio in New York, NY. To schedule, call us at (212) 588-1809 or visit our website, www.newyorkdentalstudio.com. 

Choosing a Toothbrush

With all of the commercials and other advertisements for different toothbrushes, who is to know which one to pick? Dr. Brandon Huang, DDS of New York Dental Studio in New York, NY wants to inform his patients of what to look for in a toothbrush.

When it comes to choosing between an electric toothbrush and a manual one, studies show that there isn’t much of a difference. Manual toothbrushes can do just as good of a job at cleaning your teeth as electric ones. One difference to keep in mind though, is that electric toothbrushes are a lot easier on those who have difficulty using their hands. The electric toothbrush does most of the work, so those with say, arthritis, may get a better cleaning out of it. A non-slip grip will also make all the difference when maneuvering the brush around the mouth.

Some may think that a bigger brush head with more bristles would be the best option. However, smaller heads are actually better. They allow the toothbrush to access more areas of the mouth, making sure you are able to scrub every surface.

Soft bristles are best for plaque removal. Bristles that are too stiff may harm gums and enamel. However, do not choose a toothbrush that says soft unless directed by your dentist. Choose one that says medium instead.

To schedule your regular cleaning with Dr. Huang, DDS of New York Dental Studio in New York, NY, call us at (212) 588-1809 or visit our website, www.newyorkdentalstudio.com. 

What is the Difference Between Plaque and Tartar?

Plaque is a clear, sticky film of bacteria that forms on our teeth caused by foods, drinks, and saliva. Plaque forms on all surfaces of the teeth and in between them several hours after brushing.

Tartar is a hard mineral deposit that is formed when plaque is not removed. When calcium and phosphate bind, they form crystals that will eventually harden within the plaque. The hardened crystals inside the plaque are now called tartar. Tartar forms such a strong bond that only dentists can remove it.

When plaque and tartar are not removed, they irritate the gum tissue around the tooth. The gums will actually recede from the teeth and form deep pockets. These pockets allow bacteria to reach deep down into the gums. Gum disease can cause pain and irritation and if not treated, will eventually lead to the loss of a tooth.

Brushing two to three times daily and flossing once per day will keep away plaque away and make it difficult for tartar to form. Along with home dental care, regular cleanings by your dentist are also part of keeping healthy teeth and gums.

To schedule your cleaning with Dr. Brandon Huang, DDS here at New York Dental Studio in New York, NY, call us at (212) 588-1809 or visit our website, www.newyorkdentalstudio.com. 

Post-Extraction Care

Keeping your teeth and gums clean every day is important for keeping a heathy mouth. When an extraction is performed, keeping the mouth clean and in the best condition to heal is even more important. Dr. Brandon Huang, DDS here at New York Dental Studio in New York, NY wants to inform his patients of the best ways to prevent infection and allow a proper healing after an extraction.

Right after the extraction has been performed, Dr. Huang will likely place gauze over the extraction site. This is to slow down bleeding and to promote the clotting of the blood. Controlling bleeding is an important factor in allowing the space to heal. To aid the clotting, do not lie flat or drink from a straw until healing has progressed.

You should eat soft foods like pudding and mashed potatoes for the first day. Afterwards, you can try harder foods as it is comfortable. Make sure to drink plenty of water.

Cleaning your mouth should be a top priority. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss once, but avoid the extraction site for a couple of days. Do not rinse your mouth vigorously, as this could loosen the blood clot. Avoid all strenuous activity for the first day, for the same reason.

For more information about post-extraction and post-op care, visit our website, www.newyorkdentalstudio.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Brandon Huang, DDS of New York Dental Studio here in New York, NY, call us at (212) 588-1809 or visit our website.