Teeth with damaged or infected roots used to require extraction, which can create a lot of problems and should be avoided when possible. The good news is that we are highly experienced in advanced root canal therapy.
A root canal is a technique to repair a tooth by removing the tooth’s pulp chamber and filling it with a filling material. This is often needed when dental decay reaches the nerve of the tooth (or the tooth has become infected), and a standard filling won’t be suitable.
Not too many years ago, the situation mentioned above would have required a tooth extraction. When dentists began performing root canals, they were quite dreaded, and the root canal has gained a reputation as something to avoid. However, with modern anesthetics and technology, root canals are usually manageable.
Bensonhurst Smiles
Chung Hin Lau, DDS
6306 18 Ave, 2nd Floor
Brooklyn, NY 11204
(718) 232-4044
BensonhurstSmiles.com
Gum Disease May Contribute to Heart Disease or Strokes
Recent research has led many doctors to reach a startling conclusion: gum disease, stroke, and heart disease are connected. Because heart disease is usually fatal, it is clear that gum disease is a very serious matter. The American Dental Association estimates that 80% of Americans have periodontal (gum) disease. If this were any other affliction, such as AIDS or tuberculosis, it would likely be considered an epidemic! Most dentists think it is exactly that. They’ve also known gum disease would never be labeled epidemic because “no one ever dies from it.” The worst that might happen is lost teeth. Not fun – but certainly not life-threatening. However, that’s all changed.
The American Academy of Periodontology states: “Studies found periodontal infection may contribute to the development of heart disease, increase the risk of premature, underweight births, and pose a serious threat to people whose health is already compromised due to diabetes and respiratory diseases.” Periodontal disease is characterized by a bacterial infection in the gums. These bacteria can then travel in the bloodstream – directly to the heart.
Bensonhurst Smiles
Chung Hin Lau, DDS
6306 18 Ave, 2nd Floor
Brooklyn, NY 11204
(718) 232-4044
BensonhurstSmiles.com
Don’t replace fillings just because they’re old
When you have a cavity, the dentist removes it and puts in a filling. These fillings can last for many years, but some people get silver fillings removed because they don’t like the color. However, the process of removing a filling can weaken the tooth. Additionally, insurance may not cover the removal.
To read the entire article visit MouthHealthy.org.
Bensonhurst Smiles
Chung Hin Lau, DDS
6306 18 Ave, 2nd Floor
Brooklyn, NY 11204
(718) 232-4044
BensonhurstSmiles.com
Ask about all the options for calming your child during dental procedures
Dental work can be scary for some kids. Talk with your dentist about ways to help your child stay calm. Tips for a successful dental visit can include making sure your child is not hungry before their dental appointment and scheduling an appointment at the proper time of day.
For jaw pain, try conservative treatments first
Jaw pain can be caused by stress, arthritis or an injury. A treatment plan for jaw pain should first consist of actions like exercises and anti-inflammatory drugs.
To read the entire article visit MouthHealthy.org.
Bensonhurst Smiles
6306 18 Ave, 2nd Floor
Digital X-rays – 75% Reduction in Radiation
With digital X-rays, an image is taken of your mouth with a sensor and downloaded directly into our computer, where it is immediately available. This method results in 75% less radiation than older film X-rays. There is also no more waiting for images to develop and no more chemical waste to pollute the environment.
Bensonhurst Smiles
Chung Hin Lau, DDS
6306 18 Ave, 2nd Floor
Brooklyn, NY 11204
(718) 232-4044
BensonhurstSmiles.com
Serve Carbs with Care
Whether it’s the crunch or the fact that they’re shaped like their favorite animals, kids love crackers and chips. The truth? “Many crackers are cookies with salt,” Dr. Hayes says. Not only do the carbohydrates in things like crackers and chips break down into sugar, they also tend to get stuck in the tops of your teeth for long periods of time.
Set an Example
You’d do anything for your kids. Now, are you ready to do all of the above for yourself too? Dr. Shenkin says setting an example can make a big difference in your whole family’s health. Eat well, brush twice a day for two minutes and clean between your teeth once a day. “If you want to change your child’s habits, it isn’t just about what they do,” he says. “Do the same thing with them.”
To read the entire article visit MouthHealthy.org.
Use toothpaste with fluoride for infants and children
For children younger than 3 years, you should begin brushing a child’s teeth with fluoride toothpaste in an amount no larger than a grain of rice. For children 3 to 6 years of age, use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
Consider sealants to prevent decay or treat beginning cavities on the back teeth
Dental sealants act as a barrier to prevent cavities. They are a plastic material applied by a dentist to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth where decay occurs most often.
To read the entire article visit MouthHealthy.org.
Bensonhurst Smiles
Chung Hin Lau, DDS
6306 18 Ave, 2nd Floor
Brooklyn, NY 11204
(718) 232-4044
BensonhurstSmiles.com
Teeth with damaged or infected roots used to require extraction, which can create a lot of problems and should be avoided when possible. The good news is that we are highly experienced in advanced root canal therapy. 
