Happy New Year From Westchester Dental Care

New Year’s Day marks the beginning of the calendar year in most parts of the world. The holiday is celebrated on January 1st of each year. Customs and celebrations vary by country, religion, and even individual desires. Whether celebrated quietly or with gusto, the day brings the start of new opportunities for those that observe it.

United States and Canada

In both the US and Canada, celebrations begin on New Year’s Eve. At midnight on January 1st the New Year is welcomed with bells, horns, whistles, and other noisemakers. Fireworks are often part of the celebrations. In New York City, Times Square comes alive with revelers. In Toronto, there are large celebrations which may feature concerts, late-night partying, sporting events, and fireworks, with free public transit service during peak party times. Many individuals in North America greet the year by making resolutions for improvements in their lives.

China

In China, many people celebrate two forms of a new year. They may observe January 1st, but the traditional Chinese New Year is based on a lunar calendar. Parades with paper lanterns and dragons made from silk are a significant part of the festivities. Legends say that the dragon spends most of its time in hibernation so fireworks are used to keep the dragon awake.

Jewish Celebration

Jewish New Year’s observances begin with Rosh Hashanah, the first day of the New Year, and end with Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. This ten-day celebration is held in September or October, based on the Hebrew calendar. The New Year is not marked as much with loud celebrations as with personal insight to mend wrongs and resolve to better oneself.

Other countries and cultures also have different dates for New Year’s Day observances:

• Vietnam observes the New Year in February
• In Iran, the day is celebrated on March 21st
• Islamic cultures often observe the tenth day of the month of Muharram
• Russian Orthodox observers use the Julian calendar and celebrate on January 14th
• Buddhist celebrations are held from April 13th through 15th

If you observe New Year’s Day by making healthy resolutions, include dental care in your plans with Dr. Steven Abel and the entire team at Westchester Dental Care.  The health of your teeth and gums contributes to your overall health. Caring for your mouth now can prevent many dental problems later in life as well as lower your risk for other systemic illnesses including Heart Disease, Diabetes, Alzheimer's Disease and even strokes!  

Westchester Dental Care wishes you a healthy, prosperous, and  a very Happy New Year! Give us a call today to schedule your dental exam and start your new year off right!

Dentist in Mount Kisco NY | What Does Your Smile Say About You?

Dentist in Mount Kisco NY, Dr. Steven Abel says, let’s face it, your smile says a lot about you. Your smile and the condition of your teeth are a direct reflection of you. The number one thing people notice when they meet you for the first time is your smile. People with attractive smiles are generally more confident, happier, friendlier and seem to enjoy life more.  They are also generally more respected an liked by others.  Your smile really does matter.

Studies show that 99.7% of Americans believe a smile is an important social asset. Also, a more pleasant smile can help you get ahead in life. People want to date someone who is attractive and who takes care of their appearance. Employers want to hire and promote people who are more attractive and who have a warm friendly smile. Over 74% of Americans believe an unattractive smile can hurt a person's chances of career success. Your smile is one of your biggest assets. Dull, stained, crooked or missing teeth can negatively affect how others feel about you and it affects how you feel about yourself.

The Dental Technology is Here

Advances in dental technology have made procedures we used to only dream about an everyday reality. There are veneers, cosmetic bonding, porcelain crowns, teeth whitening and dental implants - just to name a few. From no-prep/no anesthesia cosmetic veneers to extreme smile makeovers as seen on TV.

Look Years Younger With Cosmetic Dentistry

 

Would you like to look younger without the expense and risk of cosmetic surgery? Modern cosmetic dentistry can now offer dramatic changes in facial appearance without the need for invasive surgery and long recovery periods. The doctors at Westchester Dental Care are well versed in the latest facial restructuring techniques available to the cosmetic dentist.

The proper alignment of the teeth and the jaws can produce a startling and instantaneous change to a person's facial structure. Wrinkles can suddenly disappear, lips can be fuller and restoring a proper relationship of teeth can make someone look 10 to 15 years younger.

Broken down, chipped, stained, cracked, crooked and worn teeth not only make you look older, but they can also make your face look older too. As teeth wear, they become shorter causing the face to collapse thereby producing wrinkles. Restoring teeth to their natural youthful appearance can have a similar transformation on the rest of your face.

Long lasting and affordable smile makeovers can make a difference in your life!  You'll look have a great looking smile you can be proud of, will look years younger and feel much better about yourself. You'll be able to speak and eat as you naturally would. You'll discover that cosmetic dentistry is surprisingly easy and last for decades. Your friends will say, "You Look Great" when they notice the change in your smile.

With our state-of-the-art cosmetic techniques, we can eliminate and beautifully restore unsightly cavities, stains, chips, gaps, cracks and crooked teeth in as little as one or two visits. You'll be able to smile with confidence.

Give us a call today at   (914) 241-2242 to schedule your complimentary cosmetic consultation.  Come find out what the possibilities are.  You may be very pleasantly surprised.  

http://www.WestchesterTopDentist.com

Dr. Steven Abel, Dentist in Mount Kisco NY Selected For "2014 Top Dentists"

Dr. Steven Abel, Dentist in Mount Kisco NY Selected For "2014 Top Dentists"

July 18, 2014 at 1:57pm

Dr. Steven Abel, Dentist in Mount Kisco, NY and owner of Westchester Dental Care has been honored with a recognition by Westchester Magazine in its selection of "2014 Top Dentists."

Mount Kisco, NY (PR Newswire) July 18, 2014-- Announcing a special recognition appearing in the June, 2014 issue of Westchester Magazine published by Spotlight Publications, LLC. Dr. Steven Abel was selected for the following honor:  Westchester’s Top Dentist.         

"2014 Top Dentists"

Dr. Steven Abel commented on the recognition: "This is quite an honor for me. The fact that Westchester Magazine has included again this year in its selection of "2014 Top Dentists," signals that my constant effort to deliver excellent patient care has paid off. It is gratifying to be recognized in this way."

Dentist in Mount Kisco NY, Dr. Steven Abel has been recognized now as Westchester County New York’s Top Dentist for 6 years in a row.  

Dr. Abel provides Cosmetic Dentistry, General and Family Dental Care, Dental Implants, Invisalign, Fast Braces and 6 Month Smiles, Zoom Teeth Whitening and Kor Deep Bleaching, Snoring and Sleep Apnea Treatment, Sedation Dentistry, Laser Dentistry, Non-Surgical Periodontal Treatment, Porcelain Veneers, Lumineers, Full Mouth Rehabilitation Dentistry, Smile Makeovers and Teeth in a day!  

The office is conveniently located in Mount Kisco, NY at 103 South Bedford Road.  It is directly across the street from the Mount Kisco Medical Group, and within walking distance of Northern Westchester Hospital Center.

Following the publication of Steven Abel's selection for Westchester Magazine's 2014 Top Dentists list, American Registry seconded the honor and added Steven Abel to the "Registry of Business Excellence™". An exclusive recognition plaque, shown here, has been designed to commemorate this honor.

For more information on Dr. Steven Abel, Westchester’s Top Dentist, located in Mount Kisco, NY please call: (914) 241-2242

www.WestchesterTopDentist.com

Mount Kisco NY Dentist Talks About Cavities

Mount Kisco NY Dentist, Dr. Steven Abel talks about cavities.  Many patients ask us, How do I know if I have a cavity, and if I do have one, what can I do about it?  Well, cavities, like most other health issues, can vary in degree or seriousness. When a cavity first begins to form, it’s pretty easy to treat, often with a small, tooth colored restoration that blends perfectly with your tooth... and we’re able to keep the tooth decay from spreading. If left untreated, however, it can lead to some pretty serious complications, including tooth loss, and nobody wants that!      

Your best chance of minimizing tooth damage from cavities is early detection and early treatment. When you’re in our office for your routine dental hygiene visits a few times a year, we’ll definitely be looking for early warning signs.  We will also give you a professional fluoride treatment in our office.  According to the American Dental Association, having a professional fluoride treatment after your dental hygiene visit can decrease the incidence of new decay by up to 75%.  That’s pretty terrific, but there are also ways you can be on the lookout between your visits to our office.

Here are three signs to watch for:

Pain:
Tooth pain is not normal, so it’s definitely a red flag. If you’re experiencing pain, a cavity may be the cause of the discomfort.

Sensitivity:
Many things can cause general tooth sensitivity (teeth whitening treatments for example), but if you notice that a particular tooth is sensitive to hot, cold, sugary and acidic foods or pressure, it’s cause for concern.

Bad breath:
This one is tricky, as there are many causes of bad breath, but one of them is actually a cavity. The bacteria present in tooth infections (which is really what a cavity is) produces a very unpleasant smell. 

If any of these sound familiar, call us today at: (914) 241-2242 to schedule an appointment for a dental exam as soon as possible. If it is a cavity, early treatment is vital to minimizing damage. And if it’s not a cavity, we will be able to determine what else might be causing the issue.  

Remember, it’s always better to prevent cavities with routine dental care, professional fluoride treatments, sealants and good home care.  We can help you develop your own plan to stay cavity free!  

We look forward to seeing you soon.

Dr. Abel and the entire team at Westchester Dental Care

www.WestchesterTopDentist.com

Mount Kisco NY Dentist | Enter The Westchester Dental Care Drawing To Win This Basket Of School Supplies AND $25 Gift Card

Mount Kisco NY Dentist, Dr. Steven Abel is having a Back To School Drawing!  We are giving away a gift basket loaded with Back To School Supplies to one lucky kid.  In our basket of goodies you'll find a back pack, a binder, notebooks, paper, pads, index cards, pencils, pens, colored pencils, post it notes, erasers, a pencil box, a pencil case, scissors, glue, and a bunch of other goodies you'll need for school. 

There is also a $25 gift card to Target so you can pick out some new back to school clothes! 

There are several ways to enter.  

1.  Like our facebook page for 1 entry.  Scan the QR Code above to be taken directly to our page!  If you do not have a QR reader on your phone, we suggest i-nigma.  Just go to the app store and download this FREE app.  It's great!

2.  Share this post on your Facebook wall and you'll automatically get 2 entries

3.  Come visit our office between now and August 28th and check in on Facebook and you'll get 2 entries 

4.  Post a picture of yourself in our office for 1 entry

5.  Post a picture of your best summer smile on our wall for 2 entries

Good luck and have fun.  This awesome basket could be yours.  

Would you like to get one automatically?  Just refer a family member or friend to our office.  If they come in for their new patient appointment before August 28th, we will send you your very own Back To School Gift Basket, just like the one you see here.  It's our way of thanking you for sharing us with your family and friends.  We always appreciate your referrals and would like to thank you for helping our practice grow!

So go ahead and share this on your wall now and maybe you'll be the lucky winner!  If you don't have children, please share this post with your friends that do.  This would be a GREAT gift for any child getting ready to start school again in September.  

Good luck everyone.  The winner will be announced at 10:00 AM on August 28th.

(914) 241-2242

www.WestchesterTopDentist.com

Dentist Mount Kisco NY | Invisalign Dentist Mount Kisco NY | $500 Off

www.WestchesterTopDentist.com

Call us now at (914) 241-2242 for a complimentary Invisalign consultation, $500 off your Invisalign Treatment, and Free Teeth Whitening after your treatment.  Now is the time to get beautiful, straight, white teeth.  

Dentist Mount Kisco, NY | When Do You Need To Replace Fillings?

There is no substitution for a natural healthy tooth. Dental fillings are intended to replace tooth structure and restore a tooth damaged by decay (a cavity) back to its normal function and shape. Silver (amalgam) and tooth-colored (composite) fillings last a long time, though they can develop decay when the integrity is compromised by open margins, fracture, or recurrent decay. 

Amalgam fillings are made of an alloy (mixed metals) that expands and contracts. They have no bonding properties, and so to place an amalgam filling, the hole in the tooth may need to be larger. Because of these two factors, fractures frequently occur. There are three types of cracks that are commonly associated. Craze lines are superficial with no treatment needed. Fractures extend along other parts of the tooth and may require a filling replacement or crown. Cracks extend toward the root and can require a root canal and crown or, if too severe, extraction.

A filling needs to be sealed to the tooth. If the seal between the tooth and the filling breaks down, food debris and bacteria can seep down under the filling and cause recurrent decay. If the decay is treated early, replacing the filling is adequate. If not, a crown and even a root canal may be needed. The biggest mistake you can make is waiting to do something about a broken or unsealed filling until it is painful. Doing this will only make the treatment more involved and often times more expensive.

Regular dental exams and X-rays are used to evaluate dental fillings. You will not be able to tell on your own when your fillings start to fail. Just as a car mechanic will change the oil, correct your alignment, or change your tires, a dental checkup will help you identify small concerns to fix as you go in order to avoid a critical emergency.

Pay attention to any bite or temperature sensitivity in teeth that have fillings. This can be an indicator for some of the problems listed above. You know your teeth better than anyone. Your observations are most valuable when evaluating a filling for replacement. If replacement is needed, know you are doing what is best to prevent future dental calamities and make an appointment to see us today!

www.WestchesterTopDentist.com

(914) 241-2242

Dentist in Mount Kisco NY Shares A Summer Tip

Dentist in Mount Kisco NY, Dr. Steven Abel says, please go ahead and enjoy a cold drink on a warm day—just  don’t chew the ice!

Did you know that chewing ice can injure gums, fracture tooth enamel, and even break teeth? People with braces, recent dental work, or sensitive teeth need be extra careful!

What are your favorite iced beverages to drink when the weather gets warm?

For more great dental information be sure to visit us now at: 

www.WestchesterTopDentist.com

(914) 241-2242

Dentist In Mount Kisco NY Has Another Happy Patient!

www.WestchesterTopDentist.com

(914) 241-2242

Cosmetic Dentist in Mt. Kisco, NY discusses 20 Things That Can Ruin Your Smile

Cosmetic Dentist in Mt. Kisco, NY discusses 20 Things That Can Ruin Your Smile

Part 1

Your smile is one of your best assets, so, of course, you want to keep it healthy and sparkling. But even if you brush, use white strips, and visit your dentist twice a year, it may not be enough. Here are a few things that can wreak havoc on your teeth and gums, and put a serious damper on your smile.


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Sports drinks

In the last decade, sports beverages have become increasingly popular, but they aren’t great for your teeth. Scientific research has found that the pH levels in many sports drinks could lead to tooth erosion due to their high concentration of acidic components. This could eventually wear away at the tooth’s enamel.

Additionally, these drinks are often high in sugars that act as “food” for acid-producing bacteria, which then sneak into the cracks and crevices in your teeth, causing cavities and tooth decay.

Bottled water

Tap water often contains fluoride—about 60% of people in the U.S. have fluoride in their water supply. However, most bottled waters contain less fluoride than recommended for good oral health (it will be listed as an ingredient on the label if it is an additive).

Fluoride makes the entire tooth structure more resistant to decay and promotes remineralization. This process aids in repairing early decay before damage is even visible. Studies have confirmed that the most effective source of fluoride is water fluoridation. You should also use a fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash, and have regular professional fluoride treatments by your dentist when you have your dental hygiene visits. All of these things greatly contribute to the remineralization process.

Diabetes

Diabetes reduces the body’s resistance to infection, so you’re at a risk for gum disease. Brushing, flossing, and monitoring your blood sugar can help. Diabetes is directly related to periodontal disease. People with periodontal disease may not be able to regulate blood sugar properly, so seeing the dentist and having your triglycerides and cholesterol levels checked on a regular basis is also crucial.

Research has shown that diabetics can reduce the amount of insulin they need to take by maintaining good gum health.



Wine

Wine drinkers beware: Regular wine consumption can harm tooth enamel. Wine’s acidity can dissolve the tooth structure, and both red and white wine can increase staining of the teeth as well. Still, you don’t have to give up your regular glass of wine to save your smile.

Enamel erosion develops when wine drinkers swish the wine, keeping it in constant contact with the enamel, so instead, take small sips and rinse your mouth with plenty of water when you’re done drinking,

Pregnancy

It’s especially important to take care of your teeth and gums when you’re expecting, since studies show a link between untreated gum disease and pre-term and low-birth-weight babies.

Changes in hormone levels during pregnancy, particularly surges in estrogen and progesterone, can cause inflammation of the gums, which can lead to gingivitis (red, swollen, tender gums that are more likely to bleed) and put you at risk for infection. If you have morning sickness, rinse your mouth with water to neutralize the acid caused by vomiting, since it can lead to tooth decay.

Diet pills

Even though they may seem like a quick way to trim your waist, diet pills can also be a fast track to gum disease and tooth decay. Like many over-the-counter and prescription medications, diet pills decrease salivary flow, which causes dry mouth and puts you at risk for gum disease, tooth decay, cavities, and discomfort.

Bottom line: A balanced diet and exercise are the safest way to lose weight and protect your smile.

Candy

Contrary to what mom said, sugar won’t directly rot your teeth—but the acid produced when you eat sugar and carbohydrates can.

Naturally occurring bacteria in the mouth devour sugar, creating acids that attack tooth enamel, which can lead to decay and a host of other problems, including gingivitis and cavities. When ever you eat sugar or carbohydrates, the plaque is converted to an acid for 20 minutes. This is called an acid attack. Each one of these little attacks breaks down the tooth enamel until you have a cavity.

The worst thing you can do is leave sugar lingering on your teeth and gums. Eating any amount of candy and brushing and flossing immediately is actually less damaging than not brushing after eating one piece before bedtime. If you can’t brush after a snack attack, eat cheese or yogurt, or chew sugarless gum to boost saliva flow and neutralize acids. Rinsing thoroughly with water will help too, but try to brush after sugary snacks.

Puberty

The hormonal surge that occurs during puberty can cause more than acne—it can also result in swollen gums that are more sensitive to plaque. This can lead to gum infections, gingivitis, and mouth sores. Typically the gums only respond this way if hygiene care is poor. Make sure your teen brushes and flosses daily, uses a fluoride mouthwash at bedtime, and sees a dentist regularly.

Dry mouth

A dry mouth isn’t just unpleasant, it’s bad for your teeth. Saliva washes away cavity-causing bacteria and neutralizes harmful acids. Without saliva, you would be at a much higher risk for tooth decay and tooth loss. Saliva helps prevent tooth decay and a whole host of other oral health problems.

A good solution would be to drink lots of water, chew sugarless gum, use a fluoride toothpaste or rinse, and consider over-the-counter artificial saliva substitutes. See your doctor if dry mouth is a frequent problem. Many medications on the market today, both prescription and over the counter can cause dry mouth.

Dieting

Restrictive diets and poor eating habits can deprive you of the vitamins and nutrients necessary for a beautiful smile. It’s especially important to get enough folate, B vitamins, protein, calcium, and vitamin C—all of which are considered essential for healthy teeth and gums.

Poor nutrition can affect your entire immune system, increasing your susceptibility to many disorders and infections, including periodontal disease.

Stay tuned for the 20 Things That Can Ruin Your Smile Part 2

To improve YOUR smile we offer FREE teeth whitening to all new patients after their first dental hygiene appointment. Call Amy for details at: (914) 241-2242. We can help you have that pretty smile you’ve always wanted.

www.WestchesterTopDentist.com

Mount Kisco NY Dentist Offers Five Simple Tips For A Healthy Mouth

Five Simple Tips for a Healthy Mouth


Mount Kisco, NY (March 22, 2013) — Mount Kisco NY dentist Dr. Steven Abel offers five simple tips that he recommends that adults do each day to keep oral hygiene in top shape.

Use an Electric Toothbrush

At more than 30,000 strokes per minute compared to the average of 100 strokes per minute with a manual toothbrush, electric toothbrushes work harder by pushing fluid between teeth and around the gum line, which provides a more effective cleaning.

Regardless of whether or not you have cavities, using an electric toothbrush over time prevents gum inflammation, gingivitis and periodontal disease.”

Floss at Night

The CDC reports that nearly 65 million Americans—one out every two adults ages 30 and older—have gum disease. Therefore, flossing once a day is crucial to avoid plaque and tartar, a hard mineral deposit that can cause gums to become swollen and inflamed, leading to gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease.

My recommendation is to floss at night, says Dr. Abel.  “During sleep cycles, less saliva is produced to naturally clean teeth and gums, so oral bacteria are free to do more damage. Therefore, it’s important to brush, floss and scrape your tongue every night to get rid of bacteria and go to bed with your mouth as clean as possible.”

Select the Right Toothpaste

Dr. Abel cautions his patients to be skeptical of any toothpaste that promises to "whiten" teeth. The reality is that removal of surface stains by a toothpaste will make the tooth "look" lighter, but not change its inherent color. To lighten or "bleach" teeth, schedule a professional in-office whitening treatment.  This will remove stains and dark color from  the internal aspect of the tooth, not just the external aspect as a toothpaste does.

Don’t Forget Mouthwash

Listerine Mouthwash is a good over the counter mouthwash that kills bacteria that is associated with gum disease.  It’s even available in an alcohol free version now!

Eat Foods Good for Healthy Teeth

Research studies show that certain foods naturally cleanse your teeth while you eat them. The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry suggests that you incorporate these key ingredients into your diet:
•   Fruits like strawberries and pineapple are high in fiber and vitamin C. The citric acid in pineapple also provides an all-natural bacteria-fighting mouthwash.
•   Veggies like Kale and broccoli are high in minerals that strengthen tooth structure and prevent enamel erosion (or yellowing).
•   Onions and Wasabi –a type of Japanese horse radish both contain compounds that reduce oral bacteria.
  Quinoa has minerals including Calcium, Magnesium and Phosphorus to strengthen teeth.

Be sure to implement these five tips for a healthier mouth!  If you have any questions about your dental health, or would like a complimentary consultation, be sure to give our office a call at: (914) 241-2242 or visit us at: www.WestchesterTopDentist.com

We are committed to your dental and overall health.

Worn Down Enamel Puts Teeth in Danger

But a simple, high-tech procedure can repair enamel, prevent future problems and avoid tooth loss

If you’re 50 or older, chances are you’ve noticed a few grey hairs and maybe a wrinkle or two --- but you probably haven’t noticed the fact that your teeth may be changing, too. In fact, the enamel on their surface may have started to wear away -- putting your smile in serious danger.

You see, even though tooth enamel is the hardest substance in our bodies1, it can wear down, ex-posing the softer dentin inside the tooth, leading to some very serious problems.

When you think about how hard we ask our teeth to work, that’s really no surprise.

For starters there’s all the biting and chewing we do every day. And there are lots of other factors too, like drinking too many soft drinks, chewing on things like ice, and grinding our teeth – not to mention various medical conditions, drugs and supplements.

All those factors pile up, with the result that by the time you’re 50 or so the enamel on your teeth, particularly the teeth in the front of your mouth, can be so worn that the dentin begins to show through as yellow spots at the middle or edge of a tooth. The dentin can “cup” as well, causing what some dentists refer to as “potholes” in your teeth.

Potential Tooth Damage or Loss

What’s worse, the thinning edges of these “pot-holes” then begin to develop chips and micro-fractures, setting the stage for a downward spiral that can lead to the need for expensive and time-consuming dental work like root canals and crowns or even the loss of your tooth.

That’s a shame – and totally unnecessary, because there are simple and effective ways to repair worn enamel and prevent future problems, if the condition is caught promptly.

Unfortunately, this potentially devastating condi-tion is not something you’re likely to notice on your own – at least not in its earliest stages.

Most often there’s no pain associated with enamel loss, although some people do notice increased sensitivity to hot and cold.

As for appearance, you might possibly see areas of yellow dentin if you examined your teeth very carefully using a good magnifying mirror and an extremely bright light. Even using these tools, though, you’d only be able to detect the problem AFTER you had already lost a considerable amount of enamel.

The good news is that my team and I look for signs of enamel wear every time you visit. And, if we see a problem, we have the tools to fix it.

 High Tech Repair

Basically, what we do when we see a problem is very gently reshape the affected area, then flow in an ultra high tech composite resin that match-es your enamel in both color and strength.

The process is simple, quick and so comfortable it rarely requires anesthetic. And, we can reinforce and protect as many teeth as needed in just one visit.

What’s more, this simple repair should last for many, many years – and, if needed, we can touch the resin up or redo it quickly and easily.

When you consider that this simple procedure can help you keep your teeth – and avoid all the time, drilling, anesthetic and expense of root canals and crowns – it’s hard to think of a more effective way to preserve your smile.

If you’d like to know more, just ask. We’ll be happy to fill you in on all the details about this important treatment.  (914) 241-2242

http://www.WestchesterTopDentist.com


1. http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/healthy-teeth-10/tooth-enamel-protection?page=1

Dentist in Mount Kisco NY Says You Don't Have To Have Yellow Teeth Anymore!

Legend has it that comedian Rodney Dangerfield once asked his dentist for advice.

“Doc – my teeth are yellow. What should I do?”


To which his dentist replied: “Wear a brown tie!”

Fortunately, these days we can give much better advice than that.

Most of us begin life with beautiful sparkly white teeth, but just as the years bring wrinkles, sags, bags and more – the age fairy can make our teeth much more yellow or brown than they used to be. Why does nature add this cruelty to her bag of tricks?

Here is a brief primer on yellowing teeth. The outer coating of our teeth is made of enamel – a beautiful smooth sparkling white surface. On the inside is a material called dentin, a darker material which makes up the core of our teeth. Normal activities such as chewing and exposure to acids in foods cause microscopic cracks in our enamel, allowing the yellow dentin to show through.

As most of us know, certain foods and drinks can also stain our teeth, contributing to a darker appearance. Smoking makes things much worse (and it’s not too good to the rest of your body either)  Basically there are two types of tooth stains –extrinsic stains (those that form on the outside of the teeth) and intrinsic stains (those that come from within).

Simple extrinsic stains can be removed by a good professional tooth cleaning and polishing. As these become more complex, tooth bleaching – either professional or over-the-counter, will be required.  Intrinsic stains, those that come from the inside of your teeth, are more difficult to remove and typically involve treatment from a dental professional.

Mount Kisco NY Dentist, Dr. Steven Abel
offers several different teeth whitening options
for even the darkest teeth!

A question that we are often asked at our   Mt. Kisco NY Dentist office, Westchester Dental Care, is “Do those whitening kits I can buy at the drug store actually work?” The answer is: Maybe. Unfortunately some of them actually harm the enamel.  It's better to have safe whitening treatments done with dental supervision rather than risk damaging your teeth.  Not only are the materials safer and actually bleach more effectively, but we fabricate a custom application tray which fits your teeth perfectly, allowing the whitening materials to work at their maximum.

The good news is, you no longer have to put up with yellow unsightly teeth!  Modern tooth whitening techniques are one of the greatest, easiest to use, most predictable and economically comfortable advances we have seen in dentistry in a long time!  We have the best Teeth Whitening Procedures available today right here in our Mount Kisco NY Dental Office.  In addition to take home trays with several different whitening options and strengths, we also offer ZOOM in office whitening, and KOR deep bleaching.  At Westchester Dental Care we will discuss all of your teeth whitening options with you.

Call us today at: (914) 241-2242 to hear about our new Whitening Special and schedule your complimentary whitening consultation.  Our goal is to give you the biggest happiest smile possible!

We look forward to meeting you.

Visit our website at http://www.WestchesterTopDentist.com

My Gum Disease Is Linked To WHAT???

You've probably heard about the "mouth-body connection" and how periodontal (gum) disease has been linked to heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, in addtion to pregnant women's chances of giving birth to pre-term, low-weight babies.  Did you know, however about the correlation between gum disease and rheumatoid arthritis, kidney disease, and even certain cancers? 



While rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and gum disease are both inflammatory diseases, it is interesting to note that patients with (RA) are eight times more likely to suffer from gum disease than those without (RA).

Also important is the correlation between gum disease and kidney disease.  We know that gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults, so it's noteworthy to learn that toothless adults are more likely to have chronic kidney disease than adults with all of their teeth.



Men with tooth loss and a history of gum disease are reported to have an increased risk of developing certain cancers.  While more research continues to be conducted, associations have been noted between gum disease and kidney, pancreatic and haematologial cancers.  Severe gum disease has also been documented as a risk factor for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. 

Let's talk about your periodontal health, and we'll work to ensure your healthy body starts with a healthy mouth. 

Call us today at Westchester Dental Care  (914) 241-2242 to schedule your periodontal evalutation and dental hygiene visit.  www.WestchesterTopDentist.com  

Independence Day Special:  If you schedule an appointment next week, 7-5-11 through 7-8-11 we will reward you with a free teeth whitening.  ($600 value)

Committed to your overall health.

Sincerly,

Dr. Steven Abel, Dr. Francis Turturro, and the entire Westchester Dental Care Team

Cosmetic Dentist in Mt. Kisco, NY Discusses The 20 Things That Can Ruin Your Smile - Part 2

Cosmetic Dentist, Mt. Kisco NY Discusses The 20 Things That Can Ruin Your Smile Part 2

Here are the final 10 things that can ruin your smile. While reading, you can learn tips and tricks on how to make sure your teeth stay sparkling white!


Hot Drinks

Your hot-drink habit may be one reason
your teeth look a little dingy. Black tea and coffee contain stain-promoting tannins that lodge into the pits and grooves of the tooth enamel, producing a rough, stained surface, which is sticky and can retain decay-producing bacteria.
Consume such beverages in moderation, drink more water every day, and add milk to your coffee or tea to help neutralize the acids.




Aging

As you age, you’re more susceptible to decay near old fillings or root surfaces unprotected by receding gums. But there’s no reason you can’t keep your teeth. Oral disease—not aging per se—is the danger. Increasing your fluoride protection is key. And if you have arthritis, there are dental products that can make brushing and flossing less painful. Seniors who brush regularly with fluoride toothpaste or use fluoride rinses or gels regularly have fewer cavities.


Birth Control Pills

Because oral contraceptives mimic pregnancy, they can also lead to gum inflammation and infections, including gingivitis.
Additionally, some studies have shown that women who use birth control pills may have more trouble healing after tooth extractions and are twice as likely to develop painful dry sockets where the tooth used to be.
If you use birth control pills, it’s not a bad idea to discuss their effect with your dentist before major procedures.




Not Flossing

Although many of us are much more diligent about brushing than flossing, they are equally important.
Flossing every day is one of the best things you can do to take care of your teeth. It’s the single most important factor in preventing periodontal disease, which affects more than 50% of adults.

Flossing helps remove plaque and debris that sticks to teeth and gums, and gives you a brighter smile by polishing the tooth’s surface; it even helps control bad breath.



Brushing At The Wrong Time
Although we’ve been taught to brush after every meal, depending on what you eat or drink, that’s not always the best advice.


After consuming high-acid food or drinks, like wine, coffee, citrus fruits, and soft drinks, rinse with water to neutralize the acids, but wait an hour before reaching for the toothpaste.
Brushing teeth immediately after drinking carbonated drinks and acidic foods can cause erosion.

Overzealous Whitening

It is not clear whether bleaching erodes tooth enamel, but it can increase sensitivity, especially when done too often. Even at-home whitening treatments should be used in moderation, and always under a dentist's supervision, as some whitening toothpastes and gels contain abrasive ingredients that can increase tooth sensitivity, and possibly harm the enamel.



Soft Drinks and Carbonated Beverages


Soft drinks are chock-full of sugar, which puts you at a risk for cavities, root decay, and gum infections. Dark colas can also stain your teeth, leaving you with a lackluster smile. We recommend drinking soda through a straw and rinsing with water or chewing sugar-free gum after consumption to neutralize the acids.
We also recommend waiting at least an hour before brushing.


Citrus and Acidic Food
Although lemons, grapefruits, and citrus juices don’t directly cause cavities, like soft drinks, they contain acids, which cause erosion of the tooth enamel, weakening the tooth and making it prone to decay.

Waiting to brush, rinsing your mouth with water, or chewing sugar-free gum can help. In particular, consider xylitol, a natural sweetener found in plants and fruits that was FDA approved as a food additive in 1986. Found in sugar-free gum, mints, and toothpastes, xylitol can inhibit the cavity-causing oral bacteria. Dentists will often recommend patients chew at least two pieces per day if they are at high risk for developing cavities.

Tobacco

Smoking turns your teeth yellow and brown, but it can be much more damaging than that. It can cause throat, lung, and mouth cancer, and even death. Additionally, the tar from tobacco forms a sticky film on teeth, which harbors bacteria that promote acid production and create irritating toxins, both of which cause gum inflammation, tooth decay, and loss.



Teeth Grinding and Clenching

Teeth grinding, or bruxism, can affect your jaw, cause pain, and even change the appearance of your face. People who have otherwise healthy teeth and gums can clench so often and so hard that over time, they wear away their tooth’s enamel, causing chipping and sensitivity.




Stress and anger can increase nighttime teeth grinding. Finding ways to alleviate these feelings can help, but it’s also important to see your dentist, who can recommend solutions like a custom night guard.

To improve YOUR smile we offer FREE teeth whitening to all new patients after their first dental hygiene appointment. ($600 Value) Call Amy for details at: (914) 241-2242 We can help you have that pretty smile you’ve always wanted.

www.WestchesterTopDentist.com