Regular Dental Cleanings

It is recommended by the Academy of General Dentistry you have a dentist or hygienist perform a dental cleaning every six months.  Fresh Meadows Dental Care encourages our patients to maintain a great oral health routine at home, but it is still important to come into the office for regular professional cleanings.  However much you brush and floss, some harmful bacteria grow in your mouth that cause gum disease and can only be removed by a dental professional.

It’s important to see a professional regularly to locate and monitor areas in the mouth that may need special attention, and a dentist can tell you if you may be missing a spot or skipping an important step in your regular oral care routine.  During a teeth cleaning, our hygienists thoroughly clean the area above and below the gum line with scaling tools to rid them of plaque and tartar. After the surfaces of the teeth are cleaned, the hygienist flosses between every one of your teeth and may apply fluoride if recommended by the dentist.

To learn more about dental cleanings and all the services we provide, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272.

Oral Conscious Sedation

At Fresh Meadows Dental Care, our staff has seen many patients who experience some level of anxiety with each dental procedure or appointment. Some patients have had negative experiences with dental procedures that make them anxious, and others may have a sensitive gag reflex that has always made dental work dreadful.  We understand why a dental appointment could be intimidating, but do not want to see patients delaying treatment because of these fears.  Oral conscious sedation is an option we recommend for patients experiencing dental anxiety. 

Oral conscious sedation is administered by taking a pill orally before a procedure.  The light sedative relaxes the patient but does not ‘knock out’ the patient, as they remain conscious.  They are brought to an extremely relaxed state, and when the dentist begins working local anesthetic is still used at the site of the procedure.  The combination of oral conscious sedation and local anesthetic means the patient can stay relaxed and usually allows the dentist to complete more work in one session.  This makes a more pleasant experience for an anxious patient, and can even mean less dental appointments overall.

To learn more about oral conscious sedation and all the services we provide, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272.

How Cavities Hurt Teeth

The sugary food and beverages we consume on a daily basis might taste delicious, but they are slowly wreaking havoc on tooth enamel. Foods that cling to the teeth, such as bread, cakes, and hard candy, produce acids that weaken enamel and cause cavities. Cavities don’t go away by themselves and will need to be filled by Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care. We’d much rather you practice prevention instead of reaching that point.

Fillings help cavities from growing larger, but the best thing you can do for your teeth is to avoid them altogether. To prevent cavities, avoid frequent snacking and specific food and drinks, such as honey, raisins, and dry cereal. If your oral hygiene routine doesn’t include brushing at least twice a day for two minutes or flossing at least once a day, you’ll need to improve to prevent holes from developing in the teeth.

If you have questions or concerns regarding tooth decay, please give us a call. To learn more about oral hygiene and the services we provide, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272.

Tooth Decay in Seniors

At Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, we believe nobody should suffer from toothaches. And yet, information from 2011-2012 collected by the Centers for Disease control showed nearly twenty percent of people over age sixty-five have untreated tooth decay. In order to get those numbers down, we have to look at the reasons why seniors may have poor oral health.

Most seniors did not have access to fluoridated water growing up, which means they are especially vulnerable to tooth decay. But because we see caries develop in people who kept good hygiene earlier in life, something else must be going on. Many older people are on medications which cause dry mouth as a side effect. This condition makes it harder for the body to fight off infections from bacteria, including the ones responsible for tooth decay. While forgetfulness cannot be ruled out as a cause of lax hygiene, older patients also frequently suffer from limited dexterity, preventing them from brushing and flossing normally. Many seniors also do not have coverage for dental visits, limiting their access to professional cleanings.

Our dental office works with our patients to address all of these problems. We offer individual dental coverage at low prices and flexible payment plans. We can also help our patients find toothpaste and other dental products appropriate to their needs.

Farid Hakimzadeh, DDS, operates Fresh Meadows Dental Care at 58-47 Francis Lewis Blvd., Suite 100, Oakland Gardens, New York, 11364. To schedule an appointment, call 718-224-7272 or visit FreshMeadowsDental.com and fill out a contact form.

 

Diabetes and Gum Disease

At Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, we’re observing American Diabetes Month by raising awareness of the connection between diabetes and gum disease. People with diabetes are particularly susceptible to periodontitis, and the reverse appears to be true, as well.

Gum disease occurs in two phases: gingivitis (gum inflammation) and periodontitis or periodontal disease. It occurs when bacteria eat sugar stuck on the teeth and produce acid. People with uncontrolled blood sugar levels produce more food for the bacteria, and people with diabetes generally have a harder time resisting bacterial infections. As a result, diabetes patients are at a higher risk for periodontal disease’s effects, including gum recession and bleeding and disintegration of jaw bone tissue.

People with periodontal disease also tend to develop higher blood sugar levels, making it harder for them to control the symptoms of diabetes. The two can form a vicious circle if they’re not caught quickly. But at our office, patients receive through cleanings, including periodontal maintenance. As long as the patient is diligent with their oral hygiene and keeps their blood sugar under control, they can preserve a healthy, attractive smile.

Farid Hakimzadeh, DDS, operates Fresh Meadows Dental Care at 58-47 Francis Lewis Blvd., Suite 100, Oakland Gardens, New York, 11364. To schedule an appointment, call 718-224-7272 or visit FreshMeadowsDental.com and fill out a contact form.

 

Proper Flossing Technique

Fresh Meadows Dental Care wants to see our patients set up for a lifetime of good oral health.  Regular flossing is essential to maintaining oral health and you should floss once a day, either before or after brushing. Remember these tips to help you floss effectively:

• A strand of dental floss about 18 inches long allows you to wrap the ends of the floss around a finger on each hand. This gives you excellent control over the portion of floss you are using. 


• The proper technique to flossing is sliding the floss between the teeth and rubbing the floss back and forth up until you reach your gums.


• Pushing at your gums too hard with floss can damage your gum line and isn’t necessary to floss properly. Think of a small swooping motion as you rub the floss up to one gum, then down and back up towards the other.


• As you move on to the next tooth, adjust the floss to expose an unused portion. Repeat this rubbing motion between each tooth and dispose of the floss once you are finished.

To learn more about oral hygiene and the services we provide, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272.

Invisalign

Invisalign is the invisible alternative to traditional braces for adults and teens, and is recommended to correct mild to moderate spacing or crowding of the teeth.  At Fresh Meadows Dental Care, we know more severe misalignment cannot be corrected with Invisalign, so consult your dentist to see if Invisalign can provide the results you’re looking for.

A treatment plan with Invisalign consists of a series of clear, removable plastic aligners that are custom-made for your teeth.  Impressions or scans of your teeth are used to create a full set of aligners customized to your teeth and your treatment plan.  Depending on your individual treatment plan, each set of aligners should be worn for about two weeks.  For the best results a set of aligners should be worn at least 20 hours a day, only being removed to eat and to brush and floss.  A typical treatment plan can be completed in less than a year. 

To learn more about Invisalign and all the services we provide, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272.

ZOOM! Whitening

Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care sees many patients who wish they had a whiter, brighter smile.  ZOOM! Whitening has helped patients see dramatic whitening results in a short period.  To whiten your teeth with ZOOM!, you will first meet with a dentist to determine the level of staining currently on your teeth and what kind of results you can except from treatment. When stains on the surface of the teeth start to penetrate the tooth enamel they darken the color of the dentin, the hard tissue layer of your tooth under the enamel.  Once the dentin is darkened the whole tooth will appear yellow, and successful whitening systems go below the tooth enamel to reach the dentin.

ZOOM! Whitening combines whitening gel with an activator light to penetrate the enamel and break up stains at the dentin layer. Once the gel is applied to your teeth, the light activates and accelerates the whitening process.  When this chemical reaction lightens the color of the dentin, it’s possible for the whole tooth to become whiter.  An hour long treatment has been able to whiten patient’s teeth 6 to 10 shades.

To learn more about ZOOM! Whitening and all the services we provide, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272.

Dental Anxiety

Do you suffer from a sleepless night the evening before your dental appointment? Well, at least you scheduled one. Dental phobia can leave a person out of the dental chair for years, which makes them candidates for gum disease, tooth decay, and even tooth loss. Whether you’re a victim of dental anxiety or wish to take the edge off of a dental procedure, we have sedation options that are right for you.

Dental anxiety may leave a person in fear of pain, fear of injections, or fear that the anesthesia might wear off during a dental procedure. Fortunately, we specialize in sedation dentistry to treat patients with both a dental phobia and dental anxiety. Depending on the needs of the patient, he or she may benefit from oral conscious sedation or laughing gas (nitrous oxide).

If you have questions or concerns regarding dental anxiety, please give us a call. To learn more about mouth guards and all the services we provide, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272.

Extrinsic Stains

If you enjoy beverages such as wine and coffee on a daily basis, you might want to take a second look in the mirror. Beverages such as these can leave your smile looking lackluster, but the good news is that Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care can bring it back to life. Through professional whitening services, our doctor can restore your smile to its natural color or make it whiter, if you’d like.

Extrinsic tooth stains develop on the outer surface of tooth enamel. Tooth discoloration is nothing to be alarmed about, but it can diminish a person’s self-esteem and leave them feeling self-conscious about their smile. Dr. Shaw wants patients to feel confident and show off their smile in selfies and photographs. If you desire a whiter smile, call us to discuss your whitening options.

If you have questions or concerns regarding teeth whitening, please give us a call. To learn more about mouth guards and all the services we provide, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272.

Intrinsic Stains

We at Fresh Meadows Dental Care know how much patients value their white and shiny smiles. We’re proud to say that our whitening systems have helped many people over the years to combat the stains on their teeth. But some stains are too deep to be cleaned with bleach. These are intrinsic stains, and their causes are different from those on the outside.

Some intrinsic stains are the result of molecules from tetracycline antibiotics or too much fluoride entering the tooth while it was being formed. These stains are harmless and, while they cannot be removed, they can be covered with veneers. But most intrinsic stains are the result of trauma to the pulp of the tooth. This occurs due to infection or an injury which caused inflammation and could pose a serious threat to the patient’s well-being and comfort, as well as being a cosmetic issue. An infection could result in an abscess and spread to the rest of the bloodstream if it’s not stopped, and cause a great deal of pain on the way. The inside of the tooth must be removed with a root canal. Afterward, it may be covered with a veneer or a new crown.

Farid Hakimzadeh, DDS, operates Fresh Meadows Dental Care at 58-47 Francis Lewis Blvd., Suite 100, Oakland Gardens, New York, 11364. To schedule an appointment, call 718-224-7272 or visit FreshMeadowsDental.com and fill out a contact form.

 

Wisdom Teeth

From infancy to adulthood our mouths go through many changes. Between the ages of 17 and 21, wisdom teeth may erupt or may stay impacted. Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care may suggest extraction if wisdom teeth are causing pain, have become infected, or pose a risk to damaging neighboring teeth. If your wisdom teeth are still intact and causing you discomfort, it may be time to consider scheduling a consultation.

Wisdom teeth can cause problems if there isn’t enough room in the mouth for them to grow. Wisdom teeth that aren’t positioned correctly can allow food to become trapped, making it harder to brush and increasing the risk of decay. Wisdom teeth that may have partially erupted can give bacteria a place to thrive and can increase a patient’s risk of infection. We assure you that we will consider all options before extraction, but extraction is typically the best option for avoiding complications in the future.

If you have questions or concerns regarding wisdom teeth, please give us a call. To learn more about mouth guards and all the services we provide, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272.

Digital X-rays

There are several benefits to the patient and the doctor when using digital X-rays compared to film X-rays. Although they make look similar in appearance, there is less-time associated with digital X-rays because there is no time to wait for images to develop. Our digital imaging program at Fresh Meadows Dental Care provides nearly 80% less radiation than a standard X-ray.

With digital radiography, Dr. Hakimzadeh inserts a sensor into your mouth to capture images of the teeth. Instead of using film to develop these images, the sensor is connected to a computer and allows you and the doctor to view them immediately. Digital X-rays are designed with the patient in mind, which means more comfort, more accuracy, less radiation, and less-time in the dental chair.

If you have questions or concerns regarding dental technology, please give us a call. To learn more about mouth guards and all the services we provide, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272.

Biannual Cleanings for Children

Caries, the little instances of tooth decay which result in cavities, are one of the most common maladies in children. Dentists recommend that children get checked on twice a year in order to prevent and treat tooth decay. Due to the impact decay can have on a child’s life, it is especially important to do this before it can disrupt the school year too much.

In younger children, the pain from tooth decay can delay speech development. In children of every age, it disrupts sleep and makes chewing painful, which may result in children not eating properly. Irritability, difficulty focusing, and increased stress are all associated with lack of sleep and nutrition, and stress can lead to tooth grinding. Once decay sets in, it is difficult to reverse on its own because bacteria are able to hide in the cavities. But at our dental office, we clean out decayed material and provide fillings and sealants to help defend against further decay. We also use the check-up as an opportunity to monitor other potential problems, such as wisdom tooth eruption.

Farid Hakimzadeh, DDS, operates Fresh Meadows Dental Care at 58-47 Francis Lewis Blvd., Suite 100, Oakland Gardens, New York, 11364. To schedule an appointment, call 718-224-7272 or visit FreshMeadowsDental.com and fill out a contact form.

 

Dental Sealants for Pediatric Patients

Almost half of all children and adolescents in the United States have had cavities in their permanent teeth.  Fresh Meadows Dental Care recommends dental sealants to our adolescent patients to preserve the teeth and tooth enamel.  Regular oral hygiene is important for children to establish, but a sealant is the best defense against early tooth decay. 

Most tooth decay in children and teenagers occurs on the chewing surfaces of molars, where the pits and grooves trap food and bacteria.  Molars first come in at around 5-7 years of age, with a second set coming in between the ages of 11-14.  The best time to have a sealant placed is when the molars first come in to ensure they are protected early.

Sealants are applied to surfaces of these molars like paint. When the plastic resin is applied, it fills any pits and grooves on the surface and then hardens. Now the surface is protected from bits of food being stuck, so bacteria cannot multiply and cause decay, and tooth enamel is protected from plaque and acids.  Sealants can effectively prevent cavities for up to ten years and can be reapplied if necessary.

To learn more about dental sealants and all the services we provide, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272.

Veneers

At Fresh Meadows Dental Care, we are excited to offer patients the opportunity to totally makeover their smiles with veneers!  Veneers are custom made for each tooth from a thin ceramic shell.  They fit over your existing teeth, allowing you to completely change the appearance of your smile.  Veneers are also a great fix for minor cosmetic issues like staining and cracked or chipped teeth.  Even crooked teeth and small gaps can be made into a sparkling smile with veneers.

Patients can have a new smile using veneers in as little as two visits. First, the dentist will discuss the shape and look you want for your new smile.  Once your teeth are prepared for the treatment, an impression of your teeth is taken. This impression is sent to a dental laboratory to make the final product.  Ask us about temporary cosmetic options for you to wear for the two weeks it may take for the custom product to be fabricated. On your final visit, the veneers are bonded to the surface of your teeth for you to wear home and wear forever!

To learn more about cosmetic veneers and all the services we provide, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272.

Mouth Sores and Ulcers

Cankers, cold sores, and other mouth ulcers are common maladies we treat at Fresh Meadows Dental Care. Cold sores may be impossible to avoid and cankers have no known cause, but other kinds of ulcers may be related to a bite problem which Dr. Hakimzadeh will need to examine.

Cankers are large white ulcers which tend to appear in adolescence. They may take several weeks to heal. Cold sores are caused by a herpes virus which is transmitted so easily it is nearly impossible to avoid, but people who have outbreaks should be careful not to allow any fluids from the sore to get into their, or anyone else’s, eyes. Some ulcers are due to misaligned teeth clamping down on soft tissues in the mouth, but they can also be due to hormonal or nutritional disorders.

People with mouth ulcers are advised to avoid acidic and spicy food until the ulcer heals. Although little can be done to speed the healing process, they can apply topical creams to relieve pain and fight bacteria. It is important to visit a doctor for persistent ulcers, in case they are related to a more serious disorder or advanced methods are needed for symptom relief.

Farid Hakimzadeh, DDS, operates Fresh Meadows Dental Care at 58-47 Francis Lewis Blvd., Suite 100, Oakland Gardens, New York, 11364. To schedule an appointment, call 718-224-7272 or visit FreshMeadowsDental.com and fill out a contact form.

 

Types of Teeth

Our teeth serve lots of functions and have different health needs, so we at Fresh Meadows Dental Care wanted to provide our patients with a basic run-down of how teeth differ from each other. Adults naturally have thirty-two teeth, sixteen to each jaw.

The incisors are the four front teeth. They are the teeth we do most of our speaking with and which we use to tear off small bits of food, but they cannot withstand the strong forces needed for chewing. The canines, also called cuspids, are the pointy teeth on each side of the incisors. They are for piercing and occupy the point of maximum change of curvature in the jaw arch, which makes them important for stabilizing the jaw bone. The upper canines often get stuck erupting and need orthodontic correction.

Each jaw has two pairs of premolars and three pairs of molars for chewing with. The backmost molars, called wisdom teeth, also often have trouble erupting. Lower molars generally have two tooth roots, while upper ones have three. Upper molars are particularly vulnerable to the harm of acid reflux. Chewing teeth are often treated with sealants to protect them from decay.

Farid Hakimzadeh, DDS, operates Fresh Meadows Dental Care at 58-47 Francis Lewis Blvd., Suite 100, Oakland Gardens, New York, 11364. To schedule an appointment, call 718-224-7272 or visit FreshMeadowsDental.com and fill out a contact form.

 

H2O for Oral Health

If your diet consists primarily of sugary foods and beverages, it might be time to make healthier choices. Sure, sugary drinks like soda and fruit juice can wash down that pizza you’re eating, but it’s doing damage to your oral health. Drinking water contains fluoride, which protects teeth from decay. This is why Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care wants patients to reduce their sugar intake and start reaching for the H2O.

Unlike sugary beverages that wreak havoc on tooth enamel, water cleans the mouth with every sip. It also replenishes saliva which is our mouth’s first defense against tooth decay. The fluoride that drinking water contains shields teeth from cavities and helps remineralize carious lesions that may have been brought on by periodontal disease. Drinking more water is only beneficial to not only your dental health but your overall health as well.

If you have questions or concerns regarding tooth decay, please give us a call. To learn more about mouth guards and all the services we provide, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272.

Scaling and Root Planing

If gum disease is treated early, before it causes damage to the structures of the tooth, a professional cleaning should fix the problem. Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical procedure that is recommended for patients with chronic periodontitis. If you’ve failed to treat gingivitis and it has advanced to periodontitis, it might be time for a scaling and root planing procedure from Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care.

Healthy gums should sit snug around a tooth, when periodontal disease develops, it can create pockets that fill with bacteria. Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar below the gum line and is performed in two parts. Scaling removes hardened plaque above and below the gumline, cleaning the pocket that has formed, while root planing smooths out tooth roots to help the gums reattach to the teeth. After a scaling and root planing procedure, you may feel mild discomfort or sensitivity. Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh will recommend a follow-up appointment to see how your gums are healing.

If you have questions or concerns regarding scaling and root planing, please give us a call. To learn more about mouth guards and all the services we provide, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272.

Bad Breath in Children

Nobody wants bad breath, and at Fresh Meadows Dental Care, we help even our youngest patients to maintain a smile that pleases in every regard. As with adults, halitosis in children is most commonly due to poor hygiene, but there are some specific issues which should also be investigated during an examination.

Creviced soft tissue is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, particularly if food particles can get trapped in it. Children often have not had their tonsils removed, providing one such ideal home, but the tongue is another area which foul odors often originate from. This is why oral hygiene instructions now emphasize the importance of tongue brushing, as well. People who suffer from dry mouth, which is a common side-effect of ADHD and anxiety medications, also need to take particular care of their oral hygiene.

Another reason for childhood halitosis is that children tend to get sinus infections more frequently than adults. The drip from their nasal passages is an additional food source for bacteria while mouth-breathing in response to a stuffy nose results in dry mouth. A foreign object lodged in a child’s nose will also cause nasal drip.

Farid Hakimzadeh, DDS, operates Fresh Meadows Dental Care at 58-47 Francis Lewis Blvd., Suite 100, Oakland Gardens, New York, 11364. To schedule an appointment, call 718-224-7272 or visit FreshMeadowsDental.com and fill out a contact form.

 

Dry Mouth

We teach all our patients at Fresh Meadows Dental Care about the importance of oral hygiene, but people who suffer from dry mouth need to be especially vigilant. Also known as xerostomia, dry mouth isn’t just irritating; it raises a patient’s risk of developing infections and complicates several other conditions.

Dry mouth has become common because it is a side-effect of a large number of medications, particularly for cancer. However, it can also result from Sjögren’s syndrome, which is a disorder of unknown origin which causes dryness in the mouth and eyes. Because saliva is important for keeping bacteria and fungus growth under control, its absence makes patients more likely to develop periodontal disease and thrush.

Patients can improve their saliva production by reducing their intake of caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco. However, if their dry mouth is being caused by a medication which they cannot have changed, patients may need to consider alternate means of moisturizing. These include rinses and mouthwash, as well as additional medications. Chewing sugar-free gum and candy is another way to boost saliva production. But regardless of what other steps they take, dry mouth patients have to be especially sure to brush properly.

Farid Hakimzadeh, DDS, operates Fresh Meadows Dental Care at 58-47 Francis Lewis Blvd., Suite 100, Oakland Gardens, New York, 11364. To schedule an appointment, call 718-224-7272 or visit FreshMeadowsDental.com and fill out a contact form.

 

Dental Bridges

Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care has a wide variety of restorative options to choose from if you have missing teeth. Today, however, we are going to discuss dental bridges. The objective of a dental bridge is to literally bridge the gap that has been created by one or more missing teeth. They are usually supported by natural teeth or dental implants and can be permanent or removable.

Dental bridges have numerous advantages such as restoring your smile, restoring your ability to properly chew and speak, maintain the shape of your face, and prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position. After you and Dr. Hakimzadeh discuss which type of bridge is right for you, it will take about two visits to complete the procedure. During the first visit, the abutment teeth are prepared for a dental crown and impressions will be made. Dr. Hakimzadeh will then give you a temporary bridge to wear home. During your second visit, your temporary bridge will be removed and your permanent bridge will be set in place.

If you have questions or concerns regarding dental bridges, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272.

Dental Sealants

If you had the opportunity to barricade cavities forever, would you take it? Well, Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care may not be able to eliminate them forever, but he can reduce your chance of developing decay, with dental sealants. Dental sealants consist of a plastic material that is placed on the chewing surface of the permanent molars to help protect them from bacteria and acids that cause tooth decay.

Though adults can reap the benefits of dental sealants, they are more for children and teenagers. This is because of the likelihood of developing decay in the depressions and grooves of the molars. Although thorough brushing and flossing remove food particles that cause decay, sometimes it’s hard to reach in the back of the mouth to brush the molars. Sealants have the ability to protect these vulnerable areas for up to ten years, therefore the earlier they are placed, the better.

If you have questions or concerns regarding dental sealants, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272.

Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that develop during our late teenage years or early twenties. Not all wisdom teeth will need to be extracted. In fact, if they are not problematic, they might even be able to stay intact. However, when wisdom teeth are misaligned or impacted, they increase the risk of infection as well as damaging the adjacent teeth, jawbone, or nerves. To determine the status of your wisdom teeth, Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care will need to look at them on an X-ray.

Sometimes, a person will feel the effects of the wisdom teeth before they even erupt. If wisdom teeth are impacted – enclosed within the soft tissue and/or jawbone – they may cause headaches or tooth pain to the patient. In other cases, the wisdom teeth may partially erupt, which leaves an open area that is prone to infection. Partially erupted wisdom teeth are more prone to tooth decay and can make brushing and flossing almost impossible, as they are difficult to reach.

If you have questions or concerns about the status of your wisdom teeth, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272.

Acid Reflux

We highly value patient comfort at Fresh Meadows Dental Care and have found that acid reflux is one of the most common causes of toothaches in adults. To help them avoid this problem, we want to educate our readers about what is scientifically known as gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD.

When hydrochloric acid from the stomach escapes into the esophagus, it damages all the tissues it encounters. In the mouth, these include tooth enamel as well as soft gum tissue surrounding teeth. As a result, the teeth painfully decay, the gums recede, and the mouth dries out from damage to the saliva glands, increasing the patient’s risk of infection and their discomfort.

Acid reflux can be reduced by abstinence from fried and fatty foods as well as those that are high in acids, such as tomatoes, citrus fruits, onions, and garlic. Patients may also need to ask their doctor about switching medications. There is no way to regrow enamel, but it can be reinforced through fluoride treatments. Bonding and white fillings are among the solutions for teeth that have already cracked.

Farid Hakimzadeh, DDS, operates Fresh Meadows Dental Care at 58-47 Francis Lewis Blvd., Suite 100, Oakland Gardens, New York, 11364. To schedule an appointment, call 718-224-7272 or visit FreshMeadowsDental.com and fill out a contact form.

 

Dental Crowns

If you have teeth that are weak and need restoration, a dental crown may be what you’re looking for. A dental crown has the ability to strengthen a tooth by placing a large filling when there isn’t enough tooth remaining to hold the filling. Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh offers this service at Fresh Meadows Dental Care and would like to let you know what to expect if you ever need one.

There are four different types of dental crowns, but after scheduling a consultation with Dr. Hakimzadeh, he will decide which is best for you. The most popular dental crown materials are ceramic, due to their ability to blend in with your natural tooth color, as well as porcelain crowns because they provide a very strong and durable bond. While a crowned tooth doesn’t require any special care, that doesn’t mean that your oral hygiene routine should be forgotten. Dental crowns will last a lifetime if they are properly maintained.

If you have questions or concerns about dental crowns, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272.

Inlays and Onlays

Patients at Fresh Meadows Dental Care benefit from a number of treatments which can restore lost or damaged teeth. Some of these are cosmetic, while others are major surgery, but one procedure which restores bite function with minimal invasiveness is placement of a partial crown.

Partial crowns are called “inlays” or “onlays” depending on how much of a tooth they replace. Molars and premolars, the grinding teeth, are comprised of points, called cusps, separated by indentations. When the surface of a tooth is decayed or damaged, an inlay is used to cover the indentation, while an onlay replaces both the indentation and at least one of the cusps.

Dr. Hakimzadeh will remove the damaged part of the tooth before making an impression of the patient’s mouth. This impression is sent to a dental lab, where a unique partial crown is manufactured. It will take about two weeks to be shipped to our office, during which the patient will wear a temporary crown. Once the partial crown arrives, it can be cemented in during just one appointment. The patient will care for it like a fully natural tooth and be able to chew normally.

Farid Hakimzadeh, DDS, operates Fresh Meadows Dental Care at 58-47 Francis Lewis Blvd., Suite 100, Oakland Gardens, New York, 11364. To schedule an appointment, call 718-224-7272 or visit FreshMeadowsDental.com and fill out a contact form.

Preventing and Treating Dry Sockets

Although it is rare, one of the biggest risks following a tooth extraction is that the socket may dry out. Normally, our patients at Fresh Meadows Dental Care are able to follow our instructions and avoid an emergency, but should the worst happen, we’re here to help.

A little bleeding is not only normal when a tooth is removed, it’s necessary. The empty socket needs to be sealed off with a clot or it will painfully dry out and be at risk for infection. To prevent this, we need our patients to provide information about all the medications they are taking, as some may prevent clotting. They also need to avoid sipping through a straw following the surgery, as this may rip off the clot prematurely.

A dry socket is more likely to develop following a difficult extraction that required an incision to be made and sutured. The appointment at which the sutures are removed allows us to ensure the socket is healing well, but the risk of dryness is usually highest in the first two days after the extraction. If a patient is in severe pain, they should come see us so we can apply medication to the surgical site and prescribe any painkillers or antibiotics that may be required.

Farid Hakimzadeh, DDS, operates Fresh Meadows Dental Care at 58-47 Francis Lewis Blvd., Suite 100, Oakland Gardens, New York, 11364. To schedule an appointment, call 718-224-7272 or visit FreshMeadowsDental.com and fill out a contact form.

 

Oral Pathology

The oral cavity refers to the mouth and consists of the lips, the lining inside the cheeks and lips, the tongue, the upper and lower gums, the roof and floor of the mouth, and the small area behind the wisdom teeth.  Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care specializes in oral pathology which identifies and treats diseases of these tissues. Some of the diseases that Dr. Hakimzadeh diagnoses include mouth and throat cancer, mumps, salivary gland disorders, ulcers, and more. 

Research has identified a number of factors that increase the risk of developing oral cancers. To prevent oral cancer you should avoid tobacco use of any kind, keep alcohol use to a minimum and avoid excessive sun exposure. You should schedule an appointment with Dr. Hakimzadeh if you experience a sore that doesn’t heal, loose teeth, tongue pain, and difficulty eating or speaking. If mouth cancer is detected, Dr. Hakimzadeh will work to determine the extent, or stage of cancer and discuss treatment options.

If you have questions about oral pathology, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272.

Endodontics: Root Canal

If you have a tooth that is badly decayed or infected, you are likely a candidate for a root canal. The term root canal can scare any patient, but the procedure is similar to a routine filling and can usually be completed in two appointments depending on the condition of the tooth. Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh guarantees a comfortable experience before, during, and after your appointment. Allow us to explain what to expect during a root canal.

To understand endodontic treatment, it helps to understand the anatomy of a tooth. Inside the tooth, under the enamel and a hard layer called dentin, is a soft tissue called the pulp. The pulp contains the blood vessels and nerves, so when this becomes infected it will lead to pain. Inflammation of the pulp can have a variety of causes, such as deep decay, or a crack in the tooth. Before a root canal is performed, Dr. Hakimzadeh will take X-rays to determine where the infection is stemming from. Special files will then be used to clean the infection and once the unhealthy pulp is removed, a material known as gutta-percha will fill the space. In the final step, a crown will be placed over the tooth to restore its natural shape and appearance.   

If you are experiencing a persistent toothache, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272.

Consequences of Thumb Sucking

We’re very proud at Fresh Meadows Dental Care that parents rely on Dr. Hakimzadeh and our staff for information about their children’s oral health. Many first-time parents have heard that thumb sucking and pacifiers are bad for their child’s tooth development, but don’t know how much of a problem it is. We’ve provided them this guide.

Children under the age of four commonly suck their thumbs or a pacifier as a means of comforting themselves. Because their facial bones are more flexible than those of adults or older children, this isn’t usually a problem. But around the age of five, children lose their first baby teeth and permanent teeth start erupting. At this point, thumb sucking becomes a dangerous habit, as the pressure can cause children to develop overbites, misaligned jaws, and overcrowded bites.

If this habit persists when the child is over the age of four, try including them in positive efforts to change their behavior. Often, when children have a deep—seated source of anxiety which is motivating this habit, they will substitute thumb sucking with pushing their tongue against their teeth, which results in the same kinds of misalignment. There are orthodontic devices which can discourage children from tongue thrusting, but in these cases, we also recommend attention from a psychologist.

Farid Hakimzadeh, DDS, operates Fresh Meadows Dental Care at 58-47 Francis Lewis Blvd., Suite 100, Oakland Gardens, New York, 11364. To schedule an appointment, call 718-224-7272 or visit FreshMeadowsDental.com and fill out a contact form.

 

Mouth Guards

Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh and Fresh Meadows Dental Care take pride in serving the families from our community.  We want adults and children who are active in sports this season to know they may be overlooking an important safety precaution.  Athletes participating in any contact sport are advised to wear some kind of mouth protection. A mouth guard helps prevent damage to the teeth and jaw, and also helps prevent injuries to the cheeks, tongue, and lips.

You can find generic mouth guards in most sporting goods stores, but not in many sizes. These mouth guards often end up feeling uncomfortable, which leads to child and teenage athletes in particular not wearing the protection at all.  An ill-fitting or bulky mouth guard can even interrupt breathing and speaking. Have a dentist perform a custom mouth guard fitting and get a mouth guard made of thin, hard plastic that protects your teeth and still fits comfortably.  This is an easy precaution to take for athletes, and you can go right back to playing your best.

To learn more about mouth guards and all the services we provide, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272.

Snap-On Smile

Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh and Fresh Meadows Dental Care know patients are always looking for new cosmetic solutions, and Snap-On Smile is just one way we can help you obtain a total smile makeover. If you want to change the look of your teeth without a single dental procedure, Snap-On Smile is what you’ve been looking for.  A Snap-On Smile is made of dental resin that is thin but very strong. The result is a smile that fits right over your own teeth and looks like natural teeth. They can be made for both upper and lower teeth, and you can eat and drink with it on.  

Snap-On Smile is a great option for anyone with gaps between teeth, and stains or chips on teeth. Patients who currently use a removable partial denture are also good candidates for a Snap-On Smile makeover. You are able to get a Snap-On Smile in only two painless visits.  Once you choose a shade and style for your new smile the dentist takes an impression of your teeth. In about three weeks you have a second visit for a final fitting and can leave the office wearing your new Snap-On Smile!

To learn more about Snap-On Smile and all the services we provide at our practice, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272.

Night Guards

Most people are affected by bruxism, a fancy word for teeth grinding, and although people may do this consciously do this during the day, it is a larger problem at night when you are asleep. Many people clench their teeth to the point of destructiveness and Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care can suggest a night guard to prevent this from happening.

Night guards aren’t the most attractive devices, but they will keep you from sleeping on the couch. The night guard which is very similar to a mouth guard worn by athletes provides a barrier between your top and bottom teeth while you sleep. Grinding your teeth can damage enamel, wear down teeth, cause jaw pain, or irritate your gums. The noise from teeth grinding can also disturb your spouse's sleep if loud enough. Here at the office, all night guards are custom-fitted for comfort and to allow for proper breathing.

If your spouse is pestering you to stop snoring during the night, give us a call to discuss your options. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272.

Extraction Site Preservation

When removing a tooth, it is important to consider what will be done with the empty space after that tooth is removed. Wisdom teeth are in the back of the mouth, so that site has the ability to heal on its own with no complications. However, if it is necessary for Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care to remove a tooth in a different part of the mouth, this is where extraction site preservation comes into play.

If a tooth is removed and nothing is done with the extraction site, the jaw bone will degenerate and change shape during healing. This can cause teeth to shift and can create problems in your bite that can affect the ability to speak and chew. Just imagine chewing food with no teeth and how uncomfortable that would feel. Options for filling the space include dental implants and bridges. What you choose to do with your extraction site is your choice, and our doctors are always open to a conversation on what to do with your extraction site before removing a tooth.

If you’ve recently had teeth extracted and have questions about the site preservation process, give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272.

Flossing Teeth with Traditional Braces

As Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care will tell you, flossing can be difficult when you have traditional metal braces, but it’s more important than ever to keep the gaps in your teeth clean when you have a mouth full of metal. Many folks who have braces don’t know how to floss with them or think that they can’t floss at all if they have braces and this is not true. We already taught you how to brush with braces, so it’s only fair that we share some tips for flossing effectively and keeping those brackets and wires clean.

• Use waxed floss because unwaxed floss is more likely to get caught and shred in your braces.


• Use about 18 inches of floss and thread it carefully.


• Take the floss and gently thread it under the main wire of the braces before passing it between two teeth. Then remove the floss and re-thread it under the main wire to pass between the next pair of teeth.


• Be sure not to snap the floss. Simply move the floss up and down carefully against the side of each tooth.

If you have questions about your orthodontic oral care, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272. 

Brushing with Traditional Braces

With braces, oral hygiene is more important than ever. That’s because they have tiny spaces where food particles and plaque get trapped, and insufficient cleaning while wearing braces can cause enamel staining and tooth decay around brackets or bands. If you’ve recently had braces applied to your teeth, Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care wants you know how to properly brush them with the following technique.

• Prepare to brush – take off elastics (rubber bands) and any other removable parts of your orthodontic appliance.


• Clean your braces – Use your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to clean around the wires and pins of your braces. Brush from the top of each wire and then from the bottom.


• Brush your teeth – Clean each tooth individually. First, place your brush at a 45-degree angle to the junction between the tooth and the gum, and then apply gentle pressure as you move in a circular motion. Do this for about 10 seconds. Use the same brushing action on all outer and inner tooth surfaces, tilting the brush as needed to better reach the insides of smaller front teeth.


• Floss once a day – Carefully thread the floss under or over the main wire of your braces, taking care not to get it stuck. Then thread the floss through the wire to reach in between the spaces of your teeth.

If you have questions about how to brush with braces, give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272. 

ARESTIN for Gum Disease

Gum disease is the #1 cause of adult tooth loss in the United States. If you don’t practice proper oral hygiene on a daily basis, you can develop gingivitis (the earliest stage of gum disease), which if left untreated can lead to periodontitis (the final stage of gum disease). Gingivitis is reversible, however, periodontitis is not. If your gum disease moves past the stage of gingivitis, Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care may need to apply ARESTIN to the gums, an antibiotic that is used in adjunct to scaling and root planing. 

Scaling and root planing is an effective gum disease treatment. In this procedure, our doctors use tools to clean plaque and tartar from your teeth and roots below the gum line. During the procedure, our doctors utilize ARESTIN, an antibiotic containing microspheres that are smaller than grains of sand. ARESTIN is placed directly to your gums and has the power to kill bacteria so your gums can heal better than with scaling and root planing alone. In one single visit, our doctors can add ARESTIN to the pocket between your gum and tooth. It is a painless procedure, with effective results.

If you have questions about ARESTIN, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272. 

Advantages of Teeth Whitening

How many of us get a confidence boost when a stranger gives us a compliment? The same positive feeling can result from teeth whitening. Teeth-whitening is an excellent way to restore the natural color of your teeth or even make them whiter than your natural color if you would like. Here at Fresh Meadows Dental Care, Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh can help you do just that.

With all of the lifestyle habits and environmental factors that have the ability to stain our teeth on a daily basis, even proper maintenance sometimes leave them a little dull. Fortunately, through our whitening system, your pearly whites can revive their shine. In addition, teeth-whitening can also take years off of your appearance. This is because as we age, over time, our teeth darken and can become yellow, brown, or even develop a green or gray tint (which may be due to heredity and/or eating habits). Your smile speaks volumes about who you are and leaves an everlasting impression, so it’s only natural that you want it to be as radiant as possible.

If you would like to discuss your teeth whitening options, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272. 

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is a great way to quickly and affordably repair small imperfections on teeth. It is a procedure in which a tooth-colored resin material is applied and hardened with a special light, which ultimately “bonds” the material to the tooth to restore or improve a person’s smile. If you have decayed, chipped, or cracked teeth, Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care is happy to discuss dental bonding to see if it’s right for you.

Unlike veneers and crowns, which are customized tooth coverings that must be manufactured in a lab, bonding usually can be done in one office visit unless several teeth are involved. Another advantage, compared to these two cosmetic options, is that the least amount of tooth enamel is removed. If you have very small imperfections on your teeth, bonding could be the answer. In addition to providing cosmetic relief, bonding can also be used to fill cavities.

If you desire a more aesthetically pleasing smile, give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272. 

Benefits of Dentures

Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh offers a wide variety of restorative options for missing teeth, but here we are going to discuss the benefits of dentures. For people who have lost their teeth due to gum disease, tooth decay, or injury, dentures can restore their smile and help them with everyday tasks such as eating and speaking. There are two main types of dentures: full and partial. Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care will help you choose the type of denture that’s best for you based on how many teeth are going to be replaced.

Complete (full) dentures are used if you’re missing teeth in your upper (maxillary) or lower (mandibular) jaws. Partial dentures are used on patients who only have some teeth missing on either jaw. Complete dentures replace all of the teeth, while partial dentures fill in the spaces created by missing teeth and prevent other teeth from shifting position. Your dentures may feel awkward for a few weeks until you become accustomed to them, however, you will decrease your risk of periodontal disease as well as ease the stress of your jaw while wearing them.

If you have missing teeth, give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272. 

Details on Dental Implants

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants may be an option for people who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or some other reason. At Fresh Meadows Dental Care, the dental implant procedure is a team effort between you and Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh. Depending on your specific condition and the type of implant chosen, here at Fresh Meadows Dental Care, we will create a treatment plan tailored to meet your needs.

The process of getting implants requires a number of visits over several months. X-rays and impressions (molds) are taken of the jaw and teeth to determine bone, gum tissue, and spacing available for an implant. While the area is numb, the implant will be surgically placed into the bone and allowed to heal and integrate itself for up to six months. Depending on the type of implant, a second surgery may be required in order to place the “post” that will hold the artificial tooth in place. With other implants, the post and anchor are already attached and placed at the same time.

If you are considering dental implants, schedule a consultation to discuss your options. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272. 

Your Effective Brushing Routine

Healthy teeth, fresh breath, and bright smiles are not created in an instant. In order to gain these perks, you must put in the work. Having an effective daily oral hygiene is an essential part of the health of our mouth as well as our overall well-being. Recent studies have identified links between gum disease and general health such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease and so it’s never been more important to look after your teeth. At Fresh Meadows Dental Care, Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh encourages you to utilize these brushing tips in between dental appointments.

• Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against the gums.


• Move the brush back and forth gently in short (tooth-wide) strokes.


• Brush the outer tooth surfaces, the inner tooth surfaces, and the chewing surfaces of the teeth.


• Use the tip of the brush to clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, using a gentle up-and-down stroke.


• Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and don’t forget to floss!

If you have questions regarding your oral hygiene routine, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272. 

Screening for Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is a type of head and neck cancer that affects the mouth. It can form in the lining of the cheeks, gums, roof of the mouth, tongue, and lips. During your dental visit at Fresh Meadows Dental Care, Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh can talk to you about your health history and examine these areas for signs of mouth and/or throat cancer through a procedure called oral cancer screening.

The oral cancer screening is a very important part of the dental visit for the patient. The screening will consist of a visual inspection of the mouth and palpation of the jaw and neck. Regular visits to the dentist office can improve the chances that any suspicious changes in your oral health will be caught early, at a time when cancer can be treated more easily. It is important to remember that your doctor does not necessarily think you have cancer if he or she suggests a screening test because they are given even when you have no cancer symptoms.

If you are concerned about oral cancer, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272.

Defining Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea is a potentially serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts. There are two main types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea, the more common form that occurs when throat muscles relax, and central sleep apnea, which occurs when your brain doesn’t send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. Here at Fresh Meadows Dental Care, we always explore non-invasive treatment options first, however, we may suggest an oral appliance depending on the severity of the condition.

When obstructive sleep apnea occurs, the muscles relax, your airway narrows or closes as you breathe in, and you can’t get an adequate breath in. Your brain senses this inability to breathe and briefly rouses you from sleep so you can reopen your airway. You may make a snorting, choking or gasping sound. When central sleep apnea occurs, you may awaken with shortness of breath or have a difficult time getting to sleep or staying asleep. Like with obstructive sleep apnea, snoring and daytime sleepiness can occur. Regardless of the type you have, it’s best to explore your treatment options.

If you sleep apnea is a concern of yours, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272.

Are You Flossing Properly?

When you visit Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh at Fresh Meadows Dental Care for a professional cleaning, do you fib about your flossing habits? You might think that you can avoid problems like gum disease just by brushing your teeth alone. However, this is not the case. It’s true that proper flossing removes plaque and food particles in places where a toothbrush cannot easily reach, but plaque build-up can lead to tooth decay and gum disease if not practiced at least twice a day.

To receive maximum benefits from flossing, use the following proper technique:

• Break off about 18 inches of floss and wind most of it around one of your middle fingers. Wind the remaining floss around the same finger of the opposite hand. This finger will take up the floss as it becomes dirty.


• Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and forefingers.


• Guide the floss between your teeth using a gentle rubbing motion. Never snap the floss into the gums.


• When the floss reaches the gum line, curve it into a “C” shape against one tooth. Gently slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth.


• Hold the floss tightly against the tooth. Gently rub the side of the tooth, moving the floss away from the gum with up-and-down motions. Repeat this method for the rest of your teeth and don’t forget the back ones!

If you have questions regarding your oral hygiene routine, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.freshmeadowsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, NY, call 718-224-7272.