Lip Care in Cold Weather

The health of the inside of our mouths depends a lot on the health of the outside. When people’s lips are chapped, they may also develop dry mouth or do more damage by biting down on irritated tissue. We don’t want our patients at Fresh Meadows Dental Care to be in that kind of distress this winter, so we wanted to provide some tips on lip care in cold weather.

Our lips get chapped because cold air cannot hold very much moisture. Nonetheless, efforts to wet our lips will be counterproductive because the moisture will evaporate, leaving them dryer than before. Unfortunately, people often temporarily soothe their skin by liking their lips or taking long showers. Children often fold their lips under their teeth, which could contribute to an open bite or cause their lips to become further bruised or cut.

Lip balm can seal in moisture, providing better protection. But some people are sensitive to fragrances and menthol, so when trying a new product, people have to be wary of whether their inflammation gets worse. If so, they should immediately stop using it. Another good strategy is to use humidifiers in the bed room and anywhere else one spends a lot of time in, such as an office. This will prevent the mouth from drying out, ensuring it remains at a pH level that is inhospitable to bacteria and can easily dispose of food debris.

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

 

Retained Baby Teeth

Fresh Meadows Dental Care’s Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh is experienced dealing with all kinds of dental issues, including extractions and collaboration with orthodontists. For most people, this describes their childhood dental experience, but adults may need preparation for orthodontics, too, particularly if some of their baby teeth never fell out.

“Retained deciduous teeth” is the scientific way of describing stubborn baby teeth. In ordinary development, the incoming permanent tooth dissolves the baby tooth’s root, causing it to fall out shortly before the permanent tooth comes in. But in a small percentage of the population, some permanent teeth never develop. Most often, these are the lateral incisors in the upper jaw. There are also cases in which the permanent tooth comes in at the wrong angle and doesn’t cause its juvenile equivalent to fall out. This would result in a person having two sets of the same teeth, often jumbled together. The central incisors in the lower jaw are the ones this most often happens to.

Besides being aesthetically unpleasing, retained baby teeth can be difficult to clean if they’re jumbled and can cause bite problems. If the baby tooth roots aren’t fused to the jaw bone, we should be able to easily extract them. After that, we might refer a patient for orthodontic care to correct overcrowding or provide them with a partial denture to fill in the missing teeth.

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

 

Have You Had A Cleaning This Year?

Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh and the staff of Fresh Meadows Dental Care encourage all 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.  During the holidays, we want everyone looking forward to the New Year and maintaining great oral hygiene!  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 not just to clean your teeth, but also 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, a hygienist 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. Come see us for a cleaning to make a great impression during the holidays, and start the year off with your best smile!

To learn more about dental health and all the services provided at the 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. 

Post-Operative Swelling

We have lots of experience extracting wisdom teeth at Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Flushing. While we don’t recommend removing teeth lightly, the procedure is usually simple. But some swelling is expected, and to prevent complications, we want patients to know what they should look out for.

Inflammation is the immune system’s response to an infection or injury. Tissue swelling prevents pathogens from traveling to other parts of the body and makes cellular walls more permeable to resources white blood cells need to fight disease. Extractions trigger the immune response, with inflammation usually being proportionate to the complexity of the extraction. During the first twenty-four hours after an extraction, patients should try to control it by applying cold packs. They should be careful to limit cold pack usage to fifteen-minute increments, with fifteen minutes between each use. The swelling should peak after thirty-six hours, at which point patients can reduce it by using hot packs.

Complications following simple extractions are unlikely, but patients should keep a look-out for gum discoloration. If their oral tissues turn black or white, they should seek emergency care. During extractions, we anesthetize patients’ lips, and some people bite down on them afterward. This could cause extensive swelling, which is uncomfortable, but usually not dangerous. However, patients should inform us if swelling is still increasing after forty-eight hours.

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

 

Do You Need an Electric Toothbrush?

Part of our prevention effort at Fresh Meadows Dental Care is directing patients toward products that better serve their oral hygiene. Many people wonder whether they should use an electric or a manual toothbrush. The answer depends on their needs.

The best thing people can do to avoid tooth decay is to brush their teeth thoroughly, two minutes at a time, twice a day. Many people with manual toothbrushes don’t do this. Studies have shown that properly used manual toothbrushes are just as good as electric toothbrushes at preventing decay, but many people have disabilities that prevent them from brushing well or for some reason simply are not good at it. An electric toothbrush can make tens of thousands of brush strokes per minute, allowing it to clean more thoroughly if used in the right places.

Recent models of electric toothbrushes are often equipped with Bluetooth technology that allows them to supply data to apps. People can monitor whether their brushing technique is improving or whether they’re brushing too hard, and children can play games that reward them for thoroughness. These features obviously increase the electric toothbrush’s price, which is often the main drawback to getting one. Our hygienists can show patients how to avoid decay by using a traditional toothbrush, but if the patient has a dexterity issue or a history of decay despite trying to prevent it, an electric toothbrush could be a good investment.

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

 

A Healthy Holiday Smile

It’s difficult to keep habits healthy during the holidays, especially when it comes to nutrition. Holiday platters can be loaded with candy, cookies, and other treats that can harm your teeth. These sticky foods can cling to enamel, causing tooth decay and can even cause a filling to fall out. Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care is here to help you make wiser choices this holiday season.

When attending or hosting a holiday party, aim for treats that are healthy for your teeth. These include fruits and vegetables that have high water content, such as carrots, celery, and apples, because these stimulate saliva flow that fights against decay. Assorted cheeses are great for teeth because cheese contains calcium that protects and strengthen enamel. When struggling to make the right snack decision, avoid sugars at all costs and don’t forget, when you’re done eating, to brush and floss.

If you have questions or concerns regarding oral-systemic health, 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. 

Periodontal Maintenance

In its most advanced stages, gum disease can lead to gum recession, and even tooth loss.  Fresh Meadows Dental Care wants to make sure it never gets to that point for you and your family!  When plaque builds up on a tooth, the gum starts to pull away from the tooth and form a pocket around the buildup, which only leads to more gum recession.  A scaling and root planing procedure is used to treat this buildup and prevent the later stages of gum disease.

Scaling and root planning are two parts of a deep cleaning procedure your dentist can perform to help reverse the progress of gum disease.  The procedure beings with scaling, which is the process of the dentist removing plaque from the surface of the teeth, all the way down to the gums. Root planing is the term for any minor contouring to smooth the surface of a tooth near the root.  When plaque has been removed and the tooth root has been smoothed, the gums that have pulled away will have a clean, smooth surface to reattach to as they heal.

To learn more about deep periodontal cleaning and all the other treatments provided 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.

Smoking With Sleep Apnea

Smoking will exacerbate any respiratory condition, and it is proven to cause snoring and lead to obstructive sleep apnea.  Patients struggling with sleep apnea should visit Fresh Meadows Dental Care for evaluation. We can help patients find relief from sleep apnea, but quitting smoking is up to you!  Smoking causes upper airway inflammation, meaning the swelling causes the airway to narrow and disrupts the flow of air to the nasal passage and throat.  This causes snoring and obstructive sleep apnea.  Cigarettes are highly addictive, and some smokers seek treatment for sleep apnea but continue to smoke. Smoking with sleep apnea not only puts more stress on the heart every day, but negates any treatment a sleep apnea patient is undergoing.

Habitual smokers may feel relaxed by one last cigarette for the day, but it actually creates more complications for restful sleep. Smokers can experience nicotine withdrawal overnight, causing more waking up and restlessness.  Quitting smoking cold turkey is very difficult, but even lessening the amount of cigarettes or avoiding smoking at nighttime can help you achieve more restful sleep.  Most smokers cannot quit on their own or on their first attempt, so don’t get discouraged!

To learn more about sleep apnea and the treatments provided at the 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.

A Whiter Smile is a Healthier Smile

Keeping teeth white is not an easy task. With all of the food and beverages that stain teeth on a daily basis, it is much easier to neglect them, leaving them lusterless. Teeth whitening is a marvelous way to restore the natural color of your teeth or if preferred, even make them whiter than your natural color.  To accomplish this, Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care offers a tray whitening system that is completed in two steps.

To accomplish the whitening of your teeth, Dr. Hakimzadeh utilizes this tray whitening system in two steps. The first step is to make an impression of your teeth. With this impression, he will craft you custom whitening trays that can be used repeatedly. Finally, you will take the whitening gel home with you and self-administer the gel for a short period of time over a period of a few days. This often results in a white smile of four to eight shades.

If you have questions or concerns regarding cosmetic dentistry, 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. 

Halloween Candy and Your Teeth

Chocolate, sour candies, bubble gum and more are just some of the few Halloween candy staples. It’s no secret that they’ll satisfy any sweet tooth, but this may come at a price. Sugary candy, acids, and carbohydrates are common Halloween snacks, but they are also common causes of cavities. Before going trick-or-treating, Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care recommends visiting the dentist before, or after, to ensure that your teeth and gums are in good health.

Sticky candy is detrimental to teeth because when it sticks to the enamel and isn’t brushed away it will attack the teeth and gums and cause sensitivity and possibly periodontal disease. Hard candies have been known to chip teeth and too much candy may activate the tooth decay process and cause a cavity. Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh encourages patients to monitor their candy intake this Halloween season and most importantly, be safe!

If you have questions or concerns regarding dental health and oral hygiene, 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. 

National Dental Hygiene Month

Do you brush and floss every day? We sure hope so, but not everybody knows exactly how to maintain the best possible oral hygiene routine. Since October is National Dental Hygiene Month, we at Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Flushing thought it would be a good time to go over the basics.

You should only brush your teeth with soft-bristled toothbrushes and toothpaste. People should brush their teeth twice a day (and brush their gums before putting in dentures) and brush for two minutes each time. When brushing the fronts of your teeth, you can do so horizontally, but you should brush their inward-facing sides vertically. We recommend flossing daily, and you should only ever use an American Dental Association-approved product for picking your teeth. When flossing, rub the side of each tooth down to the gum line; don’t just move the floss through the gaps between your teeth. Be sure not to miss the backs of your teeth.

Brushing and flossing aren’t the only parts of good hygiene. Daily use of a tongue scraper can help keep your breath sweet and prevent you from inhaling bad bacteria. Between brushings, you can also chew sugar-free gum to get rid of food debris.

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

 

Cirrhosis and Gum Disease

Improving your oral hygiene can improve your life in other areas, as well. At Fresh Meadows Dental Care, we firmly believe that dental health is a crucial component of overall health, and science backs us up. A new study found that improving gum health reduced the harm of cirrhosis.

Cirrhosis is what occurs when the liver is unable to function properly because prolonged inflammation has caused it to scar. As a result, inflammation becomes prevalent throughout the body and the brain is exposed to toxic substances that impede cognitive function. Scientists have long been aware that cirrhosis and gum disease are common in the same people, since both are caused by smoking and alcohol. But people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease also have higher than average rates of gum disease.

Researchers were interested in whether a reduction in one disease would affect the other. The recently published study found that people with cirrhosis who underwent treatment for periodontal disease had improved cognition and produced more of a bacterium that decreases inflammation compared to people who remained untreated. We don’t fully understand yet what the connection is, but we hope more people will understand that a professional tooth cleaning may be just the thing to make them feel better.

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

 

Restorative Dentistry

Restorative dentistry is similar to cosmetic dentistry in the sense that they both are designed to improve the overall appearance and function of a patient’s smile. The difference is that restorative dentistry involves the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of oral diseases. Restorative dental services that Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care include dental implants, dental crowns, dental bridges, and dentures.

The goal of restorative dentistry is to preserve natural teeth as much as possible. If you are missing teeth, Dr. Hakimzadeh can replace them with dental implants, a dental bridge, or dentures. Filling these empty spaces in the mouth will prevent dental diseases from damaging remaining teeth. Depending on the nature of the problem, and the patient’s wants and needs, Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh will help you choose which restorative option is best for you.

If you have questions or concerns regarding restorative dentistry, 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.

 

Cosmetic Dentistry

No smile is absolutely perfect. Chances are, there may be something that you wish to improve. Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care offers a variety of cosmetic dental services to replace missing teeth, whiten them if they are a little lackluster, or veneers if your teeth are looking worn down. The goal of cosmetic dentistry is to enhance the aesthetics of your smile while improving its natural function.

Cosmetic dentistry is designed to improve your smile as a whole. Common cosmetic procedures include teeth whitening, dental veneers, or composite bonding. The mission of Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh is to help patients maintain their oral health and keep a healthy smile for a lifetime. During a consultation, you and the doctor will discuss your smile goals and how to proceed with the cosmetic procedure that is right for you.

If you have questions or concerns regarding cosmetic dentistry, 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.

 

Makeover Your Smile With Veneers

At Fresh Meadows Dental Care, patients are always asking our doctors about the latest cosmetic solutions for their teeth.  Some fixes are recommended just to repair damage or just to whiten, but veneers are the best way to give your smile a total makeover. Veneers are thin ceramic shells that bond directly to the surface of your teeth.  This gives you the opportunity to completely change the appearance of your smile and still look natural. 

Patients with cosmetic issues like staining, cracked or chipped teeth, and even crooked teeth and small gaps can achieve a dazzling smile with veneers. We can make this happen in two to three visits!  First, your dentist will discuss the shape and look you want for your new smile.  Then an impression of your teeth is taken in order to custom fit the final product to the surfaces of your teeth.  The impression is sent to a dental laboratory where your custom veneers will be fabricated, which may take up to two weeks.  On your final visit, the veneers are bonded to your teeth for you to wear and enjoy!

To learn more about veneers and all the services available 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.

Pediatric Dentistry

Fresh Meadows Dental Care is proud to serve the families from our community, and we want them to know it’s just as important for children to have regular dental visits.  A child’s first dental visit should be scheduled when the first baby tooth appears, or around the child’s first birthday.  Baby teeth eventually come out, but their growth and development is important for overall oral health for the child and the development of their adult teeth. Baby teeth should be brushed and cared for like adult teeth, and it’s important to monitor their growth and development. 

Missing any tooth for too long can change the development of surrounding teeth and compromise the structure of the jaw bone, but regular checkups can keep a child’s tooth development right on track.  Our dentists are skilled and experienced in administering dental care to children.  If your child has seems nervous about seeing a dentist for the first time, we recommend going through a brushing routine with them at home, and talking about the dental visit before you arrive.  Once we get your child’s oral health off to a great start, we offer a full range of services for child patients including dental cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sealants.

We love to see good oral hygiene habits formed early, and make lifetime patients out of kids from our community!  To learn more about the services we offer, 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.

Adult Orthodontic Options

Let’s just say that you had braces as a kid and you may not have followed the proper aftercare, such as wearing a retainer. This has likely caused your teeth to shift and now as an adult, you are regretting your lack of commitment. Fortunately, Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care offers orthodontic options like Invisalign that allow you to straighten your teeth discreetly.

Teeth shift as you get older and some people’s teeth shift more than others. If you’ve received orthodontic treatment in the past and didn’t wear your retainer for the recommended amount of time, your teeth will shift and return to their natural position. Other adults get braces because they’ve always had crooked or crowded teeth, overbites, and underbites or incorrect jaw position. It’s never too late to get an education and it’s never too late to straighten your smile. To discuss orthodontic options, schedule a consultation today.

If you have questions or concerns regarding orthodontic 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. 

Post-Operative Care

Taking it easy after oral surgery is important for a smooth recovery process. Recovery should always be your number one concern after having wisdom teeth removed, dental implants placed, or a simple tooth extraction. After Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care performs oral surgery on you, you will receive post-operative instructions to prevent any risk of infection or trauma to the surgical site.

Once you return home after the surgery you should rest, but do not lie flat. This could prolong the bleeding. Dr. Hakimzadeh will prescribe you pain medication, as well as a cleaning solution for the extraction site, so if you become sore take as directed. It’s important to limit yourself to soft foods such as gelatin, pudding, yogurt, mashed potatoes, etc. so that the stitches are not punctured. When drinking, make sure you do not use a straw, because the sucking motion can loosen your sutures and slow the clotting process. If bleeding continues for longer than 24 hours you should call our office immediately.

If you have questions or concerns regarding post-operative care, 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. 

Designs of Dental Bridges

Bridges are among the many options we offer patients with broken or missing teeth at Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Flushing. These prosthetics replace the crowns of multiple teeth and can be customized to fit a variety of situations.

A traditional pontic bridge rested on two reshaped natural teeth as its bases and contained a third crown suspended between them. This shape helps to guard against the teeth shifting position and allows the patient to retain the natural roots of two of their teeth, which maintains the density of the jaw bone. Dentists usually prefer to use this type of prosthetic when the supporting teeth need to be reshaped and given new crowns, anyway. The patient will wear a temporary bridge over their reshaped teeth while the permanent bridge is made in a laboratory.

In modern times, it is possible to make bridges that skirt healthy teeth. These can be removable dentures or permanent structures supported by implants. Dentists shape the base of bridges to allow easy oral hygiene, which our hygienists will demonstrate.

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

 

Rheumatoid Arthritis and Gum Disease

If you have rheumatoid arthritis (RA), you are at increased risk for gum disease. We provide compassionate, up-to-date care at the Flushing dental office of Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh. If you suffer from frequent gingivitis, we want you to be aware of the possible causes.

While 35% of the general population has gum disease, it is twice as common in people with RA. That statistic comes from a Johns Hopkins study that found RA is common even in people who are not yet experiencing difficulty moving their hands and are still maintaining good oral hygiene. Other studies have looked for a common pathway between RA and gum disease, and have found similarities between gum tissue and synovium. RA is an autoimmune disease, meaning the body is under attack from its own immune system. Synovium is joint lining, and as the body attacks it, it swells, resulting in joint pain.

Nobody knows why RA develops, but it seems to be a combination of genetics and environmental or behavioral triggers, such as smoking. Researchers are not attempting to determine whether gum disease can trigger RA, or if improving oral hygiene can reduce RA symptoms. Regardless, it is clear that people with RA need additional oral hygiene support.

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

 

Seal Out Cavities with Dental Sealant

Plaque is constantly forming in our mouths from the food that we eat and when it lingers in the grooves of the molars it can lead to cavities. A dental sealant is a thin, plastic coating that is painted on the chewing surfaces of teeth – usually the back molars – to prevent tooth decay. At Fresh Meadows Dental Care, Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh can apply sealants in just one appointment that can last up to 10 years.

Brushing and flossing may remove plaque from the teeth, but sometimes extra measures need to be taken. Dental sealants add extra protection to vulnerable areas of the teeth that are prone to decay. When bacteria become trapped in these areas, cavities will develop. A dental sealant is a safe and effective way to stop them in their tracks. Don’t hesitate to ask about dental sealants during your child’s next checkup.  Though children are primary candidates for dental sealant, adults are able to receive them as well.

If you have questions or concerns regarding pediatric dental services, 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 Implant Surgery

Missing teeth can have an impact on one’s self-esteem, the way they look, the way they chew, and the way that they speak. To replace them, Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care offers dental implants to restore the aesthetics of one’s smile as well as improve the overall function. Dental implants are replacement tooth roots that are surgically positioned into the jawbone.

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.

If you have questions or concerns regarding dental implants or restorative services, 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. 

Sleep Apnea and Car Crashes

Sleep deprivation isn’t just a direct threat to a person’s health; it also makes normal activities riskier. At Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Flushing, we provide patients with oral appliances that can ease bruxism and obstructive sleep apnea (OAS). This is an especially important treatment option in light of new research linking OAS with car crashes.

People with OAS are not always aware that their quality of sleep is suffering. They may wake up with jaw pain as a result of their jaws moving forward in an attempt to keep their airways open, and they may snore, but they may not be taken fully out of sleep several times per night. However, the new research found that people with mild OAS are 13% likelier to cause a car accident and that people with severe OAS are 123% likelier. Worse, once people are sleep deprived, they have difficulty determining whether their impairment is mild or severe.

Custom-fitted oral appliances that ease bruxism reduce one source of a patient’s sleep disruption. People with sleep apnea can drive safely if they are undergoing treatment, which is why patients should help their dentists and sleep doctors to work together.

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

 

Osteonecrosis of the Jaw

Patients at Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Flushing benefit from Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh’s experience performing oral surgery. Dental extractions are never done lightly, but are routine and seldom cause complications. However, if patients are undergoing treatment for cancer, they should be aware of how to prevent osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ).

When teeth are extracted, a bit of bone is exposed at the bottom of the socket. Normally, the socket closes after a few days. But in people taking bisphosphonate medications, there is a chance the bone will die and decay if exposed to air. Bisphosphonates are anti-bone resorption drugs that people with osteoporosis or osteopenia take orally and that people undergoing chemotherapy take intravenously. While ONJ is very rare, when it is seen, it is almost always in people taking the stronger IV bisphosphonate doses.

ONJ can be treated with antibiotic rinses. But it is best avoided by keeping dentists and oncologists on the same page. If a person has been diagnosed with cancer or osteoporosis, it is better for them to undergo any necessary extractions before beginning bisphosphonate treatment. If they have already started, it may be better for them to get dental treatments that don’t require extractions.

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

 

Oral-Systemic Health

There is a significant link between a person’s oral health and his or her systemic health. Your mouth is an environment that harbors a lot of bacteria. To keep these bacteria from entering the body, brushing teeth for at least two minutes twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and maintaining a vigilante oral care routine is important for preventing dental diseases and maintaining a healthy immune system. Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care can assist you with this process.

Let’s put it this way. The fewer teeth you have, the poorer your quality of life will be. Missing teeth can make it difficult to eat, speaking, chewing, and swallowing. Teeth may be missing due to trauma, but likely fall out due to a non-existent oral care routine. If you don’t brush and floss on a daily basis, you may develop a periodontal disease or dry mouth. By keeping your mouth clean, you are keeping your body in a healthy state.

If you have questions or concerns regarding dental health and oral hygiene, 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. 

Smoking and Oral Health

The effects that smoking has on teeth and the oral cavity are vital pieces of information to prevent dental diseases and oral cancers. Over time, smoking can hinder the immune system from fighting off infection, cause a person to develop periodontal disease, and eventually lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Smoking can lead to tooth decay, tooth stains, bad breath, and other detrimental issues. Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care can help improve your oral health.

People who smoke are more likely to produce bacterial plaque, which leads to gum disease. The gums are affected because smoking causes a lack of oxygen in the bloodstream, so the infected gums don’t heal. Smoking causes people to have more dental plaque and causes gum to disease to get worse more quickly in non-smoking. Naturally, the best solution to this problem is to quit smoking, but when you can’t quit cold turkey, Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care can offer a variety of options to esthetically enhance and restore your smile.

If you have questions or concerns regarding dental health and oral hygiene, 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. 

Crowns Restore Smiles

At Fresh Meadows Dental Care our dentists place crowns to restore patient smiles.  Crowns are a common restorative option for teeth with cracks, chips or a significant amount of decay. The routine and non-invasive procedure can save a tooth before it reaches the point of needing to be extracted or replaced with an implant. 

Fitting a patient with a new crown can be completed in as little as two visits. This process begins with preparing the tooth by removing any decay begins by removing any decay from the damaged tooth.  A crown fits over the tooth like a little cap, and to ensure a great fit for the crown, your dentist may need to contour the tooth that remains.  When the tooth has been prepared, an impression of the mouth is taken and sent to a dental laboratory for the custom product to be fabricated.  We can provide a temporary crown to wear while your new crown is being made.  Once your custom crown is made, the crown will be cemented into place by your dentist at a second appointment. 

To learn more about crowns 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 Guards for Sports

If you and your family are getting active in sports this season, Fresh Meadows Dental Care can provide you with an important piece of safety equipment.  Athletes participating in any contact sport should 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.

Sporting goods stores carry mouth guards, but they are generic in form and size.  These mouth guards often end up feeling bulky and uncomfortable, leading to child and teenage athletes in particular not wearing the protection at all.  A very ill-fitting mouth guard can even interrupt breathing and speaking. Custom mouth guards can be fit over braces and won’t interrupt normal activity, so visit Hallmark Dental for a custom mouth guard fitting.  Get a mouth guard made of thin, hard plastic that protects your teeth and still fits comfortably.  This is an easy precaution to take to protect your mouth, and you can go right back to playing your best!

To learn more about custom mouth guards and all the services we offer, 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.

Handling a Dental Emergency

Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care understands that accidents happen. Whether you experience a dental injury from a clumsy fall or from participating in a sport, knowing what to do will mean all the difference in saving or losing a tooth. If you experience a dental trauma of any kind, please contact our office immediately, In the meantime, here are some tips for handling common dental emergencies.

• For a knocked-out permanent or adult tooth, keep it moist at all times. If you can, try placing the tooth back in the socket without touching the root. If that’s not possible, place it between your cheek and gums, or use a tooth preservation product that has the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of acceptance.


• For a cracked tooth, immediately rinse the mouth with warm water to clean the area.


• If you bite your tongue or lip, clean the area gently with water and apply a cold compress.


• For toothaches, rinse the mouth with warm water to clean it out. Gently use dental floss to remove any food caught between teeth.

If you have questions or concerns regarding a dental emergency, 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. 

Swollen Gums

When gums become tender and inflamed, they can cause a massive amount of discomfort to the patient. At Fresh Meadows Dental Care, Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh can teach you the proper tools and techniques to treat your gums with care and give them the attention that they need and deserve. Depending on the severity of your gum inflammation, you may be suffering from a form of periodontal disease.

Healthy gums are firm and a pale pink, if yours are any other color, you may be suffering from periodontal disease. To avoid periodontal disease, it’s best to visit Dr. Hakimzadeh twice a year for professional cleanings, to maintain optimal oral health. After all, your gums need just as much attention, if not more, than your tooth enamel. If periodontal disease isn’t the cause of your tender gums, review your oral care habits and make sure that you aren’t brushing too hard. Aggressive brushing can make gums extra sensitive.

If you have questions or concerns regarding periodontal disease, please give us a call. To learn about 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 Sectioning

When people need to have teeth removed, they can count on Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care to do it safely and efficiently. Although nothing beats a natural tooth, simple extractions are routine procedures and often the best option for overall health. But there are some situations, such as when a large tooth is impacted, in which a simple extraction is not possible and the tooth must be sectioned.

Wisdom teeth have to be removed if they are trapped under the gum line or other teeth. When this happens, a flap is often cut into the gum through which the tooth may be moved. However, wisdom teeth are often firmly anchored into the jaw by thick ligaments and pulling on them or attempting to push them with a lever may tear surrounding soft tissues. Sometimes the wisdom teeth are also impacted in places perilously close to major nerves, making a lighter touch necessary.

The solution is to use a dental drill to cut the tooth into sections. This is only done after the patient has been numbed and sedated. The surgical site is kept under cool water so the drill’s heat does not hurt the patient’s gums. Once the tooth is in sections, individual pieces do not require as much force to move and there is less risk of them breaking accidentally.

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

 

Orthodontics and Root Canals

We’re proficient in providing several kinds of prosthetic teeth at Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Flushing, but nothing compares with a natural tooth. To help communicate why it might be better to save an injured tooth than to replace it, we’re devoting this week’s blog to differences between implants and root canals.

There’s no doubt that implants are beneficial. Not only do they anchor a prosthetic tooth, they also stimulate the growth of new material in the jaw bone, which stabilizes other teeth and the shape of the patient’s face. But because they are integrated into the jawbone, they cannot be moved with orthodontic therapy. If an implant is mobile at all, it has failed to integrate and needs to be removed for the patient’s safety before chronic inflammation sets in. In contrast, a tooth that has undergone a root canal may still be moved through orthodontic therapy, such as with the Invisalign series of aligners we offer at our office. This can be preferable if a tooth was knocked out of place but was not cracked at the root (as this would require extraction). A root canal would still be done to remove the risk of infection and a new crown may be necessary, but if the patient needed fixed braces, orthodontic brackets may be safely cemented to artificial crowns.

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

 

Nitrous Oxide

If you suffer from dental anxiety or wish to take the edge off during a dental procedure, nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is a safe and effective sedative agent that can alleviate the stress of a dental visit. Once Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care gives you the green light for nitrous oxide sedation, this sedative agent is mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a small mask that fits over your nose.

Receiving nitrous oxide as a form of sedation is the only type that allows you to drive yourself home after the procedure. It is not intended to put you to sleep, and you will be able to hear and respond to any requests or directions the dentist may have. Overall, you may feel light-headed or a tingling sensation in your arms and legs, but the effects of nitrous oxide will wear off soon after the mask is removed.

If you have questions or concerns regarding dental anxiety or sedation options, please give us a call. To learn about 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.

Causes of Gap Teeth

Whether they’re causing you to whistle when you speak or just making you self-conscious, gap teeth can be a problem. At Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, we provide a few different treatment options and can help you to better understand why this condition develops.

Most often the reason for a gap (or diastema) is simply that the teeth aren’t large enough to fill in the dental ridge. The quickest way to fix this is with veneers. After slightly reshaping the teeth, we can mill porcelain shells for them that are a slightly different size or shape, allowing us to fill in the gap while also covering up stains and chips on the front of the teeth. A more involved process is the use of Invisalign orthodontic therapy to move the teeth closer together. This is a popular treatment option when the gap isn’t the only issue with how the teeth are aligned. Following this, patients will have to wear a retainer to prevent relapse.

Another possible cause for a gap is a large labial frenum. This means that the strip of tissue inside the upper lip which connects it with the jaw is too large and must be surgically reduced to create more space. Other possibilities include tongue thrusting and thumb sucking, which put pressure on the teeth and can cause an overbite as well as a gap.

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 Fresh Meadows Dental and fill out a contact form.

 

HPV and Oral Cancer

April is the Oral Cancer Foundation’s awareness month. At Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, we want to use this as an opportunity to educate patients about a particular kind of oral cancer that they must be vigilant against: that caused by HPV.

The oral cancer screening devices in our office help us to detect suspicious tissues in the oral cavity, which might be due to cancer caused by smoking or use of alcohol. Unfortunately, cancer caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) is not so easy to detect. It usually occurs in the oropharynx, which is the region at the back of the mouth encompassing the tonsils and base of the tongue. Furthermore, of the hundreds of HPV strains, only one is known to cause oral cancer, and it has to remain in the body for an unusually long time to pose a threat.

In the absence of a direct test, we’ll need patients to disclose to us whether they’ve recently experienced persistent pain or numbness in their mouths or throats or whether they’ve had difficulty swallowing. We’ll also search for discoloration in the mouth. Unilateral ear aches and lumps on the neck may also be oral cancer-related, so don’t be shy about sharing any concerns you have about these with your dentist.

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 Fresh Meadows Dental and fill out a contact form.

 

Toothbrush Abrasion

If you’ve ever heard that too much of a good thing can be bad for you, the same applies when brushing your teeth. Over-brushing, or brushing too aggressively, can cause sensitive gums, and abrasion to your tooth’s dentin. This can cause receded gums, periodontal disease, cavities, and may lead to the need for treatments such as root canal or tooth extraction down the line. To avoid toothbrush abrasion, Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care suggests utilizing these tips.

When brushing your teeth, it matters how hard you scrub – because brushing too hard can cause tooth or gum damage. You may be surprised, but those who fall victim to over-brushing the teeth are usually those who are particularly diligent about their oral care routine. Brushing vigorously isn’t necessary to remove plaque. Brush the teeth gently, and thoroughly, for at least two minutes.

If you have questions or concerns regarding dental health and oral hygiene, please give us a call. To learn about 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

Patients at Fresh Meadows Dental Care are always looking for new cosmetic solutions, and Snap-On Smile is one way we can help you obtain a total smile makeover. If you want to change the look of your teeth without undergoing a single dental procedure, Snap-On Smile is the solution you’ve been looking for!  Snap-On Smile is a great option for anyone with small 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. Ask us about options for a temporary to smile while the final product is being fabricated.  A Snap-On Smile is made of dental resin that is thin, but very strong.  The result is a wearable smile that fits right over your own teeth and looks like natural teeth.  Snap-On Smiles can be made for both upper and lower teeth, and you can eat and drink with a Snap-on Smile on.  In about three weeks, you’ll 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 the 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.

Losing the First Tooth

If your kid is turning into a big kid, losing the first baby tooth is on the horizon.  It’s an exciting sign of growing up, but many kids still feel anxious or uncomfortable dealing with the unfamiliar sensation of a loose tooth.  Fresh Meadows Dental Care wants kids and parents to be prepared and understand why this pain occurs so your child can still have a positive tooth loss experience.

Before a baby tooth is lost, it begins to break free of its nerve endings.  This is the natural process that makes the tooth feel loose and wobbly at the gums, and the area will become swollen and red.  It can be painful, and for kids a great way to soothe tooth pain is applying a cold compress to the outside of the mouth in the affected area.  Children may complain that they find it hard to bite or chew with loose or missing teeth.  It’s still important to keep eating healthy while they grow new teeth so encourage soup, pureed fruits, and cooked vegetables.  A few tales of the tooth fairy can usually ease a little pain, too!

To learn more about tooth loss 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 Abscess Causes and Treatment

Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care hopes that patients never endure a dental abscess, but if they do, it’s best to be informed so that you can seek treatment immediately. A dental abscess is an infection of the mouth that begins as a tooth infection but has the ability to spread to the rest of the oral cavity. A dental abscess can form from a deep cavity, a pocket in the gum caused by periodontal disease, trauma, or a previous dental appointment. Whatever the cause, we can help get the problem under control.

An abscess is a pocket of pus that in this case would appear around the tooth. Dental abscesses have no age limit and can occur in pediatric patients as well as the elderly. If you have a dental abscess, it’s important to know that it will not go away on its own. If you notice gums that are swollen, tender, or causing you pain when you chew, seek treatment immediately to prevent the abscess from getting worse.

If you have questions or concerns regarding a dental abscess, please give us a call. To learn about 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.

Dangers of Dental Plaque

There’s a reason that Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh tells you to diligently brush and floss your teeth and that is to avoid the dangers of dental plaque. Dental plaque is a sticky biofilm that begins to layer after consuming carbohydrates. If you are reading this, take your fingernail and gently scrape the surface of your tooth. If there is a sticky substance underneath, it’s time to get to the sink and start brushing.

When plaque isn’t removed by adequate brushing and flossing, it will linger on the teeth, around the gums, and cause them to become inflamed. Plaque is the leading cause of gingivitis because the lack of oral care will cause the gums to become sensitive and tender. Plaque is constantly forming on the teeth which is why it’s important to brush at least twice a day for two minutes and floss at least once a day to remove the particles left behind.

If you have questions or concerns regarding dental health and oral hygiene, please give us a call. To learn about 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.

Acid Reflux and Sleep Apnea

Acid reflux or GERD is a common problem for patients at Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens. As part of our mission to help improve patients’ quality of life, we recognize that many of the conditions we treat are closely related to other health issues and that GERD has been linked to sleep apnea. Therefore, we wanted to help patients to understand how to protect themselves and what we can do to help them.

The discomfort from acid eroding tooth enamel may cause people to clench or grind their teeth at night. This would cause pain in their shoulder muscles and headaches. But nighttime teeth grinding (bruxism) is also common in people who have obstructive sleep apnea and whose bodies are attempting to keep airways open. It may be that the acid itself is obstructing the airways as it travels up the esophagus and into the mouth. But in any case, bruxism is likely to cause patients to be pulled out of deep sleep on a regular basis.

Acid reflux and obstructive sleep apnea are both common in people who are overweight. Some contributors to acid reflux, in particular, are fried meats, dairy, foods from the garlic and onion family, alcohol, and citrus acid. Recent studies have found that CPAP machines, which are used to treat sleep apnea, are also effective against acid reflux.

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 Fresh Meadows Dental and fill out a contact form.

 

Reasons for Filling Failure

At Fresh Meadows Dental Care in Oakland Gardens, as part of our mission to provide patients with the best possible service, we are always up-to-date on the latest research. Recently, a new study was released on the subject of early filling failure. We hope this information will let patients determine if they are at risk.

Fillings naturally last for about ten years, but this study gathered data on people whose fillings failed within two years. Smoking and alcohol use are known to contribute to many dental health problems, and the study found that men who smoked and people of both sexes who drank experienced premature filling failure at higher rates. Researchers were surprised that failure rates also ran in families and speculated that genetics may be the cause, so people whose family members have experienced filling failures should make sure to have their fillings regularly assessed.

Early filling failure is uncommon, and as long as patients keep up their oral hygiene, they shouldn’t have to worry too much. The study also examined whether the fillings’ construction materials were a factor, but found that white resin fillings work just as well as amalgam ones. This is good news for everyone who prefers the aesthetic of fillings that are naturally colored.

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 Fresh Meadows Dental and fill out a contact form.

 

Scaling and Root Planing

In its most advanced stages, gum disease can lead to gum recession and even tooth loss.  Fresh Meadows Dental Care wants to make sure it never gets to that point for you and your family!  When plaque builds up on a tooth, the gum starts to pull away from the tooth and form a pocket around the buildup, which only leads to more gum recession.  A scaling and root planing procedure is used to treat this buildup and prevent the later stages of gum disease.

Scaling and root planning are two parts of a deep cleaning procedure your dentist can perform to help reverse the progress of gum disease.  The procedure beings with scaling, which is the process of the dentist removing plaque from the surface of the teeth, all the way down to the gums. Root planing is the term for any minor contouring to smooth the surface of a tooth near the root.  When plaque has been removed and the tooth root has been smoothed, the gums that have pulled away will have a clean, smooth surface to reattach to as they heal.

To learn more about scaling, root planing, 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.

Oral Cancer Screenings

Fresh Meadows Dental Care takes pride in serving the families from our community.  We want your smiles to look great, but we also screen for oral cancer and it is important that you and your family are aware of oral cancer and how to prevent it.  Oral cancer screening may not be the most common reason you’ve visited a dentist, but regular screenings are the best way to protect yourself.

Heavy smoking and drinking do increase the risk of oral cancer, but oral cancer can still occur if someone never smokes.  The human papilloma virus (HPV) was recently found to be responsible for most oral cancers that originated in the back of the mouth.  Because there is no way to predict cancer, you should ask about an oral cancer screening with each dental checkup.  Your dentist will conduct a visual exam, and may use an ultraviolet light to see any irregularities inside the mouth. Always contact us if you notice any inexplicable pain, swelling, or numbness in your throat or jaw.

To learn more about oral cancer screenings 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.

Nigh Guards For Bruxism

Bruxism is regular teeth grinding or clenching of the jaw. Stress can intensify bruxism, but it is most often caused by an abnormal bite or crooked teeth.  Some teeth grinders consciously grind their teeth and clench their jaw, but some only do so while asleep and may not even realize it.  Fresh Meadows Dental Care offers custom night guards to help patients overcome the negative effects of bruxism.

Waking up with a dull headache or experiencing pain and stiffness in your jaw are signs you may be grinding your teeth overnight, and shouldn’t be ignored.  Patients who continually grind their teeth often end up needing crowns, bridges, root canals and implants. In severe cases tooth loss can occur, and partial or complete dentures may be needed. Having a custom night guard made is a simple step that will help prevent so many issues for teeth grinders.

Night guards look similar to mouth guards worn by athletes, but serve a different purpose. A dentist uses an impression of your teeth to ensure a custom fit, and the night guard is manufactured in a dental lab. Wearing a custom night guard protects the surface of the teeth, and also properly aligns the jaw to improve breathing and sleep. If you think you a custom night guard could help you, please contact us.

To learn more about night 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.

Caring for Invisalign

Fresh Meadows Dental Care provides Invisalign for patients with mild to moderate spacing or crowding of the teeth.  Invisalign’s clear aligner system straightens teeth without the metallic look of braces. Another perk of Invisalign clear aligners is that they require less maintenance and won’t prevent you from eating certain foods.  Although you won’t have to make too many changes, there are still guidelines you should follow to wear and care for your aligners!

You should remove Invisalign each time you eat, but if you do eat anything while wearing the aligners make sure to clean them thoroughly afterwards. It is also best to brush and floss your teeth before putting the aligners back in.  Ideally when wearing clear aligners, you would only drink water. Colorful drinks can stain the aligners and too many hot drinks can eventually warp the plastic.  If you do drink anything other than water while wearing the aligners you should rinse them with warm water afterwards. 

Cleaning the clear aligners regularly is important for your teeth and straightening treatment.  Clear aligners can become discolored over time without losing their effectiveness, but the color can show on your own teeth and continue to darken.  Invisalign offers its own brand of cleaning solution, and there are several soaking solutions available over the counter, but brushing the aligners is also a sufficient cleaning option.  Do not use toothpaste to brush the aligners because subtle abrasive properties of toothpaste could harm the aligner.  It is best to use a mild dish soap and a soft bristle brush to clean the aligners each time you brush your teeth.

If you have any more questions about Invisalign, 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 Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is a common name for dentin hypersensitivity or root sensitivity. It is a very common condition that affects almost half of the population. Dentin is one of the four major components of teeth that surrounds the pulp and connects to the dental pulp. When dentin is exposed as a cause of periodontal disease or receded gums, this can cause pain, making it difficult to consume hot and cold beverages. Fortunately, Dr. Farid Hakimzadeh of Fresh Meadows Dental Care has solutions to stop the sensitivity.

Sensitive teeth can be caused by a variety of factors such as poor diet, poor oral hygiene habits, or possibly, a more serious problem. If you don’t have an adequate oral hygiene routine, gingivitis may develop and periodontal disease at any stage can cause tooth sensitivity. If you have sensitive teeth, don’t ignore the problem, schedule a consultation with Dr. Hakimzadeh to rule out serious dental conditions.

If you have questions or concerns regarding tooth sensitivity, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the 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.