Flossing is Essential!
July 14, 2015
A recent study from Bupa, an international health organization, revealed that 81% of Britons believe their smiles are unattractive in photos, and 28% refuse to smile for photos all together. Similar studies conducted in the United States reveal similar findings, and an even higher percentage of people who feel pressured by celebrity photos to perfect their smiles. While our vanity may influence us to want a perfect smile, what we may not realize is the importance of flossing to maintain our oral health and smile radiance, retain gum tissue and bone density, and remove tooth decay causing bacteria. If you need a superior preventive, family dentist, Westfield, NJ call Dr. David M. Weinman to schedule an appointment today. The expert dental hygienists at our practice can help you learn to love flossing, and keep your smile healthy and beautiful for life.
Benefits of Flossing
It’s been six months. Your dental hygiene appointment is in two days, and you haven’t flossed since the last checkup. You don’t want yet another lecture about flossing from your hygienist, so you decide to cram six months of flossing into the next two days. The result? Bleeding, irritated, swollen gums, and a profound distain for the entire subject of flossing. You go to your hygiene appointment, and hear the same refrain, “How often do you floss?” Only now, it’s coupled with, “Your gums seem irritated. That could be a sign of gum disease.” That’s it! You think. Flossing is useless.
Unlike tooth brushing which makes your mouth look, feel, and taste clean right away, flossing’s early effects can be mostly negative. If you don’t floss on a regular basis, your gums will likely become irritated as you remove bacteria that has built up. Many patients report flossing once or twice directly after dental checkups and in the days leading up to their appointment, but rarely flossing at any other time. This inconsistency probably does more harm than good because it leads patients to believe flossing can only be unpleasant.
However, the benefits of regular flossing far outweigh any initial discomfort and irritation. In fact, recent studies showed that flossing not only helped to improve oral health, but the positive effects on oral health improved overall health too. Some benefits of flossing include:
- Significantly reduced bacteria – less cavities and $$$ spent to treat tooth decay
- Reduced Risk for gingivitis and periodontitis – the most commonly sighted benefit is one of the most important since more than ½ of Americans suffer from some form of gum disease
- Improved breath – halitosis or bad breath is often caused by bacteria that could be removed or reduced by flossing keeping your breath fresher longer than brushing alone
- Better overall health – gum disease has been linked to an increased risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory disease and other systematic disease in a recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study
Flossing Tips from your Preventive Dentist, Westfield
Many of the issues associated with flossing stem from irregularity of practice, but there are some things you can do to make flossing more pleasant from the outset. Here are some things you should consider to improve your flossing routine:
- Habit – Just in case you missed it, the most important part of flossing may just be doing it every day even if you’re tired or busy or just don’t want to do it.
- Floss type – Choosing a floss that you like can help make the task more enjoyable. There are numerous types of floss, but we recommend polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) especially for patients new to flossing. PTFE flosses are also called shred free/resistant, and are made from one fiber rather than numerous combined, rope-like fibers in nylon floss.
- Floss right! – A number of patients who are dedicated enough to floss everyday never learn the proper technique. During your next hygiene appointment, ask our hygienists to show you the best way to floss your teeth. Until then, just remember that the whole point of flossing is to remove bacteria between teeth and between teeth and gums. So, if you’re not flossing all the way under the gum line, you’re not flossing. The easiest way to floss is using the “C” method. Gently glide the using a back and forth movement into the spaces on either side of each tooth in a “C” shape. Doing in this around the front and back of each tooth is extremely effective.
Contact Dr. Weinman for Great Westfield Dentistry
We know what you’re thinking right now. That’s it, I’m going to start flossing, and this time I mean it. You may even be in your car on the way to your local pharmacy to stock up on fun flossing equipment. We appreciate the enthusiasm, but encourage you to keep it simple and start slow. Choose a floss you think will be gentle and effective, then set a goal to floss at least 3 or 4 times a week for a month. After the first month, we know your teeth will look and feel better, and you’ll want to change your oral hygiene routine to include daily flossing. If you need a general checkup or want to find out more about flossing, call the office of Dr. Weinman to schedule an appointment today. Our Westfield, NJ office welcomes patients from surrounding areas including Scotch Plains, Fanwood, Cranford, and Mountainside.
In Westfield, Dental Implants are the Expertise of Dr. David Weinman
June 23, 2015
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there are 76.4 million baby boomers. Boomers makeup nearly 25 percent of the U.S. population and these people born between 1946 and 1964 are known for enjoying, well… the finer things in life. And some of those finer things are their own teeth! So, if they should happen to need tooth replacement, then a bridge or denture simply will not do. They will expect a more lifelike alternative and fortunately there is one: dental implants. For Westfield implant dentistry, people in and around the area turn to Dr. David Weinman.
So, now that we know how many baby boomers there are, can we predict how many will need tooth replacement? Research from the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons estimates that approximately 69 percent of adults ages 35 to 44 have lost at least one tooth due to traumatic injury, failure of a root canal, gum disease or severe tooth decay. Those number are made even more significant by the fact that they’re not even baby boomer age! But by the age of 74, we can expect more than 25 percent of adults to lose all of their teeth. In 07090, dental implants are the best tooth replacement option for baby boomers and beyond.
Dental Implants for You
With a dental implant, Dr. Weinman surgically places a small titanium screw in your jawbone just beneath the exposed gum tissue where your tooth is missing. This screw does the job of a natural tooth root. As you heal from surgery, the screw and the surrounding bone tissue fuse together in a process known as osseointegration. The screw becomes firmly set in your jaw and as such forms a solid foundation for your eventual tooth restoration. In addition, the implanted screw stimulates healthy bone growth, an important step in avoiding bone and muscle deterioration that leads to the appearance of a sagging face that often happens to people who are missing teeth.
When you’ve completely healed, you’ll return to our office for Dr. Weinman to attach a custom designed prosthetic. Whether your tooth restoration is a single crown or a specially created bridge or denture that is secured in place by your new dental implant, you will be able to smile, eat and speak with confidence.
Call Our Office Today
To learn more about how dental implants can restore your smile, schedule a consultation with Dr. Weinman in Westfield, NJ. We also extend service to our neighbors in Scotch Plains, Fanwood, Cranford, Mountainside and surrounding areas. Dr. Weinman and our team look forward to meeting you and making you smile.
Protect Your Family from the Threat of Oral Cancer with Preventive Dentistry in Westfield, NJ
April 14, 2014
According to The Oral Cancer Foundation, approximately 43,250 Americans will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year. This common disease has been known to lead to an estimated 8,000 deaths annually, but that number is gradually – and thankfully – diminishing. This decrease in the number of casualties is due in large part to increased awareness and routine oral cancer screenings like those performed at the Westfield, NJ dental practice of Dr. David M. Weinman.
Oral Cancer Screening: How Important is It?
As with any other type of cancer or serious illness, oral cancer is most successfully treated when it is diagnosed in its earliest stages. Routine screenings at our office allow Dr. Weinman to detect the early signs of oral cancer before they become visible to the naked eye.
Though there is no substitute for oral cancer screenings performed by a trained and qualified dental professional, there are some signs and symptoms you can look for at home between visits to our office. Red or white patches, unexplained swelling, tenderness or numbness, and unusual hoarseness are all common symptoms often associated with oral cancer. However, because these problems can also be indicative of other issues, it’s important to contact Dr. Weinman anytime you notice something out of the ordinary.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
If it has been more than six months since you last visited the dentist, it’s time for your routine check-up! At David M. Weinman, DMD in Westfield, NJ, we always make sure that you feel welcome and comfortable, walking you through the steps of your treatment in a way that is always honest and easy to understand. Contact us at our family-friendly practice today to find out more about oral cancer screening and how our team can help protect you and your loved ones. We happily serve patients from throughout Scotch Plains, Cranford, Fanwood, Mountainside, and beyond. We can’t wait to see your beautiful smile!
Keep Your Kids’ Smiles Strong and Healthy with Family Dentistry Services from Dr. Weinman
March 4, 2014
Your child’s smiles are precious expressions of joy and love, a simple yet bright reminder that they are happy and healthy. Keeping your little one’s pearly whites strong and shining now helps set the foundation for a lifetime of excellent oral health. At his family-friendly dental practice in Westfield, NJ, Dr. David M. Weinman specializes in making his youngest patients feel welcome and comfortable as he provides fundamental general and family dentistry services to smiles of all ages.
Children’s Dentistry: A Great Start for a Healthy Future
When it comes to healthy teeth and gums, you know that brushing and flossing regularly help to keep painful, destructive cavities away. Did you know, though, that there’s more to maintaining your child’s smile than these essential at-home oral hygiene routines?
Beginning at around the age of two to three years old, your child should see us for his or her first dental visit. Our caring, compassionate staff will ensure that this is a pleasant experience for all involved, setting the tone for years of happy dental appointments in the future. Dr. Weinman will assess your child’s entire mouth, paying close attention to how the teeth and jaws are developing. We’ll check each and every tooth for the tiniest signs of decay and inspect gingival tissue for early indicators of gum disease. As we always say, prevention is the best cure, particularly in the case of gum disease and cavities.
To keep teeth strong and cavity-free, we may suggest fortifying fluoride treatments and protective dental sealants. If Dr. Weinman and his team do happen to come across any problems during your child’s exam, we’ll talk with you about a personalized treatment plan to address the issue. You’ll always be informed of everything we find as well as provided with information on the best ways to treat your child’s oral health concerns.
We Welcome You and Your Family!
At the office of Dr. Weinman in Westfield, NJ, we believe that every child deserves to enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile. Contact our office today to speak with our highly skilled, caring team and find out what a difference our commitment to quality can make for your little ones. We also happily welcome families from surrounding neighborhoods in the nearby areas of Fanwood, Scotch Plains, Cranford, Mountainside, and beyond.
Get the Radiantly Bright Smile You Deserve with Teeth Whitening in Westfield, NJ
February 12, 2014
As we age, our teeth gradually succumb to the effects of our actions and our environment. Enamel deteriorates and can begin to show signs of yellowing, staining, and other discoloration as early as your mid-20s. If you often find yourself covering your mouth when you laugh or avoid smiling altogether, you’re not alone. Millions of Americans report feeling dissatisfied with the appearance of their teeth. At his office in Westfield, NJ, Dr. David M. Weinman offers professional teeth whitening treatments that restore your smile’s natural beauty and your confidence – all in a way that suits your lifestyle.
How Can Teeth Whitening Help Me?
There are a number of reasons that teeth may become dull, yellow, or otherwise stained, resulting in a lackluster smile that you’re less than pleased to show off. Red wine, tea, coffee, and soft drinks are common culprits, as are tobacco and certain antibiotic medications. Fortunately, modern dental technology allows your local cosmetic dentistry professional to turn back the hands of time with teeth whitening services that fit into your busy schedule. For your convenience and comfort, Dr. Weinman offers two smile brightening options that promise dramatic, lasting results.
The first teeth whitening method – an in-office treatment that takes about an hour to complete – is perfect for patients who want a brighter, more luminescent smile as soon as possible. Have a big job interview next week? What about a graduation, wedding, or class reunion? We welcome you to sit in one of our many comfortable dental chairs and relax while the Boost whitening system lifts years of stains from your teeth.
For patients who’d rather whiten their teeth in the comfort of their own homes, Dr. Weinman offers a convenient solution that can prove just as effective as in-office whitening. With our take-home whitening system, you simply apply the advanced tooth-brightening formula when it’s easiest for you. We’ll customize a set of comfortable, easy-to-use trays that fit your unique dentition, providing exceptional whitening results in as little as two weeks.
Achieve the Beautifully White Smile of Your Dreams
Whether you’ve spent years feeling unhappy with your smile, or you simply want to show off brighter, whiter teeth for an upcoming special occasion, Dr. Weinman and his team can help. Contact our office in Westfield, NJ today to find out how our comprehensive selection of advanced cosmetic dentistry options can help you. Our conveniently located practice also proudly serves patients from surrounding communities in Mountainside, Cranford, Scotch Plains, Fanwood, and beyond. We can’t wait to see your beautiful smile!
Smile Brightly This Holiday Season with Cosmetic Dentistry Services from Dr. Weinman
November 25, 2013
The holiday season is upon us, and that means family get-togethers, parties with coworkers and friends, and more yummy food than you’ll know what to do with. No matter what your plans are, you want to be able to enjoy these merry days worry-free – and that includes any concerns you may be having about the state of your smile. Wouldn’t it be nice to be able to show off a newly polished appearance to the important people in your life over glasses of eggnog and unwrapped gifts? Dr. David Weinman and his staff in Westfield, NJ are here to help you accomplish a true holiday transformation just in time with our wide variety of cosmetic dentistry services.
What services can you offer me?
When it comes to dental treatments, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution – instead we’ll take your personal needs and desires into account before suggesting a cosmetic dentistry procedure that could give you the results you’re looking for!
Do you find it difficult to smile due to unsightly stains or discoloration on your otherwise healthy teeth? This is a frustrating problem that can’t be helped by personal care, so instead, let our team refresh your look with our teeth whitening services! We offer both Zoom! In-Office Whitening and take-home kits in order to accommodate our patients’ varied needs.
Do you often notice small chips or cracks in your enamel whenever you look in the mirror? Dr. Weinman can quickly and effectively treat these areas with cosmetic bonding, restoring a much-needed sense of wholeness to your smile. Alternatively, we offer porcelain veneers for patients who’d like nothing more than to experience a complete do-over on one or more teeth and instead enjoy a dazzling, brand-new look. If you’d like to learn more about the other cosmetic dentistry services we offer, click here!
Contact our Westfield, NJ office today if you’d like to schedule an appointment. The holidays are coming up fast, and Dr. Weinman and his team can’t wait to help you experience a smile that’s happier and healthier than ever before during them. We also serve the areas of Scotch Plains, Fanwood, Cranford, Mountainside, and surrounding areas.
Have You Had A Dental Check-Up Lately?
January 10, 2013
We’re well into the New Year now, a time of new beginnings and resolutions to live better. Maybe you’re interested in taking up a new hobby, or you might just want to spend more quality time with your family. While you’re at it, why not add scheduling a dental cleaning and check-up with Dr. Weinman to the list? At our Westfield, NJ dental office, we’re committed to providing you with effective and comfortable service that will be sure to send you off smiling.
Treat Your Teeth, Save Your Smile
Whether you’re six or sixty, the American Dentistry Association recommends you see your dentist for a check-up at least twice a year. Of course, we understand that things happen – you lead a busy life, after all, and time can get away from you when you have several other responsibilities you’re thinking about. But check-ups and cleanings are still important for your overall health – after all, it’s the only way we can find and correct a variety of dental health problems when they first start.
During your cleaning, a skilled hygienist will check your mouth for any signs of gum disease. Gum disease can be a devastating condition to your teeth, with subtle symptoms that can’t always be noticed by an untrained eye. By undergoing a cleaning, you’re also protecting yourself from its ill effects.
Similarly, when undergoing a check-up, Dr. Weinman will carefully inspect each of your teeth for decay and injury, as well as how previous dental work is holding up. If left untreated, cavities, cracks, and the like can grow into much larger problems – by attending regular check-ups, we can monitor any issues and treat them quickly and effectively, saving you both time and money.
Are you ready to experience excellent, personalized dentistry? Dr. Weinman and his team here in Westfield, NJ want to give you the healthy, happy teeth you deserve. Don’t delay a check-up any longer – call our office today with any questions you may have, or if you’re ready to schedule an appointment. We also gladly serve patients from Westfield, Scotch Plains, Fanwood, Cranford, Mountainside, and beyond.