Tuesday, November 22, 2016

When a Dental Implant Fails

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. In fact, they are one of the most reliable long-term methods of tooth replacement. However, as with any other surgical procedure, there are a variety of internal and external factors that cause complications or even total failure of treatment. If this ever were to happen to you, our doctors at Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center are here to assess the situation.


Osseointegration describes the formation of a direct functional and structural connection between a person’s bone and an artificial implant. There are two primary reasons for “later” implant failure after the osseointegration process has been successful. These include over-stressing implants with too much biting force or inflammatory disease of the gum tissues and/or bone around the implant. Prevention plays a tremendous role in avoiding implant failure. Once the implants are placed, it’s crucial to maintain a good oral hygiene routine. Make sure you schedule regular dental cleanings to help keep the tissues around your implants healthy.


If you have questions about dental implants, please give us a call. For more information about the services we provide at the office, visit www.nicholascosmeticdentalcenter.com. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center in Philadelphia, PA, call 215-279-1193.

Wednesday, November 16, 2016

The Temporomandibular Joint: Explained

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the jaw joint. You have two of them which work together as a pair, one in front of each ear. Without this joint, you would not be able to chew your food, yawn, or even speak. The joints connect the lower jaw bone (mandible) to the temporal bones of the skull on each side of the head. When this joint begins to cause facial pain, headaches, and/or jaw muscle stiffness, our doctors at Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center can develop a treatment plan.


When you open your mouth, the rounded upper ends of the mandible on each side of the jaw glide along the joint socket at the base of the skull. They slide back to their original position when you close your mouth. This joint is unique in the sense that the articular surfaces of the bones never actually come in contact with one another – they are separated by an articular disk. This disk splits the joint into two synovial joint cavities, each lined by a synovial membrane. It is important to keep in mind that occasional clicking or discomfort in the jaw joint or chewing muscles is common, but if you have a serious concern for TMD, you should schedule a consultation with our doctors.


If you have questions about the temporomandibular joint or TMJ/TMD, please give us a call. For more information about the services we provide at the office, visit www.nicholascosmeticdentalcenter.com. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center in Philadelphia, PA, call 215-279-1193.

Tuesday, November 8, 2016

How to Prevent Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is the destruction of your tooth enamel, the hard, outer layer of your teeth. Hundreds of different types of bacteria live on our teeth, gums, tongue and other crevices in the mouth. Some are helpful, but some can be harmful such as those that play a role in the tooth decay process. At Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center, we want our patients to know that good oral and dental hygiene can help you avoid cavities and tooth decay.


When a tooth is exposed to acid frequently – for example, if you frequently eat foods or drinks containing sugar and starches – the repeated cycles of acid attacks cause the enamel to continue to lose minerals. This will cause a white spot to appear if the minerals have been lost. When this happens, this is a sign of early decay.


You can help prevent tooth decay by following these tips:



  • Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.

  • Clean between your teeth daily with floss or an interdental cleaner.

  • Eat nutritious and balanced meals and limit snacking.

  • Visit us at Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center for professional cleanings and oral examination.


If you need assistance maintaining your oral hygiene routine, give us a call. For more information about the services we provide at the office, visit www.nicholascosmeticdentalcenter.com. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center in Philadelphia, PA, call 215-279-1193.

Friday, November 4, 2016

How to Get Kids to Brush Their Tongue

At Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center, it is our goal to provide your child with that winning smile. Teaching kids how to brush and care for their teeth is an important part of overall dental health. While brushing and flossing remove bacteria from teeth and gums, as much as 50% of bacteria live on the surface of our tongue.  When you are teaching your child about what’s involved in good oral care, be sure to remind them that brushing their tongue is just as important as brushing their teeth.


Complete brushing should include brushing all surfaces of the teeth, brushing the tongue and then finishing with flossing. A fun way to teach your child how to brush their tongue is to have them stand in front of the mirror so that he or she can see themselves. Then, ask them to stick out their tongue as far as they can. While their tongue is out for a few seconds, talk about making sure they keep it clean just like they keep their teeth clean. Tell your child that if they don’t clean and brush their tongue when brushing their teeth, they might leave germs behind on their tongue and that this will cause stinky breath.


If you have questions about pediatric oral care, please give us a call. For more information about the services we provide at the office, visit www.nicholascosmeticdentalcenter.com. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center in Philadelphia, PA, call 215-279-1193.