Do Pacifiers Affect Baby Teeth?

It’s one of the hardest habits to break and can require a great deal of persuasion – parents often struggle with weaning their child off a pacifier. Yes pacifiers provide a sense of security and a method of self-relaxation for infants, but the downside of pacifiers is the effect they can have on the growth and development of the teeth and mouth. At Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center we always welcome new patients, including pediatric patients who have yet to wean off of the pacifier.

Prolonged pacifier use can cause changes in the shape of the roof of the mouth, prevent proper growth of the mouth and create problems with tooth alignment. Long-term pacifier use can lead to a variety of complications including tilting in of the bottom teeth and slanting in of the top and front teeth. Narrowing of the roof of the mouth and misalignment of the jaws can also occur. The Academy of General Dentistry recommends that children stop using pacifiers by the age of two. Up until that age, any alignment problem with the teeth or developing bone is usually corrected within six months after pacifier use has stopped.

If you have questions about pacifiers and teeth development, give us a call. To learn more about pediatric services we offer at our practice visit www.nicholascosmeticdentalcenter.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Shireen Malik, or Dr. James Cavalancia at Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center in Philadelphia, PA, call 215-279-1193. 

Why Do My Teeth and Gums Hurt?

At Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center we want you to understand that taking care of your mouth is very important, not only for your teeth and gums, but for your overall health. Neglecting your teeth and gums can make them susceptible to problems such as cavities, gum disease as well as bacterial infections. These problems can also compromise your oral well-being and cause your teeth and gums to hurt.

If your teeth hurt, a cavity could be the culprit. Cavities occur when plaque buildup on your teeth creates tooth decay. Plaque contains harmful acids that eat away at your tooth enamel and create tiny holes. Therefore, if you do not regularly remove plaque deposits from your teeth, your cavities will grow and begin to hurt. If left untreated, lingering plaque deposits can also affect your gums. If not removed daily, plaque hardens into a substance called tartar that can irritate your gums and lead to gum disease.

If you are experiencing pain with your mouth or gums don’t delay, give us a call. To learn more about services we offer at our practice visit www.nicholascosmeticdentalcenter.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Shireen Malik, or Dr. James Cavalancia at Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center in Philadelphia, PA, call 215-279-1193. 

Fruits and Veggies for Fresh Breath

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is a common condition that affects everyone periodically. To eliminate the odor we might catch ourselves chewing a piece of minty gum on the go, or taking a quick swig of mouthwash before we leave the house for a night out.  Here at Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center our dentists know that bad breath can be very embarrassing, but did you know that you can fight it by eating a piece of celery?

Celery fights bad breath because it is rich in fiber which fights Halitosis by breaking down plaque and sulfur compounds.  Therefore, celery is a great thing to eat to help clean your mouth. It is also effective to munch on a carrot or an apple. Snacks that include crispy fresh fruits and vegetables step up your saliva flow between meals to help wash away bacteria from teeth, tongue and gums that can cause bad breath. These snacks can also help alleviate bad breath caused by hunger or fasting.

To learn more about services we offer at our practice visit www.nicholascosmeticdentalcenter.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Shireen Malik, or Dr. James Cavalancia at Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center in Philadelphia, PA, call 215-279-1193. 

Electric vs Manual Toothbrush

Here at Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center our dentists aren’t picky about what type of toothbrush you use because the important thing is that you are brushing your teeth correctly. However, we thought we would tell explain how brushing your teeth with an electric toothbrush compares to manual brushing.

It’s possible to brush your teeth effectively with a manual toothbrush. However, an electric toothbrush can be a great alternative to a manual one, especially if you have arthritis or other conditions that make it difficult to brush well. Although almost any toothbrush can do an effective job, research suggests there is one electronic toothbrush bristle configuration that seems to be better at removing plaque and preventing gum disease. If you choose an electric toothbrush, make sure the toothbrush is comfortable to hold and easy to use. It’s important to remember that the purpose of a toothbrush is to remove plaque and to stimulate the gums to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Whether you choose an electric toothbrush or a manual one, remember that what’s most important is daily brushing and flossing.

To learn more about dental hygiene as well as services we offer at our practice visit www.nicholascosmeticdentalcenter.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Shireen Malik, or Dr. James Cavalancia at Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center in Philadelphia, PA, call 215-279-1193. 

Tooth Colored Fillings

To treat a cavity our dentists at Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and then “fill” the area on the tooth where the decayed material was removed. Fillings are also used to repair cracked or broken teeth that have been worn down from misuse (tooth grinding). Here at the office we utilize white fillings, also known as tooth colored fillings, because they exude the most natural looking appearance.

Composite resins (tooth colored fillings) provide solid durability and resistance to fracture in small to mid-size fillings that need to survive the moderate pressure from the constant pressure of chewing. Composite fillings require the tooth to be kept clean and dry while the cavity is being filled, which is why they may take longer to apply than any other type of filling. Although no filling lasts forever, tooth colored fillings have been known to last for over 10 years. It is a safe, affordable and attractive solution for many dental drawbacks.

To learn more about white fillings as well as other services we offer at our practice visit www.nicholascosmeticdentalcenter.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Shireen Malik, or Dr. James Cavalancia at Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center in Philadelphia, PA, call 215-279-1193. 

Advantages of Dental Implants

The practice of implant dentistry requires expertise in planning, surgery and tooth restoration, which is why we at Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center are proud to offer dental implants and mini implants to our patients who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury or another reason. Dental implants are replacement tooth roots. They provide a strong foundation for fixed (permanent) or removable replacement teeth that are made to match your natural teeth.  

Replacing missing teeth is important to your overall health and also to the health of your other teeth. When natural teeth are missing, you lose chewing ability, and un-replaced teeth can cause other teeth to be lost, tipped, or crowded. Having missing teeth is also embarrassing, but dental implants can restore your smile, leaving you with more self-esteem and a new boost of confidence. A major benefit to dental implants is that they preserve bone, preventing deterioration of the facial structure, and therefore improving appearance.

If you have missing teeth, give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about dental implants, the procedure, and services we offer at our practice visit www.nicholascosmeticdentalcenter.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Shireen Malik, or Dr. James Cavalancia at Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center in Philadelphia, PA, call 215-279-1193. 

Benefits of Using a Tongue Scraper

We all know that the beneficial effects of daily brushing as a part of our dental healthcare will help in improving of our overall tooth and gum hygiene, but what about the hygiene of our tongues? Our bodies are constantly exposed to toxins from food, beverages, and the environment, and when toxins are not properly digested and eliminated, they linger in the body and begin to compromise our wellbeing. Here at Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center, we want you to understand the importance of incorporating a tongue scraper into your oral hygiene routine.

Scraping the tongue daily removes any build-up which, if left untreated, can accumulate a significant number of bacteria. Tongue scraping is also slightly more effective than toothbrushes when it comes to controlling bad breath. Believe it or not, regularly scraping your tongue will enhance the power of your taste buds. When the grime from the deposit on your tongue is absent, it’s only natural that you find your food much tastier. Even if you are a smoker or enjoy strong-flavored foods, this daily dental ritual can save you from bad breath and other problems. You should clean your tongue at least once a day, but considering how little time it takes, it’s not a bad idea to do it every time you brush your teeth.

To learn more about services we offer at our practice visit www.nicholascosmeticdentalcenter.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Shireen Malik, or Dr. James Cavalancia at Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center in Philadelphia, PA, call 215-279-1193. 

What Happens During a Dental Cleaning?

No matter how much you diligently brush or floss your teeth at home, harmful bacteria grow in your mouth that can only be removed by a dental professional. These bacteria can cause gum disease, and significantly affect your overall health. Here at Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center our dentists will use professional tools to remove plaque, tartar and bacteria build-up that you are unable to efficiently remove yourself.

According to the Academy of General Dentistry it is recommended that a dentist or hygienist perform a dental cleaning every six months. The professional dental cleaning reinforces the home-care oral health regimen of brushing and flossing and gives the dentist an opportunity to locate areas in the mouth that may need special attention. During a teeth cleaning, our dentists will thoroughly clean the area above and below the gum line with scaling tools to rid them of plaque and tartar. Once the surfaces are smooth, polishing is done using a slow speed hand piece with a soft rubber cup that spins on the end. Last but not least, the dentist flosses every crevice between your teeth. He or she may apply fluoride if needed.

If you need your teeth cleaned don’t wait any longer, call us today so we can help you maintain a healthy smile! To learn more about dental cleanings and other services we offer at our practice visit www.nicholascosmeticdentalcenter.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Shireen Malik, or Dr. James Cavalancia at Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center in Philadelphia, PA, call 215-279-1193. 

Inlays and Onlays

At Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center, Dr. Shireen Malik and Dr. James Cavalancia want to provide their patients with options when it comes to repairing damaged teeth. Since each patient’s dental needs are different, the best treatment for one patient may not be the best treatment for another.  That’s why we provide options for replacing teeth damaged by decay or injury.

Traditional fillings, also called direct fillings, are a good choice for patients who need to repair damaged teeth. However, when restorative needs are more than a filling can provide, inlays and onlays are the ideal dental option. Inlays/onlays are used to repair a tooth that has been damaged due to cavity or injury. These molded dental prosthetics are applied to the damaged tooth, preserving its structure and the health of your smile.

Some advantages of an inlay/onlay are it often covers less area of a tooth than a traditional filling. This means more of the natural tooth is preserved. In addition, inlays/onlays fit precisely, which reduces the amount of bacteria that can get between gaps or spaces. Inlays/onlays are also stronger than traditional fillings and tend to last longer.

Dr. Shireen Malik and Dr. James Cavalancia will be happy to discuss inlays/onlays with you and help you decide what works best for you. To schedule an appointment at Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center, call (215) 279-1193 or visit www.nicholascosmeticdentalcenter.com for more information.

Dental Bonding

Of all the cosmetic and restorative procedures, dental bonding is one of the easiest and most affordable. Called bonding because tooth-colored resin is bonded to your teeth, the procedure is used to repair teeth that are discolored, unevenly shaped or chipped. At our Philadelphia, PA office, Dr. Shireen Malik and Dr. James Cavalancia use bonding as an alternative to amalgam fillings in cases when only a small filling is required.

Bonding is achieved by applying incredibly strong resin to the tooth in need of restoration. The procedure can usually be accomplished in one visit and allows you to keep most of your tooth’s original enamel, which makes bonding preferable to veneers or crowns in many cases. Once the right color resin has been chosen for your smile, Dr. Shireen Malik and Dr. James Cavalancia will slightly abrade your teeth to roughen the surface. Then a conditioning liquid is applied to help the resin adhere. The putty-like resin is then applied to your tooth and molded and smoothed until it is in the proper shape. It is hardened with an ultraviolet light or laser. After the bonding material has hardened, your dentist will trim and shape it even more and then polish it until it shines like a tooth. Altogether, the procedure usually takes between 30 minutes to an hour for one tooth.

If you’re unhappy with your teeth but unwilling to go as far as veneers, bonding can be used to improve your smile quickly and effectively.

Importance of Regular Cleanings

Although you may not think about going to the dentist until you have a problem, such as a toothache or loose filling, routine checkups are very important! Coming in for a checkup and regular cleanings plays a vital role in maintaining good oral health and preventing dental problems.

At Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center, we offer a variety of dental services including regular cleanings and oral hygiene upkeep. Regular dental cleanings involve removing plaque and tartar from the teeth and gum line. Even if you brush your teeth and floss regularly, you still need a dental cleaning.

A professional cleaning involves the use of special tools, which helps remove tartar that brushing can’t. In addition, the hygienist and dentist can detect signs of gum disease early and recommended treatment. Regular cleanings also give your doctor at Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center the opportunity to follow your dental health and compare your current condition with previous visits. This helps determine if gum disease is progressing.

Current research indicates gum disease may increase your chances of developing health problems, such as heart disease. Maintaining good oral health is not only about having a nice smile and white teeth. Preventing gum disease and keeping your mouth healthy can have an impact on your overall health. Schedule an appointment at our Philadelphia, PA practice with Dr. Shireen Malik or Dr. James Cavalancia by calling (215) 279-1193.

Night Guards

Night guards provided here at Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center help our patients get relief from their jaw pain and headaches, and protect their teeth. Some patients find themselves clenching and grinding their teeth either during the day or, more often, at night while sleeping.  Most patients are not even aware that they even have this problem that is slowly damaging their teeth.  It is more problematic at night because it can happen for hours at a time while sleeping. Teeth clenching and grinding stresses and wears down tooth enamel.  These problems can also cause irritation to the gums. Not only do our patients complain of headaches, and jaw pain, but can also have ear pain frequently because of excessive teeth clenching and grinding.

Dr. Shireen Malik and Dr. James Cavalancia offer a solution from our Philadelphia, PA dental clinic in the form of night guards. Night guards are custom made mouthguards for the patient, based on impressions taken of their teeth. Every night, the patient is instructed to wear the night guard which protects their teeth if they start clenching or grinding them. It acts as a barrier between the top and bottom teeth, so they can’t grind anymore and their teeth are protected.

Professionally created night guards tend to be of a higher quality and superior fit because they are made in a special laboratory from an impression of your mouth. The main function of your night guard is to prevent the surfaces of your teeth from grinding together. These devices are comfortable and will not disrupt your sleep patterns.

For more information about night guards at Nicholas Cosmetic Dental Center, visit our website, www.nicholascosmeticdentalcenter.com.