A man with toothache, periodontal disease in wisdom teeth, painful area highlighted in red

Is There a Link Between Periodontal Disease and Arthritis?

Dental Disease

Research increasingly suggests a connection between periodontal disease and arthritis, particularly rheumatoid arthritis. Both conditions involve chronic inflammation that can affect multiple body systems. Bacteria from gum infections may trigger systemic inflammatory responses, potentially worsening arthritis symptoms or contributing to joint inflammation in susceptible individuals. If you’re experiencing gum problems and joint pain in New…

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How Often Should You Get Follow-Ups After Periodontal Surgery?

Dental Treatment

Recovery from periodontal surgery requires careful monitoring to ensure your gums heal properly and your treatment achieves lasting results. The frequency of follow-up appointments varies based on the type of surgery you received, your healing progress, and your individual risk factors for gum disease recurrence. Typically, we see patients every 3 months after periodontal surgery…

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What Are the Long-Term Benefits of Investing in Dental Implants?

Dental Implants

Missing teeth create challenges that extend far beyond appearance, affecting your ability to eat comfortably, speak clearly, and maintain confidence in social situations. Dental implants offer a permanent solution that addresses these concerns while providing benefits that traditional tooth replacement options cannot match. Understanding the long-term advantages of implants helps you make an informed decision…

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Female patient pointing her finger to her teeth, explaining her problem to a dentist wearing surgical mask in a dental clinic

Is Periodontal Surgery Painful?

Dental Procedures

One of the most common concerns patients express when facing periodontal surgery is whether the procedure will be painful. This anxiety is completely understandable, as the thought of any surgical procedure can feel intimidating. The reality is that modern periodontal surgery techniques, combined with effective anesthesia and pain management protocols, have made these procedures far…

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What is Periodontal Surgery?

Dental Procedures

When gum disease progresses beyond what regular cleanings and non-surgical treatments can address, periodontal surgery becomes a critical intervention to restore your oral health. Advanced periodontal disease affects nearly half of adults over 30 in the United States, making surgical solutions an essential option for preserving teeth and supporting structures that might otherwise be lost…

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What is LANAP? What Patients Should Know Before Periodontal Surgery

Dental Treatment

Facing the prospect of periodontal surgery can feel overwhelming, especially when traditional methods involve cutting, stitching, and lengthy recovery periods that disrupt your daily routine. The Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP) represents a groundbreaking advancement in periodontal treatment that eliminates many concerns patients have about gum surgery while delivering superior clinical outcomes through precision laser…

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How Advanced Imaging Improves Periodontal and Implant Treatment Outcomes

Dental Treatment

The difference between a successful implant or periodontal treatment and one that requires additional procedures often comes down to precision in diagnosis and treatment planning. Advanced imaging technology has revolutionized how periodontists and implant specialists approach complex cases, transforming what was once guesswork into predictable, precise treatment protocols that deliver superior outcomes for patients. At…

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Dental Implants - A Modern Solution for Missing Teeth

What You Should Know About Modern Bone Grafting Materials and Techniques

Dental Procedures

When faced with the possibility of bone grafting for dental implants or periodontal treatment, many patients feel overwhelmed by the technical complexity and uncertainty about what the procedure involves. Modern bone grafting has evolved dramatically over the past decade, transforming from a lengthy, uncomfortable process into a sophisticated treatment that offers predictable results with minimal…

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How Long Does Crown Lengthening Take to Heal? Expectations and Timeline

Dental Procedures

Crown lengthening recovery involves multiple phases of healing, each with specific milestones and care requirements. Understanding what to expect during your recovery helps you plan accordingly and ensures you follow proper post-operative care to achieve optimal results. At Rockland Dental Specialists, our periodontists and implant specialists perform crown lengthening procedures with precision and care. Dr.…

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Toothache, oral pain and dental sensitivity for a woman brushing her teeth in the morning. African American female suffering with a painful, hurting or inflammation in her mouth in the bathroom

What are the Stages of Periodontal Disease?

Dental Treatment

Periodontal disease doesn’t develop overnight—it progresses through distinct stages that range from mild inflammation to severe tissue and bone loss. Understanding these stages helps you recognize early warning signs and seek appropriate treatment before the condition advances to irreversible damage. At Rockland Dental Specialists, our periodontists and implant specialists provide comprehensive care for patients dealing…

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3d render of lower jaw with tooth extraction

Everything You Need to Know About Ridge Preservation After an Extraction

Dental Treatment

Tooth extraction creates an immediate healing challenge that extends far beyond the visible socket. Without proper intervention, the bone and tissue that once supported your tooth begins to collapse and shrink, potentially compromising your ability to receive dental implants or maintain proper facial support. Ridge preservation offers a proactive solution that maintains the natural contours…

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Laser treatment being performed on teeth in a dental procedure

What Are the Benefits of LANAP for Treating Advanced Periodontal Disease?

Dental Treatment

Advanced periodontal disease threatens not only your oral health but your overall well-being, potentially leading to tooth loss, bone deterioration, and systemic health complications. Traditional treatment methods often require invasive surgical procedures with lengthy recovery times and significant discomfort. LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) revolutionizes periodontal treatment by using precise laser technology to eliminate diseased…

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A male dentist in uniform perform dental implantation operation

Platelet-Rich Fibrin: Using Your Body’s Natural Healing Factors in Dental Surgery

Dental Treatment

Your body has remarkable healing abilities that dental science can now harness to improve surgical outcomes and speed recovery. Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) represents one of the most exciting advances in oral surgery, using your own blood components to enhance healing after dental procedures. This natural approach reduces complications and promotes faster tissue regeneration without relying…

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Stages of depulpation - the dentist cleans the dental canal and cauterizes the dental nerve

Top Questions to Ask Your Periodontist Before a Procedure

Dental Procedures

The decision to pursue dental implants represents a significant step toward restoring both function and confidence in your smile, yet many patients enter the consultation process uncertain about what information they need to make informed choices. Understanding the implant procedure, recovery expectations, and long-term outcomes can dramatically reduce anxiety and lead to better preparation for…

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Sleep apnea CPAP mask on the grey table

Benefits of Early Intervention for Sleep-Related Breathing Disorders

Dental Treatment

Every night, millions of Americans struggle with sleep-related breathing disorders that remain undiagnosed, causing not only restless nights but potentially serious long-term health consequences. These conditions, ranging from snoring to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), affect both quality of sleep and overall health, often developing gradually and worsening over time. When left untreated, sleep-related breathing disorders…

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Woman showing inflamed gum on grey background, closeup

Signs You May Need a Gum Disease Screening

Dental Treatment

The subtle warning signals of gum disease often go unnoticed until significant damage has occurred, leaving many patients with advanced conditions that could have been addressed earlier. Periodontal disease affects nearly half of all Americans over 30, yet many remain unaware of the warning signs until the condition has progressed significantly. Recognizing these early indicators…

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tissue graft

What Happens if You Ignore Gum Recession?

Dental Disease

Gum recession occurs when the margin of gum tissue surrounding your teeth wears away or pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or its root. While you might initially notice only minor sensitivity or aesthetic changes, ignoring gum recession can lead to severe consequences including tooth loss, bone deterioration, and potentially contribute to systemic health…

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How Periodontal Health Impacts Heart Health: What You Need to Know

Dental Treatment

The connection between your mouth and heart is more significant than you might realize. Research increasingly shows that periodontal disease—a chronic bacterial infection affecting the gums and bone supporting your teeth—may contribute to heart disease, the leading cause of death in America. When oral bacteria enter your bloodstream through inflamed or bleeding gums, they can…

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3d scan

Why Digital Imaging Improves Your Dental Care Experience

Dental Treatment

The evolution of dental technology has revolutionized how dental professionals diagnose and treat oral health conditions. Digital imaging stands at the forefront of this transformation, offering unprecedented clarity and precision compared to traditional X-ray methods. These advanced imaging techniques provide dental specialists with detailed views of your teeth, gums, and jaw structures while simultaneously reducing…

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jaw pain

3 Benefits of Myofunctional Therapy

Dental Treatment

Struggling with persistent jaw pain, difficulty swallowing, or recurring tension headaches? These seemingly unrelated symptoms may stem from orofacial muscle dysfunction—a condition affecting the complex network of muscles in your face, mouth, and neck. Myofunctional therapy offers a non-invasive, exercise-based approach to retrain these vital muscles, potentially alleviating symptoms and improving your overall oral health…

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When Should You Consider Endodontic Retreatment?

Dental Treatment

Root canal treatment provides an effective solution for saving teeth with infected or damaged pulp, but sometimes initial treatment may not deliver lasting success. Several factors, including complex canal anatomy, missed canals, or new infections can compromise treatment outcomes. Recognizing the signs that warrant endodontic retreatment can help preserve your natural tooth and prevent more…

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How to Care for Your Dental Implants for Long-Lasting Results

Dental Implants

Dental implants represent a significant investment in your oral health and quality of life. These permanent tooth replacements can last decades or even a lifetime with proper care. Maintaining dental implants requires specific attention beyond regular oral hygiene practices to ensure they remain functional and attractive for years to come. Rockland Dental Specialists provides comprehensive…

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Crooked Teeth

Can Crooked Teeth Cause Gum Problems?

Dental Disease

Crooked teeth affect more than just appearance – they can also harm your oral health. Misaligned teeth often lead to gum issues, such as inflammation and an increased risk of gum disease. Proper alignment helps maintain healthy gums and prevents complications. At Rockland Dental Specialists, we explain how misalignment affects oral health. Our team prioritizes…

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The Benefits of Seeing a Periodontist for Dental Implant Failures

Dental Implants

Dental implants provide a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution for tooth restoration. However, complications may occur, requiring specialized care to fix. A periodontist can address these issues effectively, offering a path to better results and long-term repairs. At Rockland Dental Specialists, we emphasize the benefits of a periodontist’s expertise when dealing with implant failures. We…

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Missing Teeth

The Importance of Replacing Missing Teeth: More Than Just Aesthetics

Dental Treatment

Missing teeth affect more than just appearance; they influence overall health and well-being. Many people focus on specific aesthetic concerns, but tooth loss also causes functional and psychological challenges. However, replacing missing teeth helps maintain oral health and improves quality of life. At Rockland Dental Specialists, we emphasize that replacing missing teeth prevents health issues,…

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Bad Breath

How a Periodontist Can Help Treat Bad Breath

Dental Treatment

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be an embarrassing and persistent issue that many individuals face. Understanding the underlying causes of this condition and seeking professional help from a periodontist can significantly improve oral health and overall well-being. At Rockland Dental Specialists, we prioritize your oral health and aim to provide comprehensive solutions for…

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flossing

How Laser Dentistry Can Help Treat Periodontal Disease Without Surgery

Dental Treatment

Periodontal disease, commonly referred to as gum disease, is a prevalent condition affecting many individuals. It can lead to serious oral health issues if left untreated. Fortunately, advancements in dental technology, particularly laser dentistry, offer effective treatment options for managing this condition non-surgically. At Rockland Dental Specialists, we are committed to providing our patients with…

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Endodontic Treatment

The Importance of Early Intervention in Endodontic Treatment

Dental Treatment

Early intervention in endodontic treatment is important for maintaining oral health and preventing further complications. Timely diagnosis and treatment can lead to effective management of dental issues, particularly those affecting the inner structures of teeth. At Rockland Dental Specialists, we prioritize early intervention as a cornerstone of our practice. Our team of experienced endodontists is…

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toothbrush

How to Treat Dry Mouth

Dental Treatment

Almost everyone has dealt with dry mouth at some point. From stressful situations to sleeping with your mouth open, dry mouth can result from a number of causes. Fortunately, dry mouth can be treated many different ways. If you are dealing with dry mouth, you may want to consult with a dentist to see if…

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Dental diode

5 Benefits of Laser Gum Surgery

Dental Treatment

Modern technology has brought many benefits to the dental industry. In previous decades, a patient would have to undergo an invasive oral surgery in order to treat gum disease. However, laser gum surgery is available now as a less invasive treatment option for gum disease. Some benefits of laser gum surgery include the shorter duration…

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dental implant

Dental Implants and Diabetes: Managing Oral Health for Better Treatment Outcomes

Dental Implants

For most adults, replacing lost or missing teeth will result in dental implant surgery. Dental implants not only look natural, but they also better support the chewing function than the traditional teeth replacement option of dentures. Diabetes, especially when left unregulated, can result in slower healing, increased risk of infection, gum disease, and diabetic neuropathy.…

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Dental Laser

What to Expect During Laser Gum Surgery

Dental Treatment

Laser gum surgery is a minimally invasive procedure designed to address various periodontal issues, including gum disease and excessive gum tissue. As advancements in dental technology continue to evolve, laser treatments have emerged as a preferred option for many patients seeking effective solutions with reduced discomfort and faster recovery times. If you are considering laser…

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Periodontal probe for measuring pocket depths

Can Periodontal Disease Be Genetic?

Dental Disease

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a common oral health problem that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a serious condition that can lead to tooth loss and other health complications if left untreated. While it is commonly known that poor oral hygiene and certain lifestyle habits can contribute to the development…

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Common Feeding Challenges in Toddlers

Dental Treatment

As children grow, they become more and more opinionated about the foods they eat. They may begin to self-regulate what and how much food they consume. However, it can be challenging to know what is normal and what is considered a feeding challenge during this stage of childhood. If your toddler has difficulty transitioning to…

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The Role of Biopsy in Oral Surgery: Diagnosing Pathological Conditions

Dental Treatment

At Rockland Dental Specialists, we pride ourselves on being a leading center for dental care, particularly in oral surgery and periodontics. Our team, including Dr. Shalom Mintz, a board-certified periodontist and implantologist, and Dr. Lisa Nava Cohen, a board-certified endodontist, is committed to providing personalized care of the highest quality to every patient. We utilize…

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What You Need to Know About the Pinhole Surgical Technique

Dental Procedures

Among the wide range of services we provide, the Pinhole Surgical Technique stands out as a minimally invasive option for treating gum recession. This innovative procedure requires no cutting or sewing and is virtually pain-free, reflecting our commitment to providing the latest in periodontal techniques for optimal results with minimal discomfort​​​​​​.  At Rockland Dental Specialists,…

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Gum Disease in Seniors: Special Considerations and Treatment Options

Dental Disease

Gum disease, also called periodontitis, significantly impacts seniors, affecting their oral health and overall well-being. Our bodies undergo numerous changes as we age, and our oral health is no exception. Gum disease, particularly prevalent among seniors, presents unique challenges and requires specialized care. We can help you understand how age-related factors can influence the development…

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What Is Feeding Therapy?

Dental Treatment

Does your child exhibit extreme pickiness with food, often throwing tantrums or outright refusing to eat at mealtimes? Do they struggle with swallowing, frequently choke on food, or frequently contract pneumonia? Have mealtimes become a contentious issue in your household? If these scenarios resonate with you, consider exploring feeding therapy guided by a specialist at…

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What is Myofunctional Therapy?

Dental Treatment

If you have a speech impediment, problems chewing or swallowing, or disordered breathing during sleep, you may benefit from myofunctional therapy, an exercise program that targets muscles in your mouth, tongue, and face to improve these issues. This can be an effective alternative for sleep apnea, as it trains the tongue and muscles to stay…

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Root Canals Explained

Dental Procedures

If you have a cracked tooth or deep tooth decay, you may get a root canal to treat the issue. During this treatment, a dentist removes the infected pulp or center of the tooth, cleans and disinfects the inside, and fills it to seal the area and prevent future infection. These dental procedures can be…

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What Are the Symptoms of Sleep Apnea?

Dental Disease

With 10 to 30% of Americans suffering from sleep apnea, you may know someone with this sleep disorder, or you may even experience symptoms and not recognize them, leaving the issue untreated. Sleep apnea is a condition that stops your breathing while you sleep, causing disruptive sleep cycles that could leave you fatigued and unable…

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Man struggling with sleep apnea-related sleep deprivation.

Is Untreated Sleep Apnea Dangerous?

Dental Procedures

Sleep apnea occurs when you stop breathing for short periods of time in your sleep. This can result from tissue blocking your airway or your brain not controlling your breathing. Regardless of which type of sleep apnea you have, if you leave the condition untreated, it could lead to serious health problems that could be…

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How Do Dentists Treat Sleep Apnea?

Dental Procedures

Sleep apnea is a serious disorder that occurs when the upper airway is completely or partially blocked during sleep, or the brain fails to send signals to breathe while sleeping. This condition is quite common and affects 5-10% of people worldwide. If left untreated, those with sleep apnea could stop breathing several times during the…

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6 Tips for Recovering From a Sinus Lift

Dental Procedures

When getting sinus lift surgery, recovery is just as important as the preparation and procedure itself. It’s essential to follow your surgeon’s instructions and take every measure to ensure the area heals properly and successfully. At Rockland Dental Specialists in New York, we will support you every step of the way, including post-surgery, so you…

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Early Signs of Oral Cancer

Dental Disease

The oral cavity is one of the most essential parts of the human body, but poor hygiene and neglecting oral care may contribute to declining oral health. Various factors, such as genetics, lifestyle choices, and trauma can also affect the overall health of the mouth, teeth, and gums. More than 49,000 people are diagnosed with oral…

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When Are Dental Implants Necessary?

Dental Implants

If you have missing, cracked, or infected teeth, several options are available to fix these problems and the additional issues they may cause. One of the solutions offered is dental implants. These artificial tooth roots are placed in the jawbone to permanently replace the entire tooth structure. Leaving missing or damaged teeth untreated can have…

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The Tooth Fairy Story to Tell Your Children

Dental Hygiene

When young children feel their first loose teeth, they probably begin thinking about the tooth fairy.  Whether they have heard it from their older siblings, neighbors or classmates, most five-year-olds are quite familiar with the tooth fairy.  Their eyes will light up at the idea of a mysterious fairy who “buys” their lost teeth from them while…

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Tips to Stop Grinding Your Teeth

Dental Hygiene

Let us start this blog by being perfectly honest: some people cannot stop grinding their teeth.  The habit may take place during sleep when you cannot control what is happening.  Many people are even unaware that they are grinding their teeth. Teeth grinding can do serious damage to the teeth, gums, and jaw joints.  For that reason, you…

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Can Wine Stain Your Teeth?

Dental Hygiene

If you are a wine drinker, especially a red wine drinker, you are probably well aware of the situation in which your teeth begin to take on a dark red or purple tinge.  Because you also probably notice that the tinge goes away after brushing, you may have brushed it off as no big deal (pun…

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When to Consider Pulling a Tooth

Dental Hygiene

In general, dentists want people to keep their natural teeth as long as possible.  We provide education, preventive measures, and treatments to maintain healthy teeth in the mouth.  Yet, we still extract teeth every single day.   There are some cases in which pulling a tooth is better than keeping it.  At Rockland Dental Specialists, we believe our role…

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How to Treat and Prevent Receding Gums

Dental Hygiene

Receding gums can be a minor annoyance leading to sensitive teeth.  They can also be a serious loss of the supportive foundation of the teeth, leading to complete tooth loss.  Understanding the various causes of receding gums can help you seek the necessary dental care to prevent and treat them. What Causes Receding Gums? Receding gums are…

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Different Types of Dental Implants

Dental Hygiene

Dental implants are diverse in their ability to replace missing teeth.  A dental implant is an anchor placed into the jawbone that provides support for dental purposes.  The vast majority of them are used to replace missing teeth, which is what the bulk of this article covers.  Orthodontists also use implants as anchorage for moving teeth. Implants to…

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Adult fluoride treatment

Five Ways to Maintain Gum Health

Dental Hygiene

There are several reasons that now, more than ever, gum health is extremely important.  One is the connection between gum health and your overall health.  During the current pandemic, each and every one of us needs to be healthy and support our immune systems so that we can successfully fight the COVID virus, if necessary. The second…

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What Is Causing My Jaw Pain?

Dental Hygiene

Jaw pain can be confusing and disruptive, affecting your ability to eat, speak, and laugh.  Because there are so many different problems that can cause jaw pain, it can be tough to diagnose.   This article will cover some of the most common causes of jaw pain, not including dental infections.  The reason we are excluding dental infections is that…

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Four Causes of Dental Implant Failure

Dental Hygiene

Dental implants are the best way to replace missing teeth.  They create the most natural appearance and provide the best chewing function.  Implants also have a very high success rate, higher than most other dental treatments.  But they are not invincible.  This article will highlight some of the most common causes of dental implant failure. What is Dental Implant…

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Dispelling Myths about Root Canals

Dental Hygiene

Root canals have a reputation for being an awful dental procedure that you should avoid at all costs.  There is so much misinformation surrounding root canals, whether it is in a shared post on Facebook, an independent film, or stories passed down through generations about terrible experiences.  In this article, we will explain the truth about root…

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Six Signs You Might Need a Root Canal

Dental Hygiene

“Root canal” is a term most are familiar with but few understand.  A root canal is actually an anatomical space inside each tooth.  The dental procedure that most people envision when they hear “root canal” is actually a root canal treatment.  When the soft tissue living inside the tooth (nerves and blood vessels called the dental pulp) becomes infected…

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Can You Reverse Periodontitis?

Dental Hygiene

What a great question!  Unfortunately, it is not one with a simple answer.  In order to answer it appropriately, we’ll break the question up into some important aspects.  First, can you reverse periodontitis?  Next, before you try to reverse periodontitis, can you stop periodontitis?  And finally, is it possible to reverse periodontitis, repairing the damage it caused?  We will answer each of these in turn so that…

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What are the Stages of Periodontal Disease?

Dental Hygiene

Periodontal disease affects millions of Americans, leading to bad breath, unstable teeth, and missing teeth.  Also called gum disease and periodontitis, periodontal disease is an inflammatory disease caused by bacterial toxins in dental plaque and tartar.  Like many other diseases, it progresses through various stages, and it is easiest to treat when you catch it early.   Gingivitis…

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Common Signs of Gum Disease

Dental Hygiene

Millions of Americans suffer from gum disease, and many do not even know it.  The signs of gum disease can be subtle and often go unnoticed by the patient.  It is important to understand the signs of gum disease so that you can catch it as early as possible.  As with every dental problem, the sooner you detect…

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Why You Should Take Bleeding Gums Seriously

Dental Hygiene

Millions of Americans experience bleeding gums.  For some the problem is temporary, and for others it is persistent.  It is a dangerous misconception to assume that bleeding gums are no big deal.  If you commonly see bleeding gums when you brush and floss, It is important that you address this with your dentist.   What Causes Bleeding Gums? Healthy…

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Young patient with senior dentist during a medical consultation at the dental office

What to Expect During Your First Visit to a Periodontist

Dental Treatment

Your first visit to a periodontist marks an important step toward better oral health. Understanding what happens during this initial appointment can help you feel prepared and confident about receiving periodontal care. At Rockland Dental Specialists, our periodontists and implant specialists create a welcoming environment where patients receive thorough evaluations and personalized treatment plans. The…

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Smiling woman at reception in dental clinic during procedure. Patient at dentist examines teeth in modern clinic. Overview of caries prevention. Medicine concept. Healthy teeth.

How Does LANAP Laser Treatment Differ from Traditional Gum Surgery?

Dental Treatment

LANAP laser treatment offers a less invasive alternative to traditional gum surgery for treating periodontal disease. Unlike conventional surgical approaches that require scalpels and sutures, LANAP uses a specialized dental laser to remove diseased tissue and promote healing while preserving healthy gum tissue. The result is typically less discomfort, faster recovery, and minimal disruption to…

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