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.
Is Your Workout Hurting Your Smile? Athletes and Oral Health
January 20, 2015
A solid exercise regimen can do wonders for your overall health, but do you know how your workout routine may be affecting your teeth and gums? Recent research has uncovered a correlation between strenuous exercise and an increased risk for potentially serious oral health problems, including gum disease and tooth decay. At David M. Weinman, DMD in Westfield, NJ, Dr. Weinman and his staff place an immense amount of emphasis on preventive dental care for patients of all ages, particularly athletes at risk for oral health complications.
Why Runners Have More Cavities
While we would certainly never advise that our patients quit their healthy workout routine, we do highly encourage athletes to be especially aware of their oral health in addition to their overall physical state. Running, for example, can be great for muscle tone, joint strength, and cardiovascular health, but it can also wreak havoc on your gums and teeth. This is because of a rather substantial change in saliva production and composition during and after a particularly demanding run.
Athletes and non-athletes alike were tested by researchers at a hospital’s dental lab in order to determine the cause of oral health issues in runners. Saliva was collected from both groups while the patients were sitting still and relaxed; the results showed no indication of heightened risk. When the athletes were sent off on an arduous run, however, something of interest was discovered. During and after exercise, saliva production actually lessened and the runners’ mouths became more alkaline.
Diminished saliva and an alkaline environment within the mouth have been linked to enamel erosion, dental caries, and an increased risk for periodontal disease. While previous studies had hinted at sugary sports drinks as a possible cause of poor oral health in runners, this new research has proven otherwise. Fortunately, there is an easy solution for this unique problem in athletes: regular visits to Dr. Weinman for preventive dentistry checkups and cleanings. We’ll help you identify your risk factors for cavities and gum disease, and develop a comprehensive treatment plan that takes your athletic lifestyle into consideration when protecting your smile.
Healthy Smile, Healthy Body
If you’re an athlete, you already take great care of your body. If you haven’t visited the dentist in more than six months, now is the time to start taking better care of your smile. Contact us today to schedule your visit with Dr. Weinman and our experienced, knowledgeable staff. We look forward to helping you achieve and maintain optimal oral health for years to come. Conveniently located in Westfield, NJ, our office proudly serves families from nearby communities in Cranford, Scotch Plains, Mountainside, Fanwood, and more.
The Vital Value of IV Sedation Dentistry with Dr. David M. Weinman
August 12, 2014
IV sedation has become an indispensable asset in the world of dentistry, allowing patients who are fearful regarding treatment to receive the care they need and deserve. If you or someone in your family has avoided seeking dental treatment due to feelings of anxiety or an excessively sensitive gag reflex, Dr. Weinman and his team can help. At David M. Weinman, DMD in Westfield, NJ, we offer a variety of sedation dentistry solutions to help our patients find peace, calm, relaxation, and comfort in the dental chair, including IV sedation.
Advantages of IV Sedation
There are a variety of reasons that a patient might benefit from the use of IV sedation. In many cases, a fear of going to the dentist – whether it be related to the conceived possibility of pain or the memory of a negative experience – actually results in the worsening of otherwise easily treated conditions. When problems like tooth decay and gingivitis aren’t addressed in a timely manner, they typically evolve into much more serious issues that, in turn, require more extensive treatment. The thought of more extensive treatment leads to an even deeper sense of trepidation, thereby continuing the cycle of avoidance. This is where IV sedation dentistry at Dr. Weinman’s office becomes a critical factor in restoring a state of optimal oral health.
Proven safe and effective in a variety of applications, IV sedation causes a patient to feel drowsy and relaxed within mere minutes. Sensations of nervousness, tension, and discomfort begin to dissolve, leaving you feeling light and carefree. You may even fall asleep, but you can be woken easily to respond to our verbal cues. When your treatment is complete, you’ll awaken feeling rested and will likely find it difficult to remember any details from your procedure.
IV Sedation Dentistry You Can Trust
At David M. Weinman, DMD, we know that it isn’t easy to find dentists in the area that offer comprehensive dental care and IV sedation under one roof. In many cases, patients are expected to drive to a hospital in order to receive this type of anesthesia, an issue that most would consider more than a small inconvenience.
When you visit our practice, you’ll enjoy all of the dental treatments you and your family need along with a board certified anesthesiologist on site. Dr. Weinman partners with renowned anesthesiologist Glen Atlas, M.D., M.Sc. Dr. Atlas is board certified in both anesthesiology and pain management, and is a professor at the Department of Anesthesiology at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. He is also a professor at the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Rutgers University. With the proven skill and experience of our team and Dr. Atlas, you can rest assured in the knowledge that you are safe, secure, and that your treatment will be a fear-free, pain-free experience.
Other common issues that are effectively addressed by the use of IV sedation include an overly sensitive gag reflex, the inability to lie still for an extended period of time, patients with special needs, and neck or back problems that make sitting in the dental chair especially uncomfortable. Dr. Weinman and our caring staff will ensure that you are completely comfortable, relaxed, and closely monitored throughout the duration of your treatment; you’re in trusted, capable hands with Dr. Weinman and Dr. Atlas.
Easing Dental Fears with Sedation Dentistry
Contact our office today to schedule your appointment and discover the difference that our caring approach and expertise in IV sedation dentistry can make in your next dental experience. We look forward to serving you and your family with the gentle, effective, and customized care you need to enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile for life. Our state-of-the-art dental practice in Westfield, NJ warmly welcomes patients from throughout the surrounding areas as well, including communities in Fanwood, Mountainside, Scotch Plains, Cranford, and beyond.
Top Causes of Tooth Decay: What You Need to Know About Cavities
July 22, 2014
Dental caries (more commonly known as cavities) are caused by a variety of factors and can lead to serious oral health consequences if not treated in a timely manner. At David M. Weinman, DMD in Westfield, NJ, Dr. David Weinman provides patients of all ages with comprehensive preventive and restorative dentistry solutions, including treatments that help to inhibit tooth decay and repair damage caused by cavities.
What Causes Cavities?
What is the answer that immediately comes to mind when asked this question? Is it sugar? If so, you’re not far from the truth. The bacteria in your mouth feed and thrive on the sugars and carbohydrates you consume throughout the course of your day, producing acid as they do so. It is the acid produced by these bacteria that actually causes tooth decay. While the enamel that protects the inner layers of your teeth is the strongest substance found within the human body, it is nonetheless susceptible to acid erosion.
Brushing and flossing your teeth twice per day – as well as visiting Dr. Weinman every six months for a checkup and cleaning – can substantially help to reduce your chances of developing cavities, even if you do indulge in the occasional sweet treat. Rinse your mouth with water after each meal and limit beverages like sodas and sports drinks, both of which typically contain citric acid and can cause further demineralization of your enamel.
Other common cavity culprits include chronic dry mouth and teeth grinding. In cases of dry mouth, a lack of saliva puts teeth at a greater risk of damage caused by acid-laden plaque. Teeth grinding, or bruxism, weakens the enamel over time and can make it easier for detrimental bacteria to work their way into the deeper layers of your teeth. Fortunately, Dr. Weinman can treat both of these problems as well, improving your comfort and bolstering your chances of avoiding cavities altogether.
Protect Your Smile with Dr. Weinman
If you’d like to learn more about simple ways you can protect yourself and your family from tooth decay, contact our office in Westfield, NJ today. Dr. Weinman and his caring, experienced staff look forward to helping you defend your smile against damaging tooth decay with a full menu of general and preventive dentistry services designed to suit your lifestyle. Our patient-centric practice also happily welcomes patients from throughout the surrounding areas, including Cranford, Scotch Plains, Mountainside, Fanwood, and beyond.
Understanding TMJ Disorder and How It Is Treated with Dr. David M. Weinman
June 9, 2014
According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, approximately 5 to 12% of the American population suffers from a condition known as temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ. It is a painful dysfunction of the muscles and joints that comprise the jaw; failure to treat TMJ disorder can lead to chronic discomfort and lasting damage to the delicate cranial and oral structures it affects. Fortunately, Dr. David M. Weinman offers proven TMJ disorder treatment to patients in Westfield, NJ and the surrounding areas, providing lasting relief from jaw and facial pain in a way that suits your lifestyle.
The Importance of Treating TMJ Dysfunction
TMJ disorders are the second most prevalent musculoskeletal conditions in the United States, falling only slightly behind chronic lower back pain. They are the leading cause of facial pain in adults between the ages of 35 and 74. Women are at least twice as likely to develop TMJ problems as men, and women who are taking oral contraceptives and/or prescription estrogen supplements are substantially more likely to experience the painful consequences of the disorder.
Though the precise cause of TMJ disorder varies from case to case, the symptoms are generally fairly typical across the board. Jaw pain, for example, is the primary symptom exhibited by men and women whose temporomandibular joint has become inflamed or otherwise injured. Other symptoms of TMJ dysfunction include the following:
- Unexplained earaches, sometimes accompanied by tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Aching muscles in the face, jaw, neck, and shoulders
- Limited jaw mobility, or pain when opening and closing the mouth
- Difficulty chewing or speaking normally
- A clicking or popping sound when opening the jaw wide or chewing
- A feeling that the upper jaw (maxilla) and lower jaw (mandible) do not fit together properly
Treating TMJ disorders not only helps to alleviate the persistent pain a patient suffers on a daily basis, but actually aids in the prevention of further damage to the jaw and related muscles. In order to determine the best TMJ solution for your unique case, Dr. Weinman will perform a thorough assessment of your mouth and jaw, as well as your dental and medical history. An oral appliance (also called a mouthguard or oral splint) can be specifically designed for you and customized to fit your dentition. This is one of the most common and effective methods of treating TMJ disorders and bruxism, or nighttime teeth grinding (often associated with TMJ dysfunction).
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you suspect that you or someone in your family may be suffering from TMJ disorder, contact our office today. We look forward to becoming your trusted partner in the pursuit of optimal oral health and overall wellness. From our conveniently located practice in Westfield, NJ, Dr. Weinman happily welcomes patients from throughout Cranford, Mountainside, Fanwood, Scotch Plains, and beyond.
Dental Implant Post-Op Diet Tips from Dr. David M. Weinman
May 20, 2014
Dental implants have rapidly become the vastly preferred restorative dentistry solution to missing teeth, offering unparalleled structural stability and a naturally attractive appearance. At the Westfield, NJ dental practice of Dr. David M. Weinman, we believe that every one of our patients deserves to enjoy the full benefits of a beautiful, healthy smile; this is why we offer comprehensive implant dentistry services, as well as valuable post-op diet information to help ensure successful treatment and happier patients.
Vital Dietary Information for Dental Implant Patients
While we understand that food may be the furthest thing from your mind following any kind of oral surgery, it is important to understand the relationship between post-op diet and successful healing. Your body is only as strong as the nutrients you give it to thrive, and the period following dental implant surgery is a critical time of healing. It is, therefore, critical that you consume the right kinds of foods while your dental implant is fusing with your jawbone, all without disrupting the recovery process. Nutritional recommendations for dental implant patients include the following:
- For the first week of your recovery process, a diet of mostly soft foods is advised. Any food that causes you discomfort should be avoided.
- Your body needs protein to heal, but meats can be difficult to chew at first. Choose high-protein alternatives like eggs, beans, tofu, milk, yogurt, and soft seafood instead.
- Hydration is key during the healing process, so increase your water intake to bolster your immune system and to facilitate a faster recovery. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as these are the most common offenders when it comes to dehydration.
- Find much-needed vitamins and minerals in fruits and vegetables of the softer variety, including bananas, peaches, tomatoes, melons, berries, and cooked vegetables like squash, broccoli, and carrots.
Just as is the case with any of our other cosmetic or restorative dentistry treatments, you will be provided with accurate, up-to-date, and personalized information regarding proper aftercare following your implant procedure. Dr. Weinman and his team are here to answer any questions you may have before, during, and after the process, as well as to allay any concerns that may arise. We are here to help you achieve the complete, radiant smile you’ve always wanted!
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Have missing teeth caused you to feel insecure about your smile in personal and professional endeavors? Do you find yourself wishing that you could eat, speak, and smile comfortably without the possibility of slipping dentures or other dental prosthetics? Dental implants may be the solution for you. We look forward to helping you rebuild your dentition and your smile in a way that fits your lifestyle.
Contact our office today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Weinman and our team to discover what a dramatic difference this state-of-the-art restorative procedure can make in your daily life. Our conveniently located dental practice in Westfield, NJ also happily serves patients from throughout nearby communities in Scotch Plains, Cranford, Fanwood, Mountainside, and beyond.
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.
Relieve Pain and Give Your Teeth a Rest with TMJ Treatment in Westfield, NJ
August 13, 2013
Do you suffer from persistent pain in the face, neck, or head? Do you find it taxing to open and close your mouth because of an excessively stiff jaw? Is there constant pressure in your ears or headaches awaiting you when you wake up most mornings? While you may think that dentists only concern themselves with matters of the teeth and gums, the truth is that some can also assist in issues that negatively affect the jaw as well. This includes TMJ disorder, which you may be suffering from if the questions above describe your current condition. If this is the case, please visit the dental practice of Dr. David Weinman in Westfield, NJ! Our team can help pinpoint the cause of your TMJ disorder and recommend the best solution to alleviate your pain.
What exactly is TMJ disorder?
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joints, which have the crucial responsibility of keeping your lower jaw connected to your skull, as well as containing several blood vessels and nerves. Of course, this means that whenever they’re even slightly affected by outside circumstances, it can cause frustrating and even debilitating symptoms. Common causes of TMJ disorder include:
- Jaw injury
- Excessive gum chewing or nail biting
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Stress
How can you help me?
First, our dedicated team will treat you to a full medical and dental evaluation so that we can confirm for sure whether you’re suffering from TMJ disorder. We even use state-of-the-art tools to ensure that we collect the most detailed information possible.
If our diagnosis turns out to be positive, Dr. Weinman can provide a custom-made nightguard or other therapies to help relieve your symptoms. We’ll be sure to find the solution that best fits your unique needs!
Don’t suffer in silence a day longer –we’re committed to providing patients of all ages with thorough, comfortable care that is sure to leave you smiling. Contact our Westfield office today to schedule an appointment.
Recognize Oral Cancer Awareness Month by Coming in to See Dr. Weinman for a Check-Up
April 23, 2013
April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, which allows us the perfect opportunity to share a little more information about this little-known but incredibly destructive oral health condition. This year, tens of thousands of Americans will be diagnosed with oral cancer; what’s worse, only a little more than half of those people will survive more than five years. These are sobering numbers, but don’t panic just yet – Dr. Weinman and his dedicated staff in Westfield, NJ are committed to keeping your mouth healthy and happy throughout the years, which includes keeping an eye out for any signs of oral cancer, as well as ensuring that patients are well-informed about the common symptoms of this deadly disease. These include:
- Excessive pain, tenderness, or numbness in the mouth or lips
- Flat, painless, white or red spots or sores in the mouth
- A sudden color change of the oral tissue
- A sore that bleeds and doesn’t heal
- A small, eroded area or lump in the mouth
Of course, your dentist should be your first line of defense in the fight against oral cancer. Routine check-ups twice a year will allow our team to keep a close eye on your teeth and tissue and quickly treat any suspicious areas. In fact, when oral cancer is detected and dealt with early on, it dramatically decreases the chances of health problems later on!
While a majority of patients suffering from this condition are heavy users of tobacco and/or alcohol, it’s important to remember that nearly a fourth of cases occur in people who don’t participate in any known risk factors. That’s why you need to seek out the dedicated help of Dr. Weinman and his staff! We’ll be sure to treat your teeth well. Contact our Westfield, NJ office today to schedule an appointment. We’re also happy to treat patients from Scotch Plains, Farmwood, Cranford, Mountainside, and beyond!
Stop the Snoring and Give Your Smile a Rest
March 1, 2013
Many of us snore while we sleep. In fact, we often don’t even find out that we’re doing it until someone (usually a tired spouse) lets us know. But what if you’re honestly not sure? Is it really that big of a deal? While snoring may seem like a harmless, if annoying, habit, it can cost you valuable rest and relaxation time, causing you to not perform to the best of your abilities during daytime hours. Snoring can also be an indicator of a much more serious problem: sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a condition that causes multiple pauses in breathing throughout the night, and it can lead to many crucial problems down the road if left untreated, including an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and memory loss.
If you’re a chronic snorer or if you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea by your doctor, a snoreguard may be able to help! Dr. Weinman and his dedicated team are committed to provide you comprehensive, thorough care that puts your health and safety first, which is why they’re happy to offer snoreguards for your convenience here at our Westfield, NJ office.
Here are some common symptoms that can suggest chronic snoring or sleep apnea:
- Choking, snorting, gasping, or abnormally long pauses while sleeping – check with your spouse to see if they’ve noticed this!
- Daytime exhaustion, no matter how many hours you spend in bed
- Waking up with a dry or sore throat
- Morning headaches
Be sure to check with your doctor if you have concerns!
What can you do to help me sleep better?
Dr. Weinman will be happy to help you find a successful solution that can combat your snoring. We provide custom-made snoreguards at our Westfield office, which comfortably reposition the jaw while you sleep, opening your airway and eliminating snoring. Many patients who have found the use of a CPAP machine to be lacking or ineffective have finally received the relief they needed when using a snoreguard!
Don’t let snoring ruin your smile and your day – Dr. Weinman enjoys providing his patients with comfortable, effective care that leaves them happy and healthy. Contact our Westfield, NJ office today to learn more about snoreguards. We also accept patients from Scotch Plains, Fanwood, Cranford, Mountainside, and beyond.