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February 17th, 2012
 Cavities occur as a result of the destruction of tooth structure, called tooth decay. Tooth decay can affect both the enamel (the outer coating of the tooth) and the dentin (the inner layer of the tooth). While it is very important to brush and floss every day to remove food particles and plaque, regular cleanings and checkups at Cornerstone Dental is the best way to help avoid cavities.
Dr. Littner can discover cavities during your regular dental checkup. The tooth surface feels soft when probed with a dental instrument. X-rays can also show cavities before they become visible to the eye. In advanced stages of tooth decay, you might experience a toothache, especially after consuming sweet, hot, or cold foods or drinks. Other signs of tooth decay are visible pits or holes in the teeth.
Don’t wait for a toothache!
Remember, the longer you wait to treat a cavity, the more extensive your treatment will be. A small cavity can be treated with a filling, while a large cavity that weakens the structure of your tooth may require a crown. If the decay is so bad that it causes the nerve or pulp of the tooth to die, a root canal or tooth removal may be your only options. If you think you may have a cavity, contact Cornerstone Dental and schedule an appointment. We’ll make sure you leave with a healthy, pain-free smile!
Tags: braces Middletown NY, Dr. Thomas Littner, Middletown cosmetic dentist, Middletown dentist, Middletown New York dentist, Middletown NY dentist, Middletown NY orthodontist, Middletown orthodontist
Posted in About Our Office, Oral Health, Oral Hygiene, cavity prevention, check-up, orthodontic treatment, orthodontics | No Comments »
February 10th, 2012
With February being National Children’s Dental Health Month, our team at Cornerstone Dental thought we’d share a few good oral hygiene tips with our patients, courtesy of the American Dental Association, or ADA.
• Teeth brushing techniques: It takes only two minutes to properly brush, using short, gentle strokes and devoting extra attention to the gumline, areas around fillings and hard-to-reach areas such as the back teeth.
• Flossing: hold the floss snugly between thumbs and index finger and place between each of the teeth, making sure to go beneath the gumline and curving the floss around the base of each tooth.
• Snack wisely: choose healthy snacks such as vegetables, fruits and cheese and avoid sticky, chewy candies that can stick to the teeth. If you eat these snacks, make sure to brush after doing so.
• Carbonated or sugary drinks: these beverages create acids that can damage the teeth when mixed with saliva, so they should be avoided altogether. When drinking one of these beverages, avoid sipping on it throughout the day. Rather, have a drink and then brush your teeth.
• Regular dental visits: You should visit us regularly (approximately every six months).
National Children’s Dental Health Month, now in its 62nd year, aims to increase awareness about the importance of kids’ oral health. If you have any questions about keeping your mouth healthy, or about your treatment with Cornerstone Dental, please feel free to give us a call!
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Tags: Cornerstone Dental, Dr. Thomas Littner, Middletown cosmetic dentist, Middletown New York dentist, Middletown NY dentist, Middletown NY orthodontist, Middletown orthodontist
Posted in Oral Health, Oral Hygiene, braces, orthodontic treatment | No Comments »
February 3rd, 2012
 Did you know February is American Heart Month? It’s a great time to take notice of the health of your heart, says Dr. Littner. Cardiovascular disease remains American’s number one killer, according to the American Heart Association. Studies have shown a correlation between gum disease and heart disease, underscoring the importance of good oral health care.
Visiting our office on a regular basis can help prevent gum disease or at least catch it in its early stages. And because people with dental insurance are more likely to visit their dentist when they should, a healthy mouth begins with a visit to Cornerstone Dental. In observance of Heart Month, Dr. Littner says it’s also important to know your numbers: blood pressure (less than 120/80), cholesterol (less than 200) and BMI (less than 25). If you have any questions about heart health, or about your treatment at Cornerstone Dental, please give us a call today.
Tags: Cornerstone Dental, Dr. Thomas Littner, invisalign Middletown, Middletown dentist, Middletown New York dentist, Middletown NY dentist, Middletown NY orthodontist, Middletown orthodontist
Posted in Oral Health, Oral Hygiene, oral cancer, orthodontic treatment | No Comments »
January 27th, 2012
While mouthwash is not an alternative to regular brushing and flossing, it can help keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy. There are several different types of mouthwashes available, and all of them will help do different things for your smile. The most common types of mouthwashes are:
• Fluoride – fluoride is the most used type of mouthwash available, and is used to strengthen the enamel of the teeth while preventing cavities and tooth decay.
• Antiseptic – an antiseptic mouthwash is used to kill bacteria and germs in the mouth. Most commonly used before and after a dental surgery, antiseptic mouthwashes can also help to fight gum disease, and halitosis (chronic bad breath). Antiseptic mouthwashes can affect your sense of taste and may stain the teeth, so it is recommended that you consult your dentist before using this type of mouthwash.
• Combination – a combination mouthwash is designed to help prevent tooth decay, freshen the breath, and maintain the health of your smile.
• Prescription – for patients with gum disease, or any signs of gum disease, you may need a prescription mouthwash. Prescription mouthwashes, like Peridex of PerioGard, are used to treat gingivitis, and other forms of decay.
There are also many different brands of mouthwash. Some common brands include:
• Scope
• Listerine
• Act
• Crest
• Tom’s of Maine (all-natural)
• Plax (anti-plaque rinse)
• Breath Rx
• Orajel
• Targon (special mouthwash made for smokers)
• Rembrandt (whitening mouthwash)
If you are curious about which kind of mouthwash would work best for you, be sure to ask us at your next appointment. If you have a favorite mouthwash, let us know by posting a comment for others to read!
Tags: Cornerstone Dental, Dr. Thomas Littner, Middletown NY dentist
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Thomas E. Littner D.D.S.,P.C., General Dentistry, Orthodontics
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123 Academy Avenue, Middletown, New York 10940 (845) 342-4668
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Cavities occur as a result of the destruction of tooth structure, called tooth decay. Tooth decay can affect both the enamel (the outer coating of the tooth) and the dentin (the inner layer of the tooth). While it is very important to brush and floss every day to remove food particles and plaque, regular cleanings and checkups at Cornerstone Dental is the best way to help avoid cavities.
