Are you preparing for a summer wedding, prom, or another special event? These moments are filled with camera flashes and cherished memories, and you'll want to flash your brightest, most confident smile. At Oakland Dental Care, we understand how important it is to feel great about your smile, especially when it will be captured in countless photos. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce our Summer Whitening Special, offering $100 off in-office teeth whitening from June 1 through August 31. Whether you’re the bride, a groomsman, a proud graduate, or just want to show off your radiant smile this summer, our whitening treatment can help you sparkle.

Many of our patients come to us just before their big day, hoping for a last-minute cosmetic boost. While procedures like veneers or implants require some planning, teeth whitening is one of the quickest and most effective ways to enhance your smile in time for your event. Let’s dive into why this limited-time offer is the perfect opportunity to get your smile photo-ready!

Why Whiten Before a Big Event?

Summer is the season of weddings, graduations, vacations, and reunions—moments when everyone wants to look and feel their best. But nothing elevates your look quite like a bright, white smile. Whether you’re saying “I do,” celebrating a milestone, or attending a glamorous event, having whiter teeth gives you the confidence to smile freely and pose for photos without hesitation.

At Oakland Dental Care, we often see patients waiting until the last minute to address cosmetic concerns, but teeth whitening is one service that can deliver quick and stunning results. Our professional, in-office whitening treatments can lift years of staining from coffee, wine, and other everyday habits in just one visit. Plus, with our $100 summer discount, you can achieve that brilliant smile for less.

Why Choose In-Office Whitening Over At-Home Kits?

While over-the-counter whitening kits are widely available, they don’t compare to the results of professional, in-office treatments. Many at-home products use lower concentrations of whitening agents, which means you’ll need more time to see results, and those results may be uneven or disappointing.

At Oakland Dental Care, our in-office whitening is tailored to your unique smile, using advanced technology to ensure safe, even, and lasting results. Our team closely monitors the process to protect your gums and enamel, reducing sensitivity and ensuring your comfort. You’ll leave our office with a smile that’s multiple shades brighter and ready for the spotlight. With our Summer Whitening Special, there’s never been a better time to invest in your smile.

When Should I Schedule My Whitening Treatment?

Timing is key to maximizing your whitening results, especially before a big event. We recommend scheduling your whitening appointment at least two to four weeks before your special occasion. This gives your teeth time to recover from any minor sensitivity and for the whitening to settle into a natural, brilliant shade.

Summer officially runs from June 1 through August 31, so plan your whitening treatment early to ensure availability—and to give yourself plenty of time to enjoy your dazzling smile at your wedding, prom, or special gathering. Our $100 discount makes it easier than ever to schedule now and enjoy a bright, confident smile all summer long.

How Long Will My Whitening Results Last?

The longevity of your whitening results depends on your lifestyle and dental care habits. After your in-office treatment, we recommend avoiding staining foods and drinks (such as coffee, red wine, and berries) for the first 48 hours to allow your enamel to settle. With good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, your smile can stay bright for several months or longer.

For best results, maintain your oral hygiene routine and consider touch-up treatments as needed. Our team at Oakland Dental Care can guide you on how to keep your teeth looking their best, so your brilliant smile lasts long after your summer event.

FAQs About Teeth Whitening

How long does the in-office teeth whitening process take?

Our in-office teeth whitening treatment typically takes about an hour. You’ll relax comfortably in our dental chair while we apply a professional-strength whitening gel and use a special light to accelerate the process. After just one visit, you’ll leave with a noticeably brighter, more radiant smile.

Will I need a screening before booking a teeth whitening?

Some patients do not qualify for teeth whitening, so it is critical to have a screening done prior to your whitening appointment. Generally, if you have healthy teeth, you will qualify. The initial consultation will ensure there is no untreated decay, gum disease, etc.

Will teeth whitening make my teeth sensitive?

Some patients experience temporary sensitivity after whitening, but this usually resolves within a few days. Our in-office treatments are designed to minimize sensitivity while delivering effective results. If you have a history of tooth sensitivity, let us know during your consultation so we can adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

At Oakland Dental Care, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve a smile you’ll love. We provide a wide range of general, cosmetic, and restorative dental services in a comfortable, patient-centered environment. Whether you’re preparing for a wedding, prom, or just want to brighten your smile for summer, our team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule your whitening appointment and take advantage of our limited-time $100 summer discount!

The annual Fever Pitch celebration in Oakland, NJ, is more than just a season-end party—it’s a showcase of community pride, family connection, and the spirit of local youth sports. This year’s event, taking place on Saturday, May 31st, 2025, at the Oakland Recreation Complex on Lawlor Drive in Oakland, NJ, promises a fun-filled morning as families gather to celebrate another thrilling Little League season. Oakland Dental Care is proud to be right in the middle of the action, as the official sponsor of the 3rd and 4th-grade Little League team. 

At Oakland Dental Care, supporting our community goes beyond healthy teeth and bright smiles. We believe in building confidence, teamwork, and character in the next generation. Our sponsorship of this spirited young team reflects our commitment to helping Oakland’s children thrive on the field and in life.

There’s something truly special about seeing our logo on the backs of those jerseys. It’s a reminder that we’re not just your neighborhood dental office—we’re part of your community story. We cheer when your kids cross home plate, and we care just as much when they sit in our exam chairs.

Fever Pitch 2025: A Morning of Fun and Festivity

From 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, this year’s event is packed with entertainment for all ages, including:

• A parade honoring all local Little League teams
  
• Inflatable rides and bounce houses
  
• Music from a live DJ spinning family-friendly hits
  
• Games, giveaways, and exciting raffles
  
• Delicious food and snacks from local vendors
  
• Recognition of team and individual achievements
  

We’re especially thrilled to celebrate the young athletes of the Oakland Dental Care 3rd and 4th grade team. Their hard work, sportsmanship, and smiles have made this season unforgettable, and we couldn’t be prouder to support them as they wrap up the year with cheers and high-fives.

More Than Smiles: A Dental Practice Rooted in Community

As your local dental provider, Oakland Dental Care delivers compassionate, high-quality family dentistry right in the heart of Bergen County. Whether you need a routine cleaning, cosmetic touch-up, or advanced restorative care, we’re here to help you and your family achieve healthier, more confident smiles in a warm, welcoming environment.

Our commitment to Oakland’s families doesn’t stop at our front door. We believe that strong communities are built through connection, encouragement, and showing up for one another, on and off the field.

Stop By and Say Hello!

If you're attending Fever Pitch 2025, we’d love to see you! Come find us at the event—we’ll have giveaways, dental health tips, and plenty of team spirit to share. Whether you're a longtime patient or new to the neighborhood, we’re here to celebrate with you.

Ready to join the Oakland Dental Care family? Schedule your next appointment by visiting us online or calling us today at 201-337-7733. Let’s keep those smiles shining all season long.

From all of us at Oakland Dental Care—thank you for letting us be part of your family, your team, and your smile. We’ll see you at Fever Pitch!

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders (TMJ-D) can significantly impact daily life, causing discomfort, jaw stiffness, headaches, earaches, and even difficulty chewing or speaking. Many people in Oakland, NJ, suffer from TMJ issues without knowing that relief is possible, often without surgery. At Oakland Dental Care, we’re passionate about helping our patients find long-term relief through non-invasive solutions tailored to their individual symptoms and lifestyles.

TMJ disorders vary widely in severity and cause. For some, it’s related to stress and grinding; for others, it stems from injury, arthritis, or misalignment. Regardless of the root issue, early intervention is key to avoiding chronic discomfort and more serious complications. Let’s explore the most effective non-surgical approaches to TMJ treatment and how we can support you on your journey toward lasting relief.

Occlusal Splints and Night Guards

One of the most common and effective non-surgical treatments for TMJ-D is the use of occlusal splints or night guards. These custom-made devices are worn over the teeth, usually during sleep, to reduce grinding, ease pressure on the jaw, and promote natural alignment.

Night guards are especially helpful for patients who clench or grind their teeth—a condition known as bruxism. Over time, this can wear down enamel, strain jaw muscles, and irritate the temporomandibular joint. By acting as a cushion between the upper and lower teeth, a night guard minimizes damage and gives the joint a chance to rest and heal.

At Oakland Dental Care, we take precise digital impressions to ensure a perfect fit and optimal comfort. These aren’t over-the-counter guards—they’re built specifically for your bite and designed to address the unique way your jaw functions during rest.

Physical Therapy and Jaw Exercises

Many TMJ disorders are rooted in muscular tension or misalignment. That’s where physical therapy can make a world of difference. Targeted jaw exercises strengthen and stretch the muscles that control movement, improving joint function and reducing pain.

Therapists trained in TMJ management may use manual techniques, moist heat therapy, ultrasound therapy, or guided stretches to help reduce inflammation and restore balance. For example, controlled jaw opening exercises, resistance training, or tongue positioning techniques can retrain your muscles to move in a more natural and pain-free way.

We often work collaboratively with physical therapists in the Oakland area to develop comprehensive plans for our patients. Consistency and gentle progress are key—TMJ-D improvement doesn’t happen overnight, but it is absolutely achievable.

Stress Management and Behavioral Therapy

We often think of TMJ-D as a physical issue, but in reality, emotional and psychological stress play a significant role. Clenching the jaw, grinding teeth, and holding tension in the facial muscles often happen unconsciously, especially during times of emotional distress or while sleeping.

That’s why stress management is an essential component of any comprehensive TMJ treatment plan. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help patients identify stress triggers and develop healthier coping strategies. Simple daily practices like mindfulness meditation, deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and gentle yoga have also been shown to reduce muscle tension in the jaw and face.

We often recommend patients combine therapeutic work with lifestyle changes, such as limiting caffeine, reducing screen time before bed, and adopting better sleep hygiene practices—all of which can calm the nervous system and improve TMJ-D symptoms over time.

Lifestyle Modifications and At-Home Remedies

Small daily habits can either worsen TMJ-D or promote healing. That’s why lifestyle changes are one of the most underrated, yet highly effective, non-surgical treatments.

We often suggest to our patients:

• Switch to a soft food diet temporarily to reduce chewing strain
  
• Avoid extreme jaw movements like yawning widely or chewing gum.
  
• Be mindful of posture, especially when working at a computer.
  
• Practice jaw awareness—keep your lips together and teeth apart with the tongue resting gently at the roof of the mouth
  
• Apply warm compresses at the side of the face to relieve tension and increase circulation.

These conservative steps, when consistently applied, can significantly reduce inflammation and muscle strain. They also give the TMJ a chance to recover from long-term stress and microtrauma.

Seeking Professional TMJ-D Treatment

When self-care and temporary relief methods don’t resolve the pain, it’s time to consult with a dental professional experienced in diagnosing and managing TMJ disorders. At Oakland Dental Care, we offer a full spectrum of non-surgical TMJ treatment tailored to each patient’s needs.

We start with a thorough evaluation, examining your bite, muscle function, jaw movement, and overall dental health. From there, we build a personalized treatment plan that may include night guards, physical therapy referrals, stress-reduction coaching, and bite adjustments.

TMJ-D is a complex condition, but with the right tools and guidance, lasting relief is possible. You don’t need to live with chronic jaw pain or limited function. Our Oakland team is here to help you restore comfort and get back to enjoying daily life.

Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ-D

What causes TMJ disorders?

TMJ disorders can be caused by a combination of factors, including jaw injury, arthritis, teeth grinding, stress, or misalignment of the teeth and jaw. In many cases, the exact cause is multifactorial, which is why a personalized treatment approach is essential.

Are non-surgical treatments really effective for TMJ-D?

Yes—most patients experience significant relief through non-surgical interventions like night guards, physical therapy, behavior modification, and lifestyle changes. In fact, surgery is typically considered a last resort, used only when conservative options have not been successful.

At Oakland Dental Care, we provide comprehensive, compassionate care for patients struggling with TMJ disorders and other oral health issues. We’re proud to serve the Oakland, NJ, community with advanced diagnostic tools and a full range of non-surgical solutions. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule your TMJ consultation.

If your dentist has recommended a deep cleaning, you might be wondering what to expect — especially when it comes to the time commitment. Unlike routine cleanings, which are typically completed in a single visit, a deep cleaning is a more involved process that targets the gum line and below. This procedure, also known as scaling and root planing, is essential for treating gum disease and preventing further dental complications.

At Oakland Dental Care, we want every patient to feel informed and comfortable before their appointment. Knowing how long a deep cleaning will take, what it involves, and how to prepare for it can help ease your mind and ensure a smooth experience.

What Is a Deep Teeth Cleaning and Why Is It Necessary?

A deep teeth cleaning is more comprehensive than a regular dental cleaning. While a standard cleaning focuses on removing plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth and just above the gum line, a deep cleaning goes below the gum line to remove bacteria, plaque, and tartar buildup that has accumulated in periodontal pockets.

This procedure is typically recommended for patients who have signs of gum disease, such as bleeding gums, gum recession, or persistent bad breath. If left untreated, these issues can lead to more severe conditions like periodontitis, tooth mobility, or even tooth loss. A deep cleaning not only helps reverse early gum disease but also protects your overall oral health.

How Long Does a Deep Cleaning Take?

The total time required for a deep teeth cleaning can vary depending on the extent of the buildup and the severity of gum disease. In many cases, the procedure is divided into two separate appointments, with each visit focusing on one half of the mouth — either the upper and lower right or the upper and lower left sides.

Each appointment typically takes about 45 to 60 minutes. However, if the infection is more advanced or if you have sensitive gums, the process might take longer. Your dentist may also administer a local anesthetic to numb the area and ensure your comfort throughout the procedure, which can add to the overall appointment time.

What to Expect During and After Your Appointment

During the deep cleaning, your dental professional will use specialized instruments to perform scaling, which involves removing plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces and below the gum line. This is followed by root planing, a process that smooths out the tooth roots to help the gums reattach and heal properly.

After your deep teeth cleaning, you may experience mild discomfort, swelling, or sensitivity for a few days, especially when eating or brushing. Your dentist may recommend a follow-up appointment to monitor your healing progress and ensure that the gums are responding well to treatment. In some cases, an antimicrobial rinse or antibiotic therapy may be prescribed to further support gum health.

Maintaining Your Results After a Deep Cleaning

To protect the benefits of your deep cleaning and avoid the return of gum disease, it’s important to commit to good oral hygiene habits. Brush your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush, floss daily, and follow any specific instructions your dentist provides.

Regular dental visits are also crucial. Your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings — every three to four months instead of the standard six — to ensure your gums stay healthy. This is especially true if you have a history of gum disease or other risk factors.

If you’re looking to schedule your deep teeth cleaning, our team at Oakland Dental Care is here to help guide you through the process.

Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Cleaning

How often should I get a professional dental cleaning?

For most people, a dental cleaning every six months is sufficient to maintain oral health. However, if you’ve had a deep cleaning or are at higher risk for gum disease, your dentist may recommend cleanings more frequently — such as every three or four months.

Is deep teeth cleaning painful?

Most patients tolerate deep cleanings well, especially with the use of a local anesthetic. You may feel some pressure during the procedure but little to no pain. After the cleaning, it's common to experience mild sensitivity or tenderness for a few days, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief and a soft-food diet.

At Oakland Dental Care, we’re committed to helping patients maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. Whether you need a routine cleaning or a more advanced treatment like scaling and root planing, we provide gentle, comprehensive care in a comfortable setting. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the next step toward better oral health.

If your dentist has recommended a deep cleaning, you might be wondering what to expect — especially when it comes to the time commitment. Unlike routine cleanings, which are typically completed in a single visit, a deep cleaning is a more involved process that targets the gum line and below. This procedure, also known as scaling and root planing, is essential for treating gum disease and preventing further dental complications.

At Oakland Dental Care, we want every patient to feel informed and comfortable before their appointment. Knowing how long a deep cleaning will take, what it involves, and how to prepare for it can help ease your mind and ensure a smooth experience.

What Is a Deep Teeth Cleaning and Why Is It Necessary?

A deep teeth cleaning is more comprehensive than a regular dental cleaning. While a standard cleaning focuses on removing plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth and just above the gum line, a deep cleaning goes below the gum line to remove bacteria, plaque, and tartar buildup that has accumulated in periodontal pockets.

This procedure is typically recommended for patients who have signs of gum disease, such as bleeding gums, gum recession, or persistent bad breath. If left untreated, these issues can lead to more severe conditions like periodontitis, tooth mobility, or even tooth loss. A deep cleaning not only helps reverse early gum disease but also protects your overall oral health.

How Long Does a Deep Cleaning Take?

The total time required for a deep teeth cleaning can vary depending on the extent of the buildup and the severity of gum disease. In many cases, the procedure is divided into two separate appointments, with each visit focusing on one half of the mouth — either the upper and lower right or the upper and lower left sides.

Each appointment typically takes about 45 to 60 minutes. However, if the infection is more advanced or if you have sensitive gums, the process might take longer. Your dentist may also administer a local anesthetic to numb the area and ensure your comfort throughout the procedure, which can add to the overall appointment time.

What to Expect During and After Your Appointment

During the deep cleaning, your dental professional will use specialized instruments to perform scaling, which involves removing plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces and below the gum line. This is followed by root planing, a process that smooths out the tooth roots to help the gums reattach and heal properly.

After your deep teeth cleaning, you may experience mild discomfort, swelling, or sensitivity for a few days, especially when eating or brushing. Your dentist may recommend a follow-up appointment to monitor your healing progress and ensure that the gums are responding well to treatment. In some cases, an antimicrobial rinse or antibiotic therapy may be prescribed to further support gum health.

Maintaining Your Results After a Deep Cleaning

To protect the benefits of your deep cleaning and avoid the return of gum disease, it’s important to commit to good oral hygiene habits. Brush your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush, floss daily, and follow any specific instructions your dentist provides.

Regular dental visits are also crucial. Your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings — every three to four months instead of the standard six — to ensure your gums stay healthy. This is especially true if you have a history of gum disease or other risk factors.

If you’re looking to schedule your deep teeth cleaning, our team at Oakland Dental Care is here to help guide you through the process.

Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Cleaning

How often should I get a professional dental cleaning?

For most people, a dental cleaning every six months is sufficient to maintain oral health. However, if you’ve had a deep cleaning or are at higher risk for gum disease, your dentist may recommend cleanings more frequently — such as every three or four months.

Is deep teeth cleaning painful?

Most patients tolerate deep cleanings well, especially with the use of a local anesthetic. You may feel some pressure during the procedure but little to no pain. After the cleaning, it's common to experience mild sensitivity or tenderness for a few days, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief and a soft-food diet.

At Oakland Dental Care, we’re committed to helping patients maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. Whether you need a routine cleaning or a more advanced treatment like scaling and root planing, we provide gentle, comprehensive care in a comfortable setting. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the next step toward better oral health.

Dental bridges are artificial teeth attached to neighboring crowns or implants. They help fill in gaps in patients' smiles, preventing other teeth from moving and improving appearance and chewing function.

A standard crown-supported dental bridge will usually last five to seven years. However, with proper care, patients may be able to preserve their bridges for ten years and more.

About Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are a useful option for patients missing one to three adjacent teeth. To place a bridge, the dentist first installs crowns or implants on either side of the gap. The artificial tooth or pontic attaches to both sides, creating a smooth, natural look.

Advantages of Dental Bridges

Prevent Facial Sagging

Missing teeth cause facial muscles to sag, aging a person's appearance. A dental bridge can preserve the natural look of your face.

Restore Your Smile

Gaps in your smile can lead to self-consciousness. A dental bridge can restore your healthy smile. You will feel free to laugh and talk freely again.

Better Chewing Function

With missing teeth, chewing can be challenging. Rather than chewing around the gaps in your teeth, you can confidently eat most foods.

Clear Speech

Missing teeth make pronouncing words difficult. With a new bridge, you will be able to form clear sounds.

Keep Natural Teeth in Place 

With missing teeth, the remaining natural teeth often slip out of place. This problem can make it more difficult to keep your teeth clean, making you vulnerable to tooth decay and gum disease.

Extending the Life of Your Dental Bridge

Avoid Chewing Hard Foods and Objects

While dental bridges can provide excellent chewing function, you should avoid hard objects like ice and foods like nuts and hard candy.

Keep Gums and Teeth Clean

Brushing multiple times each day is best to keep your bridge and the adjacent teeth clean. If you do not brush enough, plaque and tartar may build up, triggering the onset of periodontal disease. The natural tooth under your bridge-anchoring crown may also decay.

Floss As Recommended

Flossing around a bridge may seem challenging, but most pharmacies carry flossing aids to help you navigate the process. Interproximal bridges are small and inexpensive. They can help remove food and plaque in and around your dental bridge.

Quit Smoking

Tobacco use hinders healing and can contribute to gum disease and tooth decay.

Make All Follow-Up Visits

Dr. Kook will need to check on the condition and attachment of your dental bridge at each appointment. Do not skip appointments after having a bridge installed.

Call Oakland Dental Care

You don't have to live with a gap in your teeth. If you want to know whether a bridge could improve your smile and oral health, call Oakland Dental Care at 201-337-7733. We can explain your options and schedule a consultation with Dr. Kook.

If you’re concerned about discolored teeth, you might want to pay a visit to the dentist for a professional whitening treatment. This cosmetic service offers immediate results, giving you an instant makeover by whitening your teeth several shades.

It’s an easy way to boost your confidence in your smile — but how much will it set you back? Here’s what you should know about how much teeth whitening costs in Bergen County.

Types of Teeth Whitening Solutions

There are many different ways to whiten teeth. Over-the-counter products include whitening toothpastes, strips, pens, and trays. All are formulated to brighten your smile, but they generally produce far less noticeable results than professional whitening solutions.

There’s a risk with using over-the-counter whitening products, too. They often contain elevated amounts of peroxide, which can increase sensitivity significantly and cause pain when you eat or drink.

By contrast, professional whitening involves bleaching the teeth with a specific amount of peroxide to brighten your smile to your desired level. Before the service begins, you’ll choose your preferred shade. Your dentist can usually whiten your teeth by several shades in a single appointment, although it may take a couple of visits to achieve your desired color if your teeth are especially stained. 

Cost of Teeth Whitening in Bergen County

How much you’ll pay for teeth whitening in Bergen County depends largely on a few factors. Here’s how each affects your costs and your teeth.

Degree of Discoloration

The more stained your teeth, the longer it may take to whiten them. You’ll likely need to come back for a few sessions until you reach your desired shade of white. Plus, your dentist may decide to scale your teeth to remove hardened calculus plaques from your teeth before whitening. This can build up and leave teeth stained yellow.

If you don’t have too much discoloration, the process is straightforward and quick. Your dentist will usually clean your teeth, then bleach them. More stains means more bleaching, along with possible scaling. As it’s more time-consuming, it’s likely to cost more. 

Whitening Preparation

Everyone’s needs are different. Extrinsic stains that sit on the surface of the teeth are easier to remove, take less time, and don’t require any preparatory work. By contrast, stains that are deep-set or intrinsic can take a considerable amount of effort to break down.

That means you might need some extra treatments before the actual whitening process begins. Scaling, for example, may be necessary to remove the tartar, plaque, and other buildup on and around your teeth. Your dentist may follow that up with polishing to get your teeth as ready as possible for the whitening solution.

Some people have more sensitive teeth than others, too. In that case, you might be asked to undergo fluoride treatment or apply a desensitizing agent to your teeth before the bleaching process begins. 

Payment Plans

Some dental offices offer the option for financing your services, usually with no interest when the treatment is over a certain amount or when you pay at least the minimum every month. Be sure to ask about this possibility if you’re concerned about the cost of teeth whitening. 

Teeth Whitening in Bergen County

Oakland Dental Care offers a variety of cosmetic dentistry solutions to improve the appearance of your teeth and restore confidence in your smile. If you’re interested in learning more about teeth whitening, visit the website to find out more about how Dr. Kook and his skilled team can make your vision of the perfect smile a reality. Call 201-337-7733 to schedule an appointment today.

Having a missing tooth is a bigger deal than just aesthetics. Without a replacement, that empty space offers no support to surrounding teeth, allowing them to drift. This can lead to crooked teeth, overcrowding, gaps, misaligned bites, and, eventually, the need for complex dental care. 

There are many ways to avoid all of this - and a dental bridge is one of the most popular options to do so. While they work beautifully, sometimes issues can arise that impact the integrity of it. Removal may be necessary, but can a dental bridge be removed and recemented? Let’s find out. 

What is a Dental Bridge? 

A dental bridge is an oral appliance that fills in the empty space where a tooth once was. There are many different types, but typically it involves two crowns, one on either side of the open space, that fit upon anchoring teeth. This is what holds the fake tooth, formally known as a pontic, in place. 

Cement is used to secure the dental crowns as they attach to strong, healthy anchor teeth. This allows the dental bridge to look and function just like a real tooth or teeth - and gives you biting strength back, as well. 

When Would a Dental Bridge Need to Be Removed? 

If placed well and diligently cared for, dental bridges can last for several years. Unfortunately, for one reason or another, a dental bridge may fail and need to be removed. Below are a few of the most common reasons this happens. 

• Poor-Fitting Bridge. A bridge that is too loose will not only function poorly, but it will allow bacteria to make their way under the bridge and lead to tooth decay in the healthy anchor teeth. As a result, this can cause the bridge to lose its stable support, too. 
• Cracked or Damaged Pontic. Although the dental crowns used as fake teeth are strong and meant to hold a lot of pressure from bite force, they are not unbreakable. Any cracks or breaks will require dental attention and potential removal. 
• Damage to Surrounding Teeth. It is possible for a dental bridge to damage the teeth they come in contact with, wearing down their enamel over time. This can put healthy teeth at risk for decay. 
• Gum Disease. Dental bridges can increase the risk of gum disease. Any signs of it will need to be addressed right away - or the bridge may need to be removed. 

Can a Dental Bridge Be Recemented? 

After a dental bridge has been removed, it may or may not be able to be recemented. After all, the act of removing the bridge could cause damage since the cement used is meant to hold it in place for many years. So, whether or not it will be able to be saved and recemented will depend highly on the situation. How strong the cement bond is, the cause of the bridge failure, and the strength of the anchor teeth all play a role.  

For instance, if a bridge is too loose, it is often no big deal to remove it and recement it as it obviously didn’t have a good grip in the first place. On the other hand, if the bridge is unable to be easily removed, it will likely have to be drilled off, causing irreparable damage to the bridge and requiring replacement. 

Dental Bridges at Oakland Dental Care

Learn more about dental bridges - and whether or not they are right for you - at Oakland Dental Care. 

Contact us today at 201-337-7733. Or, request an appointment online. 

 If you’re anxious about visiting the dentist, you’re not alone. Many people experience fear and anxiety regarding dental appointments, but there is an answer.

Sedation dentistry is a safe and effective way to manage dental anxiety and help you get the dental care you need.

In this article, you’ll learn all about sedation dentistry – how it works, its benefits, and the different types of sedation available. From IV sedation to oral sedation and more, you’ll have the information you need to make an informed decision on the best option for you.

Don’t let anxiety keep you from getting the dental care you need – learn more about sedation dentistry today!

What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation is a drug-induced state of reduced consciousness and arousal. It is commonly used to treat anxiety and fear and may be administered as a type of anesthesia in dentistry.

Oral sedation and IV sedation are the most common types of sedation used in dentistry, and they can be used to ease dental and medical procedures.

• Oral sedation involves taking medications that reduce the feelings of anxiety or pain in the patient.
• IV sedation involves a saline solution containing a sedative that is administered intravenously.

Both types of sedation are milder than general anesthesia, which is the most extreme form of sedation and involves complete loss of consciousness.

Types of sedation dentistry

Oral sedation is used to treat mild to moderate dental anxiety or pain. Oral sedation medications are safe to use with any type of dental procedure and generally don’t require any special preparation. Oral sedation can be used to numb the mouth to reduce sensitivity to touch, eliminate the need for anesthesia, or both.

Inhalation sedation is used to administer nitrous oxide (often called “laughing gas”) to reduce or eliminate the need for anesthesia. Nitrous oxide is safe to use with any type of dental procedure and generally doesn’t require any special preparation. Inhalation sedation can be used to numb the mouth to reduce sensitivity to touch or eliminate the need for anesthesia. This is a common sedation option for dental anxiety treatment.

IV sedation is used to administer a sedative that is administered intravenously. IV sedation is a common type of sedation used to administer general anesthesia. IV sedation reduces anxiety and pain in patients who may not be medically fit or stable to receive anesthesia by another route.

How to prepare for sedation dentistry

When you arrive at the dental office for your appointment, let the staff know that you’d like to be sedated. You can tell them that you’re experiencing dental anxiety and that the appointment is especially stressful for you. It may also be helpful to talk about any specific anxieties you have related to the dental procedure.

Let the staff know about any medications that you’re taking or other health conditions that you want to be aware of. Schedule your appointment for a day when you’re not feeling sick or have other extensive plans. If you’ll be experiencing dental anxiety, it’s helpful to have as much time as possible to prepare mentally.

Sedation Dentistry in Oakland

If you’re having trouble coping with dental anxiety, it’s worth seeking treatment. There are many benefits to receiving treatment for dental anxiety, such as improved dental health, a decreased likelihood of repeat visits to the dental office, and a decreased likelihood of suicide.

Now that you have a better understanding of sedation dentistry, you are well prepared to make an informed decision on the best option for you. Whether it’s oral sedation, IV sedation, or a combination of both, you’ll know what to expect during your appointment.

To learn more about sedation dentistry, contact us at201-337-7733.