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Rifkin Dental Blog View all posts

Why Do I Need a Root Canal?
No one wants to have their teeth worked on, so it’s understandable to question recommended treatments. Here, we walk through exactly when and why we perform root canals to help you understand the finer points of your treatment plan.
Sep 1st, 2023

Dental Hygiene: How to Care for Your Child's Teeth
There’s no reason to fuss over teeth that will only fall out in a few months, right? Wrong. Your child’s first teeth need just as much TLC as yours. Here are some of our experts’ favorite children’s oral health care tips.
Aug 1st, 2023

Dental Anxiety? Consider Sedation Dentistry
We know the dentist isn’t everyone’s favorite place to go, but we also know what happens if dental anxiety keeps you from ever making an appointment. Enter sedation dentistry. Keep reading to learn more about how our gentle sedation techniques work.
Jul 13th, 2023

What Is the Difference Between Crowns and Veneers?
Looking to improve your smile? It's difficult to wade through the dozens of available treatments and decide which is best, so don't go it alone. Keep reading to get the 411 on two of dentistry’s most popular cosmetic services.
May 1st, 2023

5 Practical Ways to Prevent Periodontal Disease
You've seen the stats and know how serious periodontal disease is. So now what? The good news is that periodontal disease doesn't have to be inevitable. Keep reading to find out how you can take steps to keep your gums healthy.
Apr 1st, 2023

How Long Does Dental Implant Surgery Take?
The surgery itself only takes a couple of hours, but the entire dental implant process takes quite a bit longer. Here’s an inside look at what you can expect from start to finish.
Mar 3rd, 2023

5 Ways to Lower Your Risk for Cavities
Cavities may be small, but they can punch a hole in your oral health goals. So, we’re giving you straight-from-the-expert advice on how to keep them at bay.
Jan 1st, 2023

What Happens if You Ignore a Tooth Infection?
It all starts with a toothache, and before you know it, your tooth is infected. The worst thing you could do is leave it to its own devices. Here’s a closer look at what could happen if you ignore an infected tooth.
Nov 1st, 2022

Are Invisalign Results Permanent?
You’ve heard about the clear aligners that have swept the nation — but can they really deliver on their promises for straighter teeth in less time? We’re answering your biggest questions about Invisalign® and how long the results last.
Oct 6th, 2022

When Can I Stop Wearing a Retainer After Braces?
Wondering how much longer you have to wait until your teeth are truly free from dental hardware? We’ve got the answers you’re looking for. Read on to learn what determines how long you’ll need retainers.
Sep 8th, 2022

5 Myths About Getting Braces as an Adult
Hearing from your dentist that you need adult braces may fill you with confusion, frustration, and even a touch of dread. The good news is that adult braces are much more comfortable and effective than you realize. Here’s what you should know.
Aug 9th, 2022

How to Take Care of Your Temporary Crown
Your brand new smile is only days away, but before then, you have to look after your temporary crown. Don't panic — we’ll show you just how easy it is.
Jul 1st, 2022

What You Can Expect From Oral Surgery
Surgery of any kind can be overwhelming, especially if you don’t know what to expect. That’s why we're giving you a sneak peek into our oral surgery procedures, so you can feel fully prepared before your appointment.
Jun 1st, 2022

Why Are My Gums Bleeding When I Floss?
It’s unsettling to see bright red streaks in the sink after cleaning your teeth. But if you know what’s behind the bleeding, you can quickly and confidently get the help you need. Here’s a closer look at the common causes of bleeding gums.
May 23rd, 2022

3 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Fear a Root Canal
If the sound of the dentist’s drill is enough to make you shake in your boots, it’s time you heard the truth about modern dental treatments, and how routine procedures like root canals are nothing to fear.
Apr 13th, 2022

Root Canal vs. Extraction: Which Is Better?
When choosing treatment for an infected or damaged tooth, it’s always better to preserve a viable tooth. Saving a natural tooth with a root canal lets you protect your smile without an artificial tooth replacement such as a bridge or implant.
Feb 13th, 2022

How to Care for Your New Invisalign® Trays
You’ll get the best results from your Invisalign® treatment when you care for your aligner trays as recommended. Find out how to maintain the effectiveness of these devices with proper care and cleaning.
Jan 13th, 2022

What to Do If You Knock Out a Tooth
It can be traumatic and painful to have a tooth knocked out. However, remaining calm and following recommended steps improves your odds of successfully reattaching your tooth. Learn what to do if you knock out a tooth.
Dec 20th, 2021

The Link Between Gum Disease and Your Overall Health
Gum disease can ruin more than your teeth. Having unhealthy gums is linked to chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Find out why maintaining healthy gums can help you maintain a healthy body as well as your smile.
Nov 19th, 2021

3 Types of Bridges
If gaps from missing teeth make you feel ashamed to smile, you may benefit from a dental bridge. These artificial tooth replacements restore normal function and form when teeth are lost. Learn about the three types of bridges and how they work.
Oct 13th, 2021

Why Would I Need a Tooth Extracted?
While your dental team is dedicated to helping you maintain your teeth for as long as possible, sometimes the best course of action is tooth extraction. Find out when removing a tooth may be the best option for protecting oral function and health.
Sep 12th, 2021

Are You Cleaning Your Teeth on Schedule?
If you’re not maintaining your recommended schedule of teeth cleanings, you’re missing out on the chance to protect your oral health. Find out why regular brushing and flossing aren’t enough to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Aug 11th, 2021

Should Everyone Get Their Wisdom Teeth Out?
While it may seem like a rite of passage to have your wisdom teeth removed when you reach your late teens or early twenties, it’s not always necessary. Find out when this procedure is advised and whether you may be able to avoid it.
Jul 26th, 2021

What Is Sedation Dentistry?
If you have dental anxiety, your emotions may be interfering with your ability to get the care you need to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Find out how sedation dentistry can make you more comfortable so you can keep your mouth healthy.
Jun 24th, 2021

How to Make Your Dental Cleaning Last Longer
There’s nothing like having your teeth professionally cleaned, but you can’t maintain that feeling with just regular brushing and flossing. Here’s how to make your dental cleanings last longer.
Apr 1st, 2021

5 Non-Cosmetic Reasons to Consider Veneers
The purpose of veneers is not just to make you "smile big" — though it’s great to finally be able to. Find out how they can offer a “low-hassle” alternative to more complex, sometimes uncomfortable procedures.
Feb 2nd, 2021

How Invisalign Can Straighten Your Teeth
You don’t need uncomfortable and embarrassing metal braces to get a stunning smile. Invisalign® clear aligners offer practically invisible treatment with dramatic results. Find out how this innovative technology can straighten your smile.
Jan 1st, 2021

When Tooth Extraction Is the Best Course of Action
While regular oral hygiene and dental cleanings give your teeth the best chance of lasting a lifetime, sometimes a tooth extraction is the only way to protect your oral health. Find out when having a tooth removed is your best treatment option.
Nov 4th, 2020

How Often Should You Go to the Dentist?
As a general rule of thumb, we recommend that you should go to the dentist twice a year, or every six months. This schedule helps us keep a close eye on your oral health to make sure that everything is looking as it should!
Nov 3rd, 2020

Your Handy Dental Visit Checklist
Whether you visit the dentist twice a year or it’s been a while since your last visit, we are happy to have you. For every visit (but especially your first), make sure that you have the following items with you!
Nov 3rd, 2020

How to Prep for Your Child's First Dental Visit
Your child’s first dental visit can- and should be - fun! It’s all about setting expectations so that both you and your child can expect that a trip to the dentist will be easy and seamless.
Oct 20th, 2020

Cavities and Fillings
Dental fillings are your best choice for treating problems caused by cavities, damage, and decay. Find out how fillings can save damaged teeth and improve your overall dental health.
Oct 7th, 2020

Daily Habits That Discolor Your Teeth
Having discolored teeth can detract from your appearance and make you feel self-conscious when you smile or speak. Find out more about the causes of this condition and what you can do to improve it.
Sep 17th, 2020

Complications of Untreated Gum Disease
Gum disease can cause permanent damage to your teeth and gums. Left untreated, it can also lead to even more serious dental and health complications. Find out why maintaining healthy gums is so important.
Aug 20th, 2020

Foods That Boost Your Oral Health
Avoiding certain foods and drinks, such as candy and caffeine, can help prevent dental diseases, but you can do more than take preventive measures. Learn how eating certain foods and maintaining good nutrition can promote oral health.
Jul 28th, 2020

What to Expect During Your Root Canal Treatment
Despite popular myths about the unpleasantness of root canal therapy, state-of-the-art techniques and proper anesthesia can make the procedure virtually painless. Find out what’s involved in having this pain-relieving treatment to save your tooth.
Jun 23rd, 2020

5 Brushing Habits You May Be Doing Wrong
Brushing your teeth incorrectly can do more harm than good. Incorrect brushing habits can damage your gums and make teeth more susceptible to cavity-causing bacteria. Find out if your brushing routine includes any of these five common mistakes.
Mar 17th, 2020

How Unhealthy Gums Affect Your Overall Health
Unhealthy gums can affect more than your teeth. Research links gum disease with a wide range of serious health conditions that can affect the rest of your body. Find out why keeping your gums healthy is good for your well-being.
Feb 1st, 2020

How to Extend the Results of Teeth Whitening

A professional teeth whitening treatment can give you a boost of confidence or help you make a good first impression. Find out how regular maintenance can keep your pearly whites bright for as long as possible.
Oct 1st, 2019

Chronic Bad Breath? It Could Be a Sign of Periodontal Disease
Bad breath is a symptom of something, whether it’s the food you eat, the cigarettes you smoke, or poor brushing and flossing habits catching up with you. When periodontal disease sets in, your bad breath remains until you receive treatment.
Sep 1st, 2019

Straight Teeth are Healthy Teeth: Why Alignment Matters

If you think your crooked teeth are simply a cosmetic issue, think again. Having straight teeth is important for your oral health, both now and in the future., and getting your bite corrected is not a vanity issue. Here’s why you should take care of it soo
Aug 14th, 2019

How BOTOX Can Complement Your Cosmetic Dentistry Treatment
Cosmetic dentistry can transform your smile and erase years from your appearance. BOTOX enhances those effects by getting rid of telltale lines and wrinkles that can make your smile look worn and tired. Here's how it can help you get the most from your cos
Jul 17th, 2019

How a Night Guard Can Reduce Your Chronic Migraines
Migraines and other types of chronic headaches can be triggered by grinding and clenching, two common habits. Custom night guards relieve excess jaw strain and pressure to prevent headaches, as well as other problems these habits can cause.
Jun 14th, 2019

How to Prepare for Your First Root Canal
Root canals have a bad rap as a painful dental procedure when, in fact, they cause no more pain than a typical filling. They can preserve a natural tooth that may be lost without dental treatment, maintaining tooth and jaw health.
Jan 22nd, 2019

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