General Dentistry from Charles M. Marks, D.D.S. and Dental Associates

Our team of dental professionals, including a general dentist, cosmetic specialist, periodontist, registered oral hygienist (RDH), certified dental assistant (DA) and surgical consultants, are able to treat all your dental and cosmetic needs.

Gum Disease:

Gum disease is also known as periodontal disease, and is an infection of the gums surrounding your teeth. It is caused by a buildup of plaque (a sticky form of bacteria that forms on the teeth). If the plaque is not removed (by flossing, brushing, and regular dental checkups), it will continue to build up and create toxins that can damage the gums.

Gum disease is one of the top reasons for tooth loss in adults, and because it is virtually pain free, many patients do not know they have the disease.

Extractions:

There are times when it is necessary to remove a tooth. In order to extract a tooth, your dentist must expand the "tooth socket" and separate the tooth from the ligament holding it in place. While extractions are typically very quick, it is important to share with your doctor any concerns or preferences for sedation.

Fillings:

Traditional dental restoratives, or fillings, may include gold, porcelain, and composite. The strength and durability of traditional dental materials continue to make them useful for situations where restored teeth must withstand extreme forces that result from chewing, such as in the back of the mouth.

Before your treatment begins, your doctor will discuss with you all of your options, and help you choose the best filling for your particular case. To help you prepare for this discussion it may be helpful to understand the two basic types of dental fillings — direct and indirect.

Root Canals:

In the past, if you had a tooth with a diseased nerve, you would probably lose that tooth. Today, with a special dental procedure called root canal treatment, your tooth can be saved. Root canals are a relatively simple procedure involving one to three office visits. Best of all, having a root canal when necessary can save your tooth and your smile!

Teeth that require root canal therapy are not always painful. However, signs you may need a root canal include severe toothache, pain upon chewing or application of pressure, prolonged sensitivity or pain in response to hot and cold temperatures, a dark discoloration of the tooth, and swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor.

Wisdom Teeth:

Wisdom teeth are types of molars found in the very back of your mouth. These teeth usually appear in late teens or early twenties but may become impacted (fail to erupt) due to lack of room in the jaw or angle of entry.

When a wisdom tooth is impacted, it may need to be removed. If it is not removed, you may develop gum tenderness, swelling, or even severe pain. Impacted wisdom teeth that are partially or fully erupted tend to be quite difficult to clean and are susceptible to tooth decay, recurring infections, and even gum disease.

Pediatric Dentistry:

Children should visit the dentist by their first birthday. It is important that your child's newly-erupted teeth (erupting at 6-12 months of age) receive proper dental care and benefit from proper oral hygiene habits right from the beginning. Your child should visit the dentist every six months for regular dental cleanings and checkups.

Emergency Dental Care:

We are here to help you, any time, any day. When your dental health is at risk, we will do everything we can to make sure that you're treated as soon as possible. While dental emergencies are rare, they can happen, and it's important to know how to take care of your teeth no matter what. Common dental emergencies include:

A bitten lip or tongue
Broken or cracked tooth/teeth
Broken jaw
Permanent tooth that has been knocked out
Object caught between teeth
Severe toothache

Snoring Prevention:

If you snore at night, then a mandibular advancement device (MAD) may represent a solution and a better night's sleep! The MAD is a specially designed dental device that gently helps keep the lower jaw, or mandible, in a forward position, increasing the space between the airway passage and helping you breathe better so you can get a full, quiet night's sleep.

To learn more about a mandibular advancement device, contact our practice and schedule an app

ointment and consultation.

Whether it’s time for your checkup, professional teeth cleaning, or you’re interested in learning about the many ways we can improve the aesthetics of your smile, feel free to contact our Midtown Manhattan dental office. Schedule an appointment on our website or give us a call at (888) 803-3767.