General Dentistry on the Upper West Side

An oral examination is a visual inspection of the mouth, head, and neck, performed to detect abnormalities. Low radiation digital imaging allows for a more complete examination, helping the doctor to detect cavities, problems in existing dental restorations, gum and bone recession or other abnormal conditions within the mouth, head and neck area.

Also known as oral prophylaxis, a dental cleaning removes dental plaque and tartar that is left behind after brushing and flossing. We use a water-cooled ultrasonic device that emits vibrations to loosen larger pieces of tartar, and then a variety of hand tools to remove small deposits and smooth the surfaces of the teeth. Finally, we will polish your teeth to a beautiful shine. Cleanings are typically recommended twice per year, though if you are prone to gum disease, we may suggest a more frequent cleaning schedule.

If you are sensitive to the sounds of dental equipment, ask us about Zound earplugs to help reduce the noise of the ultrasonic scaler and other dental equipment.

The biting and chewing surfaces of the premolars and molars are filled with pits and grooves that can be difficult to fully clean. Clear or white dental sealants are painted directly onto these surfaces to seal out food debris and plaque, protecting the teeth from decay. Dental sealants are applied in a single visit and can last for years.

Our office can fabricate custom oral appliances that can protect your teeth and gums during sports, alleviate sleep apnea symptoms to provide an open airway while you sleep, or relieve stress on the temporomandibular joint caused by clenching or grinding of the teeth.

A non-surgical procedure to treat gum disease, scaling and root planing consists of two parts, both of which are performed during the same visit. The scaling process uses specialized dental instruments to clean plaque and tartar from deep within the gum line. Root planing then smooths the tooth roots, making it easier for the gums to heal and reattach themselves to the roots.

Root canals are most often necessary when decay has reached the nerve of the tooth or the tooth has become infected.  When root canal therapy is performed, infected or inflamed pulp is removed from the tooth chamber. The inside of the tooth is then cleaned and disinfected before being filled and sealed to limit the possibility of future infection. Soon after the root canal is performed, the tooth is restored with a dental crown or filling to protect the tooth and restore normal tooth function.

A tooth that cannot be saved with restorative procedures may need to be removed. First, we will thoroughly numb the area with a local anesthesia. We will then use a gentle rocking motion to loosen the tooth from the jawbone, ligaments, and soft tissues before carefully pulling it out. Stitches may be necessary after the removal of a tooth.