No dentist expects you to skip your favorite seasonal dishes that you’ve been looking forward to all year. However, Jamaica Estates Dental’s dentist in Queens, NY, does believe that some Thanksgiving foods are better than others. Check out our ranking of each part of the holiday feast and get tips on how to make your meal more oral health-friendly. For more personalized advice on balancing diet and dental health, reach out for an appointment. 

Queens, NY, Dentist’s Criteria for Ranking

Before we jump into the list, let’s discuss our dentist’s reasoning for ranking these seasonal favorites. We focused on the following factors:

• Sugar Content: We all know that too much sugar can cause cavities that need fillings.
• Adhesion to Teeth: Foods that stick to your teeth contribute to plaque buildup.
• Acidity: These treats can eat away at tooth enamel, eventually causing decay.
• Nutritional Benefits: Dishes with high protein, fiber, or vitamins promote health.

#6: Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet potato casserole is a Thanksgiving staple, but it’s not the best for your teeth—especially when topped with marshmallows. The sticky sugar in marshmallows can stick around on your teeth, increasing the risk of cavities.

However, sweet potatoes themselves are packed with vitamin A, which is great for gum health. A healthier option is to enjoy simple, baked sweet potatoes, which offer all the nutritional benefits without the added sugar.

#5: Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry sauce often accompanies the holiday bird, but beware of its hidden sugars. While cranberries are rich in polyphenols that can be beneficial for fighting bacteria in your mouth, the canned sauce version is typically laden with sugar.

To enjoy cranberries without harming your teeth, the team at Jamaica Estates Dental recommends opting for a homemade sauce with reduced sugar or dried cranberries. Remember to brush your teeth afterward to wash away any sugar residue that might linger.

#4: Mashed Potatoes

When it comes to mashed potatoes, the texture can influence their impact on dental health. Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes may contain added fats and sugars, while chunky versions with skins mixed in are generally healthier. 

The starch in potatoes can convert to sugar in your mouth, so our dentist in Queens, NY, advises you to consume them alongside veggies that stimulate saliva production, like carrots or celery, to help break down the starches.

#3: Turkey

Surprisingly, turkey is a dental-friendly food. It’s high in protein, which is crucial for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Turkey also contains phosphorus, which helps rebuild tooth enamel.

For a tooth-healthy Thanksgiving, choose skinless turkey and pair it with fibrous vegetables to maximize the benefits. Plus, turkey is less likely to stick to your teeth compared to sugary foods, reducing the risk of plaque buildup. 

#2: Green Bean Casserole

The penultimate food on our list is green bean casserole, a dish that’s surprisingly beneficial for your teeth. Green beans are rich in fiber, which aids in cleaning your teeth as you chew. They also contain vitamins C and K, which promote healthy gums and bones.

To make this dish even healthier, consider using a reduced-fat cream of mushroom soup and go with a lighter fried onion topping. This way, you can enjoy a delicious and guilt-free dish that supports your dental health.

#1: Brussels Sprouts

It’s a controversial pick from our dentist in Queens, NY, but we think this vegetable has an undeserved bad rap. When cooked well, Brussels sprouts can be delicious, and they’re nutrient powerhouses. From vitamin K and C to phosphorous and antioxidants, these sprouts provide tons of health benefits. 

The key to making our number-one pick into your own Thanksgiving favorite is not to overcook them. Simply roasting Brussels sprouts in the oven with some olive oil and salt can do the trick. 

Savor the Season with a Tooth-Friendly Diet

Have a healthy Thanksgiving by incorporating dishes like vegetables and turkey while minimizing your intake of sugary sides like sweet potato casserole and cranberry sauce. Remember to brush and floss after indulging to keep your smile bright and healthy, and book regular cleanings and checkups for continuous support. 

If you want more advice on how your diet can complement your oral health, reach out to Jamaica Estates Dental for a consultation with our Queens, NY, dentist. We can also help with any holiday dental emergencies or post-celebration cleanings. Book now!

Autumn brings with it a palette of deep colors like rich brown or vibrant yellow. While these colors are a beautiful part of the season, you don’t want your smile to match! To help your teeth stand out amidst the dark aesthetics of fall, consider teeth whitening at Jamaica Estates Dental, particularly our advanced Zoom!® teeth whitening system. Learn how you can brighten your autumn days with a whiter smile, the benefits of teeth whitening, and why visiting our dentist in Jamaica, NY, might be your best decision.

The Zoom! Teeth Whitening System

Zoom! teeth whitening is a popular in-office procedure that offers dramatic results in a short amount of time. The process involves applying a special whitening gel to your teeth, which is then activated by a specially designed light. This light enhances the gel’s effectiveness, allowing it to penetrate your teeth and break up stains and discoloration.

 The entire Zoom! procedure typically takes about an hour, and patients often leave our Jamaica, NY, dentist’s office with teeth that are several shades whiter. It’s a convenient option for those looking for quick and effective results.

Benefits of Teeth Whitening for Autumn

 Teeth whitening offers several benefits for this season beyond just aesthetic improvement. Let’s delve into some of these advantages.

Be Ready for Those Fall Snaps

 A whiter smile can significantly enhance your self-esteem, making you feel more confident in photos. With holidays like Halloween and Thanksgiving and outdoor activities like markets and leaf peeping, you’ll probably find several opportunities to take pictures. When you know your teeth look great, you’re more likely to smile openly and engage confidently in social situations. 

Get a Youthful Autumn Glow

 A bright smile often conveys youth and vitality. Over time, teeth naturally darken, so a whiter smile can help you appear younger. Many people choose teeth whitening as a non-invasive way to rejuvenate their overall appearance.

Treat Yourself to Personalized Treatment

 October is all about treats, between Halloween and Treat Yo’ Self Day from Parks and Recreation. Teeth whitening treatments can be your treat, tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for a subtle change or a dramatic transformation, our Jamaica, NY, dentist can adjust the treatment to meet your desired outcome. This personalized approach ensures that your whitening results complement your natural features.

Considerations Before Whitening

 Before you decide to whiten your teeth, there are a few factors you should consider to ensure the best outcome.

• Dental Health: Cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues need to be fixed before whitening. Our Jamaica, NY, dentist can determine if you’re a good candidate.
• Sensitivity Concerns: Temporary tooth sensitivity can happen after whitening, so let your chai and pumpkin spice lattes cool before sipping after treatment.
• Realistic Expectations: While teeth whitening can produce significant results, the degree of whitening can vary based on your starting shade and type of stains. 

Maintaining Your Bright Fall Smile

Once you’ve achieved your desired level of whiteness, you can maintain your new smile into the winter months with proper care. Here are some tips for keeping your teeth looking their best: 

• Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Regular brushing and flossing can help keep your teeth shining brightly. We can recommend products and ingredients to look out for in toothpastes and mouthwashes.
• Limit Stain-Causing Foods and Beverages: We know it’s tough to resist hot coffee and tea during cold snaps or red wine and cranberry sauce at Thanksgiving, but try to cut back. If you do indulge, rinse your mouth with water afterward to minimize staining.
• Schedule Regular Dental Checkups: Regular visits to our dentist in Jamaica, NY, not only keep your teeth and gums healthy but also give you a chance to get touch-up treatments or additional whitening sessions. 

A Brighter Smile for Autumn and Beyond

Teeth whitening is a powerful tool for enhancing your smile and boosting your confidence. Whether you’re preparing for a special event this autumn or simply want to brighten your usual seasonal routine, teeth whitening at Jamaica Estates Dental offers a quick and effective solution. Contact our dentist in Jamaica, NY, for a luminescent smile that stands out for all the right reasons.

The back-to-school season is a whirlwind of activities—shopping for supplies, meeting new teachers, and settling into routines. Amidst the chaos, one vital aspect often gets overlooked: dental health. Equipping your child for academic success goes beyond books and backpacks; it includes a healthy smile. 

Enter dental sealants. Jamaica Estates Dental’s dentist in 11432 explores why dental sealants are an essential preventative measure that can set up your child for success this school year and beyond.

What Are Dental Sealants? 11432 Dentist Explains

Dental sealants are a protective layer applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. These molars and premolars are particularly vulnerable to cavities due to their grooves and pits, where food particles and bacteria easily get trapped. Even if your child practices good oral hygiene, they can’t always reach every nook and cranny. The sealants prevent decay-causing substances from settling in those hard-to-clean areas.

Made from a body-safe material, dental sealants are quick and painless to apply. The process involves cleaning the teeth, applying an acidic gel to roughen the surface, and then painting the sealant onto the tooth enamel. A special light is then used to harden the sealant.

Benefits of Dental Sealants

Sealants are a valuable investment, and our dentist in the 11432 area recommends them as a great preventative care option to include in your child’s back-to-school preparation.

• Cavity Prevention: Sealants reduce the risk of cavities by adding an extra layer of protection.
• Cost Savings: Getting sealants now can help your child avoid needing expensive treatments later, like fillings and crowns.
• Anxiety Avoidance: By preventing the need for more invasive treatments, you spare your child from going through stress-inducing procedures. 
• Fewer School Disruptions: Your child won’t have to take time off school for cavity-filling appointments. 

When Should a 11432 Dentist Apply Sealants?

The best time to apply sealants is as soon as the first permanent molars come in, typically around age six. The second set of molars, which appear around age twelve, should also be sealed promptly.

The back-to-school period is an ideal time for this treatment at Jamaica Estates Dental. Scheduling a dental appointment before or at the beginning of the school year ensures that your child’s teeth are protected from day one. It’s also a convenient time since many families are already getting physical checkups and updating vaccinations. 

Dentist in 11432 Answers Your FAQs

How long do dental sealants last?

Dental sealants can last up to ten years with proper care. Regular dental checkups with our general dentists will ensure they remain intact and effective.

Is the procedure covered by insurance?

Most dental insurance plans cover sealants for children, particularly on permanent molars. It’s best to check with your provider for specific details. Jamaica Estates Dental also offers several ways to pay.

Do sealants require special maintenance?

Sealants do not require any special maintenance. However, maintaining good oral hygiene and regular visits to our 11432 dentist will help extend their lifespan.

11432 Dentist: See Why Sealants Save Smiles

In this back-to-school season, add a dental appointment to your checklist. A quick, painless procedure now can save your child from discomfort and extensive dental work in the future. Give your child the gift of a cavity-free school year by scheduling an appointment at Jamaica Estates Dental today.

When you hear the term “radiation,” it’s natural to feel a twinge of fear. After all, radiation is often associated with harmful effects. However, not all radiation is dangerous, especially in the small doses used for dental X-rays at Jamaica Estates Dental. 

Below, our dentists in Jamaica, NY, explore why dental X-rays are safe. How do we know? Bananas. 

The Importance of Dental X-Rays

Dental X-rays allow our Jamaica, NY, dentist to diagnose hidden issues that can’t be seen during a regular examination: 

• Cavities that Need Dental Fillings

• Cracked Teeth

• Impacted Teeth Requiring Extraction

• Gum Disease

Early detection allows us to create more effective treatment plans, help you avoid more serious dental issues, and save you money and stress. 

Understanding Radiation

Radiation is present all around us, coming from natural sources like the sun, soil, and even our food. Everyday activities expose us to small amounts of radiation, and these levels are generally considered safe. For instance, when you fly in an airplane or even live at a higher altitude, you’re exposed to more cosmic radiation because you’re closer to space. 

Ultimately, it’s the dose that matters. Just as a certain amount of sunlight is beneficial for vitamin D production, but too much can cause sunburn, small doses of radiation—like those a Jamaica, NY, dentist uses for dental X-rays—are safe. 

The Banana Equivalent Dose

One way to put radiation exposure into perspective is by using the “banana equivalent dose.” Yes, you read that right—bananas! They contain a small amount of the radioactive potassium-40 isotope. Eating one banana exposes you to about 0.1 microsieverts (a unit of radiation). 

A standard dental X-ray exposes you to about 5 microsieverts. This means that getting a dental X-ray is roughly equivalent to eating 50 bananas, as the University of California explains. In other words, that amount of radiation is relatively small and not something to worry about.

Modern X-Rays vs. Old X-Rays

It should also ease your fears to hear that the dental X-ray technology used by our dentists in Jamaica, NY, has come a long way. In the past, scans may have involved higher doses of radiation and longer exposure times. However, modern dental X-rays use advanced technology to minimize exposure while still providing detailed images.

The Safety of Dental X-Rays

Safety is Jamaica Estates Dental’s top priority. We take specific precautions during X-rays to ensure minimal radiation exposure. One standard safety measure is the use of lead aprons and thyroid collars, which protect your body from scattered radiation. 

In addition to protective gear, our dentists in Jamaica, NY, are trained to use the lowest possible radiation dose to achieve clear images. 

Jamaica, NY, Dentist Peels Back the Layers on X-Ray Safety

The banana equivalent dosage of a dental X-ray can help you feel less apprehensive about getting one from our dentists in Jamaica, NY. Not getting an X-ray could mean missing vital health information. With our modern scans, we can get a quick but comprehensive glimpse at what’s going on beneath the surface of your smile, ensuring you get the most targeted care possible. Contact Jamaica Estates Dental today for an appointment!

As you help your child prepare for this next exciting chapter, you’ve likely checked off many things from your to-do list: dorm essentials, class enrollments, and maybe even a new laptop. But one critical question remains—does your high school grad still have dental insurance for their dentist in Jamaica, NY? 

At Jamaica Estates Dental, our dentists are passionate about ensuring young adults have access to the care they need. We’ll guide you through understanding dental insurance for college-bound students and offer steps to ensure your graduate stays covered.

What’s the Age Limit on Your Policy? 

Most dental insurance plans have age limits for dependents—anywhere from 19 to 26 years old. The timeline can also depend on whether your child is a full-time student. Your insurance might still cover routine care like cleanings and checkups but have a cut-off for other procedures like dental crowns. 

The first step in ensuring your child continues to access care is to contact your dental insurance provider. Ask about: 

• Age limits
• Coverage for full-time students
• Documentation you might need to provide
• Covered procedures
• In-network providers

Insurance Alternatives: The Wisdom Membership Plan

If your insurance doesn’t cover your college-bound child, don’t worry. They won’t need to put off care with our dentist in Jamaica, NY, until they get their own coverage or only in emergencies. Jamaica Estates Dental offers an affordable and comprehensive Wisdom Membership Plan. For an annual fee of $250, it includes: 

• 20% off all other treatments
• $50 discount for each additional family member
• $100 discount for each child
• 2 regular cleanings, dental exams, and X-rays

Your grad can get the dental care they need without breaking the bank for you. They can also purchase this plan for themselves, helping them gain access to their own coverage outside of insurance. 

Why Worry About Dental Care? Benefits of Planning Ahead

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 13% of children ages 5 to 19 have untreated cavities. It jumps to over 25% for ages 20 to 44. The late teens and early twenties are clearly a time when oral health habits can slip. 

Continuity of care can prevent this. Planning for your child’s dental health when they leave the nest ensures there are no gaps in care, reducing the risk of complications later. Plus, preventative treatments cost less than emergency care.

Benefits of a College Dental Home at Jamaica Estates

Our dentist in Jamaica, NY, knows your child’s history, unique requirements, fears and anxieties, and even their communication style. We offer a familiar space for them, which can be incredibly comforting when everything else is in upheaval. 

We also welcome new patients if your child is coming to our area for college. Set them up for success by establishing an oral health home base with Jamaica Estates Dental. We make newcomers feel like they’re old friends. 

Discuss Insurance and More with Our Dentist in Jamaica, NY

Planning for your child’s college years includes ensuring they receive care from our dentist in Jamaica, NY. Review your insurance, consider our Wisdom Membership Plan, and save both money and stress in the long run. At Jamaica Estates Dental, we’re here to support you and your college student every step of the way. Schedule now to leave them with less to worry about as they embark on their exciting journey.