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.

Your teeth aren’t the only parts of your oral health that do the talking about potential problems. While toothaches should prompt you to contact Jamaica Estates Dental, other signs should grab your attention. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s time to check with one of our dentists in Jamaica, Queens. 

#1: Bad Breath

If you find yourself chewing gum constantly to mask your breath, it might be more than just a nuisance. The Mayo Clinic reports that persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth can be a sign of an actual medical condition. Since your breath is closely linked with your oral health, it makes sense to consult a dentist. Ours can check if your halitosis is caused by: 

• Gum disease
• Cavities
• Cracked teeth
• Infection

Our Jamaica dentist offers halitosis treatment as well as cracked tooth repair and other services.

#2: Teeth Appearing Longer

Have you noticed that you look a little long in the tooth—literally? The usual cause of tooth lengthening is gum recession due to gingivitis or periodontitis, a.k.a. gum disease. Receding gums can come with other symptoms like tooth sensitivity. This is because the root of your tooth is exposed. If you don’t treat receding gums, you could eventually experience loose or even lost teeth. Our scaling and root planing (SRP) treatment can help your gums reattach to your teeth. 

#3: Headaches or Earaches

A lot of people assume their headaches are from stress or maybe a cold. While you can experience tension and sinus headaches, consistent ones could be a reason to see a dentist about your jaw. That’s right—dysfunction with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can cause headaches. TMJ disorders (TMD) cause tense jaw muscles, which the Library of Congress highlights as the strongest muscles in your body based on weight. If those aren’t working correctly, all that force can cause pain, both in your head and in your ears. 

If you’ve been suffering from headaches and earaches, you might need to see our dentist in Jamaica, Queens. If your doctor has already ruled out anything wrong with your sinuses or ears, your jaw is likely the cause. At Jamaica Estates Dental, we offer a variety of TMJ disorder treatments to ease pain. 

#4: Tiredness

Feeling tired during the day obviously means you aren’t sleeping well. But why aren’t you sleeping well? You could have bruxism—nighttime teeth grinding and jaw clenching. You could also be suffering from sleep apnea. Surprisingly, our dentist can often spot these issues based on the condition of your mouth. For bruxism, we can create night guards to protect your teeth from grinding and relax your jaw from clenching. If we suspect sleep apnea, we can refer you to a specialist. Either way, if you’ve been getting poor sleep and aren’t sure why, check with a dentist!

Schedule with Our Dentist in Jamaica, Queens

Stay attuned with your body, and don’t ignore these subtle signs. The team at Jamaica Estates Dental is skilled at finding the reasons for seemingly minor oral health issues. We can form a plan to match your condition, offering everything from pain relief to fresher breath. Whatever you need, you’ll walk out of our office with a healthier smile. Contact us today!

Experiencing a toothache can be a distressing experience, especially when it strikes outside of regular dental office hours in Queens, NY. If you find yourself in this painful predicament, knowing what steps to take before you can visit an emergency dentist in Queens can make a significant difference in managing your discomfort. Our Jamaica Estates Dental dentists have seen many patients who have taken the proper steps to temporarily alleviate their pain, ensuring that their toothache doesn’t turn into a crisis.

Quick First Steps to Ease the Pain

When a toothache takes hold, it’s essential to act quickly to alleviate the pain. First, rinse your mouth with warm salt water to gently cleanse and soothe the inflamed area. If possible, use dental floss to remove any trapped food particles that could make the problem worse. 

Meanwhile, avoid applying direct heat to the area, as this could increase both swelling and pain. If you notice any swelling, apply a cold compress to your cheek for a soothing effect. Remember, these are interim measures until you can see an emergency dentist in Queens.

Over-The-Counter Remedies to Consider

While over-the-counter pain relievers won’t solve the underlying issue of a toothache like an emergency dentist in Queens will, medication can provide short-term relief. Ibuprofen, for instance, can help reduce inflammation and discomfort. If you experience swelling, an antihistamine may also provide some relief.

However, be sure to use any medication according to the instructions, and never place aspirin or any other painkiller directly against the gums or the aching tooth, as this could burn the tissue and prolong your pain. 

Avoiding Certain Foods and Beverages

Until you can reach an emergency dentist in Queens, steer clear of extremely hot or cold foods and beverages, as your teeth may be sensitive. Additionally, avoid sugary foods and drinks that can worsen any existing decay or infection. Stick with soft foods that require minimal chewing, and chew on the side of your mouth opposite the aching tooth to prevent further irritation. 

Preventative Measures

While these measures can provide temporary relief, nothing substitutes professional care from your emergency dentist in Queens, NY. To prevent future toothaches, maintain routine dental checkups, and practice good oral hygiene. 

Serving Queens and beyond, Jamaica Estates Dental emphasizes the importance of preventative care in avoiding such distressing situations. We also educate our patients on preventive measures, such as proper brushing and flossing techniques, to keep their teeth healthy and strong. Our emergency dentist in Queens is ready to provide the necessary care and advice to prevent dental emergencies whenever possible.

When to Call Your Emergency Dentist in Queens, NY

If your toothache is severe, persistent, and comes with symptoms like a fever, an unpleasant taste in your mouth, or swollen glands, these could be signs of a severe infection that requires immediate attention. Don’t wait! Contact Jamaica Estates Dental, your emergency dentist in Queens, NY, to receive prompt, professional care. Our expert team is here to provide the relief and solutions you need when you need them the most.

As we approach the Easter holiday, many of us are getting ready to indulge in sweet treats and festive foods. However, amidst all the excitement and indulgence, it’s important to remember that our oral health should not take a backseat. What better way to balance out those sugary Easter goodies than with some good old eggs? Yes, you read that correctly – these colorful and iconic symbols of spring can be highly beneficial for your dental health! 

In this blog post, our Jamaica Estates dentists explore how eggs can contribute to a healthier smile and why you should add them to your Easter celebration menu. Let’s put down that chocolate bunny for just a moment and dive into the smile-friendly benefits of eggs!

1.   Vitamin D

Eggs are also a good source of vitamin D, which is essential for maintaining healthy smiles. Vitamin D helps our bodies absorb calcium, which is crucial for strong teeth and bones. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the gums and prevent gum disease. By including eggs in your diet, you can help keep your gums healthy.

2.   Phosphorus

Eggs are a powerhouse of nutrition, and among their many beneficial components is phosphorus, a mineral that plays a critical role in oral health. Phosphorus is essential for the development and maintenance of strong teeth and bones, as it works in tandem with calcium and vitamin D to enhance their absorption and utilization by the body. This symbiotic relationship ensures that the enamel, the outermost layer of the teeth, remains hard and resilient against decay.

By incorporating eggs into your diet, you’re not just enjoying a delicious treat; you’re also taking a proactive step towards fortifying your teeth, making them less susceptible to cavities and other oral health issues.

3.   Choline

Another essential nutrient found in eggs is choline. Choline is essential to produce acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in muscle and nerve function. This includes the muscles and nerves in our mouths, making choline crucial for maintaining good oral health. Additionally, choline has been linked to a reduced risk of gum disease and can help prevent bad breath.

4.   Protein

Eggs are a great source of protein, containing all nine essential amino acids that our bodies need. These amino acids are crucial for building and maintaining strong teeth and bones. In fact, studies have shown that a diet high in protein can help prevent tooth decay and promote healthy teeth and gums. So, incorporating eggs into your diet can help keep your teeth strong and healthy.

Our Jamaica Estates Dentists Can Make Your Smile Healthy

In conclusion, eggs are not only a delicious and versatile food, but they also offer many benefits for your dental health. From providing essential nutrients for strong teeth and gums to being easy to prepare and suitable for different diets, eggs are a great addition to any healthy diet. Next time you’re planning your meals, don’t forget to include some eggs for a boost to your oral health.

While eggs are great, one surefire way to stay on top of your oral health is by scheduling regular appointments for general dentistry. Our Jamaica Estates dentists are currently accepting new patients, so give your smile a head start this spring!