Thursday, December 2, 2010

Zirconia Dental Implants: An Alternative to Titanium

Dental implants have been used in restorative dentistry for the past three decades. Patients choose this surgical procedure for its cosmetic and functional benefits. The top three reasons people opt for dental implants include the replacement of one or more teeth, support for a bridge (eliminating the need for a removable partial denture) and for the support, security and comfort of a denture.

For years, titanium was the preferred metal used to manufacture dental implants based on its proven compatibility, high strength-to-weight ratio and durability. However, in recent years, metal-free zirconia has made its way to the forefront of the dental implant industry and into mouths of patients who believe that it is safer and stronger than its predecessor. Studies also show that zirconia dental implants retain less plaque and calculus than titanium, which promotes healthier gums.

Since Zirconia is classified as a ceramic and does not conduct electricity, it has no negative effects on meridian energy pathways. Research shows that the human immune system does not react to zirconia, which is a major benefit.

According to Wikipedia, a popular online dictionary, zirconia (Zr02) is the dioxide of zicondium, a metal close to titanium in the periodic table and with similar biocompatibility properties. While its shape is similar to titanium implants, zirconia offers tooth-like color, which makes it more aesthetically and cosmetically pleasing to patients. The use of zirconia in dental implants eliminates the corrosive by-products of titanium, which can disseminate throughout the body. It also removes the possibility of getting dark lines around the gum, which is often the case with titanium dental implants.

Holistic dental practitioners and implantologists such as Dr. Vladimir Gashinsky, DDS, a Millburn, New Jersey dentist, are moving toward the high-performance special ceramics as part of an overall holistic approach to dentistry. “Many patients have delayed getting dental implants because of the potential health hazards related to implanting titanium into bone,” explained Dr. Gashinsky. “Now that zirconia is being offered, these same patients are feeling much more enthusiastic about getting dental implants.”

Zirconian implants are a fairly new trend in holistic dentistry, although they were developed and approved of several years ago. Dr. Gashinsky – also known as Dr. G – is currently using Z-Systems Z-Look3 dental implants in his Millburn, New Jersey dental practice. The zirconia dental implants come in four different one-piece implant designs for a broad range of indications. The one-piece design reduces the possibility of bone loss.

Only qualified users have access to the Z-Look3 dental implants. For example, dentists and implantologists must have experience and receive initial and ongoing training through Z-Systems. During the training, dental professionals learn from and with their colleagues to better understand the zirconia dental implant process and to become experts in performing dental implant surgery.

Dr. Vladimir Gashinsky is currently using Z-Systems dental implants in his Millburn, New Jersey dental practice. For more information, visit www.drgdds.com, or follow Dr. G on Twitter at www.twitter.com/drgdds and on Facebook.

Monday, November 22, 2010

Zirconia Dental Implants Offer Holistic Advantages

Although they have been around for several years, Zirconia dental implants are a fairly new trend in holistic dentistry. Before the development of zirconia implants, titanium was the preferred metal used to manufacture dental implants. Titanium proved to be compatible, it offered a high strength-to-weight ratio and became known for its durability. However, it was known to give off corrosive by-products which could disseminate throughout the body, and the metal often created a dark line around the gum where the implant was placed.

In recent years, metal-free zirconia has made its way to the forefront of the dental implant industry and into mouths of patients who believe that it is safer and stronger than its titanium predecessor.

The online dictionary, Wikipedia, describes zirconia (Zr02) as the dioxide of zicondium, a metal close to titanium in the periodic table. It notes that zirconia has similar biocompatibility properties as titanium and has tooth-like color. This pleases the aesthetic and cosmetic desires of dental implant patients.

Dr. Vladimir Gashinsky – also known as Dr. G – is currently using Z-Systems dental implants in his Millburn, New Jersey dental practice. The zirconia dental implants come in four different one-piece implant designs for a broad range of indications. For more information, visit www.drgdds.com, or follow Dr. G on Twitter at www.twitter.com/drgdds and on Facebook.

The Silencer: Treatment for Snoring and Sleep Apnea

The night hours are for deep sleep and preparing the body and mind for the next day. But snoring and sleep apnea interrupt sleep, much to the frustration of both the sufferer and their loved ones. Over the years, doctors have recommended many different treatments for snoring and sleep apnea. Some offered levels of relief, but for most, snoring persisted and sleep apnea continued to be a health concern.

There have been some breakthroughs in the treatment for snoring and sleep apnea in the past few years, but one dental invention that’s been proven to work is the Silencer System. This appliance fits in the mouth for night time use. The Silencer prevents airway obstructions that cause snoring. It’s a removable device that offers the following benefits.

• Make breathing easier
• It’s customized and comfortable
• Eliminates the need for machines and masks
• Limits the need for surgical intervention

The Silencer was invented by Dr. Wayne Halstrom in the 1990s. It works while people sleep and often takes the place of sleep apnea breathing machines that are bulky and uncomfortable. To use it, dentists take an impression of a patient’s teeth, then create a customized appliance that's ready for use in about 10 days.

Dr. Vladimir Gashinsky uses The Silencer on his patients that suffer from snoring or sleep apnea. This procedure is performed in his dental office in Millburn, New Jersey. To find out more about Dr. G and his treatment for snoring and sleep apnea, visit www.drgdds.com.

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

What is TMJ?

These days, many dentists are treating TMJ with great success. TMJ is an abbreviated common name for temporomandibular joint dysfunction. In general, TMJ is a disorder of the jaw joint. It causes pain with certain movements of the jaw, muscles, ligaments and nerves. TMJ occurs when the jaw joint is worn down, when the joint is injured or when arthritis negatively affects it.

Signs of TMJ include:

• A stiff or tender jaw in the mornings
• Difficulty with opening the mouth
• Pain and swelling of the muscles
• General pain in the jaw that spreads to the ear
• Jaw joint popping or clicking
• Unexplained headaches

Long-term effects of TMJ result in damage to the jaw bone and the muscles that surround it. These damaging affects, combined with the discomfort of TMJ often necessitate the need for intervention. However, in worst case scenarios, people with TMJ can actually experience a type of lock jaw. This happens when a person with TMJ opens their mouth too wide and it gets stuck in that position. To close their mouths, they have to open wider or close their mouths manually.

Over the past several years, the dental industry has made great strides in identifying and treating TMJ. Dentists are able to make the diagnosis of TMJ with a physical examination and an x-ray of the jaw. They understand that TMJ usually occurs when a person’s teeth don’t meet when they bite down – referred to as malocclusion of the teeth. In addition, those who grind their teeth, chew a lot of gum, are stressed out, or are born with an overbite are susceptible to TMJ.

Dentists who treat TMJ use anti-inflammatory and muscle-relaxing medications to reduce pain, swelling and tight jaw muscles. For those who grind teeth, dentists can make a special bite plate to be worn at night. Surgery is a last resort, only performed in extreme cases of TMJ.

If you need a dentist in Millburn who treats TMJ, contact Dr. Vladimir Gashinsky. You can visit the website of Dr. G at www.drgdds.com. You can also follow Dr. G on Twitter and Facebook.

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

How to Treat Gum Disease

A dentist can quickly assess whether a patient has gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. However, there are several symptoms that can raise a red flag for people, including:

• Bad breath that you can't get rid of
• Red or swollen gums
• Tender or bleeding gums
• Painful chewing
• Loose teeth

Between 75 and 90 percent of Americans are affected by gum disease at one level or another. Many researchers say that the diet of Americans is the major cause of the increasing numbers of periodontal patients.

Periodontitis is often referred to as advanced Gingivitis. It is caused by bacterial plaque (germs on the teeth). This results in inflammation of the tissues that support the teeth, and can cause deep tooth and bone loss. With this in mind, it’s important to manage gum disease with brushing and flossing multiple times a day, along with regular cleanings of the gums.

Preliminary research into the affects of periodontal disease on the human body actually link the disease to an increase risk of heart attack, stroke, asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and it has also been linked to pancreatic cancer.

In recent years, holistic dentists have treated gum disease, and then suggested that patients use natural supplements to assist in preventing or reducing the damage caused by gum disease. Research shows that certain nutrients will correct a vitamin deficiency in the body.

The following are supplements used to combat gum disease:

• Vitamin C
• Vitamin D
• Coenzyme Q10
• Cranberry Juice
• Folic Acid
• Calcium

To find out more about how to prevent and treat gum disease, visit www.drgdds.com. Read about Dr. Vladimir Gashinsky (Dr. G), a holistic dentist in Millburn, New Jersey. You can also follow Dr. G on Twitter and Facebook.

Monday, September 20, 2010

How to Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene

No one doubts the need for brushing their teeth. Most parents teach their children to brush after every meal, and before bedtime. Over time, brushing your teeth became a daily routine. Later, the dentist introduced you to flossing, telling you that it was necessary to maintain proper oral hygiene.

Still, not everyone follows the basic dental guidelines of brushing and flossing. Some brush three times a day or more, but don’t floss. Others brush their teeth in the morning and maybe at night, and floss every once in a while. Many people visit the dentist twice a year as recommended, but others limit their visits to emergency situations, including toothaches or chipping of the teeth.

To maintain proper oral hygiene, it’s important to brush and floss a minimum of three times a day as a routine. Flossing helps you to reach the undetected morsels of food that get caught between your teeth. It’s equally as important to find a good dentist who will not only provide you with care in emergencies, but will help you be pro-active in your dental care.

Tooth decay is caused when plaque builds up and becomes tartar. Plaque is a bacteria that forms on the teeth when a combination of saliva, foods and fluid collect on the teeth and where the teeth and gums meet. Plaque begins to form as early as four hours after brushing. The buildup of plaque over time hardens into tartar – also referred to as calculus. Tartar is can’t be removed by brushing. Only a dentist can remove these crusty, yellowish deposits.

One goal in good oral hygiene is to eliminate plaque and prevent tartar by brushing regularly, using a tartar-control toothpaste and having your teeth cleaned twice a year.

To learn more about maintaining proper oral hygiene, contact Dr. Vladimir Gashinsky – a holistic dentist in Millburn, New Jersey. You can also visit his website at www.drgdds.com and follow him on Twitter and Facebook.

Thursday, September 9, 2010

What is ZOOM! Teeth Whitening Treatment?

Years ago, only certain people enjoyed white teeth and others wished they did. But today, everyone has the opportunity to get rid of stained or discolored teeth. Just take a look at the TV and movie screens where celebrities have whiter teeth than they once did.

So how do people get their teeth so white? How do you get the WOW factor going with your smile? Some have opted for porcelain veneers, which come in many shades of white. Others have a complete set of very white false teeth. Years ago, dentists recommended that patients match their new teeth with the original color. But now, white teeth are more commonplace, so people are encouraged to have the color of teeth they have always wanted.

Many people are using over-the-counter teeth whitening systems. They work, but not as fast, or for as long, or as good as the professional systems used by dentists. One such professional system is 1-hour ZOOM! Teeth Whitening. This deep bleaching system works by restoring the teeth’s ability to absorb oxygen and dissolve stain molecules. It is so potent that it is even effective on tetracycline-stained teeth.

Zoom! is the world leader in chairside whitening systems. In 2004, the Zoom! System was recognized as Reality's #1 rated in-office whitening system, awarded Dental Advisor's 5 Plus rating and won the Dental Town's Townie Award for both best in-office system and best Whitening Lamp.

Unlike other bleaching methods, Zoom! deep bleaching lasts up to three years when followed up with easy home maintenance systems. Many dentists who use Zoom! Teeth Whitening treatments send their patients home with a free maintenance touch-up kit.

One such professional is Dr. Vladimir Gashisnky (Dr. G) who is a dentist in Millburn, New Jersey. As a holistic dentist, he has made sure that the Zoom! Teeth Whitening system is safe and effective. You can find Dr. G on his website at www.drgdds.com or on Twitter

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

How to Find the Right Dentist

If you look at Yellow Page directories in the phone book or online, it’s obvious that there are plenty of dentists in every city. So what’s the best way to go about finding a dentist that is right for you? The following are some general rules to follow:

1.    Get referrals from friends, family members and neighbors. When you meet the dentist, ask him/her for additional referrals from satisfied customers.
2.    Check out the credentials and specialties of the dentist. If they don’t have a website, call their office and ask them to send you information.
3.    Make sure your dentist takes ongoing educational courses and their office has the latest in technology.
4.    Find a dentist that can do a variety of procedures in their office. This way you don’t have to get shuffled from one office to another.
5.    Take advantage of free consultations. This is how you can learn their style of dentistry and their chair-side manners.
6.    On your first visit, look for cleanliness in the office and at the chair. Also, make sure that the dentist and his/her assistants care about sanitation and that they sterilize their equipment.
7.    Check the support staff and dental assistants to see if they are focused on client care and if they provide a comfortable atmosphere. It’s the entire dental team that matters.

At the office of Dr. Vladimir Gashinsky DDS – a general and cosmetic dentist in Millburn, New Jersey, you’ll find that they pass all the tests for experience, technical know-how and client care. For information on Dr. G, visit www.drgdds.com or follow us on Facebook or Twitter.

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

What are Porcelain Veneers?

Many people think that porcelain veneers are for the wealthy and for actors, dignitaries and high level executives. However, porcelain veneers are becoming more affordable and more popular for the average American citizen.

Porcelain veneers are not necessary in terms of medical or dental care, but they do improve a person’s smile. As a result of such aesthetic improvements, porcelain veneers often enhance self esteem, and in many cases, give people the added confidence necessary for increased success.

Those who choose a smile makeover using porcelain veneers often have chipped, stained, crooked or gapped teeth. They want a quick and safe way to achieve a beautiful and natural-looking smile. With porcelain veneers, teeth can appear more perfectly aligned – without spending a lot of time with braces that actually move the teeth to preferred positions.

Porcelain veneers are wafer-thin shells of porcelain which are bonded on to the sides of teeth. Although porcelain is inherently brittle, it becomes strong and durable when bonded to a sturdy substance such as a tooth. Porcelain veneers are glass-like and translucent, so they closely mimic the characteristics of dental enamel. Porcelain veneers are highly resistant to stains and can last up to 50 years. Those who get them brush and floss them like they do their natural teeth.

Here’s how they are made: Impressions of teeth are taken in order to individually fabricate the porcelain veneers for each tooth. They are attached – or bonded – to natural teeth using a strong adhesive. The process takes anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the dentist.

Dr. Vladimir Gashinsky DDS is an expert at porcelain veneers. As a cosmetic dentist in Millburn, New Jersey, Dr. G (as he is also called), provides the highest level of skills to create a masterful smile for his patients. Visit www.drg@drgdds.com or follow him on Facebook or Twitter.

Monday, July 26, 2010

What is Gum Disease?

If you find yourself asking “What is gum disease?” you’re not alone. Many people visit the dentist and hear the term, but don’t really know what it is, what the symptoms are, or the level of damage gum disease can do. Also referred to as periodontal disease, gum disease happens when an infection of tissues and bone causes loose teeth, or in advanced stages, teeth to fall out. Often, gum disease is caused by a buildup of plaque, which contains bacteria that produce toxins that in turn irritate or damage the gums.

Since plaque creates an invisible layer of germs that form on the teeth, it’s no wonder dentists recommend that their patients brush and floss several times a day. Add to this the fact that hundreds of types of bacteria are found in the mouth, and it's easy to see that gum disease can happen to anyone, and that there's a need for continual cleaning of the mouth.

Certain people actually inherit the tendency for gum disease so they must be pro-active in their efforts to prevent the disease. While smoking is one of the leading causes of gum diseases (and increases the likelihood of mouth cancer), there are additional factors that increase the potential for gum disease, including the types of snacks people eat. For example, fast food, candy and soda have a lot of sugar and starch. Both of these substances feed the acids that attack the enamel on teeth.

In addition, specific medicines and medical conditions such as diabetes and Down syndrome, increase the risk of gum disease. A poor diet, a lack of sleep and stress also add to the risk.

The following are some signs and symptoms of gum disease:

•    Gums that bleed during brushing and/or flossing. (A mild form of gum disease is called Gingivitis.)
•    The presence of calculus or tartar, which is plaque that has hardened over time
•    Teeth that are pulling away from the gums.
•    Gums that are discolored, swollen and tender
•    Continual bad breath
•    Loose teeth

It’s better to prevent gum disease than to deal with it in the early stages. Managing gum disease in the late stages is even harder but can be accomplished over time. The goal in this case is to counteract some of the damage, and to prevent gum disease from spreading to areas of the jawbone that support the teeth.

Dr. Vladimir Gashinsky DDS is a dentist in Millburn, New Jersey who works to prevent gum disease and to treat it at all levels. Visit www.drgdds.com, or follow Dr. G on Twitter.

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

What is Smile Restoration Dentistry?

The term “Smile Restoration Dentistry” is often used by dentists who specialize in cosmetic dentistry. However, over the past several years the term has evolved to include all levels of dentistry. Simply put, smile restoration dentistry is bringing a person’s dental health and aesthetics back to an earlier stage of life.

Age and a lack of proper dental care are two of the main reasons people’s teeth become unhealthy. Often times, teeth get pulled when they are too far gone or the patient doesn’t have the insurance or money to cover the cost of root canals, crowns or other dental procedures that can save a tooth.

When it’s time to restore a smile, dentists often do a full mouth exam with x-rays followed by a detailed plan of the procedures necessary for healthy teeth and gums. Several of the following procedures are necessary in smile restoration dentistry:

•    Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are used to replace lost teeth, and attach to adjoining natural teeth. This is for aesthetics as well as health since missing teeth allows your other teeth to drift from their proper position. This in turn causes jaw pain, headaches and a higher increase of decay.

•    Tooth Crowns
Smile restoration often includes tooth crowns, often referred to as a “cap.” Crowns help to strengthen and protect tooth structure in case of fracture or heavy decay.

•    Dental Implants
Many dental patients choose dental implants over dental bridges. Implants are more permanent and are known to stop bone deterioration caused by tooth loss. In addition, dental implant specialists believe that implants add to a more youthful appearance, restores natural biting and chewing, and eliminates the pain and inconvenience of dentures, bridges and partials.

•    Dentures
When people have lost many or all of their natural teeth due to periodontal disease, tooth decay or injury, the best solution for restoring their smile is to create partial or complete dentures. With today’s technology, dentures look completely natural. In many cases, they improve speech and the ability to chew.

Dr. G is a general and cosmetic dentist in Millburn, New Jersey who specializes in Smile Restoration Dentistry. Visit the website at www.drgdds.com, or you can follow on Twitter or Facebook.

Monday, June 14, 2010

Zirconia Dental Implants Offer Holistic Advantages

Although they have been around for several years, zirconia dental implants are a fairly new trend in holistic dentistry. Before the development of zirconia dental implants, titanium was the preferred metal used to manufacture dental implants. 

Titanium proved to be compatible, it offered a high strength-to-weight ratio for dental implants and became known for its durability. However, in recent years, metal-free zirconia has made its way to the forefront of the dental implant industry and into mouths of patients who believe that it is a safer option for them.

The dictionary describes zirconia (Zr02) as the dioxide of zicondium, a metal close to titanium in the periodic table. It notes that zirconia has similar biocompatibility properties as titanium and has tooth-like color. This pleases the aesthetic and cosmetic desires of dental implant patients.

Dr. Vladimir Gashinsky – also known as Dr. G – offers both zirconia and titanium implants, understanding that patients have reasons for preferring one over the other. Dr. G is currently using Z-Systems dental implants in his Millburn, New Jersey dental practice. The zirconia dental implants come in four different one-piece implant designs for a broad range of indications. For more information, visit www.drg@drgdds.com or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/dentist_drg.

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

What are Invisalign Braces?

Like the name implies, Invisalign braces are virtually invisible. What an easy and innovative way of straightening teeth! Invisalign uses a patented proprietary method that eliminates the use of standard metal braces with uncomfortable and often times painful brackets and wires. In addition, the Invalign braces system incorporates 3D modeling software and state-of-the-art manufacturing technology to not just straighten teeth but deal with many other kinds of orthodontic problems.

When you opt for Invasign braces, you will get a series of removable, comfortable, nearly invisible aligners that move your teeth -- the same way metal braces do, but in most cases, much faster. About every two weeks, you will switch out your aligner, which has been customized with the exactly calculations of your mouth in order to gradually shift your teeth into place.

While metal braces have proven to work well, many people have held back from straightening their teeth because of the unsightliness of the metal. Invisalign nearly hides the fact that you're wearing braces. Also, Invisalign braces are usually more affordable than metal braces.

Dr. Gashinsky is a general and cosmetic dentist in New Jersey who offers patients Invisalign braces. Visit his website at www.drgdds.com.

What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

The term "Cosmetic Dentistry" is a formal name used in the dental industry and one that has become a household term in the past decade. Simply put, cosmetic dentistry is the act of fixing whatever is wrong with your teeth, your mouth or your smile. As Dr. Vladimir Gashinsky says, "Whether your teeth are damaged, missing or discolored, cosmetic dentistry can give you a great looking smile that enhances your appearance and self-confidence." (Dr. Gashinsky is often referred to as Dr. G, a New Jersey dentist with a holistic practice.)

Traditional dentistry deals with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of oral disease, and places an emphasis on oral hygiene. Dentists consider these necessary routine services. On the other hand, cosmetic dentistry is done in addition to standard treatment protocols. Though it can be restorative in nature, cosmetic dentistry is more of elective services. For example, a dentist will use standard elements such as amalgam to fill your cavities. However, when you elect to use a higher-grade material for an enhanced look, such as porcelain or composite materials that can be matched to the color of your own teeth, then you have moved into the cosmetic dentistry realm.

There are many ways to answer the question, "What is cosmetic dentistry?" In general, however, cosmetic dentistry includes dental tooth bonding, braces, porcelain veneers and tooth whitening.


Dr. Gashinsky is a Millburn, New Jersey cosmetic entist with a holistic approach to dentistry. To learn more about what cosmetic dentistry is, visit his website at www.drgddds.com

Monday, May 10, 2010

What is Holistic Dentistry?

The term 'Holistic Dentistry' is defined in different ways by many people, but in general, it is an approach to dentistry in which overall health and wellness is the goal of the practice. These dentists don't just treat symptoms and the various diseases related to gums and teeth. Holistic dentists combine modern science and new dental techniques with natural healing therapies.

Holistic dentistry is also referred to as biological dentistry or biocompatible dentistry. Those who practice it are focused on the teeth and gums, but are also concerned with the mind, body and spirit of the patient.

Patients who prefer holistic dentistry want to protect themselves from harmful radiations and toxins. While standard dentists continue to use mercury, silver and amalgam fillings, holistic dentists use mercury-free alternatives and are certified in advanced amalgam removal protocols. They also advocate non-surgical procedures for treating gums and use biocompatible aesthetics and dental materials.

Holistic dentistry is a way of being, so in most cases, the entire staff has the holistic mindset. As a result, patients are more relaxed in the office of holistic dentists, and report having less pain and less stress in the overall experience.

For more information on the subject of holistic dentistry, visit the website of Dr. Vladimir Gashinsky, a New Jersey dentist with a holistic approach. www.drgdds.com.

Monday, May 3, 2010

What is Mercury-Free Dentistry?

North American dentists have been using mercury in amalgam fillings since 1830 because it works, it's inexpensive and convenient. However, mercury is considered a neurotoxin and when inhaled, has the potential to enter the lungs and blood stream. Once it does, the body is unable to expel the mercury, so instead, the body stores the toxin, which has been known to cause various health issues. For example, the vapor emitted from mercury fillings may work against the immune system in a child's body.

Dr. Vladimir Gashinsky is one of a small percentage of dentists who practice mercury-free and mercury-safe dentistry in the United States. In fact, only about 6% of dentists in North America are currently offering this service. While not all patients of Dr. Gashinsky choose this method, those who do have decided to avoid potential health and environmental risks related to amalgam fillings.

Mercury-free dentistry contains safe, tooth-colored porcelain composites that are as strong as mercury/silver amalgam fillings. In addition to mercury-free fillings, a mercury-free practice can use porcelain composite material to repair chipped, cracked, broken or worn teeth.

For more information on mercury-free dentistry in New Jersey, visit the website of Dr. Gashinsky. www.drgdds.com