Tooth Sensitivity

Posted on September 4, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

Tooth sensitivity occurs when tooth enamel wears down and exposes the inner layer of your teeth, called dentin, making hot, cold, sweet, or sour foods painful. This can also point to an issue such as gum disease, cavities, or a cracked tooth.

Dentin has tiny tubules that lead to the center of the tooth, where the nerve lives. These tubules allow temperature and sugar to reach the nerve, causing pain.

There are many reasons why your teeth may feel sensitive, including:

Acidic foods, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, pickles, and tea, can wear down the outer layer of your teeth
Brushing too hard: using too much pressure or a hard toothbrush can wear down enamel and make gums pull back
Cracked teeth: a crack or chip can let bacteria in and irritate your tooth
Gum disease: swollen or infected gums can expose tooth roots
Gum recession: thin or damaged gums may pull back and reveal the sensitive root surface
Mouthwash use: some have acids that make sensitivity worse
Plaque buildup: too much plaque near the roots can trigger pain
Recent dental procedures, such as fillings, cleanings, or other treatments, can cause short-term sensitivity
Teeth grinding: clenching or grinding your teeth wears down enamel and can expose dentin
Teeth whitening products can increase sensitivity

Sometimes tooth sensitivity goes away on its own, especially after a dental visit. However, if your teeth hurt when they touch something hot, cold, sour, or sweet, talk to your dentist. They will check to see what is causing the problem and suggest the best solution. Common treatments for tooth sensitivity include:

Dental bonding: covers exposed roots
Dentin sealant: blocks pain signals
Fluoride varnish: strengthens enamel and reduces discomfort

Do not ignore the pain. Getting care early can help prevent more serious problems. If sensitive teeth go untreated, you could end up with:

An infected tooth
Cavities
Gum disease
Long-term or worsening pain

Sometimes, you can stop sensitivity before it starts. Some ways you can protect your teeth include:

Brushing and flossing gently every day
Limiting acidic foods like citrus and pickles
Seeing your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups
Trying desensitizing toothpaste to reduce pain
Using fluoride products to strengthen teeth
Using a soft-bristle toothbrush to avoid further damage
Wearing a mouth guard if you grind your teeth

If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity and would like to receive a check-up, you can make an appointment with one of our board-certified dentists at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Dental Center by calling 718-206-6980.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Dental Fillings – Different Types and What to Expect During Your Procedure

Posted on January 31, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

Dental fillings are a type of restorative dentistry treatment used by dentists to repair cavities or fix minor chips and cracks in your teeth. Other names for dental fillings include:

Tooth fillings
Cavity fillings
Dental restorations – this term refers to treatments that restore teeth, such as fillings, inlays, onlays, bridges, and crowns

Your dentist will discuss treatment options to determine which type of dental filling is better for your situation.

There are many different types of dental fillings and they fall into one of two categories: direct or indirect.

Direct fillings are created by dentists and placed in your mouth without the need for a dental laboratory or temporary restoration. They only require one office visit.

Common materials for direct fillings include:

Amalgam
Resin composite
Glass ionomer

Indirect fillings are made by a dental technician in a lab before your dentist places them in your mouth. Most indirect fillings require two office visits, one to take dental impressions and another to put your restoration. If your dentist uses computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing or CAD/CAM technology, they may be able to create and place your indirect filling in a single appointment.

Inlays and onlays are two common indirect fillings that dentists use when a tooth has too much damage to support a filling but not enough damage for a dental crown. An inlay or onlay fits into your tooth structure like a tiny puzzle piece.

Common materials for indirect fillings include:

Gold
Porcelain

During the dental filling procedure, your dentist will:

Numb your tooth with local anesthesia
Remove damaged or decayed tissue from your tooth using specialized instruments
Fill the hole with dental filling material
Use a dental curing light to harden the material (only for resin composite)
Polish and smooth any rough edges
Check your bite to make sure it feels normal

The exact steps may vary depending on the material your dentist uses and what type of filling they place.

If you have anxiety about visiting the dentist, ask about sedation options. Sedation dentistry helps keep you calm and comfortable during your procedure.

If your teeth need a check-up, you can make an appointment with one of our board-certified dentists at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Dental Center by calling 718-206-6980.

Oral Health

Posted on September 10, 2024 by Patrick Hercules

Your oral health is more important than you might realize. The health of your mouth, teeth, and gums can affect your overall health.

Like other areas of the body, the mouth is full of germs. Those germs are mostly harmless, but the mouth is the entryway to the digestive tract. It is also the entryway to the respiratory tract. Because of this, germs in the mouth can lead to disease throughout the body.

Oral germs and inflammation are linked to a severe form of gum disease called periodontitis. Studies suggest that germs and inflammation that form in the mouth might play a role in some diseases, including:

Endocarditis
Cardiovascular disease
Pregnancy and birth complications
Pneumonia

Most of the body’s defenses and good oral care help keep germs under control. Good oral care includes daily brushing and flossing. Without good oral hygiene, germs can reach levels that may lead to infections like tooth decay and gum disease.

While practicing good oral hygiene can lower the risk of health problems, other factors can affect oral health. Certain medicines such as decongestants, antihistamines, painkillers, water pills, and antidepressants can lower the flow of saliva. Saliva washes away food and keeps the acids germs make in the mouth in balance helping to keep them from spreading and causing disease.

Some health conditions can also affect oral health, they include:

Diabetes
HIV/AIDS
Cancer
Alzheimer’s disease

You can protect your oral health and take care of your mouth every day by:

Brushing your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Use a brush with soft bristles and fluoride toothpaste. Brush your tongue too.
Flossing between your teeth daily.
Eating a healthy diet and limiting sugary foods and drinks.
Replacing your toothbrush every three to four months. Sooner if the bristles are worn out.
Seeing a dentist at least once a year for checkups and cleanings.

Taking care of your oral health protects your overall health.

If you would like to schedule an appointment with a dentist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, you may call 718-206-6980

What Parents Should Know About Oral Nicotine Pouches

Posted on August 9, 2024 by Patrick Hercules

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cigarette smoking hit a historic low in 2023, with the adult smoking rate dropping to 11%. Because of the steady decline of smokers over the years, tobacco companies have tried other ways to retain customers as well as attract new ones by introducing new products.

One of those new products is oral nicotine pouches. Oral nicotine pouches are small permeable pouches typically placed between the lip and the gum containing crystalized nicotine powder in various flavors. Although little is known about the product, nicotine pouches have become one of the fastest-growing categories, increasing sales from about 126 million units to over 800 million units between 2019 and 2022.

Oral nicotine pouches are aimed at adults who are looking for a tobacco-less, smoke-free alternative to cigarettes as they try to stop smoking. However, according to the 2023 National Youth Tobacco Survey conducted by the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in October of 2023, 1.5% of middle and high school students reported using nicotine pouches in the previous 30 days.

Tobacco companies sell nicotine pouches in attractive packaging and assorted flavors, including citrus, berry, peppermint, coffee, and mango. Researchers are concerned that this marketing tactic is likely to appeal to young people who may not be aware of the harmful effects of nicotine. Some social media influencers have promoted the use of nicotine pouches by showing how they use them in their daily lives, discreetly placing them in their mouths at work and school, as well as doing taste tests.

“Nicotine pouches are marketed as a nicotine product that provides a buzz without the harmful effects of tobacco or smoking. However, people using these products should be aware that ‘tobacco-free’ does not mean ‘risk-free’”, says Alexandra Howell, DMD, Oral Medicine Specialist and Assistant Professor in the Department of Oral Diagnostic Services at Virginia Commonwealth’s University’s School of Dentistry.

Despite the long-term health impact of nicotine pouches being unknown, the side effects of its use can include:

Nicotine addiction
Irritation of the gums
Lung problems
Infertility problems
Stomach problems
Sore mouth
Hiccups
Nausea

Nicotine pouches can also present several cardiovascular risks. The use of these products can lead to increased heart rate and blood pressure increasing the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, heart disease, and potential heart attacks.

To speak with a Family Medicine doctor at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center about smoking cessation, please call (718) 206-6942.

3 Common Causes of Toothaches

Posted on February 22, 2023 by Jacob Lobosco

Most people experience toothaches at various points in life due to a variety of causes. During childhood, they may be a sign that new teeth are growing in to replace baby teeth. Later in life, a toothache could be an indicator of dental crowding or the growth of a wisdom tooth.

However, there are other very common reasons that toothaches may occur, some of which may even lead to more serious health issues if left untreated. Some of these potential causes include:

Cavities: Tooth decay, indicated by the presence of cavities in your teeth, is the most common cause of toothaches. 90% of all adults aged 20 or older having experienced at least one cavity during their lifetime. Cavities can occur at any age and generally appear due to poor dental hygiene, particularly a failure to brush and floss or visit a dentist for regular cleanings.

Gum Disease: Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, affects nearly half of all adults aged 30 years or older in the United States. It typically involves infection and inflammation of the gums and bone surrounding the teeth; its early stage, gingivitis, causes the gums to become swollen and potentially bleed. Similarly to cavities, gum disease is best prevented through good dental hygiene habits such as daily brushing and flossing as well as annual dental cleaning appointments.

Teeth Grinding: Bruxism, also referred to as teeth grinding, is a condition that affects up to one third of all adults during the day and one tenth at night during sleep. Bruxism is a habit of clenching or gnashing the teeth together, which can potentially lead to jaw conditions, headaches, and tooth damage. A dentist may recommend splints and mouth guards to keep the teeth separated and prevent damage, particularly if you grind your teeth while sleeping.

If you are experiencing persistent toothaches, don’t assume they will go away on their own; they may be signs of a condition that can become more serious. You can schedule an appointment for an exam or teeth cleaning with a dentist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Department of Dental Medicine by calling (718) 206-6980.

National Toothache Day

Posted on February 9, 2021 by Jamaica Hospital Medical Center

National Toothache Day occurs each year on February 9th. In honor of this observation, we are sharing a few remedies to get temporary relief from a minor toothache.

Here are a few:

Saltwater rinse- Saltwater is a natural antibacterial agent. Mix 1/2 teaspoon (tsp) of salt into a glass of warm water and use it as a mouthwash-do not swallow. This may help to reduce inflammation.
Hydrogen peroxide rinse- Mix 3% hydrogen peroxide with equal parts water and use it as a mouthwash- do not swallow. This can help to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. A hydrogen peroxide rinse is not suitable for children because there is a risk that may swallow the solution.
Peppermint tea bags- According to WebMD, “A cooled peppermint tea bag may soothe your aching tooth and gums.”

Please keep in mind that these are short-term solutions. It is recommended that you see a dentist as soon as possible to determine the cause of your toothache and get the proper treatment.

To schedule an appointment with a dentist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-6980.

Jamaica Hospital Offers Dental Sedation To Help Patients With “Dental Anxiety”

Posted on November 4, 2020 by Michael Hinck

It is estimated that 10% – 20% of Americans avoid going to the dentist due to anxiety or fear. The source of “dental anxiety” may be due to a previous traumatic event or it could be fear of pain or injections. Regardless of the reason, this delay in care can often lead to further complications including increased tooth decay which can lead to tooth loss.

For those with anxiety caused by going to the dentist Jamaica Hospital Medical Center offers mild to moderate dental sedation for a variety of procedures including tooth extractions. The service is offered to most adult and pediatric patients.

Patients who are interested in receiving dental sedation first need to schedule a pre-operative consultation. During the consultation providers will determine if sedation is appropriate. A customized anesthesia plan will be made for each patient. While sedation is safe for most, patients with a history of asthma, certain cardio-vascular disease or who are obese may not be eligible.

On the day of the appointment, the team will review the procedure and anesthesia plan with the patient and family. The IV anesthesia is administered by a trained oral surgeon and dental hygienist. After the injection, the patient will enter a “twilight” or light state of sedation. The patient’s heart, blood pressure and a pulse are monitored during the entire procedure to ensure patient safety. Most procedures last between 30-45 minutes. At the conclusion of the procedure, patients are released to a previously identified escort over 18 years of age.

Jamaica Hospital’s Department of Dentistry has been offering this safe service since July of 2019. The hospital’s team of qualified oral surgeons and dental anesthesiologists have a great deal of experience with dental sedation, performing approximately 20 procedures for children and adults every month.

Patients at Jamaica Hospital’s Dental Center are very appreciative for this service as it has helped them overcome their fear of going to the dentist.

If you would like to learn more about dental sedation service at Jamaica Hospital, please call 718-206-6980 to schedule an initial consultation.

Caring for Baby Teeth

Posted on September 11, 2019 by Andrew Rubin

A baby’s teeth are very important and providing them with proper care is necessary to make sure they don’t develop cavities later in life.

Dental care for a baby starts even before their teeth start to break through the gums. The first steps that should be taken with an infant are to make sure their gums are kept clean. This is done by using a soft wash cloth or a soft gauze pad and wiping the gums at least twice a day, especially after each feeding. This will help to remove harmful bacteria that may accumulate.

Once a baby’s teeth start to develop, between six and eight months of age, a toothbrush specially designed for them should be used. These toothbrushes have very soft bristles and a small head to fit into a baby’s mouth. It isn’t necessary to use toothpaste at the beginning. Most babies will start to develop

To prevent cavities from developing, a baby should only be given water, milk, or formula. Things to stay away from are fruit juices, sodas, and sugary drinks.

A pediatric dentist can help provide tips to care for your baby’s teeth and to insure that they develop properly. A first visit with a dentist should be scheduled around their first birthday. If you would like to schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist at , please call .

Invisible Braces Pros and Cons

Posted on June 11, 2019 by Xavia Malcolm

Invisible braces are a set of clear, plastic aligners that are sometimes used instead of metal braces to straighten teeth. They have become a popular choice for many because they are far less noticeable than conventional metal braces.

Although there are a growing demand and popularity for invisible braces, they may not be the right choice for everyone. There are pros and cons to consider before making a commitment.

Here are a few pros:

Invisible braces can be more attractive. The clear, plastic aligners are virtually invisible and molded to your teeth. This makes it less obvious that you are wearing braces.
Due to the smooth, flexible plastic they are made from, invisible braces tend to be more comfortable. There are no wires or brackets to contend with.
Unlike metal braces, invisible braces can be removed to eat, brush your teeth or floss. This can be a great benefit when practicing proper oral hygiene.
Computer software is used to plan your treatment in advance; therefore, less follow up visits are required.

The cons to keep in mind include:

Depending on your plan of treatment, Invisible braces can be more expensive than conventional braces.
Discipline is required to get the best results. Invisible braces must be worn a minimal 22 hours per day. It is important that you put them back on shortly after removing them. Neglecting to wear your aligners for 22 hours each day can prolong treatment.
You may feel some pressure or discomfort as your teeth adjust to a new set of aligners.
Invisible braces are most effective when treating those with mild or moderate bite issues, not those with more complex orthodontic issues.

Overall, invisible braces are a safe and effective form of treatment. However, depending on your lifestyle or the complexity of your case, they may not always be the best choice. If you are interested in receiving invisible braces, you should speak with your dentist to determine if you are a good candidate. To speak with a dentist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-6980.

The Benefits of Choosing a Pediatric Dentist for Your Child

Posted on November 23, 2018 by Michael Hinck

If you were to look in a textbook for a description of a pediatric dentist, you would read a definition that states “the branch of the dental healing arts that focuses on the condition of children and associated structures of the oral cavity.” However, if you ask a pediatric dentist to define what they do, you will get a much different answer. The truth is a pediatric dentist is so much more and there are many benefits to having a pediatric dentist treat your child.

One of the biggest advantages of choosing a pediatric dentist is their gentle nature. Going to see the dentist can be overwhelming for many adults, so imagine how a young child must feel. Pediatric dentists are aware of these common concerns and because they have the training and skills to manage them, they are best suited to make your child feel comfortable and at ease once they are in the dentist’s chair.

While having a dentist who makes your child feel comfortable is important, it is equally as important to make sure that the person taking care of them is well qualified; this happens to be another advantage of selecting a pediatric dentist. Pediatric dentists receive an additional two years of formal training to focus on the growth and development of a child’s oral cavity, from birth through the teenage years. Since pediatric dentists specialize in caring for children’s teeth, they are naturally better equipped to address the many potential problems that may occur, such as a delayed loss of baby teeth or the development of cavities and tooth decay.

Pediatric dentists take a holistic approach to providing care to children and work with parents to identify environmental factors that may contribute to poor dental health, such as dietary choices and the potential risks associated with habits such as thumb sucking, teeth grinding or the use of a pacifier. These interactive opportunities serve to empower the entire family to lead a healthier lifestyle.

Statistics indicate that pre-school children are getting more cavities than ever before, with one out of every four children having one by the age of four. In addition, children miss more time from school due to tooth aches than they do from the flu. Due to these alarming facts a pediatric dentist will practice developmentally-based dental care by focusing a great deal of time during your child’s initial visits on teaching them about good dental habits, such as how to properly take care of their gums and teeth.

The pediatric dental team at Jamaica Hospital is dedicated to treating all children, from the time their first tooth erupts through their high school years. They believe the world is a happier place when it is filled with smiling children and they take pride in maintaining those smiles.

For more information, or to schedule an appointment at Jamaica Hospital’s Pediatric Dental Center, please call 718-206-6980.