Wednesday, April 27, 2016

Teeth Types and the Purpose They Serve

At Maiden Lane Dental, it is our job to teach you about the significance of your teeth. For example, did you know that your enamel is the strongest bone in your body? Teeth are used for cutting and chewing food. They also start the digestive process that fuels our bodies. According to the American Dental Association, each tooth is made up of several parts: pulp, cementum, dentin, and enamel. But have you ever wondered why all of your teeth are different shapes and sizes? That’s because they all do different things!



  • Incisors – located at the front of the mouth, these teeth have a sharp biting surface and are used for cutting or shearing food into small chewable pieces.

  • Canines – located at the ‘corners’ of the dental arches, these teeth have a sharp pointed biting surface. Their function is to grip and tear food.

  • Premolars – Unlike incisors and canines, these teeth have a flat biting surface. Their function is to tear and crush food.

  • Molars – The molars are the largest teeth in the mouth and they too have a large flat biting surface. The function of these is perhaps the strongest of all as they chew, crush, and grind food.


If you have further questions about your pearly whites, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.maidenlanedental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors here at Maiden Lane Dental in New York, NY, call 212-509-4585.

Tuesday, April 19, 2016

Oral Care with Arthritis

Daily activities like brushing and flossing can be difficult with conditions that affect the hands like arthritis. This may eventually affect your ability to take care of your oral health. At Maiden Lane Dental in New York, NY, we want you to know that you can still take excellent care of your oral health with arthritis.


When looking for a toothbrush, look for one that will help you. If it is difficult to grip things or it hurts to move your hand around, consider an electric toothbrush. Since you just need to hold them in the right position, they do most of the work. They also tend the have thick handles, which are easier to grip. Also, look for handles with non-slip grips and a small toothbrush head. These make it easier to maneuver the brush around your mouth. There are even toothbrushes made especially for those with arthritis.


If flossing is hurting your fingers, try tying the floss in a loop around your hands so that the floss will be held nice and tight. If this is too painful, there a floss pick may be easier.


Last, but not least, pay attention to toothpaste caps. Make sure to look for a toothpaste that has a flip cap instead of one that screws on. They are easier to open, plus they do not become stuck as easily when toothpaste gums them up.


It is still possible to keep up good oral health, even though arthritis may change the way you do it. To schedule a cleaning and examination with Maiden Lane Dental Care in New York, NY, call our office at (212) 509-4585 or visit our website, www.maidenlanedental.com