Photo from 1019litefm.radio.com

Did you watch the Super Bowl last weekend? Have you been a fan of her music since the 80s? If so, you’re probably familiar with Madonna’s signature gap between her two front teeth. What you may not know, however, is that Madonna is a big fan of her gap. In fact, she turned down Glamour’s award for Woman of the Year in 1990 because the magazine “closed” her gap in her cover photo for the December issue.

Although Madonna has made her gap a part of her persona, Long Island cosmetic dentist Dr. Richard Kobak knows that most people aren’t as comfortable with gaps in their smiles. For that reason, Dr. Kobak offers two leading cosmetic dental procedures that can let you say goodbye to your gap for good.

Porcelain Veneers

Depending on your dental needs and the appearance of your smile as a whole, Dr. Kobak can prescribe one of two procedures. If you want to completely makeover your smile with just one procedure, porcelain veneers might be the treatment for you.

With porcelain veneers, ultra-thin porcelain shells that adhere directly to your teeth, Dr. Kobak will use his smile design expertise to craft a smile that is durable, beautiful, and completely natural-looking. For patients looking to achieve straight teeth, as well as mask chips, stains, and gaps, and give their smile an attractive appearance overall, porcelain veneers is the smile makeover procedure.

Cosmetic Bonding

If you want to just correct your gap and possibly a minor dental stain or small chip or crack, cosmetic dental bonding might be the procedure for you.

During bonding, Dr. Kobak will apply composite resin, a tooth-colored, putty-like substance to your teeth, sculpt it to the desired position, set it with a curing light, and polish it to achieve a natural appearance. This procedure is safe, non-invasive, and can provide durable, attractive results for patients of all ages with a variety of dental needs.

Don’t live with unwanted gaps and smile flaws any longer. Contact Dr. Kobak at Syosset Dental, located in Syosset, New York, by calling (516) 433-2211 or visiting us online at drrichardkobak.com.

Snoring vs. Sleep Apnea

First things first: A severe snoring habit and sleep apnea are not one and the same.

Snoring is the sound produced by oral tissues vibrating as air passes by them and, while a snoring habit can be indicative of sleep apnea, it’s not necessarily a “medical” condition. Sleep apnea, on the other hand, is a serious medical condition in which swollen tissue, sinus problems, excessive, weight, physical malformations, and other causes obstruct the airways, making it impossible to breath normally while you sleep. Usually, sleep apnea sufferers stop breathing several times each night, sometimes for up to a minute at a time, and then wake up gasping for air.

In addition to disturbing (and scaring) their sleep partners, sleep apnea patients’ lives are in danger every time they fall asleep, and they aren’t obtaining the sleep they need to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Diagnosing Sleep Apnea

The first step to diagnosing your sleep disorder is scheduling an appointment for a sleep study at a local sleep clinic. Once the sleep clinic evaluates your results and determines the severity of your condition, your treatment can begin.

If your sleep apnea is mild to moderate, Dr. Kobak can provide treatment with oral appliances. This process begins at your consultation appointment at Syosset Dental. After analyzing your sleep study results and discussing your symptoms, as well as examining your mouth and jaw position, Dr. Kobak will help you decide which treatment is right for you, and treatment can begin immediately.

Treating Sleep Apnea

The most common dental treatment for sleep apnea is the Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine. Consisting of a comfortable facemask connected by a flexible tube to a base unit that releases a solid stream of oxygen, CPAP machines have helped countless sleep apnea sufferers sleep soundly and comfortably. Unfortunately, CPAP doesn’t work for everyone, so Dr. Kobak also offers simple oral appliances to help his patients overcome their sleep apnea.

These appliances, the most common being a night guard worn during sleeping hours, comfortably hold the lower jaw slightly forward to eliminate airflow blockage. This keeps the tongue and soft oral tissues from interfering with normal breathing, helping you sleep deeply and stop snoring.

To reclaim a good night’s sleep and stop living your days in a fatigued and foggy daze, call Syosset Dental, located in Syosset, New York, at (516) 433-2211.

Image from eyeonannapolis.net

Have you seen the hilarious big screen hit from 2002 My Big Fat Greek Wedding? If not, get to your local Blockbuster as soon as possible and rent this comedic gem. In the meantime, however, the funny actress behind the film, Nia Vardalos, is speaking out about more than just her laughable on-screen family; she’s speaking out about dental health, and New York dentist Dr. Richard Kobak wants you to hear what she’s saying.

Smile Tips from a Star

Have you heard of probiotics? To put it simply, probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help keep you in good health.

There are many kinds of probiotics, and foods like yogurt, fermented and unfermented milk, miso, tempeh, and some juices and soy products are loaded with them. Probiotic capsules, tablets, and powders are also available at most drug stores. Thanks to modern science and technology, probiotic products for your oral health, including certain gums, mints, and supplements are now available, as well. Nia is a big fan of probiotics, and she has a few words of dental wisdom that she wants to pass on to her daughter and the world.

• Fill up on fruits and vegetables: Not only will the vitamins and minerals in these foods boost your oral and bodily health, the crispier your food is, the better your saliva flow will be, which is important because saliva neutralizes the bacteria and acid in your mouth and protects against tooth decay.
• Load up on calcium: It’s no secret that drinking milk is necessary for strong bones. For your teeth, calcium is an enamel enabler and helps to protect against cavities and other oral problems.
• Boost your vitamin C intake: Citrus fruits and other vitamin C-rich foods help fight off infections, including gum disease. Because these foods are so acidic, however, make sure to protect your teeth by drinking plenty of milk or water and cleaning your teeth properly.
• Stick with water: Your body needs water to survive, and your mouth needs water to stay healthy. A dry mouth is a bacteria-ridden, plaque-covered place, so keep your mouth moist to enjoy optimal oral health.
• Say no to sugar: What your dentist and your mom have told you for years still holds true: sugar is the worst enemy of your teeth. Limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks as much as possible, and be sure to clean your teeth thoroughly if you do indulge.

Don’t Forget Professional Dental Care

Dr. Kobak has one more very important dental health tip he wants you to remember. Don’t forget about your professional dental care! By following the smile tips above, practicing quality at-home dental hygiene, and coming in for professional dental cleanings and exams every six month, you’ll be on your way to quality dental health in no time. After all, as Nia says, “It’s all about prevention. Invest now, avoid health issues in the future.”

To reserve an appointment at our Syosset, New York, dentist office, call Syosset Dental Care at (516) 433-2211.

Find Out What You Want From Your Smile Makeover!

1. What color are your teeth?
   1. Pearly White
   2. Grayish White
   3. Brownish White
   4. Yellowish
   5. Natural White
   6. Striped with White Lines
   7. Other
2. Have you ever whitened your teeth?
   1. No
   2. Yes, with Over-the-Counter Products
   3. Yes, with Dentist-Administered Home Whitening
   4. Yes, with a Non-Dentist-Administered Bleaching Light
   5. Yes, with a Dentist-Administered Bleaching Light
   6. Yes, with Another Teeth Whitening System or Product
3. How are your teeth spaced?
   1. Widely with Gaps
   2. Crowded and Overlapping
   3. Small, Even Spaces
   4. No Spaces, Straight
   5. Unevenly, with Gaps and Overlaps
4. What does your existing dental work look like?
   1. Natural and Attractive
   2. Metal and Obvious
   3. Bulky and Fake
   4. I Don’t Have Dental Work.
5. Do your teeth have shape issues?
   1. Yes, Too Small
   2. Yes, Too Big
   3. Yes, a Front Tooth is Chipped
   4. Yes, One or More Teeth are Crooked
   5. Yes, Sharp and Jagged
   6. Yes, Ends of Teeth are Uneven
   7. No
6. Have you ever worn braces?
   1. Yes
   2. No
7. Describe your smile’s symmetry.
8. Whose smile do you admire? Why do you like it?
9. Have you ever had a smile analysis or a cosmetic dentistry consultation?
   1. Yes, Recently
   2. Yes, Years Ago
   3. No
10. What do you dislike about your smile?
11. Do you have any specific questions for Dr. Kobak? If so, what are they?
12. What is your name?
13. What is your age range?
    1. Under 18
    2. 18-29
    3. 30-39
    4. 40-49
    5. 50-59
    6. 60-69
    7. 70-79
    8. 80-89
    9. 90-99
14. Can we call or email you to answer your questions? Please provide your contact information.

The Next Step

Did you answer the questions above? Great! Now it’s time to take the next step and do something with your answers. Visit Syosset Dental’s website at drrichardkobak.com, click on the link on the right side of the page that says “Test your knowledge…,” and submit your answers. Soon, you’ll get an email or a phone call from a Syosset Dental team member to discuss your results and, if you’re interested, set up a consultation appointment for you to come in and discuss your potential smile makeover. It’s that easy!

For more information about cosmetic and restorative dentistry, or to reserve an appointment with Dr. Kobak, call our Syosset, New York, dentist office at (516) 433-2211.

The campaign, “Your Mouth Has Something to Say,” was designed to promote awareness for America’s Toothfairy, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing dental diseases in children. Listerine created a short, animated video to explain why brushing your teeth is not enough to keep your mouth healthy.  Chenoweth explains that “we’re really trying to drive home how important it is to floss and rinse.” The videos also emphasize the power of a smile and the positive impact it has on your overall life. The makers of Listerine are contributing $100,000 to the foundation, and an additional dollar each time the video is viewed.

Celebrity Endorsement

Based on her successful Emmy and Tony awards, Kristin Chenoweth has a lot to smile about. She said in an interview that she believes “keeping your smile white and beautiful is essential. It makes you feel so confident and of course, people notice when it looks good.” In fact, she credits her smile for making people think she’s ten years younger than she actually is.

Chenoweth also understands the importance of good dental health. She is the Listerine campaign spokesperson who narrates the video promotion trailers. She is very excited to work with Listerine to “celebrate our smiles and help children get the healthy smiles they deserve.”

Ask Dr. Kobak how to properly use mouthwash to keep your smile healthy. Also, if you’re embarrassed of tooth imperfections, Dr. Kobak can bring a beautiful smile back to your face. Contact Syosset Dental at (516) 433-2211 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kobak.

“A smile is a curve that sets everything straight.” –Phyllis Diller

• Smiling is generally defined as an upturning of the lips. When your mouth curves upward, it makes you feel happier, friendlier, more confident, and more energetic. It’s almost impossible to feel sad when you’ve got a smile on your face.

“A smile is the universal welcome.” – Max Eastman

• Hugs, handshakes, bows, and kisses all mean different greetings in different cultures. A smile, however, always represents joy. Although you can smile for different reasons, like confidence, happiness, laughter, or pride, when people see you, they’ll know you’re feeling positive.

“A smile is an inexpensive way to change your looks.” –Charles Gordy

• Smiling lifts up your facial muscles and narrows your eyes for an instant facelift. Cosmetic treatments can also hide aging effects to make you look younger by creating a bright, fresh grin.

“Of all the things you wear, your expression is the most important.” –Janet Lane

• Your facial expression is how people will judge you. About 50 percent of people report that a smile is the first facial feature they notice about another person. A smile can overpower your other features, making you look more fun to be around.

“Peace begins with a smile.” –Mother Teresa

• A smile is a warm message for other people. It shows others that you’re offering a friendly expression and kind welcome.

How many times did you smile while reading the above quotes? Most smiles come from thinking about other smiles. Dr. Kobak can help you receive a smile that you’ll want to show off. Contact Syosset Dental at (516) 433-2211 to schedule an appointment to start smiling more.

Looking Younger

Joan Rivers, Bruce Jenner, Kathy Griffin, Janice Dickinson, Sharon Osbourne, Madonna, and John Travolta are some famous stars who have been rumored to have facelifts or injections to remove wrinkles and look younger. However, the AAP poll revealed that people are seven times more likely to have periodontal and smile enhancements than face lifts. The simple act of smiling can make you look younger by raising your facial muscles. In addition, cosmetic tooth enhancements, like whitening and veneers, can help cover flaws on your teeth that make your smile look worn out or aged.

The AAP survey also found that smile enhancement procedures outnumber eyelid surgeries five to one. Hillary Clinton, Al Pacino, Mickey Rourke, Jane Fonda, Kathy Griffin, and Janice Dickinson have all shown signs of having eyebrow or eyelid lifts to remove baggy skin and show off their eyes. Similarly, a crown lengthening or “gum lift” procedure can remove excess gum tissue to reveal more of your smile.

Looking Fuller

Many celebrities, like Ashlee Simpson, Dolly Parton, Heidi Montag, Janice Dickinson (yet again), Joan Rivers, and Sharon Osbourne, have been rumored to have collagen injections to make their lips look fuller and plumper. Instead of focusing on your lips, you can emphasize another part of your mouth: your teeth! To make your smile look fuller, you could consider dental implants to replace missing teeth. Replacement teeth will make your smile look full, complete, and brand new.

Looking Thinner

Paula Abdul, Kate Winslet, Lady Gaga, Calista Flockhart, Audrey Hepburn, Elton John, and Mary-Kate Olsen have all received help for their eating disorders. Eating disorders not only affect your body, but when the stomach acid comes up through your mouth, it comes into contact with your teeth. Over time, this acid can erode your outer protective layer of enamel.

The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry found that people who have had smile-enhancing treatments are rated more attractive, popular, successful, and friendly. Dr. Kobak can enhance your smile with safe, effective cosmetic treatments to make you look just as beautiful as other cosmetic surgery enhancements. Contact Syosset Dental at (516) 433-2211 to begin receiving your red-carpet smile.

Gum Disease Symptoms

• Teeth that feel loose
• Bad breath
• Swollen gums
• Gums color appears red or purple
• Sensations of pain when gums are touched
• Bleeding gums from brushing and flossing

Complications Associated With Gum Disease

• Some gum disease can lead to soft tissue and tooth abscesses
• Trench Mouth, bacterial infections that can cause oral ulcers
• Shifting of teeth
• Destruction of the bones in the mouth

How to Prevent Gum Disease

• Visit our office at least twice a year for professional cleanings and plaque removal
• Floss every day
• Brush your teeth at least twice a day for a minimum of two minutes each time
• Avoid drinking beverages and eating foods high in sugar
• Use an antiseptic rinse such as Listerine
• Contact Dr. Richard Kobak if you experience gum disease symptoms

If you feel you may have symptoms of gum disease, Dr. Kobak can help. With experience in gum disease treatment, he can help you get your oral health back on track. With a thorough cleaning and examination, he can assess the best method of treatment for you. Many patients see improvement in their gum health after just two weeks of treatment. Call us at (516) 433-2211 to schedule an appointment. We proudly serve patients in Syosset, Long Island, North Shore, and the surrounding areas.

Achieve a Dazzling Smile of Your Own

If you’re embarrassed by the current state of your teeth, it’s likely that you’re not reaping the benefits of smiling, which include looking younger, earning more money, being perceived as friendlier and more intelligent, and achieving both personal and professional success. Long Island dentist Dr. Richard Kobak believes that you should have a beautiful smile so that you can live a high-quality life and enjoy the benefits of smiling.

This is why he encourages you to consider cosmetic dentistry to achieve the smile of your dreams. With a plethora of cosmetic and restorative dental procedures, Dr. Kobak wants to help you create a smile that you’re proud to show off.

Why You Can’t Have a Celebrity Smile

That being said, Dr. Kobak won’t give you the exact replica of your favorite celebrity’s smile. Why? Because you’re not that celebrity.

There is no one-size-fits-all in cosmetic dentistry. Each and every smile makeover case that Dr. Kobak completes involves a process called smile design, which ensures that your new smile will look natural and fit your overall appearance. During smile design, Dr. Kobak will use his expertly trained eye to take into account your coloring, your natural tooth structure, your dental and smile goals, and your lifestyle to design a smile that gels seamlessly with these attributes. You don’t want your new smile to look bulky, bleach-bright, and fake, and Dr. Kobak’s smile design prevents this.

With cosmetic dentistry, you’re investing in your smile, so you should have a smile that’s 100 percent unique to you. That’s our goal at Syosset Dental: to provide you with a beautiful smile that looks and feels as if it’s been yours from the start.

To reserve a consultation with Dr. Kobak, call Syosset Dental, located in Syosset, New York, at (516) 433-2211 or visit us online at drrichardkobak.com.