TOP DDS: Barry J. Slipock, DDS

Hey Dad - whatcha think of this new toothpaste? http://www.cbsnews.com//toothpaste-startup-livionex-gel-c/

Dr. Barry says: Though fashionable in today’s world, tongue rings are a big problem for your teeth and mouth. Tongue piercings can cause receding gums and chipped teeth. Discuss these risks and more with your dentist before you take the plunge.

Dr. Barry says: Planning on eating latkes on all eight nights? Be prepared to brush, brush, brush! Some studies have shown that cooked starches, particularly potato starch, can cling longer to your teeth than many sugary foods, which leads to a longer period of acid production and an increase of tooth decay.

Dr. Barry says: Tooth decay (i.e., cavities) is considered the second most common disease in the United States today, second only to the common cold. The best way to prevent it is by brushing twice and flossing daily, avoiding sugary foods, and seeing your dentist twice a year.

Hey Dad - whatcha think of this new toothpaste? http://www.cbsnews.com//toothpaste-startup-livionex-gel-c/

Dr. Barry says: If all you want for Christmas is your two front teeth, then inquire about fitting your smile with a bridge at your dentist’s office. A dental bridge, or set of false teeth, is comprised of two crowns on either side of the gap and a false tooth (or two) in between.

Dr. Barry says: Planning on eating latkes on all eight nights? Be prepared to brush, brush, brush! Some studies have shown that cooked starches, particularly potato starch, can cling longer to your teeth than many sugary foods, which leads to a longer period of acid production and an increase of tooth decay.

Dr. Barry says: Legend has it that the pilgrims used to brush their teeth with salt. While it may not have tasted that good, it was an effective solution several hundred years ago. Today’s consumer can enjoy the benefits and great taste of modern toothpaste, and that’s something to be thankful for!

Dr. Barry Says: Halloween is around the corner. Hard candies, such as Jolly Ranchers, lollipops, and Werther’s Originals, can not only cause stress fractures, chips, or cracks in your child’s teeth, but the extra long exposure in the mouth can produce more cavities than your average chocolate bar.

Dr. Barry says: By the time Bram Stoker’s Dracula was published at the end of the 19th Century, vampire fangs were all the rage. Times (and fashions) have changed. If you’re still sporting those dreaded vampire fangs from two centuries back, speak with your dentist about cosmetic adjustments that can enliven your smile.

Dr. Barry asks: Does your varsity football, hockey, or lacrosse player want to keep his pearly whites intact for another season? There are many types of mouth guards that can help protect them during the sports season. Visit your dentist to get fitted for a custom mouth guard before running onto the field.

It’s back to school time. Don’t forget to take your kids to the dentist for their bi-annual check-ups before the rush of September!

Dr. Barry says: If you’re popping a breath mint into your mouth every five minutes to mask unpleasant breath, consider visiting your dentist. There may be bigger reasons for your bad breath beyond the garlic bread you had for lunch.

Dr. Barry says: Many people who suffer from sensitive teeth can’t enjoy the simple pleasures of a summer barbecue, like tangy BBQ sauce, ice cold lemonade, or even mom’s apple pie. Sensitivity occurs when the underlying layer of your teeth is exposed due to receding gums. If you suffer from sensitive teeth, visit your dentist to understand your treatment options.

Dr. Barry says: Evidence suggests the practice of dentistry in the Indus Valley Civilization as far back as 7000 BC. Be sure to make the ancients proud by brushing and flossing every day with today’s modern tools. Your teeth will thank you for it, too!