Dental Work NY

Keeping Your Teeth and Gums Healthy: The Importance of Flossing and Choosing the Right Tools

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Flossing

Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for the health of your teeth and gums. Brushing your teeth twice a day is an essential part of this routine, but it is not enough to keep your mouth completely clean. Flossing is equally important to remove food particles and plaque that get trapped between your teeth and gums. In fact, the American Dental Association recommends flossing at least once a day to ensure optimal oral health.

Plaque is a sticky film that forms on your teeth and contains bacteria that feed on the leftover food in your mouth. These bacteria produce acids that can damage the enamel of your teeth, leading to tooth decay. Plaque that is not removed by brushing or flossing can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dentist. Regular flossing can help prevent plaque buildup and tartar formation, thus lowering the risk of gum disease.

Which tools are recommended for cleaning between teeth?

It is essential to choose the right tools to clean between your teeth. Many people use unsafe objects such as fingernails, paper, or forks to remove food stuck between their teeth, which can harm their gums and cause pain. Traditional dental floss, dental picks, tiny brushes, and water flossers are safe and effective tools that can help you clean your teeth properly. Talk to your dentist to find the right tool that works for you.

There is no right or wrong time to floss your teeth, as long as you make it a daily habit. Some people prefer to floss before brushing, while others prefer to floss after. It is more important to floss thoroughly and regularly than to worry about when to floss. If flossing causes pain or discomfort, it is essential to talk to your dentist to avoid damaging the tissue between your teeth.

It is crucial to start teaching your children good oral hygiene habits early on. As soon as your child has two teeth that touch, you should start flossing their teeth. Kids may need help flossing until they are about 10 or 11 years old when their hands are ready to handle floss or other cleaning tools.

In conclusion, flossing is a vital part of maintaining optimal oral health. It helps remove plaque and food particles that brushing alone cannot reach, preventing tooth decay and gum disease. Choosing the right tool and making it a daily habit is key to keeping your teeth and gums healthy.

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Dr. Sean Yoon is a board-certified orthodontist who specializes exclusively in braces and Invisalign treatment. Born and raised in Seoul, South Korea, Dr. Yoon moved to the United States after finishing high school with a dream of becoming a healthcare professional. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Chemistry and a master’s in Cell and Molecular Biology before attending NYU College of Dentistry. During his time there, he was honored with numerous awards, including the Dean Edward G. Kaufman Award and Scholarship for Academic Excellence, and participated in many research projects. He graduated as salutatorian and was inducted into Omicron Kappa Upsilon, a prestigious national dental honor society. After earning his dental degree, Dr. Yoon traveled back to South Korea for two years to provide healthcare for the army. He then returned to NYU College of Dentistry for his orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics training. From his extensive didactic and clinical training, he learned how to create not only a beautiful smile but also a well-balanced and harmonious bite unique to each patient. Dr. Yoon also serves as an adjunct clinical faculty at NYU Department of Orthodontics, sharing his knowledge and passion for creating long-lasting smiles with residents. Dr. Yoon strongly believes in the power of orthodontics, stating, “The transformation each patient goes through does not stop with straight teeth. It changes his or her smile, personality, and even life — all in a very positive way. I am so fortunate to be able to provide such service to my patients.” In his spare time, Dr. Yoon enjoys doing yoga, reading books, and listening to K-pop.
Dr. Yeju Kang is a highly skilled dentist with a passion for delivering exceptional care to her patients. She earned her undergraduate degree in 2008 from Smith College in Northampton, MA, and then went on to attend the NYU College of Dentistry, where she received her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 2015. Dr. Kang completed her one-year General Practice Residency at Flushing Hospital Medical Center in 2016, where she gained extensive experience in all aspects of general dentistry. As a dedicated practitioner, Dr. Kang is committed to staying up-to-date on the latest dental techniques and technologies in order to provide her patients with the most advanced and effective care. She is known for her gentle touch and compassionate approach, and her patients appreciate her thorough and personalized treatment plans. In her free time, Dr. Kang enjoys hiking, traveling, and exploring new restaurants and cuisines. She is also an avid reader and loves to spend time with her family and friends.
Dr. Eric Salm DMD is a highly skilled and dedicated dentist with a passion for providing exceptional dental care to his patients. Growing up in West Hartford, Connecticut, Dr. Salm developed a love for science and biology, which ultimately led him to pursue a career in dentistry. After graduating from Syracuse University with a B.S. in biology, Dr. Salm obtained his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. He then went on to complete a General Practice Residency in dentistry at The Mount Sinai Hospital. Dr. Salm is committed to building strong relationships with his patients and providing them with the highest level of care. He is passionate about staying up-to-date with the latest advances in dental technology and techniques, and is always looking for ways to improve his skills and provide the best possible care to his patients. In his free time, Dr. Salm enjoys spending time with his family and friends, playing golf, and cheering on his favorite sports teams, including Syracuse, the Giants, Knicks, Rangers, Yankees, and Tottenham. He is a kind and compassionate dentist who is dedicated to helping his patients achieve optimal oral health and beautiful smiles.
Dr. Mabel Mai is a highly skilled and compassionate dentist who is committed to providing exceptional dental care to her patients. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Syracuse University before attending Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine, where she obtained her Doctor of Dental Surgery in 2019. After completing dental school, Dr. Mai completed a one-year general practice residency at the Northport Veterans Affairs Medical Center, where she gained valuable experience in a wide range of dental procedures and treatments. She is passionate about staying up-to-date with the latest advances in dental technology and techniques, and is always looking for ways to improve her skills and provide the best possible care to her patients. One of Dr. Mai’s greatest strengths is her ability to communicate with her patients in multiple languages. She is fluent in English, Cantonese, and Toisanese, which allows her to better understand and meet the needs of patients from diverse backgrounds. Dr. Mai is a kind and compassionate dentist who is deeply committed to her patients’ oral health and overall well-being. She takes the time to listen to her patients’ concerns and works with them to develop personalized treatment plans that meet their unique needs and goals.
Dr. Bo Yoon is a highly skilled and compassionate dentist who is dedicated to providing exceptional dental care to her patients. She received her undergraduate degree (BA) from Williams College in 2012, where she graduated with honors. Dr. Yoon then attended the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, where she earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) in 2017. Following dental school, Dr. Yoon completed a two-year General Practice Residency at Montefiore General Practice Residency, where she received advanced training in a wide range of dental procedures. She has since been practicing general dentistry, with a particular focus on preventative care and implant restorations. Dr. Yoon is committed to staying up-to-date with the latest advances in dental technology and techniques, and she takes great pride in providing her patients with the highest level of care. She is known for her warm and friendly demeanor, and her ability to put even the most anxious patients at ease. In her free time, Dr. Yoon enjoys hiking, skiing, and exploring the great outdoors with her husband and their dog. She is a dedicated dentist who is passionate about helping her patients achieve optimal oral health and beautiful smiles.
Dr. Tamara Marsh is a dedicated and compassionate dentist who is committed to providing her patients with the highest quality dental care. She graduated from Saint Leo University in 2011 with a bachelor’s degree in biology, and then went on to obtain her doctorate in dental surgery from Howard University in 2015. After completing her dental education, Dr. Marsh became chief resident at New York Presbyterian Queens hospital general practice residency program. Dr. Marsh is passionate about providing comprehensive oral care to her patients, and she takes great pride in helping them achieve optimal oral health and beautiful smiles. She is known for her warm and friendly demeanor, and her ability to put even the most anxious patients at ease. In addition to her work as a dentist, Dr. Marsh is also committed to serving her community. She is involved in a number of outreach programs and charitable organizations, and she anticipates participating in at least two overseas mission trips per year in the future. She believes that service to others is the greatest way to give back to the community and help those who otherwise could not afford it. In her free time, Dr. Marsh enjoys traveling, hiking, and spending time with her family and friends. She is a skilled and dedicated dentist who is committed to providing her patients with the best possible care.
Dr. Adaeze Stephanie Nkemdirim is a highly skilled and experienced dentist who is committed to providing her patients with the highest quality dental care. She graduated from Columbia University in New York, where she received advanced training in a wide range of dental procedures. Dr. Nkemdirim has extensive experience in treatment planning, restorative dentistry, veneers, crown and bridge, dentures, simple and molar endodontics, implant placement, bone grafting, and extractions. She is known for her attention to detail, and her ability to create beautiful, natural-looking smiles for her patients. In addition to her work as a dentist, Dr. Nkemdirim is also passionate about planning events, volunteering, and participating in a variety of activities. She is committed to giving back to her community, and is involved in a number of charitable organizations and outreach programs. Dr. Nkemdirim is a warm and caring dentist who is dedicated to providing her patients with personalized care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. She takes the time to listen to her patients’ concerns and goals, and works closely with them to develop treatment plans that meet their individual needs. In her free time, Dr. Nkemdirim enjoys traveling, trying new restaurants, and spending time with her family and friends. She is a skilled and dedicated dentist who is committed to helping her patients achieve optimal oral health and beautiful smiles.
Dr. Sanford Jacoby is a highly experienced and skilled dentist who has been practicing general dentistry for the past 16 years in the Bronx, NY. He earned his undergraduate degree in Health Sciences with a minor in Art from Yeshiva University, and then went on to receive his dental degree in 2002 from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. Dr. Jacoby completed his general practice residency at Montefiore Medical Center, followed by an Oral Surgery Fellowship at Mount Sinai Medical Center. He has a wealth of experience in all aspects of general dentistry, including fillings, root canals, crowns, implant restorations, and dentures. As the founding member of Dental Works NY, Dr. Jacoby is dedicated to providing his patients with the highest quality dental care. He has assembled a team of skilled providers who share his commitment to vexcellence and personalized care. Outside of work, Dr. Jacoby enjoys spending time with his wife and four children. He has a passion for sports, particularly basketball, and enjoys participating in pickup games whenever he can. He is also a devoted fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Dr. Jacoby is committed to helping his patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles that last a lifetime. He looks forward to meeting you and your family, and helping you achieve the dental health and wellness that you deserve.
Dr. Gizerskaya is a dentist who is committed to excellence in both her professional and personal life. She obtained her bachelor’s degree from Hofstra University in 2012, and went on to complete her dental education at Harvard School of Dental Medicine. In her practice, Dr. Gizerskaya focuses on providing the highest quality care to her patients, while also balancing her role as a mother and wife. She believes in treating her patients like family, and strives to create a comfortable and welcoming environment for everyone who walks through her doors. Outside of work, Dr. Gizerskaya enjoys cooking and baking. She sees this hobby as a way to relax and bond with her family, and hopes to one day open a sugar-free bakery in her retirement.
Dr. Colleen Loftus, DMD is a general dentist originally from Pennsylvania who moved to New York in 2015 to pursue her career in dentistry. She received her undergraduate degree in 2011 from the University of Scranton and her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree in 2015 from Temple University Kornberg School of Medicine in Philadelphia, PA. She completed her two-year General Practice Residency at New York Presbyterian-Queens Hospital, where she gained valuable experience in all aspects of general dentistry. Dr. Loftus practices comprehensive dental care, ranging from preventive care to implant restorations and full-mouth rehabilitation. She enjoys working closely with our team’s Dental Specialists to provide the best possible care for her patients, and patient satisfaction is her top priority. She is passionate about continuing education and keeping up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field of dentistry. In her free time, Dr. Loftus enjoys spending time with her family and friends, improving her cooking skills, and exploring the city on her bike. She is committed to providing compassionate and quality dental care to all her patients and looks forward to helping them achieve optimal oral health.
Dr. Azaz Awan is a highly trained and experienced Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from McGill University in Montreal, Canada, and completed a general practice residency focused on dental implantology at The Montefiore Hospital in the Bronx, NY. He then went on to complete his specialty training in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at The Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, NY. Dr. Awan has extensive experience in a wide range of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery procedures, including maxillofacial trauma and reconstruction, pre-prosthetic surgery and complex bone grafting, orthognathic corrective jaw surgery, cosmetic facial surgery, surgical management of sleep apnea, surgical dental extractions and wisdom teeth extractions, placement of dental implants, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) management, and maxillofacial pathology management. He is also licensed to perform general and conscious anesthesia (sedation anesthesia). In addition to his impressive professional achievements, Dr. Awan enjoys spending time with his wife and children, traveling the world, playing competitive basketball, and staying involved in community outreach programs. With his combination of clinical expertise and dedication to his patients and community, Dr. Awan is committed to providing the highest quality care to every patient he sees.
Dr. Gyu-Le Song is a highly skilled and detail-oriented dental professional who is dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized care to her patients. She is passionate about dentistry and strives to stay up-to-date with the latest advances in the field to ensure that her patients receive the best possible care. Dr. Song is proficient in all aspects of dentistry, including routine restorative treatment, prosthodontics, endodontics, extractions, and periodontal therapy. Dr. Song received her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston in 2015. She then completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry program at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine in New York in 2016. Dr. Song also holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Emory University in Atlanta, which she received in 2010. Dr. Song is a member of the American Dental Association (ADA) and the New York State Dental Association (NYSDA). She is also certified in Basic Life Support. Dr. Song strongly believes in educating her patients on proper dental care and prevention, and she always takes the time to listen to their concerns and answer any questions they may have. In her free time, Dr. Song enjoys staying active and healthy by practicing yoga, hiking, and traveling. She also enjoys trying out new recipes and exploring the vibrant food scene in New York City.
Dr. Joshua C. Barnett is an experienced dental professional who graduated from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey in 2004. Prior to that, he earned his undergraduate degree from Yeshiva University. Dr. Barnett was one of the founding members of DentalWorksNY, and he joined the practice in 2007. As a highly skilled and dedicated dentist, Dr. Barnett is committed to providing exceptional dental care to his patients. He offers a wide range of dental services, including preventative care, restorative dentistry, and cosmetic treatments. Dr. Barnett is also highly experienced in treating complex dental conditions such as gum disease, TMJ disorders, and sleep apnea. Outside of his work as a dentist, Dr. Barnett enjoys spending time outdoors. He is an avid fisherman and hiker, and he loves exploring the natural beauty of the New York area. He also enjoys the occasional visit to Parx Casino. Dr. Barnett is dedicated to providing the best possible care to his patients, and he looks forward to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.
Dr. Hsi-Long Scott Wu is a highly skilled and passionate dentist who is dedicated to creating bright and healthy smiles. Dr. Wu’s interest in dentistry began at a young age, as he was influenced by his grandfather who was an apprentice dentist. Dr. Wu is proud to continue his grandfather’s legacy and help patients achieve optimal oral health. Dr. Wu was born and raised in Taiwan before immigrating to the US at the age of 15. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Integrative Biology from the University of California at Berkeley. He then pursued his passion for dentistry and earned his Master’s degree in Medical Sciences and Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Boston University School of Dental Medicine. Dr. Wu furthered his training by completing a one-year Advanced General Practice Residency program at Stony Brook University Hospital. Dr. Wu is committed to staying up-to-date with the latest dental technology and techniques. He is a member of the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Wu is also a lifelong learner and has completed various continuing education courses to provide the best possible care to his patients. In addition to his expertise in dentistry, Dr. Wu is fluent in Mandarin, which allows him to better serve his Mandarin-speaking patients. When not working, Dr. Wu enjoys spending time with his family and friends, exploring new restaurants, and traveling to new places.
Dr. Junwoo Bae is a dedicated dental professional who graduated from NYU College of Dentistry in New York with a DDS degree. As a dental resident, Dr. Bae gained advanced clinical experience and training in every field of dentistry at the post-doctoral level. Dr. Bae practices a variety of dental specialties, including general dentistry, endodontics, oral surgery, periodontics, fixed prosthodontics, orthodontics, removable prosthodontics, and pediatric dentistry. He provides esthetic and multi-surface restorations, dental implant restorations, comprehensive treatment plans, and patient education to his patients. Dr. Bae is skilled in performing endodontic procedures on first and second molars, using both the WaveOne and Regular Endo rotary systems. He is also experienced in retreatment and apicoectomy. Dr. Bae can perform simple extractions, horizontal or partial bony impactions of third molars, and cyst and tori removal, with or without the use of nitrous oxide. In periodontics, he provides crown lengthening, osseous surgery, alveoplasty, and electrosurgery for tissue contouring, as well as gingivectomy procedures. Dr. Bae is highly knowledgeable in fixed prosthodontics, including full mouth reconstruction with a roundhouse tooth-supported bridge and implant-supported bridge. He is also an Invisalign certified provider and offers removable prosthodontics, such as CDs, RPDs, flippers, and Valplast. In pediatric dentistry, Dr. Bae performs pulpotomy, SSCs, space maintenance, and trauma management procedures. Overall, Dr. Junwoo Bae is committed to providing his patients with excellent dental care and staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in dentistry.
Dr. Jason Tan is a dedicated dentist who is passionate about providing high-quality dental care to his patients. He graduated from the dental program at Jacobi Medical Center in the Bronx and has been practicing dentistry for several years. Dr. Tan is experienced in all aspects of general dentistry, including restorative procedures, cosmetic treatments, and preventative care. He is committed to staying up-to-date with the latest techniques and technologies in the field of dentistry to ensure that his patients receive the best possible care. In his free time, Dr. Tan enjoys staying active through activities like golf, racket sports, and winter sports. He is also a national lifeguard and swimming instructor, which allows him to help others stay safe while enjoying water activities. Dr. Tan has a keen interest in technology and enjoys keeping up with the latest developments in the field. He is also interested in world events and enjoys learning about different cultures and traditions. Dr. Tan is dedicated to providing personalized care to each of his patients and strives to create a comfortable and welcoming environment in his dental practice.
Dr. Maryam Akbari is a highly skilled dentist who is committed to providing excellent dental care to her patients. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from the Louisiana State University School of Medicine and went on to complete a residency program at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. Dr. Akbari has a passion for continuing education and staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in dentistry. She takes pride in her ability to offer her patients the most innovative and effective treatment options available. Dr. Akbari is dedicated to creating a comfortable and welcoming environment for her patients, and she works hard to ensure that each patient receives personalized attention and care. In her free time, Dr. Akbari enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with her family. She is also involved in a number of community organizations and believes in giving back to her community through volunteer work.
Dr. Nicole Albstein is a skilled and compassionate dentist who graduated from New York University’s Doctorate of Dental Surgery program. She gained extensive clinical experience while working in a fast-paced community health clinic where she successfully treated a variety of cases from treatment plan to finish. Her patients have praised her attention to detail, individualized care, and preventative education. Dr. Albstein has expertise in performing complex procedures daily, including implant placement and restoration, esthetic smile makeovers, laser gingivectomies, surgical and nonsurgical extractions, socket preservation, endodontic procedures (molars included), restorations, and dentures. Additionally, she efficiently triages and diagnoses dental pain, and performs limited treatment in daily emergency dental visits. With her commitment to excellence and patient-centered approach, Dr. Albstein provides high-quality dental care and strives to make each patient’s experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
Dr. Angie Kang, DDS, is a general dentist with a passion for providing high-quality dental care to her patients. She earned her Doctorate of Dental Surgery degree at NYU College of Dentistry in New York and her Bachelor of Science degree in Integrative Biology at UC Berkeley, California. With her extensive training and experience, Dr. Kang is skilled in a wide range of dental procedures and techniques. Dr. Kang is particularly comfortable with endodontic procedures, including molar endodontics and pulpotomy on primary teeth. She is also proficient in extractions, including surgical extractions, as well as fixed prosthetic procedures and removable prosthetic procedures. Her experience includes full dentures and partial dentures, such as flexi, combo flexi, cast metal, and acrylic. Dr. Kang is committed to staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in dentistry, and she regularly participates in continuing education courses to enhance her knowledge and skills. She is dedicated to providing her patients with individualized care, ensuring that each patient receives the treatment they need to achieve optimal oral health.
Dr. John Dow, DDS is a highly skilled and experienced dentist, with a passion for providing exceptional dental care to his patients. He graduated from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, where he earned his degree in dentistry. He then went on to complete his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the State University of New York at Stony Brook. Dr. Dow has been practicing dentistry for over a decade, during which time he has gained a reputation for his gentle touch, compassionate care, and commitment to excellence. He has a particular interest in cosmetic dentistry and has helped countless patients achieve beautiful, healthy smiles. In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Dow is committed to staying up-to-date with the latest advances in dental technology and techniques. He is an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Dow is deeply committed to his patients and takes great pride in helping them achieve optimal oral health. He is known for his warm and friendly demeanor, and his ability to put even the most anxious patients at ease.