Embracing Health-Conscious Eating: A Pathway to Better Dental Well-Being

In recent years, there has been a significant shift towards health-conscious eating, with people increasingly mindful of what they consume and how it affects their overall health. This trend is not just a passing fad; it’s a lifestyle change that’s transforming the way we think about food and nutrition. One of the lesser-known but profoundly impactful benefits of this trend is its positive effect on dental health. By choosing nutritious foods, especially fresh vegetables from local sources like the Northport Farmers Market in Northport, NY, families can significantly enhance their dental well-being.

The Rise of Health-Conscious Eating

Health-conscious eating involves making deliberate choices to consume foods that are rich in nutrients, low in harmful additives, and beneficial for overall health. This movement has gained momentum due to increasing awareness about the link between diet and health conditions, ranging from heart disease and diabetes to obesity and, importantly, dental health.

Farmers markets have become a cornerstone of this movement, offering fresh, locally sourced, and often organic produce. The Northport Farmers Market is a perfect example of a community resource that supports this health-conscious lifestyle. Open every Saturday from June to November, the market provides a vibrant array of vegetables, fruits, and other wholesome products directly from local farmers to consumers.

The Connection Between Diet & Dental Health

While it’s widely known that what we eat affects our waistline, fewer people realize the impact of diet on dental health. Dental well-being goes beyond regular brushing and flossing; it’s intricately linked to our dietary choices. Foods rich in vitamins and minerals play a crucial role in maintaining healthy teeth and gums, while sugary and acidic foods can lead to cavities and gum disease.

1. Calcium and Phosphorus: These minerals are vital for strong teeth and bones. Leafy greens like kale and spinach, which are plentiful at the Northport Farmers Market, are excellent sources of calcium. Phosphorus, found in beans and lentils, helps repair and regenerate tooth enamel.
2. Vitamin C: Essential for gum health, Vitamin C helps prevent gum inflammation and disease. Bell peppers, broccoli, and strawberries are rich in this vitamin and can easily be found at local farmers markets.
3. Fiber: High-fiber foods stimulate saliva production, which is the mouth’s natural defense against tooth decay. Vegetables like carrots and celery not only provide fiber but also act as natural toothbrushes, scrubbing away food particles and bacteria.

The Role of Family Dentistry

Family dentistry plays a crucial role in promoting dental health across all age groups. Dentists emphasize preventive care and educate families on the importance of a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients. Regular dental check-ups, combined with a health-conscious diet, create a strong foundation for long-term dental health.

In Northport, family dentists often collaborate with the local farmers market to raise awareness about the benefits of healthy eating. These collaborations can include educational sessions at the market, where dentists explain how certain foods contribute to dental health and provide tips on incorporating these foods into daily meals.

Benefits of Shopping at the Northport Farmers Market

The Northport Farmers Market is more than just a place to buy fresh produce; it’s a community hub that promotes a healthier lifestyle. Here are some benefits of shopping at this local market:

1. Freshness and Nutrient Density: Vegetables and fruits at farmers markets are often harvested within 24 hours of being sold, ensuring maximum freshness and nutrient density. This is crucial for dental health, as fresher produce contains higher levels of vitamins and minerals.
2. Organic and Pesticide-Free Options: Many vendors at the Northport Farmers Market offer organic produce, free from harmful pesticides and chemicals. Organic vegetables are not only better for overall health but also for dental health, as they reduce exposure to substances that can harm teeth and gums.
3. Supporting Local Farmers: Purchasing from local farmers supports the community and promotes sustainable agriculture. This local support fosters a sense of community and encourages healthier eating habits within the family.
4. Educational Opportunities: The market often hosts events and workshops on nutrition, cooking, and sustainable living. These events provide valuable information on how to incorporate more vegetables into your diet and the benefits they offer for dental health.

Integrating Healthy Vegetables into Your Diet

Incorporating more vegetables into your diet can be both delicious and fun. Here are some creative ways to enjoy the dental benefits of fresh produce from the Northport Farmers Market:

1. Salads and Smoothies: Leafy greens, bell peppers, and carrots make excellent additions to salads and smoothies. These meals are quick to prepare and can be customized to suit individual tastes.
2. Snacking: Swap sugary snacks for crunchy vegetables like celery and carrots. These snacks not only satisfy hunger but also help clean teeth and stimulate saliva production.
3. Juicing: Fresh vegetable juices are a great way to consume a variety of nutrients in one go. Try juicing spinach, kale, and celery for a refreshing and healthy drink.
4. Cooking Together: Involve the whole family in meal preparation. Cooking together not only makes mealtime fun but also teaches children the importance of healthy eating and dental hygiene.

Establishing Healthy Dental and Eating Habits

A holistic approach to health emphasizes the interconnectedness of diet, dental health, and overall well-being. Here are some tips to establish and maintain healthy habits:

1. Balanced Diet: Ensure your diet includes a variety of nutrient-rich vegetables. This balance supports both overall and dental health.
2. Regular Dental Check-ups: Regular visits to the dentist are essential for maintaining dental health. These check-ups help catch potential issues early and reinforce the importance of good dental hygiene.
3. Educating the Family: Teach children about the benefits of healthy eating and dental care from a young age. Establishing these habits early sets the stage for lifelong health.

The growing trend of health-conscious eating offers a wealth of benefits, not least of which is improved dental health. By making informed dietary choices and incorporating fresh vegetables from local sources like the Northport Farmers Market, families can enjoy better dental well-being. Coupled with regular dental check-ups and good hygiene practices, a nutrient-rich diet paves the way for a healthy, happy smile for years to come. Next time you visit the Northport Farmers Market, remember that you’re not just supporting local farmers; you’re investing in your family’s dental health and overall well-being.

Contact Kalmar Family Dentistry

Looking for someone to care for all of your family’s dental needs? Kalmar Family Dentistry has provided infants, children, teens, tweens, and adults comprehensive dental services in a warm, welcoming environment since 1974. Contact us to schedule an appointment in Huntington, NY.

Dental emergencies require immediate attention and can happen due to trauma, infection, and decay, among other causes.

The following situations are often considered dental emergencies:

• Knocked-out teeth
• Partially dislodged teeth
• Cracked or broken teeth
• Dental abscess
• Soft tissue injuries
• Severe toothache
• Any lost restoration, like a crown or filling that is causing severe pain

These issues may require prompt attention, but dentists do not usually treat them as emergencies:

• Lost or broken crown or bridge
• Lost filling
• Mild toothache
• Chipped tooth

What to Do in a Dental Emergency

Knocked-Out Tooth

The first action you need to take if your tooth is knocked out is to find the tooth. If you receive emergency dental care within an hour, your dentist may be able to replant the tooth.

Hold the tooth by the crown without touching the roots. Carefully rinse the tooth in lukewarm water and carry it inside your cheek or in a small cup of milk or saliva.

Partially Dislodged Tooth

Call your emergency dentist immediately if your tooth becomes loose or partially dislodged. You can also relieve pain by putting a cold compress on your cheek or taking over-the-counter pain medication.

Cracked or Broken Tooth

If your cracked tooth causes pain, see your dentist immediately. You can use orthodontic wax, found at any pharmacy, to cover any sharp edges.

Dental Abscess

If your jaw or cheek is swollen and you have a severe toothache, you may have an infection called a dental abscess. If the infection spreads to the bloodstream, an abscess can be dangerous. Call your dentist immediately.

Soft Tissue Injury

For a minor soft tissue injury, like a cut cheek or split lip, press clean gauze on the area. Use ice packs to relieve swelling.

Severe Toothache

If your toothache is bad enough to interfere with daily activities, it is an emergency. While you wait for your emergency appointment, rinse your mouth with warm salt water or use ice packs. If necessary, take over-the-counter pain medication.

Lost Restoration

A lost restoration is only an emergency if it causes pain. If you lose a restoration like a filling or crown, visit your dentist as soon as possible to have it replaced. Save a dislodged crown or bridge because the dentist can usually replace it in the mouth.

When to Go to the Emergency Room

If you experience uncontrolled bleeding, severe soft tissue injuries, broken facial bones, or facial trauma, your first call should be to the hospital emergency room. After your medical situation stabilizes, your dentist can address your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Emergencies

Why isn’t a lost filling a dental emergency?

A lost filling typically requires prompt attention but is not an emergency. If your lost filling does cause pain, let us know as soon as possible.

What should I do if I have something stuck between my teeth?

Rinse with warm salt water and try to remove the object with floss or an interproximal brush. You can get an interproximal brush at any pharmacy.

Call Kalmar Family Dentistry

We provide emergency care for patients of all ages. If you believe you have a dental emergency, please don’t hesitate to call our Huntington, NY, office at 631-673-0670. We can evaluate your issue and schedule a priority dental visit.

The mouth is full of bacteria that can create enamel-eating acids that make their way through a tooth. Plaque, poor oral hygiene, and eating sugary foods all play a role in the making of cavities.

Addressing them early can stop the destruction and restore the tooth before the damage gets too excessive. But what happens if you don’t take action? Keep reading to find out what can occur if a cavity is left untreated.

Signs You May Have a Cavity

Cavities can impact people in different ways — and some may have no symptoms at all. Below are a few of the most common signs you may have a cavity.

• Tooth pain that seems to appear for no reason
• Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
• Visible holes or pits in your tooth
• Stains that can be brown, black, or even white
• Pain when chewing or biting down

If you are experiencing any of the above, book an appointment with your dentist to get checked out. Routine visits to the dentist can stop cavities before they get worse.

What Happens When a Cavity is Not Treated?

Not seeking treatment for a cavity means that all of the above symptoms can increase and become more significant. The pain you have will likely get worse, as will your sensitivity. What’s more — the decay is not going to stop.

As it continues to spread, you may experience swelling, inflammation, and infection. This will continue to move through the tooth, the gums, into the surrounding teeth, and even into the bloodstream.

Once an infection from severe tooth decay reaches the bloodstream, you have a medical emergency.

How is a Dental Cavity Treated?

There are a couple of different ways dentists address cavities. The ideal treatment involves removing the decay and restoring the functionality and appearance of the tooth. However, the chosen route for treatment will depend on the level of damage.

Dental Filling

Dental fillings are the easiest option. The area is cleaned out, removing the decay and replacing it with a material like composite resin. This is the same color as your enamel and will look like a restored tooth. It will be able to function normally, too.

Root Canal Treatment

When the decay and infection have reached the soft, innermost layer of the tooth, simple dental fillings will no longer be effective. Rather root canal treatment will be used to address the infected pulp, removing the infection and cleaning out the roots and surrounding areas. The tooth will then be sealed, usually followed by the placement of a dental crown.

Extraction

In some instances, when a tooth is too severely decayed, an extraction may be warranted. In other words, the tooth must be removed and replaced with an alternative, such as a dental implant.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cavities

How do you prevent cavities?

Good oral hygiene techniques and routine visits to the dentist can provide you with the greatest defense against cavities.

Are all toothaches related to a cavity?

No. A cavity may cause a toothache, but many other oral health issues can do the same. This is why it is so important to visit your dentist for the proper diagnosis and treatment.

Treatment For Cavities at Kalmar Family Dentistry

If you think you may have a cavity, do not put off treatment as it can have devastating consequences for both your oral and overall health. The dental team at Kalmar Family Dentistry can help your cavity heal and restore your smile.

Contact us today at 631-673-0670  to schedule an appointment. Or request an appointment online.

If you are apprehensive about smiling or struggle with self-confidence due to the appearance of your teeth, dental veneers can help. 

With a simple procedure, your cosmetic dental imperfections will be hidden, leaving you with a stunning smile you can feel good about. 

How do dental veneers work? Let’s talk about it. 

What Are Dental Veneers? 

Dental veneers are thin shells of material that are placed on the front, outward-facing side of the teeth. They are used as a cosmetic treatment to correct imperfections, such as:

• Gaps between teeth
• Irregularly shaped teeth
• Discolorations 
• Chipped teeth
• Uneven teeth

The procedure for getting dental veneers involves taking an impression and designing a shell that matches beautifully in color, size, shape, and so on. The idea, after all, is to create a completely natural look. 

A very thin layer of enamel will be removed and the shell will be cemented onto the tooth using a strong bonding material. 

This procedure can be done right in your dentist’s office. 

Types of Veneers

It is important to note that not all dental veneers are created equal. There are three types to choose from —  porcelain, composite, and instant. 

Porcelain veneers are the cream of the crop. They are the most durable and the longest-lasting option. And they look completely natural, too. Custom-designed, porcelain veneers are made to match your teeth in size, color, shape, and fit. 

Composite veneers are another great option using composite resin. These veneers are less costly without giving up great cosmetic results. But they do have a shorter lifespan. While they, too, are customized to blend in beautifully with your other teeth, it is important to note that this material is susceptible to staining. 

Instant veneers are available as a quick fix with no customizations, but they are not recommended by dentists due to their lack of quality, appearance, and strength. 

How Long Dental Veneers Last

How long your dental veneers will last will depend on the type of veneers you choose — and how well you care for them. 

You can expect porcelain veneers to last between 10 and 15 years whereas composite resin veneers typically last between 5 to 10 years. However, the greater amount of care you show them, the longer they will last. 

Brush and floss routinely, don’t grind your teeth, and avoid biting down on hard foods. Regular visits to the dentist can ensure that they remain in good shape. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do veneers ruin your teeth?

No, dental veneers do not ruin your teeth. The thin layer of enamel removed before placing the veneers is not enough to cause any damage at all. 

How much do veneers cost? 

The cost of veneers will vary greatly depending on a few different factors, such as the type of veneer you choose, how many you are getting, your specific dentist, and whether or not anything else needs to be addressed before placing it. To get an idea of how much your veneers will cost, book an appointment with your dentist. 

Learn More About Dental Veneers

At Kalmar Family Dentistry, we understand the importance of having a smile you feel good about. And for many patients, dental veneers are the perfect option. 

If you want to learn more about dental veneers or you want to see if you are a good candidate for the procedure, contact us today at 631-673-0670. 

Eating the right foods after a tooth extraction is an essential part of the healing process. It not only ensures you get the nourishment you need to stay healthy, but it also reduces your risk of inflammation and infection. 

Below is everything you need to know when it comes to eating after a tooth extraction. 

Healing From a Tooth Extraction

After a tooth extraction, the healing process begins. You will still be numb from the local anesthetic, but this will soon dissipate. Once you are out of the dental chair, it is up to you to follow your dentist’s instructions and take steps to protect the vulnerable area.

You will start feeling better from your tooth extraction and be back to normal in about a week or two. However, it can take a month or more for full healing of the area to take place. 

Can You Eat Immediately Following an Extraction? 

It is best to avoid eating anything immediately following an extraction. Again, your mouth is going to be numb and it is difficult to know what you are biting – and whether you are steering clear of the extraction area. 

As the numbness wears off, you can consider soft or liquid foods ok to consume. This should not include anything you have to use your teeth to chew. A few good options include: 

• Yogurt – without any fruit, nuts, or granola in it
• Smoothies
• Broth
• Jello
• Pudding
• Ice cream
• Eggs

To protect the area and the empty socket, do not drink through a straw. Also, avoid foods that are too hot. Make sure it has cooled to a lukewarm before putting it in your mouth. 

This should become your diet for the 24 hours following your procedure. 

Eating After Your Extraction: Day 2 and Beyond

Once you get through the first initial healing period, you can start to add foods that are slightly more solid. You still want to avoid anything that requires you to do heavy chewing. 

A few ideas of foods to choose from include:

• Yogurt with fruit
• Pasta
• Tofu
• Cheese
• Chicken
• Ground beef
• Soups
• Soft vegetables
• Bread

Below are the foods you should avoid: 

• Chewy foods, including everything from candies to steak
• Spicy foods
• Crunchy or hard foods
• Alcohol

You may start consuming hot foods. As time passes over the next two weeks, you can slowly start eating more and more solid foods. 

To give yourself the best chance of healing, be sure to chew on the side opposite of the extraction area. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I don’t replace an extracted tooth? 

Teeth rely on those around them for support. If they are extracted, the teeth may begin to shift and this can lead to many oral health issues down the road. 

How soon after an extraction can you get a dental implant?

If you are replacing the tooth with a dental implant, you will want to make sure the extraction area is fully healed — usually 2 to 3 months. Sometimes, however, you will not need to wait at all. 

Need a Tooth Extraction?

Are you in need of a tooth extraction? Our team at Kalmar Family Dentistry will perform the procedure, setting you up for success when healing at home. 

Contact us today at 631-673-0670 to schedule an appointment. 

When there’s a baby on the way, staying in the best health possible is of utmost importance for the expectant mom. According to the American Dental Association (ADA) and the American College of Obstetrics & Gynecology (ACOG), optimal health during pregnancy includes caring for the teeth and gums with regular brushing, flossing, and preventative care from a qualified dentist. But what if a patient wants to have a cosmetic procedure, like dental implants, done during their pregnancy? 

Hold Off on the Implants Until the Pregnancy is Over

It may not be what the expectant mom wants to hear, especially if she has already started the dental implant process prior to finding out about the pregnancy, but we don’t recommend that any pregnant woman receive elective dental procedures until their pregnancy has ended.

There are a few reasons why waiting until the pregnancy is over before receiving dental implants is the best option for both mom and baby.

Higher Risk of Implant Failure During Pregnancy

Anyone who has ever been pregnant will probably have a story about how the pregnancy affected their teeth. From vomit-induced erosion to softening teeth to growths caused by fluctuating hormones, pregnancy is hard on the dental structures. These unpredictable changes can make it harder for dental implants to stay put, increasing the risk that the implants will fail and need to be redone. Since implants aren’t cheap and implant failure can be painful, waiting until this increased risk subsides is your best bet for your wallet and your mouth.

Difficult to Treat Pain & Complications During Pregnancy

Treating pain and other complications after dental implant surgery is very difficult in patients who are pregnant. Many traditional antibiotics and painkillers are off the table during pregnancy due to the risk to the fetus. If a complication arises after implant surgery, or the patient has an unusually painful recovery, their options for treatment are very limited while pregnant. This could lead to uncontrolled pain, anxiety, and stress-related illness, all of which are bad news for the expecting mom and the unborn baby.

Dental Procedures You Can Safely Receive During Pregnancy

So what dental care and procedures can pregnant patients safely receive? As mentioned above, the ADA and ACOG encourage all pregnant women to receive preventative dental care during pregnancy, as well as addressing any dental issues that may cause more harm if not dealt with promptly. This includes filling cavities, root canals, extracting infected teeth, and even scaling and root planing to treat periodontitis. However, the dentist should always weigh the medical necessity of the proposed dental treatment against the potential for harm when deciding which procedures to complete on a pregnant patient. Collaboration between the dentist and the patient’s obstetrician can help clarify which dental procedures are safe and necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants

Does dental insurance pay for implants?

Yes, many dental insurance plans offer coverage for dental implants. Check your policy coverages for more information on what your specific plan offers. You can also speak with your insurance agent or employee benefits representative, who should be able to help you understand your coverages.

What happens if you have a tooth pulled and don’t replace it?

When you have a tooth removed and don’t immediately replace it, several issues may arise. Having an empty space where the tooth was removed can make it difficult to eat certain foods. Some people report speech problems due to missing teeth and it is also common for the teeth neighboring the empty space to move out of their original alignment, causing gaps and potential further problems.

Are Dental Implants Right for You?

If you’d like to discuss dental implant treatments and if implants are right for you, contact the dental team at Kalmar Family Dentistry. Contact us today at 631-673-0670 to learn more.

Dental implants have been around for years, but they continue to grow in popularity due to their likeness to real, natural teeth. 

Unfortunately, as more people seek information about them online, they come face-to-face with incorrect information. To help you understand the truth, we have decided to debunk four of the biggest myths about dental implants. 

Myth #1: Dental Implants Don’t Require Special Care

One of the things most people love about dental implants is that they look and function like real teeth. Though they do not require as much maintenance as other tooth alternatives, they still do require proper oral hygiene and regular checkups. 

Routine brushing and flossing every day is an important step in keeping your dental implants strong and healthy. Visiting the dentist every four to six months for cleanings and checkups can allow your dentist to examine your teeth and gums, addressing any issue that may impact your dental implant before it worsens. 

Myth #2: Getting Dental Implants is Painful

Dental pain is subjective, as each patient has a different tolerance level. However, it is important to know that local anesthesia is used to stop you from feeling any pain during your actual procedure. This may leave you numb and pain-free for an hour or two after you head home to heal. 

As it begins to wear off, you will likely start to feel a little discomfort. This is normal and should dissipate over the next couple of days. Over-the-counter pain relievers are usually all that is needed to get relief. 

Myth #3: Dental Implants Only Last a Few Years

Dental implants do not need to be replaced every few years. They are designed to be a long term solution for replacing your missing teeth. They are strong, durable, and long-lasting because of the material they are made from — and the fact that they are fused with your jawbone.

They can last for many decades before they would ever need to be replaced. And, for most patients, this means that they are a lifelong solution. 

The dental crown that is held in place by the implant and abutment will need to be replaced as time goes by. With proper care, crowns can last 10 to 15 years or even longer. 

Myth #4: Dental Implants Are Too Expensive

There is no denying the fact that dental implants are quite costly. This reason, however, is because they are intended to last a very long time. They are long-term tooth replacements that you won’t have to worry about replacing repeatedly. Compared to less expensive options that must be replaced more frequently, dental implants can often cost less in the long run. 

Today, many dental insurance providers often pay a percentage of this treatment for patients, though coverage benefits will vary based on the provider and policy. What’s more, it is easy to find financing options available to help cover the cost, making them more accessible. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get dental implants?

On average, it can take a few months to get dental implants. For those who require bone grafting or additional procedures, the time frame can be extended. 

What happens if you lose a tooth and don’t replace it?

Teeth rely on the other teeth around them for support. When one goes missing, the others have nothing holding them in place. Over time, they may begin to shift. This can lead to overcrowding, misaligned bites, a greater risk of decay, and more. 

Learn More Facts About Dental Implants

Interested in learning more about dental implants or finding out whether you are a good candidate for them? The dental team at Kalmar Family Dentistry of Huntington, NY has the experience and precision to successfully place dental implants. And, of course, we can answer any questions you have, too. 

Contact us today at 631-673-0670.

Tooth extractions are routine dental procedures that are done regularly in your dentist’s office. Having a tooth removed can be very beneficial to one’s overall oral health — especially if the patient has opted for additional treatment, such as an implant or bridge. 

Can you drive after getting a tooth extraction? It all depends on whether you received local anesthesia or if you opted for sedation, too. 

What You Can Expect

The tooth extraction process is rather quick and routine. Local anesthesia is administered so that no pain is felt throughout the process, though it is not uncommon to feel some pressure during the procedure. 

Once treatment is complete, you can drive yourself home from your dental appointment. 

Although the anesthesia keeps you from feeling pain, some patients elect to have sedation. This is a great idea for those who have a bit of apprehension or who are nervous about their procedure. It is important to note, however, that various types of sedation can require you to have a ride home from your appointment as you will not be able to drive. 

Different types of sedation impact the body in different ways. This means it matters which type you choose when it comes to driving afterward. For instance, nitrous oxide (known as laughing gas) is a gas breathed in through a mask that covers the nose. Its impact is felt almost instantly — and it will stop moments after the mask is removed. 

You can drive home after nitrous oxide. 

When it comes to any other type of sedation, including oral sedation, it will be necessary for someone to drive you home after the procedure. 

Advantage of Having a Tooth Extracted

If you are on the fence about whether or not you should move forward with your tooth extraction, keep in mind that there are quite a few advantages of doing so, including: 

• Reduce the chance of more complex dental work later if the tooth is left to fall out on its own
• Relief from pain and irritation caused by the tooth, especially if infected or broken 
• Minimize the risk of infection spreading from an infected tooth

What’s more, when you have a tooth extracted, the area is ready for additional dental work — whether from the oral surgeon or restorative dentist, such as a dental implant or dental bridge. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to wait after an extraction before I can replace a tooth?

Generally, you will want to wait a few weeks after the extraction so that the area has time to heal before replacing the tooth. If implants are the treatment of choice sometime it could be 4 to 6 months before a tooth is placed.  However, if you are a candidate, certain procedures will allow you to proceed without waiting at all.

How long does a tooth extraction take?

While it will vary from patient to patient, the average tooth extraction process can be done in about 20 to 30 minutes. More than one extraction will extend this time. 

Need a Tooth Extraction?

If you need a tooth extraction, the dental team at Kalmar Family Dentistry can help. Not only do we have what it takes to save a natural tooth, but we can extract it, as well or refer you if necessary to the proper specialist. We also offer you many different options for replacement.

Contact us today at 631-673-0670 to learn more.

If you are in or around the Huntington, NY area this holiday season, why not join us for an unforgettable celebration? 

Sponsored by Northwell Health and Huntington Hospital and supported by Kalmar Family Dentistry, the Huntington Holiday Spectacular kicks off a season of joy and wonder for kids of all ages. Adults, that includes you, too!

A Community Tradition 

What started the Huntington Holiday Spectacular tradition? 

A challenge. Or, should we say, a pandemic?

Back in 2020, the holidays were looking a bit different than any other year – unlike anything we could have ever imagined. We were isolated and divided, longing for our sense of community to return. 

As everyone struggled to find their way in this new situation, Huntington Village decided to bring everyone out of their homes and together in the heart of our town. How did they do it? With a 75-foot Holiday Tree of Hope. It renewed our spirit and rekindled our love for our neighbors and friends. And, life. 

Each year that followed, the Huntington Village Business Improvement District (BID) has brought it back to us – and this year is no exception. It has quickly become a much-anticipated community tradition.

This year, the tree and celebration are in honor of frontline workers. After all, their hard work and dedication to the safety and health of our community is how this Holiday Spectacular was born in the first place. 

Coming Together Under the Holiday Lights

Ask anyone who has previously been to this holiday event and they will be able to highlight some of their most memorable moments. You will likely hear stories about singing and dancing performances, an incredible ice carver, and the mesmerizing light show that all top the list and make the experience so magical. 

And who can forget the delicious treats of donuts, pastries, and hot chocolate that spark smiles throughout the crowd? 

If this year will be your first year celebrating the holidays in Huntington, you won’t want to miss all of the events that the BID has lined up for the joyous occasion. A few of the highlights include: 

• November 25, 2023: Huntington Village Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting
• November 26, 2023: Holiday Market — and Santa!
• November 30, 2023: Live music
• December 2, 2023: Dancing on Wall Street
• December 5, 2023: Huntington Library Pop Up
• December 9, 2023: Santa Paws
• December 11, 2023: Menorah Lighting

All throughout the season, you can expect to see Santa, the holiday market, live music, dancing, and, of course, a lot of fun. There is truly something remarkable that happens when the residents of Huntington come together under the twinkling lights — you will not want to miss it. 

Huntington Holiday Spectacular: The Details

This year’s Huntington Holiday Spectacular will take place from Saturday, November 25, 2023, to New Year’s Day, Monday, January 1, 2024.

Events are scattered throughout the duration of the festivities with something for everyone. So, be sure to check the events calendar and plan accordingly. 

As for the light show times, you can find this 20-minute must-see at peak times — Monday through Friday on the hour, beginning at 5:00 pm with the last show at 9:00 pm (or 10:00 pm on Fridays). On Saturdays and Sundays, the light show happens on the hour, beginning at 12:00 noon, with the last show at 9:00 pm (or 10:00 pm on Saturdays). 

Join Us For the Fun

As a proud supporter of the Huntington Holiday Spectacular, all of us at Kalmar Family Dentistry will make our way to Wall Street to enjoy the music, dancing, lights, shopping at the holiday market, and more. And, we hope to see you there, too. 

Don’t worry — we will still be here for our patients. Whether you are looking for routine dental care or pediatric dental care, want to address TMJ issues, or have been dreaming of a whiter smile, we offer the residents in and around Huntington, NY a comprehensive list of dental services. 

Contact us today at 631-673-0670 to schedule an appointment.

By most standards, straight teeth are one of the biggest requirements for a perfect smile. And Invisalign can make it happen without being noticeable. 

Different from traditional metal braces with brackets, Invisalign offers patients a discreet way to straighten teeth, align bites, and address many orthodontic needs. However, while many patients find that they are a good fit, not everyone can benefit from Invisalign. 

How Invisalign Works

Invisalign uses soft, clear plastic aligners that are custom-designed just for you. Your dentist will capture 3D imaging of what your teeth look like today and create what they should look like when treatment is complete. From this, your set of aligners will be created. 

Each aligner is worn for about two weeks or so as it encourages your teeth to move in the direction of your future smile. It is then replaced with the next aligner in line through the progression. 

The aligners must be worn for 20 to 22 hours every single day for treatment to be effective. And, with proper patient compliance, it can be completed at about the same time as traditional braces – if not sooner. 

Are you a candidate for Invisalign? This can be an ideal choice for those patients who need orthodontic treatment for issues, such as: 

• Overbites
• Underbites
• Crossbites
• Open bites
• Crowded teeth
• Gaps
• Crooked teeth

There are other factors, too, that play a role in determining whether someone is a good candidate for Invisalign. Let’s take a look. 

Good Oral Health

Having good oral health is so important when it comes to Invisalign. The aligners need to be on the teeth nearly all day. And this can create the perfect breeding ground for bacteria if proper care isn’t given. 

Any oral health issues, such as decay, infections, gum disease, etc. will need to be addressed before treatment can proceed. This will give you the best chance of reaching a successful outcome. 

An ideal candidate will have good oral health and will have an oral hygiene routine that will further benefit it. 

Mild or Moderate Orthodontic Treatment

Invisalign is a great solution for mild to moderate orthodontic needs. It can handle any of the issues above and yield fantastic results. Unfortunately, more complex treatment may require a different type of treatment —- usually traditional braces. 

If your orthodontic needs aren’t severe, then you may very well be a candidate for Invisalign. Your dentist will be able to advise you accordingly. 

Compliance with Treatment

With traditional braces, you don’t have a choice about wearing them as the brackets are bonded to your teeth and the wires are connected to the brackets. This means they are always working to correct your orthodontic issues, 24/7. 

Invisalign, on the other hand, allows you the opportunity to remove them whenever you want to. In fact, this flexibility is one of the reasons so many patients seek this type of treatment. But, just because you can remove the aligners doesn’t mean you should. 

The aligners can only do their job while they are in your mouth. It is necessary for them to be removed while eating and, of course, while brushing your teeth. They should be worn the rest of the time. 

The best candidates for Invisalign treatment will be willing to comply with wearing the aligners at least 20 to 22 hours a day. 

Find Out If You Are a Candidate For Invisalign 

If you are interested in Invisalign and the smile transformation it can create, then see if you are an ideal candidate for the treatment. The dental team at Kalmar Family Dentistry will evaluate your orthodontic needs to determine whether you are an ideal candidate for Invisalign or if another treatment option may be better suited to your needs. 

Contact us today at 631-673-0670 to schedule your appointment.