Our Blog

Are your teeth ready for the big day?

March 8th, 2016

Capturing the Moment

At Cardinale Dentistry we know that just about anyone who has taken on the challenge of planning her own wedding could tell you how important the little details can be. Things like having complementary colors, the right location, show-stopping flowers, and delicious food are all a big part of planning your spring wedding. Another little detail that has a big "I do" related role? Your smile.

Whether you’re the bride, or an attendant, looking your best when you tie the knot (or help someone tie the knot) is essential. If your teeth aren’t ready to make an entrance, turning to one of the many available teeth whitening solutions is a great option.

Reliable Solutions

Before the wedding day arrives, you should take your smile into consideration. If diet and daily wear-and-tear have caused your teeth to lose their original luster, our team can help! In-office procedures do cost more than kits you use at home, but with an in-office treatment, you benefit from a professional taking proper care of your teeth.

In addition, relying on our office to handle teeth whitening before the wedding can give you access to trustworthy advice on how to keep your teeth looking their best for a longer period of time. It’s common for someone experienced in assisting people with their oral health to suggest investing in an in-office whitening technique and then following up with a teeth-whitening kit at home.

This is a season of new beginnings and beauty. Take the time to bring out your most beautiful smile before the big day. Don’t let your smile hold you back on your wedding. With our in-office teeth whitening, you can be sure that you’ll be more confident and comfortable interacting with friends and family. So remember, when in need of some quality oral care in Naples, FL to think of Dr. Vincent Cardinale and Dr. Chris Moody!

Thank You for the Feedback!

March 7th, 2016

I love you all!! Great all around

Been with you for many years & although we are further away, we still enjoy coming here

Beautiful office and people

I have always been taken care of well.  This is by far the best dentistry I've been to.

Kenny is the best

We are so pleased with the dental care and considerations shown to us.  Thanks for all you do.

Always love seeing you guys

Thank you very much

This was my first time at the office.  EVERYBODY was very friendly!  Staff works wonderful together.  I never felt rushed and everyone made me feel welcome.  Best dental office I've ever been to!  Dentists make me nervous but not there.  Best experience.

Please extend my gratitude again to Dr. Cardinale for helping to assuage my anxiety.

Had my teeth cleaned by Jayme.  She did an excellent job!

I have been going to Dr. Cardinale's office since I arrived in Florida probably 11 years ago.  I would recommend Dr. C and his staff to anyone and everyone.  My teeth attests to Dr. Cardinale's good care.

Love Jayme

Always a positive visit.  Genuine concern for patients.  Very aware of new technology and make recommendations for patients quality of life.

Everyone involved in my visit was very friendly and professional.  The staff and surroundings made me feel very comfortable and relaxed.  Dr. Cardinale was very informative and provided me with detailed information.

Kenny was great.  Very thorough and helpful regarding preventative issues.  And a great conversationalist!

Can't say I enjoy going to the dentist but if I have to, I cannot think of a better practice to go to.  The atmosphere in the office/staff are terrific.

Outstanding professional service!

Excellent dental care! Thank you

As always the service was great

Jayme is so professional, personable and knowledgeable.  She does an excellent job and I trust her judgement.

Kenny is the best! You have a great team.

Excellent experience for me as I have big sensitivity issues.

Kenny completed my cleaning and everyone is wonderful, welcoming and polite.  the staff are always smiling and always there to help! Thank you.

Great staff.

I am very satisfied with this office and staff, and would recommend you anytime.

Caring for Your Smile after Invisalign® Treatment

February 23rd, 2016

You have done a lot of work to get the perfect smile. You wore your Invisalign aligner trays and cared for your teeth, and now your treatment is done. You still need to take care of your teeth to keep your beautiful smile. Keeps these things in mind when you think about your oral care routine.

Retainers

Many patients do require a retainer after Invisalign treatment. This will be based on your unique situation. If a retainer is recommended by Dr. Vincent Cardinale and Dr. Chris Moody, use it as directed. Retainers prevent your teeth from shifting back into their original position. You should also avoid hard, crunchy foods for the first couple of weeks as your teeth adjust. For younger patients, retainers are normally used until the wisdom teeth come in or are extracted.

Brushing and Flossing

Brushing and flossing must be part of your daily oral care. Flossing helps remove the plaque, which becomes tartar or calculus. This build up can lead to gingivitis and gum disease. Your gums may be more sensitive for a week or two after your orthodontic work is completed. A warm salt water rinse may relieve discomfort.

Your teeth may be slightly sensitive for a short time. They have been protected by your Invisalign aligner trays and now are fully exposed. You might want to try a sensitive toothpaste to get through the transition. Just ask; we will be glad to recommend the best type for your needs. If your teeth are stained, a professional whitening treatment can be considered.

Regular Dental Checkups

You still need to have regular dental exams. Professional cleanings and X-rays make sure that both your teeth and gums stay healthy so you can keep your teeth for life. If cavities or other problems are found, they can be taken care of quickly.

If you have any questions about how to care for your teeth after your Invisalign program, please ask our Naples, FL team. We want you to keep your healthy smile and enjoy the results of your Invisalign treatment.

Thumb Sucking, Pacifiers, and Your Baby's Teeth

February 16th, 2016

Sucking is a common instinct for babies and the use of a pacifier or their thumb offers a sense of safety and security, as well a way to relax.

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the majority of children will stop using a pacifier and stop sucking their thumb on their own between the ages of two and four years of age. Prolonged thumb sucking or use of a pacifier can have dental consequences and needs be taken care of sooner, rather than later.

Many dentists favor pacifier use over thumb sucking because it makes it easier for parents to control and even limit the use of a pacifier. If thumb sucking lingers, the same strategies used to break the baby from using the pacifier can be used for thumb sucking.

Precautions

  • Try to find "orthodontically correct" pacifiers, as they may reduce the risk of dental problems.
  • Never dip a pacifier in sugar or honey to calm the baby.
  • Give your baby a bottle of water at bedtime, never juice.

Dental Complications

Long term pacifier use can lead to an assortment of dental complications including:

  • The bottom teeth leaning inward
  • The top teeth slanting outward
  • Misalignment of the baby’s jaw

The risk of any or all of these things happening is greatly increased if thumb sucking and pacifier use is sustained after the baby’s teeth start to come in.

Breaking the Thumb Sucking and Pacifier Habit

Most toddlers and children will stop sucking their thumb or using a pacifier between the ages of two and four on their own. However, if intervention is necessary here are a few tips to help your child break the habit:

  • Slowly decreasing the use of a pacifier can be effective for many children. This method does not work very well with thumb sucking.
  • Thumb sucking can be more difficult to break. Dr. Vincent Cardinale and Dr. Chris Moody may recommend using an over the counter cream that you put on the child’s thumb; it doesn’t taste good and usually does the trick.
  • Rewards can also help with the process.
  • If these simple commonly used strategies do not work, there are oral devices that will prevent a child from sucking their thumb or a pacifier.

Talk to Dr. Vincent Cardinale and Dr. Chris Moody and our team, as we have many tricks up our sleeves that will be effective in breaking your child’s thumb sucking or pacifier use.