Prevention


 

Tooth Decay Prevention

Tooth decay is a progressive disease resulting in the interaction of bacteria that naturally occur on the teeth and sugars in the everyday diet. Sugar causes a reaction in the bacteria, causing it to produce acids that break down the mineral in teeth, forming a cavity. Dentists remove the decay and fill the tooth using a variety of fillings, restoring the tooth to a healthy state. Nerve damage can result from severe decay and may require a crown (a crown is like a large filling that can cap a tooth, making it stronger or covering it). Avoiding unnecessary decay simply requires strict adherence to a dental hygiene regimen: brushing and flossing twice a day, regular dental check-ups, diet control, and fluoride treatment. Practicing good hygiene avoids unhealthy teeth and costly treatment.

Sealants

The grooves and depressions that form the chewing surfaces of the back teeth are extremely difficult (if not impossible) to clean of bacteria and food. As the bacteria reacts with the food, acids form and break down the tooth enamel, causing cavities. Recent studies indicate that 88 percent of total cavities in American school children are caused this way. Tooth sealants protect these susceptible areas by sealing the grooves and depressions, preventing bacteria and food particles from residing in these areas. Sealant material is a resin typically applied to the back teeth, molars and premolars and areas prone to cavities. It lasts for several years but needs to be checked during regular appointments.

Fluoride

Fluoride is a substance that helps teeth become stronger and resistant to decay. Regularly drinking water treated with fluoride and brushing and flossing regularly ensures significantly lower cavities. Dentists can evaluate the level of fluoride in a primary drinking water source and recommend fluoride supplements (usually in tablets or drops), if necessary.

Thumb Sucking

Sucking is a natural reflex that relaxes and comforts babies and toddlers. Children usually cease thumb sucking when the permanent front teeth are ready to erupt.  Typically, children stop between the ages of 2 and 4 years. Thumb sucking that persists beyond the eruption of primary teeth can cause improper growth of the mouth and misalignment of the teeth. If you notice prolonged and/or vigorous thumb sucking behavior in your child, talk to your dentist.

Here are some ways to help your child outgrow thumb sucking:

  • Don’t scold a child when they exhibit thumb sucking behavior; instead, praise them when they don’t suck his or her thumb.
  • Focus on eliminating the cause of anxiety – thumb sucking is a comfort device that helps children cope with stress or discomfort.
  • Praise them when they refrain from the habit during difficult periods.
  • Place a bandage on the thumb or a sock on their hand at night.

Nicole Mermet, DMD

Dentist & Cosmetic Dentist located in Midtown, New York, NY

Dr. Nicole Mermet received her Bachelor of Science degree from Lafayette College in Easton, Pennsylvania. Subsequently, she received her D.M.D. degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. After graduation, she completed a general practice residency with the Veterans Administration in Brooklyn, New York, where she became well-versed in all areas of dentistry. Dr. Mermet has been in private practice in NYC since 2002.

She is passionate about preventative dental care and how it aids in the prevention of systemic disease relating to her patient's overall health. She is also devoted to cosmetic dentistry in the conjoining of exceptional quality dentistry with the beautiful, natural enhancement of one's smile. Dr. Mermet's patients are dear to her and she feels truly happy when she can improve someone's dental health and appearance at the same time. In her free time, she keeps active as a road cyclist, runner, triathlete, wife, and mother.

About Practice

Dr. Nicole Mermet received her Bachelor of Science degree from Lafayette College in Easton, Pennsylvania. Subsequently, she received her D.M.D. degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. After graduation, she completed a general practice residency with the Veterans Administration in Brooklyn, New York, where she became well-versed in all areas of dentistry. Dr. Mermet has been in private practice in NYC since 2002.

She is passionate about preventative dental care and how it aids in the prevention of systemic disease relating to her patient's overall health. She is also devoted to cosmetic dentistry in the conjoining of exceptional quality dentistry with the beautiful, natural enhancement of one's smile. Dr. Mermet's patients are dear to her and she feels truly happy when she can improve someone's dental health and appearance at the same time. In her free time, she keeps active as a road cyclist, runner, triathlete, wife, and mother.


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Major Insurance Providers Accepted

At Metropolitan Dental Care, we accept all PPO insurance plans. Here is a short-list of just some of the most popular plans we accept. Please contact our office if you do not see your insurance provider listed.

Aetna
Ameritas
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Careington
Cigna
CoreSource
Delta Dental
GEHA
Guardian
Healthplex
Lincoln Financial Group
Meritain Health
MetLife
Principal Life
UMR
United Concordia Dental
Testimonials

Words from our patients

  • Yelp

    "I enjoy going to my 6 month visits to the dentist now that I see Dr. Mermet! She's thorough and makes a dental visit as easy and enjoyable as possible."

    Rachel W.
  • Yelp

    "Fabulous dentist. She is by far the best dentist I have ever worked with. She is very detail-oriented, kind and accommodating."

    Laura F.
  • Yelp

    "Excited and relieved to find a dentist I can trust with my teeth! Nicole talked through everything she was doing and gave me tips to improve my daily regime."

    Megan W.
  • facebook

    "Dr. 'Nicky' Mermet is super sweet, talented and a great demeanor...I recommend (and will) Dr. Mermet to friends and family!"

    Amy H.
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Nicole Mermet, DMD
275 Madison Ave.
Suite 2118
New York, NY 10016

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