PDM Family Dental of Jericho

Dr. Parul Dua Makkar of PDM Family Dentistry has recently been honored with a Fellowship in the International College of Dentists (FICD) a recognition extended only by invitation to dentists who demonstrate outstanding professional achievement, service, and commitment to the advancement of dentistry. This prestigious accolade adds to Dr. Makkar's distinguished record in both clinical excellence and advocacy. Throughout her career, Dr. Makkar has combined her clinical skills with a deep passion for patient education, especially surrounding oral cancer prevention and early detection.   Her work, shaped by personal loss, emphasizes not only treatment, but awareness, communication, and early intervention. Being named a Fellow of the ICD is not only a personal achievement, but also a testament to Dr. Makkar's impact beyond her practice walls. Membership in the ICD recognizes dentists whose influence extends into humanitarian, educational, and leadership ro...

Have you noticed white spots, increased sensitivity, or small cracks on your teeth? These signs may indicate enamel erosion. Enamel, the hardest substance in the human body, forms a protective coating for your teeth. However, despite its strength, enamel is not invincible. Without proper care, enamel erosion can lead to tooth decay, pain, abscesses, and even tooth loss. At PDM Family Dental , our dentist in Jericho shares key insights on what causes enamel erosion and how you can protect your smile. Common Causes of Enamel Erosion Everyday habits and health conditions can contribute to enamel erosion. Here are the most common culprits: Sugary and Acidic Drinks Soft drinks, fruit juices, and other sugary beverages are highly acidic, wearing down your enamel over time. High-sugar or Starchy Diets Starches and sugars in foods like bread can be converted by oral bacteria into damaging acids. Medical Conditions Acid reflux, recurre...

At PDM Family Dental , you're likely already familiar with the importance of a professional dental cleaning. But you might be wondering, do I really need a complete dental exam? While a cleaning is an essential part of your routine, a full exam, including radiographs (X-rays), plays an equally important role in maintaining your overall oral health. Here's why scheduling regular dental exams is crucial: 1. Detect Early Signs of Health Conditions Did you know that many systemic health issues can present early signs inside your mouth? Conditions such as Crohn’s disease, diabetes, leukemia, and even anemia can show up through changes in your oral health. By skipping your exam, you miss the opportunity for your dentist to identify oral manifestations of these conditions. Regular exams help us monitor your health and catch potential issues before they escalate. 2. Early Detection of Oral Cancer Oral cancer is a serious concern, and research shows that one America...

At PDM Family Dental , we understand that life can get busy. With the demands of work, school, sports, and social activities, finding time for your health can be challenging. However, it's crucial to prioritize your dental care by scheduling your next appointment. Our team is dedicated to helping you find the most convenient time that fits your lifestyle. If you need to reschedule, just let us know—we're happy to accommodate your needs. We appreciate any advance notice you can provide, as missed appointments without prior notice can affect our practice, since we reserve that time specifically for you. The Importance of Keeping Your Appointments Missing your dental appointments can lead to more serious issues for both your oral health and overall well-being. Whether you're in for preventive care or restorative treatments, neglecting necessary dental visits can allow plaque and decay to worsen, ultimately affecting your oral health. Some of our patients m...

At PDM Family Dental , we understand that dry mouth can be more than a simple inconvenience—it can indicate serious health issues. Saliva is essential for oral health; it lubricates the mouth, aids in swallowing, and begins the digestive process. Additionally, saliva protects your teeth by neutralizing acids and washing away food particles. While everyone experiences dry mouth occasionally—due to factors like hot weather, exercise, or dehydration—chronic dry mouth, or xerostomia, can lead to significant oral health complications. Common Oral Health Issues Linked to Dry Mouth Chronic dry mouth can result in several dental problems, including: Increased Tooth Decay: Reduced saliva creates a more favorable environment for harmful bacteria, leading to cavities. Oral Yeast Infections: A dry mouth can promote fungal growth. Bad Breath (Halitosis): Less saliva means less natural cleansing, resulting in unpleasant odors. Gum Disease: Saliva is vital for he...

Are you hesitant to smile due to missing teeth? Many individuals experience a dip in self-confidence when faced with gaps in their smile. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers a variety of effective solutions to replace missing teeth, allowing you to regain your confidence. At PDM Family Dental, our team is dedicated to providing long-lasting replacements that look and feel just like your natural teeth. Here are some common options for tooth replacement: Dentures For those who have lost multiple or all of their teeth, dentures are an excellent solution. They provide a realistic and aesthetically pleasing smile, making them ideal for patients missing teeth on the upper or lower jaw. Our process begins with taking an impression of your mouth, which we then send to a lab to create a custom set of dentures tailored to your needs. Once your dentures are ready, we ensure they fit comfortably and make any necessary adjustments. Regular cleaning with a non-abrasive cleanser is esse...