Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

It is Dr. Sukumar’s belief that high-quality dentistry is something every patient deserves. For this reason, he participates with many different insurance plans and also offers convenient payment plans to help patients get the treatment they need.

We understand that dental insurance can sometimes be confusing and difficult for our patients to understand. The good news is that our staff members are knowledgeable and can help you determine which treatments will be covered and what your out-of-pocket expense will be. You can contact our office anytime if you have questions about dental insurance.

CareCredit & Lending Club

Middletown Dental also works with companies such as CareCredit and Lending Club for patients looking for affordable monthly payments for their treatment needs. CareCredit even offers interest-free plans for qualified patients. Our staff can give you more information about these companies and will even help you apply at our office.

In-Office Savings Plan

Dr. Sukumar also offers an in-office savings plan at Middletown Dental. This gives patients the option to become a member for one low yearly fee and receive extra discounts on many common dental services. Please give us a call to learn more about our savings plan.

What’s important when you choose a dentist for you and your family? Finding a dental team that understands your oral health needs is undoubtedly at the top of the list; you want to keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible, right?

However, you also want your dental office close to work, school, shopping, and restaurants. So, where is Middletown Dental located? Keep reading to learn more.

Where Is Middletown Dental Located?

Our dental office is located at 764 Palmer Ave. in Middletown, NJ. We’re conveniently located close to the following:

• Cove Road Elementary
• Thorne Middle School
• Raritan High School
• Target
• Livoti’s Old World Market
• Trader Joe’s
• Costco
• The Home Depot

To reach our dental office from the North:

1. Take Palmer Ave. south to Middle Rd.
2. Turn left on Middle Rd.
3. Take the first left to our office.

To reach our dental office from the West:

1. Take Hwy. 36 east to Middle Rd.
2. Turn right on Middle Rd. and go to the light at Palmer Ave.
3. Go through the light and take the first left to our office.

Looking for a Middletown Dentist?

If so, consider the expert dental team at Middletown Dental! We offer compassionate care for you and your loved ones and would love to welcome you to our dental family. To learn more or schedule an appointment, please contact our dental office at (732) 495-4444.

Any dental treatment has the potential to change a patient’s facial or oral anatomy. Orthodontic treatment straightens teeth and creates a proper bite. But many people wonder if Invisalign changes your face shape. 

To answer this question simply: Invisalign can change your face’s shape, but this depends on the type, severity, and extent of malocclusion. Every patient is different, so the only way to have a more specific idea of what to expect is based on your unique situation. 

Personalized Orthodontic Treatment Just for You 

When your Invisalign dentist creates a personalized treatment plan for you, they base it on your profile and facial features while also considering how your face will change as you age. Our commitment to detailed and precise treatment and modern technology will ensure your best smile. 

How Braces Can Change Your Face Shape 

People rarely have perfectly symmetrical faces, and it’s not something we often notice. However, facial asymmetry can be more recognizable and pronounced when a person’s jaws grow at different rates or are in different positions. Invisalign can align the jaws and bring your facial features and symmetry into balance. This is especially true if you have an underbite, overbite, crossbite, or other misalignments. 

Schedule Your Consult for Invisalign in Middletown, NJ 

If you have an unbalanced bite or smile, please give us a call to schedule a visit with our Invisalign dentist in Middletown. We can help you attain the beautiful, symmetrical smile you’ve always wanted! 

Our Middletown, NJ, dental office offers an upgrade to traditional teeth whitening with KöR whitening.

What is KöR?

KöR blends advanced dental technology with cost-effective solutions; and is unique in being largely recognized as the most effective teeth whitening system on the current market. As you get older, your teeth start accumulating stains and begin looking dull. Teeth whitening products try to reverse or hide this process.

What is the Teeth Whitening Process?

KöR uses a unique proprietary blend that improves your teeth's oxygen absorption. In this step, the whitening agents in KöR are able to penetrate deep into your enamel. Even the hardest to remove stains are polished away, including tetracycline stains. No other teeth whitening product on the market can remove tough stains as well as KöR.

What Makes KöR Different?

KöR is peerless in being able to completely rejuvenate and renew teeth, restoring their youthful appearance. You will also enjoy more comfortable teeth whitening because KöR uses patented desensitizers so that people who were afraid to whiten their teeth because of the side effects can now enjoy a whiter smile.

Contact Us!

Getting a smile makeover with KöR is as easy as visiting our Middletown, NJ, dental office to determine whether you are a good candidate for the procedure. Be sure to contact us today to learn more about professional teeth whitening!

Middletown Dental is proud to offer KöR teeth whitening in Middletown, NJ to our patients. KöR teeth whitening combines science and technology to create a unique whitening system that is proven to deliver results. Even tough stains that many patients have lived with for years, such as tetracycline stains, can be eliminated with this exclusive formula. KöR is also the perfect final touch on a smile makeover treatment plan.

What Makes KöR Whitening So Great?

KöR combines in-office treatments with at-home whitening to achieve the best results. Trays are customized for a secure fit to protect your soft tissues from injuries that the whitening gel may cause. KöR’s results are also permanent, when you continue to use your at-home trays, so you won’t have to update your whitening.

KöR’s special formula is also designed to eliminate the sensitivity that whitening sometimes causes. Instead of treating sensitivity after it happens, KöR’s ingredients work to prevent sensitivity from happening in the first place.

Contact Us Today! 

If you’ve lived with staining or discoloration on your teeth, there’s no need for you to feel self-conscious any longer. Contact Middletown Dental to learn more about how KöR can help to restore your smile.

Dr. Sukumar whitens smiles in all locations, including Middletown, New Monmouth, Belford, Leonardo, Keyport, and Union Beach.

If your tooth has a small chip, it's important to seek treatment to avoid infection or further damage.

The tooth can be fixed with a tooth-colored filling or bonding. Bonding relies on tooth-colored filling material to fill chips and conceal tooth flaws. 

If the cracked tooth creates a more severe cosmetic issue, you can opt for veneers in Middletown, NJ. Veneers are wafer-thin, custom-made shells made of porcelain that are bonded to the fronts of teeth. Veneers can conceal tooth discoloration, gummy smiles, worn teeth, and slightly crooked teeth.

If the tooth is more significantly broken and at risk for fractures or loss, it may need a tooth crown. Unlike veneers, a tooth crown covers the entirety of the tooth, and it's always shaped and colored to match your smile. 

For Restorative Dentistry Near Belford, NJ, Contact Our Dental Office

Dr. Sukumar offers a variety of restorative and cosmetic dentistry options to help you achieve your best smile. The first step is scheduling a consultation in our dental office. Our dentists want to learn about your smile goals and help you achieve them.

We are proud to serve all areas, including Middletown, New Monmouth, Belford, Leonardo, Keyport, Union Beach, and your location. 

Contact our office to schedule an appointment today!

Dental emergencies can occur even when you’re being careful. If you have a dental emergency in Middletown, getting professional care to treat your problem and protect your oral health is imperative. 

Common Dental Emergencies

Common dental emergencies include:

• Persistent toothache or dental sensitivity 
• Broken, chipped, or fractured teeth 
• Damaged or lost restorations (e.g., crowns, fillings)
• Dislodged or avulsed tooth 
• Swollen, sore, or painful gums 
• Cysts or bumps on the gums 
• Oral infection 
• Object dislodged in between your teeth 
• Soft tissue injury (e.g., cut lip or tongue) 
• Damaged orthodontics

Our Middletown emergency dentist can treat your problem, relieve your pain, and help you restore your smile’s health and appearance. We offer various high-quality treatments, such as veneers, crowns, bridges, root canal therapy, extractions, and more. Your health and safety are of the utmost importance, and we will do all we can to ensure you have a healthy and happy smile for life. 

Call Our Emergency Dentist in Middletown, NJ 

An untreated dental emergency can pose a threat to your oral health and overall general health. Don't let your smile suffer! Please contact us today if you're experiencing a dental emergency near Middletown. We set aside time in our schedule to accommodate emergencies so you can receive the urgent care you need when you need it. 

We welcome patients of all ages from the surrounding areas in Monmouth County, including Leonardo, Belford, and New Monmouth.

A few factors define a dental emergency, but the main one can be how much pain you are experiencing. Another aspect of a dental emergency is that your condition requires urgent care. Regardless of how you define it, most people feel a problem is urgent when it interferes with daily life.

What you should do first if you’re considering a dental emergency is to call Middletown Dental. We are always ready to work with you when you need emergency dental services in Middletown, NJ. To prepare for this call, we can list numerous common dental emergencies and how to address them.

Examples of Common Middletown Dental Emergencies

A Knocked-Out Tooth – a definite emergency; you should call us immediately so that we have a chance of saving your tooth by reimplanting it.

Tooth or Gum Pain – most toothaches are caused by a dental infection, and the worse the toothache, the more serious the infection. You should always treat an infection before it becomes severe enough to cause a lost tooth.

Chipped or Fractured Tooth – You should seek treatment for even a chipped tooth as sharp edges may cut the inside of your mouth, while a fully broken tooth can be replaced with a dental crown, so you don’t lose chewing function.

Mouth Injury – if you have a cut on your lips, cheeks, or gums, you should stop the bleeding with light pressure and a cold compress. Then, call us immediately so we can help you decide the next thing you should do.

Contact Your Middletown Emergency Dentist

We advise you overall to use your best judgment, and wherever in doubt, please call and discuss your situation with a member of our dental team.

The most important thing to do is to remain calm and contact your child's dentist in Middletown, NJ.

Start by finding the tooth. Hold it by the crown rather than the root and try to reinsert it in the socket. If damage, swelling, or pain make that impossible, put the tooth in a glass of milk and take your child and the glass immediately to the dentist.

In some cases, we can reset the tooth. 

Is My Child's Dental Issue an Emergency?

Common dental emergencies include:

• Severe tooth pain
• Chipped or cracked teeth
• Fractured teeth
• A tooth that is partly or completely knocked out of its socket
• Injury to the gums, tongue, or other soft tissue
• Oral abscess
• Losing a filling, crown, or other dental restoration

If you are unsure whether the situation is an emergency, reach out to our dental team. We can advise you on the next steps and help you make the right decision for your child's oral health.

Contact Us to Schedule an Emergency Dental Appointment

If you or your child are experiencing a dental emergency in the areas of Middletown, Holmdel, New Monmouth, Belford, Leonardo, Keyport, Union Beach, or beyond, call our office at (732) 495-4444. We will make every effort to see you as soon as possible. 

Choosing to replace missing teeth with dental implants in Middletown, NJ is a big decision. But the results are well worth it because a dental implant could last a lifetime if you care for it properly.

Components of a Dental Implant

A dental implant consists of three separate pieces; the titanium implant post that’s placed surgically in your jaw, the implant abutment that attaches a restoration to the implant, and the visible part of the implant which may be a crown, bridge or denture.

As the implant post heals in your jaw, it forms a bond with the bone and tissue around it. The goal is to create a permanent replacement tooth root that will function like a natural root. For this reason, the implant post is the part that is considered to be permanent

But several factors decide whether or not your implant will last a lifetime. Dental implants have a 95 percent clinical success rate, but when they fail, it’s usually due to poor gum health. Gum disease attacks the bone, tissue, and ligaments that support your teeth and puts your implant in jeopardy.

If you want to protect your dental implant, focus on maintaining excellent oral health habits. Step up your oral hygiene skills, visit Middletown Dental every six months for dental exams and teeth cleanings, and follow a healthy diet.

Get A Consultation For Dental Implants

Dr. Pradeep would be happy to meet with you to answer your questions and explain the benefits of dental implants. Please call our Middletown dental office to get started.

A missing tooth takes a toll on your life in many ways and Middletown Dental is here to help. There are a number of options for restoring one or more missing teeth. Dental implants are by far the best because they not only replace your tooth, they also restore your root, which keeps your bone healthy.

What is a dental implant?

An implant uses a titanium post placed into your bone to act as your root and a firm foundation for your new tooth. The implant is placed during a surgical procedure and given ample time to heal and integrate with your bone. Dr. Conti, our periodontal specialist at Middletown Dental, specializes in implant placement, and he will guide you through this process from start to finish.

Dr. Sukumar will customize your crown to complete your smile with an aesthetically pleasing look. He designs your crown to function just as your natural tooth did, so you’ll be able to eat, chew, talk, and smile with confidence and ease again.

We aim to make the process smooth!

Because our highly skilled team offers comprehensive implant dentistry, you’ll never be referred anywhere else during your treatment as you would with other practices. We make restoring your smile as comfortable and efficient as possible for you. 

Contact us today!

Dental implants are great for long-term dental health, making them an effective restorative dentistry treatment. When it comes to long-term care for the dental implants and implant restoration, just be sure to care for your teeth as you normally would:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day
• Floss daily
• Visit your dentist twice a year for regular checkups

Schedule Your Dental Implant Maintenance Today!

Call our Middletown, NJ, dental office to schedule your appointment today!

The distinction of dental implants compared with alternative tooth-replacement options is integration. With implant technology, the implant joins to the jawbone and functions as your missing root. 

When a tooth is missing, you may experience bone loss in that section of your jaw because the root is no longer stimulating the bone. A dental implant can act as a tooth root to keep this bone strong and viable. 

Why Choose a Dental Implant in Middletown, NJ

Dental implants offer beautiful results and act like natural teeth.

Made from high-quality dental materials, dental implants look, function, and feel just like your natural teeth. Dental implants can replace a single missing tooth or secure a bridge or denture when replacing multiple missing teeth. 

Additionally, dental implants do not require special upkeep. Simply brush your teeth and floss as usual and visit your dentist in Middletown, NJ twice yearly for checkups and teeth cleanings. 

Schedule a Dental Implant Consultation With Us Today in Middletown

If you would like to book a consultation for dental implants, call our office today. Or, for convenience, book with us online.

Drs. Sukumar and Conti serve all locales, including Middletown, New Monmouth, Belford, Leonardo, Keyport, and Union Beach.

Yes! Baby Teeth Are Important

Primary or "baby" teeth are important for many reasons.

Not only do they help children speak clearly and chew naturally, but they also create a path for permanent teeth to follow when they are ready to erupt.

The Perfect Time to Teach Good Habits

When your child is an infant, you will clean their teeth with a soft cloth. Later, you will brush their teeth for them. But sooner than you know it, your child will be ready to brush and floss independently.

The best time to teach your child about proper brushing is when they are young and taking steps to care for their own oral health. You can let them know why taking their time and brushing every tooth is important.

Your child's Middletown, NJ dentist can also help guide them toward this independence and understanding. 

Children's Dental Care in Middletown, NJ

Make routine dental care and healthy habits part of your child's life from the very start.

Contact Middletown Dental if it's time for you or anyone in your family to see the dentist.

We serve all areas, including Middletown, Holmdel, New Monmouth, Union Beach, Keyport, Belford, and Leonardo, and your location. 

Proper Oral Health Tips for Kids

Thumb sucking and pacifier use will generally only become a problem if they continue for a long period of time.

The thumb sucking and pacifier habits are normal for young children and most stop these habits on their own without a lot of prompting.

If your child is reluctant, you can try distracting them when they want the pacifier or offering alternatives.

What Do I Do If My Child Won’t Stop?

If they are still sucking their thumbs or fingers past the age of three, they may be at risk for developmental issues with their teeth and jaws. In cases like these, your child's Middletown, NJ dentist may recommend a preventative mouth appliance to curb the habit.

We recommend bringing your child in for a consultation. In many cases, we can offer sound advice for helping your child put down the pacifier! 

Children's Dentistry in Middletown, NJ

If you are concerned about your child's thumb-sucking habits, we can help. The dentist offers a mouth appliance that can help stop the behavior before it becomes a problem for the development of their front teeth. Contact our Middletown, NJ dental office to schedule an appointment today. 

We serve patients everywhere, including Holmdel, New Monmouth, Belford, Leonardo, Keyport, and Union Beach.

Dr. Sukumar and his team love taking care of families, and we welcome your children to our practice. We recommend that they have their first appointment around the age of three years old unless parents have any concerns early on. We will help them to feel comfortable at our office by giving them time to acclimate to the “big chair” and the tools and instruments we use.

What other services do you offer for children?

You will also find additional services for children at Middletown Dental, including fluoride treatments and dental sealants that will help build and protect their teeth. Fluoride helps to nourish developing teeth and restore teeth affected by decay. Dental sealants protect your child’s teeth from the acids that cause decay with a protective coating placed over the chewing surfaces of their teeth.

What if my child plays sports?

Children who play sports will benefit from a protective guard to wear during their activities. Dr. Sukumar can recommend the best sports guard for your child, as customized guards offer much better protection than generic ones.

Come see us at Middletown Dental!

We look forward to meeting your children and building a relationship with them for many years to come. Contact us today to schedule their next appointment.

Soft plastic mouthguards can protect a child's teeth, lips, cheeks, and gums from sport-related injuries, which is why we are proud to offer them in our dental office.

A custom-fitted mouthguard developed by your child's dentist in Middletown, NJ will protect their teeth from injuries better than anything sold in your local store. This is because our mouthguards are fabricated from direct impressions of your child's smile. 

Many sports will require that your child use a mouthguard for their protection, but not all mouthguards are created equal. Choose a mouthguard for your child based on these parameters:

• Comfort
• Fit
• Ease of cleaning
• Durability

When it comes to fit, it is almost impossible to find a mouthguard in the store that will match the contours of your child's jaw. Store-bought oral appliances are pretty much one-size-fits-all. 

Dentist Recommended Mouthguards in Middletown, NJ

If your child is going into sports and you are worried about the safety of their teeth, contact us to schedule a consultation and mouthguard conversation.

Additionally, reach out to a team member if it's time for your child's check-up and teeth cleaning. 

Middletown Dental proudly serves Middletown and its neighbors, Holmdel, New Monmouth, Belfor, Lenorado, Keyport, and Union Beach.

The best dentist in Middletown is one that you can trust as a partner in your oral health care decisions and provides high-quality dentistry so that you may realize your smile goals. Like choosing any health care provider, you and your family should agree on some criteria your best dentist will meet or exceed.

The Reasons to Choose Middletown Dental

Flexible Family Dentist – We respect how busy family life is, and we can treat everyone, doing our best to schedule appointments together. We also offer convenient morning, evening, and Saturday dental appointments to accommodate any schedule.

Leading-Edge Dental Technology – new tools and techniques often have advantages over more traditional methods, and we only choose those options which are most effective, including:

• Digital Dental X-Rays
• Rotary Endodontics
• CBCT Imaging
• Intraoral Cameras 

Prevention over Intervention – Our dental team knows it’s quicker, less expensive, and less painful to stop dental problems before they even begin. We focus on effective home care, hygiene, and reliable routine dental exams and cleanings to keep your teeth healthy.

In-House Savings Plan – If you worry about the cost of dental care, we understand and will work with you with multiple payment options and the benefits of our exclusive dental savings plan.

If you are new to the Middletown area or would like a better dental experience, we encourage you to explore our website and then call our dental office to schedule an appointment with the best dentist in Middletown.

The most important thing to do is to remain calm and contact your child's dentist in Middletown, NJ.

Start by finding the tooth. Hold it by the crown rather than the root and try to reinsert it in the socket. If damage, swelling, or pain make that impossible, put the tooth in a glass of milk and take your child and the glass immediately to the dentist.

In some cases, we can reset the tooth. 

Is My Child's Dental Issue an Emergency?

Common dental emergencies include:

• Severe tooth pain
• Chipped or cracked teeth
• Fractured teeth
• A tooth that is partly or completely knocked out of its socket
• Injury to the gums, tongue, or other soft tissue
• Oral abscess
• Losing a filling, crown, or other dental restoration

If you are unsure whether the situation is an emergency, reach out to our dental team. We can advise you on the next steps and help you make the right decision for your child's oral health.

Contact Us to Schedule an Emergency Dental Appointment

If you or your child are experiencing a dental emergency in the areas of Middletown, Holmdel, New Monmouth, Belford, Leonardo, Keyport, Union Beach, or beyond, call our office at (732) 495-4444. We will make every effort to see you as soon as possible. 

It can be concerning when your child experiences a toothache or jaw swelling. You wonder what might be wrong and hope it's not something significant.

There are many reasons your child might be experiencing a toothache. It could be many things, from sensitivity to temperature, a piece of food lodged in the gum, to a cavity.

Start by doing what you can to make your child more comfortable.

Caring for a Child's Sore Tooth

Rinse the irritated area with warm saltwater. This will soothe the pain, clean their mouth, and may help reduce inflammation. This step can be repeated as necessary.

Place a cold compress on the child's face if it is swollen. Give the child acetaminophen for any pain if they are medically able to have this medication. Then, schedule a time to see a dentist as soon as possible.

Children's Dentistry in Middletown, NJ

If you are looking for a dentist who can see your child as soon as possible, contact us today.

Middletown Dental serves the greater Middletown, New Jersey area and all surrounding communities, including Holmdel, New Monmouth, Belford, Leonardo, Keyport, and Union Beach.

Contact us today to see when we can schedule an appointment for your child's next dental checkup and always reach out if you have any questions. 

Several steps are involved with getting a new dental crown. The entire process typically requires two visits that take place over about two weeks.

Here’s what’s involved with getting a dental crown at our Middletown, NJ dental office:

Planning Your Dental Crown

The first step in the process is to prepare your tooth by reshaping it so your natural tooth will fit properly. Next, we take dental impressions that we use to create a model of your teeth. Before we send the model off to the dental lab that fabricates your custom crown, we’ll also use it to create a temporary crown for you to wear while you wait.

Steps to Place Your Dental Crown

It usually takes about two weeks for the dental lab to customize your new crown. When we receive the dental crown back from the lab, we’ll arrange an appointment so we can place it on your tooth.

Dr. Sukumar will check that the crown meets our specifications and fits comfortably over your tooth. He will make any adjustments for fit and to ensure that your teeth correctly meet when you bite down.

The final step is to polish the crown and cement it onto your tooth. You’ll leave our dental office with a natural-looking restoration that restores your oral health and enhances your appearance.

If you’re ready to learn more about getting dental crowns in Middletown, NJ, please call us to arrange an appointment.

For many people, just the thought of getting a dental crown can stir up some anxiety. Maybe it’s the unknown, or perhaps it’s a past experience that left you feeling uneasy. At Middletown Dental, we completely understand, and for us, your comfort matters as much as your smile.

The good news? Getting a crown is a gentle, carefully guided process, and with modern techniques and compassionate care, it’s far more comfortable than most expect.

Is It Painful to Get a Dental Crown?

Generally, the dental crown procedure isn’t painful because we completely numb your tooth and the surrounding area with a local anesthetic before we begin treatment.

Here’s what you can expect:

• First, we will apply a topical numbing gel to your gums.
• Then, we will gently inject a local anesthetic near the nerve; when it takes effect, it will block the pain signals to your brain.
• During your procedure, you’ll feel pressure but no pain.
• The numbness wears off gradually over several hours.

Looking for Quality Dental Care in Middletown?

If you need dental care for you and your loved ones, the expert dental team at Middletown Dental will happily assist you! We provide a wide range of treatments to suit your family’s needs, and we’d love to welcome you to our dental family.

You can reach us at (732) 495-4444 to schedule a consultation or appointment.

Dental crowns in Middletown, NJ, can work alone or as part of tooth replacement. On their own dental crowns are used to:

#1 Crown a Damaged Tooth

Because our dental crowns are colored and shaped to match your smile, your dentist near me can use them to save a damaged tooth from extraction. The crown covers the tooth, creating a buffer zone between your bite and the injured tooth.

#2 Crown a Flawed Tooth

A dental crown can also conceal a cracked, discolored, or flawed tooth, allowing you to smile with confidence.

#3 Work in Tooth Replacement

A dental crown works with a dental implant in Middletown, which is a tooth replacement root. When the replacement root integrates with your jawbone after several months, your dentist caps it with a dental crown.

A dental bridge is a restorative tooth placed between dental crowns. The crowns cap healthy teeth on either side of the smile gap. This allows the restoring tooth to fill in the gap.

For Quality Dental Crowns Near Me, Contact Us

If you have a damaged or flawed tooth, or if you’re considering tooth replacement, give us a call today.

Dr. Sukumar and Dr. Conti provide quality dental implants to patients everywhere, including our neighbors in Middletown, New Monmouth, Belford, Keyport, and Union Beach.

If you’re considering getting dentures or partials in Middletown, NJ, you may feel overwhelmed by all the different models and styles available. Not every denture is right for every smile, and the type of appliance you need will depend on several factors, including your jaw strength and the number of remaining teeth you have. 

Choosing The Best Dentures Middletown NJ

We recommend a denture consultation to all of our patients considering dentures and partials and Middletown. A denture consultation is a smart idea because our knowledgeable dentists understand the different types of dentures better than anyone, which means they can answer your questions and make recommendations based on what would suit you best. We offer simpler dentures for patients on a tight budget, and we also provide the most sophisticated dentures for patients who want the very best. 

Our Middletown dentists can also recommend complementary dental services such as dental implants and dental bridges that can work together with your dentures and partials. No matter how you want to restore your smile, our dental team can help you get there. 

Dentures To Complete Your Smile

Do you want to know more about dentures and partials in Middletown, NJ? Are you ready to schedule a denture consultation so you can choose the best denture style for your smile? Give our dental office a call at (732) 495-4444 today! Or schedule online.

Many people who need to have a tooth extracted are anxious about the pain. It’s normal to feel nervous and apprehensive about your upcoming tooth extraction. 

In most cases, however, tooth extractions are not at all painful. 

Anesthesia During Extraction

When our Middletown, NJ dentists have to extract one or more teeth, they always make sure that you are comfortable and completely numb before they begin the procedure. Our dental office will use local anesthesia to numb the area, which means your tooth, gums, and the surrounding section of your mouth will go numb in only a few minutes. If you need multiple teeth removed, or if the teeth are in a tricky spot within your mouth, we may use general anesthesia so that you are asleep during the extractions.

During your tooth extraction, you will feel sensations of pressure. You should not, however, feel any pain. If you begin to feel pain at any point during your procedure, please let Dr. Sukumar or Dr. Conti know right away, and our treatment team can adjust your anesthesia. 

Post-Op Pain

You will most likely experience some soreness and tenderness after your tooth extraction. It’s normal for your mouth to be sore and swollen after you have teeth removed. You can expect small, residual bleeding around the extraction site for a day or two. After your tooth extraction at our Middletown, NJ dental office, it’s best to take it easy for a few days and to stick to a liquid or soft diet. Our dental office will supply you with gauze and any necessary prescriptions for painkillers. 

If you have concerns about your recovery or if you experience severe pain or bleeding after your tooth extraction, don’t hesitate to call our team right away!

When it comes to creating a beautiful, bright smile, teeth whitening treatments are a great option. Teeth whitening is safe for most patients, and they can help you achieve a whiter smile easily and affordably. However, some whitening treatments cause mild side effects, like tooth sensitivity. 

At Middletown Dental, Dr. Pradeep Sukumar and Dr. Robert Conti use GLO Professional Teeth Whitening treatments to brighten our patients’ teeth, which is a great option for teeth whitening without sensitivity.

The GLO teeth whitening process involves the activation of bleaching gel using light and heat. GLO is ideal for patients who are afraid of experiencing sensitivity or pain because GLO is created to be sensitivity-free. 

Before teeth whitening, it is recommended that you have a dental exam and cleaning. During your exam and cleaning, your dentist will examine your teeth to make sure they are healthy and ready for teeth whitening. 

If your dentist notices any dental problems that need to be addressed, it may be recommended that you have those issues treated before proceeding with the teeth whitening.

Schedule Your Teeth Whitening Appointment in Middletown, NJ

If you’re looking for a cosmetic dentist to perform your smile makeover in the Middletown area, we are here to help you. Reach out to our office today to schedule your appointment.

A beautiful, white smile can light up any room and do wonders for your overall health and well-being. At Middletown Dental, our skilled and experienced dental team can enhance your smile with GLO professional teeth whitening in a comfortable and welcoming environment.

Get a GLOing Smile

GLO teeth whitening is a high-level, professional-strength treatment trusted by thousands of dentists and patients alike. Short for “Guided Light Optics,” GLO teeth whitening uses accelerated light and heat technology for faster, more effective results.

Dr. Sukumar carefully applies GLO bleaching gel to your teeth and activates the gel with a special blue LED light and warm heating device. The treatment lifts stubborn stains, corrects discoloration, and leaves you with a stunning, polished smile.

With GLO, you can get a better, brighter smile in just one hour!

Other GLO teeth whitening benefits include:

• It can be used even by patients wearing dental crowns, veneers, or cosmetic bonding.
• Your dentist monitors treatment and results for the best outcome.
• Enjoy a stress-free teeth whitening experience.
• You can use the at-home kit after your in-office treatment to maintain your brighter smile.

Cosmetic Dentistry in Middletown, NJ

At Middletown Dental, our dentists provide GLO teeth whitening treatments in our dental office to help you achieve a bright, happy smile. 

Dr. Pradeep Sukumar and Dr. Robert Conti accept Saturday appointments for individual or family dental care for your convenience. Middletown Dental also provides cosmetic dentistry services to the following areas: Middletown, New Monmouth, Belford, Leonardo, Keyport, and Union Beach.

If you want a whiter, brighter smile, call us at (732) 495-4444 to schedule your customized GLO treatment. 

Teeth whitening can dramatically enhance your smile and brighten your teeth by several shades. However, maintaining a white smile requires proactive dental care on your part. 

Pro Tips for Keeping Your Teeth White

If you have just received GLO professional teeth whitening, there’s nothing you want more than to keep your smile as white as possible. To maintain a bright and healthy smile, we recommend brushing your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste at least twice each day and flossing at least once daily. 

Brushing and flossing help remove plaque and bacteria buildup on and around your teeth and gums. Not only does this preserve your oral health, but it also keeps your teeth clean and white. 

To keep your teeth white, we recommend avoiding acidic and dark-pigmented foods such as chocolate cake, tomato sauce, and dark berries. It is also best to cut back on dark or sugary beverages such as teas, coffees, red wines, and colas. 

These foods and drinks can all deposit stains on your enamel, which can be tough to remove. After eating, we suggest that you promptly clean your teeth to prevent any stains from settling. 

Brighten Your Smile in Middletown, NJ 

Dr. Sukumar & Dr. Conti are highly skilled and experienced in various oral health services such as cosmetic dentistry, teeth whitening, and teeth cleanings. To accommodate your busy weekday schedule, Middletown dental is open on Saturdays by appointment. 

Whether you live in Middletown, New Monmouth, Belford, Leonardo, Keyport, or Union Beach, we will provide you and your family with exceptional and compassionate oral health care.  

You can call our Middletown, NJ dental office at (732) 495-4444 to schedule a GLO whitening treatment or teeth cleaning session. 

Parents often want to know what's the best age for their child's first orthodontic evaluation. The answer is around seven or eight years old. 

Early orthodontic intervention is beneficial in some cases, and our dentist may recommend it in these cases:

• To alleviate crowded teeth
• To correct severe bite misalignment, like an overbite or underbite
• To guide jaw growth

Early treatment in phase one can also make it simpler and quicker to complete a second phase of orthodontic treatment in the future, which focuses on tooth alignment. 

Why Early Orthodontic Care Is Important

Early orthodontic treatment for kids is beneficial in some cases, particularly when the child has severe tooth crowding or a problematic overbite or underbite. Early orthodontic intervention can use the child's growth patterns to alter the trajectory of their jaw growth and create space for future incoming adult teeth. 

The advantages of early orthodontic treatment are:

• Correcting bite and jaw alignment while the child is still growing
• Improving chewing function
• Boosting your child's self-confidence
• Reducing future treatment times

Contact Your Middletown Dentist

At Middletown Dental, Dr. Sukumar offers comprehensive orthodontic treatment for adults and children. He can perform your child's first orthodontic evaluation and let you know if they would benefit from early intervention.

Speak with a team member at (732) 495-4444 to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Sukumar.

It’s too bad that many people avoid orthodontics in Middletown, NJ because they think they have to wear a mouthful of metal brackets and wires. Today we are fortunate to have access to updated materials that allow us to create discreet braces that don’t mar your appearance.

Clear Braces, No Metal

Instead of using metal which is very conspicuous, at Middletown Dental, we can use brackets made of tooth-colored ceramic or plastic. When we combine the brackets with tooth-colored wires, the result is braces that are not as noticeable.

Our aesthetic braces look great and move teeth using the same principle as traditional metal braces, so they are just as effective. If you are an adult or older teen who wants to straighten crooked teeth without impacting your appearance, our tooth-colored braces may be the right choice for you.

Going through orthodontic treatment is a big commitment, and we want you to be happy and comfortable throughout the process. Feeling good about the way you look when you smile can boost your confidence and help keep you motivated during treatment.

Schedule an Appointment Today in Middletown

Dr. Sukumar would be happy to talk to you and explain how we customize your orthodontic treatment in Middletown, NJ. Please call us, and we will be happy to arrange a dental appointment for you with Dr. Sukumar

If you've had teeth extracted as part of your orthodontic treatment plan, you'll need to wait at least 2–3 weeks before braces can be placed. This waiting period is crucial to allow the extraction sites to heal properly.

Why Do I Need to Wait?

After extraction, a healing blood clot forms in the socket to protect underlying bone and nerves. Applying orthodontic pressure too soon could:

• Disrupt the healing process
• Increase discomfort
• Potentially lead to painful complications like dry socket
• Affect the success of orthodontic treatment

Does the Waiting Period Vary?

Yes! While 2-3 weeks is the minimum, your dentist may recommend a longer healing time depending on:

• The number of teeth extracted
• The complexity of the extractions
• Your healing rate
• Your overall oral health
• Your orthodontic treatment plan

What Should I Do While I Wait?

To ensure optimal healing before getting your braces:

• Follow all post-extraction care instructions provided by your dentist
• Maintain excellent oral hygiene while being gentle around extraction sites
• Attend follow-up appointments

Have Other Questions about Orthodontics?

At Middletown Dental, our dental team will carefully guide you through the process, from tooth extraction to the final reveal of your new, straight smile. If you have other questions about orthodontic treatment in Middletown, NJ, or want to meet with our dentist, please call to schedule a convenient appointment.

If you’ve been living with teeth that overlap, you know how it affects your confidence; however, you may not find the thought of wearing metal braces attractive either. The good news is that modern orthodontics offers solutions for adults who want to straighten their teeth with discretion, and Dr. Sukumar is well qualified to help!

The benefits of Invisalign

At Middletown Dental, we offer Invisalign, which uses clear plastic aligners to move your teeth instead of brackets and wires. The aligners are comfortable to wear, and virtually invisible so no one will know you are straightening your teeth. They’re also removable, so you won’t have to change your diet or home care routine during your treatment. Patients appreciate the efficiency and discretion that Invisalign offers.

Do you require another option?

If Invisalign is not right for your needs, Dr. Sukumar offers clear brackets that can help disguise orthodontic treatment for adults. He can help you determine what type of treatment is best for you during a consultation and examination. There may be other cosmetic options available to you as well. No matter your situation, your team at Middletown Dental will help you achieve a smile that you’ll be proud to share with the world again! Contact us today.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Why do gums bleed?” while brushing or flossing, it’s usually a sign of inflammation due to plaque buildup and bacterial irritation. A buildup of these harmful substances often leads to consistently bleeding gums, a common symptom of early gum disease, specifically gingivitis.

What Bleeding Gums Could Mean for Your Oral Health

Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease and typically results from poor oral hygiene that allows for plaque and tartar buildup. When plaque and tartar accumulate along the gumline, they cause inflammation, leading to red, swollen gums that chronically bleed. Left untreated, gingivitis can progress into more severe periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss.

Other early signs of periodontal disease include persistent bad breath, gum recession, and sensitivity. If you notice your gums pulling away from your teeth or a change in how your teeth fit together, contact your dentist as soon as possible for corrective care.

Are Bleeding Gums Serious?

The short answer is yes. While not always painful at first, untreated gum disease can have long-term effects on your dental and overall health. The long-term consequences of neglecting gum disease can include severe pain, infections that can spread to other parts of the body, and tooth loss.

Effective, Pain-Free Periodontal Treatment in Middletown, NJ?

If you’re in Middletown and need immediate periodontal care or simply want to learn how to prevent gum disease through diligent at-home care, contact Dr. Pradeep Sukumar and the excellent Middletown Dental team to schedule a consultation.

Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease is mostly caused by plaque and bacteria buildup that is not treated in its early stage. Other causes of periodontal disease include tobacco use, teeth grinding, some medications, and genetics. Gingivitis is the beginning stage of gum disease, and, if detected, is treatable. Gingivitis left untreated may turn into gum disease. Advanced gum disease will lead to tooth and bone loss, and is a permanent condition. Brushing your teeth regularly and visiting the dentist every six months will help prevent gingivitis and more severe cases of periodontal disease.

Common signs of gum disease:

• Red, irritated, bleeding, or swollen gums
• Chronic bad breath
• Loose teeth, or loss of teeth
• Extreme tooth sensitivity
• Receding gum line
• Abscessed teeth

Routine Cleanings

At Middletown Dental, routine cleanings are recommended for our patients every six months. This is also the time when Dr. Sukumar screens you for issues such as oral cancer, periodontal (gum) disease, and tooth decay. Our hygienist will also clean your teeth and remove the plaque that contributes to many of these conditions. Keeping up with your routine visits every six months helps to prevent many of the issues from happening in the first place.

Deep Cleanings

A deep cleaning is recommended for someone who is suffering from gum disease. In the advanced stage of gum disease, known as periodontitis, patients will require a deep cleaning. This extensive cleaning, called scaling and root planing, reaches below the gum line to remove the plaque and tartar buildup that is causing an infection in your mouth.

During a deep cleaning, you will be numb to ensure that you don’t experience any discomfort. Dr. Conti, who is our periodontal specialist at Middletown Dental, will oversee this process and monitor your healing to ensure that your condition is being successfully managed.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for gum disease; however, with the help of your dental team and some additional cleanings throughout the year, you can successfully manage your condition and keep gum disease under control.

The answer to this question varies significantly with each patient and their specific condition. It can take anywhere from a few days to several months or even years for the nerve to die. 

The bottom line is that it may indicate an infection if you feel significant sensitivity or pain in a specific tooth. It's essential to act quickly and get the tooth checked out by your dentist. An infected tooth that goes untreated can damage other surrounding teeth, and the infection can travel to different areas of the body.  

When to Call Your Emergency Dentist in Middletown, NJ

A tooth infection can begin with temperature sensitivity. Maybe you get a quick "zing" in your tooth when you drink a hot or cold beverage. Or perhaps you're beginning to feel the pain for more extended periods of time.

This is the best time to contact your dentist and have that tooth checked out. Once your tooth has a full-blown infection, it will cause you constant and severe pain, which you might have avoided by calling your dentist early on.

Your team at Middletown Dental is here for you! If you or a loved one is experiencing dental pain, don't hesitate to contact us at (732) 495-4444.

After you receive root canal treatment on a tooth, that tooth becomes fragile and more brittle than it was before. Our Middletown dentists have to remove the infection and diseased tissue from your tooth during your root canal, which means that your tooth has less natural pulp and structure than it did prior to the root canal. 

Post Root Canal Treatment

To strengthen and build up your tooth after your root canal treatment, our dentists will place either a permanent dental crown over the tooth or a dental filling inside the tooth. Both treatments will give your natural tooth the support and structure it needs. Once your root canal treatment is complete, your tooth should last for many years to come. You can continue to enjoy all of your favorite foods and drinks, but it’s best to avoid biting down on anything hard such as tough meat, jawbreaker candies, or cubes of ice with your new tooth crown. The tooth crown material is durable, but not indestructible—so it’s best to use your natural teeth for sticky, hard, or crunchy foods. 

Schedule With Our Middletown Office

Questions about how to care for your smile after a root canal in Middletown, NJ? Our dental team would be happy to speak with you. Please call us today at (732) 495-4444 to learn more.