Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss. Gum disease has two primary stages. If diagnosed and treated in the first stage, the condition can be reversed and tooth loss can usually be prevented. In order to prevent gum disease,practice good oral hygiene and visit your dentist for cleanings and check-ups twice a year.
This stage only affects the soft tissue of the gums, and the patient may not experience any discomfort. Although the symptoms may be very mild, it is important to diagnose gum disease in this early stage before it progresses to periodontitis.
Periodontitis is the name for more advanced periodontal disease and if permitted to progress to this point, not only the gums are affected but the bone structures supporting the teeth will be compromised.
A build-up of bacteria causes Gingivitis. In its early stages, inflammation around the gums is observable, with gum tissues appearing red and swollen. Gums that are easily irritated or that bleed during tooth brushing indicate the presence of Gingivitis. Removal of the plaque buildup is necessary to prevent the development of gum disease.
As the gums become more inflamed, they start to pull away from the teeth, forming spaces known as periodontal pockets. Food, bacteria, and plaque begin to collect in the pockets, leading to infection. The surrounding bone becomes damaged both by bacterial toxins and by the immune systemsresponse to infection.
Dr. Shaun Massiah is as passionate about dentistry as they come, having recognized his calling for the profession when he was just 13 years old. Dr. Massiahs early revelation that he wanted to be a dentist happened when an American dentist came to volunteer in his hometown of Guyana. Dr. Massiah remembers, I was so moved by his compassion and his expertise in his field, and I knew I wanted to be like him someday. Dr. Massiah decided right then and there that he would do whatever was necessary to pursue his dream.
Just four years after his encounter with the American dentist, Dr. Massiah left his home in Guyana to pursue a career as a dentist. He worked all through university before he attended New Jersey Dental School. It was there that he fell in love with the idea of changing peoples lives through dentistry. He now walks to his own personal practice from his home on the Upper West Side of NYC, where he lives with his wife and young son.
Since opening his practice in 2002, Dr. Massiah has established himself as one of the leading African American dentists in NYC. Always keeping his practice on the cutting edge of dentistry, he is extremely passionate, extremely dedicated to his work and spends much of his free time continuing to build upon his dental education by enrolling in new and exciting dental training seminars. Dr. Massiahis an ADA Success speaker and the President of the Greater NY chapter of the NDA.
Dr. Alan M. Smolen has been a trusted name in dentistry for over 30 years. He is committed to helping his patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles and is dedicated to continuing his education in order to provide the most up-to-date treatment possible.
Dr. Smolen has attended the prestigious Pankey Institute for Advanced Dental Education as well as advanced studies at NYUs College of Dentistry. Asthe Educational Director of Full Mouth Rehabat the schools continuing dental education program, he donates his time and skills in teaching other dentists how to restore the smiles of people with significant dental disabilities.
In his current clinical practice in New York, Dr. Smolen specializes in personalized solutions to complex dental problems. He is dedicated to offering the best in customer service and patient care. Every person is unique, he says, And their treatment should be tailored to their needs and wants. He earned his degrees at Temple University and currently makes his home in New York with his wife, Jill and daughter, Sophie.
Dr. Smolen has had success with numerous difficult cases. Examples include a 60 year old patient who had always hated her smile. After a routine examination, Dr. Smolen showed her a computer simulation of what her teeth could look like if she used cosmetic dentistry. Liking what she saw, she gave Dr. Smolen the go ahead to redesign her smile. The final result has far exceeded my expectations. I just love my smile now, she said.
Another case was that of an 84 year old patient who had already lost several back teeth and whose remaining teeth were chipped and worn. Dr. Smolen showed her how he could rebuild her teeth to their original shape and size. When it was all finished, the client expressed her gratitude, I am most grateful for this gift which has resulted in a big boost to my spirit.
Dr. Smolen welcomes the opportunity to offer his knowledge, skills and expertise gained over the last 30 years to improve the dental health of people in Manhattan. He would like to invite you to be a part of his practice at the office of Upper West Side dentist Dr. Shaun Massiah and hopes youll give him the opportunity to serve you for all your dental needs.
Reviews
Rating 4.9 out of 5 based on 216 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestShorty Arlene
2 years ago
The most amazing dentist I've ever had! The staff is super awesome, the ladies at the front desk are such sweethearts & helpful! I used to hate going to Dentist but since coming here I absolutely love it! Each visit is so smooth, informative, attentive & professional!
J Aire
2 years ago
No matter what day it is when you have some issue they will help you out. I cant tell you the money we saved on a broken crown.
Chantel Palmer
2 years ago
Everyone is so kind! I'll definitely will be coming back!
Zeinab Khalil
2 years ago
Dr. Massiah and his team are knowledgeable, kind and caring!
isaac seal
2 years ago
I have been working with Dr. Massiah on an extensive dental program for two years now (we've got roughly another 6 months to the finish line). I originally chose his practice due to proximity, as I live on the UWS, and honestly it was serendipitous. His practice is excellent. Dr. Massiah himself is a gregarious and affable individual, who does a fantastic job of putting his patients at ease. He is a wonderful communicator who thoroughly details the steps of the program as they unfold, and is able to communicate them well in layman's terms. He is with you for every step of your journey, and honored to be there. The office and staff are also superb. Clean, friendly, caring and flexible - I wouldn't hesitate to get any and all dental care here. Smiles on the UWS has certainly set the bar for dentistry in NYC.
Nia Osborne
2 years ago
Very kind staff, comfortable and professional environment
Hailey Greif
2 years ago
What an amazing team over at Smiles on the Upper West Side. From the second I walked in I felt comfortable! They were informative, thorough and helpful considering this was my first time here. Already looking forward to my next appointment (and yes, for a dentist appointment!)
Karyn Singer
2 years ago
This dentist office is always professional, on time, and remembers details about me which is rare in this day and age. Dr. Massiah is very competent and went above and beyond for me when I had a toothache and was pregnant.
Michael TA Thompson
2 years ago
My visit with Dr. Massiah was such a good experience. He took his time, listened and explained things clearly. Great office and the staff is exceptionally friendly! He cares about the work he does and truly cares about how you feel about the work that's been done. He's a problem solver, presenting options that best fit your needs.
Faith Okuesi
2 years ago
I'm so grateful for Dr. Messiah and his staff. I always receive a warm welcome and he is very personable. I had bad past experiences with other dentists that have left me in some much pain that I didn't even want to eat, but with Dr Messiah, he treats me with care and compassion. He makes sure I am comfortable and each procedure is pain free. From having crowns with buildups to fillings, I leave satisfied every time. I can eat without cringing in pain. He is very dedicated to his profession and is the best dentist I have ever been too. I would recommend his office to any one looking for great dental work.
Paulette Madray-DaSilva
2 years ago
Dr.Mesiah and his staff are amazing, they make you feel so comfortable .
Adeola Adegbite
2 years ago
Dr. Massiah and his staff are absolutely wonderful. They are knowledgeable, caring, and provide excellent service. I always leave every visit very satisfied.
Eddie Duchatelier
2 years ago
Professional courteous service and very efficient. Highly recommend!
john mccorry
2 years ago
The Best in the business. So happy with my teeth , friendly and confident service.
Timothy Bayly
2 years ago
Office team are incredibly professional and engaging. I have recommended the dental practice to a good amount of my network.
Maurice Russell Grey
2 years ago
Smiles is highly professional, and they take great care of their patients!
Brittany Pappaconstantinou
2 years ago
Dr. Massiah and his staff are all so wonderful! I have a crazy schedule and they are always able to fit me in. Everyone is super welcoming and friendly. I hate going to the dentist as much as the next person but this office makes everything smooth and painless.
Angela Regalado
2 years ago
Great service, professionalism and overall quality experience! Will def be referring friends here.
pam
2 years ago
Sourette is my hero! Thank you as always for being sensitive to my needs, thoughtful about my dental history, kind and loving. I am forever grateful for your expertise and your generous attention.
Wes Boone
2 years ago
Very welcoming environment. Will make you rethink your past dental experiences and how they really were.
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