expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Gwen Giannina, DDS

Dentist

Dr. Gwen Giannina is a Dentist practicing in Bayonne, NJ. Dr. Giannina specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases and conditions associated with the mouth and overall dental health. Dentists are trained to carry out such treatment as professional cleaning, restorative, prosthodontic, implant restorations, examinations, among many others.
26 years Experience
Dr. Gwen Giannina, DDS
  • Bayonne, NJ
  • NYU College of Dentistry
  • Accepting new patients

Why is my bridge hurting?

A fixed bridge generally does not cause discomfort.  You should definitely return it to the dentist who placed it because many things could be going on and may not resolve on their READ MORE
A fixed bridge generally does not cause discomfort.  You should definitely return it to the dentist who placed it because many things could be going on and may not resolve on their own.

Should I take antibiotics after having a root canal?

You sometimes need an antibiotic after root canal therapy but not always. You need to consult with the dentist performing the procedure. 

How long will my teeth hurt after braces are put on?

Yes, most patients find the first few days with braces to be uncomfortable. I recommend always calling the doctor who placed them for advice and pain management recommendations.  READ MORE
Yes, most patients find the first few days with braces to be uncomfortable. I recommend always calling the doctor who placed them for advice and pain management recommendations. 

How can I tighten my loose tooth at home?

I am sorry, but I believe you need to see a dentist as soon as possible. 

What happens if bleeding doesn't stop after tooth extraction?

A little bit of bleeding or oozing may occur for a couple of days after a wisdom tooth extraction, especially if the tooth was difficult to remove. Heavy or constant bleeding would READ MORE
A little bit of bleeding or oozing may occur for a couple of days after a wisdom tooth extraction, especially if the tooth was difficult to remove. Heavy or constant bleeding would be more worrisome. If you are concerned, it is always wise to check back with the dentist who removed it for advice. He or she may want to see you to evaluate the area.

Can you have cavities if you have a crown?

Yes, you can get decay under and around margins of a crown.

How do you fix a filling that is too high?

You should return to your dentist for an adjustment if your filling is too high. It is simple to fix and important to have looked at.

Can dental anesthesia be used for a dental cleaning?

Hi, I do not recommend anesthesia for dental cleaning. I would, however, strongly recommend noise canceling headphones if the sounds are the only issue for you. Any type of READ MORE
Hi,

I do not recommend anesthesia for dental cleaning. I would, however, strongly recommend noise canceling headphones if the sounds are the only issue for you. Any type of anesthesia involves some degree of risk and "cleanings" should be performed every 6 months or more frequently in patients with periodontal disease. If you find the procedure uncomfortable you can request topical anesthetic or ask your dentist about other pain management options. 

Do you need antibiotics after a deep cleaning?

Usually, you do not need antibiotics after a deep cleaning, but should brush and floss to help the "gums" heal. Always call your dentist, though, if you are uncomfortable or experience READ MORE
Usually, you do not need antibiotics after a deep cleaning, but should brush and floss to help the "gums" heal. Always call your dentist, though, if you are uncomfortable or experience any symptom you are concerned about.

How long does a crown last on a front tooth?

Dental crowns last on average between 5 and 15 years. Excellent oral hygiene and absence of parafunctional habits like grinding will help lengthen the longevity sometimes up to READ MORE
Dental crowns last on average between 5 and 15 years. Excellent oral hygiene and absence of parafunctional habits like grinding will help lengthen the longevity sometimes up to 20 or 25 years.

Is a flipper the same as a partial denture?

A flipper is a type of partial that typically replaces one to a few teeth. It is less expensive than a traditional cast partial because it is all acrylic vs. a traditional partial READ MORE
A flipper is a type of partial that typically replaces one to a few teeth. It is less expensive than a traditional cast partial because it is all acrylic vs. a traditional partial that has some metal. Flippers are not usually as comfortable as traditional  partials and are often used as an interim restoration. Occasionally, patients love their flipper and choose to not have another partial fabricated. 

Is it normal to have pain after veneers?

Usually, patients have minimal discomfort following porcelain veneer procedures. If you experience actual pain, then I would advise you to call the treating dentist immediately.   READ MORE
Usually, patients have minimal discomfort following porcelain veneer procedures. If you experience actual pain, then I would advise you to call the treating dentist immediately.  

Can you have a sensitive tooth without a cavity?

Yes, your teeth may be sensitive for many reasons including a "cavity", gum recession, tooth wear or erosion. A dentist can probably diagnose the cause of sensitivity.

Can you eat with removable partial denture?

Hi, ideally, yes, you should be able to eat with a removable partial denture. If you are having difficulty return to your dentist who fabricated it. They may be able to adjust READ MORE
Hi, ideally, yes, you should be able to eat with a removable partial denture. If you are having difficulty return to your dentist who fabricated it. They may be able to adjust it. Be aware your mouth does change over time so adjustments are normal.

How do you know if your gum is infected after a tooth extraction?

Hi, following a tooth extraction it is normal for the area to feel tender for a few weeks. And infection would likely result in swelling, a foul taste or odor, or severe pain. READ MORE
Hi, following a tooth extraction it is normal for the area to feel tender for a few weeks. And infection would likely result in swelling, a foul taste or odor, or severe pain. When in doubt call the doctor who removed tooth and describe your symptoms. They can help determine if your symptoms warrant another evaluation.

How is a fissure sealant done?

A fissure sealant is thin coating placed in the grooves of back teeth. They are placed by cleaning the grooves, placing an agent to prepare and dry the tooth, then placing the READ MORE
A fissure sealant is thin coating placed in the grooves of back teeth. They are placed by cleaning the grooves, placing an agent to prepare and dry the tooth, then placing the liquid sealant material and light curing it. The bite is then checked to be sure patient still bites correctly.

Does flossing teeth really help?

Flossing your teeth is absolutely essential if you wish to avoid caries and gum disease. Brushing cleans the top, inside and outside of teeth, whereas flossing cleans in between READ MORE
Flossing your teeth is absolutely essential if you wish to avoid caries and gum disease. Brushing cleans the top, inside and outside of teeth, whereas flossing cleans in between each side. Therefore brushing reaches 60% and flossing 40%!

Is a gold crown better than zirconia?

The saying "gold standard" still holds true today. Gold is much more expensive for your dentist to fabricate and is not as aesthetic as zirconia but is antibacterial in nature READ MORE
The saying "gold standard" still holds true today. Gold is much more expensive for your dentist to fabricate and is not as aesthetic as zirconia but is antibacterial in nature and kind to the surrounding tissues. Zirconia is a very nice alternative when in a visible area and is quite strong.

Do dead teeth fall out?

Hi, Usually, when you say "dead" tooth, I believe you are talking about a tooth that has had endodontic retreatment, or a "root canal." That means the nerve and blood supply READ MORE
Hi,

Usually, when you say "dead" tooth, I believe you are talking about a tooth that has had endodontic retreatment, or a "root canal." That means the nerve and blood supply in the tooth became diseased and were removed, therefore giving the feeling that it is "dead." These teeth are more likely to fracture and are also more likely to move than teeth that are "alive." It is rare for the tooth to fall out on its own, though.

Can you be awake for dental implants?

Hi, yes you actually should be awake for implant procedures if you can tolerate it. I cannot think of any reason you should be sedated for this simple, commonly performed procedure. READ MORE
Hi, yes you actually should be awake for implant procedures if you can tolerate it. I cannot think of any reason you should be sedated for this simple, commonly performed procedure.