The Shine Blog

Is sparkling water ruining your teeth? Dr. Johnston reveals the pH truth about LaCroix, wine & alcohol. Science-based answers for NYC lifestyles.

End chronic migraines & TMJ pain with Dr. Johnston's triple approach: therapeutic Botox + custom nightguards + targeted medication. Chelsea NYC.

Can a Waterpik replace flossing? NYC dentist Dr. Johnston reveals why you need BOTH for optimal oral health. The honest truth patients need to hear.

When Your Smile Steals the Show  Last month, one of my dearest friends called me in tears. She had just received her professional engagement photos—stunning black and white images that should have been perfect for her wedding announcements. Instead, she was devastated. The white spot lesions on her front teeth, barely noticeable in person, appeared stark and prominent against the dramatic contrast of the black and white photography. "Elena," she said, "I wish we had talked about ICON treatment before this shoot. I had no idea they would show up like this in photos." This conversation broke my heart, but it also reinforced something I see regularly in my Chelsea practice: your smile deserves as much attention as your dress, your venue, and every other detail you're carefully planning. As I always tell my patients, "I transform confidence, not just smiles." When you feel radiant about your smile, that confidence radiates through every photo, every laugh, and every kiss at the altar. But here's what most brides don't realize: achieving your perfect wedding smile isn't something you can leave until the last minute. The key is understanding when to start what in your smile transformation journey.

Discover how LANAP® Laser Gum Therapy is transforming the treatment of gum disease. In this expert blog by Dr. Brendon Ursomanno at Shine Dentistry, learn why periodontal disease often goes undiagnosed—and how this minimally invasive, laser-based solution targets infection, reduces discomfort, and promotes natural healing. Preserve your smile, protect your health.

Discover how Dr. Elena Johnston at Shine Dentistry in Chelsea NYC is transforming smiles with personalized, high-end cosmetic dentistry—from veneers and Invisalign to whitening and smile makeovers. Book your consultation today.

We often hear how Botox can help smooth wrinkles and fine lines to achieve a youthful glow. But did you know it can also address teeth grinding? Teeth grinding or bruxism (or teeth clenching) is a condition many people have, and it can cause problems with your mouth, jaw, teeth, and facial muscles.

If you have tooth damage, such as cracks or decay that is too large for a filling but not extensive enough to need a dental crown, you will likely be in the market for tooth inlays. Inlays and onlays can restore the form and function of damaged teeth. But what exactly is the difference between these two?  This blog post will briefly discuss inlay vs. onlay, including their benefits and drawbacks, so you can determine which treatment better meets your needs.

Healthy and beautiful teeth are essential for our overall dental health and self-esteem. Smiling often is easier when we are confident about the appearance of our teeth. With beautiful pearly whites, we don’t have to worry about making good impressions. This also makes biting and chewing food easier, not to mention the ease of pronouncing words correctly. But to pull these off, we must invest in regular dental checkups and preventative care. Find out the benefits of going to the dentist, along with how often, and what to expect in a dental check-up.