English
SpanishThe CEC Health Center, a Dentist in Freeport that Accepts Medicaid (CEC) is a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC)* that provides integrated healthcare services at its Bethpage, Hauppauge and now Glen Cove locations. We provide care with excellence and compassion to historically underserved community members with limited incomes including those with autism, learning and developmental disabilities, and behavioral health concerns.
CEC recently merged with the Melillo Center for Mental Health in Glen Cove, a health center with over 40 years of experience serving the community in the heart of Glen Cove. Renamed CEC at Glen Cove, a Dentist in Freeport that Accepts Medicaid will continue to provide supports that include mental health clinic, outpatient chemical dependency outpatient services, assertive community treatment (ACT), supervised community residences, supported housing and respite housing.
Recent Blog Posts From Our Dentist in Freeport that Accepts Medicaid
Common Dental Procedures
Dentists put a fair share of work into a patient’s mouth. While it is recommended you take a trip to the dentist every six months, painful, or aesthetic issues can have you headed to their office more often than not. If you’ve been searching for a Dentist in Freeport that Accepts Medicaid, look no further than our team at CEC Health Center. Our dentist will make sure your mouth remains in top shape, allowing you to show off your pearly whites confidently to the world.
Braces
Commonly found in the mouths of the younger generation, braces are a tool often used to correct misalignment of the teeth. However, adults suffering from crooked teeth can find relief through this procedure as well. The use of braces aims to hit the teeth with steady amounts of pressure, forcing them to begin to grow in straight once again.
Caps and Crowns
Crowns and caps offer a form of coverage from one’s teeth. A dentist will create these for patients with teeth that have been:
- Damaged by decay
- Severely stained
- Broken
- Mis-shaped
Materials such as acrylic, metal, and porcelain bonded to metal are all used to create caps and crowns. The material used ties directly in the mouth where the crowns and caps are placed. Since porcelain caps look more like your natural teeth, they are commonly used in the front of your mouth. Porcelain bonded to metal, however, is stronger and better suited for teeth in the back of your mouth, like molars.
Extraction
Another common procedure our Dentist in Freeport that Accepts Medicaid can perform is tooth extractions. This procedure involves removing one’s permanent teeth from their mouths. Many factors can lead to the necessity of the procedure, including the following:
- Impacted wisdom teeth
- Tooth breakage
- Overcrowded teeth
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease
Gum Surgery
Your gums are the tissue that surrounds your teeth and underlying bone in your mouth. They attach to your teeth, forming a seal that helps provide a barrier of protection against infection. However, when infections such as gum disease breakthrough, the tissue can sustain damage that requires surgery to correct. During this procedure, the gums are folded back, allowing infected tissue below the teeth to be removed.
Fillings
This procedure tends to be the one most people are familiar with, and can even cause some patients feelings of dread when thinking about it. However, fillings are an important procedure directly linked to a healthy mouth. When you don’t take care of your teeth, cavities, which are holes in your teeth, can develop and worsen over time. If cavities are not treated, they will continue to grow, cause pain, and destroy the integrity of your teeth. When coming in for a dental appointment, our Dentist in Freeport that Accepts Medicaid will examine your mouth for cavities, and if they are present, provide fillings to eliminate the issue.
Root Canals
Root canals are performed to save one’s natural tooth. It is designed to eliminate bacteria and infection present in tissue known as pulp without needing to extract the tooth. During a root canal, the infected portion of the pulp is removed before cleaning, disinfecting, filling, and sealing the affected area. Although many have a preconceived notion that they are extremely painful and unpleasant, modern root canals are similar to routine fillings and are relatively painless in most cases.
Whitening
Many people claim that the first thing they notice about a person is their smile. Because of this, it is no surprise that whitenings are amongst the most common dental procedures. Whitenings can take place in a dentist’s office, or from the comfort of your own home, as there are many different ways to achieve the desired results. Before moving forward with an over-the-counter option, however, be sure to discuss which methods would be most beneficial to you with our Dentist in Freeport that Accepts Medicaid first. To avoid the need for whitenings altogether, we recommend limiting your intake of the following teeth-staining food and drinks:
- Coffee
- Red wine
- Fruit juices
- Berries
- Tomato-based sauces
Dentist in Freeport that Accepts Medicaid
Many people take the health of their teeth for granted. However, letting even minor issues linger can lead to the development of irreversible damage. Getting routine checkups from our Dentist in Freeport that Accepts Medicaid is an excellent way to prevent this from happening! Contact us today to schedule your first appointment and let our team provide you with the care you need.
How Can I Prevent Cavities?
People of all ages are capable of getting cavities. Cavities are permanently damaged areas in the teeth that develop into tiny holes. As you get older, you begin to see changes in your mouth that can increase your risk of cavities. When you get older, your gums start to pull away from your teeth, making them more exposed to more plaque. Seniors are more likely to develop tooth decay and gum disease if they did not have proper oral care when they were kids. It is important to see a dentist for regular checkups to keep up with your dental health to prevent cavities. If you are a senior looking for a dentist, the CEC Health Center has a Dentist in Freeport that Accepts Medicaid.
Some may not even have a cavity forming, so be sure to schedule regular dentist appointments. Along with regular dental checkups, things you can do to prevent cavities.
Brush Your Teeth With fluoride
You should be brushing your teeth between every meal or at least two times a day with fluoride toothpaste. Along with brushing your teeth, be sure to floss your teeth.
Mouthwash
Those who are at higher risk of developing cavities should also add mouthwash to their oral care routine.
Regular Dentist Appointments
Visiting the dentist regularly is a great way to prevent cavities and get a professional cleaning at least twice a year. If you are a senior looking for a dentist, visit our Dentist in Freeport that Accepts Medicaid at the CEC Health Center.
Dental Sealants
Sealants are a protective coating that is applied to the back molars. Sealants usually last a few years and should be checked regularly by a dentist.
Avoid Snacking and Sipping
This allows bacteria to get into your mouth that could destroy the tooth enamel whenever you eat or drink.
Eating Tooth-Healthy Foods
Stay away from foods that can easily get stuck between your teeth, especially if they will be stuck for a long time.
Fluoride Treatments
If you are not getting enough fluoride, a dentist in Brentwood who accepts Medicaid may suggest you receive fluoride treatments if your tooth decay risk is high.
Antibacterial Treatments
Antibacterial treatments help cut down the bacteria that is in the mouth.
The CEC Health Center provides various services, including dental care for seniors. If you have been looking for a Dentist in Freeport that Accepts Medicaid, visit our website today!
The Importance of Regular Cleanings From Your Dentist
Between children and adults alike, the dentist may be a scary place. Some people try to brush it off and try to take as long as they can before going in for an appointment. However, it is recommended that one visits the dentist every six months for regular cleanings. So why is this important? You may think to yourself: I’m brushing my teeth twice daily and do not see or feel anything specific that would make me need to see my dentist. Continue reading to learn about why it’s so important to visit your dentist for a cleaning every 6 months and the many benefits that come with each evaluation. Looking for a Dentist in Freeport that Accepts Medicaid? The CEC Health Center is here to help you and offer you a safe and comfortable dentist experience.
Why Visit the Dentist in the First Place?
You may connect regular dentist visits with simply just cleaning your teeth and perfecting your smile. However, that is not that case! Regular dentist visits are very valuable to yourself and your overall health. At your regular cleanings every six months, not only does your dentist clean your teeth, these visits allow your dentist to:
- Detect cavities early– While examining your mouth and teeth, cavities may be spotted. The earlier they are caught, the easier and less expensive they are to repair and treat.
- Catch gum disease early– Many people don’t know exactly what gum disease is or looks like so having a dentist examine your gums will give you a better idea of your overall oral health.
- Detect early stages of oral cancer– especially if you smoke or use tobacco, you might be more susceptible to these conditions.
- Check your fillings– If you have fillings, they need to be closely monitored by your dentist to make sure that they’re secure, not defective, or have decay.
- Catch dry mouth or bad breath– Your dentist can catch these conditions as well as treat them over time.
- Review your oral hygiene– By visiting the dentist every 6 months, you can create a relationship with your dentist and hygienist allowing you to build and maintain good oral habits as well as dental hygiene tips.
- Protect your overall health– Studies have been discovered linking gum disease to heart disease and even diabetes, making it imperative that you do not skip your trip to your Dentist in Freeport that Accepts Medicaid!
What Happens During a Regular Cleaning at the Dentist?
Between all the poking, prodding, strange noise, and tools, it makes sense why the dentist may seem scary. However, a regular teeth cleaning is simple and as pain-free as possible for some people. Understanding exactly what is occurring during this process can reduce stress and allow you to further enjoy your results and come back each and every time. The typical steps of a regular dental cleaning routine include but are not limited to:
- A physical examination
- Removing plaque and tartar
- Professional toothpaste cleaning
- Expert flossing
- Rinsing
- Applying fluoride treatment
What Should I Do Between Each Dental Visit?
The standard and recommended times to visit your dentist are every 6 months, making that approximately two visits each year dedicated to your regular cleanings. This does not mean that you should only keep your teeth clean for these two visits, instead, you should be taking care of them each and every day. You may be wondering: What can I do in between each visit? Plaque is always forming on your teeth and you can’t rely on your dentist to clean 6 months of plaque off each time you visit them. Some helpful tips to good oral care at home include:
- Brush your teeth at least twice daily
- Use a toothpaste that contains fluoride
- Floss daily
- Use a mouthwash daily to control plaque and bacteria, which also helps keep your breath fresh and clean
Dentist in Freeport that Accepts Medicaid
In search of a Dentist in Freeport that Accepts Medicaid? Look no further! The CEC Health Center is here to help you! Our team of certified and experienced dentists understands how scary the dentist office may be, but also knows the importance of regular dental cleanings. Looking to schedule your next dental cleaning at a reputable Dentist in Freeport that Accepts Medicaid? Contact the CEC Health Center! Visit our website for more information, details on our wide variety of services, or to schedule an appointment at our dental office.
What are Home Remedies for a Toothache?
Everybody knows the pain of a toothache all too well. The pain can cause you to not want to eat, or even move for days. If you are experiencing a toothache, and can’t get to a dentist in Freeport that accepts Medicaid; try a home remedy. Our team at CEC Health Center can give you the care that you need. Contact us for more information about our services.
What Causes a Toothache?
There are many things that can get in your teeth and gums that can cause you to have a toothache. The list for causes of a toothache can go on and on, but here are some of the most common causes:
- Tooth decay- nerves are exposed due to bacteria decaying a tooth/teeth away
- Filling falls out- similar to tooth decay, when a filling falls out nerves are exposed (causing pain)
- Any surgery or direct trauma to the facial area
- Wisdom teeth- when wisdom teeth are coming in and breaking through the gums
- Grinding teeth- many people grind/ clench their teeth while they are sleeping
- Gum disease
- Sinus infection
Getting Rid of the Toothache
There are a number of ways someone can get rid of a toothache. Over-the-counter medications are the most common way people relive and toothache pain they might experience. Avoiding cold and/or crunchy foods can definitely help someone facing any sort of tooth pain. Using mouthwash is another option since it contains alcohol; which will help clean the tooth. Lastly, using an ice pack can also be beneficial when trying to relieve pain from a toothache. If some or any of these options aren’t easily available to you and you can not contact a dentist in Freeport that accepts Medicaid, look up a home remedy.
Home Remedies
Home remedies are treatments used to fix a pain or ailment with easily accessible items you will have laying around your home. Some of these remedies are:
- Mango bark
- Clove
- Sweet potato leaves
- Pear seed and bark
- Sunflower leaves
- Garlic
- Saltwater rinse
- Hydrogen peroxide rinse
Contact Our Dentist in Freeport that Accepts Medicaid Today!
If you are experiencing any pain in your tooth you feel isn’t normal give us a call. We will give you an appointment as soon as we can. If your toothache lasts for more than a couple of days, or you are experiencing a headache or fever, call a dentist in Freeport that accepts Medicaid immediately. Our patients are important to us, and we will provide them with the best care around. Call us today to schedule an appointment with us, toothache or not!
Why CEC Health Center?
CEC provides a team-based approach by putting the patient at the center of their care. Using the highest standard of medical care we give the patients the tools they need to achieve a healthy lifestyle.
CEC Board Certified physicians provide more than healthcare, they provide life care.
Insurance & Payment
CEC accepts Medicare, Medicaid and all Medicaid Managed Care Plans and Commercial Insurance with out-of-network benefits. A sliding fee scale is available. For more information please contact our office at (516) 622-8888.
Office Hours & Locations
Nassau County
857 South Oyster Bay Road, Bethpage, NY 11714
(516) 622-8888 Press 1
Monday through Thursday, 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m
Glen Cove
113 Glen Cove Avenue, Glen Cove, NY 11542
(516) 622-8888 Press 3
Suffolk County
305 Oser Avenue, Hauppauge, NY 11788
(516) 622-8888 Press 2
Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m
Chemical Dependency Clinic
Monday: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
Tuesday: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm
Wednesday: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
Thursday: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Mental Health Clinic
Monday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Tuesday: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
Wednesday: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
Thursday: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
About Our Dentist in Freeport that Accepts Medicaid
The CEC Health Center (CEC) is a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC)* that provides integrated healthcare services at its Bethpage, Hauppauge and now Glen Cove locations. We provide care with excellence and compassion to historically underserved community members with limited incomes including those with autism, learning and developmental disabilities, and behavioral health concerns.
We focus on preventative healthcare to ensure healthy lifestyles and to minimize trips to hospital emergency rooms. CEC services are available to all community members and accepts Medicare, Medicaid, Medicaid Managed Care, and private insurance plans.
Our physicians and support staff are bi-lingual in English and Spanish and other interpreters are provided according to need.
The specific services offered at the CEC Health Center include:
- Adult and Pediatric Medicine
- Dental
- Women’s Health (Gynecololgy)
- Behavioral Health (Mental Health and Chemical Dependency Services)
- Neurology
- Podiatry
- Psychology
- Social Work
- Assertive Community Treatment (ACT)
- Mental Health Housing
- Case Management
- Transportation
CEC recently merged with the Melillo Center for Mental Health in Glen Cove, a health center with over 40 years of experience serving the community in the heart of Glen Cove. Renamed CEC at Glen Cove, the Center will continue to provide supports that include mental health clinic, outpatient chemical dependency outpatient services, assertive community treatment (ACT), supervised community residences, supported housing and respite housing.
The CEC Health Center is licensed by the NYS Department of Health, the NYS Office of Mental Health and the NYS Office of Addiction Services and Supports and is supported by Nassau County Department of Human Services.
As a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) the CEC Health Center is a sub-recipient of Hudson River Health Care.
For patients who find that visiting the doctor or dentist can be a fear and anxiety-producing experience, CEC has created Social Scripts to help prepare for your next visit. Select the appropriate visit from the list below to see what you can expect to see on your next scheduled appointment.
Social Story for Medical Appointments (Adults)
Social Story for Dental Appointments (Adults)
Social Story for Mental Health Patients (Adults)
Social Story for Doctor Appointments (Pediatric)
Social Story for Dental Appointments (Pediatric)
Donate
To make a donation to CEC Health Center, please call (516) 622-8888.