The Shine Blog

Your Smile. Clear Answers. Expert Guidance.

The SHINE DENTISTRY blog is here to help you feel confident about your dental care. Whether you’re exploring treatment options, have questions about your oral health, or just want trusted advice, we’re your guide.



No confusing jargon. No pressure. Just helpful tips and insights so you can make the best choices for your smile.

By Elena Johnston June 9, 2025
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.
By Elena Johnston June 3, 2025
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.
Dr. Ursomanno Shine Dentistry NYC LANAP® is a cutting-edge laser treatment for periodontal disease
By Dr. Brendon Ursomanno May 20, 2025
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.
Dr. Elena Johnston standing confidently on the High Line in Chelsea, NYC, wearing a tailored suit—re
By Dr. Elena Johnston May 16, 2025
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.
By Dr. Elena Johnston March 4, 2025
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.
By Dr. Elena Johnston September 11, 2024
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.
By Dr. Elena Johnston June 11, 2024
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.
June 11, 2024
Contemporary Art – Contemporary Practice
By Dr. Elena Johnston December 4, 2023
Do you sometimes feel that having misaligned, crooked, or gapped teeth are dragging down your confidence? While we’re all for self-love and embracing our imperfections, a beautiful smile can make you feel more confident and help you leave a great first impression. And that starts with a set of healthy, straight, and damage-free teeth. Besides aesthetics, correcting teeth misalignment also helps prevent long-term dental health issues. If you are planning to get traditional braces or Invisalign, you will be making a smart decision for both yourself and your smile. Now the question is, which one is better for me – traditional braces or Invisalign?
By Dr. Elena Johnston September 11, 2023
Are you struggling to feel great about your smile because you have a damaged, misshapen, discolored, or broken tooth? Finding a helpful and lasting solution can be challenging, but porcelain crowns might be just what you’re looking for. Porcelain crowns have been around for years as the preferred cosmetic dental solution for repairing teeth that are too damaged to be restored with traditional fillings. Thanks to advanced technology and materials used by skilled dentists today, porcelain crowns look just like real teeth. If you’re wondering how porcelain crowns can help you achieve your oral health goals, now is the time to explore all the possibilities. Check out our article to learn about the dental crown procedure so you can make an informed decision.

Your smile, reimagined — on your terms

This is your time to feel confident and truly cared for. At Shine Dentistry NYC, we deliver personalized care that fits your lifestyle, respects your time, and supports your long-term wellness.


From routine visits to cosmetic transformations, every detail is designed around your comfort and goals. Book your appointment today and experience why Shine is where New Yorkers go to smile brighter. Please call 212-242-5344