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Duration of Invisalign Treatment

One common question people have about Invisalign is the treatment duration. Discover how long Invisalign therapy typically takes and get insights into the process.

The timeline for Invisalign®

Below is an overview from a general dentist on how long Invisalign® treatment may take. This information can be helpful to review when looking into different teeth-straightening methods.

Generally speaking

In general, Invisalign® is usually worn for six months to a year and a half. This is actually the average time for most teeth straightening treatments. Of course, there are some cases in which Invisalign® may take longer to work. Keep reading to find out about specifics.

Specifics

Each person has varying needs when it comes to teeth straightening treatment. For example, individuals with extremely crowded teeth may need to wear the aligners for up to two years. In other cases, a different type of treatment may be required first and then Invisalign® can follow later on.

If the crowding or crookedness of the teeth is severe, the general dentist may recommend clear or traditional braces for a few months to start the teeth straightening process. To finish, Invisalign® can be worn for a year or so.

Things to know

When it comes to Invisalign® treatment, general dentists advise wearers to keep the aligners in for at least 22 hours a day. This ensures that the estimated timeline provided at the start will match the actual process. When the aligners are taken out for unnecessary activities, the entire process can be delayed.

Invisalign® should only be removed when eating and for oral hygiene, which should be done twice a day or after every meal. If there is a special occasion such as a social event or a photoshoot, it is okay to take the aligners out. However, be aware that the time should be made up to ensure the desired results are achieved.

While Invisalign® is not necessarily a quicker treatment than braces, general dentists do state that the more the aligners are worn, the more promising the results will be.

It is also important to know that Invisalign® may take longer than the estimate provided at the start. Some individuals’ teeth do not shift as predicted and may require additional aligners to be created.

Talk to a general dentist

When considering Invisalign®, it is best to consult with a general dentist. An evaluation can be done to determine what type of orthodontic treatment is most suitable. Any questions or concerns about Invisalign® can be addressed, and the dentist can provide an estimated timeline upon approval of the treatment. To find out more or to get scheduled for an appointment, reach out today.

Request an appointment here: https://mitchellvillefamilydentistry.com or call Mitchellville Family Dentistry at (301) 202-3499 for an appointment in our Glenn Dale office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Invisalign in Glenn Dale, MD.

Understanding Denture Breakage

Explore the factors that contribute to denture breakage and learn essential tips to keep your false teeth intact and functional.

Overview

Dentures are a set of artificial teeth that can replace some or all your teeth. They are often used by people who have lost their teeth due to gum disease, accidents, or aging. Artificial teeth can provide stability and functionality in many cases while also looking very similar to natural teeth. But despite being made from composite resin, porcelain, acrylic resin, and acrylic, there are some ways in which you could damage your device and wind up with a broken set.

Types of breakage

The most common type of breakage is the chipping or cracking of your false teeth. This is generally caused by biting down on something too hard, which can be difficult to avoid in daily life. Over time, many people experience minor chipping around their gums and throughout their teeth. If you’re not yet suffering from serious damage, it’s important to know that even small chips are vulnerable to breaking completely off later as they get caught in more tightly fitted spaces between your real and fake teeth. Once broken away completely, there’s no getting them back.

How long should dentures last?

This is a very common question for people. Unfortunately, no magic number can be given because factors like hygiene and medical conditions can play into how long they will last. Each person’s oral health and overall health are different, so it would be impossible to set a time frame for everyone.

With that disclaimer being said, artificial teeth tend to have an average lifespan of seven to ten years. This is a very broad range, though as mentioned earlier, some patients might get significantly more wear out of their teeth than others depending on their health and lifestyle.

If you’re noticing issues with your current teeth, make an appointment for consultation sooner rather than later – waiting too long may make existing issues even more pronounced or create new problems that could require costly treatment in the future.

How you can protect them from damage

To prevent your artificial teeth from breaking, be sure to follow these simple but important tips: Clean your teeth thoroughly every day. Stains and buildup can cause weakness over time, so it’s essential that you clean them in accordance with instructions given by your dentist. Don’t wear them if they’re cracked or damaged — repair or replace them immediately.

Take care of your teeth when you eat and drink. Avoid chewing on ice, hard candies, or crunchy foods with your teeth, as these can damage them. If your artificial teeth are loose after eating or drinking, immediately get it looked at. Also, be sure to avoid hot liquids; in fact, let your teeth cool before cleaning them so that they don’t crack under pressure.

Speak with with your dentist today

Proper denture care is critical to maintain the life of your dentures. If you have dentures, but have some questions about their care, call your dentist today to schedule an appointment. Routine appointments can inspect the dentures and your underlying gums to ensure that everything is in good condition to keep your smile looking great and make sure you are comfortable.

Request an appointment here: https://mitchellvillefamilydentistry.com or call Mitchellville Family Dentistry at (301) 202-3499 for an appointment in our Glenn Dale office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dentures and Partial Dentures in Glenn Dale, MD.

 

Enhancing Your Smile with Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening can have a significant impact on your smile, boosting your confidence and overall appearance. Find out the benefits of professional teeth whitening and how it can help you achieve a brighter, whiter smile.

Reasons to consider teeth whitening

Learn how an emergency dentist can offer immediate care and treatment for a loose tooth, preventing further damage and restoring dental health.

Brighter teeth

Perhaps the main reason patients choose professional teeth whitening is to brighten their teeth. For most, this gives them a more attractive smile that gives them confidence. A brighter smile can help in both your personal and professional life by giving you more confidence, an improved appearance and a more professional look when in a work setting (job interview, conference, etc.). During in-office teeth whitening, the dentist determines the shade of the patient’s teeth before and after treatment so they can see the improvements that are made.

Increased confidence

As mentioned, most patients who receive teeth whitening feel an increase in their confidence level. This gives many the motivation to do the things they love in life and enjoy moments more without worrying about their smile. No one should have to feel insecure about their smile, and everyone who does not have the confidence level they desire due to a non-ideal color shade should consider professional teeth whitening from a general dentist.

Better oral health

For many, the better their smile looks the more willing they are to practice their oral hygiene routine consistently and limit foods that may harm their teeth. Therefore, in addition to the immediate oral health benefits the treatment process offers, many patients see their long-term oral health improve after professional teeth whitening. Certain foods and drinks increase the risk of early stains, whereas good oral hygiene and a proper diet can make the results of professional teeth whitening last for a year or more.

Regular dental check-up

When you schedule a teeth whitening consultation with a general dentist, the visit also serves as a regular dental check-up. This means the dentist conducts an oral examination to see if there are any oral health or cosmetic issues the patient may have not been familiar with. If there are, the issues can also be addressed, in addition to brightening the patient’s smile with in-office teeth whitening. In some instances, the patient may need procedures to address oral health concerns such as cavities and weakened enamel before teeth whitening.

Call us today for a teeth whitening consultation

Give our teeth whitening team a call today to arrange a time for treatment. During your first visit, we can answer your questions and help you determine if you are a good candidate for treatment, and we can start and finish the whitening procedure on the same day.

Are you considering teeth whitening in the Glenn Dale area? Get more information at https://mitchellvillefamilydentistry.com.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Teeth Whitening in Glenn Dale, MD.

Can Dental Sealants Be Used for Adults?

Dental sealants are an effective preventive treatment against tooth decay that are commonly associated with children and young adults. But what about adults? Continue reading to learn about dental sealants for adults and the purpose the treatment serves.

Dental sealants for adults

Tooth decay and gum disease are the major causes of tooth loss in adults. The two conditions are aided by inadequate oral hygiene. People can reduce the risk of developing oral health issues by adopting a good oral hygiene regimen of brushing, flossing and a good diet. However, a person’s genes are also a contributing factor. Some adults are susceptible to decay and will get cavities no matter how well they care for their teeth. Nevertheless, most of the tooth decay occurrences in adults are caused by poor oral hygiene.

Not everyone is the same. Adults who continuously find themselves dealing with decayed teeth can discuss dental sealants with a dentist. Dental sealants shield the teeth with a transparent, thin plastic barrier that covers the entire surface of teeth to keep plaque and bacteria out. The chewing surfaces of the molars and premolars are prime areas for sealants because the grooves (pits and fissures) tend to trap food particles, which become hotspots for bacteria to accumulate.

Applying dental sealants

Dental sealant treatment is easy, painless and fast. First, the dentist will clean the teeth thoroughly and dry the surface. Afterward, they will apply an acidic etching gel that mildly abrades the tooth’s surface to improve the sealant’s adherence to the tooth. After a few minutes, the dental professional will wash the gel off and dry the tooth again before applying the sealant.

Before applying the sealant, the dentist will use a dental dam of cotton or gauze to barricade the tooth and keep saliva out because the tooth needs to be dry for the process. The resin material is more common among dentists, but another process called “autopolymerization” may also be used. The dentist will use a brush or small syringe to paint the tooth with the sealant. In liquid form, the sealant spreads through every nook and crevice of the tooth. It is important to apply the sealant evenly while leaving no part untouched.

The sealant will harden. For resin sealants, a curing light may be used. The dentist will ensure the sealant does not affect the patient’s bite. The entire process takes between five and 10 minutes per tooth.

The benefits

While dental sealants may be used primarily for children, they offer unique benefits to adults too. Getting dental sealants for the teeth costs significantly less than having a cavity filled. A sealant is up to 80 percent effective against tooth decay in molars. That percentage means brushing, flossing and dental checkups are still necessary, but implementing this preventive care makes it less likely for lapses in oral care to result in decay.

Final note

Dental sealants can protect the tooth for up to 10 years. In that time, you will have saved yourself from potential tooth loss or undergoing expensive dental procedures to keep your teeth. If you are an adult and would like to get dental sealants, talk to your dentist for more information.

Request an appointment here: https://mitchellvillefamilydentistry.com or call Mitchellville Family Dentistry at (301) 202-3499 for an appointment in our Glenn Dale office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Sealants in Glenn Dale, MD.

Can a Smile Makeover Improve Your Oral Health?

Most people consider a smile makeover to address cosmetic problems with the teeth or gums; however, what many do not know is that oral health can also be improved in the process. Although some smile makeover procedures do not have any oral health benefits, a lot actually do. Continue reading to learn more about these procedures and how they can improve oral health.

A smile makeover to improve oral health

Below is an overview of how a smile makeover may be able to improve oral health. This information can be helpful to individuals who are looking into different procedures.

Understanding what a smile makeover is

A smile makeover is defined as a process involving procedures to improve the way that the smile appears. The procedures may be geared towards the teeth, gums, jaw, or a combination of all of them. Outlined below are a few examples that are most commonly undergone.

  • Dental veneer placement to cover imperfections
  • Braces or clear aligners to address crowding or crookedness
  • Teeth whitening to lift stains

Procedures that can help improve oral health

There are an array of procedures that fall under the smile makeover umbrella; however, certain ones do help to improve oral health. Outlined below are a few examples.

  • Missing tooth replacement via implants: Dental implants stimulate the jawbone which is at risk of deteriorating when a natural tooth is lost. The procedure also protects the gums since they are left exposed after a tooth is lost
  • Gum grafting: When gum disease is present, they tend to recede, which results in the teeth being too exposed. This creates a high risk of injury, while also shortening the gums, making the support for the teeth reduced. Gum grafting adds tissue back, which results in stronger gums and more protected teeth
  • Teeth straightening: Although crooked teeth can be unappealing to look at, they can also result in oral health problems. Oral hygiene may be more difficult to achieve as there are harder to reach areas. Having the teeth straightened makes it harder for food particles to get stuck

The importance of oral health

Oral health is always important; however, it is especially important when undergoing a smile makeover. Dentists aim to make sure that both the teeth and gums remain in good shape throughout the process of transforming the smile. This means that procedures will be done to improve appearance and aesthetics, while also focusing on the health of the area being worked on.

Get started today

Want to find out more about smile makeovers? Talking with a dentist is the best place to start. An evaluation can be performed to determine what type of procedures are most suitable. From there, the dentist can answer any questions or go over any concerns. Additionally, the dentist can highlight how oral health may be able to be improved as it is specific to each patient. Reach out today to get scheduled for an appointment or to learn more!

Request an appointment here: https://mitchellvillefamilydentistry.com or call Mitchellville Family Dentistry at (301) 202-3499 for an appointment in our Glenn Dale office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Smile Makeover in Glenn Dale, MD.

What Are the Signs of Gum Disease?

Gum disease is often hard to avoid; however, once it is detected, patients can immediately visit their general dentist for a diagnosis and treatment plan. In order for it to be detected, the dentist will have to rely on any symptoms or signs that indicate a problem. Ready to learn more about the signs?

Signs of gum disease

The following signs indicate that gum disease is present.

Bleeding

Sometimes when patients brush or floss their teeth, they will notice bleeding. Minor bleeding from time to time is normal and quite common, however, if the bleeding is excessive, it may indicate gum disease. Bleeding indicates that the gums are not healthy and that there may be an infection. Rinsing with a saltwater mixture can help reduce bleeding and clear out infected areas, however, this is not a permanent solution. It is important to follow up with a general dentist for long-term treatment.

Red or white spots

The gums are supposed to be pink and soft, however, when gum disease is present, they may appear red or white. Red or white spots or patches on the gums are often signs that there is an abscess, which is a common symptom of gum disease. While it can be tempting to push on the areas, it is important not to. Instead, visit a general dentist immediately to have the spots examined.

Swollen or puffy gums

Swollen or puffy gums almost always indicate an infection. Typically, swelling occurs because there is an abscess or areas that have excessive buildup. When looking at the gums, it is important to see if they overextend past the teeth. If they do, it usually means they are severely infected. Just like with spots or patches, it can be tempting to press on swollen areas, but it is best to not, in order to avoid irritation.

Receding gums

One of the main indicators of gum disease is when the gums begin to recede. When they are receding, they essentially look like they are pulled back from the teeth. When there is a serious infection in the gums, the bone beneath will begin to deteriorate, which will ultimately cause the teeth to look longer and the gums look shorter. Receding usually takes place in the later stages of gum disease.

Pain

When the gums physically hurt, it is best to visit a general dentist. Pain usually indicates that gum disease is present or developing. Patients may experience pain when brushing along the gum lines or a dull pain that feels sore. Both can be managed by taking an over-the-counter medication for pain, but ultimately, a general dentist will need to diagnose and treat the problem.

Learn more today!

There are a lot of signs that indicate that gum disease is present, however, there are times when only a dentist can detect the infection. This is why it is extremely important to regularly see a general dentist. They can perform regular examinations and x-rays to detect and diagnose gum disease, at any stage. Reach out today to learn more or to get started!

Request an appointment here: https://mitchellvillefamilydentistry.com or call Mitchellville Family Dentistry at (301) 202-3499 for an appointment in our Glenn Dale office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Gum Disease in Glenn Dale, MD.

Invisalign Treatment from a General Dentist for Alignment or Crowding Issues

Invisalign® is one of the most common treatments used to address teeth straightening problems. General dentists recommend Invisalign® quite frequently due to the many associated benefits and ease of the treatment process.

One thing to know about Invisalign® is that it cannot address all orthodontic issues. However, it is a great option for misalignments and crowding, both of which can be detrimental to one’s oral health and self-confidence. Keep reading to find out what Invisalign® can do.

Treat crowding and misalignments with Invisalign®

The following review highlights what Invisalign® can do for those who have crowded teeth or alignment issues. This information may be helpful to those looking into their treatment options.

The problem with crowding and alignment issues

Crowding can be detrimental to one’s oral health because it can create hard-to-reach spaces between teeth. These spaces become susceptible to left behind food. When food gets stuck in these spaces, the result can be bacterial growth because it may be hard for a toothbrush or floss to access. Over time, this bacteria turns into plaque, which leads to tartar. When tartar does not get removed, serious restorative care will be required.

Misalignments of the teeth or arch can also be problematic. One’s bite may be affected, which can make eating difficult. Additionally, over time, a misaligned jaw can lead to extra wear on certain teeth. Decay, chronic pain, or a TMJ disorder may occur, all of which can lead to headaches and malfunction.

What Invisalign® can do

Invisalign® can straighten out crooked teeth; however, an extraction may be necessary first. If the reason for the crowding is that there are too many teeth, an extraction may be required. If crowding occurs due to crookedness then Invisalign® treatment can likely start right away. Once crowded teeth are straightened out and evenly aligned, there will be fewer hard-to-reach areas, if none at all. One’s oral hygiene routine should be able to be improved, which will in turn help encourage better oral health.

As far as misalignments, Invisalign® is a good option for cases that do not involve a serious jaw issue. When the teeth are simply misaligned, the aligners can significantly improve how they sit in the arch. However, jaw misalignments may require serious orthodontic attention such as braces or headgear.

Ultimately, Invisalign® can improve the health of the teeth, which will also lead to healthier gums, a stronger jaw, and a better-looking smile. A better-looking smile will improve confidence and self-esteem!

Find out more from a general dentist

When needing Invisalign® treatment, the best thing to do is start by consulting with a general dentist. The consultation allows the dentist to evaluate the teeth to determine the timeline and other important factors, such as additions to treatment. Additionally, the general dentist can answer questions or go over any existing concerns. To learn more about Invisalign® and what is involved, reach out today. Additionally, we can get you scheduled for an appointment.

Request an appointment here: https://mitchellvillefamilydentistry.com or call Mitchellville Family Dentistry at (301) 202-3499 for an appointment in our Glenn Dale office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Invisalign in Glenn Dale, MD.

Ask a Dentist: Knowing When to See a Cosmetic Dentist

Are you unsure when it’s appropriate to seek the expertise of a cosmetic dentist? Explore this post to learn more about the situations that warrant a visit to a dentist and discover the potential benefits of cosmetic dentistry.

Who should consider aesthetic dentistry?

There are a variety of different issues that people face when they want to improve their smile. One of the most common issues that people face is the color of their teeth. Over time, there area  variety of issues that cause the natural discoloration of the teeth. Sometimes this can be related to the foods you eat and drink, or habits like smoking. Additionally, discoloration can be caused by tooth decay, oral health, or genetic conditions. Fortunately, there are several different approaches you can take to get that bright white smile. This includes teeth whitening, veneers, or crowns.

If you are concerned about the alignment of your teeth or gaps between teeth, there are other options. One of the most common approaches is teeth straightening. Many cosmetic dentists can help you straighten your teeth by using a teeth alignment system. Invisalign is a common tool that can be used to help close gaps, straighten crooked teeth, or get overlapping teeth back into alignment.

If Invisalign seems too invasive for small gaps, you may also benefit from veneers. These are thin strips of porcelain that are adhered to the front surface of your teeth. Porcelain looks, feels, and functions like your normal teeth, so once your dentist has placed your veneers, it’s likely that you will even forget about having dental work!

Find the procedure that is right for you

There are a variety of different cosmetic procedures that can help improve the appearance of your smile. Sometimes you can talk to a general dentist to get the solutions that you need, but if you want a complete smile makeover, you should schedule an appointment with a cosmetic dentist.

Some of the issues that a cosmetic approach can help with are discolored teeth, chipped or cracked teeth, gaps between the teeth, crowding or overlapping teeth, gums that have moved too far up or down the tooth, or a variety of other issues.

Aesthetic dentistry offers several different techniques, such as caps, veneers, dental implants, teeth straightening, customized teeth whitening, and gum operations to help improve the appearance of your smile.

When you schedule an appointment with a cosmetic dentist, it is important to think about the things that you would like to improve with your smile. Writing some of these things down in advance can help. Additionally, if you can find pictures of somebody that has your ideal smile, it can help us recognize which procedures might be right for you. Finding the perfect smile doesn’t have to be impossible, and we can help.

Request an appointment here: https://mitchellvillefamilydentistry.com or call Mitchellville Family Dentistry at (301) 202-3499 for an appointment in our Glenn Dale office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Cosmetic Dentist in Glenn Dale, MD

Health Benefits of Regular Dental Cleaning Visits

Dental cleaning visits with a general dentist are one of the most important parts of maintaining good oral health. However, many are surprised to learn that overall health also benefits from these quick and simple dental cleaning appointments. When considering whether or not a dental cleaning is worth the time spent in the office chair, it may be helpful to review the following information.

Does a dental cleaning visit provide health benefits?

The following information should be reviewed when curious about the health benefits that are associated with dental cleaning visits. Keep reading to find out more!

Oral health

The two main health benefits associated with dental cleaning visits from a general dentist are healthy gums and healthy teeth. While dental health may be an obvious benefit, many believe that they can practice good oral hygiene at home in order to prevent the development of cavities. At-home oral hygiene is crucial in dental health, but a professional dental cleaning is even more effective at preventing cavities. During the cleaning, the dentist is able to target plaque and tartar buildup, both of which lead to cavities.

Aside from dental health, periodontal health is a concern when a dental cleaning visit is skipped. Having the teeth regularly cleaned also ensures that one’s periodontal health is in good shape. A professional dental cleaning visit can clear out the gum lines, which tend to hold plaque and tartar. An added benefit is that the dentist can examine the gums during a dental cleaning visit to ensure that they are in good health.

Overall health

Many people are surprised to learn that dental cleaning visits can benefit their overall health. When the teeth and gums are in bad shape, it is much more likely that other health conditions will develop. An infection in the gums or the teeth can lead to transmission to other areas in the body; however, if proper care is taken to prevent infections, such as dental cleanings, then the risk is much lower. On the flip side, if dental cleanings are not done on a regular basis, then infection transmission may occur, which can result in a number of complications.

Infections in the gums or teeth can transfer through the bloodstream and end up anywhere in the body. Such infection can lead to heart conditions or diabetes, both of which are serious conditions that may require a lifetime of treatment. With that being said, it can be extremely beneficial to undergo a routine dental cleaning visit with a general dentist every six months.

Get started with a dental cleaning

There are many benefits to dental cleaning visits from a general dentist, including a number that can be identified during a consultation. When considering a routine dental cleaning, it may be helpful to talk with a dentist about the recommended frequency, as this can vary per patient. Reach out today to ask questions or to get started with a consultation appointment.

Request an appointment here: https://mitchellvillefamilydentistry.com or call Mitchellville Family Dentistry at (301) 202-3499 for an appointment in our Glenn Dale office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Cleaning in Glenn Dale, MD.

How a Dental Bridge Addresses a Missing Tooth

In dentistry, a dental bridge is one of the popular options for closing the gap left by a lost or extracted tooth. Bridges are typically made up of crowns on the sides of the gap, which cover adjacent health teeth, called the abutment teeth. These teeth support the replacement teeth, which could be one or more. For fixed prosthetics, the bridge is cemented permanently onto the healthy teeth, thus literally bridging the gap left by the lost teeth.

How a dental bridge is used for replacing a missing tooth

When it comes to using a dental bridge for tooth replacement, there are three major options. The materials used for fabricating the bridge typically include metal and porcelain. The dentist will determine the type of bridge that best addresses the needs of the patients and discuss these options before commencing the process. The types of dental bridges include:

  • Traditional fixed bridge: This restoration works by affixing the false tooth to a crown placed over the adjacent teeth for support
  • Cantilever bridge: This option is similar to the fixed bridge, except that the false tooth is bonded to only one tooth instead of two
  • Maryland bridge: These bridges are often used for front teeth to improve the smile’s appearance. It is also called a resin-bonded bridge and is fitted with metal or porcelain wings for support

Benefits of choosing dental bridges

There are many benefits to enjoy with dental bridges. They can help to strengthen damaged teeth, as well as enhance the appearance, alignment, bite, and shape of the teeth. By filling the gap left by the lost teeth, patients can prevent the existing teeth from shifting out of place. The bridge also stays securely in place and does not move around in the mouth. If the nearby teeth are decayed or damaged, the crown that comes with the dental bridge will cover and fortify them.

Getting a dental bridge

The dental bridge placement procedure is a multi-stage process that requires more than one dental appointment. In the first step, the dentist will administer a local anesthetic into the gum tissue before proceeding to reshape the teeth that will hold the crowns. Tooth preparation requires filing down part of the enamel layer to make the crowns fit securely.

After shaping the teeth, the dentist will make impressions of the lost tooth and the nearby teeth. The impression is forwarded to a dental lab to produce a bridge that fits the patient correctly. Until the final bridge is ready, patients will get a temporary bridge to protect the prepared teeth and cover the gap in the smile.

The permanent bridge should be ready in a few weeks, after which the patient will return to the dental office for placement. The dentist will check the bridge to ensure it aligns well with the remaining teeth and the bite.

Do you have one or more missing teeth?

If you have a missing tooth and think you might benefit from a dental bridge, book an appointment with our dentist for a consultation.

Request an appointment here: https://mitchellvillefamilydentistry.com or call Mitchellville Family Dentistry at (301) 202-3499 for an appointment in our Glenn Dale office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Bridges in Glenn Dale, MD.

Preventive Benefits of Dental Sealants

Dental sealants provide a simple but effective preventive solution to the issue of tooth cavities developing on chewing surfaces of the back teeth. The back molars have pits and fissures for chewing, but they tend to trap food debris, and the bacteria they harbor are often hard to clean, despite regular brushing. Applying dental sealants over the molars and premolars reduces the occurrence of cavities by limiting the presence of bacteria and food particles on teeth.

The benefits of dental sealants

The American Dental Association defines sealants as “barriers” against tooth decay. A dental sealant is simply a plastic coating applied over the grooves of the back teeth to prevent bacterial plaque and food debris from accumulating there and demineralizing the hard enamel layer. The preventive treatment is mostly provided for children and teenagers because their teeth are particularly prone to plaque and cavities when they erupt, but using sealants on adult teeth can be effective as well.

Reduction in cavity occurrence

Dental sealants are effective for preventing cavities, but applying them over a tooth already affected by cavities will not halt the progress of the decay. When used appropriately, sealants can reduce the number of dental fillings the patient will need during their lifetime. Dental sealants are highly resilient and can survive several years of use.

The dentist will examine the sealants during routine dental checkups, repairing or replacing them as required. Although dental sealants can shield baby teeth, the main targets are usually the child’s permanent back teeth, including the molars and premolars. The sealants will protect the teeth against bacteria, especially in areas that are hard to reach when brushing.

A study published by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) showed that school-aged kids without dental sealants, when compared to those with sealants, were three times more likely to develop cavities than their peers. In the same report, the CDC noted that dental sealants could potentially save millions of dollars in dental costs around the country.

Good oral health

Oral hygiene also has direct implications for how a child performs in school. Kids who have tooth decay often have trouble eating and sleeping, which may have adverse effects on their attendance and performance in school. While it seems far-fetched to say that providing dental sealants will improve a child’s performance, they do have a direct impact on the child’s health and mental clarity.

Simply put, if the child has to worry less about tooth cavities by getting dental sealants, it could set them up for success and prevent minor issues from getting worse. There are no disadvantages to getting dental sealants. The sealants may chip or break, but this is rare, and repair or replacement is relatively easy.

Final note

Good oral hygiene and dental sealants are complementary ways to prevent or reduce the presence of plaque and eventual cavities. Regular brushing, flossing and visits to the dentist are still important. If you are considering getting dental sealants, book an appointment with the dentist for a consultation.

Request an appointment here: https://mitchellvillefamilydentistry.com or call Mitchellville Family Dentistry at (301) 202-3499 for an appointment in our Glenn Dale office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Sealants in Glenn Dale, MD.

Are There Alternatives to Dental Crowns?

Thinking about choosing dental crowns as your dental restoration option? Crowns are often used to repair damaged teeth, as well as for cosmetic reasons. When it comes to choosing the correct dentist to place dental crowns, making the right choice is important.

How to choose a general dentist

Deciding who will place dental crowns is necessary, as there are many different types of dental professionals to choose from. General dentists are a popular choice, as they perform a variety of dental restorations on a daily basis. In order to ensure the right dentist is chosen, there are few things dental patients need to take into consideration. These considerations include choosing a dentist who is experienced, trustworthy, caring and has a great chairside manner.

Dental crown alternatives

While extracting a damaged tooth is considered to be an alternative, this is not a preferred option as teeth were designed to last a lifetime. The list below includes some of the most commonly used dental crown alternatives general dentists are using for restoration repair reasons, which keeps all of one’s teeth in their mouth.

Inlays

An inlay can be compared to a dental filling, as they are also used to help restore the inside of a damaged tooth. Inlays do not include treating the cusps of a tooth and instead are only placed inside of a tooth. While dental fillings are commonly used to treat teeth, inlays are necessary when a tooth includes a lot of damage due to decay or an injury. Like dental crowns, inlays help keep a tooth intact so it can once again function as intended.

Onlays

Onlays can often be used instead of dental crowns and is a restoration option that tends to preserve more of the structure of the natural tooth. This makes onlays a less invasive treatment option. Since onlays are made using porcelain or a composite resin, they not only help make teeth stronger, they also offer a natural-looking appearance. Onlays are very similar to inlays, except that onlays are also placed on the cusps of the teeth.

Veneers

Dental veneers, also commonly called porcelain veneers, are an alternative to dental crowns, however they are only used for teeth that are located in the front of the mouth. Because veneers are made using thin shells of porcelain, they end up being a better option for the front teeth. This alternative option is ideal for dental patients who have chipped teeth, worn down teeth and discolored teeth. Veneers are similar to dental crowns, as they also cover the teeth and are bonded in order to improve the strength and/or improve the cosmetics of the tooth.

In need of dental restoration?

Are dental crowns then right restoration option for you? While crowns are ideal for most dental patients, there are alternatives available, as shown above. In order to know which option will work best, it is necessary to make a consultation appointment for personalized information. Some patients will need dental crowns, as well as one or more alternatives to restore oral health.

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