This text covers common questions about implant-supported dentures, providing valuable information for those considering this treatment option.

What to expect when getting implant supported dentures

Getting implant supported dentures starts with a consultation with a dentist. The installation of implants is a surgical procedure, so the patient needs to be healthy enough to recover from it. Health conditions like immune system disorders can limit a person’s ability to heal, as can habits like smoking and regular alcohol consumption. The dentist will go over the patient’s medical history, their habits and any medications they are taking before they can be cleared for implants.

Patients also need to have enough jawbone thickness to hold implants in place. People who have worn traditional dentures for a while might have lost some bone tissue due to resorption. Such patients might need bone grafts to thicken their jaw. They will need to be fully recovered from the procedure to continue with the installation of implants. That can take up to three months.

During the installation of the implant, a shot of a local anesthetic is administered. This prevents the patient from feeling pain while the dentist works on the implant.

Holes are drilled into the patient’s jaw and implants are placed in them. The dentist might drill four to six holes for each half of the jaw.

Once the implants have been inserted into the patient’s jaw. The dentist might attach a temporary set of dentures to them.

The implants then get up to six months to fuse with bone tissues in the jaw. The process is known as osseointegration and joins the implants with the patient’s jaw.

The dentist removes any temporary dentures used and attaches the patient’s permanent dentures. The patient might be scheduled for follow-up visits to monitor how they are adjusting to their prosthetics.

Benefits of implant supported dentures

People who choose implant supported dentures to replace their missing teeth get to enjoy benefits like the following:

• Implant supported dentures help keep the jawbone healthy by stimulating it
• The implants can last the rest of the patient’s life
• Implant supported dentures are more stable than traditional dentures
• Non-removable implant supported dentures do not require specialized care
• Getting implant supported dentures is more affordable than replacing an entire set of missing teeth with implants
• Implants-supported dentures look and feel like real teeth

Replace your missing teeth

Living with missing teeth brings its share of challenges. It can make eating your favorite foods a challenge and can affect your speech. It can also leave you feeling self-conscious about the way your smile looks. Give us a call or drop by our Glenn Dale clinic to learn more about how implant supported dentures work.

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: Implant Supported Dentures in Glenn Dale, MD.

Dental sealants are an excellent preventive treatment to protect the teeth against decay. The dentist will recommend the treatment if patient is particularly prone to cavities or if the child is still learning to take care of their teeth. This article covers the functions of dental sealants as a preventative treatment.

Overview of dental sealants

Dental sealants are plastic-like coating applied to the surface of the back teeth (molars and premolars). The sealants act as a reinforced shield over the teeth and provide additional protection against tooth decay. The procedure is typically recommended for kids, but it can be applied to adult teeth as well.

Dental sealants application

Applying dental sealants is easy and straightforward. First, the dentist will clean and dry the teeth. A dental dam may be used to keep the teeth dry. A chemical solution will be applied to the tooth’s surface to improve the bond between the sealant and the tooth. Afterward, the dentist will apply the sealant material by painting it over each tooth, ensuring it reaches the pits and fissures of teeth evenly.

The sealant will be allowed to harden on its own, or the dentist might accelerate the process with a special curing light. After the dental sealant hardens, the patient will be ready to leave the office, but not before the dentist checks that everything is in order. The sealant can remain intact for about 10 years and can be reapplied when necessary.

When to get dental sealants

Ideally, children should get dental sealants as soon as their first permanent molar erupts. This is usually around ages five and seven. The dentist can apply it to other molars as they emerge, which probably occurs around 11 and 12 years of age. Adults and teenagers can also visit the office for sealants as a preventative treatment if they are susceptible to tooth decay.

The baby teeth play a crucial role in setting the path for incoming permanent teeth. They create a stable foundation, so it is important to protect them from damage or premature decay due to cavities. Baby teeth tend to have deep crevices that make them prone to decay. The dentist will usually recommend applying the sealants to children’s teeth by the time they turn six years old.

Important points to consider

Dental sealant application is not an excuse to slack on routine oral hygiene habits. Patients still need to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once daily. Depending on the condition of the child’s teeth, the dentist may also recommend fluoride treatment to protect their teeth. Fluoride will work even if teeth have been sealed and can serve as an excellent preventative treatment because it strengthens and remineralizes teeth quickly, making them less prone to cavities.

In summary

Dental sealants are one of the basic preventative treatments for teeth. If you are interested in the procedure, or simply want to learn more about preventative dental services, contact the dental office 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: Dental Sealants in Glenn Dale, MD.

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

Lost adult teeth that fall out need to be quickly replaced to avoid issues that often come up when a tooth is lost, like jawbone tissue deterioration, changes to facial structures, and the remaining teeth becoming misaligned.

Reasons that a tooth might become loose and require treatment from an emergency dentist include:

• Trauma to a tooth: A tooth might be loosened by a blow to the mouth that almost knocks it out of its socket; this might be the result of a fall, hard contact during sports, or an accident
• Gum disease: Gum disease is an infection of gum tissues inside the mouth, and it can damage the gum and bone structures that keep teeth in place; this eventually leads to teeth becoming loose and falling out if left untreated
• Tooth decay: Tooth decay can damage a tooth’s structures to the point that it becomes loose. This is often the case when tooth decay is left untreated

How an emergency dentist treats a loose tooth

Anyone who notices one of their teeth is loose should head to an emergency dentist immediately, regardless of whether the issue is causing pain. The longer that a patient waits for treatment, the more likely that the tooth will fall out. Treating a loose tooth is more straightforward than having to replace a lost tooth with a dental prosthetic, like an implant, and it costs much less.

The most common way for a dentist to treat a loose tooth is using a splint to stabilize it. The procedure involves using a splint to attach the tooth to the teeth surrounding it. This holds the loose tooth in place, giving it a chance to re-bond with the surrounding bone structures.

Loose teeth treatments

If a patient’s tooth is loose because of gum disease, the dentist might recommend other treatments to address it. Treatments that might be used to fix a loose tooth caused by gum disease include:

• Deep cleaning: Also known as root scaling and planing, this treatment can be performed before stabilizing the patient’s tooth with a splint; the procedure involves removing tartar and plaque from teeth, their roots, and gum pockets
• Surgery: If a patient has a loose tooth because of severe damage to their gum or bone tissues, a dentist might recommend surgical treatment to rebuild these damaged bone structures
• Medicinal mouth rinses: Prescription mouth rinses can be used to manage gum disease, enabling the structures around a loose tooth to repair themselves
• Soft tissue/bone grafts: A tooth that has been loosened due to damaged gum or bone tissues in the mouth can be repaired by performing tissue grafts

Fix your loose tooth before it falls out

Are you dealing with a loose tooth? Call or head to our Glenn Dale clinic immediately to get the treatment that you need.

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: Emergency Dentist in Glenn Dale, MD.

Discover expert advice from our family dentists on how to effectively prevent and manage bad breath, ensuring fresh breath and optimal oral hygiene.

Want to learn more about bad breath prevention? Keep reading to find out tips straight from a family dentist.

What can cause bad breath

When learning how to prevent bad breath, it is also important to understand the cause of it. Family dentists often try to determine the root cause of the bad breath as it relates heavily to how to prevent it. Typically, bad breath is a result of bad oral hygiene, cavities, gum disease and consumption of foul-smelling foods, such as onions or garlic.

Tips from a family dentist to prevent bad breath

The information below includes some beneficial tips that will help dental patients prevent themselves from being diagnosed with a case of halitosis.

Drink a lot of water throughout the day

Drinking plenty of water all day long helps to wash away anything in the mouth that can cause bad breath, such as bacteria or left behind food particles. Drinking water also helps individuals stay hydrated, which in turn helps prevent dry mouth. Dry mouth is a condition that prevents the salivary glands from making enough saliva, which can lead to bad breath.

Avoid tobacco products

Dental patients who smoke tobacco or use any other type of tobacco products are more likely to experience bad breath problems. This means that patients who use tobacco products, like cigarettes, cigars and chewing tobacco, will often experience bad breath due to the tobacco residue remaining in their mouths. Since tobacco products are also known to cause gum disease and dry mouth, being diagnosed with one or both of these dental problems will often result in one experiencing various levels of bad breath.

Create a proper oral health hygiene routine

Family dentists state that it is essential for everyone to take proper care of their mouths in order to prevent a diagnosis of halitosis. Brushing teeth twice a day and flossing once a day helps to keep bad bacteria in control, as well as to remove any food debris that may be stuck in between the teeth. Additionally, using an appropriate mouthwash can also help lower one’s chances of experiencing bad breath. Family dentists suggest using a gentle mouthwash or saltwater mixture.

Undergo routine dentist appointments

It is also necessary to visit a family dentist regularly. Examinations can be done to check for gum disease or cavities, which may be causing the bad breath. Additionally, cleanings can help reduce any build-up, which may be contributing to a foul odor in the oral cavity.

Got bad breath?

When suffering from bad breath, it can be helpful to consult with a family dentist. Family dentists can evaluate both adults and children to determine the root cause of the bad breath, which can then help outline prevention tips. Reach out today to find out more about bad breath prevention and remedies.

Are you considering using a family dentist in the Glenn Dale area? Get more information at https://mitchellvillefamilydentistry.com.

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

Teeth whitening is a dental procedure that can significantly reduce staining. Having the treatment done professionally by a dentist is a safe and effective way to see great results.

Want to learn more about professional teeth whitening? When considering this treatment option, It is a good idea to take get familiar with all of the facts. This article outlines some commonly asked questions regarding the whitening process.

6 Common questions and answers about teeth whitening

The following questions about teeth whitening are frequently asked by patients. The answers provided can be helpful when considering whether to undergo teeth whitening. Read on to learn more about what to expect from the process.

1. Is teeth whitening safe?

Yes. Many people are under the mindset that teeth whitening is not safe, which is far from the truth. When done professionally, teeth whitening is very safe. What is important to understand is that overdoing it can be harmful. The enamel is temporarily stripped during the whitening process which, if overdone, can be harmful to the teeth long-term.

2. Will teeth whitening results last forever?

Sadly, no. Teeth whitening results can, however, last up to five to 10 years. Patients that practice good oral health routines are more likely to see results that last longer. Brushing the teeth after every meal and avoiding drinks and foods that are heavily dyed can all aid in making the results last.

3. Is sensitivity normal?

Yes. Teeth whitening is known to cause minor sensitivity during and after the procedure. The products used for whitening contain peroxide, which is used to strip the enamel. When the enamel is stripped of the stains, the teeth are more vulnerable, which can cause temporary sensitivity to hot or cold items.

4. How often can teeth whitening be done?

Professional teeth whitening should be done in moderation. Most dentists will recommend the procedure be done every five to six months, depending on the patient’s situation. Overdoing it can cause long-lasting sensitivity, as well as unhealthy teeth.

5. At what age can teeth whitening take place?

For the most part, teeth whitening can take place once a patient reaches their teenage years. Dentists do not recommend teeth whitening for children or patients that still have baby teeth. Adults are typically the best candidates for the procedure because their teeth are developed and have years of stains.

6. Are there ways to make teeth whitening results last?

There are a few things that patients can do to make their teeth whitening results last. Some of the best ways include the following:

• Brush after every meal
• Avoid heavily dyed beverages such as wine, tea or coffee
• Maintain regular cleaning appointments with a dental hygienist
• Avoid dyed mouthwashes

Get started with teeth whitening today!

Undergoing a teeth whitening procedure can be beneficial to your smile. Any questions or concerns regarding this treatment should be addressed by a dentist. Contact us to get started 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: Teeth Whitening in Glenn Dale, MD.

Scaling and root planing for gum disease is an often performed dental procedure that involves cleaning deep down toward the tooth root and below the gum line to remove built-up plaque and tartar. It is a more extensive form of routine dental cleaning and often necessary when treating advanced cases of gum disease.

Treating gum disease with scaling and root planing

Minor instances of gum disease can often be treated through improvements in your at-home oral health routine and through routine dental cleanings. However, scaling and root planing is often a better solution. The following is a review of how dentists use scaling and root planing to clean the gums and treat gum disease in the long term.

What is gum disease?

Gum disease, also called periodontitis, refers to an oral infection that damages the gums and the underlying jawbone. Symptoms of gum disease include bleeding gums, gum swelling, gums that move away from teeth (gum recession), pockets between the teeth and gums, and bone loss. It is most often caused by poor oral hygiene and relatively easy to prevent with consistent oral care and regular dental visits.

Gingivitis is considered by many to be a mild form of gum disease, although some dentists separate the term from periodontitis. Gingivitis is milder and typically able to be treated through less extensive measures than scaling and root planing.

What is scaling and root planing?

Scaling and root planing is a way to treat severe cases of gum disease, particularly those that are not able to be properly addressed through routine cleanings or improvements in oral care. The procedure involves cleaning the crown of the tooth, removing plaque and tartar buildup along the gum line, and going deeper toward the tooth root and underneath the gum line to remove bacteria and plaque.

When are scaling and root planing necessary?

As mentioned, scaling and root planing is necessary for severe cases of gum disease. Some symptoms of severe gum disease that may indicate that scaling and root planing is needed include severe bleeding when pressure is placed upon the gums, abnormal swelling of the gums, bone loss in the jaw, gum recession and loose teeth. If these symptoms exist, then it is important to contact a dentist as soon as possible.

What to expect after treatment

The patient can return home after scaling and root planing. Some discomfort may exist, although it typically goes away within 24 hours and can be managed through over-the-counter pain relief medication. The dentist should also provide dietary limitations during the recovery, which may include reducing the consumption of sugar and avoiding foods that are hard to chew or sticky.

Contact our dental team to learn more about gum disease

You can reach our dental team by phone or email to learn more about gum disease treatment options, and we can explain the process of scaling and root planing to you in greater detail during a consultation visit. Our dental team is friendly and happy to address any concerns you may have about gum disease and its treatment.

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.

Wondering when a dentist will suggest dental veneers to a patient? Many individuals visit a cosmetic dentist for dental veneers as they are skilled at transforming smiles and improving overall aesthetics. With dental veneers, optimal results are often achieved.

About dental veneers

According to Healthline, dental veneers are thin, tooth-colored shells that are attached to the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. These shells are made using strong dental materials, including porcelain and resin composite materials. While veneers are not a permanent cosmetic option, they can last upwards of 25 years with the right dental care. Wearing a bite guard and avoiding eating hard foods also keeps veneers lasting for many years.

When to choose dental veneers

The list below includes three of the most common reasons why a dental patient would benefit from choosing veneers to improve the look of their smile.

#1 – To cover up chipped or cracked teeth

Many people will experience chips or cracks in one or more of their teeth during their lifetime. These chips and/or cracks are often due to biting down on something hard, clenching of the teeth, teeth grinding and using the teeth as tools. Additional reasons for experiencing a chip or crack include having old and large fillings, experiencing a sports-related injury or being involved in an accident. Dental veneers can cover up both chips and cracks, allowing for a confident smile.

#2 – To cover up stains or discolorations in teeth

While undergoing professional teeth whitening services is a choice many people are making, it is good to know that not all tooth stains are removable. Patients who are living with extrinsic stains can expect these stains to be removed when undergoing a professional whitening treatment. However, when it comes to intrinsic stains, they are not likely to be removed through whitening, which is where dental veneers may be beneficial. Dental veneers can completely cover the tooth, which means the stains become invisible.

#3 – To change the size or shape of teeth

When someone has teeth that are too small or too big, dental veneers are often used to make them look more uniform. Teeth that are misshaped or those that do not fit in with the rest of the teeth can also be altered using veneers. Today’s dental patients have the opportunity to essentially design the way their smile looks using dental veneers, as they are one of the more versatile cosmetic dentistry options.

Are veneers the right choice for you?

Since it is now understood what dental veneers are and how they can be used to improve one’s smile, those who feel that they are the right cosmetic choice for them can take the next step by having a treatment plan made. Working with a cosmetic dentist is the best place to start. An evaluation can be done and questions can be answered, both of which are necessary parts of the dental veneers process.

Are you considering getting dental veneers in the Glenn Dale area? Get more information at https://mitchellvillefamilydentistry.com.

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

A cracked tooth does not always count as a dental emergency, but it can become a source of concern when the damage reaches the pulp chamber. The pulp chamber houses the nerve and blood vessels of a tooth. It is the innermost layer of a tooth and is sealed off from the outer layers. Damage to a tooth can end up opening this area, leaving it exposed to irritants like bacteria and acids.

Dealing with a severely cracked tooth

A crack that reaches the pulp chamber of a tooth is a serious issue that typically causes excruciating pain. It can also be accompanied by inflammation and bleeding. This type of damage leaves the soft tissues prone to infection. Such a severely cracked tooth counts as a dental emergency and requires an urgent trip to a dentist.

Treating cracked teeth

The standard way to treat a severely cracked tooth is by performing a root canal. It is a procedure that has a bad reputation as a painful treatment, but that is far from the truth. Local anesthetics are typically used during root canals, so all the patient feels is the dentist pushing on their tooth.

During the root canal, the dentist will use a dental drill to make a tiny hole that reaches the tooth’s pulp chamber. Different sized files are then used to remove the contents of the pulp chamber. Once that has been completed, the dentist will insert medication into the tooth to kill off any bacteria, then the tooth is sealed with gutta-percha. The tooth can then be covered up with a crown to complete the treatment. Composite resin can also be used to rebuild the tooth.

Recovery after a root canal

There is no recovery period after getting a root canal, so patients are free to return to the regular routine. The patient might experience increased sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages if their tooth was prepared for a crown. The sensitivity should go away after a few days and until then, can be managed with over-the-counter desensitizing products like toothpaste and mouth rinses.

Other treatment options for broken teeth

Dentists have other treatment options that they might recommend for broken teeth that are not a serious concern. Popular ways to treat less severe cracks include the following.

Dental bonding: This involves applying composite resin to the damaged tooth and rebuilding it. The putty-like composite is applied in layers and can be color-matched with the rest of the patient’s teeth. The use of a composite does not require any permanent changes being made to the tooth, so other options can be explored in the future.

Crowns: Severe damage to a tooth does not always leave the pulp chamber compromised. When this is the case, the dentist might fit the tooth with a crown to restore its function and appearance. A crown also protects the damaged tooth from further damage.

We can treat your broken tooth

Give us a call or stop by our Glenn Dale clinic if you are dealing with a broken tooth. Our dentist will educate you about your options.

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: Cracked Tooth in Glenn Dale, MD.

If you are missing teeth, it can be both a cosmetic annoyance and a health issue. Luckily, your dentist can treat this issue and help you regain a beautiful smile. There are various effective solutions you can choose from. Your dentist can discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each of these so you can make the right decision.

How teeth go missing

Permanent teeth are not meant to fall out. However, even though teeth are the strongest substance in the body, damage can occur. Poor oral hygiene such as lack of brushing and flossing can lead to cavities, infections and gum disease. When the person does not care for these conditions, the dentist may not be able to save the tooth, or it may even fall out. Trauma from injuries and accidents can also dislodge teeth. This may occur from a slip and fall or from a hard blow to the face while playing sports.

Bridges

A dental bridge closes the gap between existing teeth. This apparatus replaces missing teeth by placing crowns over natural teeth and artificial teeth in the spaces. The crowns act as anchors to the artificial tooth. Bridges help to properly distribute the bite force and keep the shape of the mouth. Another advantage of choosing this option is that it keeps surrounding natural teeth from shifting out of place.

Dentures

This mouth appliance consists of a gum-colored acrylic base and metal artificial teeth covered in plastic. Patients can choose full dentures as a solution to replace all teeth. Partial dentures are available for people who are missing multiple teeth but have healthy natural ones remaining. Most dentures are removable, allowing the wearer to clean them by rinsing and brushing. It is also important to soak them overnight in a solution. Dentures are natural-looking and help the person to speak and eat normally.

Implants

Though titanium implants require a more significant financial commitment, this option is more durable. Dental implants can last 20 years or more, especially if the patient brushes regularly and avoids hard foods. The dentist will insert a screw-like post into the person’s jaw and attach an abutment to it. On top of the abutment is a crown that resembles the color and shape of the natural teeth. This option for replacing missing teeth can take several months, as the dentist will allow time for the patient’s gums and jaw to heal after each step in the process. Dental implants are a good choice for people who are missing one tooth or several teeth.

Replace your missing teeth

Before you decide what is best to replace your missing teeth, evaluate all three of these options. Each of these has pros and potential disadvantages. Your needs and preferences should guide your decision-making. Your dentist can also help you and give a recommendation of what makes the most sense. It can be difficult to live without teeth. Call your dentist today and discuss the various replacement solutions. Before long, you can have the smile you have been looking for.

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

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

Dental restoration treatments can be used to repair teeth that have been damaged by tooth decay. Such treatments can also restore the look and functionality of the tooth.

Tooth decay is an oral issue that most people have to deal with at some point. There are acids in some of the foods we consume, like citrus fruits, and these eat away at teeth enamel. Bacteria that live in the mouth also form acids that eat away at teeth. When a person has poor oral hygiene, these acids can erode teeth to the point that the tooth becomes visibly damaged and loses its functionality.

Addressing tooth decay with dental restoration treatments

The earliest stages of tooth decay do not have any symptoms, making them hard to detect. It causes many to miss a crucial window of opportunity, since the early stages of tooth decay can be reversed with fluoride treatments. Once tooth decay progresses to its later stages, dental restoration treatments are needed to repair any damaged teeth. This can include treatments like the following.

Treatments

Silver amalgam fillings: These were once the standard way to treat cavities, which are tiny holes that form in teeth as they decay. The process involves the dentist removing decayed material from the tooth and filling the hole with material. The filling seals off the area, preventing acids in the mouth from expanding the cavity

Composite bonding: This has become a more popular option when it comes to treating cavities. The dentist uses composite resins to fill up cavities after removing the decayed material from the area. Unlike amalgam fillings that have a visible dark gray color, composites can be color-matched with the patient’s teeth, making it impossible to tell that a patient has composite fillings.

Crowns: Dental caps are usually reserved for more serious cases of tooth decay when the tooth’s structure has been severely affected. A large filling would only weaken the tooth at that point, so the dentist might opt to cover it up with a crown. Crowns protect damaged teeth and restore their function. They allow patients to keep severely damaged teeth.

Root canals: Root canals are used to treat severe tooth decay that leaves a tooth’s pulp chamber compromised. The process involves making a hole in the damaged tooth and removing its blood vessels and nerve. Medication is applied to fight off any infections before the tooth is sealed with gutta-percha. Teeth that have been treated via root canal therapy are often covered with crowns to protect them.

Extractions: Some damaged teeth cannot be saved. Also, there are times that a dentist might decide that an extraction makes more sense than treating the tooth. For example, there is no point treating a decayed wisdom tooth because you do not need them. Many dentists will recommend extracting a wisdom tooth the first time that it causes problems.

We can restore your teeth

Ready to put tooth decay behind you? Call or visit our Glenn Dale clinic to learn more about your dental restoration options.

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 Restorations in Glenn Dale, MD.

Thinking you might need a dental crown? Understanding that dental restorations often involve using a dental crown is necessary, as patients who are in need of dental restorations will often have one or more crowns placed in their mouths. A dental restoration is necessary for patients who have damaged and/or missing teeth, making it essential for those in need to see a general dentist for personalized treatment information.

The importance of regular dentist visits

Want to understand more about dental crown placement from a general dentist? Smart. Even though many dental patients will look for dental-related information online, not everything they read is going to be true and correct. Instead, patients need to make sure they are getting their information from dental professionals, as when they do, they are sure to receive the correct information. Since general dentists are considered to be one’s primary dental care provider, they are the first dental professional seen when a patient is in need of a diagnosis and/or treatment.

The process of having dental crowns placed

The list below is on the topic of what everyone needs to know when they are in need of one or more dental crowns in order to improve their oral health. Due to new and improved dental technologies, the majority of dental patients can have their dental crowns placed in just two dental visits. Here is a brief overview of what to expect from the dental crown process.

The first visit

During the first visit, the patient will need to undergo a full oral examination. This includes taking X-rays of the tooth, as well as its surrounding bone tissue. If any dental decay is present, this decay will need to be addressed before crown placement can happen, which may require root canal therapy. The tooth will be prepped to receive the crown, which requires the careful removal of some of the tooth’s surface in order to accommodate crown placement.

Once the tooth is prepped, an impression of the tooth is made. This impression is sent to an outside laboratory where it can take anywhere between two and three weeks for the crown to be made. In the meantime, the patient will have a temporary crown placed over their tooth in order to protect it.

The second visit

During the second visit to the dental office, the temporary crown will be removed so that the permanent crown can be placed over the tooth. Before placing the permanent crown, the dental professional will first make sure that the crown fits properly and the color of the crown is the correct shade. If all checks out, the new permanent crown will be carefully cemented into place. While some patients will not need a local anesthetic, other patients will.

In need of dental crown placement?

Reading the above information on dental crowns can be helpful for those who need a better understanding of why dental crowns are often necessary to support one’s good oral health. The next step is to schedule a consultation with a dentist, so contact our office 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: Dental Crowns in Glenn Dale, MD.

Looking for Dental Sealant information? Many children get dental sealants to protect their primary teeth from cavities and prevent premature loss. Sealants are also used on the children’s permanent teeth as soon as they emerge to protect them from decay. Continue reading to find out how dental sealants are used.

The use of dental sealants

The back teeth, which are the molars and premolars, have a unique structure of ridges and cusps. The cusps and ridges are designed to be efficient for chewing and grinding food for easy swallowing and digestion. Unfortunately, the surface structures of the molars and premolars also create a hiding spot for plaque, bacteria, food particles, and acids that contribute to tooth decay. To protect the back teeth, a dentist will apply a thin layer of dental sealant material over the chewing surfaces for an extra layer of protection for the tooth enamel.

Dental sealants are more efficient if they are used on the molars and premolars as soon as they emerge. Therefore, most people who have dental sealants get them between the ages of six and 16. This is when the permanent teeth start erupting and when children are more prone to getting cavities. Usually, the first molars appear between six and seven, premolars between 10 and 12, and the second molars often emerge between 11 and 13.

However, if the child has a high risk of cavities, dental sealants can preserve their baby teeth. For older children and adults, dental sealants can be used if their back teeth are still in good condition. Also, if a patient is prone to tooth decay, and the dentist needs to check the spread of tooth decay, they may apply a dental sealant.

How dental sealants are applied

After the dentist determines that the patient is eligible for dental sealants, they can proceed with the application immediately. The entire process is usually painless and non-invasive. No drilling is required with dental sealants, and the material blends well with the color of the teeth.

First, they will clean and dry the tooth surface that will receive the sealant. They may use cotton or dental dam to keep the area dry. They will apply a thin layer of the sealant in liquid form over the surface of the teeth. After uniform application, they will harden the material with a special light.

After application, the tooth’s surface will have the protection of sealants and will be smooth. This will make it easier to clean the ridges of the teeth when brushing. With proper care, dental sealants can be effective for about 10 years. Reapplication can be done if it starts to deteriorate.

The advantage of using dental sealants

Since most cases of cavities affect the molars and premolars, dental sealants can protect these teeth and reduce the need for dental procedures such as fillings and crowns down the line. Good oral health is undoubtedly important for your overall health. Preventing oral issues such as tooth decay has its benefits, not just for your oral health, but also for your overall wellbeing.

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.