Admin - Owings Mills Dentistry

How Do I Know If I Have a Cavity?

December 8, 2020October 31, 2020 by Admin

Taking care of your oral and overall health must be a priority. Knowing when you need to call your dentist is important. Practicing good oral hygiene habits help to prevent tooth decay, cavities, and many other issues. Cavities are one of the most common issues patients face, and about 30 percent of Americans have untreated dental cavities. Leaving a cavity untreated can destroy your teeth leading to tooth loss, infection, and other more serious conditions.

It is helpful for patients to understand what a cavity is, and also know what symptoms to look out for if you think you may have a cavity.

What is a Cavity?

A cavity is when bacteria or food build up and form plaque on your teeth. The bacteria eat away at the enamel on your teeth and cause decay. Good oral hygiene habits are so important, and brushing and flossing can help you get rid of the plaque build up to prevent cavities from developing. Once the cavity is formed there is a small hole in your tooth, and if left untreated the cavity can destroy your tooth or develop an infection.

What Are the Signs of a Cavity?

There are signs you can look out for that may indicate you have a cavity. If you experience any of these signs we encourage you to contact our office, and our staff will get you in as soon as possible. Our team always works to keep our patient’s teeth and mouth healthy and pain free.

• Sensitivity to hot and cold that lingers and does not go away
• Sensitivity to sweet foods or drinks
• A toothache that is on or around one or more teeth
• Pain when you bite down or pain during eating
• Discoloration, white spots, or staining on a tooth
• A small hole or mark on your tooth

Need to Contact Our Office?

Knowing these signs can help you decide if you need to contact a dentist. We always tell patients to never hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns. We are here to help, and a cavity should never be left untreated.
If you think you may have a cavity and need to schedule an appointment, contact our office and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

How Can Poor Oral Health Affect the Rest of the Body?

October 1, 2020September 30, 2020 by Admin

Oral health is extremely important for many reasons. If patients suffer from gum disease, cavities, or bad breath this can cause issues with your teeth and mouth. Our mouths are a pathway for bacteria to enter the body. The bacteria are able to enter the blood stream, and this can also cause infection or inflammation in other parts of our body.

Taking good care of your teeth and mouth can keep your body healthy, and can also help avoid serious issues in the future. At Owings Mills Dentistry in Owings Mills, MD, we encourage our patients to practice good oral hygiene habits at home. We also promote overall health and wellness. Our team cares about each patient, and keeping up with your oral health not only can keep your teeth and mouth feeling great, but your body feeling great also.

What Problems Can Occur From Poor Oral Health?

Respiratory Infections

If you have infected or inflamed gums that bacteria can transfer into the lungs. This can lead to respiratory infections, pneumonia, or even bronchitis.

Dementia

Inflamed gums can release substances that are harmful to our brain cells. This can lead to memory loss that is a result of bacteria spreading to the nerves.

Cardiovascular Disease

If you have poor oral health you are at risk for cardiovascular disease. The bacteria from the infected gums enters the bloodstream, and can cause the arteries to build up plaque. This can put you at risk for a heart attack.

Prostate Problems

If men suffer from periodontal disease they may have prostatitis. This condition causes irritation and other prostate related problems.

Diabetes

Diabetics are more likely to have infected gums over those that do not have diabetes. This can make diabetes difficult to control due to unregulated blood sugar levels. Gum disease can lead to higher blood sugar levels and this can put a person at risk for developing diabetes.

Infertility

Poor oral health and infertility in women are linked. If a woman suffers from gum disease this can lead to issues with infertility, and may make it difficult for a woman to conceive or have a healthy pregnancy.

Cancer

Poor oral health can put patients at risk for kidney cancer, pancreatic cancer, or blood cancer. In addition if patients smoke or use tobacco products this can lead to oral or throat cancers.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

People who have gum disease are more likely to have Rheumatoid Arthritis. The bacteria in our mouths can increase inflammation in the body, and this increases the risk for developing Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Kidney Disease

Kidney disease is a health problem that affects the kidneys, heart, bones, and blood pressure. Periodontal disease can lead to kidney disease. Patients with gum disease typically have weaker immune systems, and this can make them susceptible to infection. Many patients that have poor oral health also have kidney disease, and this can lead to kidney failure if not treated.

How Can I Prevent These Health Issues?

In order to prevent serious health issues caused by bad oral health habits you must take care of your oral health. Scheduling regular dental exams in our office can help keep your teeth and gums clean, and get in front of any issues before they arise. Dr. Ai K. Vo’s friendly Owings Mills dental team always put our patients first, and complete a thorough exam of your teeth and mouth to ensure everything is looking and feeling great. If we do have concerns, we will discuss those with you and develop a customized treatment plan to take care of any issues right away.

Tips for Good Oral Hygiene

Brush and floss your teeth daily
Avoid smoking or using any tobacco products
Use mouthwash that contains fluoride
Try and stay away from food and drinks that contain lots of sugar
Eat a well-balanced diet
Exercise and take care of your overall health

If you take care of your oral health, you take care of your body. Good oral hygiene can help prevent problems such as gingivitis or periodontal disease, as well as prevent more serious health issues in your body.

Looking for a Family Dentist Near You?

At Owings Mills Dentistry, we provide the highest level of dental care for patients of all ages. We welcome all new patients, and use state of the art technology to ensure our patients have an exceptional experience when visiting our office. If you are looking for a dentist near you, contact our dental office in Owings Mills, MD to schedule your next dental exam and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

Is it Better to Get A Dental Implant or a Bridge?

September 2, 2020August 24, 2020 by Admin

When deciding on a restorative solution it is important to look at all of your options to help you decide on the best option that works for you. A common question patients face is if they should choose a dental bridge or dental implants when they are looking for a tooth replacement solution. Both are restorative solutions for missing teeth, and it is helpful to understand the differences. At Owings Mill Dentistry, we provide our patients with a thorough consultation to examine their teeth & mouth and will discuss the differences between all of the restorative options available. Our staff works closely with our patients to help choose the best dental restoration in Owings Mills, MD.

What Is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that fills the gap created by one or more missing teeth. Bridges are anchored to one or more neighboring teeth also known as abutment teeth. Bridges can be supported by natural teeth or by dental implants. The false teeth are in-between and are called pontics.

How Do Dental Bridges Work?

During your first appointment at our dental office in Owings Mills, MD we prepare the neighboring teeth. The preparation for a bridge involves removing part of the enamel to allow room for the crown. The crowns are placed over the neighboring teeth. Impressions of your teeth are taken to make the bridge in the lab, and temporary bridges are used while you wait for your permanent bridge. Patients return to the office, and we remove the temporary bridge to prepare for the permanent bridge. The new bridge is installed, and we check to make sure the bridge is comfortable, and the perfect fit. Patients may have to return to our office again to ensure the bridge is working well with your bite. Once we know the bridge fits properly we will cement the bridge in place.

How Long Will Dental Bridges Last?

Dental bridges last around 10-15 years. Bridges do involve using some of your natural teeth, and this can cause your bridge to fail over time. The teeth around the bridge are still vulnerable to decay and disease which can attribute to the life of the bridge. Patients must practice good oral hygiene habits at home to keep the bridge and surrounding teeth clean. Dr. Ai K. Vo, our dentist in Owings Mills, MD recommend brushing twice a day and flossing to ensure you carefully clean around both the false and natural teeth. Visiting our office regularly can help to keep your teeth clean, and your bridge looking and feeling great.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Bridges?

Surgery is not required
Dental bridges tend to be less costly compared to implants
Jawbone density is not an issue with bridges
Overall the bridge procedure is less invasive compared to dental implants

What Are Dental Implants?

Implants are a permanent solution for patients that have missing, broken, or damaged teeth. They are durable, and act similar to a screw that is placed into the jawbone. The screw acts like an artificial tooth root, and provides a strong base for one or more artificial teeth. Implants require a healing period to give the implant time to fuse to the jawbone. This process allows the implant to function just like a natural tooth.

How Do Dental Implants Work?

Dental implants require multiple appointments in our dental clinic in Owings Mills, MD and the process takes a few months. The first step involves placing the implant into the patient’s jawbone. Once this is done there is a healing period where we must give the implant time to fuse to the jawbone. This process is known as osseointegration. Part of our implant evaluation process is to determine if the patient has adequate bone in the jaw to support the implants. If needed, bone grafting can be done to give patients the bone required to provide the necessary support.

Once the healing process is complete the patient returns to our office, and an abutment or connector is placed on top of the implants. This allows the crown to be secured to the implant. Custom crowns are made to match the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth. Temporary crowns may be used while patients wait for the permanent crowns to be installed.

How Long Will Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are durable and last upwards of 25 years, or a lifetime if they are cared for properly. Implants are built out of titanium, and provide patients with a permanent solution for missing teeth. Caring for dental implants is like caring for natural teeth, and Owings Mills, MD recommend practicing good oral hygiene habits at home to keep your implants looking and feeling great.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?

Dental implants are long lasting, and are a permanent restorative solution
Easy to care for
Implants function like natural teeth
Chewing power is restored with dental implants
Speech and overall appearance are improved
Patients can eat all the foods they normally would with implants
Dental Implants tend to cost more, but are a good investment because they are built to last

Looking for a Dentist to Provide Dental Implants or Dental Bridges Near You?

Choosing the best restorative option is a big decision, and our team is here to help. Our consultation process will answer all of your questions, and we will discuss what option may work best for you. We want our patients to be proud of their smile, and our team works to give patients the highest level of care. At Owings Mills Dentistry, we welcome our patients in a comfortable and relaxing environment using state of the art technology. Creating beautiful smiles is what we do, and we take pride in giving patients a smile they can be proud of.

If you are interested in finding out more about your restorative options such as dental implants or dental bridges, please contact Dr. Vo today to schedule your consultation.

When Should a Person Switch Dentists?

August 2, 2020July 29, 2020 by Admin

Switching dentists can be a hard decision, but patients need to make a change if they notice things aren’t working out with the current practice. Knowing when to make the move can be hard, but there are some tips you can follow to help you find your new dental office or dental clinic in the Owings Mills area.

There are signs you can look out for that indicate it may be time to start your search to find your next dental practice. At Owings Mills Dentistry, we welcome new patients to our practice, and strive to provide exceptional service to patients of all ages. We know how important finding the right dentist is, and we go above and beyond to provide the highest level of service and care for our patients!

What Are Some Signs That Indicate it May Be Time to Switch Dental Practices?

Your dentist has retired or moved
You have decided to move away from the area
Appointments tend to be at inconvenient times
Getting to your dentist is difficult, and the practice may be in an inconvenient location
The practice does not offer the dental procedures you need
Your friends or family have recommended another practice that sounds like it may be a better fit
You have had to call the billing department and dispute charges multiple times
Your dental insurance has changed
You do not feel comfortable with the recommended treatment plan at your current dentist

How Should I Go About Switching Dentists?

Once you have made the decision to switch dentists you can focus on finding your new practice. Making sure the new dentist is a good fit is important, and there are many things to consider. Think about what type of dental practice you would like for you and your family. Would a family practice work better and if so, make sure the new practice can provide all of the necessary services for your entire family. Research if the practice offers orthodontics if you have teenagers, should you need that type of treatment. This will help to eliminate the need for switching dentists again in the future.

Do your research and check out some online reviews to read about the dentist’s certifications or background. Read about the mission statement to understand the practice values, and how the practice is run. Make sure the facility is updated, and has the latest technology and advanced procedures available.

Once you have done your research and have found a dentist you think may be a good fit, schedule a visit to check out the practice. This way you can see firsthand if you are comfortable, and if your family would benefit from joining the practice.

When visiting the office take mental notes of important things such as how you are treated during your visit, and how long it takes you to get to and from the practice. Ask the staff if you can have a tour of the office to ensure the practice meets your expectations.

Looking for a quality Dentist Near You?

If you are looking for a family friendly dentist near you, contact Dr. Vo for your next dental cleaning. Our goal is to provide exceptional service in a family friendly environment. Our staff is available to answer any questions you may have, and we welcome all new patients to our office.

If you are interested in scheduling your next dental cleaning with us, please contact Owings Mills Dentistry in Owings Mills, FL, and one of our staff members will be happy to assist you.

How Often do Dental Implants Need to Be Replaced?

June 10, 2020 by Admin

If you have been recommended for dental implants, you may wonder if they will ever have to be replaced. Implants are a permanent restorative solution for patients seeking that perfect smile. Dental implants look and feel natural in the mouth, and last upwards of 25 years if they are cared for properly.

At Owings Mills Dentistry, dental implants are one of the most common restorative options done in our dental office in Owing Mills, MD. Many patients are leaning towards this permanent option to give them a durable smile that will last for years. Dental implants can last your entire life, and they are one of the most reliable tooth restoration options available to patients.

However, some patients have asked us if having their teeth cleaned regularly can damage the enamel on our teeth. We hope that this article can help address this common concern.

How Successful Are Dental Implants?

Implants have a 95% success rate, and we encourage patients to use good oral hygiene habits to keep the implants clean and free of plaque. This helps the implants to last, and prevents infection which can make them unstable in the mouth. Implants moving or needing replacement is rare. If an implant shifts out of place this could indicate the bone tissue is not providing enough support, and you should contact our dental office in Owings Mills, MD immediately.

Tips to Ensure your Dental Implants Last a Lifetime

Here are some helpful tips that you can start using to get the most out of your dental implants:

Floss daily using an implant specific floss or wax free floss to help keep the area clean and free of plaque. A Waterpik Water Flosser can be used to assist in removing plaque around the implants.
Use a low abrasive tooth brush such as a soft type brush on your implants.
Avoid any products, foods, or drinks containing any ingredients that may stain your teeth.
Anti-microbial rinses can be used to help reduce inflammation and prevent infection.
Avoid products that contain stannous fluoride, sodium fluoride, or baking soda. These ingredients can make the implants prone to corrosion.

Contact Owings Mill Dentistry Today

Caring for your implants at home is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Practicing good oral hygiene habits at home will ensure your implants last for years and never need to be replaced. Dr. Vo‘s friendly team is here to help you achieve the smile you have always wanted. We are always available to answer questions and help you every step of the way.

If you are interested in finding out more about dental implants in Owings Mills, MD and how they may benefit you, contact Owings Mills Dentistry to schedule your consultation with Dr. Vo.

Can Dental Cleanings Damage Enamel?

June 10, 2020 by Admin

Dental cleanings are integral part of our oral health, and are typically recommended twice a year. Keeping our teeth and gums free and clear of harmful bacteria is important. At Owings Mills Dentistry our team is proud to offer general dental treatments like dental cleanings in Owings Mills, MD. We strive to provide quality services for our patients, and always make sure our patients are relaxed and comfortable during their visit.

However, some patients have asked us if having their teeth cleaned regularly can damage the enamel on our teeth. We hope that this article can help address this common concern.

Can Dental Cleanings Damage Enamel?

Dental cleanings do not damage the enamel on your teeth! Cleanings safely remove the plaque and bacteria that builds up over time on the teeth and under the gums. If teeth are not cleaned regularly inflammation can occur, and this can lead to gum disease. Brushing at home is a great way to remove bacteria from the teeth, but brushing cannot clean our teeth like a professional cleaning. Our certified hygienists provide quality cleanings to keep your teeth and mouth healthy.

If teeth are cleaned improperly at home or by a non-professional, damage can occur to the enamel. Enamel is extremely durable, and it is hard to chip or damage during cleaning exams. Enamel can wear off if patients suffer from bruxism, or use harsh brushing strokes while brushing their teeth at home. Acidic foods or drinks can also cause erosion to enamel on our teeth.

If you have concerns about the condition of the enamel on your teeth, please let our team know when you schedule your appointment.

What Should I Expect During my Cleaning Appointment?

Dental cleanings in our office typically take anywhere from 30-45 minutes. X-rays are taken if needed, and carefully reviewed during your exam to help our team to provide a customized treatment plan for each patient. Our skilled hygienists use special tools to carefully remove the hard layer of plaque from a patient’s teeth, and we ensure your mouth is free of any plaque or bacteria. Our staff will discuss the health of your teeth and gums, and will recommend further treatment if needed.

Your oral health is extremely important to us, and we encourage our patients to keep up with regularly scheduled dental cleanings to keep their teeth looking and feeling great. Regular dental cleanings are a great way to prevent future issues. Dental exams give us the opportunity to catch any potential issues early, and prevent serious issues from developing.

Looking for a quality Dentist in Owings Mills for your next Dental Exam?

If you are looking for a family friendly dentist in Owings Mills, MD contact Dr. Vo for your next dental cleaning. Our goal is to provide exceptional service in a family friendly environment. Our staff is available to answer any questions you may have, and we welcome all new patients to our office.

If you are interested in scheduling your next dental cleaning with us, please contact Owings Mills Dentistry, and one of our staff members will be happy to assist you.

Can I Drink Coffee after Dental Implant Surgery?

November 24, 2019 by Admin

Dental implants are a great way to restore your smile and replace missing teeth. Implants can be used to replace single tooth or multiple teeth using several strategically placed restorations. Implants are durable and long-lasting, with most patients having their implants for decades without showing signs of wear. The procedure to place your new dental implants involves creating an incision through the gums and inserting the post of the titanium implant deep into the jawbone. Over the course of just several months, the implant will actually bond with the bone and become a permanent part of your smile.

Is Coffee Okay After Implant Surgery?

After implant surgery, your gums are healing from having an incision made through them. It is vitally important that you avoid drinking hot coffee, tea or hot chocolate after the procedure itself for up to two or three days. The heat of the coffee can cause increased bleeding, which could be a problem for the surgical site and its ability to heal. If you must have your morning cup of Joe, be sure to let it cool down significantly before you drink any of it. The same can be said about hot foods like soups, broths or potatoes.

How to Care for Your New Implants

The best way to care for your new dental implants is to keep your mouth clean and to avoid hard, crunchy or sticky foods. It’s often recommended to stick to a soft food diet for about two weeks following surgery. This gives the gums more than enough time to heal and to prevent the implant from becoming dislodged. Some of the foods that you’ll want to avoid immediately following dental implant placement include:

Hard, crusty breads
Hot coffee, teas and soups
Popcorn, chips and hard pretzels
Gummy or sticky candy
Hard fruits and veggies

Some minor pain and swelling are normal after implant surgery. This is to be expected, as it is your body’s way of reacting to the incision and work that has been done. However, if you experience severe pain and swelling following surgery or weeks after an implant was placed, it is important to be right away for any post-operative complications. For the most part, the majority of patients who come in for dental implants experience no problems and can go back to eating and drinking their favorite things in no time.

If you’d like to learn more about how to care for dental implants, call us today to talk to one of our professional team members.

What is the Best Treatment for Mild Sleep Apnea?

November 24, 2019 by Admin

Sleep apnea is a condition that affects the way that you breathe throughout the night. While you sleep, the soft tissues at the back of your throat actually begin to loosen and close over the upper airway. This causes loud snoring as well as constant cessations in your breathing. Because you’re not breathing properly, your body automatically wakes up regularly throughout the night so that you can essentially catch your breath. Treatment of sleep apnea can eliminate these symptoms by opening the upper airway.

Why Do You Need to Treat Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea symptoms can have an impact on virtually every aspect of your life. Because you’re not getting a full night of deep rest, you may feel exhausted throughout the day. It might be hard to keep up with your family, children and even your career. Over time, you’ll find that you’re more irritable and moody, and you’re more likely to develop other medical problems as a result of a lack of rejuvenating sleep. This is why it is important to consider treating your sleep apnea as soon as possible. While many patients with more severe or serious sleep apnea symptoms need a CPAP machine, more mild cases can benefit from a simple oral appliance worn each night.

What is the Best Treatment for Mild Sleep Apnea?

For mild sleep apnea, an oral appliance that is worn nightly can be incredibly effective. This device works by opening the airway, preventing the soft tissue from essentially falling over this area. The device is comfortable, custom made to fit the patient perfectly and durable. In fact, you’ll find that your sleep apnea oral appliance lasts for years before it’ll need to be replaced. Furthermore, you’re able to treat the condition and improve your quality of life.

The way that this appliance is made is by taking impressions of your mouth. These detailed impressions will be used to make the appliance itself. We fit the device to you and adjust any areas that may be uncomfortable. You will then wear the device every single night in order for it to effectively treat your sleep apnea. By treating mild sleep apnea, symptoms are less likely to get worse and you will be able to get through your day without feeling exhausted and lethargic.

If you have sleep apnea and want to discuss treatment options, call us today to speak with one of our knowledgeable staff members.