Mr. Jackson
@mrjackson

Cosmetic Dentistry

How Long is Wisdom Teeth Recovery?

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wisdom teeth recovery

Wisdom teeth are the back molars in our mouths and tend to erupt between the ages of 17 and 21. Most people do not have enough room in their jaw for wisdom teeth to properly erupt. Wisdom teeth can be impacted, or cause issues once they erupt such as overcrowding or infection.

If you require wisdom teeth surgery you may wonder how the recovery will be. Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure and recovery tends to be pretty easy. The recovery period after wisdom teeth removal is around a week. This depends on the person, and in some cases, the recovery period may take longer if the wisdom teeth are impacted.

What Can I Expect During My Recovery?

Wisdom teeth surgery is done in one appointment, and anesthesia is typically used to help keep patients comfortable and relaxed. After your surgery, you will be brought into a recovery room where you will be monitored until it is safe to go home. We require all patients to bring a family member or friend to the surgery to help get them home safely.

A few hours after your surgery you will regain feeling in your mouth. Swelling and some bleeding are normal, and this should subside after a few days. A cold compress can be used on your mouth at home to help with any swelling or pain. Our team will discuss pain medications, and give you instructions you can take home.

We recommend all patients follow a soft food diet and avoid any alcohol or tobacco products. Patients should avoid using a straw as this can aggravate the surgery area and cause complications. On average patients begin to feel fully recovered around three to four days after their surgery. Patients should follow good oral hygiene habits to help keep the surgery area clean and avoid infection. If you notice any prolonged pain, swelling, or bleeding that does not subside, please call our office to be seen right away.

Looking for Wisdom Teeth Removal and Want To Learn More?

If you are interested in finding out more about wisdom teeth removal contact Owings Mills Dentistry. Our doctors have years of experience in wisdom teeth removal and provide the highest level of care. If you are experiencing any pain, or think you may have an issue with your wisdom teeth, we recommend contacting us right away. Any issues with wisdom teeth should be addressed immediately to avoid complications. 

To find out more, or to schedule your wisdom teeth consultation, contact Owings Mills Dentistry today!

How Long Does a Dental Cleaning Generally Take?

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dental cleaning

Taking care of our teeth is important and can help avoid problems or unnecessary visits to the dentist’s office later in life. We recommend patients visit our office for their cleaning and exam at least twice a year. These appointments are crucial and can help maintain your oral health and detect issues before they become serious. Bacteria and plaque build-up over time and your toothbrush at home can only remove so much. Dental cleanings are easy and the typical dental cleaning and exam only take approximately 30-45 minutes. This depends on the condition of your teeth and if any problems are identified.

At Owings Mills Dentistry prevention is extremely important. We help our patients review their oral hygiene routine at home and recommend changes to help keep their teeth and gums healthy. Many patients avoid visiting the dentist due to anxiety or fear. At Owings Mills Dentistry we create a calm and relaxing experience and can help you get the dental care you need. Our doctors have years of experience and love to help patients achieve the perfect smile.

What Can I Expect During My Appointment?

When you visit our office, we create a calm and welcoming environment. Our treatment rooms are updated with the latest technology and equipment. During the visit, we thoroughly clean each patient’s teeth using special dental tools to remove any plaque or tarter. Our team will examine the condition of both your teeth and gums to ensure everything looks healthy. We take x-rays and create a customized treatment plan for each patient. Our team will perform an oral cancer screening by checking your mouth, throat, neck, and tongue for any areas of concern. Our doctor will meet with each patient to discuss any areas of concern and follow-up visits.

Why Are Dental Cleanings and Exams Important?

Getting comfortable visiting the dentist and attending your regular cleaning and exam appointments can help set the stage for the future. Dental exams allow our doctors to get in front of any issues early on, and this can help prevent serious issues from developing in the future. During your exam, we can detect broken fillings, cavities, or other oral concerns. Our team can remove plaque and tartar that brushing at home cannot reach. We recommend patients brush and floss daily at home to help keep their teeth and gums looking and feeling great. If you ever notice any pain or discomfort, we encourage you to contact our office right away, and we will ensure you are seen as soon as possible.

Are You Due for Your Regular Dental Cleaning and Exam?

If you are ready to schedule your dental cleaning and exam, we encourage you to contact us. Let our team help you care for your teeth and keep your smile looking its best. We provide exceptional service and quality dental care you can trust.

To schedule your appointment and join our dental family, contact Owings Mills Dentistry, and our staff will be happy to assist you.

Is Dental Bonding Permanent?

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dental bonding

If you have decided to restore your smile dental bonding is a great option. Bonding is not permanent, and can be reversed if necessary. Bonding is very durable, and if you have any wear or tear it can be repaired easily. This treatment can take care of cosmetic issues, is quick, and less expensive compared to other options. Dental bonding is great for repairing decayed, chipped, or fractured teeth. Bonding can even correct discolored teeth, and looks natural.

The composite material used can be shaped to match your natural teeth. Other benefits include changing the length of a tooth, or closing spaces between teeth. The procedure can typically be done in one day, and no anesthesia is needed. Dental bonding can last between 5-10 years before the composite material begins to wear down.

How Does the Dental Bonding Process Work?

Dental bonding does not require any removal of your tooth enamel. During the process your tooth is gently etched using a mild acid solution to help roughen the surface. This allows the composite material to bond to your tooth easily. The tooth-colored resin material is applied to the area, and is then cured with an ultraviolet light. Your tooth is shaped and polished to match your natural teeth. This process takes between 30-60 minutes.

Does Dental Bonding Last?

Dental bonding requires the patients to take care of the area that was bonded. The composite material used is very durable, but is never as strong as your natural teeth. With dental bonding there is risk of the bonding material separating from the tooth. Dental bonding can also chip or break. This is unlikely, but we do recommend patients do take care of the area that was bonded to avoid any complications. The good news is that dental bonding can be repaired. Dental bonding can last between 5-10 years or longer if taken care of properly.

Interested in Finding Out More About Dental Bonding?

If you are ready to find out more about how dental bonding may benefit you, contact Owings Mills Dentistry. Our doctors have years of experience in cosmetic dentistry, and love to help patients achieve that smile they have always wanted.

To schedule your appointment with us, contact Owings Mills Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

Can a Dry Mouth Cause Cavities?

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dry mouth

Dry mouth is also known as xerostomia, and this happens when the salivary glands do not produce enough saliva in the mouth. In some cases, dry mouth is temporary, and can be caused by dehydration. In other cases, dry mouth is a chronic problem, and many struggle with this issue. Dry mouth can be caused by medical conditions such as diabetes, or can be caused by an infected salivary gland.

When we do not have enough saliva production this can cause oral health issues. Saliva plays an important role in our oral health, and helps to protect our teeth and gums from acids or erosion. The saliva washes away bacteria or food, and keeps our teeth and mouth healthy.

What Issues Can Dry Mouth Cause?

Dry mouth can cause many issues including gum disease, tooth decay, staining, and erosion of enamel. When bacteria are not washed away, and plaque and tartar collect, this can cause gum disease, and in turn this increases the risk of tooth decay and cavities. If not treated gum disease can cause tooth deterioration, or even tooth loss.

When your saliva production is low the bacteria and acids stay on your teeth longer, and this can lead to tooth decay or enamel erosion. If the acid and plaque levels are high, your teeth can become discolored or stained. It is always important to attend your regular dental exams and cleaning appointments to ensure your teeth and mouth are healthy, and do not have any decay.

How Can I Treat Dry Mouth?

The good news is there are ways to treat dry mouth and restore the health of your teeth and gums. Depending on the level of damage will determine what treatment is required. Restoration options include fillings, crowns, or gum treatments.

Tips To Prevent Dry Mouth

  • Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water
  • Use an over-the-counter saliva treatment or substitute
  • Use a humidifier while sleeping to increase moisture in the air
  • Chew sugar-free gum to help saliva production
  • Stay on top of your oral health routine, and brush and floss daily to prevent plaque and bacteria buildup

Ready To Find Out More?

If you are suffering from dry mouth, and have concerns about your oral health, we encourage you to contact Owings Mills Dentistry. Scheduling a consultation with our team is the first step towards healthy teeth and gums. Our doctors will perform a thorough exam, and provide treatment recommendations that work for you. Dry mouth can lead to serious issues, and should always be addressed right away.

To schedule your appointment, please contact Owings Mills Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

What are the Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry?

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Cosmetic Dentistry

Taking care of your teeth and oral health is very important. Part of this includes making sure that you brush and floss on your own while also coming in for regular examinations. At some point, you may also want to have cosmetic dentistry provided by a local cosmetic dentist.

What are some examples of cosmetic dentistry?

The cosmetic dentistry procedures vary a lot from one to the next. Some of the forms of cosmetic dentistry that people will pursue at some point can include teeth whitening, additional of veneers and outlays, or cosmetic bonding. Some more significant forms of cosmetic dentistry can include the additional of dental implants.

What are the benefits of cosmetic dentistry?

There are a variety of benefits that come with cosmetic dentistry. One of the advantages of cosmetic dentistry is that it can improve your appearance and smile. When you have your teeth whitened or veneers added, it help to you to look and feel better.

While some forms of cosmetic dentistry are provided to help you to look and feel better, there are other forms that are necessary to improve your ability to chew. The addition of dental implants is something that is often done by someone that specializes in cosmetic dentistry. When you have dental implants installed, they will act as permanent replacement teeth. These implants are made of a very durable titanium alloy, which will allow the implants to last for 25 years or longer.

Who is a good candidate for cosmetic dentistry?

Most people are good candidates for some form of cosmetic dentistry. However, it is normally a good idea to have any active decay properly cared for before having one of these services provided. When you meet with a dentist, they will be able to provide a full evaluation to determine whether or not you are a good candidate to pursue one of these cosmetic services.

Looking for a Cosmetic Dentist Near You?

When you need cosmetic dentistry, you should contact our dental office as soon as you can! Our cosmetic dentist can provide a wide range of benefits and services. When you call our office, our friendly team will be able to answer any questions that you have and can also schedule an appointment so you can meet with a dentist today to discuss your cosmetic dentistry needs and options.

Does Teeth Whitening Cause Any Dental Problems?

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Teeth Whitening

Teeth Whitening treatments are popular for patients that have tooth discoloration, or for those that just want a brighter smile. Whitening your teeth can be done safely and there are several options to choose from. If the directions are followed patients can successfully whiten their teeth with no side effects. Teeth whitening boosts self-confidence, can change a patient’s smile quickly, and make you feel great.

What Are My Options for Teeth Whitening?

If you have decided to whiten your teeth there are a few options to choose from. We offer teeth whitening treatments in our office, and this typically is a faster way to get the results you desire. We also offer a treatment you can take with you and whiten in the convenience of your own home.

Both options give great results patients are happy with. In addition to those two options there are over the counter whitening treatments that can help you whiten your teeth. Part of the evaluation process is to take a good look at your teeth and the level of discoloration, your age, and dental history to help you decide what treatment options will work best.

What Are Common Side Effects With Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening is perfectly safe, but there are a few side effects that patients can experience.

Teeth Sensitivity

When you whiten your teeth the product gets deep into the tooth enamel. In some cases patients can experience sensitivity after teeth whitening treatments. We may recommend you use a sensitive type tooth paste to help with any sensitivity after whitening.

Irritated Gums

Gum irritation is another common issue when patients decide to whiten your teeth. In some cases patients are sensitive to the whitening treatment. This typically goes away after your treatment is complete.

Whitening treatments can be done periodically to keep teeth looking bright white. Whitening treatments are for patients with natural teeth. If you have implants, crowns, bridges, or dentures and want to whiten your teeth, we recommend scheduling a consultation to discuss your options. If you suffer from many cavities we recommend those are treated before any whitening treatment begins. Depending on each case we can help determine if teeth whitening is right for you.

How To Keep My Teeth Looking White

There are things you can do at home to help keep your teeth looking bright white. Avoiding food and beverages that may stain your teeth like coffee, tea, or red wine. If you do eat or drink something that may stain your teeth it is a good idea to rinse or brush right afterwards to help decrease staining.

Looking To Whiten Your Teeth?

Teeth whitening is a great way to give you a bright white smile. Whitening your teeth is safe and easy, and does not cause many side effects or issues. Scheduling a consultation with our team to examine your teeth and discuss your goals is a great way to start the process. Our skilled professionals will help you decide what treatment is best, and help get you on the road to a brighter smile.

If you are interested in scheduling a consultation to find out if teeth whitening is right for you, contact our office and our staff will be happy to assist you.

What Should I Look For When Choosing a Cosmetic Dentist?

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Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentists can help enhance or improve the appearance of your teeth, gums, and jaw. If you are unhappy with your smile, or have cracked, broken, or misshapen teeth, finding a good cosmetic dentist is important. Cosmetic dentistry focuses on the overall appearance of your smile. This includes the color, shape, size, and position of your teeth.

Searching for a good cosmetic dentist can be stressful, but knowing what to look out for can help you find a dentist that is perfect for you.

What to Consider When Searching for a Cosmetic Dentist

  • Check for a dentist’s credentials by visiting their website and reading a biography about the doctor. If this is not available contact the office directly to collect this information.
  • Ask for referrals and talk to people that have had prior cosmetic dental procedures.
  • Look for a dentist that has continuing education. Continuing education shows that a dentist is constantly improving their knowledge, learning new techniques using the latest technology, and expanding on skills.
  • When reading their biography look to see how long they have been practicing cosmetic dentistry and how many procedures they have done over the years.
  • Look at before and after photos to help get a good idea of the doctor’s skills.
  • Schedule a cosmetic consultation to learn about the doctor and practice. Consultations allow you to discuss your concerns, and learn about what treatment options are available. This will also give you a good idea if you feel comfortable with the dentist you choose.

Choosing the best cosmetic dentist for you is important. Knowing their background, expertise, and work they have done can help you make a decision. Achieving that perfect smile to boost confidence, or correct an issue can be life changing. Taking charge of your dental health can give you that smile you have always wanted.

Looking to Schedule a Cosmetic Consultation?

Our detailed consultation process gives patients the ability to discuss their concerns and smile goals. Our skilled team will examine your mouth, teeth, and jaw and recommend treatment options that work for you. Starting with a consultation can give you the ability learn about our doctors, practice, and help you decide what treatment may be best.

To schedule your cosmetic consultation and begin the process to that perfect smile, contact our office and our staff will be happy to assist you.

What Can a Cosmetic Dentist Do?

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Cosmetic Dentist

Cosmetic Dentists help enhance or improve the appearance of the teeth, gums, or jaw. When patients are not happy with their smile, or those who have chipped, cracked, or misshapen teeth, cosmetic dentistry can help give you that perfect smile. Cosmetic dentistry focuses on the overall appearance of a patient’s smile including the color, position, shape, and size of the teeth. Understanding what a cosmetic dentist can do will help you decide what type of dentist you may need.

Cosmetic dentistry offers many services to enhance your smile. We offer a detailed consultation process that allows our team to examine your teeth and mouth to determine the recommended treatment. We also take the time to let the patient explain their concerns, and what they like or dislike about their smile. Our team is there every step of the way to help guide our patients, and choose a treatment that works best for them.

What Cosmetic Services Are Available?

  • Smile Makeovers
  • Facial Rejuvenation
  • Teeth Whitening
  • Invisalign
  • Gum Contouring
  • Dental Crowns
  • Porcelain Veneers
  • Dental Bonding
  • Dental Implants

Cosmetic dentistry can help brighten your smile, straighten your teeth, and make your teeth look more uniform and natural. If you have damage or an injury, you do not need to live with these issues. Cosmetic dentistry can help fix these imperfections. Missing teeth can be corrected, and you can enjoy a beautiful smile without anyone knowing you had missing teeth. Leaving missing teeth in your mouth can lead to bone loss or other complications, so it is important to address your issues as soon as possible.

Looking to Take That Next Step?

Taking that first step to call our office is all you have to do to get on the road to a beautiful smile you can be proud to show off. Creating beautiful smiles is what we do, and our team is here to provide the very best care available. Using the latest technology we can transform your teeth into a bright white smile.

If you are unhappy with your smile, or are interested in finding out what procedures are available, contact our office, and our staff will be happy to set up your consultation.