Mr. Jackson
@mrjackson

General Dentist

How Much Radiation is in a Dental X-ray?

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radiation in dental x ray

Dental x-rays are commonly used when you visit your dentist in Owings Mills. Many patients wonder if dental x-rays are safe and if they should worry about radiation exposure. Expressing concerns about your health and safety is normal, and the good news is that dental x-rays are extremely safe. You may notice your hygienist covers you with protective equipment and leaves the room during the x-ray. This is to avoid repeated exposure because hygienists perform x-rays daily as part of their cleaning and exam routines. The protective equipment placed on the patient helps to further protect your body and organs that are more sensitive to radiation exposure.

Every day we are exposed to levels of radiation naturally in the environment, and dental x-rays only make up a small fraction of the average daily dose of radiation each day. Patients do not need to worry about exposure, as the amount is so low there is nothing to be concerned about.

Are Dental X-Ray’s Safe?

Dental x-rays do not require much radiation to produce images. With the new technology used today x-rays use 90% less radiation exposure and are safe for patients. Diagnostic imaging gives our team the ability to see inside your teeth and this allows the detection of decay, bone loss, or oral cancer. X-rays can help prevent future issues by diagnosing and treating anything we see promptly.

Benefits of Dental X-Ray’s

  • Detect decay, fillings, gum disease, and oral cancer.
  • Detect changes in soft or hard tissues.
  • Show jawbone development
  • Detect bone loss

Interested in Learning More About How Dental X-rays Can Benefit You?

If you are interested in learning how dental x-rays can benefit you, or you are due for your regular dental exam and cleaning, contact Owings Mills Dentistry. We provide the highest level of service and use the latest technology and equipment. Let our team help you care for your smile, and prevent unnecessary visits to the dentist. Our doctors have years of experience and love to help patients care for their teeth and gums. Oral health is extremely important and is directly linked to our overall health. Attending your regular dental visits can help to detect issues and keep your smile looking and feeling great.

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

How Long Does Dental Bonding Last?

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how long does dental bonding last

Dental bonding can help to restore your smile and repair many cosmetic issues that bother you. Dental bonding is quick, durable, and can be less expensive compared to other cosmetic options. Dental bonding is a great solution for patients that want to change the length of a tooth, fix a chipped tooth, or close gaps between teeth. The procedure can be completed in one appointment and no anesthesia is required. Dental bonding does last, and the lifespan for dental bonding is between 5-10 years. The composite material can wear down over time depending on the wear and tear on the tooth.

How Does the Dental Bonding Process Work?

Dental bonding typically only requires one visit to our office and does not require any tooth enamel to be removed. During the bonding process, we gently etch your tooth using a mild acid solution. This helps to make the surface of the tooth rough and allows the composite material to properly bond to the tooth. The bonding is a tooth-colored material and this is applied to the area. Ultraviolet light is used to help cure the bonding. Once the bonding material is cured the tooth is polished and shaped to match the surrounding teeth. On average, bonding treatment can take between 30-60 minutes, and this depends on the severity of the correction, and the number of teeth needing treatment.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Bonding?

  • Dental bonding is affordable compared to other cosmetic treatments.
  • Treatment is less invasive with no local anesthesia.
  • Can be done in one appointment.
  • Can repair chipped, cracked, or uneven teeth.
  • Can close gaps between teeth.
  • Changes the shape of your teeth and provides a uniform smile.
  • Is an alternative to amalgam fillings.
  • Is tooth-colored material and blends in with your natural teeth.

Interested in Finding Out More About Dental Bonding?

If you are interested in learning more about dental bonding and how this treatment may benefit you, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with us. At Owings Mills Dentistry, we strive to provide quality dental care our patients can trust. We provide a calm environment where patients can relax during their dental treatment. Patients are treated like family, and we always ensure you have a positive experience. Let our dental team help you achieve the smile of your dreams with our dental bonding treatment.

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

What is Oral Pathology?

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oral surgery

Oral pathology is the identification process of certain diseases or disorders of the mouth or jaw. Thorough examination and accuracy in diagnosis are extremely important to ensure the patient is treated properly. Our surgeons have years of experience in oral pathology and treating disorders. Our detailed examination process allows our team to determine the cause of an issue, and provide the proper diagnosis and treatment.

What Are Examples of Common Oral Problems?

  • Misaligned jaw
  • Cleft lip or cleft palate
  • Periodontal disease
  • Oral cancer
  • Oral ulcers
  • Infections
  • Prolonged pain
  • Cavities
  • Tooth Loss

Why Is Oral Pathology Important?

Finding out the true cause of your problem is very important. This allows our team to treat you properly. If we know what is causing the problem, we can treat the issue quickly. Our team will look at not only the physical symptoms you are experiencing, but your background and any existing medical conditions you may have. Oral health and your overall health are directly connected, and oral pathology evaluates the entire picture to provide the proper diagnosis.

How Can I Protect My Oral Health?

Keeping your teeth and mouth healthy can avoid problems and multiple trips to the dental office. Following good oral hygiene habits at home is essential to keeping your teeth and mouth feeling great. Make sure to brush and floss each day, and attend your regular dental visits twice a year. Stick to a healthy diet, and avoid foods or drinks that contain high levels of sugar. Stay hydrated and make sure to get proper sleep. Your overall health directly affects your oral health, and you can protect your oral health with good hygiene and lifestyle habits.

Interested in Finding Out More About Oral Pathology?

If you are interested in finding out more about oral pathology, or have a concern you would like to discuss, please contact Owings Mills Dentistry. Your oral health is our priority, and we address issues promptly to help you get on the road to recovery. Come experience quality dentistry at Owings Mills Dentistry, and join our dental family.

 

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

Does Coke Ruin Teeth in General?

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Does Coke Ruin Teeth

Your diet can play a part in the health of your teeth. Drinking soda is common, and many people drink soda every day without even thinking of the effects on your teeth. Not only is soda bad for your teeth, it is associated with type 2 diabetes and weight gain. At Owings Mills Dentistry, we focus on prevention and recommend patients follow a healthy diet, and avoid foods and drinks with high sugar levels. Your teeth are important, and the choices you make can help prevent many unwanted visits to the dentist.

What Happens to My Teeth When I Drink Soda?

Breaks Down Enamel

When you drink soda the sugars in the soda mix with the bacteria in your mouth to form acid. This acid attacks your teeth and can wear down the tooth enamel. The acid breaks down the enamel on your teeth and softens it, making the enamel more prone to decay. Evan sugar free sodas can damage your enamel.

Cavities

When you drink soda, the acid can also reach the layer of dentin that is under the enamel. This can cause cavities to develop over time for people that drink Coke regularly. If you have composite fillings, the soda can also erode away your fillings.

What Can I Do To Prevent Coke From Damaging My Teeth?

If you have to have a soda once in a while, there are things you can do while enjoying your beverage that can help prevent damage to your teeth.

  • Use a straw to sip the soda. This will help keep the acid and sugar off of your teeth.
  • Drink soda only on occasion. Only drink soda for special occasions, or try and limit your intake to one soda per day.
  • Drink fast to lessen the time the soda has to interact with your teeth.
  • Rinse with water after you drink a soda. Rinsing after drinking soda can help wash the acids and sugars away from your teeth, and prevent damage.
  • Don’t brush right away after drinking a soda. Brushing right after drinking a soda can cause damage to your teeth. This is because the acid from the soda was just in contact with your teeth, and this makes your teeth more vulnerable to damage while brushing.
  • Attend regular cleanings and exams at your dentist. Regular visits will allow our doctors to identify problems before they become more serious.
  • Do not drink soda before bedtime. Drinking before bedtime just gives the acid and sugar all night to attack your teeth and cause damage.
  • Choose other beverages such as water or sparkling soda water that will not cause damage to your teeth.

Taking care of your oral health should be a priority, and this includes making good choices when it comes to your diet. Staying away from sugary foods and drinks can really help keep your enamel strong, and your teeth free of cavities. If you think you have damage from drinking soda and would like to come in for an exam, we welcome you to schedule an appointment with us. Our team can help get your oral health back on track, and give you recommendations on what to change in order to prevent future issues.

Ready to Schedule Your Appointment?

If you are due for your dental cleaning or exam, or have concerns about the enamel on your teeth and would like to schedule an appointment, please contact Owings Mills Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

How to Find a Good Dental Insurance Plan?

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Dental Insurance Plan

Choosing the right dental insurance plan is important because dental work can be expensive. Even a simple filling can be costly. Knowing what to look for when choosing a dental insurance plan, and understanding what is covered can help you figure out what plan is best for you. Most dental plans will cover 100% or preventative care if you use in-network dentists. This includes exams, x-rays, and cleanings. Basic procedures are typically covered at 80%, and major procedures are usually covered at 50%.

What Should I Check for When Choosing My Dental Insurance?

Group Coverage

Check to see if your insurance company provides group coverage through your employer or programs such as Medicaid. These types of plans can be less expensive and have better benefits.

Check Individual Policies

Individual policies are always more expensive compared to a group policy. Most come with limited benefits, and patients should plan ahead if they need a large procedure. Many insurance companies require a waiting period before you can use the insurance coverage. If you wish to avoid the waiting period there are other plans that do not require you to wait before coverage is available.

Check for Dentists in Your Network

If you know a dentist in your area that you like, ask what insurance plans they accept. Certain policies allow you to go to the dentist of your choice. Other plans such as PPO or HMO require you to use a dentist in their network.

Understand Your Coverage

Dental insurance can be confusing, and it is important to really understand what is covered, and what your expenses will be. Research what procedures are covered and what is not so you are prepared. Some plans have benefits that are limited, and they also have waiting periods before coverage can begin. Knowing how your insurance coverage works can help avoid headaches, and help you choose the best plan available.

Most insurance coverage is great for preventative care such as exams, cleanings and x-rays. Visiting the dentist is important, and choosing the coverage that is best for you can help you pay for those expensive procedures you may need in the future. Talk to your insurance provider to really help you understand the different plans, so you can choose the plan that best works for you.

Do You Have Questions for Our Team?

At Owings Mills Dentistry, we accept many insurance plans and offer alternative in house payment options for those patients that may not have dental coverage. Our goal is to ensure all of our patients can receive the treatment they need. Our staff is always available to answer any questions you may have regarding insurance or financial options.

We care about our patients, and want you to have the best experience when you visit our office. Taking care of your oral health is important, and knowing what coverage you have can help reduce stress, and make your appointments go smoothly.

Ready to Schedule an Appointment?

If you are ready to schedule an appointment with us, please contact Owings Mills Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

How Long Does It Take For a Tooth Infection to Spread?

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Tooth Infection

Infections can be serious, and it is always important for patients to know when to call their dentist. Infections should always be treated right away to avoid complications, or other issues from developing. If you have a toothache and throbbing pain that does not go away, the infection could spread to other places in the body. At Owings Mills Dentistry, we are equipped to handle any dental emergency, and offer flexible hours to accommodate our patients.

What Are Symptoms of a Tooth Infection?

  • Throbbing pain that does not subside
  • Pain in your jaw, neck, or ear
  • Sensitivity when you place pressure on the area
  • Pain that gets worse when you are lying down
  • Swelling around the jaw or mouth
  • Tender lymph nodes
  • Bad breath or odd taste in the mouth
  • Fever

Knowing these signs can help treat an infection before it spreads and becomes more serious. Never hesitate to call your dentist when you are experiencing any of the above symptoms. At Owings Mills Dentistry, we put our patients’ health first, and provide exceptional care you can trust. Our team is trained to handle any emergency, and we will work to relieve your pain and keep you comfortable.

What Happens If the Infection Spreads?

There is little chance that a tooth infection will spread to other parts of the body. Patients that have any of the below symptoms should call our office right away. Infections that spread can be life threatening and should be taken seriously.

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Change in vision
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Confusion
  • Swelling around the face or mouth

Pain that does not subside

What Treatment Is Available?

The treatment provided will depend on the severity of the infection. If an abscess is present, we will identify the location of the abscess, and determine how far the infection has spread. Root canal treatment may be necessary to treat an abscess if it is located inside the tooth. If root canal therapy is not enough, our doctor can perform an apicoectomy to open up the gum area near the root, and remove the infected tissue.

Other treatments may involve prescribing antibiotics to treat the infection and stop it from spreading. Our team will monitor your progress on the antibiotics to ensure they are working. If necessary, the type of antibiotics used may need to be changed, and a hospital stay may be required.

Sepsis can occur when an infection spreads, and the immune system overreacts to an infection in your blood. If this is left untreated, sepsis can lead to septic shock which can cause organ failure, or even death. Patients that have sepsis will need to be hospitalized and given special intravenous treatment.

Treating an infection is extremely important to avoid complications like sepsis. We encourage you to contact our office if you experience any sign of an infection. Let our team help relieve your pain, and get you on the road to recovery.

Interested in Finding Out More?

If you think you may have an infection, we encourage you to contact our office right away. To schedule your appointment, please contact Owings Mills Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

Is Tooth Sensitivity Permanently Curable?

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Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is a common problem, and many patients encounter pain or discomfort when they eat certain foods that are hot or cold. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, around 40 million adults suffer from sensitivity. Usually, the pain is temporary and can be treated to improve, but not cure the condition.

At Owings Mills Dentistry, we provide many general dentistry services including treatment for patients that suffer from sensitivity. We strive to provide quality dental care in a caring and friendly environment, where patients can relax during their treatment. We welcome new patients to our practice, and look forward to you joining our dental family.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity can happen suddenly, and to anyone. Typically, symptoms of sensitivity include a sudden sharp pain when your teeth are exposed to cold, hot, or acidic foods. Tooth sensitivity can also come after you brush or floss your teeth. Teeth whitening can cause sensitivity after treatment, so patients should consider this when they are deciding to start a whitening regimen.

Our teeth are protected by enamel, and underneath the enamel is a layer of dentin. Dentin is soft, and if the enamel on your teeth is worn down, or your gums have receded the dentin can become exposed. Dentin can be exposed from cavities or cracks in your teeth. The dentin is connected to the nerve area, and this is what can cause pain or sensitive teeth.

Other Actions That Can Cause Sensitivity

  • Brushing too vigorously
  • Gum recession from periodontal disease
  • Gingivitis
  • Teeth grinding or clenching
  • Cracked or injured teeth
  • Plaque
  • Acidic foods or drinks
  • Dental procedures such as sensitivity after a filling
  • Teeth Whitening treatments

What Treatments Are Available for Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity can never completely go away, but there are treatments available that can help alleviate the sensitivity you experience. If you are experiencing any sensitivity, we recommend you make an appointment for an exam in our office. We can treat sensitivity easier if we know that is what is causing you pain. Never leave pain untreated as this could lead to more serious issues in the future.

Sensitivity Treatments

  • Using a toothpaste for sensitive teeth.
  • Changing to a soft bristled tooth brush.
  • Use a mouthwash that contains fluoride.
  • Avoid acidic foods or drinks.
  • Avoid clenching or grinding your teeth.
  • Inlays or bonding can help fix a tooth and decrease sensitivity.
  • Gum grafts can help protect the root area of the tooth.
  • Fluoride gel or varnish treatment can help protect your teeth from wear and tear.
  • Root Canal therapy if needed can help with severe tooth sensitivity, but this is typically the last resort.

Taking care of your teeth and knowing when to call your dentist is important. Patients should never have prolonged pain or sensitivity to hot or cold. It is always important to take care of your oral health, and practice good habits at home. At Owings Mills Dentistry, your oral health is our priority, and we strive to provide our patients with quality and affordable dental services. Let our team help you take charge of your dental health.

Ready To Schedule Your Appointment?

If you are interested in finding out more about treatments for tooth sensitivity, contact Owings Mills Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

What Types of Treatments Do General Dentists Provide?

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General Dentists

General Dentists provide services to diagnose, treat, and maintain your oral health. Our office specializes in general dentistry, and this includes preventative, corrective, and restorative treatment for patients. Our general dental care services allow us to remove any decay or disease from your teeth and gums. We preserve your natural teeth and keep you looking and feeling great.

Visiting our office regularly to maintain your oral health is important. Starting out good habits at an early age can create a good foundation for taking care of your teeth. Preventative treatment helps to keep teeth and gums healthy, and stop decay. During your exam in our office, we will evaluate your teeth and mouth, and develop a customized treatment plan that is tailored to your needs.

What Treatments Are Included in General Dentistry?

Our office has many general dental services to help keep you looking and feeling great. We provide consultations to discuss any concerns you have with your smile. Our consultation includes a detailed exam to determine what procedure is needed.

General Dentistry Services

  • Cleanings
  • Oral Exams
  • Fillings
  • Oral Cancer Screenings
  • Dental Implants
  • Extractions
  • Root Canals
  • X-rays
  • Fixed Bridges and Crowns

What Can I Expect During a General Dentistry Appointment?

Our general dentistry appointments begin with a visual exam of your teeth and mouth. If needed, x-rays are taken so we can take a closer look at the health of your teeth, gums, and jaw. We will discuss any prior health history, and review any prior x-rays if the patients had them sent over to our office.

Next, our team will perform a thorough dental cleaning. This removes plaque from the teeth and gums and polishes the teeth. We also check any existing restorations to ensure they are all stable and in great condition. This includes fillings, implant, bridges, and crowns. Our team will also do an oral cancer screening of the mouth and tongue.

If there are any areas of concern, we will discuss those details with you and create a customized treatment plan. Our staff will discuss next steps if you require further treatment. Patients may have to return to our office for another appointment depending on what is required.

Interested in Scheduling an Appointment?

Attending your regular exams twice a year in our office is an essential part to our oral health. We can help maintain your teeth and gums and keep them looking and feeling great. Exams allow our team to get in front of any potential complications or decay, and prevent serious complications. Let us help you take charge of your oral health, and call our office today!

If you are interested in scheduling your cleaning and exam with us, please contact Owings Mills Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

Can Small Cavities Heal By Themselves?

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Small Cavities

If you have a cavity and are reluctant to call your dentist, you may be hoping the cavity will just heal itself. A cavity is tooth decay that causes a hole in the tooth. If cavities are not treated more serious issues can develop. At Owings Mills Dentistry, it is important to take care of your oral health and practice good habits at home. Attending your regular cleanings and exams in our office can identify if you have any cavities, and make sure they are addressed promptly.

How Will My Small Cavity Be Treated?

If you have a large cavity, you will most likely need a filling. If the cavity is small and is causing you no pain or discomfort, we may be able to watch the cavity by comparing x-rays to determine if the cavity is active or arrested. Small cavities that are caught early on can be stopped with good oral hygiene. Taking care of your teeth with brushing, flossing, and using fluoride can help strengthen the enamel, and stop a cavity in its tracks.

Treatments for a Cavity

  • Fillings
  • Inlays or Onlays
  • Crowns
  • Root Canals
  • Extractions

What Can I Do To Reverse Decay and Prevent Cavities?

  • Brush and floss at least twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste.
  • Increase your fluoride intake to help stop the cavity from further decay. Our office provides fluoride treatments, and fluoride can be found in toothpaste or mouthwashes.
  • Sealants can be applied to molars to prevent cavities from forming. This is a clear plastic protective coat that can help halt or reverse current decay on a tooth if the cavity is small enough and in the early stages.
  • Limit eating and drinking foods that have a high sugar content. These types of foods and drinks contribute to tooth decay. If you do consume these foods, make sure to brush right afterwards.
  • Visit our office twice a year for your regular cleaning and exam.

Interested in Scheduling an Appointment?

If you have a cavity that needs to be filled, or is causing your issues please do not hesitate to call our office. Leaving a cavity untreated can cause more serious issues if the cavity is not addressed promptly. Our flexible hours and schedule allow you to be seen right away. Your health is our priority and we welcome new patients to our office.

To schedule your dental exam or cleaning contact Owings Mills Dentistry, and our staff will be happy to assist you!

How Can I Fix a Gummy Smile?

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general dentistry

Do you notice when you smile you see gum tissue more than your teeth? This is known as a gummy smile, and many patients are bothered by how their smile looks. There are treatment options to correct a gummy smile, and we are here to help you find a treatment that works best.

What Can Cause a Gummy Smile?

  • Your Bite

Your bite can be genetic and your top jaw may not align properly with your bottom jaw. If your bite causes the upper jaw to protrude this can cause a gummy look.

  • Hyperactive Upper Lip

If your lip raises up too high gum tissue may be exposed, and this results in a gummy smile.

  • Excess Gum Tissue

The most common cause of a gummy smile is having too much gum tissue. In many cases gum tissue can over grow when permanent teeth erupt in the mouth.

What Are My Treatment Options?

Crown Lengthening

Crown Lengthening helps to reshape the gum tissue around the tooth and correct a gummy smile. This procedure exposes more of the patient’s natural tooth and make the teeth look longer.

Gum Contouring

Gum contouring can help change the shape of your gum, and this can be done if you have excess gum tissue. This procedure also helps if the gum line is uneven. Gum contouring removes the excess gum tissue and exposes more of your teeth. This helps to give patients a beautiful even looking smile.

Scaling and Root Planing

If a gummy smile is caused by inflamed gums a deep cleaning treatment may be recommended. Scaling and root planing reach down deep into the gum pockets to remove bacteria. This can help the gummy appearance subside.

Lip Lowering

This procedure involves removing a section of gum tissue to reveal a shorter looking lip. This keeps the upper lip from rising too high and exposing your gum tissue.

Orthodontics

If you have an issue with your bite orthodontics may help correct your gummy smile. Orthodontic treatment can help adjust your bite to avoid gum tissue showing when you smile.

Looking To Take the Next Step to a Beautiful Smile?

If you are looking to correct your smile we encourage you take the first step and schedule a consultation in our office. This will give our team the opportunity to evaluate your concerns, and discuss possible treatment options that work for you. We want you to be proud of your smile, and we are here to help you get the smile you have always wanted.

If you are interested in scheduling a cosmetic consultation, contact our office and we will be happy to assist you.