Maryland Cosmetic Dentist

Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome, or TMJ, can be a painful condition that requires special attention and treatment to alleviate the debilitating symptoms. TMJ is a misalignment of the temporomandibular joint. The temporomandibular joint is located near the temple and is where the mandible meets with the upper jaw. Over time, this misalignment can cause muscle spasms, damage to the mouth, and pain that can radiate from the jaw to the head, neck, and shoulders. Symptoms may also include damaged or loose teeth, a “clicking” of the jaw, and joint pain. Though there are other TMJ treatment options available, neuromuscular dentistry is one of the newest procedures available and has been proven to repair the damage to the mouth and help alleviate the associated symptoms.

Neuromuscular dentistry is a TMJ treatment that does not only treat the symptoms, but treats the underlying cause of the symptoms. During the procedure, the face and jaw are in a state of relaxation and the jaw is realigned into a position that is necessary to correct the problem and alleviate the symptoms. Additionally, since neuromuscular dentistry corrects the base problem, any other procedures performed—such as restorative procedures—will be more successful and enjoy a longer duration of effectiveness.

The procedure used to treat TMJ is accomplished by a Transcutaneous Electrical Stimulation (TENS) device—an imaging device that provides three dimensional views. The TENS device allows the properly trained dentist to determine the appropriate jaw alignment. The device also uses electrical stimulation to relax the face and jaw. Once relaxed, the jaw can be evaluated and the dentist can determine which adjustments should be made to ensure continued alignment, providing a definitive level of care.

Neuromuscular dentistry provides an effective form of TMJ treatment that can result in correction of the underlying problem; however, not every dentist is trained in the procedure. Neuromuscular dentistry is a type of specialization and it is important to find a dentist who has satisfactory training, experience, and certification.

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Dental patients wanting to repair diseased gums or alter tooth structure are increasingly choosing to face the laser rather than the drill. With traditional dental drilling, comes pain, the need for anesthesia, copious bleeding and often the need for stitches. Laser dentistry avoids all these undesirable side effects by using precise, localized radiation to remove diseased parts of the oral cavity while requiring few stitches and often no sedation, according to the dentists at the University Of Texas School Of Dentistry. In addition to surgery, laser dentistry is also used cosmetically to bleach teeth to a whiter color.

Laser dentistry works by using quiet, non-vibrating instruments that direct bright lights containing low levels of electromagnetic radiation to dental areas needing repair or restoration. Low-powered dental laser tools direct cool, concentrated light from the red end of the light spectrum at the target area of operation in a careful, straight line. This light penetrates the surface of the bone or gum tissue without causing harm. It then is directed to small tears and pockets of bacteria and decay by surgeons wielding the laser tool. Generally, air suction is used simultaneously to keep the month dry and free of debris.

The reason dental lasers are able to promote healing in decaying dental tissue is because all cells in the human body have membranes with photo acceptor sites; these photo acceptor sites get stimulated in the oral cavity when hit with photons from dental lasers This causes oral cells to proliferate, generating new, healthy cells to replace unhealthy ones that are killed by laser. This stimulation, which results in a greater production of proteins and enzymes in the oral cavity, also boosts the immune system and encourages the release endorphins, which buffer pain and help recovery.

Benefits of laser dentistry go beyond pain-free dental treatments that require less post-operative healing. Laser dentistry also benefits patients by being quicker and more accurate than conventional dental surgery and techniques. Another benefit is that lasers can render the enamel of a tooth resistant to corrosion by acids; this is a unique side effect that conventional practices cannot rival. Also, for many treatments, laser methods are less expensive. Evolving technology has resulted in smaller and more portable laser instruments that dentists can handle with greater efficiency. Many patients report greater satisfaction with the quality of results from laser dentistry compared to traditional dentistry.

There are some caveats for patients considering laser dentistry. Lasers can be very destructive when misdirected and can cause blindness. For this reason, patients must wear goggles when having dental work involving lasers, no matter how weak the lasers are. It may also behoove patients to investigate the experience a surgeon has in using laser technology.

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Tooth fillings, unlike diamonds, do not last forever. An amalgam filling will survive about twelve years and a composite filling even less. A leaky filling occurs when the side of the filling does not fit snugly against the tooth. Saliva and debris in the mouth may lead to infection, deteriorating the connection between filling and tooth. Small gaps, caused by shrinkage of the filling, could also cause a leak. If a tooth feels sensitive, if you notice a crack or if part of a filling is missing, it’s time to visit your dentist for a replacement filling.

Today, due to improvements in dental materials and methods, you have better choices to repair your leaky fillings. Unlike problematic metal fillings of the past, new materials such as ceramics and polymer compounds provide superior options.

The perfect replacement solution for your chewing teeth is a CEREC porcelain inlay. The CEREC inlay is a vast improvement over old amalgam or composite fillings due to its natural-looking appearance and greater strength. Another bonus is that your inlay can be completed in just one dental visit. No need for impression materials, temporary and return appointments as with lab-made restorations.

Consider the options and decide.

A composite filling is tooth colored, bonded to teeth, has up to 75% of tooth’s strength, is porous, less durable and lasts for an average of 3 to 5 years.

CEREC porcelain inlay provides a durable, long term solution lasting 15 years,

with 100% of tooth’s strength, created from metal-free material, color matched to your natural teeth – all done in just one dental visit!

CEREC 3D uses CAD/CAM (Computer Aided Design/Computer Aided Manufacturing) technology incorporates a camera, computer and milling machine. The dentist takes an accurate picture of the damaged tooth.

This optical impression is transferred and displayed on a color computer screen. Using CAD technology, the dentist designs the restoration. Then CAM automatically creates the restoration while you wait. Finally, the dentist bonds the new restoration to the surface of the old tooth. The entire process takes about an hour – enough to make you smile.

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Although oral health is universally recognized as an important part of your overall health, many people still are unsure of whether to go ahead and get dental implants. The process of getting dental implants may even be somewhat frightening. Good information usually resolves these concerns, so this article will address the most common questions for people who are considering dental implants.

How Much Pain During/After Implants?

There are two factors in creating the most successful outcome of an implant procedure. The first is the proper use of sedatives and anesthesia. The second is the skill and the compassion of the practicing surgeon. When both of these factors are combined, patients can experience a surprisingly short recovery time and a smooth procedure. It is possible to have very little or even no amount of discomfort. Dr. Djawdan’s office arranges for the prescriptions needed after the treatment to be immediately available.

What is the Typical Recovery Time?

The amount of time that it takes to recover from an implant procedure does vary from person to person; it also depends on the condition of the foundation tissue on which the implant will be placed. The condition of these tissues determines the time frame for recovery. They are analyzed by the use of 3D imaging technology — done right in the office.

The stages of recovery require planning, and Dr. Djawdan can help patients understand the importance of follow-up care, including the use of floss and regular brushing. These habits are necessary to maintain the health of the supporting bone tissue. Other implant care includes routine cleanings and exams.

How Long Do They Last?

When all of this is taken into account, patients may expect their implants to last in excess of 30 years. The implant will become integrated with the surrounding bone tissue, but this process does require the diligent care of the proud new implant owner. By taking the necessary precautions to keep oral health checkups on your calendar, the implants will serve you as well as your other teeth. By brushing and flossing as a part of your daily routine, you can enjoy long-lasting, reliable and beautiful teeth.

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If you have been putting off going to the dentist because the thought of sitting still in a chair while someone pokes around in your mouth terrifies you, then you may be interested in learning more about sedation dentistry. With sedation dentistry, you can get through the procedure while you are in a state of sleepiness and relaxation,, and wake up afterwards with the dental work you needed already complete.

How Sedation Dentistry Works

There are three different methods of sedation dentistry available, and you can speak to your dentist to find out which would work the best for you. The first method is an IV sedation, which also goes by the name Deep Conscious Sedation. With this method, medication is released into the blood stream through the use of an IV tube. Dentists who practice IV sedation must have first completed extensive training to receive certification by their state’s Board of Dentistry.

With oral sedation, you would be given a pill which would help you to immediately relax and possibly to fall asleep. You would retain normal breathing and all control of your bodily functions. You may experience confusion or brief memory loss when you first come off a sedation pill, but that is to be expected and you should feel like your normal self again shortly.

Inhalation sedation or “laughing” gas is the most common type of dental sedation used and has been in existence for the longest period of time. You simply breathe in the fumes until you get to the point of relaxation and sleepiness.

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry

Many patients wonder if they actually fall asleep when dental sedation is used during their appointment. While individual results vary, most people do fall asleep, although they retain the ability to verbally respond when being spoken to.

People who are already apprehensive about going to the dentist may worry about the safety of the various sedation types used. All have been tested and proven to be safe before dentists were allowed to use them, so all you have to do is relax and let your dentist do the work.

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The Zoom teeth whitening system is a bleaching treatment for stained or discolored teeth. You can quickly and easily improve the aesthetics of your smile by choosing this procedure. A bright smile appears healthy, and it can give you immeasurable confidence. The Zoom system safely lightens tooth enamel and can be performed in a professional setting.

Teeth can become discolored or stained for a variety of reasons. The foods you eat, using tobacco products, the aging process and genetics are some of the most common culprits. Some antibiotics can also cause discoloration to the teeth. The Zoom teeth whitening system penetrates the tooth enamel and breaks away stains for long-lasting results.

The Zoom method can only be performed by a professional and takes less than one hour. A whitening gel consisting of hydrogen peroxide is used as a bleaching agent. The gel is activated by a special light which boosts the gel’s effectiveness. The hydrogen peroxide in the whitening gel breaks down, and oxygen penetrates the tooth enamel. This bleaches the stains without damaging the tooth’s structure.

The results from Zoom tooth whitening can be seen immediately, and they are long-lasting. Your teeth will be up to 8 shades lighter after treatment. Regular care of your teeth and use of the Zoom touch-up gel will prevent fading. This procedure is safe, fast and convenient. Other tooth whiteners can take up to a month to work, and the results are not as impressive or consistent.

There are very few side effects associated with the Zoom system. If you have a gag reflex problem, you may feel discomfort. Additionally, if you have sensitivities to teeth whiteners, you may need to use a specially formulated toothpaste prior to the treatment. The Zoom light produces less heat than other whitening lamps, so discomfort is minimal.

The Zoom teeth whitening treatment is one of the most effective bleaching methods available. By allowing a professional to whiten your teeth, you minimize the risk of problems. Results from the Zoom method are instantaneous. You can immediately experience the joy of having a bright, healthy, brilliantly white smile.

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It is estimated that more than 100 million American adults have missing or lost teeth. Until recently, their only tooth replacement options were bridges or dentures. Bridges require surrounding teeth be altered to support the replacement tooth or teeth, while dentures merely recreate the appearance of teeth without the functionality or comfort of real teeth. Both options are time-intensive, requiring a sometimes-lengthy wait between the initial tooth loss and subsequent smile restoration. Today, there is another option for those who are missing teeth: Teeth in a Day.

Teeth in a Day is a revolutionary new dental technique that provides patients with functional replacement teeth within mere hours. Regardless of whether the tooth loss was due to decay, injury, or other reasons, Teeth in a Day can provide same-day tooth replacement.

This procedure is accomplished through the use of special 3D imaging software that allows dentists to formulate a full treatment plan, including the restoration process. Damaged or decayed teeth will be removed, and the mouth will be prepared for the restoration process, including dental implants. The replacement teeth will be fitted that same day, and you will be free to leave with a fully functional, attractive smile.

Your new teeth can be cleaned right along with your biological teeth. There is no need for bone grafts, and the dental implants can even strengthen your jawbone, reducing the risk of bone loss associated with missing teeth. With proper care and good dental hygiene, implants and replacement teeth can last several decades.

Recovery time is about the same as other tooth replacement or implant procedures. You may be limited to softer foods and more restful activities for a few days. Once your new implants have settled and your mouth has healed, you will be free to return to your regular diet and activity levels. Not only will you be ready to eat your favorite foods again, you will also be ready to show off your bright new pearly whites.

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In the past, people who had missing, broken or unsightly teeth had to go to multiple dental appointments and endure several minor surgeries in order to have them replaced with dentures. Traditional dentures only work to correct the appearance of the teeth, but they do nothing to improve their function. After receiving dentures,,most people are still required to avoid certain foods so as not to cause them damage. They also may still experience pain in their mouth, teeth and gums. Finally, getting a full or partial set of dentures is too costly for many people to afford.

Now there is Teeth in an Hour, a new dental procedure where you can walk into your dentist’s office with missing or problem teeth and walk out with confidence and a new smile. To decide if Teeth in an Hour is right for you, meet with your dentist for a consultation. Together, you and your dentist will make a treatment plan and you will return for a visit to have the Teeth in an Hour procedure done.

Teeth in an Hour is performed by using I-CAT and 3D imaging software to create a picture of your jaw. From that image, a template is created which will allow for the precise placement of your new dental implant that was created during your previous visit. The implant is a permanent acrylic bridge that can be fit into your upper or lower jaw or both, if necessary.

There is no need for the dentist to make any incisions so there will be no sutures to deal with afterwards. Also, there is very little pain or swelling associated with the Teeth in an Hour procedure, meaning you should be able to resume your normal activities immediately.

Your tooth replacement is functional from the moment you have it placed in your mouth. You can smile, talk, eat and chew as you normally would. Since the Teeth in an Hour have been tailored specifically to the shape of your mouth, they look very natural. You may be the only one who knows you are wearing them.

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CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) 3D is a technology that allows a dentist to construct the restoration of a damaged tooth in a virtual image, which is then used as a guide to make the actual restoration. This means the repair can usually be done in one visit, with no delay to wait for lab results.

In the old technology, a dentist would have to take an impression of a damaged tooth. This impression would have to be sent off to a lab for analysis, so the patient would have to come back for at least one more visit to get the reconstruction fitted.

With CEREC 3D the process is much quicker and easier. The damaged tooth is cleaned and sprayed with a reflective powder to ensure a good image. The computer then constructs a 3D image of the damage, so the dentist is able to design the shape of the repair on the computer screen.

By the old method, the reconstruction would sometimes have to be fitted and then readjusted for a better fit, but with CEREC 3D the dentist can ensure that the fit will be perfect before the reconstruction is made. When the design is perfect, a solid block of porcelain is placed in the CEREC milling chamber, where it is sculpted to exactly the proper shape. The result is a piece of porcelain that can be put in place immediately, without a second visit.

The new process completely eliminates the need for a temporary crown. The color of the restoration can be adjusted to exactly match the surrounding natural tooth. Unlike the porcelain restorations used in the old method, these restorations have the same strength as real tooth enamel, and routinely last for 15+ years. CEREC 3D also eliminates the need for metal fillings, so the repaired tooth will not have a dark area.

CEREC 3D can be used to repair damaged crowns, veneers that have become cracked or discolored and other restorations such as inlays and onlays. The technology has been in used for about 15 years and has an excellent track record.

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 The acronym TMJ, or temperomandibular joint, is a term used when speaking of the jaw joint and the surrounding soft tissues. Treatment depends greatly on the views of the professional that is consulted.

Some doctors prescribe muscle relaxers, NSAIDs or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, even antidepressant medication. Ibuprofen and other non-prescription pain medicine may provide short-term relief.

One of the most commonly used treatments in allopathic medicine is the stabilizing splint, or the plastic bite guard. The NIH stated, “their effectiveness at relieving pain (is) inconclusive.”

Some people respond well to soft tissue therapy. You may encounter a highly skilled therapist or one with minimal experience and training; this should always be considered.

Three of the most outstanding soft tissue therapies for TMJ disorder are:

Active Release Technique
A soft tissue therapy developed by a Doctor of Chiropractic; certification in ART means the practitioner is highly skilled and trained. The goal of the treatment is to palpate and accurately locate and release entrapped nerves and blood vessels. The protocols for doing this usually remain within the patients’ stated pain tolerance, and can be either gentle or intense, as required. This is an excellent choice for people who need immediate relief.

Rolfing
The Rolfing Institute or Structural Integration Certification indicates a highly skilled therapist. This method is more intense than massage. The goal is to integrate the soft tissue network of the entire body to relieve the related causes of the pain; inner-mouth work for TMJ is often performed. It normally takes 10 sessions, and can be more expensive than other treatments. It is the best choice for people who respond to very deep tissue work and handle therapeutic discomfort well.

Cranial-Sacral Therapy
Certification from the Upledger Institute indicates a highly skilled therapist. The therapy is mostly characterized by its light touch and extremely effective restorative techniques. By unwinding the fascia that surrounds every muscle and bone, the nerves and blood vessels around the TMJ area are relieved, reducing pain. An excellent therapy choice for people who are very touch sensitive, have fibromyalgia, or want a non-invasive soft tissue treatment.
Reference:
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/magazine/issues/winter10/articles/winter10pg15b.html

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