Daniel R. Melnick D.D.S

Laurel Dentists Blog

Laurel Lakes Cosmetic Dentistry Blog

Archive for September, 2011

Porcelain Fillings

Tuesday, September 27th, 2011

Although metal fillings, also called amalgam fillings, have long been the standard for treating cavities, porcelain fillings have become increasingly popular thanks to their durability and aesthetic values.

Porcelain fillings, also referred to as porcelain inlays and onlays, provide strength and functionality not matched by alternatives such as metal fillings or dental bonding. In fact, porcelain fillings are often used to replace metal fillings.

Unlike metal fillings, which are compressed into the teeth, porcelain fillings are bonded to the teeth, which helps preserve the integrity of the teeth and allows for a natural appearance. Porcelain fillings are likewise shaped and colored to blend with your existing teeth, providing a seamless smile.

Using CEREC technology, the experienced Maryland cosmetic dentists at Laurel Lakes Cosmetic Dentistry can fit and place your porcelain fillings in a single visit.

First the damaged of decayed area of your tooth will be removed, and CEREC is used to image your tooth. This digital imaging will provide the basis for your custom-made porcelain filling, which will be created on site.

To place the porcelain filling, a thin surface layer of tooth enamel will be removed in order to bond the filling to your tooth surface. Once placed, the filling is touched up and tinted to fit your bite and match your surrounding teeth.

If you would like to learn more about the benefits of porcelain fillings, please contact the Laurel, Maryland, cosmetic dentists at Laurel Lakes Cosmetic Dentistry.

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Why Should I Choose a Neuromuscular Dentist?

Friday, September 23rd, 2011

Although temporomandibular joint disorder (also known as TMJ or TMD) is a common condition, it is also commonly misdiagnosed because it shares symptoms with a number of other conditions including migraines, arthritis and sinus ailments. A neuromuscular dentist can both diagnose the source of and outline a treatment plan to correct the painful symptoms of TMJ.

Severe headaches are the most common symptom of TMJ/TMD, although most people with TMJ/TMD suffer multiple symptoms including:

• Face, neck, shoulder and back pain
• Jaw tension/pain
• Jaw clicking/popping
• Jaw locking/sticking
• Earaches/ringing ears (tinnitus)
• Difficulty biting, chewing or swallowing
• Numbness or tingling in the hands and fingers

Neuromuscular dentistry focuses on the relationship between the muscles and joints that affect your bite. Misaligned teeth and certain bite conditions can put undue strain on these joints and muscles, and lead to chronic discomfort. Untreated, TMJ can contribute to progressive dental problems.

The experienced Laurel, Maryland, dentists at Laurel Lakes Cosmetic Dentistry use the latest neuromuscular dentistry technology to pinpoint the source of discomfort, determine your correct bite alignment, and devise a custom treatment plan.

Treatment may be as simple as correcting poor oral health habits such as pen chewing or it may require the use of an orthotic device to bring your bite into proper alignment and put an end to the painful symptoms of TMJ.

If you would like to learn more about neuromuscular dentistry or treatment options for TMJ, please contact the Maryland dentists at Laurel Lakes Cosmetic Dentistry. We serve clients in and around Laurel, Columbia, Fulton and Silver Spring, Maryland.

Posted in Neuromuscular Dentist, Neuromuscular Dentistry, Neuromuscular Testing, TMJ | No Comments »

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