Tag: 21044 Dentist

How to Keep a Healthy Tongue | Columbia MD Dentist

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When it comes to oral health, protecting your teeth and gums are often the focus. However, did you know that your tongue needs proper care as well? Your tongue is responsible for many essential functions like swallowing, tasting, and talking, but it can harbor bacteria that harms your oral health. Learn how to keep your tongue healthy by following these four treatment tips. 

Practice Optimal Oral Hygiene 

Brushing and flossing twice a day will protect your mouth from pesky bacteria, but make sure to brush your tongue as well. As an alternative, try using a tongue scraper once a day. Tongue scrapers will scrape away any build up that has formed on your tongue. 

Drink Plenty of Water 

If you are dehydrated, it’s possible for your tongue to lose moisture and become uncomfortable. Drinking water ensures your hydration and will wash away food particles and bacteria from the surface of your tongue. Proper hydration can also prevent bad breath. 

Maintain a Healthy Diet 

Your tongue is a muscle, and what you eat can affect its health. Fill your diet with foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals, calcium, lean protein, and fiber. Avoid eating processed foods and treats that are filled with sugar. 

Visit our Dental Office 

By visiting your dentist at least twice a year for a routine cleaning and examination, you can protect your tongue, teeth, and the rest of your mouth. During these visits, we will thoroughly check all aspects of your oral health. We will then work with you to create an oral health plan that is tailored to your needs. 

Don’t let your oral health slip by neglecting proper care for your tongue! Put these four tips into practice so you can enjoy a bright and healthy smile. Contact Garbis Dental Associates of Columbia today to learn more about proper oral care or to schedule your next appointment with our Columbia dentist. 

Garbis Dental Associates of Columbia
Phone: (410) 730-3800
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10203 Tanager Lane
Columbia, MD 21044

Sports Drinks and Energy Drinks | Columbia MD Dentist

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Many sports drinks contain electrolytes which can be helpful to maintain energy levels when engaging in physical activities. You may believe that sports drinks are healthy but the truth of the matter is, they are not healthy. Energy drinks are those like Monster and Rockstar. Sports drinks and energy drinks are also seen as a tasty alternative to water when it comes to staying hydrated. It is important to know the negative effects and damage that these drinks do to your teeth.  

Up to 62 percent of children of the same age drink at least one sports drink per day and between 30 and 50 percent of teenagers in the United States drink these types of beverages regularly. With these numbers being so high it is important to take notice on the negative effects these drinks can have on teeth. The danger to both children and adults in sports drinks and energy drinks comes not only from the sugar content but also from the acidity. These types of drinks contain a significant amount of acid that they begin destroying the teeth of the person drinking them in as little as five days. 

There is a lot of damage being done to your oral health when consuming sports drinks and energy drinks. Energy and sports drinks can damage tooth enamel, increasing the risk of cavities and tooth decay. These drinks erodes or thin out the enamel of the teeth, leaving them more susceptible to decay and sensitivity. Athletes drink these beverages to remain hydrated and sip them frequently during exercise. This increases the time that teeth are exposed to the acidity and high sugar content of sports drinks, leaving them vulnerable to decay. 

While sports drinks and energy drinks can be an alternative to water, there are ways to promote great oral health. The best way to promote oral health is to keep yourself hydrated with water to prevent negative effects that sports and energy drinks bring. If you feel that you must use sports drinks, rinse your mouth with water afterwards and do not brush your teeth right after you have consumed a sports drink. Also, read the ingredient labels before you consume drinks. Avoid high amounts of acid and sugar, especially if you already have teeth problems. 

Getting healthy is great for your body and your mouth, but sports and energy drinks are not a necessary part of well-being. There are many alternatives, it’s just a matter of finding what works best for you. One must maintain oral health to make sure to have a lasting smile. Talk to your Columbia MD dentist about preventative care for your oral health. Contact Garbis Dental Associates today

Garbis Dental Associates of Columbia
Phone: (410) 730-3800
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10203 Tanager Lane
Columbia, MD 21044

I Chipped a Tooth! What Can I Do? | Columbia MD Dentist

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It usually starts pretty innocently. You’re biting into your favorite hard candy and suddenly you realize that there’s one little hard piece in your mouth you can’t seem to dissolve. You check it out and fear overcomes you when you see it’s a little chipped piece of a tooth. 

Enamel may be one of the hardest substances in the body but like most things in life, it has its limit. Whether you are chewing on ice or grinding your teeth at night, there’s always a chance of putting your teeth at risk. If you have chipped your tooth, there’s no need to panic. Here are a few things we can do to restore your beautiful smile: 

Tooth Bonding 

Tooth bonding has many structural uses, and it can be very helpful for repairing chipped teeth. Tooth bonding is a simple procedure that doesn’t require any numbing. The bonding materials and porcelain used are natural in color and can be designed to perfectly match your teeth. Your smile will look good as new, and people will have a hard time noticing you ever chipped a tooth to begin with.  

Dental Crown 

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that helps protect your teeth, while at the same time improving its appearance. An AACD (American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry) dentist will likely use a tooth colored crown made out of porcelain or zirconia to look identical to your teeth. Crowns will also provide the durability and strength your teeth need to withstand daily use. You may only need a partial crown if our dentist sees that the chip doesn’t affect the entire tooth.  

Porcelain Veneers 

Porcelain laminate veneers are made up of several thin layers of ceramic used to repair chipped teeth. They will be bonded to the teeth to replace the original enamel of the tooth with a special adhesive. Dental veneers are a fantastic way to get your tooth to look whole and healthy again.  

If you have a chipped tooth and would like more information on these methods, or to schedule a consultation with our Columbia dentist, contact Garbis Dental Associates today.

Garbis Dental Associates of Columbia
Phone: (410) 730-3800
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10203 Tanager Lane
Columbia, MD 21044

Root Canals – Debunking the Myths | Columbia Family Dentist

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The internet is fraught with myths about everything. In this “information age” you might think it would be easy to find the truth, but that’s not always the case. Dentistry is no different. It’s no surprise that dental myths are abundant, especially in regard to some of the more intimidating procedures. However, advancements in dental technology have made it possible to receive the advanced care you need with little to no discomfort. Here are some common myths you might hear about root canals debunked. Contact our dental office to learn more. 

Myth 1: Root canals are painful. 

Long ago, this might have been the case. However, modern advancements in the techniques and technology available to dentists have made this procedure quick and relatively painless. In fact, the damaged tissue often causes more day-to-day pain and discomfort than the procedure itself will! 

Myth 2: Root canals can cause illness. 

In the 20th century there was a popular misconception that a root canal could put you at risk of developing illness or an infection. Not only has this been definitively disproven, but root canals have actually been shown to help prevent illness. According to a study published in a journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA Otolaryngology—Head & Neck Surgery), root canals can lower your risk of certain cancers by up to 45%. 

Myth 3: Extraction is a better option. 

When possible, it’s always preferable to keep your natural teeth. In addition to the inconvenience of dealing with a missing tooth, removing teeth can cause the surrounding ones to loosen and shift over time, possibly necessitating more procedures in the future. The success rate of a root canal treatment is extremely high and the tooth itself, with proper care, can last for a lifetime. Don’t let misinformation about dental care stop you from receiving the treatments you need. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment and set the record straight on root canals.

Garbis Dental Associates of Columbia
Phone: (410) 730-3800
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10203 Tanager Lane
Columbia, MD 21044

How Long Does a Temporary Crown Last? | Best Dentist in Columbia

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If you have recently seen Garbis Dental Associates for root canal therapy, you likely have a temporary crown placed over the tooth until the permanent crown is molded and created for your unique mouth. While some patients are eager to get through the entire process, some patients may be less eager to return for additional, necessary dental work and wondering how long they can get away with wearing the temporary crown.  

So, how long can you wear the temporary crown? Well, the answer is, “It depends.” The permanent crown is typically placed within a few weeks to a month after dental procedures. The tooth and soft tissue are given time to heal, and the lab needs time to manufacture the one-of-a-kind crown. Placing the final crown may be delayed if Garbis Dental Associates has recommended other dental procedures. Ideally, the permanent crown should be placed as soon as possible. 

What Happens if the Temporary Crown Has Been in Longer than a Few Weeks? 

The longer the temporary crown is in your mouth, the more likely the crown is to significantly wear. This can cause a shift in tooth position and the occlusion. The professionals at Garbis Dental Associates will advise you on how long your temporary crown can last based on placement and your oral habits. 

Remember, even if you can get away with leaving a temporary crown longer than the recommended time frame, it doesn’t mean you should. Call Garbis Dental Associates at (410) 730-3800 if you have a question about your crown, or to schedule an appointment for your root canal therapy. 

Garbis Dental Associates of Columbia
Phone: (410) 730-3800
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10203 Tanager Lane
Columbia, MD 21044

Do You Wear Dentures? Here Are Some Tips | Columbia MD Dentist

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Keeping up with taking care of your dentures can be a daunting task. But don’t worry, with a little extra effort you can keep your dentures squeaky clean. 

Here are five tips for keeping your dentures clean and in good shape: 

1. Thoroughly Rinse. 

Before you brush, make sure to rinse your dentures with water to ensure any food or any other small particles are all washed down the drain. Your dentures are fragile, so you must be extra careful when handling them. Do not rinse your dentures with hot or boiling water as it can damage them. 

2. Brush Your Dentures 

In addition to your actual teeth, your dentures also need to be brushed. You should carefully brush your dentures with a gentle toothpaste and a soft bristled toothbrush. We advise you not to use whitening toothpaste or harsh cleaning materials on them. 

It is important to remember to never use cleaning solutions while your dentures are in your mouth. If you have any questions, be sure to talk to our dentist for advice about the right way to clean your dentures.

3. Don’t Neglect Your Actual Teeth 

Even with dentures, you must still take care of your natural teeth. Make sure to brush them with a soft toothbrush and be extra gentle when brushing your gums. The risks of developing an oral infection are greatly reduced when cleaning your gums. 

Talk to your dentist in Columbia about using gauze if your regular toothbrush is too rough on your gums and be sure to see us for recommendations if you experience any gum pain. 

4. Cover Your Dentures 

Right before you go to bed, make sure that you remove your dentures and keep them in a covered container overnight in either a denture-soaking solution or water. This is so your dentures will retain their shape. 

5. Removing Your Dentures 

If you are having difficulties removing your dentures with adhesive, try swishing your mouth with warm water or mouthwash. Do not use any household cleaning solutions, tools, or a foreign object to remove your dentures. And pay extra attention to ensure that the grooves of your dentures are clean and adhesive free. 

If you take good care of your dentures, they will last longer and provide you with a beautiful smile. Be keen-eyed in keeping up with the cleanliness of your dentures. 

For more tips on keeping your dentures in good shape, or to schedule an appointment, contact our Columbia MD dentist today. We are always glad to answer any questions you may have and address any concerns about your dentures.

Garbis Dental Associates of Columbia
Phone: (410) 730-3800
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10203 Tanager Lane
Columbia, MD 21044

Effective Prevention for Healthier Smiles | Columbia MD Dentist

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Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease for children and adolescents. About ¼ of children and more than half of teens currently have this illness. Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 90% of adults over age 20 have some amount of tooth-root decay. However, tooth decay is highly preventable. By providing effective dental care during childhood, better long-term oral health may be achieved. 

Here are some practices that can help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues at every age: 

Hygiene 

Brush teeth twice each day with a soft-bristled brush. Clean your tongue gently with your toothbrush or a tongue scraper. Use fluoride toothpaste to help strengthen enamel. Children should use only toothpastes designed for kids’ use. Replace toothbrushes every 2-3 months. 

Clean between teeth daily. Use dental floss or another interdental cleaner. Talk to your hygienist for a recommendation and instructions for effective use. 

Diet 

Eat healthy foods and limit sugary and acidic foods. Drink plenty of water. 

Sealants 

A recent study on the effectiveness of sealants was published jointly by the American Dental Association (ADA) and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD). They found that sealants can prevent up to 80% of tooth decay in permanent molars when used for children and teens. Adults may see similar benefits from use, as well. Additionally, no adverse effects have been reported with use of sealants on patients of any age. Talk to our dentist about whether dental sealants may help you prevent tooth decay. 

Fluoride 

Fluoridation of public water has been listed by the CDC as one of the great achievements in public health in the 20th century. Studies have shown tooth decay in children who have fluoridated water sources is reduced by up to 40%. If you have concerns about tooth enamel weakness or if you live in an area without fluoridated water, ask our dentist whether supplemental fluoride may be right for you. 

Dental Care 

Visit our dentist in Columbia for a professional cleaning and thorough exam at least twice each year, or as instructed. Seek treatment right away if issues are identified. 

Effective preventive care saves time and money and can help ensure a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles. For more information about tooth decay prevention, contact our Columbia MD dentist. 

Garbis Dental Associates of Columbia
Phone: (410) 730-3800
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10203 Tanager Lane
Columbia, MD 21044

What is Endodontic Retreatment? | Garbis Dental in Columbia MD

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Endodontic, or root canal, treatment is a safe, effective solution for treating an infection in the tooth root or surrounding tissues. In most cases, this preserves the natural tooth, allowing it to remain healthy for many more years. While it is rare, there are occasions when an infection can return months or even years after treatment. When this occurs, an endodontic retreatment may be recommended. 

When is endodontic retreatment recommended? 

Though it is rare for retreatment to be needed, it may be recommended to preserve a previously-treated tooth in certain cases. The most common reason for needing retreatment is infection, which can be caused by: 

  • New tooth decay 
  • Loose, cracked, or broken crown 
  • Delayed placement of the crown following initial treatment 
  • Fractured tooth 

How is endodontic retreatment performed? 

Retreatment is completed in the same manner as the initial root canal treatment. Our doctor will remove the crown and filling materials, remove the infection, and clean the canals before refilling them to prevent recurrence of infection.  Once healed, a new crown will be placed. 

If you are experiencing discomfort in a tooth that has previously had root canal treatment, contact our office for an evaluation. It could save your tooth.

Garbis Dental Associates of Columbia
Phone: (410) 730-3800
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10203 Tanager Lane
Columbia, MD 21044

Why See an Endodontist? | Root Canal Therapy in Columbia MD

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Whether you were referred by your general dentist or looking for a second opinion on a recommended treatment, we’re here to help. An endodontist, like our doctor, is a dentist with specialized training and experience in performing root canal treatment and preserving natural teeth. 

Why is an endodontist different from a general dentist? 

An endodontist has two or more years of advanced training in the diagnosis and treatment of issues involving your tooth roots and connected tissues. Unlike a general dentist who provides a wide range of services, our office specializes in endodontic treatments exclusively. Our doctor is an expert in root canal therapy, dental trauma, endodontic surgery, and similar treatments. 

When should I see an endodontist? 

You may want to see our doctor for a variety of reasons. Some of these include: 

  • Being referred by your general dentist for endodontic treatment 
  • Wanting a second opinion on a tooth that was recommended for extraction 
  • Trauma affecting your tooth root 
  • Root canal treatment recommended by your dentist 
  • You have a painful and/or infected tooth 

Since our practice is focused on endodontic care, the office is equipped with advanced technology for your comfort and high-quality treatment. If you have had dental trauma, are experiencing tooth pain, have been advised to have root canal treatment, or would like to see if a tooth can be saved, contact our office.

Garbis Dental Associates of Columbia
Phone: (410) 730-3800
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10203 Tanager Lane
Columbia, MD 21044

Daily Flossing | Family Dentist Columbia MD

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We’ve all been told at least once in our life that flossing daily is crucial. Here are four reasons why flossing may be beneficial for your oral health routine: 

  1. Preventative care. Food and bacteria buildup between your teeth is unavoidable. Over time, these bacterial colonies lead to tooth decay and the destruction of your dental health. Flossing helps remove food and bacteria from areas that your toothbrush can’t reach. 
  2. Helps prevent gingivitis and gum disease. Your teeth aren’t the only part of your mouth that needs attention. Many people take care of their teeth but ignore their gums. Researchers at the New York University College of Dentistry explain that the people who floss regularly experience much lower instances of periodontal pathogens, gum bleeding, and decay-causing bacteria in contrast with people who do not floss. 
  3. Protects your smile. Flossing does more than just prevent cavities—it also preserves the bones that support your teeth. By preserving the height of that bony structure as well as a healthy smile, you’re maintaining a healthy and youthful appearance that will benefit you for years to come. 
  4. Gives you better overall health. Gum disease doesn’t just affect your mouth and jaw. It has also been linked to heart disease, stroke, diabetes and even respiratory diseases. Flossing daily is more than just an optimal habit—it can help keep you healthy as you age. 

We are pleased to offer a variety of oral health solutions to keep your smile healthy. We are also able to customize a health plan tailored to your specific needs. Book your appointment with our dental team today.

Garbis Dental Associates of Columbia
Phone: (410) 730-3800
cash, credit card
10203 Tanager Lane
Columbia, MD 21044