General Dentistry
When it comes to taking care of your smile, it can be hard to know where to go and even harder to find someone that you trust. Here at Cummins Dental Group in Silver Spring, Maryland, we offer many of the general dentistry services that will give you a confident and healthy smile.
Dental Cleanings: It is recommended that you see your dentist every 6 months for a professional cleaning. The cleaning includes the removal of plaque and tartar, polishing your teeth with a high powered brush, and a professional flossing. The cleaning normally takes about 30 minutes and will leave you with a fresh and healthy smile.
Dental Exams and X-Rays: During your half-year visit, a dental exam of your teeth will be done by a hygienist. The hygienist uses a small mirror to check for any oral problems, such as gum disease and decay, and looks for any damaged teeth. X-rays should be taken at least once a year to check alignment and any impacted teeth.
Fluoride: Fluoride is a sticky paste that is painted across the front of your teeth after a cleaning. Fluoride works to prevent cavities over a period of time. It has no color or taste and fights against bacteria and acid in the mouth. Normally, you should not eat or drink anything hot for the first 24 hours after fluoride is applied.
Fillings: A cavity is a small hole in your tooth that is created by acid and bacteria. A filling is done to literally fill the hole of the cavity and restore the tooth to its original functioning state. Fillings can also be used to get rid of decay and repair broken or cracked teeth.
Tooth Extractions: Tooth extractions are done when there is no other way to save a tooth. A tooth may be pulled out due to decay, wisdom teeth pain, a crack below the gum line, or permanent teeth are coming in. No matter the reason, we assure you that a tooth extraction is done correctly in order to avoid future pain.
Sealants: Sealants are done to help prevent cavities. Teeth are first cleaned and dried so that a sealant can be painted and then hardened to the top of the molar. The process is simple and painless and can have long term benefits. It may feel weird at first, but your tooth should function normally.
Periodontal Disease: Periodontal disease is a severe gum disease that needs to be treated in order to avoid tooth loss and further problems with the jaw and alveolar bone. Treatment includes intense cleaning of the gums and often prescribed medication to help lower the inflammation of the gums.
Here in Silver Spring, Maryland, we want to give you your best smile. We invite you to read more on our website to gain a better understanding of the different treatments we offer and their procedures. When you give us, Cummins Dental Group, a call, you can know that you are in good hands.