What non-surgical options are available if my gum disease is advanced?

If the disease has progressed beyond gingivitis, we often perform deep cleaning procedures, such as scaling and root planing. This non-surgical treatment meticulously removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the tooth roots, helping the gums reattach and reduce pocket depth. These procedures are fundamental to the periodontal services in Bethesda we offer.

How is bone grafting used to treat periodontal disease?

When bone loss is significant, a bone graft may be necessary to stabilize your teeth. This procedure involves placing bone material (synthetic or natural) into the affected area to stimulate regeneration of new, supportive bone tissue. This can dramatically improve the prognosis for affected teeth. This is just one example of the advanced care available through our periodontal services in Bethesda.

Are there surgical treatments for gum disease, and when are they needed?

Yes, surgical treatments like flap surgery or pocket reduction surgery are used when non-surgical methods are insufficient. These procedures allow the periodontist to access and clean the deep root surfaces and reshape damaged bone before securing the gum tissue back in place. We provide these necessary treatments as part of our comprehensive care.

What exactly is Crown Lengthening, and why would I need it?

Crown lengthening is a common periodontal procedure that adjusts the gum and bone level around a tooth. It is often performed for cosmetic purposes to improve a "gummy" smile or when a tooth needs more structure exposed for the successful placement of a filling or a dental crown. Our periodontal services in Bethesda include both restorative and cosmetic options.

How often should high-risk patients (like those with diabetes) receive professional cleanings?

Patients with systemic conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes, or certain immune-compromising diseases, may require professional periodontal maintenance visits more often than the standard twice per year. Your doctor will recommend a personalized schedule, usually every three to four months, to effectively manage inflammation and prevent disease progression.

General Dentistry in Bethesda | Complete Family Dental Care- Bethesda Dental Health

General Dentistry

Helping our patients maintain a healthy mouth and smile is the main goal of general dentistry. We prefer to provide more minor, preventive care than to see patients suffer with more intensive treatments from a problem that was not managed in time. We want to ensure that your oral health is in its optimal state and positively contributing to the health of your entire body. We are here to brighten your smile and pave the way for a brighter life.

Cleanings And Exams
Teeth Whitening
Fillings
Extractions
Night Guards

Cleanings And Exams

Having a dental practice perform a checkup and regular cleaning gives a preventive approach to dental care. These general dentistry treatments help prevent problems with your teeth, gums and jaw bones, or they catch and manage problems before they worsen. During your visit, our doctors will take a picture of the current standing of your dental health and what would be needed to keep your oral hygiene in its best state.

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Teeth Whitening

These days you can whiten your teeth with over-the-counter products; however they can never replace professional whitening products that is used only in dental offices. Products used in dental offices are purchased from reputable dental companies and the chemical compounds are tested and approved for safe use. There are two ways to whiten your teeth: Take-home products that your dentist give you with customized trays or In-office whitening. You get the same results with both; however, with in-office whitening you see the results immediately. Take-home products have the advantage of being available at different percentages which can be more beneficial for people with sensitive teeth.

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Fillings

White fillings also known as resins are used to replace the damaged part of the tooth as a result of cavity or to enhance appearance of the teeth. It is also used to cover exposed roots to reduce sensitivity and close gaps between teeth. Because of the advances in dental technology, resins mimic the color of the tooth, expand and contract similar to the tooth unlike silver fillings and can be used to fill the cavities at their early stage. Unlike silver fillings, resins do not contain mercury. It is safe to be used in children.

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Extractions

An extraction is performed to remove a tooth, whether because of disease, crowding, or damage. When extractions are required, the area around the tooth will be numbed and your dentist will remove the tooth. A small amount of bleeding is normal, as your mouth will replace the removed tooth root by forming a blood clot in the area.

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Night Guards

Occlusal Guard(commonly known as Night Guard) and TMJ appliances are customized medical devices to help patients prevent or reduce damage to their jaw joints, teeth, and other related structures and to help ease muscle tension, headaches, and jaw soreness. They are the most conservative, non-invasive treatment for patients who clench, grind or do both, with or without symptoms. The design and materials used to fabricate these appliances vary depending on patient’s needs, and severity of their condition. These devices need to be replaced if cracks and fracture lines develop or if your appliance is loose and not stable.

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FAQs

Besides basic cleanings, what specific preventative care does your general dentistry practice in Bethesda offer to detect problems early?

Our general dentistry practice in Bethesda focuses on comprehensive prevention. We utilize detailed oral cancer screenings during routine exams and employ digital X-rays to detect hidden issues like decay, bone loss, or impacted teeth before they become symptomatic. This proactive approach ensures we maintain your optimal oral health, contributing positively to your overall well-being.

If I need a filling, what options are available to ensure the restoration is both durable and aesthetically pleasing?

We offer modern, tooth-colored composite fillings as the preferred standard of care. These restorations bond directly to the tooth, requiring less removal of healthy structure than old metal fillings. They are highly durable and blend seamlessly with your natural enamel. This ensures your smile remains bright and healthy after your general dentistry procedure.

I suspect I might clench my jaw at night. How can a night guard dentist help me prevent future damage to my teeth and jaw joints?

A night guard dentist can create a custom-fitted night guard that acts as a protective cushion between your upper and lower teeth while you sleep. This prevents the forces of clenching and grinding from causing wear, chipping, and damaging your jaw joints (TMJ). This is a simple, effective preventative solution offered in our office.

How often should I schedule an exam and cleaning if I don’t currently have any noticeable pain or problems with my teeth?

For most patients, our general dentistry recommendation is to schedule a complete exam and professional cleaning every six months. This frequency allows us to monitor your oral health, address any developing issues quickly, and remove plaque and tartar buildup that you cannot eliminate at home, maintaining your smile’s optimal condition.

My child is nervous about visiting the dentist. How does your Bethesda office make appointments comfortable for younger patients?

Our Bethesda office is committed to making dental visits enjoyable for all ages. Our friendly staff creates a relaxing, supportive environment focused on patient education. We use gentle techniques and explain procedures clearly, helping young patients build positive associations with the dentist to encourage a lifetime of preventative general dentistry habits.