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Greenbelt Oral and Facial Surgery


How Mouth Breathing Can Impact your Oral Health
July 28th, 2020 10:52 AM

Do you know Breathing from Mouth can actually have bad impact on your oral Health?

Well the answer is YES. Breathing from your mouth (Mouth Breathing) have adverse and serious effect on oral health. 

We all know that brushing your teeth for twice a day or flossing your teeth will help to remove all the bacteria or dirt from your teeth, also thee are many things to avoid to keep your oral health more healthy and strong and keep your smile fresh and natural. There is one more thing which you may don't know and that you need to avoid to maintain your oral health is MOUTH BREATHING i.e breathing through your mouth. There are some reasons like if person is suffering from (CNO) i.e Chronic  nasal obstruction where you may not be able to breathe through your nose and you have to breathe from mouth. Mostly people breathe in and expel air through nose. But there are some people who expell the breathe through mouth, this may put you on great risk for building up poor oral health.

Mouth Breathing makes your mouth your lips more drier dry mouth is a dangerous mouth. Not only can a chronically dry mouth lead to bad breath and increase the risk of tooth decay and cavities, it can also put you at risk for gum disease and gingivitis. Gum disease is a serious oral health problem that has been linked to whole-body issues like heart attacks, strokes, and heart disease. Because of Mouth breathing, your mouth mouth becomes dry and decreases the amount of saliva, because of which the chances of tooth decay and other problems of oral health start increasing.


Let us discuss the causes/ sign & symptoms and the possible treatments for Mouth Breathing.


Causes Of Mouth Breathing:

* Chronic breathing issues
* Sinus
* Asthma
* Cold, cough, flu.
* Nasal Obstruction
* Sleep Apnea
* Tonsil


Signs and Symptoms of Mouth Breathing:

* Snoring
* Gum Disease
* Dry Lips
* Crowded Teeth
* Infections including sinus, ear, colds
* Misalignment teeth.



There are some treatments option that you can take care off:
If you or your any close one is suffering from the mouth breathing habit please go to your dentists and start your treatment immediately.


1. Your dentists may do your routine dental examination.
2. The most treatments include special pillows, mouth guards, equipment to correct sleep apnea.
3. Treatments to address health conditions i.e sinus or Asthma.
4. Improve the position of the jaw.
5. Get treated your misaligned teeth.
6. Jaw Surgery.



If you have any question or want to know more about the Mouth Breathing or suffering from such problem feel free to contact Greenbelt Oral & Facial Surgery. Call us at (301)-982-4555 or visit our Dental office at 7525 Greenway Center Drive, Suite 109, Greenbelt MD 20770.


Tips to Keeping your Smile Healthy While Staying at Home
June 2nd, 2020 10:50 AM

START  YOUR  DAY  WITH  BEAUTIFUL  "SMILE"

We all know that taking care of your healthy body, your personality, etc are very important, in some way taking care of our teeth, of your oral health is also considered as an important and good habit in which you have to follow Routine. 

Good Dental care is more important than just keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Because if there is any problem you are suffering in your mouth it will also cause problems to your body parts. During this difficult time, people are staying at home, can't go for routine checkups to their dentists Greenbelt MD. Don't miss this opportunity you can take good care of your oral health at home. 

So we will discuss some tips below to follow to take care of your healthy teeth & Smile at home.



1. Brush & Floss - REGULARLY:

Brushing your teeth daily twice a day for two minutes with a soft-bristled brush and to keep your teeth and Gum more healthy and strong. Also, Flossing helps you to remove the particles that are stuck in between the teeth. So Floss your teeth daily Because of which flossing will keep your germs and plaque-free and will help you to maintain good oral health by staying at home.

2. Avoid Smoking & Tobacco:

As we know that smoking is injurious for health. Because of smoking, intake of tobacco your health gets affected - the lungs get badly affected, suffer from cancer. In the same way, if a high intake of smoke and tobacco is consumed your oral health will also suffer your teeth & gum will get affected badly. By consuming such products it leaves very bad dirty color on your teeth, your teeth lose its original white color, also causes erosion in your gums and lead to tooth loss. So by avoiding this unhealthy product you will lead to good healthy teeth and oral health which will maintain your smile.

3. Eat Healthy Foods to keep your Teeth & Smile Healthy:

Having a properly balanced diet plan can make your smile, health, and your overall health strong and maintained. There are some foods that you need to include in your daily meal plan such as vitamins & minerals which will help your body to stay healthy and fine and also will help your teeth to stay stronger and healthier.
* Phosphorus, which is found in fish, meat, nuts is a mineral that works with calcium to build strong, healthy bones and teeth.
* Calcium, which is found in milk, cheese, yogurt is an essential mineral that strengthens enamel.
* Vitamin C, which is found in citrus fruits as well as tomatoes, kiwifruit, sprouts, broccoli, and more, helps to maintain good healthy gums and protects against gum disease.

4. Drink Plenty of water & Drink Tap Water:

Most tap water is fortified with fluoride these days. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that has been proven to strengthen your tooth enamel. This makes you much less susceptible to cavities. Bottled water typically doesn’t have fluoride, so unless you’re drinking tap water, you’re missing out on some dental health benefits.


5. To maintain healthy teeth & Smile right products must be used:

Get a soft-bristled toothbrush and a good, minimally abrasive toothpaste. Hard bristled toothbrushes can damage soft tissue and cause unnecessary tooth enamel erosion. Abrasive toothpaste is often recommended for teeth whitening, but these products can accelerate dental wear.

6. Rinse with mouthwash:

Mouthwash helps to fight against bad breath. It helps to fight against killing the bacteria which leads to gum disease and protects your teeth and gum from getting damaged. So rinse your mouth for 30 to 60 seconds for best and better results.

"We LOVE to serve your own "SMILE" that you Deserve".


Follow These Tips While you are staying at home these days and take the opportunity to maintain your good oral health & your beautiful smile at home until you visit your Dentist Greenbelt MD. Book your appointment with Greenbelt Oral & Facial Surgery. Feel Free to call us at (301)-982-4555 for more information.

Why Do my teeth get hurts when I take cold or hot beverages or drinks?
April 2nd, 2020 11:01 AM
When your teeth get hurts while taking any cold or hot drinks this means that you are having tooth sensitivity problems. If you have a sensitivity problem, then while consuming the cold or hot beverages and the pain you get in your teeth is very horrible. It's getting frustrating and upsetting i.e when you want to eat or drink something cold like ice cream or cold water or hot cocoa and suddenly when it touches your teeth you suddenly feel like your teeth got current and start paining. Pain that lasts for 15sec or less then that is not a serious issue but if your teeth pain remains for more than 30 sec then it is a more serious issue. So if you have a sensitivity problem then please contact your dentist's greenbelt MD immediately.



Why your Tooth is sensitive to hot drinks or beverages?


Common reasons:


* Chronic oral health concerns.
* Teeth whitening Treatment.
* Consuming an acidic diet.

Why your Tooth is sensitive to cold drinks or beverages?


* Cracks in teeth.
* Teeth grinding & Clenching.
* Brushing too hard.
* Gum Disease.
* Tooth decay.
* Gum tissue recession.

What causes sensitive teeth?


When you visit our dental office for tooth sensitivity treatment, the first step will be determining the underlying cause of dental sensitivity. While the exact habit or experience that leads to dental sensitivity will vary from person to person, the underlying causes are typically the same. Each tooth is made up of three layers. The hard, outer layer called the enamel is the tooth’s defense system, protecting the softer, inner layers of teeth. Immediately below the enamel is the dentin, a tooth layer that contains a number of microscopic tubes that lead into the innermost layer of the tooth called the pulp. The nerve system of the tooth is housed within the pulp. Normally, dentin is protected by healthy gums and enamel, but when the dentin is exposed, microscopic holes in the dentin called tubules are irritated. Tubules are connected directly to the tooth nerve and the irritation caused by hot and cold temperatures is what causes tooth sensitivity and pain. Dental sensitivity to a temperature typically occurs when cells within the dentin layers of teeth or the tooth’s nerve are stimulated by the hot or cold beverage.

Can I Treat my sensitive teeth?


Yes, you can treat your sensitive teeth by appointing your doctor. The dentist will recommend you different treatments that will help your teeth to get relief from pain. As per dentists recommends:

*Fluoride treatment.
* Soft Toothbrush or an electric toothbrush.
* Use a sensitivity toothpaste
* Avoid sugary foods because it causes acids and sugar which will form cavity and tooth decay.


For sensitivity teeth, there are some home remedies/ tips that you can do daily at your home at least you will get some relief. The tips are:


* Use sensitive toothpaste for sensitive teeth.
* Use Straw so that whatever hot or cold drinks or beverages consume will not touch your teeth and reduces sensitivity.
* Wear Mouthguard to avoid grind or clenching your teeth. This will decrease the risk of fracture and cracks in your teeth.
* Change your mouthwash.


Follow these all tips and instructions of your designs and see the results definitely you can enjoy your favorite hot and cold beverages.

If still, you are finding difficulty, suffering from pain then don't worry Contact your Dentist Greenbelt MD - Greenbelt Oral & Facial surgery call us at  (301)-982-4555 or Book online and Fix up our appointment visit our office.



6 Dental #Myths about the health of your teeth.
March 14th, 2020 11:40 AM


Myth 1: Candies/ Sugar is the biggest reason to cause Cavities:

Sugar or sugary products are the main and important reason or play a role in tooth decay. We all know that sugar/ candies help to the formation of cavities. It's not that simply eating chocolate cause cavity. The chocolate which contains high sugar creates a major problem to your teeth while consuming high sugary products. Bacterias also eat sugar, if any sticky or sugary product you take be aware to wash your mouth properly otherwise the bacteria attract to teeth. So after having your meal brush your mouth to reduce the plaque buildup. Brush your teeth twice a day.

Myth 2: Consuming more Acidic food can damage your teeth:

Do you know acidic food creates sensitivity and decay to your teeth? Food like orange and lemons contains acid but consuming those foods won't's destroy your teeth. So don't worry you can have those foods. But you need to drink a lot of water when you have your acidic foods, as water will wash away the acid from our water/teeth. Also, clean your teeth twice a year and have your dental checkups.

Myth 3: Don't need to Brush Baby Teeth:

It is wrong that we don't brush the baby teeth. We all know that the baby teeth have a short life span then adult teeth. But you should create the habit of brushing your baby tooth as soon as it starts coming to the kid. Brushing your teeth is a good habit. If you start brushing your teeth as soon as your baby starts building up the teeth it will be good and the baby will start getting the habit to keep the mouth and teeth clean. If a baby tooth is not brushed or cleaned the there will be a complication, dental health issues (tooth decay, cavity, gum problem, dental pain) that kid will suffer for a lifetime.

Myth 4: Charcoal Toothpaste is good for Teeth:

Charcoal is used for removing the bacteria and helps to whiten. This charcoal toothpaste is also marketed and very well known for whitening. It is also used for protection for teeth. Charcoal works as a protective agent which will keep your teeth healthy and strong. So it will be good if you want to make your teeth white and clean you can use charcoal toothpaste.

Myth 5: Chewing Gum Works Like Brushing:

Chewing gum is not a replacement for brushing your teeth. Some chewing gums can promote cleaner teeth and better breath, and some dentists even recommend the sugar-free varieties to chew on instead of candy. However, while some chewing gums serve as aids to oral health, they still don’t reach the level of being able to replace brushing your teeth.

Myth 6: Brush your teeth with soft bristle toothbrush:

Brush your teeth with a soft-bristle toothbrush. Brush your teeth daily twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush. As soft bristle toothbrush helps to protect your teeth. Also, it makes you comfortable to use it. It will never hurt your teeth or gums while brushing. While Hard bristle toothbrush will hurt you and your teeth which will lead to other dental problems. Even with soft bristle toothbrush you can brush or clean your teeth harder so that your mouth, teeth remains healthy.

Schedule your appointment with Greenbelt Oral & Facial Surgery. Call us at 301-982-4555 or Book online or visit our office at 7525 Greenway Center Drive, Suite 109, Greenbelt MD 20770 

5 ways how sugar affects your Dental health
January 28th, 2020 11:01 AM
As we know that people like the sweet product the most. Not only sweets or desserts I m talking also sugary drinks included. In Today's tradition, we all know that without sugar, sweet or desserts the food remains incomplete. So people enjoy the sugary product. But have you ever know that the sugary products how it affects the tooth and created dental problems such as sensitivity, cavities, etc.

Do you know what are sugars?
Sugars are sweet like crystal substance mainly sucrose that is white in color which is obtained from sugar cane. Sugar is a common food that is consumed on a daily basis. So if you don't take care of your tooth like after taking sugary food or having meals if you don't brush your teeth or don't wash your mouth properly then your teeth will have a great impact you will suffer from dental issues.



Do you have any idea that how this sugary product affects your teeth and how this sugar and dental health are connected to each other? Let's discuss how sugar and dental health are connected.

1. SUGAR ATTRACTS BAD BACTERIA AND LOWERS YOUR MOUTH PH:


Sugar is like a magnet for bad bacteria. It attracts the bacteria towards the teeth and creates dental issues. Also if the plaque is not washed away by saliva or brushing, the mouth becomes more acidic and cavities may start to form. Any pH level below seven indicates an acidic environment in the mouth. The enamel is composed of minerals, and acidity breaks down these minerals and begins to dissolve the outer layer. This makes the tooth decay.

2. CONSUMING FOOD AND DRINK HIGH IN SUGAR CAN HAVE NEGATIVELY AFFECT ON ORAL HEALTH:


You should avoid consuming more sugary drinks, sugary products, sugary beverages, etc such as soda, coffee drinks, tea, orange juice, chocolates, chocolates related drink, Aerated drinks (soft drinks) which include the Cola, caffeine, etc. Also, avoid consuming more alcohol also has great effects on dental health. As these sugary products contain high acid. If you avoid candies, cakes, pastries, it will be good for you because these foods are the big enemies of teeth and results in the formation of cavities.

3. DENTAL CLEANINGS AND SUGAR:


Brushing or cleaning of teeth can help you to keep your oral health. Because consuming of more sugary foods daily can damage your teeth. So at least twice a day you should brush your teeth after taking a meal. Even if your teeth are professionally cleaned every six months, sugar can do an immense amount of damage between cleanings. This is why preventive dentistry plays such an important role in protecting teeth from the effects of sugar.

4. BACTERIA FEEDS ON SUGAR:


The mouth is teeming with bacteria, both good and bad. Everything we consume feeds these bacteria, groups of unicellular organisms that are nourished by starches and sugars. Colonized bacteria present as dental plaque. As a result of digestion, the bacteria produce acid. The acid then eats away at tooth enamel. This is what causes tooth decay, and eventually cavities.

5. SUGAR RESTRAIN THE FUNCTIONALITY OF SALIVARY GLAND SYSTEM:


Sugar can change the composition of saliva and can lead to dry mouth. When this saliva is not cleaned properly the teeth are higher on risk to create the problem of cavities.

Request an appointment here: http://www.greenbeltsurgery.com or call Greenbelt Oral and Facial Surgery at (301)-982-4555 for an appointment in our Greenbelt MD office.




How Stress Impacts Oral Health - 7 Ways Stress Affects Your Teeth
December 5th, 2019 08:55 AM

Stress and oral health have a stronger link than was previously imagined. In today’s busy and dynamic world, stress is a common concern for most people. Everyone knows that stress/negatively affects mental health. Research has also shown that stress has a negative impact on our oral health. Long-term Stress can hurt not only physically or emotionally also it has a bad impact on teeth and 
mouth.


Stress may lead to the following oral health concerns:


  • Poor habits
  • Mouth sores
  • Grinding/Clenching your teeth
  • Nail Biting
  • TMJ Disorder
  • Gum Disease
  • Missing a regular dental appointment


Poor habits - Smoking as a means of coping may increase during stressful times that may also negatively impact our immunity and increase the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.



Mouth sores - If you suffer from occasional attacks of painful mouth ulcers, these frequently develop due to Vitamin B deficiency and extreme levels of stress. canker sores or cold sores are oftentimes caused by emotional stress. Please speak to your dentist as he/she can provide medication.


Grinding/Clenching your teeth - If you grind your teeth, you probably do it while you sleep. It's a common oral health problem. It can cause headaches, a sore jaw, and damage to your teeth. Severe teeth grinding can cause loose teeth or even broken or lost teeth.  stress can cause worrying and repetitive thoughts, which can cause grinding during sleep. 


Nail Biting - Though many people bite their nails in stressful situations, this bad habit can have serious consequences such as:  

1. Germs transfer from your nail to your mouth which causes mouth infection.

2. Warts may spread from your hand to your mouth.


TMJ Disorder - TMJ stands for temporomandibular joints. These are the joints that you use to move your lower jaw. They are located just below your ear. Swelling or stiffness in these joints can cause a TMJ disorder. Symptoms can include pain, clicking, and popping. Stress is a major cause of TMJ problems. For instance, stress can cause you to clench your jaw and grind your teeth.


Gum Disease - Gum disease is an infection of your gums. It can cause loose teeth, bleeding gums, and bad breath. Stress can also contribute to gum disease if it causes you to grind your teeth, clench your jaw, or smoke cigarettes. If you have severe pain on your teeth or mouth then you need to get treated sooner.


Missing regular dental appointments - Visiting your dentist regularly (every six months), not only provides preventative care but also facilitates diagnosing and managing dental issues that may become worse over time.


How can you manage stress?

  1. Find relaxing techniques or a self-care plan to help manage difficult times.
  2. Keep up with oral hygiene home care.
  3. Visit your dentist regularly for exams and cleanings.
  4. Get plenty of rest.
  5. Eat a healthy, balanced diet and drink plenty of water.

If you have any questions about how stress can be affecting your oral health, please contact Dr. Ali Elyassi and feel free to ask the question. Call us at (301)-982-4555 and visit Greenbelt Oral and Facial Surgery at Greenbelt MD 20770.





Tips for the New Denture Wearers
September 25th, 2019 09:27 AM

Periodontal disease, injury and tooth decay can all cause a loss of your natural permanent teeth. To restore your missing teeth or an injury of teeth Gentle Dental Dentures is the solution. Dentures are prosthetic devices constructed to replace missing teeth and are supported by the surrounding soft and hard tissues of the oral cavity. There are two types of Dentures 1. Complete dentures 2. Partial Dentures. 

For the New Denture Wearers there are some Tips and Tricks to take care of the dentures.:

1. Brush your dentures daily.

As Dentures are replaced for the missing tooth, We need to take care of the dentures properly as we take for our natural tooth. Dentures need to be brushed daily. Dentures can also get stained and develop bacteria. So first brush your teeth and denture also properly then rinse them with water to remove food particles. Dental experts say avoid bleaching agents otherwise it will damage the denture.

2. Soak dentures daily in a denture cleanser:

 After cleaning the denture with the brush, soak the denture into cleanser daily to remove plaque, bacteria. Denture cleanser will also help to kill the germs which develop bad breath. In a market different type of denture cleanser is available you can use that and can take care of denture.


3. Give Your Tissues Rest:

We always recommend sleeping without your dentures. This will give you plenty of time to soak them, and it will also give your gums a break and allow them to heal from any soreness or irritation.

4. Adjust Your Diet :

Once you fixed the new dentures, there is certain food that you need to avoid.  it is important to maintain proper nutrition as well, so be sure you are eating well-balanced meals and healthy snacks. Avoid sweet foods, sweet drinks, corns, hard nuts etc, to keep your denture clean and protected.

Book Your appointment with Dr. Ali Elyassi.
Visit our office at 
7525 Greenway Center Drive, Suite 109,
Greenbelt MD 20770

Reasons Mouth Guards Should Be Mandatory For sport Athletes
August 16th, 2019 06:27 AM

Reasons Mouth Guards Should Be Mandatory For sport Athletes



No matter what sport you play, At Greenbelt Oral and Facial Surgery | Greenbelt MD, 
we recommend wearing a mouthguard. There are numerous reasons for this and many ways that they can help protect your teeth.

Here are six of the most important reasons to always wear mouth guards when playing sports.

1. Protect against displacing teeth.


Imagine being hit in the mouth by a baseball. There’s no question it could break your tooth but it could also displace it. That is, it could loosen it to the point that it moves easily and requires dental treatment. Mouthguards can help to distribute force over all of your teeth, which keeps a single tooth – or several – from bearing the brunt of a blow.

2. Protect against injury to the soft tissues.


While it’s true that teeth can get damaged when playing sports, it’s also true that the teeth can actually damage the soft tissue of the mouth. For example, a basketball player who gets hit in the face with a ball could inadvertently bite into their lip. This can require stitches and even plastic surgery to repair but it can be avoided by simply wearing a mouth guard – which can also help protect the cheeks and tongue.

3. Prevent jaw fractures


Anyone who sustains a blow to the head is likely to have their teeth come into contact with one another. When this happens, there isn’t much room for flexibility. However, if a mouth guard is worn, it acts as padding and can actually prevent the jaw from fracturing. Jaw fractures are serious business and can lead to surgery, so doing something simple like wearing a guard is well worth it.

4. Guards From fracturing teeth


One of the most important things that mouthguards can do is to prevent your teeth from breaking. If you do experience a tooth fracture, it’s likely that you can save it. If it’s fractured on the crown, where you can see it, then we can generally add white filling material to replace the fractured part. If it fractures and the dental pulp is showing, then a root canal will likely be required.

The worst-case scenario is one in which the root of the tooth fractures. At Greenbelt Oral and Facial Surgery | Greenbelt MD we will do everything we can, but it’s possible in these situations that the tooth can’t be saved.

5. Mouthguards can keep you from knocking out your teeth.


You’d be hard-pressed to find someone who wants to get their teeth knocked out, yet many people don’t wear a mouth guard for their teeth when playing sports. Adults who have an adult tooth knocked out may be able to save it. Bring it to Greenbelt Oral and Facial Surgery | Greenbelt MD and let us take a look. If a child gets a baby tooth knocked out, then a spacer may be required until the adult tooth grows in.

6. Mouthguards may help prevent concussions.


While there is disagreement on this issue, some say that since mouth guards add padding between the upper and lower rows of teeth, that padding could lessen the force of the jaw as it pushes on the skull near the brain. As a result, the chance of concussion could be lessened.


5 Ways To Have A Perfect Smile
July 29th, 2019 07:04 AM

1. Choose the right toothbrush



Always use a soft-bristled brush that bears the seal of the American Dental Association (ADA). ...
Make sure the toothbrush has a head size that fits comfortably in your mouth. ...
Change your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months, before the bristles start to splay, and any time after you've been sick.

2. Brush your teeth several times a day



Brushing your teeth regularly is a key way to improve oral health. Aim to gently brush at least twice each day, for two minutes each time. Experts also recommend regular professional cleanings, both to keep your teeth clean and to catch early signs of tooth or gum issues requiring treatment.Apr


3. Floss between your teeth



Flossing your teeth every day removes food particles, plaque, and debris that brushing can’t reach. This helps you keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible. Additionally, flossing can help you avoid bad breath.[1] Although flossing can be tricky at first, it gets easier with practice. Start by learning how to hold the floss, then work on cleaning your teeth. Finally, adopt healthy flossing habits to help you maintain healthy teeth.

4. Be aware of any changes



When you see your dentist—which you should at regular intervals, preferably every 6 months—be sure to mention any changes you’ve noticed since your last visit, such as:

.changes in the color of your teeth or teeth that have moved;
.increased sensitivity to hot or cold;
.changes to the gums (color, sensitivity, bleeding);
.appearance of sores in the mouth or on the lips;
.tension in the neck or jaw;
.clenching or grinding of teeth;
.appearance of bumps on the neck.

5. Adopt a healthy lifestyle


Balance your diet! Eating healthy contributes to dental health as well as overall health. Foods that can compromise your dental health include candy, sweet drinks and fruit juices. Also, quit smoking as it affects the health of your teeth and mouth. Finally, drink alcohol with moderation. If you’re having trouble changing some of your habits, ask your pharmacist for help.





Habits That Ruin Your Teeth
July 5th, 2019 09:39 AM

1.   Smoking

Smoking leads to dental problems, including: Bad breath. Tooth discoloration. Inflammation of the salivary gland openings on the roof of the mouth. Increased build up of plaque and tartar on the teeth. Increased loss of bone within the jaw. Increased risk of leukoplakia, white patches inside the mouth.


2.   Drinking alcohol


Discover the facts about how drinking alcohol affects your oral health. ... Not only does this problemcause bad breath, it also boosts your chance of cavities.

3.   Grinding Teeth


The problem of teeth grinding is not limited to adults. ... Grinding of the baby teethrarely results in problems. However, teeth grinding can cause jaw pain, headaches, wear on the teeth, and TMD. Consult your dentist if your child's teeth look worn or if your child complains of tooth sensitivity or pain.

4.   Gummy Candy


 Ever wondered what the worst and best candies are for your teeth? ... Gummy worms, because they're the most acidic. .... The body can not fully digest it and it causes big problems in the digestive tract along with damage to 

5.   Soda


Sugar in soda combines with bacteria in your mouth to form acid, which attacks theteeth. Diet or “sugar-free” soda contains its own acid, which also can damage teeth. ... These ongoing acid attacks weaken tooth enamel. Kids and teens are most susceptible to tooth decay because their tooth enamel is not fully developed.

6.   Opening Stuff With Your Teeth


Opening bottle caps or plastic packaging with your teeth may be convenient, but this is one habit that makes dentists cringe. Using your teeth as tools can cause them to crack or chip. Instead, keep scissors and bottle openers handy. Bottom line, your teeth should only be used for eating.

7.   Constant Snacking


Besides brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing and visiting a dentistregularly, try to avoid or limit the foods below. Sour Candies. It's not surprising that candy is bad for your mouth. Bread. Alcohol. Carbonated Drinks. Ice. Citrus. Potato Chips. Dried Fruits.

8.   Drinking Coffee



Despite the health benefits drinking coffee might have, too much consumption may not be good for the teeth. One cup of coffee a day increases the chances of cavities. Additionally, coffee can contribute to halitosis or bad breath because of its thick scent and the way it increases oral bacteria in the mouth.

9.   Chewing on Ice


Dangers of Chewing Ice, munching won't destroy your health like other addictions will. But the dentaldamage that comes from chewing on ice often include cracked and chipped teeth, damage to tooth enamel, problems with existing dental work such as fillings and crowns, and sore jaw muscles.

10.   Playing Sports With No Mouth Guard


The role of the mouthguard in the prevention of sports-related dental injuries: a review. ... implications for patients undergoing orthodontic treatment and behavioural aspects of mouthguard wear. ... a number of sports does carry a considerable risk of sustaining dental injury, notonly in the so-called

Top 5 Ways to Combat Dental Phobia
June 3rd, 2019 09:51 AM
Top 5 Ways to Combat Dental Phobia. If you fear to go to the dentist, you are not alone. Between 9% and 20% of Americans avoid going to the dentist because of anxiety or fear. Indeed, it is a universal phenomenon.Few people look forward to a spell in the dentist's chair. Below are the Top 5 Ways to Combat Dental Phobia. But serious anxiety prevents millions of Americans from seeking proper preventative care. The consequences of this problem may go far beyond dental pain or lost teeth. Gum disease is a serious infection that can affect other parts of the body. Studies now link it to illnesses including. heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.


Top 5 Ways to Combat Dental Phobia

Fear #1 Needles phobia


The level of fear varies from person to person, and some people are afraid of dental injections in particular, while others are phobic about any sort of needle. Between 1 and 3% of the US, the population has some kind of phobia about needles(aichmophobia) or, subtly different, injections (arachnophobia). So you are not the only one but you can Overcome it with Our care of  Greenbeltsurgery.


Fear #2 The Drill


Some people may fear pain from a drill. This fear can be triggered by the sound of the drill.
However, patients are numbed before using the drill. When sufficiently numbed, you won’t feel any pain at all. You’ll just be aware of light pressure and vibration.
If the sound troubles you, pop in earphones and listen to some music. This can help to calm and/or distract you. It can be a calming classic or a pumping dance track – whichever you prefer!
                                          Fear #3 – Pain
If you’ve had a bad experience with dental pain before, you may be afraid of a repeat experience. However, many factors come into play with dental pain.
Anesthetics and numbing gels are now available for most treatments. This means it’s not likely to be the painful experience you’ve had in the past.
Also, when you’re more fearful, you tend to tense up. This may make you more sensitive to pain.

 Fear #4 – Embarrassment About Bad Teeth 

Embarrassment is perhaps THE most common concern voiced by people who haven’t been to a dentist in a very long time. It may come as a surprise to some that the days when “the lecture” was part-and-parcel of a visit to the dentist are gone. Dentistry has evolved into an industry which supplies a service to the potential customer – you!

    

                                       Fear #5 – Sedation Fears

Sedation effects differ from person to person. The most common feelings are drowsiness and relaxation. Once the sedative takes effect, negative emotions, stress, or anxiety may also gradually disappear. You may feel a tingling sensation throughout your body, especially in your arms, legs, hands, and feet.
Fears about being sedated fall into two categories.
Some people fear they will be too awake and aware of the pain. They worry their teeth and gums won’t be numb enough and they’ll be in pain.
Others fear to be numb as they feel they will be out of control. This can lead to fears that they will suffocate, choke or be unable to swallow.
It’s important to realize that for top teeth, only an individual tooth will be numbed. For bottom teeth, sometimes your tongue or cheek may feel swollen when numbed, but they won’t be. You lose sensation in these areas but not function.
So, be reassured – you will not choke or be unable to swallow.
Overcoming Dental Fears and Anxieties
Here are some tips to help overcome your dental fears and anxieties:
  1. Identify your fear. Once you know exactly what you’re fearful about, you can start working towards a solution.
  2. Choose a great dentist who listens and cares. Your fears will only increase if you’ve chosen a dentist who isn’t right for you. Consider a pediatric dentist for your children.
  3. Take someone with you. Some patients find it comforting to take a friend along.
  4. Ask for the perception of pain. You may find emotional relief from knowing what to expect with treatment. Ask your dentist to pre-warn you about the sensations you might experience. For instance, will it be a tingle or feel like a mosquito bite?
  5. Don’t be afraid to ask for sedation if you think it may help.
  6. Learn about mindfulness, meditation and breathing techniques. They are great ways to reduce your anxiety.
  7. Seek professional help. The best course of action is to deal with the root cause of your fear. Unless you do this, you will always fear trips to the dentist. Do you really want to continue having to psych yourself up for every visit?




At Home Whitening | Teeth Whitening - Home Remedies
May 23rd, 2019 12:46 PM

How to Whiten Your Teeth At Home

These days, where you see celebrities plastered all over magazine covers smiling with perfectly white, straight teeth, it is understandable that many of our patients have been very interested in whitening their own teeth. Our in-office KOR whitening, as well as the take-home whitening kits, are both phenomenal systems, however, sometimes finances come into play and these systems are not affordable. We want to give our patients other alternatives, especially those who have invested a lot of energy and effort in sustaining a healthy mouth!


Steps to take for cleaner, whiter teeth:


1. Avoid sodas and dark colored beverages (i.e. red wine, tea, coffee, etc.) as much as possible. If you cannot give them up, make sure to drink through a straw in order to minimize the amount of liquid touching the teeth.


2. After having your morning cup of coffee, swish with water and spit it out in the sink so the leftover particles of coffee do not sit on your teeth for the rest of the day and cause stains.


3. Some foods to avoid are blueberries, blackberries, ketchup, and hard candies (anything that turns your tongue a neon color is affecting your teeth too!).


Recipes for at home whitening treatments:


1. Mix about two tablespoons of Hydrogen Peroxide with baking soda until it is the same consistency as regular toothpaste. Brush your teeth with that mixture and rinse afterwards. This paste can be used twice a week.


2. Another good whitening agent that most of us have at home is apple cider vinegar. Simply dip your toothbrush into the vinegar and brush your teeth. Rinse afterwards, since apple cider vinegar does contain acids.


3. A final tip for whitening is banana peels! Although we have not tried this one out, many experts say that if you peel a banana and rub the inside of the peel around on your teeth, leave it sit for two minutes and then brush your teeth you will see whitening effects. If you've tried this one, let us know about your experience!


**Always keep in mind that with any whitening treatment (whether it is at home or something stronger from your dental office) abrasive materials are in the ingredients and can cause some tooth sensitivity**


We hope these tips and recipes are helpful to you in your whitening journey! :)


Visit our website: www.greenbeltsurgery.com


How Can Dental Implants Help My Smile?
April 12th, 2019 06:51 AM

Dental implants are a permanent solution for treating your tooth loss. In fact, they are actually the next best thing to real teeth. While dentures and dental bridges aren't designed to last your whole life, implants potentially could.
These small metal posts or screws are surgically placed into the jawbone where, over time, the bone will heal around the implant making it a permanent structure within the jawbone. This fusion ensures that the implant won't go anywhere and it certainly won't move or shift around like full dentures often can.

Dental implants can replace your teeth and restore your Dental Implants smile to what it once was. But how do these revolutionary, state-of-the-art dental restorations work? How can they benefit you? Find out the answers to these questions and more with Dr.Elyassi at Cosmetic & Family Dentistry in Potomac, MD.


They preserve the health of your jawbone
Tooth loss also leads to jawbone loss. By placing the implant into the jawbone it takes over the role of your missing tooth' s roots and also offers stimulation that the jawbone needs to remain healthy. The sooner you get implants from our Greenbelt dentist the less bone loss you' ll experience.


Enjoy a durable, long-term tooth replacement
With the proper care, your new tooth could last you the rest of your life. Only implants naturally meld together with your bone and tissue, meaning that you won't find another tooth replacement that' s as realistic and resilient as implants.


Dental Implants Greenbelt, MD
Dental implants require a two-phase process and several dental appointments. Those undergoing this procedure should have realistic expectations for their results and be committed to completing the process.

Don' t lose the battle against tooth loss. Your smile can be transformed thanks to a little help from our dental implants. Call Dr. Elyassi at Greenbelt Oral and Facial Surgery in Greenbelt, MD today.

What to Expect During a Dental Implants Procedure
April 23rd, 2016 09:51 AM

Placing a dental implant is a process that is different for each patient. The healing process and the steps required all depend on what’s going on in your mouth. The only way to know exactly what to expect is to consult with us at our office, but we’d be happy to give you an overview here:

Can I go back to work right away?
You may have read that it can take months to completely heal from a dental implant procedure. This is true, but a little misleading. Many patients are able to return to work the next day, but the mouth takes time to truly be ‘good as new’. It all depends on your specific procedure. We recommend that you plan to rest for a day. Keep in mind that your body will heal faster if you avoid exhausting yourself. If you take good care of yourself, you should be back to work very quickly.


How can I care for myself while I heal?
After the surgery, you will need to go easy on your mouth. Just like after any oral surgery, we recommend eating only soft foods for at least two weeks. You may be given antibiotics and instructions to rinse with salt water. Keeping your mouth clean is important to prevent infection. Avoid smoking.


About Bone Grafting
It may be the case that your bone is not strong enough to support the implant. In this case, bone grafting may be necessary. During this routine procedure, we take bone from a stronger part of your jaw or another part of your body, implant it into the jaw and are thus able to encourage your body to begin growing strong, new bone in its place. If you only need a small amount of bone, it may be possible to do the procedure during the same appointment as your implant surgery. However, it may be the case that you need to wait for bone growth to occur prior to us placing the implant. Every case is different.


Let us properly inform you on what you personally can expect! If you have any questions call our Greenbelt MD office at 301-982-4555.


Oral Surgeon | Tooth Extraction Surgery, Greenbelt MD
March 31st, 2016 09:00 AM

One of the most common questions we get from our patients is how to take care of their mouths after any type of Oral Surgeon; primarily extractions.  While the mouth can be a bit sore after procedures such as prepping for a crown, fillings, etc. (swishing with warm salt water will help soothe the gums), we run into the most problems when it comes to extractions.  The following tips will help heal the gums as fast as possible and make for an experience involving as little pain and discomfort as possible!


1. Starting the day AFTER the extraction, swish 3 to 4 times a day with warm salt water (about a teaspoon of salt to 8 ounces of water).  After swishing for about 30 seconds, stand over the sink and let the salt water mixture “drool out”, do not forcefully spit it out!

2. DO NOT drink through a straw for at least 72 hours.

3. If you are a smoker, hold off for as long as possible.  We recommend at the VERY LEAST 72 hours, however the longer the better.  If you smoke before the 72 hour time frame you can experience what is known as a “dry socket” and experience extreme pain.  For more information on the definition, symptoms, causes, and remedies of a dry socket visit: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-socket/basics/definition/con-20025990 

4. Stick to as soft of a diet as possible.  Foods such as mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, ice-cream, Jell-O, applesauce, broth, scrambled/poached eggs, etc.  Avoid anything that can get stuck in the area such as popcorn, peanuts, rice, chips, spicy foods, alcohol, etc.

5. In many cases Ibuprofen is recommended to help subdue discomfort (over the counter Ibuprofen can be used, but in some cases the doctor may write a prescription for a higher dosage of Ibuprofen).  Ibuprofen also acts as an anti-inflammatory so it will help reduce swelling and soreness.

6. Always schedule a follow-up appointment to see your doctor so they can evaluate the extraction site and verify that you are healing accordingly!

**Always be sure to follow your doctors’ specific directions for home care after any type of oral surgery!  Each patient is different and may require further and/or different care instructions!**