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Is Nail Biting a Dental Problem?

Is Nail Biting a Dental Problem?

Also called onychophagia, nail biting is a common habit for lots of people, usually children, teens, and young adults. Often, nail biting is caused by stress and seems to wane as people get older. Though some would argue that it’s not as bad as smoking or other less desirable habits, there are several reasons to stop nail biting:

It’s unsanitary. Did you know that your mouth and your hands/nails are two of the germiest areas on your body? If you have any open sores on your fingertips and you bite your nails, the germs from your mouth spread to that area. Pretty gross if you think about it.

It’s unattractive. Nobody really wants to watch someone bite their nails. As well, it doesn’t make your nails look very nice either.

It hurts your teeth. When you bite your nails, it strains front teeth and can weaken them, which may contribute to misalignment or crookedness. Nail biting also keeps your teeth in constant chewing motion and may wear them down faster than if you didn’t bite your nails.

It can cost you money. The Academy of General Dentistry estimates that nail biting may add $4000 to dental bills over a lifetime.

Stopping any habit can be difficult. To curtail your nail biting, try to:

  1. Think about it. Sometimes, just be conscious of this habit can help you stop.
  2. Make your nails look nice. You won’t want to mess them up if they are neatly manicured.
  3. Create a deterrent. Check at the drug store for colorless, odorless solutions you apply to the
    nails. These topicals taste awful, which should make it easier to quit.

Take the first step towards optimal oral hygiene. Reserve your dental appointment at our Baltimore dental office now and experience personalized care.

Make the Most of Your Dental Visits

Make the Most of Your Dental Visits

Seeing your dentist twice a year is an important part of keeping your oral health in good condition. While this activity may not top the list of fun things to do, a dental visit doesn’t have to make you miserable either. With a little planning, you can ensure that your dental visit is a positive experience.

• Find the right dentist.

Selecting a dentist that you feel comfortable with will go a long way towards creating a good dental visit. At Brown, Reynolds & Snow, we understand that finding doctors with broad knowledge and expertise in all areas of dentistry will provide you with that extra incentive and confidence in seeking the smile you have always desired.

• Provide all the facts

Your dentist can do a better job meeting your needs if you are up front about any concerns you have or any problems you have been experiencing.

• Take care of your mouth

If you don’t brush and floss regularly, you are setting yourself up to fail. Good home care can prevent problems like gum disease and tooth decay from developing, which will save you extra time in the dental chair.

• Schedule routine exams

When you don’t see a dentist for years, your mouth won’t be in the best condition. Visiting the dentist twice a year ensures that you get professional cleanings and it allows the doctor to watch for signs of trouble.

• Try to relax

Deep breathing exercises or mediation may calm your nerves. If you feel especially anxious about your dental visits, talk with the dentist about your fears, and see what options the practice has available to make you more comfortable.

Do not wait any longer. Book your appointment now and achieve the smile you have always wanted. Dr. Farrugia is accepting new patients from Baltimore and the surrounding area.

Family Dentistry – The Most Convenient Choice

Family Dentistry – The Most Convenient Choice

It seems that with each passing year, our lives become more hectic, scheduled, and harried. If you have children, there are the endless school events and music lessons and sports practices. Running from here to there can leave you less time for some of the most important things, like your oral hygiene.

Have you found yourself putting off your regular dental check-up? Has it been more than a year since you saw your dentist? Are your children up-to-date with their dental visits, but you’re falling behind? This can happen, especially as we place the care of others over the care of ourselves.

By choosing a family dentistry practice, this can be a thing of the past when it comes to your teeth! A family dentist can see each member of your family, from the youngest infant to the oldest retiree. All of your dental visits occur in the same office, so you won’t be jumping in the car to go yet somewhere else, stuck in traffic and feeling overwhelmed.

With family dentistry, you can schedule your appointments to have multiple family members seen back-to-back or at the same time. This is especially of interest to families with multiple children. Imagine having three or four appointments going on at the same time, and being done after the time of a single visit! Reduce the time you spend in the waiting room with squirming or unhappy children by choosing a family dentistry practice.

Your family dentist realizes that your time is extremely important, and that each member of your family is important and valued. A family dentist knows about all of the changes your teeth undergo over time, and is sensitive to this. It’s easy to make smile goals with your family dentist, as he or she will be there from the start to the finish.

Make the choice to simplify your life. Make it easy to keep you and your entire family smiling brightly. Choose a family dentistry practice today.

Are dental issues holding you back? Take control of your oral health by booking an appointment with our experienced team at our Baltimore dental office.

Examining Amalgam Fillings

Examining Amalgam Fillings

The traditional silver fillings that patients have been getting for many years have come into the spotlight in recent years. Some people wonder if these silver, or amalgam, fillings are safe because they contain small amounts of mercury.

Background
Amalgam fillings contain a mixture of half liquid mercury and half a blend of silver, copper, and tin. This material is soft and malleable, which makes it easy to be sculpted to fit well into the tooth and not affect the patient’s bite. Amalgam fillings have been used to fill cavities for over 150 years.

Risks
The concern about mercury as an ingredient in amalgam fillings is due to the health risks of toxicity or allergies associated with exposure. Significant mercury exposure can cause chronic illnesses, autoimmune disorders, birth defects, oral lesions, and mental disorders. The FDA has investigated the safety of amalgam fillings, however, and determined that the mercury levels are too low to present adverse health risks for adults or children over age six. It has also been deemed safe for nursing mothers to have amalgam fillings. Both the FDA and the American Dental Association maintain that these types of fillings are safe.

Alternatives
Patients who are uncomfortable with amalgam fillings may choose composite resin material instead. This newer type of filling is used in about 70 percent of fillings performed today, and many patients prefer the tooth-colored resin because it is less noticeable in the mouth than silver fillings. Patients who have concerns about amalgam fillings already in place may ask the dentist about switching to composite resin instead.

Take the first step towards optimal oral hygiene. Reserve your dental appointment at our Baltimore dental office now and experience personalized care.

Stress and Its Connection to Teeth Grinding

Stress and Its Connection to Teeth Grinding

Modern lifestyles can be extremely stressful as many people have to deal with deadlines, demands and other frustrations that make up daily life. This can be an issue if you’re constantly under stress as it may affect your health. There are numerous health conditions that can be affected by high stress levels, and one of these is teeth grinding.

What Is Teeth Grinding?
Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is a condition that causes you to clench and grind your teeth together. It normally occurs during sleep so you may not even realize you have bruxism. This condition is likely to be identified by your family dentist in Baltimore due to teeth becoming worn down and chipped, or quite often a sleeping partner will complain about the grinding noise during the night.

What Does Stress Have To Do with Bruxism?
Teeth grinding has been linked to high levels of stress and anxiety. It’s been shown that people under stress are more likely to grind their teeth, particularly if they don’t have any coping mechanisms.

How Could Teeth Grinding Affect Me?
Teeth grinding can have more of an effect than you might imagine. It can cause teeth to become cracked, sensitive or even loose. Excessive grinding can damage the gums and bone surrounding your teeth, or may cause a painful disorder called TMD. This affects the jaw joints or temporomandibular joints, and can cause headaches, earache and facial pain.

How is Bruxism Treated?
Your dentist in Baltimore is likely to recommend a custom-made night guard which is worn while sleeping to protect your teeth and jaws from any further damage. It works through preventing your teeth from coming into contact. Additionally, you may be prescribed a muscle relaxant to help prevent clenching. It can be helpful to reduce stress levels through various measures which can include exercise, yoga, meditation or stress counseling.

Take the first step towards optimal oral hygiene. Reserve your dental appointment at our Baltimore dental office now and experience personalized care.

The Invisible Boost: How Invisalign Can Improve Your Teen’s Oral Health and Confidence

The Invisible Boost: How Invisalign Can Improve Your Teen’s Oral Health and Confidence

Welcome to the world of orthodontics, where teens often dread the news of needing braces

 But what if we told you there was a way to straighten teeth effectively without unsightly metal brackets and wires?

Say hello to Invisalign, the clear aligner treatment that has taken the orthodontic world by storm. In this article, we will explore how Invisalign can benefit your teen’s oral health and confidence.

Importance of Dental Health for Teens

Teens often prioritize social lives over dental health, but healthy teeth play a crucial role in overall well-being. Poor oral hygiene habits can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, bad breath, and even affect speech patterns or breathing. Straightening crooked teeth also means easier cleaning and less risk for future dental problems.

Benefits of Invisalign for Teens

In addition to improving oral health, there are numerous benefits to choosing Invisalign over traditional braces. For starters, they are virtually invisible and don’t draw attention to one’s mouth in photos or social settings. This is especially important during teenage years when self-esteem may be fragile.

Furthermore, unlike metal brackets that require adjustments every few weeks at the dentist’s office; with Invisalign aligners are replaced every two weeks from home.  Many foods cannot be eaten with traditional braces which brings a big impact on a teenager’s quality of life.

Invisalign aligners can be removed when eating, so your teen can enjoy all of their favorite foods without restrictions. Overall Invisalign is a great choice for teens who are looking to improve their oral health while maintaining their self-esteem and lifestyle.

Straightening Teeth Without Traditional Braces

I have to say, I am absolutely thrilled that Invisalign has become a popular alternative to traditional braces. As someone who lived through the awkward teenage years with metal brackets and wires stuck in my mouth, I can attest to the fact that it was not a pleasant experience.

But with Invisalign, teens can have their teeth straightened without the discomfort and embarrassment of traditional braces. One of the biggest advantages of Invisalign is that it is virtually invisible.

The clear plastic aligners blend in with your teeth and are hardly noticeable unless you look closely. This makes them a great option for teens who are self-conscious about their appearance and don’t want to draw attention to themselves.

Boosting Self-Confidence and Self-Esteem

Having crooked or misaligned teeth can have a negative impact on a person’s self-confidence and self-esteem. It can make them feel insecure about their appearance and hesitant to smile or speak up in social situations.

But with Invisalign, teens can get the straighter teeth they’ve always wanted, which can greatly improve their confidence levels. In addition to having straighter teeth, wearing Invisalign aligners also requires some level of discipline and responsibility on the part of the teen.

They need to remember to wear their aligners for at least 22 hours a day and take good care of them by cleaning them regularly. This responsibility can also help boost their self-esteem by giving them a sense of accomplishment and control over their own dental health.

Improved Oral Hygiene Habits

Another benefit of Invisalign for teens is that it encourages better oral hygiene habits. With traditional braces, it’s easy for food particles to get stuck in between brackets and wires, making it difficult to keep teeth clean.

But with Invisalign, the aligners can be removed for brushing and flossing, making it easier for teens to maintain good oral hygiene. In addition to brushing and flossing regularly, teens also need to clean their aligners properly to prevent bacteria growth and odor.

This means using a special cleaning solution or simply brushing the aligners with a soft-bristled toothbrush. By developing these good habits early on, teens can set themselves up for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

The Process of Getting Invisalign for Teens

Consultation with a dentist

The first step in getting Invisalign for your teen is to schedule a consultation with a dentist. This is where you will discuss your teen’s dental history and goals, and the dentist will examine their teeth to determine whether they are a good candidate for Invisalign.

One important thing to keep in mind is that not all dentists are trained or experienced in working with Invisalign. Therefore, it’s crucial to do your research and find a dentist who has the necessary expertise to provide high-quality treatment.

Furthermore, make sure that you choose a dentist who makes your teen feel comfortable and respected. Orthodontic treatment can be a long process, so it’s essential that your teen feels at ease with their provider.

Customized Treatment Plan

Once your teen has been approved for Invisalign treatment, the next step is to create a customized treatment plan. The dentist will take digital impressions of their teeth and use advanced software to create 3D images that show how their teeth will move during treatment.

These images are then used to create a series of custom-made aligners that gradually shift the teeth into their desired position. Your teen will wear each set of aligners for approximately two weeks before switching them out for the next set in the series.

It’s essential to note that each patient’s treatment plan is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to Invisalign. Therefore, it’s crucial that your teen follows their customized treatment plan precisely as prescribed by their dentist.

Wearing The Aligners

The most critical aspect of Invisalign treatment is wearing the aligners consistently as prescribed by the dentist. Your teen should wear their aligners for a minimum of 20-22 hours per day, only removing them when eating, brushing, or flossing.

It’s understandable that wearing the aligners may feel uncomfortable or awkward at first. However, it’s crucial to emphasize to your teen that the more they wear their aligners and follow their customized treatment plan precisely, the faster and more successful their treatment will be.

Getting Invisalign for your teen requires careful consideration and research. However, once you’ve found an experienced dentist who can provide high-quality treatment and created a customized treatment plan specific to your teen’s dental needs – following it precisely will ensure success in achieving a straighter smile.

Common Concerns about Invisalign for Teens

Comfort and Fit

One of the most common concerns regarding Invisalign is that it may not be as comfortable as traditional braces. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth.

The aligners used in Invisalign treatment are made from a smooth, comfortable plastic material that is custom-made to fit each patient’s mouth. This means that they are not only more comfortable but also less likely to cause irritation or soreness in the mouth.

Additionally, because Invisalign aligners are removable, you have the flexibility to take them out while eating or brushing your teeth. This means you can enjoy all your favorite foods without worry and maintain good oral hygiene habits throughout your treatment.

If you experience any discomfort while wearing your aligners, don’t hesitate to speak with your dentist. They can adjust them as needed to ensure a perfect fit and maximum comfort.

Compliance with Wearing the Aligners

Some people worry that they won’t be able to comply with wearing their aligners for 20-22 hours per day as recommended by their dentist. However, with a little bit of planning and commitment, it’s easy to make Invisalign treatment fit into your lifestyle.

Many teens find that they are actually more compliant with Invisalign than they would have been with traditional braces because there are no food restrictions and the aligners are practically invisible. Additionally, dentists can provide helpful tips and tricks for keeping track of your aligners and remembering to wear them as needed.

Overall, compliance should not be a major concern when considering Invisalign treatment. The benefits of a healthy smile far outweigh any temporary inconvenience or adjustment period required during treatment.

Invisible but Impactful

The Impact on Social Life, School, and Extracurricular Activities

Invisalign is a game-changer for teens who want to straighten their teeth without compromising their social life, school schedule, or extracurricular activities. Unlike traditional braces that can make eating and speaking challenging, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible and don’t cause any discomfort. Teens won’t have to worry about food getting stuck in their braces during lunchtime or feeling self-conscious about smiling for photos.

They can also participate in sports without the fear of getting hit in the mouth with brackets or wires. The aligners can be removed for a few hours each day, allowing teenagers to enjoy their favorite foods and maintain good oral hygiene habits easily.

The Convenience Factor That Allows Teens to Maintain Their Lifestyle While Undergoing Treatment

One of the most significant advantages of Invisalign is its convenience factor. The aligners are custom-made to fit perfectly on each patient’s teeth and require minimal adjustments throughout treatment. This means fewer visits to the dentist than with traditional braces.

Furthermore, Invisalign treatment is typically shorter than conventional orthodontic treatment options. Most patients wear Invisalign aligners for 12-18 months compared to two years or more with metal braces.

The convenience factor doesn’t end there—Invisalign’s digital scanning process eliminates the need for goopy impressions that can make patients gag. Instead, high-resolution images are taken using an intraoral scanner that captures every crevice of the teeth accurately.

The Psychological Benefits That Come from Having a Discreet Treatment Option

The psychological benefits of having a discreet treatment option cannot be overstated. For teenagers who may already feel self-conscious about their appearance, facing two years with metal braces can be daunting. Enter Invisalign.

The clear aligners are nearly invisible, allowing patients to go about their daily lives confidently without worrying about their braces. Invisalign can help boost self-esteem and improve overall mental health as patients feel more comfortable in social situations and when interacting with others.

Invisalign has revolutionized orthodontic treatment for teens. The aligners’ convenience, discretion, and comfort have made them a popular choice for those seeking a straighter smile without sacrificing their lifestyle or mental well-being.

Invisalign Goes Beyond Teeth

How Straighter Teeth Can Improve Speech Patterns, Breathing, and Overall Health

Invisalign is not only an excellent way to straighten teeth but can also help improve speech patterns. Some people with crooked teeth find it difficult to pronounce certain words or sounds properly. Straightening the teeth can positively affect speech and pronunciation.

In addition, Invisalign can also help improve breathing problems. If you have crowded or misaligned teeth, it may be causing obstructions in your airways.

Correcting the alignment of your teeth can lead to improved breathing and better oxygen flow. A healthy mouth is integral to overall health and well-being as well.

Poor dental health has been linked to various health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. By investing in Invisalign for teens, parents are setting them up for better overall physical health.

How a Healthy Smile Can Lead to Better Job Prospects in the Future

A healthy smile is an important aspect of one’s appearance which can impact job prospects in the future. First impressions are everything when meeting potential employers or clients; having a bright smile can make all the difference.

Moreover, people who take care of their dental hygiene often have more confidence when interacting with others which translates into being perceived as more charismatic and personable by prospective employers. Investing in Invisalign for teens sends a message that they value their appearance which will reflect positively on them throughout their life.

Investing in Dental Health at

Investing in Invisalign for teens shows that parents understand the importance of good dental hygiene at a young age that will carry over into adulthood. Taking preventive measures now will save time, money, and discomfort later on down the road if left untreated.

In addition to physical benefits like improved speech patterns, breathing, and overall health, investing in Invisalign can also have emotional benefits. A straighter smile can boost self-esteem and confidence, leading to better relationships with others.

A Wise Investment

Invisalign is a great investment for teens as it offers many benefits beyond just straightening teeth. Improved speech patterns and breathing, a better-looking smile, and overall physical health are all side effects that come with investing in Invisalign. Moreover, investing in dental health at an early age shows the importance of good hygiene throughout one’s life.

The emotional benefits of having a straighter smile cannot be overlooked either; increased self-esteem leads to better relationships with others. If you want your teen to have the best chance for success in all areas of their life–consider investing in Invisalign.

Take the first step towards a confident smile. Contact our Baltimore dental office to schedule your consultation!