Adult Orthodontics: Am I too old for braces?

What comes to mind when you think of the word “braces”? For many adults it conjures up images of the unmissable metal braces worn by children and teenagers in the playground in years gone by. Fortunately, things have moved on and children and adults alike can now very subtly straighten their teeth. (Keep reading for more on the discrete, adult orthodontic options available and how they can help you to start enjoying straight teeth within months.) If you try to cover your mouth when you laugh, or avoid being photographed, because you feel self-conscious about your teeth, then it’s time to consider adult orthodontics. More adults than ever before are boosting their self-esteem with discrete braces. Dental braces for adults Dental...

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How Winter Weather Can Cause Toothaches and Sensitivity

Can Cold Weather Make My Teeth Hurt? Yes, cold weather can make your teeth hurt. In response to extreme heat and cold, your teeth expand and contract. Over time, this can lead to cracks in your teeth, exposing the vulnerable microscopic tubes beneath your enamel. This is the same tooth pain you feel because of cavities, gum disease, and other bad oral habits. This layer below the enamel is called dentin. It’s the “core” of your teeth, with the enamel covering the top of this layer and the gums covering the bottom portion. Unfortunately, the dentin is covered in nerve fibers. Therefore, any problems with your enamel or gums, such as periodontal disease, could leave you vulnerable to cold weather...

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Marijuana and your mouth: not so pearly whites

  You might be familiar with the impact smoking cigarettes can have on your teeth and gums, but what do you know about what’s going on in your mouth when you smoke cannabis? In conjunction with this year’s Dental Health Week, we thought we would take the opportunity to remind you of the effect cannabis use can have on your oral health.  It’s probably not surprising to hear smoking anything is going to have a negative impact on the appearance of your teeth. Heavy weed and tobacco smokers alike have teeth can become more worn and yellow than non-smokers, and even the appearance of the gums can be affected. The lack of saliva and increase in decay can also cause...

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Vaping and oral health: It’s worse than you think…

The use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) represents a significant and increasing proportion of tobacco consumption, posing a tremendous threat to oral health. This article will look at the following aspects of e-cigarettes: Overview of e-cigarette usage Statistics on the current prevalence of e-cigarettes Three chemicals contained in e-cigarettes and their effects on oral health When compared to traditional tobacco use, an argument that e-cigarette use may be as dangerous to oral health—if not more dangerous—can be made. Overview Using e-cigarettes, referred to as vaping, works by heating a liquid to generate an aerosol that the user inhales. The liquid in the e-cigarette, called e-liquid, is usually made up of propylene glycol, glycerin, flavorings, water, and nicotine, although some users will substitute THC...

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Additional Resources

Antibiotic Prophylaxis Prior to Dental Procedures (ADA) Beyond Tooth Decay… Why Good Dental Hygiene is Important (Medical News Today) Dry Mouth (ADA) Health Information Portability and Accountability Act-HIPAA Human Papillomavirus and Squamous Cell Cancers of the Oropharynx (ADA) Oral and Pharyngeal Cancer (ADA)

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Shingles – are you at risk?

There are an estimated 1 million cases of shingles each year in this country. Anyone who has recovered from chickenpox may develop shingles; even children can get shingles. However, the risk of shingles increases as you get older. Most people who develop shingles have only one episode during their lifetime. However, a person can have a second or even a third episode. Shingles is caused by the varicella zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus stays dormant (inactive) in the body. Scientists aren’t sure why the virus can reactivate years later, causing shingles. Who might be at greater risk of getting shingles? Do you have medical conditions that keep their...

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Fresh and New… Renovations

Malcomson Dentistry underwent a major facelift in October 2017. Dr. Malcomson treated patients in a remote office during that time. Our renovations took one month tom complete and now that we are settled, we are accepting new patients and welcoming existing patients into our new space. WAIT, new space? No, we are still located in Suite 415 of the Bethesda Medical Building. Same location, same level of expertise and care - with a new look. As with most modern dental practices, digital radiographs are "standard." Our digital Panoramic xray unit provides the patient with an in depth snapshot of their teeth, oral health and can provide other information not picked up on traditional bitewing / cavity detecting xrays. CLICK HERE...

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April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month

Oral cancer kills one person in America, every hour of every day. For newly diagnosed patients, about half will be alive in five years. Surviving this disease could mean that you’ve endured intense cancer treatments, often leaving a patient with life-long issues that can compromise the quality of life. When detected early enough, treatments and deadly outcome are lessened. Oral cancer is not a commonly talked about “cancer”, so people do not realize how deadly it can be. Like many illnesses, our natural tendency is to think these kinds of things would never happen to us, especially if we are non-tobacco users. Think again. Oral cancer is the fastest growing cause of mouth cancers, and the rate of incidence is...

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How Can I Protect My Child From Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)?

About 50% of new genital HPV infections occur in 15 to 24 year-olds. For most people, HPV clears on its own. For others who don't clear the virus, it could cause certain cancers and other diseases. More than 40 genital types of human papillomavirus (HPV) exist, only certain types can cause HPV-related cancers and diseases in both males and females. By getting the facts now, you can have an informed conversation with your child’s doctor or health care professional. Together, you can talk about HPV and decide the best way to help protect your child. Your child’s doctor or health care professional may talk to you about the HPV vaccination. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends routine...

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Are We Having Fun Yet?

Every spring and summer, my family and I would venture off to a new place, often not even having to go far to discover new places in the DMV. Capitol Crescent Trail is a favorite among many, as it spans 11 miles of hiking, biking and walking, connecting from Georgetown D.C. to west Silver Spring in Montgomery County, MD. With numerous 'Points of Interest' along the CCT one will pass Fletcher's Cove (formerly Fletcher's Boat House) with boats & bikes to rent. Parking is available at Fletcher's Cove (mile 8.2). History can often be forgotten, however, at various mile markers along the trail, you will find plaques with important, yet hidden facts. In fact, the Capital Crescent Trail begins in...

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