Dental Bridges

Bridges for Missing Teeth!

If you have one or more missing teeth, a bridge may be an option. It is custom made from the best materials, and it will provide chewing stability (with a crown on each side). It fills in the gap in your smile and functions comfortably and completely.

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

Chew on this: Six dental myths debunked

Myth 1: The consequences of poor oral health are restricted to the mouth

Expectant mothers may not know that what they eat affects the tooth development of the fetus. Poor nutrition during pregnancy may make the unborn child more likely to have tooth decay later in life. “Between the ages of 14 weeks to four months, deficiencies in calcium, vitamin D, vitamin A, protein and calories could result in oral defects,” says Carole Palmer, EdD, RD, professor at TUSDM and head of the division of nutrition and oral health promotion in the department of public health and community service. Some data also suggest that lack of adequate vitamin B6 or B12 could be a risk factor for cleft lip and cleft palate formation.

In children, tooth decay is the most prevalent disease, about five times more common than childhood asthma. “If a child’s mouth hurts due to tooth decay, he/she is less likely to be able to concentrate at school and is more likely to be eating foods that are easier to chew but that are less nutritious. Foods such as donuts and pastries are often lower in nutritional quality and higher in sugar content than more nutritious foods that require chewing, like fruits and vegetables,” says Palmer. “Oral complications combined with poor diet can also contribute to cognitive and growth problems and can contribute to obesity.”

Myth 2: More sugar means more tooth decay

It isn’t the amount of sugar you eat; it is the amount of time that the sugar has contact with the teeth. “Foods such as slowly-dissolving candies and soda are in the mouth for longer periods of time. This increases the amount of time teeth are exposed to the acids formed by oral bacteria from the sugars,” says Palmer.

Some research shows that teens obtain about 40 percent of their carbohydrate intake from soft drinks. This constant beverage use increases the risk of tooth decay. Sugar-free carbonated drinks and acidic beverages, such as lemonade, are often considered safer for teeth than sugared beverages but can also contribute to demineralization of tooth enamel if consumed regularly.

To read the entire article written by Medardo Chua, please visit IDentalAccess.com

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

Tobacco Risks on Oral Health

Learn what the American Dental Association has to say about tobacco risks on oral health.

The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

Three Oral Hygiene Tips for Men

When it comes to personal oral hygiene, not all men are as attentive to their teeth as women. Starting with the checkup, surveys suggests men are more likely to see a dentist only in the event of a problem. So, guys, learn how to step up your oral care routine with the following tips for maintaining a healthy smile and preventing oral health problems before they start.

Toothbrush Tips
Brushing is just one part of keeping your mouth clean - doing so twice a day, in particular. However, the average man brushes his teeth 1.9 times a day, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). It's not enough to brush quickly and be on your way; two minutes of thorough cleaning is your most effective approach. Keep in mind you don't need to brush hard during this process. Use a soft-bristled brush such as Colgate® Slim Soft™ and brush gently at a 45-degree angle.

Some helpful hints: Replace your toothbrush every three to four months, rinse it after each use and store it in an upright position to air dry. Storing it in a container actually allows microorganisms to grow on the brush, explains the American Dental Association (ADA), so it's best to avoid this method.

Sports and Dental Injuries
Playing contact sports can lead to trauma in unexpected places, and this includes broken, chipped or lost teeth. Wear a mouthguard when you're on the field and a helmet when you're on your bike. Ultimately, see your dentist as soon as possible after experiencing an incident to quickly assess the damage and determine what can be done to fix it.

To read the entire article written by Margie Monin Dombrowski, please visit Colgate.com 

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

Sedation Dentistry

Nitrous Oxide Sedation

Sedation makes treatment relaxing, so if you are nervous and want to relax—or calm but want to relax even more—we can give you nitrous oxide (laughing gas). You simply inhale it through a mask. Coupled with a local anesthetic, we assure you your treatment will be relaxing and pain-free. We also have blankets and heated towels available for patient comfort.

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

Regular Dental Check-Ups

Learn what the American Dental Association has to say about regular dental check-ups.

The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

A New Year's You: Dental Health Resolutions

Your dental health is an important part of your overall wellness, and the New Year is a great time to create resolutions for improving your health. Many people have dental health resolutions that range from improving their toothbrushing habits to completing delayed dental treatment. Understanding the benefits of your particular resolutions can be motivating and rewarding. Whatever your goals might be, it is important to take small steps to achieve them. Consistency is key with any resolution that you make.

Improving Toothbrushing and Flossing Habits
Perhaps you would like to improve your oral health. Daily toothbrushing and flossing is a sure and simple way to improve your oral health. For successful bacterial plaque removal, it is important to brush at least twice a day using an appropriately sized, soft-bristle, manual or electric toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste. When you brush your teeth, gently position the toothbrush bristles at a 45-degree angle toward the gumline and move the toothbrush across the teeth to effectively remove bacterial plaque. It is also important to floss at least once per day to remove bacterial plaque and food that has accumulated throughout the day. Your toothbrush should be replaced every 3 to 4 months, as well as after you have a cold or flu or if the bristles are frayed. Daily toothbrushing and flossing help to prevent gingivitis (gum disease), tooth decay and halitosis (bad breath). The daily use of antimicrobial and fluoride mouthrinses also helps to improve your oral health.

To read the entire article written by Yolanda Eddis, please visit Colgate.com

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

Dental Gum Disease Linked to Heart Disease

Gum Disease Linked to Heart Disease and Strokes

Recent studies have found a link between gum disease, strokes, and heart disease. Researchers have found that periodontal (gum) infections play a role in the development or worsening of diabetes, strokes, and heart disease. According to the American Dental Association, 4 in 5 Americans have gum disease.

The American Academy of Periodontology reports "studies found periodontal infection may contribute to the development of heart disease; increase the risk of premature, underweight births; and pose a serious threat to people whose health is already compromised due to diabetes and respiratory diseases."

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

After-Hours Emergency Dentistry

Learn more about what the American Dental Association has to about after-hours emergency dentistry.

The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

Professional Teeth Whitening

Brilliant White Teeth!

A bright smile is a healthy-looking smile. We ALL want a bright smile and, with our professional bleaching, you can have one. Dr. Holness makes custom-fit whitening trays that produce startling results–in less than two weeks! We provide supplies and instructions, and you complete the procedure at home. It is safe and provides the smile you have always wanted

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

Are You Flossing Or Just Lying About Flossing? The Dentist Knows

There's nothing like jamming a waxed piece of string between your tightest molars and sliding it back and forth. And who doesn't do that once a day, just as the dentist prescribes?

Well, a lot of us. Twenty-seven percent of adults lie to their dentists about how often they floss their teeth, a survey released Tuesday found. Not only that, but more than a third of people surveyed would rather be doing unpleasant chores than flossing their teeth daily. Fourteen percent would rather clean the toilet. Nine percent would rather sit in gridlock traffic for an hour. And 7 percent would rather listen to small children crying on a plane.

Actually, that 27 percent sounds awfully low. When we called up Dr. Joan Otomo-Corgel, a periodontist and president of the American Academy of Periodontology, which conducted the survey, she said: "Is that all?"
More than a third of Americans would rather do an unpleasant activity than floss.
American Academy of Periodontology

She's not the only oral health professional who thinks many patients are fibbing when they say they're flossing. "I am shocked," says Dr. Sally Cram, a periodontist and spokesperson for the American Dental Association, via email. "Given my experience with patients in my practice I thought it would be higher!"

To read the entire article written by Jessie Rack, please visit NPR.org

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

20 Mistakes You're Making With Your Teeth

Taking care of your pearly whites isn't rocket science, but it's easy to slip into habits that could cause heartache -- er, toothache -- in the long run. We got the latest on giving your teeth the TLC they need from two New York City pros: Alice Lee, DDS, an assistant professor in the Department of Dentistry for Montefiore Health System, and Alison Newgard, DDS, an assistant professor of clinical dentistry at Columbia University College of Dentistry, will clue you in on where you could be going wrong.

Multitasking while you brush
Every minute in the morning feels precious, so it's tempting to brush your teeth in the shower or while scrolling through your Twitter feed. "To each his own," says Dr. Newgard, "but I prefer patients to be in front of a mirror, over the sink; you can be sure to hit all the surfaces of your teeth, and you'll do a more thorough job when you're not distracted." Better to leave the bathroom a few minutes later having given proper attention to each step of your prep.

Overcleaning your toothbrush
Thinking about running your brush through the dishwasher or zapping it in the microwave to disinfect it? Think again: While we've all seen those stories about toothbrushes harboring gross bacteria, the CDC says there's no evidence that anyone has ever gotten sick from their own toothbrush. Just give your brush a good rinse with regular old tap water, let it air-dry, and store it upright where it's not touching anyone else's brush. More drastic cleaning measures may damage your brush, the CDC notes, which defeats its purpose.

Using social media as your dentist
The web is full of weird and (seemingly) wonderful DIY dental tips that can hurt much more than they'll help. Read our lips: Don't even go there. "I've heard of patients who go on Pinterest and find ways to whiten their teeth there--by swishing with straight peroxide, for example--which are not good for their teeth," Dr. Newgard says. "Use ADA-approved products that have been tested." (Another online tip to skip: trying to close up a gap in your teeth with DIY rubber band braces.) 

To read the entire article written by Lauren Oster, please visit HuffingtonPost.com 

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

Antibiotics & Your Heart

Learn what the American Dental Association has to say about antibiotics and your heart.

The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

Dental Cleanings with Piezo Scaler

The Cleanest Teeth You Can Have

In addition to six-month cleanings, we recommend the Piezo Scaler™, a new technology that uses high-frequency vibrations to clean your teeth and the pockets below your gumline. The Piezo Scaler removes deposits faster than regular scaling instruments with little to no discomfort. Your teeth will feel as clean as they have ever felt.

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

More Than a Quarter of Americans Have This Untreated Disease

Let's just say, it might be time to get your pearly whites checked.

It's time for Americans to get over their fear of the dentist. According to new data published from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Center for Health Statistics, more than 25% of U.S. adults aged 20 to 64 have untreated tooth decay. Additionally, 1 in 5 adults aged 65 and older may have it as well.

And if that's not motivation enough to take a seat in the dental chair, 91% have one tooth (or more) that has been treated for tooth decay or needs to be.

To read the entire article written by Samantha Toscano, please visit GoodHouseKeeping.com

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

Power Toothbrushes

Learn what the American Dental Association has to say about power toothbrushes.

The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

Dental Care for Seniors

Caring for Our Seniors

Teeth show signs of wear from years of use, consumption of certain foods and tobacco products, and from aging. We recommend six-month check-ups to ensure we find dental-health problems in their early stages.

Gum disease and infected or damaged (tooth) roots are the most serious problems that are common among seniors. Finding and treating these problems in the early stages helps you stay healthy and looking good.

Fillings loosen and crack over time and create fractures in the tooth, so they may need to be replaced with newer filling material, which bonds more tightly to your teeth and minimizes the likelihood of tooth decay.

Some medications reduce the flow of saliva through the mouth, so we provide products that address this issue. We also use whitening techniques that return the brightness and whiteness of teeth that have been stained by caffeine or tobacco products.

Finally, eating nutritious food and brushing and flossing daily reduce your risk of dental problems. If your gums bleed or become inflamed, or if you have loose teeth, please contact us at once!

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

Risks to Oral Health During Pregnancy

Learn more about what the American Dental Association has to about risks to your oral health during pregnancy.

The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

Teeth Whitening Dentist

Brilliant White Teeth!

A bright smile is a healthy-looking smile. We ALL want a bright smile and, with our professional bleaching, you can have one. Dr. Holness makes custom-fit whitening trays that produce startling results–in less than two weeks! We provide supplies and instructions, and you complete the procedure at home. It is safe and provides the smile you have always wanted.

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

Best and Worst Halloween Candy Options for Children’s Teeth

Halloween is just around the corner, and although candy consumption is almost unavoidable this time of year, the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) wants parents and children to know that there are both good and bad candy options, both of which may find their way into children's trick-or-treat bags this fall. 
  
"Of course, dentists do not advocate that children eat large amounts of sugary treats, but it is that time of year, so we want to clarify for parents which treats are better for their kids' teeth and which ones may increase the risk of developing cavities," says AGD spokesperson Cynthia Sherwood, DDS, FAGD. 

To read the entire article, visit: KnowYourTeeth.com

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

What are Cavities?

Learn more about what the American Dental Association has to say about what cavities are.

The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

Dental Root Canals

Saving Teeth

In the past, if your tooth's roots were damaged or infected, the tooth had to be pulled. Now, we can often save the tooth without pulling it by performing a root canal. Dr. Holness's training in root canal procedures makes treatment easier for you. And it is more effective. In a root canal, the dentist fixes your tooth by removing the inside of the affected tooth and injecting a special filling, which is then packed in place.

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

When Should My Child First See a Dentist?

Your child's first visit to the dentist should happen before his or her first birthday. The general rule is six months after eruption of the first tooth. Taking your child to the dentist at a young age is the best way to prevent problems such as tooth decay, and can help parents learn how to clean their child's teeth and identify his or her fluoride needs. After all, decay can occur as soon as teeth appear. Bringing your child to the dentist early often leads to a lifetime of good oral care habits and acclimates your child to the dental office, thereby reducing anxiety and fear, which will make for plenty of stress-free visits in the future. 

To read the entire article, visit: KnowYourTeeth.com

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

Inter-Dental Cleaners

Learn more about what the American Dental Association has to say about inter-dental cleaners.

The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

Dental Gum Disease

Why Do You Lose Teeth?

Think decay is the main reason your teeth fall out? It isn't! You may not see the disease, but you can see symptoms. If your gums bleed while brushing or flossing, or if your teeth are loose, come see us. Or, if you have been told you need gum surgery, you will be glad to know we can control gum disease with non-surgical methods if we catch it early enough.

GOOD News

If you have advanced gum disease, you will need surgery, but it almost always controls the disease. Most common insurance plans cover surgery. If your gum disease is not advanced, there are non-surgical methods that—coupled with improved dental hygiene—virtually halt the spread of the disease. This is typically covered under most insurance plans.

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

Dentists Are the First Line of Defense for Elder Abuse

With the American population living longer, seniors' oral health has become an important issue, as has the widespread problem of elder abuse. Every year more than 2.5 million older Americans may be victims of elder abuse, and in some cases dentists serve as the first line of defense, according to a report in the May/June 2005 issue of General Dentistry, the clinical, peer-reviewed journal of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD).

To read the entire article, visit: KnowYourTeeth.com

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

Tooth Whitening Is Not Equal to Tooth Brushing

Learn more about what the American Dental Association has to say about tooth whitening not being equal to tooth brushing.

The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

Mini Dental Implants

No More Slipping Dentures

Have you been told you weren't a candidate for regular dental implants? Are you tired of dentures that slip, tilt, or wander? Mini implants provide strength and stability by anchoring your dentures, eliminating movement as well as trapped food. They are placed in one visit and are virtually painless. You can eat the same day you receive them, and no longer need to worry about taking your dentures out at night. Dr. Holness also restores conventional implants.

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

Diabetes and Your Mouth # 6: Floss Every Day

Flossing helps control plaque. It can reach where a toothbrush can't, like between the teeth. Floss daily with floss and interdental cleaners that carry the American Dental Association (ADA) seal. Ask your dentist for tips if you're not sure how to floss. Like everything else, flossing gets easier with practice.

The above article is from: WebMD.com

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com

Diabetes and Your Mouth # 5: Brush Daily, Brush Right

Brushing your teeth twice a day not only keeps your breath sweet, but also helps rid the mouth of bacteria that makes up plaque and can lead to oral infections. To brush properly, point bristles at a 45-degree angle against the gums. Use gentle back-and-forth strokes all over your teeth -- in front, in back, and on chewing surfaces -- for two minutes. If holding a toothbrush is hard for you, try an electric toothbrush. Also brush your gums and tongue.

The above article is from: WebMD.com

Bowie Dental Wellness  
Eijah Holness, DDS  
15231 Hall Road, Suite 103  
Bowie, MD 20721  
(301) 390-1300  
BowieDentalWellness.com