How do I choose the right plastic surgeon?
There are 3 steps to take in order to find the right surgeon for you. First, do your research online. Look for plastic surgeons in your area that specialize in the procedure you’re most interested in. Learn about them from their website and look at their videos and before and after photos. Second, ask your friends and neighbors, or even your family doctor, about the surgeon’s professional reputation. Third, schedule a consultation and meet your surgeon personally. This face- to- face meeting will reveal how well you will be taken care of by your surgeon as well as the nurses and staff in the office.
DR. HENRY D. SANDEL IV
Who would benefit from Sedation Dentistry?
Anyone who gets anxious or has a fear of going to the dentist would benefit from sedation dentistry. It creates a relaxing, comfortable, and anxiety-free experience where hours pass like mere minutes. More dentistry can be performed in a single visit because the dentist is able to work more efficiently, and it can help reduce the mounting costs and repercussions of untreated dental disease. It’s a win-win for both the patient and the dentist.
Dr. Christopher K. Murphy, DDS,
What measures have you put in place to keep your patients safe during the COVID-19 pandemic?
We have added features to our HVAC System and air purifiers in each operatory. We also have extra-oral suction units to minimize aerosols with certain dental procedures. We have all required personal protective equipment and cleaning supplies. We require daily screening for staff and every patient for any possible COVID 19 exposure, and revamped our check-in procedures all in effort to keep our patients and staff safe.
IRVING M. PHILLIPS JR., DDS & WADE P. DRESSLER, DDS
Why should I visit my dentist during the pandemic?
By putting off routine exams and treatment, dental diseases will only worsen, eventually causing more expense, potential pain, infection and fewer treatment options. And please don’t miss your oral cancer exams. ALSO, It is known that “the mouth is a window to your health.” Routine dental exams are as important to your oral health, as they are to the health of the rest of your body. Evidence clearly shows that oral diseases are correlated to many health conditions including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and stroke, just to name a few. By putting off routine dental care, it could compound health issues in the months or years to come. Rest assured we have significant pandemic protocols in place to keep you safe.
Margret Quimby
Does my insurance cover this? What’s MY cost?
Every patient’s needs are different as well as their insurance. It’s important to be aware of your benefits. You pay for them and you want to use them before you lose them! Our amazing treatment plan manager reviews all cases closely, provides complimentary benefits checks and communicates the patient’s estimated financial responsibility. Each plan is customized to your needs. We’ll always inform before we perform. If you don’t have insurance, that’s OK! We offer a Dental Savings Plan and many other financial opportunities that will be discussed with you at your reserved appointment. Still not sure? Call our office to schedule a Free Consultation just to check us out!
Jonathan T. Soistman, DDS
Is it safe to see a Dermatologist now?
While this pandemic has caused patients to postpone medical care, it’s important to continue caring for your health. Skin cancers and other conditions need to be treated to prevent them from getting worse. We are committed to providing you with a safe place to go when you need care. If you are worried about visiting a doctor’s office during the pandemic, call us to discuss the measures we have in place ensuring everyone’s safety and well-being. Our practice is a proud participant of the Maryland Strong Back to Business Pledge, part of Governor Hogan’s Maryland Strong Roadmap to Recovery plan.
DONALD STRANAHAN jr., md
When should children begin using toothpaste?
There are many recent changes for toothpaste guidelines; current recommendations are to start brushing teeth shortly after birth! Before teeth erupt, brush gums with water using a soft toothbrush or cloth. Once teeth erupt, use toothpaste, a soft toothbrush, and brush twice daily. New AAPD guidelines state fluoride toothpaste should be used once teeth erupt, using smear/grain of rice-sized amount, and wiping teeth to prevent swallowing. Some parents prefer fluoride-free toothpaste for infants. By age two, definitely use fluoride toothpaste with the same grain of rice-sized amount. Parent supervision is required for all children to encourage spitting and prevent swallowing.
MARGARET C. MCGRATH, DMD, MPH
How can I tell if my child needs braces?
Parents often ask us how to tell if their child needs braces. Here are some of the clearest signs that orthodontic care may be needed: early, late, or irregular loss of baby teeth; difficulty in chewing or biting; mouth breathing; thumb or finger sucking; crowded or misplaced teeth; or biting the cheek or the roof of the mouth. Because we want to make it easy for you to get personal feedback from a trusted professional, we now offer parents a free Virtual Consult. If you have questions, Dr. Mary Trahar-Thomas will review your child’s case and let you know whether it’s time for treatment, all from the comfort of your own home.
Dr. Mary C. Trahar-Thomas, DDS, PA
I have many missing teeth and I’ve tried partials which haven’t helped at all. What can be done for me?
The best solution for your situation is dental implants. Implants are a tooth root substitute made of titanium that attaches into the jaw bone creating a stable foundation for solid, new teeth. This means your new teeth feel, look, and perform like natural teeth. Because there are no longer any painful stresses put on your gum tissues, denture and partial pain is completely eliminated. The best news is that the ‘New Teeth in One DayTM Dental Implant procedure takes you from a situation with missing or hopeless, problem teeth to having new, comfortable, stay-in the mouth teeth that look great on the very same day as surgery.
KIAN DJAWDAN, DMD
How Can I Treat Face Mask Skin Irritation?
Outbreaks of facial acne, dry skin, peeling, and redness are becoming troublesome as the prolonged use of masks continue. Friction from the movement of your mask causes the skins protective barrier to wear down. Once worn, the skin becomes susceptible to bacteria, clogged pores and moisture from exhalation. The best defense to calm irritation is a consistent facial skincare regimen.
1. Use a gentle fragrance free cleanser and moisturizer morning and evening.
2. Avoid cosmetics on areas covered by the mask.
If these issues persist or worsen, please visit a board certified dermatologist to assess and restore your skincare health.
MICHAEL DEL TORTO, md
I’d love to get rid of the excess skin in my neck. Is there a way to do this with minimal downtime?
Facelift or necklift surgery is different than it was in the past. We now have techniques that are less invasive with downtimes of about a week. Droopy skin in the neck simply has to be lifted into its’ natural position and the excess removed with minimal incisions hidden around the ears. Virtually no scars are visible and the results are very natural. Unfortunately, despite the marketing you may see on the internet, there is no way to remove this extra skin without surgery. But thankfully, it’s now a very simple procedure to undergo.
DR. HENRY D. SANDEL IV
In what ways have you given back to the local community?
Drs. Phillips and Dressler have a strong commitment to their community. They sponsor youth athletic teams, local schools, and other civic organizations. Both are former Dean’s Faculty clinical instructors for the University of Maryland Dental School, and offer internship opportunities via Talbot County Schools. They have volunteered in Mission of Mercy events, providing treatment those who cannot normally access or afford dental care.
IRVING M. PHILLIPS JR., DDS & WADE P. DRESSLER, DDS
Why is preventative dental care so important?
Prevention is key in maintaining good oral health. It helps to avoid cavities, gum disease, enamel wear, and more. It is always easier to address an issue when caught early. Diet and home care can easily be improved or altered with proper recommendations. Oftentimes, cavities and gum disease can be be resolved with regular dental visits and education.
DR. CHRISTIE HAGERT
Will my Maryland Healthy Smiles (MHS) insurance cover the cost of orthodontics?
Yes, if medically necessary and your child is under the age of 21, has only permanent teeth, and ‘scores’ a 15 or higher on their HLD exam with a credentialed provider. The HLD form (Handicapping Labio-lingual Deviations Form) is designed to quanitify the severity of your child’s malocclusion and determine if correction of the bite is a medical necessity rather than a cosmetic request. Cosmetic treatment and Invisalign Teen are not covered by MHS. We are proud MHS providers at all of our locations.
Dr. Mary C. Trahar-Thomas, DDS, PA
Who is a candidate for sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is a great option for patients who have anxiety or fear about going to the dentist. Dental sedation can also be helpful for patients with issues such as a sensitive gag reflex, fear of needles or difficulty getting numb. Just about any procedure can be performed with sedation – even a dental cleaning. There are several sedation options including inhalation sedation (laughing gas), oral medications and IV sedation. Sedation dentistry makes it possible to have multiple procedures done in one visit – meaning fewer visits to the dentist!
KIAN DJAWDAN, DMD
Non-extraction versus extraction and early treatment in orthodontics?
Extraction should only serve as a last resort in orthodontic treatment. If done in the incorrect situation, extraction can lead to many adverse consequences such as a “dished-in” facial appearance. Extraction of permanent teeth can be avoided in a very high percentage of children when treated early before all the baby teeth are lost by creating room for the crowded teeth during the growth years. Your best plan of action is to see an orthodontist that focuses on non-extraction treatment as early as age seven when many options are available to avoid extraction of permanent teeth.
DR. JOHN SERINO
