*A Special Advertising Section*
Common questions answered by our local professionals.
Is it a myth? Is root canal treatment painful?
It is absolutely a myth! Modern technology, better local anesthetics, and advancements in endodontic therapy have made the root canal procedure as efficient as a dental filling. Years ago, it would take several visits and hours in the chair to adequately perform a root canal. Today, with digital radiographs, surgical operating microscopes, rotary instrumentation, and improved filling methods, most of these procedures can be completed in less than an hour, with little or no discomfort for the patient. I’m here to change the painful root canal perception one tooth at a time!
Dr. Charles Herbert, Endodontics, PA
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, Sandel Duggal Plastic Surgery
How do cataracts form?
A cataract occurs when there is a buildup of proteins in the lens, creating protein clumps. These clumps, or deposits, prevent light from passing clearly through the lens, thus disrupting normal vision. A patient with a cataract cannot see images clearly. Instead, images appear cloudy or blurry, especially at night. Cataracts can begin to affect the patient’s ability to perform simple, everyday tasks like reading and driving. Cataract surgery is the recommended treatment in these cases and has a 98% success rate.
DR. SAMUEL BOLES, Anne Arundel Eye Center
What has been the biggest change in your practice in the last couple of years?
We added intra oral scanners that allow us to image the mouth instead of using bulky, gross tasting impression material that gags the patients. This allows us to send images instantly to our lab partners to make clear aligners, nightguards, crowns, veneers, and retainers. Another great benefit of the scanners is that the image of their teeth appears instantly on a large screen the patients can see and discuss with us, our patients love it!
DR. APRIL CALTON, About Smiles Dentistry
I would like to look younger, but I’m not ready for surgery yet. What are my options?
I like to think of the changes that happen over time in our faces as having 3 components: skin (fine lines, pigment changes, laxity), wrinkles associated with repeated muscle movements (number “11’s” between the eyebrows, forehead lines, crowsfeet), and wrinkles or changes from losing fullness in areas of the face (around the mouth, the cheeks, and under the eyes). Each of these factors can be addressed separately in nonsurgical ways to restore youthful features without looking “done” or unnatural. A combination of skin care, Botox® (for movement-related wrinkles), and conservative use of fillers such as Juvederm® and Restylane® (for restoring fullness) can target the 3 aspects of aging when you are not yet ready for surgery.
CLAIRE S. DUGGAL, MD, Sandel Duggal Plastic Surgery
How do I know if my
thyroid is causing my troubles with hair and nails?
Changes in hair and nails can be a sign of an underlying thyroid issue. Your primary care provider is the best place to start. They can assess your overall health, check your thyroid levels, and rule out other potential causes like nutritional deficiencies. If thyroid problems are identified, treatment may improve hair and nail health over several months. However, persistent issues might warrant consultation with an endocrinologist or dermatologist for further evaluation and specialized care.
Dr. Onala Telford, Chesapeake Endocrinology
What are the pros and cons of veneers?
Veneers are often the most conservative way of resurfacing a tooth because of damage, color or inadequate shape. It is possible to have veneers placed with little to no preparation of the tooth! They can be just as durable as natural teeth if designed properly. However, veneers cannot solve every problem. They are not bullet-proof. They require proper hygiene. Although they tend to be stronger than natural teeth, they can’t withstand abuse (such as using your teeth as tools to open a container) and can chip or break. Veneers also require special planning and design, which can add cost and time.
SCOTT FINLAY, DDS, FAGD, FAACD, Annapolis Smiles
How Can I Quit Smoking?
Smokers may have a better chance of quitting with a support program. Research suggests the best smoking cessation programs include individual or group counseling. When thinking about entering a program, look for a program where the session duration is at least 30 to 90 minutes. It’s also best to plan to attend at least four to seven sessions over a four-to-eight-week timeframe. The group leader should be certified to teach a smoking cessation class and the group should also have a health care provider who can provide medications that can increase your success. Need help with quitting smoking? Register for UM BWMC’s free Quit Smoking class at umbwmc.org/calendar or call 410-787-4779.
Katrina A. Roux-Bernstein, CRNP | Pulmonary Care Specialist at University of Maryland | Baltimore Washington Medical Group
How can I decrease the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC)?
Prevention is the key! Lifestyle factors that decrease the risk of CRC include a diet high in vegetables/fruits and low in processed meats, a healthy weight, remaining physically active and avoiding smoking and excess alcohol. Average risk CRC screening is recommended to start at 45. Colonoscopy is the only method of screening which can detect and simultaneously remove precancerous polyps. Colonoscopy has long been considered the gold standard of CRC prevention and was recently shown to be the most effective method of screening, with a mortality reduction of 73%.
David Jencks, MD | Anne Arundel Gastroenterology Associates
At what age should I take my child to their first orthodontist appointment?
As the American Association of Orthodontist recommends, we’d like to see children come in for their first appointment around the age of 7. By that time, children have a good mix of primary and permanent teeth. This initial visit is important because it can prevent issues further down the road - getting ahead of any orthodontic issues before they even have a chance to start. Whether there’s an existing problem or if one is developing, we will come up with a treatment plan that best suits your child.
Dr. Ora Reinheimer, Reinheimer Orthodontics
What are Dental Implants?
When you are missing teeth, you may feel uncomfortable eating, speaking or worst of all SMILING. Dental implants offer a permanent solution to these problems. Dental implants are titanium replacements for missing teeth that act as a strong foundation to support new crowns, bridges or anchor slipping dentures. The implant procedure is painless and involves placing the implant under the gums and into the jawbone just like the roots of your own natural teeth. Recovery time is usually no more than 24 hours and total treatment time from the day of your implant placement to the time of attaching the new teeth range from 2 months to as little as 1 day. Dental implants are the next best thing to your own teeth...IT’S TIME TO SMILE AGAIN!
Borek Hlousek, DMD, MD, Oral Surgery Specialists
How do you cater to patients who are fearful or embarrassed about their dental health?
We understand that many people avoid dental visits due to fear or embarrassment. Our practice is dedicated to creating a supportive and non-judgmental atmosphere. We offer sedation options for any procedure to help you relax and feel at ease. Our team is skilled in handling complex cases, including hopeless and missing teeth, with customized treatment plans that restore both function and aesthetics. Additionally, we provide complimentary consultations with 3D imaging to discuss your needs and goals without any pressure. Our mission is to help you regain confidence in your smile with compassionate, expert care.
KIAN DJAWDAN, DMD | Djawdan Center for Implant & Restorative Dentistry
What laser skin treatments should I book now for a post-summer skin reset?
Fall marks the start of Laser Season, making it the perfect time to give your skin a fresh start with a laser treatment. Whether you’re looking to tackle sun damage, Melasma, rosacea, or just want to rejuvenate your skin, we have the right solution for you. As Sciton Luminaries and Distinguished Training Partners, Dr. Ambro and I bring trusted expertise to help you choose the best option for your skin. Some of the top laser treatments I recommend for a post-summer skin reset include BBL HERO for reversing sun damage and Rosacea, Moxi for improving tone and texture, Halo for aging skin and radiance, and Contour TRL for dramatic wrinkle reduction and youthful results in a single session.
Caroline Simm, CRNP, Annapolis Plastic Surgery
Why should I choose Annapolis Plastic Surgery?
Annapolis Plastic Surgery prides itself on having a team of surgeons that specialize in both facial and body aesthetic and reconstructive procedures. Our nurse practitioner, nurse and aesthetician also perform cutting edge skin care, facial injections and myriad laser skin rejuvenation treatments. We are also very proud of our hair restoration services (PRP injections and NeoGraft) and have helped many patients feel more confident with a fuller, healthier head of hair.
BRYAN T. AMBRO, MD, MS, Annapolis Plastic Surgery; James E. Chappell, MD, FAC, Annapolis Plastic Surgery
Is hormone replacement safe?
The answer to this question largely depends upon the type of hormone replacement used and your medical history. In 2002, the Women’s Health Initiative released a landmark study that cited that hormone replacement was not safe and even had a positive correlation with cardiac disease and cancer. Unfortunately, this study only used hormone therapy that was derived from animals, not Bioidentical hormones that were specifically designed for humans. In fact, men and women are at greater risk for diseases such as osteoporosis, cardiac disease, dementia, reduction in some cancers, and decrease in overall quality of life without bioidentical hormone replacement.
Valerie Wallace, CRNP, Primary Care, Warrior Medical Group
I want my eyes done but I still want to look like myself. What is your secret?
Laser eyelid surgery allows me to carefully remove or reposition just the right amount of skin and/or fat to achieve a natural, youthful result. I then use the laser to reduce the wrinkles and improve the texture of the skin. This subtle approach rejuvenates your eyes, without changing their shape. This earned us the Best Oculoplastic Cosmetic Eyelid Surgeon vote.
Dr. Elba M. Pacheco, Adoro Medical Spa
What Does it Mean to be a “Trauma-Informed” Therapy and Business Practice?
The words “Trauma-Informed” is an approach to therapy and business grounded in 6-Guiding Principles. They are Trustworthiness and Transparency, Peer-Support, Collaboration and Mutuality, Empowerment and Choice, and Cultural, Historical and Gender Issues.
At Anchored Hope Therapy, we are intentional about every decision we make to support both our clients and our team of therapists. This includes promoting work-life balance and self-care for our team. We believe you cannot pour from an empty cup. In addition, it is about creating a therapy space that is inclusive and feels safe and a therapy culture that is authentic and supportive for our clients. We strive to partner with our clients in their journey to promote growth and recognize resilience. We are aware that mental health therapy has historically felt unsafe for many, including marginalized populations, and we aim to provide services that intersect with social justice efforts and are grounded in the above trauma-informed care principles.
Chelsea M. Haverly, LCSW-C; Christine Coyle, LCSW-C, Anchored Hope Therapy
What options besides surgery are there for my arthritis or musculoskeletal injuries?
For many musculoskeletal conditions, several options exist instead of steroid injections and anti-inflammatory medications to treat pain and restore function. Your body has the ability to repair itself! Sometimes, you just need a little help from a physician to harness your healing abilities and precisely direct them to the injured area.
An evidence-based example of restorative treatments is platelet rich plasma (PRP). PRP is created by drawing your blood and concentrating it in a special centrifuge. We then inject your own platelets into your damaged tissue using precise ultrasound guidance. This procedure optimizes your body’s own ability to heal without surgery and is performed in conjunction with physical therapy.
James H. Lynch, MD; All Star Pain Management and Regenerative Medicine
I would like to brighten and possibly straighten my smile. What are some options?
You can do something simple like whitening your smile or more complex like Veneers or Clear Aligners. We offer a variety of options that fit everyone’s goals and budget! Please visit our website to review some before and after photos of our patients so you can see the amazing work that can be accomplished!
Dr. Meredith Esposito, Chesapeake Dental Arts
What are some signs my child may require an Orthodontist?
While we generally recommend an orthodontic evaluation by age 7, we would advise scheduling a visit with a board certified orthodontist if you see any of these four signs: 1. **Crossbite:** Misalignment where lower teeth sit outside upper teeth, either in the front or back. 2. **Narrow Palate/Crowding:** Caused by thumb sucking, pacifier use, tongue tie, or genetics, leading to crowded teeth. 3. **Early/Late Baby Teeth Loss:** Losing teeth too early or late can disrupt the eruption of permanent teeth. 4. **Snoring/Mouth Breathing:** Frequent snoring or mouth breathing can signal inadequate oxygen intake during sleep.
Riddhi Desai, DMD, MS, MBA | Family Orthodontics of Annapolis
What is Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a long-term autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints and surrounding tissues. It occurs when the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues, which can lead to joint damage and disability. Understanding complex autoimmune and inflammatory conditions and the depth to which this affects all aspects of a patient’s life and comorbid medical conditions allows us to individualize treatment, collaborating with the patient.By integrating a nurturing attitude with a solid foundation of medical knowledge, clinicians should provide care that supports patients’ overall well-being, promotes active participation in their medical conditions, and leads to meaningful and sustainable health improvements.
DR. ERINN MAURY, Mid-Atlantic Rheumatology
Does my shoulder pain mean I am going to have to give up all the activities I enjoy doing?
Advances in the field of shoulder surgery, specifically shoulder replacement, In the last 10-15 years have been remarkable. We now have options for both anatomic and reverse shoulder replacements, with patient specific instrumentation and implants, to maximize the functional outcome of patients. Our goal is to tailor the treatment that is right for you and get you back to all the activities that you like to do; whether it’s tennis, pickleball, golf, fishing or sailing. At the Annapolis Hand to Shoulder Center, we offer the full spectrum of treatment for all upper extremity conditions including in office therapists, procedures, and biologics.
Kelly G. Kilcoyne, MD, Annapolis Hand to Shoulder Center
How is the recovery after a root canal?
After root canal treatment, it is common to experience mild soreness, and/or some swelling. This is due to your body’s natural inflammatory response, but this should improve as the tooth continues to heal. Frequently, discomfort subsides within a few days after treatment. The post-op symptoms after the treatment depend on the level of inflammation or infection that is present in your tooth at the time of treatment. We provide you with anti-inflammatory medication and/or prescribe antibiotics as necessary to help alleviate any discomfort. You will then return to your general dentist for a crown on that tooth to protect and to restore its function.
Mark D. Lentz, DMD, Annapolis Endodontics
How will I know if I am high risk for breast cancer?
There are several factors that increase your risk for breast cancer. One thing to consider is your age, as most breast cancers are diagnosed after age 50. If you have a first-degree relative such as a mother, sister or daughter who has breast or ovarian cancer, that increases your risk. Women who have inherited changes (mutations) to certain genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer. If these factors apply to you, ask your doctor if a risk assessment and prevention program (RAPP) could be your next step. We offer RAPP at Luminis Health and our goal is to help you make an informed health care decision and personalized plan for breast cancer risk reduction and early detection.
Allison Bruff, MD, 301-552-7805, Luminis.Health/Breast
What should I know about your services as someone new to aesthetics?
Welcome! At Meg Fox Aesthetics, we pride ourselves on being a judgment-free zone. We offer a range of treatments to help you achieve your goals. For static lines, neurotoxins like Botox and Dysport are ideal. If you need to restore volume, dermal fillers and biostimulators can help. Moxi and BBL lasers target pigmentation and texture, while microneedling boosts collagen for better skin quality. We offer free consultations, where our providers will assess your needs and create a personalized plan that fits your goals and budget. Contact us to get started!
Meg Fox, PA-C MS, Meg Fox Aesthetics
What age should you start having Full Body Skin Cancer Screenings?
There is no set guideline for when to begin seeing a dermatologist for a Full Body Skin Cancer Screening. For most people, we recommend starting in your early 20’s to establish care and to get a baseline evaluation. Earlier screening is recommended for an individual with many moles, a strong family history of melanoma or if there is a concern from another physician. At the baseline evaluation, the dermatologist will make a recommendation on how frequently to be seen. The Full Body Skin Exam allows skin cancer to be detected at its earliest and smallest stage and is an integral part of health maintenance. If you haven’t yet been evaluated by a dermatologist and you are past the recommended age, don’t worry, it is never too late to come in for your first visit.
Stephanie Clements, MD; Lesley Sutherland, MD, Dockside Dermatology
What tests can be done to look for cancer in healthy people?
Scientific studies show the major benefit of cancer screenings is early detection; they can detect cancer before it has started or when it’s early. Recommended screening tests include mammograms for women 40 and over; colonoscopies or Cologuard for everyone 45 and older; low dose chest CT scans for those with a 20-pack year smoking history, ages 50-80; regular pap smears in women; and testicular self-exams in young men. In individuals with a family history of breast or colon cancer, screening tests would start at a younger age. HPV vaccination is already saving lives. Insurers often cover screening tests. Get screened!
Dr. Jeanine Werner, Maryland Oncology Hematology
What are the benefits of cosmetic procedures?
Controlled movement of teeth in proper alignment, often results in a broader, more beautiful smile, requiring less reduction of tooth surface for crowns or veneers, and often reduces the need to treat more teeth. The advent of AI in dentistry and digital planning makes this planning smooth, fast and predictable.
SCOTT FINLAY, DDS, FAGD, FAACD, Annapolis Smiles
What makes your dental practice stand out among others in Central Maryland?
Our practice is unique in offering both surgical and restorative dental solutions under one roof. We specialize in comprehensive dental care, including advanced implant and restorative dentistry. With our state-of-the-art in-office lab using CAD/CAM technology, we design and fabricate full arch restorations, crowns, and more, often in a single visit. Plus, we provide sedation for any procedure, ensuring a comfortable experience for even the most anxious patients. Our goal is to create custom treatment plans that align with your dental health goals, all in a compassionate and welcoming environment.
KIAN DJAWDAN, DMD; Djawdan Center for Implant & Restorative Dentistry
Does Maryland Healthy Smiles (MHS) insurance cover the cost of orthodontics?
We believe that access to quality healthcare is fundamentally important to building strong communities in Maryland. That’s why we are proud to participate in the Maryland Healthy Smiles program in all of our offices. We are committed to making top quality orthodontic care easy and accessible for Maryland families, regardless of financial ability. Not every orthodontic practice accepts this type of insurance, but we think it’s an important part of doing business in this community. It’s also an incredible experience to be able to help a family in this way. When a child qualifies for orthodontic coverage under Maryland Healthy Smiles, that means they’ll be able to get the orthodontic treatment they need for no out-of-pocket cost.
DR. MARY C. TRAHAR-THOMAS, DDS, PA; Smiles by the Bay Orthodontics
What happens after a tooth is extracted?
After the extraction of a permanent tooth, bone and gingival tissue (gums) start to fill the extraction site. However, the body also starts to “melt away” the bone in a vertical and horizontal dimension. If implant tooth replacement is desired, a site preservation bone graft is usually required to prepare the surgical site, especially if bone loss occurred prior to the extraction. This recreates ideal bony contours, and makes dental implant success more predictable. The bone graft is usually performed at the time of extraction with no additional discomfort.
ZIAD BATROUNI, DDS, Maryland Oral Surgery Associates
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; Kent Island Pediatric Dentistry
Do veneers always look fake?
When done by a skilled dentist and high quality dental lab, veneers can look incredibly natural and beautiful. The key is proper planning to keep the teeth proportional to the smile and face. We like to do a trial smile so our patients can approve of the look of the veneers beforehand and request changes if needed. The pink gingival “frame” is often overlooked but very important, and when correctly done gingiva tissue should remain healthy around the veneers. Our goal is to enhance the appearance of your natural smile while giving you the confidence to show it off more.
Meredith Todd, DDS, Harbor Dental Center
What are the latest technology advances in our office?
Our practice is all digital, including digital cameras and large screen monitors in each operatory for patients to see their teeth up close. Conversations about treatment are much easier when patients can see the condition of their teeth. Our new three-dimensional scanner allows us to view complex anatomy and pathology. Additionally, we can use this scanner for precise placement of dental implants, endodontic treatment, and treating sleep apnea patients. We are excited about the level of care we are able to offer with this digital technology.
Jonathan T. Soistman, DDS; Soistman Family Dentistry & Associates
What is a digital scanner?
A scanner replaces the use of goopy impression material. The scan is comfortable, provides accurate results, and can be completed in minutes. In our office, we utilize this latest technology to treat our patients. A digital scanner is a handheld device used to create a digital impression of the mouth. It is a highly detailed 3D model of our patients’ teeth and gums which is then processed by the scanned software and displayed in real-time on a touch screen. The 3D model is then used to fabricate crowns/caps and clear braces (i.e. Invisalign) for a perfect fit.
DR. CHRISTIE HAGERt, Hagert Family Dentistry
Is it safe to use over the counter skin tag and mole removers?
No. Most over the counter cosmetic skin tag removers contain high concentrations of salicylic acid. Using them to remove skin tags can result in irritation and possible skin infection.
Removing moles on your own can result in delayed or missed diagnosis of skin cancer. If left untreated or partially removed, these skin cancers continue to grow with the possibility of spreading throughout your body. Due to these risks, the FDA warns against using these products.
Seeing a Board Certified Dermatologist or other trained skin specialist is your best line of defense in the prevention and management of unwanted skin growths.
Michael Del Torto, MD, FAAD; Donald Stranahan Jr., MD, FAAD; Easton Dermatology
How would you handle a frightened or stressed patient in your dental chair?
Patients with dental phobia or anxiety are important to us and we strive to create the most comfortable environment by offering a comfort care menu. Consisting of ear pods, warm blankets, pillows, bottled water and coffee. Our doctors are understanding while learning about patient fears and creating an experience that builds confidence in each patient. Fears are usually derived from two things, fear of the unknown and fear of not being in control. We have found that implementing our comfort care menu allows our patients to look forward to returning and their dental fears are diminished.
Gurpreet Kaur, DDS; Soistman Family Dentistry & Associates
Do I need to go to the emergency room for sports injuries?
Some injuries should be treated as soon as possible. The emergency room is the right choice if you are bleeding or experiencing significant pain that requires immediate attention. However, there’s no need to go to the ER for injuries such as sprains, tears, strains, and most fractures. While many injuries seem like they need emergency care, most orthopedic and especially sports injuries are best evaluated and treated at the orthopedic office. At Luminis Health Orthopedics, we have same-day appointments available during the day, evening, and weekend hours for urgent visits. We also have imaging, casting, and bracing services and can deliver specialty-trained expert care without ER wait times. For your sports injuries, visit Luminis.Health/Orthopedics to book a same-day appointment.
Benjamin Petre, MD; Orthopedic Surgeon, (410) 268-8862, Luminis.Health/Orthopedics
At what age should a child see a dentist?
As soon as they have teeth, by the age of 1. That first dental visit is very important and used to educate and provide information to parents that sets children up for a lifetime of excellent oral health and beautiful smiles. We perform a detailed oral exam, noting any findings that could be considered different. These early visits also condition your child to the dental environment at a young age, which can be crucial in helping them avoid or overcome dental anxiety for future visits.
DR. IRENE APATA; Rock Kids Dental
