Dentist in Columbia and Laurel, MD - Ashton Dental Group, LLC

Common Questions

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9 . Are silver fillings, fluoride or x-rays, a danger to my health? What are the alternatives?
Dental amalgam, or silver filling material, is a mixture of mercury, and an alloy of silver, tin and copper. The release of mercury in silver fillings is so small that it is much less than what patients are exposed to in food, air and water. There are, however, other materials that can be used for restorations. These include gold, porcelain, and composite resins.

Fluoride is a compound of the element fluorine, which is found universally throughout nature in water, soil, air and in most foods. Fluoride is absorbed easily into the tooth enamel, especially in children's growing teeth. Once teeth are developed, fluoride makes the entire tooth structure more resistant to decay and promotes remineralization, which aids in repairing early decay before the damage is visible.

Radiographs, or x-rays, help your dentist determine the presence or degree of periodontal disease, abscesses, and many abnormal growths such as cysts and tumors. They can help pinpoint the location of cavities and other signs of disease that may not be possible to detect through a visual examination. All health care providers are sensitive to patients' concerns about exposure to radiation. Your dentist has been trained to prescribe radiographs when they are appropriate and to tailor the radiograph schedule to your individual needs. By using state-of-the-art technology, such as digital radiography, and by staying knowledgeable about recent advances, your dentist knows which techniques, procedures and X-ray films can minimize your exposure to radiation.

10 . What are dental implants and how do they work?
Dental implants are substitutes for natural tooth roots and rely on the jawbone for support. Strategically placed, implants can now be used to support permanently cemented bridges, eliminating the need for a denture. The cost tends to be greater, but the implants and bridges more closely resemble real teeth.

11 . What is a root canal?
A root canal is a procedure done to save the damaged or dead pulp in the root canal of the tooth by cleaning out the diseased pulp and reshaping the canal. The canal is filled with gutta percha, a rubberlike material, to prevent recontamination of the tooth. The tooth is then permanently sealed with possibly a post and/or a gold or porcelain crown. This enables patients to keep the original tooth.

12 . When is the best time to remove wisdom teeth?
When the removal of wisdom teeth is determined necessary, it is best done when the roots are approximately 2/3rds formed, usually in the adolescent years. Removal at this time allows for an easier procedure and decreases the risk of damage to the nerves in that area.

Ashton Dental Group, LLC

Columbia Office
5850 Waterloo Road, Suite 250
Columbia, MD 21045
410.465.8480 :: Phone
410.465.7866 :: Fax

Maple Lawn Office
7500 Montpelier Road, Suite 108
Laurel, MD 20723
301.617.0880 :: Phone
301.617.0818 :: Fax

"Dr. Ashton and her entire staff are extremely caring and professional and have treated me with the utmost respect throughout. The experience has literally changed my life. I am able to smile without being embarrassed and also give the gift of a smile to others and for that I will be forever grateful to Dr. Ashton."

Our goal is to provide the highest quality care, while enhancing the lives and smiles of our guests. Our office offers a peaceful, relaxing atmosphere and thoughtful care.

We are the preferred dentist of the Baltimore Ravens Cheerleaders.

Columbia & Maple Lawn
  8 - 5 PM :: Monday
10 - 7 PM :: Tuesday
  8 - 5 PM :: Wednesday
  8 - 5 PM :: Thursday

Wondering what our office is like? Click here to take an photo tour of our office and staff.

New Patient Out-Of-Network Insurance
No co-pay for 1st visit

New Patient Special
$99 for exam and full mouth x-rays

Whitening
Zoom (includes take home trays and touch-up kit) -- $400; Take Home Trays -- $199

Night Guard
Custom, Lab Fabricated Night Guard -- $375

Children 12 and Under
Panoramic x-rays, Prophy, Exam, Fluoride, and Tooth Prints -- $99

Children
Complimentary Toothprints with completed hygiene visit

Referral Rewards
The greatest compliment you can give is to refer us to your family and friends. You can be assured that the same quality care and excellent service you received will be given to each of them. For each person who completes a new patient appointment and mentions your name as their referral to our office, we will send you a gift card to Target. In advance, please accept our thanks and appreciation.