EXPERT
Dr. Alan R. Heller, D.D.S., M.S.
Orthodontist
Dr. Alan Heller practices Orthodontics in Laurel, MD. Comprehensive orthodontic treatment includes metal wires that are inserted into orthodontic brackets, which can be made from stainless steel or a more aesthetic ceramic material. The wires interact with the brackets to move teeth into desired positions. Being advanced in the field, Dr. Heller may also use Invisalign or other aligner trays that have been designed to align a patients? smile. As an orthodontist, Dr. Heller must recognize various characteristics of a malocclusion or dentofacial deformity, define the nature of the problem, including the etiology if possible, and design a treatment strategy based on the specific needs and desires of the patient.
Dr. Alan R. Heller, D.D.S., M.S.
- Laurel, MD
- Accepting new patients
No results found
How long after a crown can I eat?
I’m sure your dentist will tell you if there is a need to wait but usually the cement is fully set before you even leave the office.
What's the best pain relief for braces?
I typically recommend acetaminophen for pain after appointments. Unfortunately, ibuprofen can interfere with tooth movement. It is otherwise as or more effective than acetaminophen. READ MORE
I typically recommend acetaminophen for pain after appointments. Unfortunately, ibuprofen can interfere with tooth movement. It is otherwise as or more effective than acetaminophen.
What are the orthodontic options for sensitive teeth?
Using a toothpaste that is formulated for sensitive teeth is your best bet. This won't eliminate soreness caused by tooth movement but should minimize temperature sensitivity.
How long will braces take to fix one tooth?
The duration of treatment will depend upon the method used to fix the misalignments. Also, the further out of line the tooth is the more difficult it will be to correct, adding READ MORE
The duration of treatment will depend upon the method used to fix the misalignments. Also, the further out of line the tooth is the more difficult it will be to correct, adding to the time required.
Should my teeth hurt after wearing a nightguard?
A mouthguard that is properly adjusted and worn nightly should not hurt. It is possible that there is movement of the teeth during the day that makes to mouthguard tight and causes READ MORE
A mouthguard that is properly adjusted and worn nightly should not hurt. It is possible that there is movement of the teeth during the day that makes to mouthguard tight and causes tooth movement. Usually wearing the appliance every night is adequate to minimize tooth movement. If not, see you doctor to discuss alternatives.
How painful is a molar implant?
You shouldn’t feel anything during the procedure except for the injection of anesthetic. Afterward you may have some swelling and irritation of the gum tissue around it for a couple READ MORE
You shouldn’t feel anything during the procedure except for the injection of anesthetic. Afterward you may have some swelling and irritation of the gum tissue around it for a couple days.
Can you have a denture for one tooth?
Yes. Usually called a flipper this is generally seen as a temporary solution but some people have them for an extended period.
Is it bad to leave a loose tooth in your mouth?
If it is a loose baby tooth there is no problem in waiting for it to fall out unless it is causing the adult tooth below to erupt out of line. If it is a loose adult tooth you READ MORE
If it is a loose baby tooth there is no problem in waiting for it to fall out unless it is causing the adult tooth below to erupt out of line. If it is a loose adult tooth you should see the dentist right away.
Do braces fix teeth permanently?
Retainers are required after braces are removed. There is always a tendency for the teeth to shift so retainers should be used at least on a part-time basis long term. Please follow READ MORE
Retainers are required after braces are removed. There is always a tendency for the teeth to shift so retainers should be used at least on a part-time basis long term. Please follow your doctor's instructions.
Are permanent retainers necessary after braces?
Permanent retainers are not always needed. Removable retainers are actual use more frequently. You can discuss this with your orthodontist when starting treatment and then again READ MORE
Permanent retainers are not always needed. Removable retainers are actual use more frequently. You can discuss this with your orthodontist when starting treatment and then again as you are nearing the end.
Why does my breath always smell with braces?
The most likely cause is inadequate cleaning of the teeth and gums. Make sure to brush thoroughly after eating and floss daily. It also helps to use an anti-microbial mouthwash READ MORE
The most likely cause is inadequate cleaning of the teeth and gums. Make sure to brush thoroughly after eating and floss daily. It also helps to use an anti-microbial mouthwash like Listerine.
How do you floss after getting braces?
Flossing with braces is definitely more difficult. The floss needs to go under the wire between each tooth. When the gums are healthy this should not be too difficult. You can READ MORE
Flossing with braces is definitely more difficult. The floss needs to go under the wire between each tooth. When the gums are healthy this should not be too difficult. You can also use a floss threader to help. These should be available from your orthodontist or you can get them at a pharmacy. There should be plenty of YouTube videos available for a demonstration of using threaders with braces.
Do they put you to sleep when getting braces?
Absolutely no need to be put to sleep. The process is painless. You may feel some pressure on the teeth when wires are put in but the real soreness begins a couple hours after READ MORE
Absolutely no need to be put to sleep. The process is painless. You may feel some pressure on the teeth when wires are put in but the real soreness begins a couple hours after the appointment when the body reacts to tooth movement. Be sure to take some pain medication prior to the appointment and continue doing so for a couple days.
How should I prepare for my Invisalign?
All you need to to to prepare is get all your snacking out of the way now. You won't be able to snack to much when the aligners are being worn full time;-) Really just get in the READ MORE
All you need to to to prepare is get all your snacking out of the way now. You won't be able to snack to much when the aligners are being worn full time;-)
Really just get in the habit of keeping your teeth and gums clean. Nothing else to do. Enjoy!
Really just get in the habit of keeping your teeth and gums clean. Nothing else to do. Enjoy!
How do I know when I'm ready for braces?
If all your adult teeth have erupted you can begin treatment any time. The only exception is if you have a large lower jaw with lower teeth at an edge to edge relationship or beyond. READ MORE
If all your adult teeth have erupted you can begin treatment any time. The only exception is if you have a large lower jaw with lower teeth at an edge to edge relationship or beyond. In this case treatment should wait until lower jaw growth is completed around age 20
Does holding water in your mouth stop a toothache after Invisalign?
I’ve never heard of that. OTC pain reliever should work fine.
Why does my Invisalign hurt after a year?
If you are wearing the aligners 20-22 hrs per day it is normal to have the teeth hurt for a day or two each time you switch to a new aligner. If are inconsistent with your wear READ MORE
If you are wearing the aligners 20-22 hrs per day it is normal to have the teeth hurt for a day or two each time you switch to a new aligner. If are inconsistent with your wear soreness will be more frequent. If you are consistent and they still hurt you should definitely bring this up to you orthodontist or general dentist.
Are cavities common after braces?
It is not common to have cavities after braces. It is important to maintain good oral hygiene and see your dentist regularly throughout your time in braces. We also recommend daily READ MORE
It is not common to have cavities after braces. It is important to maintain good oral hygiene and see your dentist regularly throughout your time in braces. We also recommend daily use of a fluoride rinse.
Is an X-ray required for braces?
Absolutely. The doctor need to know if there are any underlying problems with the teeth or supporting bone before beginning treatment.
What helps swollen gums after getting orthodontics?
Good brushing and flossing for the first week followed by a cleaning with your dental hygienist. Then just continue the good home care and it should look a lot better within a READ MORE
Good brushing and flossing for the first week followed by a cleaning with your dental hygienist. Then just continue the good home care and it should look a lot better within a few weeks.
