expert type icon EXPERT

Lauren Ballard

Dentist

Dr. Lauren Ballard is a Dentist practicing in Maspeth, NY. Dr. Ballard specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases and conditions associated with the mouth and overall dental health. Dentists are trained to carry out such treatment as professional cleaning, restorative, prosthodontic, and endodontic procedures, and performing examinations, among many others.
6 years Experience
Lauren Ballard
  • Maspeth, NY
  • LECOM SDM
  • Accepting new patients

Is it ok to not wear a retainer for 2 days?

Hello, ideally you should be wearing your retainer everyday. Unfortunately life gets in the way sometimes, and we all have a day or two where we forget to put that retainer in READ MORE
Hello, ideally you should be wearing your retainer everyday. Unfortunately life gets in the way sometimes, and we all have a day or two where we forget to put that retainer in - it happens. As soon as you remember, put the retainer in. Since teeth always move, the retainer may feel tight. You can keep wearing your retainer as long as it doesn't cause any headaches or more uncomfortable than normal. If you cannot get your retainer back in, you may need adjustments or a new retainer.

Is pericoronitis a serious condition?

Hello. Pericoronitis is commonly seen in the mouth, especially around wisdom teeth. Any condition we diagnose in the mouth, should be taken as a serious condition. Usually, Pericoronitis READ MORE
Hello. Pericoronitis is commonly seen in the mouth, especially around wisdom teeth. Any condition we diagnose in the mouth, should be taken as a serious condition. Usually, Pericoronitis is managed with antibiotics, followed by extraction of the tooth in question or surgical removal of the effected tissue.

What are the first signs of dry socket?

Hello, Usually the first signs of dry socket present as pain. You will also notice a missing clot from the extraction site. One can also notice a bad taste/smell coming from the READ MORE
Hello, Usually the first signs of dry socket present as pain. You will also notice a missing clot from the extraction site. One can also notice a bad taste/smell coming from the area.

Is there an age limit for braces?

Hello, no there are no age limits to braces. You can achieve a beautiful, straight smile at any age.

What can you not eat after getting dentures?

Hello, certain foods become difficult to chew with dentures. We advice all patients to cut their food, if possible, instead of biting into it. Also, patients are advised that speech READ MORE
Hello, certain foods become difficult to chew with dentures. We advice all patients to cut their food, if possible, instead of biting into it. Also, patients are advised that speech and taste may be effected when transitioning into a full denture.

Can I use mouthwash with Invisalign?

Hello, Yes. We highly encourage a mouthwash additive to your oral hygiene routine. We highly encourage you brush, floss, and use mouthrinse before inserting each tray.

How do braces rearrange teeth?

Traditional orthodontic treatment and invisalign work by using forces to help your teeth. As time passes during your treatment, the wires/trays apply pressure, which sets in motion READ MORE
Traditional orthodontic treatment and invisalign work by using forces to help your teeth. As time passes during your treatment, the wires/trays apply pressure, which sets in motion the movement of your teeth into their desired positions. At the end of the orthodontic treatment, you are given a retainer which keeps the final position of the teeth in place. Without the retainer, the teeth will gradually move back into misalignment.