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Grosso Family Dentistry

770 Old Liberty Road, Suite 3 ∙ Eldersburg, MD 21784 ∙ 410-875-7789

11339 Liberty Road ∙ Libertytown, MD 21762 ∙ 301-898-1800

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Posts for: October, 2015

Facial Nerve Pain can be Reduced with the Right Treatment Approach

By Grosso Family Dentistry
October 21, 2015
Category: Dental Procedures
Tags: facial pain  
FacialNervePaincanbeReducedwiththeRightTreatmentApproach

Our nerves serve a vital purpose, alerting us to bodily discomfort, injury or disease — we couldn’t remain in good health for long without them. But when they malfunction due to genetics or disease, they can themselves become a source of pain and discomfort.

One such nerve disorder that affects the face is known as trigeminal neuralgia (TN) or tic douloureaux (from the French for “painful”). The nerves in question are the trigeminal, a pair that travel up from the brain stem through the skull into each side of the face where they each branch into the upper, middle and lower parts of the face and jaw. The pain can radiate from one or more of these branches.

TN is characterized by recurring episodes of brief but severe pain with accompanying muscle spasms. It may begin as a short twinge recurring over weeks, months or years before becoming increasingly painful. The slightest actions can trigger a painful episode: chewing, speaking, shaving or even the wind blowing on your face.

While it may be hard to determine its exact cause, it often seems to result from an artery or vein pressing on the nerve, causing it to signal pain at the slightest stimulation and then failing to stop transmitting when the stimulation is removed. It’s also associated with other inflammatory disorders like multiple sclerosis where the protective insulation around a nerve is damaged.

Before receiving treatment you should undergo a complete examination to rule out any other facial pain causes like temporomandibular (jaw joint) disorders or a dental abscess. You may also need to undergo a neurological examination and possible MRI imaging to pinpoint the exact cause, like a tumor or blood vessel pressing on the nerve.

Although the condition may not be curable, there are several effective management treatments. The more conservative approaches usually involve medications to block the nerve’s pain signals or decrease its abnormal firing. If this isn’t sufficient to diminish symptoms, there are surgical options: passing a thin needle through the nerve to selectively prevent fibers from firing, or moving aside a blood vessel pressing on it. High-dose targeted radiation may also be effective, especially with older patients.

The best treatment approach will depend on the exact cause, your age and overall health. Whatever the approach, you can gain significant relief from the pain of TN.

If you would like more information on facial nerve disorders, please contact us or schedule an appointment for a consultation.


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Spice Up Your Teeth

By Grosso Family Dentistry
October 06, 2015
Category: Dental Procedures
Tags: cosmetic dentistry   celebrity smiles  
SpiceUpYourTeeth

As a member of the best-selling pop group Spice Girls, Mel C (AKA Sporty Spice) enjoyed her share of musical superstardom. At the band’s peak in the Nineties, the young singer’s signature look featured baggy sweatpants, an assortment of tattoos, a nose stud and a gold-capped incisor, front and center in her mouth. Today, Melanie Chisholm is still singing — but now she’s a mom, an amateur triathlete… and that gold tooth is just a memory. Not only that, her smile looks more evenly spaced and whiter than it did when she was referred to as the “tomboy” of the group.

What happened? In our view, it all boils down to changing tastes — plus a little bit of help from dental professionals. As the “wannabe” singer proves, there’s no single standard when it comes to making your teeth look their best. Your own look is unique to you — and your smile can reflect that individuality.

For example, crowns (caps) are substantial coverings that may be placed on teeth when they are being restored. They are available in three types: gold, all-porcelain, or porcelain-fused-to-metal. The latter two are tooth-colored, while the gold is — well, shiny like gold bling. Which one is right for you? In many cases, it’s your choice.

Likewise, dental veneers — wafer-thin shells that can correct cosmetic issues by covering the surface of your teeth — can be made in a variety of shades. Their hues may range from natural ivory to Hollywood white, and everything in between. What’s the best color for you? Only you can say.

Some people opt for a “smile makeover” that uses small irregularities in the spacing and color of teeth to create a more “natural” look. Other folks want a perfectly even, brilliant white smile that dazzles the eye. Still others are looking to match or restore the smile they once had — perhaps even re-creating a signature gap between the teeth. As long as there are no other dental issues involved, the choice is yours.

So if you’re unhappy with your smile — or if you feel it doesn’t reflect the person you “wannabe” — why not talk to us about a smile makeover? Just call our office to schedule a consultation. You can learn more about this topic in the Dear Doctor magazine articles “Beautiful Smiles by Design” and “The Impact of a Smile Makeover.”


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Archive:

  • 2019
      • December (1)
        • It Takes Artistry and Skill to Achieve the Right Color Balance for Your Veneers
      • November (3)
        • 3 Things You Need to Know Before Getting a Crown Restoration
        • Don't Delay Seeing the Dentist If You Suspect Gum Recession
        • The Real Truth Behind Ed Helms' Missing Tooth in "The Hangover"
      • October (3)
        • The Before, During and After of Root Canal Treatments
        • Dental Sealants Give Children an Added Boost Against Tooth Decay
        • Tooth Sensitivity Could Be a Sign of Deeper Problems
      • September (3)
        • Viggo Mortensen's Red-Carpet Smile
        • Two Mouth and Face Pain Disorders and What You Can Do About Them
        • Don't Let Gum Disease Cut Short Your Implant's Service Life
      • August (3)
        • Smoking Could Increase Your Gum Disease Risk
        • Vivica's Veneers: the Making of a Hollywood Smile
        • Despite Some Online Sources, Root Canals Don't Cause Disease
      • July (3)
        • Jaw Joint Disorders may be Connected to Other Health Problems
        • 3 Ways to Help Your Child Relax at the Dentist
        • NBA Player's Injury Points Out Need for Mouthguards
      • June (3)
        • Be on the Alert for White Spots on Teeth While Wearing Braces
        • Anchorage Tools Help Orthodontists Correct Complex Bite Problems
        • Not So Fast Replacing That Tooth - Consider Saving it First
      • May (3)
        • Fan of Superhero Film Black Panther Breaks Steel Wire...with Her Mouth!
        • Affordable Veneers Can Give You a New Smile
        • Consider an Effective and Affordable RPD for Teeth Replacement
      • April (3)
        • Your Age Doesn't Have to Keep You from a Straighter Smile
        • Pop Star Demi Lovato Pops Out Jay Glazer's Tooth
        • Your Sinus Infection Might be a Sign of a Tooth Problem
      • March (3)
        • 4 Things You Should be Doing Now for Your Baby's Long-Term Dental Health
        • Topical Fluoride can Enhance Your Child's Dental Care
        • Janet Jackson: Even pop stars get insecure about their smiles!
      • February (3)
        • Stop Gum Disease Before it Harms Your Health
        • 4 Tips to Prevent Childhood Tooth Decay
        • Composite Resin Could Amp up Your Teeth's Attractiveness in Just One Visit
      • January (3)
        • Dr. Travis Stork: Don't Ignore Bleeding Gums
        • Protecting Primary Teeth from Decay Helps Ensure Future Dental Health
        • A New Veneer with Minimal or No Tooth Alteration
  • 2018
      • December (3)
        • Don't give up on Flossing!
        • Dental Injury Is Just a Temporary Setback for Basketball Star Kevin Love
        • Dental Visits are Key to Detecting Early Developing Tooth Decay
      • November (3)
        • We can Rid You of that Lump in Your Mouth you Keep Biting
        • 4 Signs Your Child May Have a Poor Bite
        • Bobby Bones Dances His Way to Dental Damage
      • October (3)
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        • Stay Ahead of Plaque Buildup with Effective Brushing and Flossing
        • 3 Factors That Could Affect the Success of a Root Canal Treatment
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        • Margot Robbie Knows: A Great Smile Is Worth Protecting
        • Anchorage Devices Enable Greater Precision During Orthodontic Treatment
        • FAQs for National Gum Care Month
      • August (4)
        • This Young Woman's Cancer Experience a Teachable Moment for all of us
        • Steely Dan Founder's Death Highlights Importance of Early Cancer Detection
        • When Summertime Sports Lead to Dental Dilemmas
        • Watch What Carbs You Eat to Reduce Your Risk of Further Gum Disease
      • July (3)
        • Lip or Palate Clefts can be Effectively Repaired
        • Baseball's Francisco Lindor Shines as "Mr. Smile"
        • Complications from Missing Teeth Could Limit Your Replacement Options
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        • Saving a Diseased Primary Tooth Could Mean Better Oral Health Later in Life
        • Keep Alert for this Extreme Form of Gingivitis
        • Life Is Sometimes a Grind for Brooke Shields
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        • Keep Your New Smile After Orthodontics with a Retainer
        • Sealants Could Protect Your Child's Teeth From Future Problems
        • Stop Gum Disease Before it Becomes a Major Health Issue
      • April (2)
        • How Kathy Bates Retains Her Movie-Star Smile
        • If You're not a Good Candidate for Dental Implants, Consider Bridgework
      • March (2)
        • Braces Take Advantage of Teeth's Natural Ability to Move
        • 3 Tips for Helping Your Kids Develop Great Tooth-Friendly Habits
      • February (3)
        • Julianne Hough Shares a Video - and a Song - After Wisdom Teeth Come Out
        • Don't Ignore Tooth Pain - You May Need a Root Canal
        • Why a Bonded Retainer Might be a Better Choice After Braces
      • January (2)
        • Hidden Sugar Can Jeopardize Your Health
        • Actress Emma Stone Reveals How Thumb Sucking Affected Her Teeth
  • 2017
      • December (2)
        • Treating Gum Disease may Require Invasive Procedures
        • Give Yourself the Gift of a New Smile
      • November (2)
        • Orthodontics and Your Teen
        • Why Big Bang Theory Actress Mayim Bialik Couldn't Have Braces
      • October (2)
        • Start Early with Your Baby's Dental Care
        • New Season, New Toothbrush
      • September (2)
        • Think You Have Sleep Apnea? Find Out for Sure to Get the Right Treatment
        • 2.6 Million Fans 'Like' Justin Bieber's Chipped Tooth
      • August (3)
        • Be Sure to Have a Dental Exam Before Whitening Your Teeth
        • Fifth Harmony's Camila Cabello Chips a Tooth, but Concert Still "Worth It"
        • Answers to Common Questions About Root Canal Treatments
      • July (2)
        • Master Illusionist Benefits from the Magic of Orthodontics
        • 5 Things you can do to Improve Your Child's Future Dental Health
      • June (2)
        • Noah Galloway's Dentally Dangerous Dancing
        • Take Care of Your Dental Appliance to Extend its Longevity
      • May (2)
        • Chrissy Teigen's Teeth-Grinding Troubles
        • Dealing with the Reality of Increased Disease Risk with Braces
      • April (2)
        • New Front Teeth for a Teenaged David Duchovny
        • Get a Dental Exam as Soon as Possible if you Suspect Gum Disease
      • March (3)
        • Expert Advice: Vivica A. Fox on Kissing and Oral health
        • Antibiotics Before Implant Surgery Could Lower Infection Risk in Some People
        • Neil Patrick Harris: What the Oscars Host Treasures Most
      • February (1)
        • Sedation, Along with Understanding, can Relieve Your Dental Visit Fears
      • January (3)
        • Dental Crowns for the King of Magic
        • Chronic Jaw Pain Could be Related to Other Inflammatory Conditions
        • A Royal Fix
  • 2016
      • December (2)
        • Keep Ahead of Potential Sidetracks to Your Child's Oral Health
        • Johnny's Teeth Aren't Rotten Any More
      • November (2)
        • Dental Implants can Replace Your Whole Tooth, Not Just What You See
        • Kathy Bates Plays It Smart With Professional Teeth Whitening
      • October (3)
        • Stop White Spots Before They Appear While Wearing Braces
        • Any Time, Any Place: Cam Newton's Guide to Flossing
        • Keep an Eye Out for Problems if Your Children Grind Their Teeth
      • September (2)
        • Eden Sher and the Lost Retainer
        • What to Expect Before, During and After Implant Surgery
      • August (2)
        • Dwight Howard: A Bright NBA Star With a Smile to Match
        • Lasers are Making an Impact in Treating Gum Disease
      • July (3)
        • Actor David Ramsey Discusses Baby Bottle Tooth Decay
        • Loose Permanent Teeth is a Problem - take Action Now
        • Dr. Travis Stork: If Only I'd Worn A Mouthguard!
      • June (2)
        • Researchers Looking for Links between TMJD and Other Health Conditions
        • Ariana Grande Breaks Free - of Her Wisdom Teeth
      • May (2)
        • Local Anesthesia Provides a More Pleasant and Thorough Dental Experience
        • Jimmy Fallon Can’t Catch a Break - Except in His Tooth
      • April (2)
        • Put an End to Uncomfortable and Embarrassing Cracked Mouth Corners
        • Jason Derulo's Ideal Match
      • March (2)
        • You May Need Surgery to Repair the Damage of Gum Recession
        • Tom Hanks' Abscessed Tooth Gets Cast Away
      • February (2)
        • 4 Things you Should do if Your Child Complains of a Toothache
        • Dental Magic Transforms Smiles
      • January (2)
        • Irritating Cold Sore Outbreaks can be Controlled Through Medication
        • A Toothless Tiger?
  • 2015
      • December (2)
        • Your Other Teeth May Need Straightening Before Replacing a Missing Tooth
        • Nancy O'Dell on Making Oral Hygiene Fun for Kids
      • November (2)
        • Taking Care of Oral Health Crucial to Quality of Life for HIV Positive Patients
        • Actor David Ramsey Says: Don't Forget to Floss!
      • October (2)
        • Facial Nerve Pain can be Reduced with the Right Treatment Approach
        • Spice Up Your Teeth
      • September (2)
        • You may need a Periodontist to Fully Treat Your Gum Disease
        • No "Glee" in Tooth Grinding
      • August (2)
        • Keep a Close Eye on Your Dental Health While Undergoing Cancer Treatment
        • Even Celebrities Like Jennifer Lawrence Aren't Immune From Bad Breath!
      • July (2)
        • Developing a Dental Care Strategy Could Save Long-Term Costs
        • Beyonce Makes Flossing a Family Affair
      • June (2)
        • Advancing Gum Disease Requires Your Dentist's Intervention
        • Giancarlo Stanton Gets Major-League Mouth Protection
      • May (2)
        • Regular Cleanings Benefit Both Your Dental Health and Your Smile
        • Sofia Vergara: 'Obsessed' With Oral Hygiene
      • April (2)
        • Know the Facts to Reduce Your Child's Teething Discomfort
        • Jerry Rice's Advice on Protecting Your Children's Teeth
      • March (2)
        • Chronic Biting Habits Can Lead to Loose Teeth
        • Television Host Nancy O'Dell Provides Advice for New Mothers
      • February (2)
        • The Major Benefits of Early Childhood Dental Visits
        • How Dental Implants Saved Taylor Hicks' Smile
      • January (2)
        • Considering Bone and Gums Critical to Achieving a Better Smile With Implants
        • America's (Dentists) Got Talent - for Fixing Damaged or Missing Teeth!
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      • December (3)
        • Overcoming Your Fears Of The Dentist
        • Dental Implants Helped Rocker Steven Tyler Get Back on Stage in Record Time
        • An Implant-Supported Denture Offers a Number of Advantages
      • November (2)
        • Meet Brady Reiter and You'll Believe in the Tooth Fairy!
        • Six Ways Saliva Helps Your Mouth and Body Stay Healthy
      • October (2)
        • Reality Star Kept His Eyes on the Prize: New Teeth!
        • Why Bear a Chipped Tooth?
      • September (2)
        • What Made American Idol Finalist Elliott Yamin Smile?
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Our Locations

770 Old Liberty Rd, Suite 3
Eldersburg, MD 21784
410-875-7789

11339 Liberty Rd
Libertytown, MD 21762
301-898-1800

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Eldersburg Office Hours

Monday: 07:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Wednesday: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Thursday: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Friday: Closed (Admin Team 9-12)
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

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Monday: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Tuesday: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Wednesday: 09:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Thursday: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Friday: 09:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

 

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