Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Bleeding gums are often an early warning sign of gum disease, typically caused by plaque buildup along the gumline. While occasional bleeding while flossing may occur, regular bleeding during brushing or flossing indicates that your gums need attention.

The Importance of Gum Health

Healthy gums are essential for a healthy mouth. When bacteria-filled plaque accumulates along the gumline, it triggers an inflammatory response in your gum tissue. This inflammation, known as gingivitis, causes gums to become red, swollen, and prone to bleeding. Without treatment, gingivitis can progress to more serious periodontal disease.

Proactive Steps for Healthy Gums

The good news is that early-stage gum disease is reversible with proper care. Professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar buildup, while improved home care helps prevent future problems. Dr. Zhou can evaluate your gum health and create a treatment plan that may include: 

• Demonstrating proper brushing and flossing techniques
• Recommending oral care products
• Developing a professional cleaning schedule tailored to your needs

Don't ignore bleeding gums—they're your body's way of signaling that something needs attention. Contact Peartree Dental Care in Ellicott City, MD, to schedule a cleaning so we can evaluate your gums. We'll help you understand the cause of your bleeding gums and create a plan to restore your periodontal health.

After completing your clear aligner treatment, wearing a retainer becomes essential to maintain your new smile. Without proper retention, teeth can gradually return to their original positions and undo all your hard work.

Understanding the Retention Phase

The first few months after treatment are particularly crucial because your teeth are most susceptible to movement. Dr. Zhou will create a custom-fitted retainer designed for your newly aligned smile. Retainer use depends on your unique case but typically involves wearing it full-time, removing it only for meals and oral hygiene, as you did with your aligners.

After the initial stabilization period of approximately three months, you will likely transition to nighttime-only wear. This schedule typically continues indefinitely to ensure your teeth maintain their new positions long-term.

Types of Retainers

There are several types of retainers that we may recommend:

• Essix retainers are custom-molded to fit over your teeth, similar to aligners
• Fixed retainers are bonded to the backs of lower front teeth to keep them in place
• Hawley retainers combine acrylic and metal similar to a removable wire retainer.

Maintaining Your Investment

Remember, committing to wearing a retainer directly affects the longevity of your orthodontic treatment. Accepting that retention is just another phase of treatment when you begin clear aligner therapy can make it easier to follow through.

If you have questions about wearing orthodontic retainers after clear aligner treatment, please call our Ellicott City, MD, dental office for more information.

Cosmetic dentistry at Peartree Dental Care encompasses a range of treatments designed to be beautiful and durable. Their longevity depends on numerous factors, such as oral hygiene practices, routine maintenance, and habits like teeth grinding and nail-biting.

Cosmetic Dentistry Longevity

Here’s a quick look at some of the cosmetic dental treatments we offer in Ellicott City and their typical lifespan.

• Professional Teeth Whitening — In-office and take-home whitening treatments typically maintain brightness for 1–3 years. Touch-ups are usually required periodically, especially if you consume staining beverages like coffee or wine.
• Composite Bonding — Dental bonding, which repairs chips, fills gaps, and reshapes teeth, generally lasts 4–8 years. While durable, bonding materials may require occasional touch-ups or replacement to maintain their appearance.
• Porcelain Veneers — High-quality porcelain veneers are among the most durable cosmetic treatments, lasting 10–15 years or more. Their resilient ceramic material resists staining and maintains its natural appearance with proper care.
• Clear Aligners — Once treatment is complete, results are permanent when combined with consistent retainer use as prescribed by your dentist.
• Aesthetic Crowns — Modern ceramic crowns can last 15 years or longer, protecting and beautifying teeth while maintaining their natural appearance.

Long-Lasting Cosmetic Dentistry

With cosmetic dentistry at Peartree Dental Care, we’ll provide the treatment you need and the guidance to ensure the results last as long as possible. Contact our Ellicott City, MD, dental office to schedule a consultation and discuss which cosmetic treatments best meet your needs.

Proper care of your dental crown or bridge is essential for maximizing its lifespan and maintaining your oral health.

Daily Care for Your Crown or Bridge

Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. Pay attention to the area where the crown or bridge meets the gumline to prevent decay and gum disease.

For bridges, use floss threaders to clean under and around the bridge daily. This prevents bacteria from accumulating in these harder-to-reach areas and protects your restoration.

Protect Your Investment

• Avoid biting hard objects like ice or using your teeth as tools to open packages.
• If you grind your teeth at night, wear a custom nightguard to protect your restoration from excessive wear and pressure.
• Be mindful of sticky or very hard foods that could damage or dislodge your restoration.

Long-Term Maintenance

Regular dental checkups every six months allow Dr. Zhou to monitor your restoration's condition and address any concerns early. During these visits, we check for proper fit, signs of wear, and any changes that might affect your restoration's longevity.

If you notice changes in the feel of your crown or bridge, schedule an appointment for evaluation. Addressing minor issues promptly can prevent more significant problems and ensure your restoration serves you for many years.

Have a Question? Call Us!

If you have specific questions about caring for your dental restorations, we welcome your call. Contact our Ellicott City, MD, dental office at (410) 750-2599.

For most dental emergencies, visiting your dentist is the best and most cost-effective option. The team at Peartree Dental Care is equipped to handle most emergencies; however, certain situations may require a trip to the emergency room.

When to See a Dentist

Most dental emergencies, including severe tooth pain, knocked-out teeth, or broken restorations, can and should be addressed by an emergency dentist. Dr. Zhou offers same-day appointments to relieve pain and restore your smile as quickly as possible. Dental offices are better equipped to provide permanent solutions for dental issues, ensuring proper care.

When to Go to the Emergency Room

Head to the ER if you experience:

• Uncontrolled bleeding that doesn’t stop with pressure.
• Severe swelling that interferes with breathing or swallowing.
• Trauma to the face or jaw, such as fractures or dislocations.

Why the Dentist is a Better Option

Dental care in an emergency room is often limited to pain management or stopping bleeding. You’ll still need to visit your dentist for the necessary treatment, which can result in additional costs and delays. Visiting a dental office first ensures the proper care and saves you time and money.

Not Sure? Call Us!

If you’re uncertain where to go in a dental emergency, our Ellicott City, MD, dental office at (410) 750-2599. Your safety and health are always our priority!

The answer depends on the specific treatments included in your smile makeover and your insurance plan. Dental insurance generally distinguishes between cosmetic and restorative services, and coverage will vary.

Insurance Coverage for Full Smile Makeovers

Cosmetic Dental Treatments

Procedures like teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, and gum contouring are typically considered cosmetic because they enhance appearance rather than restore function. Insurance does not usually cover these treatments.

Restorative Treatments

Restorative procedures such as dental crowns, bridges, implants, or fillings often address functional and health-related issues. Insurance plans may provide partial coverage for these treatments if they’re considered medically necessary. For example, replacing a missing tooth or restoring a damaged tooth is more likely to be covered than a purely cosmetic improvement.

Making Your Smile Makeover Accessible

At Peartree Dental Care, we’re committed to helping patients achieve their dream smiles in a way that works for their budget. Here’s how we support you:

• Insurance-Friendly Practice — We’re a provider for Delta Premier and file claims for all PPO insurance plans to help you maximize your benefits.
• Flexible Payment Options — We offer CareCredit financing to spread payments over manageable monthly installments.
• Phased Treatment Plans — For more involved larger treatment plans, we can schedule procedures over several months or years to fit your financial needs.

Call Peartree Dental Care in Ellicott City today at (410) 750-2599 to schedule a consultation and learn more about your options. Together, we’ll find a plan that works for you!

A first visit to Peartree Dental typically includes a dental cleaning with our hygienist and a comprehensive examination with Dr. Zhou. However, if you are here due to a dental emergency, Dr. Zhou will see you directly to address your immediate concern.

A Personalized Welcome

When you arrive, we’ll help you complete the necessary paperwork and insurance information. A team member will escort you to a comfortable treatment room where we'll learn about your oral health history, current concerns, and goals for your smile.

Your Dental Cleaning

For most patients, a dental hygienist will perform a thorough cleaning. However, the type of cleaning you receive depends on your oral health status. If we notice signs of gum disease or extensive buildup, we may recommend scheduling a deep cleaning treatment at a subsequent appointment.

Comprehensive Examination

Next, Dr. Zhou will examine your teeth, gums, and overall oral health. He’ll use advanced digital imaging technology to show you what he sees and explain his findings in clear, understandable terms.

Your visit concludes with a conversation about your oral health status and any recommended treatment. We'll also explain any insurance coverage and payment options to help you make confident decisions about your dental care.

Schedule Your Next Dental Checkup

Whether establishing a new dental home or seeking care for a specific concern, we aim to make your first visit comfortable, informative, and positive. Contact our Ellicott City, MD, dental office today to schedule your initial appointment.

Tooth sensitivity is typically caused by whitening agents penetrating the enamel and reaching the dentin layer of the tooth. This process can temporarily expose the tiny tubules in the dentin connected to the nerves inside your teeth, making them more reactive to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli.

Minimizing Sensitivity during Whitening

At Peartree Dental Care, we take extra care to ensure your comfort during professional whitening treatments. Here’s how Dr. Zhou helps prevent and manage sensitivity:

• Customizes treatment to your sensitivity needs
• Uses protective barriers to shield gums and other sensitive areas. 
• Closely monitors your treatment to ensure a comfortable experience.

Here are some steps you can take to reduce sensitivity before and after whitening: 

• Start using toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth a week or two before treatment.
• Stick to lukewarm foods and drinks 24-48 hours after whitening. 
• Avoid overusing the gel in take-home kits or wearing trays longer than recommended. 

When to Contact Peartree Dental Care

Whitening sensitivity is usually short-lived and resolves within a day or two. However, if it persists or worsens, Dr. Zhou and his team are here to help. Contact our Ellicott City, MD, dental office for advice or to discuss whitening options that better suit your needs.

You will often hear TMJ and TMD mentioned together, but they refer to different things.

• TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, the hinge that connects the lower jaw to the skull. This joint is critical for everyday functions like chewing, speaking, and yawning.
• TMD refers to temporomandibular joint disorders, a group of conditions that affect the TMJ and the muscles and ligaments surrounding it. TMD can cause pain, stiffness, or difficulty moving the jaw, making it harder to perform simple actions like eating or talking.

Why Does This Distinction Matter?

Understanding the difference between TMJ (the joint) and TMD (the disorder) allows you to better communicate your symptoms and concerns. For example, if you’re experiencing pain, clicking, or jaw locking, you may have TMD affecting your TMJ.

If you’re unsure about your symptoms, a consultation with a TMJ dentist in Ellicott City, MD, like Dr. Zhou, can help determine the root cause of your discomfort and recommend an effective treatment plan.

Call Today for TMJ Pain Relief

By addressing both the joint and the disorder, Dr. Zhou focuses on comprehensive care to relieve your pain and improve your jaw’s function. Call Peartree Dental Care today at (410) 750-2599 to schedule an appointment to find the relief you need!

With proper care, porcelain veneers can last 10–15 years or longer, while composite veneers last 5–7 years. However, both options can last longer with excellent oral hygiene and regular dental checkups.

Caring for Porcelain Veneers

To ensure your veneers look their best and last as long as possible, follow these tips:

• Brush and Floss Daily — Treat your veneers like natural teeth by brushing twice daily with a non-abrasive toothpaste and flossing daily to keep your gums healthy.
• Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods — Use caution with foods that could chip or damage your veneers, such as hard candies, ice, or very sticky treats.
• Wear a Mouthguard — If you grind your teeth at night, Dr. Zhou may recommend a custom nightguard to protect your veneers.
• Visit the Dentist Regularly — Schedule routine cleanings and exams so Dr. Zhou can monitor your veneers and make necessary adjustments.

With proper care and maintenance, veneers are a long-lasting solution to enhance your smile. If you’re considering veneers or have questions about their care, call (410) 750-2599 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Zhou, your trusted cosmetic dentist in Ellicott City, MD. Let us help you enjoy a radiant smile for years to come!