TMJ Care in Gaithersburg, MD

Pain in the neck, recurrent headaches, and facial discomfort affect millions of Americans every year. In some cases, this pain is caused by the joint between your jawbone and skull, called the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ). We wanted to highlight to you some of the common symptoms of Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD), and how we can help!

What are the symptoms of TMD?

Between speaking, chewing, and even yawning, you use your TMJ a lot each day. Signs to watch out for are pain and discomfort in your jaw. Sometimes the pain spreads and you can feel it around your ears and throughout your face. You may experience difficulty chewing and swallowing. Oftentimes the joint will lock causing difficulties opening or closing your mouth. The joint can also make a clicking noise when you move your mouth. Left untreated, TMJ can also cause headaches, difficulties making facial expressions, and even make it painful to apply cosmetics to your face.

What causes TMD?

The TMJ is one of the most complicated joints in your body because it moves up and down as well as side to side. TMJ problems can arise from arthritis in the TMJ, injury to the joint itself or muscles around it, genetic predisposition, or even stress!

How is TMD diagnosed?

At Stiles Dentistry, we start out by analyzing your symptoms and history to fully understand your condition and the potential causes. We will examine the joint and your range of motion to properly diagnose your condition. If you have TMJ, you are in good hands as we are equipped with the latest in technology, using the Tekscan’s T-Scan Technology to help us determine the health of your bite and its stability.
If you are experiencing discomfort or pain in your face and jaw, give us a call at 240-252-1032 today!

Have a safe and happy new year, from all of us at Stiles Dentistry!

Merrry Christmas and Happy Holidays from Stiles Dentistry

The holiday season is upon us, and as the team at Stiles Dentistry reflects on
the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients: What’s your favorite part about the holidays? Being with your loved ones? A clean slate for the new year? Opening presents by the fireplace? All the delicious food?

We’d love if you shared with us all the things you love about the holidays. Stay warm,
and don’t forget to stay away from too many sweets!

Smile Makeovers in Gaithersburg, MD

Watch and listen as Phil describes each of the cosmetic treatments he received at Stiles Dentistry as part of his "Smile Makeover".

-Do you hesitate when you smile?
-Would you like to increase your self-confidence?
-Do you want to look your best in social or professional situations?
-Are you ready to reverse dental imperfections caused by Mother Nature or an accident?

Rate your smile on our website by filling out our survey and bringing it to your first appointment. Drs. Stiles can determine the best treatment options to give you the smile makeover you have always wanted!

IV Sedation now available at Stiles Dentistry!

We strive to offer our patients with the best dental care and as little discomfort as possible. That is why we are excited to announce to you this week that we are now offering IV Sedation at Stiles Dentistry!

So what exactly is IV Sedation?

For patients who find themselves anxious, or even fearful at the dentist, sedation dentistry can be the perfect solution to maintaining good oral health without discomfort. IV sedation puts patients in a controlled relaxation state, perfect for those of us with dental fear or phobia.

Dr. Marie Stiles is now certified in IV Sedation after completing over 80 hours of training at the University of Southern California School of Dentistry. She has already treated 20 patients through IV sedation at the USC Dental School, and we are excited to be able to offer the treatment to all our patients in the Kentlands area!

Give us a call today at 240-252-1032 to discuss IV sedation treatment at Stiles Dentistry!

Dental Implants: A Long Term Tooth Replacement Solution

Recently the New York Times published an article discussing the long term benefits of dental implants over bridges for tooth replacement. Check it out by clicking here.

Implants involve surgically placing a titanium rod into the jaw bone to act as tooth root. Then we place a porcelain crown to create a natural, long-lasting appearance. It is crucial to replace missing teeth, and common activities like chewing can destabilize your bite and cause you additional discomfort.

Call us today at 240-252-1032 and schedule a cosmetic dentistry consultation with Drs. Stiles to discuss your implant options. You can also visit our web site for more information about dental implants and cosmetic dentistry options. Dr. Stiles is currently at the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons 2009 Dental Implant Conference so stay tuned for photos from that event soon as well!