When it comes to tooth replacement options for missing teeth, choosing a solution that comes as close as possible to natural, healthy teeth is ideal. Dental implants are the only options that fall into this category, providing patients with restored function and beauty so close to their natural teeth, its as if they had never lost them in the first place!
Dental implants replace whole teethfrom the tooth root to the crownand mimic how they look, act, and feel in virtually every aspect. The dental implant post, or the artificial tooth root, is what all other tooth replacement options lack. This root not only provides the sturdy foundation for the visible part of the tooth, but can withstand the natural force of biting and chewing hard or tough foods such as fruits, nuts, and meat. Custom dental crownsused to restore dental implants, are just as strong as natural teeth, are personalized to blend beautifully alongside existing teeth, and help support and retain the position of adjacent teeth.
Gum disease is a destructive oral condition affecting the hard and soft tissues in the mouth. A progressive disease, it can spread past the site of infection and eventually find its way into the bloodstream, harming overall health. Knowing the symptoms of gum disease in Easton and Cambridge, MD, and the different gum disease treatment options available is the first defense against this condition.
Gum disease is a result of plaque buildup on the teeth that releases toxins. The bodys natural self-defense system responds by irritating and inflaming the gum tissue. Gum disease has three main stages: gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. During the first stage, symptoms may be painless and unnoticeable to patients. Gingivitis is characterized by red, tender, and swollen gums that bleed when the teeth are brushed and flossed. The first stage of gum disease can be effectively reversed with timely treatment. If no measures are taken to remove the bacteria, gingivitis will progress into periodontitis and then finally advanced periodontitis. In the final and most destructive stage, gum disease has caused irreversible damage to the bone and gum tissue, leaving the teeth exposed and mobile.
Gum disease affects the structural integrity of the teeth by destroying the healthy gum tissue and bone that surrounds them. The more advanced the stage of gum disease the greater the risk for tooth loss and the potential for systemic health to be compromised. The good news is that even the more severe cases of gum disease can be effectively treated with our advanced, targeted gum disease treatment options.
Multiple gum disease treatment options exist, depending on its stage and severity. Non-surgical scaling and root planing, the first step in treating gum disease, involves removing plaque and tartar buildup above and below the tooth roots. By removing this buildup and smoothing the areas, healthy gum tissue is able to reattach to the teeth, reducing the depth of the periodontal pockets. For more severe gum disease cases, osseous surgery may be needed to surgically remove the diseased gum tissue and clear the area of tartar and bacteria. But perhaps the most favored of all available gum disease treatment options is LANAP. This minimally-invasive alternative replaces a scalpel with a dental laser, drastically reducing discomfort, trauma to the tissue, bleeding, swelling, and length of healing.
Dr. Chris Morrow was raised in Southern Maryland and has been integral to the success of Eastern Shore Smile Solutions since joining the practice in 2012. He earned his undergraduate degree in both Neuroscience and Chemistry, graduating with the honors of Summa Cum Laude, from the University of Pittsburgh. He continued his education, obtaining his degree as a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. While studying within the School of Dental Medicine, he was afforded the opportunity to complete various regional specialty externships and lead dental focused mission trips to the Caribbean obtaining extensive experience prior to graduating. Since joining Eastern Shore Smile Solutions, Dr. Morrow has followed in Dr. Hiers footsteps, seeking the best teachers and most effective procedures to learn and bring to the Shore.
While not in the office, Dr. Morrow enjoys spending quality time with his lovely wife, Heather, and their beautiful baby boy, Jacob. They share their home in Cambridge, MD with their two adopted dogs. Aside from faith, family, and his profession, Dr. Morrow has a love for all things outdoors. He enjoys the recreational side of the outdoors, such as hunting and fishing, as well as the competitive side, competing in our local Eagleman Race. In addition, he loves to travel, drink coffee, eat awesome food, and explore and experience the beautiful wonders of the world.
He excels in his practice of all phases of dentistry, but finds a particular interest in providing complex rehabilitations, often including sedation and implant dentistry, with state of the art technology. He loves what he does and who he serves, considering it a true privilege to have the opportunity to practice in such a unique geographical and cultural area.