McCarl Dental Group

This is an important update about the association between the Human papillomavirus (HPV) that causes cervical cancer and the link to other cancers, particularly oropharyngeal squamous-cell carcinoma. According to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, entitled “Human Papillomavirus and Survival of Patients with Oropharyngeal Cancer,” two specific strains of the HPV virus (HPV-16 and HPV-18) are linked to the majority of HPV – positive oropharyngeal cancer tumors. There is a growing body of evidence that HPV-positive oropharyngeal squamous-cell carcinoma has a better prognosis and survival rate than HPV-negative oropharyngeal squamous-cell carcinoma. In a randomized trial of patients with oropharyngeal squamous-cell carcinoma, the overall survival was substantially better among patients with HPV-positive cancer than among patients diagnosed with HPV – negative oropharyngeal cancer tumors. Specifically, the NEJM article states that using a sample of 720 patients, the 63.8% of patients with HPV-positive tumors had a 3 year survival rate of 82% versus patients with HPV – negative tumors whose 3 year survival rate was 57%. To read more, please visit the NEJM website and click the link for the July 2010 issue.

The dentists and dental hygienists  at the Greenbelt and Millersville Maryland dental offices of McCarl Dental Group attend continuing education courses regularly so that we can provide the highest quality dental care. We screen our dental patients for oral cancer as part of each routine dental visit and patient education is a high priority for us. If you ever have a dental concern, please contact our Greenbelt dental office at 301-474-4144 or our Millersville dental office at 410-987-8800.

McCarl Dental Group –

It’s All in the Family

By Jane Dodd

Published in the Greenbelt News Review, September 30, 2010

Some things are timeless.  If you live in Greenbelt, you readily understand that concept.  Much of the original community has remained structurally the same for 73 years.  The center, the buildings, the traffic patterns and community spirit are all alive and well after all this time.  Greenbelt even has a dentistry practice that has remained in the same family, alive and well, for 72 years.

The McCarl Dental Group had its beginnings here in 1938 when James McCarl moved his practice to 30 Ridge Road.  He was chosen as the town’s only private medical practitioner in this new experimental community.  Other medical practices were in the Greenbelt Health Association.  McCarl was required to demonstrate a cooperative energetic spirit and to show a willingness to contribute heavily to the fledgling town.  These requirements the young dentist met easily, for he was active in the American Legion, Scouting, the Community Church and other community organizations.

Long-time Patients
One of the McCarl Dental Group’s present patients even preceded Greenbelt.  Gus Torbert lived on the 110-acre family farm sold reluctantly to the U.S. government to become part of the Greenbelt community.  Their homestead was on the hill near where Ridge and Crescent Roads meet.  His father, a carpenter, helped to build and later maintain the city.

During the depression money was scarce.  You didn’t go to the dentist unless you had a real problem.  When he was about 10, Torbert recalls he went to the original Dr. McCarl.  Torbert has a more vivid memory of when he was 17 and had to have work done on an impacted wisdom tooth.

Another long-term patient, Francis Birchard, said he began seeing Dr. James McCarl when he as a youngster had a toothache.  He has been returning ever since.

In 1946, when Lewis Dodd was about to go in the army, his parents insisted he see a dentist and have his teeth checked before the U.S. Army dentist saw him.  They had already had one son taken care of by wartime Army dentists and did not want to repeat the experience.  Dodd and his family have been seeing the McCarls ever since.

The family practice went on to the second generation in 1955 and 1956 when McCarl’s two sons, James Taylor and Clayton, Sr. joined the practice after completing their own studies at their father’s alma mater, the University of Maryland Baltimore School of Dental Surgery.  With the three of them in one building they needed more space and took over the entire building at 28 Ridge Road.

After their father’s death in 1967 the two brothers continued on until 1989, when James Taylor died.  During this time Clayton, Sr. held various leadership positions in professional organizations within the state and community.

Another Patient
Judy Ransom Bell has been a patient of one McCarl or another, she says, since she was a pre-schooler.  She described Clayton, Sr. as “wonderful.”  She remembers the “laughing gas” that was used then.

During some very lean financial years he took care of her, impressing on her the importance of consistent dental care.  Even when she moved from Greenbelt, she still came to her favorite dentist.

Now returned to Greenbelt, she goes to Clayton, Jr. and Sally.  What amazes Bell is how the offspring have followed in their parents’ footsteps and become a part of the family business.  The pleasant atmosphere and friendly staff even make it fun, she says, to go to the dentist.

Another long- time patient, Therese Madden Stringfellow, has been having the McCarls care for her teeth for over 50 years.  Her parents wanted the best care for their three children, she says, and when they heard of the new process of capping teeth, they sent Therese to see James Taylor McCarl.  She still has her capped front teeth and sees Dr. Clayton regularly.

Stringfellow’s sister Mary even worked for the family of dentists.  Both of her sisters, now widowed, had moved to other parts of the country, she says.  But they are returning to Greenbelt this fall and, yes, they plan to have the McCarl Group be their dentists once again.

Third Generation
The third generation of McCarls carries on the tradition.  If you go to 28 Ridge Road where the McCarl Dental Group is still practicing, you will see their signs hanging there.  Dr. Clayton McCarl, Jr., Dr. Jay McCarl and Sally McCarl-Moore are offspring of Clayton Sr.; Dr. David is the son of Dr. James Taylor McCarl.  Sally chose to be the hygienist in the family.

Aren’t you glad they adopted the name the “McCarl Dental Group”?  Can you imagine the alphabet soup of four McCarls, Jr.s and DDSs all in one title?  History isn’t just about wars and buildings; it’s also about people and their traditions.  The McCarl family is an important part of the rich history of Greenbelt.

This McCarl Dental patient had chipped, crooked teeth. After two, one hour visits he has a beautiful, straight, sparkling white smile.

During his first visit he shared his concerns and goals for his smile and learned about minimal preparation dental veneers (also known as thin veneers). He was excited to learn that thin veneers are affordable and dramatically improve a smile with minimal tooth alteration or drilling, NO needles and NO Novacaine! Dr. McCarl smoothed a few teeth and made impressions.

A week later, during his second visit, the thin veneers were placed and Dr. McCarl took the photo of his patient’s beautiful smile. Painless, quick, convenient, and affordable! Thin porcelain veneers are a great solution for improving damaged, discolored or unattractive teeth! Call our Millersville dental office 410-987-0870 or Greenbelt dental office 301-474-4144 today for your free consultation.

According to a survey completed by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, 90% of people believe that an attractive smile is an important social asset. 70% believe that an unattractive smile hurts career success and only 50% of people are satisfied with their smile.

Successful cosmetic dental cases, ranging from matching a single porcelain crown or veneer to a complete smile makeover, require extensive knowledge and planning in addition to a high level of technical skill. The dentists at McCarl Dental Group combine the science and art of dentistry with patient centered dental treatment.

A smile makeover improves the appearance of your smile, and even more important, can restore the health and function of your mouth and teeth. Are you self-conscious about the appearance of your teeth? There may be a quick and convenient solution to restore your comfort and confidence when you smile and laugh.

A comprehensive dental check-up and consultation is the first step when you are considering how you would like to improve your smile. During this initial consultation, your dentist will identify and discuss with you various issues that may be affecting your dental health and the appearance of your teeth. These problems may include cavities, periodontal disease, chips, cracks, gaps, crooked teeth, and staining or yellowing of your teeth. With your goals for your smile in mind; your dentist will develop a treatment plan specific for your unique dental health and dental care needs.

A smile makeover can incorporate teeth whitening, dental crowns, porcelain veneers and dental implants. The procedures used to repair your teeth will depend on the types of dental problems that you have.

Your smile is unique and personal to you, so tell us what you want, and together we create your custom “designer smile” to bring out the very best in you.

The following questions are important in selecting a cosmetic dentist:
1. How long they have been doing cosmetic dentistry and how frequently they attend continuing education conferences?
The Drs. McCarl began their advanced post-doctorate training in cosmetic dentistry as aesthetic techniques were being invented in the 1980s and regularly attend continuing education. All of the dentists at McCarl Dental Group are trained in all of the latest restorative and cosmetic dental procedures and dental products. The McCarl Dental Practice has over 10,000 satisfied patients! Over 75% of our new patients are referred to us by our existing dental patients.

2. Do your dentists learn directly from the top authorities in dentistry?
McCarl dentists have studied from all of the “best” dentists in the industry and have received advanced cosmetic dentistry training from Dr. Gordon J. Christensen, Dr. David Hornbrook, Dr. Peter Dawson, Dr. Frank Spears Dr. Ed Miller, Dr. Gary Radz, and other dentists affiliated with the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Cosmetic Dentistry. Drs. McCarl also have ongoing advanced training in dental implants and are certified to both restore and surgically place minimally invasive or mini dental implants and traditional dental implants. The dentists at McCarl Dental Group also regularly attend ongoing advanced orthodontic training and are certified preferred providers of Invisalign orthodontics. Drs. Jay and Clayton McCarl were named Fellows in the Academy of General Dentistry — an award granted to dentists with more than 500 practice hours who have passed a comprehensive 400-question examination. Dr. Clayton McCarl, Jr. DDS is a member of the Dean’s Faculty at The University of Maryland Dental School and lectures on Health Promotion and Policy.

3. Can they show you quality photography of their work?
All of the photographs featured on the McCarl Dental Group website are actual McCarl Dental Patients most of whom are from Anne Arundel and Prince Georges County and specifically from Severna Park, Annapolis, Crofton, Crownsville, Millersville, College Park, Bowie, New Carrollton, Laurel and Greenbelt Maryland. Many of the McCarl dentistry patients have written testimonials and volunteer to share their success stories on videos that are posted on the McCarl Dental YouTube Channel.

If you would like to learn about options available to improve your smile, please call the McCarl Dental office near you. Annapolis, Severna Park, Millersville, Maryland 410-987-8800 or Greenbelt, College Park, New Carrollton, Maryland 301-474-4144.Annapolis Dental Patient Recommends Smile Makeover

Are you self-conscious about your smile? A healthy smile contributes more than just beauty; it is a vital component of good overall health. Every day dental patients ask us about options for improving the health and appearance of their smile. The great news is that dental procedures and especially cosmetic dental procedures have improved dramatically over the last 10 to 15 years. As a result, there’s an array of affordable options that are no longer a luxury limited to Hollywood celebrities. There are a wide range of choices available for improving the health and appearance of your smile. At McCarl Dental Group, we can help you determine which dental procedures are best for your needs.

If you’ve thought about improving your smile, this guide can help you learn about the latest techniques in dentistry and cosmetic dental procedures.

Composite White Fillings
A dental filling repairs a hole or cavity in a tooth caused by tooth decay. Dental fillings are still the most common dental procedure performed in dentistry today. Composite resin fillings are tooth colored and are adhesively bonded to the walls of the teeth. This allows the dentist to remove less tooth structure than metal fillings that do not adhere to the teeth. Metal fillings made of metallic amalgam are anchored in a tooth by drilling an undercut beneath the surface of the cavity for retention of the filling. Metal fillings darken teeth and are very noticeable when you smile. Most people consider metal fillings unattractive. The dentists at McCarl Dental Group have not used amalgam fillings for more than 15 years. Today’s composite fillings come in natural white shades that blend with the color of your teeth and are not noticeable when you talk, smile or laugh.

Teeth Whitening or Bleaching
Professional whitening gel often reduces or eliminates tooth stains and discoloration that occurs over time. Our McCarl Dental patients have great success with the Zoom custom take home whitening tray system. The results can be achieved quickly and you can enjoy whiter teeth for a long time.

Porcelain Veneers
A dental veneer is a thin layer of porcelain applied to the face of a tooth. Veneers allow dentists to change the color size and shape of teeth for a more aesthetic smile. Porcelain veneers are an excellent option for people with tooth discoloration or heavy stains that do not lighten with professional tooth whitening. Dental veneers are custom made; the thickness of the veneer and the amount of tooth reduction necessary varies with each patient’s specific needs.

Crowns
A crown is used to cover or “cap” a damaged tooth starting at the gum line. In addition to strengthening the damaged tooth, a crown can be used to improve the tooth’s appearance, shape or alignment. In the past, porcelain crowns were fused to metal and were less natural looking. Today, all-porcelain crowns are more durable, comfortable and much more attractive.

Dental Bonding
Dental Bonding is the application of white tooth colored filling material to the surface of a tooth. Bonding is similar to veneers in that it allows the dentist to change the shape size and color of a tooth. Bonding is typically less expensive than porcelain veneers but does not last as long and has aesthetic limitations.

Invisalign Orthodontics
Invisalign orthodontics is a simple and convenient way to straighten your teeth. Clear, thin Invisalign trays straighten teeth and correct your bite. Unlike metal braces, almost no one else can tell you are wearing Invisalign. Straightening crooked teeth with Invisalign orthodontics is more comfortable, more convenient, less expensive and usually faster than metal braces. For most adults, treatment time is just under one year. Overall gum and bone health are improved when teeth are properly aligned and fit together with an ideal bite. Straight teeth are not only important for a beautiful smile – they contribute to a healthy smile!

Dental Implants
Dental implants are an excellent example of the benefits of new dental technology and are often an ideal solution for replacing missing teeth. A dental implant serves as a tooth root and anchors a replacement tooth, bridge or denture to your jaw. When dental implants are restored with porcelain crowns, they look and feel like natural teeth. One of the most common uses of mini dental implants is stabilization of dentures. Anchoring a denture with one or more dental implants resolves problems commonly associated with dentures, including concern and discomfort from loose and poorly fitting dentures. The dentists at McCarl Dental Group are certified in dental implant placement and restorative techniques for both traditional and minimally invasive dental implants.

Dental Bridge (Fixed Partial Denture)
A dental bridge is also called a fixed partial denture and may be recommended if you’re missing one or more teeth. A fixed partial denture can be placed at the location of a missing tooth and is connected by crowning adjacent teeth. Bridges are sometimes better alternatives to removable partial dentures for comfort as well as aesthetic appeal. When there are gaps left by missing teeth, the remaining teeth eventually rotate or shift into the empty spaces. The imbalance caused by missing teeth can also lead to periodontal disease, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, and ultimately, loss of additional teeth.

Tooth Contouring
Tooth reshaping or dental contouring can be used to correct crooked teeth, chipped teeth, cracked teeth or even overlapping teeth. Contouring can also help adjust the length, shape or position of your teeth. The procedure creates very subtle changes with minimal or no discomfort.

Cosmetic Gum Surgery
The amount of visible gum tissue can be altered to improve the appearance of your smile. Sometimes gums recede with age or as a result of gum or periodontal disease. Gum recession can create the appearance of unnaturally long teeth. Gingival grafts can add gum tissue to reduce that “long in the tooth” look. Conversely, a gingivectomy
reduces excessive gum tissue revealing more of the tooth creating a less “gummy” smile. Gum contouring is also used to create a symmetrical or even gum line.

It is important to note that gum recession and shrinkage may also be a sign of periodontal disease which has very serious consequences for your dental and overall health. Your dentist and dental hygienist will evaluate the health of your gums at your routine dental cleaning and check-ups every six months, or more often if indicated.

Your smile is one of the first things others see about you. First impressions are made at a glance and nothing makes a better impression than a beautiful smile. A smile makeover improves the appearance of your smile, and even more important, can restore the health and function of your mouth and teeth. If you are self-conscious about the appearance of your teeth, there may be a quick and convenient solution to restore your confidence when you smile and laugh. The dentists at McCarl Dental Group have comprehensive dental and cosmetic dentistry training and offer a wide range of solutions for complex dental problems.

Anne was uncomfortable with the changes in her smile over the years. Everyone’s teeth darken, wear down and shift with time. Anne also experienced crowding of her lower teeth. Crowded teeth are more difficult to clean and can lead to gum disease. Dental restorations also age with time and sometimes older dental work needs to be replaced. To restore the health and improve the appearance of Anne’s smile, Dr. McCarl straightened her lower teeth with Invisalign orthodontics and replaced aging dental work with porcelain crowns and veneers.

There are advantages to selecting an Invisalign Preferred Provider who is also experienced in other forms of cosmetic dentistry. When dentists have comprehensive dental training, they are better able to address multiple dental concerns with a wide range of dental solutions that are specific to each dental patient’s unique needs and objectives.

Cosmetic dental procedures have improved dramatically during the last 10 to 15 years. Dentists who have kept up-to-date with the newest procedures and technologies are able to achieve better results for their patients, in shorter periods of time, with greater comfort. The latest techniques in cosmetic dentistry give you an array of affordable and convenient options for improving your smile.

Successful cosmetic dental cases, ranging from matching a single porcelain crown or veneer with your front teeth, to designing a completely new smile, require extensive knowledge and planning as well as a high level of technical skill. Not all dentists performing smile makeovers use the latest techniques or have access to the same technology. It’s extremely important for both the appearance of your dental restoration and also the health, function and longevity of your smile that your dentist is highly skilled and up-to-date.

Anne’s porcelain veneers and crowns were made by the experts at BECDEN Dental Laboratory. Not only is it important for your dentist to combine knowledge, experience, and artistry; but dental lab technicians working behind the scenes must also share this talent. When McCarl dentists submit a dental case to BECDEN, we send digital impressions and sometimes study models.  We also include photographs of our patients with specific instructions to help the lab create the most natural looking and longest lasting restorations available. BECDEN treats every dental restoration with the utmost care and communicates frequently with McCarl Dentists to discuss individual dental cases.

At McCarl Dental Group, a smile makeover always begins with a comprehensive dental check-up and consultation. During the initial consultation, your dentist will identify and discuss with you various issues that may be affecting your dental health. These may include tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, chips, cracks, gaps, misalignment, and staining or yellowing of your teeth.

Your dentist will then develop a treatment plan specific for your unique dental health and dental care needs. This plan may involve the use of multiple general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and restorative dentistry options. If, for example, your teeth are badly chipped or stained, teeth whitening and porcelain veneers can improve the quality of your smile. If you have broken teeth or are missing teeth, a combination of dental implants and dental crowns may be the best option for you. Orthodontic treatment may also be considered.

A smile makeover can include the use of Invisalign orthodontics, teeth whitening, dental crowns, porcelain veneers and dental implants. The procedures used to treat your mouth will depend on the types of dental problems that you have.

1. Crooked teeth are harder to clean and can lead to gum disease. Crooked or crowded teeth can often be straightened with nearly-invisible Invisalign orthodontics, which are more discreet, less expensive, and often work faster than traditional braces. Invisalign is a great option for adults who have always wanted straight teeth, or have had relapse from braces as a teenager.
2. Chipped and broken teeth can be repaired with combinations of cosmetic bonding, porcelain veneers or porcelain crowns. Porcelain veneers are custom-made wafer-thin shells which, when bonded to the front of teeth can dramatically improve a smile. Porcelain crowns encase the entire tooth in a protective covering at the gum line. In the past, porcelain crowns were fused to metal and were less natural looking. Today, all-porcelain crowns and veneers are more durable and much more natural looking. The quality of the porcelain also significantly affects the appearance of dental crowns. There are numerous porcelains on the market with a vast price range. The highest quality porcelains have the finest grain size, which creates a more aesthetic and natural appearance.
3. Missing teeth can be replaced with dental implants and crowns, permanent bridges or dentures. A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that anchors a replacement tooth, bridge or denture. With the recent advances in dental implants, more patients are candidates for permanent tooth replacement. A dental implant restored with a crown looks, feels and functions like a natural tooth.
4. Stained and discolored teeth that cannot be brightened with professional teeth whitening can sparkle again with traditional porcelain veneers or the newest no-preparation veneers. “No-prep” veneers can be a perfect solution to repair stained, discolored or chipped teeth and can also fill in spaces between teeth. With little or no drilling and no needles or Novacaine, these custom made thin veneers create an affordable, beautiful and natural smile.
5. Gaps between teeth can be closed instantly with porcelain veneers or more gradually with Invisalign or traditional orthodontics.

Ask your dentist about ways to keep your smile looking and feeling great. Everyone deserves a HEALTHY and BEAUTIFUL SMILE!

Sally McCarl Moore and Chris Phillips, dental hygienists at McCarl Dental Group attended a continuing education course to learn more about oral cancer and the latest advances in oral cancer screening. Here is a summary from Sally McCarl Moore about the changing trends and current statistics regarding oral cancer.

Every hour of every day, someone in the United States dies from oral cancer. The five year mortality rate has remained unchanged over the past 30 years at approximately 50 percent. Traditionally, the majority of oral cancers occurred in men over 40 who were heavy smokers and drinkers. This is no longer the case. There is an alarming increase in oropharyngeal (base of the tongue and pharynx) cancer cases seen in the 18-40 age group. This is due to certain types of the human papillomavirus (HPV #16 and #18). Twenty two percent of current oral cancers are related to HPV and the number is growing. Whereas the male to female ratio used to be 5:1 fifty years ago, it has now changed to 2:1. The mode of transmission for HPV is oral sexual activity. What may have once been thought of as a safe sex act is no longer the case.

There are two HPV vaccines, Gardasil and Cervarix, available to protect against the types of HPV that cause most cervical cancers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), pediatricians and general practitioners recommend the HPV vaccine for all females ages 11 or 12 years old and males 9 through 26 years old. Previously it was only administered to females to prevent cervical cancer caused by HPV. They now realize that they will never stop the widely spread virus without inoculating the males as well. Gardasil is used for both females and males. Cervarix is used only in females. Both vaccines are administered as three shot series. As with any medical procedure, consult your physician to see if it is right for you  and your family.

Other than HPV, one of the major contributors to oral cancer has always been tobacco products. With the strict laws against smoking in public, you would think this was less of a problem. Not so. There is a new product called SNUS. This is a small pouch of tobacco placed in the vestibule of the mouth similar to snuff, but typically people swallow snus rather than spit it out. Several of the tobacco companies have their own brand with varying flavors. Some snus cans warn that “it can cause periodontal disease and tooth loss” while other flavors state “it can cause cancer.” This is horrifying to the dental field. Tobacco products placed directly on the mucus membrane have a higher level of tissue damage and potential oral cancer. There is no simple treatment for oral cancer. Patients have radical surgeries consisting of removing parts of their tongues, jaw and face. This is nothing to be taken lightly.

What are the signs and symptoms of oral cancer? The first sign of oral cancer is often a red or white patch or an ulceration that does not disappear in a week or two. Be aware of any changes in your mouth. Visit your dentist immediately if you have any type of sore, ulceration, lesion, lump or thickening of the tissue in your mouth, tongue, cheek or throat. Early detection of oral cancer improves success of treatment.

How do we detect oral cancer? The only definitive diagnosis is through a tissue biopsy, but your dentist and dental hygienist should be performing routine oral cancer screenings. Oral Cancer Screenings are included with every routine dental hygiene visit and dental exam at McCarl Dental Group. This is done by a visual examination of your tonsil area, the base of your tongue, the tissue around your tongue and lips and the roof of your mouth. We also check for lumps or bumps around your neck and ask if you’re having any trouble swallowing. If any ulcers are found, we will try to determine if they are due to trauma or something more severe. Normal, routine mouth sores will go away in 7 – 10 days, cancer will not. If you and your dentist think a sore or lesion is due to trauma, you should return in two weeks for a re-evaluation of the area. If the sore has not disappeared or if we have any concerns at all, we will refer you to an oral surgeon for a small tissue biopsy. As in all health matters, better safe than sorry.

There are several products on the market that a general dentist can use to try to determine if the area is cancerous or not. Again, these products can be helpful, but only a tissue biopsy is definitive. ViziLite Plus, Microlux DL, Orascoptic DK, and VELscope VX use florescence technology to identify areas of cell trauma. Oral CDX uses a small scraping from the site and is sent out for a lab to analyze. If the lab report indicates damaged cells, the patient will be sent for a biopsy. For additional information please visit oralcancerfoundation.com.

Dental veneers are a great solution for improving damaged, discolored or unattractive teeth. Porcelain veneers are custom-made wafer-thin shells which, when bonded to the front of teeth can dramatically improve a smile. Veneers are more conservative than porcelain crowns, which encase the entire tooth in a protective covering at the gum line.

Veneers are used for the following reasons:

• Improve the appearance of your teeth. If your teeth are stained, discolored or are different shades, veneers can be a great option to quickly improve your smile.
• Protect damaged teeth from further harm. A veneer can also be used to restore minor tooth decay  and to cover up a damaged tooth keeping it safe from further injury. This application of veneers is similar to the use of dental crowns – but for much less severe damage and decay. As mentioned above, crowns are used to cover an entire tooth, while veneers only cover a tooth’s surface.
• Create a straighter smile. Dental veneers may be an option to make your teeth appear straighter if your teeth are not properly aligned. Depending on the degree of re-alignment that is needed to straighten your smile, porcelain veneers can create a beautiful straight smile without orthodontics. It is important to note that dental veneers are not ideal for all situations where the goal is to straighten teeth. The highly skilled dentists at McCarl Dental Group are Invisalign Preferred Providers and are experienced in the latest techniques for placing porcelain veneers and crowns.
• Provide uniform size, shape and symmetry. Porcelain veneers can create a beautiful smile with consistent shape and size teeth. Are your teeth different sizes and shapes?  Do you have small teeth with spaces or gaps that cannot be easily closed with orthodontic work?  Dental veneers may be a great solution!

Cosmetic dental procedures have improved dramatically during the last 10 to 15 years. As a result, there is an array of affordable options – no longer a luxury reserved just for the Hollywood glitterati. Many times there is an easy, affordable solution to the dental problems that keep you from smiling. Call McCarl Dental Group today for a free consultation to learn ways we can enhance your smile.

Pictures of McCarl Dental Patients with Porcelain Veneers

“I always hated to see my teeth when I smiled for pictures because they were so yellow. I could not get my teeth whiter with professional whiteners. Dr. McCarl recommended a veneer to repair a front tooth that was dark and said that mysmile could be further enhanced by placing veneers on the other front teeth that showed when I smiled. I had porcelain veneers placed on six teeth and couldn't be happier with my white smile now!”—Cecily

"I went to Dr. Clayton McCarl because he has a lot of experience doing veneers. I was so pleased with the results. I am not sure who was more excited, Clayton or me. I am not self-conscious about my teeth any more."

“It makes me tear up when I say this but I value everything about my smile! I’ve have had MAJOR dental work done over the years and while some things Dr. Jay didn’t do, he has had to fix numerous issues from my past dentists. We discussed my options and we came to the conclusion that I needed this done, not just for me but also for the health of my teeth!"

“Before I got my porcelain veneers I was embarrassed to smile and now I smile with my teeth showing all the time. I want to thank Dr. David McCarl for making this possible. Your staff is very personable and made the procedure comfortable and pain free. I have and will always recommend McCarl Dental Group to my family and friends.

Dr. Clayton McCarl Jr. is attending a two day course on the benefits of the CAMLOG Dental Implant System. Although Dr. McCarl has been placing and restoring dental implants for more than 25 years, he has attended at least 7 full days of continuing education about the newest technologies in dental implants this year.

An Outstanding Colleague and Friend
One of the most exceptional aspects of this course is that it is being taught by Dr. Kevin Doring, University of Maryland Dental School classmate of Dr. Clayton McCarl and Dr. Jay McCarl. After dental school, Dr. Doring completed a General Practice Residency at the Charleston Area Medical Center and received certification as a Dental Anesthesiologist. Dr. Doring is a member of the American College of Dentists, the International College of Dentists, and Pierre Fauchard Academy as well as a Fellow and Master of the Academy of General Dentistry. He lectures on a wide variety of dental topics, is active in the Maryland State Dental Association and practices dentistry in Edgewater, Maryland. Kevin’s wife Tammy graduated from the University of Maryland School of Dental Hygiene.

“We have tremendous respect for Kevin, both professionally and personally,” says Dr. Clayton McCarl. “This course reviewed the newest advancements in dental implant technology and how to bring these improvements to our patients. Dr. Doring does an outstanding job of communicating the keys to long term success in implant surgery and restorations.”  Regional Implant Specialist and CAMLOG representative from Henry Schein, Bob Voelker provided excellent support for the dentists attending the seminar with materials, supplies and educational resources.

Why are Dental Implants Important?
Traditional and minimally invasive dental implants have surpassed traditional dentures and bridges as the best solution for missing teeth. When you lose a tooth, your jawbone slowly loses strength and density, causing bone loss and changes in facial features. The loss of even one tooth can cause an unstable bite and uneven chewing. Because remaining teeth tend to shift, proper cleaning becomes more difficult and increases the likelihood of gingivitis and even periodontal disease.

When a dental implant is restored with a crown, the finished product looks, feels and functions like a natural tooth. Implants are effective for single and multiple tooth restoration. They are placed in the jaw where they fuse to the bone and replace the root of the tooth with a biocompatible titanium alloy. In some cases, a crown can be placed on the tooth immediately.

Dental implants are the best restoration solution for dental patients in whom neighboring teeth are healthy and properly aligned. Unlike a partial denture or bridge, a dental implant can prevent bone loss at the site of the missing tooth.

The most common use of mini dental implants is stabilization of dentures. Many dental implant patients tell us that for the first time since they have had dentures, they can actually chew, talk and laugh without being afraid that their dentures will fall out. Implants anchor a denture securely and still allow patients the ability to remove and replace the denture easily for cleaning.

Three Generations of Trust
At McCarl Dental Group, we use a variety of traditional and minimally invasive dental implant systems with different types of implants based on the unique needs of each dental patient. CAMLOG dental implants will be a great addition to the dental implant systems that we are currently using in our dental practice.

CAMLOG is a division of Henry Schein, a company that provides dental supplies and has a three generation relationship with McCarl dentists. The Henry Schein Company supplied the digital panoramic x-ray machines and ITERO digital impression scanners for both our Greenbelt and Millersville, Maryland dental offices. We are excited to offer McCarl dental patients the exceptional benefits of the CAMLOG dental implant system.

For additional information about dental implants, please read our article from Taste of the Bay Magazine http://www.mccarldental.com/pdfs/TOTB-July-Implant-Article.pdf.

1.  Smoking or using any tobacco products accelerates the chance for tooth loss.
2.  Bad breath is usually caused by bacteria that are found on the tongue.
3.  You should change your toothbrush every 2 to 3 months or after a flu or cold.
4.  Oral habits such as cheek and lip biting increase the chance for oral cancer.
5.  The best age to take a child for his/her first visit to the dentist is between 18-24 months.
6.  Periodontitis is inflammation of the supporting structures of a tooth or teeth including
the gum, the periodontal ligament and the jaw bone.
7.  Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums.
8.  Fluoride is useful because it decreases the chance for cavities.
9. As we get older, our chance for cavities increases.
10.  McCarl dentists and hygienists recommend that you brush your teeth twice daily and floss your teeth daily.