Are you aware of the differences between general dentistry vs. cosmetic dentistry? While cosmetic dentistry focuses on enhancing a patient’s facial appearance, general dentistry prioritizes the prevention and treatment of dental disorders.
What Do General Dentists Do?
General dentists treat problems causing dental discomfort with procedures like:
Additionally, preventative dental care involves routine dental exams, professional cleanings, and oral cancer screenings. A general dentist might also fit mouthguards and sealants and provide fluoride treatments.
What Do Cosmetic Dentists Do?
Because their primary concern is appearance, cosmetic dentists usually offer teeth whitening services in addition to:
- Dental veneers
- Composite bonding
- Inlays and Onlays
Overlap in General Dentistry vs. Cosmetic Dentistry
There are several areas where the line between general and cosmetic blurs. Dental veneers, for instance, are both cosmetic and general because they mask cracked or stained teeth while protecting a tooth’s surface from damage. Similarly, dental bridges restore one’s smile while simultaneously enabling a correct bite function and preventing remaining teeth from shifting out of place.
Should I See a General or Cosmetic Dentist?
Both general and cosmetic dentists have the necessary expertise to perform a variety of dental procedures. However, most patients suspecting dental health problems should visit a general dentist first. And those looking to improve or enhance their smile should see a cosmetic dentist.
Best General and Cosmetic Dentist in Rockville
Can’t decide between general dentistry vs. cosmetic dentistry? Dr. Hackley offers the best of both. As your one-stop shop for premier dental and spa care, Hackley DDS provides exceptional care that combines the latest in technology and training with an artistic eye for detail.
Whether you’re looking to schedule family dentistry appointments or achieve the aesthetically pleasing smile of your dreams, our qualified practitioners are here for you. Contact our team to schedule an appointment today.
Many people know Botox injections as a cosmetic procedure designed to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. And while that may be true, Botox also treats a myriad of other conditions. In dentistry, we prescribe Botox for TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorders). Keep reading, and we’ll explain.
What is Botox for TMJ?
Believe it or not – Botox treats 20+ medical conditions that affect the muscles, TMJ being one of them. If you’re not already aware, TMJ is a painful muscle disorder that causes the muscles to tighten from stress and strain, causing:
- Jaw stiffness
- Pain when chewing
- Chronic headaches and migraines
- Painful clicking and/or popping when opening the jaw
Because Botox prevents our muscles from contracting, it’s highly effective in relieving pain in the jaw, face, and general head area. And in addition to using Botox for TMJ, this injection treats: 
- Bruxism
- Mandibular spasms
- Trismus (aka Lockjaw)
- Denture discomfort
Where Is It Injected?
Botox is carefully injected into the masseter, temporalis, and pterygoid muscles. And the recommended dosage is a diluted 200 units/4 mL or 100 units/2 mL for chronic migraine pain also associated with TMJ.
Is Botox for TMJ Worth It?
Wondering if it is worth it? A 2003 study demonstrates a 90% improvement in pain from chronic headaches and face pain in patients who weren’t responding to other forms of pain management. By forcing the jaw muscles to relax, many patients experienced pain relief, as well as lessened anxiety, better sleep, and less tooth sensitivity.
Dentist Who Does Botox Near Me
Looking for a dentist who administers Botox for TMJ? With ample experience in both general dentistry and cosmetic procedures, Dr. Hackley is the one for the job. Contact our team to set up an appointment.
Viora skin rejuvenation combines three radio frequencies with vacuum therapy to deliver a brighter, firmer complexion. In other words, this treatment stimulates your existing collagen and elastin fibers to gradually improve your skin’s elasticity. Keep reading, and we’ll tell you how it works.
What Is Viora Skin Rejuvenation?
As we mentioned, this cosmetic treatment uses radiofrequency energy to stimulate the skin’s existing collagen and elastin fibers, boosting its elasticity. Because the tissue fibers are instantly contracted, new collagen production begins immediately. This achieves soothing and firming results that are noticeable as soon as the treatment ends.
What Areas Can Be Treated? 
Viora skin rejuvenation treats a wide variety of areas including the:
- Face – including the sensitive eye area
- Neck
- Chin
- Jawline
- Abdomen
- Thighs
- Arms
- Knees
- Buttocks
How It Works
Viora utilizes the FDA-approved CORE™ technology offering three different radiofrequency channels. And the radio frequencies simultaneously deliver heat to all layers of the skin, achieving optimal results. Additionally, the procedure uses vacuum therapy to enhance the penetration of radiofrequency energy. As a result, it increases blood circulation, triggers lymphatic drainage, and reduces fat cells.
Treatment Benefits
This popular cosmetic treatment rejuvenates and brightens skin, among a wide variety of additional benefits:
- Tightens and smooths skin
- Improves cellulite
- Boosts confidence
- Complements any skin color
- Safe and non-invasive
- Requires no downtime
- Noticeable results after just one session
- Quick and convenient treatment options
- Treats the entire body – not just face
Viora Skin Rejuvenation Near Me
If you’re seeking Viora skin rejuvenation treatment in Rockville, Maryland, Hackley DDS is here for you. Backed by years of experience, we can quickly and efficiently handle your Viora treatment. And within days, you’ll notice a significant transformation in your skin’s complexion.
Ready for the clear, healthy skin that you’ve always wanted? Contact our team to discuss your next steps.
Today we’re shining the spotlight on Morpheus8 Skin Tightening, a popular anti-aging skin procedure. While more and more people are shying away from invasive procedures like the face and neck lift, this minimally invasive treatment is a fantastic alternative. Keep scrolling, and we’ll tell you why.
What Is Morpheus8 Skin Tightening?
Essentially, Morpheus8 Skin Tightening is a non-surgical, advanced needling treatment. It combines radiofrequency and micro-needling to stimulate collagen production and rebuild the deeper layers of the skin. As a result, this procedure tightens and smooths wrinkles on the face and body.
How It Works
Combining radiofrequency, micro-needling, and fractional treatments, Morpheus8 addresses a variety of skin issues. Essentially, this procedure uses tiny needles to penetrate the skin and heat the tissue, stimulating the production of collagen. And what differentiates Morpheus8 Skin Tightening from other needling treatments is the depth at which the needles penetrate the skin. It is the only treatment on the market that contours and refines the subdermal layers to sculpt the face naturally.
The Benefits 
This non-invasive procedure allows patients to experience the benefit of a facelift without needles. Other benefits include:
- Reduces wrinkles
- Yields quick results
- Fades stretch marks
- Minimizes acne scarring
- Has a short treatment time
- Requires little-to-no downtime
- Increases collagen production
Morpheus8 Skin Tightening Near Me
Interested in getting Morpheus8 in Rockville, Maryland? Dr. Hackley and her team are the ones for the job. At Hackley DDS, Morpheus8 treats the face, eyes, abdomen, thighs, and buttocks, and it’s ideal for all skin types.
Curious whether this procedure is right for you? Contact our team to set up an in-office consultation. We will look at your current skin conditions and long-term goals, and together, we’ll come up with a treatment plan that is perfectly suited to you.
Skin resurfacing treatments — like the IPL photofacial — help people of all ages improve their skin tone and texture. So, if exfoliation and topical creams aren’t giving you that blemish-free glow, this procedure is a tremendous option. Keep reading to discover the benefits of IPL Rockville, Maryland.
Benefits of IPL Rockville, Maryland
Wondering if professional skin resurfacing treatments are for you? Here are some benefits of IPL Rockville, Maryland:
Treats Sun Damage
Sunlight breaks down the collagen in our skin, which makes it weaker and more susceptible to aging. However, the IPL photofacial combats UV damage by penetrating and drawing out discolored cells forming in the dermis (aka intense exfoliation). Then, it encourages the skin to generate a significant amount of new collagen.
Heals Stubborn Acne 
Intense pulsed light is ideal for tackling acne and its stubborn side effects (like scarring). Therefore, another one of the benefits of IPL Rockville, Maryland is its ability to kill harmful bacteria and reduce redness and inflammation. Repeated IPL photofacials encourage the skin to shed its outer layer, which gradually eliminates scar tissue.
Prevents Premature Skin Aging
IPL has the unique ability to transform the structure of skin cells to mimic the behaviors of younger cells. In fact, a Stanford University study found that receiving light treatments positively alters the genes of dermal cells. Therefore, it’s an effective means of preventing (and not merely treating) the superficial signs of aging.
IPL Photofacial in Rockville, Maryland
Now that you’ve heard some of the benefits of IPL Rockville, Maryland, Hackley DDS is here to make it happen. As your one-stop shop for premier dental and spa care, we’ve helped hundreds of patients achieve the smiles and skin of their dreams. Now, we’d love to do the same for you.
Contact our team to learn more or book an appointment today.
Ready to achieve the smile of your dreams? Invisalign will help you do just that – without the use of a permanent orthodontic appliance. Keep reading to discover the benefits of getting Invisalign, as well as what to expect during your smile consult.
Benefits of Invisalign
Wondering why Invisalign is so popular? Check out these benefits:
Discreet Appearance
The discreetness of Invisalign is one of the reasons it’s beloved by many. Instead of bulky metal brackets, Invisalign features a series of clear, plastic aligners that fit on top of the teeth.
Complements Any Lifestyle
When you opt for Invisalign, you undergo minimal lifestyle changes. Because you remove the aligners when you eat and drink, you don’t have to change your diet. Additionally, if you play sports requiring a mouth guard, you can still do so – simply remove your aligners beforehand.
Dental Hygiene
When compared to traditional braces, Invisalign offers superior dental hygiene. While braces are removed and professionally cleaned once or twice per year, you’re able to clean aligners yourself using a toothbrush and water.
What to Expect at Your Smile Consult
Once you decide on Invisalign, we’ll set up a virtual smile consult to assess your current condition and develop a customized treatment plan. Here’s what to expect:
Evaluation
The first step of our virtual smile consult is examining your teeth and confirming that Invisalign is a good option for you.
Taking Records
Next, we record your teeth and bite, which helps us tailor the Invisalign plan specifically to you.
Write a Prescription
After a customized Invisalign plan is made, we’ll write an Invisalign prescription and send it to Align Technology Inc. They will create a digital scan of your dental impressions and design a digital 3D model of your teeth.
Begin Invisalign Treatment Today
Ready to bring your dream smile to life? Schedule your Invisalign virtual smile consult with Dr. Hackley today!
Want a non-surgical solution to facial aging? Allow us to introduce you to Evoke Skin Tightening. If you aren’t already familiar, this is the first-ever facial remodeling device used to tighten, rejuvenate, and slenderize the lower face and neck.
How It Works
Evoke skin-tightening targets the dermal layer of skin and the fibro septal network (FSN), which are the fibrous bands giving your skin structure and support. Essentially, thermal radiofrequency energy penetrates the tissues to contour and shape them. The result? People experience firmer and tighter skin, gain a youthful jawline, and minimize the appearance of jowls.
What Are the Benefits 
So, why get Evoke skin tightening? Well, aside from being the first-ever hands-free device for facial contouring, there are numerous benefits:
- Stimulates new collagen production, which firms the skin.
- Regulates muscle tone to tighten and firm the jawline and cheeks.
- Tightens the skin at the cellular level, delivering a youthful, radiant complexion.
- Destroys the fat in the jowl and lower face, which welcomes a more contoured and defined look.
This painless procedure lasts just 30 to 45 minutes, and because it’s non-invasive, there’s no downtime required. In addition, Evoke maintains a constant temperature, which guarantees your tissues receive the ideal amount of bipolar radiofrequency energy. Therefore, there’s no need to worry about potentially problematic results.
Evoke Skin Tightening in Rockville
If you’re interested in learning whether Evoke skin tightening is a good option for you, Dr. Hackley and her team are here to help. With 20+ years of experience in premier dental and spa care, we’ve helped many Rockville patients achieve the faces of their dreams.
So, if you’re looking to rejuvenate your skin, restore youthful contours, or sculpt your neck with Evoke facial remodeling, Hackley DDS is here for you. Contact our team to schedule a comprehensive consultation today.
Experts recommend visiting a Rockville dentist every six months to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Therefore, finding a dentist you can trust is essential to maintaining your oral health.
If you don’t yet have a dentist to call your own, here are some tips for finding one:
Ask for Dental Recommendations
The first step to finding a Rockville dentist is to ask your friends and family for their recommendations. You could also ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist, as members of the medical community often know each other.
Cover the Basics 
Once you have a few dentists in mind, you’ll want to make sure they are a good fit for you. Below are some questions that will help you do just that:
- Do they have office hours? Will they fit your schedule?
- Is their office close to your home or workplace?
- How do they handle after-hour emergencies?
- What does a common procedure typically cost?
- How do they approach preventative dentistry?
Research Their Credentials
Once you’ve determined that the Rockville dentist is a good match for you, you need to verify their credentials. Research the dentist’s education, experience, and whether they engage in continuous training. Additionally, figure out whether they’re a member of the American Dental Association (ADA).
Read Their Reviews
Before booking an appointment, you’ll want to read through the dentist’s customer testimonials. As you can imagine, these offer a real-life glimpse into their dental practice. Make note of any low ratings and try to figure out why those complaints were made.
Best Rockville Dentist Near Me
Want to find the best Rockville dentist near you? Look no further than Hackley DDS. With 20+ years of experience, we offer premier dental and spa care covering a wide variety of procedures and treatments. Contact our team to learn more about how we can serve you.
Are you considering whitening your teeth? If so, you probably have a few questions about the cost of teeth whitening Rockville. Stay tuned, as our Hackley DDS team is revealing everything you need to know about teeth whitening down below.
Average Cost of Teeth Whitening Rockville
The cost of teeth whitening Rockville depends on which whitening method you choose. Generally, at-home teeth whitening kits are less expensive than professional whitening services. However, the results won’t last as long.
Other factors impacting the cost of teeth whitening include:
- Technology
- Geographic location
- Frequency of treatment
- Additional procedures that need to be performed
Laser whitening treatment is the most effective — and therefore the most expensive — method of teeth whitening. On average, people pay about $1,000 for this procedure. On the other hand, take-home kits or DIY whitening products (like gels, gums, or whitening toothpaste) range from $5 to $50.
If you’re looking for an effective, yet affordable, teeth whitening option, we recommend having your teeth whitened in-office. While this procedure costs about $600 on average, the results are immediate and long-lasting.
Stain Prevention for a Brighter Smile
Poor oral hygiene, tobacco use, and excessive consumption of certain foods and beverages stain our teeth. And as you can probably imagine, stained teeth require more extensive whitening procedures. Here are some tips for creating a naturally brighter smile:
- Stop using tobacco.
- Practice good oral hygiene.
- Schedule routine dental check-ups.
- Avoid staining foods like soda, tea, and wine.
Best Teeth Whitening in Rockville
If you were previously wondering about the cost of teeth whitening Rockville, we hope today’s article gave you an answer. And if you or a friend are searching for a cosmetic dentist to brighten your smile, Dr. Hackley and her team are here to bring your dream smile to life. Contact us to get started.
When you’re looking to improve your smile, there are many types of cosmetic dentistry procedures Rockville available for you to try. Keep reading to learn which one(s) is right for you.
Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures Rockville
Unsure which of the cosmetic dentistry procedures Rockville is right for you? Here’s a brief overview of the most common:
Cosmetic Teeth Whitening
Sometimes called “teeth bleaching,” cosmetic teeth whitening is exactly what it sounds like. Essentially, this procedure brightens and whitens teeth from discoloration and/or staining. And it can be done in a dental office (for optimal results) or at home (for less optimal results).
Cosmetic Dental Veneers
Veneers are thin shells made from porcelain or composite material. They’re custom-made and cemented to the teeth as a solution to crookedness, discoloration, chipped teeth, and the like.
Cosmetic Dental Crowns 
Crowns are designed to fit over the entire tooth. Generally, they’re made by fusing acrylic or porcelain with metal (doing so allows it to withstand biting pressure). Here at Hackley DDS, we use dental crowns to correct teeth that are misshapen, decayed, broken, chipped, or have had large fillings.
Cosmetic Dental Implants
Dental implants are metal devices used to replace missing teeth. Essentially, the titanium device is surgically placed into the jawbone. Therefore, it anchors artificial teeth if needed.
Cosmetic Tooth Bonding
Bonding is the process of securing tooth-colored materials to the teeth. As you can probably guess, it improves the appearance of teeth that have been badly stained, broken, or chipped.
Cosmetic Teeth Shaping
Cosmetic dentists reshape teeth by filling — or removing — the enamel. And contrary to how it sounds, this treatment isn’t at all painful.
Best Cosmetic Dentist in Rockville
Interested in any of these cosmetic dentistry procedures Rockville? Contact our team here at Hackley DDS to learn more about our cosmetic dentistry services and procedures.
