- X-raysA panoramic x-ray provides a very broad view of teeth, jaws, sinuses, jaw joints and nasal areas. They are not designed to find cavities like other x-rays. Rather, they reveal problems such as impacted teeth, bone abnormalities and fractures, infections, cysts or tumors. Because of this, they are a staple technology in any oral or maxillofacial practice. Panoramic x-rays provide an accurate and trusted diagnosis so that the most viable treatment plans can be executed. Back
- Oral Cancer ScreeningOral Cancer Screening is an important tool in determining your overall dental health. We use technology that helps us easily inspect hard-to-reach areas with its patented triple-wavelength imaging. The device uses white, violet and amber wavelengths of light to excite oral tissue in distinct and unique ways. The subsequent fluorescence and reflectance help make abnormalities apparent. The system helps us catch abnormalities that the naked eye would miss. We can confidently recommend biopsies or other plans of action to preserve your overall health. Our system is accurate, quick and painless. We recommend screenings for patients 17 and older. Back
- Teeth CleaningThe key to maintaining optimal oral health and hygiene often beings with routine dental cleanings. Even if you are exceptional at regularly brushing and flossing at home, coming in for a professional teeth cleaning will not only help prevent excessive plaque buildup on the surface of the teeth or any hard-to-reach areas, it will also give Dr. Lipscomb the opportunity to examine your mouth for any problems that might be difficult to catch by the untrained eye. Plaque left untreated can lead to unhealthy gums and tooth decay which is why it is important we are proactive about fighting it off. Because of this, we suggest coming in once every six months for your dental cleaning. Your dental cleaning in our office in Mitchellville will take approximately 30 minutes to complete and will be performed by one of our skilled hygienists.
- Dental SealantsSealants are a common preventive treatment in dentistry. Some teeth have fine grooves or pits that accumulate plaque, not because the person doesn't brush, but because the grooves are too narrow to allow even one bristle into them. When plaque accumulates, it can lead to cavities and other types of tooth decay. To apply sealants, a plastic material is brushed onto the tooth, filling these narrow grooves and preventing the cavity-causing buildup. Sealants make healthy teeth possible. Back
- FillingsBonding can also be used in place of regular amalgam fillings. Many patients prefer bonded fillings, because the white color is much less noticeable than the silver of the amalgam fillings. Bonding fillings can be used on front and back teeth, depending on the location and extent of tooth decay.
- Resin CompositeDirect technique usually involves placing composite resin on the outside of the tooth using bonding. Because of that, the direct technique is usually referred to as bonding.
- VeneersVeneers are a cosmetic dental procedure in which a thin layer of porcelain or composite material is placed over the outside of the tooth. They are used to improve esthetics or help with tooth damage. Veneers are usually only performed on the front part of the teeth that are visible when talking or smiling. The procedure can be
- CrownsCrowns are used to restore and enhance teeth that are damaged, or to replace missing teeth. A crown, also called a cap, is used to entirely cover a damaged tooth. A crown not only strengthens the tooth, but it can also dramatically improve the tooth's appearance, shape and alignment.
- Bridges
- Dental Bonding
- Restorative Dentistry
- Root Canal TreatmentRoot canal treatment, also referred to as root canal therapy or endodontic therapy, is used to save an infected or damaged tooth and avoid having it removed. A root canal becomes necessary when a neglected cavity reaches all the way to the pulp at the center of the tooth, causing the pulp to become infected. Regular cleanings and checkups detect and prevent problems early on.
- Deep CleaningPeriodontal treatment typically involves containing the infection through a deep cleaning like scaling and root planing, clearing buildup at the root of the teeth. We may also suggest specific toothpastes and mouth rinses or prescribe antibiotics to fight infections. Surgery is required for the most severe cases.
- DenturesA removable partial denture is used when one or more natural teeth still remain in the upper or lower jaw. Made of replacement teeth attached to a pink or gum-colored plastic base, partials help restore better functionality to the mouth. Similar to complete dentures, it is possible to have more permanent option cemented into place. Back
- Dental ImplantsDental implants are the most cutting-edge therapy available for the replacement of missing teeth. Dr. Lipscomb is a dedicated doctor who pays extraordinary attention to detail. Because of his passion for perfection, he goes the extra mile for you. He has completed advanced training in prosthetic implants to ensure that he will provide only the best results for you. Dr. Lipscomb also implements today’s best implant technologies in our office, solidifying our place as dental implant experts.
- OrthodonticsOrthodontics is the art of using special appliances to straighten and align the teeth and bite. Braces are the most common orthodontic treatment. In this method, arch wires are threaded through brackets that are bonded to the surface of the teeth. The arch wires act as a track, and guide each tooth to its proper position. There are several types of orthodontic braces available, including the more traditional metal braces, ceramic "tooth colored" braces, as well as clear plastic braces. Back
- Invisalign OrthodonticsThe Invisalign system begins in the dentist or orthodontist’s office with taking molds to design customized trays. Patients switch trays every two weeks to gradually shift the teeth. The system requires a visit to the office every six weeks so that treatment can be monitored. Once treatment is complete, a patient will likely be given a retainer to maintain the straight smile.
- BracesInvisalign is an attractive alternative to traditional metal braces. It is a series of clear, custom-fit removable mouth trays that apply a controlled amount of force to the teeth to slowly straighten them. The system provides the same beautiful results as traditional braces but is are virtually invisible. Because Invisalign trays are removable, they can be taken out while eating, drinking, brushing and flossing.
- Teeth WhiteningLaser dentistry is an important advancement in dental technology, treating a wide range of dental and cosmetic problems from cavities to gum disease. Hard tissue lasers are used to repair cavities, remove old fillings and prepare teeth for bonding. Soft tissue lasers are used on gum tissue. They are an alternative to the common hand-held scalpel, drills, or other tools. Lasers can even be used for teeth whitening.
- Cosmetic DentistryYour smile is one of your most important features. Dentistry evolves continually, and with a variety of cosmetic treatment options, achieving a healthy and beautiful smile is made easy for patients of all ages.
- General DentistryUpon completion of his undergraduate studies at Mercyhurst College in Pennsylvania, Dr. Lipscomb came to the Washington, DC area to attend Howard University's College of Dentistry. In 1993, he traveled to San Francisco to complete his residency at Advance Education in General Dentistry (AEGD). Once finished, Dr. Lipscomb returned to the Washington, DC area to work at a small community health center in southern Maryland. After serving three years, he advanced his career by joining Unity Health Care, Inc. Community Health Center as the dental director and staff dentist in Washington, DC. In December 2001 Dr. Lipscomb opened his private practice in Mitchellville, MD.