#silver spring dentist

[smileloftathillandale]

How Often Should You Replace Cosmetic Dental Work

Cosmetic dental work can transform your smile, boosting your confidence and enhancing your overall appearance. However, even the highest-quality cosmetic procedures aren’t designed to last forever, and some require updates or replacements over time. If you’re considering a cosmetic touch-up or wondering if your current dental work might need replacing, here’s a breakdown of the expected lifespan of common procedures and when you may need to visit a cosmetic dentist in Silver Spring to keep your smile in top shape.

Dental Veneers: When to Update Your Smile

Dental veneers are durable, thin shells typically made of porcelain or composite that cover the front of your teeth, addressing issues like discoloration, chips, or minor misalignment. Veneers are built to last around 10-15 years with good oral care, but several factors can impact their longevity, including lifestyle choices and daily wear.

Signs Veneers Need Replacement:

Chips, cracks, or discoloration on the veneers

Separation from the tooth surface

Changes in gum tissue that may alter the appearance or fit

To keep your veneers looking pristine, it’s essential to schedule regular check-ups with a cosmetic dentist, who can inspect and help extend the life of your veneers through preventative care and professional advice.

Teeth Whitening: Maintenance and Frequency of Treatment

Professional teeth whitening is a popular option for a brighter smile. While highly effective, whitening isn’t permanent; many patients find their results lasting between 6-12 months, depending on their diet, lifestyle, and oral hygiene practices. Regular follow-ups and touch-ups with a dentist can help maintain a consistently bright smile.

Signs It’s Time for a Touch-Up:

Gradual yellowing or darkening, especially from coffee, tea, or red wine

Dullness or loss of vibrancy in whiteness

Touch-up appointments with your Silver Spring cosmetic dentist will vary based on your personal habits, but on average, many patients opt for yearly treatments to maintain their desired level of brightness.

Dental Bonding: Lifespan and Replacement Signs

Dental bonding is a quick and cost-effective way to repair minor flaws, like chips, gaps, and discoloration. However, bonding materials generally last about 5-10 years before they may need to be replaced. Daily wear, especially if you grind your teeth or bite down on hard foods, can shorten this lifespan.

Signs Bonding Needs Replacement:

Chips or cracks in the bonded area

Discoloration that no longer matches your natural tooth color

Rough or uneven edges

Since bonding can be prone to staining over time, regular cleanings and check-ups with a cosmetic dentist will help preserve its appearance and function for as long as possible.

Dental Crowns: Replacement Frequency and Indicators

Dental crowns are often used for cosmetic and functional restoration, covering damaged or discolored teeth while also restoring strength. Porcelain crowns are durable and can last around 10-15 years, while ceramic or zirconia options may last even longer with proper care. However, crowns aren’t immune to wear and tear.

Signs a Crown Needs Replacement:

Cracks or chips in the crown’s surface

Discomfort or sensitivity around the crowned tooth

Receding gums, which can expose the tooth beneath the crown

Seeing a Silver Spring dentist for regular assessments can catch early signs of wear, ensuring your crowns look natural and protect your teeth effectively for years.

Dental Implants: Long-Lasting, but Not Forever

Dental implants are among the most durable options in cosmetic dentistry, with many lasting 20 years or more. The titanium post itself often integrates permanently with the jawbone. However, the crown attached to the implant may need replacement every 10-15 years.

Signs Your Implant Crown Needs Replacement:

Wear or damage to the crown portion

Changes in fit or comfort

Discoloration or visible signs of wear on the crown

Routine check-ups with a cosmetic dentist will help monitor the health of your implants, ensuring they continue to function optimally and look natural.

Invisalign® and Orthodontic Retainers: Replacement and Maintenance

Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, and post-treatment retainers are essential for maintaining the alignment achieved through orthodontic treatment. Invisalign trays are changed regularly throughout the treatment, but retainers generally last between 1-5 years before they may need to be replaced.

Signs It’s Time for a New Retainer:

Cracks or distortion in the retainer’s shape

Discomfort when wearing the retainer

Changes in tooth alignment

Consulting with your dentist in Silver Spring after completing orthodontic treatment can help determine a long-term retainer replacement plan to keep your smile perfectly aligned.

Regular Maintenance for Lasting Results

While replacement timelines vary, maintaining a good oral care routine and seeing your cosmetic dentist regularly can help extend the life of your cosmetic dental work. Here are a few general tips to keep your smile looking its best:

Brush and floss daily to protect against decay and discoloration

Limit staining foods and drinks to preserve whiteness

Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth to prevent damage to veneers, bonding, or crowns

Visit your dentist twice a year for cleanings, assessments, and early intervention on any issues

Final Thoughts

Cosmetic dental work can be transformative, but it does require occasional maintenance and replacement to keep your smile looking stunning. Regular visits to a cosmetic dentist Silver Spring can help you monitor the condition of your dental work, ensuring that you enjoy your beautiful smile for as long as possible. By partnering with Smile Loft Dental at Hillandale, you’ll have a smile that’s not only beautiful but also built to last.

[ksdentalus]

Understanding the Process of Dental Bonding in Silver Spring MD with KSDental

Dental bonding in Silver Spring, MD, is a versatile cosmetic dentistry procedure that can enhance the appearance of your smile. This non-invasive treatment involves the application of a tooth-colored resin material to repair chipped, stained, or misaligned teeth. Dental bonding is a quick and cost-effective solution to achieve a more attractive smile. Our experienced dental professionals in Silver Spring, MD, use this technique to improve the aesthetics and functionality of your teeth, helping you regain confidence in your smile. Go to our website for additional information.

[slashingdisneypasta]

Dorothy Must Die (Danielle Paige):

A p p e a r e n c e s.

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Tin Woodman:

He looked more like a machine that had been cobbled together out of spare parts, a hodgepodge of scrap metal and springs and machinery pieces all held together by screws and bolts. His long, spindly legs were a complex construction of rods and springs and joints, and bent backward at the ankles like a horses legs; his face was pinched and mean, with beady, flashing metal eyes and a thin, cylindrical nose that jutted out several inches from his face and ended in a nasty little point. His oversized jaw jutted out from the rest of his face in a nasty underbite, revealing a mess of little blades where his teeth should have been.

I half remembered the Tin Woodman's story. He had been a flesh-and-blood man until a witch had enchanted his ax to make him chop off pieces of his body one by one, and one by one he had replaced them with metal parts until that was all that was left of him. From what it looked like, he had been making improvements ever since. The only thing that was really familiar about him was the funnel-shaped hat he wore. I guess some things never change.

//

He had fingers like knives and needles, each one of them twisted into a slightly different shape. Like dentist tools.

Dorothy Gale:

This was not the same girl I'd read about. She was wearing the dress, but it wasn't the dress exactly- it was as if someone had cut her familiar blue-checked jumper into a million little pieces and then put it back together again, only better. Better and, okay, a little bit more revealing. Actually, more than a little bit. Not that I was judging.

Instead of farm-girl cotton it was silk and chiffon. The cut was somewhere between heaute couture and French hooker. The bodice nipped, tucked, and lifted. There was cleavage.

Lots of cleavage.

Dorothy's boobs were put to here, her legs up to there. Her face was smooth and unblemished and perfect: her mouth shellacked in a plasticky crimson, her eyes impeccably lined in silver and gold. Her eyelashes were so long and full that they probably created a breeze when she blinked. It was hard to tell how old she was. She looked like she could have been my age or years older. She looked immortal.

She had her hair pulled into two deep chestnut waves that cascaded down her shoulders, each tied with red ribbon. Her piercing blue eyes were trained right on me. I knew I was supposed to look down, like the Tin Woodman had instructed. Instead, I found myself falling into her gaze. I couldn't help it.

The Scarecrow:

At Ozma's side stood a tall thin man dressed in a baby-blue, one-size-too-small suit. Beneath a small hat, bits of straw and yarn stuck out in every direction. His face was a skein of tightly pulled burlap with two unnervingly lifelike buttons sewn on in place of eyes. His lips were thin lines of embroidery stitched in pinkish-brown yarn underneath a painted on red triangle for a nose. His buttons were fixed on me.

A chill shot through my body. It was the Scarecrow. Like the Tin Woodman, he had been twisted and warped into something I hardly recognised.

//

His head lolled over to his shoulder and a little felt tongue I didn't even know he had dangled limply from his mouth.

The Lion:

Or maybe like something was waiting them: at the front of the line, I saw the Lion himself for the first time in the flesh. He had been a vague, hazy shadow in Glamora's scrying pool, but now, in person, I realised exactly how terrifying he really was.

Really, he was barely recognisable as a lion at all. He looked like a monster, like some warped nightmare version of the king of the jungle. He was huge and golden, with bulging, grotesque muscles and a filthy, snarled mane. His lips were curled back, baring a mouth crowded with sharp, long, crooked fangs.

[whereianonymouslypostfics]

Silver Springs Headcanons

Dentist 😬

Alone time

Insecurities

Little Nat gets hurt by the pets :( 

Little Nat gets sick 

Arguments

Woods of Terror

[prozac-shaped-urn]

Rules: list your top 5 albums from 5 different artists on a poll so your followers can vote which album they think captures your vibe best.

I was tagged by my friend @droughtofapathy who wisely suggested this trend because it is, in fact, very much up my alley.

Alright SO! Here's the breakdown and I'll give like the ~vibes~ of these too, for those of you who have no idea who these artists are (meaning you DOA).

Rumours is very much spiteful witch classic rock goddess vibes thanks to the multiple breakups and affairs going on with that group in 1976. I don't think anything else can compare to it, to be honest. Every single song is still played on the radio to this day, and 8 of the 10 tracks are singles. It was pretty fucking traumatic for them to make but the music has held up nicely. Christine and Stevie writing songs about their ex-partners while also having affairs with band members and sound crew was........... something. Check out You Make Loving Fun and Dreams for more evidence. (This is kinda cheating but there's another song called Silver Springs that Stevie wrote about Lindsey which was a B-side to his spiteful anthem You Can Go Your Own Way which was written about her. Anyway, Silver Springs really gives him the finger. "I'll follow you down 'till the sound of my voice will haunt you/You'll never get away from the sound of the woman that loved you" is a curse if I have ever heard one. Like FUCK Stevie....... jesus christ woman)

River of Dreams is classic rock, heavy on the piano and bass. Billy's chops are on full display and his writing is clean and clear. It has some underrated bangers like Two Thousand Years and Famous Last Words. The album is overall more symbolic than most of his work. Think literal dreamscape (which is then-wife Christie Brinkley designed the cover art in reference to).

WHEN WE ALL FALL ASLEEP, WHERE DO WE GO? is indie pop at its finest. Billie and her brother/producer Finneas created something utterly fucking whack and unmistakably brilliant, and it's one of my favorites because Billie's main design when crafting music is using a minor key and 4/4 time, which is like my go-to when finding new music. I love her other works too, but ilomilo sits inside my psyche so well that I forget where I am and let it guide me into a writing flow. I also love bury a friend mainly because the high-pitched whizzing sound bite is a literal dentist drill. Finneas recorded a literal dentist drill to create that sound.

Let's Talk About Love is your typical contemporary love song album with lots of slow and steady major key songs, but Treat Her Like a Lady is my favorite track on the whole thing. I love its reggae rhythm and upbeat anthem sound. A close second is the much slower and moodier Where Is The Love. Also, Celine doesn't write her own music, whereas everyone else on this list does. But I love her sound and her technique is a masterclass.

Dreamboat Annie oh my god... Dreamboat Fucking Annie. What a hell of an album. You've got Magic Man which is a funky, swamp witch type of song, and then you have the frenzied Crazy On You with its wide swinging tomtom hits and strong bass line, and then the sisters on Sing Child is like the female version of The Guess Who's No Time with the beautiful harmonies and HOLY *SHIT* Nancy Wilson can play a guitar. Like oh my GOD can she play a guitar.

I'll tag @jennamacaroni @thestarlightforge @die-schwanenkoenigin and @tinathedragon if y'all haven't done this yet

[clearbrightcosmeticdentistry]

Good oral hygiene is essential for children to maintain healthy teeth and gums, and it starts with regular visits to a trusted cosmetics dentist in Silver Spring, Maryland. Parents should begin dental care early to help children avoid cavities and other dental issues later in life. The foundation for a bright, healthy smile is teaching kids the importance of brushing, flossing, and maintaining a healthy diet.

[meditating-dog-lover]

Getting vibrant in life (mostly style related)

I want to wear more vibrant colors as part of my wardrobe. I already got some pretty colorful nail polish which suits my seasonal color analysis typing (bright spring).

I'll eventually look for clothes later this month after my doctor and dentist appointments.

I also colored my hair and stopped cutting it short and straightening it. It's long, thick, wavy, and a nice gold color too. People used to make fun of me for my hair and general style. I'm not going to change my appearance to make them happy, I'll enhance my appearance to make ME happy.

I just want to have less limits and restrictions on what I can wear because I've been holding off on a lot of nice pretty colorful stuff. I want to have a cheery and happy and bright style.

I want to have a cheery, happy, and bright personality. I'll write about that later. I also want to compile a list of colors of what I assume falls under the bright spring season and would suit me. They are generally warm shades of red, pink, orange, yellow, blue, green, and purple with orange/yellow/gold undertones as opposed to silver/blue/white. It would be a fun experiment.

[silver-spring-md-life]

Silver Spring, MD, location

Silver Spring has a prime location that is situated right on top of the D.C. diamond, extending up North. This location provides easy access to D.C. for those who are in Downtown Silver Spring. Multiple transportation options, such as the train, metro, bike, or car, are available. Additionally, major highways such as 495, 95, 295, 270, and 200 are easily accessible from Silver Spring, making commuting to any destination convenient. Compared to neighboring cities like Bethesda and Chevy Chase, Silver Spring is more affordable and closer to D.C. In summary, the location of Silver Spring offers many benefits for its residents.

Dementia care Silver Spring

At Clifton Woods Memory Care, they believe in providing quality care that is tailored to the individual needs of each resident. They understand that Alzheimer's disease and related dementia conditions affect people differently, and they take the time to understand each resident's unique experience. The team is trained to assist with daily living activities, personal care, incontinence care, medication management, and nutrition monitoring. They are equipped to serve all stages of memory care and can adapt to the changing needs of dementia patients. In addition to their on-site staff, they offer access to external providers, including physicians, dentists, therapists, and podiatrists. Their ultimate goal is to ensure every resident is happy and healthy in their home. For inquiries, contact (301) 384-4017.

Maryland Youth Ballet

For almost 50 years, the Maryland Youth Ballet (MYB) has been dedicated to offering exceptional training and performance opportunities for aspiring young dancers. MYB's children's program strongly emphasizes pre-professional development, with each level of instruction designed to provide comprehensive training and coaching. MYB's adult program, which spans from beginner to advanced levels, offers the same high-quality instruction from top-notch teachers in ballet, stretching, and classical core conditioning as the children's program. MYB also provides the community with access to professional-quality ballet performances, introducing the art form to audiences in the area. Additionally, MYB's outreach program offers underserved and disadvantaged children the chance to experience the joy of dance. Since its founding in 1971, the mission of MYB has been to enrich and educate the community through quality dance instruction and performances, successfully preparing young dancers for careers in the performing arts while offering classes to dancers of all ages and levels.

Burglar was caught on camera.

A burglar was caught on camera breaking into a home in Silver Spring during daylight hours on May 11. Montgomery County police released the video in hopes of identifying the suspect. The burglar kicked in the front door, put on a mask and sunglasses, and proceeded to steal items from each room before leaving. The surveillance footage captured the burglar staring directly into the camera. Although security cameras are becoming more common, criminal justice expert Kalfani Ture believes they are ineffective in deterring motivated offenders. Instead, Ture suggests that proximity to the police or loud alarms may be more helpful. Montgomery County police are offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the burglar's arrest. Read more. 

Link to Map

Driving Direction

Maryland Youth Ballet

926 Ellsworth Dr, Silver Spring, MD 20910, United States

Head northeast on Wayne Ave toward Fenton St

0.5 mi

Turn left onto Dale Dr

0.5 mi

Turn right onto US-29 N/Colesville Rd

 Continue to follow US-29 N

3.3 mi

Take the MD-650 N/New Hampshire Avenue exit toward Ashton

0.2 mi

Merge onto MD-650 N/New Hampshire Ave

2.5 mi

Turn right onto Midland Rd

463 ft

Turn right onto Clifton Rd

 Destination will be on the right

367 ft

Clifton Woods Memory Care Home

13408 Clifton Rd, 

Silver Spring, MD 20904, United States

[smileloftathillandale]

Are Dental Implants Right for You? Key Factors to Consider

If you're missing one or more teeth, dental implants can be an excellent solution to restore your smile and improve your oral health. However, they might not be the right option for everyone. In this guide, we'll explore key factors to consider when determining if dental implants Silver Spring are the right choice for you. Consulting with a qualified dentist in Silver Spring is essential for making the best decision for your unique situation.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots. They provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth, ensuring a natural look and feel. Dental implants are known for their durability and ability to mimic the function of natural teeth, making them a popular choice for many patients.

Key Factors to Consider

Overall Health

Your overall health plays a significant role in determining if you're a suitable candidate for dental implants. Conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease, or autoimmune disorders may affect your healing ability and the success of the implant procedure. It's essential to discuss your medical history with your dentist in Silver Spring, who can evaluate your health and determine the best course of action.

Jawbone Density

A healthy jawbone is crucial for supporting dental implants. If you've lost teeth, you may have experienced bone loss in your jaw, which can compromise the stability of the implants. Your dentist in Silver Spring will conduct a thorough examination, including X-rays or 3D imaging, to assess your jawbone density. If your bone density is insufficient, bone grafting procedures may be necessary to create a suitable foundation for implants.

Oral Hygiene Practices

Good oral hygiene is vital for the success of dental implants. Before proceeding with the treatment, you should be committed to maintaining excellent oral health through regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups. Patients with gum disease or other oral health issues may need to address these problems before undergoing implant surgery.

Lifestyle Factors

Your lifestyle choices can impact the success of dental implants. Factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor nutrition can hinder the healing process and increase the risk of implant failure. If you smoke, your Silver Spring dentist may recommend quitting before and after the procedure to enhance your chances of success.

Financial Considerations

Dental implants can be a significant investment, and understanding the costs associated with the procedure is crucial. Discuss your financial situation with your dentist to explore payment options, insurance coverage, and potential financing plans. While dental implants may initially be more expensive than other tooth replacement options, their durability and longevity can make them more cost-effective in the long run.

Treatment Goals

Consider your treatment goals when deciding if dental implants are right for you. If you desire a permanent solution that closely resembles natural teeth and restores full functionality, dental implants may be the ideal choice. Discuss your expectations with your dentist to ensure that dental implants align with your goals.

Conclusion

Dental implants offer a reliable and long-lasting solution for missing teeth, but they may not be suitable for everyone. By considering the key factors outlined above and consulting with Smile Loft Dental at Hillandale, you can make an informed decision about whether dental implants are right for you. If you're interested in exploring this option further, schedule a consultation today to discuss your unique needs and start your journey toward a healthier, more confident smile!

[ksdentalus]

Choosing the Right Dentist for Dental Crowns in Silver Spring MD | KSDental

Dental crowns in Silver Spring, MD, are a restorative dental solution designed to repair damaged or weakened teeth. Our experienced dental professionals use state-of-the-art techniques and materials to craft custom crowns that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. These crowns not only restore your tooth's strength and functionality but also enhance its appearance. Whether you have a cracked, decayed, or discolored tooth, our Silver Spring, MD dental practice can provide you with high-quality dental crowns to restore your smile's health and beauty.

[contentone3]

Top Dentist in Silver Spring-Best Dental Clinic in Silver Spring

We provide best dental clinic in Silver Spring. Book appointment with top dentists in Silver Spring to get good dental care service.

[whereianonymouslypostfics]

Would you write headcanons for the silver springs au? One I really want is something silly and domestic that doesn't need to a full drabble ...like going to the dentist or how Boone deals with his parents having 'alone time'. Thanks in advance! ❤️ I love all of your work and look forward to reading more of the new au!

HELLO! These are great, I am going to start these rn❤️

[clearbrightcosmeticdentistry]

A beautiful smile can boost your confidence and leave a lasting impression. Cosmetic dentistry offers a variety of treatments designed to enhance the appearance of your teeth and give you the smile you’ve always dreamed of. Whether you’re dealing with discolored, chipped, or misaligned teeth, a cosmetics dentist in Silver Spring, Maryland has a solution tailored to your needs.

[mamabearcatfanfics]

I’ve had a lot of sinus pressure in my teeth recently... and it made me remember this little fic.

If you prefer, read it on AO3 where I’ve just posted it as a ‘new’ work, or on FFN, where it’s the last chapter in my InuKag short stories collection Dog Tails

Tell Me Toothfully

Kagome had felt totally fine when she went to bed last night. She’d been a little tired from staying up late to study for her maths test the night before, and then of course Inuyasha had arrived to demand she come back through the well as soon as she’d arrived home. But that had been fine. It was actually refreshing, walking out along the road in the afternoon sun with her friends after being shut in a stuffy classroom all day. They’d set up camp after walking for a few hours, not having any particular leads to follow at the moment, and it had been a lovely evening.  

Inuyasha had complained less than usual about her ‘abandoning’ them to go complete her test, which, wonder of wonders, she thought she’d done okay on. Sango and Miroku had spent the evening in friendly conversation, with only one hand slap breaking the gentle camaraderie around the fire. Shippou had fallen asleep without getting on Inuyasha’s nerves too much, after quickly devouring the lollipop she’d bought back for him as a treat. He had snuggled down next to her as soon as she’d climbed into her sleeping bag, happy that she was back with them. The last thing Kagome had seen before closing her eyes was Inuyasha in the tree above her, the slight glow of his golden eyes in the darkness and the moonlight reflecting off his silver hair. With his comforting presence above her and the rumble of Kirara’s purr in the background, she’d had no trouble drifting off into peaceful dreams.

But right now, as the sun’s rays tipped just over the horizon, she was in agony. The whole right side of her face was swollen and tender to touch. The pain was so intense that Kagome couldn’t pinpoint where exactly in her mouth it was coming from; it felt like the whole of the right side of her skull was throbbing.

She rolled over gingerly in her sleeping bag to see if the others were awake yet and gasped as the simple movement made the lancing pain in her face flare white hot. Miroku and Sango were still asleep, Kirara curled up close beside Sango. Shippou was still snuggled against her. She couldn’t see Inuyasha anywhere, but that wasn’t unusual – he often went fishing before the others awoke if there was a stream nearby. She sat up gingerly and turned her head towards the direction he’d probably disappeared off to, and a small pained whimper escaped her before she could silence it. Shippou blinked at her sleepily.

“Kagome, you okay?” He stared up at her face in puzzlement, then scrambled up her shoulder to poke gently at her swollen cheek. Even that very slight pressure from Shippou’s tiny finger made tears instantly spring to her eyes and she couldn’t control the pained whine that escaped. She breathed in and out through her nose for a moment, then managed a watery smile.

“M’okay Shippou, don’worry”, she managed. The kit continued to look at her doubtfully with a concerned expression, sniffing as he watched her rifle through her backpack to look for the medical kit. If she could just take some pain relief before Inuyasha got back from wherever he was…

💕

Inuyasha strode back through the forest, clutching one of Kagome’s useful plastic containers to his chest. It was filled to the brim with cleaned and gutted fish; only small ones, because the stream was really no more than a trickle off a larger tributary, but there were plenty of them and they would cook quickly strung up over the campfire. He grinned as he imagined Kagome’s pleased smile - she loved fish for breakfast, even though he would have been happy with just ramen.

He was looking forward to getting out on the road again. He hated waiting in the village when Kagome was away – it felt stifling and always made him annoyed and irritable. Absolutely nothing to do with the wench being on the other side of the well. Nope. Then why does it feel so much better when she’s back?

He discarded that thought with a grunt as he strode back into camp, plonking the container holding the fish off to one side as he stooped to feed the fire with twigs and leaves to get it going again. Shippou bounced over to him, landing noiselessly on his shoulder, his small back paws treading nervously as he tugged on Inuyasha’s ear.

“Kagome smells sick!”

“What?”

His head swung towards Kagome as he gave a few careful sniffs, and there it was. Something was definitely wrong.

“Oi, do ya feel sick?” he questioned, eyes widening as he took in the sight of her swollen reddened cheek. Kagome shook her head vehemently in denial, then whimpered quietly, closing her eyes with a pained expression.

Inuyasha frowned as he made his way over to her sleeping bag, squatting down next to her. He glared at her swollen cheek and sniffed, then snarled quietly when he scented the beginning of a bad infection. His clawed fingers went to her chin, gently tipping her head slightly to the side.

“What the hell happened to you wench?” His expression softened a little as she looked up at him tearfully, and he placed his palm gently against her forehead. She had the beginnings of a fever too.

“Open up, lemme see.” Kagome pressed her lips tightly together and glared at him, even though he could see that holding her mouth like that was painful for her.

Sango, Miroku and Kirara were now awake.

“What’s wrong?” asked Sango, peering over Inuyasha’s shoulder, and she made a small noise of sympathy as she noticed Kagome’s swollen cheek.

“I’m pretty sure Kagome has a rotten tooth, but she’s bein’ a baby about it and won’t show me”, he growled softly. “If it’s bad, it’s gotta come out wench, or otherwise you’ll get really sick!”

Kagome glared at him, her eyes narrowing, despite her pain.

“Si’!”, she hissed, and Inuyasha flinched, his ears flattening as he braced himself in readiness for his face to be pulled earthwards with a solid smack. Nothing happened.

“Keh! Beads don’t work when ya can’t talk properly, huh?” he gloated, baring his own pointed teeth as he grinned at her.

Kagome’s eyes filled with tears, and Inuyasha blinked in alarm.

“Hey, don’t cry about it! I promise, you can sit me as soon as your tooth is out, okay?”

Kagome shook her head slightly, indicating that wasn’t what the tears were for.

“Hur’s”, she whimpered. Her bottom lip trembled as she kept her mouth tightly shut, and she blinked some more tears away.

“C’mon ‘gome, just show me”, he sighed, stroking his fingers lightly over hers where they lay on the sleeping bag, not feeling comfortable with showing any other form of gentleness with the rest of them gathered around. “I’m sorry I called ya a baby. I know how much a rotten tooth can hurt – felt like cryin’ myself when I had one as a pup.”

Miroku chimed in. “I assume you have healers in your own time that can deal with a toothache Kagome?” She nodded carefully. “What if Inuyasha promises that he won’t pull the tooth himself, but will take you back through the well to receive treatment – does that sound fair?”

Sango jabbed Inuyasha in the ribs when he failed to give his agreement; his attention still focused on Kagome’s tearful brown pools of misery, and he winced at the sudden poke to his side. Damn, that woman could be so pointy!

“Yeah, yeah, I’ll take her”, he grunted at Sango, pushing her hand away. He turned his attention back to Kagome. “I promise I won’t pull it – jus’ show me so I know it’s not somethin’ else.” His tone was a lot more gentle than usual; he could read in her scent just how much pain she was in, and he didn’t want to cause her any more distress.

Hesitantly Kagome opened her mouth, whimpering a little at a sudden spike in pain, and Inuyasha wrinkled his nose as the smell of infection increased dramatically. He peered into her mouth, past the other little white teeth to see a slightly blackened tooth growing crooked right at the back, only halfway out and surrounded by reddened swollen flesh.

“Yeah, it’s a bad tooth, right up the back. Let’s get you home wench, your Mama’ll know what to do, right?”

Kagome shut her mouth. “M’sorry”, she whispered, gazing at everyone tearfully. “I jus’ go’ back. An’ now m’goin’ again.” She swallowed as the pain spiked as she tried to talk, and Sango stroked her shoulder reassuringly.

“It’s okay Kagome-chan. We’re less than half a day’s journey from the village. It’s better that this happened now, rather than somewhere far from the well. Inuyasha will take you home, and we’ll wait at Kaede’s until you are healed okay?”

Shippou leaped onto Sango’s shoulder and stroked Kagome’s unswollen cheek hesitantly with tiny fingers. “I’m sorry I hurt you before”, he said softly. “I hope you feel better soon.”

Miroku smiled reassuringly at her. “Don’t worry about us Kagome. I’m sure all will be well. The sooner you leave, the sooner to return, hmm?”

Inuyasha knelt down in front of Kagome with his back to her, indicating she should climb on. “You lot may as well have breakfast before you leave. Don’t waste that fish.” As soon as he felt Kagome had a good grip with her knees and hands, he was off, determined to get her home as quickly as possible.

💕

Inuyasha grumbled as he sat next to Kagome’s bed, waiting for her and her mother to return. Mama Higurashi had taken one look at her daughter’s swollen face after listening to Inuyasha’s description of the rotten tooth, and had got on the phone to the family dentist. They were in luck; someone had cancelled earlier in the day and she’d managed to secure her daughter an emergency appointment. But they’d been gone for a while now, and he was both worried and bored. A bad combination, because it gave him time to think about… things.

A soft giggle out in the yard alerted him to their return, and he bounded down the stairs as the front door opened.

“Oh good, Inuyasha, you’re still here”, Mama Higurashi panted. “Could you help me get Kagome up to her room please?”

Kagome’s arm was draped over her mother’s shoulder, and she was giggling. As soon as she noticed Inuyasha she launched herself at him, wrapping her arms tightly around his neck and leaning her full weight against him.

“’n’yasha! I miss' youuuu!”

Inuyasha’s eyes widened as he felt Kagome rubbing her cheek against his chest, making happy mewling sounds like a kitten. He glanced down at her in alarm, bracing her around her waist with his arm as she staggered slightly and giggled, and then looked back at her mother, his cheeks flushing.

“What’s wrong with her?!”

“She’s fine”, smiled Mama. “She had an impacted wisdom tooth, and another ready to erupt too, so the dentist removed both of them and gave her some strong pain relief. It seems to have made her a little… happy.”

Inuyasha’s eyebrow raised as he looked at Mama Higarashi – that was the fucking understatement of the century. He glanced back down at Kagome, who chose that moment to gaze up at him innocently, a wide grin on her face and her doe-like brown eyes sparkling with joy.

“’ake me ‘oo bed ‘n’yasha”, she cooed, and Inuyasha spluttered in embarrassment.

“Ya what?!” he blustered, averting his eyes from her adoring gaze. He tried to untangle the small fingers clutched about his neck, but she was gripping on like a monkey, her body weight leaning against him like she was suddenly boneless, and he didn’t want to use any force and accidentally hurt her. He could hear Mama Higurashi trying to hide her laughter behind her hand, and he turned his eyes to hers helplessly.

“Why don’t you take her up to her room Inuyasha and get her settled into bed before the pain medication wears off”, she agreed soothingly. “She won’t be able to eat anything solid for a few days, so I’m going to make some soup. I won’t be long.” He heard her burst into laughter as soon as she was safely in the kitchen and he snorted in irritation. Small fingers tugged on the his collar of his kosode.

“I ma' you angry”, Kagome slurred, her bottom lip trembling. “Why’ I make you angry ‘n’yasha? Issa’ why you leave me behin' n’ go see her, ‘cause I make you angry?” Sudden hot tears dribbled down her flushed cheeks, and he was quick to wipe them away with his thumb, one arm hooked around her waist to keep her steady as she clung to him. Fuck.

“You…”, he stuttered, trying to make the right words come, but it was difficult for him to focus when she was looking at him like that, her pain so close to the surface, unfiltered by her usual cheerfulness. “You don’t make me angry wench. You irritate me sometimes, jus’ like I irritate you, but the only time I feel angry at you is when you get yourself hurt ‘cause ya didn’t listen ta me. Okay?”

“Promise?”

“Promise.”

“Yay.” The tears evaporated and her smile was blinding. “You’re so pre’ey”, she sighed. “Di’you know your eyes are golden?” Her voice was serious as if she were stating an important fact.

“Fuckin’ hell”, he sighed, scooping her up off her feet and carrying her up the stairs to her bedroom.

“N’ you’re s’rong”, she cooed as he carried her along the hallway. “Makes my ‘ummy go all funny when you swing your ‘essaiga.”

He grunted in answer, heat flushing his cheeks. Maybe if he could coax her to go to sleep the medicine would wear off and he’d get his regular Kagome back – he didn’t know how to handle this one.

He walked into her room and held her close to him with one arm while he turned down her coverlet, huffing a little as she snuggled herself against his neck.

“Y’r so warm. You make me feel warm ‘n’yasha.” She made a little ‘oof’ noise as he settled her on the bed, then she giggled as he pulled off her shoes then tucked the covers up over her. She grabbed one of his hands, tugging on his fingers, then placed his hand on her chest, pushing his fingers between the gap of her button shirt, directly over her heart. “S’rue. You make me warm here. My hear’ bea’s fr you.”

His fingers twitched under hers, no doubt struggling under the same quandary his brain was – he wanted to pull away and run, but at the same time he wanted to keep his hand there, feeling the warmth of her skin forever. He’d dreamed of the moment she might ask him to touch her there, and it was better than he had imagined - so soft and warm, with the pulse of her heart beating strongly against his skin.

He gulped, as his mouth went dry and his own heart rate escalated. If she had said and done this at any other time, he would have taken the chance to act on his driving impulse to caress the delicate flesh directly beneath his fingertips, and lean in to kiss those softly parted lips. But this wasn’t fair. She was looking at him so trustingly, her eyes adoring, but she wasn’t her usual self, and would no doubt be embarrassed by this.

He gently pulled his hand back, entwining his fingers with hers and placing their joined hands down on the top of her pink quilt. He sat down on the edge of the bed, close to her knees underneath the covers, trying to keep a respectful distance between them.

“You need to get some rest Kagome. Time ta sleep, okay?” He patted her legs gently with his other hand, hoping it would soothe her.

“Will you s’ay?” Her eyes were already drooping, and she blinked at him sleepily, as if trying to keep him close by with her gaze alone.

“O’course”, he said a little wistfully, watching as she drifted off.

He wondered if she’d remember any of this. He tucked a stray wisp of hair that had dropped down over her cheek behind her ear, his fingers lingering. A small part of him hoped she would, but the other part, the much larger part that had no trouble informing him that he was a useless worthless hanyou who deserved nothing good, hoped to keep things as they were to save him from certain disappointment. But he couldn’t contain his whispered thought, as soon as he was sure she was asleep.

“I’ll always stay when ya want me to Kagome." He sighed heavily, almost not wanting to admit it aloud, but unable to lie to himself any longer. "I'll stay, ‘cause my heart beats for you too.”

[ksdentalus]

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