- Dental ExaminationAn oral exam is routinely performed by the dentist during the course of an initial comprehensive exam and regular check-ups. An oral cancer exam refers to the identification and management of diseases pertaining to the maxillofacial and oral regions.
- X-raysDigital radiography (digital X-ray) is the latest technology used to take dental X-rays. This technique uses an electronic sensor (instead of X-ray film) that captures and stores the digital image on a computer. This image can be instantly viewed and enlarged, helping the dentist and dental hygienist detect problems more easily. Digital X-rays reduce radiation 80-90% compared to the already low exposure of traditional dental X-rays.
- Oral Cancer ScreeningOral cancer screening: Check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.
- Teeth CleaningPocket irrigation, which is also known as oral irrigation, is a versatile dental treatment used for several different preventative purposes. Pocket irrigation may be performed as part of professional dental cleaning, or at home with a specially modified oral irrigator.
- Fluoride TreatmentAlthough most people receive fluoride from food and water, sometimes it is not enough to help prevent decay. Your dentist or dental hygienist may recommend the use of home and/or professional fluoride treatments for the following reasons...
- Dental SealantsPrevention also includes regular dental exams, cleanings, and x-rays. Sealants and fluoride are also great preventive treatments that help protect the teeth.
- Fillings
- CrownsRoot amputation is a specialized dental procedure, whereby one root is removed from a multi-root tooth. The tooth is then stabilized and rendered fully functional with a crown or filling. The multi-root teeth optimally suited to the root amputation procedure are the molars at the back of the mouth. These large flat teeth have either two or three roots depending on whether they are situated on the upper or lower jaw.
- Bridges
- Root Canal TreatmentPrior to root amputation, it is necessary to perform root canal treatment. The amputation itself involves cutting deep into the tooth where blood vessels and nerves are located. For this reason, the pulp of the tooth including these vessels and nerves needs to be removed before resectioning the roots. The root canal and amputation treatments will be performed under local anesthetic.
- Gingivectomy and GingivoplastyGingivoplasty (soft tissue recontouring) – As gums recede due to periodontitis, the teeth may appear longer; causing a “toothy” smile. The periodontist can remove tissues or straighten the gum line to make the teeth look more even.
- Periodontal SurgeryIf the pockets do not heal after scaling and root planing, periodontal surgery may be needed to reduce pocket depths, making teeth easier to clean. Your dentist may also recommend that you see a periodontist (specialist of the gums and supporting bone).
- Deep CleaningThe dentist is able to conduct deep cleaning treatments such as scaling and root planing to remove hardened calculus (tartar) deposits from the gum pockets. An antibiotic may be prescribed to ensure that the bacterium is completely destroyed, and the periodontal infection does not spread. In most cases, periodontal disease can be prevented with regular cleanings and proper home care.
- DenturesIf many of your teeth are missing or damaged, you may be weighing different options for treatment, including traditional dentures. While dentures were the standard of care years ago, patients who choose them frequently experience problems over time, such as discomfort, slippage, difficulty eating and speaking, and bone loss.
- OverdenturesFor patients requiring more extensive dental restorations, Dr. Ficca also offers all-on-four overdentures. These implant-supported dentures can be removable or fixed and will give patients the look and feel of natural teeth without diet limitations or fear of denture plates slipping.
- Dental ImplantsDuring the ridge modification procedure, the gum is lifted away from the ridge to fully expose the defect in the bone. The bony defect can be filled with bone graft material that can help regenerate lost bone or a bone substitute. Finally, the incision is closed and several months of healing will be required. Depending on the case and type of implant and procedure, the dental implant might be placed during the ridge modification procedure or when healing is complete; this all depends on the condition of the bone. Ridge modification improves the cosmetic appearance, functionality of the mouth, and the chance of enjoying dental implants for many years.
- Oral SurgeryOral Surgery – If the patient has cysts or abnormal non-cancerous growths, the dentist may decide to completely remove them. This can improve comfort levels, alleviate breathing problems, and make speech substantially easier depending on the location of the cyst.
- Flap SurgeryPocket elimination surgery – Pocket elimination surgery (also known as flap surgery) is a surgical treatment that can be performed to reduce the pocket size between the teeth and gums. Surgery on the jawbone is another option that serves to eliminate indentations in the bone which foster the colonization of bacteria.
- Osseous SurgeryPocket reduction surgery (also known as gingivectomy, osseous surgery and flap surgery) is a collective term for a series of several different surgeries aimed at gaining access to the roots of the teeth in order to remove bacteria and tartar (calculus).
- Tooth ExtractionsIf you are experiencing extreme sensitivity or are suffering from advanced periodontal disease, you may be required to have a tooth extracted. With a simple extraction, the dentist can safely remove the affected tooth without the need for major surgery.
- Ridge AugmentationNow, imagine a different situation: you have a tooth extracted, wait several years, and experience significant bone loss around the missing tooth. A procedure to replace this missing bone — a ridge augmentation or sinus augmentation– will cost about $2,450. You will also have waited much longer to begin the restoration process.
- Bone GraftingDr. Ficca’s approach to bone grafting is informed by his long experience and careful study of the treatment. He only uses regeneration techniques and materials that have a high rate of success. As a result, you can expect durable and predictable results and a shorter recovery.
- OrthodonticsYour gum tissue may be too thin to protect your teeth during orthodontic tooth movement. Gum grafting builds up stronger gum in certain areas of your mouth before adjusting the position of your teeth. Dr. Ficca can coordinate with your orthodontist to achieve this goal.
- Braces
- Cosmetic Dentistry