- Dental ExaminationComprehensive oral examinations are performed by the dentist on new patients, or patients they've seen before who have had significant changes in their dental or medical condition since a previous exam. In particular, the dentist will check for new cavities; problems with existing dental restorations (like crowns and fillings); development of problems with the gums or tooth supporting bone; abnormal wear of the teeth; jaw joint dysfunction, and irregularities in the bite relationships of the teeth.
- 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 the dental hygienist detect problems easier. Digital x-rays reduce radiation 80-90% compared to the already low exposure of traditional dental x-rays.
- Oral Cancer ScreeningDuring an oral cancer screening, the dentist will evaluate the jaw muscles, lymph nodes, and other head and neck structures for development of any problems. The dentist will thoroughly look for changes and lesions in the mouth. A dedicated comprehensive oral cancer screening should be performed at least once each year.
- Teeth CleaningIn the dental office cleaning or prophylaxis (a measure taken for prevention) involves cleaning mineralized buildups of bacteria-rich plaque (known as calculus, or tartar), and superficial stains from the teeth of people who do not have active gum disease. Though bi-annual professional dental cleanings are important, excellent homecare methods are equally valuable. Proper brushing and flossing can enhance the health of the mouth and make the smile sparkle and prevent serious diseases.
- Fluoride TreatmentFluoride is the most effective agent available to help prevent tooth decay. It is a mineral that is naturally present in varying amounts in almost all foods and water supplies. Topically applied fluoride has been shown to reduce the porosity and permeability of the outer layers of tooth enamel, which makes teeth more resistant to decay. It also has a weak antibacterial effect that can temporarily reduce the number of decay-causing bacteria in the mouth.
- Dental SealantsA sealant is a thin, plastic coating applied to the chewing surface of molars, premolars and any deep grooves (called pits and fissures) of teeth. More than 75% of dental decay begins in these deep grooves. Teeth with these conditions are hard to clean and are very susceptible to decay. A sealant protects the tooth by sealing deep grooves, creating a smooth, easy to clean surface.
- FillingsThere are many types of filling materials available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. The dentist will discuss with you the best options for restoring your teeth. Composite fillings, along with silver amalgam fillings, are the most widely used today. Because composite fillings are tooth colored, they can be closely matched to the color of existing teeth, and are more aesthetically suited for use in front teeth or the more visible areas of the teeth.
- Resin CompositeInlays/Onlays - These restorations are custom made fillings. They can be made of composite resin, porcelain or gold and are made by a dental laboratory and placed by a dentist. Inlays/onlays are usually best for the posterior chewing surfaces of teeth and are utilized to conservatively repair teeth that have large defective/unattractive fillings or have been damaged by decay or trauma.
- VeneersVeneers are very thin pieces of durable, tooth shaped porcelain that are custom made (for shape and color) by a professional dental laboratory. They are bonded onto the front teeth to create a beautiful and attractive smile. Veneers can completely reshape your teeth and smile. They can often be alternatives to crowns and the ideal solution in treating many dental conditions. As with most dental restorations, veneers are not permanent and may someday need replacement. They are very durable and will last many years.
- CrownsA crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size. A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations.
- BridgesA fixed bridge is a type of denture, built to replace one or more missing teeth. Dental bridges are held in place in the mouth by slipping them over, and cementing them to, specially prepared "abutment" (supportive) teeth that are adjacent to the missing teeth. The term "abutment" means the bridge is cemented (i.e. glued) onto the abutment teeth, and is not intended to be removed by the patient.
- Dental BondingDental bonding is often the fastest and least expensive way to mend a cracked tooth. With bonding, the dentist applies a tooth-colored resin material to the tooth and sculpts it into shape so that it matches the shape of a patient's natural teeth.
- Root Canal TreatmentRoot canal treatment involves removal of the blood vessels and nerve tissue from inside the tooth's hollow interior, disinfection of the canals, and hermetically sealing them against potential future colonization by microorganisms. It is prescribed for teeth which have become infected or irreversibly inflamed. Root canal treatment relieves pain and swelling (if present), and allows the tooth to be preserved in the mouth—usually for many years.
- Gingivectomy and GingivoplastyA surgical procedure to remove or reshape excess gum tissue around adjacent teeth. Commonly prescribed to make the teeth appear larger for cosmetic reasons. Returns the natural anatomic shape of the gums to a more normal status. This can make the smile more visually appealing, and the teeth and gums easier for the patient to care for. While there may be options to this procedure, failure to undergo gingivectomy or gingivoplasty when appropriately prescribed may lead to gum disease, bad breath, compromised ability to perform proper oral hygiene, and a less attractive smile
- DenturesA denture is a removable dental appliance replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissue. They are made to closely resemble natural teeth and may even enhance the smile. There are two types of dentures: complete and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when all of the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. A partial denture not only fills in the spaces created by missing teeth, it prevents other teeth from shifting.
- Dental ImplantsA dental implant is a small titanium screw that serves as the replacement for the root portion of a missing natural tooth. Dental implants can be placed in either the upper or lower jaws. Due to the biocompatible properties of titanium, a dental implant fuses with the bone and becomes a good anchor for the replacement tooth. Dental implants can be used in solutions for replacing single or multiple missing teeth.
- Oral SurgeryThird molars, commonly referred to as wisdom teeth, are usually the last four of 32 teeth to erupt (surface) in the mouth, generally making their appearance between the ages of 17 to 25. They are located at the back of the mouth (top and bottom), near the entrance to the throat. In most cases, inadequate space in the mouth does not allow the wisdom teeth to erupt properly and become fully functional. When this happens, the tooth can become impacted (stuck) in an undesirable or potentially harmful position and oral surgery may be required. If left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can contribute to infection, damage to other teeth, and possibly cysts or tumors.
- Gum SurgeryA gum graft (also known as a gingival graft or periodontal plastic surgery), is a collective name for surgical periodontal procedures that aim to cover an exposed tooth root surface with grafted oral tissue. Exposed tooth roots are usually the result of gingival recession due to periodontal disease. There are other common causes including overly aggressive brushing and trauma.
- Tooth ExtractionsThere are a number of reasons the dentist might recommend a tooth extraction. Some dental patients suffer from tooth decay; others need to remove teeth hindering orthodontic treatment, whereas various patients simply need wisdom teeth removal.
- OrthodonticsPatients who have crowded or rotated teeth, or a poor bite relationship between the upper and lower teeth may benefit from orthodontic tooth movement. Crowding and misalignment of the teeth makes it difficult to keep them clean, and puts the patient at risk for tooth decay and gum disease. This is because wherever food accumulates, bacteria thrive; and bacteria cause tooth decay and gum disease.
- Invisalign OrthodonticsInvisalign® aligners are favored by many adults because they are both removable and invisible to onlookers. Invisalign® aligners are clear trays, and should be worn for the recommended amount of time each day for the quickest results. Invisalign® aligners are more comfortable and less obtrusive than traditional braces.
- Teeth WhiteningTooth whitening has become the number one aesthetic concern of most patients and there are a number of ways to whiten teeth. The most popular method is using a home tooth whitening system that will whiten teeth dramatically. Replacement of any restorations will be done after bleaching so they will match he newly bleached teeth. Many people are opting for the Zoom!® Chairside Whitening System for fast, safe and effective teeth whitening. Zoom!® combines the newest advances in dental technology with proven chemical formulas.
- Cosmetic DentistrySmile enhancement can have dramatic effects on your overall appearance; even the smallest step can boost your confidence, self-esteem, and make you want to smile more. With modern advances in dentistry, cosmetic procedures can range from a basic color correction to replacing missing teeth and everything in between. Explore your options by starting with familiar procedures, then learning more about what can be offered by your dentist’s use of modern technology.
- General DentistryDentistry involves the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of a wide variety of conditions, disorders and diseases affecting the teeth, gums and maxillofacial (associated with the jaw and face) region of the body. General dentists provide services related to the general maintenance of oral hygiene and tooth health. Ideally, dentistry is preventative. Visit your dentist regularly – at least once every six months – to ensure proper oral hygiene and functionality. Regular checkups and oral health maintenance prevent the development of serious dental problems that can require costly treatment.