- Dental ExaminationPeriodontal disease is diagnosed by your dentist or dental hygienist during a periodontal examination. This type of exam should always be part of your regular dental check-up.
- 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 easier. Digital x-rays reduce radiation 80-90% compared to the already low exposure of traditional dental x-rays.
- Oral Cancer ScreeningCheck the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.
- Teeth CleaningOnce your periodontal treatment has been completed, your dentist and dental hygienist will recommend that you have regular maintenance cleanings ( periodontal cleanings ), usually four times a year. At these cleaning appointments, the pocket depths will be carefully checked to ensure that they are healthy. Plaque and calculus that is difficult for you to remove on a daily basis will be removed from above and below the gum line.
- Fluoride TreatmentPrevention also includes regular dental exams, cleanings, and x-rays. Sealants and fluoride are also great preventive treatments that help protect the teeth.
- 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. You and your dentist can discuss 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.
- 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 of teeth to create a beautiful and attractive smile.
- CrownsIf a tooth is damaged or of poor quality, a new ceramic crown is probably the best solution. Installation is fast. The end result is fantastic.
- BridgesDental bridges are highly durable and will last many years, however they may need replacement or need to be re-cemented due to normal wear.
- Dental Bonding
- Restorative DentistryMedford, OR, Ashland, OR, Grants Pass, OR, Dentist Dr. Kip Hampton is dedicated to excellence in General, Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry that includes, Cleanings, Exams, Periodontal Disease, Dental Implants, Xrays, Fillings, Crowns, Teeth Whitening, Bridges and Dentures.
- Root Canal TreatmentRoot canal therapy is needed when the nerve of a tooth is affected by decay or infection. In order to save the tooth, the pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth), nerves, bacteria, and any decay are removed and the resulting space is filled with special, medicated, dental materials, which restore the tooth to its full function.
- Periodontal Surgery
- Deep CleaningIf the disease has progressed to more advanced stages, a special periodontal cleaning called scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) will be recommended. It is usually done one quadrant of the mouth at a time while the area is numb. In this procedure, tartar, plaque, and toxins are removed from above and below the gum line ( scaling ) and rough spots on root surfaces are made smooth ( planing ). This procedure helps gum tissue to heal and pockets to shrink. Medications, special medicated mouth rinses, and an electric tooth brush may be recommended to help control infection and healing.
- DenturesA denture is a removable dental appliance replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissue. They are made to closely resemble your natural teeth and may even enhance your smile.
- Dental ImplantsDental implants are artificial roots and teeth (usually titanium) that are surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw bone by a dentist or Periodontist - a specialist of the gums and supporting bone. The teeth attached to implants are very natural looking and often enhance or restore a patient’s smile!
- Oral Surgery
- OrthodonticsLess visible and more effective brackets and wires are making straightening teeth with orthodontics much more appealing to adult patients. Also, in some cases, teeth may be straightened with custom-made, clear, removable aligners that require no braces.
- Braces
- Teeth WhiteningTooth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment used to change the color of natural tooth enamel and is an ideal way to enhance the beauty of your smile.
- Cosmetic DentistryIn the past decade there has been a dramatic interest in cosmetic dentistry. We all realize that having a healthy, bright, beautiful smile enhances our appearance and allows us to smile with confidence. Thanks to the advances in modern cosmetic dentistry, we are able to improve our teeth and smiles with quick, painless and surprisingly affordable treatments.
- General DentistryAcademy of General Dentistry The AGD’s consumer information section provides information on more than 50 oral dental health topics.