- Dental ExaminationAfter performing a dental exam and detecting a cavity, we may recommend a filling. Amalgam and composite are the two kinds of fillings offered at Advance Dental Arts Center.
- X-raysDental x-rays are safe—we take digital x-rays, which let us adjust the exposure of radiation per film and per patient as reasonably necessary. We provide a lead apron and thyroid collar whenever possible to minimize exposure. If you are or may be pregnant, tell us before we take your x-rays. They can still be taken during pregnancy or nursing.
- Teeth CleaningGenerally, though, Advance Dental Arts Center partners with patients to prevent decay, disease, and other threats to oral health with conservative measures, such as routine dental cleanings and tailored oral hygiene products and techniques for use at home. We look forward to partnering with you and your family! Call (503) 694-4776 to schedule an appointment at our practice in West Linn, which proudly serves the oral health needs of individuals and families in Lake Oswego, Oregon City, Gladstone, Milwaukee, Wilsonville, and the greater Portland area.
- Fluoride TreatmentAmidst the pursuit of cosmetic enhancements, preventive dentistry remains a keystone of oral health in the new year. Regular dental check-ups, cleanings, and preventive measures like sealants and fluoride treatments contribute to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Patients are recognizing the importance of preventative care not only for the immediate benefits but also for the long-term preservation of their oral health.
- Dental SealantsSince Dr. Wright gets to know each patient, she tends to recommend preventative services proactively – as patients approach certain milestones. For instance, dental sealants may be recommended for pediatric patients around six or seven. It is at this stage that the first permanent molars begin to erupt or break through the gums.
- FillingsAmalgam fillings are a mix of metallic elements such as silver, tin, copper and mercury. Strong and reliable but not the most aesthetic, they’re most commonly placed in the areas of the mouth with greater chewing force or moisture control problems during the filling process. These fillings are silver or dark and can be temperature sensitive at first due to the metal elements. Because they contain mercury, their use has caused controversy, but they’re one of the most researched filling materials used in dentistry. They’ve also been used for 100 years and placed in millions of patients. According to the United States Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and World Health Organization, amalgam fillings are safe, reliable and effective restorative material.
- Resin CompositeComposite Resin: This tooth-colored material is popular for fillings because it blends in seamlessly with the natural teeth. It’s made from a mixture of plastic and fine glass particles and is often used to fill visible areas.
- VeneersGaps between teeth – Bonding or veneers may also be applied to cover up excess spaces between the teeth. Orthodontic treatment may be necessary for more extensive spacing issues, including crooked or crowded teeth.
- CrownsInlays and onlays are restorations that are used when you have a mild to moderate amount of missing tooth structure and therefore, conserve more natural tooth than a crown. If you’re missing too much tooth structure, you may need a crown—but inlays and onlays can often be done instead.
- BridgesThe dental bridge lives up to its name; this form of tooth replacement quite literally “bridges” the gap between the teeth. The replacement tooth also depends on neighboring teeth for its support. The new tooth (or “pontic”) is cemented or secured to its neighbors (“abutment” teeth). In turn, the abutments anchor the pontic.
- Dental BondingCosmetic bonding is very popular as a minimally invasive and cost-effective solution for minor smile enhancements. Whether it’s correcting small chips, closing gaps between teeth, or improving the appearance of discolored enamel, cosmetic bonding offers a quick and efficient way to achieve a better-looking smile. Individuals turn to this versatile treatment in the new year to address minor imperfections and boost their overall smile aesthetics.
- Root Canal TreatmentHonestly, root canals get a really bad rap! But they shouldn’t—a root canal actually relieves the pain caused by an infected tooth. More specifically, it helps a tooth with a nerve that is inflamed due to a deep cavity/filling or crack. This inflamed nerve may be extremely sensitive to hot or cold temperatures, causing extreme pain. Also, a root canal helps a tooth with a dead nerve. All inflamed nerves eventually die, possibly causing an abscess. With a dead nerve, your tooth can’t feel hot or cold, but is very tender to touching or chewing. It also tends to throb spontaneously at night.
- Deep CleaningAfter a deep cleaning, your gums may be sensitive to brushing and flossing and generally sore for two to four days. Rinse with warm salt water to relieve any discomfort. You may also experience an increase in temperature sensitivity on the exposed root surfaces, but it should resolve over the next couple of months. If you experience a significant increase in temperature sensitivity, contact us for advice.
- DenturesAt Advance Dental Arts Center in West Linn, Oregon, we encourage you to rethink your understanding of dentures. Optimally, Dr. Kimberly Wright will be able to preserve most, if not
- Dental ImplantsOur dentist, Dr. Kim Wright, may recommend dental implants if a tooth is irreparably damaged due to fractures, tooth decay, periodontal (gum) disease, or other forms of trauma. This type of replacement tooth does not rely on other teeth for its stability; likewise, implant-supported teeth do not rely on products to aid in holding them in place in the jaw. Instead, the implant is positioned precisely in the jaw. The implant is generally made from a cylindrical-shaped post from a biocompatible material such as titanium. This flexible, lightweight material is used for many medical implants, including hip and knee replacements. It is designed to join to surrounding tissues. Once the implant in the jaw has healed to effectively become a part of the jawbone (a process that usually takes about three to six months), it can effectively hold the overlying replacement tooth in place. In turn, implants are made to function like natural tooth roots.
- Oral Surgery
- Tooth ExtractionsMissing teeth – Patients who have lost or require a single tooth extraction may be candidates for a natural-looking dental bridge or aesthetically-pleasing tooth replacement with a dental implant. Strategically-placed implants can also support many missing teeth or all the teeth in the upper or lower arches of the jaws.
- Braces
- Teeth WhiteningUse baking soda or baking soda toothpaste to brush your teeth, which can also produce a slight whitening effect.
- General DentistryDr. Wright earned the prestigious Mastership Award from the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) in 2011. She has actively served professional associations in leadership roles, such as the past president of the Oregon AGD and past trustee for the Oregon Dental Association (ODA).