Hygiene
An integral part of maintaining your teeth for life is the removal of plaque and tarter on a regular basis. The frequency of your visits is based upon your individual needs and oral health. During your visit we will update your medical history, perform an oral cancer screening exam, check your teeth for cavities, review oral hygiene instructions, and monitor your periodontal (gum) condition. Fluoride treatments are provided for children under the age of eighteen and for those adults when appropriate.
Periodontal Disease
While seldom painful and frequently free of any obvious signs or symptoms, periodontal disease can progress undetected to the point where supporting bone is destroyed. With 80 to 90% of all teenagers having some form of gingivitis (inflamed gums) and 75% of adult tooth loss for people over the age of 35 due to periodontal disease, early treatment and prevention is essential. While periodontal disease is caused by plaque, a number of other factors including poorly fitting bridges, badly aligned teeth and defective fillings contribute to the development of this condition. We can diagnose and treat your periodontal condition and potentially save your teeth.
Sealants
Sealants are highly effective in preventing decay on the biting surfaces of your chewing teeth. It simple procedure in which a tooth-colored acrylic "coating" is painted onto the surface of the tooth. This effectively "seals" the deep grooves where decay is most likely to start. Sealants are not just for kids. Adults as well can benefit from the cavity protection of sealants.
Caries and Repair
Radiographs and the utilization of intra-oral camera gives us the opportunity to see potential problems occurring in your mouth, such as caries (decay) or fractured teeth. Often a tooth will not start bothering you until there is significant loss of tooth structure. With the help of the various diagnostic aids, problems can be detected earlier, before you experience a toothache.
Restorations
There are several materials we can use to restore your teeth. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages we would be happy to dicuss further at your appointment.
-
Amalgam - A conglomerate of various alloys - traditional "silver" fillingAmalgam - A conglomerate of various alloys - traditional "silver" filling
Major advantage: Relative cost- Major disadvantage: Due to the expansive properties of the alloys, fractures can occurMajor disadvantage: Due to the expansive properties of the alloys, fractures can occur
-
Composite - A bonded resin restoration
Major advantage: Tooth coloredMajor disadvantage: Life expectancy approximately five years due to possible
de-bonding -
Porcelain
Major advantage: Esthetic
Major disadvantage: Requires two visits -
Gold
Major advantage: Strength - most reliable and durable materialMajor disadvantage: Requires two visits
Root Canal Therapy
If a tooth's pulp (nerve and blood supply) becomes infected or inflamed, root canal treatment may be the only way to save the tooth, short of removing it. Root canal treatment consists of removing the nerve that lies within the root of the tooth.
Oral Surgery
The goal of modern dentistry is to prevent tooth loss. When a tooth cannot be saved, extraction (removal) of the tooth may be the only course of treatment.
Crown and Bridge
A "cap" or crown will restore a broken, heavily filled or cracked tooth to its original size and shape. This may also be recommended after root canal therapy has been completed as the tooth tends to become brittle and is more apt to fracture. Crowns can strengthen and protect the remaining tooth structure and improve the appearance of your teeth. When one or more teeth are missing, a non-removable bridge can restore your mouth to normal function. It will improve the entire health of your mouth by keeping the surrounding teeth in position and can also help maintain the structure of your face and jaw.
Inlays and Onlays
An inlay or onlay is a more conservative version of a crown. They are made either of gold or of porcelain fused with lucite. Inlays or onlays are excellent restorations. They are strong and look great. The major advantage they have over fillings is that they will strengthen a tooth back to what it was before it ever had a filling.
Complete and Partial Dentures
Complete dentures replace all your teeth in the maxilla (upper) or mandible (lower). Partial dentures replace missing teeth and are designed to function in conjunction with your remaining natural dentition. Many people believe that once they have dentures, they no longer need regular dental care. Denture wearers require regular exams to ensure their health, comfort and appearance. Gum tissues are in a constant state of change. Periodic relining of the dentures may be necessary to ensure a tight and comfortable fit. If you have dentures and you wish they were tighter, or you are tired of having plastic covering so much of your mouth, ask us how dental implants can help you. There are many configurations using dental implants to improve the function of dentures. You may be surprised how economical some of these are.
Implants
A remarkable procedure, implants can replace any or all of your teeth. The implant becomes integrated with the bone and acts like a "bolt" which will ultimately support a new tooth. The advantages of implants for patients with dentures are: denture stability, increased patient comfort and confidence.Cosmetic Dentistry
For the smile you have always wanted, our technology can do wonders. Cosmetic dentistry encompasses reshaping your teeth, veneers or bonding, natural-looking tooth-colored fillings and bleaching. If you're not happy with your smile, ask us. We can show you before and after smiles that we have created for our patients. Let us put a smile on your face!
lnk