Cleaning & Oral Cancer Exams

Cleaning is a preventive procedure that is important to have done at least every six months; certain individuals may require more frequent cleanings. Regular cleanings keep your teeth free from plaque, and prevent many problems before they begin. At our office, we combine cleanings with a complete oral examination.

The oral examination is a complete visual inspection of the oral cavity along with any necessary x-rays. During an oral examination, we also screening for oral cancer and periodontal disease.

Sealants

A sealant is a plastic resin material that is applied to the chewing surfaces of posterior teeth. This preventive measure allows the dentist to seal out plaque and food from the grooves and pits in teeth that are prime targets for decay.

Topical Fluoride

Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in all water sources. It is an ion that comes from the element fluorine and is always found in combination with another element. Fluorine is the 13th most common element on the planet. Fluoride has been proven to be effective in preventing and even reversing the early signs of tooth decay. Topical fluoride comes in a form of either gel or paste that are applied directly on your teeth after your oral prophylaxis ( teeth cleaning ). Then you cannot rinse, drink and eat after the application for atleast 30 minutes to let your teeth absorb it.

Cosmetic Restoration

Minor cavities are restored with white (composite) fillings. This type of treatment is a good way of correcting a small problem before it becomes a bigger and more expensive problem. Composite fillings, while they are slightly more expensive than amalgam fillings, are the same color as the surrounding tooth, doing away with the unsightly silver spots caused by metal fillings. Contact us to find out more about the benefits of composite vs. amalgam fillings.

Periodontal Therapy

The leading cause of tooth loss in adults today is periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. Early diagnosis and treatment for this condition is critical for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Red, swollen, tender gums are a sign of gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. If we catch it at this point, we can provide effective, non-surgical treatment. If allowed to progress farther, more involved treatments may be necessary.

Root Canal Therapy (RCT)

When the pulp that is inside the tooth becomes infected, it cannot repair itself. Years ago, extraction was the only option. Today, through root canal therapy, also known as "endodontics," these teeth can be saved.

Root canal therapy consists of drilling through the top, or "crown," of the tooth, and then reshaping or removing the pulp that has become infected. The tooth is then filled and sealed with an artificial crown.

Simple Extraction

Extractions are generally used as a last resort. If a tooth is badly damaged or infected, and cannot be saved with root canal therapy or another treatment, we can extract the tooth and replace it with a bridge.

Bridgework

When single or multiple teeth are missing, they can be replaced with either fixed or removable bridges. Bridges literally "bridge" the gaps left by missing teeth with restorations. Bridges restore your ability to bite and chew, and also restore the shape of your face. Bridges are strong and natural-looking.

Fixed bridges are restorations that are held firmly into place because they are bonded onto neighboring teeth. They are very durable, and can only be removed by a dentist.

Removable bridges restore the function of teeth, and can be removed for cleaning, but they can take slightly longer to get used to than fixed bridges.

Dentures

When too many teeth are missing, dentures are a good solution to completely restore your smile and your biting and chewing ability. We offer full and partial denture services.

Full dentures are useful if you have lost all or nearly all of your teeth. They slide over your gums and are held in place by the muscles of your cheeks, lips, and tongue. Though you may require a little time to get used to them, dentures should, after a few weeks, help you eat, talk, and smile normally.

Partial dentures consist of a removable metal or plastic structure to which artificial teeth are attached. If you are missing a number of teeth, a partial denture can fill in the gaps and restore your smile.