General Dentistry
Helping our patients maintain a healthy mouth and smile is the main goal of general dentistry. We prefer to provide more minor, preventive care than to see patients suffer with more intensive treatments from a problem that was not managed in time. We want to ensure that your oral health is in its optimal state and positively contributing to the health of your entire body. We are here to brighten your smile and pave the way for a brighter life.
Deep Cleaning or SRP
A deep cleaning, otherwise known as Scaling and Root Planing or SRP. When the bacteria in your mouth mixes with sugary or starchy food, it creates a sticky film called dental plaque, coating your teeth, gums and dental restorations. Plaque has acid-forming bacteria that can weaken tooth enamel and cause cavities. If plaque is not removed regularly, it hardens to become tartar. Tartar is very rough and it can only be removed with special dental tools. If left untreated, it can lead to gum recession and gum disease.
When gum disease progresses, natural pockets between the gum tissue and the teeth grow deeper, allowing the tartar to form further down the root of the tooth. Over time, this exacerbates the problem and causes bad breath, inflammation, bone loss, and ultimately infection and tooth loss.
While most patients find little to no discomfort during SRP, some people like to be numb for this procedure. Our dentist or hygienist will discuss your numbing options.
Our dentist may recommend taking further action after the deep cleaning is finished. He may recommend placing antibiotics directly into deeper pockets (placed by your dentist or hygienist), or an antibacterial mouthwash to be used at home.
Periodontal maintenance therapy is important to stop gum disease from progressing. It can also bring back the healthy appearance of teeth and freshen breath. Typically, the first maintenance visit will be somewhere between 2-4 months following scaling and root planing.
Wisdom Teeth Extractions
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars. Most people start to get their wisdom teeth when they are teenagers, though some teeth don’t come in until you are in your early twenties.
Wisdom teeth have a purpose. They are another set of molars, but more often than not they cause more problems than they are worth. Wisdom teeth can come in misaligned, facing any direction. They can even try to come in horizontally, growing into your other teeth. This can damage your nerves and even your jawbone.
Since wisdom teeth are often harmful, most dentists recommend their removal. The surgery goes much better if you get the teeth removed before any signs of problem. The recovery is easier also. Surgery and recovery are also easier when you are younger.
Aesthetic Crowns – Zirconia and Porcelain
Getting crowns is the best way to have a very natural looking smile. They are used when simply filling in a tooth is not an option. There are times when they decay is so bad that we just have to use a crown. We also use them with severely damaged teeth or teeth that have already had multiple fillings. Crowns are attached right to your teeth so that they can function, even when you bite something really hard! There are several types of crowns so it is important to discuss which type is best for you with your dentist.
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Bridges
When your teeth are missing, it greatly affects your smile. At the same time, the missing tooth has the potential to negatively affect your oral hygiene because of unprotected gum exposure. Dental bridges are one of many options aimed at improving the appearance and function of your teeth by replacing the missing tooth or teeth. During your exam, we will discuss whether or not dental bridges are right for you.
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Dentures
If you are missing teeth, dentures can provide a positive solution to improving your oral health. We are proud to provide dentures that are designed to fit your mouth for proper function and unique comfort. Following your appointment, we will provide you with information on at-home care for your dentures. We strongly recommend scheduling follow up appointments for periodic denture cleanings.
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Night Guards
It can be beneficial to use a guard, or covering, to protect your teeth from grinding while sleeping. Similar to how a mouthguard protects teeth during sports, this layer prevents damage to the teeth that can occur naturally.
There are a wide variety of different types of mouthguards, ranging from pre-formed pieces to ones that are custom fitted to your teeth and jaws. Some of these can even be formed at home through a boil-and-bite process.
Teeth Whitening
A common request we receive is how to make a smile whiter and brighter. This is a relatively simple and quick treatment option that can be performed periodically. Certain foods and beverages, such as wine and coffee, stain the teeth and contribute to discoloration. The teeth whitening process provides a solution that lightens the shade of the teeth. Additionally, the process actually rids the teeth of plaque and tartar that tend to lead to dental problems.
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Gingivectomy
Gingivectomy is a dental procedure that removes excess gingiva or gum tissue. Our doctor uses Biolase laser, a dental soft tissue laser to remove the tissue. It is gentler to the tissue than a surgical scalpel. Laser gingivectomy is beneficial for those who want to improve their smile, or have periodontal disease. It also allows exposure of the tooth surface for ideal bracket placement on an orthodontic treatment. Recovery is also faster with the laser since it cauterizes the wound, closing it to bacteria and causes less tissue damage.
Post-operative care recommendations are similar for both laser gingivectomy.Follow your dentist’s instructions regarding pain medications
- Use an icepack on the jaw for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off for the first day after your gingivectomy to help with pain and swelling
- Eat soft or liquid foods for three days after the procedure (e.g., eggs, tofu, yogurt, soups)
- Avoid acidic, spicy or hot (temperature) foods (these foods may irritate the gingivectomy site). Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods as well
- No strenuous activity on the day of the procedure, gradually increase activity over the week
- Do not rinse with undiluted mouthwash or saline solution
- Brush the area near the gingivectomy very carefully and very gently, and avoid flossing for a week
- Call your dentist if you experience fever, excessive pain, or bleeding that will not stop as this could be a sign of infection