Almost everyone will experience tooth decay at some point in his or her life. Swift detection and correction of tooth decay can minimize the significant expenses and inconveniences associated with more serious problems caused by tooth decay. Restorative dentistry treats all phases of tooth decay, from simple cavity fillings to entire tooth replacements.
Cleanings
Regular dental cleanings are a crucial part of preventive dental care. By removing plaque and tartar, we enhance your oral health and minimize your risk of gingivitis and periodontal disease. We utilize manual instruments as well as ultrasonic and power jets to painlessly scale away moderate plaque and tartar buildup .The cleaning is finished with polishing, a pleasant procedure that cleans the surface of teeth, removes stains, and leaves the mouth feeling clean and refreshed.
If it is determined that you have a form of gum disease that requires a more involved cleaning, we will inform you of our treatment recommendations.
Sealants
Sealants are a plastic coating placed on the chewing surface of teeth to prevent decay from forming in the grooves of the teeth. Ideally, they are placed on the permanent first molars, which usually come in around age 6. This is the perfect time to protect these crucial teeth since children don't brush well and their diets sometimes leave a lot to be desired. Most insurance plans cover sealants at 100%.
Root Canal Therapy
Problem
The inside of each tooth is filled with "pulp", which carries the tooth's blood supply and nerves. If bacteria gain access to the pulp, through a fracture or deep cavity, the pulp may become infected, leading to pain and a risk of tooth loss.
Solution
In a root canal, your dentist will remove the infected pulp and replace it with a rubber sealant. The tooth is then covered with a protective cap, which reinforces the tooth against future fractures and enhances the tooth's appearance. Root canals have an extremely high success rate in saving teeth that would otherwise be lost to infection.
Alternatives
The only alternative to root canal therapy is tooth extraction.
Implants
Implants offer stability because they fuse to your bone. Integration of the implants into your jaw also helps your replacement teeth feel more natural and some people also find the secure fit more comfortable than conventional substitutes.
Candidates for dental implants need to have healthy gums and adequate bone to support the implant. A thorough evaluation by your dentist will help determine whether you are a good candidate for dental implants.
Problem
Missing teeth.
Solution
Dental implants are the most realistic tooth replacements available. Implants begin with a surgically placed post that is securely anchored into the jawbone. The bone surrounding the anchor will heal in approximately six months. With a completely solid and stable anchor point, an artificial tooth is then installed. The end result is a new artificial tooth that is virtually indistinguishable from a natural tooth, both from an aesthetic and functional standpoint. In cases where several teeth are missing, dental implants can also act as the teeth to which bridges are fixed, again perfectly mimicking the function of healthy, natural teeth.
Alternatives
Fixed bridges or dentures may be considered as well.
Non-Surgical Periodontal Treatment
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal Disease is marked by the breakdown of structures that surround, secure, and support the teeth. These structures include the bone, gums, and fibers, which anchor the teeth to the gums. Periodontal disease is the number one cause of tooth loss in adults. Though bone that has been resorbed due to periodontal disease will not grow back, aggressive treatment and impeccable home care will keep it from getting worse.
Treatments
Periodontitis will require treatment. A deep cleaning (sealing and root planning) may be recommended which involves the removal of plaque/calculus below the bums. For your comfort, anesthesia is used and the procedure is broken up into 2 (or more) visits for the deep cleaning itself and a final polish visit where we remove and residual stain and check for persistent areas of inflammation.
The use of a slow-released antibiotic placed into deep pockets may be necessary as well as prescription mouth rinses.
Periodontal patients frequently require cleanings and check-ups every 3-4 months. With proper home care and frequent check-ups, patients need regular cleanings to maintain their periodontal health.
Oral Surgery
In extreme cases where a tooth cannot be saved, an extraction will be performed.
Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are the molars that are farthest back in the mouth. These teeth are the last to grow into the mouth, usually after age 18. Wisdom teeth often become impacted-- they do not grow in properly. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause a myriad of problems, including gum disease, infection, decay, even tumors. To prevent potential problems, wisdom teeth are usually extracted at the first sign that they may be impacted. Some of these surgeries are done in our office, however, the more complicated cases are referred to an oral surgeon where the patient can be sedated for the surgery.
Infection
In cases of severe infection, where restorative approaches will not save a tooth, an extraction may be necessary.
Routine Extractions
Modern dentistry makes routine tooth extractions relatively comfortable, painless procedures. For seven days after the extraction, your tooth socket will require some care. You will be instructed to steer clear of the empty tooth socket when brushing your teeth. Some bleeding can be expected, and pain medication may be prescribed for residual discomfort.