What should I expect at my first appointment?
We are committed to outstanding patient care. At your first appointment, you will meet with one of our doctors and hygienists. They will review your medical history and discuss with you your smile expectations. The doctor will continue with updating any necessary digital x-rays, taking photo’s, caries (cavity) and oral cancer exam. One of our dental hygienist will review your gum health and proceed with the necessary teeth cleaning. Once we have completed your exam the doctor will discuss with you any dental needs and offer options. This appointment will be 2 hours in length.
Why do I have sensitive teeth?
Sensitive teeth can be caused by the following dental issues:
- Worn tooth enamel from using a hard toothbrush and using a hard grip while brushing aggressively.
- Tooth erosion due to highly acidic foods and beverages.
- Tooth decay, worn leaky fillings and broken teeth that expose the dentin of your tooth.
- Gum recession that leaves your root surface exposed.
- Grinding your teeth at night.
- Post dental treatment sensitivity – common, but temporary, especially with procedures such as crowns, fillings and tooth whitening.
Call us to discuss in more detail about your sensitive teeth, we can help.
How can I prevent gum disease and tooth decay?
Having great home care is the key to great dental health. Brushing and flossing daily while eating healthy will help minimize your risk of gingivitis and tooth decay.
Major causes of tooth decay are sugary, sticky foods and beverages. The more sugar consumed, the more acid, which gets produced leading to decay. Sugar combines with plaque to weaken the enamel leaving you vulnerable to tooth decay. Each time you eat a sugary snack, your teeth are vulnerable to damage from the acids for the next 20 minutes.
What is Gingivitis? Signs and Symptoms
Gingivitis — an inflammation of the gums — is the initial stage of gum disease and the easiest to treat. The direct cause of gingivitis is plaque – the soft, sticky, colorless film of bacteria that forms constantly on the teeth and gums. During your dental visit, one of our Hygienists will teach you proper home care to help prevent gum disease.
Classic signs and symptoms of gingivitis include red, swollen, tender gums that may bleed when you brush. Another sign of gum disease is gums that have receded or pulled away from your teeth.
When gingivitis is not treated, it can advance to “periodontitis” (which means “inflammation around the tooth”). Your gums begin to pull away from the teeth and form spaces (called “pockets”) that become infected. The bacteria surrounds the tooth and grows below the gum line. Overtime, the infection will start to break down the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. If not treated, the bones, gums, and tissue that support the teeth are destroyed. The teeth may eventually become loose and have to be removed.
What is Tooth Whitening?
Tooth Whitening is a cost effective and safe procedure to create a beautiful, healthy smile. This simple procedure can make and impressive change to your smile. Beverages such as coffee, tea, cola and wine will reduce the lasting effect. Touch ups may be necessary based on your home care.
What is an Amalgam or Composite?
Amalgam is the clinical word for “silver” fillings. Amalgams have been used for decades and are made from a metal alloy, it was the best restoration for fillings. The metal material will expand and contract with the heat and cold placed in the mouth. This will allow for little bacteria to enter a tooth once filled; keeping the tooth healthy and strong.
Composites are “white” fillings. Composites are often made of plastic or glass polymers. This type of procedure is a cosmetic filling and will allow us to fill a cavity that will look like your existing tooth structure. This restoration material fits tightly into a tooth to prevent decay.
What is Bonding?
This term is used to describe the procedure to close gaps in front teeth and to change their color. Composite material is used during this procedure. The results are immediate and amazing. Within a short time, you will have a great smile!
What are Veneers?
Veneers are created using thin pieces of porcelain that go directly over your natural teeth. In as little as two visits we can change your smile. This procedure can change the size, shape and color of your teeth. It is possible to repair fractured teeth, teeth darkened by age or medication, or a teeth that are not aligned.
What are Crowns?
Crowns or “caps” are a permanent procedure that covers the entire tooth. A crown is placed on a tooth for several reasons including fractures and root canals. This procedure takes only 2 appointments.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root, made of titanium, that is placed into your jaw. Dental implants may be an option for people who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or another reason. The implant is placed under the gum and directly into the jawbone. There is minimal discomfort involved with this procedure. After a period of a few months, the implant fuses to the bone and creates an anchor for a new crown to be placed over it.
Does your office offer financing for services provided?
Please contact us to discuss the options we have available to make your perfect smile today!
