This procedure removes plaque and tartar build up from the teeth’s surface, this can be performed using manual tools or an ultrasonic device. Cleanings play a very important part in keeping up with your oral health. Not only does it leave teeth feeling smooth, it also helps prevent future build up. Typically this is done every 6 months, but this can vary depending on the patient’s needs.
What is a dental exam?
This is where the dentist and/or hygienist will evaluate your overall oral hygiene and health. This usually includes an evaluation of your risk for tooth decay, root decay, and gum or bone disease. This procedure will also tell you if you need any tooth restoration or replacement, along with identify any bite or jaw problems. Exams are very important in maintaining a healthy mouth.
What is a teeth cleaning/scaling?
This procedure removes plaque and tartar build up from the teeth’s surface, this can be performed using manual tools or an ultrasonic device. Cleanings play a very important part in keeping up with your oral health. Not only does it leave teeth feeling smooth, it also helps prevent future build up. Typically this is done every 6 months, but this can vary depending on the patient’s needs.
What is gum care?
These are steps taken to take care of the gum area that surround your teeth. This may include professional cleanings, but also at-home care such as brushing, flossing, rinsing, eating right, and visiting your dentist regularly.
What are braces?
They are devices used to align and straighten teeth. Also can be used to correct underbites, overbites, open bites, crooked teeth, and various other flaws of the teeth and the jaw.
What is a root canal?
When a tooth has become damaged by either an injury or a large cavity, a root canal is performed to remove the infected pulp within the root. Additionally, root canals may be performed when too little tooth structure remains to allow a crown to be anchored into the root.
What are veneers?
A veneer is a thin piece of porcelain used to re-create the natural look of teeth/tooth. The dentist will remove a small amount of enamel to make room for the veneer. An impression of the teeth/tooth is then made and a temporary veneer(s) is placed on the teeth/tooth with spot etching in the center away from the margins. At this visit the dentist and patient will determine the appropriate shade of the veneer(s). When the permanent veneer is ready, the temporary veneer is removed and the teeth/tooth is cleaned with pumice and water. The veneer is etched, rinsed with water and left to air dry. The adhesive is then placed on the preparation, the cement and veneer is then placed for fit and contour. It is then light cured for 60 seconds on all surfaces to attach it to the tooth structure.
What is a filling?
It is a dental restorative material used to restore the integrity, function, and morphology of the tooth’s missing structure.
What is a dental implant?
It’s an artificial tooth root that is placed into the jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. This is an option if you have lost a tooth or teeth due to disease, injury, or for other reasons. How is a dental implant procedure performed? Please watch the following video for a generalized visual on how this procedure is performed.
What is teeth whitening?
Procedure that helps to remove stains and discoloration from the teeth. An in office teeth whitening procedure is also known as chairside bleaching. This begins with the dentist applying either a protective gel or rubber shield to protect your gums. A bleaching agent, which can contain one of two bleaches hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, is applied to the teeth. It is then accompanied by a light or laser to enhance the action of the whitening agent. An in office procedure usually only requires one visit.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a modern approach to straightening your teeth. This method uses custom aligners made of smooth, comfortable, and virtually invisible plastic that are worn over the teeth. Wearing these aligners gently and gradually shifts your teeth into place according to your specified movement plan put together by your dentist or orthodontist. You will receive a new aligner about every two weeks until your treatment is complete. The time length of the treatment depends on the patients existing condition. After the treatment is complete the patient will wear a retainer while sleeping indefinitely.
What is a dental X-ray?
This is when a dental team member takes a picture of your teeth, bones, and soft tissue to assist in identifying problems with the teeth, mouth, and jaw. These images can show cavities, hidden dental issues, and bone levels that cannot be seen during a normal examination.
What is dental bonding?
A cosmetic procedure performed to improve the appearance of a discolored or chipped tooth. This process consists of applying a tooth-colored resin using adhesives and a high intensity curing light.
What is a denture?
Dentures are removable plates or frames that hold one or more artificial teeth. A partial is a denture used when one or more natural teeth remain in the upper or lower jaw.
What is a dental bridge?
Its purpose is to bridge gaps created by one or more missing teeth. It is made up of two or more crowns, one crown on either side of the gap(s). The two anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth, they support a false tooth/teeth in between.
What is a dental crown?
It’s a tooth shaped cap that is placed over a tooth. This serves to restore a tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance. This procedure may be needed if you have a weak tooth, broken tooth, tooth with a large filling, misshaped or severely discolored tooth, or just need a cosmetic modification.
