Fillings

Fillings are done to remove decay and replace the affected tooth structure. It is called a “filling” because a material refills the hole that decay has left. Caught early enough, cavities can be treated easily and painlessly. If not treated, decay can lead to pain and/or infection, resulting in root canal treatment or the loss of the tooth.

Bonding

Bonding involves adhering composite resin material that is matched to the color of the tooth. This is done to repair damage to the tooth by decay or for cosmetic purposes, such as the re-alignment of a tooth and close gaps between the teeth.

Sealants

A sealant is used to fill in narrow grooves in a tooth that cannot be adequately cleaned by brushing. In some cases, the tooth structure has fine grooves or pits which accumulate plaque.  These will develop cavities over time. So the dentist will brush on a coating that seals the grooves and pits, making it possible to brush off all the plaque and keep your teeth healthy.

Non-Surgical Gum Treatments

The gums, ligaments, and bone around the tooth form the foundation for one’s teeth. All structures are also referred to as the periodontium. When the periodontium is not healthy, it jeopardizes the teeth just as a bad foundation would threaten the stability of a house. Signs of unhealthy periodontium (gum disease) may be as follows: gums that are red and bleed easily, persistent bad breath, gums that are pulled away from the tooth, loose teeth, and changes in the position or bite. Any of these signs may mean something is wrong. With the proper care, it may be possible to return the gums to a healthy state.  Treatment usually involves a deep cleaning under a local anesthetic or in severe cases gum disease may be treated surgically. Early detection/treatment is important for healthy teeth and gums.

X-Rays

In our office, we use digital radiography. This allows us to take X-rays using less radiation. Coupled with computer monitoring, digital x-ray technology allows us to enhance the images for better diagnosis. This gives the familiar black and white images that doctors and dentists use to diagnose problems. X-rays are a necessary part of the diagnostic process. Without an X-ray, there is no real way to detect infection or pathology that requires attention.

Prescription Toothpastes

Clinpro™ 5000 – 1.1% Sodium Fluoride Anti-Cavity Toothpaste contains an innovative Tri-Calcium Phosphate ingredient and provides over 4 times more fluoride than regular toothpaste. It is usually used once a day as part of a professional program for persons at a high risk for cavities to prevent and control tooth decay. It’s a better way to fight cavities…every time you brush.

PreviDent® 5000 – The amount of fluoride contained in Colgate® PreviDent® 5000 is a higher level of fluoride, three times the amount found in regular toothpaste. Using Colgate® PreviDent® 5000 as prescribe could benefit your oral health by:

• Fewer areas of decay
• Stronger teeth
• Less cavities and reduced fillings

Daily use of Colgate® PreviDent® 5000 along with eating a healthy diet and flossing helps strengthen teeth.