A common procedure performed when a tooth has been damaged by decay. The purpose of a filling is to remove the decay and restore a tooth’s form and function so that your teeth stay healthy.
Depending on the extent of the decay damage and the location of the tooth, there are a number of different materials that can be safely used to fill a tooth, including gold, silver, composite, and porcelain.
Fillings are often covered by dental insurance.
A crown is a type of artificial tooth that is placed overtop a previously existing tooth. This can be done because a tooth is weak, severely damaged or discolored, or for cosmetic purposes. In the case of more than one tooth being removed from the same area, you might need a bridge which is several artificial teeth linked together in one item.
Crowns take more than one visit. The first visit will file the tooth down before putting a temporary crown on to protect the real tooth. After impressions are taken of your teeth, the crown is made to fit your mouth.
Please know that your base tooth can still get decay and damage, and should be cleaned and checked up on regularly.
Cleanings are often performed by a hygienist and are a preventative procedure meant to check the state of your teeth and address any possible issues early. Teeth cleanings are means of cleaning your teeth above and below the gums, and help get your mouth healthier, and leave your smile sparkling.
Just remember to floss!
X-Rays are used to check the state of teeth beneath the surface for signs of damage or decay both in the tooth and in the root. Dental x-rays focus only on the patients mouth. This process is quick and harmless, and a lead vest is used to ensure total safety from the radiographs. This gives us a good idea on any problem areas within your mouth.
Commonly known as Novocain, this injectable chemical is a local anesthetic used to numb the mouth around the area being worked on. Once injected, the area will be numb for 3-6 hours, and will allow the dentist to work on your teeth without fear of pain.
For those who have dental anxiety or fear of needles, it is common to use both Nitrous Oxide alongside Novocain to keep you calm, relaxed, and pain free during your visit.
Commonly used as a means of managing pain and anxiety during a dental procedure, Nitrous Oxide is a gas inhaled from a mask over the nose. When used in combination with oxygen flow, this gas is relatively harmless and can help a patient relax while in the chair. Once the mask is removed, the effects of Nitrous Oxide should completely dissipate in the span of a few minutes, leaving you free to go about your day without adverse effects.
The use of Nitrous Oxide is often referred to as ‘conscious sedation’ or ‘relative analgesia’ and is used by dentists across the globe.
The following are procedures that are not performed at this dental office: Root Canals, Dental Surgery, Orthadontics. Please ask about our list of reccommended specialists if you need any of the aforementioned procedures.