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Dental Check-ups & Cleanings
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are the cornerstones of preventative dental care. These appointments provide an opportunity for a comprehensive examination of your teeth, gums, and oral tissues, allowing for the early detection of potential issues such as cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer. Professional cleanings, performed by a dental hygienist, remove plaque and tartar buildup that cannot be effectively eliminated by daily brushing and flossing. X-rays may also be taken to identify hidden problems, such as impacted teeth or bone loss. These visits are also crucial for receiving personalized guidance on maintaining optimal oral hygiene practices.
Dental Fillings
When tooth decay results in a cavity, a filling is essential to restore the tooth's structure and prevent further damage. The procedure involves the dentist removing the decayed portion of the tooth using a dental drill. The cleaned cavity is then filled with a restorative material, most commonly composite resin, which is tooth-colored. The filling is carefully shaped and polished to blend seamlessly with the natural contours of the tooth.
Crowns
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that completely covers the visible portion of a tooth. Crowns are utilized to restore teeth that have been severely damaged, weakened, or discolored, as well as to cover dental implants or support a dental bridge. These restorations can be crafted from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination thereof, ensuring a durable and aesthetically pleasing result. The process typically requires two dental visits to complete.
Root Canals
A root canal procedure becomes necessary when the tooth's pulp, the soft tissue inside the tooth, becomes infected or inflamed. This treatment involves the meticulous removal of the infected pulp, followed by the cleaning and shaping of the root canals. The canals are then filled and sealed to prevent further infection. This procedure effectively saves the tooth from extraction and alleviates pain. Often, a dental crown is placed on the tooth after a root canal to provide additional strength and protection.
Extractions
Tooth extractions are performed when a tooth is too severely damaged or infected to be saved, or when it is causing other dental problems. Common reasons for extractions include severe decay, impacted wisdom teeth, and overcrowding. The dentist administers local anesthesia to numb the area before carefully removing the tooth. In certain cases, surgical extractions may be required.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed into the jawbone, providing a stable foundation for replacement teeth such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. Implants offer a long-lasting and natural-looking solution for missing teeth. The process involves multiple stages and several months for complete healing, ensuring a strong and secure restoration.
Dentures
Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth, designed to restore chewing function and enhance appearance. Complete dentures replace all of the teeth in an arch, while partial dentures replace only some missing teeth. These custom-made appliances are tailored to fit the individual's mouth comfortably and effectively.
Orthodontics (Invisalign)
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry dedicated to correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. Traditional braces utilize metal brackets and wires to gradually move teeth into the desired position, while Invisalign employs clear, removable aligners to achieve the same results. Orthodontic treatment not only improves facial aesthetics but also oral health and bite function.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening procedures are designed to lighten the color of teeth by removing stains and discoloration. Professional teeth whitening can be performed in-office or at home with custom-made trays and whitening gel. Over-the-counter whitening products are also available, although they may not be as effective as professional treatments.
