Routine dental cleanings and exams 2x a year are integral in maintaining optimal dental health. However, frequency of visits can vary depending on a patient’s current oral health. Exams include checking the mouth’s oral tissues and teeth for:
- Periodontal gum disease and recession
- Signs of oral cancer on tongue or roof of mouth
- Tooth decay
- Tooth disease
- Tooth fractures
- Broken fillings
Fluoride Treatments
We offer fluoride treatments which contain a higher strength of fluoride than what is available in over-the-counter products. Fluoride treatments in our office can come in the form of foams that are placed in a tray, varnishes that are painted onto the teeth or gels that can be administered by painting them on the teeth.
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in or added to many water supplies to increase our teeth’s resistance to tooth decay.
It is most important for children between the ages of 6 months and 16 years to be exposed to fluoride because this is when their primary and adult teeth erupt. However, adults can also benefit from fluoride treatment to prevent sensitivity and protect crowns and fillings from recurrent decay.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants have become a popular tool in children’s overall preventive dental care. They are a preventative measure to fight tooth decay on the chewing surfaces of the permanent molars. This thin plastic coating is applied to the chewing surfaces of the teeth, light cured, rinsed and dried creating a protective barrier against tooth decay.
Sealants can last for several years. It is a good idea to have them inspected at each dental check-up appointment to ensure they remain in optimum working condition. If they have become chipped or compromised in any way, they can be easily reapplied.
Digital X-Rays
Technology has resulted in significant improvements in dentistry and that is particularly true when it comes to the use of digital radiology (digital x-rays) instead of traditional x-ray technology. Digital x-rays are safer for patients and are a more environmentally friendly alternative to the traditional method because they do not involve the use and disposal of the chemicals necessary to develop film.
Our office uses digital x-ray technology because it is a faster process that requires less exposure time to radiation. In fact, studies have shown an 80% reduction in radiation compared to the traditional x-ray method. With this advanced technology, digital x-rays provide a clearer and more detailed picture than traditional x-rays.
Direct sensor systems enable images to instantly appear on the computer screen in your examination room making it possible to provide you with a visual reference during the process of formulating a diagnosis.
Dental x-rays may reveal:
- Decay between teeth
- Cracks in teeth
- Bone loss from periodontal disease
- Abscesses or cysts
- Cancerous or noncancerous tumors
Custom 3-D Printed Night Guards
Many patients are completely unaware that they may be damaging their teeth as a result of grinding and clenching while asleep. During a dental examination, our doctors can detect tooth wear and cracks commonly caused by tooth grinding. The patient may notice a sore jaw in the morning if they have been grinding their teeth, though many are actually unaware they have been damaging their teeth in their sleep.
If left untreated, chronic grinding and clenching can wear the teeth prematurely. This can cause cracks in the teeth and lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, neck, ear pain and headaches.
Custom-made occlusal night guards (fitted oral devices) are most effective because they are molded to fit your teeth perfectly. They are made to fit over the upper or lower teeth to absorb the impact created by clenching and grinding.
Getting fitted for a night guard typically requires two dental appointments. A digital scan of the teeth is taken during your first appointment and is used to create the appliance. After we 3-D print your custom occlusal guard, a follow-up appointment is then needed to deliver the appliance and to make any necessary minor adjustments.
Ready to Schedule an Appointment?
If you’d like to schedule your next visit with us or have any additional questions about our services, feel free to give us a call at (864) 585-5246. To request an appointment online, please fill out our patient contact form:
