Gentle Care of Precious Young Smiles

Dental Procedures

A comprehensive dental exam including x-rays is performed during the  initial dental visit. Depending on your requirements a full range of options are available which are determined by the age of the patient, the degree of need, and your availability for treatments.

Movie Chair!

Comprehensive Examination

At regular check-up exams, your dentist and hygienist will include the following:

  • Examination of diagnostic x-rays for detection of decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss.
  • Oral cancer screening: check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.
  • Gum disease evaluation: check the gums and bone around the teeth for any signs of periodontal disease.
  • Examination of tooth decay: all tooth surfaces will be checked for decay with special dental instruments.
  • Examination of existing restorations: check current fillings, crowns, etc.

Professional Dental Cleaning

Your cleaning appointment will include a dental examination and the following:

  • Removal of calculus: calculus is hardened plaque (bacteria) that has been left on the tooth for some time and is now firmly attached to the tooth surface.  Calculus forms above and below the gum line and can only be removed with special dental instruments.
  • Removal of plaque: plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on the teeth.  It is a growing colony of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva.  The bacteria produce “poisons” that inflame the gums, cause gum disease, and tooth loss.
  • Teeth polishing: remove stain and plaque.
  • Oral hygiene instruction.

Fluoride Treatment

Fluoride is the most effective agent available to help prevent tooth decay. We may recommend the use of home and/or professional fluoride treatments for the following reasons:

  • Deep pits and fissures on the chewing surfaces of teeth.
  • Exposed and sensitive root surfaces.
  • Fair to poor oral hygiene habits.
  • Frequent sugar and carbohydrate intake.

 It is important to brush at least twice a day, floss regularly, eat balanced meals, reduce sugary snacks, and visit your dentist on a regular basis. Fluoride alone will not prevent tooth decay!

Dental Restoration

Tooth colored fillings (composites), sealants and preventive resin restorations, crowns (caps), replacement of prematurely lost primary teeth, mouth guards for protection of teeth during sports, toothprints for parent / police records.

Endodontics

Root canal treatment (nerve treatment) of primary teeth due to extensive decay or accident.

Oral Surgery

Extraction of the teeth due to dental infection, accidents involving extensive tooth fracture, or orthodontic requirements for braces.  Frenectomy for correction of tongue ties and upper teeth space.

Space Maintainers

To preserve space for eruption of permanent teeth.

Orthodontics

Assessing the need for correction of crowding, early correction of crossbite, management of oral habits, digit / thumb sucking, abnormal swallowing, etc.