Services

Whether your dental needs are a simple cleaning and exam, a complete dental makeover, or anything in between, we promise to provide you with exceptional care. Below are just some of the many procedures and services we regularly provide to our patients. Your satisfaction is our first priority, and we'll give you something to smile about.

If you have any questions, concerns, or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact us today. We look forward to providing you with the personal care you deserve.

Comprehensive Dental Examination

A comprehensive dental examination will be performed at your initial dental visit. It will include the following:

• Examination for tooth decay. Tooth decay is not just a problem for children; as adults are living longer and keeping their teeth longer, decay remains a serious dental issue.
• Evaluation for gum (periodontal) disease. Periodontal disease causes bone to be lost around teeth and is estimated to affect up to 80% of the adult population in one form or another.
• Evaluation of necessary x-rays (radiographs). We use the latest in digital radiography, improving our diagnostic capabilities while reducing x-ray exposure 70-80% over film based techniques. Essential for detection of decay, abcesses, cysts, and bone loss. X-rays can also help us evaluate if you are a candidate for dental implants.
• Examination of existing dentistry; check current fillings, crowns, bridges, partial plates, and complete dentures. Although well done dentistry can last for years, there comes a time when replacement becomes necessary. Using special cameras, we can show you what we see and why we may recommend something new.
• Evaluation of the wear and cracking of teeth. The mouth is a harsh environment and the teeth take abuse. Options exist to fix what is worn and broken and protect what you now have.
• Cosmetic/Esthetic evaluation. Modern dentistry has many options to make your teeth and smile project the image you've always wanted.
• Oral cancer screening: Check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.

Professional Dental Cleanings

Professional dental cleanings are performed by Registered Dental Hygienists. Dental cleanings actually include a range of services provided by Dental Hygienists:

• Dental Prophylaxis: This is what is commonly called a dental cleaning. It involves removal of plaque, stain, and calculus (tarter) on the enamel surface and just below the gumline. It is the type of cleaning for patients who do not have periodontal disease. This is usually done every 6 to 12 months.
• Dental Scaling: If it has been a while since the teeth were last cleaned, it may be necessary to spend more time in removal of accumulated calculus/tarter before a Dental Prophylaxis can be done and may well require a separate visit. Sometimes this is necessary before an accurate evaluation for periodontal disease can be performed.
• Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing: Once pockets form between the tooth and gum and bone is lost, periodontal disease has set in. More time is needed to address the cleaning needs of the periodontal patient. Sometimes, only a few teeth are affected by periodontal disease, other times most of the teeth are involved. Each patient is assessed for their specific needs and an appropriate plan to address those needs will be developed.
• Periodontal Maintenance: Once periodontal disease is under control, it is necessary to maintain the improvements. This requires a more frequent cleaning schedule due to the nature of periodontal disease. Recommendations are usually for maintenance visits every 3 months.

Dental X-Rays

Dental radiographs (x-rays) are essential diagnostic tools that provide valuable information not visible during a regular dental exam. We use this information to safely and accurately detect hidden dental abnormalities and to complete an accurate treatment plan. Without x-rays, problem areas can go undetected resulting in more serious issues at a later time.

Dental x-rays may reveal:

• Abscesses or cysts in the jawbone and around teeth.
• Periodontal bone loss around teeth.
• Cancerous and non-cancerous tumors.
• Decay between the teeth and under existing dental work.
• Developmental abnormalities such as missing or unerupted teeth.
• If there is enough bone for dental implants.
• Problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)
• Problems inside a tooth or below the gum line.
• Detecting and treating dental problems at an early stage can save you time, money, unnecessary discomfort, and your teeth!

Are dental x-rays safe?

We are all exposed to natural radiation in our environment. The amount of radiation exposure from a full mouth series of x-rays is equal to the amount a person receives in a single day from natural sources.

Dental x-rays produce a very low level of radiation. At Creative Dental Solutions, we take necessary precautions to limit the patient's exposure to radiation when taking dental x-rays. These precautions include using lead apron shields to protect the body and using modern digital techniques that cuts down the exposure time of each x-ray 70-80% over film based techniques.

How often should dental x-rays be taken?

The need for dental x-rays depends on each patient's individual dental health needs. We will recommend necessary x-rays based on the review of your medical and dental history, dental exam, signs and symptoms, age consideration, and risk for disease.

A full mouth survey using dental x-rays is recommended for new patients. This may include a series of individual x-rays, a panoramic x-ray, or a combination of the two. A full mouth survey is usually good for two to five years. Bite-wing x-rays (x-rays of top and bottom teeth biting together) are taken at varying intervals after having a full mouth survey and is based on a patient's individual needs. For children, the interval may be every 6 to 12 months. For adults, the interval may be every 6 months, but is more commonly every 12 to 36 months depending on their dental history.

Home Care

A beautiful, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime is our ultimate goal when treating patients. Your personal home care plays an important role in achieving that goal. Your personal home care starts by eating balanced meals, reducing the number of snacks you eat, and correctly using the various dental aids that help control the plaque and bacteria that cause dental disease.

Tooth brushing - Brush your teeth at least twice a day (especially before going to bed at night) with soft bristle brush and toothpaste.

Place the brush at a 45-degree angle to the gums and gently brush using a small, circular motion, ensuring that you always feel the bristles on the gums.
Brush the outer, inner, and biting surfaces of each tooth.
Use the tip of the brush to clean the inside of the front teeth.
Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
Electric toothbrushes can be very helpful. They are easy to use and can remove plaque efficiently. Simply place the bristles of the electric brush on your gums and teeth and allow the brush to do its job, several teeth at a time. There are a number of electric brushes available today. We can help you decide which is the best one for you. We have available a number of different types of what we consider to be the best choices at prices typically below retail. Ask us to show you!

Flossing - Daily flossing is one of the best ways to clean between the teeth and under the gumline. Flossing not only helps clean these spaces, it disrupts plaque colonies from building up, preventing damage to the gums, teeth, and bone.

Take 12-16 inches (30-40cm) of dental floss and wrap it around your middle fingers, leaving about 2 inches (5cm) of floss between the hands.
Using your thumbs and forefingers to guide the floss, gently insert the floss between your teeth using a sawing motion.
Curve the floss into a C shape around each tooth and under the gumline. Gently move the floss up and down, cleaning the side of each tooth.
Floss holders are recommended if you have difficulty using conventional floss.

There are other methods for cleaning between the teeth that include special brushes, wooden and plastic picks, rubber tips, and water piks. We will help you find the best methods for cleaning between your teeth.

Rinsing - There are a number of mouthrinses available today. They can be helpful for control of gingivitis, bad breath, and tooth decay. Let us help you decide what could benefit you.

Tooth Colored Fillings

A tooth colored composite resin filling is used to repair a tooth that is affected by decay, cracks, or fractures. They are also used to replace a worn out or defective silver amalgam filling or early generation resin filling. They are used in back teeth as well as front teeth. The decayed or affected portion of the tooth will be removed and then restored with a composite resin. These materials are not only esthetic, but are very strong and wear extremely well. Through the bonding process, they reinforce and strengthen the tooth that has been weakened.

There are many types of materials available today to restore teeth, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. We can discuss with you the best options for restoring your teeth.

Crowns

A crown (or cap) is a dental restoration that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size, or an improved size and shape. A crown protects tooth structure that can no longer be restored well with fillings or other types of restorations. They can be used for both front and back teeth.

There are several types of crowns; all porcelain, porcelain fused to zirconia or alumina (a CAD CAM milled ceramic base), porcelain fused to gold alloy, and all gold. The type of crown best for you will depend on what area of the mouth it is needed, the stresses placed on it, durability issues, and the esthetic requirements.

Reasons for crowns:

• Broken or fractured teeth.
• Cosmetic enhancement.
• Decayed teeth.
• Fractured fillings.
• Large fillings.
• A tooth that has had root canal treatment.

Fixed Bridges

A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) restoration and has traditionally been and still can be an excellent way to replace missing teeth.

There are several types of bridges. We can discuss the best options for your particular case. The "traditional bridge" is the most popular type and is usually made of porcelain fused to a gold framework. Newer porcelain fused to CAD CAM milled zirconia fixed bridges are an option for a very strong and esthetic alternative to the traditional porcelain fused to gold type. Fixed bridgework consists of crowns that go over the anchoring teeth (abutment teeth) and have artificial teeth (pontics) attached to the abutment crowns , filling the gap created by one or more missing teeth.

There is a variation of the traditional fixed bridge called the "Maryland Bridge" or resin bonded bridge. It is not a substitute for a traditional bridge, but there are times when it is not advisable to crown the anchoring teeth and it may be a more conservative option in these situations.

Dental bridges are highly durable and will last many years, however they may need replacement or need to be re-cemented or repaired due to normal wear.

Reasons for a fixed bridge:

• Replace missing teeth.
• Maintain facial shape.
• Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position.
• Restore chewing and speaking ability.
• Restore your smile.
• Upgrade from a removable partial denture to a permanent dental appliance.

Although fixed dental bridges continue to be one of the best ways to replace missing teeth, replacing missing teeth with dental implants and crowns has become an option that many times has significant advantages to the fixed dental bridge. Please read further on for information on replacement of teeth with dental implants.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are very thin pieces of durable, tooth shaped porcelain that are custom made (for shape and color) by a professional dental laboratory. They are bonded onto the front of teeth to create a beautiful and attractive smile.

Veneers can completely reshape your teeth and smile. They can often be alternatives to crowns and the ideal solution in treating many dental conditions. Esthetic results using porcelain veneers can be outstanding.

Porcelain veneers may require little or no removal of existing tooth structure. A patented process called Lumineers by Cerinate may be the best option if you are a candidate for this type of veneer.

Some porcelain veneers do require some removal of enamel to get the desired result. This process is considered to be much more conservative than the traditional crown that fits over the entire tooth.

As with most dental restorations, veneers are not permanent and may someday need replacement. They are very durable and will last many years, giving you a beautiful long lasting smile.

Reasons for porcelain veneers:

• Cosmetic enhancement, to create a more natural and beautiful smile.
• Crooked teeth.
• Severely discolored or stained teeth.
• Teeth that are too small or large.
• Unwanted or uneven spaces.
• Worn or chipped teeth.

Tooth Whitening

Having whiter teeth has now become the number one aesthetic concern of many patients. Tooth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment used to change the color of natural tooth enamel and can be an ideal way to enhance the beauty of your smile.

We have a number of ways to whiten your teeth. The most popular method is using a home bleaching system that will whiten teeth in 14 to 21 days. We make you flexible custom fitted bleaching appliances that you can wear while you sleep or for a period of time during the day. We can enhance the results of at home bleaching by an in office "jump start" and also offer an in office "deep bleaching" at the end of treatment for those that want the ultimate in whitening!

In office bleaching without the at home process is available and may be the best option for those who need the bleaching done quickly or don't have the patience for the at home process. One visit may be enough, although needing more than one session is not uncommon.

Office dispensed, "over the counter", options are also available.

Since tooth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is important to evaluate replacement of any old fillings, crowns, etc. Replacement of any restorations will be done after bleaching so they will match the newly bleached teeth.

Tooth whitening can last nicely, but all teeth can discolor with time. A touch-up maybe needed, whether it be at home a few times a year or at the office periodically. If you smoke, drink coffee, tea, or wine, you may need to do maintenance bleaching more often.

Reasons for tooth whitening:

• Fluorosis (excessive fluoridation during tooth development).
• Normal wear of outer tooth layer.
• Stained teeth due to medications such as tetracycline
• Yellow, brown stained and darkened teeth.

Invisalign

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is the invisible new way to straighten teeth without braces. Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth without metal or wires. At Creative Dental Solutions, we are proud to offer this technology.

How does Invisalign work?

Invisalign aligners move the teeth incrementally and each is worn for about two weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved. The number of aligners created by 3-D computer technology is usually between 15 and 30, although it may be more or less depending on your specific situation.

What are the primary benefits of Invisalign?

1. Invisalign is nearly invisible; you can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.
2. Invisalign is removable; you can eat and drink what you want in treatment; you can also brush and floss normally to maintain good oral hygiene.
3. Invisalign is comfortable. There are no metal brackets or wires to cause mouth irritation.
4. Invisalign allows you to view your own virtual treatment plan before you start, so you can see how your teeth will look when your treatment is complete. We will then invite you to view your "ClinCheck" movie to see your teeth move from start to finish!

How do I get started?

Call for your free Invisalign consultation to see if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment! If Dr. Sevey feels that you are a candidate, a series of records including photos, x-rays, and impressions are taken to send to Invisalign to develop a treatment plan for you. There is a $99 charge for this service. Should you decide to go ahead with treatment, this $99 charge will be deducted from your total treatment cost. Once the plan is ready, you will get to see your teeth in motion from start to finish in a computerized movie. At that point, we will have all the information we need to get you started!

Oral Sedation Dentistry

What is Oral Sedation Dentistry?

Many people are afraid or uncomfortable about going to the dentist. Oral Sedation Dentistry offers pain-free and anxiety-free dentistry for patients who fear dental procedures, fear needles, have difficulty with their gag reflex, have very sensitive teeth, or have difficulty getting numb. It also provides an opportunity to perform multiple or lengthy dental procedures in as little as a single session.

Oral Sedation Dentistry generally requires that the patient take a prescribed medication by mouth the night before the dental procedure and then about one hour before the scheduled visit. The patient will arrive at the office in a relaxed state where assessment for need for further relaxing medication is done before treatment begins. During the procedure, the patient is not unconscious, but relaxed and detached from what is going on. The medications used generally have an amnesic effect, which means that the patient will have little memory of most of the dental visit.

During your treatment, we will continuously monitor your blood pressure, pulse, and oxygen saturation rate with state of the art monitoring equipment. We will never leave your side. You will have a companion accompany you to and from the office for your safety.

Dr. Sevey is a member of the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation and is certified in Advance Cardiac Life Support. He and his staff have been well trained in this safe and effective method of providing an anxiety free dental experience. Don't let the fear of dentistry keep you from having a great looking smile! Take the time to come in and meet us so we can decide together what is best for you. If you would like a first appointment to simply talk about your dental anxieties and fears, we can do that and no dental exam would be done. Or if you prefer, we can take a look to get an idea of how we can help you. Call today and ask for Sophie or Susan to get you started on your way to a new dental you!

Periodontal Disease

The word periodontal means "around the tooth". Periodontal disease attacks the gums and the bone that support the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva. If plaque is not removed, it turns into calculus (tartar). When plaque and calculus are not removed, they begin to destroy the gums and bone. Periodontal disease is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums.

Four out of five people have periodontal disease and don't know it! Most people are not aware of it because the disease is usually painless in the early stages.

Not only is it the number one reason for tooth loss, research suggests that there may be a link between periodontal disease and other diseases such as stroke, bacterial pneumonia, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and increased risk during pregnancy. Researchers are determining if inflammation and bacteria associated with periodontal disease affects these systemic diseases and conditions. Smoking also increases the risk of periodontal disease.

Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits can help reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease.

Signs and symptoms of periodontal disease:

• Bleeding gums - Gums should never bleed, even when you brush vigorously or use dental floss.
• Loose teeth - Also caused by bone loss or weakened periodontal fibers (fibers that support the tooth to the bone).
• New spacing between teeth - Caused by bone loss.
• Persistent bad breath - Caused by bacteria in the mouth.
• Pus around the teeth and gums - Sign that there is an infection present.
• Receding gums - Loss of gum around a tooth.
• Red and puffy gums - Gums should never be red or swollen.
• Tenderness or Discomfort - Plaque, calculus, and bacteria irritate the gums and teeth.

Periodontal Disease - Diagnosis

Periodontal disease is diagnosed by your dentist or dental hygienist during a periodontal examination. This type of exam should always be part of your regular dental check-up.

A periodontal probe (small dental instrument) is gently used to measure the sulcus (pocket or space) between the tooth and the gums. The depth of a healthy sulcus measures three millimeters or less and does not bleed. The periodontal probe helps indicate if pockets are deeper than three millimeters. As periodontal disease progresses, the pockets usually get deeper.

Your dentist or hygienist will use pocket depths, amount of bleeding, inflammation, tooth mobility, etc., to make a diagnosis that will fall into a category below:

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease. Plaque and its toxin by-products irritate the gums, making them tender, inflamed, and likely to bleed.

Periodontitis

Plaque hardens into calculus (tartar). As calculus and plaque continue to build up, the gums begin to recede from the teeth. Deeper pockets form between the gums and teeth and become filled with bacteria and pus. The gums become very irritated, inflamed, and bleed easily. Slight to moderate bone loss may be present.

Advanced Periodontitis

The teeth lose more support as the gums, bone, and periodontal ligament continue to be destroyed. Unless treated, the affected teeth will become very loose and may be lost. Generalized moderate to severe bone loss may be present.

Periodontal Disease - Treatment

Periodontal treatment methods depend upon the type and severity of the disease. Your dentist and dental hygienist will evaluate for periodontal disease and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Periodontal disease progresses as the sulcus (pocket or space) between the tooth and gums gets filled with bacteria, plaque, and tartar, causing irritation to the surrounding tissues. When these irritants remain in the pocket space, they can cause damage to the gums and eventually, the bone that supports the teeth!

If the disease is caught in the early stages of gingivitis, and no damage has been done, one to two regular cleanings will be recommended. You will also be given instructions on improving your daily oral hygiene habits and having regular dental cleanings.

If the disease has progressed to more advanced stages, a special periodontal cleaning called scaling and root planning (deep cleaning) will be recommended. It is usually done one quadrant of the mouth at a time while the area is numb. In this procedure, tartar, plaque, and toxins are removed from above and below the gum line (scaling) and rough spots on root surfaces are made smooth (planning). This procedure helps gum tissue to heal and pockets to shrink. Medications, special medicated mouth rinses, and an electric tooth brush may be recommended to help control infection and promote healing.

If the pockets do not heal after scaling and root planning, periodontal surgery may be needed to reduce pocket depths, making teeth easier to clean. Your dentist may also recommend that you see a Periodontist (specialist of the gums and supporting bone).

Periodontal Disease - Maintenance

It only takes twenty four hours for plaque that is not removed from your teeth to turn into calculus (tartar)! Daily home cleaning helps control plaque and tartar formation, but those hard to reach areas will always need special attention.

Once your periodontal treatment has been completed, your dentist and dental hygienist will recommend that you have regular maintenance cleanings (periodontal cleanings), usually four times a year. At these cleaning appointments, the pocket depths will be carefully checked to ensure that they are healthy. Plaque and calculus that is difficult for you to remove on a daily basis will be removed from above and below the gum line.

In addition to your periodontal cleaning and evaluation, your appointment will usually include:

• Examination of diagnostic x-rays (radiographs): Essential for detection of decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss.X-rays also help determine tooth and root positions.
• Examination of existing restorations: Check current fillings, crowns, etc.
• Examination of tooth decay: Check all tooth surfaces for decay.
• Oral cancer screening: Check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, cheek tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.
• Oral hygiene recommendations: Review and recommend oral hygiene aids as needed. (Electric toothbrushes, special periodontal brushes, fluorides, rinses, etc.)
• Teeth polishing: Remove stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed during tooth brushing and scaling.

Good oral hygiene practices and periodontal cleanings are essential in maintaining dental health and keeping periodontal disease under control!

Restorations

It's great news that the incidence of tooth decay has significantly diminished over the years due to the use of fluorides and an increase in patient awareness. However, teeth are still susceptible to decay, infection, and breakage and sometimes need to be restored back to health. Through improved techniques and modern technology, we are now able to offer more options for restoring a tooth back to its normal shape, appearance and function.

Should your teeth ever require a restorative treatment, you can rest assured knowing we will always discuss with you the available options, and recommend what we believe to be the most comfortable and least invasive treatment. Providing you with excellent care is our number one priority when creating your beautiful smile.

Reasons for restorative dentistry:

• Enhance your smile.
• Fill in unattractive spaces between teeth.
• Improve or correct an improper bite.
• Prevent the loss of a tooth.
• Relieve dental pain.
• Repair damaged and decayed teeth.
• Replace missing teeth.
• Replace old, unattractive dental treatments.
• Restore normal eating and chewing.
• Remember to give your teeth the attention they need today!

Restorations - Dental Implants

Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and also provide a fixed solution to having removable partial or complete dentures. Implants provide excellent support and stability for these dental appliances.

Dental implants are artificial roots and teeth (usually titanium) that are surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw bone by a dentist or Periodontist - a specialist of the gums and supporting bone. The teeth attached to implants are very natural looking and often enhance or restore a patient's smile!

Dental implants are very strong, stable, and durable and will last many years, but on occasion, they will have to be re-tightened or replaced due to normal wear.

Reasons for dental implants:

• Replace one or more missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth.
• Resolve joint pain or bite problems caused by teeth shifting into missing tooth space.
• Restore a patient's confident smile.
• Restore chewing, speech, and digestion.
• Restore or enhance facial tissues.
• Support a bridge or denture, making them more secure and comfortable.

What does getting dental implants involve?

The process of getting implants requires a number of visits over several months.

X-rays and impressions (molds) are taken of the jaw and teeth to determine bone, gum tissue, and spacing available for an implant. While the area is numb, the implant will be surgically placed into the bone and allowed to heal and integrate itself onto the bone for up to six months. Depending on the type of implant, a second surgery may be required in order to place the "post" that will hold the artificial tooth in place. With other implants the post and anchor are already attached and placed at the same time.

After several weeks of healing the artificial teeth are made and fitted to the post portion of the anchor. Because several fittings may be required, this step may take one to two months to complete. After a healing period, the artificial teeth are securely attached to the implant, providing excellent stability and comfort to the patient.

You will receive care instructions when your treatment is completed. Good oral hygiene, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new implant.

Restorations - Inlay Restorations

An inlay restoration is a custom made filling made of composite material, gold, or tooth-colored porcelain. It is made by a professional dental laboratory and is permanently cemented into the tooth by your dentist.

Inlays can be utilized to conservatively repair teeth that have large defective fillings or have been damaged by decay or trauma. Inlays are an ideal alternative to conventional silver and composite fillings. Also, they are more conservative than crowns because less tooth structure is removed in the preparation of inlays.

As with most dental restorations, inlays are not always permanent and may someday require replacement. They are highly durable and will last many years, giving you a beautiful long lasting smile.

Reasons for inlay restorations:

• Broken or fractured teeth.
• Cosmetic enhancement.
• Decayed teeth.
• Fractured fillings.
• Large fillings.

What does getting an inlay involve?

An inlay procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate impressions (molds) that will be used to create your custom inlay and a temporary restoration.

While the tooth is numb, the dentist will remove any decay and/or old filling materials. The space will then be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared, shaping the surface to properly fit an inlay restoration. A temporary filling will be applied to protect the tooth while your inlay is made by a dental laboratory.

At your second appointment your new inlay will be carefully and precisely cemented into place. A few adjustments may be necessary to ensure a proper fit and that your bite is comfortable.

You will receive care instruction at the conclusion of your treatment. Good oral hygiene practices, a proper diet, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new inlay.

Restorations - Onlay Restorations

A composite (tooth colored) filling is used to repair a tooth that is affected by decay, cracks, fractures, etc. The decayed or affected portion of the tooth will be removed and then filled with a composite filling.

There are many types of filling materials available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. You and your dentist can discuss the best options for restoring your teeth. Composite fillings, along with silver amalgam fillings, are the most widely used today. Because composite fillings are tooth colored, they can be closely matched to the color of existing teeth, and are more aesthetically suited for use in front teeth or the more visible areas of the teeth.

As with most dental restorations, composite fillings are not permanent and may someday have to be replaced. They are very durable, and will last many years, giving you a long lasting, beautiful smile.

Restorations - Composite Fillings

A composite (tooth colored) filling is used to repair a tooth that is affected by decay, cracks, fractures, etc. The decayed or affected portion of the tooth will be removed and then filled with a composite filling.

There are many types of filling materials available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. You and your dentist can discuss the best options for restoring your teeth. Composite fillings, along with silver amalgam fillings, are the most widely used today. Because composite fillings are tooth colored, they can be closely matched to the color of existing teeth, and are more aesthetically suited for use in front teeth or the more visible areas of the teeth.

As with most dental restorations, composite fillings are not permanent and may someday have to be replaced. They are very durable, and will last many years, giving you a long lasting, beautiful smile.

Reasons for composite fillings:

• Chipped teeth.
• Closing space between two teeth.
• Cracked or broken teeth.
• Decayed teeth.
• Worn teeth.

How are composite fillings placed?

Composite fillings are usually placed in one appointment. While the tooth is numb, your dentist will remove decay as necessary. The space will then be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared before the new filling is placed. If the decay was near the nerve of the tooth, a special medication will be applied for added protection. The composite filling will then be precisely placed, shaped, and polished, restoring your tooth to its original shape and function.

It is normal to experience sensitivity to hot and cold when composite fillings are first placed, however this will subside shortly after your tooth acclimates to the new filling.

You will be given care instructions at the conclusion of your treatment. Good oral hygiene practices, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new fillings.

Restorations - Crowns (Caps)

A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size. A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations.

Although there are several types of crowns, porcelain (tooth colored crown) are the most popular. They are highly durable and will last many years, but like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced. Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color or your teeth giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile.

Reasons for crowns:

• Broken or fractured teeth.
• Cosmetic enhancement.
• Decayed teeth.
• Fractured fillings.
• Large fillings.
• Tooth has a root canal.

What does getting a crown involve?

A crown procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom crown. A mold will also be used to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory.

While the tooth is numb, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown. Once these details are accomplished, your temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement and your bite will be checked to ensure you are biting properly.

At your second appointment your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate.

You will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new crown.

Restorations - Dentures & Partial Dentures

A denture is a removable dental appliance replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissue. They are made to closely resemble your natural teeth and may even enhance your smile.

There are two types of dentures - complete and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when all of the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. A Partial denture not only fills in the spaces created by missing teeth, it prevents other teeth from shifting.

A Complete denture may be either "conventional" or "immediate." A conventional type is made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed, usually taking 4 to 6 weeks. During this time the patient will go without teeth. Immediate dentures are made in advance and immediately placed after the teeth are removed, thus preventing the patient from having to be without teeth during the healing process. Once the tissues shrink and heal, adjustments will have to be made.

Dentures are very durable appliances and will last many years, but may have to be remade, repaired, or readjusted due to normal wear.

Reasons for dentures:

• Complete Denture - Loss of all teeth in an arch.
• Partial Denture - Loss of several teeth in an arch.
• Enhancing smile and facial tissues.
• Improving chewing, speech, and digestion.

What does getting dentures involve?

The process of getting dentures requires several appointments, usually over several weeks. Highly accurate impressions (molds) and measurements are taken and used to create your custom denture. Several "try-in" appointments may be necessary to ensure proper shape, color, and fit. At the final appointment, your dentist will precisely adjust and place the completed denture, ensuring a natural and comfortable fit.

It is normal to experience increased saliva flow, some soreness, and possible speech and chewing difficulty, however this will subside as your muscles and tissues get used to the new dentures.

You will be given care instructions for your new dentures. Proper cleaning of your new dental appliance, good oral hygiene, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new dentures.

Restorations - Fixed Bridges

A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) appliance and is an excellent way to replace missing teeth.

There are several types of bridges. You and your dentist will discuss the best options for your particular case. The "traditional bridge" is the most popular type and is usually made of porcelain fused to metal. This type of bridge consists of two crowns that go over two anchoring teeth (abutment teeth) and are attached to pontics (artificial teeth), filling the gap created by one or more missing teeth.

Dental bridges are highly durable and will last many years, however they may need replacement or need to be re-cemented due to normal wear.

Reasons for a fixed bridge:

• Fill space of missing teeth.
• Maintain facial shape.
• Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position.
• Restore chewing and speaking ability.
• Restore your smile.
• Upgrade from a removable partial denture to a permanent dental appliance.

What does getting a fixed bridge involve?

Getting a bridge usually requires two or more visits. While the teeth are numb, the two anchoring teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to allow for a crown. Next, a highly accurate impression (mold) is made which will be sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge will be fabricated. In addition, a temporary bridge will be made and worn for several weeks until your next appointment.

At the second visit, you permanent bridge will be carefully checked, adjusted, and cemented to achieve a proper fit. Occasionally your dentist may only temporarily cement the bridge, allowing your teeth and tissue time to get used to the new bridge. The new bridge will be permanently cemented at a later time.

You will receive care instructions at the conclusion of the procedure. Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new permanent bridge.

Restorations - Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy is needed when the nerve of a tooth is affected by decay or infection. In order to save the tooth, the pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth), nerves, bacteria, and any decay are removed and the resulting space is filled with special, medicated, dental materials, which restore the tooth to its full function.

Having a root canal done on a tooth is the treatment of choice to save a tooth that otherwise would die and have to be removed. Many patients believe that removing a tooth that has problems is the solution, but what is not realized is that extracting (pulling) a tooth will ultimately be more costly and cause significant problems for adjacent teeth.

Root canal treatment is highly successful and usually lasts a lifetime, although on occasion, a tooth will have to be retreated due to new infections.

Signs and symptoms for possible root canal therapy:

• An abscess (or pimple) on the gums.
• Sensitivity to hot and cold.
• Severe toothache pain.
• Sometimes no symptoms are present.
• Swelling and/or tenderness.

Reasons for root canal therapy:

• Decay has reached the tooth pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth).
• Infection or abscess have developed inside the tooth or at the root tip.
• Injury or trauma to the tooth.

What does root canal therapy involve?

A root canal procedure requires one or more appointments and can be performed by a dentist or endodontist (a root canal specialist).

While the tooth is numb, a rubber dam (a sheet of rubber) will be placed around the tooth to keep it dry and free of saliva. An access opening is made on top of the tooth and a series of root canal files are placed into the opening, one at a time, removing the pulp, nerve tissue, and bacteria. If tooth decay is present, it will also be removed with special dental instruments.

Once the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, it will be sealed with either a permanent filling or, if additional appointments are needed, a temporary filling will be placed.

At the next appointment, usually a week later, the roots and the inside cavity of the tooth will be filled and sealed with special dental materials. A filling will be placed to cover the opening on top of the tooth. In addition, all teeth that have root canal treatment should have a crown (cap) placed. This will protect the tooth and prevent it from breaking, and restore it to its full function.

After treatment, your tooth may still be sensitive, but this will subside as the inflammation diminishes and the tooth has healed.

You will be given care instructions after each appointment. Good oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your root canal treatment.