 What will happen during my checkup and cleaning?
Why do you have to take x-rays? I don't want to be exposed to unnecessary radiation.
What is a cavity?
How can I prevent cavities?
How is a cavity fixed?
What can be done to help me improve my smile?
What Are The Benefits Of Laser Dentistry Over Traditional Treatment?
 What will happen during my checkup and cleaning?
  During your check up and cleaning, you will be checked for oral cancer, gum disease, cavities and jaw joint health. Necessary x-rays will be taken to assist in your diagnosis. Your teeth will be cleaned by one of our gentle and caring licensed dental hygienists and you will be instructed on how to care for your teeth and gums to prevent dental and gum disease.
Why do you have to take x-rays? I don’t want to be exposed to unnecessary radiation.
X-rays allow us to see in between your teeth to detect cavities before they become large. They also help to detect bone loss and detect tumors, cysts, un-erupted teeth and other problems not seen with the naked eye. Rest assured, today’s dental x-rays will expose you to only a minimal amount of radiation. Additionally, you will be shielded with a lead coat.
What is a cavity?
 The outer shell of the tooth is made of enamel, a highly mineralized material which is the hardest substance in the body. Under the enamel is dentin, a softer less mineralized layer, which covers the pulp or nerve of the tooth. Plaque is a sticky substance, which adheres to the tooth and is filled with bacteria. Some of these bacteria feed off of the sugars you eat. When these sugars are broken down, the bacteria excretes acid which breaks down the enamel and causes a cavity.
How can I prevent cavities?
Avoiding sweets, regular checkups and cleanings and proper brushing and flossing help to prevent cavities. Flossing gets rid of nasty plaque that accumulates between teeth and can’t be reached by a toothbrush.
How is a cavity fixed?
 Our office uses beautiful tooth colored restorations. In cases where the cavity is large, the tooth is often times better restored with a white or gold colored inlay or onlay which is custom made in a lab and provides for greater strength than a directly made restoration. In cases where a significant portion of the tooth is missing, a crown, which covers and strengthens the entire tooth is best.
What can be done to help me improve my smile?
 Depending on your concerns, your teeth can be lightened with a custom made take home bleaching kit, straightened with orthodontics, or bonded with porcelain and composite to give you a smile you can feel confident sharing with the world. Let us know your concerns and we will inform you of your options so you can make informed choices.
What Are The Benefits Of Laser Dentistry Over Traditional Treatment?
There are many benefits of laser dentistry. They may include:
- faster healing
- reduced risk of infection
- decreased sensitivity
- less time in the dental chair
- less bleeding
- less post-operative pain
- less noise than the traditional dental drill
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