Preventative Services
We have many services available in order to help prevent your teeth from damage.
Evaluating your entire masticatory system (teeth, jaws, soft tissue, head, neck) is essential for arriving at a complete diagnosis with treatment recommendations.
During this exam we collect data which will allow us to determine your level of gum disease, tooth decay, tooth trauma, TMJ health, and occlusion. Radiographs are critical part of this examination as they allow us to evaluate your jawbones, sinus cavities and the two-thirds of the tooth that cannot be seen in the mouth.
While we encourage all our new patients to have a comprehensive examination, if you are in pain we will do site specific exams to diagnose and treat the source of your discomfort.
Regular brushing and flossing at home are key to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Additionally, regular checkups and dental hygiene visits are critical. Our professional staff of dental hygienists can provide a range of cleanings that are suited to your oral health needs. We will be sure that you have your specific needs met so that you can achieve optimal oral health. We also have multiple Hygienists available at the same time so family members may be seen at the same time, thus eliminating a long wait.
Dental sealants (also known as “tooth sealants”) can play an important role in helping to prevent tooth decay (“cavities”) in some locations on teeth. Sealants provide a protective barrier applied over the biting surface of the teeth to help prevent cavities from forming. They are mostly used for children with newly erupting teeth but are very beneficial for adults as well.
The placement of dental sealants involves bonding a plastic coating into the grooves of your tooth (the tooth’s pits and fissures). The net result is a smoother tooth surface, one which is less likely to trap food and plaque and one which is easier to clean with your toothbrush.
A night guard is for people who clench or grind their teeth at night, get migraine headaches or have TMJ issues. It is a custom fit acrylic spacer that slips over the teeth to protect from excessive wear. It also helps to align the joints and reduce muscle strain. Many patients who wear a night guard report fewer headaches and less soreness in the teeth and jaw.