Comprehensive Oral Evaluation
An oral evaluation is recommended every six (6) months to prevent cavities and other dental problems. During an oral evaluation, a thorough examination of the mouth, head, and neck is performed to detect abnormalities.
Dental Cleanings (Prophylaxis)
Regular cleanings help keep gums healthy and teeth cavity-free. A dental cleaning includes removal of tartar and plaque and polishing of the teeth to remove stains and prevent further buildup of plaque.
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride is a natural substance that helps strengthen teeth and prevent decay. Fluoride treatments are administered at this office as an important component of pediatric dental treatment. The fluoride is applied to the teeth in a gel, foam, or varnish form.
Digital Radiographs
Dental X-rays are a valuable diagnostic tool used to identify decay, extra teeth, bone defects, tumors, cysts and check the progress of previous procedures. Advances in technology now allow for digital X-rays, which reduce radiation exposure more than 50 percent, and produce instant, high-quality images that can be viewed immediately by the dentist and the patient.
Oral Hygiene Instructions
During a regular check-up, oral hygiene instructions are given to both patient and parent. Good home care can reduce the risk of plaque and tartar build-up which can lead to cavities. Instructions include proper techniques for brushing, flossing, and using mouth rinses.
Bruxism
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can affect an individual at any age. Bruxism is the sliding of the teeth back and forth over each other (grinding) or clenching and unclenching of the teeth. It can occur during the day or night, during sleep or while awake, so patients may not even be unaware that they are doing it. Some children grind their teeth because they are stressed while some do so for no reason at all, but bruxism can lead to significant dental problems if not addressed. This grinding causes additional wear on the tooth and root structures, as well as surrounding tissues, due to the abnormal, frequent pressure. Bruxism can lead to problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), can impact sleep, and can cause damage to the teeth themselves.
A custom removable acrylic appliance can be made to help protect teeth against wear, breakage, and other effects of bruxism. These appliances are usually worn at night during sleep.
Signs and symptoms of bruxism include:
- Headache or migraine
- Facial pain
- Trouble sleeping
- Tightness of the jaw or muscles around the jaw
- Earaches
- Damage to the gum tissue or inside of cheeks
- Worn down, flattened, or dull teeth
- Sensitive teeth
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are made of a safe resin material which is applied to the surfaces of teeth (commonly permanent molars) to prevent cavities. The sealant material fills in the crevices of a tooth and “seals” off the tooth from cavity-causing agents like food and plaque. The teeth are prepared for the sealant application and the sealant is painted directly onto the chewing surface of each tooth and then hardens. Sealants are applied in one visit.