Services / FAQ
TOOTHACHE
A toothache can vary in frequency from infrequent to constant and range in severity from mild to severe symptoms. If the
tooth is sensitive to cold or sweets, it can be a warning that decay is present, a filling has failed, or the tooth is broken. There
may be other factors, such as sinus infection, referred pain, or sensitive root surfaces.
Pain relievers or toothache preparations, available without prescription, may afford temporary relief from pain. It is important
that the tooth not be subjected to hot or cold or to the pressure of chewing. Also, do not place aspirin directly on the gum or
tooth. If a tooth is sensitive to heat or tender to the touch, or there is swelling present, serious nerve involvement may be
suspect and root canal treatment may be required. One should seek a diagnosis as soon as possible.
Top of Page
TOOTH STRAIGHTENING - IS IT NECESSARY?
Orthodontics is the Dental Specialty concerned with the prevention and correction of facial irregularities and malocclusion,
or teeth that fit together improperly. Crooked teeth, usually associated with malocclusion, not only affect cosmetics, but also
increase ones susceptibility to tooth decay and gum disease. Improperly aligned teeth can affect speech, impair chewing
efficiency and nutrition, and may be the cause of jaw joint problems. Your dentist will refer you to an orthodontist for an
examination when necessary. After your case is evaluated you will be scheduled for a consultation regarding the proposed
plan, length of treatment, and the cost involved in your laser dental treatment.
Top of Page
COSMETIC DENTISTRY
Today, the term cosmetic dentistry has a different meaning than just the straightening or crowning of teeth. With the
development of new materials and techniques, the dentist is able to close spaces, change a tooth's shape, lighten or darken
discolored teeth, and repair chipped or misaligned teeth, without having to sacrifice tooth enamel and sometimes without an
anesthetic.
The first step is to visit your dentist for an evaluation of your cosmetic needs. He will decide which form of treatment is best
suited, whether it be the new bonding and bleaching techniques or the more traditional cosmetic dental treatments.
Pictures: Before After
Crowns and Bridges
Fixed and Removable:
Composite Restorations: Before After
3-14-12:
3-03-12:
Top of Page
BLEACHING TEETH This was achieved with 35% Opalescence, less than ten 30 minute at home sessions
This was achieved with 35 % Opalescence Endo Whitening System for 17 minutes
Darkened or discolored teeth can be lightened by the application of chemicals. For many years this has been accomplished
in the dentist office with hydrogen peroxide. Recent advances now allow the teeth bleaching process to be done by the
patient at home. The chemical is placed in an appliance that fits over the teeth. The amount of whitening one obtains during
bleaching depends upon the length of time the tray is worn and the susceptibility of the teeth to the bleaching agent. Our
office uses Opalescence.
Top of Page
BLEEDING GUMS - GUM INFECTION - PERIODONTAL DISEASE
Periodontal disease is responsible for about seventy percent of all tooth loss and it is estimated that ninety percent of adults
have some form of this disease. Symptoms can range from mildly inflamed, spongy or bleeding gums to a more serious
condition called Periodontitis, involving destruction of the bony support of the teeth. This advanced stage can cause tooth
mobility or tooth loss. Although generally it does not occur until middle age, the initial symptoms can occur much earlier in
life. The process is initiated by the presence of plaque, a sticky film that adheres to the teeth. Plaque can harbor bacteria
whose toxins are responsible for the infection. If the plaque is not removed, the gums can become inflamed and bleed easily.
While there are other causes for bleeding gums, this condition often is one of the early signs of periodontal problems.
Controlling plaque by frequent flossing, brushing and visits to the dentist may be adequate for many, but others are more
susceptible to the disease and require more intense care. Dentists offer methods of treatment that not only can prevent this
disease, but also can save teeth from being lost to the advanced stages. Regular visits to your dentist for cleaning and
scaling is the first step in maintaining tissue health. The severity of your gum problems will be evaluated and you will be
advised how frequent your recall visits should be. More advanced cases may require referral to a specialist.
Top of Page
ABSCESSED TEETH - ROOT CANAL FILLINGS
Infected teeth or gums may result in pain and swelling, called a dental abscess. This infection can spread rapidly and should
be treated by your dentist as soon as possible. Temporary relief can often be obtained with cold compresses to control the
swelling and sometimes antibiotics are prescribed. If the infection is due to a diseased tooth, it can usually be saved by root
canal treatment. Nerves, blood and lymph vessels that are in the center of each tooth make up the soft tissue material called
the dental pulp. If the pulp becomes diseased, due to injury from a deep cavity, a blow to the tooth, periodontal disease or
other cause, it may result in an infection which can spread through the end of the root into the supporting bone and cause an
abscess. A root canal is a process in which the necrotic nerve is removed and replaced by a material that seals the root,
thus allowing the tooth to be retained. Root canal treatment is preferable to extraction, and is often less costly, considering
that the loss of a tooth requires replacement, in order to maintain space and function.
Top of Page
POST EXTRACTION PROBLEMS
A certain amount of swelling and pain is to be expected following any extraction procedure. To minimize swelling and
discomfort, an ice pack may be applied to the face and a pain reliever can be taken. Bleeding can often be controlled by
placing a gauze pad over the extraction site and applying firm biting pressure for one or two hours, replacing the pad
frequently. This procedure may have to be repeated. Excessive swelling, bleeding or pain should be attended by your dentist.
Top of Page
Ridge Preservation-Bone Grafting
For most sites in the mouth, bone grafting should be considered anytime a tooth is going to be removed. A bone graft can
help the patient retain valuable ridge height and width. Without the bone graft, the ridge natuarally remodels smaller and
thinner making restorative options limited.
If ridge preservation is consented to by the patient, then at the time of tooth removal a mixture of sterile cortical and
cancellous bone chips is prepared and placed into the extraction socket. A special membrane is placed over the socket and
careful post-operative instructions are given until the membrane is removed by the doctor. By having the bone graft done at
the time of the extraction, the restorative options for that site become greater ie. future implant site or better ridge
architecture for crown and bridge.
Top of Page
ARE X-RAYS REALLY NECESSARY
When you visit your dentist for an examination, x-rays may be required for proper diagnosis. They are important in detecting
tooth decay, periodontal disease, abnormal tooth eruption, fractured teeth, an abscess, or cysts and tumors. Patients are
concerned about the hazards of radiation and sometimes question whether these x-rays are necessary. Dentists adhere
carefully to recommendations published by the American Dental Association, the Academy of Dental Radiology and the
National Council on Radiation protection. Because x-rays are used only when necessary, they present a smaller risk than an
undetected disease. Measurements have shown that the amount of radiation received by a body in a dental radiographic
exam is very small compared to the radiation received from other sources. Patients can help to limit exposure levels by
requesting a lead apron, keeping records of x-rays taken, and making sure that they are forwarded to a new dentist.
Top of Page
PRIMARY TEETH - ARE THEY IMPORTANT
Primary teeth provide the chewing function until approximately 13 years of age. It is important to maintain these teeth, not
only so the child receives a proper diet, but also because they play an important role in maintaining space for permanent
teeth. Premature loss may crowd these erupting teeth and can affect proper jaw development. If your child has lost primary
teeth prematurely, your dentist will be able to fabricate a space maintainer to hold the space open until eruption occurs.
Regular dental check-ups, cleaning and fluoride application will protect against tooth loss. The recommended frequency for
dental examination is once every six months.
Top of Page
PREVENTING DENTAL DISEASE
Although there are many dental diseases, decay and gum infection are the most common. Dental plaque is a thin film that
adheres to the teeth, and harbors the bacteria that initiate both of these disease processes. If the plaque is removed with
proper brushing, flossing and dental scaling procedures, then decay and periodontal disease can be controlled. Each
individual differs in susceptibility to dental disease and its presence depends on many factors. Evaluation by your dentist is
necessary in order to establish a proper recall frequency for cleaning and scaling, and also to make sure that one maintains
oral health with proper brushing and flossing techniques.
Top of Page
Broken Teeth
The urgency and course of treatment for a broken tooth depends upon the severity of the fracture. If it is a small chip and
there is no pain, it may not require emergency treatment, but you should see your dentist as soon as possible. This type of
fracture can usually be restored with a filling. Until such treatment is rendered, one must be careful not to subject the tooth
to heat or cold, or chewing forces. If a large portion of the tooth has broken away, but has not affected the nerve, the tooth
can often be restored with a filling or a crown. If the nerve is involved, the tooth usually can be saved by root canal therapy. In
the most severe cases when the tooth has been fractured as a result of an accident, there may be tissue swelling,
hemorrhage or laceration. Gently clean any debris from the injured area. If there is bleeding, apply direct pressure with a
clean gauze or cloth, and apply cold compresses to control swelling. Your dentist should be seen immediately. As a
temporary measure for minor tooth fractures, pain relievers or other toothache remedies may be of help.
Top of Page
CANKER SORES
A canker sore is a shallow lesion and should be differentiated from other ulcer-like erosions by your dentist. It
characteristically has a yellow border surrounded by a bright red zone, is painful during the first few days, and is covered
with a yellowish material within 5 to 7 days. A severe attack may be accompanied by a fever. Over the counter preparations
may offer temporary relief. Healing usually occurs within 10 days, but recurrent attacks are common.
Top of Page
T.M.J.
The joints that connect the lower jaw to the skull and are located in front of the ears on either side of the face are called the
tempo-mandibular joints, or TMJ. There are changes that can occur within these joints that result in pain or discomfort. The
symptoms can range from headache, earache, tenderness of the jaw muscles, a clicking or popping sound when opening, or
a limitation of jaw movement. These abnormalities may be developmental, congenital or can be caused sometimes by
fractures, dislocations, tumors or arthritis. Treatment will often include a soft diet, hot-moist packs, medication for pain and
a muscle relaxant. A bite plate may be prescribed to prevent clenching or grinding and to relieve muscle spasm and joint
pressure. The symptoms can worsen if left unattended. Therefore, it is important that one seeks a complete diagnostic
exam to determine the cause and effect proper TMJ treatment.
Top of Page
WISDOM TEETH
Surgical Extraction of # 32 (Classification 2B)
Surgical Extraction of # 32 (Classification 2B)
Surgical Extraction of # 32 ( Classification 2B Disto Inclination)
Surgical Extraction of # 17 (Classification 2B)
Surgical Extraction of #'s 17 (Classification 2B) and 18
Surgical Extraction of # 17 (Classification 3C)
Surgical Extraction of # 17 (Classification 2B)
The normal dentition is comprised of 32 permanent teeth, including 12 molars - 6 on the upper, and 6 on the lower arch. The
first permanent molar, commonly referred to as the 6-year molar, is the first to erupt, followed by the second, or 12-year
molar. The wisdom teeth, or 3rd molars, normally erupt between the ages of 17 and 21 years, although it is common for them
to erupt at a later time.
If these teeth remain trapped below the gums, they can cause pain, tissue irritation, swelling and damage to adjacent teeth
or the jaw. The most common indication for extraction in younger patients is lack of eruption space due to jaw size, which
can result in crowding of the teeth, and malocclusion. There are many factors that are important when deciding if wisdom
teeth need to be extracted, and one should see a dentist for evaluation.
Top of Page
IMPLANTS
12-15-12 (#'s 11 and 12 placed 4-14-12)
1-11-13 (#31 placed 1-7-12), 3-17-12 (#'s 29 and 30 placed 7-17-11):
11-27-10 (#19 placed 7-18-10):
Recent advances in dental implant technology have made implants the treatment of choice for many patients. There are
various types of implants, but the most common is a metal post that is inserted into the bone and acts as a root to hold either
a crown or an anchor for a prosthesis. Dental implant procedures are complex and their success depends on many factors,
such as good health, whether sufficient bone is present, regular dental visits and an extremely good oral hygiene discipline.
If you require more information please call for a brochure or appointment for an exam and consultation.
DENTURES VERSES KEEPING YOUR TEETH
Dental care has advanced dramatically in the last few decades. There was a time when tooth loss and replacement with
dentures was common, but with today's emphasis on prevention, the use of fluorides, and advanced dental technology, one
should be able to keep their teeth for a lifetime.
While many patients feel that dentures may be a solution to deteriorating teeth, they are not without problems. The loss of
chewing efficiency, facial dimension, muscle tone, and the inability of some patients to feel secure with their dentures are
but a few of the many problems dentures can present.
Dentures that do not fit well "ill fitting", can cause the patient a host of problems. The most common problems that occur are
loose dentures, denture sore spots on the underlying tissue and accelerated ridge resorption. Denture wearers may
mistakenly add more adhesive thinking this will keep the denture stable and retentive. Although this is well intentioned, it is
misguided due to the fact that large amounts of adhesive may be necessary to achieve the desired result that is always less
than what could be achieved with a new set of dentures or a relined set of dentures.
Recent publicity has been given to denture adhesive cream in respect to quantity used and the amount of metals found in the
paste. The recommended amount of paste to be used on the denture has been indicated to be safe. However, the consumer
should be aware that large amounts of paste will also invariably expose the patient to larger amounts of metals found in the
paste. Denture pastes are not the only consumer item to contain metals. Many popular antiperspirant deodorants contain
aluminum and medical research has indicated possible links from metal exposure to neurological disorders.
5-6-09: Good Morning America" Is denture cream dangerous?"
Top of Page
SEALANTS
One of dentistry's' newer developments in the fight against tooth decay, is a clear plastic material that can be applied to the
chewing surfaces of the back teeth and reduce tooth decay by up to eighty percent. The American Dental Association
recommends that all children have them applied as soon as possible after tooth eruption. The procedure is low cost, can be
done quickly and no anesthetic is necessary. The tooth is simply cleaned, a solution is applied and the sealant is brushed on.
Sealants must be checked regularly since they do wear away and need to be re-applied.
Top of Page
Fear and anxiety
Fear of dental treatment has prevented many people from seeking necessary dental care. This anxiety may be unwarranted
because today dentists incorporate many new techniques to make treatment more effective, less painful, and generally
more caring. More efficient use of employees and equipment allow a maximum amount of work to be done in a minimum
amount of time. High-speed drills reduce heat and vibration, and topical and local anesthetics have been improved.
When you call for an appointment, request a consultation first so that you can discuss any special anxiety problems you may
have. A cleaning may be scheduled for one of your first visits, and by the time more extensive work is contemplated, you will
be confident of gentle relaxed care. Parents can play an important role in influencing children's perception of the dentist.
Treat the visit in a matter of fact manner and, above all, don't pass along negative feelings.
Remember the benefits of dental treatment far exceed the discomfort, and delay can cause complex and more costly
treatment at a later time.
Top of Page
home : about dr. c : services : meet our doctor : payment options : pictures : testimonials : faq : links : contact us
A toothache can vary in frequency from infrequent to constant and range in severity from mild to severe symptoms. If the
tooth is sensitive to cold or sweets, it can be a warning that decay is present, a filling has failed, or the tooth is broken. There
may be other factors, such as sinus infection, referred pain, or sensitive root surfaces.
Pain relievers or toothache preparations, available without prescription, may afford temporary relief from pain. It is important
that the tooth not be subjected to hot or cold or to the pressure of chewing. Also, do not place aspirin directly on the gum or
tooth. If a tooth is sensitive to heat or tender to the touch, or there is swelling present, serious nerve involvement may be
suspect and root canal treatment may be required. One should seek a diagnosis as soon as possible.
Top of Page
TOOTH STRAIGHTENING - IS IT NECESSARY?
Orthodontics is the Dental Specialty concerned with the prevention and correction of facial irregularities and malocclusion,
or teeth that fit together improperly. Crooked teeth, usually associated with malocclusion, not only affect cosmetics, but also
increase ones susceptibility to tooth decay and gum disease. Improperly aligned teeth can affect speech, impair chewing
efficiency and nutrition, and may be the cause of jaw joint problems. Your dentist will refer you to an orthodontist for an
examination when necessary. After your case is evaluated you will be scheduled for a consultation regarding the proposed
plan, length of treatment, and the cost involved in your laser dental treatment.
Top of Page
COSMETIC DENTISTRY
Today, the term cosmetic dentistry has a different meaning than just the straightening or crowning of teeth. With the
development of new materials and techniques, the dentist is able to close spaces, change a tooth's shape, lighten or darken
discolored teeth, and repair chipped or misaligned teeth, without having to sacrifice tooth enamel and sometimes without an
anesthetic.
The first step is to visit your dentist for an evaluation of your cosmetic needs. He will decide which form of treatment is best
suited, whether it be the new bonding and bleaching techniques or the more traditional cosmetic dental treatments.
Pictures: Before After
Crowns and Bridges
Fixed and Removable:
Composite Restorations: Before After
3-14-12:
3-03-12:
Top of Page
BLEACHING TEETH This was achieved with 35% Opalescence, less than ten 30 minute at home sessions
This was achieved with 35 % Opalescence Endo Whitening System for 17 minutes
Darkened or discolored teeth can be lightened by the application of chemicals. For many years this has been accomplished
in the dentist office with hydrogen peroxide. Recent advances now allow the teeth bleaching process to be done by the
patient at home. The chemical is placed in an appliance that fits over the teeth. The amount of whitening one obtains during
bleaching depends upon the length of time the tray is worn and the susceptibility of the teeth to the bleaching agent. Our
office uses Opalescence.
Top of Page
BLEEDING GUMS - GUM INFECTION - PERIODONTAL DISEASE
Periodontal disease is responsible for about seventy percent of all tooth loss and it is estimated that ninety percent of adults
have some form of this disease. Symptoms can range from mildly inflamed, spongy or bleeding gums to a more serious
condition called Periodontitis, involving destruction of the bony support of the teeth. This advanced stage can cause tooth
mobility or tooth loss. Although generally it does not occur until middle age, the initial symptoms can occur much earlier in
life. The process is initiated by the presence of plaque, a sticky film that adheres to the teeth. Plaque can harbor bacteria
whose toxins are responsible for the infection. If the plaque is not removed, the gums can become inflamed and bleed easily.
While there are other causes for bleeding gums, this condition often is one of the early signs of periodontal problems.
Controlling plaque by frequent flossing, brushing and visits to the dentist may be adequate for many, but others are more
susceptible to the disease and require more intense care. Dentists offer methods of treatment that not only can prevent this
disease, but also can save teeth from being lost to the advanced stages. Regular visits to your dentist for cleaning and
scaling is the first step in maintaining tissue health. The severity of your gum problems will be evaluated and you will be
advised how frequent your recall visits should be. More advanced cases may require referral to a specialist.
Top of Page
ABSCESSED TEETH - ROOT CANAL FILLINGS
Infected teeth or gums may result in pain and swelling, called a dental abscess. This infection can spread rapidly and should
be treated by your dentist as soon as possible. Temporary relief can often be obtained with cold compresses to control the
swelling and sometimes antibiotics are prescribed. If the infection is due to a diseased tooth, it can usually be saved by root
canal treatment. Nerves, blood and lymph vessels that are in the center of each tooth make up the soft tissue material called
the dental pulp. If the pulp becomes diseased, due to injury from a deep cavity, a blow to the tooth, periodontal disease or
other cause, it may result in an infection which can spread through the end of the root into the supporting bone and cause an
abscess. A root canal is a process in which the necrotic nerve is removed and replaced by a material that seals the root,
thus allowing the tooth to be retained. Root canal treatment is preferable to extraction, and is often less costly, considering
that the loss of a tooth requires replacement, in order to maintain space and function.
Top of Page
POST EXTRACTION PROBLEMS
A certain amount of swelling and pain is to be expected following any extraction procedure. To minimize swelling and
discomfort, an ice pack may be applied to the face and a pain reliever can be taken. Bleeding can often be controlled by
placing a gauze pad over the extraction site and applying firm biting pressure for one or two hours, replacing the pad
frequently. This procedure may have to be repeated. Excessive swelling, bleeding or pain should be attended by your dentist.
Top of Page
Ridge Preservation-Bone Grafting
For most sites in the mouth, bone grafting should be considered anytime a tooth is going to be removed. A bone graft can
help the patient retain valuable ridge height and width. Without the bone graft, the ridge natuarally remodels smaller and
thinner making restorative options limited.
If ridge preservation is consented to by the patient, then at the time of tooth removal a mixture of sterile cortical and
cancellous bone chips is prepared and placed into the extraction socket. A special membrane is placed over the socket and
careful post-operative instructions are given until the membrane is removed by the doctor. By having the bone graft done at
the time of the extraction, the restorative options for that site become greater ie. future implant site or better ridge
architecture for crown and bridge.
Top of Page
ARE X-RAYS REALLY NECESSARY
When you visit your dentist for an examination, x-rays may be required for proper diagnosis. They are important in detecting
tooth decay, periodontal disease, abnormal tooth eruption, fractured teeth, an abscess, or cysts and tumors. Patients are
concerned about the hazards of radiation and sometimes question whether these x-rays are necessary. Dentists adhere
carefully to recommendations published by the American Dental Association, the Academy of Dental Radiology and the
National Council on Radiation protection. Because x-rays are used only when necessary, they present a smaller risk than an
undetected disease. Measurements have shown that the amount of radiation received by a body in a dental radiographic
exam is very small compared to the radiation received from other sources. Patients can help to limit exposure levels by
requesting a lead apron, keeping records of x-rays taken, and making sure that they are forwarded to a new dentist.
Top of Page
PRIMARY TEETH - ARE THEY IMPORTANT
Primary teeth provide the chewing function until approximately 13 years of age. It is important to maintain these teeth, not
only so the child receives a proper diet, but also because they play an important role in maintaining space for permanent
teeth. Premature loss may crowd these erupting teeth and can affect proper jaw development. If your child has lost primary
teeth prematurely, your dentist will be able to fabricate a space maintainer to hold the space open until eruption occurs.
Regular dental check-ups, cleaning and fluoride application will protect against tooth loss. The recommended frequency for
dental examination is once every six months.
Top of Page
PREVENTING DENTAL DISEASE
Although there are many dental diseases, decay and gum infection are the most common. Dental plaque is a thin film that
adheres to the teeth, and harbors the bacteria that initiate both of these disease processes. If the plaque is removed with
proper brushing, flossing and dental scaling procedures, then decay and periodontal disease can be controlled. Each
individual differs in susceptibility to dental disease and its presence depends on many factors. Evaluation by your dentist is
necessary in order to establish a proper recall frequency for cleaning and scaling, and also to make sure that one maintains
oral health with proper brushing and flossing techniques.
Top of Page
Broken Teeth
The urgency and course of treatment for a broken tooth depends upon the severity of the fracture. If it is a small chip and
there is no pain, it may not require emergency treatment, but you should see your dentist as soon as possible. This type of
fracture can usually be restored with a filling. Until such treatment is rendered, one must be careful not to subject the tooth
to heat or cold, or chewing forces. If a large portion of the tooth has broken away, but has not affected the nerve, the tooth
can often be restored with a filling or a crown. If the nerve is involved, the tooth usually can be saved by root canal therapy. In
the most severe cases when the tooth has been fractured as a result of an accident, there may be tissue swelling,
hemorrhage or laceration. Gently clean any debris from the injured area. If there is bleeding, apply direct pressure with a
clean gauze or cloth, and apply cold compresses to control swelling. Your dentist should be seen immediately. As a
temporary measure for minor tooth fractures, pain relievers or other toothache remedies may be of help.
Top of Page
CANKER SORES
A canker sore is a shallow lesion and should be differentiated from other ulcer-like erosions by your dentist. It
characteristically has a yellow border surrounded by a bright red zone, is painful during the first few days, and is covered
with a yellowish material within 5 to 7 days. A severe attack may be accompanied by a fever. Over the counter preparations
may offer temporary relief. Healing usually occurs within 10 days, but recurrent attacks are common.
Top of Page
T.M.J.
The joints that connect the lower jaw to the skull and are located in front of the ears on either side of the face are called the
tempo-mandibular joints, or TMJ. There are changes that can occur within these joints that result in pain or discomfort. The
symptoms can range from headache, earache, tenderness of the jaw muscles, a clicking or popping sound when opening, or
a limitation of jaw movement. These abnormalities may be developmental, congenital or can be caused sometimes by
fractures, dislocations, tumors or arthritis. Treatment will often include a soft diet, hot-moist packs, medication for pain and
a muscle relaxant. A bite plate may be prescribed to prevent clenching or grinding and to relieve muscle spasm and joint
pressure. The symptoms can worsen if left unattended. Therefore, it is important that one seeks a complete diagnostic
exam to determine the cause and effect proper TMJ treatment.
Top of Page
WISDOM TEETH
Surgical Extraction of # 32 (Classification 2B)
Surgical Extraction of # 32 (Classification 2B)
Surgical Extraction of # 32 ( Classification 2B Disto Inclination)
Surgical Extraction of # 17 (Classification 2B)
Surgical Extraction of #'s 17 (Classification 2B) and 18
Surgical Extraction of # 17 (Classification 3C)
Surgical Extraction of # 17 (Classification 2B)
The normal dentition is comprised of 32 permanent teeth, including 12 molars - 6 on the upper, and 6 on the lower arch. The
first permanent molar, commonly referred to as the 6-year molar, is the first to erupt, followed by the second, or 12-year
molar. The wisdom teeth, or 3rd molars, normally erupt between the ages of 17 and 21 years, although it is common for them
to erupt at a later time.
If these teeth remain trapped below the gums, they can cause pain, tissue irritation, swelling and damage to adjacent teeth
or the jaw. The most common indication for extraction in younger patients is lack of eruption space due to jaw size, which
can result in crowding of the teeth, and malocclusion. There are many factors that are important when deciding if wisdom
teeth need to be extracted, and one should see a dentist for evaluation.
Top of Page
IMPLANTS
12-15-12 (#'s 11 and 12 placed 4-14-12)
1-11-13 (#31 placed 1-7-12), 3-17-12 (#'s 29 and 30 placed 7-17-11):
11-27-10 (#19 placed 7-18-10):
Recent advances in dental implant technology have made implants the treatment of choice for many patients. There are
various types of implants, but the most common is a metal post that is inserted into the bone and acts as a root to hold either
a crown or an anchor for a prosthesis. Dental implant procedures are complex and their success depends on many factors,
such as good health, whether sufficient bone is present, regular dental visits and an extremely good oral hygiene discipline.
If you require more information please call for a brochure or appointment for an exam and consultation.
DENTURES VERSES KEEPING YOUR TEETH
Dental care has advanced dramatically in the last few decades. There was a time when tooth loss and replacement with
dentures was common, but with today's emphasis on prevention, the use of fluorides, and advanced dental technology, one
should be able to keep their teeth for a lifetime.
While many patients feel that dentures may be a solution to deteriorating teeth, they are not without problems. The loss of
chewing efficiency, facial dimension, muscle tone, and the inability of some patients to feel secure with their dentures are
but a few of the many problems dentures can present.
Dentures that do not fit well "ill fitting", can cause the patient a host of problems. The most common problems that occur are
loose dentures, denture sore spots on the underlying tissue and accelerated ridge resorption. Denture wearers may
mistakenly add more adhesive thinking this will keep the denture stable and retentive. Although this is well intentioned, it is
misguided due to the fact that large amounts of adhesive may be necessary to achieve the desired result that is always less
than what could be achieved with a new set of dentures or a relined set of dentures.
Recent publicity has been given to denture adhesive cream in respect to quantity used and the amount of metals found in the
paste. The recommended amount of paste to be used on the denture has been indicated to be safe. However, the consumer
should be aware that large amounts of paste will also invariably expose the patient to larger amounts of metals found in the
paste. Denture pastes are not the only consumer item to contain metals. Many popular antiperspirant deodorants contain
aluminum and medical research has indicated possible links from metal exposure to neurological disorders.
5-6-09: Good Morning America" Is denture cream dangerous?"
Top of Page
SEALANTS
One of dentistry's' newer developments in the fight against tooth decay, is a clear plastic material that can be applied to the
chewing surfaces of the back teeth and reduce tooth decay by up to eighty percent. The American Dental Association
recommends that all children have them applied as soon as possible after tooth eruption. The procedure is low cost, can be
done quickly and no anesthetic is necessary. The tooth is simply cleaned, a solution is applied and the sealant is brushed on.
Sealants must be checked regularly since they do wear away and need to be re-applied.
Top of Page
Fear and anxiety
Fear of dental treatment has prevented many people from seeking necessary dental care. This anxiety may be unwarranted
because today dentists incorporate many new techniques to make treatment more effective, less painful, and generally
more caring. More efficient use of employees and equipment allow a maximum amount of work to be done in a minimum
amount of time. High-speed drills reduce heat and vibration, and topical and local anesthetics have been improved.
When you call for an appointment, request a consultation first so that you can discuss any special anxiety problems you may
have. A cleaning may be scheduled for one of your first visits, and by the time more extensive work is contemplated, you will
be confident of gentle relaxed care. Parents can play an important role in influencing children's perception of the dentist.
Treat the visit in a matter of fact manner and, above all, don't pass along negative feelings.
Remember the benefits of dental treatment far exceed the discomfort, and delay can cause complex and more costly
treatment at a later time.
Top of Page
home : about dr. c : services : meet our doctor : payment options : pictures : testimonials : faq : links : contact us
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