The American Dental Association (ADA) advises parents to teach children the importance of oral hygiene at an early age, so when they grow up they will continue good habits that will contribute to their overall health.  As a general rule Children should have their first dental appointment around 2 years of age-or sooner if you notice a problem.  It is important to care for baby teeth.  Infected baby teeth can cause the

permanent teeth to develop improperly resulting in stains, pits and weaker teeth. 

     It is strongly recommend that children wear a mouthgaurd when playing sports.  Ask your dentist about a custom mouthgaurd for your child.  If your child's tooth gets knocked out time is crucial.  If the tooth is a permianent immediately stick the tooth back in the socket (don't worry about getting it straight) and call your dentist.  If you are uncomfortable with this you can stick the tooth in a cup of milk and get your child to the dentist as soon as possible.  If the tooth is a baby tooth DO NOT stick it back into the socket because damage to the permanent tooth can occur.  Back to the top

Dental Fillings   

     Tooth decay effects 90% of American Adults.  At some point most people require a dental filling.  A filling is a way to restore a decayed tooth

back to it's normal shape and function.  There are two types of fillings: amalgum and composite resin.  These days most patients prefer the more natural, tooth colored composite fillings.  However, Some patients prefer dental amalgam to other alternatives because of its safety and  cost-effectiveness.  Because of it's durability an amalgum filling may be the best choice on back teeth.  Your dentist will explain your options and determine which type of filling will work best for you. 

     It is important to understand tha tteeth filled with any filling can still have recurrent decay.   Also, fillings weaken the tooth and can chip or break, which may require replacemnt in the future.   Back to the top

Teeth Whitening (Cosmetic Dentistry)

     Tooth whitening is a safe and popular way to give you a whiter, brighter smile.  There are two methods of teeth whitening. 

     In-office whitening is an ideal choice for anyone wanting immediate results.  With ZOOM (as seen on  ) the entire procedure takes place in one appointment.  The result is amazing and will give you a more attractive smile for years.

     Tray whitening is a less expensive procedure you can do from your own home.  You will be able to get customized clear trays to wear approximately 1 hour per day (or as directed).  These trays provide a more healthier, and youthful looking appearance.  Back to the top

Root Canals

     A root canal is a procdure that could ultimately save your tooth from needing an extraction.  A root canal is required when the nerve of a tooth dies or is severly inflamed.  There are many reasons a nerve can die, a few are:

• Deep Decay
• Trauma
• Large Fillings
• Multiple Restorations
• Cracked Tooth

     Symptoms of a nerve that is dying include sensitivty to hot, cold, and/or pressure.  For a root canal the dentist must remove infected pulp, clean the canal, and a substance to prevent future infection.  Usually a crown is recommended.  (click here for root canal video)  Back to the top

Crowns

     A crown (or cap) encases the whole tooth tooth surface restoring it's shape and function.  A crown protects a tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings.  A porcelain crown is the most popular because they are made to match the shape, size, and color of your teeth giving you a healthier looking smile.  Porcelain crowns are very durable and will last for years.   However, like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced. 

     There are many reasons for crowns.  Here are a few:

• Broken or fractured teeth
• Deep decay
• Fractured or cracked fillings
• Tooth with a root canal
• Cosmetic enhancement

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Dentures and Partials

     Replacing missing teeth will do wonders to your oral and overall health.  Dentures will help restore support to your facial muscles and bone structure.  There are two types of dentures, complete and partial.  Complete dentures are used when all of the teeth are missing.  Parital dentures are used when some of the natural teeth remain.  A partial denture not only fills in where teeth are missing but also keeps the natural teeth from shifting.  Dentures are very durable and will last many years but may need readjusted, repaired, or remade due to normal wear. Back to the top

Implants

     An implant is a titanium alloy post that replaces  the root of a missing tooth.   The post is surgically placed in the jaw  and a temporary prosthetic is attached until the rod has fused with the bone.   Once the rod is set the temporary prosthetic is replaced with a permanent restoration.  Back to the top

     Many people have anxiety about dental care and we understand that.  According to to the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation (DOCS Education), 30 percent of the population avoids the dentist due to fear.  This common "dental phobia" prevents people from getting their necessary routine dental care, compromising the health of their mouth and overall health.  Sedation is a process used to establish a relaxed, easy and calm state throughout your dental visit.  Back to the top

Wisdom Teeth Extractions

     A wisdom tooth is extracted to correct a problem or to prevent possible problems in the future.  Here are a few reasons wisdom teeth may need to be extracted:

•  Your jaw may not be big enough and the teeth can become impacted.
• Wisdom teeth can break part way through causing a flap of gum to grow over the tooth.  Food and bacteria can get caught causing painful swelling and infection.
• Removing wisdom teeth prevents crowding
• Wisdom teeth are harder to brush, causing higher incedent of tooth decay and gum disease

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