Patient Education

Welcome to our patient education and information section. The information presented here is intended to educate the general public on commonly seen and heard dental terminologies. Many people do not have complete understanding of these dental terms unless they have first hand experience with them at their dentists’ office.

This information is for educational purposes only and should not be used for self-diagnosis or as a substitute for professional dental exam and consultation (no matter how much you hate going to the dentist). Each case will vary depending on the needs and concerns of each individual. We hope you find this information helpful.

Implants
For people who have lost teeth implants provide artificial teeth that look more natural and feel more secure than dentures. Implants can be used to replace a single missing tooth or support a bridge, full dentures or partial dentures.

Bleaching
This is a procedure to whiten teeth. A special bleaching formula is placed in a custom-made tray and worn in the mouth. This formula oxidizes stains to lighten teeth several shades; a proven, safe home treatment.

Bridge
A non-removable prosthetic to restore your teeth to natural function by replacing missing teeth. It will improve the entire health of your mouth by keeping surrounding teeth in position and will maintain the structure of your face and jaw.

Cosmetic Dentistry
Through advances in modern dental materials and techniques, the shape, color and alignment of your teeth can be improved to give you the perfect smile.

Crowns
A “cap” or crown will restore a broken, heavily filled or cracked tooth to its original size and shape. This may also be recommended after root canal therapy has been completed as the tooth tends to become brittle and is more apt to fracture. Crowns can strengthen and protect the remaining tooth structure and improve the appearance of your teeth.

Dentures
Removable, full or partial replacement of teeth. Many people believe that once they have dentures they no longer need regular dental care. Denture wearers require regular exams to ensure their health, comfort and appearance. Gum tissues are in a constant state of change. Periodic relining of the denture may be necessary to ensure a tight and comfortable fit.

Digital Radiograph
The x-ray is captured on a computer chip with 90% less radiation. The image can be enhanced and enlarged for a better diagnosis.

Drilless Drill
This is a new cavity preparation system that can be used without needles. With significantly less heat and vibration, this system is virtually painless.

Extraction
Removal of a tooth which is decayed beyond repair or a wisdom tooth that may cause crowding.

Laser Dentistry
Advances in modern dentistry have brought laser technology.  When indicated, the laser may minimize bleeding, therefore reducing chair time and enhancing the result of the permanent restoration.  There may be little, if any, postoperative discomfort due to the ability to control swelling.

Patient Safety
To protect our patients and ourselves, our staff wears masks, gloves, and glasses, as well as hospital scrub uniforms. We strictly observe all Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines. All instruments are cleaned, disinfected and sterilized as recommended by the American Dental Association and the Centers for Disease Control. Whenever possible, disposable single use items are used to ensure your safety. Handpieces (drills) are sterilized with a state-of-the-art sterilization unit specifically designed for this purpose. All surfaces in the treatment rooms are cleaned and disinfected after each patient.

Periodontal Disease
While seldom painful and frequently free of any obvious signs or symptoms, periodontal disease can progress, undetected, to the point where supporting bone is destroyed. With 80 to 90% of all teenagers having some form of gingivitis (inflamed gums) and 75% of adult tooth loss for people over the age of 35 due to periodontal disease, early treatment and prevention is essential. While periodontal disease is caused by plaque, a number of other factors including poorly fitted bridges, badly aligned teeth and defective fillings contribute to the development of this condition.

Root Canal Therapy
If a tooth’s pulp (nerve and blood supply) becomes infected or inflamed, root canal treatment may be the only way to save the tooth. Root canal treatment involves the removal of the nerve that lies within the root of the tooth.

3-dimensional Technology
Having the ability to view the density of the bone and the surrounding anatomy is something that greatly increases the success of implant procedures. The new technology of the 3-d Panograph allows the doctors to view conditions to better diagnose and treat patients that traditional 2-d radiographs would not otherwise permit.