Dental sealants are a thin, plastic coating that are applied to the deep grooves of permanent molars to help protect these vulnerable surfaces from tooth decay. It is best for the sealant to be applied soon after tooth eruption, before the tooth has a chance to develop decay. No drilling or removal of tooth structure is necessary for a sealant to be placed. The tooth is cleaned and a special gel is applied to the chewing surface of the tooth for a few seconds. The tooth is then washed and dried. Lastly, the sealant is painted on the tooth and cured with a light to harden the sealant.

Sometimes called a deep cleaning, this is a non-invasive, non-surgical first step to treating early stages of periodontal disease. By treating periodontal disease early with this procedure, we are able to dramatically decrease the risk of tooth loss at a later stage. During a root planing, your hygienist will typically give you a small amount of Novacain and work on half of your mouth at a time. She will be able to access the deeper pockets around the teeth and eliminate any destructive bacteria, reducing the patient's risk of bone and eventual tooth loss. You will leave the office surprised at how comfortable our hygienists are able to make this procedure.

Our office uses mercury-free, asthetically pleasing, white, composite fillings. This is the best alternative to silver (mercury-containing amalgam) fillings.

Crowns are needed when a tooth is severely damaged by decay, has a large old filling or is fractured. Also known as a cap, their purpose is to strengthen the tooth by protecting the remaining structure.

Crowns are made of metal, ceramic or a combination of metal and ceramic. The tooth is first prepared for the crown by removing all of the decay or old filling to ensure a solid foundation for the crown. An impression of the tooth is then made and the appropriate shade of the crown is picked to match your tooth color. Next a temporary crown is made to cover and protect the tooth until the permanent crown is ready. Lastly, the crown is fitted and checked for shape, color and bite. The final step is to bond the crown to the tooth.

A root canal, also known as endodontic treatment, is a procedure that allows you to "save" a damaged tooth. It is performed when the pulp inside your tooth is damaged or diseased. Basically the pulp dies due to a tooth fracture or a deep cavity that has exposed the pulp to saliva. When the pulp is exposed to saliva, the bacteria that resides within the saliva causes infection. If this is left untreated, the infection will cause the pulp to die. It could cause an abscess, which could destroy the bone that supports the tooth. This can be very painful, if left untreated.

This procedure usually takes a few visits to complete. It is usually performed with a local anesthetic and antibiotics to kill any remnants of bacteria before it is filled and crowned.

Implants are artificial tooth roots. They require several visits to complete. They are made from titanium, which allows them to be attached to the jaw.

There are two types of implants:
Endosseous, which are placed within the jaw. Sub-periosteal, which are attached under the gum, but over the jaw. Bridges and dentures are usually made to cover the implants. To be a candidate for implants, you must be in good health and have sufficient jaw bone to be able to support the implant.

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