Dental Wellness Visits
During routine dental wellness visits, a dental hygienist uses special tools like a Cavitron to clean your teeth and remove built-up plaque and tartar that you can’t remove at home even with regular brushing and flossing. The official dental term for this is “dental prophylaxis.” Prophylaxis literally means “action taken to prevent disease, especially by specified means or against a specified disease.” By seeing us for regular visits, you and your family can prevent cavities and gum disease, and keep your teeth in optimal shape!
Regular check up exams also take place during dental wellness visits. One of our dentists will review your x-rays and look at your teeth for any early signs of decay or other abnormalities that might not have become painful yet. The earlier we find an issue, the easier and less expensive it is to help you fix it.
3-D Digital Scans
The iTero® Element™ Scanner uses a “wand” with a gentle laser to painlessly take an incredibly detailed impression of your teeth and gums. There’s no goo and no radiation. Once the scan is complete, you’ll immediately be able to see a digital model of your entire mouth.
Digital x-rays
Digital x-rays help diagnose problems with your teeth and jaw and can show our providers decay and bone loss that might not be visible yet. We use digital x-rays that are safe and emit an extremely small amount of radiation. We can even take panoramic, and 3-D cone scan images.
Fluoride Treatments
In-office fluoride treatments provide preventative topical application of fluoride in a much stronger concentration than you find in toothpaste or mouthwash available over the counter. Fluoride is a mineral that helps to prevent tooth decay, reduces sensitivity, and can even help repair teeth in very early (microscopic) stages of decay. Insurance doesn’t usually cover fluoride for adults, so it is an additional optional $30 fee. It is included in our hygiene membership packages.
Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer screenings detect mouth cancer or abnormal tissues that may lead to mouth cancer while they are still at an early stage.
Dental Sealants
If we find grooves in your teeth that a toothbrush bristle can’t reach they will recommend that tooth-colored material be applied to seal the indentations and act a protective barrier against cavities. Sealants are usually applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth where decay occurs most often. Learn more about Sealants on our blog.
Nightguards to Manage Teeth Grinding or Clenching
If we notice signs of nighttime grinding or clenching (aka “Bruxism”) then we will probably suggest a custom-fitted tray that covers your top teeth to protect them from damage. Telltale signs you might be a grinder include flat spots on your enamel, jaw pain, or highly developed jaw muscles. Sometimes, the force of grinding can make teeth break, crack, become sensitive, or cause gums to recede.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
We’re serious about making getting any kind of care you need easy and seamless. That’s why we even have an Oral Surgeon on our team to help out with wisdom teeth removal right here at the office you know and trust.
Education
We use models, photos, and animations to show the whole family how to make the most of their home care and to understand recommendations for treatment. We’ll also take the time to go over options in detail, finding the ideal treatment plan to fit your needs, wants, and budget.
