Crowns
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap or covering that is cemented over a tooth. This is done in order to restore the tooth’s strength, shape and size, and improve its appearance. A crown covers the visible portion of the tooth above the gum line once it is cemented into place. Crowns are used to hold weak, broken or cracked teeth together to avoid further problems. Crowns are also used to support large fillings, attach a bridge, or cover discolored or deformed teeth. In addition, crowns may be placed over dental implants.
Two visits are usually required to install a crown. Our staff prepares the tooth by shaping it so that the crown can be fitted over the top. Then an impression is made of the tooth and surrounding gums. Our lab custom creates a beautiful and functional crown just for you. A temporary crown is made by our skilled staff to be worn until your new crown is in place. At your second visit, we dentist remove the temporary crown and cement the finished, custom crown in place.
Bridges
When one or more teeth are missing, a dental bridge is cemented on the supporting teeth, or in some cases onto a dental implant that has been placed next to the missing teeth. Besides being cosmetically preferable, it is important to replace missing teeth to restore your ability to properly chew and speak. Space between the teeth tends to allow the surrounding teeth to shift into that space, potentially causing a misalignment in the bite leading to jaw and joint problems including gum disease, further decay and surrounding tooth loss.
Two or more visits are normally required for us to complete the work on a dental bridge. At your first visit the supporting teeth are shaped and contoured. This is done to make room for the crowns that will slide over the top of them. These crowns also serve as holders for the pontics, which are the missing teeth’s replacements.
Next, an impression of the supporting teeth is made so that our dental laboratory can custom fit your bridge. A temporary dental bridge is inserted to protect the supporting teeth as well as the space between them.
On your second visit, your custom bridge is placed and adjusted to insure proper fit and function.
Implants
Our office works closely with local Oral Surgeons and Periodontitis’ to restore implants for crowns and bridges. When you are missing natural teeth it is possible to replace them using implants and is one of many options to consider.
Exams
An exam allows us to assess the overall health of your mouth and diagnose any potential problems you may have, including cavities. As the majority of potential dental problems are not visible to the naked eye, exams frequently include x-rays. X-rays also provide an important record of your dental status over time so your dentist can track any changes in your oral health.
Cleanings
Cleanings should be scheduled at least twice a year and are performed by your Registered Dental Hygienist. A dental cleaning removes plaque and tartar that can build up between visits and polishes the teeth and preps you for your dental exam as well.
Extractions
In cases where a tooth is too severely damages for repair or restoration, it may need to be removed. Reasons for extraction can include damage, decay, abscess or infection. An anesthetic, either local or general may be administered to promote your best comfort for this procedure after you’ve discussed your options with your dentist.
Root Canals
Root canal therapy is the most commonly performed procedure amongst all endodontic treatment procedures. When a tooth becomes badly decayed or infected, a root canal is performed to save it. If the tooth isn’t treated, the surrounding tissue will become infected and abscesses will form. A root canal procedure will involve an initial x-ray to see the size and shape of the root canals and assess any existing infection. Anesthesia is administered and the tooth pulp and decayed nerve tissue are removed. The cleaned tooth is then sealed with a medicated material then restored with a crown for stability.
Veneers
Requiring little to no anesthesia, veneers are a great way to remedy cosmetic imperfections such as chips, stains and gaps between the teeth. Porcelain veneers are thin shells of ceramic material that are placed over the natural tooth surface, restoring your smile’s appearance. They are customized to fit the size, shape and color of your teeth and are designed to mimic the natural translucency of the tooth’s enamel so they look and feel like your natural teeth. Veneers blend artistry and science as Dr. Maas selects veneers that compliment your other teeth and facial features. Porcelain veneers not only improves facial aesthetics but also strengthens the tooth.
Tooth Realignment
Realignment treatment is a straightforward, virtually invisible tray system. It is designed specifically to correct minor orthodontic and cosmetic issues such as small gaps and minor crowding, leaving you with a straighter, more radiant smile, without the cost and discomfort of traditional braces.
Bonding
Bonding restores appearance and functionality to the teeth and teeth with flaws such as chips or stains can be repaired. It can also fill a narrow area that previously created a space between teeth. The bonding process applies a composite tooth-colored material directly to the tooth which is then hardened. The desired result can be achieved in only one appointment.
Partials
Partials, or partial dentures, are replacement teeth for someone who has lost one or more of their teeth. Partials can be removed from the mouth and consist of a denture base, which closely resembles the color of your gums and denture teeth, which are attached to a supporting framework. The partial denture then attaches to the existing teeth via a clasp or some other retentive device. Partial dentures are made using a model of your mouth and usually require about 6-8 weeks to be ready.
Wisdom Teeth
These are your third molars, and are typically the last to erupt in a person’s mouth. While healthy, wisdom can be useful, there are reasons why many have them removed. Wisdom teeth can also become impacted or partially impacted which may cause swelling, pain, or even lead to infection of the surrounding gum. They can also put pressure on the adjacent teeth and their surrounding bone. Impacted wisdom teeth can sometimes lead to the formation of cysts. Fully erupted wisdom teeth are also quite difficult to clean.
Dentures
For those who have lost their teeth, whether due to injury, tooth decay or gum disease, there are options to replace them. Dentures help restore oral function and facial appearance by improving the ability to eat and speak. Making a denture is a complex process that takes time. The amount of time can vary amongst patients and depends on the type of denture being custom manufactured because every case is unique.
Teeth Whitening
As we age, our teeth naturally darken. Other aspects of our daily lives can also affect coloration including regular consumption of coffees, teas, sodas and other foods and drinks. One of the most effective ways to enhance and improve the appearance of your smile is teeth whitening. Clinical studies show that under dental supervision, chair-side teeth whitening is safe for both teeth and gums. There are also take-home kit options that we offer which will gradually brighten your smile over a few weeks. Keep in mind that whitening can only be done after tooth restoration is complete.
Ask us about all your whitening options!
Nitrous Oxide Available
Nitrous oxide/oxygen (N2O-O2) is a blend of two gases — oxygen and nitrous oxide that may be used for its anesthetic and calming qualities. A fitted mask is placed over the nose and, as the patient breathes normally, uptake occurs through the lungs. At the end of treatment, it is eliminated after a short period of breathing oxygen and has no lingering effects. You may smell a faint, sweet aroma and experience a sense of well-being and relaxation. Since it may produce a feeling of giddiness or euphoria, it is often called “laughing gas.” Nitrous Oxide raises the pain threshold and may even make the time appear to pass quickly. It possibly one of safest sedatives in dentistry and is well tolerated. It has a rapid onset, is reversible, can be adjusted in various concentrations and is non-allergenic. You remain fully conscious — keeping all natural reflexes — when breathing nitrous oxide/oxygen. Nitrous oxide/oxygen is sometimes used in combination with other sedative agents.
Gum Treatment
Periodontics is the area of dentistry that focuses on gum disease treatment. If caught in the early stages, your dentist can reverse gum disease. To begin, the dentist will scale the teeth to remove plaque and calculus, and plane the roots to smooth them. The doctor may also prescribe antibiotics to clear up any infection or inflammation. Advanced cases may require your dentist to surgically trim the gums, disinfect the tissue, remove the hardened plaque build-up, and re-contour the damaged bone. Stopping the progression of gum disease before it escalates can save patients added time, discomfort, and expense
In the U.S., an estimated three out of four adults have some level of gum disease, and many don’t even realize it. Gum disease is the inflammation and infection of the gums and the surrounding tissue. Generally caused by bacterial plaque, it is the biggest cause of adult tooth loss. Gum disease can cause plenty of problems in your mouth, but it can also cause other health issues. Research has linked gum disease to problems such as heart disease, osteoporosis, stroke, and complications with diabetes. Because the symptoms are initially mild, many people don’t realize they have gum disease, thus allowing the condition to worsen. You may have an increased risk for gum disease if you smoke, have diabetes, take certain medications, endure excessive stress, or don’t eat properly. Symptoms of Gum Disease include:
- Red, inflamed gums
- Bleeding while brushing or flossing
- Receding gums
- Loose or separating teeth
- Presence of infection between the gum and tooth
- Chronic halitosis
- A Bigger Problem
Second Opinions
We are happy to offer second opinions before you make important decisions regarding your dental health.
