Dental BondingBonding is similar to sculpting individual teeth with a special tooth-like material that looks, acts, and feels like the real thing. Bonding is an affordable, quick and painless way to repair many cosmetic flaws or injuries.
Periodontics
In its simplest terms, periodontists are dentists who treat gum (periodontal) disease which is mainly caused by plaque bacteria, and affected by other factors such as pregnancy, medications, smoking, diabetes, heart disease, and other health conditions. In addition to treating gum disease, periodontists offer a variety of cosmetic procedures such as dental implants, gingival recontouring, and tissue grafts to cover exposed and sensitive root surfaces of the teeth.
Orthodontic Procedures
We offer braces and invisible braces called "Invisialign.” Below is general information on the benefits of orthodontic treatment and procedures.
Why Straighten Teeth?
Straight teeth help an individual to effectively bite, chew, and speak. Straight teeth contribute to healthy teeth and gums. Properly aligned teeth and jaws may alleviate or prevent physical health problems. Teeth that work better also tend to look better. A beautiful smile is the outcome of orthodontic treatment.
An attractive smile is a wonderful asset. It contributes to self-esteem, self-confidence, and self-image—important qualities at every age. A pleasing appearance is a vital component of self-confidence. A person's self-esteem often improves as orthodontic treatment brings teeth, lips, and face into proportion. In this way, orthodontic treatment can benefit social and career success, as well as improve a person’s general attitude toward life.
Asymmetrical jaws
You may be surprised to learn that straight teeth are less prone to decay, gum disease, and injury. As for injuries to teeth, protruding upper teeth are more likely to be broken in an accident. When repositioned and aligned with other teeth, these teeth are most probably going to be at a decreased risk for fracture.
Treatment by an orthodontist to correct a problem early may be less costly than the restorative dental care required to treat more serious problems that can develop in later years.
Dental Emergencies
Stay calm. Many dental problems can be dealt with at home until you have an opportunity to see your dentist.
If your emergency is life-threatening or you are in extreme pain, dial 911 and notify emergency medical professionals immediately.
- General Problems
- Jaw Problems
- Tooth Problems
- Orthodontic Problems
General Problems
Numbness
- Numbness usually lasts for approximately two hours after treatment.
- If you are still experiencing numbness after 4-6 hours, contact your dentist.
Pain
- If you are experiencing pain even after taking over-the-counter pain relievers, contact your dentist for a possible prescription.
Bleeding
- If bleeding is persistent and you are unable to stop it with pressure, contact your dentist immediately.
Infection
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water.
- If swelling persists, contact your dentist.
Jaw Problems
Jaw Injury
- If your teeth fit together properly when the mouth is closed:
- Apply ice to control the swelling and take ibuprofen or a similar remedy to control pain.
- Restrict your diet to soft foods, and if no improvement occurs within 24 hours, contact your dentist.
- If your teeth do NOT fit together properly when your mouth is closed:
- Immediately seek emergency care.
- Gently align the jaw.s
- Immobilize the jaw by wrapping a cloth bandage under the chin and securing it over the head.
- Apply ice.
- Do NOT blow your nose.
Injury to the Soft Tissues (Gums, Cheek, Tongue) of Mouth
- Gently rinse the mouth with cold water.
- Apply pressure to the wound with clean cloth, gauze or tissue.
- If bleeding persists, contact your dentist or visit a medical emergency room.
Tooth Problems
Broken/Fractured Tooth
- Clean the injured area and apply ice to minimize swelling.
- Save the broken piece (for possible reattachment).
- Call your dentist immediately.
Extruded Tooth (Tooth pushed out of place)
- Gently push back in place, if possible.
- Call your Dentist.
Evulsed Tooth (Tooth knocked out)
- Gently rinse off the tooth while holding it by the crown (top).
- Attempt to place back in socket, or if not possible, store briefly in cold milk, salt water, or between your cheek and gums.
- Call your dentist immediately.
Orthodontics
Lost Wire or Ligature
- If the rubber ligature is found, you may be able to put it back in place using sterile tweezers.
- Contact your orthodontist during regular business hours.
Broken wire or Ligature Poking
- Use a Q-Tip or pencil eraser to push the wire so that it is flat against the tooth and/or cover with relief wax.
- Contact your orthodontist during regular business hours.
Food Trapped between Teeth
- Though not an emergency, it can be uncomfortable.
- Tie a small knot in the middle of some dental floss to help remove or use an interproximal brush or toothpick to dislodge.
Discomfort
- Discomfort is normal for a day or two after braces or retainers are adjusted.
- To help alleviate pain, rinse with warm salt water or take an over-the-counter pain reliever.
Mouth Sores
- Application of a topical anesthetic such as Orajel applied as needed should alleviate discomfort.
Loose or Missing Bracket
- Notify the orthodontist's office during regular business hours.
Piece of Appliance is Swallowed or Aspirated
- If aspirated (inhaled), call 911.
- If swallowed, contact your general dentist.
- Notify the orthodontist's office during regular business hours.