Comprehensive Services for a Healthy, Confident Smile
Preventative Dental Care
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Why Get a Dental Exam?
Helps evaluate your current dental care methods and provide future care suggestions.
Detects issues early, such as cavities and gum disease, for quick and easy treatment.
How Often Should You Get a Dental Exam?
Generally every six months.
Some individuals may need more frequent visits based on factors like smoking or susceptibility to cavities and gum disease.
What Can You Expect From a Dental Exam?
Teeth cleaning to remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains.
Examination for signs of decay and gum disease.
Possible X-ray for a detailed look at oral health.
Questions about your dental care habits, followed by personalized care suggestions.
How Can You Prepare for a Dental Exam?
Brush and floss before your appointment.
Be prepared to share your medical history, insurance details, and dental care habits.
Don't be embarrassed about your habits—your dentist is here to help, not judge.
Be ready to schedule a follow-up or future check-up.
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Importance of Oral Hygiene
Gum disease causes more tooth loss in adults over 35 than cavities.
Daily brushing and flossing prevent cavities and gum disease by removing plaque.
How to Brush
Use an "extra soft" toothbrush, hold it at a 45-degree angle, and brush gently in circular motions.
Brush all surfaces, including the gum line and hard-to-reach areas.
How to Floss
Use 18" of floss and clean between teeth using a C-shape motion.
Be gentle to avoid cutting gums, and floss daily to prevent gum disease.
Caring for Sensitive Teeth
Sensitivity after dental treatment is common but improves with good oral hygiene.
Use medicated toothpaste or mouth rinse for sensitive teeth if needed.
Choosing Oral Hygiene Products
Electronic toothbrushes are effective, and fluoride products can reduce decay by 40%.
Anti-plaque rinses help control early gum disease; consult your dentist for product recommendations.
Professional Dental Cleaning
Regular brushing and flossing reduce plaque, but professional cleanings are needed to remove buildup in hard-to-reach areas.
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What are Dental Sealants?
A tooth-colored acrylic coating applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth to prevent decay.
How Do They Work?
Sealants create a barrier in the deep grooves, protecting enamel from plaque and acids.
Benefits
Sealants protect areas that brushing and flossing can't reach, preventing food particles from causing decay.
Application and Durability
Easy to apply in just minutes and can last several years with normal chewing.
Both children and adults can benefit from sealants to prevent tooth decay.
Cosmetic Dentistry
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What is Invisalign?
A clear, removable aligner system used to straighten teeth without traditional metal braces.
How Does It Work?
Invisalign aligners gradually shift teeth into place over time by wearing a series of custom-made trays.
Benefits
Nearly invisible, removable for eating and brushing, and more comfortable than metal braces.
Treatment and Maintenance
Aligners are worn 20-22 hours a day and switched out every 1-2 weeks.
Regular check-ups with your dentist ensure progress, and aligners should be cleaned regularly.
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What is Teeth Whitening?
A safe, quick, and inexpensive treatment to lighten discolored teeth, available for both upper and lower teeth.
How Does It Work?
Custom bleach splints are filled with a special bleaching agent that removes stains from enamel without affecting tooth structure or dental work.
Benefits
Corrects discoloration caused by staining, aging, or chemical damage.
Suitable for all ages and offers a near-permanent solution to brighten a dull smile.
Treatment Process
Custom mouthguards hold the bleaching material against the teeth for 3-4 hours each night over 1-2 weeks.
Significant whitening is typically achieved, but crowns or veneers may be needed for severe discoloration.
Considerations
Over-the-counter whitening products can harm gums and teeth, so it's better to use dentist-recommended treatments.
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What are Porcelain Veneers?
Thin ceramic shells that bond to the front surfaces of teeth to improve the appearance of your smile.
How Do They Look?
Porcelain veneers are virtually undetectable, highly resistant to stains, and resemble natural tooth enamel in strength and appearance.
Durability
With proper care, veneers can last over a decade.
Avoid using them as tools, and if damage occurs, individual veneers can be replaced.
Customization
Each veneer is custom-designed to match and enhance the patient's smile, ensuring a natural look.
Restorative Dentistry
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What Are Tooth Fillings?
We offer porcelain inlays and tooth-colored restorations, which are strong, esthetically pleasing alternatives to silver/mercury fillings.
Disadvantages of Silver Fillings
Silver fillings can wear down, expand, contract, and split, leading to weakened tooth structure and potential cavities.
They contain mercury, can corrode, leak, and stain teeth and gums.
Advantages of Tooth-Colored Restorations
Resin onlays bond tightly to the tooth, making it stronger and preventing decay.
They blend seamlessly with your natural teeth and are healthier for your gums.
Replacing Silver Fillings
Involves two appointments: removing the old filling, taking an impression, and bonding a custom tooth-colored restoration for a natural look and strong fit.
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What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge replaces missing teeth by attaching artificial teeth to adjacent natural teeth (abutment teeth). It can be either fixed (permanently bonded) or removable.
Why Do I Need a Dental Bridge?
Bridges restore oral functionality, appearance, and prevent issues like speech disorders, gum disease, and unusual stress on gums due to missing teeth.
They help support your lips and cheeks, preventing a sunken facial appearance.
How is a Dental Bridge Attached?
The procedure involves preparing the abutment teeth, taking impressions, and fabricating the bridge, which is cemented to the natural teeth to replace the missing tooth.
Materials Used for Dental Bridges
Bridges can be made from gold alloys, non-precious alloys, porcelain, or a combination, often with porcelain bonded to metal.
Caring for a Dental Bridge
Regular brushing and flossing are essential to keep the bridge and surrounding teeth clean, as the bridge relies on neighboring teeth for support.
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What is a Root Canal?
A common dental procedure that removes infected pulp from a tooth to save it and prevent the need for implants or bridges.
Why is it Needed?
Infection of the pulp can be caused by trauma, deep decay, cracks, or repeated procedures, leading to symptoms like pain, swelling, and sensitivity.
How is a Root Canal Performed?
The diseased pulp is removed, and the root canal is cleaned and sealed. This typically requires local anesthesia and may take one or more visits, with a success rate of about 90%.
After Treatment
You'll need a follow-up with your restorative dentist to determine the necessary restoration to protect the tooth. Good dental hygiene is essential to prevent further decay.
Cost
The cost varies depending on the tooth and severity, but root canal treatment is generally less expensive than extracting and replacing the tooth.
Oral Surgery
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What is Wisdom Teeth Removal?
A common procedure to remove the third molars (wisdom teeth) that typically emerge between ages 17-25 and can cause crowding or pain.
Why is it Needed?
Wisdom teeth often become impacted, grow at an angle, or cause crowding, infections, and damage to nearby teeth, which may necessitate removal.
How is the Procedure Done?
Wisdom teeth are surgically removed under local anesthesia or sedation. The dentist makes incisions to access and extract the teeth, and stitches may be used to close the gums.
Recovery
Recovery involves rest, managing swelling, and following aftercare instructions, such as using ice packs and avoiding hard foods. Most people return to normal activities within a few days.
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Why is it Needed?
Teeth may need extraction due to severe decay, advanced gum disease, damage beyond repair, improper positioning, or in preparation for orthodontic treatment.
Extraction Process
The area is numbed with local anesthesia, and the tooth is removed by applying pressure to widen the socket. In some cases, the tooth may need to be sectioned into smaller pieces for removal.
Aftercare
After extraction, a blood clot forms to aid healing. Avoid activities that could dislodge the clot (e.g., smoking, drinking through a straw). Manage pain with prescribed medications, apply ice for swelling, and resume normal dental care after 24 hours.
Healing and Recovery
Swelling subsides within 48 hours, and normal activities can resume within a few days. Contact us if you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding, or complications.
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What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth, allowing you to eat and smile confidently. They also help preserve facial structure by preventing bone deterioration caused by missing teeth.
Implant Structure
Implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone, where they bond with the bone to create a strong foundation for artificial teeth.
Evaluation for Dental Implants
A dental examination and health history are required to determine if you're a good candidate for implants. Your dentist and surgeon will collaborate closely to ensure a successful procedure.
Implant Procedure
The procedure typically involves two surgeries. In the first, implants are placed in the jawbone and left to bond over 3-6 months. In the second phase, posts are attached to the implants, and your new replacement teeth are created and secured. The entire process usually takes 6-8 months.
Benefits
Implants restore the ability to eat comfortably, maintain facial contours, and provide a long-term solution for missing teeth with minimal disruption to daily life during recovery.
Periodontal Care
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What is Deep Teeth Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)?
Deep teeth cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a non-surgical procedure used to treat periodontal disease by removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gum line. This process helps prevent further gum inflammation and disease progression.
What Do the Procedures Entail?
After a thorough examination, scaling removes plaque and tartar, while root planing smooths the root surfaces to promote healing and prevent future bacterial colonization. Local anesthesia may be used for comfort during the procedure.
Additional Treatments
Antibiotics or antimicrobial rinses may be applied to control bacteria, and in cases of deep pockets, surgery may be needed to restore periodontal health.
Benefits of Treatment
Scaling and root planing prevent disease by removing bacteria that can lead to other health issues, protect teeth from loss, and improve the appearance of the mouth by reducing bad breath and removing stains.
Post-Op Care Instructions
You may experience numbness and soreness for a few hours. Avoid spicy and acidic foods, rinse with warm salt water, and continue brushing and flossing twice a day. Use any prescribed medicated mouth rinses as directed.
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What is Gum Disease Treatment?
Gum disease treatment addresses infections and inflammation in the gums, typically caused by plaque buildup. The goal is to stop the progression of periodontal disease and prevent damage to gum tissue and bone that support the teeth.
What Do the Procedures Entail?
Treatment usually starts with deep cleaning methods like scaling and root planing to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gum line. In more severe cases, surgery may be needed to reduce deep pockets and restore gum health.
Additional Treatments
Antibiotics or antimicrobial rinses may be used to control infection. In some cases, gum grafts or flap surgery might be necessary to repair and regenerate damaged gum tissue and bone.
Benefits of Treatment
Proper treatment can prevent tooth loss, reduce gum inflammation, improve oral health, and lower the risk of other health issues, like heart disease, linked to gum infections.
Post-Op Care Instructions
After treatment, maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily. Rinse with warm salt water to reduce swelling, and follow your dentist's instructions for any prescribed medications or rinses. Regular dental checkups are essential for monitoring your gum health.
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What is Periodontal Disease?
It’s an infection of the gums that damages the support structure of your teeth, primarily caused by plaque buildup in genetically susceptible individuals.
Why is Oral Hygiene Important?
Adults over 35 are more likely to lose teeth due to gum disease than cavities. Daily brushing and flossing help remove plaque, preventing both cavities and periodontal disease.
Causes and Risk Factors
Plaque is the main cause, but factors like smoking, diabetes, stress, teeth grinding, medications, and poor nutrition can accelerate gum disease.
Progression of Periodontal Disease
Bacterial toxins from plaque irritate the gums, leading to swelling, bleeding, and pocket formation between the teeth and gums. Over time, this can result in bone loss and tooth loss if untreated.
Prevention
Prevent gum disease by brushing and flossing daily, along with regular dental checkups. Professional cleanings are essential once the disease starts, as home care alone may not stop its progression.
Emergency Care
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What is a dental emergency?
Common dental emergencies we treat include severe dental pain, dental injuries, cracked or broken teeth, knocked-out teeth, swelling, and other urgent dental concerns. We are also available for same day wisdom-tooth removal. If you are unsure whether your situation requires emergency care, please contact our office for guidance.
Life-threatening emergencies
If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please call 911 and/or visit the nearest emergency room immediately. Dental offices are not equipped to manage medical emergencies involving breathing difficulties, uncontrolled bleeding, or loss of consciousness.
If your injury involved head trauma, and you feel dizzy, lightheaded, confused, or have experienced memory loss, you must be evaluated by a medical doctor or emergency department prior to seeking dental treatment.
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What should I do if a tooth is knocked out?
Handle the tooth by the crown only (do not touch the root).
If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it with water. Do not scrub or remove any tissue attached to the root.
If possible, place the tooth back into the socket and gently hold it in place.
If this is not possible, store the tooth in milk or saliva. Do not allow it to dry out.
Contact our office immediately. The best chance of saving the tooth is within the first 30–60 minutes.
Your Comfort Matters: Gentle Sedation Options for a Stress-Free Visit
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What is General Anesthesia?
A form of sedation where you are completely asleep during the entire procedure.
Administered through the inhalation of a gaseous anesthetic.
Ideal for patients undergoing extensive procedures or those with severe dental anxiety.
How General Anesthesia Works
The anesthetic is carefully monitored to ensure you remain fully unconscious and pain-free throughout the procedure.
Administered by a licensed professional, ensuring your safety and comfort.
Used for more complex or lengthy dental treatments that may cause discomfort if the patient is awake.
Recovery After General Anesthesia
Patients will require a recovery period in the office to allow the effects of the anesthesia to wear off.
Full supervision during the recovery phase ensures a safe transition back to normal consciousness.
You may need a friend or family member to assist with transportation after your procedure, as you may feel drowsy for a few hours.
Why Choose General Anesthesia?
Recommended for extensive dental work, such as multiple extractions or complex surgeries.
An option for patients with extreme dental phobia or medical conditions that make other forms of sedation unsuitable.
Ensures a completely pain-free and stress-free experience from start to finish.
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What is Nitrous Oxide?
Commonly known as “laughing gas.”
The most popular form of sedation used in dental offices.
Helps reduce anxiety without putting you to sleep.
Safety and Usage
Safe for most patients, offered in many dental practices.
Administered through a machine that ensures the right gas mixture.
Patients receive 50-70% oxygen with no less than 30% nitrous oxide.
Benefits of Nitrous Oxide
Reduces anxiety and discomfort during procedures.
Can be combined with local anesthesia to make injections nearly painless.
Quick recovery—effects wear off almost immediately after the procedure.
Why Choose Nitrous Oxide?
Proven safety record in dentistry for many years.
Allows you to remain awake and aware but fully relaxed.
Minimal side effects and no "hangover" feeling after treatment.
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What is Oral Sedation?
Oral sedation, also known as "Sleep Dentistry," involves taking anti-anxiety medication to help you relax during your dental procedure.
Drs. Ban is Board Certified to administer oral conscious sedation, ensuring a calm and anxiety-free experience without putting you fully to sleep.
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
Relaxed Treatment: Allows you to feel calm and less anxious during the procedure.
Comfort During Long Procedures: Makes it easier to sit through lengthy treatments.
Multiple Treatments at Once: Enables dentists to complete multiple procedures or full mouth restorations in a single visit.
Less Discomfort Post-Treatment: Sedation often results in reduced discomfort after the procedure.
Anti-Anxiety Pills for Sedation
Benzodiazepines: Commonly prescribed drugs for dental anxiety include Valium, Halcion, Xanax, and Ativan.
These drugs reduce anxiety by calming the brain's "fear" receptors.
Types of Benzodiazepines:
Sedative-Hypnotics: Induce calmness and sleep through hypnosis (a form of physiological sleep).
Anti-Anxiety Drugs: Reduce anxiety and promote a state of calm and relaxation without causing sleep.
How Benzodiazepines Work
Higher doses can act as sedatives to induce sleep, while lower doses primarily reduce anxiety.
These drugs are CNS (Central Nervous System) depressants, which means they can lower blood pressure and breathing.
Important Safety Considerations
No Mixing with Alcohol or Other CNS Depressants: Combining them can dangerously lower breathing and blood pressure.
Follow Dosage Instructions: It’s critical to only take the prescribed dose to avoid overdose, which could lead to life-threatening conditions like coma.
Post-Sedation Travel
Do not travel alone after taking anti-anxiety medication. Always have an escort, whether you traveled by car, bus, or on foot, as you may become disoriented.
When Not to Take Benzodiazepines
Medical Conditions: Avoid these medications if you have liver or heart problems, respiratory issues (like COPD), or conditions such as glaucoma or chronic bronchitis.
Medication Interactions: Inform your doctor or dentist if you're taking other medications, as benzodiazepines can interact with certain drugs.
Other Considerations: Benzodiazepines may not be safe if you have depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, or impaired kidney/liver function.
Dental Emergencies?
Our Team is Here for You
If you're facing a dental emergency, our team is ready to help. Whether it's sudden pain, a broken tooth, or any other urgent issue, don't hesitate to reach out to us as soon as possible. We prioritize emergency care to ensure you receive prompt treatment and relief. Your comfort and well-being are our top priority!