General Dentistry

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a tooth. The purpose of a crown is to restore the tooth's strength, shape and size. Crowns are used over the real tooth or a dental implant. Common reasons a dental crown is needed:

• In the case of tooth decay, it protects a weak tooth from breaking or it holds the parts together
• Support a tooth that is partially lost
• Hold dental bridge in place
• Cover asymmetrical or severely discolored teeth
• Cover a dental implant
• Make cosmetic improvements 

Regular Dental Checkups

To keep your teeth and gums healthy it's important to have routine dental cleanings. This is also the best way to protect and detect issues early. The Academy of General Dentistry recommends check ups twice a year. 

During a dental exam our team will take x-rays, examine existing restorations (crowns, fillings or other restorative work), screen for oral cancer and examine your teeth for decay. 

Generally your dental cleaning will be performed by a Registered Dental Hygienist. We strive to provide a gentle cleaning experience. During this time your hygienist will remove plaque (the living colony of bacteria) and tarter (hardened plaque that's located above and below your gum lines) to prevent periodontal disease.

Keeping your teeth healthy and strong is our main priority, a filling restores a tooth that has been damaged. When a dentist gives a filling, they first remove the decayed tooth material and clean the affected area. The last step is to fill the cleaned cavity area.  

Signs that indicate you may need a dental filling

Only a dentist can confirm if you have a cavity. However, there are signs you may experience that can indicate the need for a filling. Tooth sensitivity is a common sign.   

 At first, it’s silent, practically invisible and sometimes even 

painless. But once periodontal disease strikes, it’s only a matter 

of time until it makes its presence known with uncomfortable, 

unsightly and quite possibly irreparable side effects. 

Periodontal disease, also know as gum disease, is the major 

cause of tooth loss in adults. There are several types and 

stages of the disease, all of which start with an infection of 

the gums that can move into the bones and ligaments that 

support the teeth. In the beginning stages, it is often detected 

by a dentist or dental hygienist during regular checkups. If left 

untreated gums and bone can become so seriously damaged, 

that teeth can fall out or have to be removed. 

Stages of Periodontal Disease

Healthy gums are firm, pink and don't bleed.

1.  In the earliest stage of periodontal disease, called gingivitis the gums begin to get red and puffy and may bleed during brushing or flossing. Plaque and tarter may build up at the gum line but the bone that holds the teeth is still healthy and removing the irritants will restore tissue health. 
2. The second stage is known as periodontists. During this stage, the gums begin to separate from the teeth, the underlying bone is damaged and pockets form. 
3. Advanced stages of gum disease, pockets continue to deepen and there is further destruction of the underlying bone. Additionally, the bacteria that live in these deep pockets contribute even further to disease progression. 

If you would like to have a brighter, whiter smile our dentists are happy to provide a consult to determine the best whitening method for you. 

Oral injuries are often painful, and should be treated by a  dentist as soon as possible. Dental Emergencies may include  teeth that have been knocked out (evulsed), forced out of  position (extruded), or broken (fractured.) Sometimes lips, gums or cheeks have cuts.

If your emergency is life-threatening, call 911 or go to a hospital emergency room immediately.