General DentistryTemple Terrace, FL

General dentistry is a profession focused on diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and conditions of the oral bones and tissues. As dental care professionals, we find our top priority in preventing problems from occurring by keeping routine visits with each of our patients, at least every six months. If problems are discovered, prompt treatment is offered to ensure these issues do not intensify. 

An example of some of the work we do would be removing plaque and tartar that accumulate on teeth to prevent tooth decay. Another common procedure might be fitting dental appliances, such as dentures. A patient may visit a general dentist for any number of reasons, including cleanings, exams, fillings, or root canals.  

To learn about the various services we offer as general dentists, we invite you to read below! Please contact our office in Temple Terrace, FL, today if you have any questions.

Cleanings & Exams

A dental cleaning is a procedure in which the plaque and tartar accumulation on the teeth is removed. Plaque (a sticky, colorless film consisting mostly of bacteria) is constantly forming on your teeth. If not removed within 24 hours, it hardens into tartar. Tartar leads to more serious effects, such as tooth decay, gum inflammation, and gum disease. Once we have performed a careful removal of these substances, we will brush, floss, and polish your teeth!

An oral examination is a detailed observation of your teeth, gums, and other oral tissues using x-rays and visual inspection to diagnose and treat various diseases of the gums and teeth.

Routine dental cleanings and exams are essential for all patients, regardless of age or oral health status. Often it is easier for the patient to have these services done on a regular basis rather than allowing for problems to develop before seeking treatment. 

A cleaning and examination should be done every six months, or more, depending on the patient’s oral health condition.

Fillings

When a cavity occurs in a tooth, dental fillings are used to prevent further decay. A filling is composed of a safe, biocompatible material that is placed into the hole or cavity of the tooth. Fillings can be made from different substances, including metal amalgam, composite resin, porcelain, and gold; in our office, we use composite fillings to restore the health and strength of the tooth without compromising the tooth’s appearance. 

Composite matches the tooth color and blends seamlessly into its surface, protecting the tooth from further damage while concealing the evidence of any work being done.

Extractions

While we often prefer to save a tooth over removing it, there are some cases where extraction is necessary. When used under appropriate circumstances, extraction can prevent damage to other teeth and actually benefit your overall oral health. 

Some of the reasons we provide extraction are as follows: 

  • If a tooth has been damaged to the point that no restoration (filling, crown, etc.) can save it, the tooth may require removal. Extracting the tooth will reduce your risk of further damage or the spread of infection. 
  • Advanced cases of gum disease may also necessitate tooth extractions, as the condition attacks the gum tissue and the supporting bone of the teeth, causing the teeth to become loose or possibly fall out. 
  • Another reason for extractions may be in relation to wisdom teeth development. Often, the wisdom teeth may need to be removed if they are growing in at an angle or horizontally, which can potentially damage the roots of adjacent teeth. This is usually diagnosed during a routine dental examination or x-ray. 
  • Overcrowded teeth may also require extraction and orthodontic care to fix the alignment of the smile.

If we determine that your tooth requires extraction. You can be assured that we have taken other measures into consideration as well. Making the decision that removal of a tooth is your best option is done with careful consideration, and we can assure you that, if necessary, you will have options for replacing teeth once the extraction has been performed.

Root Canals

A root canal is a treatment where the diseased pulp (living tissue) and nerve of the tooth are removed, and then the tooth is cleaned and sealed to prevent further infection. This treatment is often used to save a tooth that has become badly decayed or damaged and otherwise would need to be removed. Once the interior of the tooth has been compromised, infection ensues.

If left untreated, an infected tooth may cause swelling of the face and painful sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. You might also notice symptoms such as a fever, bad headache, or toothache. If you believe that you are suffering from a tooth infection and need a root canal, please contact our office as soon as possible!

Oral Sedation

Oral sedatives are taken by mouth about an hour before the patient’s dental appointment. The use of oral sedatives for dentistry has been shown to reduce anxiety during treatment, decrease pain perception, and increase the ability to tolerate procedures. It is particularly helpful for patients who have had traumatic dental experiences in the past, patients that fear the dentist’s office, patients with severe gag reflexes, and for patients who are highly anxious.

Oral sedatives are classified as general anesthetics due to their ability to decrease the activity of the central nervous system to induce sleepiness or create a feeling of relaxation. If you would like to discuss the use of oral sedation for your next dental appointment, please contact our office today.

Dentures & Partials

A denture is an oral appliance that replaces missing teeth and provides support for the cheeks and lips. The ultimate function of a denture is to restore chewing efficiency and appearance of the smile; a properly fitting denture should be stable, comfortable, easily maintained, and not hinder speech or nasal airflow.

  • A full denture replaces all of the natural teeth in the jaw while also holding up the cheeks. These appliances are typically held in place by suction or dental adhesive. 
  • A partial is a device designed for artificial replacement of some, but not all of the teeth in an arch. A partial denture may rely on suction, or clasp onto neighboring teeth for support.

Ready To Serve Your Smile

Our practice is dedicated to the health of your smile and beyond delighted to welcome you and your family. Through our general dentistry services, it is our hope that you will experience greater oral wellness and obtain all the benefits of a beautiful, healthy smile. 

With a team that’s eager to give you the treatment you need and the care you deserve, we invite you to contact our office today! Our friendly team will be happy to schedule your visit and show you what quality dental care looks like. Contact us today!

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