Did you know that most decay doesn’t hurt?
It sounds strange but it’s true. Decay (bacteria) only starts hurting when it gets to the nerve of your tooth. Then a root canal is needed. So, when an x-ray shows decay, get it treated.General Dentistry Services
New Patient Exam
This is your first visit to our office. At this appointment, we will take digital photos of your teeth and smile, along with any necessary x-rays. Dr. Rice will take the time to perform a very thorough exam of your mouth, gums and teeth. Together, you and Dr. Rice will discuss your questions and concerns as well as findings from the exam. From the information gathered, Dr. Rice will create a customized treatment plan to achieve your goals. Fees and financial options will be discussed and you will be well on your way to having the healthy mouth you desire! By the time you complete your new patient visit, you will already be a part of our family of patients. You will also have an assistant you know by name who will walk you through treatment and be available to you via e-mail or phone to answer any future questions or concerns.
Cleanings/Fluoride
Dr. Rice believes that regular cleanings and checkups are essential in maintaining good oral health and that fluoride treatments are just as important for adults as they are for our children. As we age, we have areas in our mouth where the roots of our teeth are exposed. These roots are very susceptible to a cavity. By nourishing the entire mouth with fluoride, these root areas are protected.
Treatment for Periodontal (gum) Disease
Periodontal disease begins when certain bacteria in plaque (the sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on the teeth and the surfaces lining the mouth) produce toxins and enzymes that irritate the gums and cause inflammation. The resulting inflammation, which may be painless, can damage the attachment of the gums and bone to the teeth.
Good oral hygiene (brushing twice a day and flossing) helps reduce the plaque film. Plaque that is not removed regularly can harden into rough, porous deposits called calculus, or tartar. Tartar is not the main cause of periodontal disease, but the pores in the tartar hold bacteria and toxins, which are impossible to remove even with regular brushing. Once the hardened tartar forms, it can only be removed when teeth are cleaned by a hygienist at a dental office.
When diagnosed early, treatment can be easy and painless. To ensure that you are comfortable, your mouth is numbed while the buildup of bacteria is removed. In some cases, after your mouth has been thoroughly cleaned, an antibiotic, called Arestin is placed directly in the pocket to treat the infection and promote healing.
Once you are diagnosed with periodontal disease, you always have it, but it can be maintained. Periodontal disease can be maintained by regular (every 3 or 4 months depending on the individual) cleanings and proper homecare.
Clinical studies show that there is a link between heart disease and periodontal disease, as well as diabetes.
Fillings
Dr. Rice believes that composite (tooth colored) resin is the material of choice used in placing fillings because it bonds directly to the tooth. This bond creates a complete seal that won’t separate over time like we now know amalgam (silver) can do. Certainly, not all silver amalgam fillings may need replacing, but certain replacements and new cavities are best restored using tooth colored fillings.
Crown and Bridge
A crown is needed (most commonly) when more than one-third to one-half of the natural tooth is damaged from decay. Also, it is standard of care to place a crown on a tooth that has had a root canal.
A bridge replaces a missing tooth (teeth). Normally, it includes at least 3 teeth, the one in the middle being missing. Just like a crown, it is a permanently cemented restoration.
It is important to remember that crowns and bridges must be professionally cleaned by a hygienist just like other teeth in your mouth.
Implant Restoration
Dr. Rice believes that implants are the standard for single and multiple tooth replacement. Dental implants are made from titanium that is coated with special material that encourages the bone to grow around it. Once the implant integrates into the bone (osseointegration) the implant can last a lifetime. The implant is then restored with an all porcelain crown just like a tooth would be. Unlike a bridge, implants replace a missing tooth without compromising the two teeth on either side of the space by crowning them. Implants are a predictable, conservative, and aesthetic approach for tooth replacement. Come in for a consultation with Dr. Rice to discuss your dental implant options. While you are referred to our specialist for the implant placement process, we will restore the crown on the implant.
