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A General Dentist is educated to provide comprehensive care from dental examinations to dental surgery. While most dental procedures can be provided by the general dentist, a patient may be referred to a specialist. An Endodontist is a dentist who works in that branch of dentistry that is concerned with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease and injuries of the internal soft tissue of the tooth (root canals). An Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon is a dentist who works in that specialty of dentistry that includes the diagnosis, surgical and adjunctive treatment of diseases, injuries and deformities involving both functional and esthetic aspects of the mouth, jaw, and related area of the head and neck. An Orthodontist is a dentist who works in that dental specialty that includes the diagnosis, prevention, interception, and correction of malocclusion. The Orthodontists prescribes and places corrective devices, such as braces, to align teeth and improve health and appearance. A Pediatric Dentist is a dentist who works within an age-defined specialty that provides both primary and comprehensive preventive and therapeutic oral health care for infants and children through adolescence, including those with special health care needs. A Periodontist is a dentist who works in that specialty of dentistry which encompasses the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the supporting and surrounding tissues (gums) of the teeth. A Prosthodontist is a dentist who works in that specialty of dentistry that pertains to the diagnosis, treatment planning, rehabilitation and maintenance of the oral function, comfort, appearance and health of patients with clinical conditions associated with missing or deficient teeth. The prosthodontist designs and fits bridge work and dentures. An Oral and Maxillofacial Pathologist is a dentist who works in that specialty of dentistry and discipline of pathology that deals with the nature, identification, and management of diseases affecting the oral and maxillofacial regions. It is a science that investigates the causes, processes, and effects of these diseases. The practice of oral pathology includes research and diagnosis of diseases using clinical, radiographic, microscopic, biochemical, or other examinations. An Oral and Maxillofacial Radiologist is a dentist who works in that specialty of dentistry and the discipline of radiology, that is concerned with the production and interpretation of images, and data that are used for the diagnosis and management of diseases, disorders, and conditions of the mouth, jaw, and related areas of the head and neck. To view a glossary of dental terms you may visit the American Dental Association’s web site at: http://www.ada.org/public/resources/glossary.asp |
ORTHODONTICS |
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At Any AgeOrthodontic treatment is associated with the use of braces to straighten misaligned teeth. Many treatment options are now available that allow treatment at almost any age. Orthodontics is often thought of as a teenage rite of passage, but regardless of age, patients with crooked or crowded teeth or with overbite or under-bite conditions can benefit greatly from orthodontic treatment. How Braces WorkOrthodontic braces apply tension to slowly reposition teeth within the jawbone. After the initial application, the orthodontist adjusts the tension of the braces over a succession of visits, spaced over a specific period of time. Oral appliances can also be used to expand or reshape the underlying jaw structure. Why Braces?Braces are applied for both practical and cosmetic reasons. In adults, orthodontic treatment can be required in preparation for the use of bridges or implants. Each patient’s needs are different, so be sure to ask what your course of treatment will require and if there are new advancements in braces that might be a match for you. While Undergoing Orthodontic Treatment: -Carefully brush your teeth after eating to prevent an increase risk of tooth decay. -Avoid foods that can damage your braces such as caramels, nuts, ice and candy. -In general, stay away from all sticky, chewy or hard foods. |
COSMETIC DENTISTRY(Not currently recognized as a dental specialty by the American Dental Association) |
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COSMETIC
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A perfect smile is captivating. Nice-looking teeth give you a certain confidence and ease. Cosmetic dentistry offers many options to enhance your smile. Tooth Whitening-Many factors can cause discolored teeth: -Some medical conditions -Some medications -Habitually drinking coffee, tea or cola -Habitually using tobacco -The effects of advancing age A bleaching process can be employed to brighten discolored smiles. Depending upon the type of discoloration, your dentist will select a particular method of whitening your teeth. The “power-bleaching method” is performed entirely within the dentist’s office using a highly concentrated bleaching gel which is activated by a laser or power light. This method most often produces results after one visit. At-home methods show results within 2-4 weeks with the daily use of custom-fitted mouth appliance that is filled with dentist-dispensed gel. Both techniques effectively remove stains and discoloration to attain a brighter smile. Bonding- Dental bonding is a simple cosmetic solution for minor cracks, chips and worn teeth. Enamel-like material is applied to the surface of the tooth and hardened with an ultraviolet light. The material is durable, but the bonding may need replacement after a few years. The procedure is painless and can be complete in one office visit. Porcelain fillings- For many years, silver and gold fillings have been the only options available to dental patients. Although these fillings function well, having a mouth full of shiny metal is not appealing to many people. Today, most dentists offer porcelain fillings that match the color of your teeth. Also, these fillings are less likely to cause stress fractures and are also identical to a completely natural tooth. Porcelain Veneers- Porcelain veneers are used to alter teeth which are discolored, worn, chipped or misaligned. When preparing a tooth for a porcelain veneer, the enamel on the front side of the existing tooth is trimmed back approximately .5mm. A porcelain laminate is then secured to the tooth with a resin cement making the procedure irreversible. The process requires two to three office visits. Veneers are very durable and patients are able to maintain normal eating habits, with minimal limitations. Dentists do recommend avoiding sticky foods that my twist the laminate. Dentists also caution that some patients may temporarily experience minor hot and cold sensitivity, but it should pass in one to two weeks after the insertion. |
ORAL SURGERY |
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TMJTemporomandibular Joint Pain, or TMJ, is a common type of jaw pain. The pain is caused by problems with the mandible or lower jaw joint. Symptoms include facial and jaw pain, clicking noises, difficulty chewing, earaches and headaches. In severe cases, TMJ can be treated with surgery. If you suffer from TMJ, consult with an Oral Surgeon to explore treatment options. Implant SurgeryImplant surgery is an option for those who may have permanent tooth loss due to disease or accident. A dental implant begins with a “screw” or “post” that is implanted into the jawbone under the gums. During healing, the bone grows around the implant. Once healing is complete, a crown is placed on the implant restoring a similar and natural look to the original tooth. Implants are a specialty procedure that can require a referral to a qualified Oral Surgeon. Oral CancerApproximately 75% of oral cancer cases are caused by smoking or smokeless tobacco. Early detection is critical. Symptoms can include: red or white lumps, numbness of tongue, unexplained swelling or difficulty chewing or swallowing. If diagnosed, a qualified Oral Surgeon can best explain your options. Wisdom Teeth and AnesthesiaIt is common for individuals to develop wisdom teeth. This usually occurs by the mid-teens. Also, it is common for the wisdom teeth to be unable to erupt as they are blocked by gum and bone. This condition is referred to as “impacted”, and often requires the wisdom teeth to be removed. If the wisdom teeth are not removed, problems such as infection, cysts, bone loss, tumors and damage to adjacent teeth can occur. The presence of wisdom teeth is identified by x-rays and early removal is usually the best course of action. Anesthesia is a very important part of wisdom teeth extraction, and most individuals opt to be asleep while the teeth are removed. A qualified Oral Surgeon is an expert at this procedure and at administering safe anesthesia. |
SEDATION DENTISTRY |
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For many people, a trip to the dentist can be frightening and filled with anxiety. The fear of pain and the sights, sounds and smells associated with some dental procedures cause a large portion of the population to avoid this important part of their general healthcare. But with today’s advanced dental technology and pain management alternatives, a visit to the dentist can now be a much more pleasant experience. What Is Sedation Dentistry?In many cases, a consultation with your dentist may be enough to alleviate the fear and apprehension associated with an upcoming dental procedure. However, when a patient requires the administration of a drug to calm his/her anxiety, it is called “conscious sedation”. Sedatives can be administered before, during or after dental procedures and may be given by mouth, inhalation, injection or IV. These methods of sedation allow the patient to become relaxed during treatment, but able to respond to speed or touch. You will want to discuss all aspects of these various techniques with your dentist in order to select the one that is best for you. Benefits of Sedation Dentistry-Can reduce the number of appointments necessary to repair years of dental neglect -Can reduce the physical and mental fatigue related to lengthy procedures -Can help patients who have a strong gag reflex or have difficulty opening their mouths for a long period of time. |
SNORING AND OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA |
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Snoring and Obstructive Sleep ApneaSnoring is the sound of partially obstructed breathing during sleep. While snoring can be harmless, it can also be the sign of a more serious medical condition known as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Obstructive Sleep Apnea occurs when the tongue and soft palate collapse onto the back of the throat. This blocks the upper airway causing air flow to stop. When the oxygen level drops low enough the brain moves out of deep sleep and the individual partially awakens. The airway then has more muscle tone and opens causing the obstruction in the throat to clear allowing air flow again which usually starts with a loud gasp. With sufficient oxygenation the person falls back asleep and the process repeats sometimes 50 or more times an hour. Both snoring and sleep apnea are on a continuum of different Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB) problems. The combination of low blood oxygen levels and fragmented sleep are the major contributors to most of the ill effects that the sleep apnea and snoring patients suffers. In addition to excessive daytime sleepiness studies show that sleep apnea patients are much more likely to suffer from heart problems (heart attack, congestive heart failure, hypertension), strokes, as well as having a higher incidence of work related and driving related accidents. Diagnosis of Obstructive Sleep ApneaSince OSA is a serious medical condition, it must be diagnosed by a physician. Diagnosis is often based on the results of an overnight sleep study called a Polysomnogram (PSG). Other factors of determining OSA are patient clincial evaluation and history. There is debate as to whether dentists should treat snoring as there can be a dramatic difference between primary snoring diagnosed by a PSG and snoring associated with OSA. Treatment OptionsGood sleep hygiene, weight loss, positional therapy and exercise are some helpful behavioral OSA treatments a patient can practice on their own. However, medical and dental tre atments include Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, Oral Appliance Therapy and a variety of surgical procedures. Dentists should not treat SDB alone and it is in the patient’s best interest for dentists to coordinate any "Sleep Medicine" care with the primary care physician and/or the physician sleep specialist. |
DENTAL IMPLANTS(Not currently recognized as a dental specialty by the american Dental Association) |
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Understanding Options For A Beautiful SmileDental implants are substitutes for the roots of missing teeth. The implants act as an anchor for a replacement tooth or crown or a set of replacement teeth. Dental implants allow for the replacement of single or multiple missing teeth without grinding on good teeth. The treatment can be more conservative than traditional bridgework since implants do not rely on neighboring teeth for support. Dental implant restorations are natural looking and comfortable, and you may forget you ever lost a tooth. Dental Implants can stabilize your dentures, allow you to chew more comfortably, and eliminate the need for denture adhesive. Contact your dentist who can fully explain your options for a beautiful smile. What are the benefits?Dental implants can be the solution to the problem of missing teeth. Dental implants integrate into the structure of your bone and can prevent bone loss and gum recession that often accompanies bridgework and dentures. You can enjoy a beautiful smile without anyone knowing that you have a replacement tooth. Who Is A Candidate For Dental Implants?Implant patients are of all ages and implants may be the right choice for anyone missing teeth due to injury, disease or decay. The ideal candidate is in good general and oral health and has healthy gum tissues free of periodontal disease. Since dental implants are connected to gum tissues and underlying bone in the mouth, only your dentist can determine if you are a good candidate for this procedure. Whom Should I Consult For Implant Treatment?Your general dentist is you first resource for this service. The key is the dentist’s training, experience and credentials. Credentialed dentists include general dentists, periodontists, prosthodontics and oral surgeons who perform the surgical and/or restorative procedures. What Is Treatment Like?Depending on your specific condition and the type of implant chosen, your dentist can create a treatment plan tailored to meet your needs. The total time for treatment can range from six weeks to over a year depending on the complexity of the treatment. It is important that you discuss with your dentist your desires and that your dentist fully answers your questions and addresses your concerns. What Can I Expect After Treatment?Your teeth require conscientious at-home oral care and regular dental visits. Dental implants are like your own teeth and require the same care. In order to keep your implant clean and plaque-free, brushing and flossing still apply. |
TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome) |
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Every time you open your mouth to speak, chew or yawn, you’re using your temporomandibular joints or TMJs. These small joints are located in front of each ear and join the mandible, or lower jaw, to the temporal bone of the skull. Damage to these complex joints caused by physical or emotional stress can result in the condition known as TMJ syndrome. If you are experiencing one or more symptoms of TMJ, a consultation with your dental healthcare provider is a good first step toward proper diagnosis and treatment. Common Causes-Head trauma -Grinding or clenching the teeth -Malocclusion (incorrect bite) -Chewing gum for long periods of time -Arthritis Common Symptoms-Popping or clicking sounds in the jaw -Headaches, earaches or ringing in the ears -Facial, neck, shoulder or back pain -Uncomfortable bite -Dizziness Risk Factors-Stress can lead to clenching or grinding the teeth -Missing teeth and poorly fitting dentures -Conditions such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis -Poor posture can place undue stress on jaw, face and neck muscles Treating TMJDepending on the cause and severity of the TMJ disorder, treatment can include: -Soft diet, warm or cold packs and medication for pain relief -Physical therapy such as massage or stretching exercises -Mouth guards and correction of bite abnormalities -Stress management -Surgery Manage Stress To Help Prevent TMJ Symptoms-Reduce stress through relaxation techniques -Keep jaw and face muscles relaxed -Maintain good posture -Drink 6-8 glasses of water daily -Avoid hard foods and chewing gum |