Family dentistry is a broad term that can best be used to describe the services which can be provided by that of a general dentist. This means that a general dentist has to be adept in treating and managing everyone from the uncooperative three year old to the semi-mobile octagenarian.
Fortunately, dentistry and it's method of prevention over the last few decades has begun to bear fruit. More people are keeping their teeth as they age and we are seeing fewer and fewer children with cavities. You can give credit to things like fluoridation, better regularity with dental care, and more awareness from parents for giving their children an early dental experience.
It is my sole belief that we are all good patients, but that bad experiences like toothaches can make anyone a dental phobic. If we are allowed to prevent these kind of events from occurring through regular dental care, one need never fear the horror stories so often told.
Family dentistry therefore is concerned with the prevention of decay through education and use of modern materials that strengthen and decrease your chances of "getting a cavity". But if you do get a cavity there are many good ways to fix your teeth. One important thing to remember is that you should be given options. There is not always just one way to fix something. There may be pros and cons to each method, but properly informed you can make the right decision.
Cleanings
Normal prophylaxis - this is what most people think of when they think of getting their teeth cleaned. This is the type of cleaning performed a majority of the time in our office. This is normally performed as a one appointment procedure in conjunction with a complete hard and soft tissue exam and may include x-rays if necessary.
Periodontal scaling - This method is used when your pocket readings are usually 5mm or greater in more than one region. It will at times require anesthesia and may require several appointments to ensure that a thorough job has been done. Each patient is examined thoroughly by our hygienist in an effort to tailor the necessary treatment for you.
Periodontal patients are screened via our new patient examination and it is determined early on whether or not you may be a candidate for said treatment. Each case is very individualistic.
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Exam
- Our new patient exam is very thorough. As mentioned above, it is a screening process in which I can easily discern your dental needs and best direct you in achieving a goal of dental health. I look at all hard (tooth) tissues as well as extraoral and introral soft tissues. Also checked is your occlusion (bite) and jaw function.
Sealants
A sealant is a plastic coating that is placed within the deep anatomic pits and fissures that make up the top portion of a molar and in other areas that may be prone to decay. It works by not allowing bacteria and food particles to colonize these areas and produce acids which can ultimately lead to decay.
We usually place these on permanent teeth (molars and bicuspids - but can also place them on baby teeth as well.
The process is very simple and straightforward and requires no anesthesia.
Filling Types
