Fillings
A filling is referred to as a composite resin. The composite resin is tooth-coloured mixture of glass/ceramic and plastic. The composite resin is placed in the tooth to restore the area of previous decay.
Exams
Having an examination is very important. Many signs of early detection can be noted and monitored at these exams. When a cavity is in the early stages (just in the enamel layer) of the tooth you can inform a patient of its location in the mouth and with improved home care (brushing and flossing) the enamel can remineralize.
Cleaning
Oral health promotion is an integral part of being a Dentist and Dental Hygienist. It is very important to examine the quality of a patients oral health. We are aiming to improve oral health in all patients using research and effective promotion of health. The promotion of health is accomplished through education, so a dental cleaning is “not” just a cleaning. Our goal for all our patients is to have a mouth free of disease which helps the patient have a healthy lifestyle. The key to oral health is prevention and preventing oral disease is very achievable. This prevention is achieved through the understanding of risk factors, such as the intake of sugars, tobacco, diet and underlying health issues. Having a “check-up” with Dr. Dove and his staff will allows patients to understand that we are committed to the prevention of oral disease and the prevention of chronic diseases. Practising good oral hygiene habits can prevent gingivitis, can control periodontal disease and prevent dental caries. So a “cleaning” is not just a “cleaning”.
Bonding
Bonding is also referred to as a bonded restoration. Bonding uses tooth-coloured material. The tooth colored material is referred to as composite resin. Decay is infection which penetrates through enamel and into dentin. Dentin is the inner layer of the tooth. Once the bacteria has reached the dentin this is now referred to as a cavity. A cavity can be removed and a choice of material to replace the lost portion of the tooth is Bonding. The bonding is actually repairing the tooth, it seals the area and allows the tooth to fully function.
Extractions
A tooth which is severely damaged and has been diagnosed as non-restorable may be extracted. The loss of the tooth can occur with primary or permanent teeth. If a primary tooth is extracted orthodontic treatment may be required. The orthodontic treatment is done to guide the permanent tooth into the proper position. An adult tooth which has been severely damaged is extracted. These patients should consider grafting.
Root Canal
A root canal treatment is done to a tooth once the decay has spread to the nerve of the tooth. The root canal is successful at removing the infection but allowing the tooth to stay in the mouth. It saves the tooth from being removed. Saving a natural tooth is a wise decision if the roots are well formed and the bone levels are high. The tooth will require a crown once the root canal is completed, then the tooth has the strength to fully function.
Wisdom Teeth
The wisdom teeth are referred too as the third molar. The third molar extraction is a very common oral surgery. It has been documented as the most common oral surgery performed on Canadian young adults.
Bone Grafting
A bone graft is done to restore the loss of bone. The loss can occur from trauma, tooth loss and gum disease. Bone grafting is done to maintain the bone structure after the tooth is extracted. When a tooth is extracted the roots will leave a void in the bone, the bone will regenerate but not completely. Considering a bone graft will fill the empty space of the extracted roots and it helps to protect the surrounding teeth. Bone loss is a very natural process when teeth are missing. This process occurs and is referred to as bone resorption. This process does not occur any where else in the body. Restoring and maintaining facial bone (jaw bone) is important for several reasons.
Prevora Antibacterial Tooth Coating
If Dr. Dove believes that you are at a high risk for tooth decay, we may recommend additional protection with a new antibacterial tooth coating called Prevora. Extra prevention can be particularly important when you have a bout of cavities, dry mouth, undergo periodontal care or have extensive gum recession.
Digital Radiography
Digital radiography (x-ray) is a form of X-ray imaging. A digital sensor is used instead of a traditional photographic film. These digital sensors are much easier and efficient due to reduced time in the mouth when taking the radiograph. The benefits also include less radiation. The digital sensors are more responsive than the film so there is less radiation required.
CBCT Scans
We also use Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scans, which are basically 3D x-rays. These scans are mainly used in implant dentistry.
