DR O – FAMILY DENTIST SERVICES

The “Temporomandibular Joint,” more commonly referred to as the “jaw joint,” assists in the basic opening and closing movements of the jaw. Unfortunately, this joint is a common area for recurring pain. We offer a TMJ exam that evaluates the joint tissue in the “hinge” of the jaw. Possible problems include swelling, deterioration of the joint tissue or damaged joint tissue, which cushions the jaw bones during the opening and closing movement of the mouth. We can discuss treatment options depending on the results of your exam.

There are millions of people who avoid going to the dentist and getting dental care simply for the fear of the pain and anxiety. Many people may have suffered some type of traumatic experience while at the dentist before or while they were younger. However, failing to get regular checkups and routine dental care done can be harmful in the long run. Typically, minor dental problems lead to bigger ones that may begin to affect your overall health. The mouth needs care, just as the body does, and many dentists are now offering oral sedation as a means to help patients feel a little more relaxed when they need to get dental work done.

Periodontal simply means “the tissue around the teeth.” Periodontists specialize in the treatment and surgery of this area, which is often characterized by gum disease. Plaque is the most common element causing gum disease. Unfortunately, periodontal-related problems are often discovered after they have persisted for an extended period of time. Proper oral hygiene, daily dental care and regular dental checkups will minimize the risk of gum disease. Gum disease ranges from mild (gingivitis) to moderate (periodintitis) to the severe (periodontitis). Treatments are available for every case of gum disease.

No matter how often you brush and floss, soft and hard deposits and plaque can still build up on your teeth, especially in harder to reach areas of your mouth. A regular toothbrush cannot remove these types of deposits so professional cleaning is required. Frequent exams can often detect small problems before they turn into big ones! X-rays allow us to detect caries before they cause major damage, thus saving you money. Flouride, sealants and home care are all a part of prevention.

There are many cosmetic dental procedures available to improve your teeth and enhance your smile. Depending on your particular needs, cosmetic dental treatments can change your smile dramatically, from restoring a single tooth to having a full mouth make-over. Teeth whitening, Composite Fillings, Porcelain Veneers, Porcelain Crowns, Dental Implants, and Invisalign are some examples.