Explore Your Dental Knowledge in Davison, Michigan

  • Dental Implants

    Before the development of dental implants, dentures were the only alternative to replacing a missing tooth or teeth.


    Dental Implants are synthetic structures that are placed in the area of the tooth normally occupied by the root. Implants are anchored to the jawbone or metal framework on the bone and act as a foundation for an artificial tooth or permanent bridge. In some cases, implants can be used to attach dentures.


    Am I a Good Candidate For Dental Implants?


    Not everyone in Davison is a candidate for a dental implant, however. For a successful implant to take hold, a candidate must have proper bone density and a strong immune system. In all cases, dental implants require strict oral hygiene.

     

    Most patients who are healthy with no restrictions for undergoing minor dental surgical procedures and who also have good oral hygiene are good candidates for dental implants. Dr. Vakula-Rollins will assess the potential implant site to determine whether there is sufficient bone volume and gum thickness to allow the placement of an implant. We begin by providing a clinical examination that will involve inspection, palpation, and gentle probing of the potential implant site and adjacent teeth. In straightforward cases, simple dental X-rays are usually sufficient to examine the bone. In more complex cases, specialized implant X-rays, known as tomograms, are usually required.


    Dental implants are so well designed that they mimic the look and feel of natural teeth. They are arguably the longest-lasting cosmetic procedure, and there are many more reasons to choose dental implants.


    Surgery is necessary to prepare the area for an implant and place the implant in the mouth. Following the procedure, a period of time is required for the implant to take hold and for bone tissue to build up and anchor the device. In some cases, metal posts are inserted into the implant during a follow-up procedure to connect the tooth.


    Because dental implants require surgery, patients are administered anesthesia and, if necessary, antibiotics to stave off infection following the procedure.


    Like any restoration, dental implants require diligent oral hygiene and proper care to ensure they last a long time. If you're on the fence about getting the procedure, take a look at the most frequently asked questions that dental implant patients have.


  • Am I a Good Candidate For Dental Implants?

    Not everyone in Davison is a candidate for a dental implant, however. For a successful implant to take hold, a candidate must have proper bone density and a strong immune system. In all cases, dental implants require strict oral hygiene.

     

    Most patients who are healthy with no restrictions for undergoing minor dental surgical procedures and who also have good oral hygiene are good candidates for dental implants. Dr. Vakula-Rollins will assess the potential implant site to determine whether there is sufficient bone volume and gum thickness to allow the placement of an implant. We begin by providing a clinical examination that will involve inspection, palpation, and gentle probing of the potential implant site and adjacent teeth. In straightforward cases, simple dental X-rays are usually sufficient to examine the bone. In more complex cases, specialized implant X-rays, known as tomograms, are usually required.


    Dental implants are so well designed that they mimic the look and feel of natural teeth. They are arguably the longest-lasting cosmetic procedure, and there are many more reasons to choose dental implants.


    Surgery is necessary to prepare the area for an implant and place the implant in the mouth. Following the procedure, a period of time is required for the implant to take hold and for bone tissue to build up and anchor the device. In some cases, metal posts are inserted into the implant during a follow-up procedure to connect the tooth.


    Because dental implants require surgery, patients are administered anesthesia and, if necessary, antibiotics to stave off infection following the procedure.


    Like any restoration, dental implants require diligent oral hygiene and proper care to ensure they last a long time. If you're on the fence about getting the procedure, take a look at the most frequently asked questions that dental implant patients have.

  • Cosmetic & General Dentistry

    The practice of dentistry encompasses an amazing array of services and procedures, all with a common goal: to help you preserve your natural teeth as long as possible, ensure your oral health, and keep you looking and feeling great throughout life.


     The first step in any smile makeover is a thorough dental examination to make sure that your cosmetic problems really are just that and not a sign of underlying dental disease. Once your health has been established, your smile can be cosmetically enhanced in a variety of ways.

  • Cosmetic & General Dentistry Procedures

    Modern dentistry offers a wide range of services to make sure your teeth stay healthy, function well, and look great. These procedures include:


    • Cleanings & Oral Exams to keep your teeth and gums healthy and catch early signs of dental disease
    • Cosmetic Bonding to repair small chips or cracks
    • Crowns & bridgework to replace large amounts of lost tooth structure and/or missing teeth
    • Dental Implants for the longest-lasting tooth replacement available today
    • Extractions to remove unhealthy teeth that cannot be saved
    • Fillings to restore decayed teeth
    • Inlays & Onlays, to fill teeth with larger cavities
    • Invisalign Clear Aligners, for highly discreet orthodontic treatment
    • Oral Cancer Screenings to detect a dangerous disease that can be cured if caught early
    • Orthodontic treatment to move teeth into the right position
    • Porcelain Veneers for repairing larger chips and cracks and reshaping teeth
    • Removable Dentures to help you smile again
    • Root Canal Treatment to rescue diseased teeth
    • Sealants to help prevent cavities
    • Teeth Whitening to brighten a faded or discolored smile
    • TMD Treatment for pain in the jaw area that can interfere with biting and chewing
    • Tooth-Colored Fillings for a completely natural, healthy look
    • Tooth Decay Prevention, so you keep your natural teeth as long as possible.

  • When to Visit the Dentist

    Many people only go to the dentist when something is wrong. That is truly a shame because they are missing out on so many preventive services that can save discomfort — and expense — down the road. Regular dental visits are essential to make sure oral health problems — from tooth decay to oral cancer — are detected and treated in a timely manner. Some individuals may need to see the dentist more often than others to stay on top of problems like plaque buildup and gum disease, but everyone should go at least once per year.


    Your regular dental visits will include a thorough oral exam to check the health of your teeth and gums, oral cancer screening to spot any suspicious signs early and a professional cleaning to remove stubborn deposits and make your teeth look and feel great. So don't miss out on the many benefits dentistry offers you and your family!

  • Your Smile Makeover

    The most important job you have as a member of your own smile makeover team is to communicate what you don't like about your smile and how you'd like it to be different. Before the first consultation, give some thought to the following questions:

     

    What do you like or dislike about the color, size, shape, and spacing of your teeth?

    Are you pleased with how much your teeth show, both when you smile and when your lips are relaxed?

    Do you want teeth that are perfectly aligned and a bright "Hollywood White," or would you prefer a more natural look with slight color, shape, and shade variations?

    Would you like more or less of your gums to show when you smile?

     

    It is extremely helpful for you to bring in pictures you have collected — of smiles you like, smiles you don't like, and/or photos of the way your own smile used to look, if that's the result you're aiming for. Now is the time to get started on creating a smile that will make you feel as good as you look!

  • Endodontics

    Endodontics is the dental specialty that deals with tissues and structures located inside the tooth. One of the most common endodontic treatments is root canal therapy, a procedure that effectively eases the pain associated with a bacterial infection deep within the pulp of the tooth. Of course, root canal treatment doesn't just relieve pain — it also stops the infection by removing dead and dying tissue from the tooth's pulp. Plus, it helps to save the tooth, which is in danger of being lost if left untreated.

     

    Yet root canal therapy isn't the only treatment endodontics offers. This field also deals with cases of dental trauma, performs microsurgery on the tips of the tooth's roots, and even helps figure out what's going on when tooth pain seems to come and go intermittently or when the pain isn't localized at one tooth. So, when it comes to preserving your natural teeth, endodontics has plenty of ways to help.

    There are a variety of materials used to fill teeth these days, but the process of filling a tooth is similar regardless. The first step is a clinical exam of the tooth with X-rays to determine the extent of the decay. 

  • The Inside Story

    What's inside your teeth? Behind the tough, shiny enamel of the tooth's visible crown lies the sturdy inner tissue called dentin. Dentin is also found behind the cementum that forms the outer layer of the tooth's roots — in fact, it makes up the bulk of the tooth's structure. Similar in many ways to bone tissue, dentin is composed of many tiny tubules that can transmit sensations to nerve cells when it is stimulated.

     

    At the core of the tooth, inside small, branching chambers called the root canals, we find the soft pulp tissue. This consists of nerves, connective tissues, and blood vessels that extend into the center of the tooth and exit through. 


    Canals near the apex (tip) of the tooth's roots. When problems (such as infection and inflammation) develop in the pulp tissue, your first indication of trouble may be tooth sensitivity — or intense pain. In time, as the nerves die, the pain may go away, but the problem won't. In fact, if left untreated, the end result may be tooth loss.

  • The "Root" of the Problem

    What could cause the pulp tissue to become diseased and lead to root canal problems? One potential source of infection is untreated tooth decay, which can allow bacteria from the tooth's surface to work its way deep inside. A crack or fracture in a tooth could offer another pathway for microorganisms to infect the pulp.


    Dental trauma — from a sports injury, for example — may also damage dentin or pulp or expose it to infection. Extensive dental procedures (such as multiple fillings or restorations on the same tooth) may cause trouble; occasionally, even routine procedures like orthodontics may eventually lead to root canal problems.


  • Endodontic Treatment

    The old gag line "I'd rather have a root canal" may still get a laugh — but root canal problems are no joke. It's important to remember that root canal treatment doesn't cause pain; it relieves pain. A typical root canal procedure is performed with local anesthetics and doesn't cause any more discomfort than having a filling. Here's what to expect:

     

    First, you will receive anesthesia (usually a numbing shot) — and for many patients, the worst is now over. Next, a small opening is made in the tooth surface to give access to 

    the pulp chamber and root canals. Then, tiny instruments are used — often with the aid of a microscope — to remove dead and dying tissue from inside the narrow passages. These passages are then cleaned, disinfected, and filled with a safe, inert material. Finally, the opening in the tooth is sealed to prevent contamination.


    Other endodontic treatments may be recommended for removing sources of infection and preventing future problems. Following an endodontic procedure, it may be necessary to have a restoration (such as a crown) placed on the tooth to restore it to full function and aesthetic appearance. After that, with proper care, the restored tooth should last for many years.

  • Implant Dentistry

     Of all the ways modern dentistry has to replace missing teeth, dental implants are by far the best. There is no tooth-replacement option that will give you a longer-lasting result. Implants also help preserve tooth-supporting bone that naturally deteriorates when a tooth is lost. Loss of bone is one of the major hidden consequences of losing teeth.


    A dental implant most often takes the form of a small, screw-shaped titanium post that replaces the root part of a missing tooth. The surgical procedure used to place an implant is actually quite minor and routine, requiring only local anesthesia in most cases. After a healing period, the implant is topped with a lifelike crown custom-made to match your existing natural teeth. Implants have a documented success rate of over 95%, which is significantly higher than any other tooth-replacement option.

  • How Implants Work

    During a minor surgical procedure, your dental implant is inserted directly into the jawbone in the space vacated by the missing tooth. It will then be left to heal for a period of months before the final crown is attached. During this healing period, the implant actually fuses to the bone surrounding it.

  • Tooth Replacement Options Using Dental Implants

    Implants can replace missing teeth in a variety of ways. They can be used to:


    Replace One Tooth — When you have one tooth missing, a single implant is inserted into the bone to replace the root part of that tooth; a crown then goes on top to simulate an actual tooth. This treatment choice has the highest success rate, making it the best long-term investment for replacing a single missing tooth. Even if the initial cost is slightly higher than other options, it is the most cost-effective solution over time. An implant will never decay or need root canal treatment and feels just like the tooth that was there.


    Replace Multiple Teeth — When you have more than one tooth missing, implants provide an ideal replacement mechanism. You don't even need one implant for every missing tooth. Instead, implant teeth can act as supports for fixed bridgework. For example, if you are missing three teeth in a row, we can place two implants, one on either side of the gap and a crown in between that has no implant underneath. That way, you won't need to use any of your remaining natural teeth as bridge supports, which could weaken them and make them more susceptible to decay.


    Support Removable Dentures— Implants can even make removable dentures more comfortable, effective, and healthier to wear. Traditional dentures rest on the gums and put pressure on the underlying bone. This accelerates bone loss so that the jaw shrinks and the dentures slip, particularly on the bottom. But today, dentists can attach a removable denture onto implants, transferring that pressure into the bone structure rather than the bone surface. This prevents the dentures from slipping while you eat and speak and preserves the bone directly beneath them.

  • Implant Care and Maintenance

    There are only two ways an implant can lose attachment to the bone and fail once it has successfully fused: poor oral hygiene or excessive biting forces. Poor oral hygiene and/or a lack of regular cleanings can lead to a destructive bacterial infection called peri-implantitis. Flossing and brushing your teeth on a daily basis, along with regular professional cleanings, can prevent this. Excessive biting forces can come from either a habit of clenching or grinding your teeth or an insufficient number of implants to handle the forces generated by your bite. You should receive the correct number of implants so this does not happen. And if you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, a nightguard will be recommended to protect your implants. After all, implants are a long-term investment in your smile, your health, and your well-being, so it's best to protect your investment.

  • Oral Health

    What does the phrase "oral health" mean to you? No new cavities at your dental checkup? That's certainly part of it. But it's really so much more than a lack of tooth decay. Good oral health means a mouth that's free of disease - which can range all the way from mild gingivitis (gum inflammation) to oral cancer; a bite that functions well enough for you to eat without pain and get ample nutrition; and a smile that lets you express your happiest emotions with confidence. Simply put, oral health is a crucial component of your overall health and well-being.


    It's important to realize that small - and readily treatable - problems in your mouth can become more complicated, painful, and expensive if neglected for too long. Some of these oral health conditions may even have ramifications throughout the whole body. Gingivitis, for example, can sometimes progress to periodontitis - a more serious form of gum disease that can loosen teeth and cause them to fall out. Missing teeth can lead to bone loss in the jaw and inadequate nutrition. Numerous studies have shown that people with severe gum disease may be at increased risk for developing cardiovascular disease. The moral of this story: Routine maintenance can pay off big.

  • What You Can Do to Stay Healthy

    One of the most important things you can do to safeguard your oral health is to maintain a daily oral hygiene routine that effectively removes plaque from your teeth. It's the bacteria that thrive in the plaque biofilm that cause so many oral health problems. Effective oral hygiene involves brushing your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing at least once per day to remove plaque from between the teeth.


    Nutrition and lifestyle choices also play an important role. You don't have any control over hereditary factors that may predispose you to gum disease - but you do have control over how much sugar you eat and when you eat it, how often you exercise, whether you smoke, and how often you visit the dentist.

  • How Dentistry Can Help

    If you only see a dentist when problems arise, you may be missing out on some important benefits! As doctors who specialize in oral health, dentists offer a wide range of preventive services. At your regular exams, for example, you will be checked for any signs of oral cancer, tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral infections; hard-to-reach deposits from your teeth will be cleaned; and you can get answers to any questions you have on topics ranging from oral hygiene issues to the connection between oral health and systemic diseases.

     

    So please don't wait for a serious problem to come up before you make an appointment at the dental office. Having regular checkups could save you lots of time, aggravation, and cost in the long run. It could even save your teeth! Working together, we can take proactive steps toward a healthy future.

  • Oral Hygiene

    What does good oral hygiene mean to you: Flashing a pearly-white smile? Have fresh-smelling breath? Feeling that squeaky-clean sensation all around your teeth and tongue? All of these are important indicators of the state of your oral health — and they're often the first thing people notice when they meet you. But getting your teeth, gums, and mouth really clean and maintaining that healthy state throughout the day (and in the months between professional dental cleanings) can be challenging.   


    Of course, there's much more to oral hygiene than just a bright smile. Take tooth decay, for example: Despite all our efforts, it's still the single most common chronic disease of childhood, affecting two-thirds of U.S. kids aged 12-19. It is five times more common than asthma, seven times more common than hay fever — and it's almost totally preventable. Several other diseases commonly affect the mouth, including periodontitis (gum disease), which, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss and possibly systemic (whole-body) inflammation. 

     

    In many ways, the health of the mouth mirrors the health of the body. Diseases in other parts of the body often cause symptoms we can observe in the mouth; likewise, oral maladies (like tooth loss) not only reduce an individual's quality of life but may also lead to problems in other areas. That's another reason why maintaining good oral hygiene is so important. 


    Keeping Up Your Oral Health

     

    Regular dental visits play a critical role in maintaining your oral health — not only to find and remedy any problems with teeth or gums but also to assess the general condition of your oral health, point out potential trouble spots, and offer suggestions for preventive care. In between visits, the best way to keep your teeth clean and free of disease, your gums pink and healthy, and your breath fresh is a program of daily oral hygiene. Your regular routine should include the following:   

     

    Make sure you're getting the proper amount of fluoride. Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel — it's essential for children's developing teeth and helps prevent decay in both kids and adults. Even if your municipal water is fluoridated, you should always use fluoride toothpaste. If more fluoride is needed, it can be applied directly to your teeth at the dental office.


    Limit between-meal snacks. Sugary snacks are the perfect fuel for decay-causing bacteria — and when eaten throughout the day, they keep the acid constantly on the attack. So give your mouth a break, and (if you allow them) limit sugary treats to mealtime. 


    Use an appropriate mouthwash — especially if you're at increased risk. Therapeutic mouthwashes do more than temporarily mask bad smells or tastes in your mouth — they can improve your overall oral hygiene. While some over-the-counter products offer primarily "cosmetic" benefits, therapeutic rinses contain anti-bacterial and anti-cariogenic (cavity-fighting) ingredients. Using a therapeutic mouthwash has been proven to control plaque bacteria and prevent cavities better than brushing and flossing alone. 

     

    Quit tobacco. Whether smoked or smokeless, tobacco use greatly increases your risk of oral cancer, gum disease, and tooth decay (not to mention heart disease and lung cancer, but you already knew that). If you use tobacco, ask us how to quit now.

     

    Examine your mouth regularly. Once you've established a regular routine, you'll quickly recognize any changes in your mouth — like chipped teeth, red or swollen gums, or unusual sores. If you find something of concern, let us know. Early treatment offers the best chance to remedy many problems.

     

    A major goal of modern dentistry is to help you keep your teeth and gums healthy for a lifetime. By following a conscientious program of oral hygiene, you have the best chance at making this goal a reality.


    Brush and Floss. You should brush at least twice a day and floss at least once daily. This will help remove plaque, a bacteria-laden biofilm, from the surfaces of your teeth. The bacteria in plaque can turn sugars from food into acids, which attack the tooth's enamel and cause tooth decay. Some bacteria can also cause gingivitis and other gum diseases.

  • Oral Surgery Procedures

    Oral surgery procedures may be performed to relieve pain, treat an infection or trauma, restore function, or improve a person's appearance. Procedures and conditions treated include: 


    Tooth Extractions. There are a variety of reasons why you may need a tooth or teeth removed. You may have a wisdom tooth that is impacted, a diseased tooth that can't be saved, or overcrowded teeth that need to be removed so more room can be created to facilitate proper alignment during orthodontics.  


    Dental Implants. Today's preferred method of tooth replacement is a titanium dental implant, which is placed beneath the gum line and into the jawbone during a minor surgical procedure. The implant is then attached to a realistic-looking dental crown that is visible above the gum line and indistinguishable from a natural tooth.  


    Oral Diagnosis & Biopsies. When a suspicious oral lesion is found, a biopsy is often used to detect or rule out oral cancer — a disease that is treatable if caught early. A biopsy involves removing a very small tissue sample for laboratory analysis.


    Corrective Jaw Surgery. Sometimes, a person's jaws don't fit together properly. This can affect both jaw function and appearance.


    Snoring & Sleep Apnea. Excess tissue in the back of the throat may need to be removed in certain individuals with sleep apnea.


    TMD. When conservative remedies fail to relieve chronic jaw pain over a long period of time, surgery may be considered.


    Facial Trauma & Reconstructive Surgery. Facial injuries can affect not only a person's ability to carry on basic life functions such as eating but also his or her appearance. Knocked-out teeth can sometimes be re-implanted or replaced with dental implants.


    Cleft Lip/Palate. These birth defects are among the most common, estimated to affect around one in 700-800 babies born in North America. With proper surgical treatment, the child has an excellent chance of leading a healthy, normal life.


  • What to expect

    Before your oral surgery is performed, x-rays will often be taken to aid in diagnosis and treatment planning. A step-by-step explanation of the procedure, along with your anesthesia options, will be discussed, and you should feel free to ask any questions you have. Your recovery experience will depend on what procedure you are having as well as your general state of health. It's always important to let your healthcare providers know what medications you are taking (both prescription and over-the-counter), any chronic health conditions you have, and whether you smoke. This will help ensure your safety and comfort — always the paramount concern.

  • Orthodontics

    What a difference straight teeth can make! A great-looking smile can boost your self-confidence and have a positive impact on social and professional opportunities. Orthodontic treatment is the original smile makeover tool — and you will be happy to know that you're never too old to take advantage of it. But it isn't all about looks: Properly aligned teeth help you to bite, chew, and even speak more effectively. They are also easier to clean, which helps keep your mouth free of tooth decay and gum disease. 


    The amazing thing about orthodontics is that it harnesses the body's natural ability to remodel its own tissue. With the application of light and constant force, orthodontic appliances gently reshape bone and move teeth into better positions. Some examples of these appliances are traditional metal braces, inconspicuous clear or tooth-colored braces, and clear aligners, a relatively new option for adults and teens.

  • Bite Problems and How to Fix Them

    Orthodontic treatment can resolve a number of bite problems, which often become evident by around age 7. These include underbite, crossbite, or excessive overbite, where upper and lower teeth don't close in the proper position; open bite, where a space remains between top and bottom teeth when the jaws are closed; and crowding or excessive spacing, where teeth are spaced too close together or too far apart.

     

    To correct bite problems, teeth need to be moved — but doing that isn't as hard as you might think! Teeth aren't fixed rigidly in their supporting bone; instead, they're held in place by a hammock-like structure called the periodontal ligament, which is very responsive to forces placed on the teeth. Orthodontic appliances move teeth by careful application of light and constant pressure. This force can be applied via metal wires that run through small brackets attached to the teeth (braces) or via the semi-rigid plastic of clear aligners.

  • Orthodontics is for Children — and Adults

    Having orthodontic treatment in childhood is ideal in order to take advantage of a youngster's natural growth processes to help move the teeth into proper alignment. Like the rest of the body, the teeth and jaws are now changing rapidly. So, at this time, it's possible (for example) to create more room for teeth in a crowded mouth by using a "palatal expander" to rapidly widen the upper jaw. This phase of growth modification can shorten overall treatment time and ensure the best result if additional orthodontic appliances are needed.

  • Types of Orthodontic Appliances

    When you imagine someone wearing braces, you probably picture small metal brackets bonded to the front of the teeth, with a thin wire running through them. This time-tested style remains very popular — but it's no longer the only option. Clear braces use brackets made of ceramic or plastic, which, except for the slim archwire, are hardly visible. Lingual braces are just like traditional metal braces — except they're bonded to the back of your teeth (the tongue side) so that no one can see them. 

     

    Removable clear aligners are an alternative to fixed orthodontic appliances. They consist of a series of clear plastic "trays" that fit over your teeth exactly; each one moves your teeth a little bit until they are in the proper position. Whether fixed or removable, each type of appliance may have advantages or disadvantages in particular situations. After a complete examination, the best treatment options for you will be discussed. 


    But remember, healthy teeth can be moved at any age, so you've never "missed the boat" for orthodontic treatment. In fact, about one in five of today's orthodontic patients is an adult. Several new technological developments — including tooth-colored ceramic braces, clear aligners, and invisible lingual braces — have made orthodontic appliances less evident and enhanced the treatment experience for grown-ups. Before treatment, adults are carefully examined for signs of periodontal (gum) disease, which will be brought under control before treatment begins. 

  • Retention & Post Orthodontic Care

    Once your orthodontic treatment is completed, it's extremely important to wear a retainer as directed. That's because teeth naturally tend to drift back to their original locations — which is the last thing you want after you've gone to the trouble of straightening them! Wearing a retainer holds your teeth in their new position long enough for new bone and ligament to re-form around them and helps keep your gorgeous new smile looking good for a lifetime.

  • Pediatric Dentistry

    Your child won't keep his or her first teeth forever, but that doesn't mean those tiny pearly whites don't need conscientious care. Maintaining your child's dental health now will provide health benefits well into adulthood, as primary (baby) teeth serve some extremely important functions.

    For one thing, primary teeth serve as guides for the eruption of permanent (adult) teeth, holding the space into which these new teeth will erupt. The crowns (tops) of the permanent teeth actually push against the roots of the baby teeth, causing them to resorb or melt away. In this way, the adult teeth can take their proper place.

     

    What's more, your child's primary teeth will be there for most of childhood, helping your child to bite, chew and speak. For the first six or so years, he or she will be relying on primary teeth exclusively to perform these important functions. Until around age 12, your child will have a mix of primary and permanent teeth. You will want to make sure those teeth stay healthy and are lost naturally — when it's time.

  • Your Child's First Teeth

    Your child's 20 baby teeth will begin to appear usually between six and nine months, though in some cases, it may start as early as three months or as late as twelve months. The two lower front teeth tend to erupt first, followed by the two upper ones. The first molars come in next, followed by the canines (eyeteeth). Sometimes, your baby can experience teething discomfort during this process. If so, there are courses of action to help make your child more comfortable.

    There are a number of forms of tooth decay that can affect babies and small children. Early Childhood Caries (tooth decay) can develop rapidly, progressing from the hard outer enamel layer of a tooth into the softer inner dentin in six months or less.

     

    Most of all, it's important for your child to have a positive experience at the dental office, as he/she will be a regular visitor for years to come.

  • Pediatric Dental Treatments

    There are a variety of dental treatments offered to prevent tooth decay in children or to save or repair teeth when necessary. They include:

     

    Topical Fluoride — Fluoride is incorporated into the enamel of teeth, making it harder and more resistant to decay. Although there is a small amount of fluoride in toothpaste and in some drinking water supplies, a higher concentration can be applied professionally to your child's teeth for maximum protection.

     

    Dental Sealants — A plastic coating can be applied at the dental office to prevent cavities by sealing the little grooves on the chewing surfaces of back teeth, known as "pits and fissures." These little crevices become the perfect environments for decay-causing bacteria. Immature tooth enamel is more permeable and, therefore, less resistant to tooth decay. Dental sealants are easy to apply and provide years of protection.

     

    Root Canal Treatment — Perhaps you have had a root canal treatment yourself to save an injured or severely decayed tooth. Well, sometimes children need root canals, too. As mentioned above, baby teeth are important guides to the permanent teeth that are already forming beneath your child's gums. Therefore, saving them from premature loss can help prevent a malocclusion ("mal" – bad; "occlusion" – bite) that requires orthodontic treatment.

     

    Bonding — Chips and minor fractures to front teeth — common childhood occurrences — can be repaired with tooth-colored bonding materials. These lifelike resins made of plastic and glass can be used on baby teeth as well as permanent teeth and last until the youngster has completed facial growth.

  • Orthodontic Concerns

    By around age 7, most malocclusions have become evident. Interceptive orthodontic treatment around this time can help direct proper tooth positioning and/or jaw growth, eliminating or simplifying the need for later treatment. There are many orthodontic problems that can be detected early, and these are examples of why a trained professional should evaluate your child during his/her growth and development.

  • Sports & Your Child's Teeth

    If your child is active in sports, a custom-made mouthguard is a highly recommended safeguard. According to the American Dental Association, an athlete is 60 times more likely to suffer dental harm when not wearing one of these protective devices. A custom mouthguard is made specifically for your child using a model of his or her teeth. This will offer greater protection than an off-the-shelf model. It's an investment that pays off highly in the form of reduced pain, suffering — and dental expenses down the road!

  • Periodontal Therapy

     It is not a given that we must lose teeth as we age. If we maintain good oral hygiene and have regular professional cleanings and oral examinations, chances are we can keep our natural teeth for life. That involves not only caring for the teeth themselves but also the structures that surround them: the gums and tooth-supporting bone. Gum disease, which is a bacterial infection, threatens these supporting tissues. That is why dental professionals are always on the lookout for early signs that patients may not notice. When signs of trouble become apparent, periodontal therapy may be suggested.


    Periodontal therapy can take various forms, but the goal is always to restore diseased tissues to health. Gum (periodontal) disease can spread from the gums to the bone that supports the teeth and may even cause tooth loss in the most severe cases. There are very effective therapies to combat this, ranging from scalings (deep cleanings) that remove plaque and calculus (tartar) from beneath the gum line to surgical repair of lost gum and bone tissue.

  • Periodontal Therapy Procedures

    Periodontal therapy includes both surgical and non-surgical techniques to restore health to the tissues that support the teeth (gums and bone) and prevent tooth loss. They include:

     

    • Scaling and Root Planing. These deep-cleaning techniques are the best starting point to control gum disease. Plaque and calculus (tartar) are removed from beneath the gum tissues using hand scalers and/or ultrasonic instruments.
    • Gum Grafting. Sometimes, it's necessary to replace areas of lost gum tissue so that tooth roots are adequately protected. This can be accomplished by taking healthy gum tissue from one area of the mouth and moving it to where it is needed or by using laboratory-processed donor tissue.
    • Periodontal Plastic Surgery. When used to describe surgery, the word "plastic" refers to any reshaping procedure that creates a more pleasing appearance of the gum tissues.
    • Periodontal Laser Treatment. Removing diseased gum tissue with lasers can offer significant advantages over conventional surgery, such as less discomfort and gum shrinkage.
    • Crown Lengthening Surgery. This is a surgical procedure in which tooth structure that is covered by gum and bone tissue may need to be exposed either for cosmetic reasons (to make the teeth look longer and the smile less gummy) or to aid in securing a new dental crown.
    • Dental Implants. Today's preferred method of tooth replacement is a titanium dental implant, which is placed beneath the gum line and into the jawbone during a minor surgical procedure. The implant is then attached to a realistic-looking dental crown that is visible above the gum line and indistinguishable from a natural tooth.

  • Your Role in Periodontal Health

    Dental plaque is the main cause of periodontal disease, so it's essential to remove it every day with effective brushing and flossing. This doesn't mean scrubbing, which can actually cause your gums to recede. Proper techniques can be demonstrated for you if you have any questions.

     

    Of course, there are some areas of the mouth that a toothbrush and floss just can't reach, which is why it's so important to have regular professional cleanings at the dental office. Your regular dental exam is also a time when early signs of gum disease can be detected — before they become apparent even to you.

     

    Eating a nutritious diet low in sugar and staying away from tobacco in all forms will also increase your periodontal health — and your chances of keeping your teeth for life.

  • Technology

     The complex devices all around us — from long-range satellite links in our cars and offices to powerful computers in our hand-held gadgets — prove beyond a doubt that we live in a technology-driven world. In the field of dentistry, new technology is constantly changing the way diseases are diagnosed, routine procedures are performed, and illnesses are prevented. Although they may seem unfamiliar at first, new and


    Improved dental technologies offer plenty of real benefits for patients. Here's a look at some of the latest examples coming soon to (or now appearing at) a dental office near you.

     

    Air Abrasion Technology. Are you bothered by the noise and vibration of the dental drill? This air-powered device could make that familiar high-pitched whine a thing of the past! Working like a mini-sandblaster for teeth, this hand-held device removes tiny amounts of tooth material with precision control.


    Anesthesia Wand. If you don't like needles, this may be just what the doctor ordered: a pen-like device that meters out the precise amount of anesthetic you need — and even pre-numbs the insertion site, so you really won't feel a thing!

    CAD/CAM Same-day Crown Fabrication. Hate to wait? By combining 3-D digital imaging and computer-aided design and manufacturing technology, it's now possible to have permanent crown restorations completed in a single day — much better than leaving the office with temporary crowns and coming back weeks later for permanent ones!


    Cone Beam CT Imaging. What's better than an x-ray of your teeth? An on-screen, movable 3-D representation of your jaws! By taking a series of x-ray "slices" and stitching the images together with a powerful computer program, Cone Beam CT imaging creates a virtual model of your mouth. It can be used to find diseases, plan procedures, and visualize internal structures that formerly wouldn't have been visible without surgery.


    Dental Implants. Tooth replacement took a giant leap forward with the widespread use of dental implants — today's preferred method of replacing teeth. Dental implants are small titanium posts that replace the root part of your missing tooth. A realistic dental crown is then attached to the implant for a replacement tooth that looks and feels exactly like what nature gave you.


    Digital Dental Impressions. Remember biting down on a tray of putty-like material so a model could be made of your teeth? A digital imaging device now makes that unnecessary. Instead, your teeth can be "dusted" with a fine reflective powder, which is then recorded by a special camera. A series of images is converted into a 3-D model, which can be used to assess a tooth's condition or fabricate dental restorations.


    Digital X-Rays. Diagnostic X-rays have long been invaluable to dentistry. The emergence of digital technology in the past decade, however, has made dental x-rays safer and even more useful. Digital technology cuts radiation exposure to patients by as much as 90% over traditional X-rays. And there are other advantages, including the elimination of waiting time for pictures to develop and sharper images that can be enhanced instantly to show detail.


    Intra-Oral Camera. A picture is worth plenty when it comes to helping you understand your dental examination, diagnosis, and treatment! With these tiny cameras, you can see what the dentist sees on a small chair-side monitor. The images of your teeth can be saved as stills or video — or even printed out — so you can see what's happening in your mouth.


    Laser Diagnosis and Treatment. They're inside DVD players and scanner wands — and now, they are making their dental debut. Lasers are being used to detect tiny spots of tooth decay, treat gum disease, and remove cancerous cells in the mouth. They are also employed in gum surgery, even cavity treatments!

Knowledge is the key to informed decisions about your dental health. If you have questions or need further information, don't hesitate to reach out to us at 810-653-4447

Your dental health is our priority.

Knowledge is the key to informed decisions about your dental health.

If you have questions or need further information,

don't hesitate to reach out to us at 810-653-4447 Your dental health is our priority.