Regular dental exams are an important part of long term and preventive dental health. During your exam, the hygienist and dentist work together as a team to identify gum inflammation, bone loss, dental decay, and oral cancer. Your dentist and hygienist will also check your face, neck, and mouth for any abnormalities and discuss any other issues you may be encountering.
A crown is a type of dental restoration which completely caps or encircles a tooth or dental implant. Crowns are often needed when a large cavity threatens the ongoing health of a tooth or there is a structural defect. They are typically bonded to the tooth using a dental cement. Crowns can be made from many materials including porcelain, gold, or alloy.
Dental cleanings are an important part of long term oral health and hygiene. The process involves the removal of plaque and bacteria from the teeth and surrounding tissue to prevent dental decay, gingivitis, and periodontal disease. There are varying degrees of cleanings that patients may need, from simple plaque removal and polish to deep scale and debridement. This depends on the location and amount of tarter build-up along with existing oral conditions.
Radiographs are an important part of proper dental treatment, diagnosis, and preventive care. The radiographs (or informally called “X-rays”) are pictures of the teeth, bones and surrounding tissues of the oral cavity. There are several different X-rays that the dentist uses including, periapical, bitewing, occlusal, and panoramic views. The amount of radiation required for dental x-rays is very minimal, and even smaller when using digital radiographs like we do at Clearwater Dental.
Nitrous oxide, commonly known as “laughing gas” or “sweet air”, is a chemical used in surgery and dentistry for its anesthetic and analgesic effects. It is administered through a small nose piece and is inhaled by the patient, in combination with oxygen, to help calm their nerves and relax.
We see patients of all ages at Clearwater Dental, including small children. It is recommended that parents schedule their child’s first well check and cleaning by age 2. This is an important time for learning proper home care and starting your child down the right road to a lifetime of good oral health. We’ll also provide your child with any further dental treatment he or she may need, making sure they are comfortable and well taken care of!