Hygiene and Basic Oral Health
Comprehensive Dental Treatments for a Healthier, Brighter Smile
Choose a topic to learn more:
Preventative Cleanings
Your mouth is a window to your overall health, and it’s more connected to your body than you might think. Issues in your mouth can signal or even contribute to diseases elsewhere, including heart disease and dementia. Regular teeth cleanings by our skilled Dental Hygienist play a crucial role in maintaining not just your oral health, but your whole body’s wellness. These cleanings tackle the natural buildup of plaque and tartar—similar to how barnacles gather on a boat. Without regular removal, this buildup can lead to gum disease. By keeping up with routine cleanings, you’re not just taking care of your mouth; you’re preventing broader health issues and ensuring your smile stays healthy and bright.
Fillings
Fillings are a common dental procedure used to tackle tooth decay by removing the damaged part of the tooth and filling the space with a new material. Today, we mostly use a tooth-colored composite resin that not only fixes the cavity but also blends seamlessly with your natural tooth. If we catch cavities early, the treatment is straightforward and comfortable. However, delaying treatment can cause pain, infection, and may require more complex procedures like a root canal or even tooth extraction.
Sealants
Sealants are a preventive treatment we use to protect teeth from cavities, especially in those hard-to-reach grooves and pits that your toothbrush can’t clean, no matter how well you brush. These tiny grooves can trap plaque and eventually lead to decay. To prevent this, we apply a special coating that seals these areas, making it easy for you to brush away plaque and keep your teeth healthy. This simple procedure is an effective way to maintain your oral health and avoid cavities.
Periodontal Care
The foundation of your teeth includes your gums, ligaments, and bone, collectively known as the periodontium. Just like a weak foundation can affect a house’s stability, an unhealthy periodontium can threaten your teeth’s health. Signs of gum disease include red, easily bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, gums receding from the teeth, loose teeth, and changes in how your teeth fit together. These symptoms indicate a problem that needs immediate attention. Early intervention with the right gum treatments can often restore gum health. Treatments might include a deep cleaning or root planing under local anesthesia, sometimes accompanied by antibiotics. In severe cases, surgery or tooth extraction may be necessary. That’s why it’s crucial to address any signs of gum disease early on by visiting us for an assessment and treatment.
X-Rays
Dr. Yaskus adheres to ADA guidelines and personal risk assessments to determine the customized frequency of x-rays for each patient, ensuring only necessary exposures are made. Our office is equipped with digital radiography, significantly reducing radiation exposure by 50-70% compared to traditional x-rays. This advanced technology, combined with computerized image enhancement, enables us to diagnose dental issues more accurately and safely. X-rays are vital for a comprehensive view of your dental health, as they reveal hidden problems in teeth, bones, and gums that might otherwise go unnoticed.