Frequently used terms

Crown: replaces missing tooth structure, covers and protects the tooth from breakage, prevents teeth from shifting, and is aesthetically appealing

Scaling and Root Planing: (also called “Initial Therapy”): the treatment of chronic gum infection, which is caused by bacteria, improved gum health by eliminating the bacteria that causes the infection, prevents further infection and continual bone loss, possibly preventing surgery, aids in the reduction of oral health risks

Adult Prophylaxis: removes stains, calculus, and plaque above the gum-line, maintains healthy gums, which prevents gum disease, includes a diagnostic oral cancer screening

Composite Restorations: improves aesthetic appearance with a tooth colored filling, features conservative tooth preparation and requires less tooth reduction than silver fillings, bonded to the tooth, which strengthens and reinforces the tooth

Porcelain Onlay: is used when a tooth is too damaged or decayed for a filling. It is similar to a crown in that it covers and protects the tooth. However, onlays only cover a portion of the cuspal (chewing surface) of the tooth.

ONLAY ADVANTAGES:
• porcelain onlays look and feel like natural teeth
• conservative restoration (less tooth reduction than a crown)
• bonded directly to the tooth, which strengthens the tooth structure

Root Canal Therapy (Endodontics):
This procedure is about saving teeth!  Root canal therapy  treats diseases in the nerve (pulp) of the tooth.  A damaged pulp will not heal by itself.  Without treatment the tooth may become infected.  Root canal procedures are nearly pain free.  We will administer medication to make sure the area is numb.  After treatment the tooth will have no feeling to hot or cold but will be functional to biting.  With proper restoration, (usually a crown), the tooth should last as long as your other teeth!