General Dentistry

BASIC DENTAL HEALTH

General dentistry includes a wide array of services that are vital to continued dental health, including:

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Preventative Services: Regular exams including diagnostic images such as x-rays and professional teeth cleanings are a cornerstone of prevention and protection for the mouth from disease.

Sealants: In some cases, the tooth structure has fine grooves or pits which accumulate plaque, not because the person doesn’t brush, but due to the fact the grooves are too narrow to allow even one bristle to fit into them. Over time cavities will develop. Dr. Robinson will apply a coating that seals the grooves and pits making it possible to brush all the plaque off and keep the teeth healthy.

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    X-Rays: Digital radiography allows for 50-70% less radiation versus conventional X-rays. X-rays are a necessary part of the diagnostic process. Not to use them, could lead to undiagnosed disease. Without an X-ray of the whole tooth and supporting bone and gum tissues, there is no real way to detect infection or pathology that requires attention. Coupled with computer monitoring, digital X-ray technology allows Robinson Family Dental to enhance the images for better diagnosis of any dental concerns.

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Non-Surgical Gum Treatments: The gums, ligaments and bone around the teeth form the foundation for the teeth. All of the foundation is referred to as the periodontium. An unhealthy periodontium jeopardized the teeth just as a poor foundation would threaten the stability of a house. Warning signs of unhealthy periodontium (gum disease) may include: gums that are red and bleed easily, persistent bad breath, gums that have pulled away from the tooth, loose teeth and changes in the position or bite of the teeth. Any of these signs may mean something is wrong with the periodontium. With proper care, it may be possible to return the periodontium to a healthy state. There is no replacement for appropriate gum treatments. As soon as a problem occurs it is important to call the office so the professional staff can begin the necessary treatment. The treatment usually involves deep cleaning or root planing under local anesthetic with the addition of local antibiotic agents. Severe gum disease may need to be treated through surgery or extraction. Treatment at the first sign of a problem will help ensure a successful healing of the periodontium.

Fillings: With early detection, cavities can be treated easily and painlessly. Once the decay is removed from the tooth structure then it filled with a new material in the hole left from the decay. Most teeth are treated with bonded tooth colored composite resin filling.

Bonding: A composite resin material that has been matched to the color of the tooth is adhered to the front of the tooth. Bonding is used to repair damage to the tooth caused by decay, to alter the alignment of the teeth, to close gaps between the teeth or for cosmetic purposes.