What is gum disease, and how can I tell if I have it?

What sterilization precautions does your office use to protect its patients?

Are silver fillings harmful to patients' health?

What can be done to hide or remedy stained or discolored teeth?

When should my child have his/her first dental visit?

What policies are in place to protect my privacy and the privacy of my records?

Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults in the United States. Gum disease can take many forms, ranging from early gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) to advanced periodontitis (destruction of bone and structures surrounding the teeth).

Gum tissues become inflamed due to bacteria found at and under the gum line. Left untreated, this bacteria will ultimately cause the gums to recede and result in sensitivity due to exposed root surfaces, loosening of the teeth due to loss of surrounding bone, and finally, loss of the teeth.

Fortunately, gum diseases are treatable if detected early. A combination of thorough home care and regular professional treatment can stop the progression of this condition.

Our staff is proactive in detection and treatment of gum disease at all stages, and will help develop a plan to ensure a healthy mouth.

Whenever possible, we use disposable, single use instruments and products. All other instruments are sterilized under steam and heat and checked with biological monitors.

All waterlines are protected with backflow prevention valves, and are routinely flushed and disinfected according to OSHA and American Dental Association guidelines.

The topic of small amounts of mercury in silver dental fillings, or restorations, has been a controversial issue for several years. To this date, many respected studies have shown no conclusive evidence to support any health dangers from silver restorations.

Of course, decisions on any tooth restoration remain that of the patient. Many newer dental materials allow us to restore teeth without the use of silver restorations. We respect the wishes of any patient with regard to his/her treatment.

Treatment for discolored or stained teeth varies greatly depending on the cause and degree of the discoloration.

Smoking, chewing tobacco, red wine, and other dark foods and beverages can leave surface stains that can be at least partially removed with regular dental cleanings.

Deeper stains and discolorations resulting from such things as certain medications, aging, and genetic factors can be treated with at-home whitening procedures consisting of custom fit trays containing a whitening solution. This procedure usually yields dramatic results in 1-3 weeks.

Extreme stains sometimes require the use of more involved treatments such as bonding, veneers, or crowns (caps) to achieve the desired result.

Since no two cases are the same, we would be happy to consult on an individual, no charge basis to determine which options are appropriate for any patient. Examples of the above mentioned procedures can be found by looking in the before and after portion of this website.