North Scottsdale Dental

Products And Services

• General Dentistry

  Teeth are strong, durable structures that endure massive amounts of pressure each day. It is important to protect the teeth and keep them strong through daily brushing and flossing as well as regular professional care from a licensed and experienced general dentist. General dentistry involves the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of a wide range of dental conditions, as well as the maintenance of overall oral health for patients of all ages.This comprehensive care from a general dentist is usually the only source of care patients require for their dental needs. There are several different dental specialties, but general dentistry encompasses the basics of these specialties. General Dentistry Specialties Restorative Dentistry Many dental conditions damage the tooth causing aesthetic and functional changes that require special treatment. Restorative treatments can repair or replace teeth depending on the extent of their damage. Restorative procedures include: Fillings Dental crowns and bridges Dental implants Dental bonding Dentures Root canals Cosmetic Dentistry Many people seek cosmetic dental care after certain dental conditions or because of dissatisfaction with the appearance of their teeth. These procedures can improve the color, shape and size of the teeth and enhance the overall smile. Cosmetic dental treatments often improve self-confidence. Some of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments may include: Teeth whitening Porcelain veneers Bonding Full mouth reconstruction Gum Disease Treatment Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a common dental condition that plagues many patients. Gum disease can be managed through treatments such as scaling and root planing, which can be performed by a general dentist. Surgery and other advanced treatments may be performed for later stages of the disease. While there are specialists for many of these dental treatments, a general dentist is able to perform most of these procedures. Complicated issues may be referred to a specialist such as a periodontist or prosthodontist, while age-specific patients may benefit from seeing a pediatric or geriatric dentist. Regular visits to the dentist are recommended at least once every six months in order to maintain proper oral hygiene and screen for any potential problems. Receiving regular checkups can help improve dental health and prevent major problems from developing. It is important for patients to work with their dentist to maintain their oral health. General dentists care for most patients' dental needs regardless of their age or treatment. These dental treatments restore health and beauty to the smile.

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• Preventive Dentistry

  Preventive dentistry helps patients avoid the costly and invasive procedures often needed to treat serious dental conditions. Maintaining dental health helps patients look and feel their best, and can have a positive effect on their overall health. Preventing dental problems requires a lifelong commitment. To begin developing proper dental-hygiene habits, a child should visit a dentist shortly after the first teeth emerge. Parents also play an important role in helping their children develop and maintain good dental-hygiene habits. Regular Cleanings Comprehensive dental exams and cleanings are recommended once every six months. These exams help identify tooth decay, or early signs of gum disease or oral cancer, through diagnostic X-rays and a physical examination. Early detection of these conditions helps ensure effective treatment and prevent permanent damage. Regular cleanings by a certified dental hygienist help keep teeth clean and healthy. A dental cleaning includes removal of tartar and plaque, which can build up and cause inflammation and disease if left untreated. The teeth are also polished to remove stains that often cannot be removed by at-home toothbrushing. At-Home Dental Hygiene To maintain healthy teeth and gums, patients should brush their teeth at least twice a day; brushing before going to bed at night is essential. The American Dental Association recommends brushing with toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush for at least two minutes. Every tooth should be gone over thoroughly. Flossing at least once each day to clean the spaces between the teeth and under the gums is also recommended. In addition, using over-the-counter mouthwash can freshen breath and help protect the mouth from disease. Eating balanced meals and fewer sugary snacks can also help improve dental hygiene. Other home dental aids are available to help keep teeth as healthy as possible in-between visits to the dentist. Dentists provide patients with specific instructions for at-home care of the teeth; it is important to follow these instructions to ensure good dental health. Dental Sealants Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings that are applied to the surfaces of teeth to protect the grooves of the teeth from decay and other diseases. Decay often begins in these grooves because they are hard to clean, and susceptible to a buildup of plaque. Sealants create a smooth surface that fills deep grooves and makes teeth easier to clean. Sealants are applied to children's teeth once the six-year molars surface, or anytime between the ages of 6 and 16. Adults may also benefit from sealants, especially when the surfaces of their teeth have deep grooves or depressions that may be difficult to clean. A sealant is applied by cleaning the selected tooth, and then painting the sealant onto its surface, where it will harden and bond to the tooth, protecting it from decay. This procedure takes just a few minutes and is painless. There is no single method that will protect teeth from disease and decay. They should be taken care of each and every day, and professionally cleaned on a regular basis. Practicing good dental hygiene is the best way to keep teeth and gums healthy for a lifetime.

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• Periodontics

  Periodontics is a branch of dentistry that treats conditions and diseases of the teeth's supporting structures, especially the gums. Periodontists commonly treat severe cases of oral inflammation, including gum disease. Periodontic Specialties Periodontics typically focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease. Gum disease is a broad term that encompasses several different conditions. Periodontists treat different phases of gum disease, including: Gingivitis Gingivitis is a mild form of periodontal disease that causes the gums to swell, redden, and bleed easily due to inflammation. Gingivitis often results from a buildup of plaque and bacteria on the teeth caused by poor hygiene. It may also be a side effect of certain drugs or infections, or poor nutrition. Patients do not usually experience pain or discomfort, but should seek prompt treatment when symptoms arise because of potential complications. Periodontitis Periodontitis often develops as a result of untreated gingivitis. If plaque spreads below the gum line, it can create toxins that may chronically inflame the gums and bone, eventually destroying them. Periodontitis can lead to the formation of pockets that are susceptible to frequent infections, and can continue to destroy the gums and bone. There are several types of periodontitis, some of which include: Aggressive periodontitis This condition occurs most often in healthy patients who have a sudden onset of the disease, and experience rapid bone destruction and pocket formation. Chronic periodontitis Chronic periodontitis is the most common form of the disease. It results in progressive detachment and bone loss, gradually causing pocket formation and gum recession. Periodontitis from systemic diseases Periodontitis sometimes develops as a side effect of other conditions such as heart disease, respiratory disease and diabetes. These cases usually begin at a young age. Necrotizing periodontal disease This condition is an infection caused by necrosis of the supporting structures within the teeth, and commonly affects people with other systemic conditions. Periodontic Treatment Periodontists perform different procedures and, at times, surgery, to treat different conditions within the mouth and gums. Procedures that a periodontist may perform include: Scaling and Root Planing This is a deep-cleaning method that removes bacteria from below the gum line and the tooth root. A local anesthetic may be used to numb the gums and the roots of the teeth. Root Surface Debridement This is a procedure to remove damaged tissue. Debridement may be performed using ultrasonic instruments or hand tools. Flap Surgery This is a procedure that lifts away gum tissue so that it can be cleaned underneath. It is often performed when gum disease cannot be cured by antibiotics, or by root planing and scaling. Gum or Bone Grafts Gum or bone grafts may be performed to help regenerate bone or gum tissue that has been damaged or lost due to periodontitis. Dental Implants When patients lose teeth as a result of periodontal disease or other reasons, they may choose dental implants to restore the missing teeth. Dental implants are a major part of periodontics because they are fused to the bone within the gums. Implants act as a natural root for replacement structures, and require the same care and prevention against periodontal disease as other teeth. Many people are affected by periodontal disease and gum-related conditions. It is important to see a periodontist promptly if experiencing signs of gum disease to prevent more serious complications from occurring.

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• Dental Implants

  Dental implants are an option to replace missing teeth and provide a fixed solution to removable dentures. Dental implants are natural-looking replacement teeth that are fixed in the jaw. Implant treatment provides an option to correct the most troublesome cases associated with missing teeth and ill-fitting dentures. An artificial tooth root made of titanium, an implant is surgically placed into the jawbone to support tooth-replacement structures such as crowns, bridges and dentures. While the implant mimics the root of the tooth, the replacement structure looks and feels just like a natural tooth, providing patients with a permanent solution that replicates the fit and feel of natural teeth. Benefits of Dental Implants Dental implants have many benefits over other tooth-replacement methods. Enhanced Esthetics Implants are placed within the gums. The crowns that are attached to them emerge in a manner similar to a natural tooth. This offers a more realistic and natural look compared to other alternatives. Reduction of Bone Loss When a tooth is lost, the supporting bone structure gradually recedes over time. Dental implants integrate with the jawbone and stimulate its preservation, allowing the bone to stay healthy and intact while maintaining natural facial contours and appearance. Preservation of Adjacent Teeth Other methods like fixed bridges must be anchored to adjacent teeth, unnecessarily sacrificing their quality and health. Dental implants are independent and do not rely on the support of other teeth, thus providing the ability to preserve the good teeth. Easier Eating As the jawbone shrinks, chewing efficiency is reduced, making it difficult to eat certain foods. Dental implants can restore chewing efficiency comparable to that of natural teeth, allowing patients to eat their favorite foods with confidence and without discomfort. The Dental Implant Procedure All treatment begins with a thorough exam and consultation. Typically, the process can take from 3 to 6 months. In some cases, the process may take longer because additional treatments, such as bone grafting, may be required to build up the bone so it can support an implant. The procedure and time frame depends on several factors: Dental health Condition and quality of the jawbone Number of teeth involved Dental implant restorations usually take place over a few appointments and involve several steps: The First Step A dentist or oral surgeon will cut into the gum to expose the bone. One or more implants are precisely placed into the jawbone to mirror the location of the root of the missing natural tooth. The Second Step After appropriate healing has taken place to allow for the implant to fuse within the bone, impressions of the teeth and bite are taken to custom-fabricate a connector post or abutment, and crown. The Final Step At the final appointment, the oral surgeon reopens the gum to expose the implant. The abutment and crown are attached to the implant, completing the process. Some patients may experience minor soreness after the dental implant procedure which can be treated with over the counter ibuprofen medication. Dental Implant Results Patients receive all the benefits of natural teeth with their dental implants. It is important to continue good oral hygiene with the implants to prevent bacteria buildup, which can cause gum disease or bone loss.

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• Orthodontics

  Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry concerned with correcting abnormalities of the teeth and jaw. Treatment is designed to help patients both cosmetically and functionally. Orthodontics can straighten crooked or protruding teeth, correct spacing and bite problems, and align lips and teeth properly. Braces can assist in correcting all types of misalignments (malocclusions). Reasons for Orthodontics While many individuals are drawn to orthodontic treatment for cosmetic reasons, orthodontics is frequently necessary to prevent or correct: Jaw misalignment Speech problems Damage to the inner cheeks and tongue Gum disease Wearing down of tooth enamel Malocclusions, left untreated, can also result in increased tooth decay, difficulty biting or chewing, or even facial, head or neck pain. Candidates for Orthodontic Treatment Most people who need orthodontic care receive it as children, but some adults also get braces. In young children, orthodontic treatment assists in normal jaw growth, helping permanent teeth to come in correctly aligned. Whenever possible, orthodontic abnormalities should be treated while individuals are young. Children should have an orthodontic exam before they are seven years old in order to catch problems early and to ensure optimal treatment results. Orthodontic Procedures Orthodontists examine patients to determine whether they require orthodontic treatment. If necessary, such treatment involves the application of wires inserted into brackets, or braces, to move the misplaced teeth gradually into their appropriate positions. Many other appliances, including headgear, plates, retaisners and expansion devices may also be used, depending of the nature of the misalignment. Braces may be made of various materials, such as stainless steel, plastic or ceramic and are sometimes nearly invisible. While the application of braces is not normally painful and requires no anesthesia, most patients report discomfort in the teeth and gums during the first week or two after being fitted with braces. Over-the-counter painkillers can help relieve this pain, which usually subsides soon. Many, but by no means all, patients who require orthodontic treatment also require one or more tooth extractions to allow the remaining teeth to be aligned correctly. Once the braces have been worn for the appropriate period of time, there will be no visible gaps between teeth. The length of time braces must be worn varies depending on the extent of correction required. Generally speaking, patients wear braces for 1 to 2 years. Adjusting to Dental Braces It is important that patients wearing braces keep their braces and their teeth clean by thoroughly brushing and flossing with special floss, preferably after every meal. It is necessary for the orthodontist to check the braces regularly, usually every 4 to 6 weeks, to make any necessary adjustments. It is also essential that the patient sees a general dentist for routine check-ups during the period of orthodontic care. Patients wearing braces can eat almost anything with the exception of sticky foods, like caramel or taffy, and hard foods like nuts or certain candies. Patients with braces should also avoid chewing on ice. Activities are not limited for people undergoing orthodontic treatment. It is usually necessary, however, for individuals engaged in athletic activities to wear mouth guards to protect both the braces and the teeth themselves. Benefits of Orthodontic Treatments Recent advances in orthodontic treatments have made braces more comfortable and more aesthetically pleasing than those used in the past. Many types of braces are not only barely noticeable, but provide the desired results more quickly.

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• Neuromuscular Dentistry

  Neuromuscular dentistry is an area of dentistry that focuses not only on the teeth as they relate to the jaw, but on the nerves, muscles and joints as they relate to the jaw. By combining the principles of anatomy and physiology, neuromuscular dentistry works to achieve an optimal bite (occlusion) and jaw alignment. Neuromuscular dentists examine how all parts of the mouth and jaw work together. The objective of a neuromuscular dentist is to relax the jaw muscles in order to identify the true resting position of the jaw. They focus on determining the optimal position of the jaw in order to correct misalignment and jaw disorders. Evaluating the status of muscles and joints provides neuromuscular dentists with additional factors to consider before determining treatment. The goal of neuromuscular dentistry is to look at the whole picture by assessing the teeth, muscles and temporomandibular joints, and how they function together. Neuromuscular Dentistry Treatments Bite Abnormalities To correct bite abnormalities, neuromuscular dentists design long-term treatment plans that are focused on allowing the jaws to be optimally positioned. Some methods of treatment include custom dental splints, orthodontic devices or dental restorations. Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Neuromuscular dentistry is particularly effective in treating temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD), which can cause symptoms such as facial or jaw pain, headaches, earaches, clicking sounds in the jaw joint, and dizziness. Some neuromuscular dentists use ultralow-frequency transcutaneous electrical neural stimulation (ULF-TENS) to treat muscle pain and spasms associated with TMD. This treatment involves the use of mild electrical stimulation to contract and relax jaw muscles. A neuromuscular dentist will devise a customized treatment plan for the patient after a full examination of the teeth, bite and jaw.

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• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

  Oral and maxillofacial surgery is the treatment of problems affecting the mouth, teeth, gums, jaws and related facial structures. Procedures are often performed on patients with skeletal and dental irregularities that occur as a result of congenital defects, injury, disease or other factors. Maxillofacial surgery is also performed to treat patients with oral cancer or jaw cysts. Patients with these conditions may have an abnormal or unbalanced facial appearance, and may have difficulty chewing, swallowing or speaking due to their jaw irregularities. The goal of oral and maxillofacial surgery is to treat the problem and achieve the most aesthetically pleasing result possible. Oral and maxillofacial surgery procedures include the following: Wisdom tooth removal Tooth extractions Placement of dental implants Reconstructive jaw surgery Bone grafting Surgical correction of oral and facial deformities Treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ) Surgical repair of traumatic injury Surgical repair of damage caused by cancers and oral diseases Depending on the condition and surgical repair necessary, oral maxillofacial surgeons may work together with plastic surgeons to achieve the best results for each patient.

  Link: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery