If a tooth's pulp (nerve and blood supply) becomes infected or inflamed, root canal treatment may be the only way to save the tooth or relieve severe pain, short of removing the tooth. Root canal treatment consists of removing the nerve that lies within the root of the tooth. With modern techniques, this is generally a very comfortable procedure. Our practice performs root canals, when necessary, on all teeth including molars without outside referrals. In rare instances when root canal treatment does not succeed, retreatment and root canal surgery (apicoectomy) can be done in our office. Very complicated cases will be referred to an endodontist (root canal specialist) as needed.

Cosmetic dentistry encompasses reshaping your teeth, veneers or bonding, natural-looking tooth-colored fillings and bleaching. Veneers are porcelain shells that are fabricated in a laboratory and fit over the fronts of your teeth. Composite veneers or bonding work the same way; they are made with composite (tooth-colored filling material) and can be done in a single visit. Bleaching, or teeth whitening, is usually done at home but can also be done in the office if faster results are needed.

While seldom painful and frequently free of any obvious signs or symptoms, periodontal disease can progress, undetected, to the point where supporting bone is destroyed. Early treatment and prevention is essential. While periodontal disease is caused by plaque, a number of other factors, including poorly fitting bridges, badly aligned teeth and defective fillings, contribute to the development of this condition.

Crowns can strengthen and protect the remaining tooth structure and improve the appearance of your teeth. A "cap," "jacket" or "crown" will restore a broken, heavily filled or cracked tooth to an ideal size and shape. This may also be recommended after root canal therapy has been completed, as the tooth is more apt to fracture.

The goal of modern dentistry is to prevent tooth loss. When a tooth cannot be saved, extraction (removal) of the tooth may be the only course of treatment. A panorex x-ray allows us to see a complete picture of the alignment of your jaw, the positioning of your teeth and whether there is sufficient space for your third molars (wisdom teeth) to fully erupt. In addition, it is an excellent diagnostic tool for evaluating the supporting bone for possible cysts or tumors. Most surgeries, including impacted wisdom teeth, are performed at our facility; however, the doctor may choose to refer you to a maxillofacial surgeon for more complicated cases.