Highly effective in preventing decay on the biting surfaces of your chewing teeth, sealants are a simple procedure in which a tooth-colored acrylic "coating" is painted onto the surface of the tooth. This effectively "seals" the deep grooves where decay is most likely to start.

Often a tooth will not start bothering you until there is significant loss of tooth structure. With the help of routine x-rays, problems can be detected earlier-before you experience a toothache.

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.

An integral part of maintaining your teeth for life is the removal of plaque and tartar on a regular basis. The frequency of your visits is based upon your individual needs and oral health. During each visit we will update your medical history, perform an oral cancer screening exam, check your teeth for cavities, review oral hygiene instructions and monitor your periodontal (gum) condition. Fluoride treatments are provided for children up to the age of 16 and for adults when appropriate.

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.