Designed Smiles

Products And Services

• Cleaning & Prevention

  Prevention and early detection are the key to avoiding tooth decay and gum disease. A good home regimen, in addition to regular cleanings and exams, can prevent many expensive dental treatments. Prevention starts with controlling plaque, a colorless bacteria that sticks to the surface of your teeth, and calculus, a harder mineral deposit. These are the main sources of decay and periodontal disease. By maintaining a proper routine of daily hygiene, you can prevent most oral disease. Our hygienists are available to assist you with your hygiene and management of your gums. Cleanings Exams Brushing Flossing Mouth Rinses Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease) Cleanings Regular dental cleanings, performed by a registered dental hygienist, are a crucial part of preventive dental care. By removing plaque and tartar, your oral health is enhanced and your risk of gingivitis and periodontal disease are reduced. Your dental hygienist will utilize manual instruments to remove moderate plaque and tartar buildup, or an ultrasonic device to scale away heavier buildup. The cleaning is finished with polishing, a pleasant procedure that cleans the surface of teeth, removes stains, and leaves the mouth feeling clean and refreshed. Exams No matter how diligent you are in your home dental care regimen, you should still get a dental exam and cleaning at least twice per year. The importance of regular dental exams cannot be overemphasized - dental exams are the cornerstone of good dental health. In particular, regular checkups are essential for early detection of more serious problems. Early detection makes treatment easier, less expensive and more successful and effective. During your dental exam, our dentist will perform the following routine checks: Examine and assess gum health; check for gum disease Diagnose any existing tooth decay When indicated, take and analyze x-rays, which may reveal decay, bone loss, abscesses, tumors, cysts, and other problems Screen for the presence of oral cancer Verify the stability of any existing fillings or other restorations Inform you of all findings and make treatment recommendations Brushing As damaging as plaque can be, it is easily removed by mechanical brushing. Plaque deposits build up on the teeth fairly quickly after eating and drinking, and if they are not brushed away at least twice a day, they can lead to tooth decay and periodontal disease. It takes just one day for bacteria to build up enough to make your mouth susceptible to disease. If plaque is not removed, it hardens and becomes calculus (tartar). Calculus cannot be removed with regular brushing. Your hygienist has special instruments designed to remove tartar. Flossing Daily flossing is an effective way to clean teeth where regular brushing can't reach. To floss properly, take 18" of dental floss, wrap it around the middle finger of each hand, and pinch it between your thumb and index finger. Pull the floss taut, then slide it gently between each tooth and under the gum line. Slide the floss up and down the side of each tooth to remove plaque buildup. Be sure to use a clean section of floss as you move from tooth to tooth. Mouth Rinses Over-the-counter mouth rinses can help to fight bad breath, remove loose food particles after brushing, and freshen the mouth. However, mouth rinses are never a substitute for brushing, flossing, or regular dental examinations, and may disguise warning signs of periodontal disease. Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease) Gingivitis Gingivitis is the early stages of periodontal disease, when only the soft tissues of the mouth are affected. Plaque buildup leads to tartar and bacteria below the gumline, which leads to inflamed, irritated, or bleeding gums. The good news is, gingivitis is reversible. A good professional cleaning, followed by regular brushing, flossing, and checkups, restores gums to good health by removing plaque and bacteria. Periodontitis Periodontitis is marked by the breakdown of structures that surround, secure, and support the teeth. These structures include the bone, gums, and fibers which anchor the teeth to the gums. Periodontal disease is the number one cause of tooth loss in adults. Though bone that has been resorbed due to periodontal disease will not grow back, aggressive treatment and impeccable home care will keep it from getting worse. Diagnosis Early signs of gum disease include redness, swelling, or inflammation around the gumline. If these warning signs appear, your dentist will check for calculus (tartar) below the gumline. Your dentist or hygienist may use a tool called a probe to test gums for bleeding and measure periodontal pockets. X-rays will be used to evaluate the bone level around your teeth. Though the main cause of gum disease is lack of oral hygiene, contributing factors include heavy smoking and diabetes.

  Link: Cleaning & Prevention

• Cosmetic Procedures

  Enhancing the smile's aesthetic appearance can lead to increased self-confidence, improved social skills, and even a more positive outlook on life. Modern cosmetic dentistry merges advanced technology with fine art, and can often produce amazing results in less time than you would expect. Teeth Whitening Bonding Veneers Fillings Inlays & Onlays Crowns Fixed Bridges Teeth Whitening Problem Stained, dull teeth. Solution Customized trays are filled with a whitening gel and worn in the mouth for as little as 1 hour per day. In as little as one week, this process can erase most stains from coffee drinking and tobacco, as well as tooth yellowing associated with aging, producing a brilliant, bright white smile. Alternatives There is also an in-office gel treatment that provides a faster result. Teeth whitening may not be an appropriate treatment for all stains. For hard-to-treat stains, porcelain veneers or crowns are a better option. Bonding Problem Teeth that are chipped, discolored, uneven, stained or gapped. Solution Bonding with composite resin. The composite resin used in bonding is a tooth-colored material that is applied directly to the enamel of teeth and shaped to correct the patient's aesthetic concern. When exposed to a special ultraviolet light, the resin hardens into place. Alternatives Porcelain veneers and crowns, while more expensive, last considerably longer than bonding. Veneers Problem Teeth that are chipped, discolored, uneven, stained or gapped. Teeth that are out-of-proportion in relation to the mouth. Teeth that are crooked or worn. Solution Customized, wafer-thin veneers (also called porcelain laminates) are cemented directly onto the front of the tooth, resulting in a natural appearance that covers any irregularities or aesthetic concerns. Alternatives Veneers are not an ideal choice for patients with tooth decay, advanced periodontal disease, or severe misalignment. In cases where veneers are not advisable, orthodontic treatments and porcelain crowns may be better choices. Fillings Problem Tooth decay that has led to the development of a cavity, or small hole, in the tooth. Solution Fillings. Your dentist will remove all areas of decay, and replace with a filling made of composite resin. Composite resin fillings have surged in popularity because their appearance perfectly matches the natural appearance of teeth. Alternatives In cases of more extensive decay, porcelain inlays and onlays are an advisable alternative. Inlays & Onlays Problem Tooth decay, weakened tooth structure, need for tooth restoration and reinforcement. Solution After the decay is removed, your dentist will take an impression of the area to be restored. A dental laboratory works from this impression to create a restorative inlay or onlay, usually out of gold or porcelain, that fits perfectly on the tooth. Inlays cover one or more tooth surfaces, where onlays are used on the chewing surface of the tooth. The inlay or onlay is cemented securely into place, for an incredibly durable, stable tooth restoration. Porcelain is the preferred restorative material; it is extremely strong and can perfectly match the patient's natural tooth color. Alternatives Crowns may be the only alternative when tooth decay is in advanced stages. Crowns Problem Teeth that are chipped, cracked, badly decayed, or otherwise weakened. Solution Crowns maintain the aesthetic appearance of teeth by covering the entire visible surface of the tooth, while adding significant reinforcement and protection to the tooth. After removing all areas of decay, your dentist will take an impression of the tooth to be crowned and send it to a dental laboratory to create the crown. Crowns can be made of porcelain or gold. Porcelain crowns are extremely natural looking; virtually indistinguishable from other teeth, making them an ideal choice for visible teeth. Gold crowns pose no risk of chipping, and therefore are useful when crowning back teeth. Alternatives Teeth that are badly decayed may require extraction, leaving bridges or implants as viable alternative treatments. Fixed Bridges Problem Patients who are missing a tooth or several teeth may experience difficulty chewing and speaking, dental shifts, and an undesirable sunken facial appearance. In addition, missing teeth can eventually lead to jaw and joint problems that are costly to treat. Solution Fixed bridges can improve chewing and aesthetic appearance, restoring the smile with a more permanent solution than dentures. Bridges replace missing teeth with artificial teeth. Your dentist will take a mold of the gap where a tooth is missing, and then send it to a laboratory to prepare a customized bridge. Before inserting the bridge, the surrounding teeth are prepared.

  Link: Cosmetic Procedures

• Restorative Procedures

  Almost everyone will experience tooth decay at some point in his or her life. Swift detection and correction of tooth decay can minimize the significant expenses and inconveniences associated with more serious problems caused by tooth decay. Restorative dentistry treats all phases of tooth decay, from simple cavity fillings to entire tooth replacements. Fillings Inlays & Onlays Crowns Fixed Bridges Root Canal Therapy Fillings Problem Tooth decay that has led to the development of a cavity, or small hole, in the tooth. Solution Fillings. We will remove all areas of decay, and replace with a filling made of composite resin. Composite resin fillings have surged in popularity because their appearance perfectly matches the natural appearance of teeth. Alternatives In cases of more extensive decay, porcelain inlays and onlays are an advisable alternative. Inlays & Onlays Problem Tooth decay, weakened tooth structure, need for tooth restoration and reinforcement. Solution After the decay is removed, your dentist will take an impression of the area to be restored. A dental laboratory works from this impression to create a restorative inlay or onlay, usually out of gold or porcelain, that fits perfectly on the tooth. Inlays cover one or more tooth surfaces, where onlays are used on the chewing surface of the tooth. The inlay or onlay is cemented securely into place, for an incredibly durable, stable tooth restoration. Porcelain is the preferred restorative material; it is extremely strong and can perfectly match the patient's natural tooth color. Alternatives Crowns may be the only alternative when tooth decay is in advanced stages. Crowns Problem Teeth that are chipped, cracked, badly decayed, or otherwise weakened. Solution Crowns maintain the aesthetic appearance of teeth by covering the entire visible surface of the tooth, while adding significant reinforcement and protection to the tooth. Crowns can be made of porcelain or gold. Porcelain crowns are extremely natural looking; virtually indistinguishable from other teeth, making them an ideal choice for visible teeth. Gold crowns pose no risk of chipping, and are sometimes advised when crowning back teeth. Alternatives Teeth that are badly decayed may require extraction, leaving bridges or implants as viable alternative treatments. Fixed Bridges Problem Patients who are missing a tooth or several teeth may experience difficulty chewing and speaking, dental shifts, and an undesirable sunken facial appearance. In addition, missing teeth can eventually lead to jaw and joint problems that are costly to treat. Solution Fixed bridges can improve chewing and aesthetic appearance, restoring the smile with a more permanent solution than dentures. Bridges replace missing teeth with artificial teeth. Your dentist will take a mold of the gap where a tooth is missing, and then send it to a laboratory to prepare a customized bridge. Before inserting the bridge, the surrounding teeth are prepared. The bridge is set into place and the artificial tooth is securely cemented to the adjacent teeth, restoring the attractive natural appearance and functionality of the tooth that was lost. If a resin-bonded bridge is chosen, the artificial tooth is secured by means of a metal appliance that attaches to the backs of adjacent teeth. Alternatives Dental implants are permanent, stable alternatives to bridges that do not rely upon surrounding teeth for support. Root Canal Therapy Problem The inside of each tooth is filled with "pulp", which carries the tooth's blood supply and nerves. If bacteria gain access to the pulp, through a fracture or deep cavity, the pulp may become infected, leading to pain and a risk of tooth loss. Solution In a root canal, your dentist will remove the infected pulp and replace it with a rubber sealant. The tooth is then covered with a protective crown, which reinforces the tooth against future fractures and enhances the tooth's appearance. Root canals have an extremely high success rate in saving teeth that would otherwise be lost to infection. Alternatives The only alternative to root canal therapy is tooth extraction. New Patient Special All new patients receive oral exam, digital x-rays, and a regular cleaning for $149.

  Link: Restorative Procedures

• Tooth Extractions

  In extreme cases where a tooth cannot be saved, an extraction will be performed. Please click on a link below for more information. Wisdom Teeth Infection Routine Extractions Wisdom Teeth Wisdom teeth are the molars that are farthest back in the mouth. These teeth are the last to grow into the mouth, usually after age 18. Wisdom teeth often become impacted - they do not grow in properly. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause a myriad of problems, including gum disease, infection, decay, even tumors. To prevent potential problems, wisdom teeth are usually extracted at the first sign that they may be impacted. Infection In cases of severe infection, where restorative approaches will not save a tooth, an extraction may be necessary. Routine Extractions Modern dentistry makes routine tooth extractions relatively comfortable, painless procedures. For seven days after the extraction, your tooth socket will require some care. You will be instructed to steer clear of the empty tooth socket when brushing your teeth. Some bleeding can be expected, and pain medication may be prescribed for residual discomfort.

  Link: Tooth Extractions

• Root Canal Therapy

  Root canals often get a bad rap for being painful or expensive but they’re actually one of the best ways to relieve the pain of serious tooth decay and dental infections. When Do You Need a Root Canal? It’s important to note that not all dental discomfort means that you need root canal treatment. But if your experiencing symptoms like the darkening of your tooth, a bump on your gums near an area of tooth pain, sensitivity to hot and cold foods/beverages, or swelling surrounding a painful tooth it may be time to consider looking into a root canal procedure. What Is a Root Canal? In the root of the tooth there’s something called the root canal. It’s a small deep cavity full of something called pulp which is the soft insides of the tooth. When dental pulp becomes infected it can be very painful which is where the root canal procedure can help. It can be done on any tooth, including molars and it leaves your teeth looking and feeling healthy and natural. How Does a Root Canal Work? A root canal procedure is the process of removing the infected part of the tooth from the pulp chamber and cleaning/sealing the tooth. It’s a fairly common dental procedure and can help save your tooth. And the good news is, the success rate for root canals is 95%. If by some rare chance the procedure is unsuccessful, there are other great options such as a partial denture. If you’ve got concerns about the pain, most patients report that it’s feels similar to getting a temporary filling and the local anesthesia helps quite a bit as well. Your oral health and physical comfort during your regular dental visits as well as special procedures is of the highest importance! How Much Does a Root Canal Cost? This will depend on your dentist and your insurance options but most US dentists charge approximately $350 for an incisor tooth and about $520 for a molar. However, it’s always a good idea to give your dentist a call to discuss which financial plan would work best for you and your unique situation. Whether you’re dealing with a chip in the tooth or a serious tooth infections, endodontic treatment is something you should ask your dentist about. Free yourself from pain and discomfort and call Designed Smiles about your options today!

  Link: Root Canal Therapy

• Pediatric Dentistry

  Learn about your child's dental care: Are baby teeth really that important to my child? What should I use to clean my baby's teeth? Should I use toothpaste with my child? When should I schedule my child's first dental appointment? What about bedtime bottles or bedtime nursing? What should I do if my child has a toothache? Are thumb sucking and pacifier habits harmful for a child's teeth? How often does my child need to see the dentist? How do I make my child's diet safe for his teeth? What are dental sealants and how do they work? How do I know if my child is getting enough fluoride? What can I do to protect my child's teeth during sporting events? What should I do if my child's permanent tooth is knocked out? How safe is dental digital radiography? Are baby teeth really that important to my child? Those toothless smiles are adorable but yes, primary teeth (a.k.a. baby teeth) are important for many reasons. They help children speak clearly and chew naturally, and aid in forming a path for permanent teeth to follow when they are ready to erupt. What should I use to clean my baby's teeth? It is important to develop the habit early on of removing plaque bacteria that can lead to decay, starting at birth. For newborns, clean your baby's gums with a soft infant toothbrush or cloth and water. As soon as the teeth begin to appear, start brushing at least once a day (at bedtime) with a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head, preferably one designed specifically for infants; twice a day is even better, especially as more teeth come in and the child's diet becomes more varied. Should I use toothpaste with my child? The American Dental Association recommends using fluoridated toothpaste once you start using a toothbrush. Use a smear of toothpaste to brush the teeth of a child less than 2 years of age. For youngsters 2-5 years old, dispense a pea-size amount of toothpaste and perform or assist your child's tooth brushing. Remember that young children do not have the ability to brush their teeth effectively on their own. Make sure they spit out and not swallow excess toothpaste after brushing. When should I schedule my child's first dental appointment? The American Dental Association, American Academy of General Dentistry, and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry all recommend that your child's first dental visit should take place around 12 months of age or shortly after the eruption of the first baby tooth. This proactive approach will help us identify potential problems early on, and introduce your baby to all the sights, sounds and sensations of the dentist's office. Do not wait until your child has a toothache or a dental emergency. This could result in your child developing a fear of the dentist which is sometimes very hard to overcome–and we wouldn't want that to happen! What about bedtime bottles or bedtime nursing? Bedtime bottles should only have water – no juice, formula or milk, as your child will not be brushing his/her teeth after consuming these, and these liquids break down into sugars which cause cavities if left unattended. If you nurse your child to sleep, consider rinsing the mouth with water afterwards to avoid possible decay over time. The Academy of General Dentistry instructs parents to clean and massage the baby's gums after every feeding to help establish healthy teeth and to aid in teething. Do this by wrapping a moistened gauze square or washcloth around the finger and gently massage the gums and gingival tissues. What should I do if my child has a toothache? First, rinse the irritated area with warm salt water and place a cold compress on the face if it is swollen. Give the child acetaminophen for any pain–do not place aspirin on the teeth or gums. Then call and come see us as soon as possible. Are thumb sucking and pacifier habits harmful for a child's teeth? Thumb and pacifier sucking habits will generally only become a problem if they go on for a very long period of time. Most children stop these habits on their own, but if they are still sucking their thumbs or fingers past the age of three, a mouth appliance may be recommended to correct any palate irregularities. How often does my child need to see the dentist? A checkup every six months is recommended in order prevent cavities and other dental problems. We set up exam schedules with parents based on each child's personal oral health. We will also recommend a specific program of brushing, flossing, and other treatments for parents to supervise and teach to their children. Children should visit the dentist regularly, (beginning shortly after the eruption of the first tooth). These home treatments, when added to regular dental visits and a balanced diet, will help give your child a lifetime of healthy habits– and healthy teeth and gums.

  Link: Pediatric Dentistry