General Dentistry
General dentistry is the cornerstone of oral healthcare, encompassing a wide range of preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic services designed to maintain optimal oral health for individuals of all ages.
General dentists are trained to address a broad spectrum of dental concerns, from routine cleanings and examinations to more complex restorative procedures and cosmetic treatments.
Essential Services Provided by General Dentists
General dentists play a crucial role in preventing and treating a variety of oral health conditions, including:
Preventive Care: Regular checkups and cleanings, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants to prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems.
Diagnostic Procedures: Oral examinations, X-rays, and other diagnostic tools to identify and assess dental issues early on.
Restorative Care: Fillings, crowns, bridges, dentures, and root canals to restore the function and aesthetics of damaged or decayed teeth.
Cosmetic Dentistry: Teeth whitening, veneers, and bonding to enhance the appearance of teeth and improve overall smile aesthetics.
Periodontal Care: Scaling and root planing, gum grafting, and other treatments to address gum disease and protect the supporting structures of teeth.
Cosmetic Dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry is a specialized branch of dental care that focuses on improving the aesthetics of teeth, gums, and the overall smile. Through a variety of procedures, cosmetic dentists aim to enhance the appearance of teeth, address imperfections, and create a more attractive and confident smile.
Common Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures
Cosmetic dentistry encompasses a range of procedures designed to address various dental concerns and enhance the overall smile:
Teeth Whitening: Teeth whitening is a popular procedure that lightens the color of teeth, removing stains and discoloration caused by food, beverages, and aging. Various teeth whitening options are available, including professional in-office treatments and at-home whitening kits.
Dental Bonding: Dental bonding involves applying a tooth-colored resin material to the surface of a tooth to restore its shape, size, or color. Bonding can be used to repair chipped or cracked teeth, close gaps between teeth, and even lengthen the appearance of short teeth.
Dental Veneers: Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are bonded to the front surface of teeth to mask imperfections and enhance the appearance of the smile. Veneers can be used to address a variety of cosmetic concerns, such as discoloration, chipped or cracked teeth, misaligned teeth, and gaps between teeth.
Periodontics
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, isn’t just about swollen gums and bad breath. This chronic inflammatory condition, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss, bone damage, and even systemic health problems.
Understanding Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease thrives in bacterial plaque and tartar. These sticky deposits build up around teeth and irritate gums, triggering inflammation. As it advances, gum pockets deepen, creating breeding grounds for bacteria, further escalating.
Treatment
Early Intervention: In the early stage, called gingivitis, prompt action is key. Brushing, flossing religiously, and regular dental cleanings can halt the advancement and even reverse some damage.
Scaling and Root Planing: This deep cleaning involves meticulous removal of plaque and tartar, both above and below the gum line.
Medications: In some cases, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to eliminate stubborn bacterial pockets.
If you suspect you may have gum disease, you must see your dentist as soon as possible. During your next appointment with the professional team at Beard Dentistry, you can be sure you are receiving the best care and attention that you and your family deserve.
Oral Cancer Screenings
Oral cancer is a serious health concern that affects millions of people each year. Early detection is critical for successful treatment and a positive outcome, so it’s essential to have regular oral cancer screenings as part of your preventive dental care.
The professional team at Beard Dentistry is dedicated to providing the community with the most advanced and state-of-the-art technology in diagnosing and preventing issues from becoming more severe and threatening.
About Oral Cancer
Oral cancer occurs in the mouth, including the lips, tongue, gums, and throat. It can develop in any part of the mouth and can spread quickly if left untreated. Oral cancer can cause various symptoms, including pain, swelling, and changes in the appearance of the jaws and the structural integrity of your oral health.
Oral cancer screenings are a critical part of preventive dental care, potentially detecting cancer in its early stages and improving the chances of successful treatment. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms or just looking to avoid potential oral health issues, our dentists and staff can provide you with the expertise and care you need.
Dental Implants
Missing teeth can take a toll on your confidence and oral health. Fortunately, dental implants offer a revolutionary solution, acting as permanent replacements for lost teeth and bringing back that healthy, complete smile.
What are dental implants?
Think of them as artificial tooth roots. These small, biocompatible posts, usually made of titanium, are surgically placed into the jawbone. Over time, a process called osseointegration bonds the implant with the bone, creating a sturdy foundation for a crown, bridge, or even dentures.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Enhanced Natural Look and Feel: Implants mimic the function and aesthetics of natural teeth, seamlessly blending in with your existing smile. They are comfortable, secure, and allow you to eat, speak, and laugh with confidence.
Preserves Oral Health: Unlike bridges, implants don’t require sacrificing healthy neighboring teeth. This maintains long-term oral health and prevents bone loss in the jaw.
Durability and Longevity: Made of strong materials, implants can last for decades, even a lifetime with proper care. This eliminates the need for future replacements and associated costs.
Endodontics & Root Canals
Endodontics and Root Canals: Saving Your Smile from the Inside Out
A tooth infection or injury can cause significant discomfort and jeopardize your oral health—but endodontics can help! This branch of dentistry focuses on treating problems deep within the tooth, such as severe toothaches, infections, and injuries. Root canals, a key part of endodontics, are often a tooth-saving solution.
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a procedure designed to remove infected or damaged pulp—the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. After the pulp is removed, the tooth is cleaned, sealed, and restored with a crown to prevent further issues and maintain functionality.
Why You Might Need a Root Canal:
- Persistent tooth pain
- Severe tooth infections or decay
- Dental abscesses
- Tooth fractures or injuries
Dispelling Common Myths:
- Is it painful? Modern techniques and anesthesia make it as comfortable as a routine filling.
- Does it take forever? Most procedures are completed in just one or two visits.
- Is it a last resort? Root canals save teeth and prevent the need for extraction.
Don’t let fear or misinformation keep you from relief—a root canal can eliminate pain, restore your tooth, and protect your smile for years to come!
Botox
Botox is a cosmetic treatment that uses botulinum toxin (Botox) to relax the jaw and face muscles. It is used to treat jaw pain, headaches, clenching, and grinding and improve the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
What is Botox?
Botox is a largely cosmetic treatment used to relax the muscles and tissues in a particular area, usually to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and aging. In addition, Botox has many other approved applications, such as the use of Botox for dental purposes, mainly to manage pain and other issues that can occur. Dental botox is 100% safe and offers excellent results, but you should always consult a dental professional before use, as this can minimize the discomfort you may feel.
Benefits of Dental Botox
Botox is truly an innovation that offers many different benefits. Our team has compiled the following list for you.
Procedure
The procedure for Botox typically lasts under half an hour, but can take as little as a few minutes. Pain is minimal and largely concentrated at the injection site.
Pain Management
Botox can relieve the pain and discomfort associated with jaw pain, headaches, clenching, and grinding. Relaxing the jaw muscles can reduce tension and help prevent the formation of wrinkles and fine lines. The team at Beard Dentistry offers the best botox treatment to help you restore your quality of life.
Technology
Dental Radiographs (X-Rays)
Dental radiographs, commonly known as dental x-rays, are extremely useful for the diagnosis of different ailments that could endanger the health of your mouth, teeth, and gums.
These services are not just exclusive to adults. It is an extremely common need to view the healthy development of teeth and gums for children, particularly those that have not yet crowned above the surface.
3D Scanning Technology
3D scanning technology is creating a three-dimensional object using a digital model.
This technology has become increasingly popular in the dental industry because it allows dentists to create dental crowns and guards more quickly and accurately than traditional methods.
Digital CT Screens
Curious about digital CT screens? If so, you’re in the right place. CT screens have been a great addition to dental care, as they allow your provider to detect and treat your ailments more accurately.
Cone Beam CT Imaging
CBCT is a imaging system that uses computed tomography. Tomography enables the your dentist to view areas of your mouth using ultrasound technology.
TMJ/TMD
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and temporomandibular disorder (TMD) affect the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. These conditions can cause various symptoms, including pain, discomfort, and difficulty opening and closing the jaw. In this post, we’ll explore the basics of TMJ and TMD, as well as some of the most common causes and treatments.
The professional team at Beard Dentistry is proud to serve the local community with quality dental care services and education, such as treating jaw and tooth pain.
What are TMJ and TMD?
The temporomandibular joint is the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull. Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a group of conditions that has to do with the movement of this joint, including completely disabling your ability to open and close your mouth without significant pain. The pain does not necessarily stay localized, as it can often affect hearing and contribute to consistent migraines for many patients.
What are the Common Causes of TMD?
Several factors can contribute to the development of TMD, including:
Arthritis
Arthritis in the jaw joint can cause inflammation and pain due to overuse or extending your range of motion beyond what it can usually do. Arthritis is a group of degenerative diseases that occurs distinctly due to age, one of the most common causes of TMD.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous Oxide for a Relaxed Dental Experience
Dental procedures can cause apprehension in patients of all ages, from children and teens to adults. Even routine treatments may feel intimidating, which is why ensuring comfort and relaxation is essential for a positive experience.
Nitrous oxide, often referred to as “laughing gas,” is a safe and effective sedation option that helps patients feel calm and at ease during dental procedures. By reducing anxiety, it allows the dental team to perform necessary treatments efficiently and comfortably.
Early exposure to a calm and reassuring dental environment can benefit younger patients by helping them develop a positive relationship with dental care, reducing anxiety for future visits. Similarly, adults who experience dental phobia or nervousness can find relief with nitrous oxide, making their appointments stress-free and manageable.
Crowns & Bridges
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are among the most commonly required forms of adult dental work. A dental bridge is a form of cosmetic dentistry that will improve one’s smile and bite. To be a candidate for a dental bridge, the existing tooth must be permanent as an adult tooth. Learn more about what is required for dental bridges for adult patients seeking a local dentist.
About Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is an artificial structure implanted with existing teeth or where one or more teeth are missing. Dentists install dental bridges when a patient requires a dental crown. A dental crown is a ceramic or metal cap covering an existing tooth. Reasons why patients require the use of dental bridges and crowns include:
- Covering stains from tobacco, wine, or coffee
- Protecting a cracked or chipped area in a permanent tooth
- Concealing signs of tooth decay at the root of the tooth and slowing tooth loss
- Providing a stable tooth structure to support the root structure of a damaged or broken tooth
Many times, a dental bridge and crown might be necessary to protect and save a tooth. Adult patients may need to get a dental bridge and crown because of an auto accident or a sports injury. Disease or chronic health conditions can also lead to tooth decay and the need for a bridge and crown.
Preventative Dentistry
Proper dental hygiene involves practices related to preventative care. This means these efforts help to prevent a wide variety of dental issues, such as tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, and more. If you don’t have a good dental hygiene regimen, you may be more prone to experiencing these problems.
Good dental hygiene is not only a healthy practice for your teeth and gums, but it’s also beneficial for your entire body.
Dental Hygiene Best Practices
If you want to bolster your dental hygiene efforts, there are several tips to consider.
Here are some best practices to get you on the right track:
Focus On Brushing
While everyone knows brushing their teeth is important, not everyone does it the right way or as often as they should. The first rule of thumb is to never go to sleep without brushing your teeth. Every day, our mouths become breeding grounds for germs and bacteria, which can multiply after each meal or beverage. To eliminate infection, freshen your breath, and keep your teeth and gums healthy, simply brush your teeth each night before bed.
Don’t Forget to Floss
It’s also crucial to floss between your teeth every single day. In fact, try to consider flossing just as important as brushing. Additionally, make sure you’re flossing the right way. Move your floss side to side and up and down between each tooth, ensuring that you remove any trapped food particles.
Teeth Whitening
In-office teeth whitening is a professional dental procedure that uses a high-concentration bleaching gel to whiten the teeth in just one visit. This treatment is performed in a dental office by a trained professional and is considered one of the most effective teeth whitening methods available.
How Does In-Office Teeth Whitening Work?
During an in-office teeth whitening procedure, a protective gel is applied to the gums to protect them from the bleaching gel. The bleaching gel is then applied to the teeth and activated by a particular light or laser. The gel remains on the teeth for a set amount of time and is then removed, revealing a noticeably brighter and whiter smile.
The Benefits of In-Office Teeth Whitening
In-office teeth whitening offers several benefits, including:
Quick Results
In-office teeth whitening provides immediate results, with many patients seeing a significant improvement in the brightness of their teeth after just one visit to the dentist.
Professional Grade Products
The bleaching gel used in in-office teeth whitening contains a higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide than over-the-counter whitening products. This means that the results are more dramatic and longer-lasting. However, this does not mean that the procedure is more dangerous, as every possible step is taken for your safety.
Veneers
Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are permanently bonded to the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. They are a popular cosmetic dentistry option for people who want to enhance their smile.
Types of Veneers
There are two primary types of veneers:
Porcelain Veneers: These are the most popular type of veneer, known for their durability, natural appearance, and resistance to staining. Porcelain veneers are custom-made to match the color and shape of your natural teeth.
Composite Veneers: These are made from a tooth-colored resin material. Composite veneers are less expensive than porcelain veneers, but they are also less durable and more prone to staining.
Benefits of Dental Veneers
Improved Appearance: Veneers can significantly enhance the appearance of your smile by correcting a variety of cosmetic dental issues, such as chipped, cracked, discolored, or misaligned teeth.
Durability: Porcelain veneers are highly durable and can last for many years with proper care.
Stain Resistance: Porcelain veneers are resistant to staining, making them a great option for people who enjoy drinking coffee, tea, or wine.
Natural Appearance: Veneers can be custom-made to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, resulting in a beautiful, natural-looking smile.
