Root Canal Therapy

Root Canal, or endodontic therapy, is the process of removing the nerves from the roots of an infected tooth. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the surrounding bone resulting in tooth loss.

Do I need a root canal?

There are a number of reasons why one of your teeth may need a root canal. These include but are not limited to, a very deep cavity, trauma to the tooth , or a crack in the tooth that extends into the nerve of the tooth.  A careful examination including x-rays will determine the best course of treatment.

Symptoms of Possible Tooth Abcess

• Moderate to severe lingering toothache pain when drinking hot or cold liquids or foods.
• Moderate to severe pain when biting on a tooth
• Sensitivity to tapping or pressure on the tooth
• Toothache that wakes you up in the middle of the night
• A pimple on your gum that may release pus or blood
• Radiating pain from one area of the mouth to another

Crowns

When natural wear, decay, or trauma has left a tooth with significant damage, a crown is often needed to restore and preserve the remaining tooth structure.  The video below explains several options and we are happy to discuss which is best for you.

Replacing Missing Teeth

Tooth loss can affect the way you eat, speak, and the alignment of other teeth in your mouth.  If the time has come for you to replace one or more missing teeth, you’ll be glad to know there are several options available.  A thorough examination and discussion will help us determine together which method is right for you.

Wisdom Tooth Removal

During the late teen years, occasionally wisdom teeth, or third molars, become impacted and need to be removed. The procedure is often done in our office with local anesthesia and oral sedation.  Specialist referral to an Oral Surgeon may also be an appropritate option.  A panoramic x-ray and examination will help us determine the possible need and timing.

Dentures and Partials

Like natural teeth, replacement prosthetics (dentures and partials) require daily care. Changes to your supporting bone and gum tissue as well as normal wear or damage may necessitate periodic professional maintainence or replacement of your denture.  We are happy to discuss the options with you.

Tips on caring for your dentures:

• When handling your dentures, stand over a folded towel or basin of water. Dentures are delicate and may break if dropped.
• Don’t let your dentures dry out. Place them in a denture cleanser soaking solution or in plain water when you are not wearing them. Never use hot water, which can cause them to warp.
• Brushing your dentures daily will remove food deposits and plaque, and help prevent them from becoming stained. An ultrasonic cleaner may be used to care for your dentures, but it does not replace a thorough daily brushing.
• Brush your gums, tongue and palate every morning with a soft-bristled brush before you insert your dentures. This stimulates circulation in your tissues and helps remove plaque.
• Give us a call if your dentures break, chip, crack or become loose. Don’t be tempted to adjust them yourself as this can damage them beyond repair.