Preventive Procedures
Exam and Dental Cleaning
Routine dental cleanings involve the removal of light to moderate plaque, stains, or tartar fixed to tooth surfaces above the gum line.
If this is your initial hygiene visit, we perform a comprehensive dental exam. This involves taking x-rays, charting periodontal measurements, identifying diseased, missing, or filled teeth, performing an oral cancer screening, listening to your dental concerns, recording your medical history, and taking your blood pressure. This allows us to establish an accurate baseline of your current dental health.
Next, we customize a thorough treatment plan to help improve your oral health and also use your baseline to monitor any future changes. Your hygienist will also perform a routine cleaning, apply dental sealants, provide a fluoride treatment, and demonstrate any tips that may be helpful for performing better home care.
Please assist us by providing the following information:
- X-rays or dental records from previous dentist
- Health history, current list of medications, allergies, and any plans for future surgeries
- Current dental insurance information
- Any personal preferences (i.e. request a specific hygienist, or taking extra precaution around a sensitive tooth or you would prefer to listen to the radio instead of watching tv…etc.)
Give us a call to schedule your dental cleaning at (262) 932-4190. New patients are always welcome!
Scaling & Root Planing (aka Deep Cleaning)
Scaling and root planing involves the removal of moderate to heavy tartar deposits below the gum line. Tartar forms on root surfaces when there is a loss of any of the supportive structures (gums, ligaments and bone) that surround the root. Collectively these supportive structures make-up the periodontium. Loss of these supportive structures is called periodontal disease.
Gingivitis is a condition when the gums become inflamed and bleed easily, but the supportive structures are still intact. If left untreated, gingivitis will progress into periodontal disease. In advanced stages of periodontal disease, teeth will move apart forming gaps, or teeth will appear very long. Ultimately, periodontal disease leads to permanent tooth loss.
Dental Sealants
Dental Sealants are thin, protective fillings applied to the deep grooves located on the biting surfaces of teeth (primarily the molars). Their purpose is to prevent the accumulation of food and bacteria in these areas to reduce the risk of forming cavities. Sealants are ordinarily applied between the ages of 6 and 16, but they can be applied any time after the teeth have erupted and are also beneficial for adults.
We invite you to give us a call at (262) 932-4190 with any questions about Dental Sealants and to see if they might be right for you!
Diode Lasers
Diode Lasers are becoming more widely used in dentistry for procedures in surgery, periodontics, and for the treatment of ulcers and cold sores. Lasers provide a quick and painless treatment for unsightly cold sores, often reducing the frequency of future recurrence. Lasers are also used in eliminating toxins embedded within the gums of teeth affected by gingivitis or periodontal disease. Laser therapy promotes healing and regeneration of new healthy tissue. Lasers can be used safely around implants and other metal restorations.
Dexis Carivu
Dexis Carivu is a portable device that shines a beam a light through a tooth, while capturing images of it. Cracks and decay will appear darker than natural tooth.
This is a radiation-free alternative to x-rays. If the radiation-free Dexis Carivu option sounds good to you, we invite you to schedule your next dental appointment with us at (262) 932-4190.
Dental Nightguards
A Dental Nightguard is a hard plastic appliance custom molded to fit over existing teeth. It is worn to prevent grinding or clenching of teeth, which can lead to tooth loss or jaw pain if left untreated.