General dentistry refers to the practice of diagnosing, preventing, and treating conditions involving the teeth, gums, and jaw. Ideally, general dentistry is a preventive medicine. Our passion is to work together to educate our patients and aid in the prevention of tooth decay and periodontal disease before they even start. The Canadian Dental Association recommends that patients visit a dentist twice a year in order to maintain optimal oral hygiene and keep serious dental problems at bay. To schedule your routine dental care, contact us today!
Apart from getting your regular checkups, dentists are also able to perform the following procedures:
Dental Exams
- Examination of diagnostic x-rays (radiographs): Essential for detection of decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss. X-rays also help determine tooth and root positions.
- Oral cancer screening: Check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.
- Gum disease evaluation: Check the gums and bone around the teeth for any signs of periodontal disease.
- Examination of tooth decay: All tooth surfaces will be checked for decay with special dental instruments.
- Examination of existing restorations: Check current fillings, crowns, etc.
Dental X-Rays
Dental x-rays may reveal:
- Abscesses or cysts
- Bone loss
- Cancerous and non-cancerous tumours
- Decay between the teeth
- Developmental abnormalities
- Poor tooth and root positions
- Problems inside a tooth or below the gum line
We are all exposed to natural radiation in our environment. The amount of radiation exposure from a full mouth series of x-rays is equal to the amount a person receives in a single day from natural sources. Although dental x-rays are considered safe, we still take the necessary precautions to limit the patient’s exposure to radiation when taking dental x-rays. These precautions include using a lead apron shield to protect the body and using the latest technology and fast film that cuts down the exposure time of each x-ray.
How often should dental x-rays be taken?
The need for dental x-rays depends on each patient’s individual dental health needs. Typically a full mouth series of dental x-rays is recommended for new patients. A full series is usually good for three to five years. Bite-wing x-rays (x-rays of top and bottom teeth biting together) are taken at regular check-up visits and are recommended once or twice a year to detect new dental problems.
Extractions:
Fillings:
Night Guards:
Non-Surgical Gum Therapy:
These two procedures are generally done simultaneously and may require local anesthesia. The services of a specialist (Periodontist) may be recommended should surgical intervention be required. Often surgery allows for complete healing of the gum and bone, reduced mobility of teeth and a greatly improved prognosis.
Root Canal Therapy:
During the procedure, a gap is drilled into the tooth’s crown and pulp chamber, diseased pulp is re-shaped or removed, and the tooth is permanently sealed with a tooth-colored inlay/onlay or crown.
Sedation:
The procedure involves taking an oral sedative prior to your dental treatment. Within an hour, this sedative will take effect making you very sleepy. Your vital signs and comfort level are closely monitored throughout your visit.
Sports Guard:
TMJ (TMD) Therapy:
- Pain when opening jaw
- Inability to open mouth wide or move from side to side comfortably
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Ear pain, hearing loss
- Ringing in the ears
- Clenching, night grinding
- Chronic fatigue
- Noise, grating or popping in joint
- Chronic Temporal or occipital headache
Treatment of these problems can be complicated. The cause can often be multi-factorial. Successful treatment may involve other treatment such as, Physiotherapy, Chiropractors, Massage Therapy, Cranio-mandibular specialists, and Physicians.
Meaningful treatment begins with proper diagnosis. We will do a thorough evaluation of your problem to determine the best way that we can help and refer you to the appropriate therapy.
We understand that sometimes due to unforeseen circumstances, you may need to cancel your dental appointment. We ask that if you do need to do so, please give our office 48 hours notice of your cancellation so we have adequate time to fill your appointment opening and reschedule your appointment for a time that is more convenient for you. We appreciate your cooperation.