Hub City Dentistry

Products And Services

• Cosmetic Dentistry

  Cosmetic dentistry encompasses not only the health of the teeth, but also their aesthetic value. Various products and procedures exist within cosmetic dentistry with the goal of improving both the well-being and visual beauty of the teeth, giving the individual a higher level of self-confidence. Services provided by a cosmetic dentist include the following: Tooth bleaching Porcelain veneers Tooth-colored fillings Dental implants Dentures Tooth Whitening Tooth bleaching, also known as tooth whitening, has become so advanced and widespread that certain dental companies have marketed their own form of at-home tooth whitening products. While there is some merit to these home bleaching kits, there is nothing that compares to having a professional, nationally board-certified dentist perform this procedure on your teeth. When performed by a professional, the entire whitening process is abbreviated and can be completed in only a few short visits, compared to weeks of at-home treatment. Veneers Porcelain and composite veneers are effective aesthetic cover-ups for damaged or stained teeth. Although some veneers are designed to be removable, most are permanent and are bonded very tightly to the teeth they are protecting. Advancements in technology have improved the bonding agents to the extent that it is quite common for veneers to remain functional for 10 years or more. Fillings Cavities are painful and unsightly holes in the teeth that must be filled with inert material. Contemporary fillings, called dental composite resin, are much closer in hue to the natural color of teeth. This allows the tooth to be protected but still look untouched. Dental Implants A dental implant is an artificial tooth replacement designed to fill the void created by a missing tooth. There are many types of dental implants, ranging from individual crowns to large scale dentures. A cosmetic dentist can ensure that not only will the most comfortable replacement be found, but it will be implanted in the most accurate and aesthetic manner possible. There are numerous options available to improve the overall health and appearance of the teeth and smile. Patients should consult with their dentists to decide which option best suits their specific needs and will most effectively meet their expectations.

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• Dental Implants

  Dental implants are an option to replace missing teeth and provide a fixed solution to removable dentures. Dental implants are natural-looking replacement teeth that are fixed in the jaw. Implant treatment provides an option to correct the most troublesome cases associated with missing teeth and ill-fitting dentures. An artificial tooth root made of titanium, an implant is surgically placed into the jawbone to support tooth-replacement structures such as crowns, bridges and dentures. While the implant mimics the root of the tooth, the replacement structure looks and feels just like a natural tooth, providing patients with a permanent solution that replicates the fit and feel of natural teeth. Benefits of Dental Implants Dental implants have many benefits over other tooth-replacement methods. Enhanced Esthetics Implants are placed within the gums. The crowns that are attached to them emerge in a manner similar to a natural tooth. This offers a more realistic and natural look compared to other alternatives. Reduction of Bone Loss When a tooth is lost, the supporting bone structure gradually recedes over time. Dental implants integrate with the jawbone and stimulate its preservation, allowing the bone to stay healthy and intact while maintaining natural facial contours and appearance. Preservation of Adjacent Teeth Other methods like fixed bridges must be anchored to adjacent teeth, unnecessarily sacrificing their quality and health. Dental implants are independent and do not rely on the support of other teeth, thus providing the ability to preserve the good teeth. Easier Eating As the jawbone shrinks, chewing efficiency is reduced, making it difficult to eat certain foods. Dental implants can restore chewing efficiency comparable to that of natural teeth, allowing patients to eat their favorite foods with confidence and without discomfort. The Dental Implant Procedure All treatment begins with a thorough exam and consultation. Typically, the process can take from 3 to 6 months. In some cases, the process may take longer because additional treatments, such as bone grafting, may be required to build up the bone so it can support an implant. The procedure and time frame depends on several factors: Dental health Condition and quality of the jawbone Number of teeth involved Dental implant restorations usually take place over a few appointments and involve several steps: The First Step A dentist or oral surgeon will cut into the gum to expose the bone. One or more implants are precisely placed into the jawbone to mirror the location of the root of the missing natural tooth. The Second Step After appropriate healing has taken place to allow for the implant to fuse within the bone, impressions of the teeth and bite are taken to custom-fabricate a connector post or abutment, and crown. The Final Step At the final appointment, the oral surgeon reopens the gum to expose the implant. The abutment and crown are attached to the implant, completing the process. Some patients may experience minor soreness after the dental implant procedure which can be treated with over the counter ibuprofen medication. Dental Implant Results Patients receive all the benefits of natural teeth with their dental implants. It is important to continue good oral hygiene with the implants to prevent bacteria buildup, which can cause gum disease or bone loss.

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• General Dentistry

  Teeth are strong, durable structures that endure massive amounts of pressure each day. It is important to protect the teeth and keep them strong through daily brushing and flossing as well as regular professional care from a licensed and experienced general dentist. General dentistry involves the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of a wide range of dental conditions, as well as the maintenance of overall oral health for patients of all ages. This comprehensive care from a general dentist is usually the only source of care patients require for their dental needs. There are several different dental specialties, but general dentistry encompasses the basics of these specialties. General Dentistry Specialties Restorative Dentistry Many dental conditions damage the tooth causing aesthetic and functional changes that require special treatment. Restorative treatments can repair or replace teeth depending on the extent of their damage. Restorative procedures include: Fillings Dental crowns and bridges Dental implants Dental bonding Dentures Root canals Cosmetic Dentistry Many people seek cosmetic dental care after certain dental conditions or because of dissatisfaction with the appearance of their teeth. These procedures can improve the color, shape and size of the teeth and enhance the overall smile. Cosmetic dental treatments often improve self-confidence. Some of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments may include: Teeth whitening Porcelain veneers Bonding Full mouth reconstruction Gum Disease Treatment Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a common dental condition that plagues many patients. Gum disease can be managed through treatments such as scaling and root planing, which can be performed by a general dentist. Surgery and other advanced treatments may be performed for later stages of the disease. While there are specialists for many of these dental treatments, a general dentist is able to perform most of these procedures. Complicated issues may be referred to a specialist such as a periodontist or prosthodontist, while age-specific patients may benefit from seeing a pediatric or geriatric dentist. Regular visits to the dentist are recommended at least once every six months in order to maintain proper oral hygiene and screen for any potential problems. Receiving regular checkups can help improve dental health and prevent major problems from developing. It is important for patients to work with their dentist to maintain their oral health. General dentists care for most patients' dental needs regardless of their age or treatment. These dental treatments restore health and beauty to the smile.

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• Neuromuscular Dentistry

  Neuromuscular dentistry is an area of dentistry that focuses not only on the teeth as they relate to the jaw, but on the nerves, muscles and joints as they relate to the jaw. By combining the principles of anatomy and physiology, neuromuscular dentistry works to achieve an optimal bite (occlusion) and jaw alignment. Neuromuscular dentists examine how all parts of the mouth and jaw work together. The objective of a neuromuscular dentist is to relax the jaw muscles in order to identify the true resting position of the jaw. They focus on determining the optimal position of the jaw in order to correct misalignment and jaw disorders. Evaluating the status of muscles and joints provides neuromuscular dentists with additional factors to consider before determining treatment. The goal of neuromuscular dentistry is to look at the whole picture by assessing the teeth, muscles and temporomandibular joints, and how they function together. Neuromuscular Dentistry Treatments Bite Abnormalities To correct bite abnormalities, neuromuscular dentists design long-term treatment plans that are focused on allowing the jaws to be optimally positioned. Some methods of treatment include custom dental splints, orthodontic devices or dental restorations. Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Neuromuscular dentistry is particularly effective in treating temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD), which can cause symptoms such as facial or jaw pain, headaches, earaches, clicking sounds in the jaw joint, and dizziness. Some neuromuscular dentists use ultralow-frequency transcutaneous electrical neural stimulation (ULF-TENS) to treat muscle pain and spasms associated with TMD. This treatment involves the use of mild electrical stimulation to contract and relax jaw muscles. A neuromuscular dentist will devise a customized treatment plan for the patient after a full examination of the teeth, bite and jaw.

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• Preventive Dentistry

  Preventive dentistry helps patients avoid the costly and invasive procedures often needed to treat serious dental conditions. Maintaining dental health helps patients look and feel their best, and can have a positive effect on their overall health. Preventing dental problems requires a lifelong commitment. To begin developing proper dental-hygiene habits, a child should visit a dentist shortly after the first teeth emerge. Parents also play an important role in helping their children develop and maintain good dental-hygiene habits. Regular Cleanings Comprehensive dental exams and cleanings are recommended once every six months. These exams help identify tooth decay, or early signs of gum disease or oral cancer, through diagnostic X-rays and a physical examination. Early detection of these conditions helps ensure effective treatment and prevent permanent damage. Regular cleanings by a certified dental hygienist help keep teeth clean and healthy. A dental cleaning includes removal of tartar and plaque, which can build up and cause inflammation and disease if left untreated. The teeth are also polished to remove stains that often cannot be removed by at-home toothbrushing. At-Home Dental Hygiene To maintain healthy teeth and gums, patients should brush their teeth at least twice a day; brushing before going to bed at night is essential. The American Dental Association recommends brushing with toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush for at least two minutes. Every tooth should be gone over thoroughly. Flossing at least once each day to clean the spaces between the teeth and under the gums is also recommended. In addition, using over-the-counter mouthwash can freshen breath and help protect the mouth from disease. Eating balanced meals and fewer sugary snacks can also help improve dental hygiene. Other home dental aids are available to help keep teeth as healthy as possible in-between visits to the dentist. Dentists provide patients with specific instructions for at-home care of the teeth; it is important to follow these instructions to ensure good dental health. Dental Sealants Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings that are applied to the surfaces of teeth to protect the grooves of the teeth from decay and other diseases. Decay often begins in these grooves because they are hard to clean, and susceptible to a buildup of plaque. Sealants create a smooth surface that fills deep grooves and makes teeth easier to clean. Sealants are applied to children's teeth once the six-year molars surface, or anytime between the ages of 6 and 16. Adults may also benefit from sealants, especially when the surfaces of their teeth have deep grooves or depressions that may be difficult to clean. A sealant is applied by cleaning the selected tooth, and then painting the sealant onto its surface, where it will harden and bond to the tooth, protecting it from decay. This procedure takes just a few minutes and is painless. There is no single method that will protect teeth from disease and decay. They should be taken care of each and every day, and professionally cleaned on a regular basis. Practicing good dental hygiene is the best way to keep teeth and gums healthy for a lifetime.

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• Laser Dentistry

  In laser dentistry, dental procedures are performed using lasers. The use of lasers allows many dental procedures to be performed with great precision, few complications and very little pain. Lasers are versatile tools that can be used in the following dental procedures: Cavity detection Tartar removal Dental fillings Gum surgery Dental implants Teeth whitening Removal of benign tumors Benefits of Laser Dentistry Benefits of laser dentistry over traditional dentistry may include: Minimal or no need for anesthetic Little or no bleeding Faster treatment time Reduction in bacterial infections Less post-operative pain and swelling Less damage to surrounding tissue Reduced need for medications or antibiotics after treatment Types of Lasers Used in Laser Dentistry Different types of lasers are used for different dental treatments. The two most common types of lasers used by dentists are: Hard-tissue lasers Hard-tissue lasers are used to cut into teeth and bone with great accuracy. They are often used to shape teeth for composite bonding, remove small amounts of tooth material, and repair dental fillings. Soft-tissue lasers Soft-tissue lasers are able to kill bacteria and activate the regrowth of tissues. They are commonly used by periodontists in procedures for treatment of the gums. Other types of lasers are used to view the insides of teeth to detect cavities and other internal teeth-related issues. Many patients find that laser dentistry is preferable to traditional dentistry, with its use of drills and other invasive tools. Pain and swelling are greatly reduced; the laser beam's accuracy means that damage to surrounding tissue is minimized; and several procedures can be performed during a single appointment, resulting in fewer dental visits.

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• Pediatric Dentistry

  Pediatric dentistry is an area of dentistry that specializes in treating the oral healthcare needs of children. Pediatric dentists provide regular checkups, cleanings and fluoride treatments, and overall oral treatment and care for children's teeth. Pediatric dentists also commonly apply sealants to children's teeth to prevent cavities. A pediatric dentist provides overall oral care for children, including treatment for: Cavities Teeth defects Dental injuries Malocclusion Gum disease Speech-related disorders Tongue tie (restricted frenulum) Oral conditions related to other diseases or underlying conditions Mouth guards for sports Dental appointments for children are important not only to evaluate tooth and gum health, but to educate them on preventing dental problems throughout their lives. A child should have her or his first dental exam about six months after the first tooth erupts from the gums, and should visit a pediatric dentist every six months thereafter. During a first dental visit, the pediatric dentist will examine the child's teeth for decay and other dental problems. The dentist may ask the accompanying caregiver about thumb-sucking or pacifier habits, and overall dental health. The dentist will then advise the caregiver and child about proper oral care, which includes brushing, flossing and fluoride treatments. A follow-up visit is usually scheduled for six months later, beginning the dental-maintenance process that will help to ensure good oral health throughout the child's life. A pediatric dentist can offer specialized oral care that a general dentist may not be able to. A pediatric dentist is trained in examining and treating children in an environment that has been designed to make them feel comfortable.

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