Services & INformation

Services

Crowns, Bridges, Fillings, & the Treatment of Dental Caries 

Caries is the disease process that causes "cavities." It is a multifactorial disease process, which causes the breakdown of tooth structure. Diet and the presence of certain bacteria as well as oral hygiene behaviors, genetics and previous dental conditions and treatment combine to determine an individual's risk level for this condition. Tooth wear or attrition also causes loss of tooth structure. These conditions must be addressed at a local level, which includes arresting the disease process. Often removal of damaged tissue is required followed by thorough cleansing and disinfection. Finally, restoration of the shape and form of the tooth utilizing the latest technologies and biocompatible materials available. The crowns, bridges and filling materials used in our office: are tooth colored, lifelike, biocompatible and long lasting.  These consist mostly of ceramics and composites.Systemic causes for dental disease must also be addressed through nutrition, self care and other modalities. 

Night Guards & Splints

A variety of bite-splints and nightguards are available to protect teeth and restorations or aid in relief and prevention of TMJ disorders.

Periodontal Therapy

Periodontal disease is a condition caused by the interaction of certain pathogenic bacteria and the body's immune system. Overtime this results in a chronic immune challenge, localized destruction of the supporting bone and gums around teeth, and increased risk for systemic diseases. People who show signs or symptoms of various types of gum disease often require deeper, more thorough cleanings to slow or stop the disease and more frequent visits to maintain health once it has been achieved. These patients also receive extra attention, a risk assessment, and development of a specific dietary, and homecare regimen to help them get back to a state of health. Some applications of ozone gas and or water as well as use of essential oils and oils that contain ozone may be recommended as an adjunct to in office treatments. We now offer a phase contrast microscopic analysis of each individual’s plaque biofilm sample. This can aid in better diagnosis and in measuring health outcomes.

PRF (platelet-rich-fibrin)

This is a product made from the patient’s own blood. It is filled with platelets, fibrin, and white blood cells. The use of this during surgery and recovery up-regulates the body’s own healing mechanism to promote faster healing with better blood flow and growth of new tissue. This is used during every extraction or bone graft except pediatric cases.

Sedation

Moderate IV sedation, Minimal Oral Conscious Sedation (OCS) and/or Nitrous Oxide are available to treat patients with a history of dental fear or anxiety or during restorative and surgical appointments. A single dose anti-anxiety medication can also be prescribed. These are all extremely safe and effective. If General Anesthesia is required a Licensed Dental Anesthetist will come to the office to sedate and monitor the patient during treatment. Music, video, podcasts, and breathing awareness or meditation during treatment can all aid in a positive treatment experience.

Teeth Whitening

Our office utilizes the best whitening products available today. We offer natural whitening products from Lumineux, Opalescence from Ultradent, and KOR whitening systems. The results can be profound and can be part of a bigger treatment plan or on its own to brighten your smile.

Tooth Removal & Replacement

When teeth are damaged beyond repair, significant infection is present, or a root canal treatment has failed, extraction is usually recommended. Along with this procedure thorough cleansing of the socket, the use of Ozone, removal of the periodontal ligament and placement of a bone graft is advised. These procedures in conjunction with the use of PRF (platelet rich fibrin) prevent "cavitations" or areas of non-vital bone and residual infection. Placement of a dental implant is almost always recommended either immediately (same-day) or, after some period of healing has taken place. The teeth function best in a harmonious system, which promotes vitality, good nutrition and the preservation of remaining teeth.

Veneers

These ceramic or composite restorations usually cover the front of teeth. This treatment can improve people’s smile and how teeth look, as well as restore the shape and function of damaged teeth. This can not only enhance esthetics, but often actually strengthen the overall remaining tooth structure and overall bite.

Wisdom Teeth

In many cases, wisdom teeth are a healthy, and normal functioning part, of a person’s chewing system. If this is the case we recommend no treatment other than routine cleanings with extra attention to these areas because they can be difficult to keep clean. If the teeth are decayed, impacted, suffering from chronic infection or gum disease, it may be advised to remove them or surgically treat their condition. If they are extracted, the bony socket is debrided, and follicle or PDL is thoroughly removed, cleaned mechanically and chemically with Ozone water and gas A PRF clot is placed to aid in healing and the site is closed with sutures.

Ceramic Implants

Ceramic implants are a great option for the replacement of teeth. Biocompatible, non-metal, Zirconia (Ceramic) implants can be used in almost all situations for healthy, esthetic, long-lasting restoration of missing teeth. Implant placement and material selection is a discussion and decision you and the doctor will make together after a thorough assessment of your oral and whole body health. 

GBT AirFlow

AirFlow, a state-of-the-art dental hygiene method called Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) offers numerous benefits over traditional scaling. GBT is gentler on your teeth, more efficient in removing stains, can reach deeper pockets to help heal periodontal disease, and is more comfortable for our patients. 

HOLISTIC INFO

Bacterial DNA Testing

We offer bacterial identification testing utilizing DNA assays. This is most often performed on tissues that have been surgically removed from the mouth such as infected teeth, abscesses, bone fragments and infected soft tissue. This can allow for a more targeted approach to antibiotic therapy for those patients dealing with persistent or resistant infections. 

Biocompatibility Testing

This service is offered through Clifford Research and Consulting. A blood sample is taken which is screened for compatibility with thousands of dental products. This allows for better confidence in knowing that the materials placed in your mouth are safe for you.

Environmental Efforts

We are in a constant process of improvement and re-evaluation of our equipment and technology to be as green and environmentally friendly as possible. From our digital impressions and x-rays to our recent move to paperless charting, we are doing our best for your health and the planet. 

Fluoride

No fluoride treatments or products are offered or promoted in our office (exception: Opalescence from Ultradent for whitening).

Ozone

We utilize ozone both to help keep our office and equipment clean and sanitary as well as for various dental applications. Ozonated water is our pre-procedural rinse. It can be utilized during fillings to cleanse a prepared tooth, treat sensitivity, applied either in water or gas as a local antibacterial agent, and injected into tissue to promote healing, decrease infection, and increase our body’s immune response. Ozone provides many benefits with minimal side effects.

Office Environment

We strive to make our office comfortable and accommodating for all patients. We have numerous air filtrations systems in place, water filters, low VOC paints and carpet. An open minded, caring, calm and happy environment provides both our patients and staff a sense of wellness and safety. This is a place for healing and the maintenance of health. 

Safe Mercury Removal

We follow safe mercury removal protocols established by the IAOMT in their SMART protocol. We also utilize environmental safeguards to decrease mercury released into the environment.

Other Services

Colleagues & Referrals

We have a broad network of individuals and clinics offering healing, wellness arts and medicine. We value, honor, respect and refer to all dental specialties. Medical and healing specialists, from allopathic to integrative, are part of our team to help our patients. Please inquire about any other health interests or needs we may be able to assist with.