General Dentistry
Helping our patients maintain a healthy mouth and smile is the main goal of general dentistry. We prefer to provide more minor, preventive care than to see patients suffer with more intensive treatments from a problem that was not managed in time. We want to ensure that your oral health is in its optimal state and positively contributing to the health of your entire body. We are here to brighten your smile and pave the way for a brighter life.
- Cleanings And Exams
- Extractions
- Fillings
- Root Canals
- Sealants
- Teeth Whitening
- TMJ Treatment
- Wisdom Teeth Extractions
- Oral Surgery
- Oral Hygiene
- TAP Appliance for Snoring
Cleanings And Exams
Having a dental practice perform a checkup and regular cleaning gives a preventive approach to dental care. These general dentistry treatments help prevent problems with your teeth, gums and jaw bones, or they catch and manage problems before they worsen. During your visit, our doctors will take a picture of the current standing of your dental health and what would be needed to keep your oral hygiene in its best state.
Why are dental cleanings important?
Dental cleanings are essential for several reasons:
- Plaque and Tartar Removal: They effectively remove plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing can miss, helping to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
- Early Detection of Dental Issues: Regular cleanings allow your dentist to detect early signs of problems such as cavities and gum disease, which can prevent more serious health issues.
- Overall Health Benefits: Maintaining oral health through cleanings can contribute to overall health by potentially reducing the risk of conditions linked to poor oral hygiene, like heart disease and diabetes.
- Brighter Smile and Fresh Breath: Cleanings remove stains and bacteria that cause bad breath, improving both the appearance of your smile and breath freshness.
Regular dental visits, typically recommended every six months, play a crucial role in maintaining both oral and overall health.
What to expect at your cleaning:
When you arrive, you will be greeted warmly by our front desk staff. You can relax in our comfortable waiting room and enjoy a complimentary coffee or tea while you wait or after your appointment.
Your cleaning starts with an overview of what to expect by our hygienist, Stacy. She will then take x-rays if needed, clean your teeth to remove plaque and tartar, floss and polish. Dr. Field will then come in to do your exam, review your x-rays and discuss any concerns you may have and any findings on your x-rays. You will have time to ask any questions you may have.
Extractions
An extraction is performed to remove a tooth, whether because of disease, crowding, or damage. When extractions are required, the area around the tooth will be numbed and your dentist will remove the tooth. A small amount of bleeding is normal, as your mouth will replace the removed tooth root by forming a blood clot in the area.
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Fillings
Composite fillings act as a dentistry solution for problems such as tooth decay or cracks. A composite filling is a tooth-colored plastic and glass mixture used to restore decayed teeth. This procedure is also utilized for cosmetic improvements of the smile by fixing any discoloration or reshaping any disfigured teeth.
What to Expect During Your Filling Appointment
At Field Dental Center, we only recommend fillings after a complete exam amd assessing all options. When we have all the necessary information, we take care to create the best treatment plan for you.
During your procedure, we will ensure you are comfortable and relaxed. The dental filling starts with numbing your teeth, gums and other tissue near the cavity. Dr. Field then removes all the decay before filling the cavity and then proceeds to filling the cavity. Once your procedure is complete, your mouth will remain numb or several hours, but you should be able to continue with your daily routine.
Keep in mind that filling a cavity as quickly as possible is important, not doing so could result in major restorations (root canal and or crown).
Root Canals
Root canals are needed when decay and bacteria spread for too long without treatment. At a certain point, this decay makes it to the pulp inside the tooth. This pulp includes nerves, therefore infection generally causes a lot of pain. Since this is happening on the inside of the tooth, you won’t necessarily see the damage. Instead, you could feel it through pain and notice other signs that include bleeding, swelling and bad breath.
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Sealants
When we apply a dental sealant, we paint a plastic coating on top of your teeth. This makes your teeth smooth getting rid of the rough edges, depressions, and grooves that are commonly found on teeth. It is essentially a protective coating against tooth decay and cavities.
The most common place to paint sealants is on back teeth since they are often irregular. They can also be very hard to reach, even if you brush your teeth regularly. We use it more on children though we do perform sealants on adults too!
Teeth Whitening
A common request we receive is how to make a smile whiter and brighter. This is a relatively simple and quick treatment option that can be performed periodically. Certain foods and beverages, such as wine and coffee, stain the teeth and contribute to discoloration. The teeth whitening process provides a solution that lightens the shade of the teeth. Additionally, the process actually rids the teeth of plaque and tartar that tend to lead to dental problems.
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TMJ Treatment
At Field Dental Center, we are proud to offer temporomandibular joint dysfunction, otherwise known as TMJ, treatments to provide relief for our patients. TMJ is caused by an inflammation in the temporomandibular joint, which acts as a sliding hinge that connects your jawbone to your skull.
What are the symptoms of TMJ?
TMJ causes pain and discomfort along the jawbone and can make it painful to even move your jaw. While jaw pain and discomfort don’t always equate to TMJ, if you are also experiencing headaches, trouble chewing, or pain in the face, jaw, and ear, you’re more than likely experiencing TMJ.
Wisdom Teeth Extractions
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars. Most people start to get their wisdom teeth when they are teenagers, though some teeth don’t come in until you are in your early twenties.
Wisdom teeth have a purpose. They are another set of molars, but more often than not they cause more problems than they are worth. Wisdom teeth can come in misaligned, facing any direction. They can even try to come in horizontally, growing into your other teeth. This can damage your nerves and even your jawbone.
Since wisdom teeth are often harmful, most dentists recommend their removal. The surgery goes much better if you get the teeth removed before any signs of problem. The recovery is easier also. Surgery and recovery are also easier when you are younger.
Oral Surgery
Oral surgery encompasses procedures treating a wide array of diseases, injuries, and defects in the oral cavity. It is an internationally recognized medical specialty.
Our surgeons are knowledgeable and have received extensive training and education. We practice the highest standards of care and we also utilize cutting edge medical technology for our patients.
Some of the many procedures that fall under the category of oral surgery are removal of impacted teeth, insertion of dental implants, and cosmetic surgeries. We are also able to diagnose and treat certain conditions through oral surgery.
To learn more about our oral surgery capabilities, please contact us today. We would be happy to inform you about our procedures and educate you about your oral health.
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Oral Hygiene
At Field Dental Center, we believe that excellent oral hygiene is crucial for maintaining the health of your teeth, gums, and other soft tissues in your mouth, helping to prevent a range of dental issues both now and in the future. Good oral health requires consistent daily care at home along with regular dental check-ups.
Our team at Field Dental Center is committed to being your ally in achieving and maintaining outstanding oral hygiene. Led by Dr. Thompson, our dedicated team provides comprehensive dental care to ensure you have strong, healthy teeth and gums.
When you visit Field Dental Center, you can expect a patient-first approach. We focus on your unique needs, equipping you with the necessary tools to manage your oral health effectively and making sure your visits are as comfortable as possible.
Oral hygiene encompasses all the practices you undertake to maintain a clean mouth and prevent dental issues. Fundamental to this are daily habits like brushing and flossing, which form the cornerstone of your oral care routine. These efforts are enhanced by regular professional cleanings, which support your personal care regimen.
Focusing on oral hygiene is key to preventing dental plaque from causing tooth decay and gum disease. As a result, you’re likely to experience fewer cavities and enjoy better overall health. The condition of your teeth and gums plays a critical role in your overall physical wellness.
Additionally, your general lifestyle choices can influence your oral health. Drinking fluoridated water regularly, maintaining a balanced diet, and avoiding tobacco products are all effective ways to boost your dental health and improve your general well-being.
Recognizing signs and symptoms of oral hygiene issues early can help prevent more severe dental problems down the line. Here are some common indicators that there may be issues with your oral health:
- Bad Breath (Halitosis): Persistent bad breath that does not go away even after brushing could be a sign of gum disease or tooth decay.
- Toothache: Pain in one or more teeth can indicate decay or an abscess.
- Sensitive Teeth: If you experience pain or discomfort when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or very acidic foods and drinks, it could suggest tooth decay or gum recession exposing the sensitive parts of your teeth.
- Bleeding Gums: Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing could be a sign of gum inflammation (gingivitis) or more severe gum disease (periodontitis).
- Swollen, Red or Tender Gums: These are classic signs of gum disease. Healthy gums should be firm and light pink.
- Receding Gums: Gums pulling away from the teeth can expose the roots, leading to sensitivity and increasing the risk of decay.
- Loose Teeth: This can be a symptom of advanced gum disease which results in the weakening of the structures that hold teeth in place.
- Changes in the Way Teeth Fit Together: Noticeable changes in how your teeth fit together when you bite, or changes in the fit of partial dentures can indicate bone loss due to periodontal disease.
- Mouth Sores: Sores like ulcers that do not heal within two weeks, white patches, or red patches can be signs of oral mucosal diseases or oral cancer.
- Constant Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Although dry mouth can be caused by certain medications or medical conditions, it can also increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult with a dental professional as soon as possible to get appropriate care and prevent further complications. Good oral hygiene practices and regular dental check-ups are vital for maintaining oral health and overall well-being.
Improving oral health is crucial for maintaining overall health and can be achieved through a combination of daily practices and professional care. Here are some effective ways to enhance oral health:
- Brush Regularly: Brush your teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste. Ensure you brush for at least two minutes each time, covering all surfaces of your teeth.
- Floss Daily: Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gumline where a toothbrush cannot reach. This should be done at least once a day.
- Maintain a Balanced Diet: Eating a healthy diet that is low in sugary foods and drinks can help reduce tooth decay. Crunchy fruits and vegetables can help clean your teeth naturally, and dairy products can help strengthen teeth with calcium and phosphates.
- Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods: Foods and drinks that are high in sugar and acids can erode tooth enamel and lead to cavities. Try to limit your intake and rinse your mouth with water after consuming such items.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps keep your mouth clean by washing away food particles and bacteria and helps maintain saliva production.
- Avoid Tobacco Products: Smoking or using other tobacco products increases the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer. Quitting tobacco use can significantly reduce these risks.
7.Replace Your Toothbrush: Change your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles are frayed. A worn toothbrush won’t do a good job of cleaning your teeth.
By integrating these practices into your lifestyle, you can improve your oral health, which in turn can contribute to your overall physical health and well-being.