Regular maintenance is a key to a healthy smile. Every 6 months you should visit Dr. Don for a cleaning and check up. At that time you will have your teeth, gums, and existing dental work checked. By doing so on a regular schedule you can avoid unforeseen dental problems. At the time of the appointment if you suffer from sleep apnea, snoring, or migraines, let us know, we have treatment solutions for these conditions so we can return your quality of life.

Every one of all ages should have their teeth cleaned at least twice a year. We are committed to instruct you on the correct cleaning techniques to maintain your oral health. If we find any cause for concern we may suggest that you change your oral health care routine, products at home, or even consider more advanced periodontal treatment.

Periodontal disease is an infection of the supporting structure of the teeth, gums, and bone. It starts early on and progresses as a person ages. The symptoms are so mild in the beginning phases that many patients do not recognize them until they are at an advanced stage. The symptoms of red, swollen, tender bleeding gums when brushing or flossing may be an indicator of periodontal disease.

When gum disease is present there is an increase of bacteria in the blood stream which can lead to major health problems; heart disease, stroke, and dementia have been linked to gum disease.

1. Scaling and Rootplaning (SRP)
   When there are deep gum pockets and a general cleaning is not sufficient then scaling and rootplaning is indicated. SRP removes the hardened tarter and diseased gum from underneath the gum line attached to the teeth roots.
2. Arestin Antibiotic Therapy
   Arestin is a compliment to SRP for deep gum pockets. Arestin is placed into the pockets and continues fighting the bacteria for weeks after SRP to reduce infection and inflammation.
3. Laser Therapy
   Laser treatment is used in more advanced periodontal disease cases. Soft tissue lasers are used to precisely and conservatively eliminate periodontal pockets and promote gum tissue reattaching onto the teeth thereby reducing pocket depth.
4. Increasing the Frequency of Cleanings
   Increasing frequency of cleanings allows us to monitor and maintain your periodontal health.

When a tooth’s nerve is infected the tooth dies, creating pressure and a severe toothache. If left untreated the infection can spread causing possible serious health issues. A root canal removes the nerve and infection eliminating the sensitivity.

In general cancer rates have been on a decline however, oral cancer has been on the rise. In the past oral cancer was primarily seen in older adults, however now young adults are more frequently being diagnosed with oral cancer.

Screening for oral cancer is part of our routine checkups. We are now able to offer HPV (human papilloma virus) screening with OraRisk. Simply rinse with OraRisk, which is sent to the lab to be tested. If the results are positive we will monitor your oral condition and make you aware of the signs, symptoms, and indicators to be on the look out for at home.