Boise Dentist Hillside Dentistry

A prophylaxis cleaning involves cleaning the crowns of the teeth, mainly above the gum line. A prophy consists of removal of deposits and usually includes polishing necessary for plaque and stain removal. This treatment is performed for clients with healthy gums or gingivitis.

The removal of heavy plaque and calculus that interferes with the ability of the dentist to perform a comprehensive oral evaluation. This is a beginning treatment, additional therapy will be needed.

Root Planing is a procedure to remove calculus (tartar), bacteria and other irritants from the roots of the teeth. The goal of this treatment is to promote healthy gum tissue. Root planning involves the removal of these irritants and smoothing the surface of the roots. This treatment usually requires numbing with local anesthetic and several appointments. Note: A prophy (regular cleaning) does not involve treatment of the roots; it is cleaning the crown surface only. If periodontal disease is left untreated, you may continue to lose the supporting bone around the teeth leading to tooth lose.

Periodontal maintenance therapy is an extension of active periodontal therapy. This treatment involves the removal of calculus buildup, bacteria and other irritants from above and below the gum line, possible use of antibacterial rinses, monitoring the results of active periodontal therapy and reviewing home care habits. The frequency of periodontal appointments is determined by the health of the gum tissue. Referral to a periodontist, a gum specialist, may be needed if gum tissues do not respond to periodontal procedures.

Composite fillings are tooth-colored fillings. Composite fillings provide good durability and resistance to fracture in small-to-mid size restorations that need to withstand moderate chewing pressure. Less tooth structure is removed when the tooth is prepared, and this may result in a smaller filling than that of an amalgam (silver filling). Composites can also be “bonded” or adhered in a cavity, often allowing the Doctor to make a more conservative repair to the tooth.

All-porcelain (ceramic) dental materials include porcelain, ceramic or glass-like fillings and crowns. All-porcelain (ceramic) restorations are particularly desirable because their color and translucency mimic natural tooth enamel. All-porcelain restorations require a minimum of two visits.

Another type of restoration is porcelain-fused-to-metal, which provides strength to a crown or bridge. These restorations are very strong and durable.The combination of porcelain bonded to a supporting structure of metal creates a stronger restoration than porcelain used alone. There may be some initial discomfort to hot and cold.

Dental sealants act as a barrier, protecting the teeth against decay-causing bacteria. The sealants are usually applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (premolars and molars) where decay occurs most often.

If you’ve lost all of your natural teeth, whether from periodontal disease, tooth decay or injury, complete dentures can replace your missing teeth and your smile. Replacing missing teeth will benefit your appearance and your health. Without support from the denture, facial muscles sag, making a person look older. You’ll be able to eat and speak-things that people often take for granted until their natural teeth are lost.

There are various types of complete dentures. A conventional full denture is made and placed in the patient’s mouth after the remaining teeth are removed and tissues have healed which may take several months. An immediate complete denture is inserted as soon as the remaining teeth are removed. The Doctor will take measurements and make models of your jaws during a preliminary visit. With immediate dentures you do not have to be without teeth during the healing period.

Even if you wear full dentures, you still must take good care of your mouth. Brush your gums, tongue and palate every morning with a soft-bristled brush before you insert your dentures to stimulate circulation in your tissues and help remove plaque.

A night guard is a plastic device that covers all of the upper or lower teeth. A night guard is used to prevent wear on the teeth caused by tooth grinding during sleep, a medical condition known as Bruxism. Nightguards also help prevent TMJ and clenching disorders.

Fabricated Nightguards generally take two visits to the dentist. On the first visit an impression of your upper and lower teeth is made. These impressions are then sent to a dental laboratory to fabricate, in some cases we will be able to fabricate in our office. On the second visit the night guard is adjusted for optimal fit. These appliances are specific to your mouth only and will not fit others.

A mouthguard is an appliance made to protect teeth and surrounding tissue from oral trauma during athletic or physical activities. Custom fit mouthguards are generally very comfortable. For children, they must be changed as new teeth grow. Mouthguards can prevent serious injuries such as jaw fractures, neck injuries, concussions, and teeth fractures.