1. Cleanings
Regular professional cleanings are essential for maintaining optimal oral health. The best way to prevent excessive plaque buildup is to schedule a professional cleaning with a Farmington Hills dentist or dental hygienist every six months. Plaque that is left untreated can lead to unhealthy gums and tooth decay. A routine dental cleaning lasts about one hour and will usually include scaling and polishing.
Benefits of Professional Cleanings
- Prevents plaque buildup
- Reduces the risk of gum disease
- Helps detect early signs of oral health issues
What to Expect During a Cleaning
- Initial Examination
- Removal of Plaque and Tartar
- Polishing
- Expert Flossing
- Fluoride Treatment (if necessary)
Tips for Maintaining Oral Health Between Cleanings
- Brush thoroughly twice a day and floss daily
- Eat a balanced diet and limit snacks between meals
- Use dental products that contain fluoride, including toothpaste
- Rinse with a fluoride mouth rinse if your dentist advises you to
- Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and exams
- Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months
Regular cleanings not only preserve your teeth and gums but also help you avoid the cost and discomfort of extensive dental restorations.
2. Gum Disease
Are you suffering from red, swollen, or tender gums? Have you noticed bleeding when brushing or flossing? You may have gum disease, a common condition that affects millions of Americans every year. It is caused by bacteria that infect the gums and cause inflammation, bleeding, swelling, and receding. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss, bone loss, and even systemic health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. That’s why it’s important to seek professional help as soon as you notice any signs of gum disease.
Signs of Gum Disease
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath
- Gums that are pulled away from the tooth
- Loose teeth
- Changes in the position or bite of the teeth
Importance of Early Treatment
With proper gum treatments, it may be possible to return gum tissue to a healthy state. If gum disease is not treated at the first sign of a problem and becomes too severe, it may need to be treated through surgery or extraction.
Treatment Options
At Pesis Family Dental, we offer effective and comfortable gum disease procedures that can stop infection and restore your gum health. Depending on the severity of your condition, we may recommend one or more of the following treatments:
- Scaling and root planing
- Laser gum surgery
- Dental implants
Maintaining healthy gums is crucial for overall health. Don’t wait until it’s too late; schedule an appointment with your dentist today to keep your gums and teeth in optimal condition.
3. Exams
Comprehensive exams allow our professional staff to assess the condition of your gums and their position along your teeth. Early detection of periodontal disease can save your smile. Our knowledgeable staff will work with you to develop an examination schedule that matches your oral health requirements.
4. Fillings
Dental fillings restore teeth damaged by decay back to their normal shape and function, and are a vital aspect of your overall oral health. If you have a tooth that requires a filling, our knowledgeable Farmington Hills dentists will remove the decayed material, clean the affected area, and then fill the cavity with a filling material. This filling will help to prevent further decay by closing off any cracks or spaces where bacteria can enter and cause harm to the tooth.
Types of Fillings
- Tooth-Colored Fillings: These are designed to match the color of your natural teeth, providing a more aesthetically pleasing result.
- Amalgam Fillings: Made from a mixture of metals, these are known for their durability and strength.
- Gold Fillings: These are highly durable and can last for many years, but are more expensive.
- Composite Fillings: Made from a resin material, these fillings are also tooth-colored and are used for smaller cavities.
Benefits of Fillings
- Prevents Further Decay: By filling the cavity, you prevent bacteria from entering and causing more damage.
- Restores Function: Fillings help restore the normal function of your tooth, allowing you to chew and speak properly.
- Aesthetic Improvement: Tooth-colored fillings can improve the appearance of your smile.
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can help you avoid the need for extensive dental restorations. Schedule your next appointment with a Farmington Hills dentist today.
5. Cancer Screenings
Oral cancer kills more people each year than skin and cervical cancer combined. At our Farmington Hills dental practice, we perform oral cancer screenings utilizing visual inspection and manual palpation. Early detection is imperative! When found at the early stages of development, oral cancers have an 80-90% survival rate.
6. Sealants
Dental sealants are a preventive measure used to fill in narrow grooves in a tooth that cannot be adequately cleaned by brushing. Sealants consist of a plastic material placed on the chewing surface of the permanent back teeth, molars, and premolars to protect them from bacteria and acids that contribute to tooth decay.
Benefits of Sealants
- Prevents tooth decay
- Protects against bacteria and acids
- Suitable for children, teenagers, and adults without decay or fillings
Application Process
- Teeth cleaning
- Application of an acidic gel
- Rinsing and drying
- Application of the sealant
- Hardening with a special light
Who Can Benefit?
- Children and teenagers
- Adults without decay or fillings in their molars
Sealants are especially beneficial for individuals with tooth structures that contain several fine grooves or pits, which can accumulate plaque.
7. Teeth Whitening
A bright, white smile can significantly boost your confidence and make a lasting impression. Visiting a dentist in Farmington Hills for professional teeth whitening ensures you achieve optimal results safely and effectively.
Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening
- Effective Results: Professional treatments can whiten your teeth several shades lighter than over-the-counter products.
- Safety: Supervised by dental professionals, reducing the risk of gum irritation and tooth sensitivity.
- Quick Process: Achieve noticeable results in just one visit.
Types of Teeth Whitening
- In-Office Whitening: This method involves applying a high-concentration bleaching gel to your teeth, often activated by a special light. The process usually takes about an hour.
- Take-Home Kits: Custom-fitted trays and professional-grade whitening gel allow you to whiten your teeth at home over a period of days or weeks.
When to Consider Teeth Whitening
- Special Occasions: Weddings, job interviews, or any event where you want to look your best.
- Stains and Discoloration: Effective for removing stains caused by coffee, tea, wine, and smoking.
- Boosting Confidence: A whiter smile can enhance your overall appearance and self-esteem.
For those unexpected moments when you need immediate dental care, an emergency dentist in Farmington Hills can also provide quick teeth whitening solutions.
8. Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are a popular cosmetic dentistry option for those looking to enhance their smile. These thin shells are custom-made to fit over the front surface of your teeth, providing a natural and attractive appearance. They are particularly effective for addressing issues such as discoloration, chipped or broken teeth, and gaps between teeth.
Benefits of Porcelain Veneers
- Natural appearance
- Stain resistance
- Durability
- Minimal tooth reduction
Procedure for Getting Porcelain Veneers
- Consultation and planning
- Tooth preparation
- Impression taking
- Veneer bonding
Maintenance of Porcelain Veneers
- Regular brushing and flossing
- Avoiding hard foods
- Regular dental check-ups
Porcelain veneers can significantly boost your confidence by giving you a brighter, more even smile.
9. Lumineers
Lumineers are a popular choice for those looking to enhance their smile with minimal invasiveness. These ultra-thin veneers require little to no tooth reduction, making them a less invasive option compared to traditional veneers. Lumineers can correct a variety of dental imperfections, including discoloration, gaps, and minor misalignments.
Benefits of Lumineers
- Minimal tooth reduction
- Quick and painless procedure
- Long-lasting results
Procedure Overview
- Initial consultation and smile assessment
- Custom mold creation
- Application of Lumineers
- Final adjustments and polishing
Lumineers offer a quick and effective way to achieve a beautiful smile without the need for extensive dental work.
10. Inlays & Onlays
Inlays and onlays are a fantastic option for restoring teeth that have moderate decay or damage but do not require a full crown. These restorations are custom-made to fit the exact shape and size of the cavity or damaged area. They are often made from porcelain, composite resin, or gold, providing a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution.
Benefits of Inlays & Onlays
- Preserve more of the natural tooth structure compared to traditional fillings.
- Provide a stronger and longer-lasting restoration.
- Offer a more natural appearance, especially when made from porcelain or composite resin.
Procedure for Inlays & Onlays
- The dentist will remove the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth.
- An impression of the tooth is taken to create a custom inlay or onlay.
- A temporary filling may be placed while the custom restoration is being made.
- Once ready, the inlay or onlay is bonded to the tooth with a strong adhesive.
Inlays and onlays are an excellent choice for those looking to maintain their dental health without opting for more invasive procedures like crowns. If you’re considering dental implants in Farmington Hills, MI, consult your dentist to see if inlays or onlays are a suitable option for you.
Conclusion
Visiting a dentist in Farmington Hills offers numerous benefits for maintaining and enhancing your oral health. From preventive services like cleanings, exams, and gum disease treatments to advanced cosmetic procedures such as teeth whitening and porcelain veneers, the dental professionals in Farmington Hills are equipped with the latest techniques and technologies to ensure your smile remains healthy and beautiful. Regular dental visits can help prevent extensive restorative procedures, ultimately contributing to your overall well-being. Whether you need routine check-ups or specialized treatments, the experienced dentists in Farmington Hills are committed to providing top-notch care for you and your family. Schedule an appointment today and take the first step towards a healthier, brighter smile.
