- Dental ExaminationX-rays are the only way to identify problems that aren't externally visible. X-rays are very essential in doing a complete and thorough dental examination. They are especially important in diagnosing serious conditions early to allow for effective treatment before you experience discomfort. X-rays show bone anatomy and density, decay between the teeth or how extensive the decay is, whether an abscess is present, impacted teeth, or if children have permanent teeth.
- X-raysDental X-rays can now be taken using sensors that transmit the image directly into a computer monitor. This larger image helps the patient understand the doctor's explanations more easily and enables the doctor to "zoom in" on a specific area of the tooth. An important advantage to this new technology is that it reduces the amount of radiation by 90%. Digital X-rays are also faster. The digital image only takes 20 seconds to appear in the monitor. In addition, this new technology is friendly to the environment since no chemicals are needed for developing the image.
- Teeth CleaningThe cavitron is an ultrasonic scaler. Power scalers do a more thorough job in less time. This results in significantly decreased scaling time and healthier, cleaner teeth and gums. Hand scalers require repetitive scraping movements and are restricted to adaptation of only one or two sides of the instrument. In comparison, all four sides of a power scaler can be adapted, because the device moves in an elliptical motion. This comes in handy when removing stain and deposits from behind and between the teeth. Ultrasonic scalers are more effective in removing stain as well. The ultrasonic vibration helps control oral bacteria by breaking down the cell wall of the bacteria. The water used to cool the cavitron then helps to rinse away bacteria, stain and debris.
- Dental SealantsSealants are a white or tooth shaded material that is bonded to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, sealing off deep grooves and pits. This makes the grooves of the teeth smoother so your toothbrush can more easily keep the tooth clean.
- FillingsWhite fillings replace silver or gold fillings with a more natural looking tooth-colored material. Since teeth are translucent, dark fillings cause the whole tooth to appear darker when viewed from the side. Replacing older dark fillings with white fillings will keep your smile glowing!
- Resin CompositeWhite fillings: White fillings are used on most of our restorations in our office. They are an attractive, durable alternative to silver (amalgam) fillings. White fillings are made of a strong composite resin that is matched to the surrounding tooth color. In the past, white fillings were placed only on front teeth, but recently a stronger more durable material has been developed that can withstand the chewing pressure of back teeth.
- VeneersVeneers at Center Point Family Dentistry in Iowa with dentists Drs. Terra Hickey and Ryan Hill in Linn County near Cedar Rapids IA
- CrownsIn many cases of dental decay, tooth fracture, or even in instances where an individual has "short" teeth, a crown lengthening procedure will allow us to properly construct an esthetic and functional crown, bridge, or restoration.
- BridgesA Partial Denture or "removable bridge" replaces one or more missing teeth, but there must be teeth remaining for the partial to attach to. Unlike a Fixed Bridge, a partial is removable. A partial will prevent other teeth from shifting, preserving your remaining teeth.
- Dental Bonding
- Root Canal TreatmentWhen the nerve of a tooth becomes infected or abscessed, Root Canal Therapy is the only way to save the tooth. A tooth can become abscessed as a result of deep decay, a cracked tooth, or trauma to the tooth. The only alternative to Root Canal Therapy is an Extraction.
- ApicoectomyAn Apicoectomy, or Root-End Resection, is the removal of the root tip and the surrounding infected tissue of an abscessed tooth. This procedure may be necessary when inflammation and infection persists in the area around the root tip after root canal therapy or root canal retreatment.
- Deep CleaningScaling and Root Planing is a common non-surgical treatment for periodontal disease. By using special instruments, we remove bacteria and infection from the unhealthy deep pockets around the teeth below the gum line. This is often referred to as a "deep cleaning".
- DenturesAs gums change over time, a sore spot will occasionally develop due to changes in how the denture or partial rests on the gums. If a sore spot develops, contact us for an adjustment or relining of your denture or partial.
- OverdenturesAn Overdenture usually requires that at least 2 roots be kept. These roots may be used to hold the denture in place by placing inserts in the roots and in the denture. The denture then attaches to the roots. These roots also give support to the denture and help retain the ridge the denture sits on.
- Dental ImplantsDental Implants at Center Point Family Dentistry in Iowa with dentists Drs. Terra Hickey and Ryan Hill in Linn County near Cedar Rapids IA
- Gum Surgery
- Tooth Extractions
- OrthodonticsChildren often grind their teeth when their teeth are erupting. This is not uncommon, nor is it a problem if it is mild. However, in more severe cases the child can develop a malocclusion. Malocclusion may then lead to TMJ problems or to a need for Orthodontics. If you have any concerns about your child's Bruxism, be sure to have Dr. Hickey or Dr. Hill check for signs of excessive wear so that treatment options can be discussed and implemented to prevent serious problems.
- Teeth WhiteningTeeth Whitening in Center Point Family Dentistry in Iowa with dentists Drs. Terra Hickey and Ryan Hill in Linn County near Cedar Rapids IA
- Cosmetic DentistryCosmetic Dentistry at Center Point Family Dentistry in Iowa with dentists Drs. Terra Hickey and Ryan Hill in Linn County near Cedar Rapids IA