- Dental ExaminationDr. Williams may recommend that you pursue an ortho screening based on findings from your dental exam. If this is the case, he will likely refer you to an orthodontist.
- X-raysThe cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) 3D scanner is essentially a CAT scan for your mouth. It uses a mild amount of radiation, similar to the radiation used in traditional dental X-rays, to capture a 3D scan of your jaw, roots, and teeth.
- Oral Cancer ScreeningA full-mouth series of x-rays and a comprehensive oral exam of your teeth, gums, mouth, and jaw will be performed, including a non-invasive oral cancer screening.
- Teeth CleaningEveryday dental hygiene is an essential component of preventative dentistry. Flossing and brushing twice daily is crucial to guarding against tooth decay and gum disease. Without these habits, plaque and tartar quickly begin to build. Brushing and flossing does not catch everything, which is why dentists suggest checkups (that include full dental cleaning ) every six months. Since oral health varies significantly from one person to the next, the biannual suggestion should be considered a general guide only.
- Fluoride TreatmentOur dentists also deal with issues unique to children’s teeth. Baby bottle tooth decay is fairly common and should be addressed early. Thumb-sucking and pacifiers can affect a child’s bite. Your child’s dentist can monitor growing teeth and ensure that permanent teeth are growing in well. Brushing and flossing instructions, fluoride treatments and baby tooth removal are other tasks that may be carried out. If necessary, the dentist can also recommend an orthodontist who can correct crooked or gapped teeth soon after the permanent teeth appear.
- Dental SealantsA dental sealant is a thin plastic film painted on the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars (the teeth directly in front of the molars). Sealants have been shown to be highly effective in the prevention of cavities. They were developed through dental research in the 1950s and first became available commercially in the early 1970s.
- FillingsThere are many types of filling materials available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. You and the doctor can discuss the best options for restoring your teeth. Composite fillings, along with silver amalgam fillings, are the most widely used today. Because composite fillings are tooth colored, they can be closely matched to the color of existing teeth, and are more aesthetically suited for use in front teeth or the more visible areas of the teeth.
- Resin CompositeComposite resin fillings resemble a specialized epoxy and contain particles of silica or ceramics in a polymer matrix. They can be blended to match the color of the surrounding tooth material, making restoration less noticeable than it is with metal fillings. They also spare more of the original tooth during the filling process. However, resin fillings do not have the longevity of metals and may need to be replaced in under 10 years.
- VeneersReasons For Veneers Imagine having the beautiful smile you’ve always dreamed of! It may be easier than you think to make this dream a reality with the use of dental veneers. As one of today’s most popular dental procedures... dental veneers made of porcelain or dental resin are basically a long term solution to restoring many years of natural wear on …
- CrownsDr. Scott Williams and the Ascent Family Dental team stand by our commitment to take the most conservative yet effective approach to dental restoration solutions. This is precisely why we may recommend a dental onlay as an alternative to a complete dental crown procedure.
- BridgesAnyone who has missing or damaged teeth may be a candidate for dental bridges. Without something to occupy gaps, remaining teeth can shift position and alter your bite. These changes can lead to jaw pain, headaches, and an increased risk of periodontal disease. Bridgework is more than a cosmetic procedure; it is essential to dental health. Bridges serve a number of purposes...
- Dental Bonding
- Restorative DentistryWe offer numerous methods to address missing teeth. Dr. Williams' strong background in restorative dentistry allows him to develop the ideal solution for each patient's unique scenario.
- Root Canal TreatmentA root canal also called endodontics therapy treats teeth that have become severely damaged, allowing the nerves and soft inner pulp of the tooth to become infected. At Ascent Family Dental our general dentists may also recommend a root canal if a tooth has become so damaged or decayed that future infection appears inevitable. Most root canal procedures can take …
- Deep CleaningPeriodontitis: This stage of gum disease occurs when tartar along the gumline breaks the attachment of the gums to the teeth, causing bone loss and periodontal pockets. These openings between the gums and teeth trap food particles and bacteria that damage the structures holding the teeth in place. A therapeutic (deep) cleaning by your hygienist or dentist, which involves removing bacteria from the periodontal and root surfaces so that the gums can reattach to them, can help prevent more damage. Antibiotic therapy and antimicrobial rinses are also used in some cases to help control the infection. The use of topical numbing gel, swishing and rinsing with a numbing solution or use of an anesthetic to numb the area will keep you from any discomfort during the Scaling and Root Planning process.
- DenturesDentures are a type of prosthesis used to accommodate missing teeth. These devices are typically removable, but some are bonded or implanted. When all teeth are absent, complete dentures are used. When only some teeth are missing, partial dentures are used. Dentures may be for the maxillary arch, mandibular arch, or both.
- Dental ImplantsA dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is usually constructed from titanium, a biocompatible material that has been used for decades in hip and knee replacement surgeries. The implant is inserted into the jawbone, and the bone fuses with its rough surface in a process called osseointegration. Once the artificial tooth root is anchored into the jawbone, a tooth restoration is attached to the abutment, which is the part of the implant that extends from the top of the gums. Implants can be used to replace one or more teeth...
- Oral SurgeryA tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the bone. In many cases, teeth that are broken or damaged by decay can be fixed with a filling, crown, or other dental treatment. Sometimes, though, the damage is too severe to repair, so your dentist will recommend an extraction. Types Of Oral Surgery Simple Extraction During a simple …
- Flap SurgeryFlap Surgery: Also called pocket reduction surgery, flap surgery involves pulling the gums away from the teeth and removing tartar and bacteria near the damaged bone. The bone tissues may be smoothed to create a an environment for healing, and the gums are repositioned over the teeth and sutured in such a way that a pocket no longer exists.
- Tooth ExtractionsDuring a simple extraction, the dentist or surgeon will apply a local anesthetic. This will numb the area but will not render the patient unconscious. The tooth will then be lifted using an elevator and removed from the mouth with forceps. The attending dentist will do this process slowly so as not to break the tooth during extraction. This kind of extraction is performed for those whose teeth have already erupted.
- Bone GraftingIn general, most people who are healthy enough to undergo a dental procedure such as a filling placement< or root canal therapy are good candidates for dental implants. You must have healthy teeth and gums, so any cavities or signs of periodontal disease must be addressed first. Tell your dentist if you have any chronic health conditions or are taking medications. These factors will not necessarily prevent you from receiving implants, but your dentist may need to take certain precautions during the procedure to ensure its success. You also need to have a sufficient amount of dense bone tissue to support an implant. However, if you have suffered bone loss, which is common after tooth loss, a bone grafting procedure can help rebuild the tissues.
- OrthodonticsWhile many people will have no trouble with their wisdom teeth, these teeth are often removed to prevent more serious issues like an abscess. These teeth generally begin to surface in the late teens to early 20s, and many times, they become impacted as they develop, growing sideways into the other teeth or angled forward. Wisdom teeth may erupt from the gum line or may still be set in the jaw. Teeth that are only partially erupted may present other issues as these teeth are difficult to clean and care for. Most extractions are done as a preventative measure to safeguard against changes in the alignment of the teeth during orthodontics or more serious complications.
- Invisalign OrthodonticsMany people confuse Clear Correct treatment with Invisalign, as they both involve a series of clear aligners to shift teeth. Although the process for both is similar, Clear Correct does have some benefits over Invisalign.
- BracesMany people go to the dentist intending to create or regain a confident smile. Straightening one’s teeth may be a part of this treatment plan. There are other options for discrete teeth straightening for those who do not want to pursue traditional braces. Clear Correct is an excellent option for teens and adults alike. What Is Clear Correct? Clear Correct …
- Teeth WhiteningIt should come as no surprise to most people that appearance-conscious teens would be quick to jump on this trend. Younger and younger teens are starting to see cosmetic dental procedures, such as teeth whitening as a quick and easy way to brighten their grin.
- Cosmetic DentistryCosmetic dentistry has redefined the way people look at their teeth. Now, more than ever before, the appearance of teeth can be altered and improved by a cosmetic dentist to give you the ideal smile you have always dreamed of.
- General DentistryHe is a member of the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the Spear Study Club. His continuing education ensures our office is incorporating the best in modern, proven techniques and equipment.