- Dental ExaminationAn oral examination is a visual inspection of the mouth, head, and neck, performed to detect abnormalities. Radiographs allow for a more complete examination, helping the doctor to detect cavities, problems in existing dental restorations, gum and bone recession or other abnormal conditions within the mouth, head and neck area.
- X-rays
- Oral Cancer ScreeningWe are proud of our hygiene team that will provide you with the proper oral hygiene instructions needed to maintain healthy teeth and gums. We recommend patients visit their hygienist a minimum of every six months. At your six month visit, you can expect a complete dental examination including oral cancer screening in addition to a cleaning.
- Teeth CleaningA dental cleaning, also known as an oral prophylaxis, is the removal of dental plaque and tartar (calculus) from the teeth. Specialized instruments are used to gently remove these deposits without harming the teeth. First, an ultrasonic device that emits vibrations and is cooled by water is used to loosen larger pieces of tartar. Next, hand tools are used to manually remove smaller deposits and smooth the tooth surfaces. Once all the tooth surfaces have been cleaned of tartar and plaque, the teeth are polished.
- Fillings
- VeneersPorcelain veneers are thin pieces of porcelain used to recreate the natural look of teeth. To place a veneer, a very small amount of the original tooth enamel must be removed. Afterwards, an adhesive layer is placed between the slightly prepped tooth and the veneer. The veneer is then hardened with a curing light.
- CrownsA crown is a dental restoration that completely covers the outside of a severely decayed tooth. Dental crowns can be completed in two visits. During the first visit, the tooth is prepped (shaved down) and an impression is taken. A temporary crown is placed while the permanent crown is being made. During the second visit, the permanent crown is carefully fitted and then cemented into place for a permanent restoration.
- BridgesAn implant supported bridge is a restorative solution for spaces where three or more adjacent teeth are missing. The bridge replaces multiple adjacent missing teeth without the use of a denture. This restoration typically requires two implants to support the porcelain bridge. The bridge provides a functional and aesthetic replacement for the patient’s natural teeth.
- Root Canal TreatmentSome discomfort is normal for 2 to 4 days following root canal therapy. In some cases the tooth and surrounding tissue may be sore for a few weeks following treatment.
- Deep CleaningFor the first 24 hours you may experience some cold and heat sensitivity. Do not consume hot foods or beverages until the anesthesia and numbness have worn off. Avoid vigorous physical exercise as well as extremely hot or spicy foods for the first 24 hours. Do not consume alcoholic beverages or smoke for at least 48 hours following treatment. Some bleeding following a deep cleaning is normal, but if you experience excessive bleeding, please call our office.
- DenturesOnce a tooth is lost, several things begin to happen that are not immediately noticeable to a patient and which can have a significant negative effect on both health and appearance. Tooth roots help hold teeth in place but they are also critical in maintaining health in the surrounding gums and supporting bone structures. Bone loss in the jawbone is one of the significant problems that naturally occurs once a tooth is lost. This bone loss can compromise the integrity of neighboring tooth roots and tooth stability. This bone loss is also a large part of what causes the “sunken” look that is seen in people who have lost several or all of their teeth. It is the reason patients who wear dentures find that over time their dentures are harder and harder to fit and keep in place.
- Dental ImplantsWe specialize in implant placement. According to the American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS), dental implants have a success rate of 95% when placed by a dental specialist.
- Oral SurgerySome pain, bleeding, swelling, and seeping are normal following oral surgery. Please do not try to view the site by pulling on your lip and do not probe the area with your tongue or fingers. If you experience excessive bleeding or discomfort after 48-72 hours, please call our office immediately.
- Gum SurgeryWe greatly appreciate the opportunity to provide you and your family with the best dental care possible. We are trained in all areas of dentistry necessary to meet the wide array of dental needs for children, adults and the elderly. Most phases of dental care are provided on site, including endodontics (root canals) & periodontics (gum surgery and implants). We understand every person’s dental needs are unique and we look forward to caring for you and your family.
- Tooth ExtractionsA tooth that can not be saved with restorative materials may need to be removed. Before removing your tooth, the area will be numbed with anesthesia. The tooth is then loosened using a special dental instrument known as an elevator. After it is loosened from the socket, it is gently removed by forceps, a dental instrument commonly used in dental extractions. Stitches may be necessary after the removal of a tooth.
- Bone Grafting
- Invisalign OrthodonticsIf you have pets, don’t place your aligners anywhere that your pets can reach them. Pets are attracted to saliva and would enjoy chewing on your Invisalign trays!
- BracesYour dentist can make a custom mouth guard by taking an impression of your teeth and then creating a device fitted to your mouth for the highest level of both comfort and protection. A custom fitted mouthguard can be particularly important for athletes who wear braces.
- Teeth WhiteningWhitening, also known as bleaching, is the procedure used to brighten teeth. There are two different ways to achieve a desired whiter smile: In-Office Bleaching and At-Home Bleaching.
- Cosmetic Dentistry
- General DentistryValuing membership in organized dentistry, Dr. Moriarty is a proud member of the American Dental Association and is an officer of the Massachusetts Dental Society. She is involved in the leadership of New England’s largest dental meeting, Yankee Dental Congress. She served as General Chair for the 36th annual YDC in January 2011. She continues to give back to her alma mater serving on the Executive Board of the Tufts Dental Alumni Association and is a past Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of General Dentistry. Dr. Moriarty has been elected fellowship in the American Academy of Dental Science, the American College of Dentists, the International College of Dentists, and the Pierre Fauchard Academy.