Our Services
Family Dentistry
We use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to make dental visits comfortable and effective for your whole family. Dr. Bluth and our highly-qualified staff are committed to educating our patients, both young and old, about dental disease and preventative tooth care at home. Our staff continuously learns new and advanced dental techniques, so you can look forward to an effective and relaxing visit, and a beautiful smile!
Root Canals
When the pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains blood vessels and nerves), becomes diseased or injured and unable to repair itself, a Root Canal is needed. The most common causes of the pulp dying is a deep cavity, traumatic injury to the tooth, or a cracked tooth. All of these allow bacteria to enter the pulp and cause it to start dying. If the injured or diseased pulp is not removed, the tissues surrounding the root of the tooth can become infected, resulting in pain and swelling.
The tooth often can be saved through root canal treatment, where the pulp or remaining tissue is removed carefully from both the pulp chamber and root canal(s). Each root canal is cleaned and shaped to allow it to be filled with a rubber-like material to seal it. Then a build-up is placed to fill the access hole made for the root canal. The final step is to put a crown on the tooth to strengthen it.
Orthodontics
Orthodontic braces are fixed appliances applied to your teeth to align your bite or straighten crooked teeth. Braces can dramatically improve the appearance of your smile, but they also improve the function of your teeth and jaw. There are many reasons braces may be recommended. Braces are not just for children, many adults are choosing to get braces to improve their smile.
There are several different types of braces:
- Traditional stainless steel braces
- Clear braces
- Invisalign
Dental Crowns/Bridges
A crown is a restoration used when a filling will not work because there is not enough tooth structure left, or you have a cracked tooth. The crown will cover the entire chewing surface and sides of the tooth. It is performed in two dental appointments. The first consists of preparing the tooth for the crown and taking an impression. You will leave the office with a temporary crown in place. There are several types of materials that can be used for the crown. We use all-porcelain(ceramic) or gold alloy. The second appointment is for the cementation of the crown.
A bridge is a dental restoration that replaces or spans the space where one or more teeth have been lost. A fixed bridge is commonly cemented to the natural teeth next to the space left by the missing teeth.
A false tooth (called a pontic) replaces the lost tooth or teeth. A pontic is attached to a crown, which is cemented on a natural tooth, and provides support for the bridge.The loss of a tooth may cause your mouth to “sink” from loss of the bone that supported the tooth. Remaining teeth may also shift. This can result in loss of function and a face that looks older than it should. A bridge helps support your lips and cheeks and helps maintain the natural shape of your face.
Dental Implants
Implants are a popular and effective way to replace missing teeth. There are three general phases of implant treatment:
- Placement of the implant, done by Dr. Matt in our office.
- The healing process. Some patients may need to wait several months until the implant is completely integrated and replacement teeth can be attached to the implant.
- Placement of the prosthesis (artificial tooth or teeth).
Implants (artificial roots) fuse with the jawbone, offering support. Dentures, bridges, or single teeth mounted to the implants will not slip or shift in your mouth—which is very important when eating and speaking. This secure fit also helps man-made teeth feel more natural than typical bridges or dentures. Dental implants also help preserve the bone after teeth are lost or extracted.
Pediatric Dentistry
We strive to make your child’s dental visit an enjoyable outing. That’s why it is important to start dental checkups early. The American Dental Association and the Academy of Pediatric Dentistry note that it is beneficial for the first dental visit to occur within six months of the appearance of the baby’s first tooth and no later than the child’s first birthday.
Our dental hygienists’ can show you how to clean your child’s teeth, discuss fluoride needs, and recommend oral care products. The dentist also checks for problems, such as decay. Our goal is for your child to love coming to the dentist!
Cosmetic Dentistry
Teeth Whitening
Tooth discoloration is a common complaint by many people. Did you know that many common foods and drinks can cause the discoloration? This does not have to be permanent though, you can do something about it. We offer a couple of options for whitening your teeth. Why not ask next time you are in what they are!
Extractions
Sometimes teeth need to be removed due to decay, disease, or trauma. When you have an extraction, it’s natural that changes will occur in your mouth afterward. Teeth will shift causing bite problems, so it is best if the tooth can be replaced. There are options to replacing missing teeth such as: implants, bridges, or partial dentures. These can be discussed with you at the time of your appointment.