General Dentistry
Dental Exam
The dentist will examine your teeth diagnosing tooth decay, fractures, damaged fillings, or loose teeth. The health of your gums and supporting bone will also be assessed. The bite is observed for any malocclusions. The supporting tissues of the mouth will be evaluated as well as the tongue.
Professional Teeth Cleaning
Regular dental cleanings help control and prevent gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis. Your dental hygienist will provide a thorough cleaning and polishing to remove tartar, bacterial plaque, and stain. The hygienist will also make recommendations about how to properly clean and maintain your oral health between visits.
Oral Cancer Screening
According to the American Dental Association, “Close to 35,000 Americans will be diagnosed with cancer of the oral cavity this year.” Regular check-ups, including an examination of the entire mouth, are essential in the early detection of oral cancer. Our professionals are trained in oral cancer screening methods and educating patients about the disease and measures that can be taken to prevent it.
Digital X-Rays
X-rays allow the dentist to see conditions below the surface of the teeth and gums. Cavities, bone loss and erupting teeth are just a few of the reasons x-rays are used. Digital x-rays reduce your exposure to radiation and provide clearer, larger, faster images than with standard films.
Panoramic X-Rays
The panoramic x-ray is used assess the teeth and bone of the upper and lower jaw. This allows one to see the position of teeth in the jaw and determine if they are erupting or impacted. This x-ray is also used to identify pathology such as cysts, tumors or abscesses located within the bone. The Temporal Mandibular Joint (TMJ) and its associated disorders can also be visualized with this x-ray.
Periodontics
Periodontal Screening and Maintenance Periodontal (or gum) disease is a chronic bacterial infection of the supporting structures of the teeth which left untreated, can lead to tooth loss. The treatment of periodontal disease depends on the location, type, and severity of the disease. Our professionals are trained in the diagnosis, treatment, management and prevention of this disease.
Scaling and Root Planing
A non-surgical procedure used for the treatment and management of gum diseases such as periodontitis and severe gingivitis. Our professionals will carefully clean below the gums, removing plaque, tartar, and bacterial toxins from the root surfaces of the teeth.
Restorative Dentistry
Root Canal Therapy
When decay becomes so extensive as to reach the nerve chamber of a tooth, root canal treatment may be an option to save the tooth. Teeth that have had root canal therapy can last as long as other natural teeth.
Amalgam and Composite Fillings
Dr. Otto can restore teeth with either silver or white fillings. Dr. Otto will help you determine which is best for you in terms of cosmetics, durability, and longevity.
Extractions
When possible, we always prefer to save your natural teeth. However, there are circumstances when a tooth is non-restorable. Extractions are a last resort for teeth that are damaged beyond repair. We perform simple or surgical extractions due to severe tooth decay, gum disease, or fractured teeth.
Crowns and Bridges
Crowns are used to strengthen a tooth that has been compromised by a large restoration or a tooth that has been endodontically treated. Bridges are a permanently cemented partial that fills a space where teeth have been extracted. We offer tooth colored or gold crowns.
Partial Dentures and Full Dentures
When possible, we always prefer to save your natural teeth. However, when teeth have been lost, along with bridges, we offer partial dentures or full dentures as a replacement option. We will discuss with you your treatment options in terms of function, aesthetics and affordability.
Implant Restoration
Dental implants are another treatment option to replace teeth. With the stable support of implants, full and partial dentures can be anchored to bone, thus eliminating loose dentures. Implants can also be used for fixed bridges and individual crowns. Dr. Otto is specially trained in implant restoration and can design a treatment plan suited to your specific needs.
Cosmetic Dentistry
Veneers and Cosmetic Bonding
Custom veneers are an option for excessively chipped, worn, cracked, discolored or teeth with large gaps. Frequently, a less invasive option of cosmetic bonding is a viable treatment option.
Teeth Whitening
We offer custom fit trays that the patient uses at home. These trays, that are fitted specifically to your teeth, allow the use of a higher strength bleach than could be bought over-the-counter.