Definition of Terms

Oral Hygiene

Oral hygiene is the practice of keeping the mouth and teeth clean in order to prevent dental problems and bad breath. back

Dental Cleaning

Teeth cleaning is the removal of dental plaque from teeth, in order to prevent cavities (dental caries), gingivitis, and periodontitis. It is part of a complete program of oral hygiene. back

Halitosis Treatment

Halitosis is sophisticated word for “bad breath.” Depending on the cause, bad breath may strike on occasional or may be a more persistent condition. back

Sealants

Plastic resin placed on the biting surfaces of molars to prevent bacteria from attacking the enamel and causing caries. back

Bonding

A composite resin applied to a tooth to change its shape and/or color. Bonding also refers to how a filling, orthodontic appliance or some fixed partial dentures are attached to teeth. back

Fillings

A lay term used for the restoring of lost tooth structure by using materials such as metal, alloy, plastic or porcelain. back

Crowns

Crown refers to the restoration of teeth using materials that are fabricated by indirect methods which are cemented into place. A crown is used to cap or completely cover a tooth. back

Bridges

A fixed or removable dental appliance that replaces lost and/or missing teeth.back

Dentures

An artificial substitute for natural teeth and adjacent tissues. back

Veneers

Ultra-thin, custom-made facings bonded to teeth to enhance and restore function and/or appearance. Veneers can be used to treat chipped, worn, crooked, and/or discolored teeth. back

Lumineers

LUMINEERS® BY CERINATE® are porcelain veneers that offer the painless way to a permanently whiter and perfectly aligned smile. These contact lens-thin “smile shapers” can be applied to teeth without any grinding or shaving, transforming teeth into a naturally beautiful smile that looks perfect for every individual. LUMINEERS can even be placed over existing crown or bridgework without having to replace them. back

Extractions

The process or act of removing a tooth or tooth parts. back

Whitening including Zoom!

The process of lightening discolored or stained teeth. Treatment can be in-office or at-home.back

Implants

Artificial tooth roots that are placed into bone to mimic the root structure of a tooth. They can be used to replace teeth or to support and retain dentures. A crown, bridge, or denture is then placed over the implant to restore natural tooth function. back

TMJ Treatment

The connecting hinge mechanism between the base of the skull (temporal bone) and the lower jaw (mandible).

Sedation Dentistry

Dental sedation is a technique that can be used when a patient suffers from dental anxiety or dental phobia. We are happy to offer a number of solutions for our patients to make their dental visit as comfortable as possible. back

Gum treatments

Gum treatment is the treatment of active gum and jaw bone disease. Gum disease treatment can slow or stop the progression of gum disease. Since there are different stages of gum disease (from gingivitis to advanced periodontitis), there are different levels of treatment. In some cases, the patient may be referred to a specialist. back

Night Guards

A plastic type of appliance that is used to relax the jaw muscles and/or prevent the teeth from
wearing down due to bruxism (grinding), which typically occurs during sleep. People who wake up with sore muscles, facial weakness, or a jaw that is "locked" are good candidates for this device. back

Invisalign

The Invisalign treatment consists of a series of clear, snap-on, custom fit, removable mouth trays that apply a controlled amount of force to your teeth, forcing them to shift. The system provides the same beautiful results as traditional braces, but since the trays are made of clear plastic, they are virtually invisible. In addition, because Invisalign trays are removable, they can be taken out while eating, drinking, brushing and flossing. back

Orthodontics

Orthodontics is the art of using appliances to straighten and align teeth. Most commonly it involves the use of braces to move teeth into their proper position. back

CEREC

CEREC is an acronym for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics. This high-tech equipment allows us to restore damaged teeth with beautiful custom ceramic crowns in a single visit, completely eliminating the need or multiple appointments over a several week period. The process can create a ceramic dental crown, inlays, onlays or veneers using a variety of technologies. back