​

​

​

 

CLEANING AND ORAL EXAMS

Your initial oral examination includes a visual examination, charting, periodontal probing, diagnosis and treatment recommendations. We will also take x-rays, which includes the panoramic x-ray for proper diagnosis of the anterior (front) and posterior (back) teeth as well as the bite-wing x-ray series for proper diagnosis of proximal decay of posterior teeth.

 

Prophylaxis

The best way to prevent excessive plaque buildup is to schedule a professional teeth cleaning appointment with one of our hygienists every six months. Plaque that is left untreated can lead to unhealthy gums and tooth decay. While brushing and flossing your teeth keeps plaque and bacteria at bay, you can’t neglect to schedule dental checkups. Some dental plaque can only be removed during a professional dental cleaning so it doesn’t harden into tartar. Your dentist can also help you prevent gum disease, such as gingivitis and the more serious periodontitis. Scheduling dental cleanings is just one more way to safeguard your smile. The gentle professional teeth cleanings performed in our office will help you preserve your teeth and gums. 

​

Periodontal Maintenance

Gum disease is an infection caused by bacteria accumulation below the gum line. This serious but silent disease often goes undetected until it reaches advanced stages. Periodontal or gum disease can lead to tooth loss, and it has also been linked to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and complications during pregnancy. Estimates show that up to 75% of the population has some form of gum disease. Even patients who have good oral hygiene can get gum disease, so what can be done to combat this chronic infection? Dr. Leer takes gum disease seriously, and she offers a comprehensive method to treat and prevent periodontal problems.

 

Scaling and Root Planing

Some cases of acute periodontal (gum) disease that do not respond to more conventional treatment and self-care such as flossing may require a special kind of cleaning called scaling and root planing. The procedure begins with administration of a local anesthetic to reduce any discomfort. Then, a small instrument called a "scaler," or an ultrasonic cleaner, is used to clean beneath your gum line to remove plaque and tartar. The root surfaces on the tooth are then planed and smoothed. If effective, scaling and root planing helps the gums reattach themselves to the tooth structure.  Additional measures may be needed if the periodontal pockets persist after scaling and root planning.

 

Perio Protect

PerioProtect combines a non-invasive chemical therapy with mechanical removal of bacteria for a two-pronged approach to battle infection and prevent future issues. A thorough cleaning at our office will remove plaque, tartar, and biofilm. PerioProtect adds another level of protection by preventing the new growth of biofilm and changing the chemical environment in the periodontal pockets. This chemical treatment also helps heal existing oral wounds caused by the biofilm. Dr. Leer will custom design a dental tray to place the prescribed PerioProtect solution into the periodontal pockets. The trays are used between dental visits to help manage bacteria reproduction and to heal existing wounds. This is a comfortable, non-invasive treatment that can, in just minutes a day, heal and prevent periodontal disease.

​

 

 

DENTAL EMERGENCIES

A knocked out tooth or bitten tongue can cause panic in any parent, but quick thinking and staying calm are the best ways to approach such common dental emergencies and prevent additional unnecessary damage and costly dental restoration. This includes taking measures such as application of cold compresses to reduce swelling, and of course, contacting our office as soon as possible. 

​

​

NIGHT GUARDS

Many people are afflicted with bruxism, or teeth grinding. Some people may do this consciously during the day, but it is a larger problem at night while you are asleep. Grinding your teeth can damage enamel, wear down teeth, cause jaw pain, or irritate your gums. The noise from teeth grinding can also disturb your spouse's sleep if loud enough.

​

If you grind your teeth you should consider a night guard. The night guard, which is very similar to a mouth guard worn by athletes, provides a barrier between your top and bottom teeth while you sleep. All night guards are custom fitted for comfort and to allow for proper breathing. Your dentist will take an impression of your teeth and have the night guard created by a dental lab. Night guards are very durable and can be used for up to 10 years.

​

There are also some things that you can do to try to stop teeth grinding. You can train your jaw to be free and easy rather than clenched. Refrain from chewing gum or on other objects like pens. You should also avoid alcoholic drinks and drinks with caffeine, as these can increase the likelihood you will grind your teeth. If you suspect you might be grinding your teeth at night set up an appointment with us today.

​

 

 

TMJ

TMJ is the initialism for temporomandibular joint, which connects your lower jaw (the mandible) to your skull at the temporal bone. This joint controls many jaw functions, like chewing. If the chewing muscles or the joint itself are causing you pain you may have temporamandibular disorder, or TMD. TMD can be caused by stress, continual clenching of the jaw muscles, or teeth grinding.

​

 

VIP AMENITIES

Our office offers amenities and interesting extras to make each visit with us an enjoyable experience. Our goal is to provide high quality dental care while putting you in the most comfortable setting possible. Our facility is one whose dental program is run under the strict supervision of a licensed dentist.

 

Today's patient can enjoy the following VIP luxuries:

• Head Rest Pillows

• Blankets

• Soothing Music

• Laughing Gas (Nitrous Oxide)

​

​

​

​