Restorative & Cosmetic Dentistry
The Complete Dentistry approach begins with correct diagnosis by utilizing the most effective technology available to identify the sources of dental pain, infection and disease. Tooth decay (dental caries), gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis), endodontic (nerve) disease and TMJ/muscle dysfunction must be diagnosed correctly in order to treat appropriately. Pre-restorative treatment is performed to reduce discomfort and eradicate disease, with the goal of stabilization of the dental condition. At this stage, interdisciplinary collaboration with dental specialists is sometimes necessary. This is the foundation that we build upon.
The Restorative and Cosmetic phase of treatment can begin once the sources of dental disease and discomfort have been identified and stabilized. We do not initiate Restorative treatment until the periodontal condition is suitably stable and the patient is free of pain and infection. This is an important concept because like an architect, I need a strong and “healthy” foundation upon which to design and build long lasting, comfortable restorations that are conducive to local tissue stability and overall health.
During the Restorative and Cosmetic phase we incorporate principles of Smile Design and Occlusal Harmony. We conduct an extensive esthetic, phonetic and functional analysis incorporating measurements, photography and 3D models. That data is then used to fabricate a diagnostic wax-up of our design. This wax-up is then used to “test” our design in the patient’s mouth before undergoing any irreversible treatment. After tooth preparation, esthetic provisional restorations are fabricated to further test the esthetic and occlusal harmony as well as the health and stability of the periodontal tissues, prior to delivery of the final restorations. This systematic approach provides us with a highly predictable and satisfying outcome that meets or exceeds the patient’s functional, phonetic and esthetic requirements
Preventive Dentistry
The Complete Dentistry approach to dental care is one that takes into account the overall health condition of the patient. Once dental disease has been diagnosed and treated, Preventive Dentistry focuses on preventing the return of the disease. There is overwhelming scientific evidence that links the health of the tissues in the mouth to the circulatory system of the whole body. The mouth, in essence, is a window to the rest of the body. Traditionally, dentistry has focused on “fixing teeth” without addressing these systemic issues. I employ a more comprehensive, or Complete Approach, addressing the overall health of the patient.
Periodontal disease has been linked to heart attack, stroke and diabetes. For example: “Periodontal therapy may prevent the onset or progression of cardiovascular disease,” and “Infection caused by major periodontal pathogens is associated with future stroke,” are some excerpts from recent scientific studies. Gingivitis and periodontitis not only can lead to tooth mobility and tooth loss, but it can affect the overall health of an individual.
Preventive dentistry also includes the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea. This is a condition causing oxygen deprivation during sleep and is related to higher incidences of stroke, heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, memory loss, obesity and depression. Sleep Dentistry provides comfortable FDA approved appliance therapy alternatives.
Along with Restorative and Cosmetic Dentistry, Preventive Dentistry is integral to the Complete Dentistry Approach. Correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment can improve overall health and appearance, but future good health must include, professional cleanings with oral hygiene instruction, periodontal therapy (when required), frequent cancer screenings, and thorough dental exams. The Complete Dentistry Approach serves to stabilize, restore and preserve the dental health of all patients thereby sustaining the confidence that everyone seeks and deserves.