Symptoms & Treatments
Routine, professional care is the best way to ensure that your smile will be healthy for a lifetime. Many dental problems remain hidden. Even with professional care, it is possible for some dental problems to go untreated. Many patients experience symptoms of dental problems. Here are some frequently described symptoms:
My Teeth Feel Chipped, Jagged or Rough
One of the signs of an unstable bite is teeth that are worn or have small chips and rough edges. Dr. Laura will perform a comprehensive evaluation, examining not just the teeth and gums, but the jaw joints (TMJ), muscles and bones. Any instability can be treated and corrected and teeth can be repaired using a variety of methods including dental boding, dental crowns, inlays or onlays and porcelain veneers.
I Experience a Popping or Clicking in My Jaw Joints
When the occlusion (bite) is not in harmony, patients may experience popping or clicking in their jaw (TMJ). A comprehensive evaluation will determine if you do indeed have an unstable bite. Then Dr. Laura will recommend a variety of treatment options to correct the disfunction.
My Teeth are Dark, Stained or Discolored
Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures. Commonly requested by both men and women, teeth bleaching is one of the fastest, safest and most affordable ways to enhance your smile. Dr. Laura offers at home bleaching and in office teeth whitening. Learn More
I am Missing Teeth or Have Teeth That Are Significantly Damaged or Broken
Missing teeth are caused by a number of reasons. It is common for people to lose teeth in accidents, either sports related or due to physical trauma. Another common reason people lose teeth is because of periodontal disease or other dental condition. Some people have hereditary issues or are born with missing teeth and others lose their teeth because of age factors. If you have missing teeth, there are a number of options for replacing them. In some cases, a dental crown may be used to repair broken or damaged teeth. Dental bridges can be used to replace several missing teeth. Dental Implants provide a permanent solution for tooth loss, they can be used to replace one or several missing teeth. Dental implants may be used alone or in combination with dental bridges, dentures or partial dentures.
I Have Old, Uncomfortable Metal Fillings
Amalgam fillings used to be the standard in dentistry. Many patients have these metal dental fillings which may be uncomfortable, unattractive and may be lose or falling out. Old dental fillings can be replace using a variety of materials and techniques. For some patients, composite bonding may be an option. These white fillings are made of bio-compatible dental resin that is sculpted and bonded to the tooth to protect from future decay. Larger cavities may be treated with porcelain dental inlays or onlays which cover the biting surface of the tooth. Teeth that have been weakened by decay or because of old types of fillings may be treated with dental crowns which cover the entire tooth, restoring its strength and beauty.
I Often Suffer from Headaches or Migraines
In some cases, an unstable occlusion (bite) can contribute to frequent headaches or migraines. Dr. Laura will perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine the balance and stability of your bite. A customized treatment plan will be created to correct any instability.
I Am Afraid of Going to the Dentist
Many patients suffer from dental anxiety. This crippling fear causes them to avoid dental care, usually leading to significant problems in their oral health. Dr. Laura understands this fear. She takes the time to listen to each patient and educate them on their treatment options so that they are involved in their own care. Dr. Laura also offers sedation dentistry for patients to relax them during their visit.
If you are experiencing these or other symptoms, please contact our office for a consultation. Dr. Laura will identify the underlying cause of your symptoms and recommend a treatment plan for a smile you can be comfortable in and proud to show off.
