Family Dentistry

It is recommended by the ADA that everyone should visit the dentist at least twice per year to ensure optimal oral health. Your dental team will consistently provide you with high-quality professional dental cleanings and thorough preventive exams.

The purpose of a teeth cleaning is to rid the teeth of harmful build-up of plaque and stains that may prevent a healthy smile. During cleanings your dentist will:

• Remove tartar build-up on your teeth
• Remove plaque
• Perform teeth polishing to help remove light surface stains and prevent plaque from easily reattaching to your teeth

Your dentist can help clean surfaces of your teeth that you may have missed during brushing and flossing. During your appointment, he or she will also:

• Evaluate your overall health and oral hygiene
• Check your bite and jaw for any problems
• Evaluate your risk of tooth decay and gum or bone disease
• Evaluate existing tooth restorations
• Screen for oral cancer
• Take dental x-rays if necessary

Regular professional dental cleanings and exams are essential for attaining a healthy mouth.

Oral cancer can go undetected for many years after it has developed. When identified at an early stage, oral cancer can be treated quickly with a high success rate. However, if left alone to advance, oral cancers are more likely to spread to other areas and will require more complex treatments.

According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, one person dies every hour from oral cancer in the United States. Don’t let oral cancer sneak up on you. We recommend regular oral cancer screenings during which our doctors will carefully examine all areas of your mouth and throat. Our dentists are skilled at detecting early signs of oral cancer.

Your molars are where you do most of your chewing. They come naturally with ridges and valleys that are susceptible to hiding sugars or bacteria leading to decay. Dental sealants combat this issue by filling in those ridges and valleys with resin coatings that protect your molars.

Children commonly get dental sealants on their permanent molars to protect their teeth through their oral development. However, adults can also benefit from sealants in certain circumstances.

The sealant acts as a barrier for your teeth and protects the natural enamel from plaque, tarter, or acids. To learn more about dental sealants and if they are right for you or your children, contact us today.

Root canal treatment is the most common endodontic procedure. This therapy is performed when a tooth has become infected or inflamed and needs to be restored, due to problems involving the soft pulp or nerve tissue inside the tooth. Underlying causes include tooth decay, trauma and excessive fillings in one area.

A root canal helps restore a tooth back to a healthy state. Root canals also help relieve discomfort and regain the function of a damaged tooth. Root canals restore your natural teeth and can prevent the need for tooth implant.

Symptoms of possibly needing a root canal include:

• Constant discomfort
• Swelling
• Pressure in your teeth
• Sensitive gums or teeth
• Pain when chewing

If you are questioning whether you need a root canal, contact us to schedule a consultation.

Our dentists are experienced in performing tooth extractions. Our philosophy is to provide the most comfortable care possible. We take the time to answer your questions and explain your treatment path beforehand. Our goal is always to preserve your natural teeth no matter the situation. However, when a damaged tooth is beyond saving, we can perform a safe and comfortable tooth extraction. Reasons for a tooth extraction include:

• Wisdom tooth removal
• Trauma or disease
• Teeth crowding
• Stubborn baby teeth

If you think you need a tooth removed, contact us today and we will take x-rays to determine what option is best for you.

Maintaining good oral health habits is more than achieving a white smile, it is also about keeping your gums healthy. Gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontal disease are often difficult to detect until it is too late. Periodontal disease is also the leading cause of tooth loss. Combat these issues by regularly visiting our office and having our team examine your mouth for gum disease.

A common misconception is that tooth loss is part of the aging process. However, the truth is that you have the opportunity to keep your natural teeth your entire life. Avoiding periodontal disease is one of the main ways to combat tooth loss. Periodontal disease is caused by bacteria that attacks the gum tissue. These symptoms are often hard to detect which is why it is important to make regular visits to our office.

Periodontal Disease symptoms to watch for:

• Bleeding gums
• Redness or swelling
• Bad breath
• Receding gums
• Abscess
• Loose teeth
• Sensitivity

Learn more about periodontal disease and schedule your next appointment by contacting us today.

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) affects approximately 15% of Americans. If you are experiencing discomfort, stiffness, or dysfunction from the joint that connects your jaw to your skull, you may be in need of treatment. We can help relieve any discomfort you may have by visiting our office.

Your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is located under your ear and is where your jaw connects to your skull. This joint is commonly susceptible to discomfort, tenderness, and dysfunction. If you are experiencing TMJ issues, we encourage you to visit our Livonia dental office to have our team provide treatment. We offer remedies that will relieve any pain and dysfunction you may be experiencing.

Common symptoms to look out for:

• Muscle Discomfort: This muscle discomfort could include soreness or stiffness in the cheeks or temple area. This can occur from clenching or grinding teeth.
• Joint Discomfort: This is a form of arthritis and can be relieved by being prescribed joint pain medication.
• Clicking: When you open your mouth, you may hear a clicking or popping sound. This is caused by shifting of the joint disc between your skill and jaw.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact us today to schedule a consultation.