From routine cleanings and fillings to bruxism devices, South Coast Dental Center is equipped to handle all your dental needs. To help you understand your options, we've included descriptions of some of our leading services on this page.

Cosmetic and Aesthetic Dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry refers to a host of dental treatments designed to enhance the smile and correct chipped, cracked, discolored, and unevenly spaced teeth. From porcelain veneers to tooth-colored fillings, patients can choose from a variety of cosmetic dentistry solutions to restore the health and vitality of their smile.

Aesthetic Dentistry Procedures
Cosmetic dentistry treatments can be performed to correct everything from minor flaws in the smile to severe tooth discoloration, missing teeth, and uneven spacing between teeth. The following is a list of common aesthetic dentistry options:

Teeth Whitening
There are two methods for whitening teeth: laser teeth whitening (performed in the cosmetic dentist’s office) and at-home teeth bleaching (involving the use of take-home bleaching kits).

  • What is Tooth Whitening?
    Tooth whitening falls under the category of cosmetic dentistry. The tooth whitening process eliminates discoloration and stains on the teeth, and can also brighten the natural pigmentation of the teeth. The degree of improvement will depend upon how severely the teeth are stained or discolored as well as the nature of the stains. When teeth are brown or yellow due to coffee, tea, or smoking, stains will generally lighten four to five shades. Teeth that are gray due to natural pigmentation or antibiotics use will lighten two to three shades. Regardless, your teeth will be noticeably brighter after teeth whitening. While there are a number of over-the-counter teeth whitening methods that make various claims, only a dental professional can recommend the most effective teeth whitening treatment for you.
  • Teeth Whitening Techniques
    The most effective teeth whitening techniques available today are in-office laser teeth whitening and at home teeth whitening with custom-fit trays. Both teeth whitening techniques are best performed under your dentist’s supervision to ensure the safest results.
  • Teeth Whitening
    • At Home Whitening
    • In Office Whitening
    • Whitening Systems
    • Whether you are self-conscious because you have yellowed teeth from smoking or drinking coffee, or if you just want to look your best, tooth whitening is a sure way to brighten your smile and gain increased confidence in your appearance. Learn more about teeth whitening techniques and methods as well as the cost of teeth whitening by reading the sections below.
  • What is Tooth Whitening?
    Tooth whitening falls under the category of cosmetic dentistry. The tooth whitening process eliminates discoloration and stains on the teeth, and can also brighten the natural pigmentation of the teeth. The degree of improvement will depend upon how severely the teeth are stained or discolored as well as the nature of the stains. When teeth are brown or yellow due to coffee, tea, or smoking, stains will generally lighten four to five shades. Teeth that are gray due to natural pigmentation or antibiotics use will lighten two to three shades. Regardless, your teeth will be noticeably brighter after teeth whitening. While there are a number of over-the-counter teeth whitening methods that make various claims, only a dental professional can recommend the most effective teeth whitening treatment for you.
  • Teeth Whitening Techniques
    The most effective teeth whitening techniques available today are in-office laser teeth whitening and at-home teeth whitening with custom-fit trays. Both teeth whitening techniques are best performed under your dentist’s supervision to ensure the safest results.
  • In-Office Laser Tooth Whitening
    In-office teeth whitening methods are performed with bleaching gel and laser light. This is a good method of teeth whitening for sensitive teeth, as the process may be closely monitored by the cosmetic dentist. The teeth are carefully isolated from the lips and gums, and then a bleaching gel is applied to them. A laser is used in conjunction with the gel to accelerate and amplify the tooth whitening process.
  • At-Home Tooth Whitening
    There are several choices for those who are interested in at-home teeth whitening methods. Your cosmetic dentist can take imprints of your teeth and then make custom-fitted trays for you to take home to complete the tooth whitening process.
  • Teeth Whitening Side Effects
    The gel that is used in various teeth whitening methods causes the teeth to be temporarily sensitive to hot and cold foods, drinks, and even to air. Trays used to bleach teeth can also cause sensitivity, primarily to the gums. Because of this, teeth whitening for sensitive teeth may best be performed in a dental office. Also, some over-the-counter products may wear down the enamel of the teeth if used overzealously. For this reason, and because in-office treatments are more effective, it is best to seek teeth whitening treatment under the supervision of a cosmetic dentist.

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Dental Implants
Are artificial roots that are embedded in the jaw and are each topped with a prosthetic tooth. Dental implants are a restorative and cosmetic dentistry solution for missing teeth.

  • Implant Dentistry – A Solution for Missing Teeth
    As we age, some of us will lose teeth due to disease, injury, or simple daily wear. In addition to bringing about unwanted changes to a person’s facial appearance, missing teeth have a negative effect on that person’s confidence and self-esteem. With the advent of implant dentistry, however, those who are missing one, two or several teeth no longer have to accept a lifetime of embarrassment and inconvenience. Dental implants, sturdy titanium posts that are anchored directly into the jawbone and topped with realistic replacement teeth, provide the security and usability of permanently placed teeth.
  • What are Dental Implants?
    Dental implants are a restorative dentistry option that allows patients to replace missing teeth with ones that look, feel, and perform like their own. During the first step of this procedure, a doctor skilled in implant dentistry surgically places a titanium screw or post in the patient’s jaw. After the gums have healed around the embedded post, a replacement tooth is attached to the top of it.
  • Dental Implants – Benefits and Possible Complications
    Dental implants are a vast improvement over conventional dentures. They’re more stable and user-friendly than many other teeth replacement options, and because the posts that secure dental implants in place are integrated into the jaw, they also help prevent bone loss and gum recession (because the pressure of chewing on the implant’s crown stimulates the underlying bone and prevents it from deteriorating from disuse). However, some medical circumstances – including radiation therapy in the mouth area, and diseases such as diabetes — lower the success rate for implant dentistry. For that reason, patients must undergo a rigorous screening process before they may proceed with implant dentistry.

Alternatives for Replacing Missing Teeth
Patients can choose from a variety of options to replace missing teeth. In addition to dental implants, there are removable partial dentures held in place by wire clips; fixed dental bridges cemented into position by crowns placed on the teeth adjacent to an empty space; and traditional full dentures.

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Dentures
Dentures are removable dental appliances that replace missing teeth. Unlike dental implants and dental bridges, which are more or less permanently affixed to the bone, dentures are prosthetic teeth attached to a supporting structure. Dentures can be removed at night, for cleaning, or whenever desired. The most affordable dentures are those made with traditional plastic prosthetic teeth, but even more expensive porcelain cosmetic dentures usually cost less than implants. Read the sections below for an overview of the various types of dentures, as well as denture alternatives and price information.

  • Types of Dentures
    There are several types of dentures available; their cost will vary depending on the materials used:
  • Full Dentures
    Full dentures are for those patients who have lost all of their natural teeth in the upper or lower jaw, or both. Full dentures restore confidence in one’s appearance, and help the wearer to speak and eat normally.
  • Conventional Dentures
    Conventional dentures are those that are placed once the bones and gums have healed after the removal of natural teeth. While there is a waiting period that can be frustrating, the dentures normally fit right the first time, since the new shape of the mouth and gums has been established. Conventional dentures are also the most affordable dentures option.
  • Immediate Dentures
    Immediate dentures, as the name implies, are placed as soon as the natural teeth are removed. With immediate dentures, the patient need not face the world without teeth, can eat normally much sooner than with conventional dentures, and does not have the speech problems associated with the normal denture process. However, since healing of the gums and jaw will change the fit of immediate dentures, the patient will typically need a new set in about six months.
  • Natural Looking Cosmetic Dentures
    Instead of traditional plastic prosthetic teeth, natural looking cosmetic dentures are made with modern ceramic porcelain teeth. The dentures are usually individually crafted, and look more like real teeth than the plastic variety. Cosmetic dentures also have a more natural looking support structure, and though they may cost a bit more than conventional dentures, they are truly difficult to distinguish from real teeth.
  • Partial Dentures
    For those who have lost some teeth, but don’t want to get dental implants or bridges, partial dentures are an affordable option. Removable partial dentures are held in place by natural teeth, gums, and a connective structure made of plastic and metal.

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Denture Alternatives
For those who want more stable and comfortable denture alternatives, dental implants and dental bridges may be an option. Implants are similar to dentures, in that they are prosthetic teeth used to replace natural teeth, but they are attached to the jaw by means of metal studs implanted permanently into the bone. Bridges are groups of just a few prosthetic teeth attached to adjacent natural teeth with metal and plastic connectors. Bridges help to preserve some of the mouth’s structural integrity by leaving as many natural teeth in place as possible. Your dentist can help you decide if either of these denture alternatives is better suited to your individual needs.

  • Dental Bridges
    Achieving a natural looking and realistic smile after tooth loss is possible with dental bridges. Dental bridges are one method used by dentists to fill a gap created by a missing tooth (or teeth). Depending on the dental bridge type you choose, the procedure and cost will vary.
  • What is a Dental Bridge?
    A dental bridge is made up of two dental crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap and a false tooth in between. Natural teeth, dental implants, or a combination of natural teeth and dental implants can be used to support the bridge. The dental bridge type you choose will depend on the condition of your smile, your cost goals, and the cosmetic results you desire. Whether you are looking for a temporary or permanent tooth loss solution, there is a dental bridge ideally suited for your needs.
  • Types of Dental Bridges
    There are three types of dental bridges:
    • Traditional Bridge
      This type of dental bridge work consists of two crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap, with a false tooth in between. Traditional bridges are the most commonly used type of dental bridge and are made of ceramic or porcelain fused to metal (PFM). If there are no surrounding teeth to support the crowns, dental implants can be used to fix the bridge in place.
    • Cantilever Bridge
      This type of dental bridge is used when there are teeth on only one side of the gap in the mouth. Two crowns fused to the replacement tooth are used to fix the bridge to the adjacent natural teeth.
    • Maryland Bonded Bridge
      This type of dental bridge is made up of plastic teeth and gums supported by a metal framework. The bonded dental bridge is generally lower in cost than other types of bridges and is the most simple to apply.
  • The Dental Bridge Procedure
    The dentist will begin your dental bridge work by filing down the adjacent teeth to accommodate the crowns. Then, the dentist will take impressions of the teeth, which will be used to create the dental crowns.

    Once the crowns are finished (crowns can be all-ceramic or made of metal or porcelain fused to metal), the false tooth (or teeth) will be bonded to them. When the dental bridge is ready, a return visit to the dentist will be necessary to place it on the teeth. During your final visit, the dentist securely cements the crowns over the surrounding teeth to complete your smile with the dental bridge. With proper care, dental bridges will last five to seven years and, in some cases, longer.
  • Dental Bridge Care and Repair
    It is important to take proper care of your dental bridge to extend its life and maintain the health of your gums and natural teeth. Daily brushing and flossing, in addition to regularly scheduled dental exams, will keep your dental bridge and oral health in top condition.

    If your dental bridge is in need of repair, it is recommended that you visit a dentist as soon as possible to fix the problem. Delaying repairs may negatively affect your bite, cause gingival discomfort or infection, or create other serious dental heath issues requiring additional treatment.

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Dental Crowns
For teeth that are badly damaged, dental crowns can be an effective treatment option. The dental crown procedure utilizes tooth-shaped coverings made of metal, ceramic, or porcelain to restore strength and eliminate discomfort. In addition, dental crowns may be used to anchor a dental bridge or to cap a dental implant post.

  • Types of Dental Crowns
    Dental crowns are made of metal, ceramic, or porcelain fused to metal. The type of crown utilized during your dental crown procedure will depend on your unique needs and goals, as well as the recommendation of your dentist.
    • Metal Crowns
      Although their metallic color makes them a poor choice for highly visible teeth, dental crowns made of metal can be an ideal option for repairing decayed or damaged back teeth. They are extremely durable and can be applied with less removal of the natural tooth than all porcelain or ceramic crowns. Metal crowns may consist of various materials, including gold alloy, palladium, nickel alloy, or chromium alloy.
    • All Ceramic Crowns
      All ceramic crowns may be made of porcelain, resins, or dental ceramic materials. They create an extremely natural-looking appearance and are typically used on front teeth. The tooth-colored ceramic material is translucent, like the enamel of your natural teeth, and size and shade can be carefully matched to complement the rest of your smile. However, ceramic dental crowns are not as resilient as metal crowns and do not function as well on back teeth, which sustain a lot of pressure from biting and chewing.
    • Porcelain Crowns
      Dental crowns made of porcelain fused to metal are stronger than all-ceramic versions and more aesthetically pleasing than those made of metal. However, their metal shell gives porcelain fused to metal crowns an opaque appearance. Because they lack the reflective quality of natural teeth, porcelain fused to metal crowns are not as discreet as all ceramic crowns. Additionally, over time, a thin metal band may be visible along the gum line with this type of crown.
  • The Dental Crown Procedure
    Typically, the dental crown procedure is completed in two stages. During the first stage, the dentist removes portions of your natural tooth’s structure to accommodate the dental crown. Surrounding teeth may also be prepared in this way. An impression is made and sent to the lab, where your dental crown is created in about two weeks. A temporary crown will be in place between visits to ensure the most natural look and feel. When you return to the dentist’s office, the temporary crown is removed and your new, custom dental crown is securely bonded in place.

    For some patients, the dental crown procedure is altered to meet specific goals. For example, if crowns are being utilized to anchor a dental bridge or as a dental implant restoration, the steps in the dental crown procedure will be slightly different. Also, teeth with extensive damage may require that a root canal be performed prior to placing the crown. Additionally, new technology has made it possible to complete some dental crown procedures in a single office visit. A consultation with your dentist can help you better understand the unique steps in your dental crown procedure.

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Invisalign® Invisible Braces
Invisalign ® is a new orthodontic treatment system that works to straighten teeth through the use of a series of clear plastic molds (aligners). Invisalign® "invisible" braces eliminate the metallic smile that is characteristic of traditional orthodontic braces.

  • How Does Invisalign® Work?
    To ensure the most precise outcome, your orthodontist will use computer imaging to create your invisalign® braces. After taking bite impressions of your mouth, the dentist will use the invisalign® three-dimensional computer imaging system to create a series of clear retainers. The first one will fit your current configuration of teeth. Each successive retainer will act like invisible braces, using gentle pressure to move your teeth to their target alignments.

    The number of invisalign® trays used will depend on each individual case but the average is between 18 and 30. Each clear invisalign® retainer is removable and worn for two weeks (24 hours a day, except during meals) and then the next aligner is used. This process is repeated until the teeth are in the desired position. The entire invisalign® treatment takes the same amount of time as traditional orthodontic braces.
  • Benefits of Invisalign®
    Perhaps the most apparent benefit of invisalign® is that patients can straighten their teeth without anyone knowing. Most adults would rather live with crooked teeth than spend two or more years with the metal braces that they remember from their teenage years. The clear invisalign® retainer was developed to introduce some much-needed aesthetics to the field of adult orthodontics.

    The invisalign® system also boasts improved hygiene over traditional braces. Because the clear retainers are removable, patients can brush and floss as they normally would, reducing the chances of possible staining and decay that often occur with traditional braces. Food and drink choices are less restrictive, as well. If patients wish to eat sticky candy or drink soda, they may do so after removing their clear invisalign® retainer.

    There are very few problems associated with the invisalign® system. People who fail to wear their clear invisalign® retainer at all times may find that their teeth don’t change position as quickly as they would like. Some people with sensitive teeth and gums may feel some discomfort when they switch to a new aligner in the series. These problems with invisalign® are minor and most patients feel that the benefits far outweigh any problems.

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Restorative Dentistry and Full Mouth Reconstruction
When severe dental problems require a full mouth reconstruction, a general dentist can create a restorative dentistry treatment plan that will simultaneously address the health, function, and appearance of the teeth and gums.

  • What is Reconstructive Dentistry?
    Reconstructive dentistry refers to any restorative dentistry procedure that involves replacing or repairing broken or missing teeth, bones, or tissue. Procedures and types of dentistry that are classified as reconstructive dentistry include full mouth reconstruction, dental implant restorations, TMJ treatment, dental bridge placement, dental crown placement, inlays and onlays, and replacing old metal fillings. A general dentist can perform many of these procedures, but you should speak with the dentist prior to treatment to view samples of the doctor’s restorative dentistry results and previous full mouth reconstructions.
  • Full Mouth Reconstruction
    If severe dental problems are causing you discomfort, you may be a good candidate for a full mouth reconstruction. A well-qualified general dentist can combine the aesthetics of cosmetic dentistry with the science of neuromuscular dentistry to perform a full mouth reconstruction. Orthodontic appliances can be used to help properly position your jaw. Once the jaw is properly aligned, relieving some of the pain caused by the TMJ syndrome, cosmetic and restorative dentistry procedures (porcelain veneers, dental crowns, bridgework, dental implants, and onlays) are completed. The result is an attractive, pain-free new smile.

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Severe Dental Problems – Repairing Worn Teeth
Dental problems such as damaged and worn teeth not only detract from your mouth visually, but they also can affect the alignment of your teeth. The procedures used by a general dentist when repairing worn teeth will depend on the extent of your teeth’s damage. Generally a crown can be placed over your damaged tooth to strengthen and reinforce the tooth. If there is a gap between your natural teeth, a dental bridge may be used to cover the gap. If you no longer have a natural tooth to which your dentist can secure a crown, a dental implant may be placed in your jaw to create the crown’s foundation.

TMJ Syndrome
TMJ syndrome is a disorder that affects your jaw’s temporomandibular joint, causing pain in your head and neck and a possible popping of your jaw when you chew. Most cases of TMJ syndrome are temporary and can be treated at home with over-the-counter pain medicines, compresses, and jaw exercises. If your dental problems persist, a general dentist will give you a treatment regime similar to the home-care treatment. They may then give you a bite plate or splint to ease the muscle tension. If these therapies do not work, your general dentist may have to perform more comprehensive procedures to relieve the discomfort.

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Periodontal (Gum) Disease
Periodontal (gum) disease is caused by a serious infection that can spread around the root of the teeth causing bone reduction and, if left untreated, tooth loss.

  • What is Periodontal Disease?
    Periodontal gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection that can irreversibly damage your teeth if left untreated. The word "periodontal" literally means “around the tooth.” Because periodontal disease is caused by a degenerative bacterium that harms the gums and the supporting bone structure beneath them, it requires treatment in its earliest stages.
  • Types of Gum Disease
    Gum disease goes through several stages. As the disease progresses in severity, the periodontal treatment options become more complex, costly, and time-intensive. It is important that at the first signs of gum disease symptoms you seek an experienced and professional periodontist.
    • Gingivitis
      The earliest and mildest form of periodontal disease is gingivitis. Gingivitis is characterized by swelling of the gums. Often, the gums will bleed during normal brushing and flossing. Gingivitis is reversible with professional periodontal treatment and consistent oral care at home.
    • Periodontitis
      There are several stages of the advanced form of gum disease known as periodontitis:
      • Aggressive periodontitis is a form of gum disease found in patients who have otherwise good overall oral health. Common symptoms of aggressive periodontitis include a rapid increase in the size of gum pockets adjacent to the tooth, which lead to bone degradation.
      • Chronic periodontitis is a form of gum disease that requires immediate periodontal treatment. This form of periodontitis causes inflammation within the supporting tissue of the teeth leading to progressive plaque attachment and rapid bone loss. Chronic periodontitis is the most common form of gum disease and although it is prevalent in adults, it can be take hold at any age. If left untreated, this form of gum disease will require gum surgery.
      • Periodontitis of a systemic disease is a form of gum disease that often occurs at a young age and is associated with a preexisting disorder, such as diabetes.
      • Necrotizing periodontal disease is one of the most dangerous forms of gum disease. This is characterized by necrosis (death of the supporting tissue) of gingival tissues, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone. This is a very aggressive form of gum disease and often leaves gum surgery as your periodontist’s only treatment option.
  • Causes of Gum Disease
    The main cause of periodontal (gum) disease is bacterial plaque, a highly adhesive, clear film that is constantly forming on your teeth. The following causes have also been attributed to gingivitis and the more advanced forms of periodontitis:
    • Smoking and tobacco use has been shown to be a major contributor to gum disease. It is no secret that smoking causes a host of health related issues, but recent studies have shown it to be one of the most significant risk factors in the development and advancement of periodontal diseases.
    • Genetics predispose nearly 30 percent of the population to gum disease. Even with aggressive and consistent oral health care, these people may be six times more likely to develop periodontal disease than those who are not genetically susceptible to gum disease. It is important to visit an accredited periodontist to determine if you are at a higher risk for periodontal complications in order to begin an early intervention treatment routine.
    • Pregnancy and the hormonal changes that accompany it can lead to an increased susceptibility to gum disease. Severe hormonal fluctuations are known to affect a number of tissues in your body, including your gums.
    • Medications such as oral contraceptives, anti-depressants, and certain heart medicines can have a negative impact on your overall oral health. It is important you inform your periodontist of the medications you are taking and of any subsequent changes.
    • Grinding your teeth places excess force on the supporting tissue of the teeth and can accelerate the rate at which gum disease destroys the sensitive support system of your mouth.
    • Diabetes causes fluctuations and alterations in your blood sugar. The perpetual changes lead to a higher risk for developing severe periodontal disease that requires gum surgery.
    • Poor nutrition leads to a multitude of health-related complications, including gum disease. Compromising your immune system with a poor diet will hinder your body’s natural ability to fight off gum disease, and may require you to seek professional periodontal treatment.
  • Gum Disease Symptoms
    It is imperative to keep a close watch on potential gum disease symptoms. Allowing your periodontist to make an early diagnosis can make the difference between non-surgical periodontal treatment and full-blown gum surgery. Symptoms to keep an eye on include:
    • Mouth pain
    • Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
    • Increased space between the teeth
    • Gums that feel swollen or tender
    • Gums that appear to be receding, making your teeth appear longer
    • Persistent bad breath
    • The formation of pus between your teeth
    • Changes in your bite and the way your teeth fit together
    • Sores in your mouth
  • How is Periodontal (Gum) Disease Treated?
    In the event you are diagnosed with gum disease, your periodontist may recommend non-surgical periodontal treatment. For advanced cases, gum surgery may be required. The biggest factor in the treatment options available to you will be how quickly your gum disease is detected and how rapidly it advances.
  • Early Stage Gingivitis Treatment
    Gingivitis can usually be reversed with non-surgical treatment. Recently, the FDA approved Decapinol, the first prescription oral mouthwash that reduces gingivitis. Decapinol, when used twice daily, acts as a barrier that inhibits the bacteria’s ability to adhere to the tooth surface.

    Other non-surgical periodontal treatments include scaling and root planing. This method of periodontal treatment thoroughly cleans the root surface to remove any plaque and tarter build-up. Following that, antimicrobials may be locally delivered to ward off any remaining bacteria.
  • Advanced Stage Periodontitis Treatment
    Advanced gum disease often requires periodontal (gum) surgery. Gum surgery becomes the only viable periodontal treatment once the tissue around your teeth becomes too unhealthy to be repaired with non-surgical treatment. The four types of gum surgery most often recommended are:
    • Pocket reduction procedures
    • Regenerative procedures
    • Crown lengthening
    • Soft tissue grafts

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What is a Root Canal?
Root canals are the hollow channels reaching from the central chamber to the bottom of the tooth roots. The endodontic root canal treatment is often called by the same name, although endodontists and others in the dental field refer to it as a root canal procedure, therapy, or surgery.

  • Root Canal Symptoms
    It is important to visit a dentist who specializes in endodontics when symptoms of a root canal problem first emerge. When one experiences tooth pain or has a deep cavity, the en dodontist may determine that a root canal procedure is necessary. The endodontist will first take x-rays to find out how close the damage is to the nerve inside the pulp chamber of the tooth. Often, if a cavity is found to be near the pulp, the pulp will have already become infected. In this case a root canal procedure will eliminate the pain and remove any infected tissue. If tooth infection is allowed to continue untreated, the patient may lose the tooth completely, necessitating a dental implant or a dental bridge.
  • The Root Canal Procedure
    Root canal treatment starts by cleaning out damaged areas of the tooth. This is generally performed under local anesthetic, so the root canal procedure is generally no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. Once the endodontist has breached the pulp chamber, further anesthetic may be injected directly into the nerve of the tooth. This effectively deadens any further pain.

    The endodontist removes the tissue within the pulp chamber and clears any remaining nerve tissue from the root canals. Once the dental pulp tissue has been cleared, the dentist widens the root canal slightly and straightens the pulp chamber to prepare it for filling. The inside of the tooth is then disinfected.
    When the tooth has been properly prepared, the endodontist fills the root canals with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha filling. The pulp chamber is packed with cotton, and a temporary filling is used to seal the opening. During a succeeding visit, your endodontist removes the temporary filling, fills the pulp chamber with a core buildup, and then repairs the tooth with a filling or crown. During this visit, your endodontist will also check for root canal procedure complications such as infection.
  • Pain After Root Canals
    Root canal procedures have earned a misleading reputation for pain. When an endodontist performs a root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp tissue of the affected tooth is removed. This is done to eliminate the pain from a damaged tooth and to remove infected tissue. The empty space is filled, and the tooth is capped with a dental crown. A tooth that has undergone root canal therapy should be pain-free and structurally strong.

    The reality is that in most cases the pain after a root canal treatment is less than the throbbing that you would experience by leaving damaged root canals untreated. If you are concerned about post-surgery pain, discuss your fears regarding root canal surgery with your endodontist prior to treatment. There are a variety of sedation dentistry methods that can be used to make your experience more comfortable and stress-free.

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Soft Tissue Management
It is an individualized plan to eliminate infection of the gums and root surfaces.  Remember periodontal disease is an infectious and inflammatory disease that results from bacteria collecting on the tooth surface above and below the gum line which destroys gum tissues and bone.  The greatest cause of adult tooth loss is gum disease.