Clinton Center Dental

Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that involves repeated breathing interruptions during sleep. These interruptions may occur hundred of times each night, and may be the result of structural abnormalities or brain malfunctions. During normal breathing, air passes through the nose, past the flexible structures in the back of the throat, including the soft palate, uvula and tongue. When a person is awake, the muscles hold this airway open. When they are asleep, these muscles relax and the airway usually stays open. Sleep apnea occurs when the upper airway and airflow are blocked, causing the oxygen levels to drop in both in the brain and the blood, resulting in shallow breathing or breathing pauses during sleep. Causes of Sleep Apnea Sleep apnea occurs as a result of a partial or fully blocked airway passage in the throat. Certain factors may put certain people at risk for developing sleep apnea, which include: Enlarged tonsils or adenoids Obesity Cardiovascular problems Smoking Family history Nasal congestion Throat and tongue muscles that are more relaxed than normal Adults over the age of 60 may be more at risk of developing sleep apnea because the aging process may limit the brain's ability to keep the throat muscles stiff during sleep. Heavy use of alcohol or sedatives may also contribute to sleep apnea because these substances may relax the muscles of the throat. Types of Sleep Apnea There are different types of sleep apnea that have different causes. Obstructive Sleep Apnea Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common form of sleep apnea. It occurs when the soft tissue at the back of the throat closes, blocking or obstructing the airway. Central Sleep Apnea In patients with central sleep apnea the airway remains open but the brain does not send signals to the muscles involved in breathing. Patients with heart-related conditions may suffer from central sleep apnea. Mixed Sleep Apnea Mixed sleep apnea combines aspects of the obstructive and central types of apnea. A common warning sign of mixed sleep apnea is snoring, especially interspersed with gasps or lack of breathing. Patients who are overweight, have high blood pressure, are older, smoke or have a family history of sleep apnea may have an increased risk of developing obstructive sleep apnea, while those with heart disease or a stroke are at an increased risk for central sleep apnea. Symptoms of Sleep Apnea Patients with sleep apnea may wake up with a headache in the morning and experience excessive daytime sleepiness. Additional symptoms may include: Loud snoring Waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat Insomnia Abrupt awakenings during the night Individuals with sleep apnea may experience shortness of breath that awakens them from sleep. Diagnosis of Sleep Apnea Sleep Apnea is diagnosed through a physical examination and a review of symptoms. Individuals may be referred to a sleep specialist who performs various diagnostic tests to confirm a diagnosis of sleep apnea or another sleep disorder. Some evaluations often involve overnight monitoring of breathing and other body functions during sleep. Additional diagnostic tests may include home sleep tests and a nocturnal polysomnography, which monitors heart and lung function, brain activity, breathing patterns, and blood oxygen levels during sleep. Treatment of Sleep Apnea Sleep apnea may be treated with lifestyle changes such as losing weight, cutting down on alcohol consumption and quitting smoking. Nasal training devices are also commonly used to treat sleep apnea. Other treatment for sleep apnea may include continuous positive airway pressure, or CPAP, which involves the patient wearing a pressurized mask over their nose while they sleep. The mask pumps air through the airway to keep it open. If conservative treatment is unsuccessful in treating sleep apnea, there are other options available. Individuals who suffer from severe cases of sleep apnea that may lead to serious medical conditions, may benefit from surgery. The goal of most surgical procedures is to remove the excess tissue from the nose or throat and open upper air passages to facilitate breathing. Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty surgery treats obstructive sleep apnea by tightening the tissue in the throat and palate to expand the passageways. It may also include the removal of the tonsils and adenoids. Custom made oral appliances may also be used to treat sleep apnea. Some devices are designed to open the throat by bringing the jaw forward, which can help to relieve snoring and mild obstructive sleep apnea. Left untreated, sleep apnea may cause serious problems. Patients with sleep apnea have a higher risk of developing high blood pressure, heart failure and stroke.

Preventive Dentistry Preventive dentistry helps patients avoid the costly and invasive procedures often needed to treat serious dental conditions. Maintaining dental health helps patients look and feel their best, and can have a positive effect on their overall health. Preventing dental problems requires a lifelong commitment. To begin developing proper dental-hygiene habits, a child should visit a dentist shortly after the first teeth emerge. Parents also play an important role in helping their children develop and maintain good dental-hygiene habits. Regular Cleanings Comprehensive dental exams and cleanings are recommended once every six months. These exams help identify tooth decay, or early signs of gum disease or oral cancer, through diagnostic X-rays and a physical examination. Early detection of these conditions helps ensure effective treatment and prevent permanent damage. Regular cleanings by a certified dental hygienist help keep teeth clean and healthy. A dental cleaning includes removal of tartar and plaque, which can build up and cause inflammation and disease if left untreated. The teeth are also polished to remove stains that often cannot be removed by at-home toothbrushing. At-Home Dental Hygiene To maintain healthy teeth and gums, patients should brush their teeth at least twice a day; brushing before going to bed at night is essential. The American Dental Association recommends brushing with toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush for at least two minutes. Every tooth should be gone over thoroughly. Flossing at least once each day to clean the spaces between the teeth and under the gums is also recommended. In addition, using over-the-counter mouthwash can freshen breath and help protect the mouth from disease. Eating balanced meals and fewer sugary snacks can also help improve dental hygiene. Other home dental aids are available to help keep teeth as healthy as possible in-between visits to the dentist. Dentists provide patients with specific instructions for at-home care of the teeth; it is important to follow these instructions to ensure good dental health. Dental Sealants Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings that are applied to the surfaces of teeth to protect the grooves of the teeth from decay and other diseases. Decay often begins in these grooves because they are hard to clean, and susceptible to a buildup of plaque. Sealants create a smooth surface that fills deep grooves and makes teeth easier to clean. Sealants are applied to children's teeth once the six-year molars surface, or anytime between the ages of 6 and 16. Adults may also benefit from sealants, especially when the surfaces of their teeth have deep grooves or depressions that may be difficult to clean. A sealant is applied by cleaning the selected tooth, and then painting the sealant onto its surface, where it will harden and bond to the tooth, protecting it from decay. This procedure takes just a few minutes and is painless. There is no single method that will protect teeth from disease and decay. They should be taken care of each and every day, and professionally cleaned on a regular basis. Practicing good dental hygiene is the best way to keep teeth and gums healthy for a lifetime.

An endodontist treats problems of the dental pulp, the soft tissue within the tooth that contains blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue which helps create the surrounding hard tissue that makes up the outside of the tooth. The pulp extends from the crown of the tooth to the tips of the roots and into the surrounding tissue. Dental pulp is vital to the growth and development of healthy teeth, but is not necessarily needed once the tooth has fully matured. Endodontic treatment is needed when the dental pulp becomes infected or inflamed. This may occur as a result of decay, repeated dental procedures, a crack or chip in the tooth or injury with no visible signs of damage. When the pulp is affected, it can lead to pain or the development of an abscess, as well as increased sensitivity, tenderness and discoloration. Endodontic Diagnostics Problems within the dental pulp can often be identified through X-ray images. Occasionally, these problems do not show up on an X-ray, despite the patient's complaints of related symptoms. In such cases, a diagnostic root canal may be performed to help identify tiny holes or cracks in the tooth that may be the cause of dental pulp damage. Endodontic Procedures Sometimes referred to as the practice of root canal therapy, endodontics encompasses a wide range of surgical and non-surgical procedures that keep the teeth free from diseases and injuries of the pulp and surrounding tissue. Like other dental specialties, the goal of endodontics is to maintain good oral health. Common endodontic procedures include root canal and apicoectomy. Root Canal The most common endodontic procedure is a root canal, which can diagnose and treat damage in the dental pulp. A hole is drilled into the tooth and thoroughly cleansed from the inside. The hole is carefully sealed so no dirt or bacteria can reenter the tooth. A filling is needed after the procedure to restore the appearance of the tooth and prevent further damage. Apicoectomy Also known as root end resection, apicoectomy involves the removal of infected tissue and the end of the root. This procedure is most commonly performed after an unsuccessful root canal procedure. A filling is needed after the procedure to restore the appearance of the tooth and prevent further damage. Recovery from Endodontic Treatment After endodontic treatment, patients may experience pain, swelling and increased sensitivity in the treated area for one to two days. Anti-inflammatory medication can be helpful to treat the pain and swelling. After recovery, most patients report that their treated tooth feels the same as their natural teeth and have no problems eating, speaking or smiling.

Periodontics is a branch of dentistry that treats conditions and diseases of the teeth's supporting structures, especially the gums. Periodontists commonly treat severe cases of oral inflammation, including gum disease. Periodontic Specialties Periodontics typically focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease. Gum disease is a broad term that encompasses several different conditions. Periodontists treat different phases of gum disease, including: Gingivitis Gingivitis is a mild form of periodontal disease that causes the gums to swell, redden, and bleed easily due to inflammation. Gingivitis often results from a buildup of plaque and bacteria on the teeth caused by poor hygiene. It may also be a side effect of certain drugs or infections, or poor nutrition. Patients do not usually experience pain or discomfort, but should seek prompt treatment when symptoms arise because of potential complications. Periodontitis Periodontitis often develops as a result of untreated gingivitis. If plaque spreads below the gum line, it can create toxins that may chronically inflame the gums and bone, eventually destroying them. Periodontitis can lead to the formation of pockets that are susceptible to frequent infections, and can continue to destroy the gums and bone. There are several types of periodontitis, some of which include: Aggressive periodontitis This condition occurs most often in healthy patients who have a sudden onset of the disease, and experience rapid bone destruction and pocket formation. Chronic periodontitis Chronic periodontitis is the most common form of the disease. It results in progressive detachment and bone loss, gradually causing pocket formation and gum recession. Periodontitis from systemic diseases Periodontitis sometimes develops as a side effect of other conditions such as heart disease, respiratory disease and diabetes. These cases usually begin at a young age. Necrotizing periodontal disease This condition is an infection caused by necrosis of the supporting structures within the teeth, and commonly affects people with other systemic conditions. Periodontic Treatment Periodontists perform different procedures and, at times, surgery, to treat different conditions within the mouth and gums. Procedures that a periodontist may perform include: Scaling and Root Planing This is a deep-cleaning method that removes bacteria from below the gum line and the tooth root. A local anesthetic may be used to numb the gums and the roots of the teeth. Root Surface Debridement This is a procedure to remove damaged tissue. Debridement may be performed using ultrasonic instruments or hand tools. Flap Surgery This is a procedure that lifts away gum tissue so that it can be cleaned underneath. It is often performed when gum disease cannot be cured by antibiotics, or by root planing and scaling. Gum or Bone Grafts Gum or bone grafts may be performed to help regenerate bone or gum tissue that has been damaged or lost due to periodontitis. Dental Implants When patients lose teeth as a result of periodontal disease or other reasons, they may choose dental implants to restore the missing teeth. Dental implants are a major part of periodontics because they are fused to the bone within the gums. Implants act as a natural root for replacement structures, and require the same care and prevention against periodontal disease as other teeth. Many people are affected by periodontal disease and gum-related conditions. It is important to see a periodontist promptly if experiencing signs of gum disease to prevent more serious complications from occurring.

Oral and maxillofacial surgery is the treatment of problems affecting the mouth, teeth, gums, jaws and related facial structures. Procedures are often performed on patients with skeletal and dental irregularities that occur as a result of congenital defects, injury, disease or other factors. Maxillofacial surgery is also performed to treat patients with oral cancer or jaw cysts. Patients with these conditions may have an abnormal or unbalanced facial appearance, and may have difficulty chewing, swallowing or speaking due to their jaw irregularities. The goal of oral and maxillofacial surgery is to treat the problem and achieve the most aesthetically pleasing result possible. Oral and maxillofacial surgery procedures include the following: Wisdom tooth removal Tooth extractions Placement of dental implants Reconstructive jaw surgery Bone grafting Surgical correction of oral and facial deformities Treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ) Surgical repair of traumatic injury Surgical repair of damage caused by cancers and oral diseases Depending on the condition and surgical repair necessary, oral maxillofacial surgeons may work together with plastic surgeons to achieve the best results for each patient.

Pediatric dentistry is an area of dentistry that specializes in treating the oral healthcare needs of children. Pediatric dentists provide regular checkups, cleanings and fluoride treatments, and overall oral treatment and care for children's teeth. Pediatric dentists also commonly apply sealants to children's teeth to prevent cavities. A pediatric dentist provides overall oral care for children, including treatment for: Cavities Teeth defects Dental injuries Malocclusion Gum disease Speech-related disorders Tongue tie (restricted frenulum) Oral conditions related to other diseases or underlying conditions Mouth guards for sports Dental appointments for children are important not only to evaluate tooth and gum health, but to educate them on preventing dental problems throughout their lives. A child should have her or his first dental exam about six months after the first tooth erupts from the gums, and should visit a pediatric dentist every six months thereafter. During a first dental visit, the pediatric dentist will examine the child's teeth for decay and other dental problems. The dentist may ask the accompanying caregiver about thumb-sucking or pacifier habits, and overall dental health. The dentist will then advise the caregiver and child about proper oral care, which includes brushing, flossing and fluoride treatments. A follow-up visit is usually scheduled for six months later, beginning the dental-maintenance process that will help to ensure good oral health throughout the child's life. A pediatric dentist can offer specialized oral care that a general dentist may not be able to. A pediatric dentist is trained in examining and treating children in an environment that has been designed to make them feel comfortable.

A patient who has teeth that are damaged or missing, whether from disease, injury or other causes, is a candidate for restorative dentistry, which will restore overall mouth health and make teeth look aesthetically pleasing. Receiving proper treatment for damaged or missing teeth is essential in order to prevent further problems and eliminate difficulties with eating or speaking. There are several restorative options available, and which ones are used depend upon the patient's overall health and personal preference, and the doctor's recommendation. Available restorative dental treatments include: Full and partial dentures Crowns and bridges Dental implants Mini dental implants Inlays and onlays Full-mouth reconstruction Each type of dental restoration has its own benefits. To complete a full-mouth restoration, several treatments may be combined.

Cosmetic dentistry encompasses not only the health of the teeth, but also their aesthetic value. Various products and procedures exist within cosmetic dentistry with the goal of improving both the well-being and visual beauty of the teeth, giving the individual a higher level of self-confidence. Services provided by a cosmetic dentist include the following: Tooth bleaching Porcelain veneers Tooth-colored fillings Dental implants Dentures Tooth Whitening Tooth bleaching, also known as tooth whitening, has become so advanced and widespread that certain dental companies have marketed their own form of at-home tooth whitening products. While there is some merit to these home bleaching kits, there is nothing that compares to having a professional, nationally board-certified dentist perform this procedure on your teeth. When performed by a professional, the entire whitening process is abbreviated and can be completed in only a few short visits, compared to weeks of at-home treatment. Veneers Porcelain and composite veneers are effective aesthetic cover-ups for damaged or stained teeth. Although some veneers are designed to be removable, most are permanent and are bonded very tightly to the teeth they are protecting. Advancements in technology have improved the bonding agents to the extent that it is quite common for veneers to remain functional for 10 years or more. Fillings Cavities are painful and unsightly holes in the teeth that must be filled with inert material. Contemporary fillings, called dental composite resin, are much closer in hue to the natural color of teeth. This allows the tooth to be protected but still look untouched. Dental Implants A dental implant is an artificial tooth replacement designed to fill the void created by a missing tooth. There are many types of dental implants, ranging from individual crowns to large scale dentures. A cosmetic dentist can ensure that not only will the most comfortable replacement be found, but it will be implanted in the most accurate and aesthetic manner possible. There are numerous options available to improve the overall health and appearance of the teeth and smile. Patients should consult with their dentists to decide which option best suits their specific needs and will most effectively meet their expectations.

Teeth are strong, durable structures that endure massive amounts of pressure each day. It is important to protect the teeth and keep them strong through daily brushing and flossing as well as regular professional care from a licensed and experienced general dentist. General dentistry involves the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of a wide range of dental conditions, as well as the maintenance of overall oral health for patients of all ages.This comprehensive care from a general dentist is usually the only source of care patients require for their dental needs. There are several different dental specialties, but general dentistry encompasses the basics of these specialties. General Dentistry Specialties Restorative Dentistry Many dental conditions damage the tooth causing aesthetic and functional changes that require special treatment. Restorative treatments can repair or replace teeth depending on the extent of their damage. Restorative procedures include: Fillings Dental crowns and bridges Dental implants Dental bonding Dentures Root canals Cosmetic Dentistry Many people seek cosmetic dental care after certain dental conditions or because of dissatisfaction with the appearance of their teeth. These procedures can improve the color, shape and size of the teeth and enhance the overall smile. Cosmetic dental treatments often improve self-confidence. Some of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments may include: Teeth whitening Porcelain veneers Bonding Full mouth reconstruction Gum Disease Treatment Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a common dental condition that plagues many patients. Gum disease can be managed through treatments such as scaling and root planing, which can be performed by a general dentist. Surgery and other advanced treatments may be performed for later stages of the disease. While there are specialists for many of these dental treatments, a general dentist is able to perform most of these procedures. Complicated issues may be referred to a specialist such as a periodontist or prosthodontist, while age-specific patients may benefit from seeing a pediatric or geriatric dentist. Regular visits to the dentist are recommended at least once every six months in order to maintain proper oral hygiene and screen for any potential problems. Receiving regular checkups can help improve dental health and prevent major problems from developing. It is important for patients to work with their dentist to maintain their oral health. General dentists care for most patients' dental needs regardless of their age or treatment. These dental treatments restore health and beauty to the smile.

Full Mouth Restoration Full mouth restoration involves reconstructing all of the teeth in both the upper and lower jaws through the use of restorative materials like crowns, bridges, veneers and dentures. Full mouth reconstruction can be a necessary treatment performed to preserve the patient's oral health. Candidates for Full Mouth Restoration This treatment may be performed on patients who have missing or severely damaged teeth caused by: Decay Injury or fracture Acid erosion Tooth grinding Malocclusion Missing teeth often leads to serious dental problems and can significantly inhibit a patient's ability to eat and speak. It is important to seek restorative treatment for any missing teeth, but especially when most or all of the teeth are damaged. Full Mouth Restoration Options There are many different treatment options available for patients requiring reconstruction. Each type of dental restoration offers its own benefits and several treatments may be combined to complete a full mouth restoration. There is a wide variety of prosthetic materials that are commonly used to replace damaged or missing teeth. These materials may be permanently implanted or glued to the mouth or can be removable and temporary. They may replace individual teeth, a few teeth or all of the teeth. Some of these options may include: Crowns Dental crowns are individual prosthetic teeth used to replace missing or severely damaged teeth. Crowns are implanted into the jawbone with a titanium implant root or placed with cement as a cap over an existing tooth. The actual crown can be made from metal, porcelain or a combination of the two and provide a natural looking and feeling replacement. Crowns provide a strong, sturdy, aesthetically pleasing replacement that can withstand the same pressures as a regular tooth, letting patients enjoy the convenience of eating, speaking and smiling without any problems. Bridges Dental bridges replace missing teeth with a short row of prosthetics that rely on the strength of surrounding teeth and help stabilize the bite. Bridges also help keep surrounding teeth from moving into the open space of the missing tooth. The surrounding teeth are prepared for the bridge, which is then attached to the teeth. Bridges can be permanent or removable and provide a restored function and appearance. Veneers Veneers are shells made from composite or porcelain that fit over the natural teeth to provide a white, even, full smile and can cover up crooked, chipped or discolored teeth. They are bonded to the front of the tooth after the tooth has been buffed in preparation of the veneer, which is then bonded to the teeth with an etching solution and special light. Veneers typically last for 10 to 15 years and are more durable and less expensive than other materials. Veneers are a cosmetic enhancement and cannot replace missing teeth. Dentures Dentures are for people who have lost many or all of their teeth and are usually used to replace an entire arch of teeth. Dentures can be removable or fixed, and partial or full, depending on each patient's needs and preferences. Dentures can be treated just like natural teeth but require special care and adjustment when they are removable. Implants Dental implants are small titanium screws that are drilled into the jaw bone to replace missing teeth. The implant serves as the root of a replacement tooth and can be covered by a crown, bridge or dentures to provide a natural-looking replacement for the missing tooth. The implant is first placed into the jaw and then allowed to fuse with the bone before the prosthetic is placed on top. Implants provide long-lasting support that most closely replaces the individual strength and stability of the natural teeth. Full mouth restoration is a complicated procedure that involves multiple office visits and can take up to a year or longer to complete, depending on each patient's individual case. A customized treatment plan for each individual patient will be developed with the dentist, to help regain a healthy smile.