Crowns

When a tooth is badly broken, can no longer hold a filling, or has had a root canal, a crown is necessary. At the first appointment, decay is removed and the tooth is repaired and shaped. An impression is taken and sent to a laboratory where the custom crown is fabricated within a two-week period. Crowns are generally made from porcelain, gold, or a combination of the two.

Whitening

For patients who have dreamed of a whiter smile, it can now be achieved with our custom home whitening kit. This service only requires two short visits. The first appointment consists of having impressions taken of the teeth. The patient then returns in one week and is given comfortable whitening trays that are molded to fit their teeth. The whitening kit also contains enough whitening gel to brighten the teeth several shades. Patients can also purchase additional gel to use for future touch-ups.

Root Canals

When a tooth is injured due to trauma, deep fracture, or significant decay, the nerve of the tooth may die. Patients may notice cold, heat, and pressure sensitivity. When a root canal is performed the patient’s tooth is numbed, much like a filling. The nerve is removed and medication is used to disinfect the inside of the tooth. The tooth is then sealed to prevent bacteria from re-infecting it.

Fixed Bridgework

When one or more teeth are missing, one option is to replace them with a non-removable, fixed bridge. The bridge consists of two crowns, one at either end of the missing tooth, with the artificial teeth suspended between them. Bridgework does require two visits. A bridge feels very natural and patients are instructed on how to floss under the false tooth.

Dental Implants

If a person is missing a tooth, the ideal way to replace it is with a dental implant. Dr. Fansa will determine if a patient is a good candidate for an implant. The implant is placed in the bone and acts as an artificial root. After approximately two  months of healing, the patient will have a custom crown made. Click here to learn more.

Fillings

If the dentist finds a small amount of decay, prompt placement of a filling is recommended. The dentist will gently numb the area if needed, remove the decay, and place a conservative restoration.

Cosmetic Bonding

Tooth-colored filling material can be used to alter the shape and color of the teeth for an aesthetically pleasing result. This is often done to close spaces between teeth or build up teeth that are naturally smaller than the surrounding teeth.

Veneers

Porcelain veneers are a more permanent and long-lasting alternative for cosmetically enhancing a patient’s smile. The teeth are slightly shaped, an impression is taken, and in two weeks the beautiful porcelain veneers can be permanently placed on the teeth.

Partial and Complete Dentures

Dentures are an option for patients who are missing multiple teeth to once again have proper chewing function. These prosthesis must be removed at night and cleaned. After examining the patient, the doctor can also determine if the patient is a candidate for immediate dentures that can be worn the day the teeth are extracted. Ask us about the possibility of implant-retained dentures for additional support and longevity.

Nitrous Oxide Service

Nitrous oxide is available upon request to gently relax you while topical numbing gel is applied to your gums. After a nearly painless injection is administered, you may elect to stop the nitrous, or continue the sedation during the procedure. Nitrous oxide wears off within minutes, enabling the patient to drive home safely.

Night Grinding Appliance

When a person grinds or clenches their teeth, it can cause headaches, teeth may fracture, or TMJ problems can arise. Our office can offer a small, comfortable, custom-fit appliance called an NTI. The NTI snaps on two to four teeth, preventing the back teeth from touching and stops nighttime grinding. We can fabricate the NTI in less than one hour in the office. Our Office also offers a hard/soft night gaurd appliance for those who suffer from IMJ problems

Preventative Services

Preventative services include a thorough dental exam and cleaning once every 6 months and bitewing x-rays once each year. A panoramic x-ray of the entire mouth is recommended once every 3-5 years to monitor the bone and root structure, sinus cavities, TMJ and to check for oral pathology. For patients with periodontal disease, scaling and root planing is available. Often these patients need follow-up cleanings every 3 to 4 months. For our younger patients, sealants are sometimes necessary to help prevent cavities from forming in deep groves. A sealant is a protective coating placed on permanent 1st and 2nd molars.

What To Expect After A Dental Procedure

Our caring staff will provide each patient with detailed post-operative instructions regarding their procedure. For fillings, crowns, root canals, and other simple procedures it is normal for patients to experience slight discomfort after numbness subsides. This is typically very minor and can be controlled with Tylenol or Advil. We ask patients not to eat or drink hot fluids when numb. After feeling completely returns, there is always a period of getting used to something new in the mouth. Please call us if after a week or two there is still some adjustment needed.

Surgical Procedures

For surgical procedures, like extractions, our office will provide written post-operative instructions. The doctors will use their discretion regarding the necessity of prescription medications before, during, or after dental care.