General Dentistry
General dentistry is perhaps the most common field of dentistry, and the one from which all other specialties are born. It is the branch of dentistry that focuses on improving your overall oral health for a long-lasting smile that is free of major complications. There are many treatments that general dentistry encompasses, including preventive measures to protect against tooth decay and restorative treatments, such as fillings and crowns, to repair damage. As part of general dentistry in Iron River, Michigan, we also offer treatments for your gums and all the tools you will need to take care of your smile at home. Some of the general dentistry procedures we provide include:
Preventative Dentistry
It is important to brush your teeth at least twice daily to help remove plaque and food particles that get stuck to your teeth. It is recommended that you brush your teeth for two minutes (or longer), though most people rush through this time. You need to make sure that you reach every side of each tooth, including the inside and outside. To help keep your breath fresh, you should also brush your tongue. Then, you can begin flossing.
Cleanings And Exams
Dental cleanings and exams are important parts of your routine dental visits, and they provide a foundation for lasting oral health. Generally performed by one of our dental hygienists under the direction of our dentist, a dental cleaning and exam helps us prevent decay and ensure no problematic conditions are emerging. During a dental cleaning and exam, we will:
- Thoroughly clean, dry, and polish each tooth
- Check for signs of tooth decay or damage
- Examine existing fillings and other restorations for any needed repairs
- Provide topical fluoride treatments to strengthen your tooth enamel
- Perform an oral cancer screening
- Check for symptoms of periodontal disease
- Review your dental history
During your dental exam and teeth cleaning in Iron River, Michigan, you can also ask us any questions you have and share your concerns. Our dental team is committed to listening to you and helping you feel confident in the care you receive at our dental office.
Teeth Whitening
Over the course of your life, your tooth enamel is constantly exposed to factors that cause discoloration and stains. Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic treatments available because it can dramatically change the way your smile looks in a short amount of time. At Saigh Family Dental, teeth whitening may be suggested to lighten stains or discoloration caused by:
- Age
- Smoking and tobacco use
- Fluorosis
- Metal dental fillings and crowns
- Sugary or acidic foods
- Improper oral hygiene
- Certain illnesses and medications
We offer high-quality teeth whitening as a solution for a discolored smile, no matter the cause.
Fillings
Composite fillings, also known as white fillings or tooth-colored fillings, are a type of dental restoration used to treat tooth decay that has only damaged your tooth enamel. Composite fillings are often used when we catch decay early, before your tooth would require root canal treatment or a dental crown. We use composite dental fillings in Iron River, Michigan, to maintain the natural aesthetic of your smile and restore the integrity of your tooth structure.
How are composite fillings done?
Composite fillings are made from a special type of plastic known as composite resin. Composite resin can be matched to the exact color of your tooth enamel for a beautiful, pleasing restoration. After Dr. Saigh has picked out the perfect shade of composite resin, we will prepare your tooth. First, all tooth decay is removed and the surface of your tooth is cleaned. The composite resin, soft and malleable when first applied, is then put onto your tooth. We sculpt and shape the filling until it matches the natural grooves and curves of your tooth. Once completed, the composite resin is hardened with a special light and polished for a beautiful shine.
Root Canals
Root canal treatment, more commonly called a root canal, is an endodontic procedure. Endodontics is the branch of dentistry that treats the inside of your tooth, namely the tooth pulp and tooth nerves. Our dentist may recommend a root canal treatment when tooth decay or damage has broken past your tooth enamel into this sensitive, delicate area. Signs and symptoms of an infection in dental pulp or tooth nerves include:
- An extremely painful toothache, even when not eating
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- A pimple or cyst on your gums
- Discoloration of the tooth
- Swelling of the gums and jaws
- Jaw pain and pressure
Sealants
Part of our goal at Saigh Family Dental is to not only treat negative conditions, but to prevent them from occurring in the first place. Childhood is an optimal time to begin protecting teeth before children are exposed to major decay and damage. Sealants are a simple preventive treatment where a thin layer of plastic is painted onto the chewing surfaces of your child’s teeth. These tooth surfaces are hard to clean and prone to infection. By using sealants, this area becomes smooth, easy to clean, and protected from decay.
It takes only a matter of minutes to apply a dental sealant. Dr. Saigh, our dentist, will clean the tooth and apply a gentle solution to roughen the tooth if necessary. A rougher surface helps the plastic bond to the original structure of the tooth. Once the sealant is painted on, it is hardened with an ultraviolent light. Dental sealants are quick, easy, and painless. Our dental team is committed to providing your entire family with treatments that will benefit their individual smiles.