A beautiful smile is nothing without a solid, healthy foundation. There are many aspects of preventative dentistry that are vital to your oral wellness, as well as your entire quality of being — including semi-annual exams, professional dental cleanings, and regular oral cancer screenings, among other essential services. Dr. Nadine and our friendly team are passionate about providing gentle, effective, and high-quality dentistry treatments tailored specifically for you and your family.
We believe in empowering our patients to become as well-informed about their upcoming treatment(s) as possible. We are happy to educate you on the details of your oral health that may concern you, and take great care to answer any questions you may have to ensure you feel confident and educated about your dental plan.
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Oral Exams & Cleanings
Dental exams and cleanings are a crucial part of maintaining the health and beauty of your smile. These routine services give our team an opportunity to remove any plaque and tartar (which cannot be treated with regular brushing), as well as identify any concerns or potentially problematic conditions before they worsen. Plaque and tartar on the teeth can lead to cavities and gum disease, so your dental hygienist will perform a thorough cleaning to fully remove bacteria.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that patients visit the dentist every six months for preventive cleanings and exams; however, your needs are unique and we can only determine the frequency of visits that best suits your needs after a thorough evaluation. These appointments are also perfect for asking questions about your oral hygiene, and your hygienist would be happy to provide tips to help you get the most out of your routine.
During your appointment, Dr. Nadine performs a comprehensive exam to note the condition of your teeth, jaw joints, gums, and any changes observed since your last visit. In addition, we take x-rays as needed to monitor ongoing conditions and diagnose new problems. We also care about your general health and well-being, so every exam includes an oral cancer screening.
Gum Disease Treatment
While mild gum disease is extremely common, the condition is ranked as the number one cause of tooth loss in adult patients. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports as many as 47 percent of American adults over 30 have mild, moderate, or advanced gum disease. For those over age 65, the number jumps to 70 percent.
Early signs of gum disease can be treated by simply strengthening your oral hygiene habits (i.e. brushing and flossing), but advanced periodontal disease can require more invasive treatments to eradicate. This is why identifying and treating gum disease in its early stages is crucial. Common symptoms of gum disease to look out for include:
- Inflamed, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding gums when you brush
- Gum recession
- Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
- Loose teeth
Your dental hygienist identifies gum disease by measuring the pockets between your teeth and gums. If your gums are healthy, pocket depth typically measures less than 3 millimeters (mm). Conversely, pockets deeper than 3mm indicate the presence of gum disease requiring professional treatment.
Root Canal Treatment
In some cases, root canal therapy is the best solution to remove inflamed or infected dental pulp and restore a clean, healthy mouth. During the procedure, your dentist or endodontist (root canal specialist) will remove infected dental pulp from the root of a tooth, sanitizing and shaping the space to get rid of bacteria. A dental crown or restoration is then placed on top of the treated tooth to protect it from further damage, allowing your tooth to function as it normally would. Despite many preconceptions about root canals, most patients report that treatment is no more painful than any other dental procedure, such as a tooth filling or an extraction. In fact, root canals are considered a solution to stop and alleviate the pain caused by an infected tooth.
Dental Emergencies
Dental emergencies are unpredictable, and we understand how worrisome it can be to realize you’re in need of urgent dental care. Our team at Maple Dentistry can provide the timely attention and care necessary during a dental emergency to repair damage and rehabilitate areas of the teeth and mouth requiring treatment. Examples of common dental emergencies include an avulsed (knocked out) tooth, a sudden injury to the mouth, a lost or broken restoration, or inexplicable dental pain. If you’re unsure whether you need an emergency dentist in Orlando, don’t hesitate to contact our friendly dental team to learn about how we may be able to help.