Dental Procedures
White Fillings
When we have tooth decay or a cavity, the dentist restores the tooth by removing the damaged section of the tooth and restoring or fixing the cavity with a ‘filling’. Many of us grew up with ‘silver fillings’ called amalgam. Amalgam is a mixture of materials that includes a very small amount of mercury. ‘White fillings’ or composites are an alternative to silver fillings that act in the exact same way.
They are ‘white’ or tooth coloured so you don’t see them and they do not contain mercury.
We can replace old, broken-down amalgam/metal fillings with white fillings (composites) to restore your smile and teeth to a more natural look and feel. Eliminate the dark, black appearance in your teeth with new, tooth-coloured white fillings.
Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry refers to the use of sedation during dental treatment. Sedation is most commonly used during extensive procedures, for patients with dental phobia or for patients who find it difficult to sit still. At Westney North Dental, we can offer our patients nitrous oxide also known as “laughing gas”.
Patients with dental phobia, low pain tolerance, major dental treatment, physical handicaps or strong gag reflexes may require sedation.
Sedation is an effective way to help patients feel comfortable during their dental visit. Before using a sedative or anesthetic, it is important to tell your dentist about any medications or medical treatments you are receiving.
Some medications interact with sedation causing severe reactions. Before administering any sedative or anesthetic, your dentist will talk to you about the process of sedation and pre-and post-sedation instructions.
Nitrous oxide, more commonly known as laughing gas, is often used as a conscious sedative during a dental visit. The gas is administered with a mixture of oxygen and has a calming effect that helps phobic or anxious patients relax during their dental treatment. Because it is a mild sedative, patients are still conscious and can talk to their dentist during their visit.
After treatment, the nitrous is turned off and oxygen is administered for five to ten minutes to help flush any remaining gas. The effects wear off almost immediately. Nitrous oxide rarely has side effects although some patients may experience minor nausea and constipation. Your doctor will provide you with pre-and post-sedation instructions.
Mouth Guards
Mouth guards are coverings worn over teeth that are used to protect your teeth, lip and gums from injury during contact sports, extreme activities or any activity that may cause injury. Mouth guards help limit the risk of personal injury during physical activity. Generally, mouth guards are designed to be worn on the upper teeth only, however, if you have braces or other dental appliances on your lower jaw your dentist may recommend a mouth guard for the lower teeth as well.
At Westney North Dental, we offer custom-fitted mouth guards. They are individually designed and made right in our office. We take an impression of your teeth and make a model from the impression. The mouth guard is then vacuum molded over the model. Custom-fit mouth guards provide the most comfort and protection when compared to store-bought imitations.
Custom mouth guards offer a number of advantages including a perfect fit, stronger material, and the ability to fit over braces or other dental appliances. An effective mouth guard should be comfortable to wear and should not restrict your breathing or speech.
Caring for your mouth guard is easy, simply follow the steps outlined below.
Rinse your mouth guard with water after each use or clean it with toothpaste and a toothbrush.
Occasionally deep-clean your mouth guard. Let it sit in warm soapy water and make sure to wash and rinse it thoroughly before use.
Store your mouth guard in the container it came in. These containers have perforated holes to ensure air circulation and will protect your mouth guard from unwarranted damage.
Avoid distorting the mouth guard’s shape. Avoid hot water, hot surfaces or direct sunlight.
Check your mouth guard for wear regularly. If it has holes, tears or is loose-fitting, it is likely time to replace your guard.
Bring your mouth guard to your regularly scheduled cleanings, this will allow your dentist to examine the guard and ensure it will continue to perform as desired.
Digital X-Rays
Film x-rays are a thing of the past. At Westney North Dental, we use only digital radiography (X-rays). A sensor is placed in the mouth, and a computer generates an image in 30 seconds as opposed to the general 4-6 minute wait time for images taken on dental film.
These X-rays are viewed on the computer screen and can also be enhanced and enlarged. Not only are they friendly to the environment because they don’t require chemicals to process them, they are much safer than traditional X-rays. Digital radiographs reduce radiation exposure by up to 90 percent!
