General Dentistry

At Theory + Essence provide a variety of services to maintain and improve oral health, including:

• Routine Check-ups and Cleanings: Examination of teeth, gums, and mouth for signs of decay or infection, and removal of plaque and tartar buildup.
• Fillings: Removal of decayed tooth portions and filling cavities with materials like amalgam or composite resin.
• Extractions: Removal of irreparable or problematic teeth causing infection or other issues.
• Root Canals: Treatment to remove infected pulp tissue inside the tooth, saving the tooth.
• Crowns and Bridges: Crowns cover and protect damaged or decayed teeth, while bridges replace missing teeth.

It is typically recommended to visit a general dentist every six months for routine check-ups and cleanings. However, the frequency of visits can vary based on individual needs and dental health risks. For example, if you have a history of cavities or gum disease, your dentist may advise more frequent appointments.

During a routine check-up, you can expect the dentist to:

• Examine your teeth, gums, and mouth for signs of decay, infection, or other issues.
• Take X-rays to identify problems below the surface.
• Screen for oral cancer.
• Clean your teeth by removing plaque and tartar buildup.
• Check your bite and jaw alignment.
• Provide recommendations for any necessary treatments.

Regular dental check-ups and cleanings offer numerous benefits. They help prevent tooth decay and gum disease by detecting and treating issues early on. During these visits, dentists can identify signs of decay, infection, or other problems before they become serious. Regular check-ups also include oral cancer screenings, allowing for early detection and treatment. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing and flossing cannot eliminate, maintaining healthy teeth and gums and improving overall oral health. Additionally, dentists provide education and personalized advice on proper oral hygiene practices, recommending treatments or products tailored to your needs.

Sedation dentistry helps you feel calm, relaxed and at ease during dental procedures. It’s a moderate level of sedation, so you’re still technically awake but feeling very carefree.

What types of sedation are used in dentistry?

There are varying levels of sedation dentistry based on your unique needs. Factors include your level of anxiety, the length of your procedure, your health history and personal preferences. At Theory + Essence we offer both oral conscious sedation and intravenous (IV) sedation.

What is Intravenous (IV) sedation?

IV sedation dentistry is the deepest form of conscious sedation available in a dental office setting. Our Specialist sedation dentist will deliver sedative medications directly to your bloodstream through an IV line. During your procedure, your dentist monitors your heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen levels. Most people who receive IV sedation dentistry fall asleep and have little to no memory of their treatment when they wake up. This option is best for people with severe dental anxiety or those who are undergoing lengthy procedures.

Root canal is a treatment to repair and save a badly damaged or infected tooth instead of removing it.

What are the signs of needing a root canal?

• Severe pain while chewing or biting
• Pimples on the gums
• A chipped or cracked tooth
• Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold, even after the sensation has been removed
• Swollen or tender gums
• Deep decay or darkening of the gums

Root canals are commonly performed to alleviate the pain associated with pulp inflammation or infection. Thanks to modern techniques and anesthetics, most patients report experiencing minimal discomfort during the procedure.

Post-treatment, it is normal for the tooth to feel sensitive for a few days, especially if there was pre-existing pain or infection.It is crucial to adhere to your dentist's instructions for optimal recovery.

While the treated tooth may feel slightly different from your other teeth for some time, severe pain, pressure, or discomfort lasting more than a few days should prompt you to contact your dentist immediately.