SERVICE GLOSSARY
Bonding
Bonding is a composite resin filling and can be used on the back teeth as well as the front teeth. Bonding is often prescribed for restoring decayed teeth, changing the color of your teeth or the reshaping of teeth. It can be used to close up minor gaps and correct crooked teeth. Teeth that become chipped or cracked are often repaired with bonding.
​
OUR PROCESS:
-
Dr. Kelson will apply a mild conditioning solution to create small crevices in your tooth’s enamel. This provides a slightly rough surface that promotes the resin to bond materials to the teeth.
-
A high-intensity light will be used to cure the resin onto the tooth’s surface; each layer of resin will harden in seconds.
-
The bonded material will be sculpted to fit your tooth and then finely polished. Bonding traditionally lasts between seven and eleven years.
Bridges
Dr. Kelson will often consider dental bridges for people who have missing teeth and practice good oral hygiene. If you have spaces created by missing teeth, your remaining teeth may begin to shift out of position and become more susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease.
TYPES OF BRIDGES:
Typically, there are three types of fixed dental bridges:
-
Traditional Fixed Bridge -- A fixed bridge is a false tooth fused between two porcelain crowns and is used to fill in an area left by a missing tooth. The two crowns, which hold the false tooth, are attached to the teeth on each side of the missing tooth. A fixed bridge can replace one or more missing teeth and cannot be removed like a partial denture.
-
Resin Bonded Bridge-- Resin bonded bridges are used primarily on the front teeth. This bridge is most successful when the surrounding teeth are healthy and don't have large fillings. The false tooth is fused to metal bands that are bonded to the abutment teeth with a resin which is hidden from view. Resin bonded bridges reduce the amount of preparation on the adjacent teeth.
-
Cantilever Bridge-- Cantilever bridges are considered for areas of your mouth that are under less stress, such as your front teeth. Cantilever bridges are used when there are teeth on only one side of the open space. This procedure involves anchoring the false tooth to one side over one or more natural and adjacent teeth.
Cleaning &
Prevention
Dentistry is founded on the principle of prevention. All patients are recommended biannual cleanings and examinations Not only do they help you quash dental problems before they arise, they leave your gums healthier, and your teeth cleaner and whiter. A professional cleaning removes hard plaque that cannot be removed by brushing and flossing alone. It also involves a fluoride treatment and polish to help protect and soothe your teeth and gums. Even if you haven't had a cleaning in over two years, it's never too late to treat your teeth.
​
What are some preventative measures I can take?
​
-
Brush with a fluoride toothpaste
-
Use a soft-bristled brush after each meal
-
Floss daily before bedtime
-
Use an oral rinse after flossing
-
Avoid sugary foods, coffee, and tobacco
Cosmetic Dentistry
We offer complete cosmetic dental services for patients who wish to improve the look of their teeth. Whether you desire a brighter smile, or a brand new one. From the simple to the complex, we listen and help you with a plan to achieve the smile you've always wanted. Call to schedule a cosmetic dental consultation.
Crowns
Have you noticed how the aging process affects more than just your body, that it also takes its toll on your teeth?
​
Years of lost fillings, root canals, grinding of your teeth, all result in teeth that are not structurally sound. If your root system is healthy, but the surface of your tooth is the problem, a crown may be a good choice for sprucing up that smile.
​
WHAT IS A CROWN?
A crown, otherwise known as a cap, is custom-fitted to your bite and is placed over your natural tooth or dental implant. We recommend this procedure for those who have an intact tooth without root rot. The tooth may be damanged or decayed on the outside.
​
TYPES OF CROWNS:
There are three types of crowns; gold, ceramic and ceramic-veneered gold crowns. Gold and metal-ceramic crowns are extremely durable and are generally used in molars, where the stress from chewing and grinding are most prevalent. Ceramic crowns are used for front teeth, since they are able to match the natural tooth color.
​
OUR PROCESS:
-
We will reduce the problematic tooth for a proper crown fit
-
Our staff will take an impression of your tooth and send it to a dental laboratory for creation.
-
The color of porcelain prosthetics can then be customized
-
Dr. Kelson will place a temporary crown on your tooth while you wait for the permanent crown to be made; this process usually takes about two weeks.
-
When your permanent crown arrives, we will remove the temporary crown and glue the new permanent crown to your tooth. It may be necessary to stabilize your tooth with a filling before your new crown can be placed.
​
Dr. Kelson will be happy to discuss the merits of crowns and how they may benefit your oral health at your next appointment. Please call us today!
Dentures
Dr. Kelson knows that to truly feel confident in your appearance, a nice smile is at the top of the list. If you have lost or are losing your teeth, you will want to discuss complete dentures with Dr. Kelson. Should some of your teeth remain and are healthy, a partial denture may be the answer to achieving a great smile.
TYPES OF DENTURES:
Both complete dentures and partial dentures are removable and custom fitted to each patient. They are made of an acrylic resin which may include porcelain or metal for additional structural support. If dentures are properly maintained, they will appear natural and give you the smile you desire. Dentures also help strengthen the muscles in your face that control your expressions and require the support of your teeth, help with chewing, and allow you clear speech that missing teeth can inhibit.
OUR PROCESS:
Many times teeth will need to be extracted. You will not need to be without teeth, because we can make the dentures before the last of the teeth would be extracted.
-
Our staff will take a wax bite impression of your mouth and will take necessary measurements of your mouth and teeth.
-
An appointment will be made so that you can select the color, shape and fit of your dentures.
-
When you receive your custom fitted dentures, our staff will work with you so you understand the required care and how to place them.
Emergency Care
We offer emergency dental exams. We always try to get you in the same day you are experiencing dental pain. Dental emergencies include extractions, sedative fillings, root canal therapy, Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD/TMJ) and traumatic injuries including a lost or broken tooth. If you are experiencing severe dental pain, Dr. Kelson wants to see you.
Extractions
Our mission is to help you keep the teeth you have, but sometimes, when an infected or decayed tooth can't be saved, or if a tooth is threatening to impact the surrounding teeth (like a wisdom tooth), the best option is an extraction. We take great care in making sure this procedure is as comfortable and pain-free as possible. We also can provide you with the best options for tooth replacement to help get you smiling again.
Fillings
Fillings are used to prevent the spread of tooth decay or correct any cosmetic damage, a filling is just one of the ways our dentists preserve your health. Before placement, any rot must be drilled out. We offer local anesthesia along with sedation to ensure maximum comfort for our patients.
TYPES OF FILLINGS
There are two different types of fillings: amalgam (otherwise known as silver fillings) and composite resin, the color of which can be customized to match your natural teeth.
-
Amalgam - Made up of silver, copper, mercury, and tin, amalgam fillings are the most durable and economical option for our patients. They last up to ten years and are less likely to fall out or break. Commonly used for filling in molar cavities, amalgam fillings can withstand biting pressure and can be fully administered in a single visit. Despite the mercury content, these silver fillings are perfectly safe for anyone aged six and up
-
Composite Resin - Since the color of a composite resin filling can be customized, it is the most aesthetically pleasing option. However, it is more expensive and not as strong as an amalgam filling. Composite resin is ideal for repairing chipped or cracked teeth, filling in a tooth gap, correcting dental discoloration, protecting any exposed tooth root from gum recession, or changing the shape of teeth. Patients may also choose composite resin for cavity fillings as they are bonded to the teeth in layers and therefore require less drilling away of the natural tooth.
General Dentistry
Our office provides a wide range of state-of-the-art general dental services for the whole family, with the same attention to detail as we offer a cosmetic procedure. So whether its for a routine checkup, a restoration, or even if you are experiencing a dental emergency, you can rest assured that you and your family are receiving the highest-quality comfort and care.
Implant Treatment
Do you have an active lifestyle and prefer not to wear dentures? If you are missing one or even several teeth, Dr. Kelson may want to discuss dental implants and their benefits with you.
Spaces created by missing teeth may cause your remaining teeth to shift out of position and make them more susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease. Dental implants are made of titanium and are most successful when placed in the front portion of your lower jaw. The implant, once secured, is covered with a natural looking false tooth or set of false teeth, which typically lasts for approximately fifteen years.
Dental implants do not require removal and offer a great alternative to certain types of bridges and removable partial dentures.
​
*Although Dr. Kelson has experience with implant placement, most implants are referred to an oral surgeon or periodontist. Patients return to Dr. Kelson for the final restorative portion of treatment.
Invisable Alignment
Have you been considering orthodontics to correct an overbite or straighten crooked teeth? If so, Dr. Kelson would like to talk with you about which orthodontic option may be the solution to your problem.
Our dentists are highly trained in the practice of orthodontics, the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Our professionals are particularly skilled in the design, application and control of corrective appliances, such as Invisalign, to bring teeth, lips and jaws into proper alignment and to achieve facial balance. All orthodontists are dentists, but only about 6 percent of dentists are orthodontists.
Many people have crowded or crooked teeth, protruding upper front teeth, or their upper and lower jaws don’t meet in the correct position. Orthodontic treatment is often the answer to correcting these and many other problems. Orthodontic treatment will straighten the teeth or move them into a better position. This not only improves your appearance but also the way your teeth bite together, all the while making your teeth easier to clean. Looking good and feeling good are important components in building self-esteem. It is not uncommon for us to hear that a patient is feeling more self-confident even before their treatment is completed.
When your teeth don’t meet correctly, a strain is placed on the muscles of the jaw, causing jaw and joint problems and in some cases headaches. Orthodontic treatment can help reduce the strain by correcting your bite.
Today’s orthodontic option of choice is the Invisalign system, which works through a series of nearly invisible, removable and comfortable aligners that no one can tell you’re wearing. It's a clear alternative to the traditional style of wearing braces. Invisalign is an easy process of straightening your teeth without bands, braces or wires. It's comfortable to wear and easy to live with. The average treatment time is six to eighteen months. Ask Dr. Kelson how Invisalign can work for you. Find out more about Invisalign here.
Mobile Dentistry
For nursing home and homebound patients, the simple logistics of visiting a Dental office is difficult. Regional Mobile Dental was established to bring dental services to the homebound patient by reducing transportation expenses, and loss of time. We bring peace of mind.
​
All dental services are performed by licensed, experienced, practicing dentists. We provide the following services for our patients:
​
DIAGNOSTIC:
-
Comprehensive oral evaluation, oral cancer screening, periodontal (gum) evaluation, and digital x-rays.
PREVENTATIVE:
-
Cleanings and periodontal treatment and good oral care instructions.
RESTORATIVE:
-
Fillings (restorations), and crowns (caps) where needed.
ORAL SURGERY:
-
Teeth extractions.
DENTURES:
-
Full and partial dentures
TO ARRANGE AN INITIAL CONSULTATION, CONTACT OUR REGIONAL MOBILE DENTAL HOTLINE AT: 240.247.0249
Night Guards
Night Guards are removable devices that fit over the teeth and are used to help prevent the wearing down of teeth during sleep due to excessive grinding and jaw clenching.
​
Generic mouth guards, even those that can be molded to your teeth before wearing, are often thicker and bulkier than custom mouth guards. This additional bulkiness can cause discomfort, difficulty speaking or breathing, and may even damage your tooth alignment. Everyone's mouth is a different shape and size, so trying to use a one-size fits all mouth guard is unlikely to result in a proper fit and could even damage the alignment of your teeth.
​
A custom fitting involves creating a mold of your unique jaw and teeth upon which the guard is formed. These thinner mouth guards are not designed, like sports guards are, to protect your teeth from a kick or punch, but are more than sufficient to cushion the jaw to prevent pain from clenching, and to protect the enamel from teeth grinding. A more comfortable custom fitted dental guard can help you ease the symptoms of bruxism without additional breathing, speaking, or sleeping difficulties.
Family Dentistry
We recommend that children begin to see a dentist upon the arrival of their first teeth, but anytime is a great time for an introductory visit. Starting early helps form positive experiences and good habits that shape them into good patients for life. Our team is trained to help children relax and enjoy their visit, and we specialize in the development of the teeth as they change with children's growing bodies to become healthy adult teeth.
To best serve our littlest patients, we make sure they are seen by a Pediatric Dentist. After graduating dental school, a Pediatric Dentist has an additional two to three years of specialized training dedicated to the oral health of children from infant until adulthood. Just as children themselves have different needs from infancy, toddler, pre-teens and teens, the approaches to their dental care are just as pronounced.
Our Pediatric Dentist, Dr. Kelson, is the best qualified professional to determine the appropriate approach to guiding your child’s dental growth and development, helping them avoid future dental problems and getting them on the right path to good oral health.
Your Child’s First Dental Visit
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), your child should visit the dentist by his first birthday. Make his first visit to the dentist positive by telling him what we are going to do, some of the sounds he may hear in our office, and some of the actions we may ask him to perform.
Pediatric dental offices should be comfortable, warm, and child-friendly. We will talk with your child and answer his questions before performing any procedure all while avoiding using “scary” words like needle, drill, etc.
Periodontal (Gum) Treatment
You can actively prevent disease and decay through regular home care, regular dental exams and professional cleanings. This will maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. The word “periodontal” literally means “around the tooth.” Periodontal (Gum) Disease is an ongoing infection in the pockets around the teeth. The deeper the pockets, the more infection you have in fact, this is the major cause of tooth loss.
The purpose of Periodontal (Gum) Treatment is to remove this infection and give these pockets a chance to heal. Early detection is key, there are generally two treatments (non-surgical) to treat this condition depending on the severity of your infection:
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing are non-surgical procedures performed to remove periodontal infection from below the gum line. Scaling and planing effectively remove periodontal infections where the pockets around your gums are not too deep. The surfaces of the tooth root are cleaned and smoothed and this removes the bacteria under the gums and makes it more difficult for bacteria to grow under the gums in the future.
Scaling and root planing are done under local anesthesia and are quite different from the routine dental cleaning or "deep cleaning."
If the tissue around your teeth is unhealthy and cannot be repaired with non-surgical treatment a minor surgical procedure must be performed to remove the infection.
If your gums are swollen and tender or bleed easily when you brush your teeth, you may have gum disease. Prevention begins with the control of plaque and calculus, the main cause for gum disease.
Restorative Dentistry
We offer advanced restorative dental techniques to rejuvenate your teeth and get you smiling and chewing comfortably again. Old restorations, missing teeth, gaps, or chipped, worn, crooked and crowded teeth can be more than just a cosmetic issue, they can impact comfort, oral health and, in some cases, are even linked to overall bodily health.
Root Canals
If you are experiencing facial pain, pain around your ear, or even swelling in your jaw area, Dr. Kelson would like to see you for an exam. Sometimes tiny canals within your tooth become infected. This can be triggered by a variety of causes but most often an untreated cavity is the culprit. The infection usually causes the pulp inside your tooth to also become infected. When an infected tooth is diagnosed or there's damage to the pulp, Dr. Kelson will recommend a root canal. Either Dr. Kelson or an endodontist will perform the root canal procedure to remove the infection.
OUR PROCESS:
-
You may be offered mild sedation for the procedure and Dr. Kelson will numb the affected tooth.
-
During the procedure he will remove all of the diseased pulp, and thoroughly clean the canal with antiseptic solution.
-
The canals are then filled with a flexible plastic material and a temporary filling is placed over the tooth.
-
If there are no signs of infection over the next few weeks, a permanent filling or a crown will be placed on the tooth. Crowns are the common choice as the root canal weakens the tooth. Recovery time is usually two to five days of soreness depending on the severity of the infection.
Veneers
If you’re looking to cosmetically correct or enhance the appearance of one or more teeth, we suggest veneers. They are very thin, porcelain or resin shells that you can customize in color and shape. They are non-invasive and are resistant to future stains.
Common uses for veneers:
-
Chipped or broken teeth
-
Misshapen or irregular teeth
-
Teeth that do not respond to traditional whitening treatments
Whitening
Professional teeth whitening is faster, more effective, and longer lasting that treatments you find over the counter. As we age, our teeth darken over time due to any number of reasons; among them are staining agents such as tea, coffee, and tobacco. We can brighten your teeth by five to ten shades in a single session, but maintaining good oral hygiene and steering away from certain foods and beverages will help keep any future whitening services to a minimum. We may also prescribe some medication for you to use at home that helps the whitening process.
​
There are many options when choosing to whiten your teeth; chemical whitening, abrasive teeth brightening, and the newest technique, laser teeth whitening. The whitening process can be performed in our office or by you in the privacy of your own home utilizing materials provided by our staff.
​
In-Office Whitening Procedure:
-
Thorough cleansing and polishing of teeth
-
Application of gum protectant