How does a tooth decay?

A tooth decays through a process of bacteria and food wearing down your teeth. That bacteria and food eventually release acids that attack your teeth after eating. Because these acids can wear down enamel, they will also cause tooth decay. If not treated, tooth decay can cause infection and tooth loss, but you can prevent this by brushing and flossing daily and regularly visiting Dr. Harris for check-ups. Avoiding sugar can also help prevent tooth decay. Unfortunately, tooth decay doesn't usually cause symptoms and can only be diagnosed by your dentist. If tooth decay is left unnoticed and causes infection, you may notice a toothache. If you have any questions about tooth decay or would like to set up an appointment, please contact us today.

Cavities are holes that are formed by bacteria on the surfaces of your teeth. Plaque is formed from the bacteria in your mouth, after it continuously feeds on food and beverages that you consume. Plaque will begin to breakdown your tooth enamel when left on your teeth, causing a cavity. A cavity will continue to grow until it is treated by your dentist. Dr. Harris will remove the cavity, clean the healthy tooth and replace the cavity space with a filling. Cavities may not cause any pain when they are only on the outer layer of your tooth, making regular cleanings an important part of your dental care. When cavities are caught early, they can be easily treated with a simple filling. If a cavity is left untreated, you may notice pain or sensitivity in your tooth. Dr. Harris can help eleviate your pain and eliminate the cavity in these cases, as well. Please call us today with any questions or to set up an appointment.

Your dentist will put special materials, called sealants, on your teeth to keep out harmful bacteria and germs. Sealants can help prevent cavities down the road. Easily applied and lasting for years, sealants fill in the ridges on the tops of your teeth to protect them from plaque and food and can be applied as early as 6 years old! Dr. Harris will clean and rinse the surface of your tooth to remove any bacteria, food and plaque. He will then brush a special solution on your tooth surfaces and grooves. After a few seconds, you will rinse away the solution with water and, once dried, the sealant material will be applied and then hardened using a special light. If you have any questions about sealants, please call us today.

What is a 3-unit bridge?

A 3-unit bridge is a bridge that's used if you are missing one tooth and want a secure fit for a replacement tooth. The 3-unit bridge is a device that includes one false, natural-looking tooth connected to two caps on either side. The teeth adjacent to the missing tooth will be filed to fit the new caps, and then the 3-unit bridge will be placed over the 2 healthy teeth and one missing tooth. 3-unit bridges are sometimes used in place of dental implants. Please call us today to set up an appointment, and Dr. Harris can help determine what treatments are best for you.

A PFM crown is a crown made of porcelain fused to metal (PFM). PFM crowns are reliable, strong and esthetic and work for both back and front teeth. They are a popular choice in tooth restorations because of their equal parts of strength and natural appearance. The underlying metal provides strength and stability, while the porcelain helps them look and feel like your natural teeth. PFM crowns can also last for a very long time. Please contact us today to set up an appointment and Dr. Harris will help you decide if tooth restorations and PFM crowns are for you.

What is periodontal disease?

Gum disease, also called periodontal disease or gingivitis, is an inflammatory disease that affects the gum tissue and bone surrounding your teeth. Gum disease can eventually destroy the infected gum and bone tissues surrounding your teeth, causing tooth loss. Because gum disease is virtually painless in the early stages, it can be difficult at times to recognize it before it becomes a larger problem. If you notice bleeding gums, constant bad breath, swollen or tender gums, shifting or loose teeth, receding gum lines or any sign of pus around your gums, please call us today for a thorough examination. Gum disease is very treatable and manageable when caught early. If you've noticed any of the above symptoms or would like to set up an appointment, please contact us today.

What is root canal treatment?

Many people have a negative association with the word root canal, but what is it really? Root canals can be the most successful way to save your tooth if it has become badly infected or decayed. During your root canal treatment, Dr. Harris will remove the tooth's nerve and pulp (center part of your tooth), and then clean and seal it. Sometimes if an infected or decaying tooth is not treated, it may lead to infections or abscessess of the bone tissue. Dr. Harris will discuss with you the best options for you if you have an infection, and will thoroughly explain any procedure deemed necessary. If you have any questions about root canals, or to set up an appointment, please contact us today

What is scaling and root planing?

Scaling, usually done by the dental hygienist, is a process that removes hardened plaque and tartar from your teeth. It is a common cleaning procedure that helps prevent periodontal disease which can sometimes lead to tooth loss. During your cleaning, the hygienist will use designated tools to gently remove, or scale, plaque and tartar by scraping the surfaces of your teeth that have been affected. Because plaque is more likely to rough surfaces, root planing involves removing any infected or damage tooth particals. Root planing is a much deeper cleaning than a regular cleaning, and cleans bacteria below the root, a local anesthesia may be used to help alleviate any discomfort. While scaling and root planing are typically used to combat gum disease, root planing may also be used to prepare a tooth for other treatments, as well. If you have questions about scaling and root planing, please contact us today.

Dr. Andrew Harris, DDS

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Dr. Andrew Harris, DDS > FAQs

FAQs

We know you may have many questions when it comes to dental care for you and your family. Here is a list of more commonly asked questions.

Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any other questions or would like to set up an appointment!

What are sealants?
What is scaling and root planing?
What are cavities?
What is periodontal disease?
What is a 3-unit bridge?
What is a PFM crown?
What is root canal treatment?
How does a tooth decay?

FAQ Categories

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Cosmetic Fillings
Crowns & Bridges
Root Canal Treatment
Scaling & Root Planing (deep cleanings)

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