Our team is trained in the latest dentistry techniques and technology, and we do most procedures in house at all our locations. Learn more about the general dentistry services we offer below.
Don’t see something on this list? Chances are, we can still do it. Give our team a call today to learn more about our general dentistry services in Austin, TX, or to schedule an appointment!
Fluoride
Fluoride gel, toothpaste, mouthwash, and other fluoride products treat cavities and tooth decay caused by acid-producing bacteria that settles on teeth and under the gums. The acid produced by this bacteria weakens teeth which can also cause pain.
Fluoride helps to protect teeth against this bacteria and even assists in repairing tooth decay. Many communities “fluoridate” (add fluoride to) their water because of the clear correlation between fluoride and decreased tooth decay, particularly in children.
Fluoride is one of our most important treatments for tooth decay; in fact, one of the main reasons for brushing your teeth is to apply the fluoride found in your toothpaste. It’s the active ingredient in most toothpastes and some over-the-counter mouthwashes.
However there’s a stronger concentration of fluoride available at your dentist. Fluoride gels and varnishes and similar treatments can be good options for all children and adults, but especially those who are at a higher risk of developing cavities. This high-grade, topical fluoride has a stronger concentration than typical toothpaste and fluoride products sold over the counter, and the higher concentration makes it more effective at protecting and repairing tooth enamel.
Fluoride gel treatment is quick and painless; a clear gel is applied directly to the patient’s tooth enamel with a small, soft brush and the procedure is done in a couple minutes. After the treatment, you’ll need to avoid hot food and liquids for a brief time to avoid removing the fluoride, but it’s a convenient treatment with minimal disruption to your normal day. We’ll give you detailed instructions during your appointment.
Part of our mission is to instill good oral hygiene habits in children and young adults. This includes regular dental visits, brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, and flossing daily. Depending on your individual needs, your dentist may recommend topical fluoride applications every 6-12 months, or possibly every 3 months.
Dental Sealants
To prevent tooth decay, we recommend dental sealants for small children on hard-to-reach teeth. A durable plastic coating is applied to the back teeth, where it bonds with enamel and forms an impenetrable barrier. The coating seals all grooves and creates a smooth, flat surface that keeps out plaque, tartar, bacteria, and food particles. The coating is designed to last years and can be reapplied if needed as your child grows. We recommend parents protect their child’s oral health by applying dental sealants as soon as the back teeth erupt. Dental sealants are easy, fast, and painless to apply. We encourage this preventative treatment to every parent because it helps prevent painful oral conditions and expensive procedures down the line.
Athletic & Sports Mouth Guards
Did you know that 25% of all mouth injuries we see in our dental offices are related to sports? Both kids and adults want to be able to exercise without fear of injury. There is a simple solution that can protect your family: custom athletic and sports mouth guards.
To protect against potential damage, we recommend all children and adults wear a custom mouth guard while playing sports.
Generic sports mouth guards can be found in many drugstores and sports stores. However, basic sports mouth guards, even the ones that you soften in boiling water and form to your mouth, are not truly a perfect fit. They can still slip and slide around on your mouth, preventing the mouth guard from actually protecting your teeth.
Our dentists use specialized techniques to ensure that your custom mouth guard fits your teeth much better, offering superior comfort and protection. It will both cushion and shield the upper teeth of your mouth, and prevent damage from the upper and lower teeth hitting against one another in falls and accidents. Custom mouth guards fit your upper teeth because the upper teeth are the most likely to be injured or injure another part of your face, while the lower teeth are more naturally protected.
Dental injuries are more common than you might think. A well-fitted mouth guard is an essential piece of sports equipment and should be in every athlete’s sports bag. Make sure you, or your child, is ready to get in the game! Give us a call to learn more about getting a custom mouth guard.
