Confi Dental - Dentist in Dickinson TX

Products And Services

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  Complete And Partial Dentures

  Dentures are a removable dental appliance for missing teeth and surrounding tissue. Two types of dentures are available -- complete and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when all the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. Reasons for Dentures: To completely replace missing teeth in an arch To replace some missing teeth in an arch To enhance the smile and provide facial support To restore chewing and speech To improve digestion

  Link: Complete And Partial Dentures

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  Cleaning & Prevention

  Dental cleaning involves the removal of dental plaque and tartar from teeth with the intention of preventing cavities (dental caries), gingivitis, and periodontal disease. A professional dental cleaning is recommended at least twice a year to improve and maintain oral health. This professional dental cleaning reinforces the home-care oral health regimen of brushing and flossing and gives the dentist an opportunity to locate areas in the mouth that may need special attention.

  Link: Cleaning & Prevention

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  Comprehensive Oral Examinations

  A comprehensive dental exam is an essential component of preventive dentistry which is the practice of preventing oral disease to keep them healthy. A comprehensive examination can detect medical conditions before any symptoms arise. A visual examination, followed by a full set of X-rays will be used to detect: Gum recession Weakened dental restorations such as fillings, crowns, or bridges Tooth decay and cavities Tooth decay and cavities Tooth deterioration due to bruxism, misaligned bite, or TMJ We will discuss the findings with you and work closely with you to create an individualized treatment plan.

  Link: Comprehensive Oral Examinations

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  Composite Fillings

  A composite (tooth colored) filling is used to repair a tooth that is affected by decay, cracks, fractures, etc. The decayed or affected portion of the tooth will be removed and then filled with a composite filling. Reasons for composite fillings: Chipped Teeth Dental Decay There are many types of filling materials available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. You and your dentist can discuss the best options for restoring your teeth. Composite fillings are the most widely used today. Because composite fillings are tooth colored, they can be closely matched to the color of existing teeth, and are more aesthetically suited for use in front teeth or more visible areas of the mouth. As with most dental restorations, composite fillings are not permanent and may someday have to be replaced. They are very durable and will last many years, giving you a long lasting, beautiful smile. How are composite fillings placed? Composite fillings are usually placed in one appointment. While the tooth is numb, your dentist will remove decay as needed. The space will then be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared before the new filling is placed. If the decay was near the nerve of the tooth, a special medication will be applied for added protection. The composite filling will then be precisely placed, shaped, and polished, restoring your tooth to its original shape and function. It is normal to experience sensitivity to hot and cold when composite fillings are first placed, however this will subside shortly after your tooth acclimates to the new filling. You will be given care instructions at the conclusion of your treatment. Good oral hygiene practices, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new fillings.

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  Crowns(Caps)

  A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface, restoring it to its original shape and size. A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations. Reasons for crowns: Cosmetic enhancement Dental Decay Decayed teeth Fractured fillings Large fillings Tooth has a root canal Although there are several types of crowns, porcelain (tooth colored crown) are the most popular. They are highly durable and will last many years, but like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced. Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color of your teeth, giving you a long-lasting, beautiful smile. What does getting a crown involve? A crown procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom crown. A mold will also be used to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory. While the tooth is numb, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown. Once these details are accomplished, your temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement and your bite will be checked to ensure you are biting properly. At your second appointment your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate. You will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new crown.

  Link: Crowns(Caps)

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  Fixed Bridges

  A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) appliance and is an excellent way to replace missing teeth. There are several types of bridges. You and your dentist will discuss the best options for your particular case. The “traditional bridge” is the most popular type and is usually made of porcelain fused to metal. This type of bridge consists of two crowns that go over two anchoring teeth (abutment teeth) and are attached to pontics (artificial teeth), filling the gap created by one or more missing teeth. Reasons for fixed Bridge: Fill space of missing teeth Maintain facial shape Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position Restore chewing and speaking ability Restore your smile Upgrade from a removable partial denture to a permanent dental appliance Dental bridges are highly durable and will last many years, however they may need replacement or need to be re-cemented due to normal wear. What does getting a fixed bridge involve? Getting a bridge usually requires two or more visits. While the teeth are numb, the two anchoring teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to allow for a crown. Next, a highly accurate impression (mold) is made which will be sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge will be fabricated. In addition, a temporary bridge will be made and worn for several weeks until your next appointment. At the second visit, your permanent bridge will be carefully checked, adjusted, and cemented to achieve a proper fit. Occasionally your dentist may only temporarily cement the bridge, allowing your teeth and tissue time to get used to the new bridge. The new bridge will be permanently cemented at a later time. You will receive care instructions at the conclusion of the procedure. Proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new, permanent bridge.

  Link: Fixed Bridges

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  Dentures & Partial Dentures

  Tooth loss can occur for a variety of reasons. Whether periodontitis, disease or poor dental hygiene has caused you to experience tooth loss, dentures are likely a suitable option. Dentures are a removable dental appliance for missing teeth and surrounding tissue. Two types of dentures are available -- complete and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when all the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. Reasons for Dentures: To completely replace missing teeth in an arch To replace some missing teeth in an arch To enhance the smile and provide facial support To restore chewing and speech To improve digestion There are two types of dentures – complete and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when all of the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. A Partial denture not only fills in the spaces created by missing teeth, it prevents other teeth from shifting. A complete denture can be either “conventional” or “immediate.” A conventional type is made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed (usually takes 4 to 6 weeks). During this time, the patient will go without teeth. Immediate dentures are made in advance and immediately placed after the teeth are removed, thus preventing the patient from having to be without teeth during the healing process. Once the tissues shrink and heal, adjustments will have to be made. Dentures are very durable appliances and will last many years but may have to be remade, repaired, or readjusted due to normal wear. What does getting dentures involve? The process of getting dentures requires several appointments, usually over a period of several weeks. Highly accurate impressions (molds) and measurements are taken and used to create your custom denture. Several “try-in” appointments may be necessary to ensure proper shape, color, and fit. At the final appointment, your dentist will precisely adjust and place the completed denture, ensuring a natural and comfortable fit. It is normal to experience increased saliva flow, some soreness, and possible speech and chewing difficulty, however this will subside as your muscles and tissues get used to the new dentures. You will be given care instructions for your new dentures. Proper cleaning of your new dental appliance, good oral hygiene, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new dentures.

  Link: Dentures & Partial Dentures

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  Tooth Extraction

  Tooth extractions may be required for several different reasons. These include: When one or more teeth are severely decayed When one or more teeth are broken and cannot be repaired When one or more teeth are poorly positioned in the mouth (impacted teeth) When there is advanced periodontal disease To prepare for orthodontic treatment After Extractions Home Care Bleeding Bleeding can occur post extraction. To control bleeding, place a moist gauze over the empty socket and bite down for forty-five minutes. Blood Clots Bloods clots form in the empty socket post extraction and should never become dislodged. Be sure to avoid Rinsing or spitting for 24 hours post extraction Using a straw Smoking and tobacco use Consuming hot foods and beverages Swelling If you notice swelling within the first twenty-four hours, you can place a cold compress on your teeth every twenty minutes for ten minutes at a time. Pain and Medication If you experience pain, over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can provide relief. Brushing and Cleaning After your teeth extraction, do not brush your teeth until the following day. Use a salt water rinse before and after eating twenty-four hours after your extraction Dry Socket Dry socket occurs when a blood clot fails to form in the socket or becomes dislodged, which drastically impacts your healing. Follow all post extraction instructions to minimize the risk of developing dry socket. Healing Once your tooth is extracted, there will be a hole in your jawbone. It will take anywhere from several weeks to a few months for the hole to fill with bone.

  Link: Tooth Extraction

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  Cosmetic Dentistry

  Your smile is your most important feature. Which means, you deserve to feel happy and comfortable with the appearance of it. A smile makeover can restore and improve your smile through a cosmetic dentistry treatment plan consisting of both cosmetic and functional procedures. A smile makeover is a customized process that is based on your aesthetic goals. For some patients, only one or two cosmetic treatments can provide them with their desired results. Others who are looking to address several cosmetic issues can benefit from a complete smile makeover. If you have any of the following dental concerns, you may qualify as a candidate: Teeth that are crooked or overlap. Teeth that are broken, chipped or worn. Metal fillings. Tooth loss. Tooth gaps. A gummy smile. Tooth stains and discoloration. A smile makeover can include: Porcelain veneers. Teeth whitening. Invisalign. Gummy smile treatment. Porcelain crowns. Dental implants. When you schedule a consultation with your dentist, you will be given the opportunity to discuss your goals, expectations and results. Your teeth will be examined for any oral issues, which must be addressed before any cosmetic treatments can be performed. Once your oral health is assessed and is in good condition, your dentist will explain your treatment options and how they can help you achieve your dream smile.

  Link: Cosmetic Dentistry

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  Periodontal gum disease

  The term “periodontal” means “around the tooth.” Periodontal disease (also known as periodontitis and gum disease) is a common inflammatory condition that affects the supporting and surrounding soft tissues of the tooth, eventually affecting the jawbone itself in the disease’s most advanced stages. Periodontal disease is most often preceded by gingivitis which is a bacterial infection of the gum tissue. A bacterial infection affects the gums when the toxins contained in plaque begin to irritate and inflame the gum tissues. Once this bacterial infection colonizes in the gum pockets between the teeth, it becomes much more difficult to remove and treat. Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that eventually leads to the destruction of the connective tissue and jawbone. If left untreated, it can cause shifting teeth, loose teeth, and eventually tooth loss. Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults in the developed world and should always be promptly treated. Types of Periodontal Disease When left untreated, gingivitis (mild gum inflammation) can spread to below the gum line. When the gums become irritated by the toxins contained in plaque, a chronic inflammatory response causes the body to break down and destroy its own bone and soft tissue. There may be little or no symptoms as periodontal disease causes the teeth to separate from the infected gum tissue. Deepening pockets between the gums and teeth are generally indicative that soft tissue and bone is being destroyed by periodontal disease. Here are some of the most common types of periodontal disease: Chronic periodontitis Inflammation within supporting tissues cause deep pockets and gum recession. It may appear the teeth are lengthening, but in actuality, the gums (gingiva) are receding. This is the most common form of periodontal disease and is characterized by progressive loss of attachment, interspersed with periods of rapid progression. Aggressive periodontitis This form of periodontal disease most often occurs in individuals suffering from systemic conditions such as HIV, immunosuppression and malnutrition. Necrosis (tissue death) occurs in the periodontal ligament, alveolar bone and gingival tissues. Necrotizing periodontitis If you experience pain, over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can provide relief. Periodontitis caused by systemic disease This form of gum disease often begins at an early age. Medical condition such as respiratory disease, diabetes and heart disease are common cofactors. Treatment for Periodontal Disease There are many surgical and nonsurgical treatments the periodontist may choose to perform, depending upon the exact condition of the teeth, gums and jawbone. A complete periodontal exam of the mouth will be done before any treatment is performed or recommended. Here are some of the more common treatments for periodontal disease: Scaling and root planing In order to preserve the health of the gum tissue, the bacteria and calculus (tartar) which initially caused the infection, must be removed. The gum pockets will be cleaned and treated with antibiotics as necessary to help alleviate the infection. A prescription mouthwash may be incorporated into daily cleaning routines. Tissue regeneration When the bone and gum tissues have been destroyed, regrowth can be actively encouraged using grafting procedures. A membrane may be inserted into the affected areas to assist in the regeneration process. Pocket elimination surgery Pocket elimination surgery (also known as flap surgery) is a surgical treatment which can be performed to reduce the pocket size between the teeth and gums. Surgery on the jawbone is another option which serves to eliminate indentations in the bone which foster the colonization of bacteria. Dental implants When teeth have been lost due to periodontal disease, the aesthetics and functionality of the mouth can be restored by implanting prosthetic teeth into the jawbone. Tissue regeneration procedures may be required prior to the placement of a dental implant in order to strengthen the bone.

  Link: Periodontal gum disease

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  Dental Emergencies

  Dental emergencies are quite frightening and often painful. Prompt treatment is almost always required to alleviate pain and to ensure the teeth have the best possible chance of survival. Sometimes, teeth become fractured by trauma, grinding, or biting on hard objects. In other cases, fillings, crowns, and other restorative devices can be damaged or fall out of the mouth completely. If there is severe pain, it is essential to contact our office immediately. The pain caused by dental emergencies almost always gets worse without treatment, and dental issues can seriously jeopardize physical health. Types of dental emergency and how to deal with them Avulsed tooth (tooth knocked out) If a tooth has been knocked clean out of the mouth, it is essential to see a dentist immediately. When a tooth exits the mouth, tissues, nerves, and blood vessels become damaged. If the tooth can be placed back into its socket within an hour, there is a chance the tissues will grow to support the tooth once again. Here are some steps to take: Call our office Pick up the tooth by the crown and rinse it under warm water. Do not touch the root If possible, place it back into its socket – if not tuck it into the cheek pouch If the tooth cannot be placed in the mouth, put the tooth into a cup of milk, saliva, or water as a last resort. It is important to keep the tooth from drying out Get to our office, quickly and safely We will try to replace the tooth in its natural socket. In some cases, the tooth will reattach, but if the inner mechanisms of the teeth are seriously damaged, root canal therapy might be necessary. Lost filling or crown Usually, a crown or filling comes loose while eating. Once it is out of the mouth, the affected tooth may be incredibly sensitive to temperature changes and pressure. Crowns generally become loose because the tooth beneath is decaying. The decay causes shape changes in the teeth – meaning that the crown no longer fits. If a crown has dropped out of the mouth, make a dental appointment as soon as possible. Keep the crown in a cool, safe place because there is a possibility that we can reinsert it. If the crown is out of the mouth for a long period of time, the teeth may shift or sustain further damage. When we are not immediately accessible, here are the steps to take Apply clove oil to the tooth to alleviate pain. Clean the crown, and affix it onto the tooth with dental cement. This can be purchased at a local pharmacy. If the crown is lost, smear the top of the tooth with dental cement to alleviate discomfort. If the tooth cannot be placed in the mouth, put the tooth into a cup of milk, saliva, or water as a last resort. It is important to keep the tooth from drying out Do not use any kind of glue to affix the crown. We will check the crown to see if it still fits. If it does, it will be reattached to the tooth. Where decay is noted, this will be treated and a new crown will be made. Cracked or broken teeth The teeth are strong, but they are still prone to fractures, cracks, and breaks. Sometimes fractures are fairly painless, but if the crack extends down into the root, it is likely that the pain will be extreme. Fractures, cracks, and breaks can take several different forms, but are generally caused by trauma, grinding, and biting. If a tooth has been fractured or cracked, there is no alternative but to schedule an appointment as quickly as possible. Where a segment of tooth has been broken off, here are some steps that can be taken at home: Call our office. Rinse the tooth fragment and the mouth with lukewarm water. Apply gauze to the area for ten minutes if there is bleeding. Place a cold, damp dishtowel on the cheek to minimize swelling and pain. Cover the affected area with over-the-counter dental cement if you cannot see us immediately. Take a topical pain reliever. The nature of the break or fracture will limit what we are able to do. If a fracture or crack extends into the root, root canal therapy is often the most effective way to retain the tooth. In the case of a complete break, your dentist will usually affix the fragment back onto the tooth as a temporary measure. Dislodged/loose teeth When a tooth has been dislodged or loosened from its socket by trauma or decay, it might be possible to save it. If the tooth remains in the mouth still attached to the blood vessels and nerves, there is a good chance root canal therapy will not be necessary. It is important to call our office immediately to make an appointment. In the meantime, use a cold compress and over-the-counter medications to relieve pain. Your dentist will reposition the tooth and add splints to stabilize it. If the tooth fails to heal, root canal therapy might be required.

  Link: Dental Emergencies

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  Dental Anxiety and Fear

  The overwhelming fear of dental appointments can be a common cause of anxiety. Many people visualize a drill-wielding man in a white coat just waiting to cause pain and remove teeth. The reality, however, is very different. The comfort, relaxation, and happiness of the patient are the primary focus of any good dental practice. The staff at the practice will do whatever they can to reduce anxiety, allay fears, and provide painless, quick treatments. Recent technological advancements have meant that in many cases, dentists are able to replace noisy drills with painless laser beams. There are also a wide variety of safe anesthetics available to eliminate pain and reduce anxiety during routine appointments. Here is a list of some of the most common dental fears: Fear of gagging Fear of loss of control Fear of not becoming numb when injected with Novocain Fear of pain Fear of the dentist as a person Fear of the hand piece (or the drill) How can one overcome dental anxiety? Dental anxiety and fear can become completely overwhelming. It is estimated that as many as 35 million people do not visit the dental office at all because they are too afraid. Receiving regular dental check-ups and cleanings is incredibly important. Having regular routine check-ups is the easiest way to maintain excellent oral hygiene and reduce the need for more complex treatments. Here are some tips to help reduce dental fear and anxiety: Talk to us We can’t read minds. Though it can be hard to talk about irrational fears with a stranger, we can take extra precautions during visits if fears and anxiety are communicated. Bring a portable music player Music acts as a relaxant and also drowns out any fear-producing noises. Listening to calming music throughout the appointment will help to reduce anxiety. Agree on a signal Many people are afraid that the dentist will not know they are in significant pain during the appointment and will continue with the procedure regardless. The best way to solve this problem is to agree on a “stop” hand signal. Both parties can easily understand signals like raising the hand or tapping on the chair. Spray the throat Throat sprays (for example, Vicks® Chloraseptic® Throat Spray) can actually control the gag reflex. Two or three sprays will usually keep the reflex under control for about an hour. Take a mirror Not being able to see what is happening can increase anxiety and make the imagination run wild. Watching the procedure can help keep reality at the forefront of the mind. Sedation If there is no other way to cope, sedation offers an excellent option for many people. There are several types of sedation, but the general premise behind them is the same: the patient regains their faculties after treatment is complete. Ask about alternatives Advances in technology mean that dental microsurgery is now an option. Lasers can be used to prepare teeth for fillings, whiten teeth, and remove staining. Discuss all the options with us and decide on one that is effective and produces minimal anxiety.

  Link: Dental Anxiety and Fear

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  Conscious Sedation Dentistry

  A significant number of Americans do not visit the dentist for regular checkups because they are too fearful or suffer from dental anxiety. Sedation dentistry offers an excellent way to provide a safe, anxiety-free, dental experience to those who are afraid of the dentist. Here are some advantages associated with Nitrous oxide: Few side effects More can be accomplished during each visit No pain Perfectly safe Procedures seem to take less time Sedation dentistry is often mistakenly thought to induce sleep. In fact, most sedatives allow the patient to stay awake during the procedure. Sleepiness is a side effect of some medications, but nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation and IV sedation only work to calm anxiety throughout the dental visit. What kinds of sedatives are available at our practice? The most popular types of dental sedatives are nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation. At this time, we offer only Nitrous Oxide Sedation at our practice. Nitrous Oxide Nitrous oxide, or “laughing gas,” is used as a mild sedative. It is delivered through a nose hood, and is administered throughout the entire procedure. Nitrous oxide elevates the general mood and can evoke a general sense of well-being. Most importantly, it relieves anxiety and reduces pain during the procedure. In addition, some tingling and numbness may be felt. There are few side effects associated with nitrous oxide, and it has been safely used in dentistry for many years.

  Link: Conscious Sedation Dentistry

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  Endodontics Therapy

  Endodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that deals with the complex structures found inside the teeth. The Greek word “Endodontics” literally means “inside the tooth” and relates to the tooth pulp, tissues, nerves, and arterioles. Endodontists receive additional dental training after completing dental school to enable them to perform both complex and simple procedures, including root canal therapy. Historically, a tooth with a diseased nerve would be removed immediately, but endodontists are now able to save the natural tooth in most cases. Generally, extracting the inner tooth structures, then sealing the resulting gap with a crown restores health and functionality to damaged teeth. Signs and symptoms of endodontic problems: Inflammation and tenderness in the gums Teeth that are sensitive to hot and cold foods Enderness when chewing and biting Tooth discoloration Large fillings Unexplained pain in the nearby lymph nodes Reasons for endodontic treatment Endodontic treatment (or root canal therapy) is performed to save the natural tooth. In spite of the many advanced restorations available, most dentists agree that there is no substitute for healthy, natural teeth. Here are some of the main causes of inner tooth damage: Bacterial infections Oral bacteria is the most common cause of endodontic problems. Bacteria invade the tooth pulp through tiny fissures in the teeth caused by tooth decay or injury. The resulting inflammation and bacterial infection jeopardize the affected tooth and may cause an abscess to form. Fractures and chips When a large part of the surface or crown of the tooth has become completely detached, root canal therapy may be required. The removal of the crown portion leaves the pulp exposed, which can be debilitating painful and problematic. Injuries Injuries to the teeth can be caused by a direct or indirect blow to the mouth area. Some injuries cause a tooth to become luxated or dislodged from its socket. Root canal therapy is often needed after the endodontist has successfully stabilized the injured tooth. Removals If a tooth has been knocked clean out of the socket, it is important to rinse it and place it back into the socket as quickly as possible. If this is impossible, place the tooth in special dental solution (available at pharmacies) or in milk. These steps will keep the inner mechanisms of the tooth moist and alive while emergency dental treatment is sought. The tooth will be affixed in its socket using a special splint, and the endodontist will then perform root canal therapy to save the tooth. What does an endodontic procedure invlove? Root canal therapy usually takes between one and three visits to complete. Complete X-rays of the teeth will be taken and examined before the treatment begins. HInitially, a local anesthetic will be administered, and a dental dam (protective sheet) will be placed to ensure that the surgical area remains free of saliva during the treatment. An opening will be created in the surface of the tooth, and the pulp will be completely removed using small handheld instruments. The space will then be shaped, cleaned, and filled with gutta-percha. Gutta-percha is a biocompatible material that is somewhat similar to rubber. Cement will be applied on top to ensure that the root canals are completely sealed off. Usually, a temporary filling will be placed to restore functionality to the tooth prior to the permanent restoration procedure. During the final visit, a permanent restoration or crown will be placed. Root canal therapy usually takes between one and three visits to complete. Complete X-rays of the teeth will be taken and examined before the treatment begins.

  Link: Endodontics Therapy

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  Root Canal Therapy

  Root canal treatment is a treatment sequence for the infected pulp of a tooth during which the infected pulp is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed, which results in the elimination of infection and the protection of the decontaminated tooth from future microbial invasion. When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed, root canal therapy is necessary. The inflammation or infection may be a result of: Deep decay A crack or chip in the tooth Repeated dental procedures Injury When an inflamed or infected pulp is left untreated, it can cause pain and may develop into an abscess. You may require root canal therapy if you experience any of the following symptoms: Severe pain when chewing or biting A chip or crack in the tooth Long-lasting sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures Swollen or tender gums Deep decay During root canal therapy, your dentist will first remove the infected or inflamed pulp. Next, they will clean, shape and fill the space. When you return for your second appointment, you will receive a crown or other restoration to protect the tooth and restore its full function.

  Link: Root Canal Therapy