DENTAL CLEANING (PROPHYLAXIS)

A dental prophylaxis is a professional cleaning you receive from a dental hygienist. Cleanings should be performed every six months to prevent excessive plaque (soft bacteria and acid) and tartar (hard mineralized bacterial deposit). Plaque and tarter left on the teeth can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. A routine dental cleaning should include scaling which is the process of removing plaque and tartar from all surfaces above and below the gum line using a variety of methods, depending on the amount of plaque and tartar.

Dental hygienists traditionally perform scaling with hand instruments. However, new and advanced technology has led to more modern methods such as ultrasonic cleaners. This sophisticated tool allows dental cleanings to be performed more efficiently and in less time. Often, to achieve best results, both ultrasonic and manual scaling methods are combined for dental cleanings.

At Cahill Dental Care a comprehensive examination is generally performed at the same time as the prophylaxis and includes a thorough evaluation of the teeth and restorations plus gum disease, cancer, oral airway screenings. If it is your first visit to Cahill Dental Care, we ask that you schedule a comprehensive exam only so that we can accurately assess your periodontal health before planning your cleaning. Please contact our office and ask for a New Patient Examination.

SPORT ENHANCEMENT APPLIANCES

Athletic-enhancing appliances are also fabricated for patients with particular needs and athletic goals. A low frequency tens unit (ULF-TENS) is used before bite determination to relax chewing and cervical muscles and thereby find an ideal Nueromuscular position. The appliance then positions the lower jaw in harmony with optimum muscle length and airway opening. It is thought that the athlete's performance is enhanced by increased oxygen flow and balance.

NEUROMUSCULAR DENTISTRY

In life it is easy to "Not see the forest for the trees." So too in dentistry we may often miss the precipitating cause of oral disease and break down by focusing on the teeth alone.

As Nueromuscular dentists we strive to diagnose oral conditions as part of the entire body. For example, did a tooth break because the patient chewed ice or did it break because the patient has muscular imbalances in their back and neck leading to an unbalanced head posture and uneven bite?

Nueromuscular Dentistry is a more comprehensive approach to oral health than traditional dentistry. It begins with an appreciation for the oral cavity as an intimate component of the body's airway and digestive systems. It recognizes that tooth position determines jaw position, which in turn affects Temperomandibular Joint function. It recognizes grinding habits as a sign of bite dysfunction not just anxiety and stress. It takes into account that chronic allergies and mouth breathing will change the oral development of children creating malocclusions and cervical spinal misalignment in the form of forward head posture. It considers that leg length discrepancies can affect the muscles of the jaw and face. It appreciates there is an intimate relationships between snoring, sleep apnea, airway obstruction and fractured teeth. Nueromuscular Dentistry incorporates all of these factors by including the muscular relationship between the upper and lower jaws, the symmetry of the face, the viability of the oral airway and the position of the head and neck relative to overall posture in the examination.

The result is a more complete diagnosis that can lead to the resolution of conditions such as temporomandibular joint disorders, bruxing and clenching, chronically fracturing teeth, worn unaesthetic teeth and asymmetrical smiles. It can also provide more comfortable and stable solutions to other dental needs such as dentures and smile makeovers.

NEOROMUSCULAR DENTISTRY & TMJ DISORDERS

The most life-changing effect of neuromuscular dentistry is its ability to prevent, diagnose, and treat Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMJ/TMD). A misaligned jaw has far reaching ramifications that often exhibit painful and debilitating symptoms.

TMJ/TMD symptoms include:

• Headaches (often misdiagnosed as migraines)
• Shoulder, neck, or back pain
• Numbness in arms and fingers
• Facial pain
• Jaw pain
• Snoring
• Clicking or popping jaw
• Clenching or grinding teeth
• Ringing ears (tinnitus)
• Congested ears

At Cahill Dental, our immediate concern is to provide relief of your symptoms. The best way to do this is by using a technology called ULF-TENS. This stands for Ultra Low Frequency Transcutaneous Electrical Neural Stimulation, but don't let this term intimidate you. Basically, ULF-TENS is a way to relax muscles with a gentle contraction and release. The rhythmic pulsing relaxes muscle spasm by increasing blood flow and pumping out waste products. It helps resolve pain by stimulating production of endorphins, the body's natural anesthetic.

The next step is to stabilize the jaw by supporting the relaxed position. Most often, this is done by fabricating a temporary, removable device called an orthotic. It is worn over the teeth and replicates an ideal bite position. It is easily adjusted and is used until symptoms resolve.

Many patients are able to manage their symptoms with the use of an orthotic alone, worn only at night. In other instances, a plan for permanent bite changes may be more desirable. If you suffer from any of these troubling signs of TMJ disorders, please contact us for a complimentary consultation.

NEUROMUSCULAR DENTISTRY & SMILE MAKEOVERS

A smile makeover addresses all aspects of your smile including your teeth and gums, and should include proper jaw alignment. Neuromuscular dentistry ensures that a smile makeover is complete and achieves not only the optimum cosmetic dental benefits, but the functional benefits as well. When your teeth and jaws work together properly, the muscles are relaxed and the effect can take years off of your appearance, including the softening of facial creases. A smile makeover with a misaligned bite can lead to future damage, including chipped and broken restorations, quickly diminishing the results of a smile makeover and requiring unnecessary painful and costly dental work. Please visit our smile gallery for some examples of smile transformations or contact our office for a complimentary smile analysis and design.

NEUROMUSCULAR DENTISTRY & DENTURES

Traditional dentistry relies on impressions and a habitual bite to create dentures. Using this older technique often leads to subtle imperfections in symmetry and balance and does not create a precise bite alignment. Using Neuromuscular techniques and ULF-TENS (Ultra Low Frequency Tens) we can eliminates many of the problems commonly associated with dentures including difficulty chewing and speaking. The facial structures will often take on a more youthful appearance with adequate lip support and softening of facial creases. The is also far less stress placed on the jaw bone, minimizing bone loss and extending the length of time that the dentures will fit properly before they must be replaced. Using the concepts of Nueromuscular Dentistry and smile analysis a new denture becomes a life altering smile makeover. Contact us today to find out more about a more youthful denture.

COSMETIC SMILE ANALYSIS & MAKEOVERS

A smile makeover addresses all aspects of your smile including your teeth, their angle of inclination, their symmetry, their color and texture, your lip line, your lip fullness, plus the symmetry and contours of your gums. The doctors at Cahill Dental Care have special training in smile analysis that is based in part on a principal referred to as the Golden Proportion. Master Artist dating back well before the Renaissance have used this very same definition of beauty. It is reflected in a butterfly's wings and the spiral of a Nautilus shell. Beauty as we perceive it in the human face can be more fully understood according to this very same guideline when it is analyzed for proportion and symmetry. So too, individual teeth and smiles are also more cosmetically pleasing when these principles are applied.

During a smile analysis, your dentist will evaluate your midline, the angle of each tooth, the arch form width, right and left symmetry, the gingival height of each tooth plus the line of your smile relative to your lips and eyes. Each tooth is also examined for color, texture and degree of translucency. Even the height of your lower face relative to your upper face is considered.

Once a cosmetic analysis is completed, there are many options for a smile make over. The possibilities include veneers, crowns, bridges, implants, orthodontics and any combination of these. Please contact our office if you are interested in a complimentary smile analysis.

ORAL CANCER EXAM

Did you know that every hour, one American is diagnosed with oral cancer? The single greatest risk factor for oral cancer is tobacco use. All forms of tobacco have been implicated as causative agents, including cigarettes, cigar and pipe tobacco as well as chewing tobacco. In women, oral cancer is even more common than cervical cancer. Because oral cancer in its early stages usually has no symptoms, the best opportunity for detection is to examine visually and manually with gentle pressure of the fingers. That is why the doctors at Cahill Dental perform a comprehensive oral cancer screening at your biannual dental examination. Your cancer screening will include a thorough examination of the throat, cheeks, lips, floor of the mouth and the top and side surfaces of the tongue. In addition, the skin and structures of the outside of the head and the lymph nodes of the neck will be carefully checked. Our goal is early detection of any abnormalities of the head and neck.

OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA & SNORING TREATMENT

What is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is a type of sleeping disorder which is a serious, life-threatening condition characterized by brief interruptions of breathing during sleep. It is almost always accompanied by snoring. In fact, if a person snores and has been told that they sometimes seem to stop breathing during the night there is a 90% likelihood that they have sleep apnea.

What if I snore?
Snoring occurs when there is a partial obstruction of the airway causing the palatal tissues and throat to vibrate. Obstructive Sleep Apnea occurs when the airway is completely blocked. This blockage may last just a second or several minutes. The airway can also be partially blocked, much like trying to breathe through a straw.

It is estimated that as many as 20 million people in North America have sleep apnea. 90% of patient with sleep apnea don't even know they have it. In virtually all cases, sleep apnea is accompanied by snoring. Other possible signs include drowsiness during the day, nocturnal gasping or choking noises, awakening unrefreshed, awakening periodically throughout the night, having to use the bathroom at night, poor memory, irritability and falling asleep at night in less than 10 minutes. Your bed partner may even notice that you stop breathing periodically. Snoring is certainly a social problem, particularly for the spouse, but obstructive sleep apnea poses a significant health risk for the patient in that it leads to irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, heart attack, adult onset diabetes and stroke.

Other possible clues pointing to sleep apnea:

• High body mass index (obesity)
• Neck size greater than 17 inches for men
• Neck size greater than 15 inches for women
• Ability to nap easily during the day
• Drowsiness when driving
• High caffeine consumption
• High blood pressure, especially when requiring more than one med to treat
• Lack of dreaming
• Irritability

What if my children snore?
Children can also snore and suffer from obstructive sleep apnea. Often they are highly allergic and their airway is blocked due to enlarged adenoids, tonsils or swollen nasal mucosa. Clinical signs might include a turned up nose, a cupid-bow mouth, puffiness or dark circles under the eyes, mucous draining out of the nose, mouth breathing (lips parted while sleeping or watching TV), and a nasal sound to the voice. Other signs are bed-wetting, irritability, difficulty concentrating at school and hyperactivity.

How can Cahill Dental Care help me?
The dental profession has an important role to play in the treatment of patients with snoring and sleep apnea. A thorough dental examination includes an evaluation of the oral pharynx, that area of the throat just behind the tongue. Airways come in different shapes and sizes and the doctors at Cahill Dental Care are trained to recognize the appearance of a typical sleep apnea sufferer. In addition, a careful history and will often reveal snoring and other signs (listed above) associated with this common disease. If Obstructive Sleep Apnea is suspected, an easy to use sleep-monitoring device is loaned to the patient for home use. Depending on the results of the home test, an overnight sleep study at a sleep center (Polysomnogram) may be recommended.

What is the treatment for sleep apnea?
In the past, the only treatments for obstructive sleep apnea consisted of CPAP (continuous positive air pressure) and/or surgery to remove flopping excess throat tissues. Oral Appliance Therapy is the recommended treatment for Mild Sleep Apnea and CPAP continues to be the gold standard of treatment for moderate and severe cases, however, many patients cannot comfortably adapt to the use of CPAP. Surgery can also have negative side affects including difficult recovery period, no improvement in symptoms, unwanted scar tissue and nasal speech.

What is Oral Appliance Therapy for Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
In 2005, the Standards of Practice Committee of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine updated the practice parameters for the use of oral appliances as appropriate first line therapy for snoring and mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. This includes up to 30-40 breathing interruption events per hour as determined by an overnight sleep study (PSG).

Most patients with collapsing airways will show an increase of the airway and decreased resistance to airflow when the mandible is advanced or protruded. Think of sticking your chin out. This is the fundamental principle of airway management, utilized in cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR), where the tongue is moved away from the back of the throat by moving the jaw forward. The tongue is a large muscle attached to the inside of the lower jaw and as it is drawn forward it pulls and creates tension in the muscles of the throat, increasing tonicity in the palate. Furthermore, the forward position of the chin creates a forward pull on the hyoid bone (just above the larynx) via the Digastric muscles that in turn helps to prevent collapse of the lower airway.

What does an oral appliance look like?
The Thornton Adjustable Positioner (TAP) alleviates snoring and sleep apnea by advancing the mandible (lower jaw). It allows the patient to adjust the degree to which the mandible is held forward, simultaneously allowing maximum comfort and effectiveness. The TAP is a custom-made two-piece appliance that snaps firmly over the upper and lower teeth. For patients that have a restriction of airflow at the nostrils, a different type of advancement appliance may be considered. The OASYS appliance uses pads of acrylic underneath the lips at the corner of the nostrils to stretch the nasal opening and thereby reduce resistance to airflow. It works somewhat like a BreatheRight Strip, effectively increasing the overall volume of the airway. Combined with an adjustable mandibular repositioning system, the OASYS can effectively reduce the collapsibility of the airway, improving symptoms of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. Other appliances may be considered depending upon factors such as grinding habits, TMJ pain or missing teeth. If you are interested in using an Oral Appliance for the treatment of your Obstructive Sleep Apnea or snoring, please contact our office for a complimentary consultation.

Learn more here.

NIGHTGUARDS

At Cahill Dental Care we offer a selection of oral appliances to alleviate symptoms and damage that is a result of nocturnal grinding and clenching habits. We are also trained in fabricating daytime athletic performance appliances. These vary in form, function and fee.

There are two basic nighttime habits:

• Clenching is a forceful squeezing of the teeth resulting in pressures more than 18 times that of chewing force.
• Bruxing is an equally forceful sawing or grinding of the teeth.

A patient may clench and/or grind continuously or occasionally.

Symptoms that result from this damaging force include:

• Teeth that feel sore to bite pressure
• Teeth that feel loose
• Teeth that are sensitive to temperature or sweets
• Headaches occurring in the face and temples
• Migraine headaches
• Pain radiating to the jaw joint and ear
• Buzzing or ringing in the ears

During a comprehensive examination, we evaluate our patients for fractured or worn teeth, damaged fillings, shifting teeth and muscle tenderness. Depending upon the frequency and symptoms associated with a patient's nocturnal habits, a particular style of oral appliance will be recommended.

DIAGNOdent

Providing the absolute best service to our patients is of the highest importance to our office. To aid in achieving this goal, we use a new high-tech device called the DIAGNOdent. This small tool is a portable laser that allows us to detect cavities on the chewing surface of the back teeth that would have otherwise gone undetected by previous methods. Diagnosing cavities in the back of the mouth using traditional methods is difficult; studies even show that 50% of cavities are left undetected in these areas. However, the new DIAGNOdent enables us to locate and treat these cavities, putting a stop to further decay. The laser is easy to use, harmless, and will alert us with an audible signal if it detects a cavity. It will even calculate the approximate size of the cavity so we can better plan treatment. By using this device, you can rest assured that cavities will be accurately detected and treated in their infancy.

INVISALIGN CLEAR ALIGNERS

Invisalign is a revolutionary system to straighten teeth without the use of metal braces. You can have beautifully straight teeth by using the clear plastic aligner system that is custom designed specifically for you by Invisalign and Dr. Swingdorf's instruction. If you weren't able to get your teeth straightened when you were younger, now is the time to find out more about Invisalign- the clear alternative to metal braces and wires.

Your teeth are straightened by wearing a series of clear plastic aligners. The aligners are so inconspicuous, that most people won't be able to tell you're wearing them. Invisalign allows you to continue to enjoy your active lifestyle. Just remove the aligners when you eat, drink or clean your teeth. You may even take them out for an occasional special event like weddings, prom or an important social function. Because they are clear and thin, your natural tooth color shows through. Invisalign also has very smooth edges so there is no tissue irritation while wearing them. You will be able to wear the Invisalign aligners virtually unnoticed.

Testimonials and Before & After photos coming soon.

If you want to make a life changing enhancement to your smile without having to wear braces, call Cahill Dental Care at (651) 451-9101.

ORAL HYGIENE CARE

Maintaining good oral hygiene is one of the most important things you can do for your health and well being. Oral health not only enables you to look and feel good, it also makes it possible to eat and speak properly. A lack of good oral care often results in cavities, gum disease, bad breath and has even been linked to cardiovascular and Alzheimer's disease.

Daily preventive care, including proper brushing and flossing, will help stop problems before they develop.

In between regular, biannual check-ups, there are simple steps that greatly decrease the risk of developing tooth decay, gum disease, halitosis and other dental problems. These include:

• Brush thoroughly twice a day and floss daily.
  *Studies show that electric toothbrushes generally perform better than manual toothbrushes for plaque removal.
  *Although toothpaste can create a fresh and clean feeling, it is often a road block to good plague removal as it mimics a clean feeling without actually removing plaque. Only thorough brushing removes plaque bacteria so brush alone works just as well if not better.
• Eat a balanced diet and limit snacks between meals
  *Carbonated beverages and sodas should not be substituted for water. *Even diet soda causes cavities.
  *All carbonated beverages leach calcium from bones.
• Rinse with prescription fluoride mouth rinse if your dentist advises.
  *Children under age 12 should drink fluoridated water or be given a prescription for fluoride supplements if they live in a non-fluoridated area.

At Cahill Dental Care, we will customize your home care regimen to suit your particular needs. Contact our office for a new patient examination.

IMPLANT RESTORATION

A dental implant is the most natural feeling and functional replacement for missing teeth available today. Implants may be used to replace just one missing tooth or as a foundation for a bridge that could replace many missing teeth. Implants can also be used to anchor loose fitting dentures thereby preventing shifting during speech and chewing. Apples, carrots and corn on the cob can again be an enjoyable part of your diet with implants and a denture. At Cahill Dental Care we even have an on-site specialist that can place your implant, eliminating the need to travel to other offices.

An implant is a pure titanium fixture or "root replacement" that is placed into the jaw, often in the socket site of a newly missing tooth. Once in place the bone attaches itself to this very biocompatible material creating a healthy, permanent bond. Implants are stronger than natural teeth and generally last longer than any other type of dentistry. They are impervious to decay and gum disease.

In addition to their expected long lifetime, an implant is often a more favorable approach than older dental treatments. In the scenario where a single tooth is missing, a single implant and crown eliminates the need to crown adjacent teeth. Since implants stimulate bone density, implants also prevent bone loss associated with removable denture wear.

If you would like to know if you are a candidate for natural, long lasting implant treatments, contact our office for a consultation.

LASER DENTISTRY

The diode laser has numerous applications and is one many exciting tools available to the doctors and hygienists at Cahill Dental Care. This technology allows us to treat our patients with precision which, in turn, means less discomfort and much quicker healing time. The diode laser allows us to enhance the dental and periodontal treatment we offer our patients.

The diode laser can be used in many different procedures. The most common use of the laser is for soft tissue surgery. Lesions can be removed or tissue an be sculpted along the gum line around teeth making uneven tissue much more esthetic. (photo) The laser sterilizes the tissue and eliminates the use of sutures. Healing time and post operative discomfort are greatly reduced.

Our dental hygienists use a diode laser in many different situations to improve your outcomes. All of our hygienist are trained to use the laser to sterilize periodontal pockets that they are treating in combination with root planing and scaling with patients that have periodontal disease. This eliminates the destructive bacteria at the base of the periodontal pocket by sterilizing it and allows for better healing and a more predictable result.

The laser also helps with the infra red photography of the 1 appointment crown procedure CEREC. It creates a "trough" around the tooth so the virtual impressions (photos) are more accurate. This allows the new CEREC crown to fit more precisely.

The diode laser is safe, clean, and sterile. It is one more of the technological tools Cahill Dental has invested in to make your treatment in our office more predictable and comfortable.

DIGITAL X-RAYS

During the 2006 remodeling of our office, we upgraded from analog radiography to digital radiography. While this move precipitated a need for computers in every operatory, it has proven to be well worth it in terms of benefits to the patient.

Digital radiography uses intraoral sensors replacing silver halide film. X-rays fall on the sensor and an image is formed on a computer screen instantaneously, avoiding time consuming chemical processing. Moreover, there is a 90% reduction in radiation dosage.

Journal pak dent assoc, jun 2004; 12(2): 91-8

A digital x-ray can be manipulated in various ways using algorithms to high- light or accentuate critical diagnostic areas. In this way, the dentist can improve clarity and contrast without taking subsequent images yet still improve diagnostic quality.

Additionally, our system is equipped with the capability to image a lateral head film needed for treatment of orthodontic and sleep apnea/snoring patients.

BONDING

Bonding is a procedure used in modern dentistry that utilizes adhesive technology to place life-like, tooth colored fillings and other restorations on teeth. Being able to "glue" onto teeth has not only provided an opportunity for dentists to place more reliable fillings but also to create cosmetic transformations by closing gaps between front teeth, changing the shape of individual teeth or even creating the illusion of straighter, whiter teeth with veneers. Examples of these can be seen in our smile gallery.

DENTURES

A denture is a removable replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissues. There are two types of dentures available; partial dentures and complete dentures. Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain, while complete dentures are used to completely replace all teeth. Dentures can be made to resemble your natural dentition if you choose or they can drastically improve your smile by replacing straight denture teeth for malposed and decayed natural teeth.

Complete Dentures
This restoration method is used to restore your smile and mouth function in situations where all teeth have been lost. The dentures are custom created to resemble natural teeth and are positioned into a patient's mouth to take the place of where the natural teeth used to be. Complete dentures are removable and may require adjustments in order to create a proper fit with the gums and mouth.

Partial Dentures
A removable partial denture is a device used when one or more natural teeth still remain in the upper or lower jaw. Partial dentures usually consist of replacement teeth attached to a gum colored acrylic base which is held in place by natural teeth. The partial denture fills the space created by missing teeth and creates support for remaining teeth to prevent shifting.

At Cahill Dental Care, dentures can even be the basis for a complete smile makeover. See Nueromuscular Dentistry and Dentures. Contact our office if you are interested in finding out if you are a candidate for any of these removable appliances.

NEW COMPUTER SYSTEM / PAPERLESS CHARTING

As part of a total office remodel which was completed two years ago, our office made the transition to completely paperless charting. Our new computer system can track and record every aspect of your dental diagnosis and subsequent care. This transition to paperless charting was meant to streamline and make more uniform the often confusing trail of paperwork that is associated with medical and dental charting. As well as clinical benefits to the patient, we are also able to offer many administrative benefits. We want our patients to know that we are committed to staying up-to-date with the latest technology.

• Completely paperless charting which is backed up off-site daily
• The ability to integrate digital x-rays with your paperless chart
• In the case of an emergency, the doctors can access your chart from their home
• Contact and instantly send your digital x-rays to a specialist
• The patient can confirm their appointment via e-mail
• The patient can access their account online
• We can send claims to your insurance company electronically, which usually results in the claims being paid more quickly
• If your insurance company permits, we can check your eligibility and benefits online while you are at our office
• Send updates and special offers to patents via e-mail

INTRAORAL CAMERA

We use small cameras about the size of a pen, called intraoral cameras, to help clearly see the condition of your teeth and gums.

With this advanced technology we can zoom in on small diseased areas, cracks, chips and worn metal fillings with extreme precision. The full-color images taken with the intraoral camera are sent to a computer screen so we can clearly see and diagnose dental problems much earlier than with traditional dental technology. Because images are displayed on our screens, patients will also be able to see areas being worked on and are able to gain a better understanding of dental procedures being performed.

SEALANTS

Sealants are used to prevent cavities from forming on the chewing surfaces of teeth. In most cases, the tooth surface has fine grooves and pits that are too small for even a single tooth brush bristle to clean. Over time as bacteria accumulates there is a great risk of developing cavities. A sealant provides an excellent, non invasive solution.

First the tooth surface is thoroughly cleaned. Then a special liquid adhesive is applied to the tooth. Finally, the liquid sealant is painted on, flowing into all the tiny pits and crevices. A simple ultra violet light cures the material to a hard coating, strong enough for chewing and an excellent barrier to bacterial plaque.

Sealants are especially recommended for children that do not have the motivation or coordination to adequately brush, however, sealants can benefit children and adults of all ages.

WHITENING

Tooth whitening is a non-invasive, completely safe means of increasing the brilliance of a smile. Natural tooth structure can be easily lightened many shades with a gel conveniently used at home. At Cahill Dental Care the process can be accelerated with in-office techniques such as ZOOM! whitening for patients in a hurry for their best smile.

In the dental office, before-and-after tooth color is typically measured with shade guides. These are hand-held displays of wide ranges of tooth colors. (Dentists also use them in choosing crown and other restoration shades.) Before you begin whitening, a member of our dental team will determine your current shade. After the whitening is complete, you will be able to compare your current shade to the starting shade.

During your first visit, our team member will take impressions of your teeth. This allows your dentist to make a custom gel-holding appliance called a whitening tray. At your second visit, you will be fitted with your whitening tray and provided with the take-home whitening kit. You will also be given specific instructions on how to administer the gel and how often to wear your tray. The whitening gel is a thick solution, which is applied by the patient at home using a clear and inconspicuous custom fitted whitening tray. The whitening gel can be worn overnight, or for up to two half-hour periods during the day. With the help of our team, you can determine which type of delivery system is right for you.

In only 10-14 days, you can achieve exceptional, long lasting whitening results. Contact our office to get started on your best and whitest smile.

AUTOMATED APPOINTMENT REMINDER

We use an automated appointment reminder system that will call your home two days prior to your scheduled appointment time to remind you of your appointment. Please listen to the message carefully and press "1" to confirm the appointment and "2" if you wish to cancel. If you do not respond to the message, our office staff will contact you to confirm your scheduled visit. If are not home, a message will be left on your voicemail. Failure to notify our office of a cancellation may result in a charge. See our missed appointment policy for more information.

TELESCOPIC LOUPES

The dentist performs most of his dental procedures while wearing a pair of funny looking glasses called surgical telescopes. These powerful glasses have magnifiers on them, allowing the dentist to see fine details that would go unnoticed to the naked eye.

MERCURY-FREE FILLINGS

Mercury containing fillings are commonly referred to as "Amalgams", "Mercury Fillings" or "Silver Fillings." They are 50 percent mercury by composition and there is a great deal of controversy and disagreement within the dental community with regards to their safety, both for the patient and for the dental staff. If you are interested in having your mercury silver fillings replaced and are concerned about the expense, please contact us for a examination and consultation so that you may consider your choices.

Recently, media attention has focused on the safety of Mercury fillings. For example, many of our patients inquire about the "smoking tooth video" that has been widely viewed on youtube demonstrating mercury vapor release from dental fillings. In 2009 the FDA placed a cautionary advisory on mercury containing fillings discouraging their placement in pregnant women and children under 6 years of age. While there have always been strict governmental controls on the handling of mercury fillings that are removed from a patient's mouth, in 2008 new regulations were added requiring filtration systems in dental offices to prevent this toxic waste from entering the sewer system.

There are several facts upon which both sides agree:

• Metal fillings contain mercury, some of which is "free" or unbound and therefore can be released by heat or friction.
• Mercury is a strong toxin that is harmful to, not just gestating women or children under the age of six, but all humans.
• Amalgam waste removed from the mouth is considered toxic and should not be allowed to enter the sewer system or landfills.

At Cahill Dental Care, we realize that this controversy is not going to be resolved in the next several years. We have adopted a pragmatic approach that will protect our patients and ourselves.

• We use biocompatible tooth colored restorations to repair damage caused by decay (cavities) on all children and all adults (age and pregnancy aside).
• We use CEREC-same day porcelain onlays and inlays for patients desiring a more permanent restoration or for badly damaged teeth.
• All restorations are removed using the "Cool, Cut and Chunk" technique. Water spray keeps mercury fillings cool during removal to prevent mercury release. Cutting fillings into large chunks helps to minimize particulate size amalgams that can be inhaled or ingested.
• We employ high speed suction at all times and with our recent office renovation installed more powerful vacuums that discharge outside the building. We use HVE (high volume evacuator) tips for more effective mercury removal.
• We employ high powered air exchangers to circulate inside and outside air. We upgraded our external air exchangers to control ambient, airborne particles and vapors.
• For even more security, we utilize mobile charcoal, hepa filter, scavengers positioned near the patient's mouth that draw away not just vapor but airborne particulate matter.
• For "mercury sensitive" patients, or patients instructed to have amalgam removal due to high blood stream or urine levels, or simply by patient request, we also employ:

Rubber dam barrier use to prevent amalgam particle ingestion

Use of suction on patient side of rubber dam to act as second barrier

Supplemental oxygen mask for patient

Surgical drapes for skin exposure

HgX: industrial strength mercury binding cream

Mercury chelating (binding) rinses following mercury removal

Safety Testing:
We recently (summer 2010) tested the internal air quality of our facility using a highly sensitive Jerome Meter that measures mercury vapor to .01 mcg. We are delighted with the results.

Credentials/Training:
All the doctors at Cahill Dental Care are active members of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology and are trained in safe mercury removal based on parameters established by the International Academy of Biological Dentistry and Medicine. Need to know more, contact us for a personal consultation and estimate of your treatment.

VENEERS

Veneers are a cosmetic procedure in which a natural, life-like covering is bonded over the visible area of the tooth to correct color or to give the illusion of straighter teeth. The procedure can be accomplished in-office or with custom laboratory fabrication.

The in-office technique involves placing composite, tooth-colored resin on the outside of the tooth. An appropriate shade is selected and the material is shaped and polished to create a natural looking form. This method is usually referred to as "bonding" and is completed in one visit.

The custom laboratory technique involves two appointments. After smile analysis and design, the teeth are precisely shaped in order to accept the perfected contours. Molds are made and sent to the laboratory with specific instructions for color, texture, translucency, alignment and shape. In three weeks the custom veneers return from the laboratory, the temporaries are removed and the veneers are bonded to the teeth. These veneers are made from porcelain or pressed ceramic making them more resistant to stain and breakdown. The artistry of the laboratory technicians and the superior glass-like porcelain combined with the analysis and design of the doctor create the most ideal smile make-overs. Examples smiles can be seen in our smile gallery.

Veneers are the treatment of choice when cosmetic changes are warranted to otherwise healthy, sound teeth. Beautiful smile transformations can be accomplished while conserving most or all of the tooth's natural structure. If you are interested in your own smile analysis and design, contact our office for a complimentary consultation.

DIGITAL IMAGING

We use digital imaging software in our office, which allows us to take a digital picture of you and use our imaging system to predict how a particular treatment or cosmetic procedure would change the appearance of your teeth. This software is beneficial for patients who are considering cosmetic procedures but are not sure if they're ready for dramatic changes. Digital imaging also allows us to document your dental case and procedures very well. We take digital images of your face, teeth and smile to provide us with a permanent dental record and to provide a visual documentation of treatment.

ELECTRONIC CLAIMS

Our office utilizes electronic claims processing. This means that rather than sending your dental claim through the mail, it is sent electronically to your insurance company with the click of the button. By filing your claim electronically, information is submitted more efficiently and with fewer errors. This benefits our patients because the turn around time on claims is faster and fewer claims are returned or denied. We are happy to submit your dental claims to your insurance company on your behalf.

CROWNS & BRIDGES

A crown is a dental restoration that protects and strengthens a tooth by covering it on all sides and on its chewing or biting surface. Historically, crowns were made primarily from yellow or white gold but new techniques and materials now make it possible to fabricate life-like, esthetic porcelain crowns. To achieve the most esthetic results, at Cahill Dental Care we will often fabricate crowns completely out of porcelain, with no metal liner. They provide the most vibrant, esthetically pleasing result by allowing light to pass through them just as it does in natural tooth structure. Given the situation, one crown type may be more desirable than another as there are certain advantages to each kind.

Crowns may be used to:

• Replace a large restoration when there is little tooth structure remaining
• Protect a weak tooth from fracturing
• Restore a fractured tooth
• Attach a bridge
• Cover a dental implant
• Cover a discolored or poorly shaped tooth
• Create "instant braces" by making a tooth look like it is in a better position
• Protect a tooth that has had root canal treatment

To learn more about Partial Crowns, Inlays, Onlays or Same Day Crowns, See CEREC under Our Technologies

BRIDGE, BRIDGEWORK

A bridge is a very reliable and natural restoration used to replace missing teeth. It is considered a "fixed" restoration in that it is not removable and is brushed and flossed along with all the other teeth in the mouth. It has chewing strength equal to that of all teeth and has a very natural feel to the tongue and cheeks. When a tooth is lost, a crown is fabricated to cover the tooth both ahead of and behind the space created by the missing tooth. Another crown is then "suspended" between these crowns to replace the missing tooth, thereby "bridging" the gap. The materials choices are similar to those for crowns: Gold alloys, porcelain bonded to metal alloy, or all porcelain material made to match your natural tooth color. Material selection depends on requirements for strength, durability, and esthetics. Any patient that is interested in a fixed, natural tooth replacement should also consider an Implant. If you would like to know if you are a candidate for these or other treatment choices, please call for a consultation visit.

A bridge is a very reliable and natural restoration used to replace missing teeth. It is considered a "fixed" restoration in that it is not removable and is brushed and flossed along with all the other teeth in the mouth. It has chewing strength equal to that of all teeth and has a very natural feel to the tongue and cheeks. When a tooth is lost, a crown is fabricated to cover the tooth both ahead of and behind the space created by the missing tooth. Another crown is then "suspended" between these crowns to replace the missing tooth, thereby "bridging" the gap. The materials choices are similar to those for crowns: Gold alloys, porcelain bonded to metal alloy, or all porcelain material made to match your natural tooth color. Material selection depends on requirements for strength, durability, and esthetics. Any patient that is interested in a fixed, natural tooth replacement should also consider an Implant. If you would like to know if you are a candidate for these or other treatment choices, please contact our office for a consultation visit.

PERIODONTAL (GUM) TREATMENT

Periodontal (gum) disease is a chronic, often symptom-less, infection of the supporting tissues of the teeth that leads to eventual tooth loss when left untreated. It has a strong hereditary component and also can be triggered by smoking, lack of good home care (brushing and flossing) and infrequent professional cleaning visits. Often, the first sign of gum disease is bleeding with brushing or flossing. Other symptoms may include bad breath, receding gums, loose teeth or changes in bite.

Gum disease has been linked to both Cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer's disease.

Treatment consists of removing bacterial deposits that have accumulated below the gum tissue in what is referred to as the periodontal "pocket." Pocket depths are measured and classified according to severity to determine additional treatment options including localized antibiotics and laser treatments. Recent advances in Laser and antibiotic treatments greatly improve our success at treating even more advanced Periodontal Disease. At Cahill Dental Care, we also have an on-site Periodontist who specializes in this very common disease. (Meet our specialists). In all situations, periodontal treatment includes coaching on home care oral hygiene to prevent re-accumulation of the bacteria.

If you have any of these symptoms or a history of previous gum disease, we invite you to contact our office for a comprehensive examination including a thorough periodontal evaluation.

TOOTH EXTRACTIONS

At Cahill Dental Care we focus on the health of your teeth and gums to prevent early or unwanted tooth loss. Unfortunately, there are occasions where the extraction of a tooth may be warranted. After careful examination and diagnosis, we will inform you of alternative treatment options before advising extraction. A tooth may need to be extracted if the following occurs:

• Severe, non-restorable decay
• Advanced periodontal (gum) disease
• Infection or abscess
• Orthodontic correction
• Malpositioned or crowded teeth
• Fractured teeth or roots
• Impacted (unerupted) teeth

Before a tooth is removed, a digital film will be taken in order to understand the shape and position of the tooth and surrounding bone. Many extractions can be accomplished in-office using local anesthesia that effectively numbs the tooth, bone and gums. In cases where a patient prefers to be sedated (sleeping) or when a tooth is impacted (covered by gums and bone) you will be given a referral to an oral surgeon.

It is wise to practice good oral hygiene and have regular dental examinations since the loss of a single tooth can have a major impact upon your oral health and appearance.

See Wisdom Teeth

ROOT CANAL TREATMENT

A root canal treatment (also known as root therapy or endodontic therapy) is necessary when the internal structures of the tooth (the pulp) becomes damaged beyond repair. Common types of injury to the pulp include decay, stress on the tooth in the form of previous large restorations, and physical trauma. If the pulp is damaged it may cause hot/cold sensitivity, biting sensitivity, swelling or a generalized ache in the tooth. Severely infected teeth can become abscessed, which means that the bone surrounding the tooth starts to dissolve away. At this point a root canal is performed to disinfect the interior of the root and seal the area to prevent further bacterial contamination. After a root canal, your dentist will usually recommend a core build-up and crown to restore and stabilize the chewing surface of the tooth.

Root canal therapy can help people keep their teeth by removing only the portion of the tooth that is causing the pain or infection. The only alternative to root canal treatment is removal of the entire tooth.

All of the doctors at Cahill Dental are trained in the use of rotary instrumentation. These specialized endodontic instruments allow for very thorough and expedient cleaning of the intricate canal spaces. Our goal is to assist you in keeping your teeth and make any necessary treatment as comfortable as possible. Contact our office to learn more about root canal therapy or alternative treatments.

HALITOSIS (BAD BREATH)

Halitosis is the scientific term for "bad breath." Bacteria that live inside the mouth is a common cause of bad breath. Because the mouth is moist and warm, it is the perfect environment for the growth of bacteria. Bad breath caused by bacteria in the mouth can usually be treated quite easily with improved home care. Brushing your teeth, tongue and gums after meals as well as flossing and rinsing with mouthwash will usually take care of the problem.

Bad breath may be caused by the following:

• Poor dental hygiene
• Infections in the mouth such as periodontal (gum) disease
• Respiratory tract infections, sinus infections, lung infections
• External agents including foods such as garlic, and coffee as well as tobacco products
• Dry mouth caused by salivary gland problems or breathing through the mouth
• Systemic illnesses such as diabetes, liver disease, lung disease, sinus problems, acid reflux and others

Bad breath in the morning is considered fairly normal and not usually connected to any health concerns. However, persistent bad breath may be a sign of periodontal (gum) disease. The symptoms of gum disease vary in severity, but you should be concerned if you have bleeding gum tissue, painful gum tissue or loose teeth. Contact our office if you have these symptoms and you wish to set up an appointment immediately.

The doctor will perform a physical examination of your mouth to determine the cause of your bad breath. If we suspect that a systemic condition may be the cause, we will refer you to your medical doctor. In severe cases of gum disease, we may recommend a dentist specialized to treat gum disease called a periodontist. At Cahill Dental we have an on-site specialist that comes to our office, so there is no need to travel to another office. (See Periodontal Treatment)

AIR ABRASION

Air abrasion is a drill-less and more gentle approach to remove decay from the teeth. An air abrasion unit is a small instrument that blasts a fine stream of air and particles onto the teeth to spray away decay. The small particles are made of silica, aluminum oxide or baking soda and aid in cleaning the tooth surface. Air abrasion allows for decay to quickly be removed while conserving healthy tooth structure. The particles and decay are then suctioned out of the mouth.

Air abrasion is gentle because it generates no heat, sound, pressure or vibration. In addition, it reduces the need for anesthesia, making it an ideal choice for children and those who experience dental anxiety.

TMJ DISORDER TREATMENT

At Cahill Dental Care we offer a selection of oral appliances to alleviate symptoms and damage that is a result of nocturnal grinding and clenching habits. We are also trained in fabricating daytime athletic performance appliances. These vary in form, function and fee.

Night time habits often present one of two ways:

• Clenching is a forceful squeezing of the teeth resulting in pressures more than 18 times that of chewing force.
• Bruxing is an equally forceful sawing or grinding of the teeth.
• A patient may exhibit either or both.
• A patient may display clenching/bruxing nightly, continuously, sporadically or occasionally.

Symptoms include:

• Teeth that feel sore to bite pressure
• Teeth that feel loose
• Teeth that are sensitive to temperature or sweets
• Headaches occurring in the face and temples
• Migraine headaches
• Pain radiating to the jaw joint and ear
• Buzzing or ringing in the ears

What we look for:

• Fractured teeth or fillings
• Worn teeth
• Shifting teeth
• Muscles that are tender to touch

Depending upon the frequency and symptoms associated with a patient's nocturnal habits, we will recommend a particular style of oral appliance.

Athletic-enhancing appliances are also fabricated for patients with particular needs. A low frequency tens unit is used before bite determination to relax chewing and cervical muscles and thereby find an ideal position. The appliance then positions the lower jaw in harmony with optimum muscle length and airway opening. It is thought that the athlete's performance is enhanced by increased oxygen flow and balance.

ORTHODONTICS

Orthodontics is the art of using appliances to straighten and align teeth. Most commonly it involves the use of braces to move teeth into their proper positioning. In this method, brackets are bonded to the teeth and arch wires are threaded through the brackets. The arch wires act as a track to guide each tooth to its proper position. There are several types of orthodontic braces available to patients, including the more traditional metal braces, ceramic "tooth colored" brackets, as well as clear plastic braces (Invisalign).

INVISALIGN

Invisalign is a revolutionary system which can straighten teeth without the use of metal braces. You can have beautifully straight teeth by using the clear plastic aligner system that your dentist custom designs specifically for you using Invisalign.

With Invisalign, your teeth are straightened by wearing a series of clear plastic aligners. The aligners are so inconspicuous that most people won't be able to tell you are wearing them. Invisalign allows you to continue to enjoy your active lifestyle. Just remove the aligners when you eat, drink or clean your teeth. You may even take them out for an occasional special event like weddings, prom or an important social function. Because they are clear and thin, your natural tooth color shows through. Invisalign also has very smooth edges so there is no tissue irritation while wearing them. You will be able to wear the Invisalign aligners virtually unnoticed.

If you want to make a life changing enhancement to your smile without having to wear metal braces, Invisalign may be right choice for you.

See "Invisalign."

CEREC

CEREC is an acronym for Charismatic Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics. With CEREC's CAD-CAM technology, the crown is made by a computer while you wait, thus eliminating the second appointment and the temporary crown. These CEREC crowns are milled out of pure ceramic (NO METAL).

Advantages of CEREC:

• CEREC crowns are made in one visit, saving both the dentist and the patient time.
• With CEREC, there is no need for a temporary crown, which eliminates one of the potential discomforts for the patient.
• CEREC crowns have no metal in them, resulting in a life-like restoration. This allows for a much more conservative preparation saving valuable tooth structure.
• CEREC material and technology can also be used for fillings. Since they are made out of porcelain, they are more durable than typical white composite fillings.
• Best of all: your CEREC crown is designed and made by your doctor, NOT a lab technician that has never seen you.

CEREC Technology for Single Visit Porcelain Restorations:

3D image of single tooth and restoration:

The CEREC system allows the doctor to take a digital image of the tooth after preparing the tooth for the restoration. This step replaces the typical impression that doctors send to the lab. This digital image is then used to make a 3D computer generated replication of the tooth. The resulting image is then used to design the "Perfect" restoration for the patient. This step takes about 5 minutes, and then the milling machine makes your restoration in 10-15 minutes out of a porcelain block. 20 minutes later, the custom designed restoration is permanently placed and NO temporaries are needed.

SEDATION DENTISTRY for DENTAL ANXIETY

Dental sedation is a technique that can be used when a patient suffers from dental anxiety or dental phobia. We are happy to offer a number of solutions for our patients to make their dental visit as comfortable as possible. Sedation dentistry techniques enable patients - who might otherwise avoid the dentist - to receive dental treatment necessary for a healthy smile.

Depending on the extent of the anxiety or phobia, varying degrees of dental sedation can be utilized as described below.

Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Nitrous Oxide sedation, also known as "laughing gas" is commonly used to make treatment more comfortable. This sedation is inhaled through a mask that allows you to breathe in the medication and induces a state of relaxation. Local anesthetic will be administered in conjunction with nitrous oxide to eliminate pain.

Oral Sedatives
This medication can be given to a patient the night before a dentistry procedure or 30 minutes to an hour prior to the dental appointment, depending on the severity of the anxiety. Oral sedatives do not provide pain relief, so an injection of local anesthetic will also be administered.

Intravenous (IV) Sedation
IV Sedation provides relaxation medication through a small needle inserted in your hand or arm. Like oral sedatives, IV sedation does not provide pain relief, so a local anesthetic will also be administered. Intravenous sedation allows patients to still be awake but in an extreme state of relaxation, feeling little or no pain.

WISDOM TOOTH EXTRACTIONS

Wisdom teeth are the very last molars to erupt into the mouth and there is often not enough room for them to align themselves properly. They can be rotated, tipped or only partially erupted. In most cases, they jeopardize the adjacent teeth and are recommended for extraction.

At Cahill Dental Care we will evaluate your wisdom teeth along with all the other teeth in the mouth and advise you on whether or not extractions are necessary. Depending upon the degree of difficulty, we may refer you to an Oral Surgeon where you will be offered the option of sedation. As a general rule, wisdom teeth that not completely erupted are more challenging to remove.

In the case of more simple extractions that can be completed at Cahill Dental Care, a patient may also chose partial sedation when seeing our in office specialist, Dr. Kingston.

If you have questions about your wisdom teeth, contact our office for an examination.

COMPUTERIZED

Our office uses computerized shade matching to make restorations that perfectly match the color of your natural teeth. Old methods of shade matching can be inaccurate and inconsistent. Our shade matching system is a small hand-held device that captures tooth hue, value and chroma to create precise color matches. With this technology, you can be confident that your restorations will beautifully match your natural teeth.

AQUA ABRASION

Aqua abrasion is a new cutting and polishing systems that works in the same fashion as air abrasion. In addition to removing decay and preparing restorations, it can be used to effectively clean and polish the teeth through a fine stream of water that is sprayed onto the tooth surface. The aquabrasion system can replace the drill in many dental procedures and it quickly removes decay while conserving healthy tooth structure. Its gentle nature can eliminate the need for local anesthesia in many procedures.

CAD/CAM CHAIRSIDE RESTORATION SYSTEM

Our office utilizes CAD/CAM technology. CAD/CAM stands for "computer-aided design" and "computer-aided manufacturing". This technology allows the dentist to use an intra-oral scanner inside your mouth to take a digital scan of a tooth that has been prepared to receive a crown. Using special software, the data from the scan is used to generate a design (CAD) for a custom crown. This program will also generate a custom blue print and guide lines to manufacture the new crown (CAM). This software, paired with a state-of-the-art milling machine, enables our office to create precise and custom crowns, inlays and onlays in one single dental visit.

LUMINEERS

LUMINEERS® BY CERINATE® are porcelain veneers that offer the painless way to a permanently whiter and perfectly aligned smile. These contact lens-thin "smile shapers" can be applied to teeth without any grinding or shaving, transforming teeth into a naturally beautiful smile that looks perfect for every individual. LUMINEERS can even be placed over existing crown or bridgework without having to replace them.

Our team has taken numerous advanced training courses on this procedure. To see if you are a candidate, call our office for a complimentary consultation.

Click here to learn about LUMINEERS.