Services

Comprehensive Dental Exams

Dental exams are performed using digital x-rays, digital photographs and the experience of the dentist.  This also includes a soft tissue exam of the oral cavity.

Tooth Cleaning

Dental cleanings for all ages from the young to adults. Periodontal Disease Screening and Cleanings – Gum disease can affect your general health, and has been linked to many more advanced problems like heart disease, so healthy gums are very important.

Restorations

Fillings

Many materials are available from dental amalgams, tooth colored fillings, porcelain inlays, even gold.  The best options for your mouth will be discussed with Dr. Whitman prior to placement.  A patient’s needs can vary with cost and appearance.

Crowns

Also known as caps by some.  Crowns are needed when loss of tooth structure, due to decay or breakage, requires the added strength of a full coverage crown.  They are also used for final restoration after endodontic treatment (root canal).  Crowns are usually tooth colored (porcelain), but can also be made from dental metals and gold.

Tooth Replacement

Fixed Bridges

Non removable tooth replacement for single to multiple missing teeth.  Fixed bridges are like crowns but span the space of the missing tooth or teeth, and connect to a tooth structure on both sides of the space.  Many insurance plans will help defray the cost in most cases.  Bridges are subject to pre-approval.

Removable Partial Dentures

Acrylic partial dentures may be used as an interim treatment while healing after tooth loss and before a more permanent replacement can be made, such as a cast partial, fixed bridge, or implant.  Cast partial dentures are usually made from both acrylic and cast metal with clasps fitting around several remaining teeth making it very durable.

Endodontic Treatment

Root canals are needed if there has been damage to the tooth’s nerve chamber.  Damage may be caused by decay, cracking or injury, and an evaluation with an x-ray is needed to diagnose and treat.  Most teeth can be treated, including molars.  After endodontic treatment the tooth will usually require a full coverage crown for final restoration.

Tooth Removal/Extraction

Any tooth requiring extraction will need to be evaluated with x-rays.  Medication treatment may be necessary before a tooth can be extracted.  This will be discussed with the patient.

Emergency Exam/Treatment

Every attempt is made to treat the patient promptly, most instances will require x-ray evaluation.

Second Opinions

We offer second opinions if recent, readable x-rays are brought with the patient, or we can take additional x-rays at minimal cost to provide the patient with an accurate diagnosis.  We will provide the best options and reasonable fees available to you.

*Cosmetic Procedures

Bleaching

This is the simplest and most economical way to brighten your smile.  Many products are available from strips to custom tray bleaching.  Cost and procedures can be discussed with the dentist and hygienist.  It is necessary to have a complete exam, x-rays and dental cleaning prior to bleaching.  Bleaching may not be for everyone.  For approximately 9% of the population, bleaching will not work.

Porcelain Veneers

Veneers are used to cover severely discolored teeth and close spaces or reshape teeth. *Most cosmetic procedures are not covered by dental insurance.