Coping with Dental Anxiety in Calgary

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Drills, needles, and discomfort — for many people, these are the first thoughts that come to mind when thinking about a trip to the dentist. At Onyx Dental Care, we know that dental anxiety is real, and it affects people of all ages. Whether it’s a fear of pain, past trauma, or simply feeling overwhelmed, our team is here to support you with compassionate, judgment-free dental care in Calgary.

Understanding Dental Anxiety

Dental anxiety ranges from mild uneasiness to full dental phobia, where individuals avoid care altogether. This fear can lead to a cycle: delaying treatment → increased oral health issues → needing more complex procedures → worsening fear.

If you or a loved one is experiencing dental anxiety in Calgary, know that you’re not alone — and we’re here to help.

Why Regular Visits Matter

Routine exams and cleanings are the best defense against dental problems and help reduce the likelihood of pain or complex treatments. Plus, your oral health impacts your whole body — issues like gum disease can worsen diabetes and heart conditions. Prevention is power.

Pain Management Options

Afraid of pain? We’ve got you covered. At Onyx Dental Care, we use:

• Topical numbing gel to reduce injection discomfort

• Local anesthesia for targeted numbness

• Post-care recommendations such as OTC pain relief, cold compresses, and rinses

All of this ensures your experience is as comfortable as possible.

Tips to Manage Dental Anxiety

We recommend trying these before considering medication:

• Practice deep breathing or meditation before and during your appointment

• Bring headphones for music or calming podcasts

• Use a fidget tool or stress ball during treatment

• Ask to bring a support person to your appointment

Our team will walk you through the process, answer all your questions, and move at your pace.

Sedation Dentistry Options

For moderate to severe cases of anxiety, we also offer safe sedation options, including:

• Oral sedatives like diazepam (prescribed ahead of time)

• Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) for relaxation during treatment

• General anesthesia for complex cases or extreme phobia (by referral)

We’ll review your medical history to determine the safest and most effective plan.

Talk to Us — We’re Here for You

If you struggle with dental anxiety in Calgary, please don’t hesitate to talk with us. We’re here to listen, not judge. Whether you’re overdue for a cleaning or worried about a specific procedure, we’ll take it step-by-step — always with your comfort in mind.

At Onyx Dental Care, we don’t just care for teeth — we care for people.

📍 Located in Central Calgary, we’re proud to serve families across:

Forest Lawn • Ogden • Inglewood • Riverbend • Dover • Ramsay • and beyond

📅 Book your visit today and experience what gentle, anxiety-aware dental care can feel like.👉 onyxdentalcare.ca

Trusted Family Dental Care in Calgary | Onyx Dental

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At Onyx Dental Care, we are committed to delivering top-quality dental care services to patients of all ages in Calgary. Our clinic is geared to being the best family dental care clinic in Calgary. Whether you need routine check-ups, restorative treatments, or cosmetic enhancements, our Calgary dental office is here to provide comprehensive, stress-free care tailored to your needs.

Our Goal is to Offer the Best Family Dental Care Services

Our mission is to ensure that every patient receives the best possible family dental care services in a welcoming and professional environment. With state-of-the-art technology and a team of dedicated professionals, we provide family dentistry that prioritizes prevention, comfort, and long-term oral health.

We Focus on Educating Our Patients

At Onyx Dental Care, we believe that knowledge is key to maintaining a healthy smile. Our team takes the time to educate our patients on proper oral hygiene, treatment options, and preventative measures. Whether it’s understanding the benefits of fluoride treatments, the importance of dental sealants, or how to maintain a bright smile, we ensure our patients are well-informed about their dental care services.

Choose the Best Dentist for Your Family’s Dental Care

Finding a trusted family dentist in Calgary is essential for long-term oral health. Our experienced team provides personalized treatment plans designed to meet the unique needs of each family member, from children to seniors. We focus on preventive dentistry, restorative treatments, and cosmetic enhancements to ensure your family’s smiles stay healthy and bright.

We Strive to Provide Stress-Free Family Dental Care

Calgary’s Best Family Dental Care for you

Visiting the dental office should be a comfortable and stress-free experience. Our team is committed to creating a calming environment, using gentle techniques, and ensuring patient comfort at every step. Whether you’re visiting for a routine cleaning or a more complex procedure, we make sure your experience is as seamless as possible.

We Are Your Family Dentists

As a trusted dental clinic in Central Calgary, we take pride in offering comprehensive family dental care under one roof. Our services include preventive dentistry, pediatric care, senior dental care, restorative treatments, cosmetic enhancements, and emergency dental care. We are dedicated to keeping your family’s smiles strong and healthy for years to come.

Where We’re Located in Central Calgary

Conveniently located in Central Calgary, our clinic is easily accessible for families seeking reliable and professional dental care. Whether you’re looking for a Calgary dental office or a family-friendly clinic in your neighborhood, we’re here to serve you with excellence in family dentistry.

Best Family Dental Care

Our family dental care services focus on creating lifelong oral health habits for every member of your household. From children’s first dental visits to adult preventive care and senior dental services, we offer a full range of treatments tailored to your family’s needs.

Best Family Dental Care Services

At Onyx Dental Care, we offer a wide variety of dental services to meet your oral health needs, including:

– Routine cleanings and check-ups

– Fillings, crowns, and bridges

– Teeth whitening and cosmetic dentistry

– Pediatric and senior dental care

– Emergency dental services

For Patients

We prioritize patient comfort and convenience. New patients are always welcome, and we provide transparent consultations, flexible scheduling, and personalized treatment plans. If you’re looking for a Calgary dental clinic that puts patients first, you’ve come to the right place.

Conveniently located on 17th Avenue, serving:

Forest Lawn

Forest Heights

Radisson Heights

Southview

Bonnybrook

Ogden

Dover

Inglewood

Riverbend

Highfield

Ramsay

Our Clinic

Our modern dental office is equipped with the latest technology to ensure high-quality treatment. We maintain the highest standards of cleanliness and safety, making every visit to our clinic a comfortable experience for you and your family.

Monthly Dental Tips

Stay informed with our monthly dental tips, where we share expert advice on maintaining a healthy smile. From proper brushing techniques to tips for preventing cavities, our goal is to help you and your family keep your smiles in top condition.

Now Accepting Canada Dental Care Plan (CDCP)

We are proud to accept the Canada Dental Care Plan (CDCP) to ensure affordable access to the best family dental care. If you have any questions about eligibility or coverage, our team is happy to assist you in making the most of your benefits.

Book Your Appointment Today

If you’re looking for high-quality family dentistry in Calgary, look no further than Onyx Dental Care. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones achieve and maintain a lifetime of healthy smiles. Book your dental appointment today and experience the best in dental care services!

Welcome to Onyx Dental Care: Your Guide to Getting Started

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At Onyx Dental Care, we’re delighted to have you as part of our dental family. We welcome you to our Calgary Dental Care Clinic!

Whether it’s your first visit or you’re returning to care for your oral health, we’re here to make your experience comfortable and stress-free. This guide outlines everything you need to know to get started on your journey to a healthy, confident smile.

Step 1: Booking Your First Appointment

Scheduling your first visit is simple. You can:

  • Call Us: Reach out to our friendly team at 587.838.6699
  • Online Booking: Use our convenient online appointment tool to choose a time that works for you.
  • Email: Contact us at info@onyxdentalcare.ca for assistance with scheduling.

We’ll work with you to find an appointment time that suits your schedule.

Step 2: Preparing for Your Appointment

Here’s what you can do to ensure a smooth first visit:

  1. Complete Your New Patient Forms: Save time by filling out your forms online by logging onto your profile.
  2. Gather Insurance Information: If applicable, bring your insurance card or details.
  3. Bring a List of Medications: Let us know about any medications or medical conditions that may affect your oral health.
  4. Arrive Early: Arriving 10-15 minutes early allows time for check-in and any additional paperwork.

Step 3: Your First Visit

During your initial visit, we’ll take the time to understand your unique needs and goals. Your appointment may include:

  • Comprehensive Exam: A thorough evaluation of your teeth, gums, and overall oral health.
  • Digital X-Rays: Advanced imaging to identify potential issues and plan your care.
  • Discussion of Concerns: Share any dental concerns or goals for your smile with our team.
  • Treatment Plan: We’ll outline personalized recommendations to address your needs and maintain your oral health.

Step 4: Ongoing Care and Follow-Up

At Onyx Dental Care, we believe in building lasting relationships with our patients. To keep your smile healthy:

  • Follow Your Treatment Plan: Attend any recommended follow-up appointments for treatments or cleanings.
  • Schedule Regular Check-Ups: Preventive care appointments every six months help catch potential issues early.
  • Stay Connected: Contact us anytime with questions or concerns about your dental health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What if I have dental anxiety?
A: We understand that many patients feel nervous about visiting the dentist. Our team specializes in creating a calming, supportive environment. Let us know your concerns, and we’ll tailor your experience to ensure your comfort.

Q: What payment options are available?
A: We accept a variety of payment methods, including insurance, credit cards, and payment plans. Visit our Financial Options page for more details.

Q: Can I refer a friend or family member?
A: Absolutely! We love welcoming new patients through referrals. Ask about our referral program at your next visit.

Contact Us Today

We’re here to answer your questions and help you get started. If you need assistance or want to schedule your first appointment, contact us here or call us at 587.838.6699

We look forward to helping you achieve a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles!

Understanding Dental Build-Ups: Your Comprehensive Guide

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At Onyx Dental Care, we are committed to educating our patients and providing the highest standard of care. Dental build-ups are key procedures that restores damaged or decayed teeth and prepares them for restorative treatments like crowns, bridges, inlays, onlays, or veneers. This guide will walk you through the process, materials, benefits, risks, and care instructions—all in line with our patient-first philosophy.

What Material is Used in a Build-Up?

We use durable, high-quality materials for build-ups to ensure strength, function, and a natural look:

Tooth-Coloured Composite Material: Matches your tooth’s natural shade for seamless results.

Silver Amalgam Material: A traditional, strong option for lasting functionality.

These materials allow us to restore your tooth’s shape and strength while preserving aesthetics.

What Are the Benefits of a Build-Up?

Choosing a build-up comes with several advantages:

  • Restores Tooth Structure: Repairs decay or damage, creating the ideal shape for further treatments.
  • Prepares for Restorative Work: Provides a strong foundation for crowns, bridges, veneers, and more.
  • Enhances Functionality: Supports proper biting and chewing.
  • Protects Oral Health: Prevents further decay or structural issues.

What Are the Risks of a Build-Up?

While a build-up is highly effective, it’s important to be aware of potential risks:

  • Post-Treatment Sensitivity: Temporary sensitivity may occur, lasting up to three months.
  • Future Root Canal Treatment: Approximately 6% of teeth with build-ups may require a root canal over time.

We take every precaution to minimize these risks and ensure your comfort.

What Are the Alternatives to a Build-Up?

For teeth requiring crowns, bridges, inlays, onlays, or veneers, a build-up is the most cost effective and acceptable solution. It ensures the tooth is adequately prepared and protected for long-term success.

How Can an Existing Bite Affect a Build-Up?

Your bite plays a crucial role in the success of a build-up:

Excessive Biting Forces: Can lead to breakage or loosening of the build-up.

Untreated Bite Issues: May cause the treated tooth or build-up to fracture.

Addressing bite issues is part of our comprehensive care approach to ensure lasting results.

Post-Treatment Care and Restrictions

Proper care after a build-up is essential for its longevity. Follow these guidelines:

  • Avoid Hard, Sticky or Staining Foods: These can damage the build-up.
  • Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss daily to maintain the health of the treated tooth.
  • Schedule Regular Check-Ups: Routine visits help monitor the condition of your build-up and address any issues early.

At Onyx Dental Care, we’re here to guide you through every step of your oral health journey. A dental build-up is a vital procedure for restoring your tooth and preparing it for further restorative treatments. With personalized care, advanced materials, and expert guidance, we ensure the best outcomes for your smile.

If you have any questions or want to learn more, contact our team today or book your appointment online. Let’s keep your smile healthy and strong!

Protecting Your Smile: Understanding Dental Sealants

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At Onyx Dental Care, we prioritize preventive care to help you maintain a healthy, confident smile. Dental sealants are a simple and effective way to protect your teeth from decay, especially for children and adults with vulnerable chewing surfaces. This guide will answer all your questions about dental sealants, including their purpose, benefits, and procedure.

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are thin, durable plastic coatings applied to the pits and grooves of teeth. These areas are prone to trapping plaque and bacteria, increasing the risk of tooth decay. Sealants create a smooth surface, protecting these vulnerable spots from harmful buildup and decay.

Who Should Have Dental Sealants?

Sealants are most commonly recommended for:

  • Children: Permanent molars typically erupt around age six (first molars) and age twelve (second molars). Applying sealants shortly after these teeth emerge provides maximum protection.
  • Adults: Sealants can also benefit adults with deep grooves or pits on their teeth that are susceptible to decay.

Your dentist will assess your teeth to determine if sealants are the right option for you or your child.

How Do Dental Sealants Work?

The pits and grooves on back teeth are often too narrow for toothbrush bristles to clean effectively. This allows plaque and bacteria to accumulate, leading to decay. Sealants fill these areas, creating a barrier that prevents bacteria and plaque from settling, significantly reducing the risk of cavities.

How Are Dental Sealants Placed?

The process of applying dental sealants is quick, painless, and requires no anesthetic or drilling:

  1. Cleaning and Preparation: The tooth surface is thoroughly cleaned and prepped.
  2. Application: The sealant material is spread into the pits and grooves of the tooth.
  3. Curing: The sealant either hardens on its own or is set with a curing light.
  4. Final Check: Your dentist ensures the sealant does not interfere with your bite or chewing.

What Are the Risks of Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are a safe and effective preventive measure, but there are a few considerations:

  • Minimal Risk of Leaks: Rarely, a sealant may leak, leading to decay beneath it. Regular dental check-ups ensure any issues are promptly addressed.
  • Durability: Sealants may need repair or replacement over time, but this is simple and cost-effective.

What Are the Risks of Not Having Dental Sealants?

Without sealants, teeth with deep grooves and pits are more prone to decay. Once decay occurs, the affected tooth will require a filling, which removes some of the natural tooth structure. Over time, this can weaken the tooth.

Dental sealants are a proactive, non-invasive way to protect teeth from decay, particularly for children and adults with vulnerable teeth. At Onyx Dental Care, we’re here to help you make informed decisions about your oral health and provide preventive solutions to keep your smile healthy.

If you’re interested in learning more or scheduling an appointment, contact us today or book your visit online. Let’s work together to safeguard your smile for years to come!

Restoring Balance to Your Bite: Understanding Equilibration

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At Onyx Dental Care, we understand how crucial a balanced bite is for your overall oral health and comfort. Equilibration is an effective procedure designed to address unbalanced bites, relieving muscle strain and preventing long-term damage. Here’s what you need to know about equilibration, its benefits, risks, and what to expect after the procedure. After all Bite balance is key!

What Are the Benefits of Equilibration?

An unbalanced bite can cause a variety of issues, including muscle pain, headaches, abnormal tooth wear, and jaw joint problems. Equilibration offers several key benefits:

  • Improves Bite Alignment: Restores balance to your bite, reducing stress on teeth, muscles, and jaw joints.
  • Relieves Discomfort: Eases muscle pain and tension caused by bite imbalances.
  • Prevents Damage: Protects teeth from abnormal wear and reduces the risk of long-term joint changes.
  • Enhances Oral Function: Improves chewing efficiency and overall comfort.

What Are the Risks of Equilibration?

Equilibration is a safe and effective procedure, but it’s important to be aware of potential risks:

  • Tooth Sensitivity: Some patients may experience temporary sensitivity after the procedure, which usually resolves quickly.
  • Additional Visits: In some cases, equilibration may require multiple visits or the use of a Kois deprogrammer to ensure the bite is fully balanced.
  • Rare Need for Restorative Treatment: If sensitivity persists, sealing the area with a restorative material may be necessary.

Our team takes every precaution to minimize discomfort and ensure a successful outcome.

What Are the Alternatives to Equilibration?

If equilibration isn’t the right option for your needs, there are alternatives to consider:

  • Orthodontics: Moving teeth to improve bite alignment.
  • Dental Restorations: Adjusting tooth shape with crowns, veneers, or other restorative treatments.
  • No Treatment: Opting to leave the bite unadjusted, though this may lead to continued discomfort or damage over time.

Your dentist will recommend the best treatment option based on your symptoms, the condition of your teeth, and the changes needed to balance your bite.

Post-Treatment Considerations

After equilibration, it’s important to understand how your bite and teeth may change over time:

  • Further Adjustments: Some patients may require additional bite balance adjustments as teeth naturally move or wear.
  • Ongoing Monitoring: Regular dental visits help ensure that your bite remains balanced and functional.
  • Sensitivity Awareness: While uncommon, sensitivity may occur and should be monitored.

Our team will guide you through post-treatment care and provide any necessary follow-up to maintain your results.

Equilibration is a transformative procedure that restores balance to your bite, alleviating discomfort and preventing long-term damage. At Onyx Dental Care, we’re committed to helping you achieve optimal oral health and comfort through personalized care and advanced treatments.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of an unbalanced bite or want to learn more about equilibration, contact us today or schedule a consultation. Let’s work together to bring your bite back into balance and enhance your quality of life. Bite balance is important, our team at Onyx Dental Care is here to help.

Understanding Implant-Supported Crowns: A Comprehensive Guide

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At Onyx Dental Care, we’re dedicated to providing the best solutions for restoring your smile and oral function. Implant-supported crowns are a reliable and advanced option for replacing missing teeth, offering durability and a natural appearance. This guide will help you understand the materials, benefits, risks, and considerations associated with implant-supported crowns.

What Materials Are Used in an Implant-Supported Crown?

An implant-supported crown consists of two main components:

  1. Implant: Made of titanium, this serves as the artificial root inserted into the bone.
  2. Crown: The visible part of the restoration, which can be made from:
    • Porcelain
    • Gold alloy (commonly gold, platinum, palladium)
    • Porcelain fused to an inner core of gold alloy
    • Zirconia metal oxide

These materials are chosen for their strength, durability, and aesthetic qualities.

What Are the Benefits of an Implant-Supported Crown?

Implant-supported crowns offer numerous advantages:

  • Natural Appearance: Restores the size, shape, and color of your teeth for a seamless smile.
  • Improved Function: Restores your ability to chew and speak properly.
  • Preserves Oral Health: Prevents adjacent teeth from shifting and maintains jaw alignment.
  • No Damage to Neighbouring Teeth: Unlike bridges, implant-supported crowns don’t require drilling down healthy teeth.

What Are the Risks of an Implant-Supported Crown?

While implant-supported crowns are highly effective, potential risks include:

  • Cementing Challenges: Difficulty in removing cement below the gumline can lead to tissue inflammation.
  • Repair and Maintenance: If repairs are needed, the crown may be damaged during removal.
  • Implant Failure: Rarely, the implant may not adhere to the bone and require replacement.
  • Other Risks: Food entrapment, tissue irritation, and aesthetic challenges with matching adjacent teeth.

Regular dental check-ups minimize these risks and help maintain the crown’s longevity.

What Are the Alternatives to an Implant-Supported Crown?

If an implant-supported crown isn’t suitable for you, alternatives include:

  • Conventional Tooth-Supported Bridges: Requires altering adjacent teeth to support the bridge.
  • Removable Partial Dentures: A less permanent option that can be removed.
  • Leaving the Space: May lead to shifting teeth and bite misalignment over time.

Your dentist will help determine the best option based on your needs and oral health.

How Can an Existing Bite Affect an Implant-Supported Crown?

Bite forces play a significant role in the success of an implant-supported crown:

  • Excessive or Uneven Forces: Can cause chipping, metal wear, screw loosening, or gum and bone loss.
  • Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): May lead to premature failure of the crown or implant.

Addressing bite issues before placing an implant is essential for long-term success.

Post-Treatment Considerations

After receiving an implant-supported crown, proper care is essential:

  • Avoid Abnormal Activities: Don’t use the crown for non-dental purposes (e.g., opening bottles).
  • Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss to prevent food entrapment and gum recession.
  • Regular Check-Ups: Monitor the crown and implant to address any issues early.
  • Expect Minor Changes Over Time: Gum recession or natural aging may alter the appearance slightly.

An implant-supported crown is a durable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing solution for replacing missing teeth. At Onyx Dental Care, we’re committed to ensuring a successful outcome and guiding you through the process with expert care.

If you’re considering an implant-supported crown or have additional questions, contact us today or schedule a consultation. Let’s help you restore your smile and confidence with the best dental solutions available.

Understanding Inlays and Onlays: Restoring Your Smile

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At Onyx Dental Care, we offer advanced solutions like inlays and onlays to restore damaged teeth while preserving their natural structure. These restorations provide strength, function, and aesthetics to teeth that are otherwise at risk of being lost. Here’s what you need to know about inlays and onlays, including their materials, benefits, risks, and alternatives.

What Materials Are Used in Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are crafted from durable, high-quality materials designed to restore the tooth’s appearance and functionality:

  • Porcelain: Offers a natural tooth-like color and is ideal for aesthetic restorations.
  • Gold Alloy: Known for its strength and durability, this material is highly conservative in its preparation and long-lasting.

What Are the Benefits of Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays provide several advantages over traditional fillings or crowns:

  • Restores Natural Shape and Size: Repairs the tooth to its original form, enhancing both function and appearance.
  • Improves Tooth Strength: Reinforces the remaining tooth structure, preventing further damage.
  • Long-Lasting Solution: Durable and resistant to wear, offering improved longevity over direct fillings.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: Porcelain inlays and onlays blend seamlessly with natural teeth.

What Are the Risks of Inlays and Onlays?

While inlays and onlays are highly effective, there are some risks to consider:

  • Tooth Sensitivity: Preparation and placement may cause temporary sensitivity lasting up to three months.
  • Risk of Decay: If the cement seal at the edges is lost, decay can form at the restoration’s margins.
  • Potential for Root Canal Treatment: About 5% of teeth with inlays/onlays may require root canal therapy during their lifetime.
  • Material Wear or Damage: Porcelain may chip, and gold alloy may wear over time.
  • Complications with Root Canals: If a root canal is needed after placement, the restoration may fracture and require replacement.

Our team takes every precaution to minimize these risks and ensure long-term success.

What Are the Alternatives to Inlays and Onlays?

If inlays and onlays aren’t suitable for your needs, there are alternative options:

  • Crowns: Cover the entire tooth but require more extensive preparation, which may weaken the tooth structure.
  • Direct Restorations (Fillings): Composite or amalgam fillings restore the tooth but do not improve its strength or long-term aesthetics as effectively as inlays/onlays.

Your dentist will recommend the most appropriate option based on the condition of your tooth and your treatment goals.

How Can an Existing Bite Affect an Inlay or Onlay?

Bite forces significantly impact the longevity and success of inlays and onlays:

  • Excessive Forces: Can lead to chipping, breaking, or loosening of the restoration.
  • Abnormal Activities: Biting on non-food items like fishing line or opening bottles can damage the restoration.

Addressing bite issues before placing an inlay/onlay ensures better outcomes.

Post-Treatment Care and Limitations

Caring for your inlay or onlay properly will extend its lifespan. Follow these guidelines:

  • Avoid Abnormal Use: Don’t use your teeth for non-chewing activities.
  • Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to protect the margins of the restoration.
  • Monitor Aesthetic Changes: Porcelain may blend well initially but could mismatch as natural teeth age.
  • Regular Check-Ups: Visit your dentist to ensure the restoration remains intact and functional.

Inlays and onlays are excellent solutions for restoring damaged teeth while preserving their natural structure. At Onyx Dental Care, we’re committed to delivering personalized care and high-quality restorations to help you achieve a strong, healthy smile.

If you’re considering inlays or onlays or have questions about your dental health, contact us today or schedule your consultation. Let’s work together to restore your smile with care and precision.

Understanding Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy: A Path to Healthier Gums

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At Onyx Dental Care, we are committed to helping you maintain optimal oral health through advanced treatments like non-surgical periodontal therapy. This procedure is essential for managing gum disease and preventing its progression. Here, we’ll explain the process, benefits, and what to expect during and after treatment.

What Is Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy?

Non-surgical periodontal therapy is a comprehensive approach to treating gum disease by removing plaque and calculus (tartar) from above and below the gum line. It targets bacterial infections, promotes healing, and helps restore gum and bone health. The therapy may include:

  • Scaling and Root Planing: Handheld instruments and ultrasonic scalers are used to clean the teeth and smooth root surfaces.
  • Local Anesthetic: Administered to minimize sensitivity and ensure patient comfort.
  • Antibacterial Rinses: Reduce plaque and bacteria in the treated areas.
  • Medications: Antibiotic or antiviral pills may be prescribed to combat infections and manage inflammation.
  • Laser Treatment: Used to control bacterial levels and enhance healing.

Benefits of Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy

This therapy offers significant advantages for improving oral and overall health, including:

  • Elimination of Infection: Removes harmful bacteria and plaque to stop gum disease progression.
  • Prevention of Tooth Loss: Strengthens the foundation of your teeth by promoting healthy gums and bone.
  • Reduced Gum Inflammation: Alleviates swelling, bleeding, and tenderness.
  • Improved Breath: Reduces bad breath caused by gum disease.
  • Lower Risk of Systemic Diseases: Decreases the likelihood of conditions associated with periodontal disease, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Pregnancy Health: Reduces the risk of preterm low birth weight in pregnant women.

What Are the Possible Side Effects?

While non-surgical periodontal therapy is effective, it may result in temporary side effects, including:

  • Gum Tenderness: Minor discomfort in the treated areas.
  • Open Gum Spaces: Shrinkage of swollen gums may expose spaces between teeth, which can trap food and increase sensitivity.
  • Tooth Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to temperature changes, which typically subsides over time.
  • Temporary Staining: Certain antibacterial rinses may cause minor discoloration of teeth.

Why Is Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy Important?

Periodontal disease is not curable, but it can be managed effectively with timely treatment and consistent home care. Without intervention, gum disease can lead to:

  • Progressive bone and gum loss.
  • Increased risk of tooth loss.
  • Greater susceptibility to systemic health issues.

Post-Treatment Care

Maintaining the results of non-surgical periodontal therapy requires ongoing care:

  • Excellent Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss daily to keep plaque and bacteria at bay.
  • Regular Dental Visits: Attend follow-ups and professional cleanings as recommended by your dentist.
  • Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Avoid smoking, which can hinder gum healing and exacerbate periodontal issues.

Non-surgical periodontal therapy is a vital step in managing gum disease and protecting your overall health. At Onyx Dental Care, we tailor treatments to meet your individual needs, ensuring the best outcomes for your smile and well-being.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease or want to learn more about this treatment, contact us today or schedule an appointment. Let’s work together to achieve healthier gums and a brighter future for your smile.

Understanding Post and Core Restorations: A Comprehensive Guide

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Post & core restorations are common procedures designed to support a crown on a tooth with insufficient structure. At Onyx Dental Care, we are committed to restoring your smile with durable and effective solutions. This guide provides insights into the materials, benefits, risks, and care associated with post and core restorations.

What Materials Are Used in a Post and Core?

Post and core restorations are crafted using durable materials to ensure strength and longevity:

Posts: Made from:

  1. Metal
  2. Porcelain
  3. Fibrous resin material

Cores: Constructed with:

  1. Tooth-colored composite filling material
  2. Silver amalgam filling material

Alternatively, the post and core may be made as a single unit from:

  1. Porcelain
  2. Gold alloy

What Are the Benefits of a Post and Core Restorations?

Post and core restorations provide critical support for teeth with minimal remaining structure:

  • Restoration Support: Holds a crown securely in place.
  • Structural Integrity: Reinforces a tooth weakened by decay or previous treatments.
  • Longevity: Offers a durable foundation for crowns, improving the tooth’s function and appearance.

What Are the Risks of a Post and Core?

While effective, post and core restorations carry some inherent risks:

  • Tooth Root Damage: The root may be perforated during post placement, necessitating extraction.
  • Post Failure: Stress can torque the post, leading to root fractures or loosening of the restoration.
  • Cement Failure: The bond between the post, core, and tooth may weaken, causing leakage or detachment.

What Are the Alternatives to a Post and Core Restorations?

If a post and core is not suitable, alternative treatments include:

Dental Implants: Replacing the tooth with an implant-supported crown.

Bridge: Using adjacent teeth to support a dental bridge.

Partial Denture: A removable option to replace the missing tooth.

Your dentist will recommend the most appropriate solution based on your oral health and treatment goals.

How Can an Existing Bite Affect a Post & Core Restorations?

Bite forces can significantly impact the longevity of a post and core restoration:

  • Excessive Biting Forces: Can lead to post fracture, loosening, or tooth damage.
  • Untreated Bite Issues: May cause stress on the restoration, compromising its durability.

Addressing bite alignment before and after the procedure helps ensure long-term success.

Post-Treatment Care and Restrictions

Proper care is essential to maintain the integrity of your post and core restoration:

  • Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: Chewing hard or sticky items may cause the restoration to loosen or break.
  • Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to prevent decay around the restoration.
  • Attend Regular Check-Ups: Your dentist will monitor the restoration’s condition and address any concerns early.

A post & core restoration is a reliable and effective solution for reinforcing a tooth and supporting a crown. At Onyx Dental Care, we ensure the procedure is tailored to your unique needs, offering durable results and improved functionality.

If you’re considering a post and core restoration or have additional questions, contact us today or schedule a consultation. Let’s work together to restore your smile and confidence with expert care. Post & Core Restorations shouldn’t scare your smile away!