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

Toddler & Infant Dental Care in Calgary | Onyx Dental

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At Onyx Dental Care, we believe healthy smiles start early. Our team is passionate about supporting families through each stage of oral health development. That’s why we provide trusted, gentle, and accessible infant dental care in Calgary to give your child the best start possible.

Why Infant Dental Care Matters

Strong baby teeth set the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Baby teeth support chewing, speaking, and proper alignment of adult teeth. Some baby teeth remain in place until 12–13 years of age, so keeping them healthy is essential.

Dental care starts even before teeth appear — by gently cleaning your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth. Once teeth erupt, brushing and regular exams become key to prevention.

Understanding Early Childhood Tooth Decay

Tooth decay in infants and toddlers — also known as early childhood cavities — is common but preventable. It can begin as soon as the first tooth appears. Without treatment, decay can lead to pain, infection, and even damage the developing adult tooth underneath.

Common causes of early childhood decay:

  • Frequent snacking on sugary or sticky foods
  • Prolonged use of bottles or sippy cups with milk or juice
  • Poor brushing habits
  • Using non-fluoride toothpaste
  • Sharing spoons or soothers (which can transfer cavity-causing bacteria)

Tips to Prevent Tooth Decay in Young Children

  1. Start cleaning gums early — even before teeth appear
  2. Brush twice daily with a rice-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste once the first tooth comes in
  3. Increase to a pea-sized amount at age 3
  4. Use a soft-bristled infant toothbrush
  5. Lift the lip to check for white or brown spots (signs of early decay)
  6. Encourage drinking plain water between meals
  7. Avoid juice or milk at bedtime

When Should My Child Visit the Dentist?

The Canadian Dental Association recommends a first dental visit by age 1 or within 6 months of the first tooth. Early visits help us:

uncheckedMonitor development

uncheckedOffer brushing and feeding advice

uncheckedDiscuss fluoride use

uncheckedCatch early signs of decay

Our Calgary team makes these visits fun and friendly to build trust and ease anxiety.

What About Teething and Soothers?

Teething typically begins around 6 months. Comfort your child with:

• A clean, chilled teething ring or wet cloth

• Avoid sugary teething cookies or biscuits

When using a soother:

• Choose the right size and keep it clean

• Never dip it in sweet substances

• Begin weaning off the soother by age 2–3 or sooner!

Fluoride and Your Child’s Smile

Fluoride is a safe and effective way to strengthen enamel and prevent decay. We recommend:

  1. Using fluoride toothpaste (in appropriate amounts)
  2. Professional fluoride applications during cleanings
  3. Discussing supplemental fluoride if your local water supply is non-fluoridated

Start Your Toddler & infant Dental Care with Onyx

We specialize in family and pediatric dental care that’s calm, gentle, and educational. We’ll guide you every step of the way to ensure your child develops healthy habits early.

📍 Located in Central Calgary, we’re currently accepting new patients — including infants and toddlers.

Book your child’s first visit with us today and let’s grow a healthy smile together.

👉 Book Online at 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!

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 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 Root Canal Treatment: Saving Your Tooth

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At Onyx Dental Care, we’re committed to helping you maintain your natural smile. Root canal treatment is a vital procedure for eliminating pain and infection, allowing you to save a tooth that might otherwise need extraction.

This guide explains the materials, benefits, risks, and post-treatment care associated with root canal therapy.

What Materials Are Used in Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment involves carefully shaping, cleaning, and filling the tooth’s root canals to ensure the area remains free from re-infection.

The process uses the following materials:

  • Files: Small tools used to widen and shape the root canals.
  • Disinfecting Solutions: Cleans the canals to eliminate bacteria.
  • Gutta-Percha: A biocompatible material used to fill the root canals.
  • Antibacterial Sealer: Prevents bacteria from re-entering the root canal space.

What Are the Benefits of Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment provides significant advantages for your oral health:

  • Eliminates Pain and Infection: Relieves discomfort and removes the source of infection.
  • Saves the Tooth: Preserves your natural tooth structure, preventing the need for extraction.
  • Promotes Oral Health: Prevents the spread of infection to other teeth or parts of the body.
  • Restores Functionality: Allows the tooth to function normally for chewing and speaking.

What Are the Risks of Root Canal Treatment?

While root canal therapy is highly effective, some inherent risks exist:

  • Continued Pain or Infection: Up to 10% of treated teeth may experience ongoing discomfort due to:
    • Remaining nerve tissue in the canal space.
    • Incomplete filling of the canal with gutta-percha and sealer.
    • Undetected root fractures present during treatment.
  • Higher Risk of Fracture: Root canal-treated teeth are more prone to fracturing compared to untreated teeth. Placing a crown or onlay to cover the cusps is highly recommended to reduce this risk.

What Are the Alternatives to Root Canal Treatment?

The only alternative to a root canal is tooth extraction. However, extraction has its drawbacks:

Lingering Infection: Without a root canal, the infection will persist and may spread, causing pain and swelling.

Reach out to our team at Onyx Dental today if you experience an infection.

Tooth Replacement Needed: An extracted tooth must be replaced with a dental implant, bridge, or partial denture to maintain oral function and alignment.

Your dentist will explain the best course of action based on your oral health and symptoms.

Post-Treatment Considerations

After a root canal, proper care is essential for healing and long-term success:

Temporary Filling: A temporary filling may be placed to protect the treated tooth while it heals. This should be replaced with a permanent restoration, such as a crown, as soon as possible.

Restoration Placement: Permanent coverage helps prevent bacteria from re-entering the canal and protects the tooth from fractures.

Ongoing Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss daily to maintain the health of the treated tooth and surrounding area.

Root canal treatment is a reliable way to save an infected tooth and restore your oral health. At Onyx Dental Care, we provide expert care and guidance throughout the process to ensure a successful outcome.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of an infected tooth or want to learn more about root canal treatment, contact us today or schedule an appointment.

Let’s work together to protect your smile and maintain your oral health.