Complete Dental/Oral Exam

Your first visit at our office will be to examine and evaluate your oral health. It entails a thorough examination and recording of the current condition of your teeth, gums and surrounding shard and soft tissue along with a complete series of radiographs. It also includes an Oral Cancer Screening, an evaluation of your occlusion and jaw joint function. This baseline evaluation will provide us with the information necessary for complete assessment of your dental health. We highly encourage you to bring your most recent x-rays from your prior dentist. This way it helps us track your dental progress and perform your caries risk assessment.

Emergency Dental Appointments

Toothache is one of the worst pains ever and it often manifests while expecting the least. When a tooth breaks in the middle of an everyday meal can be very unsettling. For situations like this we offer emergency dental appointment for quick problem focused evaluation and often times we perform same day dental treatment as necessary to help you continue your everyday life.

CT / CAT Scan Technology

Our CT scan technology allows us to see all the teeth, jaws, TMJ, sinus, cyst/tumors, and breathing airway in three dimensions. Unlike traditional x-rays its accuracy allows us to detect cracks in the teeth and jaws. It also helps evaluate root canal system, extent of decay, and bone density. Having this technology on hand is a game changer for predictable and safe implant placement. This modern CBCT technology also enables us evaluation of TMJ Disorders, Sinus imaging, Airway assessments and much more.

Dental Prophylaxis

We schedule one hour for your dental cleaning appointments. Our hygienist will scale above the gums and polish your teeth with the appropriate instrumentation. This procedure is complimented by an examination and appropriate periodontal pocket measurement. If you have any tooth pain or other concern Dr. Shah will come for a check-up and answer your questions. We also perform Root Planning which is an advanced procedure that is scaling below the gum and is routinely done with local anesthetic. Studies have proven over decades that dental cleaning appointments are the cornerstone of long life of your teeth and overall health also.

Teeth Grinding and TMJ Therapy

We fabricate the custom fitted bite appliance (hard, soft, and a combination) that is commonly known as "night guard". Its purpose is to relax jaw muscles, relieve TMJ pain and tension headaches from clenching. An appliance like this also prevents tooth wear from night grinding, and prevent TMJ dysfunction.

Tooth Retainer Therapy

We can make orthodontic clear aligner that can be comfortably worn overnight to preserve your bite and keep teeth from shifting over time. This can be used also to evaluate if someone is grinding their teeth or not.

Teeth Whitening/Bleaching

The shade or color of your teeth can be lightened using our in-office bleaching or by using custom made trays that we fabricate. Our unique teeth whitening agent has desensitizer inside the formulation for the best outcome.

Cosmetic Teeth Contouring

It's a technique to conservatively reshape the shape and edges of teeth to improve esthetics. This can resolve smile issues easily without the need of any restorations. With our tools chipped edges and sharp points of the teeth can be smoothened within a minute with no anesthetic.

Dental Veneers and Smile Make-overs

The porcelain laminates we fabricate are like ultra thin contact lens for your teeth. These custom made ceramic shells that are bonded to the front surface of your teeth. Veneers we make can correct and brighten your smile per your desire. Since this restoration requires minimal (0.5 to 0.7 mm) to zero tooth reduction it helps us preserve the natural tooth structure and still achieve best smile.

Tooth Movement with Clear aligners / Invisalign

Invisalign® style clear aligner treatment is a state of the art digitally driven concept to achieve tooth movement. These clear removable aligners straighten teeth as definitive treatment or as an adjunct to complex dental restoration. We work hand in hand as a multidisciplinary approach with top of the line board certified orthodontists in the area.

Tooth Extraction, Bone Grafting and Dental Implants

This reconstructive alternative has record 98% of success in tooth replacement. Designs have improved and diagnosis and treatment planning has made this bionic concept into a routine dental procedure. The Titanium or Zirconium root replacement allows us to restore a single missing tooth, or with multiple implants, support a full mouth reconstruction, and enhance the retention of dentures. We have adopted AI driven 3D scanning technology and the latest digital planning software to ensure an ideal outcome that you will be happy with.

Crowns and bridges

These full contour restorations replaced badly broken down tooth structure and restore excellent chewing function. Material choices may include full all ceramic, porcelain fused to gold alloy, and full gold. We fabricate these to create a natural appearing and functioning restoration or tooth replacement.

Composite Resin Restorations

We are equipped with color matching branded restorative resins to insure the best color match and permanence of seal. The strength of our dental filling materials is similar to tooth structure and does not pick up staining over time. With our modern techniques we can also make your teeth look whiter and esthetically pleasing.

Same Day Dentures and Traditional Complete / Partial Dentures and Flexible Dentures

A Denture is a removable appliance designed to replace missing some or all teeth. Same Day denture offers limited to no downtime and interruption in your work and social life. Flexible Dentures add comfort to the denture wearing process and can be a very good fit in many situations.

Snap-in Dental Implants Dentures

Implant supported dentures are a step up from traditional dentures where a person gets freedom from having to use denture glue (e.g. fixodent / polygrip) to secure dentures and this way it adds significant comfort while chewing.

Fixed Implant Teeth

This is the closest substitute for missing teeth. This treatment option restores the full chewing capacity as good as having all natural teeth and taste perception in everyday life. Implant supported teeth gives the most natural and esthetic look that can be customized to your desire.

Why Choose a Dental Implant?

Dental implants offer numerous benefits, making them a popular choice for patients who need to replace missing teeth. Some advantages include:

• Durability: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime.
• Improved Function: Unlike removable dentures, implants function like natural teeth, allowing you to chew and speak comfortably.
• Enhanced Appearance: Implants look and feel like your own teeth, blending seamlessly with your natural smile.
• Preservation of Bone: Implants stimulate the jawbone, helping to maintain bone density and prevent bone loss that often occurs after tooth loss.
• Convenience: Since they are permanent, dental implants eliminate the need for adhesives or removable appliances.

The Dental Implant Process

The process of getting a dental implant typically involves several stages. Here's what to expect:

1. Initial Consultation

During your first visit, your dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your oral health. This may include digital X-rays or a 3D CT scan to assess the condition of your jawbone and determine if you are a good candidate for implants. Your dentist will also discuss your medical history and any concerns you may have.

2. Surgical Placement of the Implant

The implant itself is a titanium post that will be surgically placed into your jawbone. This procedure is usually done under local anesthesia, meaning you won't feel pain during the surgery. Depending on your specific situation, it may take one to two hours to place the implant.After the implant is placed, you will need time for osseointegration—a process where the bone fuses with the titanium post. This usually takes about 3 to 6 months, depending on the individual and the location of the implant.

3. Abutment Placement

Once the implant has fully integrated with the jawbone, the next step is to attach an abutment—a small connector piece that will hold the replacement tooth. The abutment is placed during a minor procedure that can often be done under local anesthesia. The gum tissue will need some time to heal around the abutment.

4. Placement of the Permanent Crown

After the gum tissue has healed, a custom-made crown will be placed on top of the implant. The crown will be designed to match the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth, providing a seamless appearance. Your dentist will ensure the fit is comfortable and that the crown functions properly for chewing and speaking.

What to Expect After the Procedure

• Pain and Swelling: It's normal to experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort after the surgery. Your dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribe medication for any pain.
• Dietary Restrictions: You may need to follow a soft-food diet for the first few days after the procedure to avoid putting pressure on the implant.
• Oral Care: Good oral hygiene is crucial to the success of your implant. Your dentist will provide instructions on how to clean and care for your implant and any temporary restorations.

Are You a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental implants are suitable for most people, but certain factors can affect your candidacy:

• Adequate Bone Density: The success of a dental implant depends on the health and volume of the bone in your jaw. If you've experienced significant bone loss, your dentist may recommend a bone graft before proceeding with implants.
• Overall Health: Good general health is important for healing after surgery. If you have certain conditions like diabetes or gum disease, your dentist will assess whether dental implants are right for you.
• Commitment to Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral health and hygiene is essential for the longevity of your implant.

Risks and Considerations

While dental implants are highly successful, there are some potential risks and considerations to keep in mind:

• Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection. This can typically be managed with antibiotics.
• Implant Failure: In rare cases, the implant may not fully integrate with the bone or may become loose over time. This could be caused by infection, excessive stress on the implant, or other factors.
• Nerve Damage: Although extremely rare, nerve damage can occur if the implant is placed too close to a nerve. This may cause numbness or tingling in the gums, lips, or chin.

Caring for Your Dental Implants

Dental implants are designed to be durable, but they still require regular care to ensure their longevity:

• Brush and Floss: Brush your implants and natural teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Use floss or a floss threader to clean around the implant and abutment.
• Regular Checkups: Visit your dentist regularly for checkups to ensure your implant is healthy and functioning properly.
• Avoid Hard Foods: While implants are sturdy, avoid biting down on very hard foods, such as ice, which could cause damage to your crown or implant.

Final Thoughts

Dental implants can significantly improve your quality of life, providing a natural, long-lasting solution for missing teeth. With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can serve you for many years, enhancing your ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.

If you're considering a dental implant, speak with your dentist to determine whether this solution is right for you. They will guide you through the process, answer any questions, and help you achieve the best possible outcome for your oral health.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, don't hesitate to contact our office. We're here to help you restore your smile!