Services / Procedures
Diagnostics
Our office uses diagnostic tools such as X-rays, models, visual examinations, intra-oral camera, full periodontal exam, and oral cancer screenings. Our goal is to educate our patients by providing them with the necessary information, enabling them to maintain a beautiful and healthy smile.
Cleaning
Our cleaning procedures are customized to meet your periodontal needs. Whether you visit us for your six-month maintenance or for periodontal therapy, our hygienist strives to give you the best possible care while maintaining your total comfort.
Fillings & Sealants
Modern technology has made it possible for us to combine beauty and function. We have composite resins (tooth colored) materials to restore teeth. We also recommend sealants on our younger patients as a preventative measure for their permanent teeth.
Crowns
Crowns are used to restore teeth that are broken or are in danger of doing so due to old fillings or cracks. We use a variety of materials to construct these.
Bridges
Bridges are fixed, non-removable prosthesis constructed to replace one or more missing teeth. We use porcelain over metal, gold, and full porcelain bridges depending on your individual needs.
Root Canals
This procedure allows us to save teeth that years ago would be lost due to very large decay, which would eventually lead to infected or abscessed teeth. In most cases, we are now able to save these teeth using this procedure.
Dental Implants
Implants are an option to replace teeth instead of having a bridge or a removable prosthesis. They are non-removable and function as close to natural teeth as possible.
Cosmetic Bonding (Veneers)
Bonding is used to repair fractures as well as cover teeth to enhance their appearance.
Dentures
Dentures are removable solutions for the replacement of multiple or completely missing teeth.
Bleaching (teeth whitening specials available)
Bleaching is one of the easiest procedures to perform. We provide patients with home bleaching customized for each person’s needs.
Nitrous Oxide Gas (laughing gas)
This is a conscience sedation that may be used to help you feel calm and relaxed throughout your dental procedure.
Sedation Medications (children only)
Used to help calm and relax your child for dental treatment. Sometimes used in conjunction with nitrous oxide.
General Anesthesia (children only)
Where sedation and nitrous oxide gas prove unsuccessful, treatment will be performed at an outpatient facility by the children’s dentist.
Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease)
Periodontal Disease (gum disease) is an inflammation or infection of the gums and bone that hold your teeth in place. Bacteria that is found in the plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) causes inflammation, bleeding, bone loss, and recession of the gum tissue. If left untreated, the condition worsens causing tooth mobility and eventual tooth loss. Multiple appointments are needed to remove the tartar and plaque that is located above and below the gum level.
The first cleaning you will receive will be for a deep cleaning called a gross scale (also referred to as a full mouth debridement or heavy cleaning). A combination of hand scaling and the use of a machine called a cavitron unit are used. The cavitron unit is a machine that helps to remove the tartar by way of vibration and water. This deep cleaning is used to remove tartar and plaque that will enable us to do a more thorough examination once the tissue is healed.
The 2nd and 3rd cleanings are called scaling and root planing (deeper cleaning). Usually two quadrants (one side of your mouth) are treated per visit. Local anesthesia is used prior to cleaning the areas above and below the gum level. Plaque and tartar are scraped off the crown and root of the tooth and rough surfaces of the root are smoothed. A combination of hand scaling and the use of a machine called a cavitron unit are used. Following the procedure measurements will be taken around your teeth to check your pocket depths. A periodontal pocket is caused by infection that has damaged the bone and gum tissue causing recession around your tooth. The pocket that has formed below the gum line easily traps plaque and food debris. A medicated rinse is used to irrigate the area and reduce bacteria levels that may be present.
All follow up cleanings will be referred to as periodontal maintenance. The first appointment will be scheduled one month later and every three months thereafter.
Arestin
If you have an infected periodontal pocket of 5+ mm the doctor and hygienist will recommend a powdered antibiotic called Arestin. “Arestin” is placed in pockets to continue killing bacteria for at least 14 days (may last at least 21 days) after treatment. You will not know that it is there and it will dissolve on its own. Arestin can be used to maintain health throughout all future care as isolated areas become reinfected.
Chlorhexidine (also known as Peridex)
Sometimes a liquid antibiotic called Chlorhexidine is prescribed for you to use as an oral rinse at home. Use as directed.
A combination of good homecare, regular dental check-ups, and cleanings will help you to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Central Family Dental
2719 East 7th Street at Pleasant Valley in H.E.B. Shopping Center
Austin, Texas 78702
Phone: (512) 473-8444
Fax: (512) 473-2025
