- X-rays
- Teeth CleaningThe cavitron is an ultrasonic scaler. Power scalers do a more thorough job in less time. This results in significantly decreased scaling time and healthier, cleaner teeth and gums. Hand scalers require repetitive scraping movements and are restricted to adaptation of only one or two sides of the instrument. In comparison, all four sides of a power scaler can be adapted, because the device moves in an elliptical motion. This comes in handy when removing stain and deposits from behind and between the teeth. Ultrasonic scalers are more effective in removing stain as well. The ultrasonic vibration helps control oral bacteria by breaking down the cell wall of the bacteria. The water used to cool the cavitron then helps to rinse away bacteria, stain and debris.
- FillingsWhite fillings replace silver or gold fillings with a more natural looking tooth-colored material. Since teeth are translucent, dark fillings cause the whole tooth to appear darker when viewed from the side. Replacing older dark fillings with white fillings will keep your smile glowing!
- Resin CompositeBonding is a procedure where tooth-colored composite resin material is placed to "fill in the blanks." One of the most frequent uses of the bonding technique is to fill in a gap between front teeth.
- VeneersVeneers are laboratory fabricated, porcelain facings that are bonded to the front surfaces of teeth to whiten teeth, close spaces, straighten teeth, or repair chipped or worn teeth. The veneers are only about 1 mm thick (the thickness of a fingernail). That same thickness is "shaved" off the natural tooth surface so when the veneer is bonded to the tooth, the tooth doesn't feel or look "thicker".
- CrownsIn many cases of dental decay, tooth fracture, or even in instances where an individual has "short" teeth, a crown lengthening procedure will allow us to properly construct an esthetic and functional crown, bridge, or restoration.
- BridgesA Partial Denture or "removable bridge" replaces one or more missing teeth, but there must be teeth remaining for the partial to attach to. Unlike a Fixed Bridge, a partial is removable. A partial will prevent other teeth from shifting, preserving your remaining teeth.
- Dental Bonding
- Root Canal TreatmentWhen the nerve of a tooth becomes infected or abscessed, Root Canal Therapy is the only way to save the tooth. A tooth can become abscessed as a result of deep decay, a cracked tooth, or trauma to the tooth. The only alternative to Root Canal Therapy is an Extraction.
- ApicoectomyAn Apicoectomy, or Root-End Resection, is the removal of the root tip and the surrounding infected tissue of an abscessed tooth. This procedure may be necessary when inflammation and infection persists in the area around the root tip after root canal therapy or root canal retreatment.
- DenturesAs gums change over time, a sore spot will occasionally develop due to changes in how the denture or partial rests on the gums. If a sore spot develops, contact us for an adjustment or relining of your denture or partial.
- OverdenturesAn Overdenture usually requires that at least 2 roots be kept. These roots may be used to hold the denture in place by placing inserts in the roots and in the denture. The denture then attaches to the roots. These roots also give support to the denture and help retain the ridge the denture sits on.
- Dental ImplantsDental Implants have been used successfully for many years. The implant itself is a post that is surgically placed in the jaw. A prosthesis (artificial tooth or teeth) is then attached to the post. Both the surgical phase of treatment and the restorative phase is completed at our office.
- Oral Surgery
- Tooth Extractions
- OrthodonticsChildren often grind their teeth when their teeth are erupting. This is not uncommon, nor is it a problem if it is mild. However, in more severe cases the child can develop a malocclusion. Malocclusion may then lead to TMJ problems or to a need for Orthodontics. If you have any concerns about your child's Bruxism, be sure to have us check for signs of excessive wear so that treatment options can be discussed and implemented to prevent serious problems.
- BracesIf your child develops an "open bite", or you are otherwise concerned about the development of your child's teeth, no matter what the age, contact us right away for a consultation with us. Otherwise, children should be evaluated by the age of 6 for orthodontic treatment. In the past, a child was 11 or 12 before brackets were actually placed on the teeth to straighten them. This may still hold true in most cases, but there are new techniques that can correct problems early, while a child is still growing. This may eliminate the need for braces in the future, or if the child does still need braces, the treatment will be less complicated, usually shortening the period of time in braces.
- Teeth WhiteningTeeth Whitening is actually a mild bleaching process that restores stained or discolored teeth to a healthy, natural color. Don't be misled by unproven and ineffective over-the-counter whitening solutions. Our office uses an advanced procedure that is only available from your dentist.
- Cosmetic Dentistry-Our practice was established in Byron Center in 1976, our mission is to provide the highest quality dental care and personal attention to all of our patients. We have always focused on family and cosmetic dentistry and believe in patient education as key to prevention of dental disease. Utilizing a team approach we evaluate each patient's unique needs to enhance their overall dental awareness and health. We take pride in being a family-oriented practice, providing the "small town" touches of friendliness, respect and caring. Together as an office team we are committed to making a comfortable environment that encourages patient participation. We are proud of our staff and our desire to bring the most advanced dental technology available.
- General DentistryDr. Scott grew up in Byron Center and graduated Magna Cum Laude from Wheaton College (IL) with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. He earned his Doctorate of Dental Surgery with honors at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. He continued his education at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine by completing an Advanced Education in General Dentistry. During his residency, Dr. Scott was trained in IV conscious sedation, implant placement and restoration, extraction of third molars (wisdom teeth) in addition to other general dentistry procedures. During his time in Albuquerque, Dr. Scott had the opportunity to help start a non-profit dental clinic in association with East Central Ministries. Dr. Scott is a member of the West Michigan Dental Society, Michigan Dental Association, American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry.