- Dental ExaminationPeriodontal disease is diagnosed by your dentist or dental hygienist during a periodontal examination. This type of exam should always be part of your regular dental check-up.
- X-raysDental x-rays produce a low level of radiation and are considered safe. Dentists take necessary precautions to limit the patient’s exposure to radiation when taking dental x-rays. These precautions include using lead apron shields to protect the body and using modern, fast film that cuts down the exposure time of each x-ray.
- Oral Cancer ScreeningCheck the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.
- Teeth CleaningBrushing and flossing are of paramount importance to oral hygiene. Though bi-annual professional dental cleanings remove plaque, tartar and debris, excellent homecare methods are equally valuable. Proper brushing and flossing can enhance the health of the mouth, make the smile sparkle and prevent serious diseases.
- Fluoride TreatmentPrevention also includes regular dental exams, cleanings, and x-rays. Sealants and fluoride are also great preventive treatments that help protect the teeth.
- Dental SealantsAs a practice, we are true believers that preventive care and education are the keys to optimal dental health. We strive to provide “ dental health care ” vs. “ disease care ”. That’s why we focus on thorough exams – checking the overall health of your teeth and gums, performing oral cancer exams, and taking x-rays when necessary. We also know that routine cleanings, flossing, sealants, and fluoride are all helpful in preventing dental disease. Not only are we focused on the beauty of your smile, we’re also concerned about your health. A review of your medical history can help us stay informed of your overall health, any new medications, and any illnesses that may impact your dental health.
- FillingsThere are many types of filling materials available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. You and your dentist can discuss the best options for restoring your teeth. Composite fillings, along with silver amalgam fillings, are the most widely used today. Because composite fillings are tooth colored, they can be closely matched to the color of existing teeth, and are more aesthetically suited for use in front teeth or the more visible areas of the teeth.
- VeneersVeneers are very thin pieces of durable, tooth shaped porcelain that are custom made (for shape and color) by a professional dental laboratory. They are bonded onto the front of teeth to create a beautiful and attractive smile.
- CrownsA crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size. A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations.
- BridgesDental bridges are highly durable and will last many years, however they may need replacement or need to be re-cemented due to normal wear.
- Dental Bonding
- Root Canal TreatmentAnyone who hates going to the dentist ~ keep reading please. For me ANY dental work and/or getting my teeth cleaned is followed by 10 to 15 days of jaw pain due to TMJ on both sides. The jaw pain is far worse than any of the many root canals, posts inserted or any other things done. I'll put up with a lot of root canal pain before going to the dentist. So you'll know I'm serious when I say that I HIGHLY recommend Dr. Bryan Johnson and the entire staff at Lewis River Dental: Schedule Coordinators, Insurance Coordinators, Registered Dental Hygienists, Dental Assistants, and Administrative Assistant! The staff has gone above and beyond to accommodate me. Dr. Bryan Johnson has been professionally exceptional in understanding, discussing, and performing superb dental work. We are fortunate to have Lewis River Dental in Woodland and La Center.
- Periodontal SurgeryIf the pockets do not heal after scaling and root planing, periodontal surgery may be needed to reduce pocket depths, making teeth easier to clean. Your dentist may also recommend that you see a Periodontist (specialist of the gums and supporting bone).
- Deep CleaningIf the disease has progressed to more advanced stages, a special periodontal cleaning called scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) will be recommended. It is usually done one quadrant of the mouth at a time while the area is numb. In this procedure, tartar, plaque, and toxins are removed from above and below the gum line ( scaling ) and rough spots on root surfaces are made smooth ( planing ). This procedure helps gum tissue to heal and pockets to shrink. Medications, special medicated mouth rinses, and an electric tooth brush may be recommended to help control infection and healing.
- Dentures
- Dental ImplantsPeriodontists specialize in the treatment of gum disease and the placement of dental implants. A periodontist can perform effective cleaning procedures in deep pockets such as scaling and root planing, and also prescribe antibiotic and antifungal medications to treat infection and halt the progression of the disease.
- Oral Surgery
- Flap SurgeryPocket elimination surgery – Pocket elimination surgery (also known as flap surgery) is a surgical treatment which can be performed to reduce the pocket size between the teeth and gums. Surgery on the jawbone is another option which serves to eliminate indentations in the bone which foster the colonization of bacteria.
- Teeth WhiteningTooth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment used to change the color of natural tooth enamel and is an ideal way to enhance the beauty of your smile.
- Cosmetic DentistryIn the past decade there has been a dramatic interest in cosmetic dentistry. We all realize that having a healthy, bright, beautiful smile enhances our appearance and allows us to smile with confidence. Thanks to the advances in modern cosmetic dentistry, we are able to improve our teeth and smiles with quick, painless and surprisingly affordable treatments.
- General DentistryDr. McElhinney was born in Oklahoma and grew up in Yakima, Washington. Growing up, her father was a dentist for the Indian Health service. Her interest in dentistry developed after completing degrees at the University of Washington. She then completed a post baccalaureate at Portland State University. Dr. McElhinney received her Dental Degree from the OHSU University School of Dentistry in 2016. To keep up with evolving technology, she’s a member of the Academy of General Dentistry and the Oregon Dental Association.