- 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 ScreeningOral cancer screening: Check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.
- Teeth CleaningOnce your periodontal treatment has been completed, your dentist and dental hygienist will recommend that you have regular maintenance cleanings (periodontal cleanings), usually four times a year. At these cleaning appointments, the pocket depths will be carefully checked to ensure that they are healthy. Plaque and calculus that is difficult for you to remove on a daily basis will be removed from above and below the gum line.
- 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 SealantsYour dental team at Dr Hurtado Dentistry are true believers that preventative 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 cleaning, flossing, sealants, and fluoride are all helpful in preventing dental disease. Not only will we be focused on the beauty of your smile, we will always prioritize 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 TreatmentRoot canal therapy is needed when the nerve of a tooth is affected by decay or infection. In order to save the tooth, the pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth), nerves, bacteria, and any decay are removed and the resulting space is filled with special, medicated, dental materials, which restore the tooth to its full function.
- Periodontal SurgeryIf the pockets do not heal after scaling and root planning, 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.
- DenturesA denture is a removable dental appliance replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissue. They are made to closely resemble your natural teeth and may even enhance your smile.
- Dental ImplantsRestorations - This covers a broad spectrum of dental procedures designed to repair and restore damaged teeth. Your Santa Barbara dental professional can handle everything from white fillings to full dental implants. Other common dental procedures include root canals, fixed bridges, and dentures.
- Oral Surgery
- OrthodonticsPara el éxito de nuestra oficina es, ha sido y será de vital importancia el prestigio que nos dá contar con la confianza de Uds. nuestros pacientes, esta confianza la buscamos mediante un trato especial y con dedicación profesional. Entendemos lo incómodo que resultan las visitas al dentista para algunos pacientes; estamos seguros que en nuestras atenciones, instalaciones y servicios encontrará una experiencia positiva y relajante. Todos los miembros Dr Hurtado Dentistry & Orthodontics están dedicados a brindar excelencia en sus servicios y cuidados para hacer sus visitas tan cómodas y placenteras como es posible.
- Invisalign OrthodonticsIf you would like to find out more about Invisalign, contact Dr. Hurtado for an appointment. We love to see you smile, so come get the personalized attention you need to always look your best.
- BracesDr. Alejandro Hurtado and his dedicated team of dental professionals offer a full range of services to keep your smile radiant and healthy. Our focus is patient-centered, where you are the most important role player. We provide individualized care that you can trust. Our beautiful Santa Barbara office can provide you with cleanings, braces, dental emergencies, restorations, and cosmetic work.
- Teeth WhiteningThis type of tooth whitening usually requires two visits. At the first appointment, impressions (molds) will be made of your teeth to fabricate custom, clear plastic, trays.
- Cosmetic DentistryA standard of excellence in personalized dental care enables us to provide the quality dental services our patients deserve. We provide comprehensive treatment planning and use restorative and cosmetic dentistry to achieve your optimal dental health. Should a dental emergency occur, we make every effort to see and care for you as soon as possible.