Patient Information and Glossary
This information is for educational purposes only and should not be used for self-diagnosis or as a substitute for a professional dental exam and consultation (no matter how much you hate going to the dentist). Each case will vary depending on the needs and concerns of each individual. We hope that this information will provide you with some basic dental knowledge so that you and your dentist can devise a plan to keep your smile healthy and looking great. Click on topic heading for link to additional images and information on this subject from the American Dental Association (ADAonline).
Cosmetic
Dentistry
Through advances in modern dental materials and techniques; the shape,
color, and alignment of your teeth can be improved to give you the smile
you've always wanted. www.ada.org/public/topics/dentures.asp
Dentures
Many people believe that once they have dentures, they no longer need
regular dental care because they don't have any teeth. Denture wearers
require regular check ups and maintenance to ensure their health, comfort,
and appearance.
High
Tech Dentistry
Learn how technology helps provide more effective treatment for certain
dental conditions and increases your understanding of recommendations
made by your dentist.
Implants
For people who have lost teeth, implants provide artificial teeth that
look more natural and feel more secure. Implants can be used to replace
a single missing tooth or support a bridge, full dentures or partial dentures.
Periodontal
Disease
Is the major cause of tooth loss in adults. Because early periodontal
disease is painless and shows few symptoms, patients are often unaware
that there is a problem. For this reason, regular dental visits are essential
for the early diagnosis and treatment of gum disease.
Prevention
And early detection are key in avoiding costly and complex dental treatment.
Prevention begins with the control of plaque and calculus, the main cause
of decay and gum disease.
Removal
of Teeth
The goal of modern dentistry is to prevent tooth loss; however, there
are situations in which extraction is the only course of treatment.
Restoring
Damaged Teeth
Unfortunately, teeth damaged by decay or injury will not
heal like most other tissues in the body. They require an artificial material
to replace and restore the damaged tooth structure. Fillings, bonding,
veneers, and crowns may be used.
Root
Canal Therapy
If a tooth's pulp (nerve and blood supply) become infected or inflamed,
root canal treatment can save the tooth. The infection is removed and the
tooth's pulp chamber is sealed to prevent recurrence.
Waltham Dentist
John G. Valentino,
D.M.D.
965 Trapelo Road
Waltham, MA 02452
781 893-5840