Family Dentistry Services at Gentle Care Dentistry and Implant
Dental Cleanings and Exams
Regular dental cleanings and exams help detect early signs of oral health problems like cavities or gum disease. Our hygienists will do a thorough cleaning to remove built-up plaque and tartar above and below the gumline.
Then, Dr. Hales carefully examines the teeth, gums, tongue, and other tissues to check for any issues. Digital X-rays also help us check for cavities between teeth or below the gum line. Your cleaning is a great time for our Sierra Vista dentist to evaluate your bite and oral health.
Dental cleanings and exams are recommended every six months to keep your smile healthy and get ahead of minor problems before they turn into complex, expensive issues.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants provide an extra layer of protection against tooth decay. Dr. Hales can apply sealants to the chewing surfaces of molars, which tend to have pits and grooves that collect food particles and bacteria. The quick and painless sealing process bonds the resin material into the grooves to create a smooth, protected surface that’s easier to clean.
Sealants are highly recommended for children as soon as their first permanent molars erupt around age six. But they can also benefit teenagers and adults susceptible to cavities in their back teeth. Regular dental visits allow us to check existing sealants and reapply them if needed.
Fluoride Treatments
Getting enough fluoride strengthens tooth enamel to better resist acid attacks that cause cavities. At Gentle Care Dentistry, we offer professional fluoride treatments during cleanings as well as recommendations for at-home fluoride use.
Topical fluoride gel or foam may be applied to your teeth after the cleaning to boost your exposure. For children at high risk of tooth decay, fluoride treatments every six months can make a big difference in preventing cavities.
Tooth-Colored Fillings
When decay has progressed too far and reached the inner layers of the tooth, a filling is needed to remove the decay and restore the tooth’s shape and function. We offer tooth-colored composite fillings that seamlessly blend in for a natural appearance.
The composite resin material bonds tightly to the prepared tooth surface to provide a durable filling that stands up well to the pressures of chewing. In addition to their aesthetic advantages, composite fillings preserve more of the natural tooth structure.
Dental Education
We take time during appointments to explain oral health topics relevant to your family, such as:
- Proper brushing and flossing technique
- Good nutrition for your teeth
- Signs of oral health problems
- When to seek emergency dental care
- How certain medications, habits, or health conditions impact oral health
Our goal is to help you feel confident caring for your family’s teeth at home. We want to establish strong, trust-based relationships with your family so you feel comfortable coming to us with any dental concerns. Educating our patients helps promote lifelong oral well-being.
