Priest Dental

Products And Services

• Cleanings & Prevention

  Many people fear going to the dentist. It does not have to be this way! We here at Priest Dental, believe proper dental care is one of the easiest things in your life. Patients can minimize their visits to the dentist by practicing preventive dentistry which helps protect against gum disease, tooth loss and other dental conditions. The dentist is not the only person that plays a role in preventing dental problems and disease. It starts at home with you! Preventive dentistry helps patients avoid the costs and extensive procedures that are often needed to correct serious dental conditions. Maintaining dental health helps patients look and feel their best which contributes to overall health as well. Preventing dental conditions requires a lifelong commitment that begins when the first tooth appears. While a child should see a dentist when the first tooth appears, proper dental hygiene starts at home with the parents. Parents play an important role in helping their children learn how to properly take care of their teeth. These habits are important to establish early so children know how to prevent dental problems.

  Link: Cleanings & Prevention

• Cosmetic Dentistry / Smile Design

  Composite Fillings Porcelain Veneers Porcelain Crowns (Caps) Teeth Whitening Provánce® Website

  Link: Cosmetic Dentistry / Smile Design

• Periodontal Disease

  Diagnosis Maintenance Treatment What is Periodontal Disease? Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection of the tissue that surrounds and supports the teeth. A leading cause of tooth loss, it is most often caused by a buildup of plaque on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can be brushed and flossed away with proper oral care. However, when left on the teeth, plaque produces toxins that attack below the gum line and in the crevices between the teeth and gums, causing the bond between teeth and gums to break down. In the early stage of gum disease, a condition known as gingivitis, in which gums may become red, swollen and bleed easily, can occur. In the more advanced stages of periodontal disease, teeth can loosen and even fall out. Good oral hygiene and regular dental examinations are essential in the prevention and early detection of gum disease.

  Link: Periodontal Disease

• Restorations

  Composite Fillings It’s great news that the incidence of tooth decay has significantly diminished over the years due to the use of fluorides and an increase in patient awareness. However, teeth are still susceptible to decay, infection, and breakage and sometimes need to be restored back to health. Through improved techniques and modern technology, we are now able to offer more options for restoring a tooth back to its normal shape, appearance and function. Should your teeth ever require a restorative treatment, you can rest assured knowing we will always discuss with you the available options, and recommend what we believe to be the most comfortable and least invasive treatment. Providing you with excellent care is our number one priority when creating your beautiful smile. REASONS FOR RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY: Enhance your smile. Fill in unattractive spaces between teeth. Improve or correct an improper bite. Prevent the loss of a tooth. Relieve dental pain. Repair damaged and decayed teeth. Replace missing teeth. Replace old, unattractive dental treatments. Restore normal eating and chewing. Remember to give your teeth the attention they need today, contact us today!

  Link: Restorations

• Fixed Bridges

  A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) appliance and is an excellent way to replace missing teeth. There are several types of bridges. You and your dentist will discuss the best options for your particular case. The “traditional bridge” is the most popular type and is usually made of porcelain fused to metal. This type of bridge consists of two crowns that go over two anchoring teeth (abutment teeth) and are attached to pontics (artificial teeth), filling the gap created by one or more missing teeth. Dental bridges are highly durable and will last many years; however, they may need replacement or need to be re-cemented due to normal wear. REASONS FOR A FIXED BRIDGE: Fill space of missing teeth. Maintain facial shape. Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position. Restore chewing and speaking ability. Restore your smile. Upgrade from a removable partial denture to a permanent dental appliance. WHAT DOES GETTING A FIXED BRIDGE INVOLVE? Getting a bridge usually requires two or more visits. While the teeth are numb, the two anchoring teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to allow for a crown. Next, a highly accurate impression (mold) is made which will be sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge will be fabricated. In addition, a temporary bridge will be made and worn for several weeks until your next appointment. At the second visit, your permanent bridge will be carefully checked, adjusted, and cemented to achieve a proper fit. Occasionally your dentist may only temporarily cement the bridge, allowing your teeth and tissue time to get used to the new bridge. The new bridge will be permanently cemented at a later time. You will receive care instructions at the conclusion of the procedure. Proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new, permanent bridge. For more information on the services we provide, please contact our office.

  Link: Fixed Bridges

• Dentures & Partial Dentures

  WHAT ARE DENTURES? A denture is a removable dental appliance and a replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissue. They are made to closely resemble your natural teeth and may even enhance your smile. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN COMPLETE AND PARTIAL DENTURES? There are two types of dentures – complete and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when all of the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. A partial denture not only fills in the spaces created by missing teeth, it prevents other teeth from shifting. denture A complete denture can be either “conventional” or “immediate.” A conventional type is made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed (usually takes 4 to 6 weeks). During this time, the patient will go without teeth. Immediate dentures are made in advance and immediately placed after the teeth are removed, thus preventing the patient from having to be without teeth during the healing process. Once the tissues shrink and heal, adjustments will have to be made. Dentures are very durable appliances and will last many years but may have to be remade, repaired, or readjusted due to normal wear. WHY DO INDIVIDUALS GET DENTURES? Complete Denture – Loss of all teeth in an arch. Partial Denture – Loss of several teeth in an arch. Enhancing smile and facial tissues. Improving chewing, speech, and digestion. WHAT DOES GETTING DENTURES INVOLVE? The process of getting dentures requires several appointments, usually over a period of several weeks. Highly accurate impressions (molds) and measurements are taken and used to create your custom denture. Several “try-in” appointments may be necessary to ensure proper shape, color, and fit. At the final appointment, your dentist will precisely adjust and place the completed denture, ensuring a natural and comfortable fit. It is normal to experience increased saliva flow, some soreness, and possible speech and chewing difficulty, however this will subside as your muscles and tissues get used to the new dentures. You will be given care instructions for your new dentures. Proper cleaning of your new dental appliance, good oral hygiene, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new dentures. To schedual an appoitment online click here or call 419-289-18130 today!

  Link: Dentures & Partial Dentures

• Crowns (Caps)

  A 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. Although there are several types of crowns, porcelain (tooth colored crown) are the most popular. They are highly durable and will last many years, but like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced. Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color of your teeth, giving you a long-lasting, beautiful smile. REASONS FOR CROWNS: Broken or fractured teeth. Cosmetic enhancement. Decayed teeth. Fractured fillings. Large fillings. Tooth has a root canal. WHAT DOES GETTING A CROWN INVOLVE? A crown procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom crown. A mold will also be used to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory. While the tooth is numb, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown. Once these details are accomplished, your temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement and your bite will be checked to ensure you are biting properly. At your second appointment, your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate. You will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new crown. For more information on the services we provide, please contact our office.

  Link: Crowns (Caps)

• Root Canal Therapy

  WHAT IS DENTAL PULP? A root canal is the most commonly performed endodontic procedure. It involves treating problems within the tooth’s soft core, also known as the dental pulp. The dental pulp is the soft tissue found inside the tooth; it extends from the top of the tooth all the way down to the end of the root. It contains nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue that provide nutrients to the tooth as it grows. As a tooth grows, the pulp provides nourishment and helps the tooth develop properly. Once the tooth is fully functioning, its nerve is not vital to the tooth’s ability to function, or to providing it with sensory functions such as detecting the sensation of hot or cold. As a result, the nerve and surrounding tissue can be removed from the tooth to repair and save the tooth from an infected pulp. The mature tooth will be able to survive without the pulp. CAUSES OF DAMAGED DENTAL PULP The pulp is most commonly damaged by an untreated cavity that allows bacteria to eat through the enamel of the tooth and, eventually, infect the pulp. The pulp can also be damaged by trauma that cuts off the tooth’s blood supply, and causes the pulp tissue to die. Although the pulp is no longer needed to supply fully developed teeth with nutrients, it will gradually decay if left damaged within the tooth. WHAT HAPPENS IF DAMAGED PULP IS LEFT UNTREATED? If left untreated, an infection may build up within the root tip and form an abscess that can damage the bone around the teeth, causing pain and creating the potential for permanent damage. SYMPTOMS OF DAMAGED PULP Patients with damaged pulp may experience the following symptoms: Severe toothache Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures Discoloration Swelling Tenderness Recurring pimple on the gums If a person is experiencing any of these symptoms, the dental pulp may be infected. Getting prompt treatment to help relieve symptoms and prevent permanent damage is recommended. THE ROOT CANAL PROCEDURE A root canal is usually performed in a series of dentist-office visits, first to remove the diseased pulp, and then to clean and seal the tooth to prevent further damage. During the first office visit, the dentist will make an opening in the tooth leading into the pulp chamber, and remove the damaged pulp. The canals of the root are cleaned and shaped to prepare them for a filling material. A temporary filling will be placed in the opening to protect the tooth between appointments. The dentist may also prescribe medication to control infection and promote healing. At the next appointment, the temporary filling will be removed, and the pulp chamber and root canals thoroughly cleaned and filled. The pulp chamber is usually filled with a biocompatible, rubber-like material called gutta-percha, which is cemented to the tooth with a sealer paste. The final step of the root canal procedure is to restore the tooth with a crown, post, or other restorative devices. ROOT CANAL RESULTS Root canal is considered a highly successful treatment, with most patients experiencing complete relief from their symptoms. A crown or filling can usually repair the appearance of the treated tooth so that other people will not even realize that a root canal was performed. HOW LONG DO THE RESULTS OF ROOT CANAL LAST? The results of a root canal procedure can be permanent, as long as the patient practices healthy oral hygiene and visits the dentist on a regular basis. IS GETTING A ROOT CANAL PAINFUL? Although many patients think of root canals as being painful and uncomfortable, that is usually not the case. Local anesthesia is used to numb the affected area, although it may not be needed because the nerve tissue is dead. However, anesthesia often helps patients relax. RISKS OF A ROOT CANAL THERAPY Although most root canal procedures are performed successfully with no complications, there is always a risk that the treated tooth will again become infected, especially if it has been subjected to multiple root canals. There is also a small risk of damaging the tooth during the procedure, although this rarely occurs. SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION To schedule an appointment online click here or call 419-289-18130 today!

  Link: Root Canal Therapy

• Pediatric Dentistry

  WHAT IS PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY? Pediatric dentistry is an area of dentistry that specializes in treating the oral healthcare needs of children. Pediatric dentists provide regular checkups, cleanings and fluoride treatments, and overall oral treatment and care for children’s teeth. Pediatric dentists also commonly apply sealants to children’s teeth to prevent cavities. WHAT CONCERNS PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY HELP TREAT? A pediatric dentist provides overall oral care for children, including treatment for: Cavities Teeth defects Dental injuries Malocclusion Gum disease Speech-related disorders Tongue-tie (restricted frenulum) Oral conditions related to other diseases or underlying conditions Mouthguards for sports WHAT PEDIATRIC DENTAL TREATMENTS ARE OFFERED AT PRIEST DENTAL? Flouride Baby Bottle Tooth Decay Dental Emergencies Dental Radiographs (X-Rays) Does Your Child Grind His or Her Teeth at Night? Early Orthodontic Treatment First Visit Good Diet How Often Should Children Have Dental Checkups? How to Prevent Cavities Mouth Guards Pacifiers & Thumb Sucking Pediatric Dental Appliances Perinatal & Infant Oral Health Sealing Out Tooth Decay Sippy Cups Tobacco Use Tongue Piercing What is Pulp Therapy? When Should Children Have Their First Dental Visit? When Will My Baby Start Getting Teeth? Why Are Primary Teeth Important? Why See a Pediatric Dentist? WHY ARE CHILDREN’S DENTAL APPOINTMENTS SO IMPORTANT? Dental appointments for children are important not only to evaluate tooth and gum health, but to educate them on preventing dental problems throughout their lives. WHEN SHOULD A CHILD HAVE HIS FIRST DENTAL VISIT? A child should have her or his first dental exam about six months after the first tooth erupts from the gums, and should visit a pediatric dentist every six months thereafter. WHAT HAPPENS AT THE FIRST PEDIATRIC DENTAL VISIT? During a first dental visit, the pediatric dentist will examine the child’s teeth for decay and other dental problems. The dentist may ask the accompanying caregiver about thumb-sucking or pacifier habits, and overall dental health. The dentist will then advise the caregiver and child about proper oral care, which includes brushing, flossing and fluoride treatments. A follow-up visit is usually scheduled for six months later, beginning the dental-maintenance process that will help to ensure good oral health throughout the child’s life. WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO SEE A PEDIATRIC DENTIST FOR YOUR CHILD’S DENTAL NEEDS? A pediatric dentist can offer specialized oral care that a general dentist may not be able to. A pediatric dentist is trained in examining and treating children in an environment that has been designed to make them feel comfortable. SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION If you have questions or concerns about pediatric dentistry, please contact our office.

  Link: Pediatric Dentistry

• Sedation Dentistry (Sleep Dentistry)

  Here at Priest Dental in Ashland, our doctors recognize that many people experience anxiety about undergoing dental work or visiting the dentist at all. This is more commonly known as dental phobia. It can keep someone from seeking dental care, and may compromise their dental health. Dental phobia can be helped by sedation dentistry. WHAT IS SEDATION DENTISTRY? Sedation dentistry involves the use of medication to provide a relaxing and anxiety-free experience for people undergoing dental treatment. Although sometimes referred to as “sleep dentistry,” this is not “being put to sleep”. WHAT IS CONSCIOUS SEDATION?Happy female dentist discussing with patient. Smiling dental doctor is discussing with woman lying on chair. They are in medical clinic. We offer conscious sedation and patients often feel like they are asleep but are still able to follow instructions. Most patients remain awake but feel drowsy or sleepy. Very often, the patient does not remember anything except when the IV was started. This is because the medications we use can cause memory loss of the entire dental procedure. There are several different methods available to achieve varying degrees of sedation. Which method is used depends on the type of procedure and the preference of the patient. DOES SEDATION DENTISTRY REQUIRE ANESTHESIA? Although sedation produces a relaxed state, it does not eliminate the need for local anesthesia (often referred to as novocaine or lidocaine), which is used for most dental procedures. A patient will still require an injection of local anesthesia to ensure pain is not experienced. Sedation simply helps relieve the nervousness and anxiety that often accompany a visit to the dentist. A patient is usually sedated prior to getting anesthesia to reduce any anxiety about the injection or procedure. We currently offer IV and oral sedation here at Priest Dental. BENEFITS OF SEDATION DENTISTRY IN ASHLAND Sedation allows people to feel comfortable about undergoing complex and lengthy procedures. When under sedation, a lengthy procedure may only feel like it has lasted a few minutes. Another benefit of sedation dentistry is that extensive treatment can be performed in only one or two appointments. Sedation dentistry may benefit those who: Have a low pain threshold Have sensitive teeth Cannot sit still in the dentist’s chair Gag easily Need a large amount of dental work done SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION TODAY! To learn more about our Sedation Dentistry options, please contact us at 419.289.1813. Priest Dental, Inc. is proud to serve Akron, Ashland, and the surrounding areas of Ohio.

  Link: Sedation Dentistry (Sleep Dentistry)

• Dental Extractions

  WHAT IS A DENTAL EXTRACTION? A dental extraction, commonly known as getting a tooth pulled, is one of the most common procedures performed at a dentist’s office. While your dentist will first make efforts to treat your condition and save the tooth, this is not always possible. Dental extractions are often performed to relieve a broken tooth, significant tooth decay or to remove wisdom teeth that cause overcrowding in the mouth. Once your dentist has decided that dental extraction is necessary, he/she will perform an X-ray examination in order to further evaluate the tooth. The extraction procedure is performed under local anesthesia to minimize discomfort and involves rocking the tooth back and forth to ease it out of its socket for simple removal. Stubborn teeth may need to be removed in sections. WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER A DENTAL EXTRACTION After the extraction, patients will likely experience a certain amount of pain. This can be relieved by applying ice to the area, rinsing the mouth with water or taking antibiotics or painkillers if needed. Patients are advised to avoid certain foods for a few days and should feel completely better within one to two weeks. The dental extraction procedure is safe for most patients and does not involve any major complications. To schedule an appointment online click here or call 419-289-18130 today!

  Link: Dental Extractions

• Laser Treatment

  THE PURPOSE OF LASER DENTISTRY In laser dentistry, dental procedures are performed using lasers. The use of lasers allows many dental procedures to be performed with great precision, few complications, and very little pain. Lasers are versatile tools that can be used in the following dental procedures: Cavity detection Tartar removal Dental fillings Gum surgery Dental implants Teeth whitening Removal of benign tumors BENEFITS OF LASER DENTISTRY Benefits of laser dentistry over traditional dentistry may include: Minimal or no need for anesthetic Little or no bleeding Faster treatment time Reduction in bacterial infections Less post-operative pain and swelling Less damage to surrounding tissue Reduced need for medications or antibiotics after treatment TYPES OF LASERS USED IN LASER DENTISTRY Different types of lasers are used for different dental treatments. The two most common types of lasers used by dentists are: HARD-TISSUE LASERS Hard-tissue lasers are used to cut into teeth and bone with great accuracy. They are often used to shape teeth for composite bonding, remove small amounts of tooth material, and repair dental fillings. SOFT-TISSUE LASERS Soft-tissue lasers are able to kill bacteria and activate the regrowth of tissues. They are commonly used by periodontists in procedures for the treatment of the gums. Other types of lasers are used to view the insides of teeth to detect cavities and other internal teeth-related issues. Many patients find that laser dentistry is preferable to traditional dentistry, with its use of drills and other invasive tools. Pain and swelling are greatly reduced; the laser beam’s accuracy means that damage to surrounding tissue is minimized; and several procedures can be performed during a single appointment, resulting in fewer dental visits. SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION FOR LASER DENTISTRY If you have any questions about the services we offer or if you would like to schedule a laser dentistry consultation, please call 419-289-1813 or fill out our contact us form.

  Link: Laser Treatment

• Nightlase

  WHAT ACTUALLY CAUSES SNORING THAT COULD LEAD TO A NIGHTLASE PROCEDURE? According to many sleep apnea/snoring experts, there are most likely millions of snorers and of those who snore, 1/3 is affected by sleep apnea. HOW IT WORKS Nightlase uses a very gentle, superficial, Erbium: Yag laser light to tighten the tissue of the soft palate and tongue to reduce the sounds of snoring and lessens the effects of sleep apnea IS NIGHTLASE PAINFUL? Nightlase is not painful and does NOT require any anesthesia! THE NIGHTLASE PROCEDURE Nightlase is extremely effective. In most cases, 3-5 treatments are needed, and each treatment lasts about 30-45 minutes. Patients can expect to eat, drink, talk, and live a completely normal life immediately after this painless treatment WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN USING SOFTLASE FOR THE SOFT PALLET OR THE NOSE? DO YOU NEED TO SEE A DIFFERENT DOCTOR? Nightlase can improve snoring and sleep apnea. A screening process has to be implemented to ensure the soft palate and tongue are the cause of your snoring and that a referral to a sleep physician is not needed THE RISKS AND BENEFITS OF NIGHTLASE There are virtually no risk of Nightlase therapy. The benefits can be improving cardiovascular disease such as hypertension. It can improve sleepiness and fatigue, morning headaches, impotence in men, and depression. It is well documented that many snorers are SEVEN TIMES more likely to be involved in car accidents and can also easily lose patience and become aggressive. Snorers also comprise a large number of individuals who have heart attacks and strokes. THE RECOVERY TIME FROM THE PROCEDURE There is no soreness or pain that results from Nightlase therapy. AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR NIGHTLASE? ARE THEIR ANY SIDE EFFECTS? A simple at home sleep test can help determine if Nightlase therapy can help you! Come in for a consult to see if Nightlase can help you today! SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION If you have questions or concerns about pediatric dentistry, please contact our office.

  Link: Nightlase