Family Dentistry
Twin Falls, ID
At Summit Dental Care, we pride ourselves on treating every member of the family. Family dentistry is focused on preventing potential complications, rather than treating them. If you and your family are in need of professional dental services, we can help!
Cleanings
Dental cleanings are conducted to get rid of the tartar and bacteria in the pockets, disinfect the area to kill the bacteria and clean your teeth. A process known as scaling is used to remove all the plaque and tartar that might have accumulated on the teeth and the pockets. Our dental hygienists perform scaling procedures using electric and ultrasonic instruments to ensure all the tartar has been removed.
Dental Exams
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends a routine check-up up roughly twice a year. A routine appointment with Bryce Barfuss, DDS and Erik Permann, DDS will typically include a professional cleaning and a detailed examination of your teeth, gums, and other oral tissues.
Oral Cancer Screenings
Oral cancer screening involves three types of exams. You’ll go through a visual exam, a physical exam, and some oral cancer screening equipment. During the visual exam, our oral health specialists will examine your visible oral tissues. It’s called a visual exam because our specialists use their eyes to investigate the inside of your mouth for swellings, patches, bumps, unusual color, ulcerations, asymmetries, and any other abnormality.
Dentistry For Kids
Professional dental care is a crucial part of your child’s oral health. Be sure to schedule your child’s first appointment by the time their first teeth erupt, or before their first birthday. Scheduling regular appointments allows us to monitor the development of their oral health. Developmental problems are easier to treat in the beginning stages.
As your child grows older, we can establish a strong foundation for their oral health, one that will ensure a lifetime of healthy, beautiful teeth.
Dental Sealants
A dental sealant is a thin, plastic coating that prevents cavities and tooth decay. Sealants are usually applied to the occlusal (bite) surface of the molars and premolars. These teeth possess deep grooves and fissures that are much harder to clean, especially for children and teenagers. Sometimes the grooves are so thin that the bristles of a toothbrush are rendered essentially ineffective. A sealant will provide a more even brushing surface and seal off the enamel from harmful bacteria. Preventing tooth decay will ensure your child’s smile remains beautiful for years to come!
Periodontal Care
Your periodontal (gum) tissues are just as important as your teeth. Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in the United States. Periodontal disease is the result of an infection in the gum tissues, connective ligaments, and eventually the alveolar bone.
The disease is characterized by gums that are swollen, red, and tend to bleed during brushing and flossing. Luckily, periodontal disease is easy to prevent and treat if it is caught early enough. If we notice signs of advanced periodontal disease, we may recommend a scaling and root planing procedure. The goal is to return your gums to a pink, healthy state.
Periodontal Maintenance
Periodontal maintenance is a basic procedure that is recommended by our professionals to any customer that has periodontal disease or has had it in the past. It can be performed up to four times a year, depending on the patient’s overall oral health. The procedure does not have any risks and is done by our dentists for cosmetic and health purposes.
Laser Dentistry
Lasers have been used in the medical field for several decades now. They have been used in dentistry for around 30 years. A laser is a tool that uses a thin, extremely focused beam of light. In dentistry, this tool is used to remove, alter, or otherwise treat soft and hard tissues in the mouth. Thanks to the use of dental lasers, we can perform procedures with incredible accuracy.
TMJ
Temporomandibular joint disorder, commonly called TMJ or TMD, encompasses several different issues. These issues affect the joints and your jaw muscles. You may develop TMJ as a result of a jaw injury, jaw dislocation, inflammation from arthritis, or excessive pressure from bruxism. When you develop TMJ, you might not know that you have it. You may only notice that you have some jaw or joint pain.
Mouthguards
If you participate in physical activities that put you at risk for dental trauma or injury, we strongly recommend a mouthguard. A mouthguard will protect your teeth and prevent dental emergencies.
Night Guards
If you suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding), we may also recommend a night guard. Many patients with bruxism tend to grind their teeth during sleep. A night guard acts as a barrier that prevents enamel wear.
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a potentially severe medical condition. The unexpected fall of the levels of oxygenated blood during Sleep Apnea elevates the blood pressure of the individual and strains the cardiovascular system. There are high chances of developing high blood pressure with obstructive sleep apnea.
Oral Appliances
If you have obstructive sleep apnea, you may benefit from an oral appliance. An oral appliance will keep your jaw in the proper position during sleep. This opens your airway and improves your breathing during sleep. With an oral appliance, you may find yourself feeling more well-rested, alert and happy, thanks to a full night’s sleep.
Schedule An Appointment
To learn more about our family dentistry services call (208) 733-9999, and schedule an appointment now!