Many people postpone going to the dentist out of fear, preferring to live with excruciating mouth pain rather than face whatever unknown horrors lie ahead at the dentist’s office. For decades, dentistry has been stereotyped as the branch of medicine in which the cure is more frightening than the disease, itself.

Nothing could be further from the truth.

Due to the continuing evolution of modern dentistry, there are more options for safe, quick, and relatively pain-free treatment of serious dental problems than ever before. Recovery time and post-procedural discomfort have been dramatically reduced over the years, meaning that in most cases you will be able to resume normal activity almost immediately. Factor in Dr. Burley’s gentle touch and compassionate manner and you may be surprised at how relaxing and pleasant a trip to the dentist can be.

Truly, there is no reason to live with tooth pain when safe, gentle, comfortable treatment is only an office visit or two away.

Periodontal Care
Gum disease is one of the most common diseases in the United States, affecting about 80% of American adults to some degree. Thankfully, regular periodontal screenings and proper hygiene can help to control the disease without the need for more drastic treatments such as surgery. This is one of the reasons why Dr. Burley encourages all of her patients to schedule regular oral exams, even if they are experiencing no mouth pain at the time.

Gum disease is caused by plaque and tartar, the latter of which can only be removed through a professional cleaning by a dentist or hygienist. When left untreated, the buildup of plaque and tartar can lead to periodontitis, a disease in which the bones, gums, and other tissues that support the teeth are slowly destroyed by infection. If you consult a dentist early enough in the progression of the disease, there is an excellent chance that the infection can be controlled through deep cleaning and medication.

If you are experiencing gum pain or other signs of periodontal disease, Dr. Burley can help to restore health to your mouth. If your teeth and gums feel perfectly healthy, Dr. Burley can help to prevent the onset or the progression of gum disease through regular screenings and gentle cleanings. Please contact our office for more information or to schedule an initial consultation.

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Restorative Endodontics (Root Canals)
Possibly the most misunderstood of all dental procedures, having a root canal is actually an extremely safe and relatively pain-free process. Each of your teeth contains a long, thin strand of pulp that extends down into the root of the tooth. When this pulp becomes inflamed or infected, the result is often searing tooth pain and, in some cases, the eventual death of the tooth. A root canal restores health to the tooth by removing the affected pulp through a gap drilled in the tooth’s crown. The canal is then filled, and the tooth is permanently sealed with an artificial crown. This procedure allows you to preserve your natural tooth, which, whenever possible, is ideal.

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Dentures/Dental Implants
There is a greater range of options than ever before for denture wearers. Existing denture wearers who want to achieve greater control over chewing and speaking may want to explore the possibility of getting dental implants. These allow you to restore both function and beauty to your mouth, and require less maintenance than traditional dentures. Future denture wearers can choose between implant supported dentures and traditional dentures. Whichever option you prefer, Dr. Burley will personally monitor the development of the materials to ensure a natural look and a comfortable, secure fit.

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Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays offer stronger, longer lasting alternatives to traditional fillings. Sometimes referred to as “indirect” fillings, inlays and onlays are crafted out of hard-wearing porcelain or metal to fit the specific contours of your teeth. They perform essentially the same function as traditional fillings; that is, to occupy and protect the space where decay has been removed. However, unlike fillings, they are cemented into place – inlays, inside the tooth; onlays, on the tooth’s outer surface.

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Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns – or “caps,” as they are sometimes called – are an excellent way to repair and strengthen badly damaged teeth. Covering the entire surface area of the tooth, they help to prevent weaker teeth from cracking or breaking. By reinforcing these weaker teeth, they effectively reduce or eliminate pain, sensitivity, and difficulty with chewing and speaking.

Crowns can also be used to hold together teeth that are currently cracked and in danger of breaking, as well as to keep loose fillings in place. Aside from alleviating and preventing future pain, they can also restore beauty to your mouth. Click here for information on cosmetic dentistry.

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Regular Cleanings and Oral Exams
Of course, the best way to combat mouth diseases and tooth pain is to take steps to prevent them from occurring in advance. Although advances in dental technology have made it possible for Dr. Burley to restore the health of your mouth with relative ease and comfort, it is always preferable to preserve and protect your existing teeth. In addition to maintaining a sensible oral hygiene regimen, it is essential that you visit your dentist regularly to have your teeth professionally cleaned and screened for potential problems. By doing so, you increase the chances that your natural teeth will serve you well your entire life.

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If you are interested in scheduling an appointment with Dr. Erika V. Burley, please contact our office today. We are always pleased and grateful to welcome new patients to our practice.