Reilly Dental

Products And Services

• Children’s Dentistry

  Our office regularly cares for the dental needs of children as young as three years old. However, if you notice that your child has a problem with his or her teeth or gums prior to this age, please schedule an appointment. You may also want to bring your child to your dental checkup when he or she is about two so that your child can become familiar with the sights, sounds, and friendly helpers in our dental office. We call this a Happy Visit. Your child’s independent checkup at age three will involve a tooth-by-tooth inspection and periodontal exam. The dentist will check for proper development, as well as tooth decay, and other areas of concern. As your child grows, he or she will need regular checkups and hygiene visits to ensure optimal oral health. Our team will also teach oral home care techniques so that your child can learn how to effectively brush and floss, with your help at first, then on his or her own. The dentist may recommend dental sealants or fluoride supplements. Sealants are thin, clear coatings that protect hard-to-clean back teeth from the sugars that cause tooth decay. Fluoride attracts other minerals to strengthen tooth enamel and ward off cavities. Because most bottled water does not contain fluoride, your child may be deficient in this essential mineral. Sealants and fluoride supplements are quick and easy protective measures that can save your little one from cavities. Let us help your children learn the importance of optimal oral health from a young age. Call to schedule a Happy Visit or checkup today! In some cases, we refer children to pedodontics, who are specialists in children’s dentistry. We will help you make the best choices for your child’s unique and precious personality.

  Link: Children’s Dentistry

• Checkups

  The American Dental Association recommends you see your dentist at least twice each year for a checkup. At your checkup, we will inspect your soft tissues for oral cancer, periodontal disease, and other problems. The Marietta dentist will also look at each tooth in your mouth to assess problems like tooth decay or cracks, as well as old dental work. Sometimes old dental work wears out and needs to be replaced. We will be happy to replace metal fillings, inlays, onlays, and crowns with tooth-colored alternatives. By looking for trouble every six months, we can often reduce your potential for large dental problems. For instance, left untreated, a small cavity can grow to destroy an entire tooth and spread to surrounding teeth. A cracked tooth can cause pain or break off and create additional problems. Furthermore, advanced gum disease is the primary cause of tooth loss for American adults, and oral cancer causes more than 7,500 deaths each year. Caught and treated early, these diseases can be controlled. If you have not scheduled a checkup lately, be sure to call us now at (770) 971-6656 to make your appointment! Children as young as two should visit the Marietta dentist, and by age four or five, a child should attend regular checkups.

  Link: Checkups

• Professional Dental Hygiene

  Everyone over the age of four or five should visit our Marietta dentist for a professional hygiene appointment twice per year. Our gentle hygienists will inspect your gums for periodontal disease, the leading cause of tooth loss for American adults. The hygienists are specially trained to detect, deter, and treat gum disease. We prefer to help you maintain optimal oral health so that you never have to worry about gum disease. However, if you develop periodontal problems, we’re here to help you. If we find cause for concern, we may recommend that you change your oral healthcare routine or the products you use at home. We may also suggest a deep cleaning, which involves: Scaling to remove tartar from below the gum line Root planing to smooth rough root surfaces where plaque builds up Arestin antibiotic treatment to kill bacterial infection Call us (770) 971-6656 to make your six-month hygiene appointment now!

  Link: Professional Dental Hygiene

• Gum Disease Therapy

  The most common disease in the United States is not what you may think. Heart disease, stroke, or cancer come to mind, but actually, gum disease is the single most prevalent disease in America. In fact, it affects more people than heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s, and cancer combined. About 80% of the population has some form of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, periodontitis (advanced), and gingivitis (mild). What is Gum Disease? Gum disease is an infection of the teeth’s supporting structures, the gums and bone, and it usually starts early in life, then progresses as a person ages. It all starts when plaque hardens into tartar (also called calculus) below the gum line. This irritates vulnerable soft tissues and infection can set in. Combined with decaying food particles lodged between teeth, and bacteria emitted by plaque, the infection can spread quickly. Symptoms are so mild in the early phase, many patients don’t recognize them: red, tender, swollen gums, bleeding when brushing teeth. As the condition progresses, gums recede from teeth and pockets of bacteria form. The bacteria can destroy gum tissue and bone, eventually resulting in tooth and bone loss. Why is Gum Disease so Serious? Recent research reveals that gum disease is linked to increased risk for major overall health problems, including, but not limited to stroke, heart disease, respiratory problems, osteoporosis, diabetes complications, low birth weight, and most recently, dementia. Because of these findings, research continues. We may learn much more in the next few years. It makes perfect sense, though, that gum disease is linked to overall health problems. Everything that enters or is present in the mouth has access to the whole body. The mouth is a portal to the body. That’s why regular checkups and hygiene visits are vital to not only oral health, but also overall health. Is Gum Disease Curable? Unfortunately, gum disease is not curable. However, we can detect early warning signs of gum disease at your regular dental checkups. At this stage, prevention might be as simple as changing your brushing technique, improving your flossing routine, or changing the products you use for oral care at home. Once gum disease sets in, we can often treat it with non-surgical therapy including: Scaling – to remove hardened plaque from below the gum line Root Planing – to reduce rough areas on teeth roots Antibiotic Therapy – to battle infection Laser Treatment – to remove bacteria and promote gum reattachment Surgery – advanced cases may require the care of a periodontist, in which case, we will refer you to a trusted colleague Expect to attend more frequent hygiene visits so that a dentist or hygienist can monitor your condition and make sure that recovery is on track. What is Laser Treatment for Gum Disease? Combined with comprehensive periodontal therapy, a diode laser for soft tissue procedures can remove and reduce some periodontal infection. This type of treatment also promotes reattachment of gum tissue to teeth. Laser dentistry is precise and conservative in comparison to traditional therapies. Some patients do not even need anesthesia during laser therapy.

  Link: Gum Disease Therapy

• Sleep Apnea

  Are you tired, stressed out, and moody because of interrupted sleep? Sleep apnea, a condition in which breathing stops for periods of 10 seconds or longer, can interrupt the deep sleep that makes people feel rested. Non-surgical dental appliances have proven more effective than surgery for many sleep apnea patients. What is Sleep Apnea? When a sleeping person stops breathing for 10 or more seconds, they have “apnea.” OSAS, or obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, is one type of sleep apnea. Lack of adequate breath during sleep reduces airflow, causing the brain to tell the body to wake up and breathe. In some cases, sleep apnea patients only move into a lighter stage of sleep, while other times, patients wake completely. What’s the Problem? Many factors may contribute to airway blockage, from the size of passages and oral or airway structures, to swelling of passageways or position of the tongue. Disrupted deep sleep can affect mood, health, and cause daytime sleepiness. The added stress and fatigue can cause lack of concentration, loss of memory, and accidents in the workplace or while driving. Other health risks include high blood pressure and heart problems, and even a risk of premature death. The sleep apnea patient’s snores can disturb a sleeping partner’s rest, too. Non-Surgical Sleep Apnea Therapies A few tests can determine whether you suffer from OSAS. There are non-surgical therapies that may alleviate the problem. A nasal mask (CPAP) can deliver air to keep nasal passages open during sleep. Even more effective, patients may now wear dental appliances that reposition the tongue or mandible (lower jawbone). A Swedish study showed that the anterior mandibular positioning dental device (AMP) is actually more effective than surgical therapies. The same study stated that adverse health effects and appliance repairs were rare. According to experts, sleep apnea is an under-diagnosed condition that is more prevalent in men than women. If your sleeping partner says you snore or stop breathing while asleep, or if you experience daytime sleepiness, contact us for a consultation. A sleep apnea device may improve your quality of life. It’s just another way your dentist can help you smile.

  Link: Sleep Apnea

• Cosmetic Bonding

  If you have a chipped, slightly misaligned, or otherwise imperfect tooth that needs cosmetic restoration, we may suggest one-appointment bonding. The dentist can apply liquid composite resin, shaded to blend with your tooth’s color, to rebuild a pleasing shape to your tooth. After hardening the resin with a curing light, Dr. Reilly will artistically sculpt and polish the restoration. In just one visit, you can enjoy a beautiful new smile! Cosmetic bonding can be a viable, affordable alternative to porcelain veneers, but it lasts only 5 to 10 years with proper care. Cosmetic bonding will not discolor as your natural tooth enamel will, so touch-up whitening may be required to keep your natural teeth the same shade as the bonded area.

  Link: Cosmetic Bonding

• Smile Makeovers

  Teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, orthodontics, replacement teeth…so many options exist to help people achieve the smile of their dreams. As a cosmetic dental practice, our dentist in Marietta, GA can help you determine which treatments will give you the smile you’ve always wanted. In fact, we encourage patients to bring photos of some of their favorite celebrity smiles so that we can pinpoint attributes to incorporate in a smile makeover plan. Dr. Reilly will examine your oral health, discuss your vision of a gorgeous smile, and study the dynamics of your face, mouth, and skin tone. We can then plan a smile makeover to suit your personality and unique style. The dentist in Marietta, GA will explain your options and show you (with a computer image, before-and-after photos, or a wax model) the potential results of the proposed treatment plan. Your input will help us determine how to give you the smile you want. The time involved in your smile makeover will be directly determined by the procedures you decide upon. Our administrative team can help you with creative scheduling and financing. Our Marietta, GA dental team believes that everyone deserves a sensational smile, and we’ll work with you to make sure you get it! Call at (770) 971-6656 to reserve your smile makeover consultation with our cosmetic dentist today.

  Link: Smile Makeovers

• Dental Lasers

  LASER is an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation, a complicated string of words that basically means a single wavelength beam of highly concentrated light energy. Lasers have transformed medical surgery by offering minimally-invasive alternatives to traditional scalpel incisions and sutured closures. The laser’s intense, narrow wavelength has precise, predictable, and powerful reactions when it contacts hard or soft tissues of the body. Laser light is extremely efficient, producing very little heat as it acts on its target. This makes it ideal for oral surgery, since it seldom affects tissues other than those it targets. The laser provides precise control over the depth and extent of cutting, while simultaneously minimizing bleeding and sterilizing the treatment area. Versatility and Applications However, a laser can also cure (harden) dental materials, scan teeth to detect decay, vaporize decay, prepare teeth for fillings, and activate whitening gel to brighten smiles. Currently, dental applications of lasers include: gum disease treatments, gum re-contouring, root canal cleaning, decay detection and elimination, curing and strengthening of bonding, incision cauterizing and tissue fusion, lesion reparation, biopsies, and super-fast teeth whitening procedures. If you have questions about the dental lasers we use, please call us at (770) 971-6656. We enjoy helping patients understand all of the interesting innovations we implement for their comfort and care.

  Link: Dental Lasers

• Invisalign

  Frequently Asked Questions Invisalign is an orthodontic innovation manufactured by Align Technologies of California. Using the power of computers and powerful imaging and design equipment, Invisalign produces a custom series of comfortable and practically invisible aligners made just for you. Aligners change every two weeks for the duration of treatment, and each carefully moves your teeth into the right position. The severity of misalignment determines how many aligners you will need. Most patients see desired results within 9-12 months of therapy, while most regular braces take anywhere from 20-30 months. Consultations are quick and easy, usually taking less than 30 minutes. Here are some other reasons why Invisalign may be right for you. Shorter treatment time is one of the many benefits of Marietta Invisalign. Patients spend about 30-40% less time with Marietta Invisalign than with traditional orthodontics. Treatment through this method may also make some cosmetic dentistry procedures easier to achieve. Moreover, it may also prove to be a big money saver in the long run. Ideally, positioned teeth may not need as much cosmetic treatment and can save you hundreds of dollars. Once treatment is complete, we will make you a set of custom retainers that will help preserve your beautiful new smile. Invisalign-Related FAQs: How much does Invisalign cost? The cost of treatment varies according to the severity of misalignment or complexity of your case. The price typically ranges from $3,000 to $5,000. Does my insurance plan cover Invisalign braces? Some insurance plans with extensive coverage include orthodontics as a benefit, usually for an additional premium. In such cases, there is normally a particular amount reserved for orthodontic services, including Invisalign. At Reilly Dental, we do our best to help you get what is necessary. If you have insurance benefits or are hanging on to average credit, we can help. We make it so that you are able to pay for Invisalign treatment for less than $200 a month. How long do I need to wear aligners? Aligners should be in place at least 20-22 hours per day. Following this simple requirement keeps you on schedule and treatment time at a minimum. It’s also the best way of accomplishing treatment with more certainty. Do the aligners hurt? Aligners are initially super tight upon placement. As with most other procedures, your teeth will be sore for the first 24 to 48 hours. After this period, you will start getting used to the pressure, resulting in less soreness and discomfort. Should I eat with the aligners on? Although there are some who manage to do it, keeping aligners on while eating is not recommended. It is possible for food to get stuck between the appliances, resulting in discomfort, pain, and even breakage. Damaged aligners need immediate replacement, which will cost you an additional amount. It is best not to chew with the appliances in, although you can drink clear and sugar-free drinks. Other non-clear beverages such as coffee and tea will stain your teeth and aligners, and it is best you remove the appliance. What happens if I lose my aligners? You can order replacement aligners, although there is an additional charge for such. To avoid this problem, we provide storage cases tailor made for your aligners. Can I get Invisalign if my teeth shifted after using regular braces? Yes. This is one of the most common problems asked by our patients. Invisalign can be a powerful tool in these cases. Invisalign Cost & Financing Other than the above, one of the most common questions we encounter is about the cost of Invisalign in Atlanta and nearby areas. Each case is different, thus the cost will always vary from patient to patient. Invisalign treatment usually runs from as low as $3000 to $5500. The total cost will always be determined by how simple or complex your needs are. Here are a few facts to remember: We offer 24 months interest-free financing. Over 90% of patients choose to finance Invisalign treatment. For lower monthly payments, you have the option to finance up to 48 months. Check the fine print for any estimates for Invisalign in Atlanta that fall far below the numbers mentioned earlier. Chances are these estimates are for a different product, and it is best to check the fine print. We offer financing solutions through Care Credit and Chase Healthcare.

  Link: Invisalign

• Boost™ Whitening by Ultradent

  If you want to boost your self-assurance, a whiter, brighter smile will help you feel better about yourself and take years off your appearance. We can help you achieve the dazzling smile you desire in just over an hour with the Boost™ teeth whitening system. Ultradent, a trusted name in dental health care, created the trademarked Boost whitening formula to produce stunning results, yet still protect and care for your teeth. You can expect stronger enamel and decreased sensitivity with Boost. Studies also show that it helps prevent cavities, as well. The professional grade hydrogen peroxide gel, proven safe and effective, whitens teeth much more dramatically and rapidly than over-the-counter products. Compare the 38% hydrogen peroxide concentration in Boost™ to the typical 3 to 10% of drugstore whitening kits. If you choose to whiten with Boost, first, we will cover your gums and lips and expose only the teeth. Then a dental assistant will apply the special gel, taking care to reapply where necessary. We may use a bleaching light, the same one we employ to harden fillings, to intensify the bleaching action. We will illuminate one or two teeth at a time for about two minutes each to achieve the best results. An Opalescence® Xtra® Boost™ take-home whitener will help you maintain dazzling results. Age, red wine, cigarettes, or tea and coffee wreak havoc on your teeth, but Boost™ penetrates the enamel and dissolves stains, so you can face the world with a gorgeous, bright-white smile.

  Link: Boost™ Whitening by Ultradent

• Fixed Bridges

  If you’ve lost teeth due to accident, injury, or gum disease, we can create a permanent bridge to restore you to a solid smile. A bridge not only fills the gap, but it also prevents repositioning of remaining teeth. It can also correct a misaligned bite, improve chewing function and speech articulation, and provide internal structure for the face to give you a more youthful appearance. What are Fixed Bridges? First of all, a bridge is a prosthetic tooth (or teeth) that attaches on one or both sides to teeth prepared with dental crowns. A fixed bridge is permanently joined onto the neighboring abutment teeth (crowned teeth) and consists of three basic units: the false tooth or teeth (called a pontic) and two abutment crowns. The style of bridge we suggest will depend upon the strength and health of the abutment teeth, as well as the location of the gap in relation to the rest of your dentition. If healthy adjacent abutment teeth aren’t available, a surgically-implanted metal post, known as a dental implant, may offer a solid alternative. For a bridge that replaces many teeth, we may recommend a removable partial denture or implant-supported prosthesis. With proper care, a fixed bridge may last at least 8 to10 years. If you have questions about crown and bridgework or any other dental prosthetic, call us at (770) 971-6656. We will be happy to discuss the options and schedule your evaluation.

  Link: Fixed Bridges

• Dental Crowns

  If you’re self-conscious about cracked, broken, decayed, or worn teeth, we can bring back your healthy, natural-looking smile with dental crowns, also called caps. A crown can return structure, strength, and function to a tooth with extensive decay or damage. Designed to fit snugly and function as a healthy tooth, a crown will protect your tooth from further damage and preserve the jaw’s correct natural alignment. We use precious metal, porcelain pressed (or fused) to metal, or all-porcelain crowns. To maintain a fully white smile, we recommend all-ceramic crowns. Our precise color-matching system allows us to find the right shade of porcelain to blend with your natural tooth color. Porcelain crowns are also extremely durable and long lasting, and these benefits make them popular with dentists as well as patients. Typically, we can design, fit, and place your crowns in just a couple of short appointments. Once a crown is placed, you can care for it as you do your natural teeth. Conscientious brushing twice a day and daily flossing will protect the base of your crown from bacterial growth. Be sure to see us at least two times each year for professional cleanings and a preventive exam, too.

  Link: Dental Crowns

• Partial & Full Dentures

  A smile just isn’t a smile if it’s incomplete. Missing teeth cause a host of problems, from difficulty speaking and eating, to low self-confidence, and eventually even jawbone deterioration. Don’t give up on your smile. Advances in dental materials and technology have made full and partial dentures more lifelike and comfortable than ever. What is a Partial Denture A partial denture, commonly referred to as simply a partial, consists of multiple teeth on a gum-colored base. The teeth are not in a row, but rather spread across the base to fit like a puzzle with your existing teeth. A partial is normally secured with clips or brackets, but unlike a bridge, a partial is removable. What is a Full Denture A full denture is a complete top or bottom row of teeth mounted on a gum-colored base. Dentures can be closed or open palate, and they require denture adhesive to hold them in place.

  Link: Partial & Full Dentures

• Tooth-Colored Fillings

  If you’re embarrassed about your smile because of decay or dark fillings in your teeth, you may be a good candidate for composite resins. A silicon dioxide-filled, tooth-colored plastic mixture, composite resins can restore teeth to an attractive, healthy state. Composite resins represent several advantages over traditional silver or amalgam fillings. Because composite resins are not made of metal, we can blend and mix shades to find the perfect color to match your natural teeth. This means only you and your dentist will know you have tooth-colored fillings. Another benefit is that the tooth/composite bond actually supports the remaining tooth structure, deterring breakage and insulating against temperature changes. Medium and small composites can last seven to ten years – that’s as long as the tried and true amalgams. Best of all, composite resins allow us to keep more of your natural tooth structure intact than amalgams. We believe in conservative dentistry – the more natural tooth structure you keep, the better teeth you’ll likely have in the future. Some patients experience mild and temporary post-placement sensitivity from composite resin fillings. The only caution we usually mention is that coffee, tea, and other staining foods and beverages may discolor your composites unless you ask to have them coated with a clear plastic sealant.

  Link: Tooth-Colored Fillings

• Dental Implants

  Tooth loss is a major dental problem, and suffering from it normally leaves you with only two options: replace the missing tooth or don’t. The answer should be clear, because choosing the latter can lead to further complications in terms of diet and appearance, as well as the higher risk of losing more teeth. Though there are different choices available, research shows these are the most ideal and effective way to address and prevent further jawbone corrosion and tooth loss. At our practice in Marietta near Atlanta, dental implants are the solution we recommend. Why replace missing teeth? Every tooth has two parts: the crown and the root. When a tooth falls out, the part of the jaw that once supported it loses its purpose. It then withers and atrophies; leaving a weakened jaw to support remaining structures. Missing teeth add to the workload of those that remain, creating a problematic oral situation. To balance the load, some teeth shift and cause improper spacing, food impacting, and tooth decay. In four to eight years, remaining teeth can begin falling out as a result of these problems. You can lose up to 19% of adjacent teeth as a result of just one lost tooth, resulting in a total loss of five teeth! What options do I have for replacement? The most popular options remain to be partials, bridges, and implants. The following is a quick review of the three. Removable partial dentures carry the weight of replacement structures using clasps that attach to surrounding “abutment” teeth. Despite being an option that’s been around for a long time, some people using this dental appliance report increased tooth sensitivity, discomfort, and other pains. Despite studies from the American Dental Association showing these appliances cause the loss of almost 30% more teeth in most patients, it remains a popular choice because of its affordability. In the long run, however, patients may end up spending more time and money for maintenance and to replace additional teeth. Fixed bridges are a solution that requires the reduction of abutment teeth for proper cap fitting. Replacement teeth secured to the caps bridge the gap between abutment teeth. Just like removable partials, the jawbone may begin to atrophy because there is no actual replacement for the missing tooth. Bridges normally last for ten years; after such time, surrounding teeth begin decaying and may require root canal therapy. According to studies by the ADA, patients using such appliances may lose up to 10% of remaining teeth. Of the three, a dental implant is the ideal option because it replaces both the root and crown. These do not rely on adjacent structures, because the purpose is to create an artificial tooth root. With it, there is a significantly reduced chance of experiencing tooth decay or sensitivity compared to the other solutions. This procedure has an excellent success rate of 95-98% and can also secure dentures, partials, and bridgework. Coupled with proper oral maintenance, it can and will last a lifetime. At Reilly Dental, near Atlanta, dental implants are among our specialties. To qualify for treatment, it is important you be in good health and have adequate jawbone structure. There are cases where minor pre-operatory procedures like sinus and bone grafts are necessary to prepare your mouth for surgery. In case you do not have sufficient bone structure to support the procedure, you can ask about mini implants as an alternative. We will evaluate your specific case to figure out which replacement is right for you.

  Link: Dental Implants

• Inlays and Onlays

  You have a big filling that needs replacement. Do you have to get a full crown? Not necessarily. A more conservative option, inlays and onlays fit into a tooth similarly to a filling, yet they are milled restorations, much like a crown. The bumps on top of a tooth are called cusps. Inlays fit between cusps, while onlays fit over one or more cusps. Inlays and onlays allow a patient to retain more natural tooth structure, which is always best. Not every situation is right for an inlay or onlay, but the dentist will assess your problem and determine the best solution for you. Because they are created in a lab like a crown, inlays and onlays require two appointments. At the first visit, we will prepare your tooth by removing your tooth decay or old filling and cleaning the area. We will take a dental impression and send it to our dental lab so that a technician can create a custom inlay or onlay for you. The dentist will determine the best material to use, but in most cases, teeth that show when you smile or speak can have a white restoration. Back teeth incur extreme pressure, so a metal inlay or onlay may be indicated. You’ll wear a temporary until the lab delivers your final restoration. At the second appointment, the dentist will remove your temporary and permanently cement your final inlay or onlay into position. After polishing and modifying the restoration as necessary to ensure proper bite alignment, you’ll enjoy your stronger, healthier smile for years to come.

  Link: Inlays and Onlays

• Root Canal Therapy

  Painful Pulp Your teeth contain several layers: the outer protective enamel, a secondary layer of sensitive dentin, and an inner pulp that contains components commonly referred to as the “nerve” of the tooth. Each pulp chamber branches off, forming canals that lead toward the tooth root tip. These infamous root canals provide a means for the tooth to absorb what it needs from the blood and get rid of toxins or other unnecessary materials via the blood stream. A deep cavity, traumatic injury, or tooth fracture can make the canal susceptible to bacterial infection, which can kill the pulp, stimulate increased blood flow, and create pressure within the tooth. This can cause severe tooth pain and may initiate bone degeneration, tooth loss, and even more acute pain. If you see a dentist in the earliest stages of this condition, the tooth may be saved with a root canal. Otherwise, it should be extracted and replaced with a prosthetic. Easy, Does It Hurt? Will root canal therapy hurt? Not with today’s advanced analgesics and technology. In fact, the entire process can be so comfortable that many patients doze off. Oftentimes, root canal therapy can be completed in a single appointment. We simply clean out the diseased canal, fill it with a biologically-inert substance, seal it from further infection, and you’re on your way. While some patients experience post-procedural soreness or slight tissue inflammation, these are controllable with over-the-counter analgesics. Follow-up care involves thorough home hygiene and regular dental visits for cleanings and checkups.

  Link: Root Canal Therapy

• Digital Imaging

  When you decide to correct or enhance your smile, it’s often difficult to determine ahead of time exactly what kind of results to expect. After all, a smile is a pretty personal thing, and changing your smile can feel like changing your identity. That’s where cosmetic digital imaging comes into play. Digital imaging is computer software that allows us to take your digital photograph and manipulate it to reflect the procedures you’re considering. The result is a photo that shows you what your smile would look like after treatment. Whether you’re considering teeth whitening, straightening, bonding, veneers, or a complete smile makeover, digital imaging technology lets you see into your future. The process is quite simple. Once your dentist has completed your oral exam and discussed your smile goals, a treatment plan will be created. Various digital photos of your current smile will be taken and change factors will be keyed into the computer. The computer will immediately generate one or more graphic images that accurately demonstrate how the changes will affect the appearance of your mouth, as well as your overall facial appearance. It’s a fun process, and it can instigate excitement similar to when a sonogram reveals the gender of a new baby. Plus, you can take a photo of the new you home to share with family or friends. Informed patients make wise decisions, and digital imaging allows you the opportunity to actually glimpse your future before committing to treatment. What more could you ask for?

  Link: Digital Imaging

• Digital Radiography

  We’ve invested in a new way of looking into your mouth—a procedure that’s fast, comfortable, and incredibly precise. Using digital radiography, we can clearly identify all external and internal anatomical structures and accurately diagnose your dental problems. Even more amazingly, we can immediately translate that information into a large, clear, accurate image, projected onto a monitor that patient and doctor can study together in the operatory. You won’t even have to leave your chair. Digital radiography’s technology improves and simplifies the way we care for our patients’ teeth, resulting in better dental evaluations and treatment decisions. As the most important member of your dental team, you need to understand the condition of your mouth, as well as our recommendations for treatment. Digital radiographs help us help you. Reduced Radiation, Radical Results Traditionally, dentists used X-rays to see what the naked eye could not; X-rays were developed in a darkroom with hazardous chemicals, and then viewed on a special light board. The developed X-rays had to be stored, which required large filing systems. By far, the worst part of traditional X-rays was the radiation exposure to patients. Digital radiography has completely transformed this process. Now, when you come into the office for X-rays, a tiny sensor is placed in your mouth to emit a small amount of radiation – up to 90-percent less than traditional X-rays required. This creates a detailed image of your internal oral structures that is immediately viewable on a chairside monitor, carrying with it all the conveniences of other digitized images. We can rotate and magnify it, adjust it for contrast, and even color-code it for educational purposes. The digital images store easily and efficiently in our computer files, safe and sound. For insurance purposes, referrals, or patient education, digital X-rays can be easily, inexpensively, and accurately reproduced indefinitely. Digital X-rays offer unparalleled benefits over traditional radiographs: they’re convenient, safe for the environment, provide a great opportunity for patient education, can be transferred and copied accurately, and best of all, they’re safer for our patients. If you have questions about digital X–rays, call us at (770) 971-6656. We’ll do all we can to help.

  Link: Digital Radiography

• Intraoral Cameras

  People seldom have a clear idea of the actual status of their dental health. Even with lights and mirrors, a patient can’t see what the dentist can – that is, until now. We use intraoral cameras, so when you visit the dentist, you can sit comfortably back in the chair and get ready for the show. The dentist or hygienist will insert a pen-sized, camera-tipped wand into your mouth. Covered with a disposable plastic sheath for contamination prevention, the wand simply takes a video of the inside of your mouth and transmits the images via cable to a computing unit. The computing unit enlarges the full-color images and sends them to a TV screen that you can comfortably view from the dental chair. Aha! There it is – your mouth on the screen. The dentist can point out problem areas and explain his recommendations for treatment, so you’ll become an informed partner in your dental care, instead of a clueless bystander. Seeing your dental problems may seem overwhelming at first, but consider the experience the first step toward a healthier, fresher smile. The use of intraoral cameras may reveal the early stages of potentially serious problems, allowing you the opportunity to prevent small problems before they escalate. This is especially helpful with gum disease and conditions that cause damage without causing pain. The intraoral camera’s honest survey can also show you how your regular home hygiene routine is paying off. The dental hygienist or dentist can recommend ways to improve your home-care based on their findings. If you want to learn more about the technologies that enhance patient care in our office, call us today at (770) 971-6656. We’re always happy to explain the new innovations in dentistry and how they can improve your dental experience.

  Link: Intraoral Cameras

• Nitrous Oxide

  Many people know nitrous oxide as laughing gas. In our office, our Marietta dentist administers nitrous oxide to enhance patient comfort and relieve anxiety for patients of all ages. After you’re comfortably seated in the dental chair, you’ll inhale the gas (a nitrous oxide and oxygen mixture) through a face mask. We will control the amount of nitrous you receive to ensure your safety. You will begin to relax and will not recognize pain, so the dentist can perform your dental work while you stay completely comfortable. The effects of nitrous oxide subside once we remove your mask, so if nitrous is the only anesthesia you receive, you will be capable of driving yourself home following the visit and can continue your daily activities as normal.

  Link: Nitrous Oxide

• Oral Conscious Sedation

  A visit to the dentist is a very common cause of fear and anxiety. Patients who experience dental phobia may postpone or avoid vital dental appointment, and multiple dental visits are out of the question. Neglecting your oral health can lead to tooth loss, disease, and overall health problems. However, you can overcome dental fear with oral conscious sedation. What is oral conscious sedation? Oral conscious sedation is the use of oral medication in combination with nitrous oxide to achieve an appropriate level of relaxation so that a fearful patient can calmly receive the dental care he or she needs. Most states require board-certification, which involves additional training in dosage, monitoring, and safety. The entire process is simple and comfortable. At your first appointment, we will discuss your overall health and medical history. If you feel comfortable, we will take X-rays and examine your teeth and supporting tissues. This will give us the information we need to determine which dental treatments will restore your smile. Before you leave the office, we will schedule your next appointment and prescribe an anxiolytic, or anti-anxiety, medication. We will advise you as to when you should take the medication, usually the night before your dental appointment. Accompanied by a responsible friend or family member, you’ll arrive at the dentist’s office more rested and relaxed. We will gauge your anxiety level when you arrive for the appointment. If needed, nitrous oxide will be given to further relax you, and an experienced sedation dentistry team will monitor your vital signs during the procedure. Your friend or family member will accompany you home once your dental work is complete. The effects of the sedative should subside by the following day. It is wise to have a friend or relative stay with you until the medication wears off. Although your dental procedures may take hours, you will feel as if they take only minutes. Some patients become so relaxed that they fall asleep in the dentist’s chair. Sedation medications have an amnesic effect, so you’ll have few, if any, memories of the visit. You can immediately enjoy your improved smile. Who should consider oral conscious sedation? You may want to consider oral sedation if: You are fearful or anxious about dental treatments and/or dental instruments Local anesthetics do not have a numbing effect on you You have a sensitive gag reflex You suffer from any health issues, such as neck or back pain, which could lead to discomfort while sitting in a dentist’s chair How do I determine if I am a candidate? Contact us to discuss whether oral conscious sedation is an option for you. Oral conscious sedation can give you the peace of mind you need in order to undergo dental work. You may enjoy better overall health, an improved self-image, and better quality of life with a healthy, beautiful smile.

  Link: Oral Conscious Sedation

• Oral Sedation

  Among the most common phobias, visiting the dentist causes many people severe anxiety and stress. Often, fearful patients forego necessary dental care to avoid a visit to their dentist. If you find yourself feeling panicky at the thought of having your teeth worked on, you should know that a safe, comfortable relaxation method exists. Oral sedation alleviates anxiety, so you can face dental appointments with confidence. What exactly does oral sedation entail? If you fear dental appointments, consult with Dr. Reilly to determine if oral sedation is available for you based on your medical history and current medications. If you’re a good candidate for oral sedation, the dentist will select an appropriate anti-anxiety or sedative drug for you to take at a pre-determined time before your appointment. These safe, widely-prescribed drugs diminish anxiety and help patients relax. Your anxiety level will help the dentist determine dosage, which in turn determines your consciousness level during the appointment. Some patients become so relaxed they drift off into a restful sleep during their dental procedures. Throughout your appointment, we will closely monitor your vital signs to ensure your safety. When you choose oral sedation, you must have a responsible adult who can drive you to and from your appointment and spend some time with you after the appointment until the sedative wears off completely. Why Choose Oral Sedation? In general, patients choose oral sedation if they: experience severe anxiety and fear when faced with dental instruments put off important dental treatment because of fear have a sensitive gag reflex have trouble feeling numb after receiving local anesthetic cannot rest comfortably in a dentist’s exam chair due to neck or back problems What Are the Risks and Side-Effects Associated with Oral Sedation? The anti-anxiety medications used to achieve oral sedation have been prescribed and studied for years, so potential side effects are widely documented. These drugs are generally safe for most patients and have a low incidence of side effects, which tend to be minor. Typically, patients who receive oral sedation experience: Retrograde amnesia, in which they recall little to nothing about the dental procedure Decreased post-operative soreness Dry mouth A very small percentage of patients may temporarily have hiccups after using oral sedation drugs.

  Link: Oral Sedation