dental exam

Dental Implants: A Permanent Smile Solution

Dental implants are an incredibly strong, stable, and long-lasting solution to replace missing teeth. The implants are “man-made” roots composed of primarily titanium, a biocompatible metal that fuses to your jaw bone. The implants do not become loose like dentures can. Implants can be used to replace a single tooth or many missing teeth. Depending on your situation the implant specialist and the dentist will work together to find the best solution for you. The health of the gums and bone are important considerations when determining if you are a candidate for dental implants. If the bone is not strong … Read more…

4 Ways to Close Gaps Between Teeth

Often patients come to the office asking to have the spaces in between their teeth closed. Many relate that they do not want to go through metal braces while others specifically ask for them. In dentistry it is helpful that we have many options for patients with different needs. At your free consultation with Dr. Cirka and Dr. Meier they will detail your options and help you figure out the best one to choose. Below are 4 ways that we are able to close the gaps in your teeth: Bonding Bonding is a process in which we use a composite … Read more…

DIY Whitening- Risks You Need to Know Right Now

Do-It-Yourself, “DIY”, is all the craze nowadays. Most folks are trying things they never would have dreamed about in efforts to save money. There are a multitude of different remedies at home in order to whiten their teeth that have been shared both via word of mouth and on the internet. While some of these may be effective, many can be dangerous. These methods range from homespun mouthwashes, to make-your-own toothpastes, to ordering different concoctions online, and more. We have heard just about it all. While some of the home remedies may offer a quick result, there can be lasting … Read more…

The Most Common Disease Among Children- How Are We fighting it?

Dental caries (cavities) is the most common disease in children 6-11 years old and adolescents 12-19 years old. This disease is largely preventable, yet it remains more common than asthma among adolescents. Tooth decay has significant consequences. Children with severe dental problems can have trouble eating and sleeping, paying attention to parents and concentrating in school. To combat this major public health epidemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has implemented fluoridation of community water supplies. This has been ongoing for more than 60 years now and research has proved that fluoridation of the community water is not … Read more…

Are Dental Implants the Right Solution for Me?

If you are missing teeth, one of the best options for replacing them today is with dental implants. A dental implant is a “man-made root” that is placed into the jaw bone and sits where the roots of the tooth normally would. Yes, it may sound strange or even painful; however, the jaw bone has less nerve endings than the tooth itself and we find patients normally experience much less sensitivity than they expect. Dental implants are a great way to replace teeth because they provide a long-term solution and can last a lifetime. Based on your health history, you … Read more…

Oral Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment

The More You Know… The most common places that oral cancer begins invading the body are the tongue and the floor of the mouth. These growths can be serious and are usually a form of squamous cell carcinoma. Often they will spread to the lips and if left untreated the cancer will continue to spread to other body parts. The most common places it will travel to are the lips, floor of mouth, tongue, hard and soft palate, the sinus cavity, cheeks, and throat. As with many cancer the presentation of oral cancer may be the origination or it could … Read more…