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Emergency Exams

Dental emergency? We’re here for you!

Severe pain or discomfort in the jaw, gums or teeth can often become unbearable. Here at Newport Wave Dental we offer same-day emergency dental services and appointments to provide immediate relief and long-term dental solutions!

If your child is suffering from severe pain or discomfort please don’t hesitate to call us. Our accommodating team will help you schedule an emergency exam as soon as possible. We’re here to help!

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Fillings

A filling is a conservative way to restore a decayed tooth back to its normal shape and function. If your child has a tooth that requires a filling the dentist will first remove the decayed structure, then clean the affected area before placing the conservative filling material.

This restoration will help prevent further decay by closing any cracks or spaces where both food and bacteria might enter. There are a variety of filling materials available including amalgam and tooth colored composites. We will work with you to determine which material is best for your child depending on the extent of the repair, location and size of restorations.

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Extractions

Good oral hygiene is a must. The loss of a single tooth may have major impact on overall oral health and appearance. Although dentists will use every measure to prevent tooth loss, there are still some occasions when a tooth needs to be extracted. A tooth may need to be extracted if the following occurs:

• Severe decay.
• Infection or abscess.
• Orthodontic correction.
• Malpositioned teeth.
• Fractured teeth or roots.
• Impacted teeth.
• Advanced gum disease.

The dentist may suggest an extraction after careful examination and diagnosis. Digital X-rays are used to understand the shape and position of the tooth and surrounding bone before extracting the tooth. Based on the degree of difficulty, a dentist may refer you to a specialist.

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Mouth Guards

Custom-designed mouth guards are made of durable, flexible plastic molded to fit the shape of your child's teeth. Mouth guards are recommended to protect the teeth, tongue, oral cavity and jaw during any activity such as bruxing, clenching and sports. Additionally, they have been shown to reduce concussions while playing sports. Mouth guards generally last 2-5 years.

Custom-made oral appliances can also be used as part of treatment for conditions like TMJ issues and sleep apnea.

If your child is active in athletics or experiencing any discomfort in their mouth, teeth or jaw, please let us know immediately. If any kind of guard or appliance is indicated, we will take an impression of their teeth to create a custom-fit product for their specific needs.

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Night Guards

Night guards are designed to protect your child's teeth, jaw and joints from any potential damage during sleep caused from clenching or grinding their teeth.

Symptoms of nighttime clenching and grinding include:

• Headaches
• Earaches
• Tooth pain
• Stiffness in the jaw
• Muscle pain
• Tightness in the shoulders, neck or facial muscles
• Sleep disruption

If your child regularly clenches or grinds their teeth in the night or is experiencing any issues in their mouth or jaw, please let us know. If a night guard is a good option for your child, we can create a custom-fit night guard for their specific needs.

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Sedation Dentistry

Nitrous Oxide Sedation

Nitrous oxide sedation, also known as "laughing gas," is commonly used to make your child's appointment more comfortable. The nitrous oxide is inhaled through a mask and produces a state of relaxation. Local anesthetic will be administered in conjunction with nitrous oxide to eliminate anxiety and pain. Nitrous oxide is designed to make office visits easier for nervous patients and has been effective for many years.

IV Sedation

The main reason to use general anesthesia/IV sedation is to help patients with extreme dental anxiety or phobia. General anesthesia makes the dental experience easier for all involved. Hospital dentistry is also available to those with severe medical conditions, with proper referral.

If you feel IV sedation is the best option for your child, please set up a consultation today. We are happy to answer any of your questions.

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Oral Cancer

We have a genuine concern for your child’s overall health and well-being. It’s because of this that we invest in state-of-the-art oral cancer screening technology to ensure your child’s health for life.

We hope to catch things before they become a real problem, and we need your help! Be sure to bring your child in for every 6-month checkup for preventive care. Especially in the case of oral cancer, prevention is the best option.

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Gum(Perio) Treatment

Gum disease can cause bleeding, swelling, bad breath, pain, receding gums and tooth loss. Your child's oral health is the beginning point for their whole body's health and wellness. It is imperative that we stop any problems before they even start!

Periodontal treatment typically involves scaling, polishing, flossing, fluoride treatments, periodic recall exams and oral hygiene instruction.

We examine your child for gum and dental health at each checkup. If your child has been experiencing any symptoms like bad breath, bleeding or swollen gums, please let us know immediately. Together we can decide what is the best form of treatment to restore your child's mouth to optimum health.

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Implant Restoration

After the titanium post is placed for a dental implant, an implant restoration is performed. An implant restoration is typically completed with a replacement crown. An abutment will first be added to your child’s implant, on top of which their new crown will be attached. We will work carefully to ensure that your child’s new crown looks, acts and feels like a natural tooth in their mouth.

A dental implant is an ideal tooth restoration for people who are missing one or more teeth. While implants are typically more expensive than other methods of tooth replacement, they provide superior benefits. Implants are stronger than natural teeth and last many years. They are also a more favorable approach than bridgework, because they do not depend on neighboring teeth for support.

Please let us know if you have any questions about the procedures involved in dental implant restorations.

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TMJ Treatment

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint and is used to describe dysfunction or disorders related to the TMJ joint. Problems in this joint may be caused by trauma, misalignment of the teeth, clenching, grinding or excessive muscle tension. The two bones that meet at the TMJ are buffered by a cartilaginous disk and has five different muscles, so TMJ can have a variety of troubles and symptoms.

Common TMJ symptoms:

• Headaches
• Earaches
• Trouble or soreness in opening and closing the mouth
• Clicking or popping of the jaw
• Pain in the facial, neck and shoulder muscles
• Sensitivity in you teeth

Dental treatment for TMJ dysfunction can include orthodontics (braces), adjusting the bite and other dental therapy. There is no one solution that is right for all cases. Sometimes a custom mouthpiece is used to prevent clenching and grinding that is contributing to the problem. If TMJ is left untreated, extreme therapy may be required to correct the TMJ.

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Teeth Whitening

Tray whitening is an effective and convenient at-home whitening treatment. The results are more gradual. An impression is taken at our office in order to create a customized clear tray. Trays are generally ready within a few days and you must follow instructions for how to apply the gel in the trays and how often to use it. Maximum whitening results and a dazzling smile are achieved at the end of the set treatment period. An occasional treatment can be used to maintain the new smile.

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Oral Hygiene Instruction

Regular visits to the dentist are only part of the preventive care necessary to maintain oral health. It is imperative a child learns early on proper brushing and flossing techniques. Newport Wave Dental is particularly qualified to provide patient education in a kid-friendly and easy to understand manner.

As part of the exam and consultation process, children will be taught everything they need to know to maintain their oral health for life. We will continually reinforce these habits.

Our office provides a hygiene kit including a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss at each appointment to encourage your child to maintain oral care at home. We work hard to make sure your child receives the highest quality of care!

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Oral Hygiene Instruction

Regular visits to the dentist are only part of the preventive care needed to maintain oral health.

It is imperative that a child learn early on proper brushing and flossing habits. Pediatric dental teams are particularly qualified to provide patient education in a kid-friendly and easy-to-understand manner.

As part of the exam and consultation process, children will be taught everything they need to know to maintain their oral health for life.

Our office provides a hygiene kit, including a toothbrush, bottle of toothpaste and floss, at each appointment to encourage your child to make oral care a priority.

We work hard to make sure your child receives the highest quality of care.

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Sealants

Sealants are a common preventive procedure in dentistry. All teeth have deep grooves and pits that accumulate plaque and food, which can lead to cavities. Applying sealants is a simple procedure. To apply sealants the tooth is isolated, etched, rinsed and dried. The sealant is applied onto the tooth, filling these grooves and pits, protecting the tooth and reducing cavities. Sealants and proper brushing make healthy teeth possible.

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Dental Cleanings

Cleanings should be performed on a routine basis to prevent excessive plaque and stain build up. Cleanings should be performed every 6 months to prevent excessive plaque and stain buildup. Plaque left untreated can lead to unhealthy gums and tooth decay. During the appointment, our staff will instruct your child on proper oral hygiene and brushing techniques.

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Bonding

Bonding/composites are a conservative way to repair slightly chipped, discolored, crooked or decayed teeth and other dental concerns. The process comprises of placing a tooth-colored filling on your child's tooth to improve its appearance, function and stability. The filling "bonds" with their teeth, and because it comes in a variety of colored shades, it will closely match the appearance of your child's natural teeth.

Composites can also be used in place of regular silver amalgam fillings. Many parents prefer tooth-colored fillings because the color is much less noticeable than the silver of the amalgam fillings. Composite fillings can be used on both front and back teeth and our knowledgable staff will help you decide what is best for your child's oral health.

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Pulp Therapy

When the nerve of a primary tooth is penetrated by bacteria or exposed due to a fracture, pulp therapy (a pulpotomy) is necessary to save the tooth. This is often referred to as a "baby root canal" or "nerve treatment."

Deep cavities can get close to or into the pulp (tissue) of a tooth. The pulpal tissue can become irritated and inflamed, causing severe toothaches for children. If the inflammation and infection continues without treatment, the tooth will eventually abscess and need an extraction. Pulpotomies are typically performed on baby molars so the child does not lose vital teeth prematurely. Baby teeth are needed for speaking, chewing and maintaining space for permanent teeth.

During pulp therapy, the infected part of the nerve is removed and a sedative medication is placed inside the tooth to prevent sensitivity and promote healing. The tooth is generally capped with a crown following the procedure.

We want your child to have the greatest oral health and functionality possible. Please let us know if you have any questions about our recommendation.

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Crowns

NuSmile Crowns

If your child has large cavities or dental defects, we may recommend a pediatric crown. A NuSmile crown is an aesthetic restoration option used to restore a child's tooth while it continues to develop. It is important to keep a baby tooth as long as possible as baby teeth play a key role in development and function including speech, eating, drinking and self-esteem. They also help permanent teeth erupt and come in properly. Pediatric crowns are designed to look, feel and function just like a natural tooth. NuSmile crowns give your child an aesthetic option.

Stainless Steel Crowns

Stainless steel crowns are commonly used for children who are having problems with their primary teeth such as large cavities, dental defects and fractures. Stainless steel crowns are used to prevent further damage that could cause a child to lose a baby tooth prematurely. Stainless steel crowns are ideal for children's teeth that will eventually fall out. These crowns are pre-made and don't require multiple visits making them a strong choice for children.

A stainless steel crown, also called a cap, is used to cover a damaged tooth entirely. A crown not only strengthens a tooth, but it can also dramatically improve a tooth's appearance, shape and alignment.

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Invisalign® Teen

Did you know, Invisalign® isn't just for adults? Teens don’t have to wear metal braces either! Invisalign Teen is another alternative to metal braces, made specifically for teenagers. These aligners are also removable and virtually invisible! No wires, metal or brackets to interfere with your busy and social lifestyle!

Benefits of Invisalign Teen vs. Braces

• Straighten your teeth without the hassle of braces.
• The clear aligners are virtually invisible.
• No metal wires or brackets.
• Custom-made of smooth and comfortable plastic.
• Easily removable for brushing, flossing, eating and occasionally for special gatherings or photos.

How does Invisalign Teen work?

Similar to Invisalign for adults, Invisalign Teen treats a range of orthodontic conditions, including crowded teeth, widely spaced teeth, crossbite, overbite and underbite. The process begins by taking molds to design a patient’s aligners. Each set of aligners are then worn for a period of 1-2 weeks so they can slowly shift the teeth. Invisalign Teen patients will visit the office every 8-10 weeks so the treatment can be monitored. The average treatment time is 6-15 months. Once treatment is complete, a patient will likely be given a retainer to maintain their new smile.

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Orthodontics

Metal braces, made of stainless steel or titanium, are known as “traditional braces” because the first orthodontic braces were made of metal. They still continue to be the most commonly used type of braces today. Luckily today’s braces are smaller, flatter and more comfortable than braces of the past

Metal braces have three parts to them. The brackets are cemented directly to the surface of the teeth. An archwire is placed in the brackets, linking them together. It is the archwire that is adjusted to apply pressure to the teeth. Elastic ties are what hold the archwire in the brackets. Fresh ones are placed each time a patient comes in for the archwire to be adjusted. The elastic ties usually come in a variety of colors.

Braces are skillfully tightened and adjusted in order to shift teeth into a straightened position. Rubber bands or other appliances are used in conjunction with braces for a thorough adjustment of the entire mouth.

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Digital X-Ray

Digital radiography uses an estimated 40-90 percent less radiation than conventional x-ray film. Digital x-rays use a digital image capture device in place of traditional film, sending an image immediately to a computer. The result is a highly-detailed image of the mouth, and its contrast and resolution can be enhanced to more easily diagnose dental problems and determine the very best treatment for each case.

This means more safety and better accuracy for you.

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E-Claims

Many offices utilize electronic claims processing. This means that rather than being sent through the mail, a dental claim is sent electronically to an insurance company with the click of a button. We can submit information more efficiently and with fewer errors. This benefits patients because the turn-around time on claims is faster, and fewer claims are returned or denied.

We are happy to submit your dental claims to your insurance company on your behalf. Please let us know if you have any questions about the e-claim process.

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Intraoral Cameras

Intraoral cameras allow digital photos of the oral tissues and teeth. "A picture is worth a thousand words." An intraoral cameral allow dentists and their staff to instantly capture a digital photo for insurance purposes and/or to show patients and exact image. An x-ray is a two-dimensional depiction of a three-dimensional object. A photo is an exact three-dimensional image illustrating the need for treatment as well as allowing for patients to see the oral tissues and teeth through our eyes.

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Paperless Charting

Paperless charting means more efficiency and more accuracy. An office that has “gone digital” records x-rays and charting with the aid of the computer and keeps all patients’ dental records electronically. Additionally, it cuts back on paper use. With traditional paper charting, information can be lost in translation from doctor to hygienist to assistant. Even handwriting differences and coding make the charts look different. The computer eliminates this problem by standardizing charting methods, making it easy to understand dental charts, view up-to-date information and keep records accurately. When needed, this method also allows dental offices to more easily share information with other healthcare providers.

If you have any questions in regards to your records with us, please let us know.

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Panoramic X Ray

X-rays are a focused beam of x-ray particles that pass through the patient to produce an image on special film, clearly showing the structure through which it passed. This creates the familiar black and white images dentists use to diagnose oral health issues.

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Panoramic & Cephalometric X-Rays

Panoramic and cephalometric x-rays are an integral diagnostic radiograph for orthodontic treatment planning and records. These x-rays also assist in diagnosing teeth and jaw developmental issues.