Dental FAQs

Dr. Cassidy’s office utilizes Digital Radiography to allow detection of tooth decay in between your teeth before cavities become large. They also help to detect bone loss, tumors, cysts, un-erupted teeth and other problems not seen with the naked eye. Rest assured, Digital Radiography requires far less radiation than conventional radiography and is much healthier for the environment.  Additionally, a painless laser is used to detect decay on the chewing surfaces that are deep in the grooves and fissures of your teeth. This also helps to catch tooth decay much earlier than conventional methods, therefore, keeping the size of the filling as small as possible.

During your check up and cleaning, you will be checked for oral cancer, gum disease, cavities and jaw joint health. Necessary x-rays will be taken to assist in your diagnosis. Your teeth will be cleaned by one of our gentle and caring licensed dental hygienists and you will be instructed on how to care for your teeth and gums to prevent dental and gum disease.

The outer shell of the tooth is made of enamel, a highly mineralized material which is the hardest substance in the body. Under the enamel is dentin, a softer less mineralized layer, which covers the pulp or nerve of the tooth. Plaque is a sticky substance, which adheres to the tooth and is filled with bacteria. Some of these bacteria feed off of the sugars you eat. When these sugars are broken down, the bacteria excretes acid which breaks down the enamel and causes a cavity.

Avoiding sweets, regular checkups and cleanings and proper brushing and flossing help to prevent cavities. Flossing gets rid of nasty plaque that accumulates between teeth and can’t be reached by a toothbrush.

Our office uses beautiful tooth colored restorations as well as the traditional silver amalgam fillings. We will help you decide which is best for you. In cases where the cavity is large, the tooth is often times better restored with a white or gold colored inlay or onlay which is custom made in a lab and provides for greater strength than a directly made restoration. In cases where a significant portion of the tooth is missing, a crown, which covers and strengthens the entire tooth is best.

Depending on your concerns, your teeth can be lightened with a custom made take home bleaching kit, straightened with orthodontics, or bonded with porcelain and composite to give you a smile you can feel confident sharing with the world. Let us know your concerns and we will inform you of your options so you can make informed choices.

Yes. Floss removes plaque and debris that sticks to teeth and gums in between teeth, polishes tooth surfaces, and controls bad breath. Plaque is a sticky layer of material containing bacteria that accumulates on teeth, including places where toothbrushes can't reach. This can lead to gum disease. By flossing your teeth daily, you increase the chance of keeping them for a lifetime and decrease the chance of getting gum disease.