Diagnostic & Preventative

Discover and prevent future dental issues.

Sealants

Sealants protect the chewing surfaces of the back teeth and should be applied as a child’s permanent teeth erupt. Though typically placed on children’s teeth, adult molars can also be sealed, provided a tooth does not show evidence of decay. The sealants that we have placed have been highly successful in preventing decay.

Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride applications help to strengthen the enamel on your teeth, making it more difficult for cavities to begin. Children and some adults should be receiving fluoride treatments every six months.

Regular Prophylaxis

These important appointments allow Dr. Hengst and his hygienists to monitor your oral health and clean under your gum line where the toothbrush cannot reach. They also help promote healthy gums and teeth by removing the plaque that causes decay and gum infection, and educating you about prevention.

Tooth Desensitization

Fluoride is also helpful to adults to reduce the pain and discomfort caused by exposed root surfaces (receding gums). Regular fluoride application helps eliminate root sensitivity. Our patients have found it helpful to have a series of fluoride treatments to reduce their sensitivity.

Periodontal Maintenance

Once your mouth is restored to health, it is important that you make a commitment to maintain your dental health. To achieve this, it is important that you return on a regular basis for a routine examination, scaling, and root planing. Dr. Hengst and his hygienists will inform you of the re-care interval that best fits your needs.

Antibiotic Irrigation

This procedure can be used at home or in our office to control the bacteria that causes periodontal disease. The gum tissue is bathed and flushed with an antibiotic preparation to promote healing of the gum tissue. Our hygienist can tell you how.

Nightguard Therapy

Nightguards are used as a treatment option to prevent damage to the chewing surfaces of the teeth associated with grinding and clenching. It is a conservative treatment that is very successful and highly recommended for patients with TMJ dysfunction. By creating an acrylic pattern of your teeth, Dr. Hengst can help you protect your teeth from unnecessary wear.

Occlusal Adjustment

Proper functioning of the jaws and teeth is often hindered by malocclusion (a bad bite). Adjustments to the bite can be made so that your teeth fit together properly for chewing and swallowing. Minor polishing of the enamel surfaces or fillings of the teeth can help redistribute and redirect the biting forces.

Occlusal Guards

An overbite or an underbite can sometimes be corrected with an occlusal guard, which realigns your teeth and bite.