Preventive Exams & Cleanings
Great dental care is important for healthy, beautiful teeth, but did you know that taking care of your smile is one of the best things you can do for your overall health? Recent studies have revealed a strong link between the health of your mouth and your general well being, especially your cardiovascular health. Our comprehensive dental services can help you maintain a healthy smile.
Keeping up with your six-month dental cleanings and checkups will ensure that your teeth and gums are looking and feeling their best. During a standard cleaning, we will gently remove plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from the surface of your teeth. We’ll also polish your teeth and floss to test the condition of your gums.
Dr. Gallagher will then perform a thorough examination, including a visual assessment, an evaluation of your current restorations, a review of any digital X-rays that were taken, and a screening for early signs of gum disease and oral cancer.
Tooth-Colored Dental Fillings
Filling cavities is one of the most important services Dr. Gallagher provides at Overland Park Family Dental. The sooner he can find and fill cavities, the more conservative your treatment will be—and the less likely you’ll be to need more extensive treatment later on!
Dr. Gallagher fills cavities using tooth-colored composite materials that can be easily bonded to your tooth’s surface. Composite fillings require less extensive preparation than silver fillings, so the results are often smaller and more natural looking. The durable composite material is shaped and polished to blend in seamlessly with the rest of your tooth, so no one—not even you!—will notice a difference in your smile.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants fill in the grooves on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, an area where food particles commonly get caught and cause cavities. Their main goal is to protect against decay. Dr. Gallagher can apply sealants quickly with no shots or drilling, effectively protecting your child’s teeth for years.
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and replaces important minerals that protect teeth from decay. Fluoride can even help reverse the early stages of decay. Most toothpastes include a safe and effective amount of fluoride, but Dr. Gallagher also provides a more concentrated fluoride application after your child’s cleaning to really fight off decay.
Custom Nightguards & Athletic Mouthguards
Nightguards and mouthguards can both be helpful for specific issues. If you clench your jaw or grind your teeth, a custom nightguard can help relieve the resulting pain and protect your teeth against damage.
Children and teens that participate in contact sports and high-impact recreational activities are at an increased risk of dental injury. Athletic mouthguards not only protect your child’s teeth and soft tissues injury, but they also help prevent more serious head trauma like concussions.
