General Dentistry

General dentistry includes a variety of treatments and procedures designed to improve and maintain your oral health. At AC Dentistry, our general dentistry services focus on oral hygiene, preventative care, detecting and treating oral diseases, and restoring the smiles of our patients.

Dental Cleanings and Exams

A cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is a procedure designed to help prevent cavities and gum disease. During a cleaning, our dental hygienist will clean your teeth using hand instruments, ultrasonic instruments, and a polisher. 

A dental exam is a series of procedures used to diagnose oral health issues. During the exam, the dentist will check for tooth damage, tooth decay, and gum disease. The dentist will also check the patient’s bite and jaw for any misalignment. A dental exam is painless and typically takes less than one hour.

Gum Treatments

Gum treatments may include procedures like scaling and root planing to deep clean the teeth and gums. These treatments are most often recommended when gum disease is present, and can help to reduce its uncomfortable symptoms and the risks it presents to oral health. Gum treatments like scaling and root planing can also help to prevent further damage to the teeth and gums.

Halitosis

Halitosis refers to an unpleasant odor emanating from the mouth. This odor can be present on the breath all the time or during certain activities. The odor of halitosis is commonly caused by bacteria in the mouth. These bacteria feed on food particles that get stuck in the mouth and cause bad breath. 

Halitosis can also be caused by some medical conditions, like diabetes, liver disease, and kidney failure. Treatment for halitosis often includes a thorough professional cleaning to remove food particles and plaque from the mouth. For patients with gum disease, deep cleanings may be combined with antibiotics.

Sports Guards

A sports guard is a device worn over your teeth to protect them during sporting activities. Sports guards are beneficial for both children and adults, especially those that play sports that involve physical contact. Sports guards are custom-made to fit your bite. 

Night Guards

Your teeth are strong enough to withstand the daily rigors of biting and chewing. But grinding your teeth at night can put your teeth at risk for damage. It can lead to jaw pain, toothaches, and headaches. It can also wear down your teeth, making your smile appear older.

That’s where the night guard comes in. A night guard is a dental device that can help you protect your teeth from damage due to grinding. It’s custom-made to fit comfortably in your mouth, and it helps relieve stress on your jaw joints by keeping your teeth apart at night.

Oral Cancer Screening 

Everyone should have regular oral cancer screenings. These screenings can help your dentist spot cancerous cells early, giving you a better prognosis.

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are plastic coatings that seal the chewing surfaces of back teeth. The sealants are painted onto tooth enamel. It’s quick, simple, and painless. The sealants form a protective shield that keeps out the bacteria and food particles that cause tooth decay.

Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride treatments are quick and easy preventive treatments. Fluoride treatments can be especially beneficial for those who suffer from tooth decay. The fluoride is applied to the teeth and brushed, rinsed, or suctioned away after several minutes.

Sleep Apnea/Oral Therapy

Snore guards help with sleep apnea. They reposition the tongue and lower jaw forward to help keep the airway open. This positively impacts the breathing process. Snore guards are typically made from acrylic or hard plastic and are typically worn while sleeping.

TMJ Treatment

Many patients don't realize that TMJ disorders may have several causes. Some common factors include teeth grinding (bruxism) and sleep apnea. Teeth grinding and TMJ disorders may also be caused by misaligned teeth or malocclusion.

Extractions

An extraction is the removal of a tooth. The tooth may need to be extracted if it has become too damaged or decayed, or if it is causing pain due to issues like infection, decay, or trauma. Extractions may also be recommended before orthodontic treatment can begin. 

Oral Surgery

When performed by a specialist, oral surgery is safe, effective, and as quick as possible. Oral surgery is any procedure in the mouth that involves cutting into the gums, removing teeth, or repairing or resecting bone.

Emergency Care

If you are experiencing pain or discomfort, call our emergency dentist as soon as possible. In some cases, you may be able to wait for an appointment, but it’s best to call immediately to determine how soon you can be seen. 

 

Visit the dentist in Birmingham, AL - AC Dentistry at 7350 Cahaba Valley Rd. #106, Birmingham, AL 35242, or call (205) 533-6799 for the best dental care.

General Dentistry

• Cleanings & Exams
• Gum Treatments
• Halitosis Evaluation
• Night Guards
• Sports Guards
• Oral Cancer Screenings
• Dental Sealants
• Fluoride Treatments
• Sleep Apnea / Oral Therapy
• TMJ Treatment
• Extractions
• Oral Surgery
• Emergency Care

Restorative Dentistry

• Dental Implant Restoration
• Crowns & Bridges
• Root Canal Therapy
• Tooth-Colored Fillings
• Dentures (Full & Partial)

Cosmetic Dentistry

• Smile Makeovers – Individually Designed for Each Patient
• Full Mouth Rehabilitation for Patients With Wear
• Veneers – Porcelain and Chairside Composite
• Orthodontics – ClearCorrect™
• Dental Bonding
• Teeth Whitening – 3 Levels: In-Office Touch-Up, Custom-Made Take-Home Whitening Trays, Professional In-Office KöR® Whitening

Advanced Technology

• Automatic Appointment Reminders
• Digital X-Rays
• Digital Imaging
• E-Claims for Insurance
• Indentafi® Oral Cancer Screening
• Intraoral Cameras
• Paperless Charting
• Telescopic Loupe