Dr. Larry Schmakel is pleased to meet you! We offer many general dental services for the entire family.
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What is a mouthguard? A mouthguard is a flexible, appliance made out of plastic. Mouthguards are used to protect your teeth. If you're involved in athletic sports or recreational activities, wear a mouthguard to reduce trauma to your mouth and jaw and reduce the number and severity of concussions.
Why should I wear a mouthguard? The ADA released this statement on athletic mouthguards in 2009: "The Councils promote the importance of safety in maintaining oral health and the use of a properly fitted mouthguard as the best available protective device for reducing the incidence and severity of sports-related dental injuries."
During your dental cleaning at Sylvania Smile Design, we will: scale, floss, and polish your teeth; check your mouth and gums; document any restorations and decay; and take x-rays, if needed. Schedule an Appointment Now!
Do I need an extraction? Our top priority is to keep your natural teeth as healthy and beautiful as possible! There are a number of procedures that can save your natural tooth, such as crowns or veneers. If teeth cannot be repaired, an extraction may be necessary.
What about pain? At Sylvania Smile Design, we make your comfort our top priority. (Read about our pain-free dentistry options.)
What about wisdom teeth? Teeth are commonly removed if there isn't enough room for them. Wisdom teeth are routinely extracted for this reason.
During your dental cleaning, we may discover cavities (decay) in your teeth. Cavities (decay) must be removed and the space sealed, otherwise the cavity could lead to problems like abscess or even tooth loss!
Is fluoridated water still necessary? Yes. Fluoride is beneficial to your teeth in many ways! Fluoride remineralizes your tooth enamel, and it helps fight tooth decay in kids and adults. You can find fluoride in toothpaste, mouth rinse, and fluoride treatments (given at your dental exam; Schedule An Appointment!)
Do you have questions about water fluoridation? Read Fluoridation Facts by the ADA: Fluoridation Facts is the ADA’s premier resource on community water fluoridation.
What is an inlay? A dental inlay is similar to a filling; both procedures fill a hole in a tooth caused by decay.
What is the benefit of an inlay versus a filling? When you receive an inlay, we are able to preserve more of your natural tooth. Inlays are created from different materials, such as gold and porcelain. Inlays are sometimes used to replace old metal fillings, or to repair cracked or broken teeth.
Protect your child's teeth from cavities with sealants! According to KnowYourTeeth.com, "Studies have proven that properly applied sealants are 100-percent effective in protecting the tooth surfaces from cavities."
We routinely apply sealants at Sylvania Smile Design! We'll begin with a thorough dental cleaning before the sealant is brushed on your teeth. A light helps the sealant harden.