Stephen C. Malinconico DMD
FAMILY, COSMETIC & IMPLANT DENTISTRY
Our Service
Your initial appointment will involve a comprehensive approach to preventive dental health. An examination involving cavity detection, oral cancer screening, TMJ dysfunction and gum disease will be completed. A detailed treatment plan if necessary will be presented, all options and alternative treatment choices will be discussed. You may select any of the topics below to have a better understanding of all procedures and treatment options.
Hygiene Services
Prophylaxis
Dental cleanings and examinations every six months, combined with good home care are the best defense against dental disease. Our hygienist will check for decay, gum disease and signs of oral cancer during the exam. Your questions can be answered and suggestions will be made to help you maintain good oral health.
X-Rays
X-rays are a diagnostic tool that allow us to see the health below the tooth structure and look at supporting structures of your teeth. X-rays can reveal the advanced nature of the gum disease as well as tumors, cysts, and abscesses. There are 3 basic types of X-rays:
• Bitewings: Uses to detect cavities and monitor bone levels.
• Periapical X-rays: A X-ray of a specific tooth used to spot tooth problems such as impacted teeth, bone loss and abscesses.
• Panoramic X-rays: This X-ray captures the entire mouth and jaw. These are used to check positioning of wisdom teeth to check for tumors/cysts.
Dr. Malinconcio and his staff follow the ADA recommendations regarding the frequency of radiographs. Even though no x-ray can be considered routine many people require x-rays on a regular basis so that their dental condition can be monitored. The frequency of x-rays will depend on your medical and dental history and current condition.
Periodontal Maintenance
When a patient presents with periodontal (gum) disease they will require a deep scaling. This is a non-surgical procedure preformed by the doctor in which he removes plaque and tarter from underneath the gum tissue. After the disease process from beneath the gumline is under control you will require more frequent cleanings, also known as periodontal maintenance to keep your mouth healthy.
Fluoride
Fluoride is a naturally occurring element that prevents tooth decay systemically when ingested during tooth development and topically when applied to erupted teeth. It promotes the remineralization or repair of tooth enamel in areas that have been broken down by cavity- causing acids. The hygienist will apply fluoride to the teeth as a gel or foam, It is important for infants and children up to 16 years of age to be exposed to fluoride. This is the time during which the primary and permanent teeth develop.
Sealants
Dental sealants act as a barrier protecting teeth against decay causing bacteria. The sealants are applied to the chewing surfaces of newly erupted molars where decay occurs most often.
Good oral hygiene is key to a healthy smile. We encourage our patients to schedule regular visits every 4-6 months.
Restorative and Implant Services
Composite (White) Fillings
Our office believes in utilizing only composite or porcelain tooth colored materials that are both metal and mercury free.
Root Canal Therapy
When decay penetrates the enamel and dentin and enters the nerve of the tooth it is necessary to remove the infected nerve tissue. The remaining canal space is filled with a bio-compatible material and the tooth is restored and protected by a porcelain crown.
Porcelain Crowns
Crowns are esthetic, natural restorations that cover teeth which have fractured due to decay or trauma. A crown procedure will involve two appointments, one for the preparation and lab fabrication, and a very short second appointment for cementation of the crown.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain Veneers, sometimes referred as porcelain laminates are thin porcelain shells that are custom fabricated to cover the front of stained, unaesthetic teeth and are also utilized to close spaces and improve the shape and contour of teeth creating a beautiful smile.
Dental Implants
Implants offer a wide range of treatment choices with a very high success rate of function and esthetics. The implants are surgically placed below the gum line, integrate with the jawbone, and act as the base for a single crown, or several implants my be used to support a bridge or denture.
Bridge Work
When a patient presents with a missing tooth or teeth and implants are not an option the existing teeth are utilized as abutments (supports) for tooth replacement. The patients natural teeth abutting the space are prepared to support a multi-unit porcelain bridge which is permanently cemented. The bridge has a very high esthetic and functional success rate.
Full and Partial Dentures
If all or most of your natural teeth are lost due to decay, gun disease or injury, complete and partial dentures can restore your function and esthetics. Dentures help support all fascial muscles preventing sagging of the lower third of the face and drastically improving the chewing process which effect overall health.
Night Guards and Sport Guards
Many patients have clenching and grinding habits while sleeping or even during the day. This habit, mostly subconscious, result in severe enamel breakdown leading to cracked teeth, decay, pain (sensitivity) and tooth loss. Custom made removable occulsal guards are fabricated to prevent trauma and preserve tooth health. For the athletes a custom made sports guard is lab fabricated to prevent any possible trauma. The biggest advantage over store bought sport guards is the custom guard extends over root structure preventing teeth from being knocked out in a sporting event.
Sleep Apnea and Snoring
Utilization of removable laboratory fabricated appliances to open breathing passages. This minimizes or eliminates snoring and sleep apnea. Appliances have had great results for patients using C-Pap machines.
Whitening Services
Zoom
Whitening is an in office 1 hour procedure with immediate and very satisfying results. Click here for more information.
Take Home Whitening Kit
Custom trays are fabricated in the office for application of bleaching materials at home. Also highly effective.
Emergency Services
If a patient has severe pain or discomfort we will see patients the day of the call. We will take a X-ray and make the patient comfortable. If a prescription is necessary we will call in any medications that are needed. If a specialist referral is needed we will set up the referral for you.