a funny name for the large, third molars that most modern jawbones cant accommodate. These teeth often become encased in gum or bone tissue, a condition called impaction. When wisdom teeth do erupt through the gums, they may crowd existing teeth which, besides being aesthetically unappealing, increases the risk of dental decay, gum disease, and infection.

Dr. Allen DDS offers both nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation. The dentist will discuss your needs and concerns to identify the type of sedation thats best for your situation. Nitrous Oxide: You probably know nitrous oxide as laughing gas. Patients inhale this soothing anesthetic during dental treatments to relax and relieve anxiety. The effects of nitrous oxide diminish quickly. Patients can resume normal activities immediately following treatment.

As your child grows, he or she will need regular checkups and hygiene visits to ensure optimal oral health. Our team will also teach oral homecare techniques so that your child can learn how to effectively brush and floss, with your help at first, then on his or her own. The dentist may recommend dental sealants or fluoride supplements. Sealants are thin, clear coatings that protect hard-to-clean back teeth from the sugars that cause tooth decay. Fluoride attracts other minerals to strengthen tooth enamel and ward off cavities. Because most bottled water does not contain fluoride, your child may be deficient in this essential mineral. Sealants and fluoride supplements are quick and easy protective measures that can save your little one from cavities.

Let us help your children learn the importance of optimal oral health from a young age. In some cases, we refer children to pedodontists, who are specialists in children's dentistry. We will help you make the best choices for your child's unique and precious personality.

The placement of dental fillings is the most common restorative treatment. Dental fillings are routinely used to correct a variety of dental issues, including, halting tooth decay and protecting the tooth from further damage. Fillings come in a variety of materials including gold, and undetectable tooth-colored composite resins. The most common use of dental fillings is in association with cavities; however, fillings can also be used to repair cracked or broken teeth, and teeth that have been worn down over time (for example, by tooth grinding at night). Throughout one's lifetime, the teeth are constantly exposed to harsh acids, physical stress, and plaque build up. Combined with other factors, such as genetics or inadequate oral hygiene, the teeth may become vulnerable to decay. When the tooths surface becomes damaged due to decay, a cavity forms. Dr. Allen will examine your teeth during your regular dental exams to detect for the presence of such decay. If decay is detected, Dr. Allen will recommend that you undergo treatment. This involves the removal of the decay and placement of a dental filling. The area around the tooth will be numbed with a topical anesthetic to minimize the discomfort from the dental injection thus ensuring a comfortable dental experience. Dr. Allen has extensive experience in pediatric dentistry, even the little ones will leave our practice after a visit to the toy chest, making it a positive experience.

If decay is detected at an early stage, then the process is very simple and quick, and treatment will protect the tooth from further damage. Conversely, if left untreated, tooth decay can expose the underlying nerves causing infection, that may lead to extreme pain and more involved, expensive treatments. Early detection, is one of the reasons why Dr. Allen encourages his patients to maintain regular dental exams.

Gum disease is an infection that starts below the gum line when sticky plaque hardens into tarter and irritates gum tissue. Combined with bacteria and decaying food particles, infection spreads quickly. The signs of early stage gum disease are mildly swollen and/or bleeding gums, so they may escape your notice. However, these symptoms signal the start of a serious condition which can cause tooth and bone loss.