Southbury Dental Care is a Southbury based family dentist practice that treats patients of all ages. We are committed to delivering the highest quality dental care and do so using advanced dental equipment. We are a cosmetic dentist that offers services like checkups, teeth cleaning, crowns, veneers and more.

A family dentist serves patients of most ages, addressing their different oral health needs as they grow older. Patients can keep seeing the same family dentist or the same group of family dentists for decades. Family dentist practices function as primary care dentists and treat family members such as parents, children, and grandparents.

Family dentists work with both children and adults to care for these patients as they grow and change. These dentists emphasize patient involvement by providing accessible, continuous, patient-centered, and comprehensive care. The hallmarks of many family dentistry practices include services that benefit patients at all stages of life, such as:

Family dentists make a point of getting to know their patients. They encourage regular checkups and catch emerging issues such as cavities. They provide continuity of care even if patients do not see the same professional on each visit. Information such as medical histories, diagnoses, and treatment plans are less likely to fall through any cracks. Centralized paperwork and familiarity with medical history also help dentists pinpoint and treat various oral health issues.

A family dentist can practice alone, but some partner with other dentists. Whatever the case, a family dentist treats various needs. Patients often turn to their family dental practice for checkups, cleanings, cavity prevention and treatment, tooth decay deterrence, and gum disease prevention. Some practices may even provide orthodontic services, cosmetic dentistry, pediatric dentistry, and other types of specialized dentistry. When necessary, family dentists refer patients to specialized dentists for other types of treatment.

A patient's first visit to a family dentist will consist of a thorough physical examination to assess their needs and current dental health. This will involve a dental exam and updated X-rays. X-rays are particularly essential as they can diagnose and evaluate any potential issues that an exam cannot detect. Southbury Dental Care will also perform a thorough dental cleaning as part of the first visit. Then, once completed, our team will discuss any X-ray results and devise a customized treatment plan to meet each patient's unique needs.

A. Family dentists treat most ages, caring for both children and senior citizens. If the practice includes a pediatric dentist, it might accept infant patients. Otherwise, a family dentist tends to see children once they are in kindergarten.

A. Most likely, yes. However, if the cavity is severe enough, family dentists may need to refer patients elsewhere for more specialized care. Regular checkups with your family dentist can help prevent cavities.

A. In general, each patient should visit once or twice a year. Dentists prefer to see children every six months. Meanwhile, adults with teeth in excellent condition might visit only once a year. People who are pregnant, undergoing chemotherapy, or dealing with serious health issues may need to visit their dentist more frequently than twice a year. We can help determine your unique risk profile.

By visiting us as soon as possible, our team can help get you the professional treatment you need. Instead of waiting around and allowing the symptoms to get worse, we can provide you with treatment options.

Thinking about taking your kids to a kid friendly dentist? This type of dental professional is one who knows how to encourage kids to undergo any necessary exams, as well as one who can offer parents tons of beneficial advice to help them understand how to help ensure their kid's oral health is always in

Considering dental implants to replace missing teeth?No matter how it happens, having missing teeth can make anyone feel self-conscious. Instead of smiling naturally, people with missing teeth tend to hide their smiles and lose their confidence.Even worse, the space left by missing teeth is more likely to become infected with bacteria as opposed to other

Among the most common dental problems that a general dentist treats are cavities. Most people will experience this form of tooth decay at some point due to:Dry mouthSugary foods and drinksPoor oral hygieneGeneticsThere are several types of cavities, and each can lead to complications without prompt treatment.A general dentist first considers a cavity's location when

A general dentist is frequently called upon to diagnose and treat dental abscesses. Failure to get treatment for this infection can have serious health consequences.A tooth is said to be abscessed when a pocket of pus forms due to a bacterial infection. Patients who exhibit symptoms of an abscess should see a dental professional.People experiencing

Most people need a wide range of dental services during their lifetime. Dental emergencies can arise without warning and can leave lasting damage. Repairing cracked, broken, or infected teeth may require complex care. Many dental patients also wish to improve the appearance of their smile. Dental services can range from basic to specialized care, as well as a range of cosmetic procedures.

The American Dental Association recommends dental checkups every six months. During a checkup, dentists examine the teeth for signs of decay. They assess the patient's gum health and look for signs of oral cancer. Sometimes providers may take an X-ray or perform other imaging tests. Imaging tests can reveal problems lurking below the gumline.

Checkups typically include a thorough professional dental cleaning and keep mouths clean, fresh, and healthy. Biannual cleanings fight decay by removing plaque and tartar. These substances can trap bacteria against the tooth and gum line. Patients who skip their dental cleanings may be at risk for cavities or gum disease.

Many dental practices offer a range of cosmetic services, including teeth whitening, tooth replacements, and gum reshaping or contouring. Today, many patients are eager to achieve a brighter smile. Professional whitening treatments erase stubborn stains, including those embedded within tooth enamel. Patients who are not satisfied with over-the-counter treatments may opt for professional whitening.

Cosmetic dentistry services also include crowns, implants, bridges, and veneers. These treatments repair cracked, chipped, or worn-down teeth. Implants and bridges replace missing teeth altogether. These treatments can prevent long-term dental damage and restore the smile.

Gum reshaping can enhance a patient's appearance, too. This treatment alters the gums and produces a whole new smile. However, not every dental office is equipped to provide cosmetic services. Our dental team can provide a full list of the services that we offer.

Orthodontic services provide both cosmetic and functional purposes. Many patients turn to orthodontics for a straighter smile. Repairing crooked or misaligned teeth can also improve mouth function. Without treatment, some orthodontics issues may place oral health at risk. Fixing these issues ensures that the teeth and gums stay healthy.

Today, dental providers frequently use technological tools. Due to a growing demand for telehealth, many dentists offer virtual visits and online patient portals. These services can streamline the treatment process and boost accessibility. Patient portals keep important information at your fingertips, and virtual visits cut down on travel time.

A. A missing tooth can be uncomfortable and unsightly. Fortunately, you have several treatment options. A wide range of dental services can replace or repair damaged teeth, but before making a decision, your provider will conduct an exam.

The dental team will consider the size, shape, and overall health of your mouth. Costs and coverage options may vary, and you may need to contact your insurance for more details. Your provider can help you weigh your options and make a decision.

A. During a routine checkup, your provider will conduct a visual exam. They might use mirrors or picks to check your teeth. Sometimes, you might also receive an X-ray. If the exam reveals a problem, your dentist explains your treatment options.

Checkups usually include a professional cleaning, too. First, the provider clears away plaque and tartar. They apply a gritty toothpaste to polish the teeth. Next, they floss your teeth and rinse your mouth. This in-depth cleaning helps reduce your risk of dental problems. Cleanings are a good time to discuss other dental services, like teeth whitening.

In recent years, more patients have been asking general dentist professionals about straighter teeth. Orthodontic treatment has come a long way in the last decades. Patients may think that traditional braces are the only option, but clear aligners and appliance therapy are also available now. When having this conversation, it is important that patients discuss

If a general dentist recommends a dental crown, there are a variety of reasons why. Crowns can be used for cosmetic corrections as well as for protection and support. These dental restorations may seem intimidating to those who have never had one, but they do not have to be. Here are some questions to ask

Clear orthodontic aligners have been growing in popularity for many years. One of the most recognizable brands is Invisalign. Invisalign is a form of orthodontics that uses clear tray aligners to straighten the teeth instead of the traditional mouthful of metal wires and brackets.

Invisalign uses clear tray aligners instead of metal wires and brackets to straighten teeth. The aligners are constructed of a solid piece of plastic strong enough to shift the teeth and move them into the correct position. Every one or two weeks, the patient receives a new tray with an updated aligner. Each tray will feel slightly different as it shifts and moves the teeth.

The idea of using removable aligners to adjust the teeth is not a new concept. The idea was first introduced in the 1940s. Additional improvements were made through the decades, though the technology did not improve until the 1990s. The creators of Invisalign developed their mass-market system in 1999.

Once the aligners have been made, our staff will make sure they fit well, answer any questions, and go over the treatment plan. Patients will be expected to wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day to get results. Regular checkups with Southbury Dental Care will make sure treatment stays on track. Our staff will determine how often new aligners are needed.

After the desired results have been achieved, the patient may be expected to wear a retainer to maintain those results. This will prevent teeth from gradually shifting back to their initial position. Our doctor will provide specific instructions on how often a retainer will need to be worn.

Invisalign is not without its pros and cons. Thanks to the fact that they are next-to-invisible, both teens and adults can avoid the discomfort and self-consciousness of traditional metal braces. Many patients also appreciate that they can take Invisalign aligners out to eat, brush and floss, or for social situations.

However, since they are removable, they are more likely to be lost or broken. Patients also need to be careful about what they drink when their aligners are in. Anything but water should be avoided. Liquids can seep into the plastic and stay there until the aligner is removed. This can lead to staining of the aligner and even tooth decay.

It is essential to use and care for Invisalign aligners appropriately to have a good orthodontic outcome. For Invisalign to work, the aligners have to be worn for the recommended number of hours a day. Patients should try to limit the number of times they remove the aligners since it will not take long to exceed the time they can be left off.

Patients should always rinse the aligners when they are removed. Bacteria and plaque can easily attach to them, which can cause an unpleasant odor and sticky feeling on the teeth. Aligners should be cleaned with a clear and unscented antibacterial soap. If patients use toothpaste to clean the aligners, they should make sure that it is not a brand with whitening agents, as these can wear away the plastic.

Proper oral hygiene is essential at any time, but it is a bit easier when using Invisalign versus traditional braces. Food and plaque can get trapped in conventional braces' metal brackets and can be tough to brush. Since Invisalign aligners can be removed, it is simple to brush and floss and replace the aligners when finished.

Only a dentist can reasonably predict the length of the Invisalign treatment time. The severity of the condition, how well the patient adheres to the treatment plan, and age are all factors. On average, it takes less than two years to see results. The treatment time for teens is typically a little shorter than adults.

Following all the recommended guidelines will ensure patients do not extend the treatment time. Patients need to switch trays on schedule and talk to our staff if there are any concerns. If the aligners are not worn for the recommended time, the teeth may start to shift back to their original positions.

A. Invisalign is an orthodontic technique that uses clear, plastic aligners to straighten the teeth. The aligners are created from a custom mold of the patients mouth, and new aligner trays are provided at specific intervals as part of the treatment process. Southbury Dental Care will develop the treatment plan and monitor the process.

A. Since Invisalign aligners are clear, patients can avoid the unsightly look of a mouth filled with metal brackets and wires. They are also more comfortable to wear and allow the patient fewer restrictions on foods they can eat. Since they are removable, it is easier to brush and floss your teeth.

A. Treatment, on average, takes less than two years but can vary depending on the patients specific concerns. Aligners must be worn for 20-22 hours a day to see results. If a patient does not wear the aligners for the recommended amount of time, treatment results will take longer.

A. Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisaligns clear aligners do not rub and poke at the soft tissues of the mouth. Patients can expect to feel some sensitivity for a day or two when a new set of aligners are put in. This means the teeth are shifting and the aligners are working. Any discomfort should go away quickly.

A. Aligners should be cleaned with a clear and unscented antibacterial soap or toothpaste. If using toothpaste, make sure it is not a brand with whitening agents, which can wear away the plastic. Always brush and floss after meals before putting the aligners back in the mouth. This helps keep food particles from getting stuck, which can lead to bacteria growth and bad breath.

A. If you eat with the aligners in place, make sure to avoid hard foods like raw carrots and sticky foods like gum. Hard and sticky candies should also be avoided. You will also want to avoid drinking anything other than water when the aligners are in place. Coffee and tea can stain the aligners, while soda has acidic properties that can break down the plastic.

If you have been embarrassed by your smile, then you may be considering orthodontics treatment. There are many orthodontic solutions out there today to help you get the smile of your dreams. No matter what your age is, there are a few tips for choosing the right treatment. Knowing more about orthodontic treatment will help