General Dentistry in Mill Valley
Hygiene cleaning and patient education
From showing you proper hygiene techniques and recommending the best products for your needs, our goal is to help you attain and maintain a healthy, confident smile for life. Our emphasis is on prevention and patient education, as informed patients are better off at taking care of their own dental health in the long run. With proper dental care and regular checkups, your overall health and well-being can be enhanced immensely.
Oral cancer/systemic disease screening
Regular dental checkups allow early detection of abnormalities in the mouth. Mouth cancers have higher (over 50%) mortality rate than other more well-known ones like breast cancer or cervical cancer, mostly attributed to late detection. In addition, many systemic diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, intestinal disease and immune disorders can manifest in the oral cavity and identified during the checkup.
Periodontal (gum) therapy
Periodontal disease, commonly referred to as gum disease, causes destruction of the gums and underlying bone, leading to tooth loss. There is also a correlation between gum disease and increased risk of heart disease, stroke and possible complications in pregnancy. Gum disease is treated by scaling and root planing, or in some cases, combined with gum surgery. We can also deliver targeted antibiotics (like Arestin®) to areas with persistent gum disease.
Composite (tooth-colored) fillings
These fillings, apart from looking natural, also help preserve tooth structure with their conservative preparations. The latest composites that we use have higher wear resistance, low shrinkage and also tend to have minimal post-operative sensitivity.
Crowns and bridges
Today's new ceramic technology allows crowns and bridges to be made even more cosmetic without sacrificing strength and durability. For those with a higher cosmetic requirement, we offer all-porcelain crowns and bridges (please refer to Cosmetic Dentistry).
Full and partial dentures
Modern dentistry has allowed for lighter weight materials that are stronger and more flexible. When made properly, dentures can be really natural and comfortable tooth replacements that help enhance your smile and self-esteem.
Extraction, bone grafting and minor oral surgery
Our primary focus is on procedures that help in tooth conservation when it is a viable option. Extraction may be considered if a tooth is too badly damaged to save. We now offer patients the option to have a bone graft at the time of extraction to help preserve the bone and soft tissues and ultimately the integrity of their smile and facial appearance. Bone grafting also helps in preserving adequate bone for future dental implant or other restorative treatments.
Root canal treatment
A root canal treatment is one of the most common dental procedures performed. It can save and conserve your natural teeth and prevent the need for dental implants, bridges or even dentures. With modern rotary instrumentation, nitrous oxide sedation and fast-acting local anesthetics your root canal treatment will be a breeze.
Children dentistry
We see children from as young as two years old and provide preventive services like cleaning, sealant, filling and fluoride treatment to prevent cavities. We also provide space maintenance therapy to prevent future crowding of the dentition, mitigating the need for complex and protracted orthodontics (braces) in the future.