Lisa D. Arthur, DMD, PA
Home   Meet the Doctor   Services   Obstructive Sleep Apnea   Technology   FAQ   Hours and Directions   Payment   Dental Education   Contact Us  

 SERVICES
 
We are pleased to offer the following services to our patients:
Dental Cleaning
Fillings
ORAL HYGIENE CARE
Maintaining good oral hygiene is one of the most important things you can do for your teeth and gums. Healthy teeth not only enable you to look and feel good, they make it possible to eat and speak properly.  Good oral health is important to your overall well-being. Daily preventive care, including proper brushing and flossing, will help stop problems before they develop.

In between regular visits to the dentist, there are simple steps that each of us can take to greatly decrease the risk of developing tooth decay, gum disease and other dental problems. These include:

  • Brush thoroughly twice a day and floss daily
  • Eat a balanced diet and limit snacks between meals
  • Use dental products which contain fluoride, including toothpaste
  • Rinse with a flouride mouth rinse if advised to do so
  • Make sure children under 12 drink fluoridated water or take a fluoride supplement if they live in a non-fluoridated area
  • Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams
  • Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months

The following are indications of good oral hygiene:

  • Your teeth are clean and free of debris
  • Gums are pink and do not hurt or bleed when you brush or floss
  • Bad breath is not a constant problem

Back to top

PERIODONTAL DISEASE
Medical and dental studies have linked periodontal disease with heart disease, increased risk of stroke, premature and low birth weight babies. While periodontal disease cannot be cured, it can be controlled through proper home care and appointments scheduled at regular intervals.

We highly recommend brushing with an Oral-B electric toothbrush. It is clinically proven to remove up to 97% of plaque from hard to reach areas. It is also proven to reverse gingivitis and is a great tool to use for treating periodontal disease. The Oral-B toothbrush is available for purchase in our office.

DENTAL CLEANING
A dental cleaning is a professional cleaning you receive from a dentist or dental hygienist. In our office, cleanings take 60 minutes.  Cleanings should be performed every six months to prevent excessive plaque and tartar buildup.  Plaque left untreated can lead to unhealthy gums and tooth decay.  A routine dental cleaning should include scaling, root planing and polishing.

Scaling: this is the process of removing plaque and tartar from all tooth surfaces in a variety of methods, depending on the amount of plaque and tartar present.

Dental hygienists traditionally perform scaling by hand. However, new and advanced technology has lead to more modern methods such as electric scalers.  This sophisticated tool allows dental cleanings to be performed more efficiently and in less time. To achieve best results, both electric and manual scaling methods are combined for dental cleanings.

Root planing: this is the process of cleaning pockets in the gums to treat and prevent gum problems.

Root planing is used to treat moderate to advanced gum diseases. When the gum is inflamed, gum pockets become deeper and may lose connections to the bone inside.  The deeper the pockets, the easier it is for plaque deposits to become trapped and worsen gum problems.

Root planing involves inserting a pointed dental tool called a scaler into the gum pockets to clean plaque buildup. Depending on the degree of difficulty, root planing may take several appointments and a local anesthesia may be used to prevent pain.

Polishing: this is the last step in tooth cleaning and involves finishing the surface of the teeth to make them shiny and clean. 

There are two kinds of polishing: air polishing and rubber tip polishing. Air polishing works by spraying high pressured water mixed with baking soda paste onto the surface of your teeth.  This powered water washes away residue and plaque while baking soda removes stains. Rubber cup polishing uses a low-speed and gentle handpiece that contains a polishing paste made of abrasive ingredients ideal for removing stains.  Back to top

SEALANTS
Sealants are used to fill narrow grooves in a tooth that cannot be adequately cleaned by brushing.  In some cases, the tooth structure has fine grooves or pits which accumulate plaque, not because the person doesn't brush, but because they're too narrow to allow even one bristle into them.  To avoid cavities developing over time, the dentist will brush on a coating that seals the grooves and pits, making it possible to brush off all the plaque and prevent decay.  Back to top

BONDING
Bonding involves adhering composite resin material that is matched to the color of the tooth, to the front of the tooth. This is performed to repair damage caused by decay, to alter the alignment of the tooth, close gaps between the teeth, or for other cosmetic purposes. 

First the surface of the tooth is roughened in order to accept the bonding.  A gel is applied so the resin will bond to the surface of the tooth.  The composite is then placed on the tooth and the bonding agent hardens with intense light. The last step is shaping and polishing to give a lustrous finish. 

Back to top

COMPOSITE (WHITE) RESTORATIONS
A filling is a way to restore a tooth damaged by decay back to its normal function and shape.  If you have a tooth that requires a filling, the dentist will first remove the decayed tooth material, clean the affected area, and then fill the cleaned out cavity with a filling material.  A filling helps prevent further decay by closing off any cracks or spaces where bacteria can enter.

· Inlays/onlays are custom created in a lab to match your natural tooth color and are then bonded to the tooth.  The restoration generally covers most of the tooth, making the filling nearly undetectable.

If decay or a fracture has damaged a large portion of the tooth, a crown (or "cap") may be recommended.  Decay that has reached the nerve may be treated through root canal therapy.  Back to top

Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous Oxide, also known as “laughing gas” is commonly used to make treatment more comfortable.  This sedation is inhaled through a mask that allows you to breathe in the medication and induces a state of relaxation.  Local anesthetic will be administered in conjunction with nitrous oxide to eliminate discomfort.

Dental Anxiety
Dental anxiety or dental phobias are very common and we are very happy to provide man anxiety reducing techniques to our patients.  Combined with a comfortable and caring environment we have had great success in treating the most anxious patients.  Back to top

 

 
 ADVANCED PROCEDURES
CROWNS AND BRIDGES
Crowns and bridges are used to restore and enhance teeth that are damaged or to take the place of missing teeth. A crown (also referred to as a cap) is used to entirely cover a damaged tooth.  A crown not only strengthens a tooth, but it can dramatically improve a tooth’s appearance, shape and alignment.

Crowns may be used to:

  • Replace a large filling when there is little tooth structure remaining
  • Protect a weak tooth from fracturing
  • Restore a fractured tooth
  • Attach a bridge
  • Cover a dental implant
  • Cover a discolored or poorly shaped tooth
  • Cover a tooth that has had root canal treatment

A bridge is an a method to fill the space created by missing teeth. A bridge is one or more artificial teeth cemented into place using the teeth on either side for support. This is an option for filling the space created by a missing tooth.  Bridge work is as much an art as it is an exact science since it replaces a missing tooth both functionally and cosmetically. The materials used may be gold alloys, porcelain bonded to metal alloy, or all ceramic material made to match your natural tooth color.  The choice of material depends on requirements for strength, wear, and aesthetics.

It is important that a missing tooth be replaced as soon as possible.  If not treated, the teeth surrounding the gap begin to shift inward. Since teeth use their neighbors for support, if one is missing they begin to "fall” and shift into the open spaces. This may worsen the bite because of the changes in pressure and can eventually result in problems with the jaw such as TMJ.

Bridges and crowns are made by first taking an impression of your mouth.  The impression is sent to a dental lab where your crown or bridge will be custom made to fit your mouth and match your natural tooth color.  A temporary crown or bridge will be placed into your mouth until your permanent crown or bridge is ready and cemented into place.  

 Back to top

TOOTH EXTRACTIONS
Good oral hygiene should always be practiced since the loss of a single tooth can have major impact upon your oral health and appearance.  Although dentists will use every measure to prevent tooth loss, there still sometimes necessary occasions when a tooth may need to be extracted.  A tooth may need to be extracted for the following reasons:

  • Severe decay
  • Advanced periodontal disease
  • Infection or abcess
  • Orthodontic correction
  • Malpositioned teeth
  • Fractured teeth or roots
  • Impacted teeth

After careful examination and treatment, the dentist may advise to have a tooth extracted.  Before a tooth is removed, the dentist will take an x-ray in order to understand the shape and position of the tooth and surrounding bone.  Based on the degree of difficulty, we may refer you to a specialized oral surgeon.

For a simple extraction, we will first apply a local anesthetic to prevent pain and discomfort. The tooth will be loosened with a tool called an elevator and then removed with dental forceps. Once the procedure is complete, the area may be closed with one or two stitches.  We will then provide you with care instructions to alleviate discomfort and ensure proper healing.  Back to top

ROOT CANAL TREATMENT
Root canal treatment (also referred to as root canal therapy or endodontic therapy) is made necessary when an untreated cavity reaches all the way to this pulp.  Treatment may also be needed when deep restorations or trauma to a tooth cause nerve damage.  Once the pulp becomes infected, and can begin to eat away at the surrounding bone (this is known as an abscess).  If the pulp is infected, not only is it painful but it will require treatment as it cannot heal on it's own.   Symptoms that indicate the pulp has become infected may include sensitivity to hot/cold or sweets, pain, swelling, pain to biting or pressure, and a bad taste in the mouth.  However, sometimes no symptoms are apparent and you may be unaware of any problem until a checkup.

A root canal is performed to clean out the infected tooth pulp and disinfect the canals of the tooth. Once the infection is resolved, the canal is filled in to prevent any further infection. Usually a core build-up and crown is recommended for restoring a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy.  Back to top

DENTAL IMPLANTS
A dental implant is an ideal tooth restoration for people who are missing one or more teeth as a result of injury, periodontal disease, or any other reason.  A dental implant is a metal post that a periodontist or oral surgeon surgically positions into the jaw.  Once in place and bone surrounding the implant has had time to heal, a replacement tooth is attached to the post.  While implants are typically more expensive than other methods of tooth replacement, they provide superior benefits. They are also a more favorable approach than bridgework since they do not depend on neighboring teeth for support.

To receive implants, you need to have healthy gums and adequate bone to support the implant.  You must also be committed to excellent oral hygiene and regular dental visits as these are critical to the long-term success of dental implants.  Back to top

DENTURES
A denture is a removable replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissues.  There are two types of dentures available, including partial and complete dentures.  Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain, while complete dentures are used to completely replace all teeth.  Dentures are made to resemble your natural teeth so there should be no noticeable change to your appearance. In fact, dentures may even improve your smile!

This restoration method is used to restore your smile and mouth function if all your teeth have been lost.  The dentures are custom created to resemble natural teeth and are positioned to take the place of natural teeth.  Complete dentures are removable and may require adjustments in order to create a proper fit with the gums and mouth.

A removable partial denture is a device used when one or more natural teeth still remain in the upper or lower jaw.  They usually consist of replacement teeth attached go a gum-colored plastic base which is held in place in the mouth.  A fixed partial denture acts the same as a removable denture, but it is cemented into place using adjacent teeth for support.

New dentures may feel awkward or loose for the first few weeks until the muscles of your cheek and tongue learn to keep them in place and you are comfortable eating and speaking. Although this may require some practice you will adjust and enjoy the benefits a full mouth of teeth can provide.  Back to top

NIGHTGUARDS AND MOUTHGUARDS
Custom designed mouthguards and nightguards are made of flexible plastic and molded to fit the shape of your teeth. Mouthguards are recommended to protect the jaw and teeth during physical activity and sports such as boxing, football, basketball, or other activities where your mouth may be hit.  Guards also protect the soft tissues of your tongue, lips and cheek lining.  Nightguards are recommended for patients who clench or grind their teeth at night as a way to protect their teeth and bite.   Back to top

If you have decided a guard is right for you, we will take an impression of your teeth which will then be sent to a lab to make a custom fit guard.  


 COSMETIC DENTISTRY

COSMETIC DENTISTRY
Cosmetic dentistry includes procedures to correct imperfections or enhance the appearance of the mouth.  Tooth color, alignment, spacing as well as regularity of the teeth are the characteristics that give the overall appearance of a smile.  Any of these can be enhanced to provide a stunning new smile.
 
WHITENING
Tooth whitening is a popular procedure to make teeth whiter and brighter, and therefore more attractive. Bleaching can be used to whiten stained and discolored teeth, or simply to enhance a dull smile.  Either way, tooth whitening is a safe and relatively painless procedure ideal for most patients.    

Tray whitening is a treatment you can use while in the comfort of your own home.  We will first take an impression of your mouth to create customized clear whitening trays for you to wear.  Within a few days your trays will be ready to be picked up and we will show you how to apply the special bleaching material to the trays.  We continue to see you once a week for approximately 4 weeks.  We want to make sure you achieve the best result possible.  Occasional treatment can be used at your convenience to maintain your new smile.  Back to top

VENEERS
Veneers are a dental procedure in which a covering is placed over the outside (visible area) of the tooth. Veneers are usually only applied to the part of the tooth that is visible when talking or smiling. The procedure can be direct or indirect.

The direct technique usually involves placing composite resin on the outside of the tooth using bonding. This method is usually referred to as bonding.

The indirect technique usually involves two appointments because the veneers will be fabricated at a dental laboratory.  At the first appointment the teeth are prepared, impressions taken, and the teeth are given a temporary covering. In two to three weeks the veneers are back from the laboratory, the temporaries are removed and the veneers are bonded to the teeth. The laboratory fabricated veneers are usually made using porcelain or pressed ceramic and are very aesthetic.

The advantage of veneers versus crowns is that much less tooth material is removed, and the procedure is generally less uncomfortable. Veneers are not recommended for teeth that have large fillings or little tooth structure.  Back to top



University Office Plaza II
3705 Quakerbridge Road, Suite 203
Hamilton, NJ 08619
(609) 586-6688 phone
(609) 586-8744 fax
Home    Meet the Doctor    Services    Obstructive Sleep Apnea    Technology    FAQ    Hours and Directions    Payment    Dental Education    Contact Us