Uptown Dental Associates
711 Prospect Place NE,
Suite D Albuquerque,
NM 87110
Phone: 505.268.4484
Fax: 505.268.3243
Email:UptownDentalAssociates@gmail.com
CAD /CAM
Computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing, or CAD/CAM, has found application in dentistry. Albuquerque dentists and prosthodontists use CAD/CAM techniques to fabricate crowns, inlays, onlays, and bridges. These restorations are made from a ceramic material that provides a seamless and flawless replacement product. Where traditionally restoration of a tooth would require at least two procedures - one, to prepare the tooth and take the cast or mold for the restoration, and the second to place the permanent restoration - CAD/CAM technology means that dental restorations are fabricated in minutes and the final prosthesis can be placed in a single appointment. Like with all new technology used in treatment, there is a higher cost for that treatment.
Composite Fillings
Composite fillings are now the treatment standard for fillings, replacing the old amalgam stand-bys. Composite fillings do not have the silver coloring of amalgam fillings and do not contain mercury, which may adversely affect some people. Like amalgam fillings, the decayed material is drilled out of the tooth and the hole filled with the composite material. Albuquerque dentists use a light device to help set the filling.
Conscious Sedation
Conscious sedation is a treatment protocol meant to relax tense and nervous patients during dental procedures. Some patients will fall asleep with the sedative depending on the dosage prescribed. While asleep, the patient will still be able to breath on their own and respond to instructions from the dentist. Sedation techniques include intravenous sedation (IV sedation) where a sedative is administered through an IV, oral sedation with the use of medication such as valium, and inhalation sedation with the use of nitrous oxide (laughing gas). Different patients and different procedures may require different types of sedation to accommodate the patient’s comfort. Use of any of these medications may have side effects and each patient must discuss the potentiality of these side effects with their Albuquerque dental care provider.
The Basics of Cosmetic Dentistry
To address an unappealing smile, cosmetic dentistry provides the answer. Advancements in cosmetic dentistry can turn even the most complicated cases into beautiful smiles. Inlays, onlays, composite bonding, tooth whitening, veneers, implants, bridges, dentures are only some of the alternatives available. Not every treatment options is right for everyone, so each patient must discuss their individual treatment goals with their Albuquerque dentist to find the most effective treatment option.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding treatment is usually utilized when two different materials are involved in a patient’s treatment. Bonding may be used to ensure filling material adheres to the tooth or teeth it’s placed in, or to affix a crown to its support. Some restorations may require bonding to help improve aesthetics. How much bonding is required depends on the amount of decay or damage to the affect tooth or teeth and is determined following examination by a certified Albuquerque dentist.
Dental Cleanings
Dental cleanings are standard procedures arranged once or twice a year. This visit is used to clean away tartar and plaque, evaluate the presence and extent of tooth decay and gum disease or gingivitis, and may require the taking of dental X-rays. This is a relatively simple way of ensuring that potentially more serious dental problems are remedied at a very early stage. A patient should take this opportunity to discuss with their Albuquerque dentist and/or hygienist any questions or concerns he/she might have regarding their oral hygiene routine.Information Library