Over the past two or three decades, people have become more aware of the connection between oral health and the health of the body. Through the bacteria that results from severe periodontal (gum) disease, it can create a tipping point with the development or worsening of many conditions and diseases.
We work in conjunction with a number of physicians to keep our patients’ oral health aligned to specific needs. For example, individuals who have A-Fib (atrial fibrillation, a common type of heart arrhythmia), we include reminders of their need to be pre-medicated prior to most dental procedures.
In addition, our broad range of services provides patients of our Shelby Township dental offices with the combined skills of a General Dentist as well as a Neuromuscular Dentist. This blend of skills considers cranio-facial structures for harmonious interaction during chewing, speaking, and in resting positions. Because disharmony in one area can be far-reaching, neuromuscular measures are incorporated into dental treatment or used to properly correct associated problems.
The origin of many of these problems is bite misalignment. When the top teeth do not meet the lower teeth in a balanced flow, the result can be worn, chipped, broken or fractured teeth. The jaw joints, or “TMJ,” can become strained through a bite that does not function fluidly, triggering a number of additional problems.
These include:
• frequent headaches
• migraines
• ear ringing
• dizziness or vertigo
• sore jaw joints
• sore neck, shoulder or facial muscles
• tingling down the arm to the fingers
• night-time clenching and grinding of teeth
Having one dental office to oversee the proper balanced of your oral health as well as provide coordination with health caregivers gives reassurance to our patients. Having a single, trusted dentist oversee one’s entire dental well-being – for all ages – provides a more efficient process to achieve and maintain a healthy smile.
While many of our new patients choose our dental office because of recommendations of current patients, many also come as a result of “getting to know us” through our web site: WhereLastingSilesBegin.com. In addition to our impressive array of dental services for all ages, our dental office features some of the most advanced imaging and computerized technology available in the industry.
We also have a long-standing reputation for providing patients with optimal comfort in all procedures. In addition to administering care with a dental touch and compassionate approach, we offer Oral and I.V. sedation. Both sedatives help the patient relax or doze through their procedure with little or no memory of the procedure afterward. Patients are also closely monitored throughout their procedure by trained staff and advanced safety equipment.
For fearful dental patients, or those who have high anxiety, they can begin with a free consultation, or even begin by viewing a brief video on our approach to caring for anxious or high-fear patients. We also offer a downloadable “Guide For The Fearful Dental Patient“: DentalFearGuide
Regardless, however, of sedation options, much of our advanced technology helps to minimize treatment needs, which can enhance patient comfort and speed healing. Some of the more advanced options include …
CONE BEAM 3D – imaging provides an advanced system that captures clear, concise and amazing views at the lowest radiation levels possible. In one pass around the patient, cone beam captures up to 600 images, used for:
• ideal assessment of the jaws (for implant placement)
• evaluation of the temporomandibular joints (TMJ)
• review of airway passages
• views of bone structure damage or bone loss
• examination of teeth and facial structures for orthodontic treatment planning
• lower wisdom teeth in proximity to the mandibular (lower jaw) nerve canal
• evaluation of teeth and bone for signs of infections, cysts, or tumors
• intricate view of tooth roots for optimal diagnosis and root canal treatment
Through these images, we may be able to find the precise cause of a pain that can’t be seen on conventional x-rays, minimize treatment and even eliminate the need for additional x-rays.
BIOPAK – This system records the functions and congruity of the upper and lower jaw, jaw joints, and associated muscles at various ranges. This information is a significant aid in proper diagnosis and treatment planning for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, sleep disorders and craniofacial pain. It is also used to evaluate patients for restorative, orthodontic, denture, implant and ‘bite’ reconstruction. The process is painless and results are available the same day.
TEKSCAN (T-Scan™) Digital Occlusal Analysis – T-Scan is the only technology that shows the measured force and timing of occlusal surfaces coming together. Combining these two tools reveals a clear picture of the patient’s bite. This replaces the outdated use of ‘articulating paper,’ which can show where bite contact is made but fails to indicate when and with how much force. T-Scan provides dynamic occlusal measurement – showing the level and timing of force on individual teeth and the occlusal stability of the overall bite.
T-Scan technology can:
• Finds problem areas associated with facial pain and tooth sensitivity
• Enhances longevity of crowns, bridges, and veneers
• Optimizes implant placement
• Screens patients for balanced occlusion and tracks throughout treatment
• Reduces repeat visits
ND: YAG LASER – This dental laser eliminates or greatly minimizes bleeding during procedures, reduces numbing requirements, removes bacteria and easily uncovers gum tissue where dental implants have been placed. A laser can quickly repair oral ulcers and beautifully re-contour or repair gum tissue with a precision line. Because the Nd: YAG Laser seals tissue as it goes, this means patient comfort is enhanced and healing time is faster.
Medit i700 Digital Scanner – is a hand-held piece that captures the complete structures inside the mouth, such as gum contours and tooth positions. Using a high-definition, 3D-in-motion video camera, this information is sent to a computer to record. The i700 views allow us to manipulate an image, rotate it, pan around it, zoom in or out, move from arch to arch, and more. The information is highly beneficial in preparation of crowns and bridges, orthodontics, night-guards, dentures, dental implants, and sleep apnea devices. It also helps to provide information to dental laboratories. The scanner eliminates the goopy, bulky trays used to take impressions, providing more accuracy in a comfortable, fast process. Patients also appreciate having the digital views available to make informed decisions regarding recommended treatment.
NUCALM – In addition to offering oral and IV sedation and many comfort features for antsy dental patients, NuCalm may be your preference. Within minutes, NuCalm safely helps the mind and body to relax naturally with almost immediate recovery. Nucalm suppresses your body’s natural impulses by turning off the body’s “fight or flight” response, which is triggered when we sense fear, stress or anxiety. Unlike narcotics or controlled substances, Nucalm has no side effects. In the process, we apply a calming gel full of essential nutrients that allow the body to enter a deep state of relaxation. Wearing noise reduction headphones, you’ll listen to soothing music specifically created to make your brain feel you’re ready for sleep. You’ll also wear special glasses to block out all light. Then, small patches are placed placed behind each ear that help to coax a relaxation response directly from your brain.
6044 24 Mile Road, Shelby Township
When seeking out a Macomb or Oakland County dental office, look for an environment of comfort and comprehensive care to enjoy confident smiles throughout your lifetime. To learn more about our dental services and office, call 586-739-2155 or tap here to schedule a free, private consultation appointment. New patients are always welcome!
You are also invite to get to know our dental office through this brief video: DrBarbatOfficeTour
If payment plans are needed for your smile goals, we offer several that require no down payment and are interest free. Learn more at: DrBarbatFinancialOptions
