Patient Education

Dental care and treatment can improve your smile and boost your self-confidence. Our highly experienced, board-certified dental professionals and compassionate staff make keeping healthy, attractive teeth for your lifetime a reality.

Pogiso Letswere provides a full range of dental services including the following:

Dental Crowns FAQs

What is a dental crown?

Dental crowns are natural-looking, tooth-shaped caps that cover a damaged or missing tooth, restoring a full and beautiful smile. These caps are cemented into place to provide both strong and visibly appealing replacements for natural teeth. Crowns are usually necessary when the tooth is broken down to the point where a filling will not be effective. ...

Dental Implants FAQs

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are titanium anchors implanted into the jawbone that hold replacement teeth in place. The root of the implant sits in the jawbone beneath the gum line and the visible tooth, or crown, is attached to the root. Implants look and feel much like natural teeth. They support individual artificial teeth, bridges, and dentures. ...

Tooth Bleaching

In-office tooth bleaching procedures can make tooth color five to seven shades brighter. Dental offices use different methods of bleaching or tooth whitening to achieve effective results.

Bleaching products can brighten teeth that have been stained or darkened by:

• Food
• Tobacco
• Injury
• Aging

In-Office Teeth Bleaching Procedures

Types of dental office bleaching procedures may include: ...

Orthodontics FAQs

Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry concerned with correcting abnormalities of the teeth and jaw. Treatment is designed to help patients both aesthetically and functionally.

What types of problems does orthodontics treat?

Orthodontics can straighten crooked or protruding teeth, correct irregular spacing between teeth and bite problems, and align lips and teeth properly. Braces can assist in correcting all types of malocclusions, also known as misalignments. ...

Orthodontics

Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry concerned with correcting abnormalities of the teeth and jaw. Treatment is designed to help patients both cosmetically and functionally. Orthodontics can straighten crooked or protruding teeth, correct spacing and bite problems, and align lips and teeth properly. Braces can assist in correcting all types of misalignments (malocclusions). ...

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are very thin, tooth-colored shells of ceramic that are custom-fit and bonded to the front of the teeth. They can create an attractively white and even smile. Veneers can address a variety of issues, including chipped, yellow, stained, misshapen or crooked teeth, or teeth with spaces between them. A veneer placed on top of a tooth can quickly and easily improve the look of a smile. ...

Implant Crowns

Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth with strong, durable materials that enhance the smile. Implants are a permanent solution to replace missing teeth and can be used in conjunction with other procedures, such as crowns, to restore a healthy smile.

Dental implant crowns often look and feel like natural teeth and are fused to the bone to provide stability. They may be indistinguishable from natural teeth. The use of porcelain crowns creates a smooth, metal-free appearance that fits in seamlessly with the other teeth. ...

In-Office Tooth Whitening

In-office tooth whitening is a whitening procedure performed in the dentist's office. It is designed to make the patient's teeth up to five to seven shades brighter. Teeth discolor for a number of reasons; they may become stained or darkened by food, tobacco, injury or aging. Various methods of bleaching are available to alter the shade of the patient's teeth to the preferred degree of whiteness, one appropriate to the patient's age and coloring. ...

Orthodontic Consultations

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening for children 7 years old, by which age they most likely have some of their permanent teeth. Visiting a regular dentist alone is not sufficient. All children should be evaluated by an orthodontist to make sure that their mouths and jaws are developing normally. Typically, this preliminary consultation is free of charge, and consists of the orthodontist's performing an oral examination, taking a full dental history, and answering questions. The purposes of orthodontic treatment, both aesthetic and functional, are discussed. ...

Veneers FAQs

What are veneers?

Veneers are very thin, tooth-colored shells that are custom-fit and bonded to the front of the teeth. They can create a white, even and attractive smile. Commonly made of composite or porcelain, veneers make it possible to correct a variety of color and shape related tooth problems that may include: ...

Crowding or Spacing of the Teeth

Crowding or spacing of the teeth can result from an anatomical abnormality in jaw structure, or from a size disparity between the upper and lower jaw during growth. Crowding or spacing may also be caused by traumatic injury to the jaw. Inconsistency between the length or width of the jaw can result in an imbalance of the facial bones, muscles and teeth. An orthodontist can reposition the jaw so that, as growth continues, the bones and teeth align correctly. If the disparities are not addressed during childhood, they can result in major jaw issues that require orthognathic (jaw) surgery. ...

Veneers

Veneers are very thin, tooth-colored shells of ceramic that are custom-fit and bonded to the front of the teeth. They can create a white, even, and attractive smile. Veneers make it possible to correct a variety of problems, including:

• Spaces between the teeth
• Chipped teeth
• Yellowing or stains
• Misshapen or crooked teeth
• Small holes or pits in teeth
• Uneven or undersized teeth

A veneer placed on top of a tooth can quickly and easily help achieve a beautiful smile. Although some veneers are designed to be removable, most are permanent and are bonded very tightly to the tooth they are protecting. The advancements in technology have improved bonding agents to the point where some types of veneers may last for 20 years or more. ...

Dental Implants

Dental implants are an option to replace missing teeth and provide a fixed solution to removable dentures. Dental implants are natural-looking replacement teeth that are fixed in the jaw. Implant treatment provides an option to correct the most troublesome cases associated with missing teeth and ill-fitting dentures. ...

Malocclusion

Malocclusion is a term that refers to an abnormal alignment of the upper and lower teeth. When the teeth are abnormally aligned, dental problems, such as difficulty with biting or chewing, can occur. Malocclusion can also make the face look unnatural, cause a person to breathe through the mouth, and create problems with speech. In severe cases, untreated malocclusion can lead to extreme stress on, and eventual damage to, the affected teeth. ...

Dental Crowns

A dental crown is a restoration that covers or caps a tooth, restoring it to its normal size and shape while strengthening and improving its appearance. Crowns are a very reliable solution for major dental problems that have resulted in a severely damaged or missing tooth. Crowns provide a strong, sturdy, aesthetically pleasing replacement that can tolerate the same pressures as a regular tooth, letting patients enjoy the convenience of eating, speaking and smiling without any difficulties. Crowns are necessary when the tooth is broken down to the point where a filling will not be effective. ...

Dental Visits During Orthodontic Treatment

In addition to periodic orthodontic checkups during orthodontic treatment, it is essential that patients see their regular dentists. While the orthodontist takes care of any problems that arise with braces, the regular dentist has primary responsibility for dental hygiene and oral health. ...

Dental Specialties

General dentistry involves the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of a wide range of dental conditions, as well as the maintenance of overall oral health, in people of all ages. Although there are several different dental specialties, general dentistry encompasses the basics of all of them. ...

Pediatric Dentistry

Pediatric dentistry is an area of dentistry that specializes in treating the oral healthcare needs of children. Pediatric dentists provide regular checkups, cleanings and fluoride treatments, and overall oral treatment and care for children's teeth. Pediatric dentists also commonly apply sealants to children's teeth to prevent cavities. ...

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants, thin coatings generally applied to the occlusal (chewing) surfaces of the teeth, are an effective method of cavity prevention. The sealant acts as a barrier between the tooth and food, bacteria and plaque, all of which can lead to decay. Sealants are especially effective in preventing bacterial formation in the grooves of molar and premolar surfaces, areas that are especially susceptible to decay. ...

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are natural-looking tooth replacements that help maintain facial structure, reduce stress on the jaw and fill in the gaps caused by missing teeth. Dental bridges replace missing teeth with a short row of prosthetics that rely on the strength of surrounding natural teeth, called abutment teeth, to help stabilize the bite. Bridges also help keep adjacent teeth from moving into the open space left by the missing tooth. ...

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is a special procedure used to restore, reshape and rejuvenate teeth, improving both their function and appearance. Dentists apply a thin layer of tooth-colored plastic to the front of the tooth and sculpt it to perfect the patient's appearance. Dental bonding is used to repair chipped, cracked, broken, misshapen teeth or stained teeth or to fill in the spaces between teeth. ...

Root Canal

A root canal is the most commonly performed endodontic procedure. It involves treating problems within the tooth's soft core, also known as the dental pulp. The dental pulp is the soft tissue found inside the tooth; it extends from the top of the tooth all the way down to the end of the root. It contains nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue that provide nutrients to the tooth as it grows. ...

Oral Hygiene

Proper oral hygiene is essential for healthy teeth and gums. Just as toothbrushing is necessary to prevent bacteria from attacking the teeth and causing cavities, tending the gums is necessary to prevent bacteria from attacking the gums and invading deeper tissues, causing periodontal disease. Most cases of periodontal disease develop because bacterial plaque builds up on the teeth; when the plaque hardens, it causes tartar to form, which can destroy the tissues and bone that support the teeth. Although seeing a dentist for a professional cleaning is a prerequisite for maintaining mouth health, personal oral hygiene is also crucial. ...

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the inflammation of gums that is caused by a buildup of plaque and bacteria between the teeth and gums. Plaque that remains on the teeth, turns into a hard deposit called tartar that becomes trapped at the base of the tooth. Plaque and tartar irritate and inflame the gums causing redness, swelling, pain and sometimes even bleeding. Gingivitis is a common periodontal condition that can be effectively managed, however, left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease and possible tooth loss. Proper oral hygiene and regular dental examinations are essential in the prevention and early detection of gum disease. ...

Cavities

Cavities are small holes in the teeth that form as a result of decay. During the decay process, the outer layers of the teeth, known as enamel and dentin, are worn away, leaving eroded areas called cavities. Cavities are caused by a buildup of bacteria, food particles and saliva which combine to form dental plaque, a film that coats the teeth. Since plaque is acidic, it can attack the tooth causing decay and resulting in cavities. ...

Dental Fillings

Dental tooth fillings are a restorative treatment, used to improve the appearance and functionality of teeth affected by damage or decay. The restorations most frequently made in children are fillings after a cavity has been discovered in either a primary or permanent tooth. The filling materials, which can be made from several different substances, help to even out tooth surfaces for more efficient biting and chewing. Dental fillings can last for many years and help keep the tooth looking and functioning at its best. ...

Fluoride Treatment

Fluoride is a natural substance that helps strengthen teeth and prevent decay in patients of all ages. Naturally, it is found in water sources and certain foods such as meat, fish and eggs. As a supplement it is available in toothpastes, vitamins, rinses and professional treatments from dentists. Sufficient fluoride treatment is most important for children, to ensure extra protection from cavities against their developing teeth. ...

Impacted Tooth

An impacted tooth is a tooth that has not broken through the gums. This condition is most commonly associated with wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth may remain in the gums causing no symptoms or side effects, however, in many cases, an impacted tooth can cause swelling and pain.

An impacted tooth may occur because of an overcrowded jaw or because the tooth is coming in at an odd angle and there is no room for the tooth to descend into the mouth. ...

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection of the tissue that surrounds and supports the teeth. A leading cause of tooth loss, it is most often caused by a buildup of plaque on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can be brushed and flossed away with proper oral care. However, when left on the teeth, plaque produces toxins that attack below the gum line and in the crevices between the teeth and gums, causing the bond between teeth and gums to break down. ...

Tooth Extraction

A tooth extraction, also known as exodontia, is one of the most common dental procedures and may be performed by the patient's regular dentist or an oral surgeon, depending on the circumstances. Tooth extractions, during which the tooth is removed from its socket in the bone, may be necessary because of disease, trauma or overcrowding of teeth. ...

Sedation Dentistry

Many people experience anxiety about undergoing dental work or visiting the dentist at all, a fear known as dental phobia. It can keep them from seeking dental care, and may compromise their dental health. Dental phobia can be helped by sedation dentistry.

Sedation dentistry involves the use of medication to provide a relaxing and anxiety-free experience for people undergoing dental treatment. Although sometimes referred to as "sleep dentistry," most patients remain awake but feel sleepy. There are several different methods available to achieve varying degrees of sedation. Which method is used depends on the type of procedure and the preference of the patient. ...

Dental Trauma

Dental trauma involves any kind of injury to the face, teeth, gums or jaw line. Patients may experience trauma as a result of a sports injury, motor vehicle accident, or other type of incident. Dental trauma can also occur from eating foods that are too hard or drinking liquids that are too hot. These injuries can range from facial cuts and lacerations to more serious problems such as broken teeth and fractures. Trauma is most common among children, and the most common type of injury is a fracture of the tooth crown. ...

Dental X-rays

Dental X-rays are a vital part of a dental examination. There are two main types of dental X-rays: those taken with the X-ray film inside the mouth (intraoral) and those taken with the X-ray film outside the mouth (extraoral). Intraoral X-rays are the ones most commonly used. They provide detailed evidence of the growth of developing teeth, the health of tooth roots and surrounding bone, including the jaw. They also help the dentist zero in on any cavities. Extraoral X-rays, while they also show the teeth, primarily focus on the jaw and skull. They are therefore more helpful in diagnosing malocclusions, impacted teeth, and possible temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD). ...

Dental Abscess

A dental abscess is an infection in a tooth or the surrounding gums. When cavities and gum-related issues are left untreated, teeth can decay and bacteria can spread to surrounding areas of the mouth and jaw, causing deeper infection. Dental abscesses can have serious medical ramifications, so it is important that they be treated promptly. ...

Comprehensive Dental Examination

It is important to protect and maintain the teeth and gums, not only by daily brushing and flossing, but through regular professional care. Periodic dental examinations are the best protection against dental disorders, such as tooth loss and gum disease. A comprehensive dental examination includes a number of evaluative procedures, as well as a thorough dental cleaning and is an essential element of preventive health care. ...

Digital Imaging

Digital imaging, or digital radiography, is a valuable diagnostic tool frequently used in dentistry, as well as other disciplines. It is an innovative technique that uses a computer to efficiently manipulate and store X-ray images. Using this technology provides immediate results, readily available for sharing and discussion with patients and with other medical or dental professionals. ...

Prosthodontic Dentistry

Prosthodontic dentistry is a specialty of dentistry that focuses on restoring or replacing injured, damaged or missing teeth to maintain dental health, function and aesthetics.

Complete or partial removal of teeth may be necessary when they have sustained significant damage, which may have been caused by: ...

Full Mouth Restoration

Full mouth restoration involves reconstructing all of the teeth in both the upper and lower jaws through the use of restorative materials like crowns, bridges, veneers and dentures. Full mouth reconstruction can be a necessary treatment performed to preserve the patient's oral health. This treatment may be performed on patients who have missing or severely damaged teeth caused by decay, injury, acid erosion, tooth grinding or malocclusion. ...