Here at Crockett Dental, we are proud to use the unique CEREC CAD/CAM system for individual all-ceramic restorations. The CEREC CAD/CAM system is a time-saving, computer-aided process that allows us to efficiently construct, produce, and insert individual ceramic restorations directly at the point of chairside treatment in a single appointment. This technology has successfully carried out single appointment crowns for over 20 years. The tooth being restored is prepared either as a crown, inlay, onlay or veneer. The tooth is imaged by a 3D imaging camera and uploaded to the CEREC computer. Using the proprietary CEREC software in various modes, a restoration is then designed to restore the tooth to its appropriate form and function. This data on this restoration is stored in a file and is sent via wireless serial transmission to a milling machine. The restoration can then be milled out of a solid ceramic or composite block. The restoration is bonded to the tooth using a resin cement which bonds to both the restoration as well as the tooth itself.

A deep cleaning is completed when you have periodontal or gum disease. This disease causes the gums and the bone to pull away from the root of the tooth. If not treated, the teeth will eventually become loose and tooth lose will occur. Scaling and Root Planing is the most effective way to treat gum disease before it becomes severe. This procedure is usually completed in two separate appointments. It consists of the use of local anesthetic to insure comfort. The hygienist then thoroughly cleans the teeth below the gum line on the root of the tooth. A medicated mouthwash is also used and sent home with you to help kill the bacteria that cause this disease. After 4-6 weeks the hygienist will complete a re-evaluation of the severity of your gum disease and the results of the deep cleaning. You will then be seen on a more frequent basis to insure control of this chronic disease. These special cleanings following are called periodontal maintenance cleanings and are very important in maintaining oral and overall health.

Plaque starts to form on your teeth almost immediately following brushing/flossing and having your teeth cleaned. Plaque is made up of food particles and bacteria. The longer the plaque and bacteria can "live" on your teeth, the more harmful it becomes. After a period of time, the minerals in your saliva will calcify the plaque and form tartar. Once tartar forms, the only way to remove it is to have it scraped or scaled off. Your dental hygienist is specifically trained in this procedure and can effectively remove the tartar, plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums.

Dentists have a responsibility to obtain and maintain current information and health histories of patients. Our office has established a high standard of care in which, as a patient, you will be asked to update you medical history yearly and your information as changes occur. Also, our patients will be questioned at each visit to determine if the health status or medication taken has changed. By doing so, it contributes to providing the best possible care for the patient.

Updating x-rays is necessary to properly diagnose treatment that may be needed that cannot be seen from clinical exams. X-rays help us to diagnose cavities that may be forming between the teeth as well as diagnose any infections that may be present, both of these cannot be seen from the tooth surface alone unless the cavity is so far progressed. This helps us to catch cavities when they are small, before any symptoms present themselves which is an indication of more extensive treatment being necessary. X-rays need to be updated after a tooth breaks or a filling falls out as the tooth structure has changed since the last cleaning. These updated x-rays help the doctors to see how any current trauma has affected the tooth.

We take any insurance that allows you to choose your dental office. There are hundreds of dental insurance plans, each with their own rules, regulations and limitations. We are happy to obtain as much information as your insurance company will provide to us so that we can, in turn, provide you with a more accurate treatment cost and explanation of expected coverage.

To help us obtain the information in a timely manner, please provide insurance information at the time of scheduling your initial appointment. It is also helpful to let us know in advance of a scheduled appointment of any changes you have had to your insurance.