Benjamin Silva, D.D.S.,

SEALANT:
Applying dental sealants is an easy and simple process. First, the teeth are thoroughly cleaned. Next, a mild acid solution is applied to help bond the sealant properly. Lastly, the sealant is placed on the tooth to seal the grooves and only takes about 60 seconds to harden. There is no discomfort, and process is done very quickly.

	SCALING: Scaling removes plaque and tarter from below the gum line. This controls the growth of harmful bacteria.
	ROOT PLANING: Root planing involves scraping and smoothing the root surfaces of your teeth. Gum tissue can more firmly reattach to roots that are clean and smooth.
	CROWNS: A crown, also called a cap, is a man made cover that protects the top of a tooth. It may be used to restore and preserve a decayed, broken or cracked tooth. Restoration of your tooth with a crown may take 2 or 3 dental visits. Several kinds of materials are used in making crowns...metals such as gold, procelain or porcelain fused on top of metal is also used.
	VENEERS: Veneers are a thin, translucent coating made out of porcelain or resin(plastic). They are applied to the front teeth to improve their color, size or shape. The procedure may require 2 or 3 office visits from start to finish. After examining your teeth, the dentist will discuss with you what kind of veneers you will choose. A mold of your tooth is taken and then sent to a lab where the veneers will be made. The dentist may apply temporary veneers. Sometimes the teeth become more sensitive than usual.
	DENTAL IMPLANTS: The placement of an implant generally is a three-part process that takes several months. First step: the dentist surgically places the implant into the jaw,with the top of the implant slightly above the top of the bone. A screw is inserted into the implant to prevent gum tissue and other debris from entering.The gum is secured over the implant, where it will remain covered for approximately three to six months while the implant fuses with the bone. Second step: the implant is uncovered and the dentist attaches an extension, called a post, to the implant. The gum tissue is allowed to heal around the post.Third and final step: the dentist makes a custom artificial tooth, called a crown, based on a size, shape, color and fit that will blend with your teeth. Once completed, the crown is attached to the implant post.
	PARTIAL DENTURES: A partial denture is made up of one or more porcelain or plastic replacement teeth. Gumcolored plastic attaches these teeth to a metal framework. The partial is removable. It is held in your mouth with either metal clasps or precision attachments (special attachments made to fit into existing teeth, often hidden by crowns.) You and your dentist will discuss which option is best for you.
	OCCLUSAL GUARD (NIGHT GUARD): Although teeth grinding (Bruxism) may happen at any time, people most often grind their teeh when they sleep. The causes are not clear, but stress is one possible cause, but often the cause is not known. Teeth grinding can cause damage to your teeth such as: • Chipped enamel • Flattened, grooved or worn down teeth • Loosened teeth • Cracked teeth • Periodontal (gum) problems • Damage to bridges or other dental implants A mouth guard can help protect your teeth from damage due to grinding. If you do grind your teeth, Dr. Silva can best prescribe a course of action to help you to avoid any further damage to your teeth such as a mouth guard,bite adjustment, stress reduction, medication and repairing any damage to your teeth.

BRIDGE:
A fixed bridge is one or more replacement teeth attached to the natural teeth next to them. Once it is in place, the bridge is not meant to be removed. A bridge can be made of metal, toothcolored porcelain, or a combination. Two main types of bridges are: a conventional bridge has one or more replacement teeth attached to crowns. The crowns are cemented over the natural teeth on either side of the space to be filled. A resin-bonded bridge has one or more replacement teeth attached to the back of nearby natural teeth using a metal or plastic strip and cement.

ROOT CANAL:
Root canal treatment treats disorders of the nerve (also called the pulp) of the tooth. An opening is made through the crown of the tooth into the pulp. The diseased pulp is then carefull removed. X-Rays are continually taken to make sure all of the infected pulp is removed. The chamber is then sealed or in some cases left open to allow the infection to drain. When the infection is entirely removed, then the the tooth is filled and sealed and returned to normal

Benjamin Silva D.D.S., Placitas De Zaragosa • 1514 N. Zaragosa Rd. Ste. A-1 • El Paso, Texas 79936 • 915-591-4303