We have recently written about the benefits of the Cone Beam CT Scanner, and how it helps your dentist perform a variety of procedures more efficiently while producing better overall results. Find that introductory blog post here to learn more about this technology and why your dentist uses it.

While there are several applications of the Cone Beam CT Scanner, one of the most valuable is with dental implants. Below, find out more about the benefits of using the Cone Beam CT Scanner in this procedure — and then book an appointment with the dentist who uses it.

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From tracking weight loss to staying up-to-date on your favorite television show, technology makes everything easier. And when it comes to your oral health, visiting a dentist who makes use of the latest tools and advanced technology is even more vital: it can mean all the difference in your overall wellbeing. The cone beam CT scanner is one example of the kind of technology you want your dentist to use. Keep reading to learn more about what it is and how it works. (more…)

When was the last time you visited the dentist? If you are like many adults we know, the answer could range anywhere from “It’s been awhile” to “I can’t even remember.” While it is certainly not unusual to skip routine appointments if you do not feel like you have a dental problem, you are potentially taking a big risk when you avoid preventive care. Keep reading to learn more about why visiting the dentist regularly is crucial for your lasting, beautiful smile.

Importance of Preventive Dentistry

Most people need to see the dentist for a checkup and cleaning every six months. That’s the amount of time that a dental problem could develop — and that a simple preventive or early intervention solution could be rendered to help stop it in its tracks. When an issue like tooth decay or infection in the gums takes hold, treating it right away is the key to avoiding more serious problems and major, potentially costly treatments.

During a checkup and cleaning, you and your dentist and/or dental hygienist will sit down and discuss your oral health — after all, you are the expert in what’s been going on with your smile. Then, your dentist will perform a tooth-by-tooth exam and look at any x-rays we have taken. Either before or after this exam, your dental hygienist will clean and polish your teeth to leave them feeling wonderfully clean. Then, if no problems are detected that need to be treated sooner, we will make a plan to see you again in six months!

Sudden Toothache?

If you do come down with a sudden toothache after taking a long break from the dentist, get in touch right away. An aching tooth may eventually stop hurting, but it will not fix itself, and it is important that you get treated as soon as possible to avoid tooth loss. Chances are high you may need a root canal and crown — nothing to fear (they no longer deserve the reputation they have), but seeking prompt treatment will help you get out of pain and on with your life. We offer a number of relaxing sedation options to make sure you feel comfortable throughout the procedure.

A Judgment-Free Practice

Fortunately, the team at Cowlitz River Dental will never judge you or make you feel guilty no matter how long it has been since your last visit to the dentist. We understand that no one particularly wants to open wide for a dental exam (we have been in that chair too), and that life can get in the way of even the best intentions. When you make an appointment and renew your commitment to your oral health, we will just be thrilled to have you back in the dental chair — and will get started putting together a gentle and thorough treatment plan to help you achieve your smile goals.

Meet the Dentist

Dr. L. Blaine Kennington is a family dentist offering a full range of treatments for Castle Rock friends and neighbors. He has been practicing in the area since 2002 and in various other areas for decades before that. To learn more about the importance of prevention or to renew your commitment to your oral health, please get in touch with Cowlitz River Dental by calling them at (360) 274-9100.

If you are interested in sprucing up your smile in time for the holidays, there are a number of cosmetic dentistry options available. The one that is right for you will depend on your needs and desires. For stained enamel, teeth whitening is a common treatment — but for a longer-term solution, patients may want to consider porcelain veneers instead. Keep reading to find out about how both work and which one may be best for your pearly whites.

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If you are already missing some teeth or on the verge of having one or more extracted, dental implants are an excellent tooth replacement. Unlike other options, they give you back the missing tooth as well as its supportive root. This setup promotes oral health and prevents further tooth loss for years to come.

Despite the fact that dental implants are by far the most effective method of tooth replacement available, they are still not fully covered by most dental insurance plans. Keep reading to learn more about what may be covered and how you can maximize your savings for the best tooth replacement.

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Visiting your dentist for cosmetic work is a great way to get the smile you really love, as treatments like porcelain veneers and teeth whitening can help a grin really shine. But, if you have existing dental problems, you may need to have certain procedures performed before the work can be done. Keep reading to find out more about how restorative and preventive dentistry treatments can help to lay the groundwork for a beautiful smile that you won’t want to hide. (more…)

From tracking weight loss to staying up-to-date on your favorite television show, technology makes everything easier. And when it comes to your oral health, visiting a dentist who makes use of the latest tools and advanced technology is even more vital: it can mean all the difference in your overall wellbeing. The cone beam CT scanner is one example of the kind of technology you want your dentist to use. Keep reading to learn more about what it is and how it works.

(more…)

Most adults have at least one filling in their mouths. A filling can be silver (gray) or, these days, tooth-colored — but either way, this type of restorative dentistry treatment is used to arrest tooth decay and keep your smile healthy after a cavity. In most cases, a filling can last for years and years, but it will eventually need to be replaced. Keep reading to learn more about fillings and what you can expect from yours. (more…)

Fluoride is sometimes thought of as a controversial ingredient, but dentists, know that safe amounts of this mineral play a key role in cavity prevention that leads to healthy smiles. Your family dentist may recommend that you or your child receive brief topical fluoride treatments to strengthen tooth enamel and keep you smiling for a lifetime to come. Keep reading to learn more about fluoride and what to expect if it is recommended for you or your little one.

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Among the “firsts” that your child will experience, their initial visit to the dentist may not be one you are necessarily planning for. But did you know that having their growing teeth checked out is a vital step that will put them on the road to a healthy smile that lasts for a lifetime? Keep reading to find out more about that first appointment and when you should schedule it for your little one.

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