Colonia Preventive Dentistry
Because Prevention is the Best Cure for Our Patients
We strive to focus on a preventive care approach that minimizes treatment and saves our patients money over their long-term care. Taking a proactive, diagnostic approach, Dr. Patel chooses to implement many preventive services to help strengthen teeth, reduce cavities, and eliminate conditions like gum disease.
Our comprehensive, preventive services include:
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Colonia Comprehensive Dental Exam
New patients and existing patients receive a comprehensive exam every 3 years in conjunction with routine care appointments. During these exams, we use digital x-rays and digital photographs to help us get a thorough view of the entire mouth including teeth, tissue, and bone. We also perform a TMJ and bite evaluation to ensure proper alignment.
Colonia Oral Cancer Screening
There are thousands of oral cancer cases diagnosed every year, but catching it as early as possible is the only way to increase the odds of successful cancer treatment. Traditionally oral cancer has been associated with tobacco and alcohol use, but newer findings link it to younger adults who have HPV.
Colonia Digital X-Ray Service
Our high definition digital x-rays allow for the diagnosis and examination of bone levels and dental health in areas that are not visible during a visual assessment. Digital x-rays use less radiation and make it easier for us to share our findings with our patients.
Colonia Intra-Oral Camera
How would you like to see everything the way Dr. Patel sees it? Thanks to our digital intra-oral camera, we can capture detailed images for our patients to view and inspect on a monitor in the treatment rooms. This makes diagnoses and treatment needs much easier to understand and empowers patients to make informed decisions regarding their oral health needs. In a way, our patients play a key role in co-planning their treatments thanks to these images.
Colonia Diagnodent Treatment
Tooth decay has to be advanced to a certain point before it can be diagnosed with tactile examination or through x-rays. Diagnodent is a laser device that uses wave technology to detect weakened or decayed tooth enamel before it progresses to being clinically diagnosable. This allows treatments to occur earlier on, saving tooth structure and keeping costs at a minimum.
Dental Hygiene Colonia
Regular cleanings help remove calcified tartar and hard-to-reach plaque deposits from the teeth so that it does not lead to bone loss and gum disease. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss, but with regular cleanings and proper oral hygiene, our patients can enjoy a lifetime of healthy teeth.
Colonia Periodontal Therapy
Swollen, bleeding gums and gum recession are symptoms of periodontal (gum) disease. Scaling and Root Planing treatments remove the bacteria from deep under the gums so that healing can occur. We also implement a perio therapy program that includes Arestin, a locally placed antibiotic that dramatically improves recovery rates in areas of severe gum detachment. Take-home medication may also be prescribed.
Colonia Fluoride Treatment
Every pediatric patient gets a fluoride treatment following their cleaning, to help remineralize enamel and decrease tooth decay. Adults may also receive treatments as needed to combat cavities and tooth sensitivity. Take-home fluoride is also available.
Colonia Mouth Guards
Professionally fitted mouth guards are more successful in the treatment of grinding, bruxism, and preventing accidental trauma during sporting activities. Our guards are comfortable to wear and stay securely in place until you choose to take them out.
Sleep Apnea Treatment Colonia
Wearing a TAP sleep apnea appliance helps to naturally open the airway, increasing oxygen intake without the use of invasive equipment. By preventing the tongue, soft palate and pharynx from sealing off the airway, oxygen flow continues to occur and patients get a better night’s rest.
