Dentistry

Our Glen Allen dentist provides general dentistry services to the Richmond, VA and surrounding communities. In addition to preventative care and cosmetic dentistry, we also see patients for some of the following reasons:

Endodontic Treatments (Root Canal Therapy)

Typical tooth decay affects the surface of the tooth where the enamel resides.  However, if decay or infection make their way into the interior parts of the tooth such as the pulp or root, then endodontic treatment is necessary.  The most common endodontic treatments are root canal procedures. The plus side of having a root canal performed is that the tooth is saved, rather than extracted.  Tooth decay and bacteria inside the tooth tend to cause sensitivity and pain as the interior part of the tooth houses nerves. Luckily, to remedy the situation, root canal therapy rids the tooth of infection and decay.   This is a relatively pain-free solution that is little different than getting a cavity filled.

Crowns

Crowns are used to protect the chewing surface of the tooth as well as any part of the tooth above the gum line.  They are used to strengthen a tooth after a root canal or to replace the tooth as part of a dental implant procedure.  Other uses include cosmetic purposes. Crowns can be designed to look like a part of your natural smile and are easy to care for.  Our Glen Allen dentist can advise on the necessity of a crown and help you understand how they work. Dental crowns are made of strong materials that help support the tooth.  

Treatment for TMJ

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the central joint in the jaw.  It connects the lower jaw bone, or mandible, to the skull; acting as a hinge to help open and close your mouth.  When the TMJ becomes painful to move it is referred to as TMD which stands for temporomandibular joint dysfunction.  TMD occurs when a Glen Allen dentist patient’s bite is off, when infection is present, or when genetics or arthritis has their say.  Fortunately, at Mohanty Comprehensive Dentistry, we are highly skilled at treating TMJ. Your oral treatment plan will be based on your diagnosis and may include a nightguard, physical therapy, or possibly surgery.  

Extractions

Occasionally tooth extractions are recommended by our Glen Allen dentist and staff.  This may be due to a tooth that is infected, or one that cannot be saved by other restorative measures.  After the tooth is removed, a dental implant, bridge, or partial denture will provide a natural looking replacement so your smile remains the same.  Without a replacement tooth, damage to the remaining teeth occurs due to natural movement of teeth and overcompensation of your bite. At Mohanty Comprehensive Dentistry, we do all we can to save a compromised tooth, but in some cases, an extraction is the best course of action.  

Care for Canker Sores

Canker sores typically appear in the soft tissues of the mouth such as your gums, cheeks, and on the tongue.  They are painful sores that may appear white or red when observed. Simple canker sores last a few days, while complex canker sores last longer and reappear more often.  Our Glen Allen dentist offers laser treatment for canker sores which produces immediate effects of relief. Give our office a call if you are interested in learning more along with how best to prevent canker sores from forming.