Root canals have a bad reputation. Just hearing the words make a lot of people uneasy, because they're associated with pain. But at Pinnacle Dental Associates in Albany, we stress that root canals do the opposite: they don't cause pain, they relieve it. A root canal usually becomes necessary when a tooth is infected or badly damaged. Formally known as... read more »
Most people know they can come to us at Pinnacle Dental Associates in Albany for toothaches, cleanings, and bleeding gums (not to mention cosmetic dentistry procedures such as a smile makeover). But there are some lesser-known concerns that we can help you with. Dry mouth, technically called xerostomia, is caused by a lack of saliva and can be quite uncomfortable.... read more »
There is more than one way to fix a tooth. In this post from Pinnacle Dental Associates in Albany, we look at six restoration procedures that are used to repair a damaged tooth: 1. Dental Bonding Bonding, officially called direct composite veneers, is used to fix chips, cracks, stains, and make teeth longer. It is also sometimes used to fill... read more »
Hello friends of Pinnacle Dental Associates in Albany! In this post, we will review jaw bone health. To remain healthy and dense, your jaw bone needs to be constantly stimulated by the pressure of chewing, biting, and talking. Each tooth has a root structure the extends into the surrounding bone material. As each tooth absorbs the forces of everyday mouth... read more »
At Pinnacle Dental Associates in Albany, we strive for excellence in dentistry every day. Providing the best possible dental care goes beyond cleanings and exams. We like patients who ask a lot of questions, because that tells us they are taking a strong interest in their dental health. Frequently Asked Questions One of the questions we're frequently asked is whether... read more »
In this post from Pinnacle Dental Associates in Albany, we begin with something we'd classify as Murphy's Law. You leave the house on a pressing errand, looking completely disheveled. Inevitably, you bump into someone you know. How do you feel in your ill-fitting sweatpants and stained T-shirt? Attractive clothing, well-groomed hair, and a fit body boost morale for most people.... read more »
In this post from Pinnacle Dental Associates in Albany, we are going to review the complexity and importance of your saliva. Don't be squeamish! Your saliva is a finely balanced body fluid that not only maintains dental health but also helps with the digestion of your food. So, without further ado, here are the main components of saliva. Water. No... read more »
This message from Pinnacle Dental Associates in Albany OR focuses on missing teeth and bone health, and how dental implants can make a difference. Our teeth have many important functions. We need them to chew our food, talk, and smile. But have you ever considered their role in holding up your face? When we lose teeth, the bone around the... read more »
During a dental checkup at Pinnacle Dental Associates in Albany we do a thorough inspection of your teeth and gums. But visual inspections can't tell us everything we need to know about your dental health, which is why we take x-rays. For most patients, we update our x-rays once a year. They help us to make accurate diagnoses by showing... read more »
Filling cavities with a resin composite material is increasingly popular in dentistry. They are commonly referred to as "white fillings," and they are available at Pinnacle Dental Associates in Albany. One of the things that makes composite fillings so attractive is the color. They easily blend in with the color of your teeth, making them all but invisible. A second... read more »