Laser Biopsy
Get a Diagnosis with a Laser Biopsy.
If your oral screening reveals some suspicious areas in the soft tissues of your mouth, we may need to perform a laser biopsy to properly diagnose the sample and determine if there is cause for concern.
A biopsy refers to the removal and examination of certain tissues, fluids, or cells from your mouth. We will use our state-of-the-art equipment to perform the biopsy so it can be done as quickly and precisely as possible. Once we have the tissue sample we will send it to a trusted oral pathology lab for microscopic diagnosis. Their findings will help us determine the next step to take.
Why Use Lasers?
There are several ways to perform a biopsy in the mouth, including incisional biopsies, excisional biopsies, and punch biopsies. However, because the mouth is naturally a moist and confined area, it can be challenging to get a viable tissue sample for testing. At Maplewood Laser Dental Clinic we use laser equipment to perform these biopsies to ensure we can get the samples we need with minimal impact on your mouth.
A laser biopsy also means that smaller lesions can often be removed with only a compounded topical anesthetic. And when it’s all over, sutures are very rarely required because the lasers cause minimal trauma.
Don’t Take Chances
There’s no reason to take chances and put off getting the diagnosis and care that you need. At Maplewood Laser Dental Clinic we are committed to providing comprehensive care. We go beyond just your teeth to focus on your complete health.
A laser biopsy can give us the insight into your health that we need to prescribe the right treatments for your situation.
TMJ Evaluation
Dr. Guess checks your teeth, gums, and bone using intraoral observation, and radiographs.
He then feels the jaw joint to detect any patterns which indicate problems opening and closing the jaw. This evaluation is performed to identify existing problems and prevent future problems of the temporomandibular joint. Common issues include, but are not limited to: clicking, popping, pain, and difficulty chewing.
Relieve Jaw Paint with TMJ Treatments
Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ) can be very painful. It causes severe jaw pain along with migraines and can make it hard to chew or even fully open or close your mouth. You don’t have to endure the pain, though. At Maplewood Laser Dental we specialize in treating TMJ so you can return to your normal life, free of the pain.
What Causes It?
TMJ is often caused by a crooked bite or constantly grinding and clenching your teeth at night. It’s important for us to determine exactly what is causing the problem so we can quickly and effectively provide the right treatment.
Common Symptoms
Some of the most common indicators of TMJ include:
- Jaws that lock
- Stiffness and pain in the jaw joints
- An uncomfortable bite
- Problems chewing
- Problems opening or closing your mouth
- Neck and shoulder discomfort
- Ringing or pressure in the ears
- Facial tenderness and swelling
- Clicking or popping noises in the jaw
Get Treated Today
The temporomandibular joint is used for speaking, eating, swallowing, and more. If it is the source of a lot of pain, it will interfere with a lot of your daily activities. Don’t wait to seek out a treatment. Our process is quick and effective, and we’ll make sure you find the relief you need.
Happy Visit
As a family practice, we love providing care for the little ones in your family.
Your child’s first visit should take place before they are 1 year old. This helps familiarize toddlers and young children with the dentist. No x-rays or cleaning take place, but we do explore senses like sounds and the feeling of a toothbrush on your child’s teeth and gums. Usually little ones are held by their care-taker while our hygienist introduces them to new sights and sounds. We highly encourage your active participation in this appointment, and the appointments that follow, because the routine you set is what establishes your child’s oral hygiene habits as they age.
Prophylactic Cleanings
Removal of plaque, calculus, and stains from the tooth structures in the permanent and transitional dentition.
We recommend a dental cleaning at least every 6 months, though some patients come every 3-4 months when in orthodontics or if we are treating periodontal (gum) disease. We begin this type of cleaning on children as young as 3 years, if they allow.
Silver Diamine Fluoride
Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is a clear liquid that can be used to help prevent cavities from growing, particularly in children.
By combining fluoride’s ability to remineralize teeth with silver’s antibacterial properties, SDF can strengthen your teeth and prevent cavities from growing and spreading to other teeth.
Pit and Fissure Sealants
Applying Dental Sealants is a simple procedure in which a tooth-colored acrylic coating is painted onto the surface of the tooth.
This effectively seals deep grooves, protecting enamel from plaque and acids. Sealants protect the depressions and grooves of your teeth from food particles and plaque that brushing and flossing can’t reach. Easy to apply, sealants take only a few minutes to seal each tooth. Sealants hold up well to normal chewing and can last several years before a reapplication is needed. Children and adults both benefit from sealants in the fight against tooth decay.
Oral Cancer Screening
At new patient appointments and recall cleanings, an oral cancer screening is performed. Catching oral cancer early is critical.
Though smokers have a higher risk, even healthy individuals are at risk. We check oral tissues like the cheeks, tongue, and lips for any abnormal indicators.
Oral Exams & X-Rays
Dr. Guess uses x-rays to aid in diagnosis and treatment planning.
Early intervention is key to restoring/maintaining oral health. We regularly take x-rays, even on young children, to watch for signs of decay or progression of existing decay that may develop over time.
