Dental Treatments
Extractions
Although we will use every measure to prevent tooth loss, there are still some occasions when a tooth may need to be extracted:
- Severe decay
- Advanced periodontal disease
- Infection or abscess
- Orthodontic correction
- Malpositioned teeth
- Fractured teeth or roots
- Impacted teeth
Before a tooth is removed, we’ll take an X-ray in order to understand the shape and position of the tooth and surrounding bone.
If you have recently had a tooth extracted and are experiencing prolonged or severe pain, swelling, bleeding or fever, call our office immediately: (843) 682-4601.
Root Canals
Root canal therapy, or endodontic therapy, is necessary when a cavity progresses all the way to the pulp. Sometimes deep restorations or trauma to a tooth may cause the nerve to be damaged to the point that it needs root canal therapy.
The pulp may become infected, and can even extend through the root tip and begin to eat away at the surrounding bone, creating an abscess – possibly weakening the entire immune system. This is dangerous, not to mention very painful.
Symptoms that the pulp has become infected may include:
- Sensitivity to hot, cold or sweets
- Generalized pain
- Swelling
- Pain when biting
- Pressure
- And/or a bad taste in the mouth
Sometimes no symptoms are apparent and the person is unaware of any problem until a checkup. Once the infection is resolved, the canal(s) are filled in to prevent any further infection. A core build-up and a crown may be recommended for restoring a tooth that has had root canal therapy.
Regular cleanings and checkups help prevent damage and detect problems early.
Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is an often undiagnosed sleeping disorder that creates a pause in a person’s breathing – leading to snoring and restless nights. OSA is a serious and life-long medical condition that can impact every aspect of your life. If you experience any of the following you may have OSA:
- Do you snore?
- Do you feel fatigued during the day?
- Do you wake up feeling like you haven’t slept?
- Have you been told you stop breathing at night?
- Do you gasp for air or choke while sleeping?
ROC Dental Group has a comfortable and high-quality solution for you to begin enjoying more restful nights and refreshing days. Advancements in medical and dental technology, allow us to help treat conditions of sleep apnea:
- Custom-fit SomnoDent® – Oral devices that treat OSA by moving the lower jaw slightly forward. The forward movement keeps the airway open preventing apneas.
- Continuous Open Airway Therapy (COAT®) – A category of products that treat patients seeking an easy, efficient solution for OSA.
Contact us today to learn how we can help you enjoy more restful nights.
“I highly recommend it.”
“For me, the ‘snore guard device’ really works and I highly recommend it. Dr. Mastrorocco made me one in March 2012 and again in 2018. I still use it every night. It is very easy to insert. It is unbelievable how comfortable and convenient it is. If I don’t use it, I wake up very soon after falling asleep, choking. My snoring used to prevent my wife from falling asleep – so she loves it, too!”
– Dave M., Hilton Head, SC
SomnoDent Devices
Dr. Mastrorocco utilizes a new medical advancement to treat sleep apnea known as oral sleep appliances. Oral sleep appliances, such as the SomnoDent device being used are custom-made devices for patients that fit snugly over the teeth. Oral sleep appliances work to keep the airway open and unobstructed so that patients can breathe freely and sleep soundly. These devices are smaller, less bulky, and more comfortable than traditional CPAP devices.
While wearing the SomnoDent appliance, patients will be able to fully open and close their mouth, yawn, drink, take oral medication, and even speak clearly. All of these things are impossible with other sleep apnea treatments. The use of oral sleep appliances to treat sleep apnea is ideal for patients who feel claustrophobic using a CPAP device.
“I highly recommend it.”
“For me, the ‘snore guard device’ really works and I highly recommend it. Dr. Mastrorocco made me one in March 2012 and again in 2018. I still use it every night. It is very easy to insert. It is unbelievable how comfortable and convenient it is. If I don’t use it, I wake up very soon after falling asleep, choking. My snoring used to prevent my wife from falling asleep – so she loves it, too!”
– Dave M., Hilton Head, SC
TMJ
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint. Temporal, as in temple area of the skull; mandibular as in mandible, or lower jaw; joint, as in where the skull and jaw meet. Problems in this joint may be caused by misaligned teeth, trauma, or excess muscle tension. Cartilage buffers where the skull and jaw meet and five muscles are involved in the area. If something goes wrong, trouble can result.
Problems in this area can cause:
- Headaches
- Earaches
- Trouble or soreness when opening and closing the mouth
- Clicking or popping of the jaw
- Pain in the jaw muscles
- Soreness in the area, sometimes extending to the face
Are you struggling with jaw pain that may include earaches and clicking or popping of the jaw? If so, contact us today to see how we can help. Dental treatments may include replacing missing teeth, moving teeth, adjusting the bite, filling gaps between teeth, etc. There is no one solution that is right for all cases. Dr. Mastrorocco will go over your symptoms and perform an examination to find the treatment that’s right for you.
Mouth Guards
Mouth guards are recommended to protect the jaw and teeth during physical activity and sports for patients who clench or grind their teeth at night.
- Athletic Guards – These guards are ideal for sports and activities such as boxing, football, basketball, or other activities where your mouth may get hit. In addition to protecting your teeth, they also protect the soft tissues of your tongue, lips and cheek lining.
- Night Guards – These guards are used to protect a patient’s teeth and bite from clenching and grinding during sleep.
Custom-designed mouth guards are made of flexible plastic and molded to fit the shape of your teeth. If you have decided a guard is right for you, contact our office today to schedule an appointment. Dr. Mastrorocco will begin by taking an impression of your teeth which will be sent to a lab for your custom-fit guard. In most cases you can choose from a variety of colors and styles. On average, guards last between three and 10 years.
Regardless of your dental needs or treatment plan, ROC Dental Group is here to support your oral and overall health needs. If you are experiencing any pain or discomfort, please contact our office today so we can assist you on your path to wellness.
