1. Implants  (placement and restoration)  An implant is a surgically placed
titanium screw used to replace either single teeth or retain a denture.  Dr
Claiborne spent the last two years receiving formal training in both the
surgical placement and restoration of dental implants.  Dr Glenn has been
restoring dental implants for over 30 years.

2. Sedation (intravenous and oral) For highly anxious patients and or surgical
procedures we offer the convenience of intravenous or oral sedation.  A medical
history and physical will be performed in-office to screen all interested
patients.  Dr Claiborne has both Basic Life Support and Advanced Cardiac Life
Support training and has completed over 500 hours of hospital based training in
intravenous sedation administration. 

3. Root canals and extractions  We offer our patients the convenience of both
in-office root canals and extractions.

4. Cosmetic Dentistry - In the past when broken down or missing teeth required repair or replacement, visible metal crowns and bridges were used. These are considered unsightly by many. In an effort to create a more pleasing smile, dentist began using porcelain fused to metal based crowns. Although these porcelain fused to metal restorations looked more realistic, they lacked the warmth and translucency of natural teeth. Today, newer base materials give these traditional metal-based restoration the warmth and appearance of natural teeth.

Silver amalgams have traditionally been used to fill cavities. Although amalgam is a perfectly acceptable material, many patients do not like the way it looks. Over time silver fillings usually darken the teeth. Today these teeth can be filled with bonded tooth colored composite materials. These fillings look terrific, usually strengthen the tooth because they are bonded, and do not cause the tooth to change color.

Cosmetic dentistry has expanded to include metal free crowns and bridges. These restorations are especially desirable in front teeth for their natural appearance since they eliminate the gray metal at the gum line. Additionally beautiful porcelain inlays in posterior teeth, and porcelain veneers on anterior teeth eliminate any visible evidence of tooth repair.

5. Tooth Whitening - Tooth whitening is usually considered part of cosmetic dentistry, but due to intense patient interest, it deserves a separate section. Tooth whitening is used to lighten stains or discolorations. The treatment can be done in the office or at home using custom fabricated trays and a bleaching material. It is important to have home bleaching progress checked with regular office visits.

Tooth whitening provides a more attractive and brighter smile with safe and predictable results when properly performed. Modern teeth whitening procedures are safe and can be repeated periodically to maintain a dazzling white smile.

For Investor's Business Daily, James V. O'Connor wrote "Get A Million-Dollar Smile for A Song" (Teeth Whitening Procedures Cost Less than A New Cap). He stated "You can spend a small fortune trying to look your best. But stained teeth can ruin even the most perfect appearance. . . The best treatment is done under the supervision of a dentist, who can make a custom tray for you to wear over your teeth at night. You just add bleaching gel nightly before putting it in. You can buy some bleaching remedies in drugstores. But these are limited to solutions that are highly diluted and lack long-lasting effects, experts say."

6. Family Dentistry - Dr. Glenn is keenly interested in the dental needs of all his patients, young and not so young. Children are encouraged to begin dental treatment by age three. Usually young children are excited about their first visit and see the office as a fun place to be. As the child matures treatment is expanded to include dental cleanings, x-rays, fluoride treatments, and often sealants. Regular checkups usually catch cavities when they are small, and allow for early orthodontic intervention.

As dental examinations and checkups are keys to good dental health, it is imperative that children are started young, and are taught the importance of maintaining regular visits for a lifetime.

7. Dental Hygiene - You can have a healthy smile that will last a lifetime with proper care, which includes daily brushing, flossing, and regular checkups to avoid tooth decay and periodontal disease. Healthy gums and good bone support are the foundations upon which all dental treatment is based. A thorough examination and cleaning allows us to establish each patient's level of periodontal health.

Gum disease is caused by bacteria and advanced by a variety of factors including calculus (tartar), smoking, diet, and bruxism (grinding or clenching of teeth). We stress patient education so that you can maintain your teeth in their best possible condition. We also offer products (see right) that will help you with home care.

Always schedule your dental checkups. This way you have a chance at receiving early diagnosis and treatment before your periodontal condition gets out of hand. For best dental health have your hygienist clean your teeth at least twice a year, more often if needed.