Dental Therapy
The Dental Therapy department is a community and school-based oral health initiative that provides a range of services, and referrals that foster good oral health.
The Dental Therapy Department at Willow Cree Health Services plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the community’s oral health from youth to adulthood. By offering accessible and comprehensive dental care services, including preventive measures, treatments, and patient education, the department not only addresses immediate dental needs but also works towards long-term health outcomes. Through its focus on equity, collaboration with other healthcare departments, and emphasis on health education, the Dental Therapy Department contributes significantly to enhancing the overall well-being and quality of life of individuals within the community it serves.
EXAMS
Dental exams are fundamental in maintaining optimal oral health by facilitating early detection and prevention of dental issues. These routine check-ups enable dentists to assess the condition of teeth, gums, and oral tissues, identifying any signs of decay, gum disease, or abnormalities. By detecting problems at their initial stages, dental exams help prevent the progression of oral health issues, reducing the need for extensive and costly treatments later on.
More Information
At Willow Cree Health Services we work collaboratively with the school, and our community to provide various kinds of exams that include:
- Specific
- Recall
- Emergency
PREVENTION
Preventative dental care is vital for maintaining optimal oral health and preventing dental problems before they escalate. This proactive approach involves routine dental check-ups, professional cleanings, and dental screenings to identify any issues early on.
Education
- Proper brushing and flossing techniques
- Instruction on caring for dentures
- Use of fluoride products for cavity prevention
Fluoride Varnish
Fluoride wash is a dental product used to prevent tooth decay and strengthen enamel. It contains fluoride ions, which help remineralize teeth and make them more resistant to decay.
Silver Diamine Fluoride
Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is a liquid substance containing silver, fluoride, ammonia, and water. It’s used in dentistry as a topical medicament to treat dental caries (tooth decay) and hypersensitivity. It’s applied to affected teeth to arrest decay and prevent its progression. SDF is particularly useful in pediatric dentistry and for patients with dental phobia, as it’s non-invasive and painless.
RESTORATIVE WORK
Restorative dentistry focuses on repairing and restoring the function and appearance of teeth that have been damaged, decayed, or lost due to various factors such as decay, trauma, or age.
Options for Restorative Work
- Fillings
- Extractions
X-RAYS
Intraoral X-rays are an essential diagnostic tool used in dentistry to assess the health of teeth and surrounding structures. These X-rays capture detailed images of the inside of the mouth, including individual teeth, bone structure, and soft tissues.
Imaging
- Intra-oral x-rays
REFERRALS
In dental therapy, referrals play a crucial role in ensuring that patients receive appropriate and comprehensive care for their oral health needs.
Types of Referrals
- Dentures
- Root canals
- Bridges
- Crowns
- Surgical Extractions
- More options as required