GENERAL PROCEDURES | Dr. Nick Withem

General Procedures

We leverage the latest technology and techniques of the day to restore your beautiful smile and to maintain your youthful glow. Need to replace your missing teeth or just time for a standard dental cleaning? Read more about the types of procedures that we offer here, below:

DENTAL CLEANING

Regular dental cleanings are a cornerstone of excellent oral health. At least twice a year, it’s essential to have a professional cleaning to maintain your smile, and at Dr. Nicholas Withem we provide gentle, thorough care that removes plaque buildup in those tricky-to-reach areas. Even with consistent brushing and flossing, dental cleanings every six months are crucial for keeping your teeth and gums in top shape.

Why Dental Cleanings Matter

Cleanings go beyond what at-home care can achieve. Plaque can mineralize over time, turning into tartar that’s difficult to remove without professional tools. This buildup, especially around the gum line, can lead to gum disease, bad breath, and even impact your overall health. Dr. Nicholas Withem takes the time to give your teeth the deep clean they need to prevent these issues, helping you keep your smile fresh and healthy year-round.

How Dr. Nicholas Withem Cleans Your Teeth

Your dental cleaning at our practice typically lasts between 30 minutes to an hour and is comfortable for most patients. Here’s what you can expect during your visit:

1. Scaling: Our team will start by scaling your teeth. Using a specialized tool, either electronic or handheld, they’ll gently remove plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth, paying close attention to the gum line, where bacteria often settle and multiply.

2. Polishing: Once scaling is complete, we will polish your teeth to ensure they’re as smooth and clean as possible. The polishing process not only removes any remaining plaque but also buffs your teeth to prevent future buildup. Various polisher head sizes may be used to reach every area of your mouth.

After the cleaning, Dr. Nicholas Withem will perform a comprehensive dental exam, checking for any early signs of cavities, gum disease, or other issues. If any concerns are noted, we’ll discuss options for treatment and preventative care, all to ensure your smile stays bright and healthy between visits.

Schedule Your Dental Cleaning Today

If it’s been more than six months since your last cleaning, now is the perfect time to book an appointment with our trusted team. Routine cleanings are key to preventing larger issues down the road and maintaining excellent oral health. Call us today at (508) 987-8125 to schedule a convenient time for your dental cleaning, and let us help you keep your smile in great!

EXAMS & X-RAYS

Usually completed after your dental cleaning is complete, your semi-yearly dental exam is a main component in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. By participating in these check-ups, you can be catching any developing problems while still at an early stage. This allows for less damage to the teeth and less financial costs associated with larger treatments down the line.

How it's done:

Dr. Nicholas Withem will first examine the mouth visually, with the aid of certain dental tools such as mouth mirrors, high-intensity lights and more. Instances of cracked or decayed teeth will be looked for, as well as other important issues being reviewed:

Medical history: Assess how any new medical conditions or illnesses may affect your dental health.
Oral cancer screening: The face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums will be checked for any signs of oral cancer.
Gum disease evaluation: Your gums and bone around the teeth will be checked for any evidence of periodontal disease.
Examination of existing restorations: Current fillings, crowns, and other restorations are made sure to be in good order.

Diagnostic x-rays will also be taken in order to reveal any other hidden problems, especially in the areas below the gums. Bitewing x-rays are typically taken every 12 months and a panographic x-ray, which revolves around the head, is taken every 3-5 years.

Has it been over 6 months since your last exam? If so, call our office today at (508) 987-8125 or Click Here to schedule an appointment.

COMPOSITE FILLINGS

At Dr. Nicholas Withem, we are committed to offering effective and aesthetic solutions for dental cavities. One of the most popular options we provide is composite fillings, also known as tooth-colored fillings. These modern restorations are a durable and natural-looking alternative to traditional silver amalgam fillings. If you’re looking for a trusted dentist in Dudley MA, Dr. Nicholas Withem is here to help you achieve a healthier, more beautiful smile.

What Are Composite Fillings?

Composite fillings are made from a resin material that bonds directly to your tooth. Unlike metal fillings, composite resin is tooth-colored, ensuring that your dental work is virtually invisible. It is available in multiple shades, allowing it to seamlessly match the natural color of your teeth. This makes composite fillings an excellent choice for repairing cavities or addressing minor cosmetic concerns.

When Are Composite Fillings Used?

Composite fillings are a versatile solution used to:

• Treat cavities and decay

• Repair chipped or broken teeth

• Close small gaps between teeth

If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, pain, or visible damage, our dentist in Dudley, MA can determine if a composite filling is the right solution for you.

The Composite Filling Procedure

The process of placing a composite filling is straightforward and typically completed in a single visit:

1. Preparation: The affected tooth is numbed to ensure your comfort during the procedure. Any decayed or damaged areas are carefully removed.

2. Bonding: To enhance the bond between the tooth and the filling, a special substance is applied to the prepared area. This creates a strong foundation for the composite material.

3. Filling Application: The composite resin is applied in thin layers, gradually building the filling to its full shape. Each layer is hardened using a special curing light.

4. Finishing Touches: Once the filling is fully formed, it is shaped, smoothed, and polished. This ensures a natural look and a comfortable fit for your bite.

Benefits of Composite Fillings

Choosing composite fillings offers several advantages:

• They blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.

• The bonding process strengthens your tooth structure.

• Less healthy tooth material needs to be removed compared to amalgam fillings.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

If you’re in need of a cavity repair or want to upgrade your old metal fillings, trust your smile with our skilled dentist in Dudley MA. At Dr. Nicholas Withem, we take pride in delivering personalized care and long-lasting results. Call us at (508) 987-8125 if you have any questions or would like to schedule your appointment. Let us help you maintain a healthy, radiant smile for years to come!

ROOT CANAL THERAPY

Root canal therapy is a vital procedure designed to save an infected tooth that has been damaged due to deep cavities, trauma, or cracks. Dr. Nicholas Withem, our trusted dentist, is committed to providing this essential treatment with precision and care, ensuring your oral health and comfort are our top priorities.

The purpose of root canal therapy is to remove the damaged pulp and nerves from the tooth’s inner chamber, effectively eliminating infection and pain. While the pulp is essential during the tooth’s development, it is not required for the tooth’s survival after maturity. This means the tooth can function perfectly well without it, thanks to the nourishment provided by surrounding tissues. Without timely treatment, however, the infection can spread, potentially leading to severe complications like swelling, jawbone damage, or even tooth loss.

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

Dr. Nicholas Withem will recommend root canal therapy if you experience symptoms such as:

- Severe tooth pain during chewing or biting.

- Persistent toothaches that wake you up at night.

- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, with the sensitivity lingering for a prolonged period.

- Tooth discoloration or darkening.

- Swollen or tender gums near the affected tooth.

What to Expect During Root Canal Therapy

The procedure begins with creating an opening in the tooth's crown to access the pulp chamber. The infected pulp and nerves are carefully removed, and the canal is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. If the treatment requires multiple visits, Dr. Nicholas Withem will place a temporary filling to protect the tooth.

At your next appointment, the temporary filling is removed, and the area is re-cleaned to ensure all infection is eliminated. A permanent filling or crown is then placed over the tooth to restore its strength and functionality. The final result is a durable restoration that blends seamlessly with your natural teeth, making it nearly impossible for others to detect that you’ve had the procedure.

Why Choose Us for Root Canal Therapy?

Root canal therapy has a high success rate, and most treated teeth can last a lifetime with proper care. Our team is dedicated to providing pain relief and restoring your smile with advanced techniques and compassionate service. Don’t let tooth pain disrupt your life. Contact Dr. Nicholas Withem today by calling (508) 987-8125 to schedule an appointment. Let us help you achieve a healthier, pain-free smile!

DR. NICHOLAS WITHEM

NW

FAMILY DENTISTRY

We leverage the latest technology and techniques of the day to restore your beautiful smile and to maintain your youthful glow. Need to replace your missing teeth or just time for a standard dental cleaning? Read more about the types of procedures that we offer here, below: