Our Dental Services
Cosmetic Dentistry
We provide treatment to enhance the appearance of a person’s smile with a number of comfortable procedures. This is done by changing position, size, color, and shape of teeth. This might include orthodontics, crowns, veneers, white fillings or teeth whitening.
Restorative Dentistry- Crowns/Bridges
Crowns (sometimes called caps) are used to cover weak, cracked or broken teeth. They are usually done with a white porcelain material. We have a variety of materials and give you options we would recommend for strength and esthetics.
Bridges- When a tooth is missing, a false tooth or bridge can be inserted using two or more crowns. This is permanently cemented and feels and works much like natural teeth.
Technology
Our chartless office uses the latest technology and digital imaging. Our digital radiographs (x-rays) significantly reduce exposure and provide high quality images to help us diagnose and treat our patients effectively.
Our digital 3D scanner can be used in most cases for precise crown and bridge restorations, instead of traditional impressions. We communicate digitally with our lab to give you the best possible result.
Extractions
Teeth are removed only as a last resort when severe decay or unexpected fractures occur. In this situation a local anesthetic allows gentle removal without discomfort.
Orthodontics & Invisalign
Braces are placed on people of all ages. We are lucky to have several great orthodontists in the Eden Prairie area, including some orthodontic specialists in our building. Dr. Derr and Dr. Chi make referrals based on need but also on the timing associated with growth and development.
Dentures
This is usually not the first choice for missing teeth, but when necessary as a final or temporary measure, a variety of removable prosthetic devices can be designed. Sometimes a referral is made to a denture specialist or Prosthodontist
Scaling and Root Planing
This is also known as a “deep cleaning”. This service is provided (sometimes with a numbing medicine) when tartar build up is heavier than usual. We will keep you comfortable while maintaining or improving periodontal health.
Root Canal Therapy
An endodontic procedure known as a root canal is necessary if decay or a fracture affects the nerve or pulp of a tooth. This can be done painlessly to heal a tooth abscess.
Sealants
Teeth have small pits and fissures (grooves). Sealants are a preventative cover on the biting surface added to keep food and bacteria from collecting on teeth which could cause cavities. Our sealants are effective and BPA free and are typically covered by insurance companies.
Implants
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots used to support a restoration for a missing tooth or teeth, helping to stop or prevent jaw bone loss. The implant placement is done by an oral surgeon or periodontist. We coordinate with specialists to plan and restore the implant. An abutment and a tooth colored crown are attached to the implant, which both functionally and esthetically resembles the real tooth.
Sedation Dentistry
Our goal is to make you as comfortable as possible. The most common form of sedation we use is Nitrous Oxide or “laughing gas”. It is very safe and effective. For very anxious patients, an oral tablet can help reduce potential fears.
Veneers
Veneers are thin layers of custom prepared porcelain cemented on the front side of teeth to change the size, shape, and color. This conservative preparation corrects discolored, broken and unevenly shaped teeth.
Emergency Dental Care
Please call us if you have tooth pain or sensitivity, we would be happy to help!
We view are patients as a top priority and always want to keep them pain free.
Tooth Bonding
Tooth bonding is the application of a tooth-colored resin material using adhesives and a high intensity curing light. The procedure gets its name because materials are bonded to the tooth. Bonding is typically used for cosmetic purposes to improve the appearance of a chipped or discolored tooth. It is also used to close spaces between teeth, to make teeth look longer or to change the shape or color of teeth. Often times bonding is used to protect a portion of the tooth’s root surface that has been exposed when gums recede. Dental bonding is one of the most common and least expensive of cosmetic dental procedures. Ask Dr. Derr or Dr. Chi if you are a candidate to improve your smile with tooth bonding.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth Whitening – There are several ways to make teeth look whiter and brighter with the use of bleaching agents. This is much more effective and safer than anything available over the counter. The staff will make recommendations depending on individual preferences and needs. Whitening methods vary with the time commitment and financial investment a patient wishes to make. Many patients love their brighter smile. We offer in-office bleaching/whitening and custom trays to use at home and professional strength trays. Ask about them at your next dental cleaning, we’d love to help you achieve the smile you’ve wanted.
Cosmetic Fillings
A variety of dental fillings are used today. Most people prefer a composite or porcelain that matches the actual tooth color or shade. We meticulously place resin or composite fillings on front and back teeth and use the best materials and bonding agents available to dentistry.
Crowns and Bridges
Crowns (sometimes called caps) are used to cover and protect weak or broken teeth. They are usually done with a white porcelain material. When a tooth is missing, a fixed bridge can be inserted using two or more crowns. We customize each patients crown material to be one that suits their needs best. We have strong and esthetic materials and can discuss your options. These restorative options will restore function and feel like natural teeth.