Dental Services in Amherst, NH

Initial Visit

On your first visit to Ponemah Crossing Dental, P.C., you’ll have a discussion with the dentist about any dental concerns you have. This will be followed by a series of assessments, including a thorough clinical examination, an evaluation for oral cancer, an analysis of your jaw joint (TMJ), meticulous recording of any cavities and previous dental procedures, as well as an evaluation of your gum health. Additionally, we’ll perform two distinct radiographic examinations: one to evaluate the condition of the underlying jawbone and another to detect any hidden decay between your teeth. Usually, we schedule a follow-up session with the dentist at no extra charge. This second consultation is designed to thoroughly review the results from your initial examination and to collaboratively develop a customized treatment strategy that aligns with your dental health goals.

Dental Fillings & Bonding

Dental bonding is a minimally invasive treatment to mend teeth with decay, chips, or stains. This technique utilizes specialized materials that adhere to the tooth, allowing for a restoration that closely mimics the tooth’s original shape and color. It’s a conservative method to enhance your smile by seamlessly repairing imperfections and restoring natural dental aesthetics.

Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry can significantly enhance your appearance and self-confidence, encouraging you to smile more. Dental advancements allow for an array of cosmetic treatments, from simple color adjustments to full replacements of missing teeth, ensuring every step contributes to a brighter, more confident you.

Veneers

Veneers provide an unparalleled aesthetic solution, acting as slim coverings that adhere to your existing tooth structure. They stand as a conservative choice compared to crowns, delivering the dream smile you’ve always wanted. Ideal for addressing issues like chips, cracks, or discoloration, veneers can significantly alter both the color and form of your teeth to enhance your appearance.

Whitening

Whitening treatments are highly effective for rejuvenating smiles tarnished by stains or discoloration. As teeth age, they become more prone to staining from various substances. Professional whitening is regarded as the safest and most effective technique, genuinely altering the color of your teeth, unlike “whitening toothpastes” that may erode the enamel.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treatment

Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs) offer a solution for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, functioning much like mouthguards. These devices work by shifting the jaw forward to open up airways during sleep, serving as an alternative to CPAP machines. In collaboration with your physician, we can determine if a MAD is suitable for you and custom-make one. Dr. Leighton is a certified expert in this field as a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine.

Crowns & Bridges

Crowns, commonly referred to as caps, are used to protect and strengthen teeth that are cracked, broken, or otherwise damaged, while also enhancing their appearance and shape. Bridges serve as a method for replacing one or more missing teeth. They consist of artificial teeth that are anchored to the natural teeth on either side of the gap, seamlessly filling in the space.

Implants

A dental implant offers a sophisticated option for replacing lost teeth. Firmly set within the bone, implants serve as a sturdy base for an artificial tooth, a bridge, or sometimes anchor dentures. The advantages of implants are numerous — they boast a natural look, heightened comfort, and ease of cleaning. Unlike some alternatives, implants do not compromise neighboring teeth and actually aid in maintaining bone structure.
the gap, seamlessly filling in the space.

Dentures

Dentures are removable devices designed to replace missing teeth and help rejuvenate your smile. If you’ve lost teeth due to gum disease, decay, or injury, using dentures not only enhances your appearance but also promotes better overall health.

Routine Cleanings & Gum Therapy

Regular dental check-ups, including periodontal exams and oral cancer screenings, are crucial components of our practice and should be a priority for all families. We emphasize these check-ups as they are critical for the early detection of issues that can lead to cavities, tooth loss, gum disease, and even life-threatening cancers.

Our exceptional periodontal program has successfully helped many patients prevent tooth loss and preserve healthy bone structure. Through our gentle and comprehensive gum care and soft-tissue management, we have restored numerous smiles over the years.

Jaw/TMJ

Do you experience ongoing pain in your jaw and face, hear “popping” noises while eating or speaking, or suffer from headaches or stiffness in your neck and shoulders? If so, the issue might be with your TMJ (temporomandibular joint). TMJ Dysfunction refers to any disorder affecting the jaw joints or the muscles that operate those joints. We can precisely identify the cause of your discomfort and offer relief with the latest gentle, non-surgical treatment options available.

Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy involves removing the infected or damaged nerve of a tooth, allowing the tooth to be preserved or repaired. The majority of patients undergoing this procedure report minimal to no pain and achieve a rejuvenated tooth that can endure nearly as long as a natural, healthy one.

Extractions

Natural teeth are essential for biting, chewing, and sustaining the structure of the mouth and jawbone, which is why dentists prioritize restoring, saving, and repairing your natural teeth whenever possible. However, tooth extraction can sometimes be necessary. Our dental team ensures you are comfortable throughout the extraction process, from before the procedure begins, during, and after its completion. This involves a thorough explanation of the tooth extraction process and the utilization of local anesthetics for your comfort.