From cleanings to sleep apnea treatments, we handle a variety of general dentistry concerns.

Cleanings and Fillings

When you visit Pruitt & Earp Dentistry, you can depend on cutting-edge hygiene care that is gentle, effective, and customized to your dental needs. Our dental hygienists are trained in the latest procedures and dental technologies to clean your teeth gently and thoroughly.

It is recommended you visit the dentist every 3-6 months for a dental checkup and cleaning.

Fillings are used to treat a cavity, a cracked or broken tooth, or teeth that have been worn down from misuse (nail-biting or grinding). During a filling, the dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth with a drill and then “fill” in the area that was removed. The dentist will shape the composite material to the desired result, trim any excess, and polish the final filling.

Gum Treatments

Gum diseases, such as gingivitis and periodontitis, are serious infections that, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss. Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting your teeth. There are many forms of periodontal disease, but the most common include:

Gingivitis

The mildest form of gum disease that causes the gums to become red, swollen, and bleed easily. At this stage, there is usually little to no discomfort. Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment, followed by good home oral care.

Aggressive Periodontitis

Involves rapid attachment loss, bone destruction, and familial aggregation. This form of periodontitis occurs in patients who are otherwise clinically healthy.

Chronic Periodontitis

Characterized by pocket formation or recession of the gingiva, this is recognized as the most common form of periodontitis. Inflammation within the supporting tissues of the teeth, progressive attachment, and bone loss also occur in this form of the disease. Although it is most prevalent in adults, all ages are susceptible.

Deep Cleaning

Scaling and root planing is a thorough dental cleaning of tooth root surfaces to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums. Combined with daily brushing and flossing, scaling and root planing is effective in treating gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease, as well as periodontal disease.

There is often a need for deep cleanings when a patient has not had regular professional cleaning appointments every six months. Follow-up visits may be necessary to confirm a patient’s gums and teeth are getting healthier after treatment.

Wisdom Teeth Removal in Greenville NC

The third molars, referred to as “wisdom teeth”, are often the last teeth to come in. Because they are last, there is typically little to no room left in the mouth for them. They sometimes come in partially, which can cause misalignment and overcrowding of existing teeth. Some people lack one or more wisdom teeth or never get them at all.

We take 3D computer images to determine how the teeth are erupting, if at all. The ideal age for wisdom teeth extractions is between 19-30 years old. Wisdom teeth should be removed as soon as possible because healing can take much longer as an adult. If you feel pain from your wisdom teeth or believe you may need wisdom tooth removal in Greenville, NC, call our office to schedule a visit so we can determine the best plan of action.

Sports Mouth Guards

Dental injuries are the most frequent orofacial injuries from sports activities. In addition to injuries to the teeth, which can result in the need for endodontic treatment or tooth loss, an impact to the base of the skull through a vertical blow to the chin can lead to concussions.

Properly fabricated, custom-fit mouthguards reduce the incidence of concussion, as well as dental and jaw injuries. Properly fitted mouthguards cover and protect all teeth – especially the posterior teeth – with a thicker end to diffuse impact to the jaw.

Laser Ulcer Treatment

Oral irritants such as ulcers, canker sores, and cold sores can be effectively treated using laser therapy. The treatment, which takes just a few minutes, is comfortable and simple.

Laser therapy works by delivering energy in the form of light, and the laser acts as a cutting instrument, or vaporizer, of tissue. In ulcer treatment, the laser has the ability to disinfect the sore, hasten healing, reduce inflammation, and reduce pain.

The majority of patients receiving laser treatments feel an immediate reduction in pain, followed by a speedier healing period. If you have an ulcer, canker sore, or cold sore and are thinking of laser ulcer treatment, call or visit us today to schedule a consultation.

Sleep Apnea Treatments

Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that affects approximately 18 million adults in America. It is characterized by episodes of little or no breathing during sleep that can occur up to hundreds of times per night.

Although the constant snoring is often annoying to partners sharing a bed, sleep apnea can lead to potentially life-threatening health problems. The constant lack of oxygen throughout the night can lead to excessive fatigue, depression, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and a shortened lifespan.

Obstructive sleep apnea is caused by the slackening and improper positioning of the tongue and soft tissues in the throat. Because the airway is partially blocked, the body has difficulty taking in a sufficient amount of oxygen as the patient sleeps. With a customized oral appliance that you wear at night, our doctors can help you get the truly restful, rejuvenating sleep you want and need.