Our Practice

The majestic redwood trees in California are as much as 1,000 years old. I find their strength and constancy inspiring — and I draw a strong parallel between them and the care of my patients' teeth. With respect and careful stewardship, my vision is to deliver conservative care with gentle hands and the latest technology and methodology. When practical, I conserve tooth structure. Once the decision is made that intervention is necessary, I consider myself a micro-manager of teeth and enjoy sculpting and polishing restorations to make them natural looking and long-lasting.

- Dr. Kathleen Keating

Prevention

Because we love natural teeth, we will work hard to give you something to smile about!

First time patients will spend a portion of their visit documenting what exists in their mouth, and discuss what your needs and goals are. We will document and use digital photos and digital x-rays to discover the current status of your teeth and gums.

Dr. Keating will recommend how often to have routine checkups. Most patients visit twice per year to maintain optimal health and aesthetics. During your routine visit, your hygienist will examine your teeth and gums for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and other health problems and make a plan with Dr. Keating.

Establishing a routine for dental cleanings and exams allows us to catch problems in their earliest stage and recommend the most conservative treatment options.

Sealants

Its like nail polish and used to cover the porosities that are big enough for cavity bugs but too small for the bristles of a tooth brush to clean out.

Fluoride Applications

To help prevent cavities from forming. The newer varnishes allow for low dose and sustained administration of fluoride.

Periodontal Treatment

Used to manage inflamed and infected gums. We apply topical anesthesia for your comfort. By using medicated irrigation and gentle techniques we aim to clean your teeth as gently as possible. Because your mouth is the gateway to the rest of your body we want to manage the inflammation here. Inflamed gums are linked to many medical conditions and it is advised that people with heart disease, diabetes and pregnancy have closely monitored care of their gums.

Fillings

Composite dental fillings, also called “white fillings” are made of composite resin and are used to restore teeth that have small cavities, chips or worn edges. They are called “white fillings” because of the natural tooth color of the material. Unlike inlays and onlays that are crafted at outside labs, they are made onsite and completed in a single office visit. They require creativity to sculpt and are one of Dr. Keating’s favorite things to do.

Teeth Whitening

There are two options - in office whitening or take home custom bleach trays.

Extractions

If you think you need a tooth extraction, contact our office for a consultation with Dr. Kathleen Keating. She will evaluate your condition and make recommendations for a full treatment plan.

In some cases, the recommended treatment is to preserve the natural teeth. There are situations, however, where a tooth extraction may be the best choice. In these cases, Dr. Keating will design a treatment plan to remove the tooth and replace it either with a dental implant, dental bridge or denture. Sometimes it is important to replace missing teeth quickly to prevent supporting bone from deteriorating and remaining teeth from shifting.

Implants

Dr Keating offers comprehensive dental implant treatment for patients with missing teeth. Dental implants can be used to replace one or more missing teeth and can also be used to permanently secure a denture. Dr. Keating will prepare your entire treatment plan, working with a local periodontist to place the implant and then perform the implant restoration in our office.

Crowns

Whether you need to replace an existing cap or have a tooth that needs a crown, Dr Keating can create a custom dental crown that looks and feels like a natural tooth. Dr. Keating uses a variety of materials including porcelain for a highly aesthetic, natural looking restoration.

Bridges

Dental bridges are used to replace missing teeth, and “bridge” the gap in a patient’s smile. Using the latest materials, Dr. Keating creates artificial teeth that are virtually indistinguishable from you natural teeth. Maryland Bridges, developed at Dr. Keating’s alma mater, are an even better option than in the past because of newer bonding technology.

Dentures

Dentures are removable replacements for your teeth, designed to look and function like your own natural teeth and surrounding gum tissues. Modern-day dentures can look very realistic and natural and feel comfortable. Proper use of muscle function and the soft tissue can make dentures more secure. Using implants to secure dentures are the most satisfying.

Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance Therapy

Oral appliance therapy is an effective, non-invasive treatment option for snoring and obstructive sleep apnea that fits easily into your lifestyle. A dental oral appliance looks like a sports mouth guard and is worn only during sleep. It supports the jaw in a forward position to help maintain an open upper airway, preventing sleep apnea and snoring.

Good Faith Estimate

This notice describes how dental offices should provide uninsured/self-pay patients an estimate of their bill for dental items and services before those items or services are provided. Download here