Minimally Invasive Dentistry

We are dedicated to performing minimally invasive dentistry, or microdentistry, to help our patients overcome oral health issues in the earliest stages, and to preserve maximum dental tissue. Dr. Danny O'Keefe believes in taking a conservative approach, and minimally invasive dentistry is an important part of the care he provides at his Flowood, MS, practice.

A Conservative Approach

Minimally invasive dentistry involves using the least amount of dental intervention when treating dental issues. The purpose of minimally invasive dentistry is to preserve as much of the healthy dental tissue (bone, gums, and teeth) as possible. 

Dr. O’Keefe will assess the health of your teeth and gums, and evaluate your risk for tooth decay. Depending on his findings, he may recommend a diet high in whole grains and fruits, and lower in carbohydrates and sugary foods. A bacteria-reducing mouthwash, along with proper brushing and flossing, may be recommended to protect your teeth from future damage and decay.

Common Treatments

Techniques used in minimally invasive dentistry focus on prevention, remineralization, and minimally invasive restoration:

Fluoride: Fluoride treatments restore minerals to the tooth surface, fortifying it against decay.  

Air Abrasion: When there is decay present, Dr. O’Keefe may use air abrasion. This technique involves using a device that blows a stream of air along with a very fine abrasive powder, similar to sandblasting. Air abrasion tends to remove less of the healthy dental tissue than a traditional dental drill.

Regular six-month checkups are an important part of helping you avoid serious oral health issues requiring extensive treatment.

Sealants: Dental Sealants are made from plastic resin and are applied to the biting surfaces of the back teeth. Sealants are designed to protect teeth from bacteria that cause decay by covering areas of the teeth where plaque can build up. Placement requires no removal of any existing tooth material.

Invisalign® gently moves teeth with clear plastic trays.

Inlays and Onlays: Also called partial crowns, inlays and onlays are used when a filling is not enough, but a crown would be an excessive option. Inlays are appropriate when the decay is limited to the top surface of the back teeth. When the decay extends down the side of the tooth, onlays are used.

Bite Splints: Splints are a noninvasive way to prevent bruxism (grinding of teeth). Dr. O’Keefe will take an impression of your teeth in order to create a custom-made bite splint. The bite splint may be used at night or during the day.

Technology

Dr. O’Keefe may use a loupe, microscope, or intraoral camera when examining or treating your teeth. A high-powered fiber optic lighting system delivers precise, powerful light exactly where it is needed. Magnification of the treatment area allows Dr. O’Keefe to see issues invisible to the naked eye. By catching and treating problems earlier, Dr. O’Keefe can prevent you from needing restorations in the future.

Contact Us Today for an Appointment

The best dental treatment is prevention, and Dr. O'Keefe is focused on helping patients to avoid oral health issues or provide treatment in the very earliest stages. Regular six-month checkups are an important part of helping you avoid serious oral health issues requiring extensive treatment. To learn more, contact us today.