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# Hillock Family Dental: At Hillock Family Dental, it’s the mission of our caring team to provide the highest level of convenience & personalized care for your entire family. We are your one-stop location for all aspects of safe & modern dentistry & we want to do our part to keep you healthy through your entire life!

## Sitemaps
[XML Sitemap](https://hillockdental.com/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages.

## Posts
- [The Facts & Mysteries of Bruxism](https://hillockdental.com/blog/about-bruxism/): Bruxism is what dentists call teeth clenching and teeth grinding. The symptoms of bruxism are fairly easy to spot, as are the complications that can result from it.
- [The Purpose of a Dental Post](https://hillockdental.com/blog/dental-post/): Just like a post you place when building a fence, a dental post is intended to keep something stable and in place—in this case, a tooth.
- [The Science Behind Teeth Whitening](https://hillockdental.com/blog/science-of-teeth-whitening/): In a world filled with whitening toothpastes and drugstore whitening kits, it’s important to know that the most effective teeth whitening treatment still comes from your dentist.
- [Your Step-by-Step Guide to Teeth Whitening at the Dentist](https://hillockdental.com/blog/teeth-whitening-step-by-step/): The professional teeth whitening process starts with a consultation with your dentist. Not everyone is a good candidate for teeth whitening, which is why you want to talk to a dentist before you have it done.
- [Your Guide to Understanding How Dental Insurance Works](https://hillockdental.com/blog/guide-to-dental-insurance/): Most people get their dental insurance through their employer, who will choose it depending on what they expect the dental needs of their employees are. However, if you are self-employed, not working, or your employer doesn’t offer dental insurance, you can sign up for dental insurance as an individual
- [How Teeth Whitening Works](https://hillockdental.com/blog/how-teeth-whitening-works/): Teeth bleaching is one of the quickest & least invasive ways to make a huge difference in the appearance of your smile. Most dentists offer either in-office teeth whitening, take-home teeth whitening kits, or both
- [Porcelain Veneers Can Give You a Hollywood Smile](https://hillockdental.com/blog/porcelain-veneers/): Have you ever looked at a celebrity smile & wished your smile could be equally perfect. Well, it's no big secret among dentists that most Hollywood stars were not born with perfect teeth. For many celebrities, their Hollywood smiles are achieved with the help of cosmetic dentistry, particularly porcelain veneers.
- [The Vital Reasons Why You Should Replace Missing Teeth](https://hillockdental.com/blog/why-to-replace-missing-teeth/): The goal of modern dentistry is for each & every patient to keep all their teeth for their entire lifetime. As dental health awareness & dental technology have advanced over the last half century, we now see fewer older people who are missing all their teeth (a condition dentists call edentulism).
- [The Difference Between Cleanings, Deep Cleanings & Periodontal Maintenance](https://hillockdental.com/blog/cleanings-vs-deep-cleanings/): There is more than one type of dental procedure that may be casually referred to as a cleaning. For example, there is a regular cleaning & then there is what is referred to a deep cleaning. It's important to understand that there is a big difference between these procedures & implications that each of these procedures have when it comes to your oral health.
- [Reasons for Tooth Extraction](https://hillockdental.com/blog/reasons-for-tooth-extraction/): Tooth extraction is when a tooth is removed from it's place in the gum & bone of your jaw. Compared to many dental procedures, tooth extraction can sound scary, especially when it's referred to as "oral surgery".
- [What’s a Periodontist & Why Do I Need One?](https://hillockdental.com/blog/whats-a-periodontist/): You're used to going to the dentist & just seeing the doctor, the hygienist & maybe a dental assistant. But now you've been told you need to see a periodontist too. Now you're thinking, "Perio-what?"
- [Dental Crowns 101](https://hillockdental.com/blog/dental-crown-101/): Dental crowns, or caps, are one of the most common restorative dental procedures that dentists perform. If you've been told you need a crown, there's no reason to worry. Dental crowns allow us to restore your smile both functionally & aesthetically, & modern techniques mean we can complete the procedure faster than in the past.
- [Finding a Dentist for Your Kids](https://hillockdental.com/blog/your-kids-dentist/): If you're looking to find the right dentist & establish a "dental home" for your family, you may wonder what the difference is between a pediatric dentist (a.k.a. a kids' dentist) & a family dentist.
- [The Many Ways We Provide Gentle Dental Care](https://hillockdental.com/blog/gentle-dental-care/): When we talk to patients about dentistry, one of the main concerns they bring up is whether the dental care they receive will be gentle. As dentists, our main concern of course is your health, but we understand the desire to have a gentle dental care experience. We know it's not everyday you have to let another person look around your mouth, so we strive to do all we can to make sure your visit & your treatment comfortable, & we mean this in the broadest sense possible.
- [If You Have Insurance, Your Cleanings Are Free!](https://hillockdental.com/blog/free-cleanings-with-insurance/): We know many dental patients find the ins & outs of dental insurance confusing, but if you have dental insurance the most important thing for you to know is that you get two free cleanings per year!
- [Be Sure to Use Your Dental Benefits Every Year](https://hillockdental.com/blog/use-your-annual-dental-benefits/): If you have dental insurance, your insurance company provides you with a certain dental benefits each year. In case you're not very familiar with insurance vocabulary, you can think of an insurance benefit as a dental service that the insurance company pays all or most of the cost of. Most dental plans cover the most common preventive services at 100%, meaning the insurance company pays 100% of the cost & you pay nothing.
- [How Often Should You Replace Your Toothbrush?](https://hillockdental.com/blog/replace-your-toothbrush-frequently/): We've all heard that the pen is mightier than the sword. You might also say that the toothbrush is mightier than the drill! That's because if you wield your toothbrush properly, it's a very powerful weapon against tooth decay & gum disease. But like any tool, if you want it to work best, you need to take care of it.
- [Clear Braces vs. Metal Braces](https://hillockdental.com/blog/clear-braces-vs-metal-braces/): The choice between clear braces or metal braces is becoming an age-old debate at the orthodontist's office or the dentist's office. For many patients who wish to straighten their teeth, the choice comes down to balancing the affect of orthodontics on your appearance, it's impact on your budget, & the expected or desired outcome for your particular case.
- [Signs of a Cavity](https://hillockdental.com/blog/signs-of-a-cavity/): Cavities, or tooth decay, is a fairly common dental ailment, particularly in children or young adults. Even though most of our patients are familiar with what cavities are, we find that many are still surprised when we tell them they have a cavity! That's because many cavities, especially early on, do not cause tooth pain & may not be visible to the untrained eye.
- [We Respect the Schedules of Our Working Patients](https://hillockdental.com/blog/respect-for-working-patients/): We know the majority of our patients work during the middle of the day. You may not work 9 to 5 exactly (maybe you work 8 to 4) but chances are that in the middle of the day, your employer or clients expect you to be at work or available. That's why we do our best to offer teeth cleaning appointments that fit your work schedule.
- [Your Intro to Dental Implants](https://hillockdental.com/blog/your-intro-to-dental-implants/): Dental implants are the latest & greatest in dental technology that allows dentist to replace missing teeth permanently. You may know that implants can replace teeth & are used in complete smile reconstructions & makeovers. But you may also not be sure exactly what dental implants are, & how they work.
- [Emergency Dental Care](https://hillockdental.com/blog/emergency-dental-care/): Even if you take excellent care of your teeth & mouth, sometimes an unforeseen incident could put you in need of emergency dental care. Whether the culprit for your emergency is an injury, a rogue popcorn kernel, or just a mystery toothache, our dental clinic is here for you in an emergency.
- [What Are Mouthguards?](https://hillockdental.com/blog/what-are-mouthguards/): There are two categories of mouthguards with two different purposes that you can get from your dentist. Mouthguards for sports are intended to prevent injury. Mouthguards worn while sleeping are intended to prevent problems associated with teeth grinding or other bite problems.
- [What You Should Know About Teeth Grinding](https://hillockdental.com/blog/about-teeth-grinding/): Teeth grinding is when you clench your jaw closed & grind your teeth together, whether consciously or unconsciously. Teeth grinding is called bruxism by dentists, & it can cause damage, discomfort & pain.
- [What Is TMJ & How Can a Dentist Help?](https://hillockdental.com/blog/dentist-can-help-with-tmj/): The temporomandibular joints are the joints on either side of your head that connect your jaw to your skull & allow you to open & close your mouth, chew, & speak. Because it can move in many different directions, these joints are some of the most complex in your body.
- [We Respect Your Busy Schedule](https://hillockdental.com/blog/dentist-respects-your-schedule/): If we're honest with ourselves, we know that visiting the dentist is not high on your list of favorite activities. As much as we love dentistry & caring for smiles, we know the general public doesn't quite share our passion. That's why we do everything we can to make sure we provide dental care in a way that respects your busy schedule.
- [Keeping Up With Dental Health in the Summer](https://hillockdental.com/blog/dental-health-in-the-summer/): Summertime is a great time. The days are longer, we spend more time outside, the kids are out of school, & many of us take trips with family & friends. With all the changes in your routine during the summer, it might be easy to let dental care become less of a priority. Here are a few tips from your dental team to keep you smiling all summer long.
- [How to Prepare Your Child for the Dentist](https://hillockdental.com/blog/prepare-your-child-for-dentist/): One of the best ways to make sure your child has a healthy smile for life is by establishing a dental home. That means creating a trusting relationship between your child & your family dentist & making sure visits to the dentist are fun & educational.
- [Our Pledge to You…](https://hillockdental.com/blog/our-pledge-to-you/): Our pledge to you is to provide the most personalized, effective dental care possible. Caring for your individual dental health is part of our larger goal of improving & supporting the overall health of the community.
- [How Do I Find a Good Dentist Near Me?](https://hillockdental.com/blog/good-dentist-near-me/): Finding a dentist is about finding someone you like and trust. The dental clinic you choose should be you & your family's dental home, your headquarters for all things dental health related. It should be a place where you feel comfortable & where you're greeting by name when you arrive.
- [A Step-by-Step Guide to Teaching Good Brushing Habits to Your Kids](https://hillockdental.com/blog/teach-good-brushing-habits/): Brushing your teeth is very important for your oral & overall health, but to kids, it’s just a chore. But it doesn’t have to be! Here are some tips for teaching your kids how to brush their teeth effectively & solidify good dental care habits for a lifetime of healthy teeth.
- [Some Wisdom About Wisdom Teeth](https://hillockdental.com/blog/wisdom-about-wisdom-teeth/): Wisdom teeth are the name for your third permanent molars, which typically appear from age 17-25. It is thought the name "wisdom teeth" comes from the fact that they appear long after all your other permanent teeth, when you a much older & wiser. Most people have four wisdom teeth, one in each quadrant of the mouth (upper left, upper right, lower left, lower right).
- [No Need to Fear the Dentist](https://hillockdental.com/blog/no-need-to-fear-the-dentist/): With today's modern sedation techniques & better understanding of the causes & solutions for dental phobia, there is no reason to fear the dentist. As dentists, the thing we fear the most is our patients being in pain or experiencing other challenges due to not visiting the dentist for checkups & treatment.
- [Low Sugar Dessert Recipes to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth](https://hillockdental.com/blog/low-sugar-dessert-recipes/): As the dental health professionals in charge of keeping your smile healthy, we want to do everything we can to keep potential health threats away from your teeth. We all know that sugar can cause major problems when it comes to oral health, particularly tooth decay. That being said, we know it's unrealistic to tell you to stay away from sugar all together.
- [Make the Most of Your Dental Insurance Before the Year Ends!](https://hillockdental.com/blog/end-of-year-insurance/): As your dental clinic, it's our responsibility to help guide you through your oral health care so it is as easy & affordable as possible. As a result, we're dedicated to helping you make the most of your dental insurance, ensuring you get the care you need & you take advantage of every benefit available to you.
- [Replacing Missing Teeth: Dentures vs. Dental Implants](https://hillockdental.com/blog/dentures-vs-dental-implants/): Whether you've lost teeth to decay, periodontal disease or an accident, we know that having a missing tooth can be embarrassing, inconvenient & often very uncomfortable. Luckily, there are many options for restoring your teeth, but with so many options, there is also some confusion.
- [How to Choose a Toothbrush](https://hillockdental.com/blog/how-to-choose-a-toothbrush/): Humans have been using toothbrushes to remove food from teeth for thousands of years. Early toothbrushes were sticks with frayed ends, & later brushes were made from bone, wood or ivory & animal hairs. We have come a long way since then, & toothbrushes today are very effective at removing food & plaque & keeping your teeth & gums clean to prevent tooth decay.
- [How to Choose a Toothpaste](https://hillockdental.com/blog/choosing-a-toothpaste/): The best way to choose a toothpaste is to ask for a recommendation from your dentist—they will know your needs the best—but here are some tips for choosing a toothpaste yourself!
- [5 Reasons to Visit the Dentist](https://hillockdental.com/blog/5-reasons-to-visit-the-dentist/): There have been unanswered calls, deleted voicemails,  ignored texts, & friendly reminders that never make it out of the envelope...we both know it's been a while since you visited the dentist. If all our efforts to reconnect with you haven't convinced you, maybe the following 5 reasons to see the dentist will get you to take care of your teeth properly again!
- [Understanding Tooth Sensitivity](https://hillockdental.com/blog/understanding-tooth-sensitivity/): Many millions of people suffer from tooth sensitivity at some point in their life, usually in the form of tooth pain in reaction to heat or cold. Tooth sensitivity has many causes, some more easily fixed than others. However, it's important to know that tooth sensitivity is sometimes a sign of a more serious dental problem of condition.
- [Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Care](https://hillockdental.com/blog/dental-care-faq/): Our team has been caring for our community for a while now & we've noticed many patients come to us with the same questions over & over again. Always feel free to ask us questions when you have them! In the meantime, check out the FAQ & answers below to learn more about your oral health.
- [The Facts of Gum Disease](https://hillockdental.com/blog/the-facts-of-gum-disease/): Everyone knows about cavities & how they affect your teeth and your oral health, but you never hear very much about gum disease. What is gum disease? How can you protect your gums and teeth from gum disease? And what causes it anyway?
- [Quiz: How Much Do You Know About Dental Health?](https://hillockdental.com/blog/dental-health-quiz/): Test your knowledge of dentistry & your dental health! Take the quiz & see the answer key at the bottom to see how well you did.
- [How What You Eat Affects Your Teeth](https://hillockdental.com/blog/how-food-affects-your-teeth/): When most of us think of the affect of food on our teeth, we probably think of the age-old wisdom that sugar causes tooth decay. And while sugar is a notorious culprit, there are many other ways that the foods you eat affect your teeth, & not all of it is bad news.
- [Yes, Flossing Really Is That Important & Here’s Why](https://hillockdental.com/blog/flossing-is-important/): As dental professionals we often feel like a broken record (or a scratched CD, depending on your generation) telling patients that they need to floss more. We don't mean to be nags, we just want you to have the healthiest, happiest smile possible!
- [Protecting Kids’ Teeth During Sports](https://hillockdental.com/blog/sports-mouth-guards-for-kids/): Wearing a mouth guard during sports activities is one of the best ways to avoid injuries to your child's teeth & emergency dental care. Mouth guards, which are made from a plastic or rubber material & fit over the top arch of teeth, not only protect your teeth, but also protect lips & cheeks from being damaged by teeth during an impact.
- [See the Dentist More Often & You’ll Save Money!](https://hillockdental.com/blog/seeing-the-dentist-saves-money/): What if we told you the more often you see your dentist, the less you'll spend on dentistry? We know it sounds like a contradiction, but that is the power of preventive dentistry.
- [5 Tips for Being a Better Dental Patient](https://hillockdental.com/blog/be-better-dental-patient/): Like any relationship in life, having good communication with your dentist is the key to success. The five tips listed below are intended to help you improve your oral health by communicating better with your dentist & /or dental hygienist.
- [Teeth Cleanings Are About More Than Clean Teeth!](https://hillockdental.com/blog/teeth-cleanings-more/): When most of a us think of a teeth cleaning appointment, we think of polishing & maybe a little scraping. But the truth is that teeth cleaning appointments are about so much more than clean, shiny teeth!
- [Why Teeth Cleanings Are Important](https://hillockdental.com/blog/teeth-cleanings-are-important/): Over time, plaque (a thick, bacteria-filled film) and tartar (a hard calcium-based build-up) can build up on your teeth & eventually lead to tooth decay. While regular brushing & flossing at home can help prevent this buildup, it can't necessarily remove it. That's why going to your dentist for a professional cleaning is so important.

## Pages
- [Home Care Instructions](https://hillockdental.com/patient-information/patient-education/home-care-instructions/): It takes time to adjust to your new smile after a reconstructive procedure. Your brain will readjust over a few days to your teeth’s new shape &/or alignment.
- [FAQs](https://hillockdental.com/faqs/): I am text block. Click edit button to change this text. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
- [Blog](https://hillockdental.com/blog/)
- [Splash Page](https://hillockdental.com/splash-page/): 11 Professional Center Pkwy, San Rafael, CA 94903
- [Meet Our Team](https://hillockdental.com/meet-us/meet-our-team/): 209-522-8800
- [Dr. Donald Hillock](https://hillockdental.com/meet-us/dr-donald-hillock/): JTNDaW1nJTIwc3JjJTNEJTIyJTVCYWNmJTIwZmllbGQlM0QlMjdkb2N0b3JfaW1nXzElMjclMjBwb3N0X2lkJTNEJTI3b3B0aW9ucyUyNyU1RCUyMiUyMGFsdCUzRCUyMiU1QmFjZiUyMGZpZWxkJTNEJTI3ZG9jdG9yX2ltZ18xX2FsdF90ZXh0JTI3JTIwcG9zdF9pZCUzRCUyN29wdGlvbnMlMjclNUQlMjIlMjAlMkYlM0U=
- [Dr. Ashley Hillock](https://hillockdental.com/meet-us/dr-ashley-hillock/): JTNDaW1nJTIwc3JjJTNEJTIyJTVCYWNmJTIwZmllbGQlM0QlMjdkb2N0b3JfaW1nXzMlMjclMjBwb3N0X2lkJTNEJTI3b3B0aW9ucyUyNyU1RCUyMiUyMGFsdCUzRCUyMiU1QmFjZiUyMGZpZWxkJTNEJTI3ZG9jdG9yX2ltZ18zX2FsdF90ZXh0JTI3JTIwcG9zdF9pZCUzRCUyN29wdGlvbnMlMjclNUQlMjIlMjAlMkYlM0U=
- [Home](https://hillockdental.com/): At Hillock Family Dental, it’s the mission of our caring team to provide the highest level of convenience & personalized care for your entire family. We are your one-stop location for all aspects of safe & modern dentistry & we want to do our part to keep you healthy through your entire life!
- [Offers](https://hillockdental.com/offers/): We want to make it as easy as possible for all Modesto residents to get the dental care they need. Whether you are new to our office or a longtime patient we’re here for you & will make sure you pay as little as possible, in some cases nothing at all, for our excellent services.
- [Membership for Uninsured](https://hillockdental.com/patient-information/membership-for-uninsured/): Now you can join our low-cost dental coverage for a nominal membership premium. Our coverage entitles you to preventive dental care at no cost! Corrective services are available for small co-payments that are far less than the usual, customary fees. Our professional staff is qualified to care for all of your dental needs!
- [Contact Us](https://hillockdental.com/contact-us/): If you are looking for dentists in Modesto, look no further. We’ve revolutionized dentistry to be truly personalized & convenient. We have hours that fit your busy schedule. Plus, we take the time to listen & clearly explain everything.
- [Dr. Orianna Sarkissian](https://hillockdental.com/meet-us/dr-orianna-sarkissian/): JTNDaW1nJTIwc3JjJTNEJTIyJTVCYWNmJTIwZmllbGQlM0QlMjdkb2N0b3JfaW1nXzIlMjclMjBwb3N0X2lkJTNEJTI3b3B0aW9ucyUyNyU1RCUyMiUyMGFsdCUzRCUyMiU1QmFjZiUyMGZpZWxkJTNEJTI3ZG9jdG9yX2ltZ18yX2FsdF90ZXh0JTI3JTIwcG9zdF9pZCUzRCUyN29wdGlvbnMlMjclNUQlMjIlMjAlMkYlM0U=
- [Meet Us](https://hillockdental.com/meet-us/): Our professionals put your comfort & satisfaction first to make it easier to get the dental care you deserve. We believe in making dental care comfortable, affordable & accessible for you & your entire family.
- [Gum Surgery](https://hillockdental.com/dental-services/oral-surgery/gum-surgery/): Gum surgery can be implemented for numerous reasons, the first of which is cosmetic & in some cases restorative. Using least-invasive techniques, dentists can alter gum lines for a more pleasing appearance.
- [Clear Aligners](https://hillockdental.com/dental-services/orthodontics/clear-aligners/): With clear aligners, there is no need for fixed wires & brackets, so you won’t have to worry about food stuck in your braces. Plus you can smile confidently without trying to hide a mouthful of metal! Placing & removing clear aligners is seamless & convenient, & they can be easily removed before meals or social engagements. Even when you’re wearing them, they are discreet & blend in with your smile.
- [Patient Safety](https://hillockdental.com/patient-information/patient-education/patient-safety/): Especially during times of greater health concerns, you can leave your worry at the door & focus on your dental health. It’s important to us that nothing gets in the way of providing high-quality, personalized care to each of our patients. It's common sense that a medical facility like a dental office would have procedures in place to make sure the office is clean for patients & staff. We are proud to exceed the standards of the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention as we make patient safety & office sterilization our top priorities.
- [Careers](https://hillockdental.com/careers-2/): Thank you very much for your interest in a career at Hillock Family Dental. Unfortunately, we do not have any open positions at this time. Our staffing needs shift with demands of business, so we may be looking to bring aboard fresh talent soon. We encourage you to check this space from time to time & if you see a job posting that interests you, we encourage you to apply. Who knows what opportunities the future will bring!
- [Wisdom Teeth Extraction](https://hillockdental.com/dental-services/oral-surgery/tooth-extractions/wisdom-teeth-extraction/): Some people get wisdom teeth that aren’t out of alignment, aren’t partly covered, & are easy to floss. However, wisdom teeth can continue to cause problems as you age, so they will still be monitored going into the future. Because it is often easier for a young adult to have their wisdom teeth removed, some dentists advocate for preventive removal. Consult your dentist to find out the right solution for your specific situation.
- [Implant-Supported Dentures](https://hillockdental.com/dental-services/oral-surgery/dental-implants/implant-supported-dentures/): Not everyone who has lost their teeth is eligible for regular dental implants. That’s because tooth loss (& dental diseases like periodontitis) leads to bone loss in your jaw. If too much of the bone in your jaw has dissolved away over time, there may not be enough bone structure left to anchor a full set of implants. However, because implant-supported dentures only require a few implants, the dentist can place them where bone density is best able to support them. If bone grafting is needed for implant-supported dentures, it will only be needed where the few implants will go & not the entire top or bottom jaw.
- [SureSmile®](https://hillockdental.com/dental-services/orthodontics/suresmile/): Using a series of clear aligners, SureSmile® helps gradually shift your teeth into place. Clear aligners are transparent (see-through) appliances that fit over your teeth. If you’ve ever received take-home teeth whitening trays, you’ll notice that clear aligners look very similar. SureSmile® aligners are designed to be blend in with your natural teeth, unlike traditional metal braces. They are also removable, so you can take them off before you eat & you won’t need to worry about food getting stuck in them!
- [Emergency Dentistry](https://hillockdental.com/dental-services/emergency-dentistry/): The most common reasons our patients need emergency dentistry are accidents or toothaches. Toothaches can be caused by infection or by injuries. If you are suffering from a toothache, don’t hesitate to call us immediately. We will get you in as soon as possible & figure out what is going on so we can relieve your pain.
- [Teeth Whitening](https://hillockdental.com/dental-services/cosmetic-dentistry/teeth-whitening/): If you want your teeth to be “pearly whites” again, your best bet is to talk to your dentist about teeth whitening. If you have tried over-the-counter whitening kits & been disappointed, you will have better results with either in-office or take-home teeth whitening.
- [Sealants](https://hillockdental.com/dental-services/general-dentistry/sealants/): Though all teeth are covered in enamel, the natural protective coating, the bacteria that gets stuck in deep pits & grooves can eat away at it & the tooth virtually unimpeded. This leads to cavities that might require costly and potentially painful restorative work.
- [Gum Disease](https://hillockdental.com/dental-services/periodontics/gum-disease/): If you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, we will recommend that you come in for a deep cleaning. While it may sound like just a more intense teeth cleaning, deep cleanings are actually the gold standard of treatment for patients diagnosed with gum disease. This procedure is also sometimes referred to as "scaling & root planing" or "periodontal therapy".
- [Endodontics](https://hillockdental.com/dental-services/endodontics/): While general dentists are trained in basic endodontics & can perform routine root canals, they commonly refer patients to specialists called endodontists for treatment of more complex cases.
- [Orthodontics](https://hillockdental.com/dental-services/orthodontics/): Improving your smile with orthodontics can increase your confidence & self-esteem. But straight teeth are beneficial for more than just your appearance. When teeth are not properly aligned, they can be difficult to clean well enough to prevent tooth decay. If you can’t get floss between your teeth to clean out plaque, you risk unchecked tooth decay & gum disease.
- [Root Canal Therapy](https://hillockdental.com/dental-services/endodontics/root-canal-therapy/): Root canal therapy (endodontics) focuses on the inside of your tooth. Inside every tooth is a hollow space occupied by your tooth pulp, which helps teeth detect heat & cold, & is essentially what keeps a tooth “alive.”
- [Tooth Extractions](https://hillockdental.com/dental-services/oral-surgery/tooth-extractions/): There are a number of reasons for tooth removal. The kind of tooth extraction you are probably most familiar with is wisdom tooth removal.
- [Sports Mouthguards](https://hillockdental.com/dental-services/general-dentistry/sports-mouthguards/): A mouthguard is a piece of molded plastic in the form of an arch that fits over the top teeth. A sports mouthguard protects the mouth & face in several ways.
- [Sedation Dentistry](https://hillockdental.com/dental-services/sedation-dentistry/): We offer sedation dentistry to patients of all ages with different levels of anxiety, ranging from mild nervousness to extreme phobias.
- [Scaling <i>&</i> Root Planing](https://hillockdental.com/dental-services/periodontics/scaling-root-planing/): Scaling & root planing is the gold standard of treatment for patients diagnosed with gum disease (i.e. periodontitis). This procedure is sometimes referred to as "deep cleaning" or simply "periodontal therapy".
- [Veneers](https://hillockdental.com/dental-services/cosmetic-dentistry/veneers/): Veneers are the most conservative restorations we offer. They consist of a thin strip of porcelain that covers the front side of a tooth.
- [Periodontics](https://hillockdental.com/dental-services/periodontics/): Periodontal disease, commonly called gum disease, can lead to more than just an unsightly smile—it can cause loss of teeth & eventually, if left untreated, other more serious health problems.
- [Oral Surgery](https://hillockdental.com/dental-services/oral-surgery/): An oral surgeon specializes in working with the bone & soft tissue of your mouth. Their treatments range from wisdom teeth removal to facial reconstructive surgery.
- [Conscious Sedation](https://hillockdental.com/dental-services/sedation-dentistry/conscious-sedation/): At our practice, we are happy to accommodate anxious patients. Our team uses nitrous oxide gas to ease your nerves & keep you calm while you undergo procedures.
- [Local Anesthesia](https://hillockdental.com/patient-information/patient-education/local-anesthesia/): Due to the sensitivity of your teeth & gums, some treatment may require local anesthetic medication to cause numbness.
- [Intraoral Camera](https://hillockdental.com/patient-information/patient-education/intraoral-camera/): Put simply, an intraoral camera is a small imaging device that captures photos of the inside of your mouth.
- [Implant-Supported Bridges](https://hillockdental.com/dental-services/oral-surgery/dental-implants/implant-supported-bridge/): An implant-supported bridge is a replacement for several teeth that is secured permanently to dental implants.
- [Gum Lift](https://hillockdental.com/dental-services/oral-surgery/gum-surgery/gum-lift/): A gum lift is a cosmetic dental procedure that removes or reshapes gum tissue to reveal more of the tooth, making teeth appear longer.
- [Early Cavity Detection](https://hillockdental.com/patient-information/patient-education/early-cavity-detection/): We use an early detection tool that uses a laser to locate hidden decay in the cracks & crevices of your teeth before it is otherwise detectable.
- [Digital X-Rays](https://hillockdental.com/patient-information/patient-education/digital-xrays/): Digital radiographs, commonly known as x-rays, are a vital diagnostic & assessment tool for dentists. We offer modern digital x-rays at our practice, both for your convenience & for efficiency of treatment.
- [Dentures](https://hillockdental.com/dental-services/general-dentistry/dentures/): Dentures are false teeth for someone who has no remaining teeth. What we commonly refer to as dentures are often called complete dentures
- [Fillings](https://hillockdental.com/dental-services/general-dentistry/dental-fillings/): A dental filling is a dental material that is used to repair the look & function of a tooth that has been damaged by tooth decay.
- [Nightguards](https://hillockdental.com/dental-services/general-dentistry/custom-nightguards/): A nightguard is a mouthguard that you wear at night while sleeping that protects against damage & discomfort caused by teeth grinding or clenching.
- [Crowns](https://hillockdental.com/dental-services/general-dentistry/crowns/): In dentistry, a crown or a cap is a fake tooth that fits on top of a damaged tooth. They are custom-made to fit your smile & are built to last
- [Crown Lengthening](https://hillockdental.com/dental-services/oral-surgery/crown-lengthening/): Dental crown lengthening is when gum tissue and/or bone is removed to expose more of a tooth, usually in order to repair it.
- [CEREC® Crowns](https://hillockdental.com/dental-services/general-dentistry/crowns/cerec-crowns/): Dental crowns are one of the most important restorations we offer. A crown can save a broken or decayed tooth by holding it together...
- [CAD/CAM Dentistry](https://hillockdental.com/patient-information/patient-education/cadcam-smile-restorations/): For patients who have missing or damaged teeth, the latest innovations in dental technology offer a new level of fast, high-quality dental restorations.