Family & Preventive Dentistry – Crown Point & Whiting, IN
Offering Comprehensive Services for the Entire Family
From the moment we develop our first teeth as children, we’re vulnerable to the most common oral health problems, like tooth decay and gum disease. As a result, regular checkups and dental cleanings are important for everyone in your family, not just the adults. If you’re looking for a Crown Point family dentist who can serve your whole family, look no further than Berquist Family Dentistry. We value family just as much as you do. You can even see this in the father-son team of Dr. Robert Berquist and Dr. Daniel Berquist, as well as in the other family connections around our office. Trust us to give your family the care it deserves.
Checkups & Cleanings
How often should your family see us for checkups and cleanings? As your trusted dentist in Crown Point, we recommend coming in twice a year. During your appointments, one of our hygienists will perform a thorough dental cleaning to protect your smile from bacteria and plaque buildup. Then, Dr. Robert Berquist or Dr. Daniel Berquist will meet with you and complete a visual exam. During your exam, we’ll be looking for signs of the most common oral health problems. We want to diagnose and care for these issues as early as possible, because the earlier we find something, the more conservatively we can treat it. Conservative dentistry is always about helping you keep as much of your natural smile as possible. What’s more, early care is always less invasive, more comfortable, and more affordable.
Committed to Patient Education
In addition to cleaning your teeth and making you aware of any specific issues, we’re also committed to patient education. Knowing how to brush and floss more effectively can make a dramatic difference in any patient’s life. We would also be happy to talk to you about your diet. Certain foods are more likely to trigger the spread of decay-causing bacteria. During your appointment, we can recommend alternatives to your current diet so that you’re eating healthier and enjoying better overall wellbeing. At the end of your appointment, if you have any other questions for us, whether about nutrition or daily brushing and flossing, we would be happy to help you answer them.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings that we apply to the chewing surfaces of your teeth; they serve as a barrier between your precious pearly whites and all the food particles and bacteria that might otherwise harm them. Placing dental sealants is a quick and painless process, and once we finish the procedure, your teeth should be protected for years to come!
We often recommend sealants for children because they may not have mastered proper oral hygiene techniques yet, but this treatment is also appropriate for many adults. For example, if you are genetically predisposed to weak tooth enamel or you have deep grooves in your molars, we might suggest that you receive sealants.
Nightguards for Bruxism
Bruxism is the involuntary or habitual grinding of the teeth. This is a dangerous habit that can cause premature wear and tear on your smile. It may lead to increased tooth sensitivity, cracks and chips, and even headaches and facial pain.
Many people are not aware that they grind their teeth because they do it while they are asleep. If, during your exam, we notice the signs of bruxism, we’ll alert you to our observation and suggest that you start using a custom nightguard. Wearing this small oral appliance at night will help to protect your teeth and relax your overworked facial muscles.
Oral Cancer Screenings
Did you know that roughly 10,000 people die of oral cancer each year? Many of these deaths occur because people were not diligent about getting screened for this devastating illness. As a result, the cancer is allowed to grow until it becomes life-threatening.
We incorporate a quick and painless oral cancer screening as part of a routine exam. We’ll check your tongue, lips, cheeks, gums, throat, lymph nodes, and other orofacial structures for any warning signs of cancer. If we notice patches of discoloration, odd lumps, or other worrisome symptoms, we’ll strongly suggest that you head to a medical facility for further testing.
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride is a remarkable mineral that is essential for strengthening and developing teeth. It can even remineralize your tooth enamel, replacing tiny bits of it that get worn away by everyday activities.
Your dentist near Whiting may suggest that children begin taking fluoride supplements to help their developing teeth come in nice and strong. Adults and young ones alike can benefit from topical fluoride application; we may suggest this for you if you do not drink fluoridated tap water or if there are other indications that you might not be getting enough of this important mineral.
Periodontal Therapy
One of the most common dental problems dentists see is periodontal disease, otherwise known as gum disease. What can start as gingivitis, which can be easily reversed if caught early, can quickly progress into periodontitis. When this happens, your gums may bleed, become inflamed, and can result in bone and tooth loss, in addition to causing other potentially dangerous health conditions. At Berquist Family Dentistry, we can reduce the threat by offering periodontal therapy options that remove harmful bacteria.
Emergency Dentistry
Unfortunately, as much as you try to avoid accidents and injuries, they still occur. When a dental emergency arises, what’s the first thing you do? Panic! It’s important to remember to stay calm and be sure to call our office. Whether it’s a broken or knocked-out tooth, soft tissue injury, or severe toothache, we’re here to help you. Our team will provide the necessary relief you need while working to fix the problem at hand. Before you know it, you’ll have a restored, injury-free smile.
Are you ready to schedule your next visit with Dr. Robert Berquist or Dr. Daniel Berquist? Call us today to reserve an appointment. We’re happy to serve patients from Crown Point, Whiting, Merrillville, Cedar Lake, St. John and other communities in Northwest Indiana.
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