SERVICES
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Restorative Dentistry
Looking for restorative dentistry in the Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton area? Call Kennedy Dental for an appointment today at (941)351-9900.
Tooth-Colored Fillings
Tooth-colored fillings, or composite fillings, provide good durability and resistance to fracture in small- to mid-size fillings that need to withstand moderate pressure from the constant stress of chewing. They can be used on either front or back teeth. They are a good choice for people who prefer that their fillings look more natural.
Crowns
When a tooth is cracked, broken, or suffers from a large amount of decay, a crown may be recommended. A crown is a custom-fitted cap that covers a tooth restoring its shape, strength, and appearance.
Crowns offer several benefits:
-Long-term durability
-Protection from further decay, infection, and cracking
-Improved chewing and talking
-An improved, natural, and healthier smile
Looking for a crown in the Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton area? Call Kennedy Dental for an appointment today at (941)351-9900 or click here to request an appointment.
Metal-Free Crowns
When a tooth is cracked, broken, or suffers from a large amount of decay, a crown may be recommended. A crown is a custom-fitted cap that covers a tooth restoring its shape, strength, and appearance. A metal-free crown Zirconia crown is extremely strong, comes in a variety of colors to match your tooth shade, and since it is metal-free, it can prevent darkening along the gum area around the tooth. Another benefit of a Zirconia crown is that they are able to be used on patients who may have a metal allergy.
Bridges
If you have missing teeth, the gap in your smile can be closed with a dental bridge. A bridge is a false tooth held into place in the mouth by abutment teeth on either side of the gap. Bridges can be made of a variety of different materials and designed to aesthetically blend with your natural teeth.
Looking for a dental bridge in the Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton area? Call Kennedy Dental for an appointment today at (941)351-9900.
Root Canals
A root canal is needed when the soft tissue inside of a tooth becomes infected. Infection could be the result of a deep cavity, a dental procedure that had disturbed the tissue, a crack or fracture in the tooth, or an injury to the tooth. If left untreated, the infected tissue can cause pain and swelling in and around the tooth. Treatment is need to avoid pain as well as possible loss of the tooth.
Root Canal Therapy Procedure
1. The dentist will first administer local anesthetic.
2. A small hole will be created on the top of the tooth.
3. The tooth's nerve will be removed from the canal of the tooth.
4. The inside of the tooth will be cleaned and then filled with a rubber-like substance to prevent any future infection.
5. A temporary filling will be placed over the tooth until a permanent filling or crown can be placed at the earliest opportunity.
If you are experiencing symptoms of pain, sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, swollen gums, tooth discoloration, and/or infection, please call Kennedy Dental at (941)351-9900 to schedule an appointment.
Oral Surgery
Extractions
An extraction of a tooth may be necessary for reasons such as dental trauma, cracked or broken teeth, or decay too significant to be repaired. We will always do all we can for an extraction to be a last resort for our patients.
Patient comfort is a top priority at Kennedy Dental and our team is extremely knowledgable and well-trained to make the process as pain-free as possible.
After your extraction, Dr. Kennedy and his staff will advise you of the best post-extraction regimen for your healing. You will also have your options presented for how you would like to move forward with replacing an extracted tooth, if applicable.
If you need help determining if a dental extraction is right for you, please call Kennedy Dental at (941)351-9900 or click here to request an appointment.
Wisdom Teeth
Between the ages of 17-21, we usually will see the appearance of our 3rd molars, or wisdom teeth. If wisdom teeth come in properly, they can help us with chewing food. It is normal to feel slight discomfort as these teeth come in, but if you feel any pain, it is important to see a dentist immediately.
Wisdom teeth can cause problems when there is not enough space for them to surface or they come through in the wrong position. When this happens, the wisdom teeth can cause problems such as crowding of teeth, trapping of bacteria that can cause decay and infection, or damage to the teeth surrounding them. It is then important for the wisdom teeth to be removed.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are an effective way to replace a single tooth, several teeth, or support a full set of dentures. They give a secure, comfortable fit that feels natural. Patients can feel confident, eat and speak normally, and have long-term results with dental implants.
Dental implants are placed in the jawbone to mimic the way the root of a natural tooth would hold it in place. Implants or made of titanium, a strong, lightweight material that is easily accepted by the body.
After your implant is placed, a custom crown shaped like a tooth will be attach.
To learn more about dental implants at Kennedy Dental, click here.
Looking for dental implants in the Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton area? Call Kennedy Dental for an appointment today at (941)351-9900.
Bone Grafting
After an extraction or loss of tooth, bone loss can occur around the site where the tooth was removed. The jawbone can deteriorate, changing the shape of one's facial structure. Bone loss at the site of a missing tooth can also make the area unsuitable for dental implants. When bone grafting is done, the bone can repair allowing for better aesthetics as well as better chances of implant success.
Sinus Lift
Prior to receiving dental implants, some patients will find that they do not have enough bone in the top of the jaw to properly support a dental implant. In these cases, a sinus lift sometimes know as sinus augmentation, can be performed. A sinus lift is surgery that adds bone to your upper jaw in the area of your molars and premolars. The bone is added between your jaw and the maxillary sinuses, which are on either side of your nose. To make room for the bone, the sinus membrane has to be moved upward, or "lifted."
3D Implant Planning
Nothing beats a well-placed implant. In order to allow Dr. Kennedy to best plan for your implant placement, a 3D scan will be taken of your mouth. Using specialized software, this scan is then reviewed by Dr. Kennedy which allows him to see a 3D image of your mouths' jaw bones, major nerve locations, and soft tissue. Dr. Kennedy can virtually place an implant using the software to allow him extremely accurate positioning of the implant to maximize healing and long-term success.
Custom Implant Abutments
For years, dentists have used stock, pre-made abutments for implants, but as technology has evolved custom abutments have become a source for a more natural looking implant and better soft tissue management. With a custom abutment, Dr. Kennedy and properly contour the implant abutment to fit the crest of the tissue in the area.
Oral Health
Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancers and pre-cancerous lesions are easiest to remove and be cured when they are caught in the early stages. Oral cancer screenings are an important step for early detection. When oral cancers are caught early, they have an 80-90% survival rate.
Sealants
Dental sealants consist of a hard material that is placed on the chewing surface of the permanent back teeth — the molars and premolars — to help protect them from bacteria and acids that contribute to tooth decay. The chewing surfaces of the molar and premolar teeth have grooves or "fissures" that make them vulnerable to decay. These fissures can be deep, are difficult to clean and can be narrower than a single bristle of a toothbrush. Plaque accumulates in these areas, and the acid from bacteria in the plaque attacks the enamel and cavities can develop.
Because of the likelihood of developing decay in the depressions and grooves of the premolars and molars, children and teenagers are candidates for sealants. However, adults without decay or fillings in their molars can also benefit from sealants.
It takes only a few minutes for your dentist or hygienist to apply sealant to each tooth. After a few simple preparatory steps, he or she will paint the coating onto the tooth enamel where it bonds directly to the tooth and hardens. Sometimes a special curing light is used to help the sealant harden. Once set, the sealant protects the enamel of your teeth from plaque and acid, and lasts for several years.
To schedule an appointment for sealants, please call Kennedy Dental at (941)351-9900.
Comfortable Cleanings
After a thorough, professional tooth cleaning, you know that your teeth look brighter and feel fresher, but tooth cleaning isn't just about appearances. It's the primary means of preventing and treating periodontal (gum) disease. Many studies have demonstrated a possible link between periodontal health and overall (systemic) health — which means regular tooth cleanings may benefit not just your mouth, but your whole body.
Why do teeth need special cleaning? Over time, dental plaque (a naturally occurring bacterial biofilm) and stains build up on tooth surfaces. Dental calculus (also called tartar), a harder deposit, can then form both above and below the gum line. A thorough dental cleaning removes these substances from the teeth, and helps keep disease-causing bacteria from proliferating
At your initial visit, Dr. Kennedy will do a comprehensive examination of your dental and gum health and recommend the cleaning that is right for you. Our amazing dental hygienists at Kennedy Dental are all highly trained to care for your teeth and gums in a gentle, comfortable way.
To schedule your next dental cleaning, call Kennedy Dental at (941)351-9900.
To find more information about periodontal treatment or gum disease, click here.
Ultrasonic Cleaning
Ultrasonic cleaners work by using electromagnetic forces in the unit's hand-held “wand” that cause its tiny tip to vibrate rapidly. These vibrations, which occur at a rate faster than the speed of sound, effectively blast away plaque, calculus and stains from the tooth surfaces.
A small stream of water and/or antibacterial mouthwash, which emerges near the tip of the scaler, is called lavage. Lavage is used to cool the ultrasonic scaler's tip and flush away debris from the area being treated. The vibrating tip causes some of the water to break into millions of tiny bubbles, an effect called cavitation. This ruptures the walls of bacterial cells and helps create an environment that's less hospitable to harmful bacteria.
Studies show that a thorough ultrasonic cleaning takes about one-third less time as compared to hand scaling — which means you need less time in the chair. Many patients prefer ultrasonics to other types of scaling, possibly because it requires the clinician to use less force than a hand scaler to get the same effect. In ultrasonic scaling, only the tip of the tool touches the tooth surface, and only for a short time.
It's also possible to remove deposits of plaque and tartar from under the gum line by using an extremely small tip on an ultrasonic unit, which can cause less discomfort and result in a deeper and better cleaning. Sometimes an ultrasonic scaler is used first, and then any stubborn areas are scaled by hand.
To schedule your next cleaning call Kennedy Dental at (941)351-9900.
To find information about periodontal treatment or gum disease, click here.
Comfortable Dentistry
Looking for comfortable dentistry in the Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton area? Call Kennedy Dental for an appointment today at (941)351-9900.
Itero Digital Scanner
As part of Kennedy Dental's commitment to provide the Sarasota Bradenton area with latest dental technologies, we are pleased to offer Itero Digital Scanning. The old technique of using putty to take dental impressions could be cumbersome, uncomfortable, and cause gagging. With new digital scanners, patients are able to comfortably watch a 3D model of their mouth and bite appear before them on the computer screen. The process is simple and comfortable for patients, while allowing increased precision for the Kennedy Dental team. These scans can then be designed and your new smile can be milled right in the office, often on the same day.
Emergency Dentistry
If you are experiencing dental trauma or a dental emergency in the Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton area, call Kennedy Dental at (941)351-9900.
Oral Trauma
Oral trauma can be the result of and accident, fall, sports injury, etc. Traumatic injuries such as chipped or broken teeth, knocked out teeth, dislodged teeth, or root fractures can leave people feeling upset, self-conscious, and in pain. If you have experienced dental trauma, please call (941)351-9900.
Endodontics/Root Canals
A root canal is needed when the soft tissue inside of a tooth becomes infected. Infection could be the result of a deep cavity, a dental procedure that had disturbed the tissue, a crack or fracture in the tooth, or an injury to the tooth. If left untreated, the infected tissue can cause pain and swelling in and around the tooth. Treatment is need to avoid pain as well as possible loss of the tooth.
Root Canal Therapy Procedure
1. The dentist will first administer local anesthetic.
2. A small hole will be created on the top of the tooth.
3. The tooth's nerve will be removed from the canal of the tooth.
4. The inside of the tooth will be cleaned and then filled with a rubber-like substance to prevent any future infection.
5. A temporary filling will be placed over the tooth until a permanent filling or crown can be placed at the earliest opportunity.
If you are experiencing symptoms of pain, sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, swollen gums, tooth discoloration, and/or infection, please call Kennedy Dental at (941)351-9900 to schedule a consultation.
Prevention
Routine Cleanings
After a thorough, professional tooth cleaning, you know that your teeth look brighter and feel fresher, but tooth cleaning isn't just about appearances. It's the primary means of preventing and treating periodontal (gum) disease. Many studies have demonstrated a possible link between periodontal health and overall (systemic) health — which means regular tooth cleanings may benefit not just your mouth, but your whole body.
Why do teeth need special cleaning? Over time, dental plaque (a naturally occurring bacterial biofilm) and stains build up on tooth surfaces. Dental calculus (also called tartar), a harder deposit, can then form both above and below the gum line. A thorough dental cleaning removes these substances from the teeth, and helps keep disease-causing bacteria from proliferating
At your initial visit, Dr. Kennedy will do a comprehensive examination of your dental and gum health and recommend the cleaning that is right for you. Our amazing dental hygienists at Kennedy Dental are all highly trained to care for your teeth and gums in a gentle, comfortable way.
To schedule your next dental cleaning, call Kennedy Dental at (941)351-9900.
To find more information about periodontal treatment or gum disease, click here.
Fluoride
Fluoride is often called nature’s cavity fighter and for good reason. Fluoride, a naturally-occurring mineral, helps prevent cavities in children and adults by making the outer surface of your teeth (enamel) more resistant to the acid attacks that cause tooth decay.
Fluoride intake is most critical for infants and children between the ages of six months and sixteen years because this is the period where baby teeth fall out and are replaced with permanent teeth. However, fluoride is also important in adults to prevent tooth decay. Using fluoride can strengthen and remineralize teeth.
Many people have fluoride deficiency, putting teeth at greater risk for decay. You can get more fluoride by drinking fluoridated water and using a fluoride toothpastes and mouth washes. Additionally, your dentist or hygienist may recommend a quick, simple fluoride treatment to boost your enamel strength and prevent cavities.
Night Guards
If you find that you wake up with a headache, sore jaw, toothache, or earache, there is a good chance that you may be clenching or grinding your teeth during the night. You may even be unaware of it. This is called bruxism and it could be caused by stress, an abnormal bite, crooked or missing teeth, or problems in sleeping. Bruxism can begin at any age and if left untreated the clenching and grinding can damage dental restorations or loosen teeth. Your dentist can fit you for a custom night guard, which are proven to be an effective remedy for patients who suffer from clenching or grinding at night.
Cosmetic
If you are looking for cosmetic dentistry in the Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton area, call Kennedy Dental today for an appointment. (941)351-9900 or click here to request an appointment.
Veneers
Feeling self-conscious about your teeth whenever you smile for pictures or meet new people? Dental veneers might be just what you need to restore your confidence. Veneers are thin, shell-like covers that are placed over your teeth to cover up cosmetic issues like stains, chips, or gaps. Each one is bonded to the front of a tooth, finalizing the procedure. It is an effective way to create the perfect smile you have always dreamed of. They are a popular choice for those with chipped teeth, a gap between teeth, or misshaped teeth.
To learn more about dental veneers at Kennedy Dental, click here.
Lumineers
Dental Lumineers are a brand of thin veneers that are very popular nowadays.
To learn more about Lumineers at Kennedy Dental, click here.
Snap On Smile
To learn about Snap On Smile at Kennedy Dental, click here.
Whitening
Teeth whitening procedures have become extremely popular in recent years. When patients find themselves with staining or discoloration, they often seek treatment to turn their smiles beautiful and white again. Staining or discoloration of teeth can occur for a number of reasons such as drinking coffee or wine, certain supplements or medications, or smoking. Kennedy Dental offers a variety of highly-effective tooth whitening products for patients looking to brighten their smiles.
To see if tooth whitening is right for you, call Kennedy Dental at (941)351-9900.
Bonding
Cosmetic bonding is a process where the dentist attaches or “bonds” materials directly to your tooth in order to change the color and shape. The natural tooth enamel is then fused together with bonding materials such as porcelain and resins to create a strong structure that still feels like your original tooth.
While it can be used for different purposes, according to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, tooth bonding is most useful for repairing chipped teeth. That’s because the bonding materials and porcelain used are natural in color, and allows for a finished product that closely matches your surrounding teeth.
Crown Lengthening
Crown lengthening can be necessary if there isn’t enough of the tooth in place to hold the crown on its own. Teeth that are broken or affected by tooth decay may prohibit a crown from firmly attaching.
Crown lengthening reduces gum tissue and shaves down bone when necessary so more of the tooth is above the gum’s surface. A properly fitted crown allows for better oral hygiene and comfort.
Some people seek crown lengthening to alter a “gummy smile,” in which the gums are visible above the teeth when smiling.
At Kennedy Dental, Dr. Kennedy performs crown lengthening by recontouring gum tissue, and sometimes bone, to expose more of a tooth’s surface for a crown. It’s a common procedure and often takes less than an hour to complete.
Dental Imaging
Digital X-Rays
At Kennedy Dental, we use digital radiography in place of traditional film x-ray units. These digital images allow our office to zoom in on your high resolution x-rays to provide our best detection and diagnosis of dental conditions. Digital x-rays can use 90% less radiation that film x-rays and they take less time for out patients.
Cone Beam 3D Imaging
Kennedy Dental's in-office CT scanner makes it convenient for our patients to have the most accurate, high quality 3D dental imaging without having to leave the office. This helps our dental staff be the most prepared for your more complex dental treatments such as extractions and dental implants. A cone beam computed tomography (CT) produces 3D images of your teeth, nerve pathways, and soft tissue. This allows for extremely accurate diagnosis and planning of treatment. Kennedy Dental is committed to providing our Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton with the latest in dental technologies to provide the very best care.
Itero Digital Scanning
As part of Kennedy Dental's commitment to provide the Sarasota Bradenton area with latest dental technologies, we are pleased to offer Itero Digital Scanning. The old technique of using putty to take dental impressions could be cumbersome, uncomfortable, and cause gagging. With new digital scanners, patients are able to comfortably watch a 3D model of their mouth and bite appear before them on the computer screen. The process is simple and comfortable for patients, while allowing increased precision for the Kennedy Dental team. These scans can then be designed and your new smile can be milled right in the office, often on the same day.
Intraoral Cameras
Something many Kennedy Dental patients appreciate is our use of intraoral cameras. These small, pen-like cameras produce high resolution images help our patients see accurate representations of their various dental conditions. They are comfortable for patients and Kennedy Dental staff is able to easily show patients a fractured tooth or gum disease in real time.
Intraoral cameras are also extremely useful in helping make insurance claims for our patients. Having high resolution photos of areas of the mouth that need treatment helps insurance claims to go through more smoothly. We want you to get the most out of the insurance you pay for.
Dentures
Denture Services
Teeth can be lost for a variety of reasons. Dentures can be used to replace your missing teeth and improve your health and confidence and bring your smile back. Kennedy Dental offers full service denture treatment. Dr. Aaron Kennedy is skilled at extractions and immediate denture placement for those who need it.
To learn more about dentures at Kennedy Dental, click here.
Looking for dentures in the Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton area? Call Kennedy Dental for an appointment today at (941)351-9900.
Gum Health
Periodontal Treatment
Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is caused by bacteria in plaque. If not consistently removed, this bacteria builds up, infecting your teeth, gums and eventually the bone that supports your teeth, a common cause of tooth loss. Gum disease has three stages of progression: gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. The longer the disease has to advance, the more damage it causes. With advancements in detection and treatment, Kennedy Dental can discover periodontal disease early and begin treatment before complicated issues arise.
For more information about periodontal treatment and gum disease, click here.
Gum Grafting
If you see a few of your teeth have started to look longer or you frequently experience sensitivity to hot and cold, your gums could be receding, and a portion of your tooth's root is exposed. Gum recession occurs gradually, and it may sneak up on you. Gum grafting treatment for receding gums can help prevent any further loss of gum tissue.
For more information about periodontal treatment and gum disease, click here.
Lasers
Lasers are used in numerous medical fields, including general dentistry. They are extremely focused light beams that can be used to alter or remove tissues in small amounts. Dentists use lasers in many different procedures inside of the mouth. Lasers can be used to remove overgrown tissues, whiten teeth, or reshape the gums.
Laser treatment of gum disease is a tissue-preserving, regenerative, and bone-building procedure. At Kennedy Dental, Dr. Kennedy uses a laser to access an infected pocket to kill the infected tissue and bacteria. Once the infected tissue is removed and the root is exposed, the calculus is removed with an ultrasonic root cleaner instead of scraping with hand tools. Lastly, laser energy is used to warm the stem cell that contains blood in the pocket, which creates a seal of tissues against the tooth root.
For more information about periodontal treatment and gum disease, click here.
Orthodontics
Invisible Braces
Invisalign straightens your teeth to give you the confidence of the great smile. Using a series of clear, virtually invisible aligners, Invisalign gently and gradually moves teeth based on the treatment plan prescribed by your dentist. With no wires or brackets, you'll have confidence in your smile during and after treatment. In fact, most people won't even know you are wearing Invisalign. Also, Invisalign aligners are removable so you can eat whatever you want and easily brush or floss as you normally would.
To learn more about Invisalign, click here.
Retainers
Retainers are custom-made devices that hold teeth in position after realigning teeth. After orthodontic treatment has been completed to straighten teeth, there remains a lifelong risk of relapse (a tendency for teeth to return to their original position.) By using retainers to hold the teeth in their new position for a length of time, the surrounding periodontal fibers are allowed to adapt to the changes in the bone, reducing the risk of relapse.
If you are looking looking for a general dentist in the Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton area, call Kennedy Dental at (941)351-9900.
Or click here to request an appointment online.