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Month: April 2024

Why Are My Teeth So Small? 5 Reasons Explained

teeth problems

If you have ever wondered, “Why are my teeth so small?” You are not alone. While the size of our teeth can vary from person to person, several factors contribute to their size and the overall appearance of our smiles.

Read on to understand some causes of smaller teeth and the solutions available to help improve them.

Genetics

One of the primary factors influencing the size of your teeth is genetics. Just like other physical attributes such as height or eye color, the size and shape of your teeth are largely determined by your genetic makeup.

If your parents or other family members have small or short teeth, there’s a good chance that you may inherit this trait as well. Genetics plays a significant role in shaping all of our dental features, including tooth size.

Malocclusion

Malocclusion refers to misalignment or incorrect positioning of the teeth when the jaws are closed. This condition can sometimes result in teeth appearing smaller or larger than they actually are. For instance, overcrowding of teeth can make them appear smaller due to limited space within the jaw.

Conversely, if there’s excessive spacing between teeth, they may seem larger than average. Consulting with a dentist can help diagnose and address malocclusion issues.

malocclusion infographic

Tooth Erosion and Wear

Over time, teeth can wear down due to various factors such as aging, teeth grinding (bruxism), acidic food and drinks, or poor oral hygiene. As enamel, a protective layer on the tooth surface, wears away, the underlying dentin may become more exposed, making the teeth appear smaller.

Erosion of the tooth structure can lead to changes in tooth shape and size, as well as tooth sensitivity and discomfort. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices and regular dental check-ups can help prevent excessive tooth wear and erosion.

Developmental Conditions

Certain developmental conditions or genetic disorders can affect tooth development and result in smaller-than-average teeth. For example, conditions like hypodontia (missing teeth), microdontia (abnormally small teeth), or ectodermal dysplasia (a genetic disorder affecting the teeth, hair, and nails) can influence the size and shape of teeth.

If you suspect that a developmental condition may be contributing to the size of your teeth, it’s essential to consult with a dental professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Excess Gum Tissue

gum tissue issues

In some cases, the appearance of small teeth may be attributed to excessive gum tissue covering the lower and upper teeth, a condition known as gingival hyperplasia or gingival hypertrophy. When there is an overgrowth of gum tissue, it can make the teeth appear smaller than they actually are, creating an uneven or gummy smile.

This condition can be a result of various factors, including genetics, certain medications, or poor oral hygiene. Fortunately, treatments such as gum contouring or gingivectomy are available to reshape the gum line, revealing more of the tooth surface and enhancing the appearance of the smile.

Cosmetic Dentistry Solutions

If the appearance of your teeth is affecting your confidence and self-esteem, there are cosmetic dental treatments available. Options such as dental bonding, porcelain veneers placed over your natural tooth, or crowns can help fix small teeth, restoring symmetry and balance to your smile.

A consultation with a cosmetic dentist can help determine the most suitable treatment option based on your individual needs and preferences.

Addressing Small Teeth

The size of your teeth can be influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, malocclusion, tooth wear, excessive gum tissue, and developmental conditions. While small teeth are a natural variation in the population, they can also be addressed through cosmetic dentistry procedures if desired.

If you are concerned about the size of your teeth or have any other dental-related questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the friendly Dr. Dalesandro team. We’re here to help you achieve a healthy, confident smile that you can proudly share with the world.

Dr. Dalesandro & Associates

At Dr. Dalesandro & Associates, we prioritize your family’s dental health and happiness, including addressing concerns about small teeth. As specialists in family dentistry, we offer comprehensive services tailored to all ages, ensuring every smile receives personalized care.

Located conveniently in Tucson, Dr. Dalesandro & Associates is committed to the well-being of your entire family, regardless of tooth size.

Begin your family’s journey toward healthier smiles with us by booking an appointment on our website.

When to Get a Cavity Filled? How Long Should You Wait?

One question that comes up time and time again is: “How long should I wait to get a cavity filled”, and to be honest – this really depends on who you ask and how big the cavity is or how much pain it is causing you. If you suspect that you may have a cavity, then it’s time to visit your dentist so that you can find out whether or not you need a filling. Tooth decay can have serious consequences for your oral health, especially if it goes untreated. If you do discover that you have tooth decay, should you have it treated right away? How long can a cavity wait to get filled? In some cases, if you catch a tooth decaying early enough, a simple fluoride solution will help to restore the enamel on the damaged part of the tooth. As a rule of thumb, however, if you are experiencing extreme pain or sensitivity you may need to have it treated through oral surgery. One thing remains the same in all scenarios, however. The longer you wait to get it treated, the more damage will occur. Also, the higher the cost will end up being. This is why it is important to get a cavity filled as soon as possible.

What is a Cavity?

A cavity is an actual hole on the surface of a tooth. In almost all cases they are the result of ongoing tooth decay from dental plaque that has continued to build upon the tooth surface. Through natural biological processes in your mouth, bacteria convert to sugar in food particles into an abrasive acid, which then leads to enamel erosion. You should get a cavity filled as soon as possible. Not doing so will increase the risk of further tooth decay.

How can I tell if I Have a Cavity?

You can tell if you have one through a visual inspection of your teeth, most of the time. In some cases, cavities are inside of the tooth or in between them, which can only be seen through an X-ray device. It’s important to mention that early tooth decay may not actually be painful. You don’t always experience the traditional sensitivity to hot and cold substances either. This reason specifically is why it is so important to get regular checkups. It’s best to have thorough exams from a dentist. Further decay, however, will begin to cause pain in your teeth or jaw when it reaches the pulp cavity of the tooth. This is where the nerve endings for your teeth exist and why you feel pain in the peripheral area. At this point, if your cavity is not addressed, it may turn into a dental abscess.

How Are Cavities Treated?

Knowing when to get a decayed tooth filled may be the difference in the treatment the dentist recommends. The longer treatment is delayed, the more invasive it may become.
  • Mild to moderate cases of cavities are most commonly treated with fillings or restorations. During this procedure, your dentist will use a drill to remove the damaged part of the tooth and then fill the surface with a restorative material. These materials vary in appearance, cost, durability, and color.
  • If the damage to the tooth is beyond moderate, it may require the use of a crown. This process involves drilling away the crown tooth that currently exists and replacing it with a covering. Like fillings, crowns can be made of different materials and vary in appearance, cost, durability, and color.
  • If the tooth has been left untreated for many months, it may require a root canal. This is the process in which the top part of the tooth is removed. The pulp inside of the pulp cavity is cleaned out. The remaining hole packed and then the tooth crowned to prevent future bacteria from entering.
  • If the tooth can not be saved due to long-term neglect, it will need to be extracted. After the tooth is extracted and has healed an implant or bridge can be used to restore the aesthetic appearance of the tooth.
Wondering how long can a cavity wait to get filled, the answer is not to much time can pass, it's best to do it right away.

How long should you wait before having your cavity treated?

Once your dentist has diagnosed you with tooth decay, the next matter to consider is when you will have it filled. Should you have your filling done right away, or can you afford to wait to fill a cavity? It is crucial that you have your tooth decay treated by your dentist as quickly as possible. The longer a cavity is allowed to progress, the more extensive the damage is likely to be. If tooth decay continues without professional treatment, it can cause an abscess and even lead to tooth loss. Fortunately, your dentist can easily treat tooth decay if it is in its early stages.

Getting your cavities filled is very important!

Hopefully, this article has given you a better understanding of when to get a cavity filled. As outlined above, it is best practice to get it addressed as soon as you notice it to prevent future damages. At the dental offices of Dr. Dalesandro, we take great pride in addressing your dental health as quickly as possible to prevent future damages of your teeth. If you have a decaying tooth or you need an exam, please call our offices with our team of professional technicians.

How Long Does Dental Bonding Last?

Sometimes fixing dental issues such as cracks and cavities isn’t enough. Our teeth have natural discoloration or gaps that we prefer to remedy if possible. With dental bonding, it is possible to get a beautiful smile with dental material that matches the color and look of your natural teeth.

But how long does dental bonding last?

The simple answer to this question depends on the type of bonding and care given.

The family-owned and operated practice of Drs. Dalesandro, Derickson, and Weege, can help you understand dental bonding options. Contact Tucson’s reliable cosmetic dentist for a free consultation today at 520-327-5993.

What Is Dental Bonding?

Dental bonding is a cosmetic, in-office procedure where composite or adhesive materials repair tooth damage, unsightly gaps, or discoloration. The bonding procedure varies depending on whether you choose adhesive or composite bonding.

Adhesive Bonding

Adhesive bonding occurs in conjunction with other dental procedures such as placing veneers, bridges, and crowns. Because they are in addition to other dental work, tougher materials such as porcelain make up the bond, which requires making a mold. The existing teeth then attach to the bonded teeth and secure using an intense beam of light.

This process occurs during two visits with the dentist, but once complete, it typically lasts longer and is more durable than composite tooth bonding.

Composite Bonding

Composite bonding involves bonding tooth-colored composite materials directly to the teeth. The sculpted, dried, and polished material matches your existing teeth. The composite material bonds to the tooth, making it the new tooth.

Because composite bonding attaches  directly to the tooth rather than a mold cast, the bonding can require one dental visit for completion. As a result, it is faster and less expensive but not as durable or long-lasting. A composite bond lasts seven to ten years compared to adhesive bonding, which can last nearly 20 years.

How Long Does Dental Bonding Last?

The lifespan of dental bonding varies based on several factors, such as the location of the bonding in the mouth, the patient’s oral hygiene habits, and the types of foods and drinks they consume. On average, dental bonding can last anywhere from 3 to 10 years, but it can last even longer with proper care. To extend the lifespan of dental bonding, it’s important to avoid bad habits such as biting or chewing on hard objects, wearing a mouth guard at night if necessary, and attending regular dental check-ups and cleanings.

Caring for Dental Bonding

Whether you choose adhesive or composite bonding, the key to a long-lasting bond is care and oral hygiene. Enhanced oral hygiene is necessary to prevent discoloration and strengthen the bond.

Avoid coffee, sodas, and tea, which leave stains on the bonding materials. Regular dental care and checkups ensure the bond continues to hold.

It is necessary to avoid excessively hard or chewy foods that could damage the structure of the bond. It is also essential to avoid naturally bad habits such as biting pencils or fingernails. These may seem like little things, but even the smallest hard particle can crack or damage the bond.

Drs. Dalesandro, Derickson, and Weege

Dental bonding is just one option to correct minor tooth damage or enhance your smile. If you are wondering how long dental bonding lasts or want to learn more about restorative dentistry, visit the offices of Drs. Dalesandro, Derickson, and Weege for a free consultation, or call us directly at 520-327-5993. We will help you achieve your ideal smile.

Affordable Cosmetic Dentistry Options

Affordable Cosmetic dentistry options in TucsonCosmetic dental problems can be anything from a cracked tooth to staining. When you notice cosmetic dental issues, it’s easy to stress yourself out trying to find a solution to the problem. Depending on the type of cosmetic dental issues you’re facing, several solutions are available to you.

To help you find the best solution to your cosmetic dental issues, you’ll need to get an x-ray of your teeth done. After the x-ray is complete, you can proceed with getting your teeth corrected.

Many people choose cosmetic dental correction over other dental surgery forms because it costs significantly less, and these procedures generally take less time to complete than full-blown surgery.

The causes of dental issues

Everything from decay, cavities, and excessive damage can cause your teeth to lose their strength and clean appearance. When this begins to happen, you’ll likely need to undergo some sort of necessary dental procedures. Each basic common dental procedure addresses a specific problem or condition.

If you’re experiencing any dental issues and need help correcting them, continue reading to find out more.

The Most Common dental procedures

To understand what a basic dental procedure is, you must understand what preventative dental care is.

Preventative dental consists of any procedure that aims to prevent the formation of cavities, damage, or infections in your mouth. Once you receive a basic dental practice, your oral hygiene has already succumbed to some minor or significant problem.

Based on the exact issue you’re facing, your dentist will recommend one of a few standard dental procedures to help solve the issue. Below, we will give you a detailed breakdown of the most common dental procedures for general oral health problems.

Affordable cosmetic dentistry options

Keep in mind, all of the cosmetic dental procedures we mention below only address aesthetic issues with your teeth. None of them will resolve underlying structural problems, so you need to seek another solution if you’re experiencing decay or cavity formation.

With all of that being said, it’s time to look at the top cosmetic dentistry options available:

  • Dental Bonding– Dental bonding is a process by which material is applied to any cracks or broken tooth pieces. Dental bonding is a simple process, and it’s very cost-effective. Not to mention, dental bonding lasts for a long time, so you won’t need to have work re-done.
  • Dental Crowns- Dental crowns are similar to dental fillings; however, instead of filling in removed sections of your teeth, a crown will be placed over your teeth’ reinforced structure. Dental crowns are long-lasting and very simple to perform, so they are recommended over other cosmetic dental surgery forms.
  • Dental Fillings– if your teeth have been damaged by severe tooth decay, dental fillings are the answer. Dental fillings replace removed sections of your teeth with filler material to prevent further tooth decay.
  • Veneers– Veneers are thin porcelain sheets placed over damaged teeth to make them appear brighter and more aligned.
  • Teeth Whitening– Teeth whitening is a process used to remove stains and discoloration from teeth. Smokers and people with abrasive eating habits can benefit from teeth whitening.

Fixing aesthetic dental issues

Before you can proceed with any cosmetic dental procedure, you must first address the exact issue. To do so, you should go into your dentist’s office and ask them to perform an x-ray. Once the x-ray is complete, you will be able to obtain a full diagnosis of your condition so you can choose the appropriate cosmetic dental procedure to fix it.

People Also Ask

Q: What is the average cost of cosmetic dentistry?
A: The average cost of cosmetic dentistry procedures such as crowns and inlays is about $600-$1,200 per tooth.

Q: What is the cheapest way to fix your teeth?
A: dentures are the most affordable way to fix oral cosmetic issues. Dentures require no surgery and can are made relatively quickly.

Q: What is the best cosmetic dental procedure?
A: the best cosmetic dental procedures include: dental veneers, tooth bleaching, and braces.

Understanding what affordable cosmetic dentistry options you have

We’ve covered all of the essential facts and information you need to know about cosmetic dental procedures. Use the tips we’ve given you to repair your dental issues as soon as possible. For more information on our services contact Dr. Dalesandro today.

What Is the Best Way to Whiten Your Teeth?

A recent survey revealed that nearly two-thirds of Americans are insecure about their teeth. Some people can’t stand their crooked teeth, while others hate the spaces between them.

However, the biggest complaint people have about their teeth is the color. Dull and discolored teeth ranked at the top of the list of complaints people in the U.S. have about their smiles.

Do you wish your teeth were whiter? Finding the best way to whiten teeth, from baking soda to professional treatments, can help you take pride in your smile again. Below, learn about the top options when brushing teeth isn’t enough.

Exploring the Top Teeth Whitening Method Options

The best method to whiten your teeth is to prevent surface teeth stains from building up in the first place. You can do this by following the advice of the American Dental Association and practicing good oral hygiene. Take these steps to prevent stained teeth from the get-go:

  • Brush your teeth twice each day for at least two minutes.
  • Floss your teeth once each day.
  • Schedule a cleaning with a dental hygienist once every six months.
  • Avoid acidic foods, coffee, wine, and anything else that can cause tooth discoloration.

You can also aim to make teeth whiter by arranging to have your dentist provide professional teeth whitening treatments. It’s often the most effective way to whiten teeth.

Additionally, many at-home teeth whitening options exist. Although they’re not always as effective as professional treatments, they can also deliver a whiter smile in many instances.

How To Whiten Teeth With Professional Treatments

People seeking to whiten their teeth should do so through a reputable dentist whenever possible. A dentist can supervise teeth whitening procedures, which is typically the best method to whiten discolored teeth.

Before a dentist breaks down the teeth whitening options that might work well for your teeth, they’ll perform an evaluation to check for signs of oral health issues, including tooth decay, gum disease, or problems with dental implants. They may need to treat your teeth and/or gums before whitening your teeth to deliver the best results.

From there, a dentist will use special teeth bleaching products to adjust the color of your teeth and make them look whiter. These teeth whitening solutions will contain a concentrated tooth bleaching agent that can get teeth whiter after just one session in many cases.

Depending on the condition of your teeth, you may need to undergo the whitening process more than once to get the desired results. Still, professional whitening can make your teeth whiter while keeping them healthy.

At-Home Teeth Whitening Products To Consider

Even though professional teeth whitening is the superior option for those interested in whitening teeth, not everyone decides to go in this direction. More than 35 million Americans purchase at-home tooth whitening products each year.

Since the demand for teeth whitening products has increased dramatically, there’s no shortage of options for those who want to try the at-home teeth version. Popular options include:

  • Tooth whitening toothpastes: A whitening toothpaste usually contains mild abrasives like calcium carbonate, carbamide peroxide, hydrated silica, or sodium bicarbonate that can sometimes remove surface stains from teeth effectively and give them a whiter look. Some even contain hydrogen peroxide. A whitening toothpaste containing active hydrogen peroxide may produce whiter teeth than other whitening toothpastes. You can also look into using a whitening mouthwash.
  • Tooth whitening strips: Whitening strips normally contain active hydrogen peroxide that acts as a bleaching agent when these strips are placed on your teeth. The bleaching agents in whitening strips must remain on your teeth for anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours to make stained and yellow teeth disappear. You may need to use whitening strips several times to get the right results from its whitening gel.
  • Tooth whitening light devices: While whitening toothpastes and strips with whitening gels are probably the most popular whitening products, they aren’t the only at-home solutions for teeth bleaching. Whitening light devices have also become popular, especially among young people whitening their teeth. When using them, you’ll place a whitening agent on your teeth before holding a blue LED light over them to accelerate the whitening effect.

In addition to testing these at-home methods for achieving whiter teeth, some people prefer trying natural teeth whitening methods. Examples include:

  • Mixing baking soda and water to create a whitening gel that may act like a mild abrasive
  • Performing oil pulling with coconut oil to make teeth whiter and potentially improve oral health as a whole
  • Swishing with diluted hydrogen peroxide to possibly erase surface stains
  • Rubbing apple cider vinegar on teeth to gradually lighten their appearance with its teeth whitening properties

Just be careful about putting too much faith into the many teeth whitening “hacks” that have emerged online since some may stain teeth. If, for example, you use hydrogen peroxide or baking soda for too long, it may do more harm than good. Both can lead to tooth sensitivity, and you might even end up staining teeth with certain natural teeth whiteners instead of stain removal.

What Is the Best Solution for Whitening Sensitive Teeth?

Dental health studies suggest just over 12% of Americans have sensitive teeth. If you fall into this category, whitening your teeth might present problems the average person with healthy teeth won’t have.

In this scenario, the best way to whiten teeth is to seek assistance from a trusted dentist specializing in professional whitening services. They can perform desensitizing treatments and monitor the teeth whitening process. This will help prevent teeth whitening methods from damaging tooth enamel or causing increased tooth sensitivity.

Want Whiter Teeth? Contact Us To Schedule Professional Teeth Whitening Services

If you’re unhappy with your stained or yellow teeth, Dr. Dalesandro & Associates can help you use the best whitening product to get your teeth whitened. Our Tucson dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants can provide proven teeth whitening methods to eliminate tooth stains and leave you with teeth that look significantly whiter.

Contact us to discover more about the best method to whiten your teeth.

Pediatric Dentistry: Safe Dental Care for Babies

pediatric dentistry

The journey to a lifetime of healthy smiles begins early, and pediatric dental care plays a pivotal role in laying the foundation for optimal oral health in children. As a parent or caregiver, understanding the basics of pediatric dentistry can empower you to make informed decisions about your child’s dental care.

In today’s article, we’ll explore the fundamental aspects of pediatric dentistry, shedding light on the unique considerations and practices contributing to young smiles’ well-being.

Early Introduction to Dental Care

Pediatric dentistry emphasizes the importance of introducing dental care and good oral hygiene practices at an early age. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that a child’s first dental visit should occur by their first birthday or within six months of the eruption of their first tooth.

These early visits serve not only to monitor oral development but also to educate parents on proper oral hygiene practices tailored to their child’s age and needs.

Creating a Kid-Friendly Environment

A cornerstone of pediatric dentistry is the creation of a warm and child-friendly atmosphere within the dental office. This environment is carefully designed to alleviate any fears or anxieties that children may associate with dental visits.

From colorful and inviting waiting areas to friendly and patient dental professionals, the goal is to make the experience of visiting pediatric dental offices positive and comfortable for young patients.

Preventive Care and Education

kid at dental office

Preventive care is at the forefront of pediatric dentistry. Dentists in this field focus on early intervention and education to prevent dental issues, like tooth decay, before they arise. This includes regular cleanings, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants to protect vulnerable areas of a child’s developing teeth.

Educating both parents and children on proper oral hygiene practices at home is a crucial aspect of this preventive approach.

As parents, ensuring the health and well-being of our little ones is always a top priority. While many aspects of baby care are readily understood, dental health can sometimes be overlooked in the early stages of infancy. However, establishing good oral hygiene habits is crucial for your baby’s overall health and development.

Why Early Dental Care Matters

The importance of early dental care cannot be overstated. Even before your baby’s first tooth emerges, oral hygiene plays a vital role in preventing dental issues and promoting overall health. Here’s why:

Prevention of Tooth Decay

Regardless of your child’s age, baby teeth are susceptible to decay as soon as they appear. Establishing good oral hygiene habits early on can help prevent cavities and ensure the proper development of your child’s teeth.

Speech Development

Baby teeth play a crucial role in speech development. Proper alignment and spacing of teeth are essential for clear speech patterns to develop as your child grows.

a cute girl at dentist

Nutrition and Growth

Healthy teeth are essential for proper chewing and digestion, facilitating the intake of essential nutrients for your baby’s growth and development.

Early Detection of Issues

Scheduling your child’s first dental appointment at an early age allows dentists to monitor your child’s oral health and detect any potential issues early, preventing them from escalating into more significant problems.

When to Schedule the First Dental Visit

dentist for kids

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that your child’s first dental visit should occur within six months of the eruption of their first tooth or by their first birthday, whichever comes first. Here’s what to expect during the first dental appointment:

Introduction and Familiarization

Your baby’s first dental visit is primarily about introducing your child to the dental environment and making them feel comfortable. The pediatric dentist will take the time to interact with your child, examine their mouth, and discuss oral hygiene practices with you.

Assessment of Oral Health

During the first visit, your child’s pediatric dentist will examine your baby’s mouth for any signs of tooth decay, gum disease, or other oral health issues. They may also assess the alignment and development of emerging teeth.

Guidance on Oral Care

The dentist will provide guidance on proper oral hygiene practices for your baby, including brushing techniques, fluoride use, and diet recommendations.

Answering Questions and Addressing Concerns

Your baby’s first dentist appointment is an excellent opportunity to ask questions and address any concerns you may have regarding your child’s oral health.

When to Begin Pediatric Dentistry

Ensuring safe dental care for babies is essential for setting the foundation of a lifetime of healthy smiles. By scheduling their first dental checkup early and implementing good oral hygiene habits from the start, you can help protect your child’s teeth and promote their overall well-being. Early prevention and intervention are key to maintaining optimal oral health for your little one.

Maintaining Oral Health through Childhood

boy having dental check up done

Understanding the basics of pediatric dentistry empowers parents and caregivers to participate in their child’s oral health journey actively. By prioritizing early dental visits, creating a kid-friendly environment, emphasizing preventive care, monitoring growth, and providing behavioral guidance, pediatric dentists contribute significantly to the overall well-being of a child’s dental health.

With the right foundation, children can grow into adults with a lifelong commitment to oral health and confident smiles.

Pediatric Dental FAQs

What is done in pediatric dentistry?

Pediatric dentistry involves specialized dental care for infants, children, and adolescents, addressing their unique oral health needs through preventive measures, early intervention, and education.

What is the difference between family dentistry and pediatric dentistry?

Family dentistry caters to patients of all ages, while pediatric dentistry only provides oral health care to infants, children, and adolescents.

At what age should children go to the dentist?

It is recommended that children go to the dentist by their first birthday or within six months of the eruption of their first tooth.

Dr. Dalesandro & Associates

dentist examining a little kid

At Dr. Dalesandro & Associates, our dedication to nurturing smiles extends far beyond regular check-ups. Specializing in family dentistry, our focus encompasses emergency dental care of dental injuries, professional teeth whitening, and preventive services tailored for children of all ages. In Tucson, we stand as your all-encompassing dental solution, committed to the well-being of your little ones.

Embark on the journey toward healthier smiles by exploring our website. We welcome both new and existing patients!