Comprehensive Family Dentistry

We accept patients of all ages and in all stages of their dental journey.

Pediatric Dentistry

  • Your child's visit is all about his or her comfort, happiness, and health. Our primary goal is establishing a positive dental experience at any early age. Each child’s experience is unique and we tailor their experience based on their comfort level. The first appointment is mainly to establish trust with the child, as well as address any questions or concerns about their oral health.

    Our pediatric dentistry service revolves around creating a caring, fun and interactive experience for all ages.

  • The American Dental Association recommends that a child’s first check up occurs within 6 months of their first tooth erupting. Children over the age of one are recommended to visit the dentist every six months for regular check ups to keep their teeth and gums healthy.

  • We offer convenient family block scheduling on request. We encourage families to visit together, making dental visits less stressful for children and helping to establish good oral hygiene habits from a young age.

dentistry for seniors

Geriatric Dentistry

  • Dental recession refers to the process where the gums recede or pull back from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth root. This condition may occur due to various factors, including aging, which can significantly impact dental health.

    As we age, the body undergoes numerous changes, and oral health is no exception. One common factor is the wear and tear of gum tissue, which can lead to a decrease in its strength and elasticity. Additionally, older adults may experience a higher incidence of periodontal disease, which is a primary cause of gum recession. When bacteria build up along the gumline, inflammation can occur, ultimately leading to the support structures around the teeth weakening and receding.

    Other contributing issues include aggressive brushing techniques or the use of hard-bristled toothbrushes, which can harm the delicate gum tissue. Furthermore, habits such as teeth grinding (bruxism) can create excessive pressure on the gums, compounding recession.

    The effects of gum recession may lead to increased sensitivity in the teeth, aesthetic concerns about the appearance of the smile, and ultimately a higher risk of decay and other dental issues if left untreated. It’s essential for individuals, especially seniors, to maintain regular dental check-ups and practice good oral hygiene routines to mitigate the risk of dental recession and preserve oral health.

  • Many older adults suffer from conditions like xerostomia (dry mouth), whether its medication induced, sleep apnea appliances, or mouth breathing. The saliva bathes and naturally cleanses teeth, and with reduced salivary flow, your teeth are more susceptible to decay. Decreased salivary flow can also affect your taste. We provide preventive treatments and home care recommendations that address these issues and enhance comfort.

  • Dental attrition refers to the wear and loss of tooth structure due to mechanical forces, typically from grinding or clenching the teeth. This condition affects both the enamel and the underlying dentin, leading to various dental problems, including sensitivity, changes in bite alignment, and increased risk of decay.

    Prevention

    Preventing dental attrition involves several proactive measures:

    1. Regular Dental Check-ups: Routine visits to the dentist can help identify signs of tooth wear early. Dentists can provide advice tailored to individual needs.

    2. Mouthguards: For individuals who grind their teeth at night (a condition known as bruxism), custom-fitted mouthguards can provide a protective barrier, reducing wear and tear on teeth.

    3. Stress Management: Since stress often contributes to teeth grinding, techniques such as relaxation therapies and mindfulness can be beneficial.

    4. Avoiding Hard Foods: Being mindful of the hardness of food can help minimize the risk of attrition. Chewing on hard substances can exacerbate wear on teeth.

    5. Education on Proper Tooth Care: Proper brushing and flossing techniques can also help in reducing attrition by maintaining overall dental health.

    Treatment

    If dental attrition has occurred, several treatment options may be recommended:

    1. Dental Work: Depending on the extent of wear, treatments may include dental bonding, crowns, or veneers to restore the shape and function of teeth.

    2. Orthodontics: In cases where bite misalignment contributes to attrition, orthodontic treatment may be necessary to correct the alignment and reduce pressure on specific teeth.

    3. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): For individuals with bruxism related to stress or anxiety, CBT may help manage grinding behaviors.

    4. Regular Monitoring: Ongoing visits to the dentist for monitoring can help address any further wear quickly before significant damage occurs.

    Timely intervention and consistent preventive measures are key to managing dental attrition effectively. Regular communication with your dental care provider can ensure a personalized approach to maintaining your oral health.

General dentistry for all ages

  • Riverview Dental Clinic fosters a welcoming and comfortable environment for patients of all ages, from young children to seniors, helping to ease any fears or anxieties. By providing comprehensive oral health services for multiple generations within the same family, we’re able to build lasting relationships, fostering a sense of trust and continuity of care.

  • As a general dentist, Dr. Shane offers a range of focused services tailored to address your specific oral health needs. Riverview Dental Clinic is well-equipped to provide comprehensive care, including preventive treatments, restorative procedures, and advanced treatment needs.

    For cases that require specialty dental care, such as oral surgery, orthodontics, endodontics, or periodontics, we'll bring in experienced partners to provide the exact care you need. This integrated approach allows for a seamless patient experience, ensuring that multidisciplinary needs are met within a familiar and comfortable environment.

  • Our uniquely trained dental professionals are skilled to handle the individualized dental needs of everyone who walks through our door. We’ll discuss the options with you, share our recommendations, and create a step-by-step plan to achieve the results you want. We invite you to have honest conversations about your treatment and how you experience it. Expect to be listened to and understood. And above all, expect to love the way you look and feel.