Restorative Dentistry in Athens

Restore comfort, function, and beauty at TLC Dental Spa!


A lot of the work we perform in our office is restorative in nature. When consulting with patients, Dr. Mathew provides in-depth information that will help each individual understand their dental condition. In addition to discussing the existing problem and proposed treatment for correction, Dr. Mathew will talk with patients about how to keep teeth and gums healthy through routine care and oral hygiene. Assisting our patients with the highest level of personal dental attention is important to us. 


Athens Restorative Dentistry

Why restorative care may be needed 


There is more to the average tooth than meets the eye. When you look at your teeth, you see the hard outer layer of enamel. Enamel is the hardest substance found in the human body. It is ideal for the preservation of healthy teeth. Beneath enamel is dentin. We often refer to this as a "softer" material because it is, in fact, less harder than enamel. Dentin, however, is about as hard as bone. Clearly, each of these parts of the tooth are pretty strong. That being the case, why do so many people need restorative dental care?


Time, foods, oral habits, bacteria and other factors all impact the health and longevity of natural teeth. One of the most significant factors in tooth damage is oral bacteria. Literally hundreds of different types of bacteria may be present in a person's mouth at any given time. It is the imbalance of bacteria that leads to an overly acidic environment. Acidity is extremely rough on enamel and dentin. When the acidic byproduct of oral bacteria sits on teeth, enamel breaks down and a cavity forms. On the gums, this acidity weakens the hold that gum tissue has on teeth, leading to inflammation and infection that does not easily heal. 


Getting your best smile is easy


Patients who visit TLC Dental Spa will find that our experienced team offers all aspects of restorative dentistry. At the heart of our practice is a dedication to conservative care. Assessing damage, Dr. Mathew considers how to replicate natural structure with strong, durable and lifelike materials that will assure long lasting function. From tooth colored fillings to crowns and bridges to root canal therapy, we place your comfort and peace of mind in a position of priority.


Don't let dental problems linger. Contact our office for early intervention that will preserve your best smile. 


Patient snoozes through the procedures.
15 Sep, 2023
What is Sedation Dentistry? By Dr. Anita Mathew of TLC Dental Spa It’s Thursday afternoon, and our assistants are preparing the treatment suite for the next day’s morning patient. As they prepare, the assistants have their heads lifted high with a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Why, you ask? You see, this patient hasn’t been to the dentist in decades, due to dental anxiety from past traumatic experiences. So tomorrow, we are going to address decades of neglect dental issues and give her back her oral health and confidence. She no longer has to hide her smile. We know we can help her, as Dr. Mathew is one of the very few dentists certified in conscious sedation in Northeast Georgia. The patient had a pre-op appointment earlier today, and we checked her vitals, went over the process, explained how the next day would go, dispensed the required medication, and gave all necessary instructions, including not eating after midnight. On the day of the procedure, it is crucial to have a responsible adult accompany the patient to and from the dental office, as the effects of the sedation may linger even after the procedure. Friday morning, the patient is welcomed by our rock star team and is promptly taken to the surgical suite. The suite ambiance is set to a calm and quiet pace, with relaxing music, dim lights, plush blankets, and massage chairs. Once the patient is sedated, the doctor and her assistants work in tandem like a beautifully choreographed dance team. The patient’s vitals are closely monitored throughout the procedure to ensure their safety. In some cases, the patient may be given additional sedation if needed, though the dosage is carefully regulated to avoid any risks. Throughout the visit, the patient is able to respond to the doctor's instructions, although the patient is in a twilight zone and will have little to no memory of the procedure. After the procedure is complete, the assistants wheel the patient to their car. The patient will continue to feel drowsy for the rest of the day and is strictly instructed not to drive or operate any machinery. Additional instructions are given for post-op care. What the patient thought would be impossible for her, all these decades, has become possible today!!! Have you been putting off going to the dentist because you are afraid or too busy? Here is what Conscious sedation can do: ● Anxiety and Fear Management: Conscious sedation helps achieve a deeper state of relaxation and comfort. You will have little to no memory of your dental visit. ● Increased Pain Tolerance: Sedation can raise a patient's pain threshold, reducing the discomfort experienced during certain dental procedures. ● Time Efficiency: With improved patient cooperation, dental treatments can often be completed in fewer appointments; imagine having years of needed dental care in just one or two appointments while you rest comfortably through your visit. ● Before you know it, you will have a beautiful, healthy smile. Dr. Mathew at TLC Dental Spa is one of the very few dentists in the region who are certified to provide dental treatment under conscious sedation. When administered by certified, trained professionals, it is a safe and effective solution for patients who find dental visits stressful. We have patients who travel from near and far to experience Dentistry Differently.
By Anita Mathew 27 Jan, 2021
Athens Orthodontics and invisalign The alignment of teeth is important not only to your appearance (it's one of the first things people notice!) but also to your oral health and your overall sense of confidence. If you have a few teeth that just aren't where they are supposed to be, or your oral health is suffering due to overcrowding, we can help. Braces used to mean something far different than they do today. As more people are learning about the innovative advances in orthodontic care, we have seen an increased interest in correcting cosmetic and bite issues. We are happy to help you feel better about your smile with Invisalign treatment. Invisalign has become a very common way for men, women, and teens to achieve healthier, more attractive smiles. Not so long ago, to straighten teeth meant you had to wear metal brackets and wires 24/7 for a minimum of twelve months. Invisalign has no brackets or wires. This system, however, has been proven extremely effective for the needs of many people. The Invisalign system is based on the orthodontic principle that continual force moves teeth. Force, however, is applied through clear plastic aligners rather than brackets and wires. Aligners are made from detailed imaging and state-of-the-art animation achieved with the latest software. Before your course of treatment begins, you will be able to see each step of the process that will lead you to your best smile.
By Anita Mathew 27 Jan, 2021
How Invisalign works for our patients If your teeth are not positioned as they should be, you may feel self-conscious when you speak, laugh and smile. At the same time, you may feel apprehensive about wearing braces. Most people think of orthodontic treatment as a lengthy period behind brackets and wires. Even when orthodontic fixtures are tooth-colored, they can feel bulky. Rather than assume you would need to wear traditional braces for a few years, you can learn about Invisalign and the possibilities of treatment from your Athens dentist. Invisalign can correct misalignment as well as common bite issues. Clear plastic aligners are designed by sophisticated software that turns images of your bite into an animation of progressive movement. In predictable steps, the series of aligners makes positive changes to the way teeth fit together. Week by week, you get a front row seat to your smile transformation. How Invisalign works After a comprehensive evaluation and discussion of your expectations, Dr. Mathew will take the appropriate images and impressions of your teeth. Before the aligners are made, you will be shown a treatment plan that lays out the expected correction of misalignment. Once you and Dr. Mathew agree that the recommended approach is satisfactory, your aligners will be ordered. Throughout your treatment, you will wear your custom-fit aligners at all times except for meals and oral hygiene. The fact that there are no permanent fixtures on teeth makes Invisalign appealing to teens and adults of all ages. Proper wear is important because it dictates your results and the time in which they are achieved. Each set of aligners is worn for two weeks. As you progress through your series of trays, you will see your teeth come into beautiful, healthy alignment. Invisalign gives you the opportunity to have a smile that you love to share. To learn more about your options for orthodontic treatment, contact TLC Dental Spa for a convenient appointment.
By Anita Mathew 27 Jan, 2021
Athens Dental Sealants
By Anita Mathew 27 Jan, 2021
Children's dentistry services benefit developing smiles In every stage of life, oral hygiene is an important aspect of health and wellness. Parents are encouraged to see baby teeth as valuable as they do permanent teeth. These temporary fixtures in the mouth are there for a reason, and simply because they are there, we see good reason to offer the very best children's dentistry services to our Athens patients. The important role of baby teeth Baby teeth are in the mouth for a relatively short time. Even so, they serve a vital purpose in oral development. Their presence enables the toddler to learn proper speaking and chewing habits. These teeth serve as guides to permanent teeth, holding space for the larger teeth while the jaw develops and expands. Until all baby teeth have been replaced by adult teeth, they require routine care aimed at the prevention of uncomfortable dental issues. Caring for your child's baby teeth Most babies develop their first teeth by the age of nine months. Earlier than six months and later than one year is also normal. Typically, the two lower teeth are seen first, followed by the top two. As new teeth make their way through the gums, it is common for the child to experience some degree of irritation. We are happy to meet with you to discuss ways to improve your baby's comfort through the teething process. Oral care actually begins before teething! After your baby is fed, gums should be gently cleaned with a soft, moist cloth. Once teeth begin to grow in, they should be brushed daily with a soft toothbrush designed for infant care. At this time, you should make your child's first dental appointment. Early dental care The primary intent of children's dental care is to prevent oral disease. At Athens TLC Dental, Dr. Mathew performs routine exams, demonstrates brushing technique, and performs preventive treatment such as dental sealants to keep teeth in their healthiest condition. Because caries can travel quickly through the enamel of baby teeth toward softer dentin, it is important that children see their dentist every six months. It is important to us to provide gentle care in a nurturing environment. We do not take lightly our responsibility in helping your child develop a positive attitude toward dentistry. When you visit our office, you can feel confident knowing we will keep your child comfortable. Schedule your family's dental care at TLC Dental Spa today. Call +1 706.546.6451.
By Anita Mathew 26 Jan, 2021
When to schedule a visit to your Athens children's dentist
By Anita Mathew 26 Jan, 2021
Athens Children's Dentistry Early dental care is imperative for the prevention of unnecessary pain for your child – and heartache for you. At TLC Dental Spa, we welcome children into our practice. Statistics show that children who have a dental home are more likely to receive the preventative care they need to avoid cavities and other dental problems. Additionally, we know from research that children whose early dental experiences are positive and preventative rather than aimed at repairing damaged teeth are less fearful of dental care as they grow up. A mother to 4-year-old twins, Dr. Mathew has the distinct pleasure of relating with her patients as they teach their children the ins and outs of oral health. Dr. Mathew and our loving dental team encourage parents to bring their children in every six months. A lot can happen in that time. When you visit our office, we will do everything we can to make your child comfortable and at ease as we perform a thorough exam, including x-rays. With routine care and regular cleanings, your child's smile can stay bright, happy, and healthy as it grows. A six-month schedule for routine dental care means greater familiarity with the dental office, close monitoring of oral development, and the ability to focus on education - all forms of care that promote good feelings between children and their dentist! We offer numerous services for children and adults of all ages. In addition to exams, x-rays and cleanings, our patients may talk with Dr. Mathew about custom mouth guards for sports or night guards for children who grind or clench their teeth at night. Each type of mouth guard is specifically made to reduce force on teeth and the jaw during various activities. Though it is possible to find this essential gear in your local store, the degree of protection provided by off-the-shelf products is minimal. An early start gives your child the best chance at avoiding uncomfortable dental problems. Call TLC Dental Spa to schedule your family's visit.
By Anita Mathew 26 Jan, 2021
Athens Total Mouth Reconstruction What begins as a small dental problem can evolve into something very concerning if treatment is not performed in a timely manner. For several reasons, many people do not see the dentist. The unfortunate consequence that occurs when dental care is avoided, however, is that the smile suffers immensely. Avoiding dental care only hurts you! At TLC Dental Spa, we do not make you feel bad for your state of oral health. We do not judge or lecture, we understand. Dr. Mathew has advanced training as a prosthodontist and has a great deal of experience helping patients restore teeth and their smile after they have developed complex dental problems. Advanced decay, gum disease, chronic pain, or lost teeth can leave you feeling hopeless. Under our gentle and friendly care, you can regain your oral health and your sense of confidence. Contact us today. Full mouth reconstruction is a process rather than a single treatment. This level of care often involves finding solutions for failing and missing teeth. During a comprehensive visit, Dr. Mathew performs an examination that will identify immediate needs as well as long-term goals. The details of your dental problems and the recommended treatments will be fully explained to you, as well as an estimated time for the completion of care. In many cases, full mouth reconstruction addresses one or two problems at a time. For instance, if teeth are failing due to decay, we may schedule either repair or extraction, depending on the extent of damage. If tooth loss has occurred, we must determine why. Often, the underlying issue is tissue damage caused by gum disease. In this type of case, it is imperative that we address the infection in the gums so that we may plan the most suitable form of tooth replacement. Due to the complexity of full mouth reconstruction, patience is essential. Throughout the entire process, Dr. Mathew will consult with you so that there are no questions about the next step. Every person is different, which means that a course of treatment may take just a few visits, a few months, or up to a year. What is important is achievement of the outcome. As we work together to address the needs of your smile, you will reap the benefit of Dr. Mathew's expertise and her gentle touch. Don't let problems with teeth and gums dictate your quality of life; take control of your oral health with our help. Call TLC Dental Spa today.
By Anita Mathew 26 Jan, 2021
Most people visit the dentist for examination and cleanings for their teeth. While this is a cornerstone of dental care, Dr. Anita Mathew also helps patients who are dealing with problems stemming from dysfunction in the jaw. At the back of the jaw are two joints, one on each side. The temporomandibular joints enable you to move your lower jaw in numerous directions. Surrounding these joints, often referred to as the TMJs, are integral structures that include vessels, muscles and ligaments. The harmonious coordination between these various components is essential to proper function. What happens in some cases is the joints endure excessive stress. If stress builds up, it is possible to experience TMD, or temporomandibular disorder. Athens TMD TMD explained Dysfunction in the TMJs may occur for a number of reasons. For one person it may be a gum-chewing or nail-biting habit. For another, slight malocclusion, or issues with the way teeth fit together when they chew, is what places stress on the jaw. The role of your dentist is to identify where the problem may stem from so that the right solution can be found. Depending on the circumstances, TMD may be treated with a "wait and watch" approach or with certain lifestyle modifications. For instance, patients who tend to chew gum the majority of their waking hours will be asked to stop this habit for a time. Stress-relieving exercises may also be recommended. One of the common treatments for this uncomfortable condition is a custom mouth guard. This is because a large number of patients who present with TMD grind or clench their teeth excessively when they sleep. This underlying cause of TMD is called bruxism, and it is something most of us do to some extent. Grinding and clenching are quite common. In some, however, the force exerted is too much for the oral structure and for teeth. A custom oral appliance is worn during sleep. It acts as a buffer that absorbs shock when grinding or clenching occurs. Since bruxism is a subconscious habit that is not likely to stop, the nighttime mouth guard may be worn indefinitely to protect teeth and the jaw. If your jaw pops or clicks when you open and close your mouth, you have good reason to see Dr. Anita Mathew for a TMD consultation. Treating TMD early can help you avoid other uncomfortable symptoms such as jaw and face pain or chronic headaches. Contact our office today to receive personal attention that gets results.
By Anita Mathew 26 Jan, 2021
Services provided by cosmetic dentist in the Athens area Dr. Anita Mathew and the team at TLC Dental Spa are proud to provide patients of all ages with quality care and attention. Many patients visit for cleanings and exams, while others may require extensive work for better dental health. Many patients visit our practice for cosmetic dental care. Our dentist offers a number of solutions for patients who are unhappy with the appearance of their teeth and gums. Below is a small sample of the cosmetic treatments available in our office: Teeth whitening – a brighter smile is often at the top of the list of patients' goals. Our practice offers solutions to remove deep, unsightly stains from the enamel of the natural teeth for long-term results! Dental implants – missing teeth can impact not only the appearance of the smile but also functionality. We encourage patients who are seeking permanent options for tooth replacement to consider the benefits of dental implants. Specialty dentures – traditional full dentures often get a bad rap for being unnatural in appearance and ill-fitting. This is why our practice provides specialty dentures to patients for optimum results. Orthodontics – traditional braces and alternatives such as Invisalign are readily available at Athens TLC Dental for children, teenagers, and adults interested in improving alignment concerns. Crowns and bridges – often used in restorative and general dentistry, crowns and bridges can repair the smile. Crowns are used to cover weak or imperfect teeth and provide an extra layer of protection, while bridges are fabricated to replace missing teeth with a fixed alternative to partial dentures. Smile makeovers – a combination of these treatments can be used by our patients to design a complete smile makeover. Patients can have one or more services performed at each appointment to quickly and easily enhance the entire smile. Smile makeovers can dramatically enhance the smile when a variety of treatments are combined! At Athens TLC Dental, we treat smiles with tender loving care. Contact our practice today at (706) 546-6451 to visit our facility and meet our friendly, caring team of professionals. Transforming your smile is easier than you may imagine. The most complex aspect of cosmetic dentistry is not necessarily the treatment you select but determining what you wish to achieve through the artistic remodeling of teeth. During your consultation with Dr. Mathew, you may identify concerns you didn't realize you had! For instance, you may know that you want your smile to look better, but you may not know that, to look better, you want the size or shape of a few teeth changed. You may know that you want a brighter smile but may not know that there is such a thing as too white. If the brightness of your smile does not complement your natural facial complexion and coloring, the result could look unnatural. There is immense benefit in collaborating with your experienced cosmetic dentist about the treatment or treatments that will achieve your most natural, most beautiful look. You can love your smile! Contact TLC Dental Spa today.
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