Atraumatic Restorative Treatment

Atraumatic Restorative Treatment (ART) is a minimally invasive dental procedure designed to manage dental caries (cavities) and restore teeth without the use of anesthetic and dental drills 

This technique focuses on removing decayed tooth material using hand instruments, followed by placing a restorative material, which bonds to the tooth and releases fluoride to help prevent further decay.

Benefits for Kids

  1. Reduced Fear and Anxiety: ART is less intimidating than traditional drilling, making it ideal for young children who may be fearful of dental procedures.

  2. Prevention-Oriented: The fluoride-releasing material helps protect against future cavities, supporting overall dental health from a young age.

  3. Accessibility: ART can be performed in various settings, including home visits, improving access to dental care for children.

Benefits for Seniors

Atraumatic Restorative Treatment for Seniors

  1. Comfort: ART is gentle and less invasive, which is particularly beneficial for seniors who may have mobility concerns, trouble with longer appointments or getting to the dental office.

  2. Preservation of Tooth Structure: The minimally invasive nature of ART helps preserve more of the natural tooth structure.

  3. Prevention of Further Decay: The fluoride-releasing properties of the restorative material aid in preventing additional caries, supporting long-term oral health.

  4. Convenience: ART can be easily provided in senior facilities or home care settings, offering a practical solution for seniors with limited access to traditional dental offices.

Our Atraumatic Restorative Treatment (ART) process

Our Atraumatic Restorative Treatment (ART) process is designed to provide you with effective, and convenient dental care.

Here’s what you can expect when you choose
My Mobile Dental Hygienist for your ART procedure:

1. Initial Consultation and Assessment

  • Comprehensive Evaluation: Our dental hygienist will examine your teeth and gums to identify any cavities.

  • Personalized Care Plan: We create a customized treatment plan based on your needs.

2. Preparation for ART

  • Comfort First: We ensure you are comfortable before starting. Our mobile setup brings the treatment to your home.

  • Gentle Cleaning: The affected tooth area is cleaned to prepare for treatment.

3. Decay Removal

  • Minimally Invasive Technique: Using hand instruments, our dental hygienist gently removes the decayed tooth material, avoiding drills.

  • Preservation of Tooth Structure: We focus on removing only the decayed portion.

4. Cavity Filling

  • Application of Glass Ionomer Cement: The cavity is filled with biocompatible cement that releases fluoride to protect the tooth.

5. Post-Treatment Care and Follow-Up

  • Immediate Guidance: After the procedure, we provide instructions for caring for your treated tooth.

  • Follow-Up Appointments: We monitor your progress and address any concerns.

How we ensure your safety:

  • Sterilization is done in a dental office area that has been inspected by the College or Registered Dental Hygienists of Alberta meeting the highest standards.

  • Plastic barriers and pre-sterilized containers are used to prevent cross-contamination and ensure client safety.

  • Adherence to the Freedom of Personal Information Protection Act and the Health Information Act.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Coverage for ART may vary depending on your insurance plan. Our team will also work with you to verify if your dental plan covers this treatment.

  • Yes, one of the significant advantages of ART is its suitability for in-home dental care.

    Our mobile dental service allows us to perform ART in the comfort of your home, making it a convenient option for patients of all ages.

  • The need for ART treatments depends on your oral health and the occurrence of cavities. Regular dental checkups will help us monitor your oral health and determine if and when ART treatments are necessary.

  • ART is beneficial for patients of all ages, including children and seniors. It is particularly advantageous for those who experience anxiety with traditional dental procedures or have difficulty accessing conventional dental care.

  • Unlike traditional fillings that often require drilling, ART uses hand instruments to gently remove decay, making it less invasive and more comfortable.

    The filling material used in ART also releases fluoride, which helps protect the tooth from further decay.

  • ART is most effective for treating small to medium-sized cavities. However, it is not suitable for all types of caries.
    We will assess the appropriateness of this treatment during your oral exam.

  • The duration of the ART procedure varies depending on the number and size of the cavities being treated. Generally, the process is quick, often taking less time than traditional filling methods.

  • During the procedure, you can expect minimal discomfort as the decayed material is gently removed and the cavity is filled.

    After the procedure, you will receive instructions on how to care for your treated tooth. Some patients may experience slight sensitivity, but this typically subsides quickly.

  • ART (Atraumatic Restorative Treatment) fillings are designed to be a temporary solution for dental restorations. While they provide effective treatment, their longevity is limited, generally lasting between 2 to 5 years depending on factors such as the patient's oral hygiene, dietary habits, and the location of the filling.

If you have any additional questions about Atraumatic Restorative Treatment or would like to schedule a consultation, please contact us today!

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Serving Cochrane, Airdrie, Calgary, Okotoks and beyond.