Services Provided layers

+ Dental Implants

Dental implants are truly one of the biggest breakthroughs in dentistry of the last century. A dental implant is a synthetic structure that is placed in the space once occupied by the root of the removed tooth. The implant fuses with the jaw and provides a stable platform for a replacement tooth. Previously if a tooth was lost due to disease or damage the only options for replacement involved bulky dentures or bridges that negatively affect the remaining teeth. Implants provide an excellent treatment option that is not only more comfortable but longer lasting. If you have questions about whether implants are a good option for you please let us know. Implant consultations are complimentary, and our dentist can discuss with you what options would be best to replace your missing teeth.

+ Technology

Dentistry has come a long ways in 50 years. We live in a highly technical world and dentistry is no different. Here at Sonterra Dental we are investing a considerable amount of time and financial means to ensure that we stay at the cutting edge of technology available to us. We do this to make sure that our patients receive the best possible care in the most comfortable atmosphere possible. Some of the pieces of technology we are currently using include 3D Cone Beam for dental implants, T-Scan for adjusting teeth that are sore or even treat some chronic headaches and TMJ problems. We also are on the forefront of Biologic Materials, meaning that we are using materials created from your blood to aid in healing after a surgery. This sounds like a big deal but it really is not, all we do is take a few vials of blood and create biologic membranes that are filled with your growth factors that quicken healing and give improved outcomes.

+ IV Sedation

IV sedation, also known as "Conscious sedation" or "Twilight sedation", is a method which medications are administered through an intravenous line. Dr. Woolwine understands that most of us have some sort of anxiety when we go to the dentist for one reason or another. Sedation is a great way to relieve that anxiety and not remember much, if any, of the procedure. I.V. Sedation allows for a quick and predictable onset of action and allows Dr. Woolwine the ability to readily increase or decrease your level of sedation as needed. Shortly after starting the sedation, patients enter a relaxed, calm state that is maintained for the duration of the procedure. Though you are still conscious and able to respond to verbal cues throughout the procedure, it is the most effective method of reducing anxiety and overall awareness. Patient's vital signs are monitored continuously throughout the procedure, ensuring your safety.

+ Cosmetic

We understand how important your smile is to you. One of the first things that we notice about someone when we meet them is their teeth. Dr. Woolwine understands that you are looking for a dentist who will listen to precisely what you would like to accomplish with your cosmetic needs while still maintaining the function and health of your teeth. Our relationship begins with you telling and showing us exactly how you would like your teeth and smile to look. It is then up to us to help you understand what can (and sometimes cannot) be done to accomplish your cosmetic dental goals. Many cosmetic dentistry options are available, such as invisilign or clear braces, porcelain veneers, and dental implants. We also offer sedation dentistry in the San Antonio area so you can be relaxed and comfortable during your dental procedures.

+ Emergency

We are sorry that you have to visit this tab. Please give us a call ASAP because time is of the essence for some dental emergencies. Other dental emergencies may not be as time restrictive as others, however we will be sure to see you quickly. If a tooth has come out, place the tooth in milk (if there is quick access); if not place it in an area of the mouth. This will help the tooth stay alive longer.

+ Periodontics

This is perhaps one of the more overlooked areas of dental practice and is therefore something that we are sure to check when you become our patient. Periodontics deals with the supporting structures of the tooth, namely the gums and bone. When the gums are not cared for properly they can become inflamed which results in red, puffy gums that bleed easily. This condition is known as gingivitis. Gingivitis can progress into periodontal disease if left untreated. Periodontal disease or periodontitis is a serious condition in which the bone that supports the teeth recedes or pulls away from the tooth and as a result the tooth can lose some of its stability.

+ Endodontics

Endodontics is another name for the dreaded “root canal.” Root canals have a somewhat undeserved bad reputation in popular culture. This is most likely due to the fact that a root canal most often becomes necessary after the tooth is already in a great deal of pain from infection. This infection can come from a large cavity that has reached the nerve or pulp in the center of the tooth or it can also come from the tooth being cracked or damaged. The pulp consists of nerves, blood vessels, and other soft tissues that reside in the middle of the tooth and extends all the way down the roots in tiny “canals.” The root canal procedure involves removing all of the diseased tissue from the center of the tooth and down the canals, disinfecting the inside of the tooth and stopping the disease process, and filling the canals with a flexible material that prevents reinfection of the root canal spaces. The root canal procedure allows for the saving of teeth that would otherwise have to be extracted. Once a root canal is performed on a tooth a crown is usually placed to strengthen the remaining tooth structure and restore the tooth to proper function and appearance. Root canals are really not as bad as people fear and most often the patient feels very little soreness after the procedure.