Preventative Treatments

One of the best ways to treat dental problems is to prevent them from happening in the first place! We offer a wide range of preventive treatments to keep your teeth healthy and strong. A few simple measures are all it takes to prevent some of the most common dental problems. Ask your dental professional if one of these may help you.

Fluoride Treatments
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Fluoride treatments can be beneficial for adults as well as children. In children, fluoride varnish is applied to teeth in order to harden enamel and prevent tooth decay. Many adult patients experience prompt relief from cold sensitivity when fluoride is applied to the root surfaces of their teeth. As we age, our gum tissue tends to shrink or “recede”, exposing softer root surfaces called cementum. Not only are these surfaces softer and more susceptible to decay, but they can be very sensitive to cold or sweet foods. Modern fluoride applications are not just for children anymore. More and more adults are having fluoride applied to their teeth during their routine dental cleaning appointments. Please ask your dentist or hygienist if you think that topical fluoride applications may be useful for you.

Fluoride treatment tools

Fluoride treatment

Sealants
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Dental germsDecay is caused by dental plaque, a thin, sticky, colorless deposit of bacteria that constantly forms on everyone’s teeth. When sugar comes in contact with teeth, the bacteria in plaque produce acids that attack the tooth enamel. After repeated acid attacks, the enamel breaks down, and a cavity is formed.

A sealant is a clear or shaded plastic material that is applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (premolars and molars), where decay occurs most often. This sealant acts as a barrier, protecting the decay-prone areas of the back teeth from plaque and acid.

Dental photosWhen the back teeth are developing, depressions and grooves form in the chewing surfaces of the enamel. These irregularities are called pits and fissures. They are impossible to keep clean, because the bristles of a tooth brush cannot reach into them. Therefore, pits and fissures are snug places for plaque and bits of food to hide. By forming a thin covering over the pits and fissures, sealants keep out plaque and food, and thus decrease the risk of decay.

Children receive the greatest benefit from having sealants applied to their teeth, especially to newly erupted permanent teeth. Sealants are recommended for all children, even those who receive topical applications of fluoride or who live in communities with fluoridated water. Fluoride helps fight decay on the smooth surfaces of the teeth, but it is less effective in pits and fissures.

Each tooth takes only a few minutes to seal. First, the teeth that will be sealed are cleaned. The chewing surfaces are then etched (roughened) with a weak acidic solution to help the sealant adhere to the teeth. Finally, the sealant is brushed on the tooth enamel and hardened with a special curing light.

Molar sealant on teeth
Chewing surface of a molar before sealant is applied
Molar sealant on teeth
The tooth is etched with a mild solution to help the sealant adhere
Molar sealant on teeth
Chewing surface of a molar protected by a shaded sealant

Photos courtesy of the American Dental Association

When sealant is applied, finger-like strands penetrate the pits and fissures of the tooth enamel. Although the sealant cannot be seen with the naked eye, the protective effect of these strands continues. As a result, it may be several years before another application of sealant is needed. Reapplication of the sealant will continue its protection against decay and may save the time and expense of having a tooth restored. Sealants are continually checked during your child’s regular dental visits to determine if reapplication is necessary.

Snore Guards
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A Snore Guard is an oral appliance that resembles a thin, double-sided athletic mouthpiece. It’s very small and flexible. These have no masks, hoses, or batteries like some conventional sleep apnea devices. Snore Guards are made from a clear acrylic material and are very easy to clean with a regular toothbrush.

Snore guard

This appliance uses normal body reflexes to keep the airway open during sleeping. The device fits snugly on the upper and lower teeth. When the lower jaw relaxes, it gently rocks forward in a normal position, rather than sagging open and back. This keeps the tongue from slumping back into the throat and blocking the airway. Once breathing is eased, normal sleep becomes much easier.

Bite Guards/Night Guards
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Bite Guards are acrylic (hardened plastic) coverings that protect teeth from damaging each other during periods of grinding or clenching. These guards or “splints” as they are sometimes called, can be worn on the upper or lower teeth, and can be constructed of a hard or soft material. They are usually worn at nighttime, because this is when most people unknowingly grind or clench their teeth. Many patients wake up each morning with headaches or sore jaws. This is often caused by a grinding or clenching motion of the jaws that dentists refer to as: ‘”Bruxism”. Bite guards are easy to wear, and have a high success rate in treating the painful symptoms of bruxism.


Bite guards

Bite guards

 

Some of the athletes in our practice benefit from a smaller, cushioned ‘Sports Guard”, which helps to help protect the teeth from impact damage. Certain sports, like soccer, football, hockey and basketball can result in severe damage to perfectly healthy teeth. A custom-fitted sports guard is very comfortable and easy to use while speaking.

Bite guards

Bite guards

 

What Our Patients Say

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This is a wonderful dental office, I have been going here for years. Pam is amazing. Dentists are great. I would highly recommend!

- Leslie E 01/16/2024

What Our Patients Say

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For the past twenty (20) years, the Oswego Dental Group has been my go to for all dental treatment needs. I have found that they consistently improve by providing excellent treatment using the most up-to-date practice tools and technologies. Additionally, the Staff from the front office to technicians are the best with a special shout-out to Pam.

- Roger B 01/09/2024

What Our Patients Say

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Dr. Milazzo and his staff were very attentive to my situation and were willing to make time for me the day I called. I would highly recommend Oswego Dental Group.

- Gail K

What Our Patients Say

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Our family needed to find a new dentist since ours retired. We were going to him for over 35 years so picking a new office was a little nerve racking. From the very beginning the office made us feel very welcome. My children were very nervous at first but the moment the hygienists called their names the nerves faded since they were both very warm, friendly and caring. They were even comfortable enough to go by themselves.
I also had Amy for my appointment the next week and she was excellent. Also, Dr. Milazzo was great as well. I highly recommend Oswego Dental Group!

- Brooke T

What Our Patients Say

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Dr. MacDonald is very personable and offers all treatment options! He makes dental visits less stressful! I highly recommend him!

- Eileen O 12/26/2023

What Our Patients Say

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My appointments always run smoothly. With their help, my teeth have been in great shape. Have been going there for more than 20 years.

- Sharlene M

What Our Patients Say

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Thanks Pam. Always does an outstanding job. Pam is very friendly and makes it a great experience. My teeth look great.

- Steve O 12/13/2023

What Our Patients Say

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From the start to finish true professionals, Dr.Milazzo explained every step, he made you feel at ease during the procedure.

- Christopher A 09/06/2023

What Our Patients Say

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Another great experience at Oswego Dental! Sally and Dr. MacDonald are amazing!

- Tina D

What Our Patients Say

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Always have the utmost faith in Dr. Milazzo’s dental skills and his staff is always so friendly and professional.

- Nancy H 08/22/2023

What Our Patients Say

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Jen is amazing, very informative and always makes myself feel comfortable and relaxed during my visit. Dr. Macdonald is very efficient as well. Highly recommend Oswego Dental group.

- Marissa M

What Our Patients Say

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Always very professional and friendly. Been coming here 30 years — the best!

- Cheryl J 09/05/2023

What Our Patients Say

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I’m grateful and thankful, everything was fine. Service was great, I had issue with my tooth and now I feel perfect. Thanks to doctor Tony 🙏

- Tina K 05/24/2023

What Our Patients Say

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Dr. Milazzo was amazing with my 7 year old daughter. She got her first filling done and I loved that he spoke to HER (as the patient) and not just me. He showed her what everything did and sounded like before he started. He also explained what everything was that was going in her mouth. I was very impressed with how everything went! The dental hygienists are also amazing!

- Lindsay C 06/13/2023

What Our Patients Say

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Absolutely fantastic from Theresa, to Liseldy upfront!

To the amazing Ann and Dr Milazzo!

Highly recommend you make these folks at Oswego Dental, on route 71, your go to for all dentistry!

- Christopher C. 01/18/2023

What Our Patients Say

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I’ve been going to Oswego Dental for 20+ years. Not your typical Dentist Office that you dread to go to. Warm and welcoming with a great staff! Amy, Pam and Sally are the best!

- Bryan C 01/26/2023

What Our Patients Say

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Very happy with my care at this office. I have not had a hygienist or dentist at this office that hasn’t treated me very compassionately and professionally. Have been a patient here over 30 years!

- Tom B. 07/13/2022

What Our Patients Say

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Teeth look amazing!!! I would highly recommend Oswego Dental Group if you are looking to have work done!

- David L. 05/23/2022

What Our Patients Say

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Super friendly and very professional. My whole family have been patients there for many years. Wouldn’t think of going anywhere else.

- Kevin O. 04/15/2022

What Our Patients Say

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I have been going to Oswego Dental Group for years. They are excellent. Pam has been my hygienist and she is thorough, extremely professional and very kind. My family and I highly recommend this dental office.

- Wendy K. 04/11/2022

What Our Patients Say

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Another great experience from the Oswego Dental Group! Jen took great care of my teeth, they have never looked so white! Everyone was super friendly and made sure I was comfortable through my whole visit. See you in 6 months!

- Collin M. 03/02/2022

What Our Patients Say

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Our family has been seen by this practice for many years. Always professional and thorough. They have taken great care of us! Highly recommend!

- Susan R. 01/25/2022

What Our Patients Say

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Dr. Milazzo and Dr. MacDonald are awesome!! So glad I found them after I moved to their area. They are the best. Pam cleans my teeth and she is wonderful, painless too! They take very good care of my teeth! If you are looking for a new Dentist and a good office, then this place is for you!

- Marion G. 06/24/2021

What Our Patients Say

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Dr Milazzo, Sally and the whole staff are the best. THE BEST. I was a mess and had been in pain for a long time before finally finding Dr. Milazzo. I spent a lot of time and a lot of money going to another dentist that just kept making everything worse…I was literally living on protien drinks because it hurt too much to chew. It took a little time (I needed a lot of work done) but Dr Milazzo fixed everything and I can finally eat again. I’m forever grateful for Oswego Dental Group and would without hesitation recommend them.

- Sonya 05/25/2021

What Our Patients Say

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Great experience! Amy did a great job cleaning my teeth and Dr. MacDonald was also professional and very thorough and helped me understand what treatment options were available to me. I highly recommend this dental practice!

- Kristina L. 02/23/2021

What Our Patients Say

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Oswego Dental Group has a staff of kind and caring hygienists and the entire staff does a great job of keeping the entire office clean and safe for people coming in as well as for themselves.

- Karen A. 12/28/2020

What Our Patients Say

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Dr. Milazzo’s dental office is fabulous!!! Very patient friendly!! Sally my dental hygienist is awesome!! Very personable, thorough and gentle!! I love the way you feel after a cleaning! I would not go anywhere else!!

- Cheryl K. 09/22/2020

What Our Patients Say

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I have been a dental patient at the Oswego Dental Group for nearly 15 years and have always been very happy with the care that I have received. Dr MacDonald and all of the hygienists I have ever had are fantastic people and do a great job on my teeth! Love coming here!

- Susan E. 08/18/2020

What Our Patients Say

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Very friendly staff and professional. Always a great experience.

- Kristine F. 04/09/2020

What Our Patients Say

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Always a great experience.

- John S. 02/09/2020

What Our Patients Say

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I love going to my dentist! For 13 years I have never been disappointed and I greatly appreciate how personable and kind the Hygenists have always been! Today my visit was with Pam. I appreciate the time she took to ask how My family and I were going. Dr, MacDonald also took the time to explain a small upcoming procedure I would be having and in doing so put my doubts at ease! Thank you!!!!

- Jeanne P. 02/08/2020

What Our Patients Say

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Best dentist experience. Everyone from the receptionist to Dr Milazzo and Dr Macdonald are very friendly. Pam is an amazing dental hygienist. She is absolutely fantastic. Extremely thorough and friendly. I’m sure everyone is great as well but I’ve only had the pleasure of having my teeth cleaned by Pam and have no need to search elsewhere. Thanks everyone at Oswego Dental Group for making my dental visit a good one.

- Ryan I. 08/17/2019