From crowns and bridges to Invisalign and more, Cross Creek Dental Care is invested in the smiles of Mount Vernon.
A t 917 Coshocton Ave., Cross Creek employs an expert team of dentists, hygienists, assistants and other vital support staff to provide a dental experience tailored to each patient.
“I really enjoy the small-town feel of Mount Vernon,” Dr. Dorothy Dunker, a dentist at Cross Creek, told the Mount Vernon News. “I love that I have gotten to know some of the people here very well, both our team and our patients. I love making close relationships with both the great people that I work with and our wonderful patients. I’ve made some of my closest friendships here at Cross Creek Dental Care.”
Dunker and her team offer services for crowns and bridges, dental implants, cosmetic dentistry, conventional and implant dentures, clear aligner orthodontics (Invisalign), oral surgery (extractions, bone grafting, tissue grafting) and endodontics (root canals).
The best action in maintaining good oral health is prevention, Dunker said. Tooth decay is caused by acidic and/or sweet foods that remain on the teeth over time; the bacteria that feeds on the residue creates an acidic environment, tooth erosion and cavities.
“It will make a much larger impact in the prevention of cavities to limit the time your teeth are exposed to something sweet or acidic, rather than to limit the amount,” Dunker said.
To stay proactive against tooth decay, Dunker recommended:
1. Brushing twice a day for two minutes using a soft toothbrush, followed by flossing every night. An electric toothbrush that detects when the user is brushing too hard can help prevent sensitivity and progression of gum recession.
2. Getting regular dental cleaning and exams, which, depending on oral health, may be every three, four or six months. Periodic X-ray screenings are also paramount to keeping teeth and gums healthy.
3. Choosing fluoride treatments at regular dental checkups can not only prevent new cavities but also greatly prolong the lifespan of existing fillings and crowns.
Dunker, a graduate of Case Western Reserve University, pursued a career in dentistry to continue her love of helping people and working with her hands.
“I’ve played violin since I was eight and taught violin during college and dental school. I also studied machining in high school and worked as a machinist while in college,” she said.
She is currently a fellow in implant dentistry through the International Congress of Oral Implantologists.
“I believe that we should try to save every tooth possible, and if we cannot save it, then we should try to replace the tooth,” Dunker said. “Not having all your teeth can cause many issues in the future, such as uneven wear on your remaining teeth, which can lead to TMJ disorders and fractured teeth."
Dunker said the use of dental implants can be the best means of replacing missing teeth, “in terms of chewing ability, speaking ability, and just getting your smile back.”
Cross Creek is an active member of the Chamber of Commerce and a regular attendee of First Fridays and sponsors various events such as the Mount Vernon girls softball league and the Chamber’s annual golf outing.
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