This section gives an overview of the services offered on the Brush Brush Bus.

Typical services offered on the Brush Brush Bus:

• Exams - Close inspection of the teeth and gums and also inside and outside of the mouth, face, and neck for any deviations from normal.
  
  
• X-Rays - Radiographs (the proper term for pictures taken with X-rays) taken to look at what is happening beneath the visible oral tissues (http://www.ada.org/public/topics/alpha.asp).
  
  
• Cleanings - Removal of bacterial plaque, tarter, and stain from the tooth surface and gums to promote healthy tissue and teeth (also called prophy or prophylaxis).
  
  
• Fluoride Treatments - Flavored gel that is painted on the teeth to strengthen the teeth from cavities and help heal any beginning cavities.
  
  
• Sealants - Dental sealants act as a barrier, protecting the teeth against decay-causing bacteria. The sealants are usually applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (premolars and molars) where decay occurs most often (Click here for more information about Sealants).
  
  
• Extractions - Removal of the tooth ("having a tooth pulled").
  
  
• Fillings - Silver or tooth colored material that is put on a tooth after the cavity is removed.
  
  
• Root Canal Therapy - Inside each tooth is the pulp, which provides nutrients and nerves to the tooth, it runs like a thread down through the root. When the pulp is diseased or injured, the pulp tissue dies. If not removed, the tooth gets infected and could be lost. After the dentist removes the pulp, the root canal is cleaned and sealed off to protect it. Then a crown is placed over the tooth to help make it stronger (http://www.ada.org/public/topics/alpha.asp).
  
  
• Caps/Crowns - A crown can protect a weak tooth and improve its appearance. The possible uses of crowns include to cover and support a tooth with a large filling or after a root canal when there is not enough tooth left. It can be used to attach a bridge, protect a weak tooth from breaking or restore a tooth already broken. A crown is a good way to cover teeth that are discolored or badly shaped (http://www.ada.org/public/topics/alpha.asp).
  

In addition to offering these services, every child seen on the bus receives instruction on proper oral hygiene techniques.