Are you due for a dental checkup, or has it been a while since your last visit? Regular dental care can help you keep a healthy smile. At our Dallas, TX, dental office, we provide general dentistry services to prevent minor issues from becoming major problems. General dentistry keeps your teeth and gums healthy so you can maintain a strong foundation for your smile.
General dentistry focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and treating dental issues to maintain oral health. This type of care includes routine cleanings, exams, and preventive treatments to protect your teeth from decay and gum disease. General dentistry is also the foundation of other dental services, whether you need cosmetic or restorative treatments. By keeping up with regular visits, you can prevent larger problems down the road.
What is Preventive Dentistry?
Preventive dentistry involves treatments designed to stop dental problems before they worsen. By visiting us regularly for cleanings, exams, and other general care, you can protect your smile from common issues like tooth decay and gum disease.
Cleanings and Exams
During a routine visit, we perform thorough cleanings and exams for patients of all ages. Cleanings remove plaque and tartar from areas that are hard to reach with regular brushing and flossing. Our hygienists use special tools to clear away buildup, and we finish by polishing your teeth to give them a smooth, clean surface. This is important because only professional cleaning can remove tartar, which often forms in places you can’t reach with a toothbrush.
X-Rays
We also use digital X-rays at regular visits to look at areas of your teeth, gums, and jaw that can’t be seen with the naked eye. X-rays allow us to find signs of decay, bone loss, or other problems early, so we can treat them before they become more serious. By catching these issues early, we can recommend treatments to prevent them from getting worse.
Screenings for Common Issues
Routine checkups include screenings for gum disease and oral cancer. We look for signs of inflammation, bleeding, or gum recession that may signal the beginning stages of gum disease. If we find any concerns, we may suggest a deep cleaning to protect your gums. We also screen for signs of oral cancer, such as sores or patches in the mouth that don’t heal.
Our general dental treatments include emergency care and root canal therapy, which help protect your oral health. Most dental emergencies happen suddenly and need quick attention to prevent further issues. We provide emergency care for those situations, so you don’t have to wait to get help.
General Dental Services in Dallas, TX
We offer a full range of general dental services to support your oral health, whether it’s time for a routine visit or you need urgent care. Some of our key services include:
Root Canal Treatment
A root canal treatment can save a tooth that has a deep infection. Each tooth has small channels, or root canals, running from the top of the tooth to the roots. When decay or injury allows bacteria to reach the inner tissue, known as the pulp, it can cause pain and swelling. If left untreated, this infection can spread and cause an abscess or even tooth loss.
During a root canal, our dentist removes the infected tissue, cleans the inner chamber, and seals it to prevent further infection. This treatment usually requires one to three visits, depending on the severity of the infection. Afterward, we may place a crown on the tooth for extra strength. With a successful root canal, you can keep your natural tooth and avoid the need for extraction.
Emergency Dentistry
We also provide emergency dental care for problems that need immediate attention, such as a knocked-out tooth, severe toothache, or a broken tooth. If you experience a dental emergency, call our office right away. We’ll give you tips on managing pain or swelling at home until you can come in for treatment. If you have a physical injury, such as a blow to the mouth, visit a hospital first, as we want to make sure you receive the best care for your situation.
Keeping Up with Good Oral Health Habits
Along with regular dental visits, keeping up with daily care at home is key to a healthy smile. Here are some tips for good oral hygiene:
- Brush and Floss Daily: Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, using gentle, circular motions. Make sure to clean each surface of your teeth, including the back and chewing areas. Floss once a day to remove food particles and plaque from between teeth, where brushing can’t reach.
- Clean Your Tongue: Bacteria can build up on your tongue and contribute to bad breath, so remember to brush your tongue as well. You can use your toothbrush or a tongue scraper for this step.
- Avoid Bad Habits: Chewing on ice, biting your nails, or using your teeth to open packages can all harm your teeth. These habits can cause cracks or chips, which may require dental repair. If you or your child have trouble breaking these habits, let us know—we can provide tips to help you stop.
- Use the Right Products: Look for fluoride toothpaste to help strengthen your enamel and prevent decay. If you’re unsure about which products are best, feel free to ask us for recommendations.
General Dental Care for Patients of All Ages
Our office provides comprehensive dental services to meet the needs of all patients, from young children to seniors. We understand that each stage of life has different dental care needs. For instance, children may need extra support with brushing and flossing, while adults may be more focused on preventing gum disease. We can also offer personalized advice to help you and your family maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Why Regular Visits Matter
By visiting the dentist every six months, you help prevent plaque buildup, gum disease, and cavities. Routine checkups also allow us to catch issues early, saving you time, money, and discomfort down the road. Prevention is key to keeping your natural smile healthy, so make sure to stay on schedule with your dental visits.
Contact Us for General Dentistry in Dallas, TX
If it’s time for a dental checkup or if you have a concern about your oral health, give us a call. At Henderson Family Dental, we’re here to provide the care you need to keep your smile in top shape. Reach us at 214-253-4868 to schedule a visit, or use our online form to schedule an appointment with Dr. Nguyen.
We proudly serve families from Highland Park, Forest Hills, South Dallas, and nearby areas in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Let us help you keep a bright, healthy smile with our full range of general dental services.