Dentistry is preventive. Dr. Stephen Hoard provides comprehensive services and procedures to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. He can treat these conditions with general dentistry and cosmetic and functional concerns. General dentistry in our New Bern, NC office keeps teeth and gums healthy for years.
Dr. Hoard’s office is open to the whole family. Our general dentist in New Bern, NC, strives to provide top-quality care for all, from the youngest to the oldest. A family needs to establish a regular schedule of dental cleanings and exams. During these regular visits, we can identify potential problems in their earliest stages and avoid long-term problems.
Dr. Hoard Provides The Following General Dentistry Services
General dental care is a part of preventive dentistry. With general dentistry in New Bern, NC, we can prevent dental problems from worsening. Visiting the dentist for these treatments can keep your teeth and gums healthy:
- White Fillings
- Laser Dentistry
- Periodontal (Gum) Disease Therapy
- Root Canals
- Routine Checkups
- Tooth Extractions
These treatments can address gum disease and tooth decay, common but highly damaging dental problems. We recommend visiting us regularly to help preserve your natural teeth and gums. Routine care can prevent the need for more costly and lengthy treatments.
Importance of General Dentistry in New Bern, NC
Nearly 75% of American adults have some form of gum disease, which is the leading cause of tooth loss. Routine checkups can help prevent gum disease by treating the earliest signs, often undetected by the patient.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is one of the best things you can do for your overall health. The mouth is the gateway to the body. Good oral health is essential to your overall well-being. Daily preventive care, including proper brushing and flossing, will help stop problems before they develop.
For patients suffering from gum disease or tooth decay, we offer several general dentistry procedures to return your gums and teeth to proper health, beauty, and function. Procedures include gum therapy, dental crowns, and dental fillings.
How To Keep a Healthy Smile
Between regular dentist visits, you can take simple steps to decrease the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Regular care can also prevent other dental problems. These include:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day
- Floss daily
- Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet
- Limit sugary snacks and beverages
- Choose a toothpaste and mouthwash that contains fluoride
- Make sure that children under 12 drink fluoridated water or take supplements
- Replace toothbrush every 3 to 4 months
Schedule routine dental visits every six months. We can track developing dental problems with our New Bern dental office visits.
General Dentistry FAQs
Learn more about our dentist office in New Bern, NC, with answers to these general dental questions:
How long do composite fillings last?
Composite, or white fillings, last between 5 to 10 years. The life expectancy will depend on factors such as the size of the filling, its location in the mouth, and your oral hygiene habits.
In contrast, although they may not last as long as metal fillings, composite fillings give patients a more natural appearance. They are also less noticeable. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices and attending regular dental checkups can help extend the life of your fillings.
Why do root canals take two visits?
Root canals require two visits due to the complexity of the process and the need to complete it in phases to ensure success. The number of visits depends on factors such as the case’s complexity, the tooth’s location, and the infection. The first appointment involves cleaning and shaping the root canal. Meanwhile, the dentist places a temporary filling to prevent reinfection.
During the second visit, the dentist will remove the infection and permanently fill and seal the tooth. This approach allows more time for the tooth to heal.
How effective are dental cleanings?
Dental cleanings are highly effective at maintaining oral health. They also prevent the onset of poor oral health conditions. Regular dental cleanings by a dentist or hygienist remove bacteria buildup that leads to gum disease and tooth decay.
Dental cleanings also allow your dentist to identify potential issues early on. Therefore, regular dental cleanings are essential for short-term and long-term oral health care.
What is the main goal of gum therapy?
The main goal of gum therapy is to manage and treat gum disease. This treatment specifically targets the infection and inflammation affecting the gums. By removing plaque and tartar buildup, gum therapy helps restore and maintain gum tissue health and prevent further bone loss. Early treatment and maintenance can stop the progression of gum disease and avoid more severe dental issues, including permanent tooth loss.
At what age do people get gum disease?
Gum disease can start at any age. However, studies show that most adults over 30 have some degree of gum disease, and the risk continues to grow with age. On the other hand, children and younger adults may be more prone to gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease.
Regular checkups with your dentist can help diagnose any signs of gum disease early. This can reduce the risk of gum recession and tooth loss.
What should you avoid after a tooth extraction?
After tooth extraction, you should not smoke or use tobacco products. Smoking cigarettes and using other tobacco products can delay the healing process and increase the risk of infection.
Avoid rinsing your mouth or using a straw, as these actions can dislodge the blood clot and cause dry socket. In addition, avoid intense physical activity for the first 24 hours to minimize bleeding and swelling. Lastly, do not eat hard, crunchy, or sticky foods for a few days. You should stick to a soft diet to protect the extraction site.
Do I need a filling or a dental extraction?
We often recommend a filling when your tooth has a small to moderate cavity or damage. Fillings can save teeth that are still mostly healthy but need some repair. We recommend a dental extraction when the tooth is too damaged to be saved. This might happen if the cavity is deep, the tooth is cracked beyond repair, or there is an infection that can’t be treated with a root canal.
Our dentist will examine your tooth and take X-rays to decide which option is best. If your tooth can be saved, he will usually recommend a filling. But if the damage is too severe, an extraction might be necessary.
Why are modern dental fillings white?
Modern fillings are white because they are made from composite resin, which can be matched to the color of your natural teeth. This makes the filling blend in, so it’s not noticeable when you smile or talk. People like white fillings because they look more natural than older ones made of silver or metal.
White fillings are also strong and can be shaped to fit your tooth perfectly. They are best for small to medium-sized cavities and work well on teeth that are visible when you smile.
Contact Our New Bern, NC Dentist’s Office
Dr. Hoard takes a multidisciplinary approach to complex cases. He has developed a relationship with a periodontist, Jeffery Thomas, DDS, and an orthodontist, Todd Rankin, DDS. This team approach allows Dr. Hoard to maximize results for his patients. It ensures they receive the same high level of care he provides in his office. Dr. Hoard and Dr. Rankin offer dental services to the New Bern, NC, area.
Our patients often tell us that our examinations are the most comprehensive evaluations they have ever received. We believe the foundation for dental success rests on a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Contact us to schedule your appointment with Dr. Hoard and experience “complete dentistry.”