Patient Information for Our Carrollton, TX, Dental Office

Whether you’re a current patient or new to our practice, we want you to get to know our dental office. Here, we will review patient information, including what happens during routine visits to our Carrollton, TX, dental office. Learning about regular appointments will help you know what to expect when you visit. You can also access patient information from our office on this page.

Preventative Care: Routine Dental Visits

At Hebron Family Dental, we want to do everything possible to keep your teeth healthy. The primary way in which we do this is through regular dental hygiene appointments, checkups, and preventative programs twice per year.

Our preventive program is a cooperative effort by the patient, dentist, and dental staff to preserve the teeth’s natural dentition and supporting structures for a lifelong, healthy, beautiful smile. We combine simple preventative measures to stop the onset, progress, and recurrence of dental diseases.

X-rays

Before your cleaning, we will take X-rays to get a detailed look at your teeth and jaw. Our office uses digital X-rays, which are quicker and safer than traditional X-rays. These advanced images help us identify problems that might not be visible during a regular surface exam, such as cavities between teeth, infections in the roots, or issues with your bone structure.

Digital X-rays produce high-quality images that can be viewed immediately on a computer screen. This allows us to quickly analyze your dental health and spot any areas that need attention. Unlike traditional X-rays, digital X-rays expose you to much less radiation, making them a safer option for patients of all ages.

Routine X-rays are an important part of your dental care because they help us become familiar with the structure of your mouth. By taking X-rays at regular check-ups, we can track changes in your oral health over time. This means we can catch any problems early, before they become more serious and require extensive treatment.

Cleanings

When you come in bi-yearly, our dental hygienist will clean your teeth. While your personal brushing and flossing are essential, bi-yearly hygiene appointments will remove any hard-to-reach plaque, tartar, or tooth decay that can eventually cause dental diseases such as gingivitis. It can be difficult to remove hardened plaque or tartar without professional tools.

To begin a cleaning, a dental hygienist will first examine your mouth using a small mirror to check your teeth and gums for any issues like cavities or gum disease.

Using a tool called a scaler, the hygienist will remove plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from around your teeth and gumline. After the tartar is removed, they will brush your teeth with a special, gritty toothpaste. This helps clean the teeth deeply and removes any leftover plaque or stains.

Then, the hygienist will floss between your teeth to remove any food or plaque that was missed during the previous steps. You’ll rinse your mouth to wash away any debris or toothpaste. Finally, our hygienist will apply a fluoride treatment to help protect your teeth from cavities. This is a gel, foam, or varnish that’s left on your teeth for a few minutes.

Exam and Screenings

Our dentist will give you the exam to ensure your teeth are in top shape and you are not developing any oral health issues. Gum disease, cavity, and oral cancer screenings are part of this exam. He’ll check your gums to make sure they are healthy and not showing signs of gum disease, like redness, swelling, or bleeding.

Our dentist will also check your tongue, throat, and the inside of your mouth for any unusual lumps or spots that could be signs of oral cancer. He will use a small mirror and special tools to examine your teeth for signs of cavities or decay.

How Do I Visit the Dentist if I Have Anxiety?

Visiting the dentist can be scary for some people, especially if they have anxiety. Here are some tips to help you feel more comfortable:

Talk About Your Anxiety: Before your appointment, let our dentist or dental hygienist know that you feel anxious. They can help you by explaining what will happen during the visit. This can help you feel more at ease.
Bring a Support Person: Having a friend or family member with you can make you feel safer. They can hold your hand, talk to you, or just sit with you while you wait.
Use Relaxation Techniques: Try deep breathing or visualization techniques to calm your nerves. Before your appointment, take a few deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth. Imagine yourself in a peaceful place, like a beach or a quiet forest.
Choose the Right Time: Schedule your appointment at a time when you feel least anxious. If mornings are less stressful for you, try to book your dental visit then. We will help you schedule the best time for you.
Start with a Check-Up: If you’re very nervous, consider starting with a simple check-up instead of a treatment. This allows you to get used to the dental office without too much pressure. If we find problems, we will explain your treatment options thoroughly.
Ask About Sedation Options: We offer sedation options to help you relax during your visit. We typically use sedation for complex or lengthy treatments. However, we can provide light sedation for more routine treatment if needed.

Remember, it’s okay to feel anxious about visiting the dentist. Communicate your feelings and take steps to make the experience easier. Your oral health is essential, and getting dental care can help you maintain a healthy smile!

Dental Patient FAQs

Learn more about patient information in Carrollton, TX, with answers to these common questions:

How can I improve my oral hygiene routine?

To improve your oral hygiene routine, first brush and floss twice a day. Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth for two minutes in the morning and before bed. Be sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the front, back, and chewing areas.

Flossing helps remove food and plaque between your teeth that your toothbrush can’t reach. Try to floss gently to avoid damaging your gums. Rinse with an antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash to help reduce plaque and fight bacteria. This can also help freshen your breath.

How often do I visit the dentist if I have gum disease?

If you have gum disease, you will likely need to visit the dentist more often than usual. Your dentist may recommend seeing you every 3 to 4 months to monitor your gums and help prevent the disease from worsening.

These visits help us clean your teeth thoroughly, check for any changes, and provide treatment if needed.

Do dental cleanings hurt?

Most people don’t find dental cleanings painful, but you might feel some discomfort depending on your teeth and gums. During the cleaning, your dentist or hygienist uses special tools to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. This can cause slight sensitivity, especially if your gums are inflamed or you have buildup near the gumline.

If your teeth or gums are sensitive, let your dentist know. They can adjust their technique or apply a numbing gel to make you more comfortable. Regular cleanings help keep your teeth healthy and make future visits easier. After the cleaning, your teeth will feel fresh and smooth, and any soreness usually goes away quickly.

Why do I grind my teeth?

Teeth grinding, also called bruxism, can happen for several reasons:

Stress and Anxiety: If you’re feeling stressed, anxious, or worried, you might grind your teeth, especially while you sleep.
Sleep Issues: People with sleep problems, like sleep apnea or restless sleep, are more likely to grind their teeth at night.
Misaligned Teeth: If your teeth are crooked or your bite doesn’t line up properly, your teeth might grind against each other.
Health Problems: Certain health conditions, like Parkinson’s disease, or taking medications like antidepressants, can increase the chance of grinding your teeth.
Lifestyle Factors: Drinking too much alcohol, or smoking can contribute to bruxism.
Family History: Bruxism can run in families, so if your parents or siblings grind their teeth, you might be more likely to do it, too.

If you’re grinding your teeth, it can hurt your teeth and jaw. Talk to our dentist, who can help you figure out why it’s happening and how to stop it.

How do I know if I have a cavity?

You might have a cavity if you notice any of these signs:

Pain when chewing or biting down
Teeth sensitive to hot or cold foods and drinks
Visible holes or pits in your teeth
Dark or discolored spots on your teeth
Bad beath
A bad taste in your mouth

Can I fix a cracked tooth?

Yes, you can fix a cracked tooth with the help of our dentist. We provide bonding for small chips and cracks and crowns for larger areas of damage. If infection has reached inside your tooth, we may recommend a root canal or extraction. We may also remove a severely damaged tooth.

What do I do if I have sensitive teeth?

You can do several things if you have tooth sensitivity:

Use Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth
Brush Gently
Avoid Hot or Cold Foods
Use a Mouthguard

If these tips do not help, visit our office so we can find the right treatment to reduce your sensitivity and pain.

How can I reduce the risk of gum disease?

To reduce the risk of gum disease, follow these steps:

Brush your teeth twice a day: Use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean your teeth and gums.
Floss daily: Flossing helps remove food and plaque between your teeth and along your gum line, where your toothbrush might not reach.
Use mouthwash: A mouthwash with fluoride can help kill bacteria and reduce plaque buildup in your mouth.
Eat a healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help keep your gums healthy.
Don’t smoke or chew tobacco: Smoking or using tobacco can harm your gums and increase the risk of gum disease.
Visit the dentist regularly: Regular dental checkups and cleanings help us catch any early signs of gum disease and keep your teeth and gums healthy.

By following these simple steps, you can help reduce your risk of gum disease and keep your smile bright and healthy.

Patient Information in Carrollton, TX

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Call Our Office Today

Are you looking for a new dental office in Carrollton, TX? Do you want a dental office that can meet your dental needs? Contact Hebron Family Dentistry for comfortable dental treatment today at 972-236-5871. You may also schedule an appointment with us online. We’re here to answer any questions you may have about our office or your treatment options.

Carrollton, TX, Dentist Office Patient Information