General dental care and services are the foundation of our practice and support your long-term oral health and wellness. Coastal Dental Care provides comprehensive general dentistry for children and adults in Nederland, TX. We focus on the individual patient’s unique needs, taking the time to understand your concerns, risk factors, and goals for your smile. Our office also provides comprehensive dental services to new and existing patients in Nederland.
Regular Dental Appointments are A Vital Part of Your Oral Hygiene Routine
We believe that a healthy smile is also a happy and beautiful smile. Routine dental care is the key to maintaining healthy teeth and gums, a comfortable bite, and general oral health. Maintaining your oral health will support your overall physical health and wellness.
Regular, biannual dentist appointments are the most important general dentistry service we offer. They promote long term oral health and minimize the risk of many overall and dental health problems. We recommend each patient visit Coastal Dental Care twice a year for several important reasons.
At each visit, your dentist will perform vital preventive care including teeth cleanings. Our dental hygienists will remove plaque and tartar that regular brushing and flossing may miss. This reduces the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues. Your dentist will also perform an examination of your mouth to screen any dental problems. Detecting any dental issues in the early stages allows us to offer treatment when it is most conservative and successful.
Attending your biannual dentist appointments will also give us a chance to discuss ways you can improve your oral health at home. We can provide you with personalized advice on the best oral hygiene practices. These open lines of communication also simply contribute to building a healthy and comfortable relationship between you and your dentist. This will make it easier to discuss any concerns or changes in your oral health.
What to Expect at Your Routine Dentist Appointment
Once you get in the habit of visiting our Nederland, TX dentist office on a regular basis, you will know what to expect at each visit. A routine dental check-up or dental cleaning, typically involves several things:
- Medical History Review: If this is your first visit with, we will do an in-depth review of your medical history. At each visit after that, we will simply as you if there are any changes in your overall health or medications. This is to identify potential impacts on your oral health.
- Update on Oral Health: At every visit, you will have the opportunity to discuss any changes or concerns related to your oral health since your last visit.
- X-rays: X-rays are typically taken about once a year. These are to assess the health of your teeth, jawbone, and surrounding structures. X-rays can detect issues not visible during a visual examination.
- Visual Examination: Your dentist will conduct a thorough visual examination of your teeth, gums, tongue, and other oral tissues. They will look for signs of cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and other dental issues. A visual exam will take place at every dentist appointment.
- Gum Health Evaluation: The health of your gums is assessed through a periodontal examination. This includes checking for signs of gum disease, measuring gum pocket depths, and evaluating the condition of the gums around each tooth.
- Professional Dental Cleaning: One of our trained dental hygienists will perform a professional dental cleaning (prophylaxis). This is an important general dentistry service that removes plaque and tartar from the teeth, especially in areas that are challenging to clean with regular brushing and flossing.
- Polishing: After cleaning, your dental hygienist will polish your teeth to remove surface stains and make your smile shine.
Fluoride Treatment (if necessary): Depending on your risk of developing cavities, your dentist may recommend a fluoride treatment to strengthen your tooth enamel. This is a typical treatment for our pediatric patients. - Oral Hygiene Education: Our dental team will provide personalized oral hygiene instructions, including recommendations for brushing, flossing, and any additional oral care products that may be beneficial.
- Discussion of Treatment Plans: If any dental issues are identified during the examination, your dentist or a member of our dental staff will discuss potential treatment options and create a personalized treatment plan for you.
General Dentistry in Nederland, TX
Our Nederland, TX dentist office offers a full range of general dentistry treatments and services. Our team of dentists, including Dr. Ashley Farrar, Dr. Chad Ford, and Dr. Charles Hefner, offer the best dental care that is necessary to prevent disease and maintain oral health. General dentistry services include:
Family Dentistry
As a family dentistry office, we can treat patients of all ages. Preventive dental care is an important part of your overall health no matter how old you are. Our Nederland, TX, dentist office sees patients every six months to help them maintain their oral health. We can treat your entire family in a single trip to the dentist making it more convenient for you. There is no need to switch dentist offices as you age. This continuation of care ensures we will always know and understand your family’s dental history and your unique oral health needs.
Emergency Dentistry
Emergency dental care allows us to focus on providing you with immediate and urgent treatment for specific dental issues. There are some dental cases when prompt attention is necessary to alleviate severe pain, prevent further damage, and address sudden complications. If you are suffering from a dental emergency, the first step is to contact our office. From there, we will give you further instructions on how to handle your specific emergency.
Laser Dentistry
Laser dentistry is a special service we offer that uses laser energy to perform several dental procedures. Lasers allow your dentist to perform dental procedures with unprecedented precision. They emit a focused light beam that can reshape gums, treat gum disease, remove soft tissue, and treat a gummy smile. Laser dentistry offers several advantages, including reduced bleeding, less discomfort, and faster healing compared to traditional surgical methods.
Pediatric Dentistry
We offer pediatric dentistry services that focus on the oral health care of children. Our dentists and dental staff are trained to handle the unique dental needs and challenges associated with various stages of oral development for children. Our pediatric dental care includes preventive care, early detection of dental problems, treatment of dental issues, and education to promote good oral hygiene habits. We promise to create positive and comfortable dental experience for your child that will foster a foundation for lifelong oral health.
Custom Mouthguard
If you’re involved in contact sports, it’s important to consider a custom mouthguard. Unlike store-bought options, a custom mouthguard provides a precise fit and offers superior protection for your teeth and jaw. This reduces the risk of dental injuries and long-term damage. For both comfort and safety, getting a mouthguard professionally made ensures the best protection for your oral health.
Sedation Dentistry
We offer nitrous oxide as a form of dental sedation to help patients relax and remain calm during dental procedures. It is particularly beneficial for individuals with dental anxiety, fear or those undergoing extensive treatments. This odorless gas, often called “laughing gas,” enhances comfort, reduces anxiety, and allows dentists to perform procedures more efficiently while ensuring a positive and stress-free dental experience for the patient.
Tooth Extraction
A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. It is necessary when a tooth is extensively damaged, decayed, infected, or causing crowding. Extracting problematic teeth helps alleviate pain, prevent the spread of infection, and maintain overall oral health, making space for proper alignment or replacement with prosthetics if needed.
Diet and Oral Health
Your diet plays a crucial role in the health of your teeth and gums. What you eat directly affects your oral hygiene, and making smart food choices can help prevent problems like cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Maintaining a balanced diet and avoiding harmful foods can keep your smile bright and healthy for years to come.
Strengthens Teeth with Nutrients
Certain nutrients are essential for strong teeth and healthy gums. Calcium, for example, is vital for building and maintaining strong tooth enamel, which helps protect your teeth from decay. Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are rich in calcium, as are leafy green vegetables like kale and spinach.
Vitamin D is also important because it helps your body absorb calcium. Foods like salmon, egg yolks, and fortified cereals provide a good source of vitamin D. A diet rich in these nutrients helps keep your teeth strong and less prone to cavities.
Reduces the Risk of Tooth Decay
Tooth decay happens when bacteria in your mouth feed on sugars and starches, producing acid that breaks down tooth enamel. Consuming sugary foods and drinks regularly can increase the risk of cavities. Foods like candy, soda, and sugary snacks create a perfect environment for bacteria to thrive.
By reducing your intake of sugary foods, you can lower your risk of developing cavities. Instead, choose foods low in sugar and fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These help clean teeth and stimulate saliva production, promoting a healthy mouth.
Protects Gums from Disease
A healthy diet can also help protect your gums from disease. Gum disease, or periodontal disease, occurs when bacteria in plaque build up along the gum line, causing inflammation, bleeding, and, in severe cases, tooth loss. Foods high in antioxidants, such as fruits and vegetables, help reduce inflammation and strengthen your gums.
Vitamin C, found in citrus fruits, berries, and bell peppers, is especially important for gum health. It helps maintain the connective tissue in your gums and prevents gum recession, which can lead to tooth sensitivity and other problems.
Prevents Bad Breath
What you eat can have a direct effect on your breath. Certain foods, such as garlic and onions, can leave a strong odor in your mouth that lingers long after eating. On the other hand, foods like apples, carrots, and celery can help clean your teeth and freshen your breath.
Drinking plenty of water is also essential for preventing dry mouth, which can contribute to bad breath. Saliva helps wash away food particles and bacteria in your mouth, so staying hydrated supports healthy oral hygiene and keeps your breath smelling fresh.
Avoids Enamel Erosion
Enamel erosion happens when the protective layer of your teeth wears away due to acidic foods and drinks. This can lead to tooth sensitivity, cavities, and discoloration. Acidic foods like citrus fruits, soda, and vinegar can soften enamel, so it’s important to consume them in moderation.
If you eat or drink something acidic, it’s a good idea to wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth, as brushing too soon can cause further enamel wear. Drinking water or rinsing your mouth after consuming acidic foods can help protect your enamel.
Helps with Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity can occur when enamel wears away, exposing the underlying dentin. Certain foods, like hot, cold, or sugary foods, can trigger sensitivity. A balanced diet with less sugar and fewer acidic foods can help protect your teeth from sensitivity.
Foods rich in vitamins and minerals, such as leafy greens, nuts, and fish, can help strengthen your enamel and reduce the chances of developing sensitivity. Additionally, incorporating dairy products like cheese can help neutralize acids in your mouth and protect your teeth.
Supports Overall Oral Hygiene
A well-rounded diet supports overall oral hygiene by promoting a healthy mouth environment. Foods like crunchy fruits and vegetables help stimulate saliva production, which neutralizes acids and helps wash away food particles and bacteria.
Dairy products, such as cheese, provide calcium and help balance the pH levels in your mouth, reducing the risk of tooth decay. Drinking water throughout the day also keeps your mouth hydrated and helps prevent dry mouth, which can lead to bad breath and an increased risk of cavities.
Frequently Asked Questions
We have answers to some of patients’ most frequently asked questions about general and preventative dentistry.
How often is it safe to get dental X-rays?
It’s usually safe to get dental X-rays once a year during your routine check-up. However, the frequency can vary based on your oral health needs. If you have a history of dental issues, your dentist might recommend X-rays every six months. For those with a healthy mouth, you’ll need X-rays every two to three years. Modern X-rays use very low radiation levels, making them safe with proper precautions.
Should I go to the ER if my face is swollen from a tooth infection?
Yes, you should go to the ER if your face is swollen from a tooth infection. Facial swelling can indicate that the infection is spreading. This can become serious if you don’t seek treatment fast. The ER can provide antibiotics and pain relief to control the infection. Afterward, you’ll need to see your dentist to treat the underlying cause and prevent further complications.
How long does it take for gums to heal after being lasered?
Gums typically take about 2 to 4 weeks to heal after being lasered. However, the exact time can vary based on the procedure’s extent and your healing rate. During this time, you might experience some swelling and tenderness, which should gradually lessen. Following your dentist’s aftercare instructions, such as avoiding certain foods, will help speed up healing.
What is the most common dental problem in children?
The most common dental problem in children is cavities. Children often eat foods with a lot of sugar and may not brush their teeth as well as they should. Decay can cause pain and lead to severe problems if you don’t seek treatment from a dentist. Regular dental exams and good oral hygiene help prevent cavities in kids.
Do dentists check for cavities during cleaning?
Yes, dentists check for cavities during a cleaning. After the dental hygienist cleans your teeth, the dentist examines them for any signs of cavities or other issues. They might use tools like a small mirror or an explorer to check for soft spots or discoloration. They can indicate decay.
How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?
Recovery from a tooth extraction typically takes about 3 to 5 days for the initial healing. You may experience some swelling, discomfort, and bleeding. Most people can return to normal activities within a day or two, but avoiding strenuous activity and following your dentist’s care instructions is important. Full healing of the extraction site, including the closure of the socket, usually takes a few weeks.
If you are ready to book your dentist appointment with Coastal Dental Care, contact us today at 409-215-2035. As a top local dentist in Nederland, TX, we are welcoming new patients to our dental practice. We look forwarding to meeting the oral health care needs of you and your family.