Fort Smith, AR porcelain crowns restore problem

Decay, fractures, fillings--these, and other factors, compromise tooth structure. Fort Smith, AR patients get beautiful porcelain crowns at New Smith Dental.

When a tooth is so compromised it cannot be restored with fillings or cosmetic dental services, porcelain crowns from Gilbert Lopez DDS at New Smile Dental rescue smiles. They bring durability, health and great aesthetics to smiles in the the Fort Smith, AR area.

Fort Smith AR dentures from New Smile Dental change lives

Life without a complete smile is a struggle. Poor chewing, pain, and compromised personal appearance result  when teeth succumb to decay, accident or gum disease. In his Fort Smith AR practice, Gilbert Lopez DDS of New Smile Dental creates dentures that give life back to incomplete smiles.

Types of Fort Smith AR dentures

Basically, there are 2 kinds of dentures--partial and full. Both are created from lifelike tooth- and gum-colored acrylic and frequently contain metal framework.

Dr. Lopez places a partial denture when the patient has one or more natural teeth. These teeth anchor the prosthetic made up of new teeth mounted on a frame with clasps. Dr. Lopez places a complete denture when the upper or lower arch or both are edentulous (missing all teeth).

Complete dentures may be conventional or immediate. The dentist places the conventional dentures after remaining teeth are extracted and gums heal. The patient does not receive his replacement teeth for 4 to 6 weeks after extraction.

The dentist places an immediate denture right after he removes remaining natural teeth. The immediate denture helps control bleeding and provides a complete smile right away. However, as gums and bones heal, they shrink. So, the immediate denture requires relining and refitting as time goes by.

The advantages of dentures 

Dentures restore smiles to full function and appearance. Patients eat and speak normally, they have a full set of attractive teeth, and facial muscles are supported and more youthful looking. Quality dentures created by your Fort Smith AR dentist at New Smile Dental last for years with regular hygiene at home and professional care from Dr. Lopez and his team.

How Dr. Lopez creates and places dentures

In an initial consultation, Dr. Lopez takes x-rays and dental impressions to determine how a denture should look. He offers the patient viable options and formulates a treatment plan. The dentist sends his instructions, the impressions and imaging to a dental lab where a skilled technician crafts the denture.

During a subsequent appointment, Dr. Lopez “tries-in” the prosthetic, checking fit, bite and appearance. The appliance may return to the lab for reworking if necessary. When fit and other factors are exactly right, the patient leaves with his denture in place.

Life with dentures

Patients find they adjust to quality dentures quickly. Slight slurring of speech resolves, and facial muscles learn the proper way to bite and chew. Individuals enjoy their renewed facial aesthetics, and find they laugh and smile confidently.

Find out more

Dr. Lopez and his staff take great pleasure in crafting new smiles. If you are contemplating dentures, don’t wait. Contact New Smile Dental to explore how dentures can benefit your personal appearance and health.

What happens at a routine dental exam?

Patients of all ages should see their Fort Smith general dentist every 6 months or more frequently if oral or systemic health warrants. Dr. Lopez and his team firmly believe that regular check-ups and professional cleanings at New Smile Dental prevent decay and gum disease from ruining tooth enamel and destroying gum tissue and underlying bone.

Additionally, Dr. Lopez checks checks every patient’s mouth for signs of oral cancer--a sometimes hidden, but nonetheless,  potentially deadly malady that strikes more than 45,000 American adults annually. Caught early, oral cancer can be successfully treated.

Further, a thorough dental exam includes:

• assessment of TMJ (temporomandibular joint) dysfunction
• check for bite problems (orthodontic screening)
• assessment of existing dental work such as fillings, crowns, and bridges
• check for dental decay
• probing of gum pockets to check for gingivitis and more advanced periodontitis
• visual inspection for signs of oral cancer
• low radiation digital x-rays, if needed, to check for hidden decay and look at bone and root structure

Finally, a skilled, friendly hygienist cleans a patient’s teeth during a 6-month appointment with your Fort Smith general dentist. She carefully removes the sticky plaque and hard tartar that build-up in the tight spaces between teeth and under the gum line. This is biofilm that at-home brushing and flossing just cannot reach. Yet, it holds oral bacteria that secrete enamel-damaging acids and that infect the gum tissue. When teeth and gums are free of plaque and tartar, they thrive and are less prone to serious dental issues.

Research also shows that oral health and overall health are linked, and in fact, what a general dentist sees in a patient’s mouth can indicate what’s happening elsewhere in the body. Periodontal disease correlates with:

• diabetes
• stroke
• heart attack
• Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia
• rheumatoid arthritis
• low birth weight infants
• pregnancy complications

A comprehensive treatment plan ensures future health

Dr. Lopez addresses immediate needs and also cosmetic goals each patient has. He devises an individualized treatment plan. This can include necessary restorations such as gum disease therapy or fillings and aesthetic treatments such as teeth whitening and porcelain veneers.

Preventive dentistry is necessary dentistry

 

A word to the wise: keep on brushing and flossing every day, but also schedule a dental exam and cleaning with Dr. Gilbert Lopez. His expertise and gentle, thorough care will keep you smiling and healthy no matter what your age. Contact his professional team today.

Finding The Right Dentist in Fort Smith, AR is a Cinch

When it comes to finding the right dentist for you or your family, doing the proper homework and research will help you find one that is great for you and yours. In Fort Smith, AR, residents have come to know Dr. Gilbert Lopez as one of the friendliest. He can help deliver excellent results for your smile if you need them. If there are problems like a toothache or jaw pain that are occurring, he can assist with those, too. There really isn’t anything Dr. Lopez can’t handle, and you’ll find that our when you visit our office.

It isn’t just Dr. Lopez’ expertise that helps propel his reputation. He’s also known as a big-time community helper and has traveled on countless mission trips to various countries to assist with delivering oral health information and procedures. It’s his dedication to making sure everyone has great oral health that gives him the drive to become more involved in the community. Making a difference in people’s lives is what Dr. Lopez cares about most, besides providing excellent dental services for all Fort Smith, AR residents. He’s the family dentist Fort Smith, AR residents can count on for excellent oral health. 

Our Dentistry Services Keep Your Mouth Looking and Feeling Clean 

In order to provide each one of our patients with a beautiful smile, we dip into our state-of-the-art dentistry practices. From cosmetic to general, we have the tools, team and talent to help you achieve the smile of your dreams.

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on the appearance of a patient’s teeth rather than the functionality. These services consist of teeth whitening, porcelain veneers and more. Each service is designed to improve an aesthetic component of your smile. Results can be seen in just one office visit or in a few weeks’ time. Dr. Lopez is the cosmetic dentist Fort Smith, AR residents can see for a beautiful shine.

Cosmetic Dentistry:

·         Porcelain crowns

·         Porcelain fixed bridges

·         Porcelain veneers

·         Lumineers

·         Teeth whitening

·         Dentures

General dentistry aligns more with preventive dentistry as it requires checkups and other general maintenance for your smile. From cleanings to proper brushing tips, we have you and your family covered.

General Dentistry:

·         Dental exams

·         Cleanings

·         Dental X-ray

·         Composite fillings

·         Root canal treatment

·         At-home care (dental hygiene habits)

·         Periodontal therapy 

Dr. Lopez Cares About Those In Need 

As part of his commitment to providing humanitarian aid, Dr. Lopez has participated in many mission trips offering oral health care to many of those in need. He believes that no matter where anyone lives, they’re deserving of quality dental care. He’s taken many international trips to underdeveloped countries and helped countless people enjoy great oral health. He partners with dentists from across the country to provide preventive and restorative dental care for those in need. He’s a tireless helper that wants to instill a sense of responsibility in all of us. He truly sets the bar when it comes to providing excellent oral care for all. 

Visit our Office

If you want to give your smile the POP it deserves, come to our Fort Smith, AR office. Whether you need a dental cleaning or want to give your teeth an extra shine with teeth whitening, we can handle your dental needs. Our staff is standing by and they’re ready to give you the smile of your dreams. Dr. Lopez is the dentist Fort Smith, AR residents can trust for a gorgeous smile.

Dentures Can Bring Happiness Back To Your Life With a Reinvigorated Smile

Oh, missing teeth, how we hate you. Living with missing teeth can be an absolute nightmare. Think about it for just a second. Even if you don’t have any missing teeth, there are others scattered throughout this great, big world of ours that deal with the problem day in and day out. This is no way to live. Missing teeth are very unsightly to the point where you start to feel sorry for the person living with missing teeth. If you, unfortunately, happen to be one of those people who is currently dealing with missing teeth, we want you to know that help is officially here. Our Fort Smith, AR office offers dentures for all of our patients with missing teeth. Choosing not to do anything about the problem may bring on additional problems down the road. You won’t know where and you won’t know when, but when it does come it will be swift and leave your mouth in pain. Infections or diseases in those open spaces are not worth risking – it’s your oral health we’re talking about here. Dentures could be the option that gives you back the beautiful smile you’ve always wanted. Dr. Gilbert Lopez is the cosmetic dentist you can count on. 

Anyone Could Benefit From Dentures – Young or Old

We know what you’re thinking, “dentures are more for older folks, right?” While this is true, that doesn’t necessarily mean that middle-age or young people aren’t candidates. We only think dentures are reserved for the older generation simply based on advertisements and the supposed stereotype that all old people wear dentures. This simply isn’t true. There are many youngsters who wear dentures because it’s their only viable option.

Dentures are nothing to be afraid or ashamed of. Look at the alternative – you could show off an unsightly smile full of empty spaces, or fix it all in one fell swoop with dentures. It isn’t just about giving you a new reason to smile, it’s your livelihood that gets caught in the crosshairs. Think about simple tasks like eating, speaking and whatever else requires you to use your teeth. Now, imagine having spaces throughout your mouth that could complicate these simple tasks. You’d rip your hair out trying to eat around the open spaces. Why live like this? We sure wouldn’t want to! 

Schedule Your Appointment With Dr. Lopez – Dentures Fort Smith, AR 

Dr. Lopez is the dentist Fort Smith can see for any missing-tooth problems. Usually, we recommend dentures, but there are other options you may be interested in, too. Come see us in Fort Smith, AR to rejuvenate your smile! We also welcome residents from all over, including Arkoma, Van Buren, Bonanza, Roland and beyond.

Get The Best Teeth Whitening Treatment in Fort Smith, AR

Teeth whitening has taken on a whole new form these days. There are so many people that want the procedure. And that’s a good thing, because white teeth mean you have a healthy smile. And a healthy smile is what we love coming through our doors. Have you considered whitening treatment in the past but were skeptical as to the results? We’re here to squash any mysteries about whitening treatment that may pop up in your mind. Our Fort Smith, AR office has brought whitening treatment to many patients, and we want you to be our next one. It can take years off your smile and give you that youthful exuberance of yesteryear. If you’re ready to take your smile to the next level, then we’re ready to help you get there. Give your smile the sparkle it deserves! 

What Exactly is Teeth Whitening? 

Teeth whitening is the process by which chemical compounds are placed onto your teeth and, with state-of-the-art technology, your teeth are whitened. Results will depend on the type of whitening treatment you choose, as well as whether you want in-office or at-home treatment. The goal remains the same: to get your teeth as white as possible. How white your teeth get is your preference, as some patients opt for up to ten shades whiter. We can get you the results you’re looking for.

Why do people whiten their teeth? Well, for many reasons, but mostly because of a discoloration problem. Teeth don’t stay white forever for many reasons. Teeth can stain from certain foods, coffee, tea, red wine and other dark-colored beverages. Aging can also make your teeth look dull, which you can’t control. Teeth whitening treatment can lift your smile from where it currently sits and place it at the top of the smile hall-of-fame. A beautiful smile is something to behold, and we want yours to be something everyone notices in all the best ways.  

Schedule Your Whitening Appointment

The only way to get your teeth white is by calling our office in Fort Smith, AR. Our staff is always standing by ready to answer questions. If you think your teeth are ready for whitening treatment, we’ll be glad to take care of you. We welcome residents from all over the area to see us, including Van Buren, Arkoma, Kibler, Alma, Barling and beyond. It’s time to give your teeth the shine they deserve!

Teeth Whitening Treatment in Fort Smith, AR

Could your teeth use a fresh coat of whitening treatment? Are stains causing you to hide your smile? Teeth whitening treatment may be just what you need. There are different reasons for wanting to receive teeth whitening treatment and not every patient’s is the same. A brighter, whiter smile can give you all the confidence in the world. Our whitening services in Fort Smith, AR will transform your smile into a bright, beautiful work of art. Are you ready to take your smile to the next level? When it comes to teeth whitening, dentist Dr. Gilbert Lopez and his staff will get your teeth white and beautiful using our comprehensive dentistry services, including teeth whitening. Dr. Lopez is the cosmetic dentist Fort Smith, AR residents can trust.

 

What is Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening lightens teeth and helps remove stains and discoloration. It’s among the most popular cosmetic dental procedures because it can vastly improve how your teeth look. Have you ever seen a celebrity’s smile and wished your teeth could have that same priceless shine? You don’t have to shell out big money to get the smile you’ve always wanted.

Discoloration and staining can make your teeth look worn and unkempt. Teeth are discolored or stained due to many factors. It’s a slow process, but one that never lets up. All of the following contribute to staining and discoloration:

• Tobacco use
• Drinking dark-colored liquids such as coffee, cola, tea and red wine
• Not taking good care of your teeth
• Aging

What To Expect

At-Home Care:

Dentist-prescribed whitening offers much more dramatic results than over-the-counter products. At the same time, it is still quite affordable, making it an excellent investment in your smile. If you choose this method, you will receive custom-made whitening trays. They will fit comfortably in your mouth, and you will fill them with whitening gel. This gel will use a lower concentration of peroxide than in-office treatment. You will wear the trays for 30 minutes to several hours every day, depending on our instructions and the whitening method prescribed.

In-Office Whitening:

Although take-home whitening is quite effective, in-office care usually offers the most dramatic results. After an hour or less, the gel will break apart the bonds between stained molecules, giving you a dramatically brighter smile. Many dentists use lasers or specially formatted lights to achieve optimal results. The high-power light will activate the gel, allowing the oxygen to penetrate your teeth more thoroughly. For the best teeth whitening Fort Smith, AR has to offer, seek whitening therapy from New Smile Dental.

Schedule an Appointment Today

For the best dentist in Fort Smith, AR, look no further than Dr. Lopez. Are you ready to take your smile to the next level? Call our office so you can start seeing results fast! For excellent teeth whitening treatment, Van Buren, Arkoma, Kibler, Alma, Barling and other areas can enjoy this fantastic service!

How Can You Find The Best Dentist? It’s Easier Than You Think

The dental industry seems to be booming every year, and with that comes an influx of new dentists. Some are just out of school, others are trying to make a name for themselves at other dental practices. Choosing which dentist is right for you and your family is something that should be taken very seriously – this is your family’s oral health we’re talking about. Doing your due diligence and research can go a long way in determining which dentist will treat your family’s dental issues. Our office in Fort Smith, AR wants you to know that there are indicators you can keep an eye out for when looking for a dentist. Maybe you just moved to the area or want to branch out – there are steps you can take to find the dentist that’s best for your situation. At New Smile Dental, we have the tools, team and talent to bring your oral health up to standard.

Finding a new dentist can be time-consuming, but it’s worth every second. You never want to overlook things when searching for a health provider, especially a dentist. Cutting corners just doesn’t make sense when it’s you or your family’s oral health that’s on the line. If you need tips on how to find the right one, we offer many.

Here’s How You Can Find the Perfect Dentist

 

Finding the perfect dentist is fairly easy, you just have to put in the time. Be sure to heed this advice before deciding on anyone new for your family. When start searching, keep these tips in mind:

 

·         Pick family, friends or neighbors minds. Find out who they use and if their experiences have gone well. A little friendly and family advice won’t hurt.

·         Don’t be afraid to ask your local pharmacist or a family doctor who may be “in the know” about which dentists are the best in the area.

·         If you’re still having trouble nailing down a choice, seek help from your local or state dental society. They have helpful information on all of the dentists that practice in your area.

 

Concentrating on the little things like office hours can determine whether a dentist deserves your business. These are just a few of the tips we offer when trying to search for a reputable dentist. Of course, we’d prefer you come to our office and enjoy the care that our dental team can provide, but that’s up to you.

 

We Can Be Your Family’s Dental Provider

 

Your search could very well start and end with us. We will give your family the care they deserve while transforming their smiles into new and improved pearly whites. If you’re located in and around the Fort Smith, AR area, we’d love to see you in for an appointment. You can trust your family’s oral health to our dental professionals!

 

 

 

 

Understanding Bruxism: Nighttime Teeth Grinding Treatment in Fort Smith, AR

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, affects millions of men and women in America, but many of these individuals are unaware of their behavior because it frequently occurs while they’re sleeping. While it may not initially cause much discomfort, bruxism can lead to serious oral health consequences if not treated promptly and properly. At New Smile Dental, our team can help you find relief from the symptoms and complications associated with bruxism.

The Importance of Preventing Bruxism

Your jaws are capable of exerting an immense amount of pressure and force, even when you are fast asleep. This unconscious clenching of the jaw and grinding of the teeth can lead to a variety of problems, including:

·         Damage to existing dental work

·         Teeth that become worn down and shorter

·         Jaw tension and pain

·         TMJ disorder

·         Facial tenderness

Fortunately, treatment for bruxism is most often not invasive or expensive. A custom oral appliance, often referred to as a nightguard, can be worn while you sleep to protect the surfaces of your teeth from excessive grinding. This nightguard is customized to fit your unique dentition, so you can rest assured in the knowledge that it will fit comfortably in your mouth without obstructing your breathing.

Schedule Your Next Visit

If you or someone in your family is suffering from the symptoms of bruxism or TMJ disorder, please do not hesitate to contact our office to schedule a consultation with our team. We genuinely look forward to helping you achieve and maintain a healthy smile that is free of worn down teeth or aching jaw joints. Our Fort Smith, AR dental practice warmly welcomes patients from nearby communities in Sallisaw, Pocola, Alma, Greenwood, Van Buren, Poteau, Heavener, and beyond.

Enjoy Your Favorite Foods with Implant-Retained Dentures in Fort Smith, AR

For millions of Americans missing their teeth, traditional dentures are a perfectly reasonable solution that allows them to eat and speak with relative comfort and ease. There are some, however, who would prefer a more secure option that feels and looks more natural. As dental implants have become more common and more advanced, more patients are turning to implant-retained dentures as their tooth replacement option of choice.

Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures

A dental implant is a tiny post that is shaped like a screw and placed in the bone of the jaw by a periodontal specialist or oral surgeon. This post serves as a sturdy anchor for a custom restoration like a crown, bridge, or denture. When combined with dentures, dental implants can dramatically improve chewing function and overall quality of life. Patients with implant-retained dentures can finally enjoy their favorite foods again, including everything from a juicy steak to corn on the cob and a fresh apple.

While traditional dentures replace the crown portion of your missing teeth, only dental implants replace the root portion as well. This helps to keep the bone tissue in the jaw strong and healthy, which in turn prevents the sunken facial appearance that is common in individuals who have lost most or all of their natural teeth. A consultation with our team will aid in determining your candidacy for dental implants as well as the treatment plan that best suits your unique needs.

Reclaim Your Smile and Your Bite

If you are considering dentures (or if you already wear them) and are curious about what is possible with dental implants, contact our office today to schedule your consultation with our team. We genuinely look forward to helping you achieve the stability and comfort you deserve with our comprehensive menu of restorative dentistry solutions. Our Fort Smith, AR dental practice warmly welcomes patients from nearby communities in Sallisaw, Pocola, Alma, Greenwood, Van Buren, Poteau, Heavener, and beyond.

Dr. Lopez Can Instantly Renew Your Smile with Lumineers in Fort Smith, AR

Are you looking for a quick and easy way to fix your smile? Lumineers offer a fast, affordable, and non-invasive cosmetic dental solution. Whether your smile imperfections are minor or severe, Lumineers can help. Created with state-of-the-art dental imaging technologies, Lumineers are custom designed to fit the unique shape of your teeth precisely. Your new Lumineers can be expertly color matched with the exact shade and luster of your natural teeth. To transform your smile, schedule a Lumineers consultation appointment with Dr. Lopez and New Smile Dental today. Dr. Lopez is an experienced cosmetic dentist, now proudly restoring smiles daily throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren, and the surrounding communities.

How Are Lumineers and Porcelain Veneers Different?

Lumineers are specially designed and fabricated to be ultra-thin and easily applied over your teeth. Traditional porcelain veneers are generally thicker, and thus require the irreversible removal of healthy tooth structure to be placed. This additional preparation frequently requires shots and anesthesia to minimize sensitivity and pain, and typically involves placement of temporary veneers between visits. However, the minimally invasive Lumineers technique doesn’t require any shots or temporaries for completion.

What Can Lumineers Fix?

·         Stained or discolored teeth

·         Unevenly spaced teeth

·         Chipped, cracked or broken teeth

·         Misaligned or crooked teeth

Fort Smith Lumineers Consultation Appointments

All Lumineers procedures are completely painless. They offer the most efficient way to permanently reshape and whiten your teeth. Once your Lumineers procedure is complete, there is no post treatment discomfort or sensitivity. You will look natural and feel comfortable from the moment they are placed. Your new Lumineers will also resist wear and remain resilient for at least 20 years. If you’re ready for a true smile makeover, schedule a Lumineers consultation appointment with Dr. Lopez and New Smile Dental today. Dr. Lopez is a highly qualified cosmetic dentist, now delivering quality care daily throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren, and the neighboring areas.

Pediatric Dental Care 101: How to Protect Your Child’s Dental Health

Does your child need a dental checkup? Children have special needs when it comes to dental care. Starting as early as four months, your child’s baby teeth will begin to appear, and all twenty primary teeth will erupt by age three. You should bring your child in for a pediatric dental checkup by their first birthday to ensure their healthy tooth development. If you’re looking for a gentle and compassionate family dentist, make a pediatric dental care appointment for your child with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental today. Dr. Lopez is a highly qualified family dentist, now delivering quality care daily throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren, and the surrounding communities.

Are “Baby Teeth” Really Important?

Absolutely. If a child doesn't receive pediatric dental care when they still have baby teeth, it can often affect their developing permanent teeth. Baby teeth play several important roles. They help children chew and eat properly, they provide space for the permanent teeth to erupt in the correct positions, and they allow the normal development of the jaw bone and supporting muscles. Baby teeth also affect your child’s ability to speak properly. While your child’s front four teeth may last until age seven, the back baby teeth aren’t fully replaced until age twelve. Therefore, it’s imperative that your child’s first teeth are protected and preserved throughout their younger years.

How Often Does Your Child Need a Pediatric Dental Checkup?

Your child should receive a pediatric dental checkup and cleaning at least once every six months. Some children may actually need more frequent dental visits because of an increased risk of tooth decay. Dr. Lopez will be able to determine how often your child will need pediatric dental care to maintain good oral health. But routine dental visits should help your child stay cavity-free through adulthood. Dr. Lopez can provide professional teeth cleanings to remove the harmful plaque buildup that irritates gums and causes decay. He can offer enamel strengthening fluoride treatments and protective dental sealants and instructions to improve your child's home oral care, ultimately leading to healthier teeth and gums.

Fort Smith Pediatric Dental Care Appointments

If your child hasn't seen a dentist this year, schedule their next pediatric dental care appointment with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental today. Dr. Lopez proudly serves patients of all ages daily throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren, and the neighboring areas.

Reliable Teeth Whitening Solutions from Dr. Lopez in Fort Smith, AR

How bright is your smile? If you are dissatisfied with the color or brightness of your teeth, Dr. Lopez can help. Even if you take great care of your oral health, your teeth can discolor and stain naturally over time. Everyday beverages like coffee, tea, and soda can all wreak havoc on your enamel and cause your teeth to yellow or stain. But you don’t have to settle for dull yellow teeth. You can make a teeth whitening appointment with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental today. Dr. Lopez is an experienced cosmetic dentist, offering highly reliable teeth whitening solutions. New Smile Dental proudly restores smiles daily throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren, and the surrounding communities.

What about Over- the- Counter Teeth Whitening Products?

Many over-the-counter products that claim to “whiten” your teeth are at best, misleading. There is a big difference between products that can whiten your teeth, and products that can actually bleach your teeth. Bleaching is performed when teeth are whitened beyond their natural color. This only applies to products that actually contain bleach (peroxides). Whitening, on the other hand, refers to the restoration of your tooth's surface color by removing shallow dirt and debris deposits. Therefore the over-the-counter products that claim to whiten your teeth, like teeth whitening toothpaste, cannot actually change your tooth’s color.  Other products, like teeth whitening strips, rinses, and gels may contain bleaching agents, however, only in heavily diluted concentrations. In most cases, it would take several weeks of daily use before you even began to see any changes in the color of your enamel. Either way, store bought products are not reliable choices for effective teeth whitening.

Why Choose Professional Teeth Whitening?

The fastest and most reliable way to whiten your teeth is to opt for professional teeth whitening from Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental. Dr. Lopez offers easy take-home custom-fitted teeth whitening trays with professional strength teeth bleaching agents, which can actually whiten your teeth by several shades in just a few days. Dr. Lopez will also ensure that your teeth and gums are protected from irritation and that teeth whitening treatment will be effective against your particular type of discoloration or staining.

Fort Smith Teeth Whitening Appointments

Make 2015 your brightest year yet! Schedule an appointment with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental for the reliable teeth whitening results you deserve. Dr. Lopez is the leading Fort Smith cosmetic dentist. New Smile Dental delivers quality care daily throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren, and nearby areas.

Preserve Your Natural Smile, Make a Periodontal Therapy Appointment with Dr. Lopez Today

Almost 50% of all Americans over 30 have some form of periodontal disease. Periodontal (gum) disease is an inflammatory condition that slowly destroys the tissues that support and protect your teeth. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. However, you can take action to stop the spread of periodontal disease and keep your natural teeth. By maintaining regularly scheduled dental cleanings with Dr. Lopez, you can prevent the disease from taking over your oral health. Make the periodontal therapy appointment you need to stay healthy with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental today. Dr. Lopez is a trusted family dentist, specializing in gum disease prevention and treatment. New Smile Dental delivers quality care daily throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren, and the surrounding communities.

Five Periodontal Disease Risk Factors

·         Plaque Build Up: If plaque is not removed through daily dental hygiene practices and regular professional dental cleanings, bacteria will multiply and eventually cause periodontal disease.

·         Organic Changes: Natural changes that occur in metabolism and hormone levels during pregnancy, puberty, and menopause, can make you more susceptible to developing periodontal disease.

·         Medical Conditions: Serious conditions that affect the body's ability to produce sugar, such as diabetes or kidney disease, may contribute to periodontal disease.

·         Dry Mouth: Medications that produce dry mouth may contribute to a reduction of protective saliva flow, and potentially lead to periodontal disease.

·         Behaviors: Nightly teeth grinding or teeth clenching may impair gum tissue and possibly contribute to the development of periodontal disease.

Do You Have Periodontal Disease?

If you notice any of the following periodontal disease symptoms, you should make an immediate appointment for periodontal disease therapy:

·         Bleeding gums

·         Tender, red, or swollen gums

·         Persistent bad breath

·         Loosened or shifting teeth

Fort Smith Periodontal Therapy Appointments

Since many early signs of periodontal disease are mild, and if left undetected, may contribute to tooth loss, it is important to visit Dr. Lopez for a professional exam and dental cleaning to identify and stop the disease in its tracks. Make an appointment with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental for the periodontal therapy you need today. Dr. Lopez is a highly qualified periodontal therapy dentist. New Smile Dental proudly restores smiles daily throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren, and neighboring areas.

Replace Your Old Metal Fillings with New Tooth Colored Composite Fillings in Fort Smith, AR

Do you still have metal in your mouth? If you still have old metal (amalgam) dental fillings, it may be time to have them replaced with more natural looking tooth colored composite fillings. Tooth colored composite fillings are fast becoming the preferred choice of most patients when filling dental cavities. They look great and they are better for your long term health since they don’t contain any metal or traces of mercury, a potentially dangerous material. Why gamble with your long term dental health? Make your tooth colored composite filling appointment with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental today. Dr. Lopez is a highly qualified restorative dentist. New Smile Dental proudly serves families throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren, and the surrounding communities.

What Are Tooth Colored Composite Fillings?

Tooth colored composite fillings are used to repair damaged teeth assailed by decay, cracks, fractures, or other injury.  The damaged portion of the tooth is carefully removed and then filled with the composite filling material. Composite fillings may be the most widely used filling material today.  Because they’re tooth colored, they most closely match the color of your existing teeth, and are therefore both restoratively and cosmetically beneficial.

How Are Tooth Colored Composite Fillings Placed?

Tooth colored composite fillings can be completed in one short visit.  Dr. Lopez will first numb your tooth to remove any decay. He will then thoroughly clean and carefully prepare the area before your new filling is placed.  If the damage or decay was near the nerve of your tooth, a special medication will be applied for added protection.  The tooth colored composite filling will then be placed, shaped, and polished, to completely restore your tooth to its natural form, color, and function. You will be given home care instructions at the end of your appointment.  Good oral hygiene practices, healthy eating habits, and regular dental checkups and cleanings will all prolong the life of your new composite fillings.

Fort Smith Tooth Colored Composite Fillings Appointments

Unsightly and potentially dangerous dental restorations are a thing of the past. Make an appointment with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental for your new tooth colored composite fillings today. Dr. Lopez and his experienced team remove and replace old metal fillings every day. Dr. Lopez is the trusted family dentist of patients throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren, and nearby cities.

Eliminate Tooth Pain and Sensitivity with Root Canal Therapy at New Smile Dental

Are you muddling through pain and discomfort caused by an infected tooth? Soreness, sensitivity, bleeding, and inflammation are all warning signs of a serious tooth infection. Left untreated, a tooth infection can lead to the development of an abscess and the eventual loss of the natural tooth. But you can avoid the frustration and costs of tooth replacement, by scheduling a root canal therapy procedure before it’s too late. Make your root canal therapy appointment with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental today. Dr. Lopez can provide immediate pain relief and save your natural teeth from extraction. Dr. Lopez proudly restores smiles throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren, and the surrounding communities.

What Happens During Root Canal Therapy?

Root canal therapy is needed when the pulp inside your tooth becomes infected with harmful bacteria. To save the tooth from further decay, and eventual extraction, Dr. Lopez can clean out the bacteria and disinfect the canals of the tooth. 

For a root canal procedure:

·         First, Dr. Lopez will numb the tooth and surrounding area with a local anesthetic to block any pain.

·         Next, he will make a hole in the tooth to gain access to the inside of the pulp chamber (root canal).

·         Then, Dr. Lopez will clean out, disinfect, shape, and fill in the canals with a rubber compound known as gutta-percha.

·         Finally, Dr. Lopez will seal your tooth and put in place a filling or dental crown for additional protection and support.

Root Canal Therapy Appointments in Fort Smith, AR

Depending on the severity of the infection, your root canal procedure can be completed in just one to two visits. You can make an appointment for the root canal therapy you need today with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental. Dr. Lopez is an experienced and gentle family and restorative dentist. New Smile Dental serves patients of all ages throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren, and nearby areas.