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.

Oral Cancer Screenings from New Smile Dental

Visiting the dentist regularly will not only keep your smile healthy and attractive, it can also save your life. Oral cancer is rapidly becoming one of the most deadly forms of cancer, as it is so often discovered in the later stages of development. Early detection is the most relevant factor in determining oral cancer outcomes. Oral cancer screenings are a routine part of dental checkups. With thousands of new oral cancer cases appearing every year, it’s more important than ever to schedule a dental checkup so that you can be screened for signs of oral cancer. You can make an appointment for a dental checkup and oral cancer screening with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental today. He can help protect your smile and your overall good health. New Smile Dental proudly serves families throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren, and the surrounding communities.

What Are the Oral Cancer Warning Signs?

The physical signs of oral cancer may include:

·         Persistent red or white patches anywhere in the mouth

·         Non-healing ulcers in the mouth

·         Progressive swelling or enlargements in the mouth

·         Unusual surface changes anywhere in or near the mouth

·         Sudden tooth looseness and mobility

·         Unusual oral bleeding

·         Prolonged hoarseness or sore throat

Who’s at Risk for Developing Oral Cancer?

Risk for the development of oral cancer is higher in men than women, but increases for everyone as we get older. You may be at heightened risk if you use any type of tobacco, drink alcohol in excess, allow excessive sun exposure, or contract the human papillomavirus (HPV).

Oral Cancer Screenings in Fort Smith, AR

Many studies have shown that regular dental care can add years to your life. This is especially true when you add in the benefits of early detection with regular oral cancer screenings. Scheduling semi-annual dental appointments can help you avoid tooth decay, preserve your healthy smile, and literally save your life. Don’t put off the dental care you need any longer. Be proactive and make an appointment for a dental checkup with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental today. Dr. Lopez is an experienced and compassionate family dentist. New Smile Dental restores smiles daily throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren, and nearby areas.

General Dentistry Advice: What Causes Cavities?

Cavities start to form when simple sugars remain on the teeth over time.  These sugars promote the growth of the destructive bacteria that erodes tooth enamel. However, you can’t prevent cavities by only avoiding sweets and sugary drinks. The truth is that any simple sugar can promote the growth of cavity causing bacteria in your mouth. Carbohydrates, which make up the majority of our diets, are equally as harmful to our teeth. How can we avoid cavities if so much of the food we eat everyday causes tooth decay? Well, you can start by incorporating the advice below. Then, make an appointment for a dental check-up with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental. Dr. Lopez has the tools your family needs to fight cavities and gum disease. Dr. Lopez proudly serves families throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren and surrounding areas. 

6 Ways to Fight Cavities

·         Oral Hygiene- Brush, floss, and use mouth wash twice a day. You can help prevent cavity causing bacteria and plaque build-up by reducing the amount of food particles in your mouth.

·         Dairy- Incorporate more dairy products into your diet. Low fat milk and cheese provide the calcium and Vitamin D that strengthen your teeth and bones.

·         Black Tea- The antioxidant epigallocatechin, found in black tea, has been shown to reduce the growth of harmful bacteria.

·         Sugar Free Gum- Xylitol, a key ingredient in sugar free gum, has been shown to dramatically reduce tooth decay.

·         Crunchy Foods- Chewing crunchy foods, like nuts and crunchy veggies, can help to decrease plaque buildup.

·         Dental Check-Ups- It’s essential to see your dentist for a professional dental exam and cleaning twice a year to prevent cavities and other damage to your teeth.

Prevent and Treat Cavities in Fort Smith, AR

Unfortunately, cavities can form even if you follow a stringent oral hygiene regimen and eat a healthy diet. The key ingredient to a healthy smile is visiting Dr. Lopez for a regular dental check-up. Dental exams and cleanings can greatly reduce the likelihood of developing cavities. If you already have cavities, Dr. Lopez can offer treatment to make sure that your teeth are not damaged any further. Don’t take a chance with your dental health. Make an appointment with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental to get the professional dental care you need. Dr. Lopez proudly serves families throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren and nearby communities.

Schedule Holiday Dental Care Appointments for the Whole Family

With all of the festivities, preparations, and things to do during the holiday season, you can easily forget about taking care of your teeth. That’s why your dental health is so vulnerable this time of year. We may skimp on our oral care routines just as we start to consume more sugary treats and desserts than normal. This is a very bad combination for your teeth. But you can be proactive and protect your dental health and the dental health of your family this holiday season. Take note of the important healthy holiday habits below. Then make sure everyone in your family is caught up with their regular dental check-ups. A regular dental check-up can prevent tooth decay and gum disease. If it’s been over six months, make an appointment with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental to get your family the dental care they need for the holidays. Dr. Lopez proudly serves families throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren and surrounding areas. 

Holiday Dental Care Tips

·         Focus on a Few Big Meals- While it’s never healthy to over eat, it is healthier for your teeth if you forgo snacking in between meals and focus on just a few hearty meals during the day. Snacking throughout the day can prolong the time your teeth are exposed to harmful sugary residue. You also produce more saliva during big meals. This helps to wash away cavity causing bacteria and the excess sugars they feed upon.

·         Grab a Straw- While it may be hard to avoid any sugary beverages during holiday gatherings, you can help avoid the residual damage to your teeth by always using a straw. This redirects the harmful sugars away from your teeth and gums.

·         Milk a Cow- Well, not literally. But you should try drinking glass of low fat milk or eating a piece of cheese after consuming sugary treats. Milk will help wash away the sugars and the calcium and vitamin D in dairy products will help to strengthen your teeth and fight cavities.

·          Grab a Stick-A stick of sugar free gum that is. Sugar free gum contains an ingredient known as Xylitol, which actually helps to fortify your teeth against decay and gum disease.

Holiday Dental Care in Fort Smith, AR

What better gift to give your family this holiday than a bright, healthy smile? You can make an appointment with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental today for a pre or post- holiday dental check-up. Dr. Lopez proudly serves families throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren and neighboring communities.

Is it Time to Get Dentures?

As we age, our teeth can start to be a big problem. Even with proper oral care and routine dental visits, your dental work will eventually wear out and need to be replaced. Teeth will discolor over time and you may develop gum disease as a side effect of your medication or an unrelated illness. When the time comes to consider getting dentures, you shouldn’t let the idea scare you. The alternative to dentures (no teeth) is a much scarier proposition. Your teeth aren’t just there to complete your beautiful smile. They’re there for basic functions like talking and eating. Educate yourself and make an appointment with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental to discuss your options. Dr. Lopez proudly serves families throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren and neighboring communities.

The Dentures Process

·         Unhealthy teeth are extracted.

·         Temporary dentures are made in advance and can be positioned as soon as teeth are removed. Custom dentures are made after teeth have been removed and gum tissue has begun to heal.

(3 to 6 months after tooth removal)

·         Adjustment to dentures may take a few weeks until the muscles of your cheek and tongue learn to keep them in place. Minor irritation or soreness may occur and saliva flow may increase. These problems will diminish as your mouth adjusts to the new denture.

Quality Dentures in Fort Smith, AR

Over 32 million Americans wear full or partial dentures. You may or may not be a good candidate for dentures depending on your unique medical and dental history. If you still have the option, keeping your natural teeth as long as possible with quarterly cleanings and examinations is the best way to go. Porcelain crowns, bonding and veneers are all great methods for restoring your natural teeth. If you’re healthy enough, dental implants are also a good option. All tooth replacement processes take time. That’s why you should make an appointment with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental as soon as possible to discuss your treatment options. Dr. Lopez proudly serves families throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren and neighboring communities.