A+ Quality Dental Care Services

At The Center for Implant and General Dentistry, you will find we offer a wide variety of dental care services to meet your healthcare needs. Dr. B. Clay Keith, DDS, Dr. Paul Denson, DDS, and their highly-trained professional staff constantly keep informed of the latest dental care techniques and dental technologies through continuing education.
Preventive Dental Care Services
To learn more about the dental care services we offer our Lindale and Greater East Texas area, please click on the links below:
RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY
COSMETIC DENTISTRY
DENTURES
WISDOM TEETH & EXTRACTIONS
SEDATION DENTISTRY
DENTAL HYGIENE
Restorative Dentistry
Many patients who have lost teeth, or have teeth that are severely damaged, may feel self-conscious about their appearance and shy away from social situations. They may also find it difficult to eat properly. Restorative dentistry can help patients regain their confidence and enjoy a better quality of life by repairing damaged teeth and replacing missing teeth.
ROOT CANALS
One of the most common dental procedures, a root canal, removes the infected nerve tissue and cleans out an abscessed or decayed tooth. Tooth decay can spread into the jawbone and surrounding tissues if left untreated for an extended period.
A deep filling alone will not stop the infection, which should be treated with antibiotics before assessing a dental specialist. We know, we have heard it before: this term SOUNDS "scary!" However, times have changed, and a root canal is not as fearsome as it once was.
Crowns
A crown, also known as a "cap," completely encases the damaged tooth and is designed to restore it to full function. Crowns can be made of porcelain or gold and bonded with cement. Although crowns can be used for both decayed and cracked teeth, they're most commonly used to cover misshapen teeth due to decay or fracture.
Fixed Bridges
Another option for replacing a missing tooth is a fixed bridge, which can span the distance between two teeth or as a partial denture. Generally made of porcelain and metal, a fixed bridge replaces missing teeth. It is a group of connected crowns, some of which are suspended over the area of a missing tooth or teeth, and the neighboring teeth or dental implants anchor the others for support. A fixed bridge can be either removable or non-removable, depending on the type of abutments used.
Fillings
Small cavities that form on the surface of teeth are easy to spot and treat with a simple filling, which is bonded to the tooth's enamel to prevent further decay. Before placing a filling, it may be necessary to numb your mouth to avoid discomfort during the procedure. Dentists can repair some tooth decay with a tooth-colored filling, which is matched to the color of your teeth. White fillings, made from a type of plastic resin, are a less expensive alternative that may last longer.
Cosmetic Dentistry
Ever thought of how you can enhance your smile with a few changes? Well, it's time to put those thoughts into effect as Cosmetic Dentistry can provide you with the opportunity to improve your smile. If you are looking for Cosmetic Dentistry in Lindale and Greater East Texas area, this page will give you a wealth of information.
People are now more conscious about their appearance, especially how they look. Your smile is one of the first things people notice, and feeling confident in it makes all the difference.
Porcelain Veneers
A veneer is a thin covering placed over the front of teeth to improve their appearance. These ultra-thin shells can correct stains, chips, and other imperfections on your teeth with minimal prep work from the dentist. In most cases, porcelain or ceramic veneers are used because they mimic the look of natural teeth.
Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening safely lifts stains and brightens your smile for a noticeably more confident look.
Tooth-Colored Fillings
We can repair your teeth with tooth-colored fillings while still maintaining their natural appearance. Tooth-colored fillings are made from a composite resin material that can match your teeth's color.
Dentures
One important thing to keep in mind when it comes to healthy and strong teeth and gums, is that the definition of “good oral health” might change over time. This is especially true as we age and tend to have more issues with our teeth. Eventually, while the goal might once have been to avoid cavities in any teeth and to have a mouth full of natural teeth, the new option will be to preserve remaining teeth as much as possible while looking at different replacement teeth options.
One of the most common restorative options used to help replace missing natural teeth are dentures and partial dentures.
What are partial dentures?
When you lose teeth, you need to settle on a replacement option as quickly as possible. It is important to note that your options vary depending upon how many teeth you have lost as well as various other factors specific to your case. If you have a few teeth extracted, but still have viable natural teeth remaining, then one of your replacement teeth options is a partial denture. A partial denture is a dental device that consists of replacement teeth that are attached to an acrylic base that is colored to match your gums. This kind of denture is often removable, and sometimes snaps in place using a framework that attaches to teeth adjacent to the empty space left by extracted teeth.
Another option is a dental bridge, which is the same basic idea as the aforementioned partial denture, but it attaches to two crowns that are placed over adjacent teeth.
What are complete dentures?
When you lose all of your teeth, you might be worried that your quality of life will go down. That concern is natural; however, it does not have to be a reality. With complete dentures, you can quickly turn an empty mouth into one that is full of teeth! Like the partial denture described above, complete dentures consist of replacement teeth placed onto an acrylic base that matches your gums. The dentures are then fitted to your existing gums. Note that most complete dentures are held in place using suction, and it might take a while for you to grow accustomed to the feeling in your mouth.
Are dentures effective?
Both partial and complete dentures are good options for individuals who are looking to replace missing teeth. The option that is best for you is one that you should discuss with your dentist, who will have more insight as to your specific needs and therefore the advantages and disadvantages of different kinds of dentures. Make sure that you understand how to take care of your dentures, and that you ask any questions you might have while speaking with us.
What is a removable bridge?
When you find yourself needing a tooth extraction, finding a replacement option and have it fitted as quickly as possible ought to be top priority. A removable dental bridge is a good option for many individuals, and consists of a replacement tooth that is anchored in place using a framework that attaches to your remaining natural teeth. Some removable bridges, for example, have two crowns that are permanently attached to the teeth on either side of where the missing tooth used to be. The replacement tooth is then inserted into the empty space and attached to the crowns. It can then be unattached and removed as needed.
Wisdom Teeth & Extractions
If tooth decay or disease has left teeth so damaged that one can no longer restore them, your dentist may recommend their removal.
Extractions are often performed to make room for dental implants or bridges that will help keep teeth in place. After the tooth is removed, you'll need to wear a space maintainer until the area has healed completely. Within six months of extraction, most spaces close up by 80 percent.
Sedation Dentistry
Did you know that over half of our population (almost 145 million Americans) avoids dental care out of fear of pain? If the thought of going to the dentist makes you feel anxious, sedation dentistry can help you feel comfortable.
The most important person in our office is the patient. We want to ensure you get the dental care you need in the most comfortable environment. We offer sedation dentistry to meet our anxious, fearful, or busy dental patients' unique needs because your comfort and peace of mind are our first concerns.
Our sedation options will help you deal with the fear and anxiety that sometimes accompany a visit to the dentist. In addition to helping you overcome your fear and anxiety, another advantage of sedation dentistry in Lindale, TX, is that it allows us to perform several treatments in a single visit. In most cases, you'll remember little if anything about the time spent; it will feel like you were in the office for only a few minutes.
Types of Sedation Dentistry
Nitrous Oxide, or Laughing Gas.
This mild form of sedation involves nitrous oxide is inhaled through a mask. You will feel very relaxed and have little or no pain at all. Your dentist can adjust the level of nitrous to give you just the right amount to keep you happy while we take care of your smile. You'll be able to drive yourself home after your appointment, and the rest of the day, you should plan to relax.
Oral Conscious Sedation Dentistry
This type of sedation is commonly used for anxious or nervous patients about seeing the dentist. The oral conscious sedatives can help make you more comfortable and relaxed.
Our dentist will give you medication to help you relax, and then we will numb the areas that need treatment. Shortly following, we can perform any procedures necessary while you're sedated. Usually, after about 15 minutes, you'll feel like yourself again and go home to your family or friends for an easy recovery.
IV Sedation Dentistry
At the Center for Implant and General Dentistry, we use a personalized, custom sedation plan that accounts for each person's needs and fears. We have successfully treated thousands of fearful, anxious patients using these safe sedation techniques.
IV sedation is ideal for people who need extensive dental treatment, such as those with multiple cavities or extensive gum disease. You will be sedated while your doctor places numbing medication into the area they must work on. A tube is then placed in your arm to deliver medications. Your doctor can give you specific medications to help with any pain, anxiety, and nausea after treatment.
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
The Center for Implant and General Dentistry offers sedation dentistry in Lindale, TX, to help patients fearful, anxious, or need extensive dental work.
Our experienced staff can customize your specific dental plan based on your needs. We will discuss these benefits with you before beginning any procedures to help you feel confident that we can care for your dental needs.
Is Sedation Dentistry safe for children?
Many parents are concerned about the safety of their child's sedation plan.
However, The Center for Implant and General Dentistry can customize a plan to make any child comfortable during procedures. Sedation dentistry has been proven safe for children over the years.
We will work with you to ensure that your child feels at ease before, during, and after procedures.
Do you feel pain with Sedation Dentistry?
The medication used with sedation dentistry blocks pain and helps you relax to perform any procedures necessary.
During your procedure, you will not feel any pain, but some soreness is expected the first few days after treatment. Our team will work with you to make sure you are comfortable.
Do I Need Sedation Dentistry?
Our dentist will give you specific information about your needs and create a treatment plan to suit your particular needs.
Dental Hygiene
Dental hygiene is an essential factor in overall oral health, and with the proper knowledge, you can keep your teeth clean and healthy.
Healthier teeth and gums do not only look good, but they also save you money. If there is no need for dental restoration or other costly procedures, your teeth will be healthier and last longer.
What is the Importance of Dental Hygiene?
Dental hygiene is an integral part of your overall health and wellness. Poor dental hygiene can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, cavities over time, and early tooth loss if left untreated.
By practicing good dental hygiene, you can help keep your teeth and gums healthy. Good oral hygiene habits also extend beyond the inside of the mouth, as it's essential to practice good hand-washing and grooming techniques to avoid transferring bacteria from your hands to other areas around your face and body.
In summary, dental hygiene practices are vital for your entire body. Making sure you brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and visit your dentist every six months is key to ensuring the health and longevity of your teeth and gums. Make sure you also practice other healthy habits such as eating well and limiting snacking to keep yourself in top shape both physically and mentally.
Dental Hygiene Best Practices
Brush often
You should brush at least twice a day, but if you can, do it more! After eating, brushing your teeth immediately is recommended to remove food debris and plaque from teeth before they harden into tartar. It would help if you brushed longer than you think—start with 2 minutes each time you brush. Just imagine all the germs that get on your teeth in just an hour!
Use the right toothpaste
There are many different types of toothpaste, and while they all clean teeth, some products offer additional benefits that might be more important to you than others. For example, whitening toothpaste is widespread and can give your teeth a whiter appearance over time. Fluoride toothpaste helps strengthen the enamel on teeth, protecting them from acids in food and drinks that cause cavities. Some whitening toothpaste contains hydrogen peroxide or baking soda to help remove surface stains quickly without irritating gums during brushing. You should always check the label and ensure that your toothpaste contains fluoride.
Floss properly
Another crucial dental hygiene practice is flossing. Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between your teeth that you cannot reach with a toothbrush. Not only should you floss daily, but also before going to bed at night, so you don't accumulate more bacteria during the day.
Replace your toothbrush often
You should replace your toothbrush every three months because the bristles are worn out after all this time. You can tell it's time for a new brush when you feel more resistance from your toothbrush while brushing.
Use the right toothbrush
Just like using the right toothpaste, there are different types of toothbrushes that you should use for your dental hygiene routine. If you have very tight spaces between teeth, you need a small-headed toothbrush to reach those areas. If you wear braces or other fixed dental work, such as bridges and veneers, then be sure to clean it with a soft bristle brush.
Use a mouthwash after brushing
Mouthwash is not a replacement for brushing, but it can be beneficial as additional protection. Using mouthwash after brushing kills some of the bacteria that brush doesn't reach and makes your breath feel fresher. Don't rinse with mouthwash before brushing because this will decrease the effectiveness of the toothpaste.
Clean your brush properly
If you have a manual toothbrush, you need to clean it in hot soapy water after each use. Rinse it well, and then sit in an upright position to dry. Electric toothbrushes are rinsed under running water when you're done brushing. If you are not careful, the bristles can get loose over time, and the motor can be damaged.
Visit your dentist regularly
One of the best things you can do for your teeth is to visit a dentist every six months for a thorough cleaning and exam. Your dentist will advise you about brushing, flossing, and other dental hygiene practices that will keep your teeth clean and healthy. You may even need to see your dentist more often if you have teeth that are sensitive, misshapen, or crooked.
Limit snacking
Snacks can be delicious, but they also increase the risk of tooth decay because the sugars in them don't get washed away when you brush. So, try not to snack throughout the day; instead, eat meals and healthy snacks to fulfill your appetite. While the foods you eat are important, how often you eat them is just as important. If your teeth are exposed to food for an extended period, then the sugars in that food have more time to damage your enamel and cause cavities.
Eat healthy foods
The best way to protect your teeth from the effects of sugar is to eat a healthy diet. In addition to snacking less, try making meals and snacks that include more fruits and vegetables and fewer sugars and processed foods.
Brush and clean your tongue too
Not only do you need to brush your teeth, but also your tongue. Food particles and bacteria buildup on the tongue can cause bad breath. A tongue scraper is an effective tool for reaching all tongue areas while brushing gently with toothpaste. You may not think about this often, but it's essential to clean your tongue every time you brush your teeth.
Drink more water
Drinking water throughout the day helps to dilute saliva, which keeps bacteria levels low. Saliva washes away food particles and carries minerals back into the enamel for natural cavity protection. If you don't drink enough water, then all of this doesn't happen as naturally, which can lead to tooth decay over time.
Routine Teeth Cleanings
One of the best things you can do for your teeth is to visit a dentist every six months for a thorough cleaning and exam. Your dentist will advise you about brushing, flossing, and other dental hygiene practices that will keep your teeth clean and healthy. You may even need to see your dentist more often if you have teeth that are sensitive, misshapen, or crooked.
Periodontal Maintenance
Another important aspect of preventive dental care is complete periodontal maintenance. Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a bacterial infection that attacks the gums and bone around your teeth.
If you have periodontal disease, you can develop gum recession, bone loss, and tooth loss. That is why it is so important to have your teeth professionally cleaned at least twice a year so that we can remove any built-up plaque and tartar around your teeth and gums.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a thin, transparent plastic coating applied to your back teeth' chewing surfaces. Dental sealants help prevent tooth decay by filling in the grooves in your teeth that are hard to clean with a toothbrush.
We recommend that children apply dental sealants to their teeth as soon as their adult molars come in.
Oral Cancer Screening
Our clinic offers oral cancer screenings to our patients. Oral cancer screenings are quick and painless, and they can help us detect oral cancer in its early stages.
If you would like to schedule an appointment for a dental cleaning or any of our other preventive dental care services, please use the request appointment form below.