At our Southern Pines dental practice, Dr. Conor Gessell is committed to helping you achieve excellent oral health. We understand dental concerns can cause worry and discomfort. This guide addresses common dental issues and explains how our team can help you maintain a healthy smile.
Why Regular Dental Visits Matter
Regular dental visits prevent problems before they start. During check-ups, Dr. Gessell examines your teeth and gums, screens for oral cancer, checks for grinding signs, cleans your teeth, and provides personalized care advice. Most dental problems start small but grow if left untreated. Six-month visits help catch and treat issues early.
Common Dental Concerns We Address
Tooth decay occurs when bacteria create acids that damage tooth enamel, forming cavities. Signs include sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods; unexplained toothache; visible holes in teeth; or pain when biting. Dr. Gessell uses tooth-colored fillings to repair cavities while maintaining a natural appearance.
Healthy gums are essential for oral health. Gum disease is an infection of tissues holding teeth in place, usually caused by poor oral hygiene. Early gum disease causes red, swollen gums, bleeding when brushing, and persistent bad breath. If untreated, it can advance and lead to tooth loss. Dr. Gessell offers effective treatments including deep cleaning procedures and personalized care instructions.
Replacing missing teeth is important for both appearance and health. Missing teeth affect speech, eating, and can change facial structure over time. Dr. Gessell offers dental implants that function like natural teeth, bridges that fill gaps with false teeth anchored by crowns, and dentures for replacing multiple teeth. He’ll help you choose the best option for your needs.
Many people grind their teeth during sleep without realizing it. This can wear down teeth and cause jaw pain, headaches, and tooth damage. Signs include flattened or chipped teeth, worn enamel, tooth sensitivity, jaw pain, and morning headaches. Dr. Gessell can create a custom night guard and recommend strategies to reduce grinding.
Our Comprehensive Dental Services
Our general dentistry services focus on prevention and maintenance through comprehensive exams, professional cleanings, x-rays, fluoride treatments, sealants, cancer screenings, and patient education. These services form the foundation of lifelong oral health.
For those seeking aesthetic improvements, Dr. Gessell offers cosmetic services including teeth whitening for brightness, porcelain veneers for transforming damaged teeth, dental bonding for minor repairs, and comprehensive smile makeovers for those seeking a complete transformation.
When problems arise, our restorative services repair damage and restore function. Options include tooth-colored fillings, crowns for weakened teeth, bridges and implants for missing teeth, root canal therapy for infections, and TMJ treatment for jaw disorders. Each treatment aims to return your mouth to full health and comfort.
Our Approach to Patient Care
At Dr. Gessell’s practice, we believe everyone deserves personalized care. We listen to concerns, answer questions, and create customized treatment plans. Understanding dental anxiety is common, our team creates a warm environment where you feel comfortable and relaxed. We explain procedures simply and work at your pace to ensure comfort.
The best approach to dental health is prevention. Dr. Gessell will help you develop good oral hygiene habits: brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, eating a balanced diet, limiting sugary foods, avoiding tobacco, and scheduling regular check-ups. These simple steps prevent serious problems and treatments.
Schedule Your Visit Today
Don’t wait for a dental emergency, contact our Southern Pines office at 910-390-1259 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Conor Gessell. Whether you need a routine check-up or have specific concerns, we’re here to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. Call us or book online today.