Let Our Pineville Dentist Support Your Oral Health
Your smile is a vital part of your day-to-day life, from having fun with your family to greeting new friends. However, sometimes your smile could use a little support. Regular brushing and flossing alone aren’t enough to keep your mouth protected from certain oral health conditions. That’s why we’re committed to providing your family with the gentle and effective care they deserve at Locke Family Dental.
Dr. Virginia Locke is proud to offer a variety of dental services sure to keep your oral health in prime condition year-round. Patients in Pineville, Alexandria, and the Central Louisiana area are welcome to experience the Locke Family Dentistry difference. Learn more about our general dentistry services and preventative care with our expert Pineville, LA dentist below.
Regular Dental Check-Ups With Our Dentist in Pineville
Maintaining your oral health starts with daily brushing and flossing. However, along with your oral hygiene care at home, Dr. Virginia Locke recommends scheduling general dentistry check-ups at our office every six months.
Regular professional cleanings can prevent cavities, gum disease, and a host of other oral hygiene problems. Our experienced dental team will clean your teeth to remove plaque and tartar before our dentist examines your gums and teeth for signs of oral health problems. As a result, you’ll leave our office feeling confident that your mouth is clean and healthy.
Oral Cancer Screening
At Locke Family Dental, we perform an oral cancer screening during your twice-yearly checkups. Screening is a crucial, close examination of your mouth for cancer symptoms. This allows us to detect even the earliest signs of oral cancer, leading to a higher survival rate.
If we notice any progressive signs of oral cancer, we’ll perform more tests to confirm a diagnosis. If we have to take further steps, our dentist Dr. Locke will discuss effective oral cancer treatment options that work for you.
Gum Disease Diagnosis
If you’re experiencing loose or shifting teeth, pain in and around your gums, or persistent bad breath, you may be suffering from gum (periodontal) disease. Periodontal disease is the inflammation and infection of the tissues surrounding your teeth. If left untreated, this painful condition can cause you to lose teeth, along with weakening your jawbone.
Thankfully, our highly experienced dentist can spot the symptoms of gum disease even before you do. During your semiannual dental exam, we’ll look for the signs and discuss treatment right away.
Radiology Evaluation
Your mouth is as unique as you are. That’s why our expert dental team provides specialized care just for you. Radiology, or x-ray scanning, is a popular method of examining teeth and jaw health. It allows your dentist to see accurate images of your jaw, so our dentist can determine what treatment will most effectively target your symptoms.
Preventative Dentistry
Preventative or prophylactic dentistry is the method used in general dentistry to avoid oral disease. At our office, your oral health is our top priority. That’s why our preventative dentist takes steps to treat and prevent underlying oral health problems before they start.
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride is a crucial dietary supplement. You get it from the foods you eat, the water you drink, and most brands of toothpaste. However, our patients also love the added assurance they get from topical fluoride treatments. We apply this foam, gel, or rinse onto your teeth, and after a short time, it strengthens your enamel. You and your family will feel newfound confidence in your smiles after this quick procedure.
Protective Sealants
Dental sealants are thin, transparent coverings that go over your molar teeth. These sealants keep plaque away from the hard-to-reach surfaces on your teeth and work especially well for children after their permanent teeth erupt. Studies have shown that children without sealants are nearly three times more likely to have cavities than children who have them.
Your Oral Hygiene
Dental care doesn’t stop at our office. It’s essential to your oral health to make sure you care for your teeth and gums daily. The best way to do this is by brushing your teeth for at least two minutes — preferably using fluoride toothpaste — and flossing twice a day. With proper oral health care and regular professional cleanings from our skilled dentist Dr. Locke, you can achieve the best version of your smile.