Preventive Dentistry in Plano Keeps Smiles Healthy

Dental Checkups & Cleanings

We strongly encourage every patient to attend regular re-care appointments at least 2 times a year to maintain optimal oral health. Oral hygiene needs change based on the condition of your teeth, gums, medical conditions, etc. Our experienced hygienists will not only perform a comprehensive assessment and cleaning but also educate each patient on their oral health needs.

Learn About Checkups & Cleanings

Dental Sealants

Your premolars and molars (the back teeth) have wide chewing surfaces with deep pits and grooves. Unfortunately, food and bacteria can get stuck in these areas over time, leading to tooth decay and cavities. Children are especially susceptible to this because they may still be learning how to brush and floss and can’t quite reach these areas of the mouth properly. That is why our team recommends dental sealants, which are safe plastic coatings that fit over the vulnerable surfaces and block out harmful substances. The application process is easy and painless, and sealants should last for multiple years at a time.

Nightguards for Bruxism

You probably know the term ‘bruxism’ by another name – teeth grinding. Patients of all ages suffer from bruxism, especially individuals who struggle with a lot of stress and anxiety in their daily lives. While grinding can happen at any time of day, a majority of patients will experience it only while sleeping, leaving them unaware as to why their jaw hurts and their teeth are worn-down.

Here in Plano, Dr. McConnell can lend a helping hand with this “bad habit.” He will alert you right away if he discovers any symptoms related to bruxism during your next checkup, and he can design a custom-made nightguard to protect the rows of teeth from damaging contact as you rest easy.

Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride is a natural mineral that can be found in countless toothpastes, mouthwashes, and oral hygiene products on the shelves. It’s probably even in your tap water at home – but why? According to numerous studies, regular exposure to fluoride actually improves oral health by strengthening tooth enamel against the threat of cavities. If you and your family could benefit from added fluoride, our team can provide quick and simple professional applications as a part of regular checkups and cleanings.

Periodontal Treatment

Periodontal disease (more commonly known as gum disease) is a common oral infection that begins gradually – maybe you notice a little blood in your saliva after flossing, for instance. Our team can’t recommend the importance of early intervention enough, as advanced cases will eventually threaten the health of your teeth and supporting structures resulting in tooth loss. Our hygienists can perform scaling and root planing to combat gum disease, which is an extensive cleaning that removes hard plaque deposits from under the gum tissue and along the tooth roots. Furthermore, periodontal disease has been linked to systemic health issues relating to diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease, etc.

TMJ/TMD Therapy

TMJ disorder (also known as TMD) is a serious oral health concern that occurs when the temporomandibular joints, which help you chew and speak properly, experience dysfunction. If you are experiencing chronic jaw pain or severe headaches, let Dr. McConnell know so that he can perform a thorough evaluation of your oral structures. TMJ disorder can often be alleviated with the use of an occlusal splint, which will help reposition the jaw into a more comfortable position and reduce strain.

Dental Emergencies

Dental emergencies are frightening experiences, and they tend to happen at the most inconvenient times as well. At Legacy Family Dental, we do our best to accommodate these serious cases as soon as our schedule allows, providing restorative care and much-needed relief from pain.