Smile Brighter with Dr. Kathy Jacobsen

When we talk about general dentistry, we talk about preventing, diagnosing, and treating oral health concerns. These services generally include dental exams, professional cleanings, fillings, crowns, fluoride treatments, sealants, and gum disease care. We also provide oral screenings and patient education to help prevent future complications.

We aim to keep your teeth and gums healthy while helping you avoid more extensive dental treatments in the future.

A toothache may signify tooth decay, infection, gum disease, or a fractured tooth. Gently rinse your mouth with warm water, use dental floss to clean the space around the affected tooth, and don't place any aspirin directly on the sore gums. Call us immediately so we can determine the underlying cause and administer the appropriate treatment.

Yes, the most modern digital dental X-rays utilize very low amounts of radiation and are deemed safe for both minors and adults. The use of X-rays makes it easy to detect cavities, infections, bone loss, or other issues that may not be seen during a visual exam. We will perform X-rays only when appropriate for your treatment.

For a healthy smile, brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss once a day, follow a balanced diet, and limit your sugar intake. In addition, regularly getting your teeth cleaned and checked will help keep your mouth free of cavities and deposits, both of which are harmful.

Even if you do not have any serious dental troubles, visiting the dentist regularly is crucial. If you have noticed any sensitivity in your teeth, have bleeding gums, suffer from bad breath, have wobbly teeth, or are simply feeling pain when eating, you should make an appointment as soon as possible. Timely diagnosis is the key to stopping small problems from turning into major dental issues down the line.

Preventive dental care can safeguard your oral health by helping detect possible problems before they escalate into serious issues. Routine checkups, cleanings, and screenings minimize cavities, gum problems, and tooth loss, and can also enhance your overall health. Similarly, preventive dental care is an investment that pays off in the future, as it saves you time, pain, and money associated with treatment.