Dr. Chavala Harris is a family dentist in Durham, NC, who helps patients of all ages receive professional dental care. She works with parents and their children to find the best treatment methods. Understanding each patient’s needs, regardless of age, can make it easier for patients to visit the dentist regularly.
Dr. Harris also helps adults and children with dental fear or anxiety. She understands that it may be difficult for some patients to feel comfortable at the dentist’s office. She aims to create a friendly environment where patients of all ages feel comfortable receiving care. Dr. Harris also provides cosmetic, restorative, and general dentistry services to patients in the Durham area.
Your Child’s First Dental Visit
Family dentistry is a general dental treatment because it helps prevent oral health problems down the road. A key aspect of preventative care is routine visits. During your child’s first visit to our office, we will provide:
- Dental cleaning
- Diagnostic x-rays and tooth charting
- Cavity Screening
- Fluoride treatment
- Gum and TMJ evaluation
Routine dental visits allow our team to monitor any changes in your child’s oral health. They also help us establish a relationship with you and your child so we can better understand your concerns and oral health needs. We recommend that parents schedule their child’s first dental visit after their first tooth emerges.
Our team may also recommend dental sealants to cover teeth and reduce the risk of gum disease, cavities, and tooth decay. Sealants are thin resin coatings that can protect teeth from bacteria, plaque, and food particles for multiple years. We recommend dental sealants for children ages 5 to 7.
Children are more prone to cavities and need protective and preventive care.
Caring for Baby Teeth
Baby teeth are more than placeholders. They help your child chew and guide permanent teeth in to the correct position. Primary teeth also support speech development. Here’s how to care for them.
- Before teeth emerge: Clean your baby’s gums with a soft, wet washcloth after feedings to remove bacteria.
- First tooth: Start brushing twice daily with a soft infant toothbrush and water. Use a rice-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste for children under age 3.
- Ages 3 to 6: Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Supervise brushing to ensure they spit and do not swallow.
- Ages 6 and up: Continue with twice-daily brushing and daily flossing. Introduce mouthwash as recommended by Dr. Harris.
We also recommend regular dental visits starting at age one. These visits help us catch problems early and establish a positive relationship with the dentist.
Adult and Senior Dental Treatments
As we get older, our teeth can become worn, discolored, or damaged. Gums may recede, and older fillings may weaken. These changes can affect more than just your appearance. They can make it harder to chew your food, speak clearly, and feel good about your smile.
Regular dental care catches problems early and keeps your mouth healthy. With today’s advanced treatments, we can restore and revitalize your smile at any age.
Our cosmetic and restorative treatments benefit more mature patients. Dental bridges, dentures, veneers, crowns, and bonding are some of the most common treatments that help patients revitalize their smiles. Cosmetic dentures and bridges can restore one or more missing teeth.
Porcelain veneers, tooth crowns, and dental bonding address weakened, damaged, and discolored teeth.
We understand that some adults and seniors may have health conditions or take medications that affect their teeth and gums. Dr. Harris has advanced training in treating patients with complex medical needs. She will work with you to create a treatment plan that is safe, effective, and tailored to your overall health.
Family Dentistry FAQs
Read answers to common questions about family dentistry treatments in Durham, NC.
What happens during a dental cleaning?
A dental cleaning is simple and painless. First, your dental hygienist will use special tools to gently remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. Once the buildup is gone, the hygienist will polish your teeth using a special toothpaste and a small rotary brush. This removes surface stains and leaves your teeth feeling smooth and clean.
Next, the hygienist will floss between each tooth to make sure every area is clean. After the cleaning, our dentist will examine your mouth to make sure all plaque and tartar are gone. She will also check for signs of cavities, gum disease, or other concerns.
How long does it take to remove tartar during a dental cleaning?
The amount of time it takes to remove tartar during a dental cleaning depends on the severity and thickness of the buildup. A dental hygienist typically takes 30-60 minutes to perform routine cleanings, including removing tartar buildup from teeth.
Are dental sealants safe for my child?
Yes. Dental sealants are a safe, effective way to prevent cavities. They are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth. The procedure is quick and painless and can protect teeth for multiple years.
How can I help my child overcome dental anxiety?
We specialize in creating a safe, welcoming environment for anxious patients. Dr. Harris and her team use gentle techniques, explain each step, and can make accommodations for dental anxiety. We recommend scheduling a meet-and-greet visit to familiarize your child with our office before their first treatment.
What should I do if my child has a toothache?
Rinse your child’s mouth with warm water. Gently floss to remove any trapped food. Apply a cold compress to the outside of the cheek to reduce swelling. Give age-appropriate pain relief if needed. Call our office for an appointment.
When should I start cleaning my baby’s teeth?
You should begin cleaning your baby’s teeth when their first tooth appears, usually around six months. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, parents should begin brushing a baby’s teeth twice daily (morning and night) with a soft cloth or finger brush and water.
Additionally, you should start regular dental visits for your baby at the age of one. Regular visits can help prevent early childhood cavities or identify potential health issues in your child’s mouth.
What does the fluoride treatment do and is it safe for children?
Fluoride treatment strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities. It’s quick, painless, and safe for children and recommended by dental professionals. The amount used in treatments is carefully controlled. Dr. Harris will discuss any concerns and ensure your child receives the right care for a healthy smile.
What is the most common dental problem in adults?
The most common dental problem in adults is tooth decay, which results from plaque buildup and poor oral hygiene. Other common dental problems in adults include gum disease, which occurs when bacteria accumulate below the gum line and cause inflammation, and periodontal disease, which can progress if left untreated.
Schedule A Dental Visit For Your Family
Are you looking for a family dentist near you in Durham? Call Oak Grove Family and Cosmetic Dentistry today at 919-899-4467 or schedule a dental consultation with Dr. Chavala Harris online.
Do you have any more questions about our practice? Call us or let us know at your next appointment. Our dental office serves patients from Durham and Oak Grove, North Carolina.