FAQs
Is dental insurance worth it?
How are wisdom teeth removed?
Wisdom teeth extraction is one of the most commonly practiced dental procedures. The entire process is usually performed while the patient is under some kind of anesthetic.
- Once anesthesia is administered (usually a nitrous oxide or IV sedation), your dentist will also apply a local numbing agent around the wisdom teeth to be removed.
- Gumline tissue must be removed in order to access your wisdom teeth (this may require an incision if your wisdom teeth are found to be impacted through a 2D x-ray).
- Your dentist will drill through the surface layer of bone to uncover your wisdom teeth if they are impacted. Otherwise, the wisdom teeth will be carefully separated from their surrounding connective tissue.
- To make sure your wisdom teeth do not break before removal, your dentist may cut each tooth into sections.
- Once each section is removed, the open socket will be stitched closed and you will be brought out of sedation for recovery.
What does a dentist do?
There are different types of dentists who specialize in specific areas of dentistry. These are the most commonly visited dental practitioners:
- General Dentists provide many services covered in basic dental insurance plans, including x-rays, teeth cleanings, cavity fillings, and oral cancer screenings.
- Pediatric Dentists perform most if not all of the same dental services as a General Dentist; however, these providers use smaller dental tools to accommodate the smaller mouths of children.
- Endodontists are root canal specialists who you may be referred to if you have any advanced stage cavities.
- Orthodontists install braces and perform other dental services to improve teeth alignment and jaw symmetry.
- Periodontists focus on restoring the health of your gums and will provide treatment to help you reverse periodontal disease.
- Oral Maxillofacial Surgeons perform many services using sedation dentistry techniques, as they handle the tissues of the mouth and jaw.
Does a deep cleaning hurt?
Since deep cleanings target the area underneath the gumline, some patients might find the procedure to be painful. However, a deep cleaning is a thorough and effective way to disinfect pockets of bacteria trapped in your gums which would otherwise lead to periodontal disease. If you cannot withstand the pain of a deep cleaning even with a local anesthetic, the service can be scheduled across multiple sessions.
What does fluoride do for the teeth?
Fluoride is a special mineral found in natural bodies of water. Our drinking water contains a sufficient amount of fluoride to galvanize our teeth, and consuming traces of this mineral is completely safe. Studies show that fluoride is not only essential for the prevention of dental caries (cavities), but it can also reverse early signs of tooth decay.
Is periodontal disease curable?
If you’ve been diagnosed with periodontal disease, the good news is symptoms can be reversed with proper care and maintenance of your gums and teeth. You may be required to undergo several deep cleaning sessions, which involve a process called scaling and planing. Your dentist or periodontist will be able to eliminate bacterial pockets that have accumulated on your gumline from a lack of flossing. Once you’ve been treated and you’ve dedicated yourself to a proper mouth care routine, there’s a good chance you’ll reverse periodontal disease.
Do I need my wisdom teeth removed?
The only way to know for certain whether or not to have your wisdom teeth removed is to ask your dentist during your next appointment. Opting not to have your wisdom teeth removed can lead to aches or infections, especially if your wisdom teeth are impacted. In addition, if you do not have enough space to accommodate your incoming wisdom teeth, your existing teeth could shift, affecting the functionality and appearance of your mouth.
What is the best way to whiten teeth?
You can whiten teeth from home using a number of oral care products sold at most big-box retailers. Whitening toothpaste, mouthwash, and hydroxide strips can effectively whiten your teeth in a relatively short amount of time. However, if your teeth are deeply stained and you wish to retain a brighter smile for a longer period of time, your dentist can offer professional whitening services.
How do dentists remove tartar?
Plaque and tartar buildup results from the proliferation of bacteria between teeth and around the gumline. Even with regular brushing and flossing, it is possible to develop plaque in hard-to-reach places, especially around our back molars. Removing tartar is fairly straightforward; using a scaler tool, your dental hygienist will scrape plaque buildup wherever it has accumulated.
How often should I go to the dentist?
Our mouths host a plethora of bacteria from the foods and beverages we consume, so it is recommended to schedule a dentist appointment every 6 months. A routine dental check-up will include an x-ray exam, followed by a regular teeth cleaning. Your dentist will also be able to screen for potential oral health issues, such as cavities, periodontal disease, or oral cancer.
Meet Your Encinitas Family Dentist
Gregory Skeens, D.D.S. – Dr. Skeens graduated from Loma Linda University dental school in 2001 on an academic Navy scholarship. He was the first in his class to finish all clinical requirements 6 months early and became a faculty member at the dental school, where he served for 4 years as a Navy dentist and a naval officer. After completing an advanced education in general dentistry (AEGD) residency, he deployed on the USS Peleliu in 2003, caring for 2500 marines, as well as providing humanitarian dental care to the Indigenous people of Iraq and Africa.
Dr. Skeens belongs to the American Dental Association (ADA), California Dental Association (CDA), and San Diego County Dental Society (SDCDS). He also attends Patriot and IADI Study Clubs.
Our Encinitas Dental Services
Tooth Extractions
Safely remove broken, cracked, or decayed teeth, including wisdom tooth removal.
CEREC Same-Day Crowns
Designed specifically for your smile and custom made in one visit.
Veneers
Conceal cosmetic flaws, improve the appearance of your smile, and protect your tooth's surface.
Dental Bonding
Repair chipped, cracked, or discolored teeth or close gaps between teeth.
Dental Implants
The gold standard for replacing missing teeth that lasts for decades and restores your ability to chew food.
In-House Membership
Annual dental exams, bitewing x-rays, and discounts on dental services.
Visit Gregory Skeens D.D.S.
519 Encinitas Blvd (# 108)
Encinitas, CA 92024
We are located in the North Coast Business Park off Encinitas Blvd.
Patient Video Testimonials and 5-Star Google Reviews
Exceptional Patient-Focused Dental Care
During your visit, you’ll get to know Dr. Skeens—he is down-to-earth and known for his professionalism and sense of humor. As an innovative dentist in Encinitas, he always seeks continuing education courses to expand his professional knowledge and offers the latest dental advancements. He and his team make you feel right at home and offer exceptional patient-focused dental care in a comfortable and modern setting. We’ll look at your overall oral health and suggest essential treatments.
At Gregory Skeens D.D.S. – Encinitas Family Dentistry, relationships matter. Supporting growing families and strengthening the oral health of patients at every stage of life provides the ultimate reward to our team. We understand dental anxiety and pride ourselves on compassion and kindness. Our state-of-the-art technology allows us to serve everyone with first-class dental treatments for a legacy of Encinitas smiles
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Hygienist
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Administrative
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Insurance / Financing / In-House Membership
Insurance
Insurance
We are in-network/contracted with the Delta Dental Premier Plan. We accept all PPO plans under ALL insurance umbrellas; however, we are considered out-of-network. As a courtesy, we will submit all claims to your insurance company and collect your estimated amount as treatment is rendered.
Financing
Financing
We’ll discuss the cost and payment options with you before we begin, and the choice for treatment is always yours. We accept major credit cards and CareCredit for extended payment options.
In-house Membership
In-house Membership
Our in-house membership program offers yearly savings and 20% off most dental services when you prepay for your hygiene visits, exams, and x-rays
Our guiding principles ensure your comprehensive dental treatments include the highest standards of care by dental professionals with ongoing training and expertise. We maintain strict infection control guidelines to protect you for uncompromising safety, patient education, and prevention. You can expect thorough dental exams that factor in your medical history, current illnesses, and current medications. The overall health of your teeth and gums is foundational to your general health. At Encinitas Family Dentistry, you can rest easy in our dental chairs, benefiting from a highly trained, highly motivated team of skilled professionals
✓ The Highest Standards of Care
✓ Uncompromising Safety
✓ Training and Expertise
✓ Education and Prevention
