Major Dental Problems
Dental Emergencies
No one wants to visit the dental emergency room, but unfortunately, accidents do happen. There are many types of dental emergencies, including dental avulsions (traumatic tooth displacement), tooth sprains (caused by localized pressure) and dental abscesses (pus-filled pockets around teeth causing inflammation).
We're here to help.
Periodontal Disease (Periodontists)
Periodontal disease (periodontitis) can result if gum inflammation (Gingivitis) is left untreated for too long. Gingivitis can become periodontitis when teeth with inflamed gums are not cleaned, resulting in bacteria-filled pockets. This causes bone loss and eventually the loss of teeth. Reversing gingivitis is possible with early detection, frequent brushing, and flossing, regular cleanings, proper diet and hydration. Once Periodontal disease develops it requires a deep cleaning (scaling and root planning), along with other procedures and localized anti-biotics, to stop the bone loss and save the teeth.
Bad Breath
Bad breath treatment will depend on the cause of the halitosis, which can be acid reflux, cavities, diabetes, or periodontal disease. Aside from unpleasant smells, other symptoms of halitosis include thick saliva, whitened tongue, and a dry mouth. Some people may deal with bad breath even after brushing, which is why it’s important to visit your dentist for regular cleanings.
Cavities
Gingivitis
Gum Disease (Gingivitis) is when gums are inflamed due to lack of brushing and flossing and not having your teeth cleaned regularly. Reversing gum disease is possible via early detection, frequent brushing/flossing and proper hydration. If you have been diagnosed with gum disease, the treatment is a cleaning at your dental office, followed by frequent brushing and flossing at home
Plaque
Dental plaque or plaque psoriasis affects millions of Americans and is caused by bacteria eating leftover food in the mouth from not brushing and flossing. If this plaque is not removed it will cause gingivitis (gum disease) which is inflamed gums. If plaque is not removed it creates tartar buildup which leads to periodontitis (periodontal disease) and eventually the loss of teeth over time. This is why it is very important to maintain good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups and cleanings.
Enamel Loss
Our enamel is a natural protective shield against harmful sugars, acidic foods and other substances. Erosion of enamel can lead to tooth decay and the formation of dental caries. Depending on the stages of enamel loss, your dentist can also recommend tooth bonding or crowning teeth to restore the appearance of your teeth.
Oral Cancer
There are many types of oral cancer that can disease any area of your mouth, including your throat, tongue, palate, gum line and floor of the mouth. The stages of oral cancer range from 1 to 5, where advanced progression will require chemotherapy or radiation therapy. A standard oral cancer screening can be performed during your routine dental exam to ensure you do not have early signs of mouth cancer.
Broken Teeth
A broken tooth may occur as a result of chewing hard foods, trauma, or by grinding your teeth. Sometimes the broken teeth are already full strength and at risk of breaking. This risk is higher when the tooth already has had prior procedures done to it, such as fillings or crowns. Teeth with notable cracks in them are also at a higher risk of breaking. If you are suffering with a broken or chipped tooth, make sure you go see your dentist for help. There are many things a dentist can do to fix your teeth, as well as help you achieve your best smile.
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
Registered
Dental
Hygienist
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Dental
Assistant
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
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should i get a dental cleaning?
Dr. Skeens recommends dental cleanings every six months for most patients. However, if you have a history of cavities, gum disease, diabetes, or autoimmune conditions, you may benefit from more frequent visits. At Encinitas Family Dentistry, we personalize every treatment plan based on your unique oral health needs.
Do you practice mercury-free dentistry?
Yes! At Encinitas Family Dentistry, we are proud to offer mercury-free dentistry. This means all of our restorative materials—such as fillings and crowns—are free of mercury and chosen for their safety, durability, and natural appearance.
Do you offer Invisalign or clear aligners?
Yes! Encinitas Family Dentistry offers ClearCorrect aligners, which are like Invisalign, for straighter teeth without wires or brackets.
Do you offer sedation for anxious patients?
Yes, we offer sedation dentistry so you feel completely at ease during your visit.
Are dental implants painful?
Your dental implant procedure is painless, as you are under local anesthesia or sedation. Afterwards, Dr. Skeens says that most patients experience only mild soreness, similar to having a tooth pulled. If you have soreness, it is easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
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
