Bernard Char, DDS is a General Dentist practicing at his clinic in Odessa, TX. He is a trusted local provider on kellysearch.com, dedicated to comprehensive General Dentistry care. Registered with The Texas State Board of Dental Examiners and practicing under the Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle B (Medical Practice Act), Dr. Char understands the vital role oral health plays in overall well-being.
General Dentists (DDS or DMD) are primary care providers for oral health, focusing on preventative care, diagnosing and treating dental diseases, managing tooth replacement needs, performing oral cancer screenings, and collaborating with primary care physicians to address the connection between oral and overall systemic health. Dr. Char is committed to this comprehensive approach, serving all ages. Prospective patients should call (432) 614-4144 to confirm if he is currently accepting new patients. Dr. Bernard Lai Char, DDS is a dentistry practitioner in Odessa, TX, committed to a collaborative, evidence-based approach to care, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions.
Dr. Bernard Char provides consultations primarily in English.
A strong patient-provider partnership is the foundation of effective healthcare. Dr. Char is committed to being a partner in your health journey, focusing on practical strategies to protect your health and well-being.
Dr. Char's comprehensive approach to general dentistry prioritizes preventative care, early disease detection, and patient education. He meticulously diagnoses and treats a wide range of dental conditions, ensuring optimal oral health. He collaborates effectively with primary care physicians to address the interconnections between oral and systemic health, providing holistic patient care.
By working together, you and Dr. Char can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Cigna
- Dental PPO
- DentalGuard Preferred
- Elite Plus DPPO
- Guardian
- Principal Financial Group
- Total Dental DPPO
- United Concordia Dental
As your primary healthcare provider, Dr. Char offers expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of common health conditions. Common areas of focus include:
- Ankylosis of Tooth: Ankylosed teeth are fused to the jawbone, which can cause problems with eruption, biting, and overall dental health; a general dentist can manage this issue.
- Tooth Malformation: Tooth malformation refers to teeth that haven't developed normally, and a general dentist can identify these issues and discuss treatment options like bonding, veneers, or orthodontics.
- Underbite: An underbite is a misalignment where your lower jaw extends past your upper jaw; your dentist can help manage this with interventions like braces or jaw surgery.
- Crossbite: Crossbite happens when your top and bottom teeth don't line up correctly, leading to potential jaw problems that your dentist can address.
- Tongue-Tie: Limited tongue movement due to a restricted frenulum might indicate tongue-tie, a condition a general dentist can diagnose and may release surgically for improved function.
- Oral Motor Problems: Oral motor problems can impact eating, drinking, and speech; your dentist plays a role in diagnosis and recommending treatment options.
- Grinding of Teeth: Grinding your teeth can wear them down and cause damage. Your dentist can identify the cause and recommend treatments like a nightguard to prevent further problems.
This list represents some of the common conditions treated. An accurate diagnosis and a personalized care plan can only be developed through a direct consultation with a qualified medical professional.
To provide comprehensive and patient-centered care, Dr. Char offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and treat various health concerns:
- Impacted Tooth Removal: If a tooth is impacted (trapped under the gum line or bone), your dentist might recommend removal to prevent infection or damage to nearby teeth.
- Moderate Sedation: Moderate sedation is a safe and effective way to manage discomfort and anxiety during longer or more involved dental treatments.
- Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP®): This laser procedure, LANAP®, is a treatment for gum disease that aims to preserve as much of your natural teeth and gums as possible.
- Tooth Replant: If a tooth is accidentally knocked out, a dentist can try to replant it to save the tooth and prevent bone loss.
- Sinus Augmentation: Before getting dental implants in the upper jaw, sinus augmentation may be needed to add bone, creating a stable area for the implants to fuse.
- Dental Sealant: To protect your children's teeth from decay, dental sealants act as a barrier against food and bacteria.
- Laser Cavity Detection: This painless technique helps your dentist find hidden decay early on, allowing for smaller, less invasive treatments.
Service availability can change. To understand which services are appropriate for your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation to develop a personalized care plan.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for their professional license in Texas.
Dr. Char is dedicated to partnering with patients to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how proactive care can make a tangible difference in a patient's life:
- After receiving a clear diagnosis and treatment plan from a general dentist, a patient experienced improved bite alignment and reduced discomfort related to their ankylosed tooth. The patient felt empowered by the effective management of their condition.
- After receiving a clear diagnosis and treatment plan for tooth malformation, a patient felt significantly more confident smiling and improved their overall oral health. By addressing the issue with the dentist's guidance, the patient's self-esteem and quality of life were positively impacted.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.
- Primary Location:
Practice
7270 E Highway 191 Ste 206, Odessa, TX, 79765
Phone: (432) 614-4144
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Here are answers to some common questions about receiving General Dentistry care with Dr. Char:
- How is my dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- Your oral health is critically linked to your overall health, including your heart. Bacteria from chronic gum disease can enter your bloodstream, increasing your risk for heart disease, stroke, and poorly controlled diabetes. Regular dental care is essential for maintaining not only healthy teeth but also your overall well-being.
- My medications make my mouth constantly dry. Is this a dental problem?
- Yes, dry mouth (xerostomia) is a common side effect of many medications, and it's a dental problem. Saliva is the body's natural defense against cavities, so a dry mouth significantly increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Dr. Char can recommend special rinses, gels, and other strategies to manage dry mouth.
- What is the difference between a crown and a filling?
- A filling is like a patch to repair a small area of damage, while a crown is a cap or helmet that covers the entire tooth, providing strength and protection for a tooth that is more significantly damaged, cracked, or has had a root canal.
- If I need a root canal, will I have to see a specialist?
- General dentists like Dr. Char can perform many root canals. For more complex cases, a referral to an endodontist may be necessary to ensure the best possible outcome. Dr. Char will determine the best course of action for your specific situation.
- How often should I see the dentist, even if nothing hurts?
- Most people benefit from a check-up and cleaning every six months. These visits are crucial for preventing problems like cavities and gum disease, which can be caught early and treated easily. Regular preventative care is key to maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
- What is an oral cancer screening and is it part of my check-up?
- An oral cancer screening is a quick, painless part of every routine dental exam. Dr. Char will visually inspect your lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, and throat for any unusual sores or discolorations. Early detection is key to successful treatment.
- Is it normal for my gums to bleed when I brush or floss?
- Healthy gums should not bleed. Bleeding when brushing or flossing is usually the first sign of gum inflammation (gingivitis), which can progress to more serious gum disease if left untreated. This is often reversible with a professional cleaning and improved daily oral hygiene.
- Are dental implants a good option for replacing missing teeth?
- Dental implants are often an excellent long-term solution for replacing missing teeth. They provide a secure foundation for a crown or bridge, restoring a natural look and feel, and can help preserve the jawbone.
7270 E Highway 191 Ste 206
Odessa TX 79765
Phone: (432) 614-4144
Bernard Char, DDS is regulated by the Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle B (Medical Practice Act) in Texas and is licensed by The Texas State Board of Dental Examiners.
National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1588851752
Registration can typically be verified through The Texas State Board of Dental Examiners website or by direct inquiry.
The information on this profile, provided by kellysearch.com, is for informational purposes to help you connect with local healthcare providers. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the provider named. Healthcare providers like Dr. Bernard Char are trained to manage a wide range of health concerns. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. Always consult with a qualified medical professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your care plan.