Dean Armstrong, DDS is a General Dentist dedicated to providing comprehensive oral health care in Amarillo, TX. He is a registered practitioner with the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners and practices under the Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle B. 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. Armstrong serves all ages and is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. He brings over 45 years of experience, having earned his DDS degree from Baylor College of Dentistry in 1978. While Dr. Armstrong is not currently accepting new patients, you can call (806) 355-6511 to inquire about waitlists or future openings. He offers consultations in Spanish and accepts various forms of payment, including cash, checks, credit cards, and CareCredit. Dr. Armstrong, a Master, Academy of General Dentistry, is also a member of several professional associations, including the American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association, and the Panhandle District Dental Society. He has been recognized for his exceptional work, receiving accolades like the "Texas Dentistry of the Year" nomination and the "Texas Super Dentist" award.
A strong patient-provider partnership is the foundation of effective healthcare. Dr. Armstrong is committed to being a partner in your health journey, focusing on practical strategies to protect your health and well-being.
Dr. Armstrong provides comprehensive general dentistry care, prioritizing preventative measures and the early detection of oral health issues. He meticulously diagnoses and treats dental diseases, manages tooth replacement needs, and performs oral cancer screenings, all while emphasizing the crucial link between oral and systemic health. His patient-centered approach ensures clear communication and a personalized treatment plan tailored to each patient's unique needs.
By working together, you and Dr. Armstrong can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- GEHA
- Government Employees Health Association (GEHA)
- United Healthcare
- UnitedHealthCare
As your primary healthcare provider, Dr. Armstrong offers expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of common health conditions. Common areas of focus include:
- Cavity: If you have a cavity, your dentist will remove the decayed part of your tooth and fill it to prevent infection and pain.
- Chipped Tooth: A chipped tooth is a break or fracture in the tooth's enamel, and your general dentist can repair it with bonding, a filling, or a crown.
- Dental Disorders: Dental disorders are any condition that affects the health of your mouth, and a general dentist provides comprehensive care to maintain or restore oral health.
- Gingivitis: If your gums are sore, red, or bleed easily, you may have gingivitis, and your dentist can help you reverse it before it progresses to a more serious condition.
- Grinding of Teeth: Clenching or grinding your teeth can lead to headaches, jaw pain, and tooth damage; your dentist can help you find the best way to stop grinding and protect your smile.
- Gum Disease: Periodontal disease, often called gum disease, affects the gums and bone around your teeth, and your dentist offers various treatments to control its progression and prevent complications.
- Tooth Abscess: Severe toothache, swelling, and sensitivity to heat or cold could mean a tooth abscess, a dental emergency requiring immediate attention from your dentist.
- Tooth Decay: When bacteria break down tooth enamel, it creates tooth decay; your dentist can diagnose and treat this with fillings, crowns, or other procedures.
- Tooth Demineralization: When your teeth lose minerals, a process called demineralization, they become vulnerable to decay; regular checkups with your general dentist help detect and reverse early stages of demineralization.
- Tooth Discoloration: Stained or discolored teeth can be improved with the help of a general dentist, who offers various solutions such as professional cleaning, bleaching, or bonding.
- Tooth Loss: Losing teeth can affect your ability to eat, speak, and smile, but a general dentist offers various solutions like implants and dentures to restore your teeth.
- Toothache: Don't suffer with a toothache! Your dentist can identify what's causing the pain, whether it's a cavity, infection, or other dental problem, and offer solutions for relief.
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. Armstrong offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and treat various health concerns:
- Root Planing: This procedure, often done along with scaling, targets the root surfaces of your teeth to get rid of harmful bacteria and improve gum health.
- Lower Dentures: Lower dentures are a comfortable and effective way to replace missing lower teeth, improving both your appearance and oral health.
- Upper Dentures: Upper dentures provide a full set of upper teeth, improving the appearance and function of your smile and restoring your ability to chew properly.
- Dental Bridge: Dental bridges restore your natural bite and prevent your remaining teeth from shifting out of place.
- Dental Bonding: Bonding is a cosmetic procedure that can fix minor imperfections in your teeth, such as discoloration or small gaps, making your smile look better.
- Porcelain Veneers: Porcelain veneers are thin shells of tooth-colored porcelain that are bonded to the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance, covering chips, stains, or gaps.
- Denture Repair: This service involves fixing problems with your dentures to ensure they are comfortable and effective for chewing.
- Simple Tooth Extractions: If a tooth is severely damaged or infected, a simple extraction removes it to prevent further issues and improve oral health.
- Dental Crown: When a tooth is significantly decayed or broken, a crown acts like a protective shell to prevent further damage and improve its function.
- Composite Fillings: Composite fillings are a common treatment for small to medium-sized cavities, blending seamlessly with your natural teeth.
- Amalgam Dental Fillings: To fix a decayed or damaged tooth, your dentist might use an amalgam filling, a strong, long-lasting material made of mercury and other metals.
- Dental Inlays: If you have a cavity too large for a simple filling, your dentist might recommend a dental inlay, a more extensive restoration.
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. Armstrong 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 for a cavity, a patient experienced significant pain relief and restored tooth function. The patient felt confident in their oral health, knowing they had the tools to prevent future issues.
- After receiving a clear diagnosis and treatment plan, a patient successfully repaired their chipped tooth, restoring a confident smile and their ability to comfortably eat.
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
6020 Belpree Rd Ste B, Amarillo, TX, 79106
Phone: (806) 355-6511
View on Map
- Baylor College of Dentistry - D.D.S (Medical School) - 1978
- Amarillo College And University of Texas - B.S. (Undergraduate School) - 1973
Here are answers to some common questions about receiving General Dentistry care with Dr. Armstrong:
- 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 the bloodstream, increasing your risk of 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. Saliva is the body's natural defense against cavities, so a dry mouth significantly increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Dr. Armstrong can recommend special rinses, gels, and other strategies to manage dry mouth.
- 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. Armstrong will visually inspect your lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, and throat for any unusual sores or discolorations. Early detection is key to successful treatment.
- My dentures don't fit as well as they used to. What can be done?
- Over time, jawbone and gum tissue change shape, sometimes causing dentures to loosen. Dr. Armstrong can reline existing dentures or create new ones, depending on the condition, to improve fit and comfort. A proper fit is essential for comfortable eating and speaking.
- What can I do about sensitive teeth?
- Sensitivity is often caused by receding gums exposing the tooth root or worn-down enamel. Dr. Armstrong can recommend desensitizing toothpastes, fluoride treatments, or check for other issues like cavities or cracked teeth.
- What is the difference between a crown and a filling?
- A filling is like a patch to repair a small area of a damaged tooth. A crown is like a cap or helmet that covers the entire tooth, used when a tooth is more severely damaged, cracked, or has had a root canal, providing strength and protection.
- Is it normal for my gums to bleed when I brush or floss?
- Healthy gums do not bleed. Bleeding when brushing or flossing is usually the first sign of gum inflammation (gingivitis). This is often reversible with a professional cleaning and improved daily oral hygiene. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to more serious gum disease.
- 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. Our team can also remove tartar buildup during these preventative visits.
6020 Belpree Rd Ste B
Amarillo TX 79106
Phone: (806) 355-6511
Dean Armstrong, 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): 1598853483
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. Dean Armstrong 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.