Karen Rea, DDS is a General Dentist practicing at her clinic in Longview, TX. She is a trusted local provider on kellysearch.com, dedicated to providing comprehensive General Dentistry care to all ages. Registered with the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners and practicing under the Texas Occupations Code, she is committed to the highest standards of care. 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. Rea's approach to patient care is rooted in over 35 years of experience. She earned her D.D.S. from the University of Texas School of Dentistry Houston in 1985 and is a member of numerous professional dental organizations, including the East Texas Dental Association, Texas Dental Association, and the American Dental Association. Recognized for her dedication, she was awarded Dentist of the Year by the Texas Academy of General Dentistry in 2009 and Young Dentist of the Year by the Greater Houston Dental Association in 1989 and 1990. Dr. Rea's practice philosophy emphasizes prevention, education, and dental excellence, creating a supportive atmosphere for her patients. She is currently welcoming new patients and can be reached at (903) 753-3531 to schedule an appointment. Dr. Rea offers consultations in Spanish.
A strong patient-provider partnership is the foundation of effective healthcare. Dr. Rea is committed to being a partner in your health journey, focusing on practical strategies to protect your health and well-being.
Dr. Rea's comprehensive general dentistry practice prioritizes preventative care and proactive oral health management. She meticulously diagnoses and treats dental diseases, addresses tooth replacement needs, and performs essential oral cancer screenings. Understanding the interconnectedness of oral and systemic health, Dr. Rea collaborates closely with patients' primary care physicians to ensure a holistic approach to their overall well-being.
By working together, you and Dr. Rea can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Anthem
- Dental
- Dental Complete DPPO
- DentalConnect PPO
- DentalGuard Preferred
- Guardian
- Lincoln Financial Group
- MetLife
- PDP Plus (Preferred Dentist Program) DPPO
- UnitedHealthCare
As your primary healthcare provider, Dr. Rea offers expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of common health conditions. Common areas of focus include:
- Broken Tooth: Your dentist will assess the extent of the damage to your broken tooth and recommend the best treatment option, such as bonding, a filling, or a crown.
- Cavity: A cavity, or dental caries, is a hole in your tooth caused by tooth decay that your dentist can fill to prevent further damage.
- 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.
- Gum Disease: Gum disease is caused by bacteria buildup and can lead to tooth loss if left untreated; your dentist provides regular checkups and treatments to prevent and manage it.
- Tooth Abscess: Don't ignore a persistent toothache it might be a sign of a tooth abscess, a serious infection that your general dentist can diagnose and treat to prevent further complications.
- Tooth Decay: Your dentist can identify and repair tooth decay, which happens when acid from plaque eats away at your tooth enamel, causing holes and potential infection.
- 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: Tooth discoloration is a change in the natural color of your teeth, and a general dentist can help determine the cause and recommend treatments like whitening or veneers.
- Tooth Loss: If you've lost teeth, a general dentist can create a personalized treatment plan to restore your smile and improve your oral function with options such as bridges or dentures.
- Toothache: Experiencing a toothache? A general dentist can examine your tooth, determine the source of the pain, and provide effective treatment to eliminate it.
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. Rea offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and treat various health concerns:
- Dental Implant: To replace missing teeth permanently, dental implants are surgically inserted into the jawbone and fuse with the bone over time, providing a stable base for new teeth.
- Oral Surgical Procedures: These procedures address issues like impacted wisdom teeth, damaged teeth needing extraction, or correcting jaw misalignments.
- Porcelain Veneers: To get veneers, your dentist will prepare your teeth and then custom-fit and bond the porcelain shells to create a stunning and natural-looking smile.
- Root Canal: Root canal therapy is a treatment that addresses the inner portion of a tooth to save it from extraction when it's severely damaged or infected.
- Root Planing: To treat gum disease effectively, your dentist may recommend root planing, a deep cleaning that smooths the tooth roots, allowing your gums to reattach and heal.
- Simple Tooth Extractions: Simple tooth extractions are a common treatment for removing teeth that are beyond repair, relieving pain and improving your smile.
- Porcelain Bridge: A porcelain bridge is a durable, natural-looking solution for replacing missing teeth, offering a long-lasting, aesthetically pleasing result.
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. Rea 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 their broken tooth, a patient was able to resume their normal activities without discomfort, feeling confident in their oral health.
- After receiving a clear diagnosis and treatment plan, a patient successfully managed a cavity, preventing further tooth damage and restoring a healthy smile. The patient felt confident in their oral health journey, knowing they had the right support.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors. She will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.
- Primary Location:
Practice
907 Walnut Hill Dr, Longview, TX, 75605
Phone: (903) 753-3531
View on Map
- University of Texas School of Dentistry Houston - D.D.S. (Medical School) - 1985
- University of Texas at Arlington - BS Microbiology (Undergraduate School) - 1981
Here are answers to some common questions about receiving General Dentistry care with Dr. Rea:
- 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 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. Rea can recommend special rinses, gels, and other strategies to manage dry mouth.
- What can I do about sensitive teeth?
- Sensitivity can be caused by receding gums exposing the tooth root, worn-down enamel, or other issues like cavities or cracked teeth. Dr. Rea can recommend desensitizing toothpastes, fluoride treatments, and examine for any underlying problems.
- What is an oral cancer screening and is it part of my check-up?
- An oral cancer screening is a quick, painless visual inspection of your lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, and throat for any unusual sores or discolorations. Dr. Rea performs this important part of every routine exam, and early detection is key to successful treatment.
- 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 significantly damaged, cracked, or has had a root canal, providing strength and protection.
- How often should I see the dentist, even if nothing hurts?
- Most people benefit from a check-up and cleaning every six months, even if nothing hurts. These visits are crucial for preventing problems like tartar buildup, cavities, and gum disease, which can be caught early and treated before they become painful or expensive.
- Is it normal for my gums to bleed when I brush or floss?
- Healthy gums do not bleed. Bleeding 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.
- 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.
907 Walnut Hill Dr
Longview TX 75605
Phone: (903) 753-3531
Karen Rea, 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): 1346459484
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. Karen Rea 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.