Kelly Zhao, DDS is a General Dentist dedicated to providing comprehensive General Dentistry care in Houston, TX. She is a registered provider with the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners, practicing under the Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle B. As a trusted local provider on kellysearch.com, she understands that oral health is intrinsically linked to 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. She serves all ages.
Dr. Zhao's commitment to patient care extends beyond technical expertise. She is a Summa Cum Laude graduate of Texas A&M University with a Bachelor's of Science, followed by a Master's degree in Molecular and Cell Biology. She earned her DDS degree from the University of Texas Health San Antonio School of Dentistry. Since graduation, she has completed multiple internships and post-graduation studies in IV Sedation, Orthodontics, and Implant Dentistry. Her mission is to deliver the very best cosmetic and complete health dentistry along with unprecedented customer service all the while keeping you relaxed and comfortable. Dr. Zhao is currently welcoming new patients and encourages you to call (832) 410-1000 to schedule an appointment. She offers consultations in Mandarin.
A strong patient-provider partnership is the foundation of effective healthcare. Dr. Zhao is committed to being a partner in your health journey, focusing on practical strategies to protect your health and well-being.
Dr. Zhao's comprehensive general dentistry practice prioritizes preventative care and proactive oral health management. She meticulously diagnoses and treats dental diseases, addressing tooth replacement needs and performing oral cancer screenings. Recognizing the link between oral and systemic health, Dr. Zhao collaborates closely with primary care physicians to ensure a holistic approach to patient well-being.
By working together, you and Dr. Zhao can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Sun Life Financial
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Advantage Plus 20 DHMO
- Advantage Plus PPO
- Aetna
- Alliance EPO
- Ameritas
- Ameritas PPO
- Anthem
- BlueCare Dental
- BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee
- BlueDental Choice & Choice Plus DPPO
- Cigna
- Connection Dental
- Connection Dental PPO
- Delta Dental
- Delta Dental PPO
- Delta Dental Premier
- Dental
- Dental Advantage DPPO
- Dental Choice DPPO
- Dental Complete DPPO
- Dental DPPO
- Dental Maintenance Organization DMO
- Dental PPO
- Dental Prime DPPO
- DentalConnect PPO
- DentalGuard Preferred
- Dominion National
- Elite Plus DPPO
- Florida Blue
- Guardian
- Humana
- Humana PPO
- Lincoln Financial Group
- MetLife
- MetLife PDP
- PDP Plus (Preferred Dentist Program) DPPO
- Principal Financial Group
- Total Dental Administrators PPO
- Total Dental Administrators PPO PPO
- Total Dental DPPO
- United Concordia
- United Concordia Dental
- UnitedHealthCare
As your primary healthcare provider, Dr. Zhao offers expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of common health conditions. Common areas of focus include:
- Gingivitis: Gingivitis is gum inflammation, often causing redness, swelling, and bleeding gums; your dentist can diagnose and manage it to prevent further gum disease.
- Cavity: Cavities are damaged areas in your teeth caused by bacteria, and your dentist can restore your tooth's health with a filling.
- Tooth Loss: General dentists diagnose the causes of tooth loss, such as gum disease or injury, and provide treatments to prevent further loss and replace missing teeth.
- Tooth Damage: Tooth damage includes chips, cracks, or breaks in your teeth, and your general dentist can repair these issues with fillings, crowns, or bonding.
- 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.
- Dental Disorders: Many conditions impacting your teeth and gums are considered dental disorders, and your dentist is the specialist to diagnose and treat these concerns.
- Tooth Demineralization: Tooth demineralization is the process where acid wears away the minerals in your tooth enamel, leaving it vulnerable to decay; your dentist will diagnose and develop a treatment plan to restore your teeth's health.
- 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.
- Tooth Decay: Tooth decay is a gradual process of erosion of the tooth surface that can lead to pain and infection, which your dentist can repair and prevent from worsening.
- Broken Tooth: Don't ignore a broken toothyour dentist can provide effective treatment to save your tooth and prevent more extensive dental work in the future.
- 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.
- 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. Zhao offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and treat various health concerns:
- Dental Filling: A dental filling is a procedure to repair a decayed or damaged tooth by filling the cavity with a material like composite resin or amalgam.
- Local Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is a type of injection that numbs your mouth so you can have dental procedures done without pain.
- Gum Disease Treatment: Through various methods, gum disease treatment seeks to restore gum health, reduce discomfort, and maintain your teeth.
- Mouthguards: Mouthguards protect your teeth from damage during sports or other activities.
- Dental X-Ray: To plan your treatment, your dentist might use X-rays to get a detailed view of your teeth's roots, jawbone, and any impacted teeth.
- Single Visit Root Canals: With a single-visit root canal, your dentist can treat your infected tooth, remove the infected pulp, and seal it off to prevent future problems, all within the same appointment.
- Removable Appliances: After orthodontic treatment, removable retainers help keep your teeth straight and prevent them from shifting back to their original position.
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. Zhao 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 personalized treatment plan from a general dentist, a patient successfully managed their gingivitis, experiencing noticeably healthier gums and improved oral hygiene. The patient felt empowered to take an active role in maintaining their oral health.
- After receiving a clear diagnosis and treatment plan, a patient experienced significant pain relief and restored their tooth's health with a filling, successfully managing their cavity.
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
4212 Ella Blvd, Houston, TX, 77018
Phone: (832) 410-1000
View on Map
- University of Texas Health San Antonio School of Dentistry (Medical School)
- University of Texas / Dental Branch (Undergraduate School) - 2009
- Texas A & M University / Main Campus (Undergraduate School) - 2007
- Implant Seminar (Other Education)
- Iv Sedation (Other Education)
- Oral Sedation (Other Education)
- Rondeau Seminar Orthodontics (Other Education)
Here are answers to some common questions about receiving General Dentistry care with Dr. Zhao:
- How is my dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- Your oral health is critically linked to your overall health. 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. Zhao can recommend special rinses, gels, and other strategies to manage dry mouth.
- 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 that looks and feels like a natural tooth, and help preserve the jawbone.
- 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.
- What can I do about sensitive teeth?
- Sensitivity can be caused by receding gums, exposing the tooth root, or worn-down enamel. Dr. Zhao can recommend desensitizing toothpastes, fluoride treatments, or check for other issues like cavities or cracked teeth.
- My dentures don't fit as well as they used to. What can be done?
- Over time, jawbone and gum tissue change, sometimes causing dentures to loosen. A relining procedure can reshape the denture for a better fit, or a new denture may be necessary if the current one is significantly worn. A proper fit is crucial for comfortable eating and speaking.
- 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 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 patients 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 more easily. Regular check-ups help maintain a healthy smile.
4212 Ella Blvd
Houston TX 77018
Phone: (832) 410-1000
Kelly Zhao, 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): 1588006068
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. Kelly Zhao 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.