We are Accepting New Patients in Amherst!

Amherst dentist Dr. Edwards understands the importance of choosing the right dentist for you and your family's dental care needs. We strive to offer our patients quality dental care in a relaxing environment. We stay up-to-date on dental technology and participate in continuing education to ensure that we are providing a superior dental experience to all of our patients.

There are many factors that go into choosing a dentist. Convenience, location, insurance, and availability are just a few of those factors, but most important is finding a dental office staff that you feel comfortable with, that makes you feel like part of the family. At Family Dental Care, our staff works hard to provide a welcoming and relaxing experience for each patient, from age 1 to 100.

General Dentistry in Amherst

We understand that your time is valuable, and we offer a wide range of dental services in both general dentistry and specialty areas, to save you the task of running from one dental office to another just to get the treatment you need. 

We are currently accepting new patients. If you are looking for a dentist that will put your comfort and care first, or if you have any questions, contact our Amherst dental office to schedule an appointment.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that your child has their first dental exam after their first tooth grows in, or by their first birthday, whichever comes sooner. Starting your child off on the right foot with Amherst dentist Dr. Edwards from a young age offers many benefits, some that will last a lifetime.

Establishing a good relationship and positive associations with the dentist when your child is young will help minimize fear of the dentist. This dental fear can sometimes prevent even adult patients from seeking dental care. Regular dental visits from as early as six months of age will ensure that your child is comfortable with the sights, sounds and smells of the dentist from the very beginning.

Cavities In Baby Teeth

More and more children are suffering from "bottle cavities," or cavities that develop in baby teeth at a very young age. These cavities can be painful and can lead to tooth loss that can affect how your child's permanent teeth grow in. The baby teeth serve many important functions and need to be preserved whenever possible. Regular dental visits allow us to catch and fill these cavities while they are still small.

We want to be the family dentist you choose for all of your family's dental needs. If your child is overdue for their first examination, or if you have any questions, please contact our Amherst dental office.

Making decisions about your dental treatment can be stressful. This stress is only made worse if you're not sure you're making the right decision. Many times getting a second opinion can help you determine if you are really choosing the best procedure and the best dentist for your treatment.

Amherst, NH dentist Dr. Kenneth Edwards is happy to provide second opinions to new and established patients. During your appointment, Dr. Edwards will examine your teeth and discuss treatment options with you, as well as explain each treatment and what it would entail. Understanding not only the procedures but the reasons they are recommended can help arm you with the knowledge to make the right choice.

Feeling Comfortable About Treatment

It's important to feel confident about your dental treatment choices, especially when the wrong choice can be costly and difficult to reverse. Whether you choose to have Dr. Edwards or another dentist perform the procedure, we are happy to provide you with the information you need to be confident in your decision. We promise to be honest and up-front about your treatment options and any risks or drawbacks to each treatment.

If you are considering a dental procedure and would like a second opinion, contact our Amherst dental office to schedule an appointment.

It's important to feel confident about the choices you make for your dental treatment. We want to equip you with the knowledge and understanding that will allow you to make the best choice for your situation. We offer free consultations for most of the services that are available through our Amherst dental office.

A consultation appointment gives you the opportunity to ask questions about your upcoming dental procedure. It allows you to explore alternatives that you may not have even known were available. Consultations also give Dr. Edwards the opportunity to examine your teeth and determine whether your desired treatment will give you the results you seek and if there may be complications or risks you need to be aware of.

Scheduling A Consultation

We recommend a consultation appointment before beginning any major dental treatment. Taking the time to understand and learn about your procedure will help reduce your anxiety and give you and Dr. Edwards the confidence that you've made the right choice. Consultations also allow our front office staff to verify insurance coverage and submit pre-authorizations when necessary, saving you from unexpected costs later on.

If you are interested in scheduling an appointment for a free consultation, call our Amherst, NH dental office today.

Dr. Edwards is proud to have served the dental needs of the Amherst area for thirty-two years. After graduating from Loyola University's Chicago College of Dental Surgery in 1980, he completed his one-year general practice residency in Maywood, Illinois, working at the Hines Veterans Hospital. In 1981, Dr. Edwards relocated to Amherst, NH to open his practice and has been seeing to the area's dental care ever since.

Prior to his dental education, Dr. Edwards served five years in the US Air Force. After leaving active military service, he completed a Master's degree in microbiology before pursuing a dental degree.

Education

As part of his commitment to ongoing professional growth and education, Dr. Edwards has completed coursework at the Dawson Center for the Advancement of Dentistry in St. Petersburg, Florida. He is an active member of many associations, including the American Dental Association, the New Hampshire Dental Society, the Greater Nashua Dental Society, and the Central New England Dental Research Group. He is a past president of the New Hampshire Chapter of the Academy of General Dentistry.

With over three decades of experience in general dentistry and continuing education in the latest dental technology, Dr. Edwards strives to continue to improve his dental practice to best serve the Amherst community.

If you have questions about Dr. Edwards' qualifications and areas of specialty or if you wish to schedule an appointment, contact our office today.

Many people who experience dental fear and anxiety report that it's because of a bad or negative experience they've had in the past, or during childhood. Sadly, this affects their whole outlook on future dental appointments and it keeps many folks away from much-needed dental care.

Dr. Kenneth Edwards provides comprehensive and comfortable care at Family Dental Care in Amherst. You'll notice right away that our approach is different. Besides offering a friendly and warm environment with a gentle staff and doctor, we go above and beyond.

Oral Health Affects Overall Health

At the office of Dr. Edwards takes your overall health into consideration when planning your oral health care. This is because we understand that the two are connected.

Thanks to recent studies, we now understand that periodontal health is directly related to other health issues in the body, including cardiovascular disease, stroke, and diabetes. This is because the bacteria that cause periodontal (gum) disease can enter the bloodstream, travel to other areas of the body, and contribute to the inflammation that causes many health issues. This is known as the oral-systemic connection.

Nutrition Counseling

You know that good nutrition is important for your overall health; however, did you know that it also affects your oral health? Dr. Edwards provides personalized nutrition counseling based on your needs and lifestyle. He'll discuss with you the types of foods and supplements to include in your diet that will help your oral health as well as which foods you should avoid.

Sleep Apnea and Snoring

Sleep apnea is a dangerous sleep disorder that greatly affects your quality of life. It causes you to stop breathing, due to an obstructed airway, and this wakes you up multiple times during the night – even though you may not even realize it's happening.

Call Your Amherst Dentist 

Dr. Edwards provides alternative sleep apnea therapy using a custom oral appliance to help reposition your jaw and open your airway during the night. If you or a loved one snore loudly during the night, contact the office of Dr. Kenneth G. Edwards, DDS to learn more about your options.

Most of the time, crowns and root canals go hand in hand, and there are many good reasons. Often by the time decay has reached the point of requiring a root canal, it is simply too extensive to fill with a filling, and a filling that large would be likely to fall out or require frequent replacement. Amherst dentist Dr. Edwards recommends dental crowns as the most reliable long-term solution to a tooth treated with a root canal.

After a root canal, your tooth can also become more brittle and subject to cracking and breaking. There's no longer a root providing blood flow to the tooth, which does make it weaker. A dental crown offers protection from cracking and chipping of the vulnerable tooth.

The Purpose of a Dental Crown

Dental crowns can also protect the tooth from recurring decay. A recurrence of decay in a tooth with a root canal will not manifest as a toothache since there is no nerve in the tooth. This means decay can make its way deep into the tooth, sometimes compromising it to the point of requiring extraction.

There are occasional exceptions, but in most cases, a dental crown is your best option to restore your tooth after a root canal. Crowns are beautiful, strong, and offer protection and structure to keep your tooth happy and healthy after your root canal. If you have questions about dental crowns or would like to make an appointment, call our Amherst dental office today.

Take good care of your dental crown, and you can expect it to take good care of you for at least 15 years. However, well-cared-for crowns can last as long as three decades—or even longer. There are a number of different factors that will impact the lifespan of your dental crowns in Amherst, and these include your oral hygiene and eating habits.

Extend The Life of Your Crown

There are things you can do to try to maximize the life of your dental crown, including:

• Take care of your entire mouth by brushing and flossing every day. Be sure to floss around the dental crown near the gum line. You want to protect the area under the crown from decay.
• Visit your dentist often each year for dental examinations and teeth cleanings. Your dentist will be able to make sure the crown is not showing signs of trauma.
• Avoid chewing hard candies and ice, as well as any other hard objects. This can injure or chip your natural teeth in addition to the dental crown.

When To Replace Your Crown

If your crown has become chipped or cracked, you will probably want to talk to your dentist about replacing it. Although the crown itself cannot become decayed, the area below it can. Most insurance companies will support a crown replacement for those that are over five years old. Talk to your dentist in Amherst to figure out if a dental crown replacement is needed for you. Call us here at the office of Dr. Kenneth G. Edwards for further questions.

If your dental crown is old, broken, discolored, or worn down, it may be time to replace it. Most dental work is not capable of lasting a lifetime. It wears out over time and needs to be replaced. Most porcelain crowns will last an average of 5 to 15 years, though some can last longer. Amherst, NH dentist Dr. Edwards has plenty of experience in safely replacing old, worn-out crowns.

If your crown isn't actually broken, just has some minor wear or small chips, we may be able to reshape the crown and remove the rough edges without completely replacing it. Keep in mind that any time a drill is applied to a porcelain or resin crown, there is a risk of it cracking. If the crown cracks, it will need to be replaced.

Preventing a Broken Crown

While some crowns can last 20 years or longer with proper dental care and good oral health, it's important to keep an eye on older crowns. Regular examinations at our Amherst dental office will allow Dr. Edwards to keep an eye on your older crowns and ensure there are no margins or decay developing beneath the crowns. Exposed margins give bacteria an excellent place to dwell, and untreated decay in these places can lead to failure of the tooth, requiring an extraction.

If you have an older crown that is broken, chipped, or worn and in need of replacement, please contact our office today to schedule an appointment.

Yes, dental implants are a safe tooth replacement option for most people. In fact, they are considered the gold standard as far as tooth replacement because they most closely mimic your natural teeth.

What Is a Dental Implant?

Dental implants are made of titanium, which is well-received by the body. The implant, which takes the place of the tooth root you have lost, embeds into the jawbone after the surgical implant. This process, called osseointegration, takes about four to six months. After integration, we will attach a tooth that is made to match your natural teeth to the dental implant. The dental implant looks and functions very much like your natural tooth.

One of the biggest advantages of dental implants over, say, dentures, is that the implant does not move around or shift the way dentures do. Dental implants are easy to take care of as well. You can simply brush and floss them as you would your natural teeth.

Replace Your Missing Tooth

If you would like to learn more about tooth replacement, contact our Amherst, NH dental practice. If you are not a good candidate for dental implants, we can talk to you about our other tooth replacement options. Getting one or more missing teeth replaced is an important part of maintaining a healthy mouth.

With today's technology, surgical dental implants are the next best thing to your natural teeth. Dental implants help strengthen your jawbone after an extraction, restore your ability to bite, and give you an aesthetically beautiful restoration that's virtually indistinguishable from your real teeth.

Implants are made of a biocompatible titanium, which means they actually fuse with your bone as they heal. The implant integrates into your jaw to give Amherst, NH dentist Dr. Edwards a secure foundation to build your restoration upon. It also helps prevent bone reabsorption, which can be a problem after an extraction and can result in a sunken appearance to your mouth.

Procedures Using Dental Implants

Implants can support a variety of restorations, including crowns, implant-supported bridges, or even anchors for full removable dentures. Whether you need a single tooth restored or a complete smile makeover, implants are a very successful and useful tool for any cosmetic dentistry procedure.

Once your dental implant is healed and the crown or bridge is placed, it requires no special care. Just make sure to practice good daily brushing and flossing habits and schedule regular examinations and cleanings at our Amherst dental office. Many patients love the ease and beauty of these popular restorations.

To find out if you are a good candidate for dental implants, contact our office today to schedule a consultation.

If you are missing a tooth and thinking about getting a dental implant, the first step in the process is the initial dental implant consultation. At that time, your Amherst, NH, dentist Dr. Kenneth Edwards can give you information about dental implants so you can make an educated decision.

Your Consultation

At your dental implant consultation, Dr. Edwards will first ask you about your full medical history, as well as lifestyle choices and anything else that could impact the success of the procedure.

He will describe to you in detail the entire dental implant process. It is, after all, a surgical procedure, so it is important for you to understand the procedure fully. He will also talk to you about what you can expect before, during, and after the surgery, including the healing process you will undergo while waiting for the implant to integrate with your jawbone.

Moving Forward

Once you are confident that a dental implant is right for you, he will assess the current oral health of your mouth. It’s important that your gums be healthy to help ensure the success of the implant. Dr. Edwards will also want to examine your jawbone to make sure it is of sufficient height and density to receive the implant.

There will be plenty of time for you to ask any questions you might have about the procedure, recovery afterward, and taking care of your dental implant.

Do you live in Amherst, NH? Tooth implants on your mind? Give us a call to find out more.  

Dental implants are the best option available to replace a lost tooth, but many patients hesitate to get them due to the cost. As dental implants become a more widespread and commonly accepted option for restorations, more and more insurance companies are offering some level of coverage for this procedure. 

If you are interested in dental implants, our Amherst dental office will create a treatment plan, including an estimated cost. At this time we will check with your insurance company to see if your policy's benefits include coverage for dental implants. 

If your insurance covers implants, we will calculate what percentage of the implant should be covered and let you know what your out-of-pocket portion is likely to be. Keep in mind that all amounts are simply an estimate, not a guarantee of payment. You are responsible for any unpaid amount your insurance company does not cover.

Dental Implants Without Insurance

If you do not have insurance, or your insurance plan doesn't cover implants, they still may be an option. We will work with you to make financial arrangements that fit your budget. We want to help make the dental care you need available to you. 

If you are interested in dental implants, or if you have any questions about your insurance coverage, contact our office today.

Our Amherst dental office offers a variety of cosmetic dentistry options to repair cracked, chipped or worn teeth. Depending on the severity, we can use inlays and onlays, crowns, or veneers to restore your smile to its full beauty.

Inlays and onlays can be used to repair chips and cracks, fill in gaps between teeth, or reshape crooked or broken teeth. Both inlays and onlays use tooth-colored composite to give you a natural, nearly-invisible restoration for your chipped teeth.

If the tooth is severely cracked or chipped, a dental crown may be your best option. Dental crowns fit over the entire tooth, restoring it to a natural, healthy appearance as well as providing protection and strength. Crowns cover the tooth in a protective "armor", helping to prevent further breakage.

Porcelain Veneers

Veneers are an ideal solution for both chipped and worn teeth and can be used on a single tooth, your front teeth, or all of your teeth. Veneers are a thin shell of porcelain or resin that fits onto the tooth, hiding any imperfections and giving your smile an instant facelift.

If your teeth are excessively worn, it's important to discover the cause of the wear so it can be prevented from happening in the future. We don't want you to damage your beautiful restorations! Once the cause of your tooth wear is resolved, we can proceed with the cosmetic treatment of your choice.

If you have questions about the cosmetic dental options available from Amherst dentist Dr. Edwards, or if you would like to schedule a consultation, contact our office today.

When you have a tooth that has been damaged by decay, a filling is typically recommended to restore it to health. Composite resin offers a variety of benefits for patients needing dental fillings in Amherst, the greatest being that they're tooth colored. Composite can be custom blended, so they provide a seamless look for your tooth and complement your smile.

Composite fillings also provide excellent durability because the material bonds directly to your tooth. It doesn't require Dr. Edwards to remove as much tooth structure for placement as metal fillings do, which means that composite fillings preserve more of your natural tooth.

Cosmetic Uses for Tooth-Colored Fillings

Composite resin can also be used to correct certain cosmetic imperfections such as chips, spacing between teeth, stains, oddly shaped teeth, and even small misalignment concerns. Cosmetic bonding is quick, non-invasive, and can typically be completed during one visit.

If you have cosmetic concerns or a cavity that needs to be filled, we encourage you to contact Dr. Edwards to schedule your appointment. It is important not to delay filling a tooth if it's damaged by decay because it can progress further into the tooth, reach the nerve, and cause an infection. Contact our office today for more information.
 

In our Amherst, NH dental office, we provide quality restorations to help keep your weakened tooth viable. At Kenneth G. Edwards Family Dental, we want your teeth to be strong!

Sometimes a tooth is weak and vulnerable to breakage. The causes include:

• Root canal failure
• Large cavities
• Extensive decay
• Untreated infections
• Dental trauma

When a tooth is severely damaged, or a cavity is particularly large, a filling will not keep the tooth viable.

Other Restoration Options

In these cases, we offer several restoration options to strengthen your tooth. These options may include:

• A dental crown
• Extraction followed by a dental implant

Several restoration options not only keep your bite in check, but they also have aesthetic value, concealing chips, discoloration, and small gaps between teeth. You want to be able to chew and speak naturally, but you also want a great smile.

Additionally, we keep you relaxed and comfortable during the restoration process. Whether you need a dental filling or a more involved restoration, we are here to help.

Contact Our Dental Office

If you have a weak tooth and would like to schedule an assessment, contact Kenneth G. Edwards Family Dental. Our team is available to answer any questions that you might have.

Many patients think that if they no longer have any teeth, there's no need to see a dentist. But this isn't true! Even if you have full dentures, it's very important to visit your Amherst, NH dentist Dr. Edwards regularly for an examination and to check the fit of your dentures.

Problems With Your Dentures

Poorly fitted dentures can cause many problems. They can slip and pop loose when you talk or eat. They can require prolonged use of dental adhesives just to keep them in place. They can also do damage to the underlying bone structure that supports them when they don't fit right.

Over time, the shape of your mouth will change, and your dentures will need to be adjusted every few months to ensure they continue to fit properly. Regular dental visits are also necessary for the good of your gums! We want to keep your mouth healthy and happy, and we can only do that if you visit our Amherst dental office on a regular basis.

Proper Denture Maintenance 

If you have partial dentures, we need to ensure that your remaining teeth are staying healthy and clean. Partials can add stress to your natural teeth, especially if they aren't adjusted to fit right. This can lead to additional tooth loss if it's not corrected. Make sure you visit your dentist regularly for adjustments, whether you wear partial or full dentures.

If you're overdue for a dental examination, contact our office today to schedule your appointment.

Dentures have been around for a long time, and they have dramatically improved in recent years. According to a study by the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, patients who got dentures were much more satisfied with them than expected. There are three main reasons for this:

1. Dentures are more comfortable. Because of 3-D imagine, dentists can make precise dentures that fit better than before.
2. Dentures look more natural. Forget the old-fashioned, fake-looking teeth of the past. Not only do dentures fit better, but they look much more like your natural teeth. They can be made to suit the tone of your skin, the structure of your face, and the shape of your mouth.
3. Dentures are more functional. Because they are made to fit better than ever, chewing, laughing, and speaking with dentures is easy. Of course, there is a period of adjustment when you are first fitted with dentures, but once you are used to them, you will find that they stay put and you will not have to worry about slipping.

Getting Modern Dentures

Today’s modern denture s are a great option for replacing missing teeth. Come into our office for more information on dentures in Amherst, NH.

Yes, your dentures will look natural and fit comfortably. Today’s dentures are heads above the dentures offered years ago. 

At Dr. Kenneth G. Edwards Family Dental, we take pride in your smile, which is why we offer modern quality dentures. Our Amherst, NH team would have it no other way!

If you’ve never worn dentures before, the process starts with an assessment from our dentist to make sure you’re a good candidate for dentures. 

The Denture Process

Our team will take impressions of your mouth to ensure that your new denture fits correctly. We will then extract any remaining teeth. You will be numbed during dental extractions and made to feel comfortable. 

In some cases, patients opt to keep their remaining teeth and go with a partial denture instead. 

Whichever option you choose, we are dedicated to helping you achieve the smile you deserve. 

When your denture is ready, we will make final adjustments before you leave our Amherst, NH dental office. 

Our patients love our dentures, and we think you will too. 

Contact Our Dental Office

If you would like to schedule a denture consultation with our dentist or if you would like to upgrade your current denture, contact Dr. Kenneth G. Edwards Family Dental today.

If you notice symptoms such as headaches, popping, or clicking noises when you open your mouth, or any jaw pain, you might be suffering from TMJ, which is a temporomandibular joint disorder. The TMJ is the flexible joint that connects the jaw to the skull, so you might even feel pain in your ears. Typically, this join is incredibly flexible. But things can sometimes go wrong.

Diagnosing TMJ

TMJ disorders can be tough to diagnose because they often present as something else, including toothaches or sinus conditions. Your best bet is to have Dr. Kenneth Edwards conduct a thorough examination and take x-rays to find out if the joint is inflamed.

Depending on the results of your examinations, Dr. Edwards might recommend different He will always begin his recommendations with the most conservative treatment available, then work from there if you don’t achieve any relief.

Treatment for TMJ

Some initial treatments might include:

• Anti-inflammatories
• Heat and ice applied to the affected area
• A bite guard to protect against teeth grinding and clenching
• Relaxation techniques

You don’t have to live with jaw pain or headaches. Get to the bottom of the issue—and get relief from your pain with TMJ treatment in Amherst from Dr. Edwards.

Many people who experience dental fear and anxiety report that it's because of a bad or negative experience they've had in the past, or during childhood. Sadly, this affects their whole outlook on future dental appointments and it keeps many folks away from much-needed dental care.

Dr. Kenneth Edwards provides comprehensive and comfortable care at Family Dental Care in Amherst. You'll notice right away that our approach is different. Besides offering a friendly and warm environment with a gentle staff and doctor, we go above and beyond.

Oral Health Affects Overall Health

At the office of Dr. Edwards takes your overall health into consideration when planning your oral health care. This is because we understand that the two are connected.

Thanks to recent studies, we now understand that periodontal health is directly related to other health issues in the body, including cardiovascular disease, stroke, and diabetes. This is because the bacteria that cause periodontal (gum) disease can enter the bloodstream, travel to other areas of the body, and contribute to the inflammation that causes many health issues. This is known as the oral-systemic connection.

Nutrition Counseling

You know that good nutrition is important for your overall health; however, did you know that it also affects your oral health? Dr. Edwards provides personalized nutrition counseling based on your needs and lifestyle. He'll discuss with you the types of foods and supplements to include in your diet that will help your oral health as well as which foods you should avoid.

Sleep Apnea and Snoring

Sleep apnea is a dangerous sleep disorder that greatly affects your quality of life. It causes you to stop breathing, due to an obstructed airway, and this wakes you up multiple times during the night – even though you may not even realize it's happening.

Call Your Amherst Dentist 

Dr. Edwards provides alternative sleep apnea therapy using a custom oral appliance to help reposition your jaw and open your airway during the night. If you or a loved one snore loudly during the night, contact the office of Dr. Kenneth G. Edwards, DDS to learn more about your options.

Your TMJ, or temporomandibular joint, is the point at which your lower jaw attaches to your skull. The joint is very flexible, allowing you to move your mouth in many different ways to talk, laugh, smile, and eat, but this flexibility also makes it vulnerable to inflammation and damage.

TMJ Disorder

Temporomandibular joint disorder, known as TMJ or TMD, is when this joint becomes inflamed. There are many causes of TMJ, including arthritis, injury to your jaw, even an improper bite can cause  TMJ. It can be difficult to diagnose, as there are many symptoms and you may have just a few, some, or all of them.  Jaw pain, popping in the joint, and the jaw locking either open or closed are some of the most common symptoms.

What You Can Do?

If you have TMJ there are several treatment options available, depending on the severity of your TMJ. Amherst dentist Dr. Edwards can make a recommendation of one or more treatments including anti-inflammatories, a bite guard, hot or cold therapy, and relaxation techniques. He can also work with your primary physician to create a treatment plan that attacks the TMJ from multiple fronts, if necessary, combining our therapies with others'.

If you are suffering from symptoms of TMJ or have already been diagnosed and want to explore treatment options, contact our Amherst dental office to schedule a consultation.

The best way to lower your risk for periodontal disease is to brush and floss daily, visit your dentist regularly for exams, and schedule and keep your professional teeth cleanings.

Preventive dentistry is the foundation for a healthy smile. The goals are to catch small issues before they turn into problems that could cost you your teeth or overall wellness. This includes gingivitis, a precursor to periodontal disease. In this stage, the gum problem may be reversible as opposed to only treatable.

Regular dental exams look for the signs of periodontal disease.

For your part, you may notice specific symptoms like:

• Elongated teeth due to gum recession
• Loose teeth
• Periodic or ongoing toothaches or tooth sensitivity
• Bleeding gums
• Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth

Your professional teeth cleaning gets rid of the bacteria that lead to oral health conditions, including periodontal disease.

Other ways to lower your risks include quitting smoking. Your dentist can also provide tips to help you prevent this and other oral health conditions.

We Treat Periodontal Disease in Amherst, NH

If you have periodontal disease, or if you have noticed symptoms, we encourage you to reach out to our dental team to schedule an exam with your dentist in Amherst.

If periodontal issues are caught early—through regular dental exams—your dentist can often reverse the problem, which in this stage is called gingivitis. When gingivitis advances to full periodontal disease, the condition is treatable but not reversible.

However, your dentist in Amherst can significantly improve your oral health even if you have periodontal disease. 

Treatments for periodontal disease may include special cleanings or recontouring the gums to get rid of plaque and to encourage gums not to recede away from your teeth. Your dentist may also recommend a specific oral care routine at home to complement dental office therapy. Quitting smoking is also essential.

Here are some of the signs of periodontal disease:

• Bleeding gums, especially when brushing and flossing
• Tooth pain and sensitivity, especially when biting down
• Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth that returns even after brushing and flossing
• Long appearance to teeth
• Looser teeth
• Tooth loss
• Pockets on the gums
• Red or inflamed gums

Your gentle and compassionate dentist in Amherst, NH is here for you, and our team will work hard to improve your oral health through treatment.

Contact Our Dental Team for Periodontal Treatment in Amherst

If you have periodontal disease symptoms, don’t wait to seek treatment. We are here to help!

Periodontal disease means you have a series of infections in the tissues and periodontal ligaments surrounding your teeth. These tissues and ligaments are responsible for keeping your teeth in place.

Periodontal disease is a treatable condition, but not curable. However, with proper intervention by a dental professional, you can improve your oral health and maintain your smile for a lifetime.

Signs of periodontal disease often prompt people to make an appointment with their dentist, mainly if they have not visited the dentist in some time.

You may notice bleeding gums when brushing and flossing. You may also suffer from periodic toothaches, increased tooth sensitivity, loose teeth, bad breath, pocketing of the gums, and an elongated appearance to your teeth. These symptoms are often accompanied by bad breath. 

Your dentist can typically reduce these symptoms with a treatment schedule at home and in the dental office. It is essential to follow all recommendations following a periodontal disease diagnosis because these infections can spread and lead to heart complications and other systemic health problems.

We Treat Periodontal Disease

Your dentist in Amherst, NH will create a treatment plan that addresses your specific level of gum disease. Contact our dental team for more information or to schedule a periodontal assessment.

We are Accepting New Patients in Amherst!

Amherst dentist Dr. Edwards understands the importance of choosing the right dentist for you and your family's dental care needs. We strive to offer our patients quality dental care in a relaxing environment. We stay up-to-date on dental technology and participate in continuing education to ensure that we are providing a superior dental experience to all of our patients.

There are many factors that go into choosing a dentist. Convenience, location, insurance, and availability are just a few of those factors, but most important is finding a dental office staff that you feel comfortable with, that makes you feel like part of the family. At Family Dental Care, our staff works hard to provide a welcoming and relaxing experience for each patient, from age 1 to 100.

General Dentistry in Amherst

We understand that your time is valuable, and we offer a wide range of dental services in both general dentistry and specialty areas, to save you the task of running from one dental office to another just to get the treatment you need. 

We are currently accepting new patients. If you are looking for a dentist that will put your comfort and care first, or if you have any questions, contact our Amherst dental office to schedule an appointment.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that your child has their first dental exam after their first tooth grows in, or by their first birthday, whichever comes sooner. Starting your child off on the right foot with Amherst dentist Dr. Edwards from a young age offers many benefits, some that will last a lifetime.

Establishing a good relationship and positive associations with the dentist when your child is young will help minimize fear of the dentist. This dental fear can sometimes prevent even adult patients from seeking dental care. Regular dental visits from as early as six months of age will ensure that your child is comfortable with the sights, sounds and smells of the dentist from the very beginning.

Cavities In Baby Teeth

More and more children are suffering from "bottle cavities," or cavities that develop in baby teeth at a very young age. These cavities can be painful and can lead to tooth loss that can affect how your child's permanent teeth grow in. The baby teeth serve many important functions and need to be preserved whenever possible. Regular dental visits allow us to catch and fill these cavities while they are still small.

We want to be the family dentist you choose for all of your family's dental needs. If your child is overdue for their first examination, or if you have any questions, please contact our Amherst dental office.

Yes, you can bring your entire family to our dental office, including the youngest members. Consider our dental office your children’s dentist in Amherst. We generally recommend that kids start coming to the dentist as soon as they start getting teeth—usually around the age of one. If you have any concerns before then, please feel free to give us a call.

The first couple of dental visits serve as an introduction to the sights, sounds, and smells of the dentist's office. We won’t force your children to do anything they are not comfortable with; we’ll just take them for a spin in the dental chair and take a look at their teeth. Our goal is to help your kids establish a comfortable relationship with the dentist from an early age.

As your child gets older, we will conduct more thorough examinations and provide teeth cleanings. Most kids who are cavity-prone will also benefit from either fluoride treatments or dental sealants to help prevent dental caries from forming. We’ll also go over proper home care, so smiles stay healthy between dental visits.

Schedule Your Child's Appointment Today! 

It’s never too early to start taking care of your child’s oral health. Contact our children’s dentist in Amherst, Dr. Kenneth G. Edwards, DDS. We look forward to treating your entire family!

Yes, we would be happy to! As our name implies, at Family Dental Care we specialize in providing quality dental care to entire families. We have experience with patients of all ages, from 2-98. We want to be your family dentist, and we have the training and skills to ensure you're making the right choice.

Our Wonderful Staff

We have two full-time hygienists on staff for your convenience. You can schedule cleanings for your entire family at the same time to save yourself multiple trips back and forth to our office. We have experience working with pediatric patients and are aware of the unique challenges and dental needs of children. When you choose Amherst dentist Dr. Edwards as your family dentist, you're in good hands.

Family Dental Care offers a wide range of treatments, from basic and preventative care to restorations, cosmetic dentistry, even special treatments such as TMJ and bruxism. We strive to stay up-to-date on all of the ways we can best meet the evolving needs of your family as they grow and age. We want to be your one-stop for all of your family's dental needs.

Contact Us to Schedule

If you have any questions about our practices or would like to schedule an appointment for you and your family, contact our office today.

Yes! As our name "Family Dental Care" implies, we see all age groups. Our patient ages range from 2 to 98! From your toddler's first dental visit on, we want to be your choice for the dental needs of your entire family. Amherst dentist Dr. Edwards and his staff have been treating children for many years, and we know how to address the unique needs of pediatric patients.

We believe early dental care is crucial. Teaching your child good dental habits and nutrition from an early age will ensure they know how to keep their teeth and gums healthy for their entire lives. We begin seeing pediatric patients for their first dental wellness visit at age two.

Child Dental Services

Dr. Edwards provides check-ups, nutritional counseling, emergency care, and routine dental care for all ages, as well as specialized services when needed. We also recommend sealants once your child's permanent molars begin to erupt for an additional layer of protection against decay.

We also understand that some patients have special needs. If you require any specific accommodations for you or a family member, be sure to let us know. Our office is handicapped accessible, and we are happy to provide assistance to special needs patients.

Call today to schedule an appointment for you and your whole family.

No one wants to wait weeks or months to see the dentist. A common question we hear is "How long does it take to get a dental appointment?" We do our best to schedule your appointment at your earliest convenience. Most of the time, we can get you in to see Dr. Edwards within a few days. We try to offer a wide range of appointments to fit your schedule, so let us know what time or day works best for you and we will do our best to meet your needs!

Dental Emergencies in Amherst

Dental emergencies are a priority at our Amherst dental office. We try to keep a block of same-day and next-day appointments available for emergencies. If you are going through a dental emergency or an urgent dental situation, call us right away and we will schedule you as soon as possible. If your dental emergency strikes after hours, leave a message and we will call you the next business day to fit you in. We offer after-hours contact information in the case of dental emergencies.

We know you have a busy life. We will always do what we can to accommodate your schedule without delaying necessary dental treatment. We want to make caring for your teeth convenient and fast. Call to schedule your appointment today.

In a word: no.

Root canals have been getting a bad reputation by Amherst dental patients for years, but the truth is that most people’s fear of root canals is unfounded. Perhaps the anxiety over root canals is connected to the pain of a toothache that usually signals a tooth infection—and root canal therapy to treat it. The toothache pain if far worse than the root canal itself, which is no worse than getting a run-of-the-mill cavity filled.

If you let an infected tooth go untreated, the tooth root may eventually die off so you don’t feel any more pain but the infection will still be present. Your dentist must treat the infection to protect your oral health.

How Does a Root Canal Work?

Here’s how the root canal procedure works: The area where the affected tooth is located will first be numbed with a local anesthetic. By the time Dr. Kenneth Edwards begins to drill a tiny hole in the tooth, you won’t feel anything. He will use that small hole to extract the infected tooth pulp and other bacteria. Once the area has been thoroughly cleaned out, it will be sealed to prevent future infections.

In most cases, the tooth structure left behind will become brittle, so a crown is generally placed to restore its form and function.

No one wants to wait weeks or months to see the dentist. A common question we hear is "How long does it take to get a dental appointment?" We do our best to schedule your appointment at your earliest convenience. Most of the time, we can get you in to see Dr. Edwards within a few days. We try to offer a wide range of appointments to fit your schedule, so let us know what time or day works best for you and we will do our best to meet your needs!

Dental Emergencies in Amherst

Dental emergencies are a priority at our Amherst dental office. We try to keep a block of same-day and next-day appointments available for emergencies. If you are going through a dental emergency or an urgent dental situation, call us right away and we will schedule you as soon as possible. If your dental emergency strikes after hours, leave a message and we will call you the next business day to fit you in. We offer after-hours contact information in the case of dental emergencies.

We know you have a busy life. We will always do what we can to accommodate your schedule without delaying necessary dental treatment. We want to make caring for your teeth convenient and fast. Call to schedule your appointment today.

A root canal is actually a nickname for root canal therapy. The root canal is the part of your tooth that houses the nerves and blood vessels of your teeth, surrounded by the soft pulp. When decay makes its way into the root canal, extreme pain and infection (abscess) is usually the result. 

The Root Canal Process

Root canal therapy consists of opening a path through the hard outer enamel and inner dentin, into the canals that contain the roots. Amherst dentist Dr. Edwards then removes these roots and cleans out the canals to ensure all decay and infection is removed, using a series of files to scrape any remaining pulp away. This process is performed while you're numb, so you won't feel any pain.

Over time, root canal therapy was shortened to just "a root canal," even though that's really just the part of the tooth we're working on. So the next time someone asks you what a root canal is, you can explain it's both the part of the tooth and the treatment used when that part becomes infected.

Root canals have a bad reputation for being a painful procedure, but they're really not that bad. The abscess that comes before the root canal is the part that really hurts! If you think you may need a root canal or you have any questions about root canal therapy, don't hesitate to contact our Amherst dental office.

While Amherst dentist Dr. Edwards has training in ways to help treat sleep apnea in patients who suffer from the disorder, we cannot diagnose it. Sleep apnea diagnosis requires an overnight sleep study in a certified sleep clinic, overseen by a doctor. It cannot be diagnosed by a dentist.

What Can You Do About Sleep Apnea?

If you have already been diagnosed with sleep apnea, and you find you cannot tolerate CPAP therapy, we can help. Our Amherst, NH dental office offers oral appliance therapy as an alternative to, or in conjunction with, CPAP treatments. Oral appliance therapy consists of a mouthpiece you insert before sleep that helps reposition the tongue or jaw to facilitate easier breathing throughout the night.

These appliances can also be used to treat snoring that is not related to sleep apnea, and we have many snorers (and spouses) that are very grateful for this assistance! 

Scheduling Your Appointment

If you believe you may have sleep apnea, consult with your doctor to schedule a sleep study. Apnea can affect your body in many adverse ways, and it's important to get diagnosed and begin treatment if you suffer from this condition.

If you suffer from sleep apnea and would like assistance in treating it, contact our office today to schedule an appointment.

Many people who experience dental fear and anxiety report that it's because of a bad or negative experience they've had in the past, or during childhood. Sadly, this affects their whole outlook on future dental appointments and it keeps many folks away from much-needed dental care.

Dr. Kenneth Edwards provides comprehensive and comfortable care at Family Dental Care in Amherst. You'll notice right away that our approach is different. Besides offering a friendly and warm environment with a gentle staff and doctor, we go above and beyond.

Oral Health Affects Overall Health

At the office of Dr. Edwards takes your overall health into consideration when planning your oral health care. This is because we understand that the two are connected.

Thanks to recent studies, we now understand that periodontal health is directly related to other health issues in the body, including cardiovascular disease, stroke, and diabetes. This is because the bacteria that cause periodontal (gum) disease can enter the bloodstream, travel to other areas of the body, and contribute to the inflammation that causes many health issues. This is known as the oral-systemic connection.

Nutrition Counseling

You know that good nutrition is important for your overall health; however, did you know that it also affects your oral health? Dr. Edwards provides personalized nutrition counseling based on your needs and lifestyle. He'll discuss with you the types of foods and supplements to include in your diet that will help your oral health as well as which foods you should avoid.

Sleep Apnea and Snoring

Sleep apnea is a dangerous sleep disorder that greatly affects your quality of life. It causes you to stop breathing, due to an obstructed airway, and this wakes you up multiple times during the night – even though you may not even realize it's happening.

Call Your Amherst Dentist 

Dr. Edwards provides alternative sleep apnea therapy using a custom oral appliance to help reposition your jaw and open your airway during the night. If you or a loved one snore loudly during the night, contact the office of Dr. Kenneth G. Edwards, DDS to learn more about your options.

Veneers are a beautiful and natural-looking long-term solution to a wide range of cosmetic dental problems, including chips, staining, gaps between teeth, and short or worn-down teeth. Veneers are meant to be a permanent alteration, as they require removal of some of your natural enamel to fit properly.

The Lifespan of Dental Veneers

However, no dental restoration lasts forever. The average life of a porcelain veneer is 5-10 years, with some lasting 15 years or longer. Resin veneers have a slightly shorter life on average, lasting about 5 years. Over time, veneers will be subject to wear, chipping, or cracking. Resin veneers are also very susceptible to becoming dull, especially if abrasive toothpaste is used. You can extend the life of your composite veneers by avoiding them.

Replacing Dental Veneers

Once your veneers start to become chipped, cracked, worn, or even just discolored, it's time to discuss replacing them with your Amherst dentist, Dr. Edwards. Usually, veneers can be replaced one at a time as they become worn if most of your veneers are still in good condition. If they are all suffering from their age, we can discuss a full set of replacements.

If your veneers are getting chipped, worn down, or stained, or if you are interested in a new set of veneers, contact our Amherst dental office today to schedule a consultation.

If you are considering cosmetic dentistry, such as veneers in the Amherst area, you might have a few questions about how they work. One of the most common questions we hear is about how we place porcelain veneers. 

The Dental Veneer Process

It is important to understand that porcelain veneers are a lifelong decision. Most patients wish they had gotten them sooner and love their new smiles. We custom-design your veneers and when your permanent restoration is ready, we will place them permanently. We do this by polishing away a small amount of enamel from your natural tooth. This prepares the surface of your tooth to effectively adhere to your veneers and also makes space for them so that they look completely natural instead of bulky. Once we attach all of your veneers to your teeth, Dr. Edwards will make any final adjustments necessary to ensure a good fit and an accurate bite.

Call To Schedule

You can dramatically prolong the life of your veneers by keeping your teeth clean and healthy. Maintain your regular home care and also keep your dental appointments in our office so that we can effectively monitor your oral health.

If you are interested in learning more about veneers in Amherst, just give us a call!

Porcelain veneers are an excellent choice for restoring and repairing many dental issues. They're a thin layer of porcelain that Dr. Edwards bonds directly to the surface of your tooth. This process adds strength as well as esthetics.

Veneers can repair one or two teeth, or they can enhance an entire smile. Here are some of the cosmetic issues that veneers in Amherst can help with:

Small Chips, Fractures, and Excessive Wear

When your teeth sustain fractures or chipping, it diminishes their appearance. Bruxism, or clenching and grinding your teeth, causes excessive wear and damage to your teeth. All of these issues can be covered with porcelain veneers.

Staining and Discoloration

There are certain types of staining that whitening products can't remove. Veneers are an ideal solution since they can cover those discolorations and discrepancies in your teeth.

Slight Misalignment

If your teeth are slightly crooked, veneers may allow you to forego years of orthodontic treatment and braces. Porcelain veneers are capable of covering small misalignments of your teeth.

Size Discrepancies and Misshapen Teeth

Have you lived with a tooth that's smaller than the rest? Maybe you have a tooth that appears longer than the others? This can diminish your smile. Veneers can be used to cover those misshapen teeth and give you the uniform smile you've dreamed of.

Contact the office of Dr. Kenneth G. Edwards, DDS today to learn more about porcelain veneers.