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  • Dental Services
    • General Dentistry
      • Gum Disease
      • Tooth Extractions
      • Fillings
      • Root Canals
      • Dental FAQs
    • Orthodontics
      • Two-Phase Treatment
      • Early Orthodontic Treatment with Dr. Steven Harrison
      • Adult Orthodontic Treatment by Dr. Steven Harrison
      • Orthodontics for Teens
      • Retainer Instructions
      • Emergency Care
      • Life with Braces
        • Types of Braces
        • Traditional Braces
        • Clear Aligners
        • Clear Ceramic Braces
    • Dental Implants
      • Implant-Supported Dentures
      • X-Guide Imaging Machine for Dental Implants
    • Pediatric Dentistry
      • Dental Care for Your Baby
      • Thumb Sucking
      • Tooth Decay
      • Cavities
      • Tooth Extractions
      • Pediatric Dental FAQs
    • Cosmetic Dentistry
      • ICON White Spot Treatment
      • Botox
      • Teeth Whitening
      • Invisalign
        • Invisalign at Parkcrest
        • Teen Invisalign
      • Bridges
      • Crowns
      • Veneers
      • Dentures
      • Cosmetic Dentistry FAQs
  • New Patients
    • Tour Our Office
    • Financial Information
    • Parkcrest Dental Group Testimonials
    • Patient Forms
  • Sedation Dentistry
  • Preventive Care
    • Parkcrest Dental Group Brushing & Flossing Tips
    • Orthodontic Dentistry: Brushing & Flossing with Braces
    • Parkcrest Dental Group Radiology
    • General Dentistry & Oral Cancer Screening
    • Sealants at the Parkcrest Dental Group
    • General Dentistry & Fluoride
  • About Us
    • Meet the Team
    • Meet Dr. Scott
    • Meet Dr. Ropka
    • Meet Dr. Harrison
    • Meet Dr. Hall
    • Meet Dr. Fannin
    • Meet Dr. Dills
    • Meet Dr. Sponenberg
    • Meet Dr. Snider
    • Meet Dr. Allie
    • Community Involvement
    • What Sets Us Apart
    • 50th Anniversary
  • Contact Us
  • Blog
    • Braces
    • Cosmetic Dentistry
    • Dental
    • Dental Care
    • Dental Education
    • Dental Implants
    • Dental Products
    • FAQ
    • Floss
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      • After Oral Surgery
      • Botox in Springfield
      • Calcium Deposits
      • Caregiver’s Guide
      • Choosing a Dentist
      • Dental Care
      • Dental Emergencies
      • Our Offices
      • Porcelain Veneers
      • Your Child’s First Visit
    • Pediatric
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Regular Dental Exams, The Simple Habit That Protects Your Smile for Life

  • May 19, 2025
  • 8:47 am
  • Dental Care
  • Dental Care, Dental Education, Dental Health, Oral Hygiene, Parkcrest Dental Group, Treatment
  • Parkcrest Dental Group

At Parkcrest Dental Group in Springfield, MO, we believe the best dental care is personal, consistent, and stress-free. That’s why regular dental exams are the heart of what we do.

These twice-yearly checkups aren’t just about clean teeth; they’re about prevention, confidence, and keeping small issues from becoming big problems. Whether you’re new to town or just overdue for a checkup, we are here to help. 

How Often Should You Visit The Dentist?

Most people need a dental exam and cleaning every six months. If you have gum disease, cavities, or chronic conditions like diabetes, you may benefit from more frequent visits. Think of these visits as your smile’s tune-up: they keep your teeth strong, your gums healthy, and your future dental bills low.

At Parkcrest, your doctor will tailor your schedule based on what’s best for you, not just what the calendar says.

Dental Anxiety? You’re Not Alone. And You’re Not Without Options.

If the thought of sitting in a dental chair makes you nervous, you’re in good company. Dental anxiety is common, and we take it seriously.  We’ve helped thousands of patients feel comfortable, from first-timers to those who’ve avoided the dentist for years.

Here’s how we make it easier:

  • No surprises – We explain every step and answer every question.
  • A Calm, Welcoming Space –  No stress, no pressure.
  • Sedation Dentistry – With Dr. Steven Sponenberg’s expertise, you can relax through your care.

If you experience dental anxiety, let us show you how different a visit to Parkcrest Dental can be. 

Pediatric dentist showing dental X-ray on a tablet to young girl during consultation in a modern dental clinic

Healthy Mouth, Healthier Body

Here’s something many people don’t know: your oral health is directly connected to your overall health.

Gum disease and untreated decay don’t just affect your teeth—they can lead to serious health issues like:

  • Heart disease and stroke
  • Worsened diabetes symptoms
  • Respiratory infections

By keeping up with your exams, you’re not just protecting your smile. You’re making a smart move for your total health.

Cleanings That Go Beyond the Surface

Brushing and flossing are essential, but they’re not enough on their own. Plaque hardens into tartar, and tartar can’t be removed at home. Our dental hygienists use specialized tools to clean where your toothbrush can’t reach, helping prevent the following:

  • Cavities
  • Gum disease
  • Bad breath

Plus, your cleaning includes a full oral exam to catch early signs of trouble before they become emergencies.

Extra Cavity Protection With Fluoride

Fluoride treatments are a quick and painless way to strengthen your enamel and protect your teeth from decay. While most people get some fluoride from toothpaste or tap water, professional treatments offer a higher level of protection. Especially for kids, teens, and adults who are more prone to cavities. 

These treatments help reinforce the enamel, can reverse early-stage tooth decay, and provide lasting defense between cleanings. If you or your child could benefit from extra cavity protection, your Parkcrest dentist can walk you through the best options.

Close-up of a pediatric dental exam with dentist applying treatment to child's teeth using a cotton swab

Don’t Let Gum Disease Sneak Up on You

Gum disease is one of the leading causes of adult tooth loss, and it rarely shows up without loud warning signs. In many cases, patients don’t experience tooth pain until serious damage has already occurred. That’s why our team pays close attention to the early red flags during each exam. If your gums bleed easily, look swollen, or you’ve noticed persistent bad breath, this may indicate gum disease.

The good news? When caught early, it’s not only treatable, but it’s often reversible. Routine cleanings, improved at-home habits, and a customized plan from your Parkcrest doctor can help keep your smile healthy for the long haul.

Personalized Care That Feels… Personal 

At Parkcrest Dental Group, you’re not just another chart. We get to know you, your family, and your goals. With eight experienced doctors (some with 30+ years in practice), you’ll always have expert care that fits your life. 

No matter if you’re here for a routine exam or need something more advanced, we build a care plan around your needs. 

Regular Visits Help You Avoid Emergencies

We know emergencies happen. But most dental emergencies start as small problems that could’ve been caught during a routine exam.

If you’re in pain right now, visit our emergency dental services page for help. If you’re not in pain? Great! Let’s keep it that way with regular checkups.

Keep Your Smile Healthy For The Long Run

At Parkcrest Dental Group, we’ve been caring for Springfield families for over 50 years. Generations trust us for expert care, friendly faces, and treatment that fits their needs and budget.  So if it’s been a while, that’s okay. We are glad to help you get back on track.

Schedule your visit today, and see how easy a dental checkup can be!

 

Meet Some Dentists in Springfield, MO

Dr. Stuart Scott (top left) is our pediatric dentist. He earned his degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry before completing a two-year residency at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.

Dr. Steven Harrison (top right) is board-certified by the American Board of Orthodontics. Dr. Harrison, our orthodontist, graduated from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry. He’s been with Parkcrest Dental Group since 1986.

Dr. Chanin Ropka (center left) attended UMKC before joining the United States Navy, where she served as the only dentist on board the USS Germantown and at Balboa Naval Hospital in San Diego. Dr. Ropka began at Parkcrest Dental in 2001.

Dr. Daniel Fannin (center right) graduated from UMKC School of Dentistry in 1997. He completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency in 1998 before joining Parkcrest Dental Group that same year.

Dr. Steven C. Sponenberg (bottom left) has been a Springfieldian his entire life. He graduated from Creighton University School of Dentistry in Omaha, Nebraska, in 2004 before joining Parkcrest Dental Group immediately after.

Dr. Jason Hall (bottom right) is also a native Springfieldian. He earned his DDS from the University of Missouri at Kansas City Dental School in 1997. He came to Parkcrest Dental Group in 2010. Dr. Hall’s father, Stan, is also a dentist.

More to explore

Man in pain holding his jaw, showing signs of a toothache or dental issue

Dental Injuries and Trauma: What to Do and Where to Go for Emergency Dental Care in Springfield, MO

May 19, 2025

Dental injuries aren’t just painful, they are typically unpredictable. One second, everything is fine. Next, you’re holding a broken tooth or trying

Comprehensive Guide to Broken Tooth Repair, Relief and Prevention

April 30, 2025

A broken tooth can happen in many different ways, from weakened enamel and cavities to a fall or grinding teeth. If you

Taking the Fear Out of Root Canal Treatment With Our Step-by-Step Guide

April 30, 2025

Do you have a severely damaged or decayed tooth? Are you in a lot of pain because of it? A root canal

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