FAQs

Where is Gilliam Dentistry located?

Gilliam Dentistry is located at 2 Office Park Drive, Jacksonville, NC 28546. Our office is conveniently accessible for patients throughout Jacksonville, NC and the surrounding communities. You can reach us by phone at (910) 577-5077 or request an appointment online. We look forward to welcoming you to our practice.

Is Gilliam Dentistry accepting new patients?

Absolutely! Gilliam Dentistry is always welcoming new patients of all ages in Jacksonville, NC. Whether you’re looking for a dental home for your entire family or need a specific service, our team is ready to help. Visit our new patients page to find out what to bring to your first appointment and what to expect during your visit, then call (910) 577-5077 or book online to get started.

Does Gilliam Dentistry treat patients of all ages?

Yes! Gilliam Dentistry is a true family dental practice serving patients from infancy through adulthood. We recommend children begin their dental visits by their first birthday, and our team is equally experienced in caring for teens, adults, and seniors. From pediatric dentistry to general adult dental care, the whole family can be seen under one roof.

What dental services does Gilliam Dentistry offer?

Gilliam Dentistry offers a comprehensive range of dental services including dental exams, teeth cleanings, restorative dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, Invisalign, braces, periodontal therapy, oral surgery, veneers, dentures, root canal therapy, pediatric sedation dentistry, and much more. Visit our full services page for a complete overview.

How do I schedule an appointment at Gilliam Dentistry?

Scheduling is simple — call our office at (910) 577-5077 or request an appointment online. We offer flexible scheduling and do our best to accommodate families with back-to-back appointments. New and returning patients are always welcome at Gilliam Dentistry in Jacksonville, NC.

What should I bring to my first appointment at Gilliam Dentistry?

For your first visit, please bring a valid photo ID, your dental insurance card (if applicable), a list of any current medications, and any relevant medical or dental records if available. Arriving a few minutes early to complete new patient paperwork is also helpful. Visit our new patients page for a complete checklist of what to expect and what to bring to your first appointment at Gilliam Dentistry.

Dental Health & Preventive Care

How often should I visit the dentist?

Most patients benefit from a dental exam and professional cleaning every six months. However, patients with a history of gum disease, a tendency toward heavy tartar buildup, or certain health conditions may need to be seen more frequently — sometimes every three to four months. At Gilliam Dentistry, we’ll assess your individual needs and recommend the visit schedule that’s right for you.

At what age should my child first see a dentist?

We recommend scheduling your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting — whichever comes first. Early visits allow our pediatric dental team to monitor tooth development, provide protective fluoride treatments, and help parents establish healthy oral care routines from the very start. Starting early sets your child up for a lifetime of great oral health.

How can I prevent cavities?

The best defense against cavities is a consistent oral hygiene routine at home combined with regular professional care at Gilliam Dentistry. Brush your teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss once a day, limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks, drink plenty of water, and schedule your professional teeth cleaning every six months. We also offer fluoride treatments and dental sealants for patients who are more prone to decay.

What are the signs of gum disease?

Common signs of gum disease include gums that bleed when brushing or flossing, red or swollen gum tissue, persistent bad breath, gum recession, loose or shifting teeth, and deep pockets forming between the teeth and gums. Many cases of early gum disease develop without pain — which is why regular dental exams are so critical. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, contact Gilliam Dentistry at (910) 577-5077 right away. We offer both non-surgical periodontal therapy and periodontal surgery for patients at every stage of gum disease.

Are dental X-rays safe?

Yes. At Gilliam Dentistry, we use modern digital X-ray technology that emits a fraction of the radiation of traditional film X-rays. X-rays are an essential diagnostic tool that allows our team to detect cavities between teeth, assess bone levels, monitor jaw development, and identify issues not visible during a visual exam. We only recommend X-rays when clinically necessary and take all appropriate safety precautions — including lead aprons — for every patient.

Treatments & Procedures

Is a root canal painful?

This is one of the most common misconceptions in dentistry. Root canal therapy at Gilliam Dentistry is performed under local anesthesia and is specifically designed to relieve the severe pain caused by an infected tooth — not create it. Most patients are genuinely surprised by how comfortable the procedure is. Some mild soreness in the area for a few days afterward is normal and easily managed. Learn more about our root canal therapy services.

What is the difference between a filling and a crown?

A filling repairs a small to moderate area of tooth decay or damage by filling in the affected portion with tooth-colored composite resin. A crown covers the entire visible surface of the tooth and is used when the damage is too extensive for a filling to adequately protect the tooth. Our team at Gilliam Dentistry will assess your situation during your dental exam and recommend the most appropriate restoration. Both services are part of our restorative dentistry offerings.

What is the best way to replace missing teeth?

The best tooth replacement option depends on the number of missing teeth, your overall oral health, and your personal goals. At Gilliam Dentistry, we offer several solutions including dental implants (the gold standard for single tooth replacement), dental bridges (for one or more adjacent missing teeth), and full or partial dentures for patients missing multiple teeth or an entire arch. Our team will walk you through all available options and help you choose the best fit during your consultation.

How long does Invisalign or braces treatment take?

Treatment length varies depending on the complexity of your case and the type of orthodontic appliance used. Most patients complete orthodontic treatment at Gilliam Dentistry within 12 to 24 months. Minor corrections may take as little as 6 months. During your initial consultation, our team will provide a personalized timeline. Learn more about our braces, Invisalign, and orthodontic services.

Comfort & Sedation

Does Gilliam Dentistry offer sedation for anxious patients?

Yes. At Gilliam Dentistry, we take dental anxiety seriously and offer a full range of sedation options for both children and adults. These include nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedation, and IV sedation. For children requiring extensive treatment while fully asleep, we also offer pediatric general anesthesia. Our entire team is trained to create a calm, reassuring environment for every patient. Call us at (910) 577-5077 to discuss which option may be right for you.

What amenities does Gilliam Dentistry offer to make visits more comfortable?

At Gilliam Dentistry, patient comfort is a top priority. Our 4,000 sq. ft. office features private treatment rooms, dental spa chairs, and a thoughtfully designed environment built for relaxation. For our younger patients — and the young at heart — we offer a PlayStation, Pac-Man, toys, stuffed animals, and 10 flat-screen TVs throughout the office. We also have two private consultation rooms for one-on-one discussions and a state-of-the-art radiographic studio with digital imaging technology for fast, comfortable, and precise diagnostics.