Dr. Thomas Riggins, DMD

Dr. Thomas Riggins, DMD is a Preventive Dentistry practitioner dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive Preventive Dental care. He practices at his clinic in Winter Park, FL, and is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine, practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). His commitment extends beyond the immediate concerns of dental health; General Preventive Dentistry serves as your primary partner in lifelong oral health, creating personalized plans to prevent cavities and gum disease, coordinating necessary screenings, and managing your overall wellness to ensure optimal oral and systemic health. He serves all ages and is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, fostering a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their long-term health. Please call (407) 645-0404 to confirm if Dr. Thomas DMD is currently accepting new patients.

Dr. Thomas Riggins, DMD is a dentistry practitioner in Winter Park, FL, focused on the prevention of oral health issues. His approach emphasizes personalized care and proactive strategies to maintain optimal oral and systemic health. He believes in the power of education and collaboration, working with patients to develop and implement preventive strategies tailored to their individual needs. His commitment to evidence-based medicine ensures that patients receive the most effective and up-to-date care. Dr. Thomas DMD provides consultations primarily in English.

A key part of the WePrevent mission is building your personalized prevention roadmap. Dr. Thomas DMD is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on proactive strategies to protect and enhance your long-term health.

By working together, you and Dr. Thomas DMD can create a clear, actionable plan to address your unique risk factors and health goals.

A proactive approach to health involves understanding and managing potential risks. Dr. Thomas DMD provides expert care for a range of conditions, focusing on early detection and effective management to support your long-term wellness. Common areas of focus include:

• Dens in Dente and Palatal Invaginations: These unusual tooth formations (dens in dente and palatal invaginations) can create hidden areas that trap bacteria, making preventative care like flossing crucial.
• Hunter Glossitis: Hunter glossitis is an inflammation of the tongue that, if caught early, can prevent more serious oral health problems.
• Crossbite: A crossbite, where your upper teeth don't properly overlap your lower teeth, can lead to jaw problems and tooth damage if not addressed early, highlighting the importance of regular dental checkups.
• Bleeding Gums: Preventing gum disease starts with noticing bleeding gums; addressing this issue early can help maintain healthy teeth and gums for life.
• Tooth Abrasion: Preventing tooth abrasion is crucial for preserving your natural teeth and preventing sensitivity, ensuring comfortable chewing and maintaining a healthy smile throughout your life.
• Tooth Demineralization: Preventing tooth decay starts with understanding tooth demineralization—the process where your enamel weakens, increasing your risk of cavities; regular checkups and proper brushing help detect and reverse this.
• Tooth and Nail Syndrome: Early detection of conditions potentially related to Tooth and Nail Syndrome through preventive dental care can significantly reduce long-term oral health problems.

This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes only. The best way to understand your personal health and create a prevention plan is to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Taking proactive steps is central to long-term health. Dr. Thomas DMD offers a range of key preventive screenings and services designed to provide crucial insights into your health and support your well-being:

• Laser Lingual Frenectomy: For improved oral hygiene and potentially better speech clarity, consider a laser lingual frenectomy. This minor procedure can help prevent future dental problems by optimizing tongue function.
• Prophy Jet Air Polishing: Prophy Jet air polishing is a comfortable cleaning method that helps remove stains and plaque, preventing cavities and gum disease, keeping your smile healthy and bright.
• Preseason Dental Exam: Don't wait for a problem to arise—schedule a preseason dental exam to screen for cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues, ensuring a healthy, confident smile.
• Venus® White Teeth Whitening System: Take control of your oral health journey by using the Venus® White Teeth Whitening System to remove surface stains and improve the overall appearance of your teeth.
• Air Abrasion: Air abrasion is a gentle, minimally invasive way to remove tooth decay and stains, helping you maintain a healthy smile and prevent cavities.
• Palatal Expander: By using a palatal expander, you can proactively correct a narrow upper jaw, thereby reducing the risk of crooked teeth, bite problems, and future orthodontic interventions.
• Tooth-Conserving Dentistry: Protecting your natural teeth is key to your overall health, and tooth-conserving dentistry provides the necessary preventive and restorative care to achieve that.

Service availability can change, and not all services listed may be appropriate for every patient. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services and to create your personalized screening plan, please schedule a consultation.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Preventive Dentistry Services in Florida.

Dr. Thomas DMD is dedicated to partnering with Dental Caregivers to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how a proactive approach can make a tangible difference in a Patient's life:

• By understanding the unique characteristics of their teeth and the importance of meticulous oral hygiene, a family gained peace of mind regarding potential issues with dens in dente and palatal invaginations, proactively managing their oral health.
• By attending regular checkups and following a proactive oral hygiene plan, a patient successfully prevented Hunter Glossitis, ensuring a healthy and comfortable mouth for years to come.
• A family was relieved to learn that early detection and preventive care for a potential crossbite minimized the risk of future dental and jaw issues, ensuring a healthy smile for years to come.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results may vary and depend on many factors specific to each patient. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.

Here are answers to some common questions about proactive Preventive Dental care with Dr. Thomas DMD:

How often should I visit the dentist for a check-up and cleaning?

At Dr. Thomas DMD, we recommend seeing a dentist and dental hygienist every six months for checkups and cleanings. This is a crucial preventive step to remove tartar buildup, catch cavities early, and screen for gum disease and oral cancer.

Why are routine dental cleanings so important for prevention?

Even with excellent brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar that only a professional cleaning can remove. This is crucial for preventing cavities and, importantly, gum disease, which can be linked to other health problems.

How is oral health connected to my overall health?

Your oral health is profoundly connected to your overall well-being. Chronic gum inflammation (periodontitis) has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and poorly controlled diabetes. Preventive dental care, including regular checkups and cleanings, is essential for maintaining optimal oral and overall body health.

What are veneers and how are they different from crowns?

Veneers are thin porcelain shells bonded to the front of teeth to improve their appearance. Crowns, on the other hand, are caps that cover the entire tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength after significant damage or decay.

Can you help with snoring or sleep apnea?

Dr. Thomas DMD can help with mild to moderate sleep apnea. For some patients, we create a custom-fitted oral appliance worn at night to keep the airway open, offering a comfortable alternative to CPAP. We'll discuss your individual needs to determine if this is a suitable option for you.

Do you perform oral cancer screenings?

Yes, an oral cancer screening is a routine and important part of every dental check-up. Dr. Thomas will visually inspect the lips, tongue, gums, and entire mouth for any abnormalities, as early detection is key to successful treatment.

What is the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis?

Gingivitis is an early, reversible stage of gum disease, characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed easily. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more serious stage where the bone supporting the teeth is damaged, potentially leading to tooth loss.

What is TMJ disorder?

TMJ disorder is a condition affecting the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. Common symptoms include jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds, and headaches. Dr. Thomas DMD can help diagnose the issue and recommend treatments, such as a custom nightguard to prevent damage from teeth grinding.

157 E New England Ave Ste 260
Winter Park FL 32789
Phone: (407) 645-0404

Dr. Thomas Riggins, DMD is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1710908561

Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.

The information on this profile, provided by weprevent.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with preventive health partners. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Preventive Dentistry Services like Dr. Thomas DMD are skilled in helping patients create proactive health plans. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your preventive dentistry about all aspects of your health and your personalized prevention plan.