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General Dentistry

Improve Your Oral Health

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Maintain Your Best Smile With General Dentistry in Wilmington

Your oral health is connected to your body's overall health. A thorough at-home oral hygiene routine can make a big difference. You also need regular dental checkups. General dentistry in Wilmington can identify problems in their early stages and prevent them from occurring altogether. With regular visits to Porters Neck Dentistry, you will:

  • Stop dental issues from harming your smile
  • Get timely treatment for oral health problems
  • Gain a confident and healthy smile
  • Receive personalized tips for better at-home care
  • Feel confident that you are making good decisions for your overall health

No insurance? We're fine with that. Join our Membership Club for savings on your treatment. Ask about our new-patient special, a cleaning and exam for only $149.

Dentist in white coat consulting with female patient seated in dental chair in bright clinic room

Protect Your Smile With Routine Checkups

At our practice, Dr. Shumate and his team want to help you achieve the healthiest smile possible. Preventive care plays a big part in keeping your teeth and gums in good condition.

When you take care of your smile, your entire body stays healthy. If it's your first visit with us, your dentist will take time to get to know you and your oral health history.

Building personal relationships with you is important to our team. It's one of the ways we ensure you feel comfortable and confident throughout your entire dental journey.

Our team uses a gentle touch for exams, cleanings, and other services. However, if you feel anxious, sedation options are available. We never want you to avoid quality dental care because of fear or nerves.


Get to Know Our Preventive Approach

We offer a wide range of services to keep your teeth and gums in top condition. Our general dentistry services include:

  • Cleanings and Exams - Our regular professional cleanings and thorough exams will help you maintain good oral health for the long-term.
  • Gum Disease Treatment - Your dentist can treat gum disease with deep cleanings called scaling and root planing. You'll keep your mouth in top condition.
  • Dry Mouth Treatment - Your dentist can provide solutions to relieve dry mouth. By increasing saliva production, you'll reduce your risk for cavities and other issues.
  • Bad Breath Treatment - Dr. Shumate can address the cause of bad breath. It may be a result of gum disease or an infection that requires treatment.
  • Mouthguards - You can get a custom-fitted mouthguard to protect your teeth. We have options if you play sports or grind your teeth.

Take care of your smile with general dentistry in Wilmington.

5 out of 5 stars - 682 votes

5 Stars (682 Reviews)

Read Why Patients Love Us

Patients appreciate the special care they receive from our team. Check out what they have to say!

5

I went in for my 6 month cleaning yesterday. The hygienist, Lindsey, was running behind, but worked very efficiently to perform my cleaning. She was thorough, and did a great job. The office personnel is always friendly and welcoming. Dr. Shumate is kind and understanding. I’ve been going to...
I went in for my 6 month cleaning yesterday. The hygienist, Lindsey, was running behind, but worked very efficiently to perform my cleaning. She was thorough, and did a great job. The office personnel is always friendly and welcoming. Dr. Shumate is kind and understanding. I’ve been going to their office for nearly 10 years. If there are ever any issues, they work well to resolve whatever needs attention,

5

The team at Porters Neck Dentistry is always amazing. They are professional, friendly, courteous and always find a way to address any urgent Dental needs I have had. The care my family gets is superb and I would highly highly recommend them.

5

Dr Shumate recently capped 2 of my front teeth. He did a beautiful job with them and went over and above what others dentists have done. I am so very happy with them!! His staff is kind and warm and caring. My husband and I have been going to him for several years and we highly recommend him.

5

Dr. Lauren is an excellent addition to Porter’s Neck Dentistry. I had a very nervous teen getting her first cavity filled. Dr. Lauren took time to answer every one of her questions seriously and reassuringly. She worked quick! My daughter left smiling and feeling confident!

5

This office was wonderful. Staff was friendly and patient with a very nervous daughter. They took the time to explain every procedure and the treatment plan for the future. Dr. Shumate made my daughter feel at ease with his engaging manner. Thank you!

5

Very nice staff. Could not work on my son due to age and was able to refer to another office and was very helpful in doing so. I am horrified of dentist however I will be making an appointment here for myself.

5

My experience here was excellent. They really care about people. They take your oral hygiene and health seriously. The doctor started my care right away to get the ball rolling with my dental issue. He is very professional and friendly. You can tell he is a person that really cares about his...
My experience here was excellent. They really care about people. They take your oral hygiene and health seriously. The doctor started my care right away to get the ball rolling with my dental issue. He is very professional and friendly. You can tell he is a person that really cares about his patients and that goes a long way. I would recommend family friends and anyone that's looking for a good experience with dental care.

5

If you’re looking for a dentist, this is the place to go! I waited years to get much needed work done because of allergic reactions at a prior dentist. I also had HIGH anxiety. The entire office is very caring, patient and managed my treatment unconventionally, to consider my allergies and...
If you’re looking for a dentist, this is the place to go! I waited years to get much needed work done because of allergic reactions at a prior dentist. I also had HIGH anxiety. The entire office is very caring, patient and managed my treatment unconventionally, to consider my allergies and anxiety. This is the ONLY dentist I’ll go to.

Patient Resources

Commonly Asked Questions About General Dentistry

Who should get fluoride treatments? 

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in foods and water that helps protect teeth from cavities by strengthening tooth enamel. It can even help repair the earliest stages of tooth decay. Because fluoride supports healthy tooth development, children under 12 are often good candidates for fluoride treatments. Adults can benefit too - especially those who are more prone to cavities. You may want to ask about fluoride treatment if you have dry mouth, gum disease, or wear braces or other orthodontic appliances.

Can I prevent cavities?

A thin film called plaque forms naturally on your teeth. If left alone, plaque can turn into tartar, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day helps remove plaque before it hardens. During your dental visits, we'll remove any tartar buildup and apply fluoride to help keep your enamel strong and healthy.

Why should I go to a general dentist?

Regular visits to a general dentist are the best way to cover many dental needs in one convenient location. Our team has the skills and expertise to keep your gums and teeth healthy and attractive. We offer a wide range of services, including routine exams, cleanings, full-mouth restorations, and dental surgery, all designed to support your oral health.