Clifford B. Jones, III D.D.S. is a lifelong resident of Elizabeth City, NC. He attended Northeastern High School, where he graduated in 1982, and then attended Howard University in Washington, DC where he graduated in 1986 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Microbiology. From there he pursued his dental education at Howard University College of Dentistry and earned a Doctorate of Dental Surgery Degree in 1990. Dr. Jones furthered his dental education by completing a General Practice Residency at the Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York, NY.
My grandfather and father were also dentists here in Elizabeth City. My grandfather, Clifford Bell Jones, Sr., was beloved in this community. In 2010 a post office, located on the campus of Elizabeth City State University, was named in his honor.
I decided to follow their career path and had the pleasure of sharing a dental practice with them early in my career. The advice and counsel they provided me, as well as their professionalism and focus on patient care, guides me to this day. I take great pride in their legacy as well as the service I provide to my patients. I think of myself as a dream maker as I help my patients achieve the beautiful smile theyve always dreamed of having.
Gingivitis is a condition caused by bacteria surrounding the teeth and entering the gums, which become irritated, inflamed and often bleed. The good news is that its easily treatable through regular professional cleanings and proper flossing and home care. If left untreated, gingivitis develops into periodontal disease where gum recession, tooth pain and tooth loss occurs. It requires immediate attention and through a series of cleanings, root planing and scaling, laser therapy and local antibiotics, the condition can be controlled.
Typically caused by worn tooth enamel or exposed tooth roots, dentin sensitivity can be caused by other factors such as a cavity, a crack, decay around the edges of a filling or gum disease. Dr. Jones will examine the teeth and make recommendations for reducing the unpleasant sensation.
There are several causes of white spots or mottling on the teeth including hypomineralization, which is the effect too much exposure to fluoride, mineral loss in the teeth, poor nutrition, plaque formation, early tooth decay, and genetics. Dr. Jones will discuss the best treatments for making your teeth evenly white and bright.
Regular dental exams and cleanings to move plaque and tartar build up from teeth generally take 35 to 45 minutes. Dr. Jones will also assess your level of risk for developing tooth decay and gum disease and whether more fluoride is needed in your oral routine. Dr. Jones may also take X-rays to allow him to see inside your teeth and identify any hidden problems.