by Dr Brody | Dentistry
A new school year is already here! Yet although there might a long list of things to do in order to get ready and make it a successful one, a back to school dental checkup should be right at the top of it. Of course it’s easy for most kids to get excited about new clothes and other startup supplies, but unfortunately they are a little bit less enthused when it comes to a dentist visit. However, oral health is an important part of life that everyone must learn about sooner or later, and besides that, the brighter the smile, the better the school year.
Both the American Dental Association (ADA) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) highly recommend that parents make dental exams a mandatory part of their children’s back-to-school routine. So, if you want to get a back-to-school dental checkup for your child, you should probably schedule it before their schedule becomes too busy with homework, sports, and other extracurricular activities.
The beginning of the school year is an ideal time for dentists to inform or remind parents and students about some of the serious risks associated with tooth decay. More importantly, they can consult you about ways to prevent it. Decay is on the rise nowadays in some kids, and dentists believe that diet is to blame, with the main culprits being candy and soft drinks. Allowing children to ‘binge’ on sugary snacks and drinks in excess can rapidly increase the risk of decay.
Dental Checkups Should Be Mandatory
Some states have actually gone to great lengths to ensure that children start out the school year right. For example, in Illinois, children entering kindergarten, second and sixth grade must have a dental examination performed by a dentist prior to the end of the previous school year. If not, they must at least provide proof that one has been scheduled. So, even if there aren’t any apparent problems, it’s a good idea to schedule a cleaning during which your dentist will do an exam to check your child’s teeth for any issues.
Dental problems are still the number one reason that kids miss school. In fact, it’s estimated that more than 51 million school hours are lost each year because of ailments associated with dental problems. Moreover, childhood tooth decay is the #1 chronic childhood illness. Sadly, pediatric dental disease is 5x more common than asthma and 7x more common than hay fever. Yet, luckily, your dentist can catch the majority of problems early before they’re too big, which is the key.
When left untreated, oral health problems can detrimentally affect your child’s overall health condition. Childhood tooth decay can have unfavorable consequences beyond what is simply seen in the dentist’s chair. Extensive decay can lead to problems like malnourishment and bacterial infections. Pain and infection from problematic teeth can lead to trouble with eating, speaking, and even concentrating in class. But, if you catch problems early, it may prevent your kid from missing school because of another toothache. Not to mention, early detection almost always means spending less money on fixing things.
Everyone Needs a Dental Checkup
This is also a good time of the year for parents to get a checkup as well. Not only because you’ll probably have to bring your child to the dentist’s office and will already be there, but you never know if you’ll even find the time to do so once the school year is in full swing. A healthy family is a happy one, and when with regular dental checkups, there’ll be one less thing to worry about and your kids can concentrate on getting good grades. For more information about dentistry for you and your family, visit the American Dental Association website.
Remember, with proper care and routine ‘maintenance’, dental problems are definitely preventable. All it takes is a brief back-to-school trip to the local dentist to stay on top of things in this health ‘department’. So, if you live in the Castle Rock, Colorado area and are looking for a reliable and reputable dentist, give Castle Rock Family Dental a call at 303-688-2229 and we’ll be happy to schedule a back to school appointment for you and/or your kids. We have a comfy, state-of-the-art facility and our friendly, capable staff can take care of basically all your dental needs.
by Dr Brody | Dentistry
You eat healthy, drink plenty of water, take vitamins and visit the gym a few times a week. You are conscious about maintaining your good health, and your last check-up with your doctor is proof. There still might be one area you are overlooking, though: Your teeth.
A lot of people don’t go to the dentist nearly as often as they should, instead opting to book an appointment only when a problem arises. A common reason for this is dental phobia, or the fear of dentists. You shouldn’t let this fear stop you from maintaining your oral health, though, and you should be visiting your dentist every six months for routine teeth cleaning.
What Happens During Routine Teeth Cleaning?
Routine teeth cleaning can prevent serious issues like heart disease and stroke.
Some people don’t schedule regular teeth cleaning because of misconceptions about what the process involves. Truthfully, teeth cleanings are really quite simple, and discomfort is minimal. During your cleaning, a hygienist will remove any build of of plaque or tartar from your teeth. This is done as gently as possible using an assortment of dental tools. The teeth, including any crowns and fillings, are polished. Fluoride treatments may also be applied. If you have full or partial dentures, the hygienist may also clean them as well.
During your teeth cleaning appointment, your teeth may also be X-rayed. They will also be examined so your dentist can detect any potential issues before they turn into major problems. Your hygienist might discuss your brushing and flossing habits and provide you with counseling on your dental hygiene, if needed. If problems are detected with your teeth, such as cavities, the dentist will discuss the next steps for treatment with you. If you need to schedule a follow-up appointment for fillings or other treatments, this will be done at this time.
Why Is Regular Teeth Cleaning Important?
There are several reasons why regular teeth cleaning is important. Some of the top reasons include:
- Removal of surface stains before they become more difficult to remove
- Removal of plaque and tartar to prevent cavities and gum disease
- Opportunity for your dentist to identify minor problems before they become major
- Provide preventative treatments
The health of your mouth, teeth and gums is directly linked to your overall health. Oral problems that are left untreated can lead to issues that have a negative impact on your overall health. Infections in the teeth, for example, can spread to other parts of the body, potentially causing major problems when left untreated. Simply maintaining your tooth and gum health with cleanings every 6 months can reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.
Keeping your teeth and mouth clean can also have a huge impact on your self esteem. When you have a clean, healthy smile, you won’t feel embarrassed or afraid to show your teeth. Good oral health also can help prevent embarrassing bad breath. Since chronic bad breath is often caused by poor oral hygiene, cleanings every 6 months can be extremely helpful.
Routine Teeth Cleaning at Castle Rock Family Dental
Heading to the dentist every 6 months for a routine cleaning is one of the best things you can do for your oral health, and doing so is also important for your overall health. Healthy teeth and gums are a part of good overall health, and going in for regular cleanings and checkups isn’t as scary as you may think.
When you visit us at Castle Rock Family Dental, our staff is friendly and strives to make your appointment as stress-free as possible. Call us today to schedule your cleaning to see how our professional staff can help you maintain your good overall health. You can reach us at (303) 688-2229. We are currently accepting new patients, and you can also request an appointment on our website. We look forward to hearing from you!
by Dr Brody | Dentistry
Season’s greetings! Or perhaps I should say, season’s eatings! The holiday season is officially upon us, and for many of us, that means a month (or more!) to indulge in our favorite treats. From ooey gooey fudge to crunchy candy canes, the winter holidays provide the perfect excuse to enjoy those treats we normally avoid throughout the year.
While gaining weight during the holidays is already on your mind, there is another part of your health you need to think about when choosing your seasonal snacks: your dental health.
Dental Health During the Holidays
While you’re enjoying your favorite seasonal snacks, follow these tips to maintain dental health during the holiday season.
With all the hustle and bustle at this time of year, the last thing anyone wants to think about is an unexpected trip to the dentist. Unfortunately, many of the treats commonly associated with the holidays can wreak havoc on your teeth. Keep these tips in mind to maintain a healthy mouth during the holidays.
Don’t Binge on Sweets
It may be easier said than done, but avoiding overdoing it on sweet snacks and beverages is one of the most important steps in ensuring that you don’t ring in the new year with a cavity. When you snack on sugary foods during the day, especially over an extended period at a holiday party, bacteria feeds on the sugar, causing harmful acids to form and continue to damage the teeth for about 20 minutes.
That’s not to say you should avoid your favorite seasonal foods altogether. When you enjoy sugary snacks as part of a balanced meal rather than on their own, the damage is much less. The body produces more saliva to digest large meals. This helps rinse the mouth and neutralize harmful acids.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is always important, but it is especially crucial during the holidays when you are eating foods you don’t usually eat, and more of them. Whenever possible, brush and rinse immediately after eating, especially after consuming sugary treats.
When brushing isn’t an option, you can also rinse your mouth with water or chew sugar-free gum to remove food particles and prevent tooth decay. Another option is carrying disposable, single-use mini toothbrushes. These small brushes tuck in a pocket, and come pre-filled with toothpaste. With these, you don’t even need water to freshen up your mouth following a holiday meal.
Limit Sticky and Hard Foods
Some foods are worse for your teeth than others. Sticky sweets, like caramel, that take a long time to chew cause more damage to your teeth than those that can be chewed and swallowed quickly. They are also more likely to get stuck to or between the teeth, potentially leading to cavities. Sticky sweets may also pull out cavities or get stuck in dental work.
Hard, extremely crunchy foods can also be problematic. Things like peanut brittle may taste great, but they can lead to chipped or broken teeth. Though you may not want to completely avoid your favorite sticky and hard treats, try to enjoy them in moderation, and always be mindful when eating them.
At Castle Rock Family Dental, we know that the flavors of the season are one of the most enjoyable parts of the holidays. With proper hygiene and a bit of conscious decision making, you can enjoy all of your favorite holiday sweets without destroying your teeth. If you do experience any problems this holiday season or you would like to whiten your teeth for those holiday photos, give us a call at 303-688-2229.
by Dr Brody | Dentistry
This holiday season, don’t be afraid to smile in pictures or share a laugh around the dinner table. With cosmetic dentistry, you can have a smile that you can be thankful for and proud to show off.
Get the smile you’ve always wanted with cosmetic dentistry.
Cosmetic Dentistry Does More Than You Think
Cosmetic dental procedures exist to address numerous issues that could be making you ashamed of your smile. At Castle Rock Family Dental, we offer services to correct:
- Discoloration
- Gaps
- Unevenly-spaced teeth
- Crooked teeth
- Chipped teeth
Tooth whitening is the most common form of cosmetic dentistry, and there are a couple different options for whitening teeth that have become discolored due to age, smoking, red wine, coffee and tea.
Professional whitening kits that you can take home are ideal for mild to moderate stains, but for more severe staining, in-office whitening treatments are the most effective option. Stains are commonly removed using a bleaching treatment, but there are also non-bleach alternatives that remove surface stains with abrasive materials. In many cases, the teeth can be whitened in office in just one session.
To address issues relating to the alignment and spacing of teeth, or to improve the appearance of chipped teeth, veneers are a popular cosmetic procedure. Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that are applied to the surface of the teeth. The porcelain is tooth colored, and can also be used to conceal severe discoloration.
With veneers, patients can have the appearance of perfectly straight and even teeth without the need for braces. Veneers are a fast way to restore your confidence, and they are more affordable than straightening procedures and crowns.
Cosmetic Dentistry at Castle Rock Family Dental
When you visit Castle Rock Family Dental, we will come up with a specific plan for how cosmetic dentistry will give you a smile to be thankful for. Give us a call today at 303-688-2229 to schedule your appointment, and you’ll be on your way to a smile you will be proud to show off at your next holiday gathering.
by Dr Brody | Dentistry
With the candy buy back program at Castle Rock Family Dental, your child can trade his or her hard-earned trick-or-treat candy in for cash.
Is there anything more synonymous with Halloween than trick-or-treating? For one night each year, kids get to be anything they want. Disguised as everything from scary monsters to beloved characters, they take to the streets with one goal in mind - collecting as much candy as they can carry. To help lighten to load and give kids a bit of spending money while working to preserve healthy smiles, my staff and I here at Castle Rock Family Dental have a special Halloween candy buy back program.
Halloween Candy Buy Back Program at Castle Rock Family Dental
There are very few things that kids love more than candy. As a parent, I know that one of those things is cash. That’s why my office is hosting a candy buy back event this Halloween. Rather than allowing your kids to potentially damage their teeth chowing down on excessive amounts of sugary treats, have them bring some to Castle Rock Family Dental to exchange for cash. For every pound of trick-or-treat candy your child brings in, he or she will receive one dollar.
All Treats, No Tricks
While candy isn’t the best thing for your child’s teeth, I know that one of the most fun parts of Halloween for kids is collecting and indulging in their favorite snacks. Kids should be able to enjoy their candy, so I encourage them to go through their trick-or-treat goodies and set aside their favorites before bringing the rest to my office.
In addition to making a little spending money, kids who participate in our candy buy back program will also be helping others. Candy collected during this program will be donated to those who are in need of some cheer during the holiday season.
How to Participate
Participating in our candy buy back program is easy. Just stop by Castle Rock Family Dental during normal business hours the week after Halloween. Your child’s candy will be weighed, and he or she will be rewarded with $1 per pound of donated Halloween candy. It’s that simple!
If you have any questions or would like to learn more about the Halloween candy buy back program at Castle Rock Family Dental or the services our office provides, I encourage you to give our office a call at 303-688-2229. Whether you’re in need of general dentistry services or you are in search of a cosmetic dentist, Castle Rock Family Dental can help.
by Dr Brody | Dentistry
Your family’s dental health is a major concern. To ensure that your entire family maintains a healthy, beautiful smile, choosing the right dentist is essential. Not only do you need a dentist that everyone feels comfortable with, you also need someone you can rely on to provide you and your family with top-notch care, helpful advice and excellent service.
Choosing the Right Family Dentist
There are several things you need to keep in mind when trying to find the right dentist for you and your family. This person will, hopefully, be someone who cares for your family’s smiles for years to come, so it isn’t a decision to be taken likely. Some things you need to consider include:
Attitude. A lot of people are uncomfortable when visiting the dentist. When it comes to taking kids to the dentist, you need to be sure that the dentist you choose is someone who will alleviate those fears. A dentist with a great attitude can even make procedures more pleasant for adults who are already apprehensive. Your dentist’s office should feel warm and welcoming. Staff members should be friendly and willing to explain procedures and answer any questions you and your family may have. Don’t feel bad for passing on a dentist that doesn’t make you feel comfortable. At the end of the day, remember that you are paying for a service, and you and your family deserve to have that service delivered by friendly, caring and compassionate professionals.
Convenience. Do the office hours work well with your schedule? Is the office located close to your home, work or your child’s school? Choose a family dentist that is easy for you to get to and that has hours that work with your family’s schedule.
Professional qualifications. Choose a dentist that is a member of the American Dental Association. If your family has special dental needs, look for a dentist who is experienced and skilled in treating such issues.
Payment options. If you have dental insurance, make sure the dentist you choose accepts the type that you have. Find out what fees you will be responsible for after your insurance. If you don’t have insurance, find out what payment types are accepted. Find out if extended payment plans are accepted for major procedures, such as braces, or emergencies.
Emergency procedures. Ask how emergency situations are handled. Is the dentist available for emergency services after hours? If not, find out who you would need to contact in the event of an emergency and where their facility is located. If you would need to take your family elsewhere for an emergency, make sure the office is easily accessible and staffed by people you trust and feel comfortable with.
Choosing Castle Rock Family Dental
At Castle Rock Family Dental, we strive to provide professional and compassionate dental care for the entire family. From children and teens to adults and seniors, we provide comprehensive care in a calm and inviting environment. We encourage you to give us a call at 303-688-2229 to schedule a consultation so you can come in and meet our friendly staff. We look forward to meeting you and your family!
