Dental News
How Often Do You Need Dental X-Rays?
The best way to keep your teeth and gums healthy is to brush and floss regularly, avoid food and drinks that can cause tooth decay, and visit our Spring Branch general dentist every six months. Routine checkups with our Houston general dentist are vital to oral health, as these appointments ensure any issues are identified and addressed as early as possible. In order to bring you the very best dental experience, our Spring Branch general dentist may order dental x-rays on some of these visits, which can reveal issues that are difficult to see without these images. But how often are dental x-rays needed? Keep reading to learn more about dental x-rays and how often to expect them.
Dental X-Rays with Our Houston General Dentist
Dental x-rays are images our Spring Branch general dentist captures of your teeth as a part of your oral healthcare that are taken of your teethThe purpose of dental x-rays is to assess the health of your teeth in places that are difficult or impossible for our Spring Branch general dentist to see with the naked eye. Problems like bone loss, hidden tooth decay (such as in between teeth), impacted wisdom teeth, and even tumors and infections may be spotted through dental x-ray imaging. Since these issues can rapidly worsen, dental x-rays with our Houston general dentist allow them to be found as early as possible so that treatment can be rendered immediately.
How Often Do I Need Dental X-Rays with My Spring Branch General Dentist?
Dental x-rays are typically needed each year, or every other visit if you maintain regular cleanings with our Houston general dentist every six months. Most PPO insurance plans will cover the cost of these images once annually, as they are an important part of preventative dental healthcare. As mentioned previously, the issues dental-xrays are designed to identify can quickly get worse, which is why our Spring Branch general dentist performs x-rays before invasive procedures are needed to correct something that may have only required simple, affordable treatment. Children are especially prone to cavities, so our family dentist recommends that parents are especially diligent regarding dental x-rays for their children.
Are Dental X-Rays Safe? Our Houston General Dentist Weighs In
The safety of dental x-rays has been called into question given that patients are exposed to a small amount of radiation when these images are captured. While this may be concerning, our Spring Branch general dentist assures you that these levels are far too low to be dangerous. Even so, we take all necessary precautions to ensure your safety and reduce exposure as much as possible. Given the threats untreated dental issues pose to your overall health, skipping out on dental x-rays is actually the riskier option.
The Very Best Dental Experience with Smile 4 Texas
When you choose us for your dental health needs, you’re choosing a Houston general dentist who values honesty, compassion, and trust. Our goal is to provide you and your family the very best dental experience possible. If it’s time for your dental x-rays, call us today to schedule a cleaning with our Spring Branch general dentist. We offer a variety of dental services and accept many PPO insurance plans, which makes it even easier to bring smiles to Texas. We’d be honored if yours was one of them!
What to Expect at Your Child's First Dental Cleaning With a Spring Branch Dentist
One of the common health problems sweeping the nation is childhood cavities. Because children’s teeth are relatively small, it can be hard to spot the early signs of tooth decay. It’s a challenge to keep your child’s teeth in flawless condition all on your own. Fortunately, your Spring Branch dentist is here to help. Are you ready to book your child’s first dental cleaning? Read on for more information about the big day.
When Should Your Child Have Their First Cleaning
It may surprise you, but the average age a child should see a dentist is by their first birthday. When their first tooth erupts at 6 months, they will be vulnerable to cavities. During your child’s first visit, your Spring Branch pediatric dentist will do a complete examination. They will check for baby tooth decay, pacifier habits, feeding practices, and more. They will also examine your child’s jaw, bite, and gums to make sure everything is normal. If needed, your dentist will recommend a gentle cleaning.
How to Prepare Yourself and Your Child
It’s best to set an appointment in the morning when your child is less cranky. It’s important to establish a positive association when it comes to dental visits. Make your child feel at ease so they don’t develop anxiety towards the dentist. Show them that the dentist can be fun. By following these steps, you can help your child look forward to future visits.
What to Tell Your Pediatric Dentist
During your visit, feel free to ask your dentist any questions you have about your child’s oral health. Inform them of your kid’s dental history and if they are fussy about medical procedures. In return, your dentist will help your child understand the importance of healthy teeth. They say that good oral habits start at a young age. Your Spring Branch dentist will educate your child about proper oral hygiene at home.
What Happens at the First Dental Cleaning
Your child’s first Spring Branch dental cleaning will be similar to that of an adult. If your kid is wiggly, the dentist may ask them to sit on your lap. During the appointment, the dentist will perform the following:
• Removal of plaque, tartar, and stains
• Polishing of teeth
• Application of topical fluoride
• Demonstration of brushing and flossing
Schedule an Appointment With a Spring Branch Dentist Today
Are you looking for the very best dental experience for the whole family? Smile 4 Texas provides dental services that ensure your child’s pristine oral health. Our motto is to bring smiles to Texas. We do this by tailoring our dental solutions to your needs. For your convenience, we accept dental insurance, including PPO dental insurance. Book your child’s first dental cleaning with our Spring Branch dentist today!
When Should Your Child Get Braces From a Houston Pediatric Dentist?
Having crooked teeth is normal and perfectly treatable with dental braces. Give your child the beautiful smile they deserve by taking them in for an appointment with a Houston pediatric dentist. But before anything else, many parents wonder when their kids should get braces. Is there an ideal age for orthodontics? There is no single consensus for all, but many dentists agree that your child can have a consultation as early as 7 years old. If you think your child needs braces, read on to know what you can expect.
The Benefits of Dental Braces
Achieving straight teeth instantly boosts your child’s confidence well into their adult life. Their smiles brighten, and their self-esteem increases. Dental braces have a range of health benefits as well. They make chewing, talking, and even breathing easier for some patients. They can also reduce the risk for bacteria buildup in between teeth. Braces can be used to fix the following:
• Crooked or misaligned teeth
• Overbites and underbites
• Overcrowding of teeth
• Too much space
• Protruding teeth
Your Child’s First Appointment
By the age of 7, your child’s first adult teeth erupt. This means it’s time to consult with an orthodontist. If you notice your child has some of the dental problems listed above, a Houston pediatric dentist will be able to diagnose them definitely. Using advanced imaging and X-ray, your dentist can pinpoint potential issues. They can then create a dental treatment plan to correct those issues. There are different types of braces available. You can get traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, and invisalign. Your Spring Branch pediatric dentist will recommend the type best suited for your child.
Best Time to Get Braces
Every child is different and develops in a unique way. This means that they won’t have the same dental experience as their friend. The general consensus is that your kid should get braces between the ages of 8 to 14. During this window, their dental bones haven’t set in yet. Their permanent teeth are erupting, making it a conducive time to straighten them. This doesn’t mean that your child can’t get braces past 14 years old. Many teenagers and adults still get braces, and the treatment is still effective to fix misaligned teeth.
Consult With Our Houston Pediatric Dentist Today
Give your child the very best dental experience by visiting Smile 4 Texas today. We are always committed to bringing smiles to Texas with our comprehensive dental services. Our clinic operates with honesty, compassion, and trust. If you think your child might need braces, our Houston pediatric dentist will thoroughly assess the situation. They can then recommend your child for Houston dental braces. Once you step into our clinic, we ensure that your family maintains pristine oral health. Schedule a consultation with a family dentist today!
Book Any Outstanding Treatments With a Spring Branch Pediatric Dentist
Your family’s oral health is always top priority. Whether you’re thinking of getting preventive checkups or oral surgery, the best time to book your appointment is now. Enjoy the best dental experience when you visit Smile 4 Texas. Our Spring Branch pediatric dentist will make sure your child receives quality, personal care.
Why Book Before the Year Ends
Most dental insurance plans don’t carry over to the new year. This means that your hard-earned dollars might just go to waste! Maximize the most of your benefits by booking a treatment with a Spring Branch dentist today. Dental cleanings are a good idea, especially before and after your holiday treats. You will even be saving money in the long-run by getting preventive oral care. If your child doesn’t have cavities, you can keep it that way through regular checkups with our Spring Branch pediatric dentist. If you need actual treatments, below are our services.
Types of Dental Services You Can Get
Smile 4 Texas offers a range of services for both children and adults. Aside from general dentistry and cleaning, we provide the following:
• Dental crowns - We do what we can to preserve our patients’ original teeth. In some cases, they may require a dental crown. Also called a dental cap, a crown addresses tooth decay, oral injuries, and poorly developed teeth.
• Pediatric dentistry - We believe that as soon as your child’s first tooth erupts, a dental checkup is needed. Because of our friendly environment, your kid develops a positive association with dental visits. We also make sure to educate them on proper hygiene that they can practice at home.
• Orthodontics - We address crooked and misaligned teeth, as well as bite issues, through our dental braces. After thorough assessment, our Spring Branch pediatric dentist may recommend metal, ceramic, and invisalign braces.
• Dental fillings - When cavities occur, they leave holes inside your teeth. Before it becomes a serious health issue, we install dental fillings. This method can also be used if you have a chipped or broken tooth.
• Oral surgery - Accidents and injuries can occur, leaving our patients unable to chew or talk properly. We offer oral surgery while striving to keep our patients comfortable. These include root canals, tooth extraction, and dental implants.
What to Expect From Our Spring Branch Pediatric Dentist
Smile 4 Texas aims to give you and your family the very best dental experience. Our skilled and certified dentists will ensure your pristine oral health. We work with each patient to help you achieve a beautiful smile. For your convenience, we accept PPO dental insurance. The Smile 4 Texas team is committed to providing superb oral treatment. Contact us today to book your outstanding appointments! We look forward to serving you.
How to Prevent Cavities During the Holidays With the Help of a Spring Branch General Dentist
One thing that everyone looks forward to during the holidays? Lots of food. But just because it’s the holidays, it doesn’t mean that you should stop caring about your oral health. Binging on the wrong types of food could lead to tooth decay for both children and adults. Our Spring Branch general dentist has a few tips to prevent cavities this festive season.
Time Your Treats Perfectly
Watching out for your oral health doesn’t mean you can’t have fun over the holidays. You can still enjoy your favorite food as long as you time them well. Eat your sugary treats right after a meal. Studies show that eating a full meal increases saliva production. Saliva can help cancel out the acid from bacteria. If you have children, establishing an eating schedule prevents cavities. Allow them to eat their desserts only after they’ve finished their meals. This will lessen their sugar intake throughout the day.
Choose the Type of Food You Eat
Not all foods are created equally. Some are more harmful to your teeth than others. Your Spring Branch general dentist will tell you to avoid the following:
• Sticky foods get stuck between your teeth more easily. The longer they are in your mouth, the more bacteria is produced. You may think that dried fruit is the healthier choice, but they can actually cause more cavities.
• Hard foods like candy are another thing to limit. It takes longer to chew or suck on them, meaning you are more exposed to sugar. They can also chip or crack your teeth. If this happens to your child, have a Spring Branch pediatric dentist fix their tooth right away.
• Starchy foods are also prone to getting in between your teeth. Sometimes, you won’t even know that they are there. Food particles can lead to plaque buildup.
Continue to Practice Good Oral Hygiene
After indulging in the holiday dinners, it is important to practice good oral hygiene. Do not forget to floss daily and rinse right away if you eat lots of sugar. Instill good oral habits in your children and encourage them to brush their teeth properly. As long as you take care of your teeth daily and see a Spring Branch general dentist regularly, you can still have fun this holiday.
Visit a Spring Branch General Dentist Today
Receive the very best dental experience only at Smile 4 Texas. We are bringing smiles to Texas this holiday season. For preventive care and dental cleaning, our Spring Branch general dentist has you covered. We operate with honesty, compassion, and trust in every dental service we provide. For your convenience, we accept dental insurance and PPO insurance. We also have a friendly and experienced Houston pediatric dentist for your little ones. Prevent cavities by booking an appointment with Smile 4 Texas!