Category Archives: Daily Dental Care

Buy a New Toothbrush for the Sake of Your Dental Health!

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on February 22, 2022

Why Should You Buy a New Toothbrush?

We talk a lot about the importance of good oral health and that includes brushing, flossing, and seeing your dentist on the regular. Let’s take a deeper dive into brushing, more specifically, the tool you’re using to brush those pearly whites.

You might ask yourself, “when’s the last time I changed out my toothbrush?”

We toss old food, donate clothes, replace beauty products, etc., but adding a change into your routine to buy a new toothbrush will have a bigger affect than you might think.

Related Article from The ADA: 8 Bad Brushing Habits to Break in 2022

Your Toothbrush Isn’t Going to Last Forever!

Most of us know our toothbrushes aren’t going to last forever. But it can be hard to figure out when our beloved bristles are nearing the end of their natural lifespan and you need to buy a new toothbrush. You may be surprised to find out that according to manufacturer guidelines and dentist recommendations, your toothbrush should be replaced every 3 to 4 months.

There are also cases when you might need to replace your toothbrush sooner. If you don’t replace a toothbrush or electronic toothbrush head when it needs to be, it can affect your dental health and spread infection.

When Do You Need to Make the Change?

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), it’s recommended to replace your toothbrush (or brush head on an electric toothbrush) every three months – that’s right, toothbrushes have a shelf life of only three months. The longer you use a toothbrush, the less effective it is. Normal wear and tear from brushing break down the bristles and won’t remove plaque and bacteria very well.

Your toothbrush is your first line of defense against the bacteria that cause gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath.

Straight bristles and a clean and easy-to-grip handle are best to navigate the smaller spaces in your mouth. A soft bristle brush will effectively remove old food and bacteria that can collect around the bases of your teeth.

Here’s a few other things to consider:

Don’t forget to watch your child when they’re brushing their teeth to make sure they aren’t exposing their brush head to any other surface besides their teeth.
Germs build up in toothbrushes.
Viral and bacterial infections such as strep throat are of particular concern and are a good reason to switch your old toothbrush for a new one.
If you or a member of your family has been sick, replace your toothbrush so you don’t risk reinfection for everyone in your household.
If anyone else uses your toothbrush by mistake, get rid of it. It’s better to be safe than sorry, and everyone’s mouth harbors different bacteria than yours.
Fungus and bacteria can develop – make sure to let your toothbrush dry completely after every brush and store upright and uncovered.
If the bristles look frayed, fan out, or look dark, it’s definitely time to replace.

Related Article: Boost Your Immune System thru Oral Care and Gum Health

Electric toothbrush heads clean the surface area of your teeth by quickly rotating or vibrating. These toothbrush heads still have nylon bristles that can wear after regular use. What’s more, those bristles are shorter, which means that they may fray more quickly. Plan to change out the toothbrush head on your electronic toothbrush every 12 weeks, or even earlier. Watch for signs of wear and tear on the bristles to know when it’s time to say goodbye to a brush head.

How to Take Care of Your Toothbrush

To make the most out of your toothbrush, take care of it the way you would any personal grooming or hygiene tool.

Here are some simple tips:

Don’t share your toothbrush with someone else, even members of your immediate family.
If your toothbrush is stored in a cup or container with other toothbrushes, try not to let the heads touch each other.
After brushing, rinse your toothbrush completely with tap water.
You don’t need to use a disinfectant, mouthwash, or hot water to sanitize it. Trying to “sanitize” a toothbrush in this way can actually spread germs.
You also don’t need a special closed container to keep your toothbrush clean when it’s not in use. Some of these containers can encourage mold growth or spread bacteria.

The Risk of Not Replacing Your Toothbrush

Let’s say the risk of bacteria, mold, and fungus aren’t enough to make you replace your toothbrush, there are also numerous other risks to not replacing.

Gum Damage: Old toothbrushes don’t clean gums well, leading to a higher risk of gum disease, which, left untreated, can lead to infection and losing tooth altogether. Related Article: Can a Simple Cavity Turn into Gum Disease?

Getting Sick: You can actually get sick from overused toothbrushes. Your toothbrush can grow mold or even unwanted fecal particles (if near a toilet).

We know that you’ve been brushing your teeth longer than you can remember, but are you using the Proper Brushing Technique? Review your skills by watching this short video!

What to Consider When it’s Time to Replace Your Toothbrush

Feel free to ask us during your dental checkup if we have any recommendations for the best toothbrush for you. In the meantime, look for soft bristles, a head size that can touch one or two teeth at a time, and a toothpaste that contains fluoride. Also consider adding a mouthwash to your routine to further fight any bacteria and plaque, and don’t forget your favorite floss! You can also consider investing in an electric toothbrush or electric water flosser, which can improve oral health beyond regular toothbrush and floss.

Make Brushing FUN for Your Kiddos!

Replacing their toothbrushes more often may make them take better care of their teeth. Colorful toothbrushes and ones with popular characters can get them to want to brush more often and for longer periods of time. Take them shopping to pick out the perfect one. Toothbrushes can also be birthday party favors, Halloween treats, and stocking stuffers. Make dental hygiene fun for your kiddos!

Protecting Your Oral Health

By protecting the health of your teeth and gums, you can keep yourself healthier too. Practice good oral hygiene daily to prevent overgrowth of oral bacteria.

This includes:

Brushing your teeth at least twice per day
Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
Replace your toothbrush every three or four months
Avoid tobacco use, as this can cause irritation in your gums
Limit sugary snacks, which can feed bacteria and increase their growth

Prevention is Key and WE Can Help!

The best way to prevent tooth decay and gum disease is to follow a program of good oral hygiene, one that you begin early and practice consistently throughout life.

Good oral hygiene. That means brushing your teeth for two minutes at least twice daily — in the morning and before going to bed — and flossing at least once a day. Flossing before you brush allows you to clean away the loosened food particles and bacteria. Good oral hygiene prevents the development of an environment around your teeth that is favorable to specific bacteria that cause periodontal disease.

Regular dental visits. See your dentist or dental hygienist regularly for cleanings, usually every six months. If you have risk factors that increase your chance of developing gum disease — such as having dry mouth, taking certain medications, or smoking — you may need professional cleaning more often.

Let’s Recap What We’ve Learned

Your toothbrush is an important oral hygiene tool. To maintain your toothbrush and make the most of its lifespan, use only your own toothbrush and store it upright and let it air dry.

Plan to replace the toothbrushes of every person in your family every 3 to 4 months and mark your calendar on the date of the purchase so you remember when it’s time to buy a new toothbrush again.

If you notice a problem with your teeth or gums, call for an appointment right away. The sooner these are handled, the sooner you will be back to full health. Our highly skilled and gentle dentists provide general and family dentistry in the San Antonio area to keep our patients healthy – including healthy teeth, healthy gums, and a healthy body. Time for your checkup? Call to schedule today and remember to replace your toothbrush!

Keep Your Smile Healthy at GPS Dental and Buy a New Toothbrush!

You can boost your immune system by keeping a healthy mouth. That’s why our expert team at GPS Dental strives to educate our patients on healthy habits that can do more than keep your smile bright. That’s why it’s always important to buy a new toothbrush every 3 to 4 months and see Dr. Skrobanek every 6 months for proper checkups at GPS Dental, so your he can check for all the signs of a healthy mouth. A healthy mouth, teeth and gums has all the makings for a beautiful smile!

Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek is a dental implant dentist and his experienced, friendly team at GPS Dental offer affordable family dentistry and gentle dental care in the San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at (210) 633-3477 to make an appointment.

Oral Health: Protect Your Teeth and Smile Over the Holidays

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on December 7, 2021

At every turn there seems to be a plate of cookies, a tray of chocolate, or visions of sugar plums dancing in our heads. Christmas season is in full swing and the sweet treats and sugary concoctions are upon us! While holidays can bring us so much joy, some stress, and confections, a little bit of effort in your oral health care routine can make all the difference for your smile and dental health. Here’s how to stay on top of your dental care and protect your teeth this holiday season.

Learn More: Have You Been Naughty or Nice to Your Teeth?

Sweet Alternatives – Try a Cheese and Meat Tray

Sweets can not only wreck some havoc on our teeth, they can also bother our stomachs and cause a buildup of harmful bacteria in our mouths. While it’s certainly okay to indulge in a few sweet holiday treats, keep in mind that meat and cheese trays are a much healthier snack option to protect your teeth. If you’re drinking soft drinks or any alcoholic beverages, cheese can also neutralize the acid in these drinks and are also a good source of calcium.

You can also enjoy:

Fruit trays – Apples, strawberries, and kiwis can actually help scrub your teeth when you eat them. The natural fibers in these fruits, combined with your saliva, help wash away harmful bacteria.
Vegetable trays – Carrots and broccoli are packed with Vitamin A, which helps strengthen your teeth’s enamel.
Sugarless gum – Since you may not be able to sneak away to brush your teeth at a holiday party, chewing sugarless gum increases saliva production, which helps wash away any leftover food bits and bacteria.

Stick to Your Daily Oral Health Routine

Routines are so helpful at keeping us feeling normal. Holidays can really interrupt our normal schedules and daily activities, so keeping to your daily oral health routine can become more difficult than ever – but it’s also more important than ever.

With an influx in sweets, alcohol, and other holiday goodies, our mouths can take a toll. Keep the bacteria at bay and strengthen your immune system by brushing twice a day and flossing once a day. If you’re traveling, remember to pack your essentials to make your routine easy and protect your teeth!

More Tips to Protect Your Holiday Smile

Add in More Water

Water is really the best thing you can drink. It helps hydrate us and give us glowing skin, but it also helps keep our mouths cleaner as well. Just like how saliva washes away bacteria, water also does this. It cleans away bacteria, freshens breath, and helps with digestion. All good things. Remember, if you’re going to enjoy a treat, eat it either with your meal when you have a lot of saliva production, or drink lots of water after to wash out any lingering bacteria.

Related Article: Why Water is the Best Beverage

Are You Stressed and Grinding Your Teeth? Mouthguards are a Solution

Dr. Skrobanek can help prevent cracked and fractured teeth by designing a mouthguard or oral appliance to wear at night to keep you from clenching and grinding your teeth. We know there’s a dental health mental health link and thankfully, mouthguards are a wonderful way to protect your teeth at night. They can also help with sleep apnea and snoring. Each mouthguard will be custom-made by Dr. Skrobanek to fit your mouth comfortably and will keep your teeth separated so they don’t grind together.

There’s more good news: Custom mouthguards or oral appliance therapy is covered by many insurance plans and the team at GPS Dental can help answer any questions you may have about your coverage. Learn More HERE.

See Your Dentist ASAP

Many of us will lose our dental benefits come December 31, so it’s time to use them or lose them! Make an appointment today if you’re in need of a checkup or cleaning. The absolute best way to stay on top of your oral health is to see your dentist regularly.

GPS Dental Can Help You Protect Your Smile

Know you know more about how to protect your teeth and smile! It’s also important to stay up to date on your cleanings and routine visits with Dr. Skrobanek. In the meantime, having a strong and steady oral health routine – brushing twice a day and flossing once – is the best thing you can do for your oral health!

Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek and his experienced, friendly team at GPS Dental offer affordable family dentistry and gentle dental care in the San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at (210) 633-3477 to make an appointment.

Halloween Candy doesn’t have to lead to Scary Cavities

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on October 27, 2021

Halloween: A Family Favorite

When recalling your childhood, you likely remember Halloween with a sense of nostalgia and excitement. From dressing up in a costume, to telling spooky stories of ghosts & ghouls, to engaging in Halloween mischief by trying to scare each other, Halloween is certainly a great time to be a kid!

So, it’s no surprise that many parents take great delight in encouraging their kids to take part in this night of thrills and chills! For kids there is no bigger thrill than trick or treating, as this tradition of going door to door and accumulating candy, may seem almost sacred among children. Despite being one of the favored activities of Halloween, when your kiddo does bring home that bag full of sugary candy, as a parent you may find yourself a bit concerned about their pearly white teeth!

While Halloween is certainly a time of fun and frights, at GPS Dental we certainly don’t want any unwelcome fears putting a damper on you or your kiddo’s Halloween festivities. Therefore, before that little one of yours puts on their costume and prepares to gather up some goodies, it may be a good idea to know which of these treats are okay for your kid’s teeth, and which ones could increase their risk of developing a cavity.

Halloween Candy doesn’t have to be a Nightmare

Sticky candies, like gummies, caramels, Mexican candies, etc., stick to your teeth more than soft candies, like chocolate. They are much harder to brush away and should be avoided. Similarly, sour candies can slowly erode the enamel on your teeth and can cause major damage and cavities down the line.

To protect your oral health this Halloween, Dr. Skrobanek recommends chocolate for a sweet treat. Chocolate is one of the better candies because it brushes off your teeth easier than other types of candy. Pro Tip: Did you know that dark chocolate also has less sugar than milk chocolate?

The good thing is, chocolate is also popular in many people’s Halloween candy arsenals. If you’re going to have a treat on Halloween, think about the long-term effects of harmful candy.

Related Articles:

It’s Halloween: Why is Candy Bad for Your Teeth?
Click HERE for your Halloween Candy Survival Guide

Pay close attention to these problem-causing treats:

Taffy and caramel candies, these are hard on your teeth and can increase decay.
Crunchy bars, such as Butterfinger bars that have hard centers.
Hard candies, such as sour candies with high acid levels that can hurt your teeth and break down enamel.
Gummy candies, such as gummy worms that can get stick in-between your teeth.
Lollipops, if you enjoy a lollipop, try to not bite down when eating.

Check out how each candy-type ranks, worst to best, here.

Each of these types of treats can put your teeth in greater danger, so make sure to limit the consumption of these items to preserve your oral health! It’ll save you a trip to the dentist for a cavity or broken crown.

Related Article: Best Candies for Your Teeth

Enjoy Halloween Candy in Moderation

Don’t go crazy with Halloween candy consumption – create a plan ahead of time so you can have a plan surrounding all that candy coming in. For example:

set the limit of houses you visit
fill a smaller bag
have your kids use their candy as a “trade in” for other rewards such as a toy, sticker, tv time, etc.

It’s so helpful to create rules and a plan before the Trick-or-Treating begins, so everyone knows their expectations and can enjoy the day! This is also the perfect opportunity to talk about the importance of limiting sugary treats and oral health.

Enjoy a Treat Around Mealtimes

Did you know that your mouth produces more saliva around mealtimes? Saliva is super helpful in washing away bacteria in your mouth, so planning on eating a sweet treat around a mealtime helps wash away bacteria even more. Don’t spiral into an oral health catastrophe this Halloween … so, don’t snack on candy throughout the day, but indulge in a sweet treat after a meal instead. The longer the sugar is in your mouth, the longer is can cause decay.

Check out More Halloween Tips HERE.

Remember to Brush After Candy

Whatever amount of sugar you or your child consumes, it’s extremely important to brush and floss after sweat treats. A brand-new toothbrush and floss as a Halloween gift are a great way to get your children excited about brushing their teeth after eating candy. Remember, candy can easily get stuck in-between teeth and cause tooth decay, cavities, and other oral health problems. Make it a family activity. After eating a few treats on Halloween, make the next activity a family trip to the sink to brush away the sugar and continue the Halloween fun!

Stay Away from Sugary Drinks

This includes soda, sports drinks and flavored waters. When teeth come in frequent contact with beverages that contain sugar, the risk of tooth decay is increased. What better beverage to make a habit than water? This Halloween, reach for the H2O to rinse those pearly whites! The best way to keep up an oral hygiene routine is to learn good hygiene and health habits.

Get more Tips for Halloween Candy HERE.

GPS Dental Can Help You Keep Your Smile Healthy, Even on Halloween!

Dental professionals are true advocates of oral care. We are not only adamant about keeping teeth clean, but we are also concerned with your overall dental health 365 days of the year!! Yes … Even on Halloween!!

Have a happy and safe Halloween from all of us at GPS Dental!

Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek’s experienced and friendly team at GPS Dental offers affordable dental care for all ages in San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we promote dental health awareness to our patients and provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at 210-633-3477 to make an appointment.

GPS Dental: Keeping You Healthy with Safety Precautions

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on November 11, 2020

The guideline for dental office health and safety is this – clean and disinfect like every patient is sick. Although disinfecting and cleaning has always been extremely important at our office, we have taken every single extra step and precaution to ensure that our patients are safe and in a sanitized, clean, and safe environment when they come into our office. We’ve even recently incorporated additional office disinfection procedures that are proven to disinfect against COVID-19.

Read the CDC’s recommendations HERE.

Our Newest Disinfection Procedure: Safe and Nontoxic Hypochlorous

Hypochlorous acid is an effective and natural acid that disinfects areas in as little as 15 seconds. According to experts, it can even clean 300 times better than bleach, without the harmful side effects. It’s safe and is naturally produced in our own white blood cells in our body to help fight against diseases.

Thankfully, we can use hypochlorous acid to disinfect all surfaces in our office – it destroys viruses and is an extremely effective disinfectant against COVID-19, proven to eradicate it from surfaces. We can even use this new acid in our waterlines without any harmful effects on the human body since it is already naturally occurring in our bodies.

Read more about Hypochlorous Acid Against COVID Review HERE.

Open for all Dental Appointments

With so many safety precautions, along with our newest disinfecting method, we are confident in the safety and security of our dental office. Therefore, we are open for all appointments – including routine dental cleanings and appointments.

We have implemented multiple safety measures are our office on top of our rigorous cleaning routines. We make sure to always social distance, wear masks and protection, and disinfect all tools, areas, etc.

It’s more important than ever to stay on top of your oral care. With the added stress of the global pandemic, we can grind our teeth and clench our jaw more than ever. This can result in cracked teeth or teeth grinding problems. By keeping on top of your dental health, you can keep your mouth healthy, which contributes to your overall health and wellbeing.

Read more about Dental Office Safety HERE.

Though so many things have changed recently, our commitment to our patients hasn’t changed!

What is that SMELL? (YIKES, it’s my Face Mask Bad Breath!)

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on July 15, 2020

There it is. You’re walking through a store and it hits you – a bad smell. It hits you again throughout the store and you finally realize – it’s your breath. Face masks have made some of us realize that, surprise, we do indeed have bad breath. It’s an extremely common problem, with over 80 million people experiencing bad breath, according to the Academy of General Dentistry.

Although you may have not noticed it before, now your breath is smacking you right in the face every time you wear your mask. Making your bad breath all the more noticeable and frustrating.

Related Article: What’s Up With My Bad Mask Breath

Why You’re Experiencing Bad Breath

There could be a few different reasons you’re experiencing bad breath, and your dentist can help! Some of us may have been experiencing bad breath for a while but have gotten used to the smell and don’t notice it until we wear a mask.

Bad Breath Diagnosis and Treatment process from Mayo Clinic.

This could be due to:

Bad oral hygiene. When you’re not brushing well or often enough, bacteria can build in the mouth and cause bad breath.

You ate or drank something smelly. Coffee, onions, garlic, and foods high in sulfur can make a negative impact on your breath for up to 72 hours, even with brushing. Try combating the smell with lemon, fresh fruit and vegetables.

Sweets. Sugary treats increase bacteria in your mouth tenfold and increase the stink-factor of your breath. Dentists suggest eating plain chocolate if you’re needing something sweet. Drink water after to remove any chocolate remnants.

Medications. Many common medications can dry out your mouth and contribute to bad breath. Talk with your doctor if you think your medications may be causing dry mouth issues.

Tobacco. Cottonmouth is a common side effect to smoking any tobacco products. Smoker’s breath is a real thing!

Sinus infection or allergies. When your nose gets stuffed up, you’ll probably breath more often through your mouth. This can dry out your mouth and reduce odor-killing saliva.

How To Treat Bad Breath

When the face mask bad breath sneaks up on you, it may be time to visit your dentist for a cleaning. In the meantime, brush your teeth twice a day and try brushing your tongue to get rid of any extra bacteria lingering in the mouth. You can also try an anti-bacterial mouthwash, and floss to remove any food buildup in-between the teeth.

Learn more oral hygiene tips from WebMD HERE.

Bad Teeth? You May Need Perio Treatment

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on September 12, 2017

perio

Bad Teeth are more than an eyesore: You May Need Perio Treatment

Have you ever noticed a person with what you would consider “Bad teeth?” If so what’s the first thing that comes to mind? For many people this is considered as something of an aesthetic problem, and while stained or decayed teeth are obviously unattractive, did you know that they can be a tell tail sign of serious underlying health problems as well?

That’s right! In many ways your oral health can be both the key to maintaining your overall general health and conversely, if neglected can lead to serious problems that may impact your health in numerous ways. This of course includes not just your teeth, but your gums and surrounding areas, as all of which can be susceptible to this health concern known as Periodontal Disease.

Perio: Periodontal Disease

Periodontal Disease or sometimes known as Periodontitis, perio disease or gum disease. It is a progressive inflammatory disease that affects the teeth and surrounding tissue, and while this may sound relatively benign at first, don’t be fooled! Perio disease can in fact be a serious or even life-threatening condition that may result in a litany of additional health problems.

Although there are multiple factors that may contribute to the onset of periodontal disease, the primary cause is the buildup of excess bacteria in your mouth due to dental plaque. While early symptoms are seemingly minor nuisance such as swollen or bleeding gums, keep in mind that perio disease is a progressive infection and therefore will continue to get much worse if not treated. If further neglected, the infection will continue to spread throughout the mouth, thus damaging or ultimately destroying the teeth or jawbone.

While excess bacteria may be the primary culprit for the onset of perio disease, there are numerous risk factors that could contribute to the likelihood of developing periodontal disease as well.

These factors may include but are not limited to:

Smoking or tobacco use
Excess stress
Clenching or grinding your teeth
Misaligned teeth
Hormonal imbalance
Genetic disposition

It should also be noted that certain medications and poor dietary habits can also expedite the progression of periodontitis, as can other diseases or illnesses. This can prove to be a serious issue for those with other medical conditions (such as diabetes) as periodontitis may likely interact with or exacerbate such conditions, or even trigger additional illnesses.

The Domino Effect: What Perio Disease can lead to

While periodontal disease is certainly a nasty enemy in itself, what makes an enemy worse is an enemy with friends! As mentioned previously, the number of additional diseases or illnesses that can interact with or occur as a result of periodontal disease is staggering to say the least. As more research continues to be done on periodontal disease in recent years, numerous case studies continue to uncover links between periodontitis and other associated conditions.

Atherosclerosis: Atherosclerosis is a condition in which the arteries of the heart become clogged, thereby hindering its ability to pump blood thought out the body. Meanwhile due to the increase in bacteria growth, periodontal disease can create something of a chain reaction by causing the spread of plaque instability and inflammation. This of course would put further stress on the already weakened heart by continuing to thicken the artery wall, essentially choking the heart.

Heart Disease: Like atherosclerosis, periodontitis can also heavily contribute to the occurrence of heart disease. As gum disease continues to produce excess bacteria, bacteria may be released into the bloodstream. Once these toxins have reached the heart, they form fatty plaques within the arteries thereby causing blood clots. This obviously is a serious issue as blood clots can block and cut off the flow of blood completely, thus causing a heart attack.

Diabetes Mellitus: Diabetes and gum disease have something of a combative relationship as both seem to directly affect one another, and therefore creating a compound issue. If left unchecked or poorly managed, diabetes will result in elevated levels of glucose or sugar to circulate throughout your body, including your mouth. With this heightened level of glucose, your mouth begins to build up an excessive amount of bacteria, thus creating the ideal setting for an infection like periodontal disease to develop. Conversely, like any serious infection, periodontitis can potentially affect the blood glucose level of those afflicted, thus making them increasingly difficult to control and ultimately cause the diabetes to exponentially progress.

Respiratory Disease/Pneumonia: As mentioned previously, if the buildup of bacteria caused by periodontal disease is able to spread throughout the body, the results could be devastating. This of course could certainly be the case if the bacteria from the mouth manages to infect the lungs, especially if the individual already has a preexisting lung condition. If the hazardous bacteria reaches the lungs the afflicted individual will likely develop a lung infection, however if the sufferer is elderly or has a preexisting condition this could result in a severe pneumonia, which could be potentially fatal.

Stroke: Individuals suffering from chronic infectious diseases are typically considered at an increased risk of suffering a stroke, and those with gum disease are certainly no exception. As explained earlier, the bacteria caused by periodontitis can wreak havoc on the heart by causing blood clots to block the arteries and reduce blood flow. If blood flow is reduced or restricted from flowing through certain sections of the body the results will certainly be serious. However, if blood flow is reduced or cut off from reaching the brain, the results are almost sure to be catastrophic. If the blood vessel delivering blood to the brain is blocked, this will often result in what’s called an Ischemic stroke, which may damage the brain cells and even result in death.

Avoid Perio Disease: Good health starts in the mouth!

As you can see, while having bad teeth and swollen gums may at first glance seem like little more than a cosmetic issue, the truth is that these unattractive features are only a small fraction of the major health crisis that is perio disease. So remember by practicing routine dental care and making those recommended six month dental appointments, you are not only taking the necessary steps in protecting the appearance of your teeth, but also in stopping a nightmare like periodontal disease dead in its tracks!

Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek and his experienced, friendly team at GPS Dental offer affordable family dentistry and gentle dental care in the San Antonio, TX area. Our office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at (210) 633-3477 to make an appointment.

Affordable Dental Care for Seniors at GPS Dental

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on May 9, 2017

Affordable Dental Care for Seniors: Untimely Problems

Entering your golden years can be a time of both relaxation and rejuvenation, and might in fact be some of the greatest years of your life! The term “golden years” refers to the time period between 65 to your eighties and beyond; when you are officially considered a senior citizen. It is during this time that many people choose to settle down and enjoy the fruits of their life’s achievements. However those precious moments spent with family, friends, or a significant other can be interrupted by an unfortunate situation that haunts many seniors, deteriorating teeth. Damaged or decayed teeth are not only unsightly and painful; they can also be costly and is the main reason that GPS Dental offers affordable dental care for seniors.

Affordable Dental Care for Seniors: Prevention is Key

It’s important to remember that when you age, your teeth age and change right along with you. Like anything, time can certainly take its toll and prevention is so important. As your teeth become older and increasingly worn, it is imperative that they receive some additional care. Offering affordable dental care for seniors is important to us because we want to keep our patients’ teeth strong and healthy and prevent some of their oral health concerns that many seniors are particularly susceptible to.

Some of these issues may include:

root decay
gum disease
tooth loss
oral cancer, particularly among smokers

Rooth Decay: Our older patients are at risk for root decay. What is root decay? Root decay is a cavity that forms on the roots of your teeth. Our senior patients are at a higher risk, because their roots are exposed due to receding, especially if they suffer from gum disease. Root decay can also be caused by brushing incorrectly or with a toothbrush that is too hard. Age-related gum changes can also be an impact.

Gum Disease: Did you know that half of Americans over the age of 55 have some form of gum disease? Gum disease is caused by bacteria in the tarter and plaque on your teeth. Teeth can become loose and eventually result in tooth loss. If your gums bleed when you brush your teeth or you have red or swollen gums, you need to visit Dr. Gary Skrobanek, DDS at GPS Dental, as these are signs of gum disease. Another sign to schedule your dental appointment is if you notice that your teeth are looking longer or if they are loose. It is possible to stop gum disease with early detection. Otherwise, you may develop gingivitis or periodontitis, two common forms of gum disease that both require daily care and professional cleanings. However, left untreated gum disease can also cause physical ailments, such as heart disease.

Tooth Loss: Older adults keep their natural teeth longer than in years past. Now, there is less need for false teeth, also referred to as complete or partial dentures. However, with seniors keeping their natural teeth longer, the risk for tooth decay and gum disease is on the rise. Many times medications can cause dryness in the mouth which allows decay to continue. Believe it or not, saliva (or spit) actually helps protect teeth from cavities.

These are just a few of the most common oral diseases that affect our senior patients. If these issues are not prevented or treated, they can result in more pain, loose and or broken teeth. As you can imagine, these issues have proven problematic in maintaining their quality of life, as they may cause an unbearable amount of pain and make chewing and eating a difficult if not an impossible task. These issues can impact their confidence and self-esteem.

Oral Cancer: Oral cancer is another disease and appears as a sore or growth in the mouth that does not go away. According to the American Cancer Society, men face twice the risk of developing oral cancer as women and men who are over the age of 50 face the greatest risk. Oral cancer can be life threatening; however, the expert hygiene team at GPS Dental includes an oral screening during each dental exam.

Related Article: Oral Cancer Screening: You Need to Know

Affordable Dental Care for Seniors: You’re Money and You’re Teeth

Another and perhaps even more alarming issue brought about by seniors facing dental problems is the financial aspect. It’s no secret that certain dental procedures can cost more than others since the price for multiple treatments, would be considerably higher. This often times makes finding affordable dental care for seniors a challenge. Unfortunately this is typically the case for our senior patients, as often their dental problems are gradual problems that have grown significantly worse over time. This highlights the importance of routinely practicing proper dental care before these problems get out of hand.

Affordable Dental Care for Seniors: Fear not!

Although these oral concerns may seem daunting, it is important to us to offer affordable dental care to seniors. Rest assured there are numerous resources available to you that may not only help get you out of pain, but may help keep your finances secure as well. At GPS Dental, Michelle, helps our patients figure out how to maximize their dental insurance benefits and explore options to schedule payment arrangements. For patients needing payment plans, GPS Dental can assist in applying for Care Credit which currently offers 6 month and 12 month deferred interest plans (with a minimum charge amount) and 24 and 48 month extended payment plans with a reduced interest charge. You can apply in our office or apply online.

Affordable Dental Care for Seniors: You DESERVE to be Happy

Remember your happiness is important to us, and in a time when you should be embracing life and living it to the fullest, there is no need to be pestered by the occurrence of dental problems. If you have questions or concerns about your oral health, please call us at GPS Dental to schedule your appointment. We look forward to offering you affordable dental care for seniors.

Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek and his experienced, friendly team at GPS Dental offer affordable family dentistry and gentle dental care in the San Antonio, TX area. Our office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at (210) 633-3477 to make an appointment. Don’t delay, schedule today!

Power Up Your Flossing with an Electric Flosser

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on March 21, 2016

One of the latest trends in dentistry is aimed at getting more people to floss regularly. Because most people cite the difficulty and the extra time flossing takes as their reason for skipping it, new products have emerged to make flossing easier and faster. Enter the electric flosser.

Find out how to use this new technology to achieve a healthier, cleaner mouth with GPS Dental’s expert tips!

What Is an Electric Flosser?

Electric flossers, also known as water flossers, use a thin, targeted stream of water to help clean between teeth. This form of flossing is particularly useful for patients who have a difficult time with traditional floss, such as those with braces or bridges.

Related Read: What I Wish I Knew Before I Got My Dentures

While they certainly help our patients get a healthier smile, electric flossers are not a replacement for traditional flossing. Both traditional and electric flossing specialize in reaching certain areas of the mouth, and when they’re used together, the two can seriously reduce plaque.

Guide to a More Powerful Flossing Routine

While there are plenty of benefits to using an electric flosser, getting started with one can be intimidating. Before you power up your flosser for the first time, take a look at these tips to do it right. Don’t forget to check your flosser for directions or instructions that may come with it!

If this is the first time you’re powering up your flosser, fill it with water and set the pressure to the highest setting. Spray the flosser into the sink until you get a steady stream.
Bring the pressure back down to the lowest setting, or, at your preferred setting if you’ve used your flosser before.
Lean over the sink, as using an electric flosser is a little messier than traditional flossing. Place the tip of your flosser in your mouth, closing your lips gently around it to prevent water from splashing out.
Turn your flosser unit on, and let the water flow out of your mouth and into the sink.
Move your flosser along your gumline. Starting with your back teeth, move the flosser forward, aim at a right angle and pause slightly between teeth.
Once you’ve made your way past every tooth, turn your flosser off and take off the tip for cleaning.

Flossing not the only part of dental care you’ve been skipping? Schedule a Netflix binge & dental checkup! Give GPS Dental a call at (210) 633-3477 to make your appointment!

Self Confidence & Your Smile

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on March 7, 2016

confidence-handshake It’s no secret that confidence and smiling go hand in hand. The jury is still out on whether confident people naturally smile more, or if smiling actually causes a spike in confidence, but one always seems to follow the other!

At GPS Dental, we know all about the power of a smile. We also know what it feels like when you’re less than confident about your teeth. Find out how your smile could be helping, or hurting, you and how you can achieve a healthier, happier smile.

Smiling Is Universal

Pamela Regan, Professor of Psychology at California State University, Los Angeles:

…the available evidence suggests that men and women around the world use many of the same nonverbal behaviors to communicate romantic interest… smiling and eye contact do appear to be universal methods used by men and women to convey romantic interest.

(Check out the entire Times article here)

Outside the dating realm, the same rules apply: smiling makes you approachable. Whether you’re meeting with a new client at work or making a first impression on the in-laws, those around you appreciate a warm smile.

Keeping Your Smile Confident

As important as smiling is, no one wants to show off their grin when it’s not at its best. A simple but steady oral care routine can help you put your best foot forward with a winning smile. We recommend brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and trying to stay away from acidic or sugary foods.

If your smile needs a little more help, there are many cosmetic solutions out there. Talk to your dentist about options like teeth whitening or even altering the shape of your teeth for a kinder smile. One appointment might be the only thing standing between you and a more confident smile.

Does your smile need a little something? Call GPS Dental at (210) 633-3477 to schedule an appointment. We’ll have you in, out, and smiling in no time!

Show Your Teeth Some Love: Gum Disease & Your Heart

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on February 15, 2016

tooth-brush-love Your mouth and your heart might be more connected than you think! We always stress the importance of oral hygiene at GPS Dental. Most of our patients don’t realize what their oral health means for the rest of their body. Since February is Dental Health Month, it seemed only fitting to explore what dental health can do for you!

How Are Gum & Heart Disease Linked?

Scientists are still working out exactly how the two diseases interact, but the studies they have conducted show it’s too much to be a coincidence. Gum disease is an infection of the tissue surrounding the teeth in your mouth, and it’s the leading cause of adult tooth loss. Even though it’s too early to tell what gum disease says about your overall health, it was associated with several significant health conditions, such as heart disease in the studies, even after other risk factors were eliminated.

What does this mean for you? Approach your body’s health from a holistic stance. If one part of your body is failing, such as your gums, it could be a sign of other, more dangerous problems.

Ways You Can Show ‘Em the Love

Your Heart

Quit Smoking. Smoking cessation has been proven to reduce heart disease, and after only one year of being smoke-free, the risk for heart disease drops by as much as 50%.
Eat Well. While there are many opinions on exactly what makes a heart-healthy diet, it’s generally agreed upon that foods high in sugar and salt, alcoholic beverages, and foods with partially hydrogenated vegetable oil are out.
Get Active! Exercise is a key part of keeping your heart healthy. Click the link to see the recommended physical activity requirements for adults.
Maintain Healthy Blood Pressure. Talk to your doctor about high blood pressure, as it’s often difficult to detect on your own.

Your Gums

Quit Smoking. Not to sound like a broken record, but one study found that smokers were about four times more likely than nonsmokers to have gum disease. Again, your risk is reduced after you quit.
Brush Your Teeth. Brush after eating, and remember to include your tongue!
Floss. Flossing cleans parts of your mouth your toothbrush can’t reach. Make sure you floss all the way down along the gumline.

Even if your gums and pearly whites are looking great, you should still be visiting your dentist for regular checkups! Give GPS Dental a call at (210) 633-3477 to schedule your appointment today!