Category Archives: Dentures

Preventative Dentistry for Kids: Dental Health for Healthy Smiles

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on February 7, 2023

February Focus: Prevention!

Let’s talk about preventative dentistry for kids. We want to spread the word about how poor oral health and cavities impact our kids’ health and quality of life. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), dental caries/cavities are four times more common than childhood asthma and three times more likely than childhood obesity. That means that the most common condition among children is largely preventable.

In their 2021 State of Little Teeth Report, AAPD examined the epidemic of tooth decay among children. Check out the following key stats from the Report:

Tooth decay is the NUMBER ONE chronic infectious disease affecting children in the United States and is on the rise, but it is largely preventable.
The rate of tooth decay in baby teeth of children aged 2 to 5 years increased nearly 17% from 1988-1994 to 1999-2004.
By age 5 about 60% of children will be affected by tooth decay.
Children with oral health problems are THREE TIMES more likely to miss school due to dental pain than children with no oral health problems.
AAPD recommends taking a child for their first dental visit by the age of 1.
Delaying dental care to age 2 or 3 can have a negative impact on a child’s oral health. 40% of parents and caregivers surveyed are delaying their child’s first visit until after age 2.

Each February we celebrate National Children’s Dental Health Month! During the entire month of February, we focus on preventative dentistry for kids because we are passionate about children’s healthcare. Take this time to increase awareness about pediatric dental hygiene – and find out how you can best support your child’s dental care.

What is National Children’s Dental Health Month?

The ADA’s Children’s Dental Health Day was first celebrated on February 8, 1949. It became a month-long commemoration in 1981. 40 years later, children’s dental health continues to be promoted throughout February for National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM). Celebrating children’s oral health awareness is incredibly important for our communities.

Tooth decay remains the most common chronic childhood disease. We hope that by continuing to educate our patients that Preventative Dentistry for Kids and oral health for all is vitally important. By educating our goal is to increase awareness to help motivate more parents and other adults to recognize the seriousness of children’s dental disease.

Why is Children’s Dental Health Month Important?

NCDHM raises awareness of the importance of teaching children good oral habits early to ensure a lifetime of healthy smiles. Parents or caregivers are essential and can promote preventative dentistry for kids and children’s dental health this month and throughout the year. We strive to support children’s dental health by working with our patients on specific topics such as:

Tooth decay
Getting your child familiar with their dentist’s office
Preventing crowded teeth
Healthy gums in later years

Keeping up with daily oral care and visiting the dentist at least twice a year for an oral examination and professional cleanings are steps you can take towards a happier and healthier mouth! Setting the foundation for your child earlier in life will set your child up for success in the future.

Check out the Parent’s Guide to Keeping Little Mouths Healthy created by the ADHA.

Understanding Why Baby Teeth Are Important

Baby (primary) teeth are a child’s first set of teeth. A baby’s teeth start to come in at 6 to 10 months, and by the time a child is 2½ to 3 years old, all 20 baby teeth will have come into the mouth. Taking care of a child’s baby teeth is important for the child’s overall health and development.

Baby teeth are important for children to:

Chew and eat foods. Children need to eat healthy foods every day to grow and be strong. Children with tooth decay are less likely to eat crunchy foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables. Being able to eat these foods promotes good nutrition and a healthy weight. Learn more about mouth-healthy foods here.
Speak clearly. Children who lose baby teeth too early may have trouble making certain sounds. This can make it hard to understand the child. A child may need speech therapy to improve speech problems that may develop because of missing teeth.
Have self-confidence. Children with decayed front teeth tend to not smile or may cover their mouth when talking. Sometimes they stop playing with other children. A healthy smile helps give children the self-confidence needed to have good social experiences.
Stay healthy. Tooth decay in baby teeth can lead to infections that can cause fever and pain. If not treated, the infection from tooth decay can spread to other parts of the head and neck and lead to severe swelling.
Keep space for adult teeth. Baby teeth hold space for adult teeth growing in the jaw. If a baby tooth is lost too early, other teeth that are already in the mouth will move into the space. It can block out the adult tooth trying to come in and cause crowding. The upper and lower jaws may not meet properly because of the crooked teeth.

Schedule a Dental Appointment

Now that you understand the importance of baby teeth, you understand why making an appointment at the dentist is one of the best ways to celebrate February’s theme. The more time they spend with their dental team, the more comfortable they’ll be when they visit. It is encouraged for children to have regular cleanings every 6 months. If you schedule an appointment in February, your child’s second appointment will fall just-in-time before back-to-school in August.

Tips for Visiting the Dentist:

If your child asks what will happen at the dental clinic, give a simple answer. For example, say:
- “They may count how many teeth you have.”
- “They may clean your teeth to make them shiny and bright!”

If you don’t like visiting the dentist, don’t share that information with your child. That might make your child worry about going, too.
Set up a pretend dental chair. Pretend to be the dentist or dental hygienist. Look in your child’s mouth and count her teeth; then talk to her about brushing her teeth.
Read books or watch videos with your child about visiting the dentist. Don’t use books or videos that have words like hurt, pain, shot, drill, afraid, or any other words that might scare your child.
Let your child bring his favorite toy or blanket to the clinic.
If you find out that your child will receive a small toy or new toothbrush at the end of the visit, remind your child of this reward.
Plan a fun activity for after their visit to the dentist.

We love our little patients and strive to make their dental visits comfortable and fun! When they enjoy visiting Dr. Skrobanek and his Team, they will likely brush their teeth regularly and look forward to their next visit! If you have more than one child, we will do our best to schedule your children’s visits together, if that makes it easier for you to bring everyone at the same time!

How Can Cavities be Prevented?

Cavities happen when bacteria and food left on the teeth after eating are not brushed away. Acid collects on a tooth, softening its enamel until a hole — or cavity — forms.

Here’s how to keep cavities away:

Oral habits start early. Teach your kids to brush at least twice a day and to floss regularly.
Avoid certain foods or limit them. Sugary foods, including juices and candy (especially gummy sticky candy, fruit “roll-ups” or gummy vitamins). They can erode enamel and cause cavities. If your kiddos eat these foods, have them brush their teeth or rinse their mouth after eating to wash away the sugar and bacteria. Remember to drink water and stay hydrated, instead of sugary beverages.
As your child’s permanent teeth grow in, your dentist can help prevent decay by applying a thin layer of sealant to the back teeth. This is where most chewing is done, and this protective coating keeps bacteria from settling into the crevices of the molars that are difficult to reach.

Why do children’s teeth decay?

Tooth decay is caused by bacteria in the mouth. These bacteria make a sticky substance called plaque that can eat away at a tooth’s enamel. Poor oral hygiene can raise your child’s risk for tooth decay. A dentist can diagnose tooth decay with an exam and X-rays.

What will a Dr. Skrobanek do for toddler tooth decay?

Dr. Skrobanek can remove decayed parts of the tooth and perform either a dental filling or a dental crown to fill holes in the tooth. For a filling, he uses a tooth-colored composite resin or an amalgam filling.

Check Their Brushing Technique

If you don’t watch your kids brush their teeth, take time this month to check-in on their brushing habits. Checking in with your kiddos and offering helpful tips and tricks will keep their teeth looking great and staying healthy.

National Children’s Dental Health month is a great time to learn about preventative dentistry for kids and promote good oral hygiene habits with your family. Keep up with checkups, treat the family with new toothbrushes, and ensure your child knows how to clean their teeth properly. Putting techniques into practice each day will not only help show the importance for preventative dentistry for kids, but for your whole family. If you have questions, please ask us … we want you to know how important dental health is to your family’s overall health.

Buy New Toothbrushes

Did you know that toothbrushes should be replaced every 3 to 4 months? That’s right … frayed bristles decrease their effectiveness. Get kids excited about their regular hygiene routine by letting them select toothbrushes with their favorite characters and choose toothpaste they like. February is an excellent time to toss out old toothbrushes and replace them with new ones.

GPS Dental Wants Your Family to Have Healthy Smiles

Children’s Dental Health Month is really about the importance of preventative dentistry for kids. Regular, scheduled dental checkups every 6 months are a great way to stay on top of your child’s oral health. When you come and see us early on for family dentistry, we can assess your child’s gums and you can ask us any questions you’d like. It’s a great way to establish your child’s dental routine, monitor their oral health, and implement any preventative measures.

Stress can contribute to poor oral health choices, such as brushing and flossing less, or if we’re stressed, we may clench our jaw more or grind our teeth. If your child is suffering from any signs of oral stress, we can see them during our oral exam and can begin preventative measures, if needed.

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.

Restore Your Missing Tooth: Dental Implant Bridge or Dentures

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on November 9, 2021

When one of our patients comes in with a missing tooth, they typically have a lot of questions. So, we thought we’d try to answer some of the most frequently asked questions relating to dental implant bridge or dentures here.

Q. Why should I replace missing teeth?

A. Our patients always realize that a missing tooth affects their appearance; however, that’s not the only reason we should discuss tooth replacement options. Here are 3 main reasons:

Your appearance.
The gap left by a missing tooth can mean more strain is put on the teeth at either side.
A gap can also mean your ‘bite’ is affected, because the teeth next to the space can lean into the gap and change the way the upper and lower teeth bite together. This can lead to food getting packed into the gap, which causes tooth decay and gum disease.

Q. What happens if I don’t replace my missing tooth quickly?

A. When a tooth is lost, the bone that used to support it disappears quickly. This leads to shifting teeth, tooth trauma and periodontal disease, aging of facial features and unnatural gums around a future tooth replacement, lack of bone support for future tooth replacement.

Q. How are missing teeth replaced?

A. This depends on the number of teeth missing and on where they are located in your mouth. The condition of the remaining teeth also affects the decision.

There are three main ways to replace missing teeth: dental implant bridge or dentures:

Dental Implant: an artificial root is placed into the bone of the jaw and a crown or bridge is placed on top
Fixed Bridge: prosthetic tooth that will be attached to the crowned teeth that surround the missing tooth
Partial or Full Denture: removable false tooth (or teeth)

Let’s explain dental implant bridge or dentures in a little more depth …

Dental Implant

Dental implants act like artificial roots that can be permanently placed in the patient’s jaw bone. As the gum tissue and bone grow around the dental implant, they become a permanent anchor. A natural-looking porcelain crown will be made giving our patients a beautifully finished result that is attractive, yet helps to improve chewing, maintain bone and prevent teeth from changing positions. Dental implants can even prevent future problems with a patient’s bit.

Dental implants offer a permanent replacement for missing teeth and an effective solution that will look and feel as natural as your original teeth.

Fixed Bridge

What happens to a gap left behind in your mouth from a lost tooth? You can fill that gap with a fixed bridge. A fixed bridge is a prosthetic tooth that will be attached to the crowned teeth surrounding your missing tooth. Fixed bridges come in different styles, such as a surgically-implanted prosthetic, or a removable denture. No matter what you choose, your fixed bridge will fill the gap left behind from a missing tooth, as well as correct a misaligned bite and prevent your other teeth from changing position in your mouth.

Partial or Full Denture

We fit dentures to replace all or some of the teeth in the upper and/or lower jaw. Dentures improve your confidence when you smile, as well as the clarity of your speech and your ability to chew. Modern dentures provide a firm hold and natural appearance to ensure maximum comfort and function.

Partial Denture: This is a plate with one or more false teeth on it. It may be all plastic or a mixture of metal and plastic. Both types may have clips (clasps) to help keep the denture in place in your mouth. Depending on where they are, some of these clips may show when you smile or open your mouth.
Full Denture: Full dentures are a set of custom-made removable replacements for missing teeth. Usually, they require all of the teeth in the upper and/or lower half of the mouth to be removed; after removal, the gums must heal over before the dentures can be fitted.

Q. Why are dental implants so popular?

Aesthetically, they look just like a healthy tooth; but they also keep the jaw bone stable. If you leave a missing tooth and don’t replace it, over time the jaw bone will disappear. Of course, this can lead to functional problems. Not to mention an aesthetic problem with your face. Because the jaw bone is what supports your cheeks, so the loss of it can lead to small changes, such as deepening expression lines in the face, or ultimately having the look of a collapsed jaw, all causing you to take on a more aged appearance!

Dental implants allow you to be able to chew your food without issue, including fresh fruits, vegetables and nuts. They are easier to care for too; dental implants can be cared for the same way as natural teeth, with a toothbrush and floss.

We’ve talked about a lot, but we haven’t mentioned the greatest, most life changing reason for tooth replacement with dental implants… Implants are a permanent solution!

How wonderful is this? Ask any patient that had conventional dentures and decided to have dental implants placed for better support and they will tell you it was the best decision they’ve ever made!!

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What is the process when getting a dental implant:

First, Dr. Skrobanek surgically places the implant into the jawbone. He may recommend a diet of cold foods and warm soup and soft foods during the healing process.
Second, the bone around the implant heals. What makes an implant so strong is that the bone actually grows around it and holds it in place and can take some time. Some patients can have the implants and replacement teeth placed all in one visit. While other patients might need to wait until the implant is completely integrated, up to several months, before replacement teeth can be attached to the implant.
Finally, it’s time for the placement of the artificial tooth/teeth.
- For a single tooth implant, Dr. Skrobanek will customize a new tooth for you, called a dental crown. The crown will be based on size, shape, color and fit, and will be designed to blend in with your other teeth.
- If you are replacing more than a single tooth, custom-made bridges or dentures will be made to fit your mouth and your implants.
- Note: The replacement teeth usually take some time to make. In the meantime, your dentist may give you a temporary crown, bridge or denture to help you eat and speak normally until the permanent replacement is ready.

Q. What is a porcelain crown?

A. A dental crown is a type of dental restoration which completely caps or encircles a tooth or dental implant. They are typically bonded to the tooth and can be made from many materials. It’s easier than you think to turn broken, cracked, or decaying teeth into healthy, clean-looking teeth. Dental crowns, also known as caps, correct your teeth and strengthen them by fitting tightly over your existing teeth. They will mask the appearance of broken or decaying teeth and protect them from becoming even more damaged. Once it’s set, it’s just like having natural teeth.

Q. Why are porcelain crowns used?

to improve the strength or appearance of teeth
for a tooth that is severely broken down, has cracks, or has had a root canal to reinforce the tooth
needed when a large cavity threatens the ongoing health of a tooth

Dental crowns will allow your tooth to function normally again without worrying about the tooth cracking.

Q. Can I always have a bridge to replace missing teeth?

A. You can have a bridge only if you have enough strong teeth with good bone support. Your dental team will help you decide which is the best way of replacing missing teeth.

Q. Can I have a bridge fitted immediately after having a tooth removed / extracted?

A. It can take up to 6 months for your gums to heal properly after an extraction. This means that you may need to have a temporary denture before the bridge is fitted.

Q. How do I care for my bridge?

A. You need to clean your bridge every day, to prevent problems such as bad breath and gum disease. You also have to clean under the false tooth every day. Your dentist or hygienist will show you how to use a bridge needle or special floss, as a normal toothbrush cannot access this area.

Q. When are dentures the best option?

A. Dentures and partial dentures are removable appliances that replace teeth when implants and bridges are not an option. They can be supported by remaining healthy teeth, implants, or they can replace all teeth. We treat all of our denture patients like Cosmetic Smile Makeover patients because we are restoring a patient’s smile.

Q. How are dentures made?

A. We start by taking a series of photographs of our patients face from many different angles. Then we take accurate impressions of the patient’s teeth and their current bite. After careful study and planning we turn our information over to our laboratory artist who will make a custom set of teeth that fit great and look real.

Q. How do I care for my denture?

Dentures may break if you drop them. Always clean your denture over a bowl of water or a folded towel in case you drop it.
To clean your dentures, brush and soak them every day. Brush your dentures first, to help remove any bits of food. Use a non-abrasive denture cleaner, not toothpaste. Be careful not to scrub too hard as this may cause grooves in the surface.
Make sure you brush all the surfaces of the dentures, including the surface that fits against your gums. This is especially important if you use any kind of denture fixative.
Soak your dentures every day in a denture-cleaning solution. This will help remove any plaque and stubborn stains that are left. It will also help to disinfect your dentures, leaving them feeling fresher. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Don’t keep your dentures in overnight unless there are specific reasons for you to keep them in.
If you notice a build-up of stains or scale, have your denture cleaned by your dental team.

Q. Should I take my denture out at night?

A. Your dental team may recommend taking out your dentures at night to give your mouth a chance to rest. If you do this, it is important to leave it in water to prevent any warping or cracking.

Q. What is the alternative to a partial denture?

A. The main alternatives are a fixed bridge or a dental implant. A fixed bridge is made by putting crowns on the teeth at either side of the gap, and then joining these two crowns together by placing a false tooth in the space. This is all made in the laboratory and then the pieces are cemented into place with special adhesives. The bridge can’t be removed.

Another option is an adhesive bridge. This has ‘wings’ that are bonded to the back of the supporting teeth, with very little drilling needed.

Q. How do I choose the best tooth replacement option for me?

A. Be guided by your dentist. They will know the condition of your remaining teeth. Tooth replacement options include dental implant bridge or dentures – depending on the best option for your specific situation. Gone are the days of looking older than necessary because of a sagging jawline due to one or more missing teeth.

GPS Dental Can Restore Your Smile and Your Confidence

If you’re not sure which option, dental implant bridge or dentures to restore your missing tooth or missing teeth will be, schedule your Smile Consultation appointment with Dr. Skrobanek and his expert team in San Antonio, Texas. We treat each of our patients individually. We offer options for dental implant bridge or dentures … after a thorough exam and a discussion about your smile goals, we will create a customized treatment plan for your individual needs to restore your smile and your confidence.

Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek’s experienced and friendly team at GPS Dental offers family dentistry 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.

BOOST Your Immune System thru Oral Care and Gum Health

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on September 14, 2021

When you look at someone’s smile, you probably notice their teeth, or maybe how bright their smile is. However, you may not realize that a healthy smile can boost your immune system and don’t forget about the importance of healthy gums! They may not seem like the star of the show, but they’re just as important as every other part of your mouth, and have to be taken care of to maintain a bright and healthy smile. Even if you take care of your teeth and don’t have any cavities to worry about, you’re not immune to gum disease.

Related Article: The Health Risks of Gum Disease

What is Gum Disease?

Basically, gum disease happens when plaque builds up along and under the gum line. Filled with bacteria, plaque is a sticky film-like substance that can cause infections, gum disease, and even tooth decay. Plaque is also the culprit behind gingivitis, which is the earliest stage of gum disease.

When you begin experience gingivitis, your gums may become:

Red
Swollen
Inflamed
Tender
Prone to bleeding

Stages of Gum Disease

At this early stage of gum disease: your teeth and bone holding your teeth where they are aren’t yet impacted and the damage can be controlled and is reversible. With diligent brushing and flossing, and twice-a-year dental cleanings with your dentist, your gum disease can improve significantly and can go away.

The later stages of gum disease: also known as periodontitis, aren’t as easy to reverse. Unlike gingivitis, periodontitis affects the bone and teeth. Sometimes teeth may need to be removed and more advanced treatment by your dentist will be needed to combat the later stages of gum disease.
Please note, if you have periodontitis, it’s not something you can reverse on your own. You need professional help to control the infection, which may include different types of treatment, as well as medications from your dentist.

Causes of Gum Disease:

Poor dental hygiene
Sugar and acid
Tooth abnormalities
Poor dental work
Wisdom teeth
Tooth grinding

Symptoms of Gum Disease Can Range from:

chronic bad breath
red, swollen gums
bleeding when you brush
painful chewing
loose or sensitive teeth
sensitive or receding gums

Sometimes there are no signs of gum disease, which is why it’s essential to visit your dentist every six months for a checkup.

Related Article: Oral Diseases and Tooth Loss

The Impact of Gum Disease

While knowing about and treating gum disease is extremely important for your dental/oral health, it’s also crucial to remember that your body is all connected, so if one area suffers, your whole body with feel the effects. The same can be said about gum disease. It affects more than just your mouth.

Did you know that 85% of Americans suffer from gum disease, yet only 60% of those infected know they have gum disease? Gum disease is an infection of the tissues and bone that support your teeth and is the leading cause of tooth loss. However, the impact can extend beyond your mouth.

Also known as periodontitis, gum disease can significantly affect your general health.

Research shows that there is a connection between gum disease and other serious conditions such as:

osteoporosis
oral and pancreatic cancer
brain stroke
dementia
heart disease
rheumatoid arthritis
dementia
gum disease may be linked to Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia from oral bacteria that spread through the blood stream
gum disease also impacts those with diabetes by making it difficult to regulate blood glucose levels
Read More: Oral Disease: The Top 3 that Could Impact Your Health

If you have one of these systemic conditions, it is important to talk to your dentist about your risk for gum disease and the best treatment options.

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Learn more about Preventing Gum Disease from the American Heart Association.

Gum Disease is Treatable

The three goals of treatment involve:

Reducing inflammation
Decreasing pocket depth (the space between your tooth and gum)
Stopping bone loss

Initial treatment options can include Laser Pocket Disinfection or scaling and root planning (also known as deep cleaning). There are surgery options for advanced gum disease as well. Consult with Dr. Skrobanek for a customized treatment plan to restore the health of your gums.

Is Your Smile Healthy??

As the gateway into the body, the mouth provides a point of entry for bacteria and germs to enter your respiratory system and blood stream. Boost your immune system by maintaining good oral health to keep it robust and working properly.

A healthy mouth is a great asset! Our teeth play such important roles in our lives – they help us chew our food, talk and speak to others, and give our face its beautiful shape. Not only that, but our smiles give us confidence and influence our careers, social lives, relationships, and more. How do you know if your smile is healthy? Let’s take a look at the many signs, visible and invisible, of a healthy smile.

Signs of a Healthy Smile

There are both visible and invisible signs that you have a healthy smile.

Here are some visible signs:

White teeth, free of excess stains: Teeth that are very yellow could indicate tooth decay.
An aligned bite: When the top and bottom jaw align, wear and tear is distributed evenly when chewing and biting.
Smooth, pink tongue: Sometimes we can have a white film on the tongue from decayed particles from food. Proper tongue cleaning can often get rid of this film. Canker sores or red patches on the tongue could indicate health problems.
Firm, pink gums: White, red, or dark pink gums could indicate inflammation or gum disease.
Gums that aren’t recessed too low: 3 millimeters is the max amount gums should recede from the teeth.

Let’s look at some invisible signs of a healthy smile:

Fresh breath: Although it’s impossible to have fresh breath all the time (especially after we wake up in the morning) but, the constant presence of bad breath, even after brushing and flossing, is often an indicator of tooth decay.
A moist mouth: Although the word “moist” may be uncomfortable for a lot of us to say, the truth is, a moist mouth is a healthy mouth. A mouth that is dry cannot wash away bacteria with saliva – which is our natural mouthwash.
Free of pain or discomfort: Pain let’s us know that something isn’t quite right. If we’re experiencing any toothaches or discomforts in the mouth, something needs to be checked out.
No sensitivity: Tooth disease often manifests with tooth sensitivity. If your teeth are pain-free, then chances are they’re healthy and don’t have cavities.

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10 Ways to Improve Your Smile

A healthy smile isn’t always achieved overnight, but takes a variety of methods to help create and maintain. Here are 10 easy things you can do to help improve the appearance and health of your teeth and boost your immune system.

Floss every day
See your Hygienist twice each year
Brush your teeth twice a day
Buy a quality toothbrush
Stop Smoking
Drink plenty of water
Limit coffee, tea, and red wine
Choose whitening products carefully
Improve other health conditions
Get dental treatment in a timely manner

It can take some time before you start to notice changes from whitening or improved oral hygiene. While these changes don’t come overnight, they are certainly worth the time and effort, both for the sake of your smile and your overall health. You should also have regular dental checkups and cleanings. Why? Read more about “Why it’s important to schedule your dental exam twice a year”.

Boost Your Immune System with a Healthy Smile at GPS Dental

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 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.

What is a Dental Emergency and Why Emergency Dental Care is Important

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on July 27, 2021

If you break your arm or cut your finger, you know that it’s time to go to the emergency room. But what happens if you have a dental emergency and what qualifies as one? While an emergency room trip may still be needed, it’s important to know if you should call us for emergency dental services. Many types of dental issues can usually be solved with a quick trip to our office.

What’s a Dental Emergency for Your Dentist?

Toothache: Toothaches are fairly common issues that can be caused by a multitude of issues – usually pulp infections or something stuck in-between two teeth. However, it’s important to discover the cause of the toothache early on and get it fixed before any further problems can be developed.
Chips/Cracks: Sometimes we bite down on something hard and chip our tooth, or we crack it when we clench our jaw. Whatever the reason, it’s important to see your emergency dentist ASAP. If you can, preserve the chips in milk or water and bring with you to your emergency appointment.
Lost Crowns: If your crown has dropped out of your mouth, call your dentist for an appointment as soon as possible. If you still have the crown, keep it in a cool, safe place as there is a possibility your dentist can reinsert it. You can apply clove oil to the missing tooth area to help alleviate pain.
Loosened Teeth/Tooth Knocked Out: If you’ve experienced any trauma or decay to the mouth and have a loose tooth because of it, you might be able to save the tooth. If the tooth is loose, but still attached in the mouth to blood vessels and nerves, chances are high that root canal therapy won’t be needed. If your tooth has completely come out of the mouth, there is a possibility of reattachment within the hour. Call your dentist immediately for an emergency appointment. You can use a cold compress and over-the-counter pain medication to help relieve any pain before your appointment.

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Importance of Calling Your Dentist for Emergencies

Although oral pain and trauma may not seem like a huge deal, it cannot be ignored. Small problems can escalate and cause more pain in the future, so seeing your dentist for any emergency treatment is imperative. If you’re unsure if you’re dealing with a dental emergency, please give us a call. However, a good rule of thumb is – if it hurts, then it’s an emergency.

Related: Dental Emergency Q&A

GPS Dental Can Get You OUT of Pain!!

At GPS Dental we are prepared to assist our patients when a dental emergency occurs. When patients call in this type of scenario, we always do our best to accommodate same day emergency appointments. You may not be able to anticipate when a dental emergency will happen; however, you can rest assured that you will receive swift expert emergency care when you call our office. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, remember … Emergency Dental Appointments are Available at GPS Dental. Please give us a call at 210-633-3477 and let us know you are experiencing tooth pain.

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

Tooth Replacement: Choosing Between Dental Implants and Dentures

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on July 14, 2021

Choosing the right solution for your missing teeth can depend on multiple factors, and dentures and dental implants have their own advantages and disadvantages to also take into consideration. Missing teeth are unhealthy for your oral health and can also impact your self-esteem and your smile. That’s where tooth replacement options come in at GPS Dental. We offer both dental implant and denture options to restore a healthy, beautiful smile. The question is – which option is right for you?

Missing Teeth is Common

Missing teeth are actually quite common today. According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID), Nearly 70% of adults aged 35 to 44 years have at least one missing tooth, and 1 in 4 people over the age of 74 are missing all of their teeth. Implant and denture procedures and technology have advanced incredibly over time.

In fact, our forefathers, such as George Washington, would use a combination of rare hippopotamus ivory, human bone and metal fasteners to replace missing teeth. Today, our technology is much more advanced. Both dentures and dental implants serve the same function. They:

Improve speech
Support your facial muscles
Help you chew
Increase self-esteem
Enhance your smile

Let’s take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages of dentures and dental implants.

Related Articles:

Dental Implants

The AAID states that, “Modern dental implants have been used successfully for over 30 years. They are the strongest devices available to support replacement teeth – and even better, they allow these new teeth to feel, look and function naturally.”

Read how dental implants are becoming increasingly popular.

Advantages:

Designed to function just like your natural teeth.
Dental implants cannot slip or fall out.
You won’t deal with bone loss or deterioration.
Can eat all foods.
A very long-lasting solution.

Cons:

Cost – dental implants often cost more than dentures.
Procedure/surgery – if you have multiple teeth missing, that could be multiple surgeries for the dental implants. You also have to have a healthy jaw to support the implants.

Learn more about dental implant procedures according to The Mayo Clinic.

5 Signs You’re a Candidate for Dental Implants

Most people are great candidates for dental implants. There’s an estimated 125 million Americans that are missing one or more teeth, and if you’re one of them, it’s good to know if you’re eligible for a dental implant. Here are 5 signs of a good candidate.

You have good oral hygiene.
Your teeth and gums are in a good health condition.
Your jaw has good bone density for the implants.
You’re willing to stop smoking, or are a non-smoker.
You have patience for the dental implant process, as it can sometimes take a bit of time to fully complete.

Dentures

Dentures are removable sets of teeth that come in either full sets or partial sets. They stay in your mouth with an adhesive, and are often used for older patients, or patients who don’t have enough healthy teeth to support crowns/bridges. With so many advancements in denture dentistry, dentures look more natural than ever.

Advantages:

Less expensive.
Restore your smile and support facial muscles.
Decrease the rate that oral bones will deteriorate.
Removable for proper cleaning.
No surgery needed.

Cons:

Can slip or move around.
You may have some restricted chewing capacity.
May need to be remade after time.

Denture Types Explained

Talking with your dentist is the key to finding out if tooth replacement with dentures is an option for you and if so, which denture option is best for you.

Tooth Replacement with Dentures: Full Denture

A full denture will have teeth that are fixed to a plate, which then will sit over your gums and natural suction will keep it in place in the mouth. Each plate will be made with an acrylic material that is the same color as your gums, making it impossible to see the dentures when you smile. This creates an illusion of a perfect smile!

Tooth Replacement with Dentures: Partial Denture

Partial dentures are made to go around any healthy teeth that remain. They clip onto any remaining teeth and are colored to match your gums as well.

Learn All About Dentures from WebMD.

GPS Dental Can Restore Your Smile

To find out if you’re a dental implant candidate, call 210-633-3477 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Skrobanek. Our goal, at GPS Dental, is to make sure our patients have a healthy and beautiful smile and to achieve that result, it is important that our team partners with each patient. We look forward to helping you get the smile you deserve.

Whole Body Health: Oral Care Impacts Heart Disease and Diabetes

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on March 15, 2021

Did you know that, according to Mayo Clinic, “Poor dental health increases the risk of a bacterial infection in the blood stream, which can affect the heart valves. There is also a strong connection between diabetes and cardiovascular disease and evidence that people with diabetes benefit from periodontal treatment.” The proof is in the pudding, as they say! A healthy mouth helps contribute to whole body health and vice versa. So, while you may just be brushing and flossing your teeth, you’re also helping the rest of you stay healthy.

Learn More about the Mayo Clinic Study HERE.

Regular Dental Visits

Regular dental visits are a wonderful way for your dentist to not only help maintain the health of your teeth, but also look for any developments that may lead to health issues in the future. It’s important to inform your dentist about any changes in your oral health, or any recent illnesses or chronic conditions.

Even if they may not seem directly related to your oral health, it’s a possibility that they could be linked to your whole body health now or in the future. Your dentist may recommend a certain at-home care regimen depending on your symptoms, or medications you may be taking. A strong at-home dental health care routine is essential to everyone, including patients with heart disease and diabetes. A healthier mouth is a healthier you!

Healthy mouth, healthy body: https://www.ada.org/~/media/ADA/Publications/Files/patient_61.ashx

Heart Disease

Plaque and bacteria in your mouth can have a significant effect on other parts of your body, which was mentioned above in our quote from Mayo Clinic. Bacterial endocarditis, which is a health condition where the lining of the heart and the valves become enlarged has also been linked to plaque. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, is also linked to plaque.

So, if you’re someone who is suffering from gum disease, which includes excessive plaque in the gums, you are twice as likely to suffer from heart disease. It’s so important to take good care of your gums and teeth to reduce any plaque buildup and see your dentist to remove and excess plaque. Look for the early signs of gum disease:

Swollen or puffy gums
Bleeding gums
Red gums
Bad breath
Mouth sores
Receding gums

Link to the Harvard article about Gum Disease and the Connection to Heart Disease HERE.

Diabetes

Diabetes happens when your blood glucose levels are above normal. Patients that struggle with blood sugar control often develop gum disease more often and more severely. This means that they may lose their teeth more often and much quicker. Therefore, it’s extra important to maintain good oral hygiene and visit your dentist often to reduce the chance of gum disease and other health complications.

When almost half of Americans suffer some form of gum disease, why wait?

Now you understand why gum care and keeping your gums healthy is such an important task – they keep your teeth in place! AND you know what to do to help keep you and your smile in the best possible health and avoid Gum Disease.

If you have questions or concerns about your gum health and the whole body health, please give us a call, the expert team at the offices of GPS Dental will be happy to schedule your dental appointment and help you keep your gums, teeth and mouth healthy. Call 210-633-3477 to schedule your dental appointment or smile consultation.

Is Tooth Replacement with Dentures an Option for You?

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on July 29, 2020

Are dentures a tooth replacement option for you? Are you missing multiple teeth and wondering what dental option is best for you? Dentures are a wonderful option to restore your missing teeth and your smile. Dentures are dental appliances that replace missing teeth. They are placed in the mouth and secured by gum tissue and jawbone. Dentures can be either partial or full, depending on the number of missing teeth in the mouth.

Denture Types Explained

Talking with your dentist is the key to finding out if tooth replacement with dentures is an option for you and if so, which denture option is best for you.

Tooth Replacement with Dentures: Full Denture

Tooth Replacement with Dentures: Partial Denture

Partial dentures are made to go around any healthy teeth that remain. They clip onto any remaining teeth and are colored to match your gums as well.

Learn All About Dentures from WebMD.

Traditional Dentures vs. Implant Dentures

If your gums are unhealthy, then dentures may not be a viable solution for you. Healthy gums are the key to having comfortable and healthy dentures.

Learn How to Clean Your Dentures.

Learn about the benefits Dentures offer HERE.

Missing teeth can affect your confidence and your smile. Start your journey to a new, healthy smile with dentures! Have questions? Give us a call today!

How GPS Can Help With Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on June 9, 2020

Did you know that your snoring and problems sleeping could be linked to dentistry? Sleep disturbances, such as snoring, could be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea, and your dentist could help.

What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

According to The Mayo Clinic, obstructive sleep apnea is the most common form of sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the throat muscles relax during sleep. When the throat muscles relax, you can stop breathing for moments at time because the soft tissue is collapsing and blocking your airway. Essentially, this means that you could be experiencing breathing pauses hundreds of times every night.

Learn more about sleep apnea Here.

How Common is Obstructive Sleep Apnea and What are the Symptoms?

Nearly 54 million Americans are living with this type of sleep apnea, according to the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. It’s important to look for the common symptoms when sleeping, as not everyone who snores is experiencing sleep apnea. Look for:

Snoring
Teeth grinding (often the first sign)
Gasping
Choking
Morning headaches
Dry mouth
Excessive daytime sleepiness
Irritability
Worsening of ADHD

Read more HERE.

How GPS Can Help With Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Dentists can be the first line of diagnosis and defense when it comes to obstructive sleep apnea. Dentist’s can look for signs of teeth grinding and talk with you about any other symptoms, or recommend having a sleep study done.

Treatment for sleep apnea is extremely important, because if left undiagnosed, it could lead to more serious health problems, such as:

Heart disease
Stroke
Diabetes
Acid reflux
And more

That’s why it’s so important to consult your dentist if you or a loved one may be experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea. And, at GPS Dental, we have mouth guards that can lower those health risks and treat obstructive sleep apnea.

Research shows that oral appliance therapy, or mouth guard, is an effective treatment option for sleep apnea and snoring. This mouth guard is worn only while you sleep and fits like an orthodontic retainer. These oral appliances support your jaw, to help maintain an open upper airway even as your muscles relax.

More than 100 oral appliances have received FDA clearance and Dr. Skrobanek will recommend the device that is best for you. Oral appliance therapy is covered by many medical insurance plans. Give us a call today to discuss our mouth guards!

Learn more about the link between dentistry and obstructive sleep apnea HERE.

Root Canal Treatment: Root Canal Myths Debunked

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on February 18, 2020

Have you had a root canal in the past? If so, it probably wasn’t as bad as you thought it was going to be. Did you think it was going to hurt like crazy, only to experience not much more pain than that of having a cavity filled? Did the immense pain you were experiencing before your dental appointment go away after your root canal procedure?

Want to know why? Maybe the information you were getting was incorrect, maybe you were hearing root canal myths … they’re pretty common.

We thought we’d explain more about … the famous root canal. The symptoms you may be experiencing if you’re in need of a root canal. And, we’d like to debunk some of the root canal myths that are most common.

What is a root canal procedure?

Under the hard, outer layer of enamel and dentin is a soft tissue known as pulp that houses the blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue. Root canal treatment is a procedure used to treat a cracked, diseased or infected tooth.

A root canal procedure is a treatment used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or becomes infected. During a root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp are removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed.

Without treatment, the tissue surrounding the tooth will become infected and abscesses may form. Additional surgical procedures could be necessary, including removal of the tooth.

How do you know if you need a root canal?

Signs You Need a Root Canal include:

Serious teeth pain when eating or when you put pressure on the area
Teeth pain and sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the hot or cold stimuli have been removed
A small, pimple-like bump on the gums near the area of teeth pain
Darkening of the tooth

5 Root Canal Myths Debunked:

1. Root Canal Treatment is Painful

Most root canals are virtually pain free! Root canal treatment in fact removes the inflamed and infected pulp of the tooth, which is the source of the pain most have been feeling. Advancements in training, technology, anesthesia, and equipment make the modern root canal treatment much more comfortable than procedures of the past.

2. It’s Easier and Better to Have the Tooth Pulled

Most people think that tooth extraction is better as it is quicker, but this is just not true. If you opt for extraction, you will also need further procedures to replace the missing tooth. By extracting the tooth and replacing it, you will need to make several visits, and spend additional money. If you choose to extract a tooth and not replace it your teeth can shift to fill the open space, causing further damage over time.

Related Article: Tooth Extraction: Reasons for Pulling Teeth

3. Root Canal Treatment Requires Several Visits

Root canal treatment usually requires 1 to 3 visits. It is basically the condition of the tooth that determines the number of visits required.

4. Root Canal Treatment Is Not Often Successful

Root canal treatment has a very high success rate. As long as the tooth and surrounding gums are kept healthy with good oral hygiene, the natural tooth can last lifetime.

5. Root Canal Treatment Causes Illness

Root canal treatments are done to remove bad bacteria from the infected part of the mouth and work to prevent reinfection. Treating the tooth may be the only way to stop an infection from moving from your tooth into other areas of your body through your bloodstream and alleviate the pain you are likely experiencing. A root canal procedure is designed to fight infection, not cause it.

GPS Dental Can Help

We hope that discussing this information about root canals and some of the most common root canal myths about this common treatment has helped to ease some of your fears about the procedure. If you need a root canal, please contact our office today! Dr. Skrobanek and the dental experts at GPS Dental are here to help!

Head Back to School Toothache Free!

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on August 13, 2019

Head Back to School Toothache Free!

With the pools closing, the weather cooling down, and the summer BBQs coming to an end, it’s time to start thinking about the fall season and all that comes with it. For a lot of us, the fall season means bonfires, football games, and heading back to school. Maybe a pumpkin spice latte or two… or twelve. With so much to look forward to during the new year, don’t let a toothache put a wrench in your first weeks of back to school plans.

Summertime = Fun Time

Sometimes, with all the excitement that comes with the summer months, dental care can fall to the waste side. When you stay up late or spend the night with a friend, you may be forgetting to brush and floss twice a day. According to Very Well Health, the main reason for a toothache is tooth decay from a lack of oral hygiene and upkeep. If you or one of your family members is experiencing a toothache, GPS Dental can help take care of the problem and get you ready for the fall season pain-free.

Learn more about the causes of toothaches: https://www.verywellhealth.com/why-does-my-tooth-hurt-1059322

Common toothache symptoms include:

Sensitivity to temperatures – hot and cold
Pain when chewing
Swelling
Bleeding around the gums

Let us Help You Become Pain Free

At GPS Dental, we love helping our patients eliminate their pain and get back to their normal schedules. Fall is a busy time and heading back to school is such an exciting experience for the entire family. We don’t want tooth pain to be a bummer, so we will work to discover the cause behind your toothache and set up your individualized treatment plan for healing.

An Overview of Toothaches: https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/toothache#4

Dr. Gary Skrobanek and his team at GPS Dental in San Antonio will perform an examination of your mouth and may order X-rays to discover the toothache cause. From there, you may be prescribed pain medicine, or may need a cavity filled, or a root canal performed for more serious decay. The quicker we find the problem, the quicker we can fix it for you! To prevent further toothaches from happening, stick to a healthy diet and a routine oral hygiene program.

Related Articles:

Reasons to have a Root Canal. What symptoms should I look for?

“I have sensitive teeth!” How can you reduce tooth sensitivity?