Category Archives: Oral Health
Do You Suffer from Dental Anxiety? 7 Tips to Ease Your Anxiety.
Dental phobia is a real thing – so, if going to the dentist makes you uncomfortable or queasy, know that you are certainly not alone. In fact, “as many as 40 million Americans avoid the dentist because of fear and anxiety,” according to Columbia University College of Dental Medicine.
Signs and symptoms of dental anxiety
People with dental anxiety may experience:
- sweating
- racing heartbeat (tachycardia) or palpitations
- low blood pressure and possible fainting (syncope)
- visible distress, crying or signs of panic
- withdrawal, or using humour or aggression to mask anxiety
Some anxious patients will routinely miss dental appointments, and may find it difficult to undergo dental treatment regardless of whether it is simple or complex.
However, dental anxiety is possible to overcome. Here are some of our favorite tips for overcoming dental anxiety so you can keep your oral health in tip top shape.
Who can be affected by dental anxiety
Dental anxiety is common and can affect people of any age.
Children who have had bad dental experiences in most cases can overcome their fear if the situation is managed well and they are well cared for and supported during further dental visits. Adults who are anxious about dental care tend to remain anxious throughout life.
Many anxious dental patients can find a dentist who is sympathetic to their situation, so they are able to cope with going to the dentist.
7 Tips to Ease Your Dental Anxiety
Find the right dentist
The right dentist can make all the difference. You’ll feel more comfortable and confident about the care you’re receiving. Look for a dentist who offers…
- A friendly, caring staff
- Great reviews from current patients
- Simple answers to all your questions
- A relaxing and comfortable office atmosphere
- Personalized and high-tech dental care and treatments
Speak up
Sharing your feelings can make a world of a difference. Once your dentist knows how you’re feeling, your team can better assist you and be aware of your needs and concerns. Make sure to:
- Tell the receptionist when you make your appointment. Let her know that you’re nervous about your dental visit and you can possibly share any previous bad experiences and ask for help on coping strategies.
- You can set up a signal with your dentist. Maybe it’s raising your hand when you need a break or feel uncomfortable.
- If you’ve ever dealt with pain from a local anesthetic, let your dentist know right away. Talk with your dentist beforehand about your pain experiences so your dentist can make you more comfortable.
Ask lots of questions
Throughout your appointment, be sure to voice any concerns, questions, or discomfort. Your dental team is there to help. Want to know about a specific instrument or treatment? Ask! Are you beginning to feel anxious and need a moment before continuing treatment? Let your dentist know.
A good dental team will gladly accommodate your requests, explaining what a sensation might be like and ensuring you’re comfortable the entire time.
Distraction is good!
If you can take your mind off a dental exam or procedure and distract yourself, it can be very helpful. Maybe bring headphones if the sound of a drill bothers you. You can listen to your favorite music or maybe an audiobook or podcast. You can also try squeezing a stress ball or try a fidget gadget to keep your hands occupied. Many dental offices also have TVs and magazines that can occupy your attention.
Bring a friend
Ask a friend or family member to join you during your appointment. Whether you want the person to wait out on the lobby during your appointment or in the room with you, having a supportive person nearby can help you feel safer and more relaxed.
Try Some Mindfulness Techniques
Try and relax your mind – this is where relaxation begins. Deep breathing exercises are great for calming and clearing your mind.
- Count your breaths. While you’re waiting for your appointment to begin, or if you have a break, inhale and exhale slowly in the same number of counts. Do this five times.
- You can do a body scan – relaxing each part of your body one section at a time. Start at the top, at your head, and work your way down your body. Relax your muscles and try to release any tension.
Arrive early
Rushing to get to your appointment on time can cause you to get worked up. Don’t put unnecessary stress on the experience. Plan to arrive extra early to give yourself enough time to take it slow.
If it will help, arrive early enough to enjoy a few extra minutes in the lobby, talking to the front desk staff, asking questions, or just relaxing.
A few more tips
- Avoid caffeine and sugar before any appointments – these can make you jittery and more anxious. Instead, eat a high protein meal.
- Choose an appointment time that is the least stressful for you.
More tips and tricks: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/dental-anxiety-and-phobia
GPS Dental is Accepting New Patients
If you’re looking for a new dental home, Dr. Skrobanek and his Team at GPS Dental look forward to meeting you during your dental exam and cleaning. If you suffer from dental anxiety, we are here to help. Your appointment will be catered to your needs, ensuring you feel comfortable and relaxed throughout the appointment. You’ll be informed and educated along the way and have plenty of time to ask questions and get the answers you need to feel confident. Let us know what we can do to deliver the best possible experience.
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.
Mouthguards Protect Your Smile – They Aren’t Just for Athletes!
Many of us have heard of (or have used) retainers at one point in our lives. Retainers are often used in orthodontic treatment and can keep our teeth straight, but are not specialized in helping protect our teeth – that falls to mouthguards.
According to Cleveland Clinic,
“Mouthguards cover your teeth to protect teeth and gums. Custom-fitted mouthguards fit and protect your teeth better than over-the-counter mouthguards. Night guards can ease bruxism (teeth grinding). Kids and adults should wear mouthguards during contact sports or activities like biking.”
Learn More from Cleveland Clinic: Mouthguards: What are they and what do they do?
The Benefits of Mouthguards
Mouthguards protect your smile, whether you’re an athlete or grind your teeth while you sleep!
- When we play sports. Mouthguards are great athletic gear, especially for collision sports such as boxing, higher-risk sports, and non-contact activities.
- When we’re sleeping. If you’re experiencing sleep apnea or breathing problems when sleeping, mouthguards can help. Research shows that oral appliance therapy, or a 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.
- When we’re stressed and/or clench our teeth. When we’re dealing with stress, we can unconsciously clench our jaws and teeth during the day and during the night. With the additional stress that has come with a year and a half COVID-19, many dentists are seeing their patients break their teeth or crowns from clenching. Mouthguards provide wonderful protection from this!
Related Article: Stressed Out Oral Health: Gum Disease, Clenching and Grinding!
Who Needs a Mouthguard?
Mouthguards protect your smile and can be used by anyone – children and adults alike. In fact, with so many kiddos going back to school, it’s important to consider the importance of a mouthguard for sports – such as basketball, soccer, football, volleyball, gymnastics, etc.
Even if you or your child only participates in recreational activities, such as skateboarding or hiking, mouthguards are still a great option for protection to remove risk of oral injury.
Mouthguards are also common for adults or children who have Bruxism – or grind their teeth at night. At GPS Dental, we can create custom-fitting mouthguards that are comfortable and fit perfectly within your mouth for sleep without damaging your teeth!
Are You 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.
Related Articles:
- Get Some Sleep: Custom Mouthguard for Sleep Apnea
- Are You Clenching or Grinding Your Teeth While You Sleep?
- How GPS Can Help with Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Taking Care of My Mouthguard
Similar to a retainer, you can rinse your mouthguard daily with cold water and gently brush it with mild soap and a toothbrush. You can also:
- Clean it with cool, soapy water and rinse.
- Place your mouthguard in a perforated container to keep airflow while it’s stored. Or, if you have an acrylic mouthguard, you can keep it in fresh, clean water.
- It’s good to protect your mouthguard from hot temperatures – hot water, surfaces, etc.
- If you see any holes or wear and tear on your mouthguard, it is time to replace it.
- You can also bring your mouthguard with you when you visit us and we can examine it!
GPS Dental AND Mouthguards Protect Your Smile
Know you know more about how mouthguards protect your 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.
Strengthen Your Immune System through Oral Hygiene/Care
Nobody has time to be sick in bed for a few days! Life often moves quickly, and we may try to eat healthier, exercise, etc. to contribute to staying healthy and sick-free. While these things are definitely helpful for your wellbeing, did you know that you can also greatly strengthen your immune system by staying on top of your oral hygiene? What a simple way to help stay well!
Related Article: 11 Ways to Keep Your Teeth Healthy
Strong Immune System Importance
Our immune system fights all the nasty viruses and bacteria that can enter our bodies. It’s complex, made of many cells, tissue, etc. throughout your body – and this includes the oral cavity. Actually, if you think about it, your mouth is often the first point of entry into your body. It’s almost like a gateway to the rest of your body. Bacteria and other foreign materials can enter through your mouth, so it’s important to strengthen your immune system by keeping your mouth as healthy as it can be to fight off anything harmful.
When your immune system is strong and can function normally, these every day, normal foreign materials and bacteria don’t pose much of a threat. However, if your oral health is struggling, any extra bacteria can cause an issue because your body can’t fight any more bad stuff. This is especially important during COVID-19.
Related Article: Brush Up on Dental Basics
A Weakened Immune System
When we start dealing with excess bacteria in the mouth, gum disease is a concern. Gum disease is formed from bacteria growing and spreading in the mouth, and grows on food and debris that accumulates around your gums and teeth. When your mouth has to start fighting off all those harmful bacteria (there is also good bacteria in your mouth), your immune system goes into action. It fights off those bad bacteria and inflammation that’s happening in your mouth. When your mouth becomes inflamed, so can the rest of your body.
So, instead of other bacteria going unnoticed, when you’re already sick with gum disease, other issues will be a big deal. “A study by the University of Pennsylvania found that the bacteria that causes gingivitis “…subverts the immune system” and promotes further inflammation by prohibiting the immune system’s ability to “eat” the invading bacteria. Immune system-related diseases include asthma, eczema, allergic rhinitis, HIV/AIDS, type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, heart disease and inflammatory bowel disease.”
Related Articles:
Keeping Your Immune System Strong with Oral Health
Keeping your immune system strong and healthy starts with the gateway to our bodies – our mouths! Brush your teeth daily, floss daily, and see your dentist for regular checkups to stay on top of your dental care. You can also:
- Wash your hands often
- Try to minimize stress
- Get a good amount of sleep each night
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Remember … schedule your Dental Visit!
Related Article: Oral Cancer Screenings are Completed During Every Dental Visit
GPS Dental Can Help
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. Checking for defects, abnormalities, and indications of severe issues in the bone, teeth, or gums are also at the forefront of our practice. Similarly, offering advice on how to strengthen your immune system through your oral hygiene routine by properly caring for teeth and correcting certain habits; this is also a part of the patient education that we offer. Should you be looking for a dentist that is serious about oral care, contact our dental office to book your dental appointment.
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.
Stressed Out Oral Health: Gum Disease, Clenching and Grinding! Oh My!
Do you have stressed out oral health? Are you ready to find out how stress affects your oral health. Let’s talk about gum disease, clenching & grinding and other issues that can be magnified by stress.
You may think about stress being a factor behind many health problems, but the truth is, stress can also have a negative effect on your oral health as well. There are six main ways that stress can affect your oral health, including:
- Teeth Grinding: If you grind your teeth, you probably do it while you sleep that can cause headaches, a sore jaw, and damage to your teeth. Severe teeth grinding can cause oral health issues, such as loose teeth or even broken or lost teeth. Stress and anxiety are a major cause of teeth grinding. Meditation, counseling and exercise are some ways to reduce the stress that causes teeth grinding. Your dentist can also make you a tooth guard to wear at night.
- TMJ Disorder: TMJ stands for temporomandibular joints. These are the joints that you use to move your lower jaw. They are located just below your ear. Swelling or stiffness in these joints can cause a TMJ disorder. Symptoms can include pain, clicking and popping. Stress is a major cause of TMJ problems. For instance, stress can cause you to clench your jaw and grind your teeth.
- Gum Disease: Stress makes it harder for your body to fight off infections. Gum disease is an infection of your gums that can cause loose teeth, bleeding gums, and bad breath. Stress can also contribute to gum disease if it causes you to grind your teeth, clench your jaw, or smoke cigarettes.
- Canker Sores: If you are like most people, you have suffered through occasional attacks of these painful and annoying mouth ulcers. Triggers include vitamin B deficiency and any type of mouth injury or irritation. Several studies now show that stress is another big trigger for canker sores. If you still get a canker, your doctor or dentist may prescribe a gel or cream to relieve the pain.
- Biting Your Nails: Nail biting can move your teeth out of position. It can also damage your teeth. The germs from your fingernails can be transferred to your mouth and can lead to mouth infections.
- Burning Mouth: Burning mouth syndrome is a dry, hot and burning feeling in your mouth. Stress, anxiety and depression may be part of the problem. Dry mouth syndrome is more common in women after menopause, so hormone changes may also be involved. Treatment for dry mouth syndrome can include stress counseling and antidepressant medication. Stress-related smoking and drinking can make burning mouth worse.
Each of these issues can be results from too much stress in your life. However, there are steps you can take to keep your mouth healthy, so you don’t have stressed out oral health!
Related Article: Daily Stress: The Mental Health Dental Health Link
Let’s go deeper into three of these issues.
Teeth Grinding
One common result of stress is teeth grinding. Stress can make us clench our jaw and grind our teeth throughout the day and into the night. If you already struggle with teeth grinding, stress can make this problem harder to handle. If untreated, you can suffer from loosening teeth and TMJ, which causes pain and discomfort in the jaw. To remedy this, talk to us about night guard options to put a stop to your teeth grinding at night. Throughout the day, try to be conscious if you’re clenching your teeth, and relax your jaw when you can. Try to keep your teeth slightly apart when not chewing/eating. Learn more about TMJ HERE.
Related Article: Custom Mouthguards Help Sleep Apnea
Gum Disease
Stress can make it harder for our bodies to fight viruses and other harmful bacteria in the body, leaving you more vulnerable to infections. This means that if you’re dealing with gum disease, your body will have a harder time dealing with it and healing. Also, if stress is causing you to grind your teeth, smoke cigarettes, or clench your jaw, then it could contribute to gum disease as well. Stress can also make us forget to brush and floss as often as needed, so remember to stay on top of your oral health routine at home.
Related Article:
- “Mouth Mask” is more than Stinky Breath: Gum Disease is on the RISE!
- Dangers of Vaping: Can it harm your smile, gums and teeth?
Mouth Sores
Just like gum disease, canker sores and mouth sores can arise from your body not being able to fight off bacteria during high levels of stress. Although experts aren’t sure what exactly causes canker sores, it’s important to keep your immune system as healthy as possible, starting with your oral health. To stop irritation, keep away from spicy foods or foods with high acid content. You can try over-the-counter medicines to numb the sores, or we may prescribe a steroid ointment, if needed.
Suffering Oral Health
Stress can overtake our days, and when that happens, our normal routine is disrupted. We may be so busy worrying about other things, that we forget to take care of ourselves or can affect our mood, making us not want to take care of ourselves. Remind yourself about the importance of cleaning your teeth, so you can avoid having stressed out oral health. You don’t want to see the dentist for cavities and other issues, so brushing twice a day and flossing once a day is the way to achieve that!
Related Article: Whole Body Health: Oral Care Impacts Heart Disease and Diabetes
GPS Dental Wants You to be Healthy
As you know, oral health is so important; however, when your body is stressed, it can lead to having stressed out oral health! A solid foundation that includes brushing and flossing daily is key for you and your family? Dr. Skrobanek and his Team can help you maintain or improve your oral health, because they can assess your situation and customize a treatment plan at whatever stage you find yourself. Schedule your dental exam and cleaning at GPS Dental. We look forward to seeing you at your next dental appointment.
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.
Children’s Dental Health: Why is Drinking Water Important?
We love raising awareness about the importance of oral health at any age! And in February, we get to celebrate our children with National Children’s Dental Health Month. While February might seem full of school projects, cold weather, and Valentine’s plans, it’s important and exciting to celebrate good oral care for your children. With extra stress on our kiddos with COVID-19, it’s more important than ever to visit us every 6 months for dental check-ups and exams.
Water: Nature’s Drink
This year’s theme for National Children’s Dental Health Month is Water: Nature’s Drink. It’s all about removing sugary liquids and replacing them with the healthiest alternative – water! Why is drinking water important? Let’s take a deeper look into the benefits of drinking water, especially for our kiddos!
More Benefits of Drinking Water: 10 Reasons Kids Need to Drink Water
Why is drinking water important? Here are 10 reasons for you and your kids to drink plenty of water every single day:
Benefit #1: Water Eliminates Dehydration
Water helps kids stay hydrated–which is important for their brains to work and for them to stay healthy!
Dehydration means that your body doesn’t have enough water to function properly. Seventy-five percent of people (including children) are chronically dehydrated.
Even mild dehydration will:
- slow down your child’s metabolism as much as 3% and cause fatigue
- cause your child to feel grumpy or tired
- give your child headaches
The human body has no stored water to draw on during dehydration so it’s vitally important that your child drinks water throughout the day.
Suggestion:
Dehydration can happen very quickly—keep water with you in the car for thirsty kids. If they play sports or are involved in strenuous extra-curricular activities, send them with plenty of water in their backpacks.
If your children come home from school grumpy or tired—give them a glass of water.
Benefit #2: Water Helps Kids Suffering from Asthma and Allergies
Your children need water for their cells to grow. As they grow, 75% of the cell volume must be filled with water. This is one reason why children develop asthma and allergies during the growth stage of their physical development–they don’t have enough water for their body systems to function. Some research indicates that asthma can be caused by chronic dehydration and by increasing water and adding a bit of salt to the tongue, asthma coughing disappears.
Kids are also susceptible to allergies if they increase their food intake but not their water intake.
Suggestion:
If you have a child who suffers from asthma or allergies, water obviously will help. Kids with allergies should drink a glass of water BEFORE eating food. And kids with asthma need to drink more water. They also need to stop drinking sodas containing caffeine and reduce their orange juice consumption which can trigger an allergic reaction in some children.
Benefit #3: Water Lessens Hunger Pains
In a University of Washington study, it was discovered that dieters who drink one glass of water before bed will shut down late-night hunger pains by almost 100%! Drinking water helps separate the feelings of thirst and hunger. Thirty-seven percent of Americans suffer from a very weak thirst mechanism. In fact, it is so weak that it is often mistaken for hunger. Many kids and parents who feel hungry are really in need of water.
Suggestion:
Does your child get up at night complaining of hunger or thirst? If so, either give him/her a glass of water an hour before bedtime or even 30 minutes before bed. If they get up feeling hungry or thirsty—give them another glass of water. You’re probably thinking, “they are going to be up all night going to the bathroom.” Possibly, but if your child’s body is in need of water, the water they drink will be used to replenish their organs and cells.
Benefit #4: Water Reduces Fatigue and Helps Kids Learn
When your kids are thirsty, they get tired very easily. In fact, studies show that not replenishing the body with water is the #1 trigger of daytime fatigue.
Kids in school need water to help:
- Keep their brains alive and working
- Water gives a child electrical energy for brain functions, particularly thinking.
- It is needed for sustained focus energy
- Water can also help prevent attention deficit disorder in children (and adults). In fact, kids who drink plenty of water, their attention spans increase.
- Water integrates mind and body functions. It helps kids and teens with the desire to make goals and have a purpose. Hard to believe that water can do this–but research indicates it can and does!
Suggestion:
Send bottled water with your children to school. Let their teachers know exactly why you are doing this. If they don’t understand, encourage them to read the research connecting water to learning.
Benefit #5: Drink Water to Ease Growing Pains & Back and Joint Pains
Back, joint and muscle pain are not relegated to the aging. It can also happen to your kids. Growing pains are common among children. Preliminary research indicates that 8-10 glasses of water a day can significantly ease back, joint and muscle pain for up to 80% of sufferers.
Suggestion:
If your kids are experiencing growing pains, give them plenty of water throughout the day and a glass of water about one hour prior to them going to bed (so they can empty their bladder before they nod off). It should help.
Benefit #6: Drinking Water Helps with Short-term Memory
Did you know that a mere 2% drop in body water can trigger fuzzy short-term memory? It can also cause kids to have problems understanding basic math, and have difficulty focusing on a computer screen or printed page in a book. Drinking water every day can help prevent memory loss well into old age.
Suggestion:
Before starting their homework, make certain your kids have had a big glass of water to drink. And as mentioned above, send them to school with a bottle of water. It’s necessary for their memories and learning.
Benefit #7: Water Decreases the Risk of Certain Cancers
Drinking water can help ward off certain cancers. For instance:
- Drinking 5 glasses of water daily help to decrease the risk of colon cancer by 45%
- Drinking 5 glasses of water each day can slash the risk of breast cancer by 79%
- When a person drinks at least 5 glasses of water a day, they are 50% less likely to develop bladder cancer
Water also helps to normalize the blood-manufacturing system in the bone marrow which helps prevent childhood leukemia and lymphoma.
Suggestion:
Although some of these forms of cancer are not cancers common in children, it’s a good idea to get your kids in the habit of drinking plenty of water every day. It just may help prevent certain cancers when they are adults because water keeps the immune system working at peak performance and can fight infections and cancer cells where they are formed.
Benefit #8: Sip or Guzzle?
If your child sips water throughout the day, they will keep their systems hydrated and their abilities to learn and function will substantially increase. If they guzzle water (drinking it very rapidly) they will cleanse their systems. Both are helpful for their bodies and minds.
Suggestion:
Either sipping or guzzling water is good for your child’s health.
Benefit #9: Drinking Soda, Juice or Milk Doesn’t Count Toward Water Intake
Many parents think that as long as their child is getting some form of liquid (milk, juice, soda) in their systems, they will be hydrated. This is partially correct. However, sodas and juices are loaded with sugar and sugar drains water from the colon and can cause constipation and/or diarrhea. Plus, the sodium in sodas increases dehydration. Kids don’t need excess salt or sugar in their diets. It impedes their ability to learn. They need water.
Suggestion:
Make water your family’s #1 beverage choice. You’ll be glad you did. You will notice your children having sustained, focused energy; their brains will work better and more efficiently which all translates into a healthier more positive learning experience.
Benefit #10: Drinking Water Helps Clear Teen Skin
When your kids get to be teens, they will be concerned about their skin. Having healthy, acne-free skin is important for teens and their self-esteem. There are many reasons for teen acne, but several things that can help is drinking plenty of water, giving up sodas and eating plenty of fruits and veggies. Fruits and veggies are loaded with water and will help clean out the cells.
Drinking water every day will help improve your teen’s skin by:
- eliminating toxins from the body
- flushing out the system
- hydrating the skin
- making the skin smoother
- decreasing the effects of aging
These tips and additional information can be found in the article titled: 10 Amazing Benefits of Drinking Water and How it Makes Kids Smarter
Children’s Oral Health
While this year’s theme may focus around water (and we hope we answered the question: Why is drinking water important?), Children’s Dental Health Month is really about the importance of oral health in our children. 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.
Download posters, worksheets, and more for National Children’s Dental Health Month from the American Dental Association HERE!
Oral Care Begins Early On
Baby teeth and children’s teeth also need good oral care to prevent bacteria and decay. It’s important to implement brushing every day and help your child floss. In infants or baby teeth, it’s helpful to limit the amount of sugary liquids and remember our theme of water: nature’s drink! Instead of sending your child to bed with a bottle full of milk, formula, or juice, use water instead. For more information about Oral Bacteria, read our blog: Are Healthy Teeth Just About a Pretty Smile?
The American Association of Pediatric Dentists recommends that parents find a dentist for their child as early as their first tooth loss or first birthday. When your child experiences their first tooth, you can begin brushing and when two teeth are touching, you can begin helping them to floss. Learn more tips and tricks to keep your kiddo’s teeth healthy HERE.
Learn more about National Children’s Dental Health Month HERE.
GPS Dental Wants Your Family to Have Healthy Smiles
As you know, it’s so important for children to start their lives with a solid foundation and that includes oral health habits. Not only does that include brushing and flossing daily, but also having healthy habits — including drinking water! Why is drinking water important for you and your family? I hope we answered that question in this blog. Dr. Skrobanek and his Team love to talk about dental health and look forward to answering any of your questions during your next dental appointment.
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.
Dr. Skrobanek Works to Save Your Tooth, Not Pull It
Do you need a tooth extraction or can Dr. Skrobanek save your tooth?
Although we hope our natural teeth will last us forever, sometimes life throws a wrench in our plans and a tooth extraction is necessary for our oral health. However, at GPS Dental, we always do our best to provide you with the best dental care and make sure an extraction is the last option. If we can save your natural teeth, we will, every time. Still, let’s take a look at why a tooth extraction may be necessary and what you can expect.
Learn More from WebMD about Pulling a Tooth
Reasons for a Tooth Extraction
Damage – probably the most common reason for a tooth extraction is a damaged tooth that’s beyond simple repairs. Damage can often occur from:
- Decay or infection: If a tooth’s decay penetrates the inside (pulp) of a tooth, then a root canal is often the first step to restore the health of the tooth. However, if antibiotics don’t cure the infection, then an extraction may be the next step. This is necessary for the health of your mouth. Periodontal disease will sometimes cause the loosening of a tooth, and the tooth may need to be pulled if it’s extremely loose, or if the tooth is at risk for infection.
- Crowded mouth: Sometimes we have to pull teeth to make room in the mouth. This happens sometimes with wisdom teeth to eliminate crowding. Or, if a tooth cannot break through the gumline, it will be best to pull it.
Related Articles:
- Dental Exams are Important for SO Many Reasons
- Experiencing Tooth Pain? When it’s Time to Visit the Dentist
- “Mask Mouth” is More than Stinky Breath: Gum Disease on the RISE
What to Expect
Once a tooth extraction is decided as necessary and we cannot save your tooth, there are a few steps for a successful extraction. A thorough examination will be performed and X-rays will be taken. Dr. Skrobanek wants to make 100% sure that your tooth must be pulled before performing an extraction. If your tooth can be saved by other methods, then those will definitely be looked into instead.
There are two types of extraction – simple and surgical. Simple extractions involve a local anesthetic to numb the area. We then use a tool called an elevator to loosen the tooth and extract it. Surgical extractions are what they sound – surgical. You will be unconscious during the procedure and the tooth will be extracted surgically. A small incision will be made around the tooth to remove it. Recovery often takes a few days.
Learn More on What to Expect from a Tooth Extraction.
Dr. Skrobanek at GPS Dental Wants to Save Your Tooth
As you can see, there are many reasons your tooth may need to be pulled; however, one thing that can help you keep all of your natural teeth healthy and in place is prioritizing your dental health. (Learn how GPS Dental is Keeping You Healthy with Extra Safety Precautions.) Brush and floss daily and make sure to visit your dentist every 6 months for a dental exam and cleaning. Dr. Skrobanek will help treat any cavities or decay, before your tooth runs out of options and needs to be pulled.
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.
“Mouth Mask” is more than Stinky Breath: Gum Disease on the RISE
“Mouth Mask” is more than Stinky Breath: Tooth Decay & Gum Disease is on the RISE!!
Did you know that stinky breath behind your face mask could be more than a simple, embarrassing problem? Today, more and more dentists are seeing a rise in gum disease. A term coined “mask mouth” is a contributing factor to the increase in oral health problems. Thankfully, there are many ways to treat this and keep mask mouth at bay! Let’s dive into some helpful tips and information.
Mask Mouth: Learn More about the seriously stinky side effects HERE.
Related Article: What is that SMELL?? It may be more than bad breath.
Here’s How to Conquer Mask Mouth
Bad breath is often a sign that something isn’t quite right. When we wear our masks, we may breathe through our mouths more and dry out our mouths. While this may not seem like an issue, when we dry out our mouths, we leave them more susceptible to bacteria growth. When bacteria grows in our mouth, we can experience things like cavities and gum disease. Saliva is a huge multitasker in our mouths and it constantly keeps bacteria at bay. When we lose saliva production, we lose our biggest bacteria fighter.
There are definitely some changes we can make to reduce the symptoms of mask mouth and keep our teeth cleaner and less prone to decay.
- Watch your diet: Certain foods can make our breath stink, so when we’re wearing a mask it’s extra important to think about what you’re consuming. Try to avoid coffee, garlic, and onions and try swishing with water after eating.
- Freshen up. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day. Make sure you’re brushing your teeth correctly and try keeping mouthwash on hand to fight bad breath and bacteria in-between your brushings. Chewing sugar-free gum can also help with this. It also might be time for a new, fresh toothbrush.
- Stay hydrated. Drink water throughout the day and try to avoid alcohol, coffee, and sugary drinks, which can cause dehydration and buildup of bacteria.
- Use a clean mask. Replace your mask often and clean between wearing.
- Take fresh-air breaks. Try and take a few breaks throughout the day and breath fresh air through your nose.
If your breath smells unpleasant, it could mean that there are germs and bacteria that you need to get rid of. Learn More about how to take care of your mouth behind a face mask HERE.
Mask Mouth Symptoms
Curious if you’re experiencing mask mouth? Here’s the most common symptoms to be aware of.
- Bad Breath and Dry Mouth: One of the most common signs of mask mouth is bad breath. If you’re breathing through your mouth while wearing a mask, you’re drying out your mouth and causing bad breath. This can also cause dry lips. Saliva is such a great tool that our body already produces to help keep the germs out of our mouth, so when our mouth becomes dry and we lose saliva production, we build more bad-breath bacteria in the mouth. Less saliva in the mouth also means we are more prone to tooth decay and infections. So, when we are wearing our mask often and experience dry mouth, we’re advancing or progressing tooth decay.
- Bleeding gums: Another symptom of mask mouth is bleeding or swollen gums. This also comes from an excess of bacteria and plaque in the mouth.
Oral Bacteria and Your Smile
Healthy teeth are about more than just a pretty smile… and what does oral bacteria have to do with a pretty smile?
Your oral health has a major effect on the overall health of your body, not just in your mouth. By maintaining healthy teeth and gums, you can make your body healthier from head to toe. If not, tooth decay, gum disease, and oral infections can be the nasty result.
Learn more in this article: Oral Bacteria: Are Healthy Teeth Just About a Pretty Smile?
Related Article: Gum Disease: Can a Simple Cavity turn into Gum Disease?
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.
Oral Health Challenge: How to Enjoy Halloween Treats
Candy, costumes, and skeletons – oh my! Every year, trick-or-treaters, and their parents, enjoy bags and buckets full of sweet treats and candies. While costumes and Halloween decorations are fun, spooky, and harmless, Halloween candy can negatively impact our oral health and spiral anyone’s household into an oral health challenge. However, we’ve compiled some tips and tricks to make Halloween safe for your teeth!
Click HERE for your Halloween Candy Survival Guide.
Oral Health Challenge: Stick with Chocolate and Avoid Super-Sticky Treats
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.
Avoid sweet & spicy candies, and stick with softer treats like chocolate to protect your oral health this Halloween. Dental experts recommend chocolate for a sweet treat. “Chocolate is one of the better candies because it washes off your teeth easier than other types of candy,” Dr. Ferraz- Dougherty says from MouthHealthy.org. “Dark chocolate also has less sugar than milk chocolate.”
Get more Tips for Halloween Candy HERE.
Oral Health Challenge: 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 candy. Candy can easily get stuck in-between teeth and cause tooth decay, cavities, and other oral health problems. Young children may need help with these steps. 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!
Don’t Go Overboard – Moderation is Key
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. Maybe you set the limit of houses you visit, or fill a smaller bag. You can also have your kids parcel out candy as “trade ins” for other rewards (a toy, sticker, tv time, etc.). Whatever you feel comfortable with, 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 into an oral health challenge 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.
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.
Stress: The Mental Health Dental Health Link
Stress and Oral Health
Can stress cause harm to your teeth? Unfortunately, the answer is yes and we know there is a dental health mental health link. Just like how stress can affect most areas of your body and your mental wellbeing, it can also impact your oral health. When your mind feels strained and out-of-control, your whole body can feel it as well.
According to HealthGrades, here are 6 Ways Stress Can Affect Your Oral Health.
Though it may not be widely known, anxiety and stress can cause patients to clench their jaw and grind their teeth often, and this can result in cracked teeth or inflamed gums. With a worldwide pandemic going on, many dentists have stated that they’re busier than ever with repairing fractured teeth multiple times a week or even every day.
NY Times Article: More and More Cracked Teeth
Teeth Grinding Spike
Since the pandemic onset, we’ve all experienced new levels of normalcy, new levels of stress, and have had to adapt to completely new surroundings, procedures, and more. It’s been a lot to take in, to say the least. According to The New York Times, there are three major components to tooth fractures and mental health right now, and those are:
- Working from home. If you’re used to working in an office setting, you may find it difficult to find the best place to work at home. You may not have the space for a desk and ergonomic office chair that helps you maintain a good posture. Believe it or not, bad posture and strain on your body throughout the day is a big contributor to teeth grinding.
- Insomnia and restlessness. Many people are experiencing restlessness and anxiety when trying to sleep at night during the pandemic. When you’re not experiencing restorative sleep, your body goes into its “fight or flight” response, which often leads to grinding the teeth.
- Not seeing your dentist. Our day to day life is a whole different rhythm. Before, you could make appointments and keep to them, but now that isn’t so easy, and so you might forget to check in for your cleaning appointment and see your dentist. It’s so important to come in and see your dentist, especially if you think you may be grinding your teeth. Dental offices are safe to return to and take every precaution to keep you safe and healthy.
USA Today Article: The Pandemic Has Taken a Toll on Mental Health
Solution for Teeth Grinding – Mouthguard
Dr. Skrobanek can help prevent cracked and fractured teeth by designing a mouthguard or oral appliance to wear at night to keep you from grinding and clenching 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.
Related Articles:
Get Some Sleep: Custom Mouthguard for Sleep Apnea
Custom Mouthguards Help Sleep Apnea
It’s also important to stay up to date on your cleanings and routine visits to your dentist. 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!
More on Mouthguards from HealthLine.
It’s Safe to Visit Your Dentist Today!
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), no cases of COVID-19 have been attributed to any U.S. dental practices. This is a wonderful statistic for dental offices and shows how serious dental offices have taken their safety measures.
Related Article: Do You Need Your Teeth Cleaned? It’s Safe to Visit Your Dental Office
It’s safe and essential to visit your dentist’s office, and we take your health and safety very seriously. We can’t wait to see you soon! Please call today to schedule your next appointment.
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.
Is there a link between Pneumonia and Poor Oral Health?
Anyone and everyone can get pneumonia. In fact, according to a study by Science Daily, over 1 million Americans are infected with pneumonia every year. Furthermore, studies have also shown that there is a link between oral health and your risk for getting pneumonia – with people who never get dental checkups having an 86 percent higher risk of getting pneumonia.
More information about geriatric oral health and pneumonia risk HERE.
Pneumonia & Poor Oral Health: Pneumonia Prevention
Knowing that there is a link between pneumonia and poor oral health, one can assume that good oral health can help prevent pneumonia. According to scholar, Koichiro UEDA, “In recent years, the need for oral care in preventing aspiration pneumonia has been recognized across the academic disciplines.”
Pneumonia prevention consists of:
Regular Dental Cleanings
Regular cleanings and visits to the dentist will greatly reduce the number of harmful bacteria and plaque in the mouth. This keeps your mouth healthy and less at risk. On the flip side, when dental cleanings are ignored, there is a much greater risk for bacterial pneumonia because the bacteria are thriving in your mouth. According to Michelle Doll, MD, “In the case of bacteria that cause pneumonia, for example, they have to be inhaled to cause an infection. Getting regular cleanings and check-ups may reduce the amount of these bacteria.”
Read more on the importance of dental cleanings from Health.com HERE.
Related Articles:
- Oral Bacteria: Are Healthy Teeth Just About a Pretty Smile?
- Dental Exams are Important for SO Many Reasons
- Gum Disease: Can a Simple Cavity turn into Gum Disease?
Clean Teeth and Clean Lungs
Did you know that dental cleanings do much more than just clean your teeth and improve your oral health? They’re also beneficial for your lungs!
Here’s the basic rundown.
- Dental cleanings reduce bacteria in the mouth.
- When bacteria are reduced in the mouth, it doesn’t get into the lungs.
- This also reduces your risk for lung infection and helps keep your lungs bacteria free.
Learn more from WebMD about oral health and lung health HERE.
As you can see the link between pneumonia and poor oral health is a true concern, especially for our older dental patients. It’s clear that oral health is connected to your overall health, so remember to take care of your smile and your body will thank you!
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.
