Tag Archives: dental health

The Lifesaving Power of Preventative Dentistry: A Comprehensive Guide

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on April 23, 2024

In the realm of healthcare, the significance of preventative measures cannot be overstated. From routine check-ups to healthy lifestyle choices, proactive interventions play a pivotal role in safeguarding our well-being. However, when it comes to dental health, the importance of preventative dentistry often flies under the radar. In this comprehensive guide, we delve deep into the transformative power of preventative dentistry, exploring how prioritizing oral health can not only preserve your smile but potentially save your life.

Understanding Preventative Dentistry

At its core, preventative dentistry encompasses a range of proactive measures aimed at maintaining optimal oral health and preventing dental problems before they escalate. From regular dental cleanings and examinations to education on proper oral hygiene practices, these interventions form the cornerstone of preventative care. By identifying potential issues early on and implementing timely interventions, preventative dentistry seeks to mitigate the risk of dental diseases and their associated complications.

The Oral-Systemic Connection

Emerging research has shed light on the intricate relationship between oral health and systemic well-being, highlighting the interconnected nature of the human body. Indeed, the health of your mouth can exert profound effects on various aspects of your overall health. Gum disease, for example, has been linked to an increased risk of systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. By addressing oral health issues proactively through preventative dentistry, individuals can potentially lower their risk of developing these serious medical conditions.

Gum Disease: A Silent Threat

Among the most prevalent oral health concerns is gum disease, a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the tissues surrounding the teeth. Despite its prevalence, gum disease often progresses silently, with symptoms such as redness, swelling, and bleeding gums going unnoticed until the advanced stages. Left untreated, gum disease can lead to irreversible damage to the gums and supporting structures of the teeth, eventually culminating in tooth loss. Moreover, the systemic inflammation associated with gum disease has been implicated in the development of various systemic conditions, underscoring the importance of early detection and intervention.

The Role of Routine Dental Examinations

Regular dental examinations serve as a cornerstone of preventative dentistry, providing an opportunity for early detection of oral health issues. During these appointments, dental professionals conduct a comprehensive assessment of the teeth, gums, and oral tissues, using advanced diagnostic tools to identify any signs of disease or abnormalities. By detecting problems such as cavities, gum disease, and oral lesions in their infancy, dentists can initiate prompt treatment, preventing further damage and preserving oral health.

Embracing Proper Oral Hygiene Practices

While routine dental visits are essential, the foundation of preventative dentistry lies in daily oral hygiene practices. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and using antimicrobial mouth rinses are integral components of a healthy oral care routine. Additionally, adopting a balanced diet low in sugary and acidic foods can help protect against cavities and gum disease. By prioritizing these simple yet effective habits, individuals can fortify their defenses against dental diseases and promote long-term oral health.

The Impact of Lifestyle Factors

Beyond oral hygiene practices, lifestyle factors play a significant role in determining oral health outcomes. Tobacco use, for instance, is a major risk factor for gum disease and oral cancer, highlighting the importance of smoking cessation efforts in preventative dentistry. Similarly, excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to a host of oral health problems, including tooth decay and gum disease. By addressing these modifiable risk factors and adopting healthier lifestyle choices, individuals can bolster their oral health and reduce their risk of dental diseases.

Early Intervention: The Key to Success

In the realm of dentistry, early intervention is paramount to achieving favorable outcomes. Whether it’s addressing minor tooth decay or treating early-stage gum disease, prompt action can prevent the progression of dental problems and preserve the integrity of the teeth and supporting structures. Through techniques such as dental sealants, fluoride treatments, and non-surgical periodontal therapy, dental professionals can effectively halt the advancement of oral diseases, sparing patients from the potential complications associated with untreated conditions.

Beyond the Mouth: A Holistic Approach to Health

As our understanding of oral health continues to evolve, so too does our appreciation for its far-reaching implications. By embracing a holistic approach to health that encompasses both oral and systemic well-being, individuals can unlock the full potential of preventative dentistry in preserving their overall health and longevity. From reducing the risk of chronic diseases to enhancing quality of life, the benefits of prioritizing oral health extend far beyond the confines of the mouth, underscoring the profound impact of preventative dentistry on our lives.

For the Sake of Your Health, Schedule Your Dental Exam

Preventative dentistry stands as a powerful ally in the pursuit of optimal health and well-being. By embracing proactive measures such as routine dental examinations, proper oral hygiene practices, and lifestyle modifications, individuals can safeguard their smiles and potentially save their lives. Through early detection, timely intervention, and a holistic approach to health, preventative dentistry empowers individuals to take control of their oral health destiny, paving the way for a brighter, healthier future. So, let us embark on this journey together, as we strive to unlock the lifesaving power of preventative dentistry one smile at a time.

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

Oral Health: Coping Methods for Easing Dental Anxiety

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on July 26, 2022

Easing Dental Anxiety

If you’ve ever dealt with nerves, the jitters, or anxiety about visiting your dentist, know that you are not alone … let’s talk about easing dental anxiety.

According to article, Why Are People Afraid of the Dentist? Observations and Explanations,

“Dental anxiety, or dental fear, is estimated to affect approximately 36% of the population, with a further 12% suffering from extreme dental fear. This anxiety can have serious repercussions in terms of an individual’s oral health, and it is considered to be a significant barrier to dental attendance resulting in poor attendance.”

Downside of Avoiding Dental Offices

Seeing your dentist for routine checkups and maintenance is too important to your health and wellbeing to skip. When you don’t see your dentist, you’re at a much higher risk for:

Cavities
Bad breath
Tooth loss
Infection
Gum disease
Discolored teeth
Plaque and tartar

More Tips from the American Dental Association: Coping with Dental Anxiety

Easing Dental Anxiety: Tips and Tricks

Rather than postponing or cancelling visits, let’s look at some of the coping mechanisms for dental anxiety.

Psychological Coping Mechanisms

Meditation
Deep breathing
Guided imagery – visualizing happy thoughts, nostalgic thoughts
Distraction (tv, music, stress ball, etc.)
Using a weighted blanket

Bring a Friend

Ask your dentist if a relative or a friend can accompany you to your dental appointment. Having a familiar person nearby may calm nerves and make you feel safe.

Medication

In some cases, medication may help with dental anxiety. Analgesia is an over-the-counter medication that are sometimes used to reduce pain and anxiety, or sometimes, dentists will use laughing gas to ease anxiety.

Make Sure to Speak Up

Let our dental office know beforehand that you experience dental anxiety. It can make a world of difference if Dr. Skrobanek and his Team are aware of your anxiety and can be prepared prior to your appointment. You can also agree on a signal with Dr. Skrobanek if you ever need to take a break. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, sometimes knowing exactly what will happen, and when, can alleviate some nerves.

A Few More Tips

Avoid caffeine and sugar before any appointments – these can make you jittery and more anxious. Instead, eat a high protein snack or meal.
Choose an appointment time that is the least stressful for you.
Arrive on time for your appointment – try not to arrive too soon.

Easing Dental Anxiety at GPS Dental

The mouth is a great window to the rest of your body, so when you visit us at GPS Dental, we can take a peek into your overall health during your regular dental cleanings and exams. This could save you money, time, and protect your health down the road. Learn how HERE.

When your Dr. Skrobanek catches a problem early, there’s a much better chance of figuring out what’s going on and treating it early, with a higher success rate. Oftentimes, dentists can detect warning signs before we experience any symptoms. Actually, oral health is an easy way to boost your immune system, learn more HERE.

Luckily, when depression or anxiety takes a toll on oral health, there are ways to fight back. The simplest step in easing your dental anxiety that you can take is to maintain your oral health by brushing twice a day, flossing daily and scheduling regular dental appointments with Dr. Skrobanek and his team at GPS Dental. Keeping up these basic oral health habits can go a long way to keeping your mouth in tip-top shape.

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.

Staying Hydrated is beneficial to your Oral Health and Your Body

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on July 12, 2022

You’ve probably heard that drinking water can help clear up your skin, keep your body healthy, rejuvenate your muscles, get rid of waste, etc. There are so many benefits to staying hydrated and many of them are widely known. Essentially, there’s no better drink than water, and it makes sense with our bodies being 60% water. What sometimes isn’t known is how great drinking water is for your oral health. A simple and easy way to help keep your teeth healthy and strong is to drink more water!

Learn more about The Best Beverage

Staying Hydrated: The 4 Major Oral Health Benefits of Drinking Water

Strengthens Teeth. In the United States, fluoride is added to our water and it’s a huge contributor to your oral health. Fluoride is often known nature’s cavity fighter and that’s exactly what is does for us when you drink water with fluoride. It blends with your teeth’s enamel and can even prevent tooth decay and plaque.
Cleans and Keeps Your Mouth Clean. When you drink something after you consume food, it helps to wash away leftover food in your mouth, and water is the best option for this. When you consume drinks filled with sugar, your tooth enamel suffers and gets worn down due to a build-up of bacteria from all the sugar. With water, there’s no sugar involved, and it can wash down the food you eat, dilute the acid in your mouth, and also clean up any debris in your mouth so bacteria have less to cling to. That fluoride we talked about earlier will also coat your teeth and defend your teeth against any harmful acids. Watch this quick video: Drinking Water for Good Oral Health
Keeps Dry Mouth Away. Surprisingly, tooth decay loves a dry mouth and this is because saliva is our biggest defender against tooth decay (which makes staying hydrated even more important). So, when your mouth is dry, you’re fighting against more and more bacteria. Drinking water helps keep the dry mouth away by creating more saliva in your mouth.
Fights Bad Breath. You might think that a swish of mouthwash is the only way to curb a case of bad breath, but water comes to the rescue again. In the morning, we’re essentially dealing with dry mouth after sleeping for hours, and our bad breath is a result of that. Bacteria has been working hard overnight to give us bad breath, and drinking water when we wake up can help with the dreaded morning breath smell, and, of course, contribute to good oral health.

The reasons to drink water are plenty, and knowing how big of an effect water can have on our oral health makes it even more imperative to staying hydrated by drinking water every day.

GPS Dental Wants You to Have a Healthy Smiles

As you know, it’s important for everyone to have a solid foundation of 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.

Dental Health for Children: Dental Sealants Can Protect From Cavities

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on February 8, 2022

The February 2022 National Children’s Dental Health Month theme is: Sealants Make Sense. This month-long national health observance brings together thousands of dedicated professionals, healthcare providers, and educators to promote the benefits of dental health for children, their caregivers, teachers and many others.

Dental Sealants for Children

Sealants are a fast and easy way of protecting your child’s teeth that act as barriers to cavity-prone areas. They are usually applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth and sometimes used to cover deep pits and grooves. Both primary and permanent teeth can benefit from sealants. Now you know why “Sealants Make Sense”!

Toothbrushes Cannot Reach Everything

Thorough brushing and flossing help remove food particles and plaque from smooth surfaces of teeth. But toothbrush bristles cannot reach all the way into the depressions and grooves to remove food and plaque. Sealants protect these vulnerable areas by “sealing out” plaque and food.

About Sealants

Sealants are easy for your dental team to apply. The sealant is painted onto the tooth enamel, where it bonds directly to the tooth and hardens. This plastic resin bonds into the depressions and grooves (pits and fissures) of the chewing surfaces of back teeth. The sealant acts as a barrier, protecting enamel from plaque and acids. As long as the sealant remains intact, the tooth surface will be protected from decay. Sealants hold up well under the force of normal chewing and may last several years before a reapplication is needed. During your regular dental visits, your dentist will check the condition of the sealants and reapply them when necessary.

The likelihood of developing pit and fissure decay begins early in life, so children and teenagers are obvious candidates. But adults can benefit from sealants as well.

Dental Health for Children

While this year’s theme may focus around dental sealants, Children’s Dental Health Month is really about the importance of oral health in our children. At GPS Dental, we’re dedicated to helping families understand the importance of good dental care at an early age. In fact, 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 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.

Download dental health for children posters, worksheets, and more HERE!

Protect those Baby Teeth

While we know about the importance of taking care of our adult teeth, tiny 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. It’s the safest option and doesn’t include any sugary risks.

Learn More about Dental Health for Children

A few tips:

Clean your infant’s gums daily. You can do this with a damp washcloth and gently wipe over the gums after each feeding to clear away bacteria.
Start a brushing routine with the appearance of their first tooth. Brush the tooth with small brush and tiny amount of toothpaste.
Once your child’s teeth touch, you can begin flossing.
Replace your child’s toothbrush every three to four months.

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.
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.
Related Article: Oral Diseases and Tooth Loss… GPS Dental Can Help

Tips for Visiting the Dentist:

If your child asks what will happen at the dentists office, 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 dental clinic. 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! 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!

Thank you for giving your child healthy dental habits that will last a lifetime!

Stress: The Mental Health Dental Health Link

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on September 30, 2020

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!

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.

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.