Tag Archives: family dentist in San Antonio

Why Summer is the Perfect Time to Schedule Your Child’s Dental Checkup

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on May 6, 2025

As the school year winds down and families start planning for summer vacations, camps, and activities, one important task often gets overlooked: your child’s dental checkup. At GPS Dental, we believe that summer is one of the best times to schedule dental visits for kids — and it’s not just because everyone’s schedules are a little more relaxed.

Let’s explore why summer is the perfect season to prioritize your child’s oral health, what to expect during a dental visit, and how you can set your child up for a healthy, confident smile heading into the new school year.

1. Summer = Schedule Flexibility

During the school year, it can be tough to squeeze in dental appointments without missing class or extracurriculars. Between homework, sports, and family obligations, your calendar is packed. But when summer rolls around, schedules open up, making it easier to:

Find a convenient appointment time
Bring in multiple children at once
Follow through with any needed follow-up treatments

At GPS Dental, we see a surge in family appointments during June and July — and we recommend booking early so you get your preferred time slot.

2. Prevent Problems Before the School Year Begins

Toothaches don’t wait for the weekend — and they certainly don’t wait for winter break. Scheduling your child’s exam during the summer gives us time to catch and treat any potential issues before they become emergencies. This includes:

Early signs of cavities
Gum inflammation
Crowding or bite issues
Problems with baby teeth not falling out on schedule

By addressing these problems early, we help your child avoid missed school days and stay focused on learning — not on dental pain.

3. Perfect Timing for Preventive Care

Summer is an ideal window for important preventive dental treatments like:

🛡️ Dental Sealants

These are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars to prevent cavities. Sealants are especially effective for school-age children who are just mastering their brushing skills.

💎 Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride strengthens enamel and helps prevent decay — especially important after a year of snacking, sipping, and possibly skipping proper brushing.

👄 Custom Mouthguards

If your child is playing sports (whether it’s baseball, basketball, or football), a custom-fit mouthguard helps protect their teeth from injury.

These quick, painless treatments can protect your child’s smile all year long.

4. Start Orthodontic Conversations Early

Did your child’s dentist mention a possible need for braces or clear aligners? Summer is a great time to begin the conversation.

If your child is age 7 or older and has not yet had an orthodontic evaluation, now is the time. Early intervention can help guide jaw development and prevent more serious alignment issues down the road.

GPS Dental offers orthodontic consultations and can help you explore your options — including traditional braces and SureSmile clear aligners for teens.

5. Avoid the Summer Sugar Trap

Let’s be honest: summer is full of sugary snacks, frozen treats, and sweet drinks. Popsicles, slushies, lemonade, soda, candy from the pool snack bar — they’re everywhere!

While an occasional treat is perfectly fine, an increase in sugar exposure (combined with less structured brushing routines) can lead to:

Plaque buildup
Increased risk of cavities
Early signs of enamel erosion

A summer dental cleaning gives us a chance to clean away any buildup and remind kids about good brushing habits — especially as they navigate summer indulgences.

6. Boost Confidence Before the First Day of School

There’s nothing like a clean, healthy smile to give kids a confidence boost. Whether your child is starting kindergarten or heading into high school, making sure they start the school year with a healthy mouth can help them:

Feel better about their appearance
Speak more confidently
Avoid embarrassment from dental discomfort

A simple cleaning and checkup can go a long way in building that back-to-school confidence!

7. Time for Treatment If Needed

If your child does need any dental work — such as fillings, a crown, or an extraction — summer gives you more time to complete treatment before school starts again.

Some procedures may require multiple appointments, or a little extra recovery time. Getting this done during summer avoids scheduling conflicts and reduces stress for both parents and kids.

What to Expect at Your Child’s Dental Visit

At GPS Dental, we make dental visits fun and fear-free. Here’s what a typical pediatric appointment includes:

A gentle cleaning to remove plaque and tartar
A thorough exam to check teeth, gums, and bite development
Digital X-rays (if needed) to spot problems we can’t see
A fluoride treatment to strengthen enamel
Tips and guidance on brushing, flossing, and nutrition
Time for parents to ask questions and get personalized advice

Our team is trained in working with children of all ages and will always go the extra mile to make your child feel safe and comfortable.

How to Prepare Your Child for Their Appointment

You can help set the stage for a positive dental experience with these simple tips:

Talk positively about the dentist (avoid words like “pain” or “shot”)
Let them bring a comfort item, like a small toy or stuffed animal
Read a book about going to the dentist to help ease fears
Plan something fun afterward, like a trip to the park or a movie

The goal is to make dental care a normal, even exciting, part of your child’s routine.

Book Early — Appointments Fill Fast!

Summer appointments are in high demand, and we want to make sure your family gets the care you need at a time that works for you. We recommend calling early to book your child’s checkup — especially if you have multiple kids or need late afternoon times.

Final Thoughts: Set Your Child Up for a Healthy School Year

Taking care of your child’s teeth now means fewer problems — and fewer interruptions — once school is back in session. At GPS Dental, we’re proud to support our community’s families by making dental care accessible, stress-free, and fun.

If it’s been more than six months since your child’s last exam, don’t wait! Summer is the perfect time to check in on their oral health, take care of preventive treatments, and kick off the school year with a smile that’s healthy and confident.

📞 Call GPS Dental today at 210-633-3477 to schedule your child’s summer checkup!

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.

National Children’s Dental Health Month: Building Healthy Smiles for a Lifetime

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on February 11, 2025

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of oral health in children. At GPS Dental, we believe in educating families on the best practices for maintaining strong, healthy teeth from an early age. Good oral hygiene habits established in childhood set the foundation for a lifetime of beautiful smiles. Let’s explore the importance of children’s dental health, common concerns, and practical tips for parents to ensure their little ones maintain optimal oral hygiene.

Why Children’s Dental Health Matters

Oral health is a critical part of a child’s overall well-being. Healthy teeth and gums allow children to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Poor dental hygiene can lead to cavities, gum disease, and even affect a child’s overall health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), tooth decay is one of the most common chronic childhood conditions, affecting nearly 1 in 5 children aged 5 to 11 years.

Dental problems can cause pain, difficulty eating, and even impact school performance. Studies show that children with poor oral health are more likely to miss school and experience a decline in academic performance. This is why early prevention and education are key components in ensuring lifelong dental wellness.

Common Dental Issues in Children

1. Cavities (Tooth Decay)

Cavities, or dental caries, are the most prevalent dental issue in children. They occur when bacteria in the mouth break down sugars, producing acids that erode the tooth enamel. Factors that contribute to cavities include poor brushing habits, excessive consumption of sugary snacks, and a lack of fluoride.

2. Gum Disease

Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, can occur in children who do not practice proper oral hygiene. Symptoms include swollen, red, or bleeding gums. If left untreated, gum disease can progress, leading to more severe oral health issues in adulthood.

3. Tooth Sensitivity

Some children may experience discomfort when eating hot, cold, or sweet foods due to enamel erosion or cavities. Sensitivity can be a sign of underlying dental problems that should be addressed by a dentist.

4. Malocclusion (Misaligned Teeth)

Orthodontic concerns such as overcrowding or misalignment can develop as children grow. Early dental visits help monitor their teeth alignment and determine if orthodontic treatment may be necessary.

5. Thumb-Sucking and Pacifier Use

While common in infants and toddlers, prolonged thumb-sucking or pacifier use can lead to misaligned teeth and bite issues. Parents should encourage children to stop these habits by age 3 to avoid dental complications.

Tips for Parents: How to Maintain Your Child’s Oral Health

1. Establish a Daily Brushing Routine

Encourage your child to brush their teeth twice a day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush appropriate for their age and supervise brushing until they can do it effectively on their own.

2. Introduce Flossing Early

Flossing should be introduced as soon as your child has two teeth that touch. It helps remove plaque and food particles from between teeth, preventing cavities and gum disease.

3. Maintain a Healthy Diet

A balanced diet plays a significant role in dental health. Limit sugary snacks and drinks, such as candy, soda, and fruit juices. Instead, encourage water, dairy products, and nutrient-rich foods like fruits and vegetables.

4. Schedule Regular Dental Checkups

Routine visits to the dentist are essential in detecting and preventing dental issues early. Your child should see a dentist every six months for cleanings and checkups.

5. Protect Their Teeth During Sports

If your child participates in sports, consider getting a custom mouthguard to prevent dental injuries.

6. Make Oral Hygiene Fun

Turn brushing and flossing into a fun activity by using colorful toothbrushes, flavored toothpaste, or a reward system for maintaining good oral hygiene.

The Role of GPS Dental in Your Child’s Oral Health

At GPS Dental, we are committed to providing gentle and comprehensive dental care for children of all ages. Our team focuses on preventive care, education, and early intervention to ensure that your child develops healthy oral hygiene habits. We create a comfortable and stress-free environment so children can enjoy their dental visits.

If it’s time for your child’s dental checkup, schedule an appointment with us today. Let’s work together to promote healthy smiles for life!

Happy National Children’s Dental Health Month!

What to Look for in a Family Dentist in San Antonio, TX

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on June 26, 2018

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It’s time to get your teeth cleaned, but you may be dreading the cost, availability, and other factors preventing you from getting your procedure completed. When seeking a family dentist in San Antonio, you want someone who knows what they’re doing and will pay considerable attention to your dental health. Here are some factors you should think about when assessing any family dentistry.

Get a Consultation

When you have a few dentists you’re interested in going to, it could help to make a visit or two before making an official appointment.

Those visits should be filled with lots of questions, including which of your procedures will be completed in-office and how long in advance you should schedule your procedures. Perhaps the dentist will even perform a general assessment of your oral health, so you can understand what to expect in a future check-up and the diversity of services the dentist can offer. You should gain every bit of information possible before establishing a relationship with your new oral care specialist.

After your initial visit, evaluate your dentist and their staff and determine your comfort level with them and the office overall before making your choice.

Recommendations

If there’s a particular family dental office you’re interested in going to, find out how reliable it is from people you know. Inquire about how up-to-date their technology is. How experienced and well-versed are the dentists and hygienists with said technology? Find out the costs for various procedures. How responsive and helpful is the staff?

It would be beneficial to find out if the dentist you have your eyes on is a certified member belonging to a professional association like the American Dental Association. This certification is an indication of how reputable they are and shows that they are capable of performing tough procedures under pressure. So, if you need more than just a cleaning, you’ll be more inclined to trust that dentist since his or her reputation is sterling.

Accessibility

This is a must, especially in cases where you may need an emergency oral procedure done. Look for a quality dentist that is close to your work or home and inquire whether or not they are open on the weekends in case you can’t take off time at work. Open or flexible hours of operation make scheduling appointments a bit more convenient for you and your family.

When you’re looking for a family dentist in San Antonio, GPS Dental is a great place to start. Visit https://gpsdentalsa.com/ for more information.

Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek’s experienced, friendly team at GPS Dental offers affordable dentistry and is a gentle family dentist 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 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.