Tag Archives: preventative dentistry

Family Dentistry Starts Early: Why Preventive Care and 6-Month Visits Matter for Kids

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on May 19, 2026

When it comes to your child’s health, building strong habits early makes all the difference. That includes their dental care. At GPS Dental in San Antonio, Dr. Skrobanek believes that family dentistry begins with prevention—and that starts by helping children develop healthy routines and a positive relationship with the dentist from a young age.

One of the most important habits you can establish for your child is regular dental visits every six months. These routine appointments are about more than just clean teeth—they play a key role in protecting your child’s long-term oral health and helping them feel confident and comfortable in the dental chair.

Let’s explore why preventive dental care is so important for children and how consistent six-month visits set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Why Start Dental Visits Early?

Many parents wonder when their child should first visit the dentist. The answer may be sooner than you think. Early dental visits allow your child to become familiar with the environment, the team, and the experience in a calm, positive way.

Starting early helps:

Reduce dental anxiety over time
Build trust with the dental team
Monitor early tooth development
Identify any concerns before they become problems

When children grow up visiting the same dental office regularly, those appointments feel routine—not intimidating.

The Power of Preventive Dentistry

Preventive dentistry focuses on stopping problems before they start. For children, this is especially important because their teeth are still developing and can be more vulnerable to cavities and decay.

At GPS Dental, preventive care for kids includes:

Gentle dental cleanings
Routine exams
Monitoring growth and development
Guidance on brushing and flossing
Identifying habits like thumb-sucking or grinding

These visits allow us to keep a close eye on your child’s oral health and provide early guidance that can prevent more complex issues later on.

Why 6-Month Appointments Matter

You’ve likely heard that dental visits should happen every six months—and there’s a reason for that timeline. Cavities, gum irritation, and other dental concerns can develop gradually. Seeing your child regularly allows us to catch these issues early, when they are easier to manage.

Six-month visits help:

Remove plaque and tartar buildup that brushing alone can miss
Detect small cavities before they grow
Monitor changes in bite and alignment
Reinforce healthy habits at home
Track your child’s development over time

Consistency is key. Skipping visits can allow small problems to go unnoticed until they require more involved treatment.

Building Healthy Habits That Last

One of the biggest benefits of regular dental visits is the opportunity to reinforce good habits. Children learn by repetition, and hearing consistent guidance from both parents and their dental team helps those habits stick.

During visits, we help children understand:

The importance of brushing twice a day
How to floss properly
Why limiting sugary snacks and drinks matters
How their daily choices affect their smile

Over time, these lessons become second nature. What starts as a routine becomes a lifelong habit.

Creating Positive Dental Experiences

A positive early experience at the dentist can shape how a child feels about dental care for years to come. At GPS Dental, we take a gentle, patient-focused approach to ensure kids feel comfortable and supported.

When visits are:

Calm
Encouraging
Predictable

Children are more likely to feel relaxed and cooperative. This reduces anxiety and helps them approach dental care with confidence as they grow.

Monitoring Growth and Development

Children’s mouths change quickly. Teeth come in, spacing shifts, and bites develop over time. Regular visits allow Dr. Skrobanek to monitor these changes and provide guidance if needed.

This includes:

Watching how permanent teeth are coming in
Identifying crowding or spacing concerns
Noticing bite alignment issues early
Recommending next steps if intervention is needed

Early detection can often simplify treatment and prevent more complex orthodontic concerns in the future.

Preventing Cavities Before They Start

Cavities are one of the most common dental issues in children—but they are also highly preventable. Regular cleanings remove buildup that brushing alone may miss, especially in hard-to-reach areas.

During your child’s visit, we can:

Identify areas that need extra attention
Provide tips for better brushing and flossing
Offer recommendations tailored to your child’s needs

Preventing cavities early helps protect your child’s comfort and confidence while avoiding more involved treatments later.

A Dental Home for the Whole Family

Family dentistry is about more than convenience—it’s about continuity of care. When your child grows up visiting the same dental practice, their care becomes more personalized and consistent over time.

At GPS Dental, Dr. Skrobanek values long-term relationships with patients and families. We take the time to get to know your child, track their progress, and provide guidance that evolves as they grow.

Having one trusted dental home means:

Familiar faces at every visit
Consistent care over time
A team that understands your child’s history and needs

This relationship-based approach creates a stronger foundation for lifelong oral health.

Setting Your Child Up for a Lifetime of Healthy Smiles

The habits your child builds today will carry into adulthood. By prioritizing preventive care and keeping up with six-month dental visits, you are giving your child the tools they need to maintain a healthy smile for life.

At GPS Dental in San Antonio, we are here to support your family every step of the way—from your child’s first visit to their ongoing care as they grow.

If it’s been more than six months since your child’s last dental visit, now is the perfect time to schedule.

📞 Contact GPS Dental today to book your child’s appointment and take the next step toward a lifetime of healthy smiles. 🦷✨

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 Cancer Awareness Month: Why Your Routine Dental Exam Could Save Your Life

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on April 7, 2026

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about a serious condition that often goes unnoticed in its early stages. While many people think of dental visits as simply checking for cavities or getting their teeth cleaned, your routine exam at GPS Dental in San Antonio includes something much more important: an oral cancer screening.

At GPS Dental, Dr. Skrobanek believes in proactive, preventive care. That means looking beyond your teeth and gums to monitor your overall oral health—including early signs of oral cancer. These screenings are quick, painless, and performed as part of your regular dental exam—but they can make a life-saving difference.

Let’s take a closer look at why oral cancer awareness matters and why your routine six-month checkup is one of the most important health appointments you can keep.

What Is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer refers to cancers that develop in the mouth or throat, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, and soft tissues. Like many cancers, it is far more treatable when detected early. Unfortunately, oral cancer often does not cause noticeable symptoms in its earliest stages, which is why regular screenings are so important.

Common warning signs may include:

Persistent sores that do not heal
Red or white patches in the mouth
Lumps or thickened areas
Difficulty chewing or swallowing
Numbness in the mouth or lips

Because these symptoms can be subtle—or even painless—many people do not realize there is an issue until the condition has progressed.

Oral Cancer Screenings: A Simple but Powerful Tool

One of the most valuable parts of your routine dental exam at GPS Dental is the oral cancer screening. This is a quick, non-invasive check that allows Dr. Skrobanek to evaluate the soft tissues of your mouth and look for any unusual changes.

During your exam, we carefully check:

The tongue and underside of the tongue
The inside of the cheeks
The gums and roof of the mouth
The throat and surrounding tissues

These screenings take only a few minutes but can play a critical role in early detection. When oral cancer is found early, treatment outcomes improve significantly.

This is one of the many reasons why routine dental visits are about much more than just your teeth—they are an important part of your overall health.

Why Preventive Dentistry Matters More Than Ever

Preventive dentistry is the foundation of long-term oral health. Rather than waiting for problems to develop, preventive care focuses on identifying concerns early and maintaining a healthy environment in your mouth.

At GPS Dental, preventive dentistry includes:

Routine exams and cleanings
Digital X-rays when needed
Gum health evaluations
Oral cancer screenings

These visits allow us to track changes over time, catch issues early, and provide guidance tailored to your needs.

In today’s busy world, it can be easy to delay routine appointments. However, skipping preventive care often leads to more complex, costly, and uncomfortable treatments down the road.

The Importance of Your 6-Month Dental Exam and Cleaning

You’ve likely heard that you should visit the dentist every six months—and there’s a good reason for that. These routine visits are timed to help catch issues before they have a chance to progress.

Here are some of the top reasons why your six-month exam and cleaning are so important:

1. Early Detection of Serious Conditions

Oral cancer screenings, along with evaluations of your gums and tissues, allow us to identify potential concerns early—often before symptoms appear.

2. Prevention of Gum Disease

Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss and has been linked to overall health concerns. Regular cleanings remove plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing alone cannot eliminate.

3. Catching Cavities Early

Small cavities can often be treated quickly and comfortably. Left untreated, they can progress into larger problems that require more extensive care.

4. Protecting Your Dental Work

If you have crowns, fillings, or other restorations, routine visits help ensure they remain in good condition and continue to function properly.

5. Maintaining Fresh Breath and a Clean Smile

Professional cleanings remove buildup that can lead to bad breath and discoloration, helping your smile look and feel its best.

6. Monitoring Changes Over Time

When you visit the same dental team regularly, we can track subtle changes in your oral health. This continuity of care allows for more personalized and proactive treatment.

A Relationship-Based Approach to Your Health

At GPS Dental, we believe that great dentistry is built on relationships. When you see the same dentist consistently, your care becomes more personalized, thoughtful, and effective.

Dr. Skrobanek takes the time to get to know each patient—not just their dental history, but their concerns, habits, and long-term goals. This approach allows us to provide care that goes beyond treating problems—it helps prevent them.

Your routine dental visit is not just an appointment. It is an opportunity to check in on your health, ask questions, and stay ahead of potential concerns.

Don’t Skip the Appointment That Protects More Than Your Smile

Oral Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder that your oral health is closely connected to your overall well-being. A simple, routine dental exam can play a powerful role in protecting your health—not just today, but for years to come.

If it has been more than six months since your last visit, now is the perfect time to schedule your exam and cleaning.

📞 Contact GPS Dental in San Antonio today to book your appointment and take an important step toward protecting your smile—and your health.

Family Dentistry for Every Stage of Life: From Age 1 to 101

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on March 24, 2026

Finding a dental home for your family is about more than convenience. It is about trust, continuity of care, and having a team that understands how dental needs change over time. At GPS Dental in San Antonio, Dr. Skrobanek is proud to care for patients at every stage of life — from a child’s first visit to restorative and cosmetic care for adults and seniors.

Whether you are bringing in your toddler for a routine cleaning, helping your teen maintain healthy habits, exploring cosmetic dentistry as an adult, or restoring your smile later in life, GPS Dental is here to guide you every step of the way. We believe family dentistry should be comprehensive, personal, and centered around long-term health. In other words, we are here for you whether you are 1 or 101.

What Is Family Dentistry?

Family dentistry focuses on caring for patients of all ages in one practice. Instead of going to separate offices for children, adults, and older family members, a family dental office can often provide the preventive, restorative, and cosmetic care everyone needs in one convenient location.

This approach allows families to:

Build lasting relationships with one trusted dental team
Schedule appointments more conveniently
Create consistency in care over time
Feel comfortable returning year after year

At GPS Dental, that continuity matters. Dr. Skrobanek gets to know each patient as an individual — not just their teeth, but their concerns, goals, and dental history too.

Starting Early: Dental Care for Young Children

A child’s early dental experiences can shape how they feel about the dentist for years to come. That is why gentle, positive care is so important from the very beginning.

Routine cleanings and exams for children help:

Monitor oral development
Check for early signs of cavities
Reinforce healthy brushing and flossing habits
Create comfort and familiarity with the dental office

As children grow, dental visits also provide the opportunity to watch for changes in bite, spacing, and development. Early guidance can make a big difference in preventing problems down the road.

At GPS Dental, we want children to feel at ease and parents to feel confident that their child’s smile is being cared for with kindness and attention.

Helping Teens and Young Adults Build Healthy Habits

As children grow into teens, their dental needs and routines begin to change. Busy schedules, sports, sugary drinks, and orthodontic treatment can all affect oral health during these years.

Regular visits help us:

Keep teeth clean and healthy
Monitor wisdom teeth and bite changes
Encourage strong home care habits
Watch for signs of enamel wear, decay, or gum irritation

This stage of life is also a great time to build independence around oral health. Dr. Skrobanek and the GPS Dental team work with teens and young adults to help them understand how today’s habits affect their long-term smile.

Routine Preventive Care for Adults

For adults, routine dental care remains one of the most important parts of maintaining overall health. Even when teeth feel fine, regular cleanings and exams help catch small issues before they turn into bigger concerns.

Preventive care may include:

Professional dental cleanings
Comprehensive exams
Digital X-rays
Oral cancer screenings
Monitoring for gum disease, cavities, and wear

At GPS Dental, preventive care is never rushed. These visits are an opportunity to protect your smile, ask questions, and stay ahead of potential problems.

Whether you come in every six months for a routine checkup or need closer monitoring for gum health, our goal is to help you maintain strong, healthy teeth for life.

Restorative Dentistry to Rebuild and Protect Your Smile

Sometimes teeth need more than maintenance. Decay, cracks, missing teeth, and worn dental work can all affect function and comfort. That is where restorative dentistry comes in.

Dr. Skrobanek offers solutions to repair and restore smiles, including treatments such as:

Tooth-colored fillings
Dental crowns
Bridges
Dentures
Implant restorations

Restorative dentistry is about more than fixing a problem. It is about helping patients chew comfortably, speak clearly, and feel confident in their everyday lives.

At GPS Dental, treatment recommendations are based on what will best serve the patient’s long-term oral health. Dr. Skrobanek takes the time to explain options clearly and guide each patient toward the solution that fits their needs.

Cosmetic Dentistry for a More Confident Smile

For many adults, cosmetic dentistry is part of creating a smile they feel proud to share. Whether the concern is discoloration, wear, chips, spacing, or shape, cosmetic dentistry can help enhance appearance while still supporting oral health.

Cosmetic services may include:

Professional teeth whitening
Dental bonding
Veneers
Cosmetic crowns

Some patients want subtle improvements, while others are interested in a more dramatic smile transformation. Whatever the goal, GPS Dental provides thoughtful guidance and personalized care.

We believe cosmetic dentistry should never feel one-size-fits-all. Every smile is unique, and treatment should reflect the individual behind it.

Dental Care for Seniors and Long-Term Smile Support

As we age, our dental needs continue to evolve. Existing dental work may need maintenance or replacement, gums may require closer attention, and issues like tooth wear or dry mouth can become more common.

For older adults, family dentistry provides:

Ongoing preventive care
Monitoring of restorations and oral changes
Tooth replacement options when needed
Compassionate, long-term guidance

This is where continuity of care becomes especially valuable. When your dentist knows your history, it is easier to make thoughtful recommendations and maintain stability over time.

At GPS Dental, we are proud to care for generations of families and to support patients through every chapter of life.

One Dental Home, Many Reasons to Smile

One of the greatest benefits of family dentistry is the relationship that develops over time. When your entire family has one trusted dental home, care becomes more coordinated, more familiar, and more personal.

At GPS Dental in San Antonio, Dr. Skrobanek is committed to delivering the best dental care possible with a focus on trust, consistency, and long-term relationships. Whether your visit is for a routine cleaning and exam, restorative treatment, or cosmetic dentistry, you can count on thoughtful care tailored to your needs.

From the very first tooth to a lifetime of healthy smiles, GPS Dental is here to help guide your family every step of the way — whether you are 1 or 101.

If you are looking for a dental home for the whole family, we would love to welcome you. Schedule your visit with GPS Dental today and experience compassionate, comprehensive care for every age.

A Fresh Start for Your Smile: Post-Holiday Dental Tips to Kick Off a Healthy New Year

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on December 16, 2025

A Fresh Start for Your Smile: Post-Holiday Dental Tips to Kick Off a Healthy New Year

The holiday season brings joy, celebration, and memories with family and friends—but it also brings a LOT of sugary treats, busy schedules, late-night festivities, and stress. All of these things can take a toll on your teeth and gums without you even realizing it.

As we turn the page into a new year, it’s the perfect time to reset, refresh, and give your smile the care it deserves. At GPS Dental, we believe that strong oral health sets the foundation for total-body wellness. That’s why this follow-up blog focuses on what your smile needs after the holidays and how you can head into the new year healthier, brighter, and more confident.

Let’s dive into the best post-holiday strategies to protect your teeth and prioritize your oral health.

1. Give Your Smile a “Holiday Recovery Plan”

After weeks of cookies, candies, holiday drinks, and late-night snacks, your teeth have worked overtime. A post-holiday recovery doesn’t need to be complicated—it just needs to be consistent.

Start with the basics:

Brush twice a day for a full two minutes
Floss once daily
Use fluoride toothpaste
Rinse with an alcohol-free mouthwash

These foundational habits help reverse the effects of holiday indulgence and protect your enamel as you re-establish your routine.

Add a little extra support:

If your mouth feels sensitive, irritated, or dry after the holidays, consider:

A fluoride rinse
Switching to a soft-bristle toothbrush
Using toothpaste formulated for sensitivity

Small adjustments can make a big difference in restoring comfort.

2. Rebalance Your Diet for Stronger Teeth

Holiday meals are delicious—but they often come with sugary snacks, acidic beverages, and carb-heavy foods that weaken enamel and feed cavity-causing bacteria.

Now is the perfect time to rebalance your diet with smile-friendly foods:

Great choices include:

Crunchy fruits & veggies (apples, celery, carrots)
Calcium-rich foods (yogurt, cheese, leafy greens)
Lean proteins for gum health (salmon, chicken, beans)
Water, water, and more water

Cut back on:

Sugary desserts
Sticky candies
Acidic beverages like soda and wine
Constant snacking

A nutrient-rich diet supports healthier gums, stronger enamel, and fresher breath—something we all appreciate after the holiday rush!

3. Address Holiday Stress and Grinding

Holiday stress doesn’t disappear at midnight on New Year’s Eve. Many people carry tension into January, especially after weeks of travel, hosting, planning, and overscheduling.

Stress often shows up in your mouth through:

Jaw clenching
Teeth grinding (bruxism)
Worn or cracked teeth
Headaches
Jaw soreness

If you wake up with jaw pain or tightness, that’s a sign.

GPS Dental can create a custom nightguard to protect your teeth while you sleep. Wearing a nightguard can prevent fractures, enamel wear, and chronic pain—making it one of the best investments in your long-term dental health.

4. Make a Post-Holiday Cleaning Your First Appointment of the Year

During the holidays, plaque and tartar build up more quickly due to:

A professional dental cleaning is the perfect “reset button” for your smile.

Extra sugar intake
Interrupted routines
Increased snacking
Changes in travel or sleep patterns

Even the best brushing can’t remove hardened tartar, but a professional cleaning can. It also helps:

Freshen breath
Reduce gum inflammation
Remove surface stains
Catch early dental problems

Many patients tell us that a January cleaning helps them feel renewed and motivated—just like starting a fitness or wellness plan.

5. Set Smile Goals That Fit Your Lifestyle

The new year is a great time to think about what you want for your smile in the months ahead. Whether you’re focused on health, appearance, or comfort, creating specific goals helps you stay on track.

Here are some achievable smile goals for 2025:

Replace your toothbrush every 3 months
Floss every day
Schedule two cleanings this year
Reduce sugary beverages
Drink more water
Complete needed dental treatments
Explore cosmetic options if you want a confidence boost

GPS Dental can help you build a personalized plan based on your needs.

6. Consider the Long-Term Benefits of Preventive Care

Preventive dental care is one of the smartest and most cost-effective health decisions you can make. Small problems—like tiny cavities or early gum inflammation—are much easier (and less expensive) to treat early.

By prioritizing your dental health after the holidays, you’re:

Reducing your risk of dental emergencies
Improving your overall wellness
Supporting better digestion
Reducing inflammation in the body
Boosting self-confidence

A healthy smile doesn’t just look good—it contributes to long-term health in powerful ways.

7. Start the Year With a Confident Smile

January is a month of fresh starts, and your dental care should be part of that renewal. Whether you’re returning to routine, setting goals, or completing dental work you’ve been putting off, we’re here to support you.

Your smile deserves care, attention, and protection—especially after the busy holiday season. At GPS Dental, our team is committed to helping you maintain long-term oral health with comfortable, personalized care that supports your whole body wellness.

Let GPS Dental Help You Start the New Year With a Healthy, Happy Smile

Whether you need a cleaning, an exam, or help rebuilding healthy habits, GPS Dental is here for you.

Your smile made it through the holidays—now let’s make sure it thrives throughout the year.

Call us today to schedule your post-holiday appointment and start the new year smiling with confidence!

Awareness: Importance of Oral Cancer Screening During Exam

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on May 21, 2024

We feel that awareness is crucial and it’s always timely to highlight the importance of getting your oral cancer screening during exam. Oral cancer is a serious condition that can affect any part of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and throat. Early detection is key to successful treatment, and regular dental visits play a critical role in catching issues early. In this blog, we’ll discuss the signs and symptoms of oral cancer, the importance of early detection, and how routine dental check-ups can help save lives.

Understanding Oral Cancer

Oral cancer refers to cancers of the mouth and the oropharynx, which is the part of the throat at the back of the mouth. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 54,000 people in the United States will be diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer this year, and around 10,850 will die from these diseases. The survival rates for oral cancer have improved with early detection and advanced treatments, but the overall five-year survival rate remains at about 65%.

Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer

Recognizing the early signs and symptoms of oral cancer can significantly improve outcomes. Here are some common symptoms to watch for:

Persistent Mouth Sores: A sore in the mouth that doesn’t heal within two weeks.
Lumps or Thickening: Any lumps, bumps, or thickening of the tissue in the mouth or neck.
Red or White Patches: Unexplained red or white patches on the gums, tongue, tonsil, or lining of the mouth.
Unexplained Bleeding: Bleeding in the mouth without an apparent cause.
Numbness or Pain: Persistent pain, tenderness, or numbness in the mouth or lips.
Difficulty Chewing or Swallowing: Trouble moving the jaw or tongue, or feeling like something is caught in the throat.
Changes in Voice: Persistent hoarseness or a change in voice.
Ear Pain: Pain in one ear without hearing loss.
Dramatic Weight Loss: Unexplained weight loss can be a symptom of many types of cancer, including oral cancer.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical advice promptly. Early diagnosis can make a significant difference in the effectiveness of treatment.

The Importance of Early Detection

Oral cancer screening during exam can provide early diagnosis of oral cancer which can dramatically improve the chances of successful treatment and survival. When oral cancer is detected early, the five-year survival rate is around 84%. However, if the cancer is not detected until it has spread to other parts of the body, the survival rate drops to 29%.

One of the most effective ways to detect oral cancer early is through Oral cancer screening during exam. Dentists are often the first to notice signs of oral cancer during routine exams, which is why maintaining regular dental check-ups is crucial.

How Regular Dental Visits Can Save Lives

During a dental visit, your dentist will conduct an oral cancer screening as part of a comprehensive examination. This screening typically involves:

Visual Examination: The dentist will visually inspect your mouth for sores, red or white patches, and other abnormalities.
Physical Examination: The dentist will feel the tissues in your mouth and throat for lumps or irregularities.
Additional Tests: If the dentist notices anything suspicious, they may recommend further tests, such as a biopsy, to determine if the area is cancerous.

Regular dental visits ensure that any changes in your oral health are monitored over time, increasing the likelihood of catching cancer early. This proactive approach can lead to earlier intervention and more effective treatment options.

Risk Factors for Oral Cancer

Understanding the risk factors for oral cancer can help individuals take preventive measures. Common risk factors include:

Tobacco Use: Smoking and using smokeless tobacco are the most significant risk factors for oral cancer.
Alcohol Consumption: Heavy alcohol use increases the risk, especially when combined with tobacco use.
HPV Infection: Human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly HPV16, is linked to oropharyngeal cancers.
Sun Exposure: Excessive sun exposure increases the risk of lip cancer.
Age: The risk of oral cancer increases with age, particularly after age 50.
Diet: A diet low in fruits and vegetables may increase the risk.
Gender: Men are twice as likely to develop oral cancer as women.

By being aware of these risk factors, individuals can make lifestyle changes to reduce their risk and stay vigilant for symptoms.

For the Sake of Your Health, Schedule Your Dental Exam

Oral cancer is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition, but early detection with oral cancer screening during exam can significantly improve outcomes. Regular dental visits play a critical role in identifying the early signs of oral cancer, allowing for prompt and effective treatment. During Oral Cancer Awareness Month this May, take the time to learn about the signs and symptoms of oral cancer, understand the importance of early detection, and schedule a screening with your dentist. By prioritizing oral health and staying informed, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones from the dangers of oral cancer.

For more information on oral cancer and to schedule a screening, visit your dentist or contact your local dental association. Early detection saves lives—don’t wait until it’s too late.

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.

Maximize Dental Insurance Benefits before December 31st

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on October 12, 2021

Use Your Dental Benefits Before It’s Too Late!

We can help you maximize dental insurance benefts! Did you know that your dental insurance plan will automatically reset on December 31 every year? That date is approaching quickly, so it’s time to start thinking about making the most of your dental benefits before time runs out. Call us today to get your end-of-the-year appointments scheduled and on the books for peace of mind, and to get the most out of the dental insurance you pay for.

Learn More about dental insurance from the American Dental Association: “Use it or Lose it”

What Should I Make an Appointment For?

This will vary from person to person, depending on what unique services you need to make your oral health 100 percent. Talk with your dentist to determine what services you need to stay healthy. More than likely, a routine dental exam and cleaning is an appointment almost everyone can make before the end of the year – this is a preventive care appointment.

Check over your insurance plan to learn if your insurance covers multiple cleanings every year. If so, make the most of your benefits by getting your cleaning in before the holiday-craziness begins and schedules tighten. Also, if you have questions for your dentist or curious about the status of your oral health, a routine check-up is the perfect way to learn about your teeth’s health and ask questions.

Appointment Types – Preventative and Elective Services

Appointments can often be categorized into two groupings – preventative and elective services.

Preventative Dentistry Services

Preventative dentistry is all about maintaining oral care and preventing oral health problems down the line. This often includes regular cleanings, regular oral exams, routine x-rays, and a oral cancer screening. Dental insurance plans often fully cover preventative care services and appointments. You can also help maintain your oral health at home by brushing twice a day and flossing once a day.

Elective Dentistry Services

Elective dental services often fall under the cosmetic category. They are services you often elect to have done, rather than routine services or preventative services that maintain oral health. Veneers, teeth-whitening, and other smile-enhancing services are often elective services, and insurance coverage may vary between each provider. Check with your insurance provider to see what elective coverage you have and schedule these big appointments at the end of the year!

Learn more about the Dental Services we offer at GPS Dental HERE.

Large Treatments

If you need restorative dental treatments, otherwise known as large dental treatments, because they are more extensive, and you’ve met your deductible, the end of the year is the perfect time to get these treatments completed! Restorative treatments can include dental implants, dentures, or other services to help restore your smile. Once you reach your deductible, out-of-pocket expenses drop dramatically, so treatments are easier to get done and less expensive for your wallet.

If you’re getting close to reaching your annual maximum, talk with us at GPS Dental and we can help create a plan to split treatments between year to year if needed and maximize dental insurance benefits. We would love to work with you and your insurance to create the perfect plan for your treatments to get you and your family the services you want and need!

Maximize your FSA now!

Also … REMEMBER to check your dental insurance plan to see if your FSA funds rollover. Most likely, they don’t! Check with our office today to schedule your appointments before the end of the year to make the most of your FSA plan. Your oral health, and your wallet, will thank you.

Know the Basics of an FSA … learn more HERE.

GPS Dental Can Help You Maximize Dental Insurance Benefits

Now you know you can save possibly thousands of dollars by using your dental insurance benefits before the end of the year! Deductibles are often met, annual maximums won’t roll over, and premiums may increase. So, it’s more important than ever to use your dental insurance benefits to the maximum now. Don’t let your 2021 dental insurance benefits go to waste! Call and make your appointments today to get on the books before the holiday season begins and schedules get busier! GPS Dental can help you maximize dental insurance benefits! We can’t wait to see you.