Author: avant8

A great smile is about more than just looks – it’s critical to maintaining good oral health, which is essential for your overall well-being. So, make sure to keep up with your regular dental appointments because they’re not only for cleaning your teeth. They’re also an opportunity to prevent future dental issues and promote your health. Unfortunately, many people avoid going to the dentist until they experience a painful dental emergency. At Hebron Family Dental, we want to help you understand why regular dental hygiene appointments every six months are so important.

• Personalized Oral Health Plan

Everyone’s oral health needs differ, and your dental hygiene appointment allows your hygienist to personalize a plan. Your hygienist can provide tips and tricks to improve your oral hygiene routine, making maintaining good oral health at home easier.

• Better Breath and Whiter Teeth

Aesthetics may not be the primary reason you go to the dentist, but regular dental hygiene appointments can help keep your teeth looking their best. A thorough cleaning can remove surface stains, improving the whiteness of your teeth. Additionally, cleaning your mouth and removing bacteria can help prevent bad breath.

• Detecting Dental Problems Early

Another important reason to attend regular dental hygiene appointments is to catch dental problems early. For example, an X-ray taken during your appointment may show a small cavity you weren’t aware of. Your dentist can take care of the cavity before it grows and causes pain or even requires a more invasive treatment like a root canal. Additionally, visiting a dentist regularly can detect symptoms of other health problems, such as oral cancer.

• Preventing Tooth Decay and Gum Disease

Even with regular brushing and flossing, there will still be areas of your mouth that are difficult to clean. These spots can become breeding grounds for bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease. During a dental cleaning, your hygienist will use special tools to clean hard-to-reach areas, helping to reduce your risk of cavities and gum disease.

• Improved Overall Health

Believe it or not, dental hygiene appointments can affect your overall health. Research has linked poor oral health to heart disease, diabetes, and stroke, just to name a few. This means taking care of your oral health can be vital in preventing chronic illnesses. Many doctors recommend regular dental hygiene appointments as a preventative health routine. 

We are almost halfway through the year, which is the perfect time to come in for your hygiene appointment! Regular dental hygiene appointments are an excellent investment in your health. With these checkups, you can prevent dental problems and detect other health problems early on, saving money in the long run, improving your self-confidence and appearance, and maintaining your overall health. Book your next checkup today by calling Hebron Family Dental at (972) 820-8780! Our schedule fills up quickly, so act fast. Click here to learn how to choose a dental home.

April is a special month, not just because of April Fool’s Day and Easter! It is officially Oral Cancer Awareness Month, and the Hebron Family Dental team wanted to take the time to highlight an often-overlooked disease. Oral cancer can be deadly, but staying on top of your routine appointments can significantly aid in preventative measures and catching anomalies before they worsen. In addition to your cleaning and exam, one of our dentists will conduct an oral cancer screening to ensure nothing abnormal has developed. 

 

So how serious is oral cancer, and why does it develop?

• There are several risk factors associated with oral cancer, the most common of which are having a history of heavy smoking or drinking and the presence of HPV16. In addition to this, around ten percent of oral cancer patients do not have any known risk factors; genetics or other unknowns may play a role.
• The signs of oral cancer from substance use versus oral cancer from HPV16 can differ. The former is commonly identified through persistent soft tissue discoloration, ulcers, bleeding, lumps in soft tissue, and more. The latter may be identified by a long-lasting sore throat, a swollen tonsil, difficulty swallowing, or a persistent cough, among other things. 
• According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, it is estimated almost 55,000 cases are diagnosed yearly. Since many oral cancers are discovered late in their development, they can lead to long-term problems if not treated properly.

 

Like with most cancers and diseases, there are risk factors in and out of your control. However, it is essential to consider prevention and living a healthy lifestyle, especially if you are at risk. We are here to help in any way we can!

 

What are the most effective ways to prevent oral cancer?

• You can make many simple lifestyle changes and take preventative measures, such as not using tobacco products, consuming alcohol in moderation, receiving the HPV vaccine, lowering exposure to UV light, and getting regular dental checkups. 
• Your dentist will check for signs and symptoms of oral cancer during your bi-yearly visits. Dentists receive special training regarding detecting anomalies early on, so you will be in great hands! If you are at a higher risk for oral cancer, let your dentist know, and a more thorough examination will be conducted.
• It is beneficial to routinely check your lips, neck, and mouth for concerning symptoms. If you have abnormal pain, difficulty swallowing, find a lump, or anything else suspicious, make sure to contact us immediately to get it looked at. 

 

According to the American Dental Association, early detection of oral cancer can increase long-term survival and decrease morbidity. We care about our patients and local community and believe these two factors are highly important for oral health, long-term happiness, and peace of mind. If you or a loved one have been exhibiting potential symptoms of oral cancer, call us at (972) 820-8780 to have it looked at immediately. We are also happy to answer any questions regarding risk factors, prevention, and more. Your health is our priority! Read about overcoming dental anxiety.

Choosing a dental home is a big deal. Most patients prefer to stick with a provider for the long haul, especially if they have a family. At Hebron Family Dental, we have been blessed to be with patients throughout their lives and meet their friends and family members. We provide a warm, welcoming environment and unparalleled services. Our staff truly cares, and we want to give you some insight into why you should choose us to be your dental home!

• We have your general dentistry and upkeep covered! 

It is integral to the health of your teeth to come in for a cleaning and exam biyearly. During these cleanings, one of our hygienists will remove any lingering plaque or tartar from your teeth. If left for too long, plaque and tartar can cause cavities and other oral health problems. After your teeth have been thoroughly cleaned, one of our dentists will conduct a thorough exam to ensure your smile is healthy and catch any issues before they grow. 

• If you want to consolidate your dental care, we offer a cost-effective Membership Plan. 

We understand some patients do not have dental insurance, but we don’t want this to stop anyone from getting the care they deserve! For this reason, we offer an in-house membership plan. This plan covers all preventative maintenance and gives you discounts on other treatments offered at our office for a price you can afford. Variations of the plan are available for children, adults, and periodontal patients. If you are interested in learning more, click here. 

• Our doctors are trained with the latest dental techniques and technology.

Each of our dentists has put a tremendous amount of time and effort into keeping up with the newest developments in dentistry and taking continuing education courses. This will aid them in providing top-notch care. When you come to Hebron Family Dental, you are guaranteed to have the highest-quality treatment. Part of this is the pursuit of learning by our excellent dentists! 

• We offer various treatments for all needs, from cosmetic to restorative to oral surgery!

Our team is proud to provide the vast majority of dental services in-house. These services include but are not limited to extractions, veneers, teeth whitening, Invisalign, bridges, and crowns. Seeing a patient leave our office with newfound confidence in their smile is one of the greatest blessings, and we love being able to provide these services. 

• We put patients first.

A career in dentistry means a career of service. This is exactly what each staff member knew when they decided to work at Hebron Family Dental. From the moment you walk through our doors to when you complete your treatment, your comfort is our highest priority! We will work with each patient to create a treatment plan which meets their schedule and budget and delivers stellar results. Giving you a beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime is our goal! 

Our patients mean the world to us, and we hope it is evident! If you have questions for the Hebron Family Dental staff or want to book your next appointment, call us at (972) 820-8780. Read more about dental anxiety.

February is here, which means it is officially Children’s Dental Health Month! At Hebron Family Dental, we share plenty of information regarding the health of your smile, but it is crucial to remember to take care of your child’s smile, too. Developing positive oral healthcare habits at a young age will set kids up for success and a healthy smile as an adult. In addition, learning about the dentist will aid in preventing dental anxiety. Oral health can be fun; we want to come alongside our patients and their families to show why!

• Get a head start on healthy teeth!

Did you know we accept pediatric patients? Many parents don’t realize they can bring their children to see us at a young age. This is beneficial in multiple ways. First, it helps us become familiar with the structure of your child’s mouth and how their teeth grow. Because of this, we will be able to provide exceptional care. Your child will also be less likely to become nervous about visiting us. As you know, regular dental visits are integral to the prevention of plaque buildup. The younger your child has plaque removed, the healthier their smile will be in the long run! A healthy smile will lead to a healthy life, and bringing your children to see us early on will help them understand this.

• Structure your child’s smile routine!

It is no secret that children thrive with routine. Toddlers and younger children may mirror their parents’ behaviors, even though they may not understand them. To get your children to cooperate with their brushing routine, set a specific time for oral healthcare during the morning and evening, and join them! Your children will begin recognizing this should be part of their routine and want to be just like you. 

• Don’t forget your baby’s gums!

Babies don’t have teeth, so why is taking care of their oral health necessary? Babies’ mouths produce less saliva than adults, and saliva is integral in keeping bacteria under control. If you don’t care for your baby’s gums and mouth, bacteria may multiply, resulting in an infection. Luckily, gum care is easy! We suggest wiping down your baby’s gums twice daily to combat the spread of bacteria. Wash your hands before doing this to rid them of any lingering germs. Use damp gauze or a washcloth to softly rub your baby’s gums, tongue, and soft mouth tissue. Through this process, unwanted food and bacteria will be eliminated!

• Teeth-friendly snacks don’t have to be boring!

Healthy food can be fun for your kids and doesn’t only involve the vegetables you know they will complain about having to eat. Citrus is rich in vitamin C, which keeps the soft tissue in your mouth healthy! Whether a glass of orange juice or slices of grapefruit, citrus is sweet, and kids love it. Dairy is another option. Packed with calcium and vitamin B12, it will strengthen your teeth and increase the health of your gums. The best thing about dairy is it comes in many tasty forms, from cheese and yogurt to ice cream for a special treat!

No matter how old your child is, oral healthcare is imperative. The Hebron Family Dental team cares about the smiles of every family member, and we are here to answer any questions you may have regarding pediatric dental care. Call us at (972) 820-8780 for more information. Learn to overcome dental anxiety.

A new year has arrived, which is the perfect time to check in with our dental habits. Our team has heard many patients start the year with resolutions about their oral health, such as flossing more, using mouthwash, or booking biyearly hygiene appointments. Luckily, local drugstores carry great products that will help enhance your smile and keep it in excellent health from the comfort of your home. Plus, who doesn’t love shopping for new things? The Hebron Family Dental team wants to make your dental care simple and fun, so we have decided to share some of our favorite ways to pamper yourself on the dental aisle this year!

• You guessed it…we recommend floss!

• We don’t want our patients settling for just any floss; we have one we prefer! Johnson & Johnson waxed dental floss is a great choice that you can easily find in most stores or order online. Why waxed over regular? Believe it or not, waxed dental floss removes up to 52% more plaque than traditional floss. The waxy coating makes it both resistant to shredding and easily slidable. You can order it online here.

• Consider swapping out your current toothbrush for one with soft bristles.

• Hard-bristled toothbrushes can damage your teeth over time. If you tend to brush your teeth with pressure, the enamel can eventually be worn down, making you more prone to specific dental issues. With a soft-bristled toothbrush, the bristles are less densely packed. This allows them to bend easily as you brush your teeth and reach into crevices others may not be able to. These toothbrushes are available everywhere; just make sure to carefully check the package when you shop to verify the bristle type. If you’re interested in ordering one online, click here. 

• Are you interested in trying out a new toothpaste brand? We have a couple of favorites!
• Crest is one of our favorite brands. You may hear of their famous over-the-counter whitening strips, but they offer a variety of toothpaste options, all of which can be found at your local store. Their whitening toothpaste line doesn’t disappoint; they also provide options for enamel repair, sensitive teeth, and gum health. If you want to see their complete list of options, click here.
• Colgate toothpaste is carried in your local drugstore or grocery store, making it easy to find. One of our favorite things about Colgate toothpaste is the fact it comes in so many variations. Whether you are looking for extra cavity prevention, whitening, stain fighting, something fun for your kids, or more, Colgate has you covered! We trust them to give you a healthy smile. Check out their vast array of toothpaste here.

We hope these suggestions were helpful. Other staff favorites are antibacterial mouthwash and sugar-free gum with xylitol, which is easy to find at most stores. At Hebron Family Dental, our patients come first. Our priority is to help achieve stellar oral health, and part of this is coming alongside your home dental care.

We look forward to seeing you for your first hygiene visit of 2023! To schedule or have any questions answered, call us at (972) 820-8780. Read more about your frequently asked dental questions.

At Hebron Family Dental, we get dental questions daily. We want to ensure our patients can make educated decisions about their oral healthcare. Part of our goal is to provide up-to-date, transparent information about why certain types of treatment are beneficial, what we do during a hygiene appointment, and why it’s essential to stay on top of your oral health. To aid in educating our patients, we are excited to provide answers to ten commonly-asked questions! 

 

1. My gums have been bleeding when I floss. Why? 

If you have built up plaque or tartar along your gumline, your gums may become red and inflamed and bleed due to activities such as flossing. A significant amount of buildup and bleeding may signify gum disease. We offer gum disease therapy and treatment at Hebron Family Dental and can improve you in no time! 

 

2. What options do you offer for replacing failing or missing teeth?

Hebron Family Dental offers dental implants and implant dentures, both of which are tried-and-true options for teeth giving you problems. A dental implant looks and operates like a natural tooth and can last a lifetime if well taken care of. Implant dentures are used for upper and lower arch replacements. Your smile will look as good as new!

 

3. What is plaque? Why is it important to have it removed?

Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth over time. If left unchecked for too long, the bacteria will produce acids damaging your enamel. If you do not have the plaque removed, it may turn into tartar, which is even more damaging. Keeping up with your at-home hygiene routine will keep plaque at bay but not wholly. That is why coming in to see us is so important! When you have a hygiene appointment, your hygienist will use special tools to rid your smile of lingering plaque.  

 

4. Do you offer teeth whitening, and is it painful?

We offer two forms of teeth whitening, ZOOM in-office whitening and take-home whitening kits. Both options will help make your smile brighter! ZOOM whitening involves applying a gel to your teeth and using an LED light to set it in. Our take-home kits consist of whitening strips you can use from the comfort of your home! 

 

5. What are the best practices for at-home dental care?

The most crucial aspect of your at-home smile routine is consistency! Make sure you have a good toothbrush and replace it every couple of months. Using fluoride-based toothpaste will aid in keeping plaque at bay. In addition to this, flossing daily is a must! We are aware that many patients don’t enjoy flossing, but the benefits outweigh the burden! If you want to keep your teeth extra clean, add mouthwash to eliminate stray bacteria. 

 

6. What causes my teeth to be sensitive to cold or hot temperatures?

If you experience discomfort with hot or cold food and drink, it may be time to have your smile looked at by one of our team members. Some common causes of this type of sensitivity are tooth decay, gum disease, gum tissue recession, cracks in your teeth, and clenching and grinding. We will help you resolve this issue and find the culprit! 

 

7. How often should I visit Hebron Family Dental?

For the best oral health, you should see us every six months. During these appointments, your teeth will be thoroughly cleaned of any developed plaque and tartar. You will also receive an exam from our dentist. She can spot any cavities or other oral health issues that may be forming and devise a potential treatment plan.

 

8. I have bad breath. What is causing it?

Bad breath is more common than you think, and we want to aid you in getting rid of it immediately! Most bad breath results from bacteria growth in your mouth, specifically near the back. Make sure you stay on top of your daily oral hygiene and visit us biyearly to prevent bacteria buildup. If the problem persists, see us, and we will devise a treatment plan that will leave you feeling fresh! 

 

9. What do you use to fix a cracked tooth?

There are a couple of options depending on how damaged your tooth is. We will strive to preserve as much of your tooth as possible. A filling is the most common procedure to correct a cavity or bond a tooth. If you have a severely cracked or broken tooth, we can place a crown to make it look as good as new. Crowns prevent weak, broken, or cracked teeth from further damage while looking and functioning just like a natural tooth. 

 

10. Do you accept pediatric patients?

Yes! We recommend children begin their dental care journeys either when their first teeth emerge or when they reach their first birthday. Starting a child’s dental journey from a young age will decrease dental anxiety and increase the chance of a lifelong healthy mouth!

 

We hope this answers some of your questions about our office, what we offer, and oral health in general. Hebron Family Dental strives to provide the absolute best experience and care to every patient who walks through our doors. Learn about Prevention and Treatment of Cavities here. If you have any other questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please call us at (972) 820-8780.

The holidays are finally upon us! November and December are two of the most festive months of the year, and the Hebron Family Dental team wants to ensure you enjoy them and have peace of mind regarding the health of your smile. It is commonly known that many staple holiday foods can stain the enamel if consumed carelessly. However, there are ways to enjoy these foods and maintain your oral health. We are here to share which foods and drinks to watch out for and tips for maximizing your time celebrating while keeping your smile shining.

Many Thanksgiving food and beverage items can stain your teeth, including coffee, red wine, cranberry sauce, and fruit pies. Thanksgiving wouldn’t be the same without them! While delicious, the dark colors of these foods and drinks bring with them the chance of staining your teeth.

1. Swap out your favorite fruit pies for equally-festive alternatives. While everyone loves a tasty cherry or blueberry pie, the fruit’s acidity can damage tooth enamel and leave stains. Opt for a pumpkin or chocolate pie. While still sugary, these pies will not affect your enamel.
2. Brush your teeth, or, if not possible, rinse your mouth soon after eating or drinking one of these items. This will wash any residue off your teeth and lessen the chances of yellowing or spotting. If this becomes a habit, your teeth will be grateful!
3. Drink dark-colored beverages over a short time instead of prolonged sipping. This will minimize the time your teeth are exposed to the drink. Also, sipping water with one of these beverages will aid in keeping your teeth clean.

Preventing yellowing and staining is one thing, but reversing it is entirely another. Did you know Hebron offers both in-office ZOOM teeth whitening and take-home teeth whitening kits? If you want to prepare your smile for holiday photos and gatherings, now is the perfect time to treat yourself!

If you have time to come into our office, ZOOM whitening is a fantastic option. Your teeth will be cleaned and prepared for the whitening treatment, after which an advanced whitening gel will be applied to them. Following the application, an LED lamp will be used to speed up the whitening process of the gel. The entire process will take about 45 minutes to one hour, and a post-treatment solution will be applied to your teeth to reduce any sensitivity and protect your enamel.

Our take-home teeth whitening kit consists of whitening strips that you will apply to your teeth once daily for five days. You must thoroughly brush your teeth before and after using the whitening strips. While there are many variations of whitening strips available at your local drugstore, ours will maximize the whitening process and give you long-lasting results.

Many patients have concerns about sensitivity and the impact on the gums caused by teeth whitening treatments. These whitening options will leave little to no effect on the gums, and the process used will minimize any sensitivity. Teeth whitening is the quickest, most effective way to rid your smile of stains and make it shades brighter. Are you interested in learning more or preparing your smile for the holidays with one of our whitening options? Call Hebron Family Dental today at (972) 820-8780.

Learn about Use it or Lose it Benefits here.

The last few months of 2022 are here! At Hebron Family Dental, we want to ensure you know the perks of using all your insurance dollars by year’s end. While this is a busy time of year, and the health of your smile may be the last thing on your mind, it is still integral to note many dental insurance companies will not roll unused benefits over into the following calendar year. This means they are lost! Our office can provide many cosmetic, restorative, and general dentistry services that will allow you to use your benefits before you lose them!

Have you had your teeth cleaned recently? A cleaning twice yearly is vital for maintaining oral health. Your dental hygienist will remove any plaque buildup, which aids in cavity prevention. More serious dental treatment may need to be considered when cavities are left unattended for too long. Keeping up with your hygiene appointments will ensure this does not happen. In addition to this, your smile will be fresh and sparkling just in time for the most joyous three months of the year! 

Have you been considering a major dental procedure? Getting started with an extensive procedure like dental implants can be nerve-wracking. We are here to make the process comfortable for our patients! Extensive procedures will begin with a consultation, where you will meet with one of our dentists to discuss the treatment you are considering, any hesitations you may have, and devise a treatment plan. From there, you will be able to move forward with peace of mind knowing that you are working with a team that cares and has your best interests at heart. It is the perfect opportunity to use those benefits before you lose them!

Have you checked to see if you have any incomplete treatment? This could be anything from a deep cleaning to a filling to a root canal! Getting your treatment scheduled and completed before the year ends will benefit your oral health and put your mind at ease. Some of the most widely-offered treatments we give patients revolve around fixing cavities. If you have a small cavity, you may need nothing more than a filling! If you have put off your cavity treatment for a while, the cavity may grow and become infected. This may necessitate a root canal, in which your dentist will remove the infected pulp from your tooth root and fill it so it will look and function naturally. Getting cavities treated as soon as they are diagnosed is very important, as it will ensure less intensive treatment is needed later on. 

The Hebron Family Dental team is excited about the holidays! We want you to feel confident in your smile. It is a wonderful time to book an appointment, whether it be your regular six-month cleaning and checkup, restorative treatment, or cosmetic procedures! Trust us, taking advantage of your dental insurance benefits will aid in peace of mind and a beautiful smile!

Do you have any questions about your coverage, or would you like to schedule an appointment before the end of the year? Call us at (972) 820-8780. We look forward to seeing you!

Read more about overcoming dental anxiety.

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Hebron Family Dental takes pride in giving every patient the resources to pursue a bright, healthy smile. Not having access to dental insurance or having previously elected dental insurance at all can make obtaining basic oral healthcare a difficult and stressful experience. If this sounds like you or you are unhappy with your current dental insurance plan, we have great news! Hebron Family Dental offers a Membership Plan to all patients.

What does a dental membership with our office entail? We are here to provide you with the information you need to decide whether this plan is right for you and your family. Just like regular dental insurance, our plan covers preventative dental care (cleanings, routine x-rays, etc.). It also offers discounts on other treatment options available in our office. Preventive dental care coverage is crucial because it will make it much easier to have your teeth cleaned and checked twice yearly. Attending these appointments is a great way to catch oral health problems before they become more serious.

Our plan comes without the hassles that frustrate patients with their regular dental insurance providers. Your benefits start immediately, and you will not have any waiting periods or pre-approvals upon signing up! There are also no copays, deductibles, or annual maximums. You get exactly what you pay for with full price transparency. Three variations of the plan are offered: Child Complete, Adult Complete, and Perio Care.

What do these plans include?

Our plans make your oral healthcare journey easy to understand and affordable. You won’t receive benefits like this through your traditional dental insurance provider! By offering this plan, our team hopes more patients will realize how important it is to stay on top of their dental appointments. The health of your smile can be directly linked to your quality of life, and putting care off for too long can have undesirable consequences. Our plan can help you take the next step in your smile journey with us! If you have any questions or want to sign up, call Hebron Family Dental at (972) 820-8780.

Your bi-yearly visits to Hebron Family Dental are terrific and necessary, but how do you know if you need to schedule an additional appointment? While keeping up with your hygiene and exams will do wonders for the health of your smile, there is still a possibility oral health issues may arise. We want to aid you in identifying these problems. Catching them early will ensure they can be treated promptly and will not become more severe. Helping our patients improve their smiles while saving money on treatment and time spent at our office is a priority!

Everyone wants shining, healthy teeth. A beautiful smile increases confidence and will lead to better health in other areas of your life. There are many dental anomalies that, if not dealt with, can hinder your overall well-being and confidence. They are more widespread than you think, and knowing how to spot them will decrease your chances of permanent damage to one or multiple teeth. 

So what are some of the most frequent dental complications?

1. Tooth decay is the most widespread problem we see in patients. It occurs when bacteria form plaque on the surface of your teeth, which can permanently damage the enamel. This damage is characterized by toothaches, pain when eating or drinking hot or cold foods, dark spots on your teeth, and even occasional cracks or pits.
2. A dental abscess is caused by the buildup of bacteria in a tooth’s root. If you have a persistent, severe toothache, there is a good chance you may have an infected root. 
3. Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be very distressing to patients. It is commonly the result of dry mouth, poor oral hygiene, an infection, or several other factors. If you have bad breath, your dentist will assess the situation to determine its cause and what treatment is needed. 
4. Gum disease has many different stages and starts as a bacterial infection caused by plaque buildup. Left untreated, it can lead to periodontitis: the most severe form. Tobacco use, irregular oral hygiene, and diabetes are all risk factors. 
5. Tooth sensitivity can be an extremely uncomfortable sensation. When your enamel is worn away, hot and cold foods and drinks will cause pain. This is due to the dentin being exposed, which contains tubes leading to the nerve attached to your tooth.

One of the best ways to avoid these concerns in the first place is by coming in to see us regularly! During your dental exam, your dentist will check your mouth for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and infection. If you are experiencing sensitivity in one or more of your teeth or struggle with bad breath, these visits are a perfect opportunity to get started with treatment and address your concerns. To book an appointment, call us at (972) 820-8780. Learn about dental anxiety.