Benefits of Dental Cleanings

Benefits of Dental Cleanings

Benefits of Dental Cleanings

Advantages of Dental Cleanings for Your Oral Health

If you’re looking for a dentist in Colorado Springs, one of the most important things to consider is getting regular dental cleanings. Cleanings are beneficial not just for aesthetic purposes but because they can also prevent health issues or serious dental problems from occurring down the line. By scheduling an appointment with a dentist in Colorado Springs, like Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, you’ll be taking advantage of preventative care that can help keep your teeth and gums healthy for many years to come. In this blog post we will discuss how regular dental cleanings can benefit you and your oral hygiene overall – so read on!

Overview of the importance of oral hygiene and how it can help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath

Oral hygiene is crucial in maintaining a healthy mouth, preventing tooth decay, and avoiding gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss. Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly are essential aspects of oral hygiene. Moreover, good oral hygiene can help reduce bad breath, a common problem that can cause social embarrassment. By taking care of your teeth and gums, you can prevent many dental problems and enjoy a healthy smile for years to come. Remember, prevention is always better than cure when it comes to dental health, and good oral hygiene habits are the foundation of prevention.

Describe the process of a dental cleaning – what happens during an appointment and why it is important

For many people, a visit to the dentist can cause anxiety and fear, but understanding the process of a dental cleaning can help alleviate some of those concerns. When you arrive for your appointment, you will likely start with a brief discussion about your medical history and any concerns you have. Next, the dental hygienist will use specialized tools to remove any plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth and along the gumline. They will also use a gritty toothpaste and high-powered brush to give your teeth a deep clean. After the cleaning, the dentist will typically conduct an exam to check for any signs of cavities or gum disease. While a dental cleaning may not be the most enjoyable experience, it is a critical part of maintaining good oral health. By having regular cleanings, you can prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and more serious dental issues down the line.

Explain how regular cleanings can help maintain healthy teeth and gums

Maintaining good oral health is essential for overall well-being. Regular dental cleanings are a crucial part of any oral hygiene routine as they help to prevent serious dental problems, such as gum disease and tooth decay. During a cleaning, plaque and tartar are removed from the teeth and gums, leaving your mouth feeling fresh and clean. Your dentist or hygienist will also use this time to check for any signs of oral cancer and identify any potential issues before they become major problems. It is recommended that individuals schedule a cleaning every six months to ensure optimal dental health. Taking care of your teeth now can prevent future dental issues and ultimately lead to a healthier, happier life.

Talk about the benefits of preventive care, such as avoiding costly procedures down the road

Preventive care is not only important for maintaining good health, but it can also save you a significant amount of money in the future. By participating in routine check-ups and screenings, you can catch potential health problems before they become major concerns. This can prevent the need for costly procedures and treatments down the road. In addition, preventive care can lead to early detection of chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure, allowing for timely interventions that can improve outcomes. By making preventive care a priority, you can not only maintain a healthy lifestyle, but also save yourself from financial burdens in the long run.

Discuss how to maintain good oral hygiene at home with tips for brushing, flossing, eating healthy foods, etc.

Maintaining good oral hygiene is important for a healthy mouth and overall well-being. There are several tips to keep in mind when taking care of your teeth and gums at home. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush for at least two minutes can help remove plaque and prevent gum disease. Flossing once a day can also help reach areas between teeth that a toothbrush can’t. Eating a balanced diet that’s low in sugar and high in fruits and vegetables can provide essential nutrients for healthy teeth and gums. Additionally, drinking water and chewing sugar-free gum can help increase saliva flow, which helps neutralize acids that can cause cavities. By following these simple steps, you can maintain a healthy smile and prevent dental problems.

List local dentists who offer quality services at reasonable prices

Finding a reliable and affordable dentist can sometimes feel like a daunting task. However, there are several local dentists in the area who offer quality services while keeping costs reasonable for their patients. Whether you need a routine checkup, dental cleaning, or more extensive procedures, you can trust these professionals to provide the care you need without breaking the bank. So, if you’re looking for a dentist who can give you the best value for your money, be sure to check out these local providers. You might just find the perfect dentist for your family’s needs!

Contact Us Today

In conclusion, there are many benefits to maintaining a good oral hygiene routine. Not only does it help keep your teeth and gums healthy and free of cavities or gum disease, but it can also prevent bad breath, promote better overall health, and prevent costly procedures down the road. Additionally, regular dental cleanings are a great way to catch any problems before they become more severe. With tips for home care like brushing twice a day and flossing at least once daily, along with eating healthy foods and avoiding sugary snacks, you can ensure that your teeth and gums will stay in optimal shape for years to come. For those looking for quality dentists in their area at affordable prices, our list of local providers is sure to cover all the bases. At the end of the day, good oral hygiene isn’t just good for your mouth—it’s good for your holistic health too. Contact us today at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry to schedule an appointment with our team. 

Halloween Dental Health Tips

Dental Health Tips for a Healthy Halloween

Halloween Dental Health Tips

Halloween Dental Health Tips in 2021

It’s that time of year again! At Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, we love to celebrate Halloween just like the kids do. From the hilarious and spooky costumes to the festive Halloween decorations, parties, and going trick or treating of course. However, with all of this fun comes an influx of candy and other sweet treats. Halloween fun can soon turn into a scary dental emergency. The good news is that as your favorite dentist in Colorado Springs, we have found ample opportunities to turn that decay train right around and get back on track to good oral health. Our team at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry has some great Halloween dental health tips to ensure everyone enjoys the holiday.

Fill Those Hungry Bellies

It doesn’t matter how young or young at heart we are. If we’re hungry, we will typically choose something quick and easy. Sometimes this is a less than healthy choice. Even our best dentist in Colorado Springs is guilty of occasionally reaching for the less than healthy option! Enjoying a healthy meal right before going out trick or treating, or before going to enjoy other Halloween festivities, can make it less likely that candy and other sugary treats will be consumed in large quantities. 

If you’re hosting a small celebration, be sure to offer healthier alternatives to candy and other treats that could be considered less than healthy. Even fresh fruit, cheese, and crackers can be a good alternative.

If you have sugar-free sweet treats to set out at a party, Colorado Springs dentists will give a thumbs up to this healthier alternative.

Let the Kids Pick Out Their Favorite Halloween Treats

Everyone should be able to enjoy their Halloween. Depriving your children of the trick or treating experience and their haul’s enjoyment can make it much more likely that they will sneak more when you’re not looking. This could result in late-night snacking and un-brushed teeth. 

As a family dentist in Colorado Springs, we know that this is a truly spooky thought! Imagine, teeth going without brushing before bed, after those sticky, sugary treats… Moderation and balance is the key to a healthy diet and a healthy lifestyle. This also offers the opportunity to explain to your kids just how important it is to find that balance particularly, as it relates to limiting sugar due to the increased risk of cavities.

Allow your children to go through their Halloween candy haul and pick out their favorites. Dr. Beth Herko, a family dentist in New Providence, NJ recommends offering a candy exchange for a book or toy that you know they’ll love! You could also donate the candy that they don’t keep.

Skip any of those sticky and chewy sweet treats like gummies or caramels and even Tootsie Rolls. They can prove difficult to remove from teeth, and the stickiness causes them to linger on teeth. Be sure to avoid sour sweets, if possible. They are known for being incredibly acidic, leading to damage to tooth enamel and the potential for decay. As your dentist in Colorado Springs, we’ve seen our fair share of decay due to these treats. It’s even scarier than that zombie hanging on your front door!

Establish a Good Oral Hygiene Routine

There’s no better time than Halloween to encourage and establish an oral hygiene routine that will last a lifetime. Brushing and flossing is an essential part of maintaining oral wellness at any age. Your children should be brushing their teeth about 30 minutes after enjoying sugary treats, and of course, when they first wake up and before they turn in for the night.

Ensure that they are using a fluoride toothpaste and a mouthwash that has been made for children. This will encourage them to take better care of their teeth. A good oral hygiene routine is to visit your dentist in Colorado Springs for checkups and cleanings. Preventative dentistry is key, Dr. Boals says!

Parents and kids often ask what they can do to make brushing more of a routine. We like to think that the trick to avoid cavities is to make brushing and flossing fun. Let your kids pick out their toothbrushes. Perhaps a spinning brush with a favorite superhero on it. Let them pick out their favorite flavor in toothpaste. The more involved your children are with their dental wellness, the more they will take ownership of their teeth.

You can trust Kissing Camels Family Dentistry when you need dental services in Colorado Springs, CO. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to see all of our spooky updates!

 

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in October 2020 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness. 

National Dental Hygiene Month

National Dental Hygiene Month

National Dental Hygiene Month 2021

Happy National Dental Hygiene Month! That’s right, all October long, Kissing Camels Family Dentistry is celebrating your dental hygiene. Why, you may ask? Proper oral hygiene habits and professional routine cleanings are key to avoiding dental issues. Small dental problems such as cavities can quickly escalate into dental emergencies. To avoid the pain and the cost of these dental problems, Dr. Boals, our Colorado Springs Dentist, recommends incorporating the following tips into your daily routine. 

Dental Hygiene Tip: Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day

Brushing your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes is the first step to good dental hygiene. There are a few things to consider before brushing your teeth. Do you have the right toothbrush and toothpaste? Yes, these things do play a role in your oral health. It’s important to use the correct size toothbrush. Using a kid’s toothbrush as an adult wouldn’t do you any good. Dr. Boals says that you should be able to brush one to two teeth at a time. Don’t forget to switch out your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months. He also recommends finding a toothbrush that has soft bristles. You could irritate your gums if the bristles are too rough. Most family dentists in Colorado Springs recommends brushing your teeth with toothpaste that is ADA approved.

Dental Hygiene Tip: Floss Daily

Flossing should be done on a daily basis. Many dentists say that if you’re not flossing, you might as well not brush your teeth. That’s because 40% of your teeth are not properly cleaned and, as a result, cavities and tartar form. Over time, this will lead to gum disease and other dental problems. Avoid dental issues and floss at least once a day!

How to Floss: 

  1. Wrap about 18 inches of dental floss around two fingers, leaving about 1-2 inches of floss.
  2. Holding the floss with your thumb and index finger, insert the floss between two teeth.
  3. Gently move the floss up and down, rubbing it against both sides of each tooth. Try to avoid hitting your gums. 
  4. Once you’ve reached your gum line, curve the floss, and move it back and forth between one of the teeth.
  5. Move the floss to the next set of teeth, repeat the steps above until you’ve flossed between all your teeth.

Dental Hygiene Tip: Rinse With Mouthwash

Mouthwash can help you fight against bad breath, plaque, cavities, and yellow-teeth. Consider it as your secret weapon. When shopping around for mouthwash, you may be overwhelmed by how many different types are available. Try to find a mouthwash that will help you achieve your dental hygiene goals. Dr. Boals recommends using an ADA approved mouthwash that has some fluoride. Our friend Dr. Ben Kacos, a dentist in Shreveport, LA, points out that not every mouthwash is used the same way, so read the directions carefully.

Dental Hygiene Tip: Chew Sugar-Free Gum

Did you know that there are many benefits to chewing sugar-free gum after a meal? Patients are often surprised when they hear their hygienists recommend it. Sugar-free gum naturally helps produce more saliva in the mouth. Therefore, it washes away food particles and harmful bacteria. Those suffering from dry mouth can benefit from chewing sugar-free gum regularly. Some popular sugar-free gum brands are Orbit and Trident. 

Celebrate Dental Hygiene Month With Kissing Camels

As you can see, practicing good dental hygiene is very important. Implementing these habits every day will help you keep your smile happy and healthy for life. If you haven’t seen Dr. Boals for your routine check-up and cleaning, please contact our office. If you’re looking for a family dentist in West Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs, Centennial, or Fillmore, we’d be happy to see you! 

 

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in October 2020 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

Children’s Dental Health Month 2021

Children’s Dental Health Month - Colorado Springs Dentist

Children’s Dental Health Month 2021

February is Children’s Dental Health Month, and at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry we’ll be celebrating all month long! Whether you’re in Garden of the Gods, West Colorado Springs, Centennial, or Fillmore, we invite you to celebrate with our children’s dentist Colorado Springs and schedule an appointment for your little one today.

Between pediatric appointments, it’s important to keep up with your child’s oral hygiene to ensure that their mouth stays healthy and strong.  Here are a few of our best oral hygiene tips for kids to help your family avoid cavities, gum disease, and other oral health conditions:

1. Make Sure They’re Brushing Properly

Proper brushing is critical for your child’s oral health. Children typically have enough dexterity to brush their own teeth around age six. However, you should still supervise to make sure they’re brushing properly. Keep an eye out to make sure they are:

  • Holding the brush at a 45-degree angle to the tooth
  • Brushing in short, tooth-wide strokes
  • Starting with the outside of the teeth, then the inside of the teeth, and finish with the chewing surfaces
  • Brushing for at least two minutes, twice per day. The morning and evening are best.
  • Flossing once per day. You’ll have to floss for your child until they’re about 10, or are coordinated enough to do it yourself.

2. Lead By Example

The best way to get your kids to follow your oral hygiene tips is to lead by example! Make sure that you brush properly and floss once per day. When your kids see you taking care of your teeth, they’ll be more likely to do the same. And, as a bonus, if you make brushing a family activity, it will be easier to keep an eye on your kids to make sure they’re brushing the way they’re supposed to.

3. Drink More Water (And Avoid Soda And Juice)

Drinking more water will help your kids maintain a healthy mouth, particularly if it’s tap water or bottled water that includes fluoride. Water helps rinse away food debris and bacteria, and it also helps maintain a proper pH balance in the mouth says Georgetown KY dentist, Dr. Kristina Neda. Steer clear of excessive soda and juice consumption. Too much sugar and acid are one of the main reasons that children are more prone to cavities.

4. Consider Dental Sealants Or Fluoride Treatments

If your child is cavity-prone, fluoride treatments or dental sealants can help protect their smile. Fluoride treatments use a high concentration of fluoride, which Dr. Boals “paints” onto your child’s teeth. The fluoride helps remineralize and strengthen tooth enamel that has been softened due to decay.

Dental sealants can also help prevent cavities. Dr. Boals will coat your child’s rear molars with a special resin that will harden into a barrier and prevent bacteria from forming on your child’s teeth.

5. Don’t Forget About Six-Month Oral Exams And Teeth Cleanings

Come into Kissing Camels Family Dentistry every six months for an oral exam and teeth cleaning. This advice applies to parents, too! A regular oral exam and teeth cleaning is the best way to prevent cavities, periodontal disease, and other complications for patients of all ages.

Schedule Your Appointment Today – Celebrate Children’s Dental Health Month!

There’s no better time to schedule a preventive dentistry appointment at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry. Whether you need a pediatric appointment for your child or you’re overdue for an exam, get in touch right away! You can reach us at (719) 301-6604 for an appointment, or come by our office near Manitou Springs, Old Colorado City, and Mountain Shadows at 3470 Centennial Blvd, Suite 200, Colorado Springs, Co 80907.

Use Your Dental Benefits

Use your dental benefits - Dr. Boals

Use Your Dental Benefits

Studies have shown that people who have dental benefits are 58% more likely to visit their dentists, which results in better oral health. Additionally, people who have very good oral health were found to be two times as likely to have great physical well-being. The following are ways we at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry recommend to maximize your dental benefits before the year ends.

Good Oral Health May Keep You Healthy

Did you know that your overall health is connected to your oral health? Studies have shown that gum disease is linked to various health conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes. As a matter of fact, there are about 120 illnesses that can be detected by your Colorado Springs dentist during a dental exam. Making sure to have at least two dental visits in a year, every six months, may help detect any serious conditions. When these conditions are caught early on, you’re able to start treatment that much faster.

It should be noted that if you do have any other oral health issues, you should visit your Colorado Springs dentist for an evaluation. 

Get Preventive Care 

If you have not visited your 80920 dentist all year but may have concerns about your health, take action by visiting the dentist. This allows your dentist to spot and treat oral health issues that might occur early. This will save you from expenses and pain down the line. Contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry in Colorado Springs, CO to address any dental concerns that you may have and improve your oral health.

Visiting your dentist for any issues may make having dental insurance worth it. Most dental plans cover preventative care such X-rays and exams, as well as cleanings, at little or no cost to you. Any benefits you do not use by the end of the year expire. So, don’t waste your dental benefits!

Preventative dental care will save you a lot of money in the long run. So, if you do not have preventative care, consider purchasing a plan with a well-known insurance provider.

Visit Kissing Camels Family Dentistry to Save Your Money

As we all know, you should always make sure that your dentist is a licensed practitioner. Visiting our dental office in Colorado Springs, CO ensures you get quality and affordable care

Utilize Your Flexible Spending Account Dollars for all Your Dental Expenses 

Employers may provide Flexible Spending Accounts to patients to help them with medical bills. Below, our Colorado Springs CO dentist shares a few facts concerning FSAs that you should be aware of:

Your FSA balance covers most dental procedures (anything that prevents or treats a disease). This includes teeth extractions, cleanings, and fillings. Sadly, teeth whitening, which is a cosmetic procedure, might not be eligible. But if you would like to get your teeth whitened, give your cosmetic dentist in Colorado Springs a call. The good news is you can cover your out-of-pocket expenses for adult or child orthodontics using your FSA account. 

Unlike HSA (Health Savings Account) balances, FSA balances do not turn over, meaning that you must make sure you have used your benefits within the contribution year. Many plans have a 2 to 3 month grace period. However, many participants usually lose their unused money in their FSAs at year’s end in December. Please ensure that you ask your policy administrator for all the details on your policy and plan all your future dental and medical appointments accordingly. 

In addition to this, an FSA decreases your taxable income, and you can use that money for other health expenses. It also increases the amount you take home, so you gain more control over your family budget and a significant tax savings amount. Thus, Dr. Boals, the best dentist in Colorado Springs, explains that this allows you more room to plan for various expenses in the future.

Your Plan Benefits Reset in January

As the year comes to an end, you should review your dental plan to find out what is covered under it, the remaining amount, and when the benefits begin anew. Generally, dental plans cap the annual coverage limit and are done either by plan year or calendar year. If your benefits are by calendar year, they will automatically renew on January 1. This means that you will have to pay your deductible again after the 1st of every year. Also, your annual maximum will also be renewed at the start of your dental plan year, depending on your plan. If you did not visit your Colorado Springs dentist in the prior year, you may end up losing part of your maximum allocation.  

Additionally, our friends at New Providence Family Dentistry, New Providence NJ dentist explain if you had not used up your plan and may need treatment, make sure to take care of the issue before your plan renews on January 1. This applies to follow-up work as well. This will ensure that when your plan resets, you won’t use up a lot of the new year’s coverage.  

We recommend that you ensure you fully utilize your dental benefits before year’s end and schedule a visit with the best dentist in Colorado Springs. Start your new year with a healthy smile, more money in your pocket, and better overall health. If you’d like to know more about how you can make the most out of your dental benefits, contact your dentist at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry today.

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in November 2020  and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.