Family Dentistry Marshall, TX

Our comprehensive general dental office provides family dentistry for patients of all ages. Preventative dental care is crucial to maintaining good oral health. We make things easier for your busy schedule by allowing you to get routine exams and cleaning simultaneously with your other family members.

Regular dental appointments allow us to monitor the mouth’s development, give deep dental cleanings, and provide patient education to ensure you’re taking care of your oral health properly. This is especially crucial for children, as their mouths constantly grow and change.family dental care in marshall, texas

The Importance of Preventative Care

Preventative care provides the basis for your oral health. It needs to occur not only with regular dental visits but also at home.

At home, you should be brushing at least twice daily and flossing at least once daily. Regular brushing and flossing is the best prevention against plaque and tartar buildup. Plaque and tartar are the leading causes of problems like tooth decay and gum disease. Brushing and flossing clean your teeth between dental visits, as these are months apart. Try to floss or brush after every meal, as food debris builds up easily.

But just because you brush diligently at home doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. Particularly if you have crooked or cramped teeth, it’s difficult to clean every single nook and cranny without the assistance of specialized dental tools. Coming into the office twice yearly allows us to deep clean these easily missed areas. You can still be at high risk of oral health problems even if you’re brushing and flossing regularly if you don’t have regular dental appointments, too.

Dental visits aren’t just cleanings. We also perform a thorough oral health exam. The exam is vital for catching oral health issues before they worsen. Conditions like oral cancer and gum disease have early warning signs that aren’t painful. It’s easy for people to brush them aside as nothing. Our specialists train to recognize these specific symptoms in their early stages. Early intervention is essential for less expensive and invasive treatment.

Not only does our office have experts, but we also use diagnostic tools to see what eyes cannot. X-rays have been an important part of dental treatment for a long time. They specifically address conditions like dental cavities between teeth and impacted teeth still under the surface. These things may not have any symptoms or be visible even with our trained eyes.

Starting Good Oral Health Habits Early

You should start bringing your child to the dentist within six months of their first tooth erupting or a year of age, depending on what comes first. Starting dental care at a young age is important for the smile’s longevity. Bringing children to the dentist office early allows them to get used to the environment, lessening the chance of developing fear and anxiety in the future.

Babies still need brushing and flossing, even with only a few teeth. Coming to the dentist with your child allows us to show you the proper tools and techniques to assist your child in home oral healthcare. We can discuss any concerns you have specific to your child or more general needs about children’s teeth. Our team and office are meant to keep you comfortable and keep you and your child at ease whenever you’re visiting.

Many children experience dental fear or anxiety. The office is a new environment with strange sounds and bright lights. We work to ensure your child is as comfortable as possible. Our office staff trains specifically to help put children at ease. Having you along helps, too. You can sit with them throughout their appointment, providing a familiar face. They can also watch you going through your own dental procedure and see that it’s nothing they have to be afraid of.

Diet and Oral Health

One of the most important aspects of a diet for oral health is consuming calcium-rich foods. Calcium is essential for maintaining strong teeth and bones. Foods such as dairy products, leafy greens, and almonds are all rich sources of calcium. Including these foods in your diet can help to prevent tooth decay and strengthen enamel.
 
Another important nutrient for oral health is vitamin C. Vitamin C is necessary for the production of collagen, a protein that helps to maintain the strength of gums and connective tissues in the mouth. Citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers are all high in vitamin C and can help to promote healthy gums.
 
Consuming foods rich in phosphorus is important in addition to calcium and vitamin C. Phosphorus is essential for the formation of teeth and bones and plays a key role in maintaining dental health. Foods such as lean meats, fish, and nuts are all excellent sources of phosphorus and should be included in a balanced diet.
 
A diet high in sugar and carbohydrates can negatively impact oral health. Sugary foods and drinks can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, which can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Additionally, the acids produced by bacteria can erode tooth enamel, leading to cavities and sensitivity.
 
Limiting the consumption of sugary and acidic foods and drinks is important to maintain good oral health. Instead, choose nutritious snacks such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts. These foods not only provide essential nutrients for oral health but also help stimulate saliva production, which can help neutralize acids in the mouth.
 
In addition to a healthy diet, proper oral hygiene practices are essential for maintaining good oral health. Brushing and flossing regularly can help to remove plaque and prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria in the mouth. It is recommended to brush at least twice a day and floss once a day to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
 
Regular dental check-ups are also important for preventing oral health issues. Dentists can detect early signs of decay or gum disease and provide treatment before more serious problems develop. They can also provide guidance on proper oral hygiene practices and recommend dietary changes to improve oral health.

Schedule an Appointment

We offer flexible appointments to ensure scheduling your whole family is easy. Call us or reach out to schedule an appointment online.