Understanding Bruxism: Nighttime Teeth Grinding Treatment in Fort Smith, AR

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, affects millions of men and women in America, but many of these individuals are unaware of their behavior because it frequently occurs while they’re sleeping. While it may not initially cause much discomfort, bruxism can lead to serious oral health consequences if not treated promptly and properly. At New Smile Dental, our team can help you find relief from the symptoms and complications associated with bruxism.

The Importance of Preventing Bruxism

Your jaws are capable of exerting an immense amount of pressure and force, even when you are fast asleep. This unconscious clenching of the jaw and grinding of the teeth can lead to a variety of problems, including:

·         Damage to existing dental work

·         Teeth that become worn down and shorter

·         Jaw tension and pain

·         TMJ disorder

·         Facial tenderness

Fortunately, treatment for bruxism is most often not invasive or expensive. A custom oral appliance, often referred to as a nightguard, can be worn while you sleep to protect the surfaces of your teeth from excessive grinding. This nightguard is customized to fit your unique dentition, so you can rest assured in the knowledge that it will fit comfortably in your mouth without obstructing your breathing.

Schedule Your Next Visit

If you or someone in your family is suffering from the symptoms of bruxism or TMJ disorder, please do not hesitate to contact our office to schedule a consultation with our team. We genuinely look forward to helping you achieve and maintain a healthy smile that is free of worn down teeth or aching jaw joints. Our Fort Smith, AR dental practice warmly welcomes patients from nearby communities in Sallisaw, Pocola, Alma, Greenwood, Van Buren, Poteau, Heavener, and beyond.

Pediatric Dental Care 101: How to Protect Your Child’s Dental Health

Does your child need a dental checkup? Children have special needs when it comes to dental care. Starting as early as four months, your child’s baby teeth will begin to appear, and all twenty primary teeth will erupt by age three. You should bring your child in for a pediatric dental checkup by their first birthday to ensure their healthy tooth development. If you’re looking for a gentle and compassionate family dentist, make a pediatric dental care appointment for your child with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental today. Dr. Lopez is a highly qualified family dentist, now delivering quality care daily throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren, and the surrounding communities.

Are “Baby Teeth” Really Important?

Absolutely. If a child doesn't receive pediatric dental care when they still have baby teeth, it can often affect their developing permanent teeth. Baby teeth play several important roles. They help children chew and eat properly, they provide space for the permanent teeth to erupt in the correct positions, and they allow the normal development of the jaw bone and supporting muscles. Baby teeth also affect your child’s ability to speak properly. While your child’s front four teeth may last until age seven, the back baby teeth aren’t fully replaced until age twelve. Therefore, it’s imperative that your child’s first teeth are protected and preserved throughout their younger years.

How Often Does Your Child Need a Pediatric Dental Checkup?

Your child should receive a pediatric dental checkup and cleaning at least once every six months. Some children may actually need more frequent dental visits because of an increased risk of tooth decay. Dr. Lopez will be able to determine how often your child will need pediatric dental care to maintain good oral health. But routine dental visits should help your child stay cavity-free through adulthood. Dr. Lopez can provide professional teeth cleanings to remove the harmful plaque buildup that irritates gums and causes decay. He can offer enamel strengthening fluoride treatments and protective dental sealants and instructions to improve your child's home oral care, ultimately leading to healthier teeth and gums.

Fort Smith Pediatric Dental Care Appointments

If your child hasn't seen a dentist this year, schedule their next pediatric dental care appointment with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental today. Dr. Lopez proudly serves patients of all ages daily throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren, and the neighboring areas.

Reliable Teeth Whitening Solutions from Dr. Lopez in Fort Smith, AR

How bright is your smile? If you are dissatisfied with the color or brightness of your teeth, Dr. Lopez can help. Even if you take great care of your oral health, your teeth can discolor and stain naturally over time. Everyday beverages like coffee, tea, and soda can all wreak havoc on your enamel and cause your teeth to yellow or stain. But you don’t have to settle for dull yellow teeth. You can make a teeth whitening appointment with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental today. Dr. Lopez is an experienced cosmetic dentist, offering highly reliable teeth whitening solutions. New Smile Dental proudly restores smiles daily throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren, and the surrounding communities.

What about Over- the- Counter Teeth Whitening Products?

Many over-the-counter products that claim to “whiten” your teeth are at best, misleading. There is a big difference between products that can whiten your teeth, and products that can actually bleach your teeth. Bleaching is performed when teeth are whitened beyond their natural color. This only applies to products that actually contain bleach (peroxides). Whitening, on the other hand, refers to the restoration of your tooth's surface color by removing shallow dirt and debris deposits. Therefore the over-the-counter products that claim to whiten your teeth, like teeth whitening toothpaste, cannot actually change your tooth’s color.  Other products, like teeth whitening strips, rinses, and gels may contain bleaching agents, however, only in heavily diluted concentrations. In most cases, it would take several weeks of daily use before you even began to see any changes in the color of your enamel. Either way, store bought products are not reliable choices for effective teeth whitening.

Why Choose Professional Teeth Whitening?

The fastest and most reliable way to whiten your teeth is to opt for professional teeth whitening from Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental. Dr. Lopez offers easy take-home custom-fitted teeth whitening trays with professional strength teeth bleaching agents, which can actually whiten your teeth by several shades in just a few days. Dr. Lopez will also ensure that your teeth and gums are protected from irritation and that teeth whitening treatment will be effective against your particular type of discoloration or staining.

Fort Smith Teeth Whitening Appointments

Make 2015 your brightest year yet! Schedule an appointment with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental for the reliable teeth whitening results you deserve. Dr. Lopez is the leading Fort Smith cosmetic dentist. New Smile Dental delivers quality care daily throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren, and nearby areas.

Preserve Your Natural Smile, Make a Periodontal Therapy Appointment with Dr. Lopez Today

Almost 50% of all Americans over 30 have some form of periodontal disease. Periodontal (gum) disease is an inflammatory condition that slowly destroys the tissues that support and protect your teeth. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. However, you can take action to stop the spread of periodontal disease and keep your natural teeth. By maintaining regularly scheduled dental cleanings with Dr. Lopez, you can prevent the disease from taking over your oral health. Make the periodontal therapy appointment you need to stay healthy with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental today. Dr. Lopez is a trusted family dentist, specializing in gum disease prevention and treatment. New Smile Dental delivers quality care daily throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren, and the surrounding communities.

Five Periodontal Disease Risk Factors

·         Plaque Build Up: If plaque is not removed through daily dental hygiene practices and regular professional dental cleanings, bacteria will multiply and eventually cause periodontal disease.

·         Organic Changes: Natural changes that occur in metabolism and hormone levels during pregnancy, puberty, and menopause, can make you more susceptible to developing periodontal disease.

·         Medical Conditions: Serious conditions that affect the body's ability to produce sugar, such as diabetes or kidney disease, may contribute to periodontal disease.

·         Dry Mouth: Medications that produce dry mouth may contribute to a reduction of protective saliva flow, and potentially lead to periodontal disease.

·         Behaviors: Nightly teeth grinding or teeth clenching may impair gum tissue and possibly contribute to the development of periodontal disease.

Do You Have Periodontal Disease?

If you notice any of the following periodontal disease symptoms, you should make an immediate appointment for periodontal disease therapy:

·         Bleeding gums

·         Tender, red, or swollen gums

·         Persistent bad breath

·         Loosened or shifting teeth

Fort Smith Periodontal Therapy Appointments

Since many early signs of periodontal disease are mild, and if left undetected, may contribute to tooth loss, it is important to visit Dr. Lopez for a professional exam and dental cleaning to identify and stop the disease in its tracks. Make an appointment with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental for the periodontal therapy you need today. Dr. Lopez is a highly qualified periodontal therapy dentist. New Smile Dental proudly restores smiles daily throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren, and neighboring areas.

Replace Your Old Metal Fillings with New Tooth Colored Composite Fillings in Fort Smith, AR

Do you still have metal in your mouth? If you still have old metal (amalgam) dental fillings, it may be time to have them replaced with more natural looking tooth colored composite fillings. Tooth colored composite fillings are fast becoming the preferred choice of most patients when filling dental cavities. They look great and they are better for your long term health since they don’t contain any metal or traces of mercury, a potentially dangerous material. Why gamble with your long term dental health? Make your tooth colored composite filling appointment with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental today. Dr. Lopez is a highly qualified restorative dentist. New Smile Dental proudly serves families throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren, and the surrounding communities.

What Are Tooth Colored Composite Fillings?

Tooth colored composite fillings are used to repair damaged teeth assailed by decay, cracks, fractures, or other injury.  The damaged portion of the tooth is carefully removed and then filled with the composite filling material. Composite fillings may be the most widely used filling material today.  Because they’re tooth colored, they most closely match the color of your existing teeth, and are therefore both restoratively and cosmetically beneficial.

How Are Tooth Colored Composite Fillings Placed?

Tooth colored composite fillings can be completed in one short visit.  Dr. Lopez will first numb your tooth to remove any decay. He will then thoroughly clean and carefully prepare the area before your new filling is placed.  If the damage or decay was near the nerve of your tooth, a special medication will be applied for added protection.  The tooth colored composite filling will then be placed, shaped, and polished, to completely restore your tooth to its natural form, color, and function. You will be given home care instructions at the end of your appointment.  Good oral hygiene practices, healthy eating habits, and regular dental checkups and cleanings will all prolong the life of your new composite fillings.

Fort Smith Tooth Colored Composite Fillings Appointments

Unsightly and potentially dangerous dental restorations are a thing of the past. Make an appointment with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental for your new tooth colored composite fillings today. Dr. Lopez and his experienced team remove and replace old metal fillings every day. Dr. Lopez is the trusted family dentist of patients throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren, and nearby cities.

Eliminate Tooth Pain and Sensitivity with Root Canal Therapy at New Smile Dental

Are you muddling through pain and discomfort caused by an infected tooth? Soreness, sensitivity, bleeding, and inflammation are all warning signs of a serious tooth infection. Left untreated, a tooth infection can lead to the development of an abscess and the eventual loss of the natural tooth. But you can avoid the frustration and costs of tooth replacement, by scheduling a root canal therapy procedure before it’s too late. Make your root canal therapy appointment with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental today. Dr. Lopez can provide immediate pain relief and save your natural teeth from extraction. Dr. Lopez proudly restores smiles throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren, and the surrounding communities.

What Happens During Root Canal Therapy?

Root canal therapy is needed when the pulp inside your tooth becomes infected with harmful bacteria. To save the tooth from further decay, and eventual extraction, Dr. Lopez can clean out the bacteria and disinfect the canals of the tooth. 

For a root canal procedure:

·         First, Dr. Lopez will numb the tooth and surrounding area with a local anesthetic to block any pain.

·         Next, he will make a hole in the tooth to gain access to the inside of the pulp chamber (root canal).

·         Then, Dr. Lopez will clean out, disinfect, shape, and fill in the canals with a rubber compound known as gutta-percha.

·         Finally, Dr. Lopez will seal your tooth and put in place a filling or dental crown for additional protection and support.

Root Canal Therapy Appointments in Fort Smith, AR

Depending on the severity of the infection, your root canal procedure can be completed in just one to two visits. You can make an appointment for the root canal therapy you need today with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental. Dr. Lopez is an experienced and gentle family and restorative dentist. New Smile Dental serves patients of all ages throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren, and nearby areas.

Oral Cancer Screenings from New Smile Dental

Visiting the dentist regularly will not only keep your smile healthy and attractive, it can also save your life. Oral cancer is rapidly becoming one of the most deadly forms of cancer, as it is so often discovered in the later stages of development. Early detection is the most relevant factor in determining oral cancer outcomes. Oral cancer screenings are a routine part of dental checkups. With thousands of new oral cancer cases appearing every year, it’s more important than ever to schedule a dental checkup so that you can be screened for signs of oral cancer. You can make an appointment for a dental checkup and oral cancer screening with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental today. He can help protect your smile and your overall good health. New Smile Dental proudly serves families throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren, and the surrounding communities.

What Are the Oral Cancer Warning Signs?

The physical signs of oral cancer may include:

·         Persistent red or white patches anywhere in the mouth

·         Non-healing ulcers in the mouth

·         Progressive swelling or enlargements in the mouth

·         Unusual surface changes anywhere in or near the mouth

·         Sudden tooth looseness and mobility

·         Unusual oral bleeding

·         Prolonged hoarseness or sore throat

Who’s at Risk for Developing Oral Cancer?

Risk for the development of oral cancer is higher in men than women, but increases for everyone as we get older. You may be at heightened risk if you use any type of tobacco, drink alcohol in excess, allow excessive sun exposure, or contract the human papillomavirus (HPV).

Oral Cancer Screenings in Fort Smith, AR

Many studies have shown that regular dental care can add years to your life. This is especially true when you add in the benefits of early detection with regular oral cancer screenings. Scheduling semi-annual dental appointments can help you avoid tooth decay, preserve your healthy smile, and literally save your life. Don’t put off the dental care you need any longer. Be proactive and make an appointment for a dental checkup with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental today. Dr. Lopez is an experienced and compassionate family dentist. New Smile Dental restores smiles daily throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren, and nearby areas.

General Dentistry Advice: What Causes Cavities?

Cavities start to form when simple sugars remain on the teeth over time.  These sugars promote the growth of the destructive bacteria that erodes tooth enamel. However, you can’t prevent cavities by only avoiding sweets and sugary drinks. The truth is that any simple sugar can promote the growth of cavity causing bacteria in your mouth. Carbohydrates, which make up the majority of our diets, are equally as harmful to our teeth. How can we avoid cavities if so much of the food we eat everyday causes tooth decay? Well, you can start by incorporating the advice below. Then, make an appointment for a dental check-up with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental. Dr. Lopez has the tools your family needs to fight cavities and gum disease. Dr. Lopez proudly serves families throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren and surrounding areas. 

6 Ways to Fight Cavities

·         Oral Hygiene- Brush, floss, and use mouth wash twice a day. You can help prevent cavity causing bacteria and plaque build-up by reducing the amount of food particles in your mouth.

·         Dairy- Incorporate more dairy products into your diet. Low fat milk and cheese provide the calcium and Vitamin D that strengthen your teeth and bones.

·         Black Tea- The antioxidant epigallocatechin, found in black tea, has been shown to reduce the growth of harmful bacteria.

·         Sugar Free Gum- Xylitol, a key ingredient in sugar free gum, has been shown to dramatically reduce tooth decay.

·         Crunchy Foods- Chewing crunchy foods, like nuts and crunchy veggies, can help to decrease plaque buildup.

·         Dental Check-Ups- It’s essential to see your dentist for a professional dental exam and cleaning twice a year to prevent cavities and other damage to your teeth.

Prevent and Treat Cavities in Fort Smith, AR

Unfortunately, cavities can form even if you follow a stringent oral hygiene regimen and eat a healthy diet. The key ingredient to a healthy smile is visiting Dr. Lopez for a regular dental check-up. Dental exams and cleanings can greatly reduce the likelihood of developing cavities. If you already have cavities, Dr. Lopez can offer treatment to make sure that your teeth are not damaged any further. Don’t take a chance with your dental health. Make an appointment with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental to get the professional dental care you need. Dr. Lopez proudly serves families throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren and nearby communities.

Schedule Holiday Dental Care Appointments for the Whole Family

With all of the festivities, preparations, and things to do during the holiday season, you can easily forget about taking care of your teeth. That’s why your dental health is so vulnerable this time of year. We may skimp on our oral care routines just as we start to consume more sugary treats and desserts than normal. This is a very bad combination for your teeth. But you can be proactive and protect your dental health and the dental health of your family this holiday season. Take note of the important healthy holiday habits below. Then make sure everyone in your family is caught up with their regular dental check-ups. A regular dental check-up can prevent tooth decay and gum disease. If it’s been over six months, make an appointment with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental to get your family the dental care they need for the holidays. Dr. Lopez proudly serves families throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren and surrounding areas. 

Holiday Dental Care Tips

·         Focus on a Few Big Meals- While it’s never healthy to over eat, it is healthier for your teeth if you forgo snacking in between meals and focus on just a few hearty meals during the day. Snacking throughout the day can prolong the time your teeth are exposed to harmful sugary residue. You also produce more saliva during big meals. This helps to wash away cavity causing bacteria and the excess sugars they feed upon.

·         Grab a Straw- While it may be hard to avoid any sugary beverages during holiday gatherings, you can help avoid the residual damage to your teeth by always using a straw. This redirects the harmful sugars away from your teeth and gums.

·         Milk a Cow- Well, not literally. But you should try drinking glass of low fat milk or eating a piece of cheese after consuming sugary treats. Milk will help wash away the sugars and the calcium and vitamin D in dairy products will help to strengthen your teeth and fight cavities.

·          Grab a Stick-A stick of sugar free gum that is. Sugar free gum contains an ingredient known as Xylitol, which actually helps to fortify your teeth against decay and gum disease.

Holiday Dental Care in Fort Smith, AR

What better gift to give your family this holiday than a bright, healthy smile? You can make an appointment with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental today for a pre or post- holiday dental check-up. Dr. Lopez proudly serves families throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren and neighboring communities.

Is it Time to Get Dentures?

As we age, our teeth can start to be a big problem. Even with proper oral care and routine dental visits, your dental work will eventually wear out and need to be replaced. Teeth will discolor over time and you may develop gum disease as a side effect of your medication or an unrelated illness. When the time comes to consider getting dentures, you shouldn’t let the idea scare you. The alternative to dentures (no teeth) is a much scarier proposition. Your teeth aren’t just there to complete your beautiful smile. They’re there for basic functions like talking and eating. Educate yourself and make an appointment with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental to discuss your options. Dr. Lopez proudly serves families throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren and neighboring communities.

The Dentures Process

·         Unhealthy teeth are extracted.

·         Temporary dentures are made in advance and can be positioned as soon as teeth are removed. Custom dentures are made after teeth have been removed and gum tissue has begun to heal.

(3 to 6 months after tooth removal)

·         Adjustment to dentures may take a few weeks until the muscles of your cheek and tongue learn to keep them in place. Minor irritation or soreness may occur and saliva flow may increase. These problems will diminish as your mouth adjusts to the new denture.

Quality Dentures in Fort Smith, AR

Over 32 million Americans wear full or partial dentures. You may or may not be a good candidate for dentures depending on your unique medical and dental history. If you still have the option, keeping your natural teeth as long as possible with quarterly cleanings and examinations is the best way to go. Porcelain crowns, bonding and veneers are all great methods for restoring your natural teeth. If you’re healthy enough, dental implants are also a good option. All tooth replacement processes take time. That’s why you should make an appointment with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental as soon as possible to discuss your treatment options. Dr. Lopez proudly serves families throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren and neighboring communities.

Cosmetic Dentist: How Can Porcelain Veneers Fix My Smile?

A perfect smile is closer than you think with porcelain veneers.  Porcelain veneers are ultra thin shells of tooth colored ceramic that are attached to the front teeth for an immediate smile renovation. Porcelain veneers look just like natural teeth and are individually crafted for each patient. If you want to explore the porcelain veneers smile solution, make an appointment with Dr. Lopez at New Smile Dental today. Dr. Lopez proudly serves patients throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren and neighboring communities.

Cosmetic Dentist: The Benefits of Porcelain Veneers

·         Durable - Made of a strong, durable material, so that you can continue to enjoy your favorite foods without worry.

·         Long-Lasting - Can last as long as 10 to 15 years and in some cases even a lifetime, with proper upkeep.

·         Natural-Looking - Specially made to match the natural tooth enamel. Porcelain veneers are thin and translucent, so when light is cast onto the veneer, it appears just as the natural tooth would.

·         Customized - during your first appointment, Dr. Caputo will take an impression of your teeth. The mold will then be sent to a laboratory so that the veneers can be hand-crafted to fit your individual tooth.

·         Quick and Simple - Typically completed in just two office visits. Patients generally experience minimal discomfort and stress throughout the entire process.

·         Stain-Resistant - Resistant to staining, unlike natural teeth. You can still enjoy coffee, tea, soda, and other products that normally cause staining of the teeth.

·         Diverse – Can correct a variety of imperfections like teeth that are cracked, chipped, broken, badly discolored, widely spaced, or slightly misaligned.

·         No Recovery Time - After the placement procedure is complete, patients can leave immediately and carry on with normal, everyday activities. You can eat whatever you want right away.

·         Compatible with Other Treatments - Dr. Caputo can administer a teeth whitening treatment as a finishing touch to your new, gorgeous smile. Dr. Caputo can perform other procedures in conjunction with placing veneers.

·         Enhance Confidence – Your new smile can help you feel more confident about your appearance, and give you a better quality of life.

Cosmetic Dentist: Where Can I Get Porcelain Veneers in Fort Smith, AR?

Porcelain veneers are the most versatile option for those with more than one cosmetic concern about their teeth. Make an appointment with. Dr. Lopez can provide quality dental treatment and cosmetic dentistry solutions for any concern at New Smile Dental. Dr. Lopez is restoring smiles throughout Fort Smith, AR, Van Buren and surrounding cities.

How Chewing Ice is Bad For Your Smile

One of the most interesting things about people are the habits and quirks that make up a part of their personality. Common habits such as playing with their hair and biting on their nails are only a few things that make a person unique, and many people have many different habits that make them different from everyone else. A common habit that many people share is chewing on ice. Although it may seem harmless, chewing ice can be more detrimental than you may think, especially for your smile.

One of the main reasons why chewing ice is bad for your smile is because it deteriorates the enamel on your smile. Because your jaw is very powerful and strong, when you bite on the hard ice, it lessens the strength of your enamel. When your enamel is not as strong as it needs to be, it makes you more susceptible to tooth sensitivity. Also, with the temperatures in your mouth repeatedly changing from hot to cold, it could damage the fillings you have. The temperature change has the potential to cause your fillings to swell quicker than your tooth, making the fillings counterproductive over time.

Not only is chewing gum bad for your teeth, but it is also bad for your gums. With ice having sharp edges, when you chew on it, it has the potential to puncture and damage the soft tissues in your mouth. Many people do not know that having healthy gums equates to having a healthy smile and body, and when that is compromised, the effects can be detrimental. By keeping these few simple tips in mind, you will be able to be more aware of your unconscious habits and how it plays a bigger role in your oral health than you may think.

At New Smile Dental, we focus on enhancing and restoring the beauty of your smile with help from the latest dental technology. Dr. Gilbert Lopez treats patients from Fort Smith and Van Buren, AR and surrounding areas. Call us today to schedule your next appointment.

How Chewing Gum Is Actually Good For Your Smile!

There are many habits that people have that they perform without even thinking about it. Biting nails, playing with hair- both of these are examples of habits people do unconsciously. Another habit may be chewing gum. Chewing gum is a simple yet effective habit that can ease your stress, keep you occupied, or simply cure a simple sweet tooth. What you may not know, however, is that chewing gum could be good for your teeth!

Since ancient times, the Greeks, Mayans, and Native Americans all enjoyed in some form of gum chewing, and today in the 21^st century, we are no different. With so many options of chewable delights to choose from, sometimes the options can be overwhelming, but they all work to deliver a healthier smile. Chewing gum increases the production of saliva in your mouth, and that increase can neutralize and eliminate the acids and leftover food particles in your mouth after you eat. This also leads to a lower risk of plaque and tartar buildup, as the bacteria will not have enough time to stay in your mouth and attach themselves to your teeth.

Also, chewing gum, along with the increased saliva production, carries more calcium and phosphate, both of which help build stronger tooth enamel, meaning a healthier smile. Studies have shown that chewing gum for at least twenty minutes after eating a meal helps prevent tooth decay, which can really make a difference down the road in regards to your smile.

So the next time you put a piece of gum in your mouth, you will be able to relish in the fact that it is doing wonders for your smile!

At New Smile Dental, we focus on enhancing and restoring the beauty of your smile with help from the latest dental technology. Dr. Gilbert Lopez treats patients from Fort Smith and Van Buren, AR and surrounding areas. Call us today to schedule your next appointment.

The Importance of Toothbrush Maintenance

Making sure that you have excellent oral care is very important, not just for your mouth, but for your body as a whole. Many people do not realize that the how you care for your mouth is indicative to how the rest of your body functions, as [your mouth] is a portal to your other important functions and organs. Brushing and flossing your teeth every day are an excellent way in making sure your smile stays healthy, but making sure you have the right tools to take proper care of your smile is equally as important. In regards to your toothbrush, you may be surprised to find out just how important such a small tool is to the overall care of your person.

One of the most important things to remember when taking care of your toothbrush is to not share it with anyone. Sharing your toothbrush is the opportunity for saliva and other microorganisms to make your body their new home, increasing the risk of infections. Another important aspect in toothbrush maintenance is to rinse your toothbrush after brushing your teeth. That way, any remaining debris or toothpaste is down the drain and not in your mouth for the next time you brush your teeth. Do not make a habit of covering the toothbrush in any sort of closed container, as this is a way for microorganisms to breed and infect your toothbrush.

Replacing your toothbrush every three to four months is a very important aspect in taking care of your mouth. Over time, the bristles on your toothbrush will become worn, and lose its effectiveness in removing plaque and food particles. Be sure to check your toothbrush for wear and tear, and if you find it could use replacing, do so immediately. All of these tips will help you in having a beautiful, healthy smile. Remember, taking care of your toothbrush results in taking better care of your body!

At New Smile Dental, we focus on enhancing and restoring the beauty of your smile with help from the latest dental technology. Dr. Gilbert Lopez treats patients from Fort Smith and Van Buren, AR and surrounding areas. Call us today to schedule your next appointment.

Dental X-Rays Contribute to a Healthier Smile

One of the best things about the world we live in is the fact that technology is always growing, advancing, and bettering itself. Advancing technology has really made an amazing impact on many fields and specialties, especially that of dentistry.  The team at New Smile Dental love offering the latest technology, such as dental x-rays, to their patients, as it coincides with having an easier, healthier, and more comfortable appointment.

Digital dental x-rays have given dentists and hygienists the opportunity to look far beyond the surface of your teeth, allowing for a more personalized and healthy treatment plan. Also, dental x-rays allow for doctors to detect diseases and other complications before they arise and/or become a serious problem. These issues include bone loss, tooth decay, abscesses, and much, much more.

Some people may be cautious about using dental x-rays because of the amount of radiation they fear they will be exposed to. Luckily, these dental x-rays give off as much radiation in a full serious of dental x-rays as nature does, so you will be safe, comfortable, and healthy throughout the entire appointment. Dental x-rays are usually taken every time a patient has a checkup and a cleaning, but because everyone is different, some patients may need dental x-rays more often than others. No matter how many times you need to have x-rays done, Dr. Gilbert Lopez and the team at New Smile Dental will make sure that your smile is even better than it was when you walked through our doors.

At New Smile Dental, we focus on enhancing and restoring the beauty of your smile with help from the latest dental technology. Dr. Gilbert Lopez treats patients from Fort Smith and Van Buren, AR and surrounding areas. Call us today to schedule your next appointment.

Be Sure To Have Regular Dental Checkups

With certain things in life, there is maintenance involved. Plants need to be watered, cars need to have the oil changed, etcetera. The same goes for your teeth. At New Smile Dental, we stress the importance of taking care of your teeth, which is why routine checkups are so important. When you take care of your teeth, there is no doubt you are on the road to excellent dental health.

We recommend having a dental checkup every six months. During the checkup, Dr. Gilbert Lopez and our experienced team will be able to fully assess your smile, and look for potential problems. Routine checkups allow us to see if you have any early signs of cavities, gum disease, and other issues. We will be able to remove the plaque and tartar from your teeth, leaving your mouth clean and fresh.  Though brushing and flossing your teeth are excellent ways of maintaining a beautiful smile, we will be able to tackle the areas that a toothbrush can’t reach.

By doing X-rays, we will be able to see what is going on with your smile under the surface, checking to see if there are any issues that aren’t necessarily visible at first glance. If during your checkup we detect signs of gum disease, we may request you come in every three months so we can take care of the issue before it gets worse.

If you’re due for a dental checkup, make an appointment, and we will be glad to help you achieve excellent oral health!

At New Smile Dental, we focus on enhancing and restoring the beauty of your smile with help from the latest dental technology. Dr. Gilbert Lopez treats patients from Fort Smith and Van Buren, AR and surrounding areas. Call us today to schedule your next appointment.

Take Advantage of Your Dental Insurance Before 2014

A lot of people don’t know that you actually save money in the long run when you take advantage of your dental insurance before the year ends. Though some insurance companies operate by a fiscal year, most of them abide the calendar year, meaning as soon as it strikes midnight on December 30, your benefits are long gone.

Unlike your cell phone minutes, your dental benefits do not roll over to the next year. You work hard to earn the benefits you have, accumulating possibly hundreds of dollars only to have it wasted. When you use your benefits before the year is up, you will be able to take advantage of your deductible before it resets. Also, it gives you the ability to use up your annual maximums. One of the more important reasons to take advantage of your dental benefits before the year ends is to take care of dental issues before it gets worse. What may appear to be a simple cavity or discomfort now could turn into something a lot more serious and expensive down the road.

If you are unsure about what your dental benefits may be or when they expire, ask your employer, or use the company handbook as a reference. Either way, being able to use your dental benefits before the year ends is beneficial for your money, and, more importantly, your teeth.

At New Smile Dental, we focus on enhancing and restoring the beauty of your smile with help from the latest dental technology. Dr. Gilbert Lopez treats patients from Fort Smith and Van Buren, AR and surrounding areas. Call us today to schedule your next appointment.

Join Us for Smile Fest this Saturday, October 19th

Are you or someone you know looking for a new dentist? Are you already our patient and would be interested in some deals on dental services?  New Smile Dental would like to invite everyone to attend our Smile Fest on Saturday, October 19^th. This is a great way to either get an introduction to our practice or have a chance to take advantage of some great deals and special offers.

We will have snacks and tours of our office available at our Smile Fest. This is also a great opportunity to meet our caring staff. There will be a raffle where over $3,000 in various dental services will be given away. Come by our office at 1021 S. 21^st St. in Fort Smith, Arkansas from 11am-4pm. We’re located around the corner from the Kum-N-Go gas station on Dodson and across the street from Wingfoot Tire. 

We offer a wide variety of dental services at our office and would like to help even more people make it with a smile. Come to our Smile Fest this weekend to learn more about how we can help improve your smile and your life. We will be offering education on insurance coverage, payment plans, preventative dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and oral surgery. Click here for a flyer with more information on the event.

At New Smile Dental, we focus on enhancing and restoring the beauty of your smile with help from the latest dental technology. Dr. Gilbert Lopez treats patients from Fort Smith and Van Buren, AR and surrounding areas. Call us today to schedule your next appointment.