Start 2026 With a Healthier Smile: Why January Is Perfect for Your Lynnfield Dental Visit

skatragadda09 • January 1, 2026

Welcome to 2026! If you're searching for a trusted dentist in Lynnfield, MA, this is your year to make oral health a true priority. January isn't just another month—it's the perfect opportunity to establish dental care habits that will transform your smile and protect your overall health for the next twelve months and beyond.

At Lynnwood Family Dental, we've witnessed countless patients discover that the simple act of scheduling a dental appointment in January sets the stage for a year of better health, increased confidence, and fewer dental emergencies. Whether you're a longtime Lynnfield resident or new to the area, finding a family dentist who genuinely cares about your wellbeing makes all the difference in achieving your health goals this year.

The January Advantage: Why Now Is the Best Time for Your Dental Visit

January brings unique advantages that make it the ideal month to visit your Lynnfield dentist. Your dental insurance benefits have just reset, giving you a fresh start with full coverage for preventive care. Most plans cover cleanings and exams at 100%, which means your New Year checkup won't cost you a penny out of pocket. Additionally, if you have an FSA or HSA account, these funds are now fully available to use for any dental treatments you've been postponing.

Beyond the financial benefits, January offers practical scheduling advantages. Dental offices in Lynnfield typically experience less crowding in the first few weeks of the year, making it easier to secure appointment times that work perfectly with your family's schedule. You'll enjoy shorter wait times and more personalized attention from your dental team—a far cry from the rush that often occurs later in the year as people scramble to use benefits before they expire.

There's also a psychological component that shouldn't be underestimated. Starting your year with a comprehensive dental checkup creates momentum for other healthy choices. When you prioritize your oral health in January, you're sending yourself a powerful message: your wellbeing matters, and you're willing to invest time and resources to protect it. This mindset often spills over into other areas of wellness, from diet and exercise to stress management and sleep habits.

New Year, New Smile: Essential Dental Care Goals for 2026

Let's make this year different. Instead of vague promises about "taking better care of your teeth," commit to specific, measurable goals that will genuinely improve your oral health. These resolutions are designed specifically for busy Lynnfield families who want real results without overwhelming their already-packed schedules.

Commit to Consistent Preventive Care. Book both of your 2026 dental cleaning appointments right now. Research shows that patients who schedule preventive appointments in advance are significantly more likely to keep them. Your family dentist in Lynnfield can help you find times that align with your work schedule, your children's school calendar, and other family commitments. Consider making dental appointments a non-negotiable part of your routine, just like annual physicals or eye exams.

Master Your At-Home Oral Care Routine. Brushing and flossing might seem basic, but most people don't do them correctly or consistently. This year, commit to brushing for the full two minutes, twice daily, using proper technique. Angle your brush at 45 degrees to your gumline and use gentle, circular motions rather than harsh scrubbing. Don't forget to brush your tongue, where bacteria love to gather. If you struggle with manual brushing, consider upgrading to an electric toothbrush, which can remove significantly more plaque with less effort.

Make Flossing Non-Negotiable. Flossing reaches the 40% of tooth surfaces that brushing simply cannot clean. Yet study after study shows that most Americans don't floss daily. This year, break that cycle. Whether you prefer traditional string floss, floss picks, or water flossers, find a method that works for you and stick with it. Set a daily reminder on your phone, keep floss in multiple locations throughout your home, or link flossing to an existing habit like watching the evening news. The key is building consistency until it becomes automatic.

Protect Your Teeth Throughout the Day. Your dental health isn't just about what you do morning and night—it's about choices you make all day long. Reduce your consumption of sugary snacks and acidic beverages, which create perfect conditions for cavities to form. When you do indulge, rinse with water afterward and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing to avoid damaging softened enamel. Make water your default beverage throughout the day, carrying a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and rinse away food particles naturally.

Address Problems Promptly. Don't ignore warning signs like tooth sensitivity, bleeding gums, or persistent bad breath. These symptoms are your body's way of telling you something needs attention. Contact your Lynnfield dentist as soon as you notice any changes or discomfort. Early intervention almost always means simpler, less expensive treatment and better long-term outcomes. Putting off dental problems never makes them better—it only allows them to become more serious and costly.

How Your Lynnfield Family Dentist Supports Your Health Journey

Choosing the right dentist in Lynnfield means finding professionals who understand that dental care is about more than just fixing problems—it's about preventing them in the first place and helping you achieve the confident, healthy smile you deserve. At Lynnwood Family Dental, we've built our practice around the principle that exceptional dental care should be accessible, comfortable, and tailored to each patient's unique needs and goals.

We offer comprehensive services for patients of all ages, from pediatric dentistry that makes children excited about oral health to restorative treatments that help seniors maintain beautiful, functional smiles well into their golden years. Our team takes time to get to know each patient personally, understanding your concerns, your goals, and any anxieties you might have about dental treatment. We believe that when you feel heard and understood, you're more likely to maintain consistent dental care and achieve better health outcomes.

Technology plays a crucial role in modern dental care, and we invest in state-of-the-art equipment that makes diagnosis more accurate and treatment more comfortable. Digital X-rays expose you to significantly less radiation than traditional films while providing clearer images that help us detect problems in their earliest stages. Intraoral cameras allow you to see exactly what we're seeing, making it easier to understand recommended treatments. And gentle techniques combined with modern anesthesia options ensure that even complex procedures can be completed with minimal discomfort.

Creating a Family Dental Strategy for the New Year

When you're looking for a family dentist in Lynnfield, MA, you want a practice that can care for everyone under your roof—from young children experiencing their first dental visit to teenagers who might need orthodontic care to adults managing complex dental health needs. A comprehensive family dental approach ensures that every member of your household receives personalized attention appropriate to their age, dental development, and individual circumstances.

Start by assessing each family member's current oral health and specific needs for 2026. Children may benefit from sealants to protect developing permanent teeth, fluoride treatments to strengthen enamel, or early orthodontic evaluation to catch alignment issues when they're easiest to correct. Teenagers often need reinforcement about proper oral hygiene as they navigate busy schedules, sports activities, and social pressures. Adults should focus on maintaining healthy gums, addressing any existing dental concerns, and considering cosmetic improvements if desired. Seniors may require specialized attention for issues like dry mouth, gum recession, or the maintenance of dental work from previous years.

Consider coordinating dental appointments to maximize your family's time and strengthen the message that oral health matters for everyone. Many families find it convenient to schedule multiple appointments on the same day, eliminating the need for multiple trips to the dental office. This approach also reinforces healthy habits, especially for younger children who see their parents and siblings taking dental care seriously. When the whole family prioritizes oral health together, it becomes part of your family culture rather than a chore to be avoided.

Making Your Dental Health Resolution Stick

The difference between a New Year's resolution and a lasting lifestyle change often comes down to planning and support. That's where your relationship with your Lynnfield dentist becomes invaluable. We're not just here to clean your teeth twice a year—we're your partners in achieving and maintaining optimal oral health throughout 2026 and beyond.

During your New Year appointment, discuss your specific goals and concerns openly with your dental team. Are you interested in teeth whitening to boost your confidence? Do you want to improve your flossing technique but aren't sure you're doing it correctly? Have you noticed increased sensitivity that worries you? Your dentist can provide personalized recommendations, demonstrate proper techniques, and create a customized care plan that addresses your unique situation.

We also understand that life gets busy and it's easy to let good intentions slide as the year progresses. That's why we offer appointment reminders via text, email, or phone call—whatever works best for you. We'll reach out before your scheduled cleanings to confirm or reschedule if needed, helping you stay on track even during your busiest months. And if you're struggling to maintain your at-home oral care routine, we're here to provide encouragement, tips, and the accountability that helps habits stick.

Take the First Step Toward Your Healthiest Smile Yet

Transform your oral health in 2026 by taking action today. Whether you need a routine cleaning, have been putting off addressing a dental concern, or simply want to establish a relationship with a caring, competent dentist in Lynnfield, now is the perfect time to schedule your appointment. The team at Lynnwood Family Dental is ready to welcome you and your family, providing the compassionate, expert care that Lynnfield residents have trusted for years.

Don't let another year pass wishing for a healthier, more beautiful smile. Make 2026 the year you finally achieve the oral health you deserve. Your new smile is waiting—all you have to do is pick up the phone or send us a message to get started. We're here to make your dental health goals a reality, one appointment at a time.

Ready to make 2026 your healthiest smile year yet? Contact Lynnwood Family Dental today to schedule your New Year dental appointment and discover why so many Lynnfield families trust us with their oral health. Let's make this your best smile year ever!

How to Choose the Right Toothbrush for Your Family

By skatragadda09 • December 28, 2025
Learn how to select the perfect toothbrush for every family member. Expert guidance on bristle types, manual vs electric options, sizing, and replacement schedules for optimal oral health.

Dental Tips for Your Vacation

By Gerald M • June 22, 2019
Summer is finally here, and many people are finally going on their long-awaited vacations. Of course, nobody wants to have an issue with their teeth when they are away from home but being prepared for this type of issue can help you deal with it faster and get back to your vacation. Here are a few tips on how to handle a dental issue while you are on vacation. They always say that the best defense is a good offense. Make sure that you are up to date on your dental checkups before you leave on vacation. This will help you identify any small issues with your teeth that have the potential to turn into major problems while you are away. Not only will you have more peace of mind, but your dentist will have updated records just in case you do run into trouble. Of course, emergencies sometimes occur, even when you have taken all the right steps to prevent them. Keep contact information for your dentist with your travel documents and make sure that you have the office number in your phone. In many cases, your dentist will be able to help you solve your dental problem over the phone and help you get comfortable until you can come home and have an appointment. If you are out of the country, getting the dental care you need may be a bit more complicated, but it is still possible. Contact the US embassy to find a dentist who was trained in the United State. Cruise ships and resort hotels often have a list of providers for emergency dental services. Ask the concierge to help you set up an emergency appointment. When you are out of the country visiting friends or family, go with their best recommendation for dental care. In the hustle and bustle of preparing for a vacation, we often forget something as simple as packing a toothbrush. If you are stuck without a toothbrush and nowhere to get one, you can still take simple steps to clean your teeth. Rinse thoroughly with water to remove bacteria and sugars from the surface of your teeth. You can also put toothpaste on a washcloth until you are able to locate a proper toothbrush. When you do track one down, an ADA approved toothbrush is best but, if that isn’t possible, try to find one with soft bristles. Most of your favorite toothbrush brands can be purchased in any area of the world. Make sure that when you do pack your toothbrush, you do it with care. When we are at home, our toothbrushes have a chance to dry out. Bacteria won’t grow in a dry environment because it needs moisture to live. However, if you brush your teeth right before you leave, you might not have time to let it dry before you need to pack it. In this case, put your toothbrush in a clean plastic bag and keep it away from other items in your suitcase. As soon as possible, take your toothbrush out so that it can dry completely. Sugarless gum is one of the most important things you can keep on you for your dental health while you are traveling. For one thing, it will offer much-needed relief if you experience ear pressure during a plane takeoff or landing. However, sugarless gum can also help reduce your risk of cavities. If you are indulging in a lot of sweet treats during your vacation, chew a piece of sugarless gum afterward to protect your teeth. If you have a crown or bridge in your mouth that becomes loose during vacation, you can use sugar-free gum as a temporary hold until you can get to a dentist. It can also help as a temporary solution for tooth sensitivity when you’re on the road. Remember that not all areas where you travel will have water that is ideal for brushing your teeth. If you aren’t sure, pour bottled water onto your toothbrush instead. You do not want to have your vacation ruined by an illness as a result of ingesting contaminated local water. After your vacation, get right back to your normal oral hygiene routine. Spend some extra time brushing and flossing to make up for any lapses during your trip. Get back to healthy eating habits. There is no problem with indulging on vacation if you can get back to your normal habits when you get home. Looking for a Lynnfield, MA dentist ? Lynnwood Family Dental is now accepting new patients. For more information about our services or to request an appointment, click here .

Habits That Could Prevent Cavities in Children

By Gerald M • June 15, 2019
We all know how expensive raising a family can be in today’s world. When you start adding dental bills into the mix, the costs can really start to get out of hand. Unfortunately for most parents, it is a do as I say world, but that is not how children work. They are like sponges and watch every move we make. More importantly to realize is the fact because parents are literally their world, they try to emulate everything mom and dad do as well. Keep that in mind when it comes to your oral health regimen because you need to set the example for your children and show them how to properly care for their teeth the moment they understand tasks like brushing and rinsing. Here are some tips to help ensure you keep your child’s dental health in check and maybe yours as well: Don’t Miss Dental Appointments – this is literally the most basic of oral hygiene regimens. You simply cannot afford to miss a dental appointment because what often happens is you start to become afraid to go for fear of what you may find out. Keep the appointment, period. Sweets Between Meals – ideally, you avoid sweets. But, let’s face facts, we like them just as much as our children do. When picking snacks for the children, try to pick snacks that are healthy and hand them a bottle of water with the snack. Instead of candy, try some frozen grapes or blueberries. Make a game of swishing water around in the mouth after they are done eating to reduce the residue on their teeth. That will suffice until you can get them home to brush. Drinks Before and After Bed – if you are like me, you tend to take a drink to bed with you. For many parents, this often means some type of fruit juice in a sippy cup for the children, which is a big mistake. All the sugar in the drink will be sitting in their mouth all night long eroding away at the tooth enamel. The nighttime drink should be water, period. Brushing Before Bed – getting kids to brush their teeth before bed can be a nightmare, but it is a must to ensure good oral health. Today, there are numerous children-themed toothpastes as well as cool toothbrushes that can be used to make it fun. Put an egg timer on the sink and if they brush for the entire two minutes, give them a reward. You have to make them want to brush their teeth because this is a habit that will last them a lifetime. Do you need to make a dental appointment for your children? If you are looking for a Lynnwood NH, dentist , Lynnwood Family Dental is accepting new patients. For more information about our services or to request an appointment, please click here .

Why Are Teeth Sensitive After Dental Visits?

By Gerald M • June 8, 2019
If you make regular dental visits, you may sometimes notice your teeth are a bit more sensitive after getting treatment. These sensations usually fade over time, however, there are times when that sensitivity continues without abating. Today, we are going to look at how and why this happens as well as what you can do to address it. Deep Cleaning Will Impact Sensitivity For most people, the bi-annual visit to the dentist means the removal of bacteria under the guns and tartar that has calcified on and between the teeth. The dentist or oral hygienist will use a regular pick as well as a small water pressure tool to remove this. For more severe cases, a root planing is done, usually in quadrants (generally, you are also given a local to numb the area being cleaned). When this is done, is it not uncommon to experience sore gums, bleeding gums, and extra-sensitive teeth, especially after a planing is conducted. One of the reasons the teeth will often feel a bit more sensitive is because the plaque has been removed from the surface. These parts of the tooth are once again exposed to the elements. In a normal situation, the extra sensitivity should start to subside in a day or so, and everything should be normal within a few days, a week at the longest. As you brush your teeth, carefully, throughout the week, this will actually help the situation along. In the meantime, avoid eating excessively cold or hot food. When possible, use a straw to drink your liquids to avoid direct contact with the teeth. If the problem persists, however, you should contact your dentist to alert him or her of the situation. Taking Care of Teeth After a Deep Cleaning It is important to understand that even though you may be experiencing some extra sensitivity from your teeth and gums, you still need to maintain a regular oral health regimen, however, there will be some moderate changes in the usual activity. For instance, you should avoid flossing for a day or so to allow the gums to recover. If, however, you have a water flosser, you can reduce the setting and use it to massage the gums and remove loose particles from between the teeth. When brushing your teeth, be sure to use a tooth brush with soft bristles so as not to aggravate the situation further. As mentioned above, avoid liquids of extreme temperature and use a straw to drink when possible. Are you in need of a dental cleaning? If you are looking for a Lynnwood NH, Dentists , Lynnwood Family Dental is accepting new patients. To learn more about our service or to schedule an appointment, please click here .

Taking Care of Your Oral Health Between Dental Appointments

By Gerald M • June 2, 2019
For many individuals, their next dental appointment may be their first. A far too common thought process is if you are brushing twice daily and flossing, there is simply no need to go to the dentist. That, obviously, is wrong. Regardless of how strict of an oral hygiene regimen you have on your own, bi-yearly dental visits are imperative to ensure good oral health. Now, since it may have been some time since you last visited a dentist or it is your first visit, here are some tips on how to prepare for a visit to the dentist’s office: Learn How to Brush Properly For as long as most of us can remember, we have been brushing our teeth. The question is, though, are you brushing your teeth the right way? Here are the basics in how to brush your teeth properly: · Use soft-bristled brush · After adding toothpaste to the brush, place the brush at the gumline at a 45-degree angle and brush gums before brushing your teeth · When done along the gumline, focus on brushing the front of the teeth before doing the rear · The brush should move vertically across the teeth rather than horizontally (this helps remove plaque from all angles) · Ensure you reach the rear of your mouth to brush the molars (which are often missed, creating the biggest problems for dental visits) Flossing Properly After you have brushed and rinsed, it is time to floss. This will ensure the small food particles left behind and wedged between teeth and under gumlines are removed. Start flossing at the rear bottom, slipping the floss between the teeth and gently moving it upwards. Once the lower level is done, repeat the process on the upper level. For even better results, invest in a water flosser, as they are far more effective than using standard floss. Using Mouthwash The use of a proper mouthwash is just as vital as the first two steps. Today, there are so many varieties and brands, it is virtually impossible not to find something both effective and palatable. You may want to discuss a specific brand with your dentist to ensure you are using a mouthwash most compatible with your needs/concerns. When rinsing, swish a small amount of mouthwash around vigorously for about a minute, then spit out. Looking for a new L ynnfield NH dentist? Lynnfield Family Dental is now accepting new patients and we would love for you to become part of our dental family. For more information about our services or to make an appointment, please click here .

The Impact of Sugary Drinks on Teeth

By Gerald M • May 29, 2019
Now that the warmer weather is saturating the country, the consumption of sugary drinks is going to escalate considerably. Be it sweet tea or a sports drink or soda pop, people will be tossing them down to quench their thirst and battle the heat. With each sip, though, depending on the type of drink being consumed, you could be doing considerable damage to your teeth. Sure, it may take some time to come to fruition, but all that sugar will take a toll. Defining ‘Sugary’ Drinks It is very important to make note that even some drinks deemed healthy can actually do damage if the proper oral hygiene regimen is not in place. In this particular category, fruit drinks come to mind. Drinks like orange juice, cranberry juice, and smoothies fall into this category. While they may be “healthy” drinks, they also happen to be loaded with sugars. The Damage Whenever you toss down one of these sugar-packed drinks, you are unleashing the sugar on your teeth. While you may believe you have swallowed every ounce of the drink, rest assured, remnants of it are left behind on the surface of the tooth. When this happens, the bacteria in your mouth meant to consume the sugar are also doing damage to the surface of the tooth, eating away at the enamel. Eventually, that enamel gets weaker and we see the beginnings of a cavity forming. Avoiding the Damage of Sugary Drinks The obvious answer here is to cut out sugary drinks altogether, but that is not realistic, especially for health enthusiasts and athletes. For many people, those sugary drinks are the difference in completing the long run or ride and bonking out. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to minimize the damage done and keep the risk of cavities to a minimum. Today, there are several options for rinsing your mouth on the go. Listerine is now selling “portable” chews that can be used. When you are really in a crunch, simply take some water and swish it around in your mouth to get as much of the sugar off your teeth and out of your mouth as possible. For athletes, simply carry an extra bottle filled with water and sip that after sipping on your sports drink. If you have been putting off going to the dentist, now is the time to get your oral health back on track. If you are in need of a L ynnfield NH Dentist , Lynnwood Family Dental is now accepting new patients and we would love to have you join our family! For more information about our dental services or our contact information to make an appointment, please click here .

What Can You Eat After a Tooth Extraction?

By Gerald M • May 23, 2019
Although it is an outpatient procedure, tooth extraction for both adults and children is a major medical procedure that will require at least one day of recovery. In some cases, it takes several days if several teeth were extracted or if it was difficult to remove them. Dentists recommend having this type of procedure during vacation periods when patients are already at ease and have the time available to heal. Following the extraction, it is necessary to eat a diet of soft foods that will not irritate the area during recovery. Ice Cream If a patient does not have sensitive teeth, ice cream is one of the first things that they should reach for following a tooth extraction. Even the sorest mouths can generally handle ice cream because it is both soft in texture and cool in temperature. In fact, it is so cold that it can often effectively reduce swelling of the gums as a result of the procedure. Soft serve ice cream is the best option but remember that this is not the time for candy toppings or sprinkles that can get into the healing gums and cause complications. It is also important to remember to rinse your mouth out after eating to avoid any sugar buildup. Cool Soup Another meal option following a tooth extraction is soup, served either cool or lukewarm. At certain times of the year, especially summer, smooth gazpacho may be an even better option than a cool broth. Not only is soup easy to ingest following oral surgery, but it is often packed with nutrients and protein that can aid in the healing process. Make sure you choose a soup that is as smooth as can be to avoid any discomfort. Small noodles or pieces of vegetable are fine but you should avoid any ingredients that would require you to chew while your mouth is healing. Scrambled Eggs Scrambled eggs are a great option after oral surgery because they are nutrient-rich but also soft and require very little chewing. Just make sure that they have adequately cooled before you eat them. Smoothies A fruit smoothie is one of the best ways to get your daily dose of nutrients following a tooth extraction. Blend your fruits with yogurt to enhance your smoothie with calcium, probiotics, and protein. Using a dairy base for your smoothie also reduces the acidity from the fruit, making it less likely to irritate your gums as they heal. If you are in need of dental care and looking for a L ynnfield NH Dentists , consider using Lynnwood Family Dental. We are currently accepting new patients and would love to hear from you. For more information about our services, please click here

What to Expect After Recognizing the 4 Stages of Gum Disease

By Gerald M • May 2, 2019
After recognizing the four stages of gum disease, you must take immediate steps to control your condition before it gets any worse. Gum disease that is left unattended for too long could result in the need for painful surgery or even in the loss of your teeth. Unfortunately, many people wait after recognizing the 4 stages of gum disease because they are nervous about what comes next. Knowing what to expect makes it much easier to move forward and improve your dental health. Recognizing the 4 Stages of Gum Disease There are four stages of gum disease, each with increasingly serious consequences for your overall oral health. For the best chance of recovery, it is vital that you notice the early signs of trouble with your gums. For example, if you notice blood in the sink when you brush your teeth, you may be experiencing the early signs of gum disease. Bad breath, shrinking gums, and sensitive teeth are also common signs of gum disease that often go overlooked by the folks suffering from them. A Deep Cleaning One of the first steps that your dentist will take the correct your gum disease is a deep cleaning. This is a much more in-depth process than the cleaning you would have at a normal checkup and may require more than one visit to complete. The cleaning will include work below your gum line in order to make sure that all of the bacteria is removed from the area. Your dentist may also complete a process called scaling, which involves scraping plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums. Additional Treatment In some cases, your doctor may also prescribe medication to help control the infection in your gums before it begins to spread. This may be an oral antibiotic that you take over a period of weeks or, in some cases, an antibiotic gel that you apply directly to the infected area. Whatever the case may be, it is important that you follow your dentist’s instructions and complete the prescription, even if you think that your symptoms have stopped. If you think spot any of the four stages of gum disease, you should make an appointment with your dentist immediately. Early intervention can prevent much more serious issues as your disease progresses through the stages. Although it can be scary, remember that the longer you wait, the more serious the procedures will be to correct the damage done. If you are in need of a dentist and looking for a L ynnfield, NH Dentists accepting new patients, Lynnwood Family Dental can help. For more information about our services and location, click here .

The Facts About Chipping a Tooth

By Gerald M • April 14, 2019
Whether you’ve been chewing on hard candy or crashing your mountain bike, the second you feel something inside your mouth that won’t dissolve or melt, you know you just broke a tooth and are about to panic. Enamel may be the most mineralized, hardest tissue in your body, but even its strength is limited, especially if any teeth have some decay on them already. If you’ve chipped a tooth, there’s no need to panic, because there are plenty of things your dental professional can do to help. Caring for a Chipped Tooth It goes without saying, but you need to schedule a dental visit immediately when you break, chip, or fracture a tooth. Otherwise, there may further damage or even infection, which could lead to you losing your tooth. Until then, try adhering to several self-care practices: · If you’re in pain, take acetaminophen tablets or similar OTC pain relievers. Rinse out your mouth using salt water. · In the event of a break with jagged, sharp edges, cover the break with sugar-free gum or wax paraffin to protect your tongue, cheeks, and lips. · If you need to eat, choose softer foods and try to avoid biting using your broken tooth. Treatment for chipped teeth will vary by the severity of the damage. Small pieces of enamel breaking off usually just requires one visit, but badly broken teeth may call for longer, costlier procedures, including some of the following: Dental Bonding For teeth that are visible when you smile, a process called bonding will likely be used to repair your tooth, which involves using a composite, tooth-colored resin. To bond your damaged tooth, a dentist uses a gel or liquid to roughen the tooth’s surface, which allows the adhesive material to stick better. Then, the material is applied to your tooth along with the resin. Once this bonding material has been shaped like a regular tooth, ultraviolet light is used for hardening the bond. Dental Crown or Cap When large pieces of tooth break off, your dentist might file or grind away part of that tooth before covering it with a cap or crown, which can be made of all resin, all ceramic, metal, or porcelain fused to metal. Installing a crown often takes two dental visits, with the first involving X-rays for inspecting the tooth’s roots and the surrounding bone. Then, the dentist numbs the surrounding gum and tooth before removing part of the remaining tooth. Next, the dentist uses a putty-like substance to take impressions of the tooth that’s getting the crown and the opposite tooth the crown will be touching. During the next visit, the provisional crown your dentist placed is removed, and they check how your permanent crown fits before it’s cemented in place. Dental Veneers When the front teeth are chipped, veneers can make them look healthy and whole again. They’re thin shells of teeth-colored porcelain or composite material, which cover the front of teeth and have thicker sections for replacing broken or missing parts. To ready your tooth, the dentist removes between 0.3 and 1.2 mm of enamel from your tooth’s surface and then takes impressions to send to the lab. Once your veneer is completed, you go back to your dentist, where they place it by etching your tooth’s surface and roughening it. After a special cement is placed on the veneer, it’s placed into position on the tooth and then a special light is used to harden the cement. In need of dental care? L ynnwood Family Dental would love to be your new dentist. To see a full list of our dental services, click here .

Getting Over the Fear of Going to the Dentist

By Gerald M • April 3, 2019
Unfortunately, many Americans seem to have “dentophobia,” which is a fear of the dentist, and this prevents adults and even children from all around the U.S. from receiving preventative cleanings and dental care. However, this can always change, especially when you choose a dental practice that’s committed to promoting an environment free of stress, worry, and fear while addressing the needs of your dental hygiene. To help you get over any fears you have of the dentist, check out a few of the following tips: Pick the Right Dental Team A lot of the fear people have of dentists in general comes from those who’ve work on their teeth. Luckily, it’s very easy to go and shop around these days in order find the right fit for your dental needs. After a quick online search, you can find a team that fits your insurance and payment requirements as well as having exceptional reviews from patients. For parents, it’s also essential to search for a dependable family dental practice that knows just how to put the little ones at ease once they’ve sat in the chair. Communicate Admitting you have fears will go far in helping you address them, whether they’re caused by embarrassment over your teeth’s condition or a previous bad experience. This is a perfectly natural response, and if your dentist knows about your fears, they’ll most likely tell you that you have nothing to fear. For instance, it’s normal to be nervous about needles, but an experienced dentist will go over everything with you before a procedure if you ask. Also, you can tell them how much pain you can tolerate, as the best dental professionals are receptive to these details when providing numbing gels and anesthesia. Most dental procedures aren’t painful, but, luckily, ones that may cause some discomfort are typically over fast. Bring Support If you’re worried about an upcoming dental visit, feel free to bring support, as just knowing there’s someone waiting for you can help provide comfort, especially if they’re willing to be your anxiety sounding board. Also, it can be nice knowing someone will be there for you after your cleaning or procedure has been completed. Deep Breathing Another simple trick that will go far toward eliminating your fears is deep breathing, which is known to be a powerful stress reliever. This technique is helpful for many facets of life, and visits to the dentist can be made much easier with it by loosening you up. During your next dental visit, try taking one deep breath repeatedly, and remember there’s nothing for you to worry about! If you are looking for a new dentist, Lynnwood Family Dental would love to add you to our growing list of satisfied patients. For more information about our dental services, click here .