If you’re like millions of other Americans, you could be at risk of losing thousands of dollars in unused dental benefits this year. How? Before we explain, answer these questions: 1) Have you visited your dentist for a second checkup? 2) Have you met or exceeded your annual maximum? 3) Are you seeing an in-network provider? If you said “no” to any or all of these queries, you are not taking full advantage of the policy you pay for each month. If you’re ready to make a change, read on to find out what you need to do to maximize dental insurance benefits before it’s too late.

Think vampires and witches are the most frightening sights to see on Halloween? Try learning your child needs a dental filling or crown because their candy consumption has caused a cavity to form. That might be enough to scare even the most terrifying ghost or monster. If you want to keep your little one out of the dentist’s chair and avoid the sugar rush that will likely ensue after trick-or-treating, consider these 5 Halloween candy tips to keep your child’s teeth cavity-free.

Do you constantly worry that someone will notice the odor stemming from your mouth? Do you keep mints and gum on hand 24/7 to help combat bad breath? If you answered “yes” to either of these questions, then you are not alone. In fact, according to Colgate, nearly 60 million people suffer from chronic halitosis in the United States. Fortunately, preventive measures, like visiting your dentist twice a year, can help. However, did you know that incorporating yogurt into your diet can be equally as beneficial?

Did you know that your smile can often indicate when there is trouble elsewhere in the body? Research shows that your oral health has a greater impact on your overall health than you may realize. After all, your mouth is the gateway to the rest of your body. If you aren’t taking proper care of your teeth, you could be setting yourself up for health issues in the future. Continue reading to learn more from your dentist about the connection between your smile and the rest of your body, including which issues can arise as a result of poor oral health.

When you first sit down in the treatment chair, it’s natural for you and your dentist to exchange some pleasantries before they begin the examination. After all, once your mouth is filled with dental mirrors, explorers, and other dental tools, speaking coherently is virtually impossible. While it may be tempting to exit as soon as you are dismissed, it is important to keep an open dialogue with your dental team. If you are unsure where to start, then keep reading for four questions to ask at your next appointment!

In order to have optimal oral health, regular flossing and brushing is essential. But as much as you use your toothbrush, there’s no way that it can last forever. Using proper and well-maintained tools, like toothbrushes, goes a long way in giving you a healthy smile. But how long do toothbrushes generally last? When should you buy a new one? How do you get the most out of your toothbrush before you replace it? Continue reading to learn from your dentist everything you need to know about the lifespan of your toothbrush.

You know that it’s important to brush your teeth twice a day, but which type of toothpaste should you be using? When you’re in the dental aisle at your drug store, it can be overwhelming to see so many different options to choose from. In order to make the choice easier for you, your dentist discusses all sorts of different types of toothpastes. This way you can choose one that works best for you and your individual needs.

Toothaches can form for a variety of reasons. From decay and improper brushing to tooth sensitivity and gum disease, the cause of the increasing discomfort in your mouth will often leave you wondering, “What can I do?” An over-the-counter pain reliever can be helpful to relieve the ache but what if that is only temporary? A dentist shares some of the most common causes behind toothaches and explains what steps you can take to achieve lasting relief and greater oral health.

Looking for ways to make life simpler? Tired of wasting valuable time and money on running all over town to different dental appointments? Feeling frustrated by the fact that you or your child need a referral for various services? If this sounds like you, it might be time to consider why it’s best to see a family dentist. Spend a few minutes learning about a few of the many benefits you can expect to receive when you opt for one professional to take care of everyone you love.