Halloween means dressing up in fun costumes, going trick-or-treating, and eating lots of candy! But enjoying Halloween doesn’t have to leave you with a spooky smile! Keep reading for three helpful tips to keep your smile healthy and bright this Halloween.

The Frightening Truth About Halloween Treats

Unfortunately, that candy you love to eat at Halloween can be dangerous for your teeth. Most candy is high in sugar, and when you eat sugary foods, the bacteria in your mouth feed on the sugar and produce acids. These acids break down your tooth enamel, leading to cavities.

Besides the high sugar content, many kinds of candy are also sticky. These candies stick to your teeth, giving the sugar more time to damage your tooth enamel.

But candy isn’t the only harmful Halloween treat. Soda and energy drinks are also high in sugar and acidity, which can lead to tooth enamel damage.
Learn More: What is Tooth Enamel and Why is it Important?

3 Tips to Keep Your Smile Healthy This Halloween

1. Be Choosy About Candy Choices

One of the first ways to protect your oral health is to choose the least harmful candy for your teeth and gums.

What is the least harmful candy?

• Chocolate and other candies that dissolve or melt away quickly are the best choices because they don’t stick to your teeth.
• Sugar-free gum promotes saliva, which helps remove harmful bacteria and keeps your teeth clean until you can brush them.

What is the most harmful candy?

• Chewy candy, like gummies, taffy, and caramel, can stay stuck on and between your teeth for hours, increasing the risk of cavities.
• Sour candies are usually chewy and get stuck between teeth. They are also highly acidic and contain a lot of sugar.
• Hard candy, especially suckers, that can crack or chip your teeth. Sucking on hard candy also allows sugar to sit on your teeth for a long time.

2. Drink Plenty of Water

Drinking water after you eat candy helps wash away any lingering sugar and acids that can harm your teeth. Consider carrying a water bottle while trick-or-treating so you can take a sip after eating a piece of candy.

3. Eat Candy in Moderation

Eat a few pieces of Halloween candy, but try not to graze on it all day (or all month!). Our mouths constantly work to restore optimal pH balance and to use our saliva to help clean our teeth. After snacking on Halloween candy, rinse your mouth with water or chew some sugarless gum. Both stimulate saliva production and help keep leftover sugars flowing around your mouth.

Learn More: Tips to Keep Your Teeth Clean Between Dental Cleanings

Happy Halloween from Atkins & Anderson, DDS

With a little extra care and attention, you can enjoy your Halloween candy and still have a healthy smile! Be sure to brush twice daily, floss once a day, and see your dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups.

If you’re looking for a dentist in the Bryan/College Station area who can provide the highest quality dental care to every member of your family, contact Atkins & Anderson Family Dentistry today.

As parents, we try to keep our children as healthy as possible – from their physical and mental health to their dental health.

In addition to good oral hygiene habits, what kids eat and drink plays a role in their dental health. Foods high in sugars, starches, and carbohydrates can cause tooth decay and cavities. That’s why it’s helpful to know what foods will keep your children’s teeth healthy and strong.

Learn More: Healthy Habits for a Healthy Mouth

Fruits and Vegetables

Crunchy, raw fruits and vegetables are a great snack alternative because they help remove sugars and bacteria that stick to teeth and can turn to plaque.

Not only are apples rich in fiber and vitamins, but they also help keep kids’ teeth clean. The crunch of an apple helps remove bacteria and plaque from the teeth, and chewing promotes saliva production – both work together to keep teeth healthy.

Carrots are high in fiber, which encourages the formation of good bacteria that help strengthen your child’s teeth. Raw carrots are also a healthy source of beta-carotene, known to help heal gum disease.

Green Leafy Vegetables

Foods like spinach, romaine, and kale contain healthy nutrients that help grow strong bodies. Their folic acid is also good for teeth and gums.

Broccoli contains high levels of calcium, which strengthens teeth and prevents tooth decay. It also contains a compound that helps kill bacteria that cause cavities.

Foods with High Water Content

Fruits and veggies with high water content, like cucumbers, celery, melons, and pears, help keep teeth cleaner and lower the amount of sugar in the mouth.

Nuts

Nuts are a quick source of energy for kids and a great healthy snack. Studies show that eating nuts helps reduce the likelihood of cavities and other oral health problems because the high levels of fiber and protein in nuts help keep teeth clean and healthy. Nuts also contain calcium and phosphorus, which strengthen tooth enamel.

Low sugar nut butter is also a healthy snack option.

Lean Meats

Meat is an excellent source of phosphorus, which helps repair tooth enamel, and it’s also high in calcium, an essential component for strong bones and teeth. Meat provides other minerals that prevent cavities and promote healthy teeth as well.

Salmon contains omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce gum inflammation and protect against tooth decay. Chicken, turkey, and white fish are other healthy examples of lean meats.

Dairy

In addition to being an excellent source of nutrition for children, milk has several advantages for oral health. The calcium helps strengthen teeth, and the protein aids in the healing of damaged gums. Milk’s saturated fat content also helps prevent tooth decay.

The high calcium content of cheese strengthens teeth and prevents cavities. Cheese also contains phosphate, which helps remineralize enamel.

Yogurt contains probiotics that help reduce plaque and bacteria levels. Yogurt’s calcium content helps strengthen teeth, while its lactic acid can remove surface stains.

Eggs

Eggs are packed with essential nutrients, including protein, calcium, and phosphorus. Calcium strengthens teeth and bones, and phosphorus helps strengthen tooth enamel.

Atkins & Anderson Family Dentistry in Bryan/College Station Can Help

If you’re looking for foods to keep your children’s teeth healthy this school year, add these options to their lunchbox or after-school snack. Atkins & Anderson Family Dentistry excels in giving people of all ages healthy teeth and beautiful smiles. Your family deserves advanced dental care in a warm, friendly environment where your comfort is the highest priority! Contact us today to learn more about our practice and services.

Learn More: 8 Foods for Healthy Teeth

Dental care is essential for everyone, but what about baby (primary) teeth? Did you know babies are born with 20 primary teeth that just haven’t appeared (erupted) yet? That means tooth decay can begin when your baby’s first teeth appear. That’s why dentists say that good oral hygiene habits should begin even before the first baby tooth comes in.

Here are some important dental care facts and tips to keep primary teeth healthy and prevent harmful dental problems.

Why Healthy Baby Teeth Are Important

Although permanent teeth eventually replace them, baby teeth are vital to every child’s development. They hold space for the adult teeth and help your child speak, chew, and smile.

If a cavity in a baby tooth is left untreated, it can lead to infection and pain – and the bacteria will spread to other teeth. An unhealthy tooth can lead to unhealthy bone underneath, damaging the developing permanent tooth before it even erupts.

Facts about baby teeth:

• They form the shape of your child’s face.
• Teething starts around 6 months when baby teeth begin erupting and continues until 3 years of age.
• Enamel, the strong outer layer protecting teeth, is thinner in baby teeth than in adult teeth. That’s why baby teeth are more prone to cavities.
• Spacing between baby teeth is normal and allows room for adult teeth to erupt.

Learn More: Signs Your Baby is Teething & How You Can Help

When and How to Clean Your Child’s Mouth

Clean your child’s mouth twice a day – even before a tooth comes in. Tooth decay can happen as soon as teeth first appear. In fact, cavities occur faster in baby teeth than in adult teeth. So, as soon as the first baby tooth appears, it’s time to start brushing.

Tips to clean your child’s mouth:

• Before teeth come in, gently wipe your child’s gums with a soft damp cloth or clean gauze pad over your finger.
• When your child’s teeth start coming in, it’s time to use toothpaste and a soft, small toothbrush. Before the age of 2 to 3, use fluoride toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice. After age 3, use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.
• Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle along the gum line. Gently brush all sides of the teeth using small circular motions. Finish by brushing the tongue. Children should try to spit out the toothpaste, but it’s safe to swallow these small amounts.
• Teach your child how to brush but continue helping them until they are at least 6 years old. By age 10, most children can brush on their own.

Learn More: Dental Hygiene – How to Care for Your Child’s Teeth

Your Child’s First Visit to the Dentist

The American Dental Association, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, and the American Academy of Pediatrics all strongly recommend that your child have a dental evaluation by age one, or when the first tooth erupts (whichever comes first).

Your child’s dentist is your partner in helping your child have healthy teeth. Early preventive care reduces the risk of cavities and provides swift treatment if issues develop.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

At Atkins & Anderson DDS, your child isn’t just a patient, and you’re not just a parent – you’re family. We’re focused on providing the highest-quality dental care for your child and teaching them healthy habits that last a lifetime. We partner closely with parents, giving you the support and guidance you need to help care for your child’s smile. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Thanksgiving – a chance to spend time with family and friends, watch football, and reflect on all we have to be grateful for. Of course, Thanksgiving is also a time to indulge in lots of delicious and festive foods!
Unfortunately, holiday feasts expose your teeth to sugary treats that can damage your dental health. Here are six tips from the dentists at Atkins & Anderson to help keep your smile clean and healthy during the holiday season.

1. Drink LOTS of Water

We all know the overall health benefits of water. But staying hydrated also supports healthy saliva flow to wash away sugar, harmful acids, and food particles from your teeth – preventing plaque accumulation. And studies show that drinking water before meals will help you eat less.

2. Brush and Floss

Sugary and sticky foods are in abundance during Thanksgiving. After indulging in your favorite treats, brushing and flossing all the acid-producing sugar and carbs off your teeth is crucial. During festive holidays, try to brush your teeth three times a day and floss at least once every day.
Read More: Daily Dental Do’s – 4 Ways to Keep You and Your Teeth Healthy

3. Chew Sugarless Gum

When you can’t brush your teeth after a meal, chewing sugarless gum helps freshen your breath and removes sugar and food particles. Chewing gum also increases saliva production, which has natural antibacterial properties that flush your mouth and prevent damage from bacteria.

4. Avoid Snacking 

The focus may be on the Thanksgiving feast, but it’s easy to mindlessly munch on snacks and sweets throughout the day. Constantly exposing enamel to acidity can wear it down, so make sure there’s plenty of time when you’re not eating. Then you can save your appetite (and teeth) for the main meal!

5. Protect Your Teeth

The holidays can be a target time for something to go wrong – and the last thing you want during Thanksgiving is a cracked tooth! Avoid crunching on ice and using your teeth to open bottles, nuts, or food wrappers.
Read More: Did You Chip or Break a Tooth? Here’s What to Do

6. Make a Post-Holiday Cleaning Appointment

The holidays are a time to enjoy and indulge in special treats – from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day. But the long meals and sugary desserts are tough on your teeth. That’s why post-holiday dental cleaning is essential. And a healthy, shiny smile is the perfect way to start the new year!

Happy Thanksgiving from Atkins & Anderson Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

Atkins & Anderson DDS features three top dentists in Bryan/College Station under one roof –  Brady Atkins, DDS, Lindsey Atkins, DDS, and Craig Anderson, DDS.
Atkins & Anderson sees patients of all ages and offers a variety of dental procedures and services, including general, restorative, and cosmetic. We also have a dentist on call 24/7 for after-hours or weekend emergencies. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment.

Going to the dentist isn’t what most people call ‘fun.’ But we grin and bear our annual dental visits because we know oral health is essential to our overall health.

But if the thought of going to the dentist has your teeth chattering, you aren’t alone! Many people put off dental visits due to intense fear and anxiety about the experience. According to a Dental Fears Research Clinic study, nearly 60% of people fear going to the dentist. About 20% of Americans only go to the dentist when absolutely necessary – and almost 8% avoid going altogether.

Does this sound like you? If so, we can help!

5 Tips to Help Ease Your Fears and Overcome Dental Anxiety

1. Communicate your fears to your dentist and dental team.

Don’t be afraid or embarrassed to tell your dentist and dental team your fears. The best dentists want you to share your concerns and fears before your first visit so they can be prepared to support you. When you call to schedule your appointment, tell us about anything that makes you anxious or uncomfortable. We’ll note it in your file to ensure your dental team is aware. Knowing about fears beforehand allows us to schedule extra time and take things slowly. Then, remind our team that you’re nervous about your visit. We’re here to listen and understand what makes you anxious so we can offer solutions to make you feel more comfortable.

2. Schedule appointments first thing in the morning.

There are a couple of reasons to make appointments early in the day. First, you’ll avoid worrying about your visit all day. And your nerves won’t already be frazzled from a stressful day, making it easier to breathe and relax. Second, you won’t risk other appointments going longer than expected. Less time in the waiting room means less time to worry and feel anxious.

3. Ask for what you need.

Some patients feel anxious because they can’t move or talk once the dental procedure starts. Most dentists are skilled at reading facial expressions and head nods. But caring dentists want to ensure the best communication possible. Before any treatment begins, establish a signal with your dental team, like raising your left hand or making a thumbs-down sign. If you feel uncomfortable or anxious at any point, just make the signal – and we’ll pause so you can take a break.

4. Bring distractions.

Wear earplugs or noise-canceling headphones and listen to your favorite music, audiobook, or podcast. You can also bring a blanket to keep you warm and make you feel more comfortable – anything that will distract your mind and help you relax.

5. Try techniques for relaxation.

Before your dental appointment, sit in a comfortable space for a few minutes. Breathe in slowly for four counts, then slowly breathe out for four counts. Repeating this five times will slow your heart rate and help you relax. If you feel your stress level rising during your procedure, try doing this breathing exercise again (make sure to breathe through your nose and not your mouth). If you need more help, use your signal, and let our team know you need a break.

Oral health is too important to let your fear and anxiety get in the way!

When you trust your dentist, your dental fears will decrease. So, establishing a dental home is one of the best ways to overcome dental anxiety. The more you get to know and trust your dental team (including the front office members), the more comfortable you’ll be.

At Atkins & Anderson Dentistry, we promise a judgment-free zone. So, whether it’s been 10 months or 10 years since your last dental visit, don’t let dental anxiety keep you from reaching out. Your comfort is the highest priority of our dental care team, and we want to help you reclaim your oral health! Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Technique Matters: Proper flossing technique is crucial. Gently guide the floss between your teeth, curve it around each tooth in a C-shape, and slide it up and down to clean the sides. Be gentle to avoid damaging your gums.

Make It Routine: Tie flossing to an existing habit, like brushing your teeth—floss after brushing to reinforce the habit.

Stay Positive: Don’t be too hard on yourself if you miss a day. The goal is progress, not perfection. Keep a positive attitude and get back on track.

Share Your Journey: Let’s Floss Together!

We’re excited to join you on this 2-week flossing journey. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and share your progress and experiences with us using the hashtag #AandAFlossingChallenge. We’d love to see your commitment and celebrate your successes along the way.

Remember, the 2-week flossing challenge isn’t just about improving your oral hygiene; it’s an opportunity to make a positive change in your daily routine. So, grab that floss, embrace the challenge, and let’s work together towards achieving a brighter, more confident smile!

Premiums, deductibles, copayments – the language of the insurance world can often be overwhelming and confusing. You’ve probably seen the terms “in-network” and “out-of-network” when reading about your insurance options. But what exactly do these terms mean, and how do they affect your cost?

What does “in-network” mean?

When your provider is “in-network,” it means they’ve signed an agreement with a network of dental insurance companies to accept a lower cost for their services. For example, a $100 service may only cost you $60.
Additionally, when you choose an in-network dentist, preventative services like check-ups, X-rays, and cleanings usually receive 100% coverage from your dental insurance plan.

What does “out-of-network” mean?

An “out-of-network” dentist is not contracted with any insurance company. As a result, their dental service rates aren’t pre-established. Out-of-network practices still take dental insurance, but you’re responsible for paying the difference between the dentist’s charges and your coverage.
The main benefit of choosing an out-of-network dentist is the freedom to choose the one you want instead of being limited to who your dental insurance allows. And since the dentist isn’t restricted by the terms of a specific plan, you have access to a wider range of treatment options.

What insurance does Atkins & Anderson Family & Cosmetic Dentistry take?

Atkins & Anderson accepts all non-HMO insurance, and we are currently in-network for Aetna PPO, Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Delta Dental PPO. We also accept Care Credit. For more information about the types of insurance we accept and other payment options, or to confirm we’re in-network for your insurance provider, please contact our office at 979-846-1813.

Don’t let confusing insurance jargon keep you from getting the quality dental care you need and deserve. Contact Atkins & Anderson DDS today and let us help you navigate your dental insurance benefits.