Healthy Habits

Dental Benefits Expire December 31

By Amy Morgan

 

The New Year often turns our thoughts toward improving our health. We plan to cut out poor habits, eat better and join a gym. In our quest for self-improvement, let’s not overlook our oral health, which has far-reaching impact. Poor dental hygiene translates directly to destructive medical complications. Gum disease caused by unchecked bacteria in the mouth has been linked to heart problems, respiratory infections, pregnancy complications, kidney disease, rheumatoid arthritis and even dementia! More immediately, an infection from a compromised tooth can abscess and travel internally to damage the heart or brain, which can lead to permanent disability.

 

Linda Lara, dental hygienist at 7to7 Dental & Orthodontics, counts educating patients as her favorite part of her work. She considers it vital to ensure people understand the connection between oral health and the rest of the body.

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“Over accumulation of bacteria in the mouth relates to other problems,” she said. “I love to inspire patients to create a healthy lifestyle for themselves.”

Mandy Dennis, 7to7 Dental’s Director of Hygiene Operations, strongly advocates patients visit their dentist every six months. “Coming to get cleanings is just like taking a car for an oil change – you wouldn’t wait 15,000 miles,” she said. “The mouth is the same way. We can identify if something is not healthy and address the problem before it gets bigger,” she said. Regular X-rays can reveal spots on the teeth where the enamel is not as strong. A dental professional can apply fluoride and re-mineralize the teeth. This may prevent cavities and the need for a filling. “If we do need to fill, we still can prevent a crown or a root canal,” Mandy said.

 

No matter how much time you invest in the gym, there’s nothing more appealing than a radiant smile. It’s the first thing people will notice about you, whether online or in person. Shiny, healthy teeth and fresh breath are a real confidence booster. 7to7 Dental can take care of all the oral health needs of your entire family: checking for decay or problems, screening for oral cancer, cleaning, brightening, straightening or placing crowns or veneers. And orthodontia has never been easier or more affordable.

 

“Patients come to us because they want a pretty smile,” said Michelle Alvarez, 7to7 Dental’s Lead Orthodontic Assistant. “But our main goal is not only straight, white healthy teeth, but a functional bite for a lifetime.” Schedule an appointment at 7to7 Dental’s office at the corner of Stone Oak Parkway and Evans Road as part of your commitment to a healthier you.

 

The professionals at 7to7 Dental & Orthodontics care about your oral health and are available 7 a.m.- 7 p.m., seven days a week, for dentistry for the whole family and emergencies. 7to7 Dental is a local business grown in 15 years from the practice of one dentist and six staff, which now employs 262 San Antonio community members. Co-Owners Tiffany Winburn, D.M.D., and Justin Coke live in Stone Oak with their families and are part of the community.