Author: avant8

Choosing a dental home is a big deal. Most patients prefer to stick with a provider for the long haul, especially if they have a family. At Mill Creek Dental, we have been blessed to be with patients throughout their lives and meet their friends and family members. We provide a warm, welcoming environment and unparalleled services. Our staff truly cares, and we want to give you some insight into why you should choose us to be your dental home!

• We put patients first.

A career in dentistry means a career of service. This is exactly what each staff member knew when they decided to work at Mill Creek Dental. From the moment you walk through our doors to when you complete your treatment, your comfort is our highest priority! We will work with each patient to create a treatment plan which meets their schedule and budget and delivers stellar results. Giving you a beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime is our goal! 

• Our doctors are trained with the latest dental techniques and technology.

Each of our dentists has put a tremendous amount of time and effort into keeping up with the newest developments in dentistry and taking continuing education courses. This will aid them in providing top-notch care. When you come to Mill Creek Dental, you are guaranteed to have the highest-quality treatment. Part of this is the pursuit of learning by our excellent dentists! 

• We have your general dentistry and upkeep covered! 

It is integral to the health of your teeth to come in for a cleaning and exam biyearly. During these cleanings, one of our hygienists will remove any lingering plaque or tartar from your teeth. If left for too long, plaque and tartar can cause cavities and other oral health problems. After your teeth have been thoroughly cleaned, one of our dentists will conduct a thorough exam to ensure your smile is healthy and catch any issues before they grow. 

• We offer various treatments for all needs, from cosmetic to restorative to oral surgery!

Our team is proud to provide the vast majority of dental services in-house. These services include but are not limited to teeth whitening, bridges, and crowns. Seeing a patient leave our office with newfound confidence in their smile is one of the greatest blessings, and we love being able to provide these services. 

Our patients mean the world to us, and we hope it is evident! If you have questions for the Mill Creek Dental staff or want to book your next appointment, call us at (903) 567-2207. Check out our dental FAQ.

February is here, which means it is officially Children’s Dental Health Month! At Mill Creek Dental, we share plenty of information regarding the health of your smile, but it is crucial to remember to take care of your child’s smile, too. Developing positive oral healthcare habits at a young age will set kids up for success and a healthy smile as an adult. In addition, learning about the dentist will aid in preventing dental anxiety. Oral health can be fun; we want to come alongside our patients and their families to show why!

• Don’t forget your baby’s gums!

Babies don’t have teeth, so why is taking care of their oral health necessary? Babies’ mouths produce less saliva than adults, and saliva is integral in keeping bacteria under control. If you don’t care for your baby’s gums and mouth, bacteria may multiply, resulting in an infection. Luckily, gum care is easy! We suggest wiping down your baby’s gums twice daily to combat the spread of bacteria. Wash your hands before doing this to rid them of any lingering germs. Use damp gauze or a washcloth to softly rub your baby’s gums, tongue, and soft mouth tissue. Through this process, unwanted food and bacteria will be eliminated!

• Teeth-friendly snacks don’t have to be boring!

Healthy food can be fun for your kids and doesn’t only involve the vegetables you know they will complain about having to eat. Citrus is rich in vitamin C, which keeps the soft tissue in your mouth healthy! Whether a glass of orange juice or slices of grapefruit, citrus is sweet, and kids love it. Dairy is another option. Packed with calcium and vitamin B12, it will strengthen your teeth and increase the health of your gums. The best thing about dairy is it comes in many tasty forms, from cheese and yogurt to ice cream for a special treat!

• Structure your child’s smile routine!

It is no secret that children thrive with routine. Toddlers and younger children may mirror their parents’ behaviors, even though they may not understand them. To get your children to cooperate with their brushing routine, set a specific time for oral healthcare during the morning and evening, and join them! Your children will begin recognizing this should be part of their routine and want to be just like you. 

• Get a head start on healthy teeth!

Did you know we accept pediatric patients? Many parents don’t realize they can bring their children to see us at a young age. This is beneficial in multiple ways. First, it helps us become familiar with the structure of your child’s mouth and how their teeth grow. Because of this, we will be able to provide exceptional care. Your child will also be less likely to become nervous about visiting us. As you know, regular dental visits are integral to the prevention of plaque buildup. The younger your child has plaque removed, the healthier their smile will be in the long run! A healthy smile will lead to a healthy life, and bringing your children to see us early on will help them understand this.

No matter how old your child is, oral healthcare is imperative. The Mill Creek Dental team cares about the smiles of every family member, and we are here to answer any questions you may have regarding pediatric dental care. Call us at (903) 567-2207 for more information. Read our dental FAQ.

A new year has arrived, which is the perfect time to check in with our dental habits. Our team has heard many patients start the year with resolutions about their oral health, such as flossing more, using mouthwash, or booking biyearly hygiene appointments. Luckily, local drugstores carry great products that will help enhance your smile and keep it in excellent health from the comfort of your home. Plus, who doesn’t love shopping for new things? The Mill Creek Dental team wants to make your dental care simple and fun, so we have decided to share some of our favorite ways to pamper yourself on the dental aisle this year!

• Consider swapping out your current toothbrush for one with soft bristles.

• Hard-bristled toothbrushes can damage your teeth over time. If you tend to brush your teeth with pressure, the enamel can eventually be worn down, making you more prone to specific dental issues. With a soft-bristled toothbrush, the bristles are less densely packed. This allows them to bend easily as you brush your teeth and reach into crevices others may not be able to. These toothbrushes are available everywhere; just make sure to carefully check the package when you shop to verify the bristle type. If you’re interested in ordering one online, click here. 

• You guessed it…we recommend floss!

• We don’t want our patients settling for just any floss; we have one we prefer! Johnson & Johnson waxed dental floss is a great choice that you can easily find in most stores or order online. Why waxed over regular? Believe it or not, waxed dental floss removes up to 52% more plaque than traditional floss. The waxy coating makes it both resistant to shredding and easily slidable. You can order it online here.

• Are you interested in trying out a new toothpaste brand? We have a couple of favorites!

• Colgate toothpaste is carried in your local drugstore or grocery store, making it easy to find. One of our favorite things about Colgate toothpaste is the fact it comes in so many variations. Whether you are looking for extra cavity prevention, whitening, stain fighting, something fun for your kids, or more, Colgate has you covered! We trust them to give you a healthy smile. Check out their vast array of toothpaste here.
• Crest is one of our favorite brands. You may hear of their famous over-the-counter whitening strips, but they offer a variety of toothpaste options, all of which can be found at your local store. Their whitening toothpaste line doesn’t disappoint; they also provide options for enamel repair, sensitive teeth, and gum health. If you want to see their complete list of options, click here.

We hope these suggestions were helpful. Other staff favorites are antibacterial mouthwash and sugar-free gum with xylitol, which is easy to find at most stores. At Mill Creek Dental, our patients come first. Our priority is to help achieve stellar oral health, and part of this is coming alongside your home dental care.

We look forward to seeing you for your first hygiene visit of 2023! To schedule or have any questions answered, call us at (903) 567-2207. Learn about dental FAQs here.

At Mill Creek Dental, we get dental questions daily. We want to ensure our patients can make educated decisions about their oral healthcare. Part of our goal is to provide up-to-date, transparent information about why certain types of treatment are beneficial, what we do during a hygiene appointment, and why it’s essential to stay on top of your oral health. To aid in educating our patients, we are excited to provide answers to nine commonly-asked questions! 

 

1. What do you use to fix a cracked tooth?

There are a couple of options depending on how damaged your tooth is. We will strive to preserve as much of your tooth as possible. A filling is the most common procedure to correct a cavity or bond a tooth. If you have a severely cracked or broken tooth, we can place a crown to make it look as good as new. Crowns prevent weak, broken, or cracked teeth from further damage while looking and functioning just like a natural tooth.

 

2. My gums have been bleeding when I floss. Why? 

If you have built up plaque or tartar along your gumline, your gums may become red and inflamed and bleed due to activities such as flossing. A significant amount of buildup and bleeding may signify gum disease. We offer gum disease therapy and treatment at Mill Creek Dental and can improve you in no time! 

 

3. How often should I visit Mill Creek Dental?

For the best oral health, you should see us every six months. During these appointments, your teeth will be thoroughly cleaned of any developed plaque and tartar. You will also receive an exam from our dentist. She can spot any cavities or other oral health issues that may be forming and devise a potential treatment plan.

 

4. What are the best practices for at-home dental care?

The most crucial aspect of your at-home smile routine is consistency! Make sure you have a good toothbrush and replace it every couple of months. Using fluoride-based toothpaste will aid in keeping plaque at bay. In addition to this, flossing daily is a must! We are aware that many patients don’t enjoy flossing, but the benefits outweigh the burden! If you want to keep your teeth extra clean, add mouthwash to eliminate stray bacteria. 

 

5. Do you accept pediatric patients?

Yes! We recommend children begin their dental care journeys either when their first teeth emerge or when they reach their first birthday. Starting a child’s dental journey from a young age will decrease dental anxiety and increase the chance of a lifelong healthy mouth!

 

6. I have bad breath. What is causing it?

Bad breath is more common than you think, and we want to aid you in getting rid of it immediately! Most bad breath results from bacteria growth in your mouth, specifically near the back. Make sure you stay on top of your daily oral hygiene and visit us biyearly to prevent bacteria buildup. If the problem persists, see us, and we will devise a treatment plan that will leave you feeling fresh! 

 

7. What is plaque? Why is it important to have it removed?

Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth over time. If left unchecked for too long, the bacteria will produce acids damaging your enamel. If you do not have the plaque removed, it may turn into tartar, which is even more damaging. Keeping up with your at-home hygiene routine will keep plaque at bay but not wholly. That is why coming in to see us is so important! When you have a hygiene appointment, your hygienist will use special tools to rid your smile of lingering plaque.  

 

8. What causes my teeth to be sensitive to cold or hot temperatures?

If you experience discomfort with hot or cold food and drink, it may be time to have your smile looked at by one of our team members. Some common causes of this type of sensitivity are tooth decay, gum disease, gum tissue recession, cracks in your teeth, and clenching and grinding. We will help you resolve this issue and find the culprit! 

 

9. Do you offer teeth whitening, and is it painful?

We offer take-home whitening kits. They will help make your smile brighter! Our take-home kits consist of whitening strips you can use from the comfort of your home. 

 

We hope this answers some of your questions about our office, what we offer, and oral health in general. Mill Creek Dental strives to provide the absolute best experience and care to every patient who walks through our doors. Learn about Prevention and Treatment of Cavities here. If you have any other questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please call us at (903) 567-2207. 

The holidays are finally upon us! November and December are two of the most festive months of the year, and the Mill Creek Dental team wants to ensure you enjoy them and have peace of mind regarding the health of your smile. It is commonly known that many staple holiday foods can stain the enamel if consumed carelessly. However, there are ways to enjoy these foods and maintain your oral health. We are here to share which foods and drinks to watch out for and tips for maximizing your time celebrating while keeping your smile shining.

Many Thanksgiving food and beverage items can stain your teeth, including coffee, red wine, cranberry sauce, and fruit pies. Many Thanksgiving food and beverage items can stain your teeth, including coffee, red wine, cranberry sauce, and fruit pies. While delicious, the dark colors of these foods and drinks bring with them the chance of staining your teeth. There are a few simple ways you can indulge while still preserving your smile:

1. Brush your teeth, or, if not possible, rinse your mouth soon after eating or drinking one of these items. This will wash any residue off your teeth and lessen the chances of yellowing or spotting. If this becomes a habit, your teeth will be grateful!
2. Swap out your favorite fruit pies for equally-festive alternatives. While everyone loves a tasty cherry or blueberry pie, the fruit’s acidity can damage tooth enamel and leave stains. Opt for a pumpkin or chocolate pie. While still sugary, these pies will not have the same effect on your enamel.
3. Drink dark-colored beverages over a short time instead of prolonged sipping. This will minimize the time your teeth are exposed to the drink. Also, sipping water with one of these beverages will aid in keeping your teeth clean.

Preventing yellowing and staining is one thing, but reversing it is entirely another. Did you know Mill Creek Dental offers take-home teeth whitening kits? If you want to prepare your smile for holiday photos and gatherings, now is the perfect time to treat yourself! Our take-home teeth whitening kit consists of whitening strips that you will apply to your teeth once daily for five days. You must thoroughly brush your teeth before and after using the whitening strips. While there are many variations of whitening strips available at your local drugstore, ours will maximize the whitening process and give you long-lasting results. Many patients have concerns about sensitivity and the impact on the gums caused by teeth whitening treatments. These whitening options will leave little to no effect on the gums, and the process used will minimize any sensitivity.

Teeth whitening is the quickest, most effective way to rid your smile of stains and make it shades brighter. Are you interested in learning more or preparing your smile for the holidays with one of our whitening options? Call Mill Creek Dental today at (903) 567-2207.

Learn about Use it or Lose it Benefits here.

The last few months of 2022 are here! At Mill Creek Dental, we want to ensure you know the perks of using all your insurance dollars by year’s end. While this is a busy time of year, and the health of your smile may be the last thing on your mind, it is still integral to note many dental insurance companies will not roll unused benefits over into the following calendar year. This means they are lost! Our office can provide many cosmetic, restorative, and general dentistry services that will allow you to use your benefits before you lose them!

Have you been considering a major dental procedure? Getting started with an extensive procedure like dental implants can be nerve-wracking. We are here to make the process comfortable for our patients! Extensive procedures will begin with a consultation, where you will meet with one of our dentists to discuss the treatment you are considering, any hesitations you may have, and devise a treatment plan. From there, you will be able to move forward with peace of mind knowing that you are working with a team that cares and has your best interests at heart. It is the perfect opportunity to use those benefits before you lose them!

Have you checked to see if you have any incomplete treatment? This could be anything from a deep cleaning to a filling to a root canal! Getting your treatment scheduled and completed before the year ends will benefit your oral health and put your mind at ease. Some of the most widely-offered treatments we give patients revolve around fixing cavities. If you have a small cavity, you may need nothing more than a filling! If you have put off your cavity treatment for a while, the cavity may grow and become infected. This may necessitate a root canal, in which your dentist will remove the infected pulp from your tooth root and fill it so it will look and function naturally. Getting cavities treated as soon as they are diagnosed is very important, as it will ensure less intensive treatment is needed later on.

Have you had your teeth cleaned recently? A cleaning twice yearly is vital for maintaining oral health. Your dental hygienist will remove any plaque buildup, which aids in cavity prevention. More serious dental treatment may need to be considered when cavities are left unattended for too long. Keeping up with your hygiene appointments will ensure this does not happen. In addition to this, your smile will be fresh and sparkling just in time for the most joyous three months of the year! 

The Mill Creek Dental team is excited about the holidays! We want you to feel confident in your smile. It is a wonderful time to book an appointment, whether it be your regular six-month cleaning and checkup, restorative treatment, or cosmetic procedures! Trust us, taking advantage of your dental insurance benefits will aid in peace of mind and a beautiful smile!

Do you have any questions about your coverage, or would you like to schedule an appointment before the end of the year? Call us at (903) 938-8315. We look forward to seeing you!

Read more about overcoming dental anxiety.

Book Appointment

Your bi-yearly visits to Mill Creek Dental are terrific and necessary, but how do you know if you need to schedule an additional appointment? While keeping up with your hygiene and exams will do wonders for the health of your smile, there is still a possibility oral health issues may arise. We want to aid you in identifying these problems. Catching them early will ensure they can be treated promptly and will not become more severe. Helping our patients improve their smiles while saving money on treatment and time spent at our office is a priority!

Everyone wants shining, healthy teeth. A beautiful smile increases confidence and will lead to better health in other areas of your life. There are many dental anomalies that, if not dealt with, can hinder your overall well-being and confidence. They are more widespread than you think, and knowing how to spot them will decrease your chances of permanent damage to one or multiple teeth. 

So what are some of the most frequent dental complications?

1. Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be very distressing to patients. It is commonly the result of dry mouth, poor oral hygiene, an infection, or several other factors. If you have bad breath, your dentist will assess the situation to determine its cause and what treatment is needed.
2. Tooth sensitivity can be an extremely uncomfortable sensation. When your enamel is worn away, hot and cold foods and drinks will cause pain. This is due to the dentin being exposed, which contains tubes leading to the nerve attached to your tooth.
3. Tooth decay is the most widespread problem we see in patients. It occurs when bacteria form plaque on the surface of your teeth, which can permanently damage the enamel. This damage is characterized by toothaches, pain when eating or drinking hot or cold foods, dark spots on your teeth, and even occasional cracks or pits.
4. A dental abscess is caused by the buildup of bacteria in a tooth’s root. If you have a persistent, severe toothache, there is a good chance you may have an infected root.
5. Gum disease has many different stages and starts as a bacterial infection caused by plaque buildup. Left untreated, it can lead to periodontitis: the most severe form. Tobacco use, irregular oral hygiene, and diabetes are all risk factors. 

One of the best ways to avoid these concerns in the first place is by coming in to see us regularly! During your dental exam, your dentist will check your mouth for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and infection. If you are experiencing sensitivity in one or more of your teeth or struggle with bad breath, these visits are a perfect opportunity to get started with treatment and address your concerns. To book an appointment, call us at (903) 567-2207. Click here to learn about overcoming dental anxiety.

The Mill Creek Dental team enjoys starting our days with the intention of giving our patients a stellar dental experience. We understand that every patient has unique circumstances and take them all into consideration, including dental anxiety. There are many routes we can take to help you combat dental anxiety while pursuing your smile goals, and we are here to share them!

We will begin by discussing why keeping up with oral healthcare is essential. Visiting our office every six months will include a dental hygienist thoroughly cleaning your teeth. Hard-to-reach plaque and tartar will be removed, which generally builds up in areas that are more difficult to reach during your at-home hygiene routine. Your hygienist and dentist will also be able to catch any early signs of oral cancer, cavities, and other issues. When dealt with ahead of time, you will spend less time and money at our office in the long run, and your smile will thank you for it!

Many people avoid going to the dentist or only make an appointment when absolutely necessary. While you may think that dental anxiety comes from wanting to avoid pain, it is usually due to feeling a lack of control. At Mill Creek Dental, we tend to each patient with kindness and patience, desiring to provide comfort. Some of the ways in which we build trust with patients include:

• Checking in with patients during the appointment. We constantly check in with our patients throughout their appointments, especially if it involves an in-depth dental procedure.
• Getting to know each patient. Building relationships with everyone who walks through our doors is in our DNA. We want you to feel like you are visiting with old friends. We care deeply about the health of your teeth but also your life!
• Making sure patients know they can be assertive with their needs. Our team will provide a thorough exam for all patients; however, it is an essential part of the visit for patients to let us know if there is an issue. We will ensure to inform all patients ahead of time they can express their needs and comfort level at any time during their visit goes a long way.
• Making sure patients are aware they can take a break if they are uncomfortable. We believe it is best to play it safe and take it as slowly as possible if a patient feels anxious. If you need to step out and get some air, you are welcome to let us know!
• Explaining what patients will feel and for how long. As we said, lack of control is the main reason people have dental anxiety. This anxiety can be alleviated by being given as much knowledge as possible about what to expect and when to expect it. We will provide information at multiple points throughout the appointment.

We are here to help if you are feeling nervous. Some relaxation techniques that will ease anxiety in the moment are such as progressive muscle relaxation, breathing deeply, or listening to calming music. In addition, we offer oral sedation and nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas. These treatments are beneficial for anxiety over extensive procedures, and we take them very seriously. If you think they may be helpful for you during your visit, we will consult with you prior and figure out if it makes sense to include one of them in your oral health journey.

If you have questions about dealing with dental anxiety for yourself or a loved one, there is always more to learn! We want to come alongside you at our office and make everything as simple as possible. Feel free to call us at (903) 567-2207 with any questions. Meet those people that make our practice stress free here.

Summer is everyone’s favorite! Our team wants to give you all the tools possible to keep the health of your smile in check during any trips you may be taking.

Ways To Practice Good Oral Hygiene This Summer

While oral health probably isn’t the first thing on your mind while traveling, it is surprising how easy it can be to take care of it with these simple tips in mind.

First, make sure to keep your consumption of sugary foods in check

Vacation is a perfect opportunity to treat yourself, and everyone deserves this! However, we want to make sure you avoid any potential dental issues that could form due to high sugar intake. You might want to try swapping out carbonated soda for an equally delicious and healthier beverage, such as green tea. While avoiding your favorite treats may not be possible, adding in foods such as vegetables high in fiber will aid in keeping your teeth clean. It is all about balance.

Second, it is always a good idea to have sugar-free gum on hand 

Whether flying, driving, or taking a bus, you may go longer than usual without brushing your teeth. Chewing sugar-free gum after eating is a wonderful way to keep your mouth as clean as possible. Not to mention, there are many delicious flavors out there!

Third, stay hydrated for good oral hygiene for summer

Hydration is essential for many reasons, including when it comes to the health of your smile. If you are enjoying a vacation adventure during the day and aren’t able to brush your teeth until later, drinking water while you eat will help dilute any plaque-forming acids and protect your teeth while you are having fun. Hydration is also key in guarding against dry mouth. Saliva is 99% water, so the more you drink, the more saliva you produce!

Fourth, let’s discuss your toothbrush’s ideal environment!

Can you guess one of the most important things to pay attention to on vacation? Minimizing potential bacteria growth on your toothbrush. Yes, you read that right! There are two main ways to ventilate your toothbrush and prevent bacteria growth. When looking for a travel toothbrush case, try to find one with small holes or room for air to circulate. A case without holes will keep the moisture locked in, which is not ideal. Also, keep your toothbrush free from its travel case when possible. Leaving it out to dry will aid in prevention.

Lastly, try your hardest to stick to your regular morning and evening oral hygiene routines

If you brush your teeth first thing in the morning, keep doing that. If you regularly brush your teeth throughout the day, travel toothbrushes were made for you. This will keep a healthy habit going, and it will also aid in preventing tooth decay and plaque. To make it even easier on yourself, pack an extra toothbrush and toothpaste just in case you misplace yours!

If you’d like to learn more about the prevention and treatment of cavities, read about it on our blog.

The Mill Creek Dental team wants to ensure you have the best summer with your loved ones! If you haven’t had your first appointment of the year with us yet, give us a call at (903) 567-2207 to make one before your first Summer trip. This way, you will be able to enjoy your vacation without any stress or pain. You deserve it!

Cavities are one of the most commonly known dental issues and something everyone dreads. When you go to the dentist, you may wonder, “Do I have a cavity?” in the back of your mind. We have all experienced this fear! Luckily, treatment for and prevention of cavities are simple and more accessible than ever, especially at Mill Creek Dental.

A cavity is formed when your enamel becomes damaged and can eventually develop into a small hole in your tooth. There are many common causes of cavities, such as not keeping your teeth clean, overindulging in sugary snacks and drinks, and bacteria. Cavities can become highly problematic if ignored for too long. If left untreated, a cavity can grow and affect deeper parts of your tooth. Eventually, this can cause infection or even the loss of your tooth. So, what are some of the best ways to prevent cavities?

Prevention And Treatment Of Cavities

Regular dental cleanings and checkups

Staying on top of hygiene appointments and oral exams will prevent cavities from forming and catch any that have already begun in their early stages before they progress and cause more harm!

Ask your dentist about fluoride treatments

Fluoride treatments are a great preventative measure, especially if your teeth aren’t getting enough fluoride. We can perform fluoride treatments right here in our office and your routine cleanings and checkups!

Use fluoride toothpaste

Brushing your teeth twice a day is imperative, but it is even more beneficial when using fluoride toothpaste. This will decrease your risk of tooth decay.

Enjoy sugary snacks and drinks in moderation

Certain snacks and beverages create acids that can be destructive to your enamel. If you have a sugar craving, rinse and brush your teeth soon after!

Signs of a Cavity 

Despite your most thorough preventative efforts, there is a chance that you could still develop a cavity. There are a few simple indicators you can look for when watching for cavities. If a cavity is forming in your mouth, you may notice pain or sensitivity in a tooth, pain when eating or drinking something hot or cold, black or brown staining on a tooth, or even small pits in a tooth.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, call our office immediately at (903) 567-2207!

Learn more on why keeping up with treatment is so important.

Our office offers treatment options for cavities that will restore your tooth’s look and feel back to its healthy state and function. These services include fillings, root canals, and crowns. Feel free to visit the services section of our website to learn more! The Marshall Family Dental team wants to help you maintain the best dental health you can, and we hope this provides a little more insight on how to do so.