When is the Best Time to Visit the Dentist?

Let’s face it: we realize that you might not always be thrilled to come see the dentist. However, when you do make it in to see us, we want you to have the best experience possible. One way to do so is to schedule your visit for the right time. When exactly is the perfect time to treat your teeth? You’ve probably heard that classic joke that the best time to go to the dentist is “tooth hurt-y.” As funny as that response may be, it’s not particularly practical. Dr. Craig Armstrong and our Houston dental team strive to make your experience as enjoyable as possible. In the following blog, we provide our appointment pointers for scheduling an optimal visit.

Which Season is Superior?

Did you know that dental offices, like many other businesses, have busy seasons and slow seasons? In his American Dental Association blog for new dentists, financial expert, Rich McIver, explained that “new patients are most likely to join the practice at the end of summer” in preparation for the school year, with a “notable uptick in production in April,” perhaps as children and parents take a little spring break. In addition, December, January, and February are often some of the busiest months in a dental practice, as patients scramble to use up their yearly insurance benefits (December) or finally have that much-needed dental appointment when the new year of insurance kicks in (January and February). According to this information, you’re likely to have a more relaxed visit with less wait time during the fall, late spring, early summer, and early winter.

The Ideal Time of Day

Okay, so “tooth hurt-y” might not be actual best appointment time, but then, what is?

Let’s start with the perfect day for an appointment. The Wealthy Dentist dental marketing blog conducted a study and found: “dentists are busiest on Monday, with Tuesday and Thursdays as runners-up.” Only five percent of dentists said that Friday was their “busiest day of the week,” indicating that this would be a great day for a cleaning or crown placement. Saturday and Wednesday are also good days to schedule appointments.

Now, what time should you come in? Canadian dentist, Dr. Andrea Stevens, notes that, since dentists usually wake up early and see appointments all day long, you’re more likely to get an alert, well-rested doctor in the morning.

When Should You See Us?

While, scientifically speaking, it might seem to be best to schedule a 9am appointment on a Friday, Dr. Armstrong and our team will provide exceptional, expert care whenever you come in. The most important factor is your dental health. You should schedule an appointment as soon as possible if:

  • You haven’t seen a dentist in more than six months. You should come in at least twice per year for a cleaning and examination. If we catch a condition in its early stages, it will be much easier to treat.
  • You’re suffering from a toothache, sore gums, or any other troubling symptoms.
  • You are having trouble eating, drinking, or speaking.
  • You require a restoration.
  • You want to enhance the appearance of your smile with cosmetic dentistry.

As far as we’re concerned, it’s always a wonderful time to come and see us!

Contact Our Houston Dental Practice Today

Are you ready to schedule your next visit? Contact us today! We look forward to seeing your smile.

Original Source: https://www.craigarmstrongdds.com/the-armstrong-team/when-is-the-best-time-to-visit-the-dentist/

Softly Scrumptious: Healthy Recipes for When Your Teeth Hurt

Unfortunately, toothaches are quite common. Most of us have experienced that sensitive, stinging sensation. The discomfort can spread throughout your entire mouth, making it difficult to speak, smile, and even eat. The only thing worse than a toothache is struggling through it with a constant stomachache. At our Houston dental practice, Dr. Craig Armstrong and our team are committed to helping patients handle all sorts of oral health concerns. If you have a persistent toothache, you should come see us so that we can professionally diagnose your mouth and advise a course of treatment. However, in the meantime, we want you to be able to eat as comfortably as possible. In the following blog, we offer our healthy recipes for when your teeth hurt.

Sources of a Sore Smile

There are many reasons your teeth might develop a dull, sharp, or throbbing feeling. The most common culprits of a toothache include:

  • Decay. This problem is quite pervasive. According to recent research from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, “92 percent of adults 20 to 64 have had dental caries in their permanent teeth,” while “26 percent of adults…have untreated decay.” Cavities weaken the tooth’s enamel, making the nerves and blood vessels within more sensitive.
  • Gum disease. The same bacteria that cause cavities can infect your gums, causing swelling and even tooth loss. This can cause toothache.
  • Trauma. A mouth injury, such as a hit or fall, could certainly make your mouth sore. In addition to cracking or loosening your teeth, the impact could irritate your nerves.
  • Dental procedures. If you’ve recently had a restoration such as a dental implant or a crown placed, your teeth might ache following the procedure.

These are just a few of the situations that might cause sensitivity. In truth, there are many reasons you could develop a toothache. Fortunately, Dr. Armstrong and our team are ready to assist you with any diagnosis.

Our Recommended Recipes

If you choose the right foods, you can still munch, even with a sore mouth. While you might be tempted to survive on a diet of ice cream and mashed potatoes, there are many healthy options, as well. A few of our favorites include:

In addition to all of the above, Kellie’s Food to Glow has recipes for veggie-packed savory bread pudding, protein-rich turkey meatloaf, frittata, creamy polenta, and more.

How We Can Help

Dr. Armstrong and our team are available to aid you with any type of toothache. You should absolutely enjoy our soft, nutritious suggestions while you wait for an appointment, but you should schedule a visit as soon as possible. Dr. Armstrong will examine your mouth, determine the source of your toothache, and create a customized treatment plan for you. We are also equipped to handle dental emergencies.

Are Your Teeth Feeling Tender?

Our dedicated dental team can help! Contact us today to find out more and schedule an appointment with Dr. Armstrong.

Original Source: https://www.craigarmstrongdds.com/healthy-eating/softly-scrumptious-healthy-recipes-for-when-your-teeth-hurt/