How to Celebrate Gum Disease Awareness Month

Ah, it’s February again! A favorite month for many, it’s time for Valentine’s chocolates, flowers, and cute dates. However, have you ever considered giving that “special somebody” a Gum Disease Awareness brochure instead? While they might be mildly upset about the lack of chocolate, at least they won’t have to worry about gum disease! We also protect your loved ones by providing gum disease treatments in San Antonio, Texas. 

 

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is a severe infection within the gums. Gym disease can cause bone decay, tooth loss, swollen gums, and bleeding if left unchecked. While genetics may occasionally link to gum disease is largely preventable with healthy habits. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups prevent most gum disease cases. 

 

How to Celebrate Gum Disease Awareness Month?

Ultimately, awareness is critical. If more people knew about gum disease and how to prevent it, we could save a lot of trouble in the future! While it may not be as popular as Christmas or Halloween, there’s always something we can do:

 

  • Step up Your Hygiene. Start by focusing on your sphere of control- which is yourself! Recommit to brushing twice a day, flossing, and bi-annual checkups. Pamper your gums with extra love and care with fluoride toothpaste, mouthwash and by brushing your tongue. Remember: everything is connected, and health in one area keeps other areas healthy.
  • Set up a Dental Checkup. If you haven’t already, set up your next appointment! Mark your calendar, and strive to keep healthy daily habits until then. If you have a family, remember to bring them as well!
  • Thank Your Local Dentist. Dentistry can be a pretty unthankful job. After all, it can be pretty stressful! Make their late-night hours a little sweeter with a gift. Be creative: a thank you card, a chocolate bar, or a new Bugatti could go a long way!
  • Spread the Word. Raise awareness for gum disease in any way you can. Tag #GumDiseaseAwarenessMonth on social media, share it with friends as a “fun fact,” or make a fun poster. We’re all in this together. 
  • Educate the Youth. Play a game, make flashcards, or surprise them with a new toothbrush. For families with children, this is an excellent opportunity to teach your children about gum disease, dental hygiene, and how to build healthy habits. Don’t let this chance slip!

 

Symptoms for Gum Disease

If you notice any or all of these symptoms, consult a dentist. After all, we want you to feel great!

 

  • Bleeding Gums. Unexplainable bleeding is a common symptom of gum disease. If you catch your gums bleeding without an apparent cause, it’s time to metaphysically “stop, drop, and roll.” 
  • Loose Teeth. Periodontitis has a nasty habit of weakening your gums and loosening your teeth. If you notice a loose tooth, it’s essential to act to prevent tooth loss. 
  • Mystery Pus. If you ever see mystery pus, it’s time to call for backup. Dr. Precious Thompson and our team will get to the bottom of this mystery better than Scooby-Doo ever could. 

 

Gum Disease Treatment in San Antonio, Texas 

This Gum Disease Awareness Month, we take a moment to remember all the good our gums do. After all, life would be tricky without a good pair of gums! Dr. Precious Thompson and our team know how precious your smile is. That’s why we work hard to keep your chompers chomping and your smiles smiling. Let’s celebrate this month by raising awareness for gum disease and improving our oral hygiene. 

 

Let’s keep your smile bright. Schedule an appointment today to get started.

TMJ Awareness Month: Do You Know the Signs of TMJ?

Do you have jaw pain? At Thousand Oaks Dental, we offer all the dental services your family needs under one roof. We also provide essential services that are difficult to find at other dental offices, including TMJ treatment. We understand that jaw pain can interfere with your entire day, and we want to help you get out of pain quickly. We offer mouthguards, physical therapy, and heat and ice therapy to help you get relief.

Call us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Precious Thompson!

 

November is TMJ Awareness Month

November is TMJ Awareness Month, and we want to make sure our patients are informed about the signs and symptoms of TMJ. TMJ is a disorder that affects the temporomandibular joint, which is the joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull. When this joint is not functioning correctly, it can lead to various problems, including pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing.

 

What are the Signs of TMJ?

There are a few different signs that you may be suffering from TMJ. If you experience any of the following, we recommend scheduling an appointment with us so we can take a look:

– Pain in the jaw, face, neck, or shoulders

– Headaches

– Difficulty chewing or pain when chewing

– Clicking or popping sound when opening or closing the mouth

– Locked jaw

 

What Causes TMJ?

There are a few different factors that can contribute to TMJ. Some of the most common include:

– Arthritis in the joint

– Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)

– Jaw injury 

– Stress 

 

How is TMJ treated?

The good news is that many different treatment options are available for TMJ. After examining you and assessing your symptoms, we will work with you to develop a treatment plan that may include any of the following: 

– Medication to relieve pain and inflammation 

If you are suffering from TMJ, you may seek relief from the pain and inflammation. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for TMJ, medication can be an effective treatment option. Pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, can help to reduce swelling and ease the pain. If over-the-counter medications are insufficient, Dr. Thompson may prescribe a stronger pain reliever. In addition, corticosteroid injections can be used to reduce inflammation.

– Mouthguard to protect the teeth from grinding 

Do you wake up with a sore jaw or teeth? You may be surprised to learn that you are not alone. Millions of Americans suffer from bruxism, or tooth grinding, which is also a common cause of TMJ. Bruxism can occur during the day or at night, and it can cause a great deal of discomfort. Fortunately, there is a simple solution: a custom mouthguard. A mouth guard helps to protect your teeth from the damaging effects of grinding and can also help to alleviate some of the pain and stiffness associated with TMJ. If you think you may be suffering from bruxism or TMJ, talk to our team about getting a custom mouthguard. It may be the first step on the road to feeling better.

– Physical therapy 

At Thousand Oaks Dental, we also offer physical therapy services to help you find relief from TMJ. Our trained team members can help you strengthen the muscles in your face and neck, which can help to relieve pain and improve jaw function. In addition, physical therapy can help you learn how to practice good posture and proper jaw alignment, both of which can help reduce TMJ symptoms.

– Heat and ice therapy

Applying a cold compress to the area for 15 minutes at a time can help to reduce inflammation and ease discomfort. Alternating between hot and cold compresses can also be beneficial. Heat and ice therapy can also be used to help reduce inflammation and pain associated with TMJ. 

 

TMJ Treatment for Relief in San Antonio, Texas

Our goal is to provide you with the best possible care so that you can get back to your life pain-free. If you are experiencing any of the signs or symptoms of TMJ, please schedule an appointment with us so we can take a look. We offer various services to meet your needs, and we will work with you to find the best treatment plan for your situation.

Thousand Oaks Dentist 78232

A healthy and beautiful smile can make you feel confident daily, but it requires an excellent dentist. If you are looking for a dentist who will take the time to get to know you and your dental health, you will find her in Dr. Precious Thompson. Dr. Thompson is a Thousand Oaks Dentist 78232 passionate about dentistry and will ensure her patients have healthy teeth for a lifetime. She provides personalized care that focuses on the individual, not just their teeth.

 

Finding the Right Dentist in the Thousand Oaks Area

Seeing the right dentist is essential for many reasons. First, they can help to prevent cavities and tooth decay. By regularly cleaning your teeth and providing fluoride treatments, dentists can help to keep your smile healthy and bright. And seeing the right dentist is an excellent way to maintain oral health. Just like seeing a doctor for regular checkups, seeing a dentist regularly can help ensure that your mouth stays healthy for years. 

When it comes to finding a dentist, there are a few things you should keep in mind. For one thing, you can ask around for recommendations. Your family and friends can be a great source of information regarding finding a good dentist. And don’t forget to check online reviews. We’d encourage you to read the online reviews posted about us because the quality of our care shows in the appreciation of our patients. 

Also, consider what your dental needs are. If you have healthy teeth and gums, you may be able to get by with a general dentist. However, if you have specific dental needs, you may need to see a specialist, such as an orthodontist or periodontist. One great thing about Thousand Oaks Dental is that we provide all the above services and more! 

We offer multiple dental services you need in one convenient location – everything from general dentistry to cosmetic dentistry. We’re a family dental office, providing care for any group, from toddlers to seniors. Our extensive service list includes:

We even specialize in convenient and health-promoting procedures that aren’t available at many dental offices, such as TMD therapy, sleep apnea treatment, customized athletic mouthguards, and wisdom teeth removal.

No matter your dental needs or condition, we are here to help. If you don’t see the service you need on our list, feel free to contact us. We’ll either care for your dental needs or find someone who can!

Another great way to find the right dentist for you is to schedule a free consultation and meet the doctor and the dental team. During your first appointment, our staff will warmly receive you, and we can give you a tour of our state-of-the-art San Antonio dental facility. We’ll ask about your medical history and any medications you are currently taking. We will also ask about your family’s dental history. This information is important in helping us determine what type of care you will need.

Dr. Thompson and her team will examine your teeth and gums if you have a checkup or teeth cleaning scheduled. We will look for any signs of decay or other problems. If we find anything, we can recommend a course of treatment.

Finally, we can talk to you about your oral hygiene habits. We can give you some helpful tips on how to brush and floss correctly. We may also recommend a specific type of toothpaste or mouthwash for you to use.

 

Skilled and Experienced Thousand Oaks Dentist 78232

Every patient is unique. That’s why Thousand Oaks Dental in San Antonio, Texas provides personalized care so you can feel comfortable and confident with your dental health.

Your dental goals are our dental goals at Thousand Oaks Dental. We’ll do everything we can to ensure your positive experience with us because we want you to be our lifelong patient! 

Request an appointment today on our website! We would love to see you at our office soon!

Looking For a Dentist Near Me?

If you are looking for a dentist near me in Thousand Oaks, Texas, look no further than Thousand Oaks Dental. Our dentist, Dr. Thompson, and her team of dental experts are dedicated to helping you achieve a beautiful and healthy smile. Thousand Oaks Dental is a small, personalized practice with modern technology and treatments committed to excellence.

 

Dentist Near me Thousand Oaks Dental dentist in San Antoni Texas Dr. Thomson

Small, Personalized Dental Practice in Thousand Oaks, Texas

Dr. Thompson and her team believe in a personalized dental approach. One of the main reasons Dr. Thompson chose to become a dentist was because she could build lifelong relationships with her patients and help them improve their health. Dr. Thompson recognizes that there has been a trend in the dental industry to create mega dental clinics. There is no personalized care approach in these clinics that Dr. Thompson wanted.
Dr. Thompson gives to her community by participating in Smiles on Wheels and Give Kids a Smile Day. She is also a part of the Junior League of San Antonio and the YMCA. By Dr. Thompson’s commitment to her community and appreciation for personalized care, you know that Thousand Oaks Dental is the best-personalized dentist in Thousand Oaks, Texas.

 

We Offer Modern Technology and Treatments

At our Thousand Oaks dental practice, Dr. Thompson and her experts believe in using high-quality, modern technology and treatments. Thousand Oaks Dental uses a few technologies: digital x-rays, digital intraoral cameras, VELscope, Loupe Magnification, and Ergonomic Dental Chairs.

Digital X-Rays
Traditional x-rays are not only less accurate than digital x-rays. They also expose the patient to an unnecessary amount of radiation. Dr. Thompson uses digital x-rays in her practice to create a more precise picture of her patient’s teeth. 
Digital Intraoral Camera
Another helpful tooth for Dr. Thompson is the digital intraoral camera. With this tool, Dr. Thompson and her team can take an in-depth photo of your teeth inside your mouth. This 3D digital image is in color. With this photo, she can detect abnormalities such as dental decay.  
VELscope
Dr. Thompson uses the VELscope to find abnormalities in your gums and oral cavities, such as oral cancer. This small hand-held device is used to visualize the soft tissue in your mouth with fluorescent light. Dr. Thompson can identify oral and pre-oral cancer that cannot be seen with the naked eye with this tool. 
Loupe Magnification
To perform dental procedures with extreme precision, Dr. Thompson uses Loupe Magnification. This technology looks like small magnifying areas attached to glasses. She can easily see your teeth and gums with this tool, providing better dental care.
Ergonomic Dental Chairs
Gone are the days of uncomfortable dental chairs. With ergonomic dental chairs at Thousand Oaks Dental, you will be comfortable during your dental procedure. Additionally, we offer other services to help you feel more comfortable during your dental procedure. Our office has televisions to watch during the process, snacks and drinks at the beverage bar, blankets, towels, and free Wi-Fi access. 

 

Convenience for the Whole Family

Dr. Thompson understands that you and your family are busy. The team at Thousand Oaks Dental offers family-block scheduling and same-day treatments. If you have a dental emergency in Thousand Oaks, Texas, or a surrounding area, call our office for an emergency dental appointment. Our team is dedicated to making your dental experience convenient and comfortable.

Patients looking for a dentist near me can benefit from the dental services offered at Thousand Oaks Dental. Our dental team, including Dr. Thompson, is experienced and dedicated to the success of your dental care. For more information about Thousand Oaks Dental or to schedule an appointment, call our office.

What to look for in a San Antonio Family Dentist

family at the dentist

Your San Antonio Family Dentist

If you’re currently looking for a new family dentist in San Antonio, it’s important that you know exactly what you’re looking for. There are some things in particular that you should be looking for when you’re in need of a new family dentist. Here at Thousand Oaks Dental, we offer a range of family dentist services, and we’re proud to offer many of the things you should be looking for in a family dentist. Read on to find out more about those things.

 

A Range of Services

When choosing a family dentist, it’s important that you choose a dentist who offers a range of services. After all, when it comes to your family’s dental health, you never know what kinds of problems might emerge in the future. The best thing you can do is find a family dentist in San Antonio that offers a range of services so your needs are highly likely to be covered.

 

Qualifications and Experience

Qualifications and experience are two things that matter a lot whenever you’re choosing a dentist. And they might matter even more when it comes to finding a family dentist. They should all have the right qualifications that certify them as being able to perform dentistry in San Antonio, Texas. And the more professional experience they have, the better.

 

Short Waiting Times

No one wants to be waiting for a long time when it comes to dental care. You should be able to get attention when you want and need it from your dentist. So be sure to check the waiting times and things of that nature. If you find that the waiting times of your preferred dentist are quite long, it might be a good idea to look elsewhere instead.

 

Comfortable Facilities

A comfortable practice might not be the most important thing in the world when it comes to choosing a family dentist, but it does matter nonetheless. It’s especially important if you or someone else in your family is a little scared of the dentist and doesn’t enjoy attending appointments. When facilities are adequate and comfortable, it’s much easier to feel relaxed and at ease ahead of your appointment.

 

Someone You’re Comfortable With

When you’re comfortable with your dentist and the rest of your family feels comfortable with them as well, the entire dentist experience is much smoother and more enjoyable. If you don’t like the dentist on a personal level, it can make things more challenging. Find a dentist with a good manner who’s willing to go further to make sure patients are relaxed and comfortable.

Finding the right dentist that your family can feel comfortable turning to when one of you is in need of dental care is hugely valuable. Your family’s health is not something you want to take risks with, so be sure to contact us today if you’re looking for a family dentist in San Antonio. We deliver services and procedures you can trust.

Moving Forward

San Antonio TX General Dentist near meIt’s appropriate that we look to Martin Luther King Jr. for our dental inspiration this month. One of our favorite quotes from him is:

“If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.”

At Thousand Oaks Dental, we are honored to live and work in a country that honors men like Martin Luther King Jr. who helped our country move forward in many ways. His life inspires us to apply the theme and desire to move forward as well. Read more…

Straight Teeth

San Antonio TX OrthodontistsHave you made your wish list for the holidays yet? Electronics are always a fun gift to receive. The technological advancements are so fun to discover. Wanting an updated phone? What do you think about getting things you need as a gift? Sometimes it’s more exciting to get something that you want over something that you need. Did you know that straight teeth can qualify as something that you should both need and want? Read more…

World Smile Day – October 6

San Antonio TX Cosmetic DentistryWorld Smile Day is on October 6th this year. Were you aware that this was even a day? We were surprised to learn that is was as well. Apparently an artist named Harvey Ball created the famous smiley face in 1963. He created the signature smiley face for an insurance company who wanted to help boost the company’s morale. From that small start, it became a household symbol of happiness. Mr. Ball created the World Smile Day to combat the commercialization of his smiley creation. His hope was that this day would encourage people to do acts of kindness, or help someone smile. Read more…

Reasons You May Have A Chewer In Your Family

San Antonio TX Family DentistAt Thousand Oaks Dental, we celebrate all of our patients’ unique needs. We know that every person that comes through our doors has attributes and gifts that make our world a more beautiful place. We’re thankful for each of you.

We also know that each unique patient comes with his or her own set of specific needs. Some patients have found that chewing on items helps in some ways. There are many reasons why you may have a chewer in your family. Read more…

Independence

San Antonio TX DentistAt Thousand Oaks Dental, we’d like to wish you a very happy Independence Day on July 4th. How do you usually celebrate on July 4th? We hope your day is filled with many friends, family, and yummy foods! Celebrating this day in the United States is an important thing. It’s a way to remember and be grateful for our independence as a nation.

Dr. Thompson would also like to offer you a way be grateful for your teeth. By caring for them through preventative treatments you can declare your family’s desire to be free from cavities and tooth decay. Read more…