Though it’s ideal for patients to take care of and keep their own, natural teeth, sometimes that is not possible.  Events like traumatic accidents, advanced gum disease, or other factors may cause patients to lose one, many or all of their teeth.  While dentures are an option in some cases, dental implants can be a better choice for other patients.  Dental implants are artificial teeth that have a titanium post, which is surgically implanted into the bone.  The post holds an artificial tooth in place so that it may function just as a natural tooth.  At Summit Dental Center one of our highly trained licensed dentists performs the oral surgery requires to insert the implants.  During this procedure our dental staff will make sure that you are kept comfortable and made to feel secure.  For more information on how dental implants can change your life, contact our office today to schedule an appointment.  We accept most dental insurance plans, Medicaid and CHIP.

There are numerous different kinds of energy drinks on your supermarket shelf promising to quench thirst, increase physical performance, and to boost metabolism.  These drink vendors are prominent sponsors at rock concerts and for sports teams – all of which appeal to kids and teens.  However, these drinks are not necessarily great for the teeth.  A study recently published in the journal General Dentistry revealed the results of a clinical study that simulated people drinking 3-4 energy drinks per day and the effects.  A similar story was broadcast on Houston’s KHOU on Sunday evening.  Clinical experts advise that consuming energy drinks is like bathing the teeth in an acid bath, which acts in destroying the enamel on the teeth.  The pH of these drinks is quite high, and when the residue is left on the teeth, the sugar converts to acid, which attacks the enamel.  Over time this can lead to sensitive teeth as well as tooth decay.  So, what’s a parent to do? Summit Dental Center dental experts advise to suggest water over energy or sports drinks to quench thirst.  However, if your kids choose to consume these drinks try to encourage sugar free versions and brushing the teeth soon after consuming them.

It may come as a shock to some people that caring for their dentures is a lot like caring for their natural teeth.  Daily brushing of the dentures to clean them, remove plaque and other debris is critical to keeping dentures in good shape and to keeping the mouth healthy.  Going to see the dentist on a regular basis is also important for denture wearers.  At regular appointments the dentist will check how dentures are fitting and whether any minor adjustments are needed so that they feel comfortable.  Dentures that are not in good shape and are not regularly cleaned can actually do harm to the soft tissues of the mouth and cause an infection.  If it’s been a while since you’ve gone in for a check up and to have your dentures checked, then contact Summit Dental Center today to schedule an appointment.

Even though maintaining the teeth is important to our overall health, having to outlay money for unexpected dental services like fillings or crowns can be a cramp in the family budget.  For patients who qualify for CHIP or Medicaid, it is financially less stressful to have these professional services performed.  However, for those families who work hard yet are unable to qualify for or purchase dental insurance, Summit Dental Center’s seven Houston locations provide a solution.  We offer top quality pediatric and family dental services including preventative services as well as restorative services at rates that are affordable.  In some cases we are able to offer patients payment plans.  For more savings opportunities, visit our web site (in Spanish and English) to view our savings certificates.  Please don’t delay treatment because this may not only cause pain but also increase the expense of treatment.

Part of taking care of your child’s overall health includes not only regular visits to the pediatrician, but also to the dentist.  We, at Summit Dental Center, work to make your child’s experience at the dentist a positive one so they grow up to develop excellent oral health habits.  Summit Dental Center has seven Houston locations designed to serve families, young children, and teens.  The staff, dental hygienists and dentists in our offices choose to work in the field of pediatric dentistry and family dentistry because they truly enjoy taking care of children and families.  In fact, the dentists who care for children are specially trained to attend to the needs of these special patients.  It’s our privilege to serve Houston families of all income levels, and we happily accept Medicaid and CHIP in addition to most dental insurance benefits.  Contact our office today so that we may serve you.