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Let's face it – choosing a new dentist can feel a bit overwhelming! Whether you're new to the area or just looking for a change, finding the right dental home is an important decision that impacts your health and peace of mind. At Citracado Dental Group, we love welcoming new patients into our family care dental in Escondido, and we want to share some friendly guidance on finding the best provider for you.

As the leaves change to vibrant shades and the scent of pumpkin spice fills the air, October brings more than just cozy sweaters and Halloween treats. It's also National Dental Hygiene Month! At Citracado Dental Group, we're excited to shine a spotlight on the importance of maintaining those healthy smiles.

Here are five essential habits to help you maintain strong and healthy gums to keep periodontal disease at bay.

Here are some dentist-approved tips to keep their pearly whites in top shape as they hit the books.

Summer is here, and with it comes abundant sunshine, lots of outdoor fun and plenty of yummy treats. While we’re all excited to soak up the sun, it's crucial not to overlook the extra attention our teeth need during these hot months. At Citracado Dental Group, we want to help you maintain a healthy smile throughout the entire summer, and beyond. Here are some tips to ensure your oral health stays in top shape while you celebrate the season. Stay Hydrated Hydration is not just important for general health but plays a significant role in oral health too. Drinking plenty of liquids is important for washing away leftover food bits and bacteria that can cause tooth damage and gum disease. Plus, it helps keep your mouth moist, which also helps fight off the acids that bacteria produce. Tip: Always take a refillable water bottle with you wherever you go. Make it a habit of taking frequent sips, particularly after meals and sweet treats. Water doesn't only keep you hydrated; it serves as a natural purifier for your teeth. Steer Clear of Sugary Beverages Summer often tempts us with frosty beverages laden with sugar – sodas, lemonades and sweet iced teas to name a few. While they may offer temporary hydration, these drinks are full of sugars that can be detrimental to your teeth. Sugar feeds the bacteria in your mouth, which then produces acid that can erode your enamel and cause cavities. Tip: Choose healthier options such as plain water, unsweetened iced tea or water infused with fruit slices for a splash of flavor without the extra sugar. If you do indulge, consider using a straw to reduce contact with your teeth and rinse your mouth thoroughly with water afterward. Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene Summertime adventures and getaways can sometimes throw a wrench in your daily habits, yet it's important not to let your oral care routine slide. Brushing your teeth morning and night, along with daily flossing, are the foundation of a healthy smile. Tip: Keep a handy travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste and dental floss in your bag so you never have to skip your oral care routine. This simple act can play a big role in making it easy to maintain your oral health routine. Snack Smart With summer comes lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, which are not only great for your body but also your smile. Crunchy fruits and veggies like apples, carrots and celery work as natural cleaners for your teeth while stimulating your gums. Tip: Always have nutritious snacks within reach. Opt for a crunchy fruit or raw vegetables over sweets. Your teeth and gums will thank you. Protect Your Teeth During Summer Sports Summer is synonymous with outdoor games, activities and sports. Whether you’re playing in a soccer match, cycling around the park or enjoying a swim, protecting your teeth is paramount. Mouthguards can prevent dental injuries, especially during contact sports. We offer custom-fit mouthguards, which offer the best protection for avoiding athletic-related trauma to teeth. Tip: Purchase a high-quality mouthguard and wear it during any physical activities that might put your teeth at risk. This simple precaution could save you from painful dental mishaps that could be expensive to fix. Dazzle with Teeth Whitening Nothing says summer like a dazzling bright smile. If you’ve been considering teeth whitening , we have you covered with our summer offer of $159 (regularly for $330) for a take-home whitening system, which includes a scan for custom trays, trays and three whitening syringes. Tip: Give us a call to take advantage by August 31, 2024. Visit Your Dentist Regularly Even with the best at-home care, regular dental check-ups are essential to maintaining a healthy smile. Summer provides an excellent opportunity to book those routine exams to ensure that your smile stays flawless. Tip: Make an appointment with us at Citracado Dental Group . Our team is ready to offer personalized service to help keep your beautiful smile healthy throughout the year. At Citracado Dental Group, we're passionately committed to helping you achieve a healthy smile. By following these summer smile tips, you can enjoy all the season has to offer while keeping your teeth and gums at their best. Don’t forget to schedule your regular visit with us – we’re here to support your dental needs every step of the way.

Are you gearing up for an exciting vacation? Whether you're planning to lounge on a tropical beach, explore a bustling city or embark on an adventurous hike, there’s one thing you don’t want to forget.

As we make way for May, a month of bright blossoms and the start of warmer weather, we also celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month . During this time, we focus our attention on highlighting the fundamental significance of mental wellness. During discussions surrounding anxiety and depression, one topic often overlooked is dental anxiety - an issue that affects millions around the world. Dental anxiety extends beyond mere dislike about going to the dentist. Rather, it is a complex emotional response that can stem from previous experiences, anticipated pain or discomfort or generalized anxiety disorders. For many people, even thinking about dental procedures can trigger intense fear reactions, panic attacks or behaviors aimed at avoiding dental care altogether. Understanding that dental anxiety isn't just about oral health but is often intertwined with broader mental health issues is vital. If you suffer from anxiety disorders or have had traumatic histories, you may be particularly susceptible to dental anxiety. Here are some tips that you can take to help break the cycle of fear and promote overall wellness. Open Communication: Don't hesitate to discuss your trepidation and fears with your dentist. Our team can tailor our approach based on your or your child’s individual needs and offer comforting reassurances throughout your appointment. Relaxation Techniques: Utilize relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation or progressive muscle relaxation before and during your dental appointment. These methods can reduce anxiety levels and promote a feeling of calmness. Gradual Exposure: If you find yourself overwhelmed by dread at the thought of visiting the dentist, consider gradually exposing yourself to different aspects of it – start with neutral activities like sitting in the waiting room or discussing treatment plans. Sedation Dentistry: If you grapple with intense dental anxiety, sedation dentistry can offer significant relief. This method employs medication to induce relaxation during dental procedures, leading to a more comfortable and stress-free experience. Seeking Professional Assistance: If dental anxiety is significantly disrupting your daily life, it might be helpful to reach out to a mental health professional. Therapy offers valuable coping strategies and tools to effectively help manage your feelings. Dental anxiety doesn't only affect adults - children can also struggle with it, often due to fear of the unknown or past negative experiences. As parents and caregivers, it's essential to establish positive connections with dental care early on. Here are some suggestions: Early Familiarization: Introduce children to the dental environment well before their first appointment. This can help them become used to both their surroundings and the dental team. Role-playing: Encourage pretend play at home that simulates dentist visits. This helps children grow comfortable with the concept of dental procedures in a fun, secure and non-threatening environment. Positive Reinforcement: Praise and reward your child's bravery during dentist appointments. Emphasize the role of oral hygiene in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Plus, many little ones look forward to a visit to the toy chest after a visit! While dental anxiety can present a significant challenge to achieving optimal oral health and overall wellness, by addressing the mental health aspects of dental anxiety and applying practical coping strategies, both adults and children can overcome fears and foster positive experiences with dentistry. At Citracado Dental Group, your comfort and well-being are our top priority. We recognize that dental visits can evoke anxiety in some patients, and we strive to surpass expectations in providing a pleasant and positive experience for every patient. Your visit to our office is not just about dental care; it's about feeling relaxed and at ease during your time with us. To help make this happen, we have a selection of great amenities lined up to make your visit more comfortable and enjoyable. From neck or back pillows and soft blankets to bottled water or juice selections, we aim to create a soothing environment where you can unwind. Need to zone out? You can enjoy your favorite music on a personal iPad or indulge in a hot cup of gourmet coffee or tea from our bar. We also offer complimentary Wi-Fi, headphones for your listening pleasure, and even facial towels and lip balm for an extra special touch. We’re committed to ensuring your trip to our office is an enjoyable one! Schedule your next visit by calling or texting 760-489-5545.

As the warm weather approaches, it's time to start thinking about spring cleaning for your teeth and gums. Just like you declutter and freshen up your living space, it's important to do the same for your dental hygiene routine.

Routine dental exams are key to good oral health. However, there are certain signs or symptoms that should prompt you to schedule an appointment with us as soon as possible.