In today’s fast-paced world, it can be easy for families to let dental care fall by the wayside. Between school, work, extracurriculars, and social commitments, scheduling dentist visits and maintaining good oral hygiene may feel like just another task on a never-ending to-do list. But preventive dental care is one of the most effective ways to protect your family’s health - and save time, money, and stress down the line.
At Webster Groves Dental, we understand the demands of modern family life, and we’re here to help make dental wellness convenient, efficient, and accessible for patients of all ages across the St. Louis area.
Why Preventive Dental Care Matters
Preventive dentistry focuses on stopping problems before they start. With consistent checkups and healthy daily habits, you can avoid:
- Tooth decay and cavities
- Gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis)
- Dental emergencies like infections or abscesses
- Costly, time-consuming restorative procedures like crowns or root canals
When small issues are caught early, they’re faster, easier, and less expensive to treat.
1. Schedule Routine Dental Visits
We recommend that children and adults visit the dentist at least twice a year for a professional cleaning and exam. These visits allow your dentist to:
- Remove tartar and plaque buildup
- Check for early signs of decay or gum disease
- Track the development of your child’s teeth
- Provide fluoride treatments or sealants when appropriate
- Offer personalized advice for better home care
Tip: Book appointments during school breaks or slow seasons to minimize disruption to your family’s schedule.
2. Build Smart Daily Habits
At home, encourage the whole family to follow a consistent oral hygiene routine:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss once a day (yes, even the kids!)
- Use mouthwash to reduce bacteria and freshen breath
- Avoid sugary drinks and snacks, especially before bed
If your child struggles with brushing, try using a kid-friendly electric toothbrush or brushing together to lead by example.
3. Make Healthy Snacking a Priority
What your family eats can have a big impact on oral health. Frequent snacking on sticky or sugary foods fuels cavity-causing bacteria. Instead, keep these tooth-friendly options on hand:
- Cheese and yogurt (high in calcium)
- Crunchy fruits and veggies like apples and carrots
- Nuts and seeds
- Sugar-free gum (helps stimulate saliva)
Hydration is also key - encourage water instead of juice or soda throughout the day.
4. Protect Teeth During Sports and Sleep
Active children (and adults) should wear a mouthguard during sports to prevent dental injuries. For those who grind or clench their teeth at night, a custom nightguard can protect enamel and relieve jaw pain.
Ask Dr. Wenzel about affordable, custom-fit protective options during your next visit.
5. Lead by Example and Make It Fun
Your kids are watching! When you treat oral health as a priority, they’ll learn to do the same. Some tips to keep things fun:
- Create a sticker chart or reward system
- Let kids pick their own toothbrush or toothpaste
- Use brushing apps or music timers to encourage consistency
- Talk about visits to the dentist as something positive
At Webster Groves Dental, we strive to create a welcoming, low-stress environment where patients of all ages feel at ease.
Serving Families Across St. Louis
Located in the heart of Webster Groves, our office is proud to serve families from all over the St. Louis area. Whether you’re coming from Kirkwood, Maplewood, Rock Hill, or Brentwood, we make it easy to get the care your family needs - with flexible scheduling, gentle treatments, and a team that truly cares.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Don’t wait for a dental issue to disrupt your busy life. Make preventive care part of your routine and keep your family smiling for years to come.
Contact us or request an appointment online to get started!