How to conquer your fear of pain at the dentist

read Adult Oral Health
Patient sitting in the dental chair and the dentist flossing their teeth.

Do you dread that reminder call about your upcoming dentist appointment? Maybe you’ve heard a horror story from a friend, or you’ve had a painful experience yourself. Whatever the reason, it’s important to know that you’re not alone. In fact, roughly 36% of adults in the United States suffer from a fear of pain at the dentist or a fear of dentists in general, also known as dentophobia.

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Common misconceptions about children’s dental health

read Children's Oral Health
Children laughing and smiling together.

*Updated February 2026

Key takeaways about children’s dental health:

  • Baby teeth are important.They help with eating, speaking, and guiding adult teeth into place.
  • Start dental visits early. Children should see a dentist by their first birthday or first tooth.
  • Daily habits prevent cavities. Brushing, flossing, water, and smart snack choices protect kids’ teeth.

Children’s dental health is a topic filled with myths and misunderstandings that can lead to poor oral care practices. Promoting healthy teeth and gums is not only essential for your child’s oral health but also plays a vital role in supporting their overall well-being.

Learn about some of the most common misconceptions surrounding children’s dental health and discover the facts to help you make informed decisions.

Common misconceptions about children’s dental health

Myth 1: Baby teeth don’t matter because they fall out anyway.

Fact: Baby teeth play a crucial role in a child’s development. They help children chew, speak, and smile properly. Additionally, they hold space for permanent teeth. Losing baby teeth too early due to decay or other issues can lead to alignment problems with adult teeth later.

Proper care, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits, is essential for children’s dental health at all ages.

Myth 2: Cavities in baby teeth don’t need to be treated.

Fact: Untreated cavities in baby teeth can lead to pain, infections, and difficulties eating or speaking.

Remember, treating cavities promptly and maintaining good oral hygiene helps prevent long-term issues and supports your children’s dental health.

Myth 3: Kids don’t need to see the dentist until they start school.

Fact: The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children visit the dentist by their first birthday or when their first tooth erupts. Early dental visits help identify potential issues, establish good oral health habits, and make children more comfortable with dental checkups.

Myth 4: Sugar is the main cause of cavities.

Fact: While sugar certainly contributes to cavities, it’s not the only factor. Cavities are caused by acid produced by bacteria in the mouth when they break down carbohydrates. This includes sugars as well as starchy foods like bread, crackers, and chips.

Brushing twice a day, flossing, and limiting sugary or starchy snacks are key in preventing cavities and protecting your children’s dental health.

Myth 5: Kids don’t need to floss.

Fact: Flossing is just as important for kids as it is for adults. Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles from between teeth, an area that a toothbrush can’t reach. Flossing should happen as soon as two teeth have erupted next to each other.

Pro tip: Learn how to floss properly here.

Myth 6: Juice is a healthy alternative to soda.

Fact: While juice may contain vitamins, it’s often high in natural and added sugars, which can contribute to tooth decay. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting juice and encouraging children to drink water and milk instead. If juice is offered, it’s best to do your best to ensure it’s “no sugar added,” serve it with meals, and ensure children brush their teeth afterward.

Pro tip: If brushing isn’t an option, have your child swish with water to help remove any sugar left on the teeth.

Myth 7: It’s normal for kids to have bad breath.

Fact: Persistent bad breath in children can be a sign of poor oral hygiene, cavities, gum disease, or even other health issues such as sinus infections. If the bad breath continues despite proper brushing and flossing, it’s a good idea to consult a dentist to safeguard your children’s dental health.

Take care of your children’s dental health now

Understanding the facts about your children’s dental health is essential for keeping their smiles healthy and bright. By debunking these common myths, you can take better care of their teeth and gums, laying the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health.

For any questions or concerns about your child’s dental care, don’t hesitate to reach out to a dental professional.

Skipping the dentist now could cost you more later: The importance of preventive checkups

read Insurance Resources and Dental Benefits

*Updated November 2025

Key takeaways about preventive checkups: 

  • Preventive checkups catch issues early, avoiding costly treatments later.
  • Dentists can spot signs of systemic conditions like diabetes and heart disease at preventive screenings.
  • Most dental insurance plans include preventive cleanings and exams at little to no cost.

When life gets busy, it’s easy to let routine appointments fall by the wayside, including preventive checkups at the dentist. However, skipping these visits can lead to higher costs…not just financially, but for your overall well-being.

Discover why prioritizing preventive checkups is critical for good oral health and how they can save you money and unnecessary discomfort.

Don’t skip preventive checkups

Before you pick up your phone to cancel your upcoming dental appointment, consider these reasons to keep it!

Early detection saves money

Dental problems like cavities, gum disease, and tooth sensitivity often start before you realize they’re becoming an issue. Preventive checkups allow your dentist to detect them early, making treatments less invasive and expensive. Remember, a small cavity identified during an exam can be treated with a simple filling or monitored. But ignoring it could result in the need for a costly root canal or crown later.

Investing in preventive care now can help you avoid more expensive procedures like deep cleanings or gum surgery down the road.

Prevention is better than a cure

Preventive checkups include professional cleanings that remove plaque and tartar build-up, which regular brushing and flossing can’t fully address. This significantly reduces your risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath, all of which may require more appointments to fix.

Protecting your overall health

Your oral health is closely linked to your overall health. Regular preventive checkups can reveal early signs of systemic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, sleep apnea, osteoporosis, and more. Catching these indicators early helps prevent complications that could lead to more serious health issues and medical expenses.

Insurance benefits often cover the cost of preventive checkups

Many Delta Dental of Wisconsin dental insurance plans cover preventive checkups, including cleanings, exams, and X-rays, at little to no cost. Skipping these covered services is like leaving money on the table while also increasing the risk of needing more extensive, and expensive, procedures in the future.

Pro tip: Be sure to check your dental plan for specific details about your coverage.

Build good oral health habits for lifelong health

Preventive checkups play a vital role in establishing healthy habits for a lifetime. For families, starting kids with regular dental visits early teaches the importance of good oral health and helps reduce the risk of anxiety and dental issues as they grow.

Tips for maximizing your Delta Dental of Wisconsin insurance benefits

Having dental insurance makes it easy to make and keep your preventive checkups. Use the tips below to ensure you’re getting the most out of your coverage:

  • Know your plan: Understand what preventive services are covered and how often they’re available.
  • Schedule before deadlines: Many plans reset benefits annually. Make sure to schedule your preventive checkups before the year ends.
  • Check network options: Visiting an in-network dentist can save you additional money.

Your future self will thank you for preventive checkups

Investing in preventive checkups today ensures a healthier smile, better oral health, and a happier wallet tomorrow. Make your oral health a priority to keep your teeth strong, your body healthy, and your finances on track.

Don’t let busy schedules keep you from staying on top of your dental care! Find a dentist and schedule your next preventive checkup today!

Understanding and managing tooth sensitivity in cold weather

read Adult Oral Health
Mother and daughter smiling outside in the snow.

*Updated December 2025

Key takeaways about tooth sensitivity during the winter:

  • Cold weather can worsen tooth sensitivity because teeth contract in low temperatures, potentially exposing sensitive dentin and roots and increasing discomfort.
  • Common causes of sensitivity include enamel erosion from hard brushing or grinding, gum recession, cracked teeth, and certain whitening products or dental procedures.
  • You can manage tooth sensitivity by using a soft-bristled brush, switching to toothpaste for sensitive teeth, limiting acidic foods, protecting your teeth from cold air, and visiting your dentist if discomfort persists.

Have you ever experienced tooth sensitivity in the cold?

Tooth sensitivity can be uncomfortable any time of year, but for many it becomes especially bothersome when cold weather comes around. That sharp, sudden pain when you breathe in chilly air or sip a hot drink can disrupt your day and make winter less enjoyable.

Learn how cold weather affects tooth sensitivity and tips to manage tooth sensitivity throughout the winter season:

What causes tooth sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity can be caused by many factors that expose or irritate dentin, the underlying layer beneath tooth enamel. Common causes include:

  • Brushing teeth too hard: Vigorous brushing or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear down enamel and expose dentin, leading to tooth sensitivity.
  • Teeth grinding (bruxism): Grinding wears down the enamel, exposing dentin and leading to sensitivity, particularly on biting surfaces.
  • Cracked teeth: Cracks or fractures in teeth allow irritants to reach the dentin or even the pulp, which can result in sharp sensitivity or pain.
  • Gum recession: Receding gums may expose the roots of teeth, which are more sensitive than the protected areas of the tooth.
  • Some teeth whitening products: Some whitening agents can temporarily increase tooth sensitivity by weakening the enamel or irritating the gums.
  • Recent dental procedures: Cleanings, fillings, or other treatments may cause temporary sensitivity due to irritation or exposure of underlying dentin.

Why does cold weather make tooth sensitivity worse?

Teeth can feel sensitive when exposed to hot, cold, or sweet food coming into contact with the tooth nerve, causing pain. However, tooth sensitivity may worsen in the winter or when exposed to cold air for a few reasons.

  • Thermal contraction: Teeth, like many materials, react to cold by contracting. When enamel and dentin contract at different rates, tiny gaps can form, potentially exposing the underlying sensitive dentin.
  • Exposed dentin or roots: If gums have receded or if enamel is worn down, exposing the dentin or tooth roots, the cold can reach these sensitive areas directly, triggering discomfort or pain.
  • Increased blood flow: When teeth are exposed to cold, the body may increase blood flow to the area as a response, which can intensify the sensation and make the teeth feel even more sensitive.

Tips for managing tooth sensitivity in cold weather

Wearing a scarf to cover your mouth or breathing through your nose can help shield your teeth from the cold air when you’re outside, reducing sensitivity during colder weather. Additionally, changes to your oral health care routine may help protect against tooth sensitivity.

Here are some ideas:

  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and try to avoid brushing too hard. Using soft-bristled toothbrushes will cause less irritation to the tooth surface and gums.
  • Change your toothpaste: Use a toothpaste made for sensitive teeth or those with exposed root surfaces. Not all desensitizing toothpaste works the same, so ask your dentist for recommendations.
  • Maintain a good oral hygiene routine: Brush your teeth twice daily, floss once daily, and schedule a dental visit every six months if you can.
  • Try to avoid teeth grinding: Consider consulting your dentist and purchasing a nightguard to protect against teeth grinding.
  • Make changes in your diet: Acidic foods and beverages (like citrus, soda, or vinegar-based foods) weaken enamel, making teeth more vulnerable to temperature changes. Avoid or limit these foods and drinks to reduce tooth sensitivity.

When to see a dentist for tooth sensitivity

Although tooth sensitivity is common, there are times when it’s a good idea to see your dentist. If your sensitivity lasts more than a few weeks or doesn’t improve with desensitizing toothpaste or at-home remedies, it’s time for a professional evaluation.

If both hot and cold temperatures, or even chewing or brushing, cause pain, it could signal deeper dental problems that need to be treated by a dental professional. Intense or sharp pain may indicate a more serious issue, like a cracked tooth, cavity, or exposed root that needs treatment.

As a good rule of thumb, if tooth sensitivity is becoming bothersome, it’s time to see your dentist. Don’t wait until the sensitivity becomes too painful to seek evaluation.

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