We offer quality, experience,
and the latest in esthetic dentistry.

Leaping from a gummy grin to that first toothy smile is one of the many milestones in a child’s development. Among the firsts that follow, the inaugural trip to the dentist’s chair is critical and lays the foundation for a lifetime of healthy teeth. While the experience may be nerve-wracking for a first-time patient and perhaps even more so for the accompanying parent, several benefits come with the first dental visit at Cedar Ridge Esthetic and Family Dentistry in Urbandale, Iowa.

Dr. Ayah Bilbeisi graduated with her degree from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry, where she then completed a General Practice Residency from the University of Michigan. Once she finished these tasks in her journey of becoming a dentist, she moved to Iowa in 2011, where she started to help patients of all ages with their beautiful smiles. She loves to help all her patients achieve their best smiles and strives to get to know her patients, young and old.

This comprehensive guide will discuss the benefits of taking your child to their first dental visit at Cedar Ridge Esthetic and Family Dentistry.

1. Establishing Oral Health Habits from the Start

The first dental visit is not just about examining the new teeth sprouting in your child’s mouth. It’s an educational rendezvous where oral health habits are introduced and reinforced. Dr. Ayah Bilbeisi is adept at simplifying complex dental concepts into age-appropriate advice that helps cultivate healthy habits.

Early Prevention and Education

Starting oral hygiene habits can significantly reduce the risk of tooth decay and other oral health issues. A first dental visit is an excellent opportunity to learn proper brushing and flossing techniques, which are vital skills. Education on diet’s role in dental health, particularly the impact of sugary foods and drinks, can also begin here, preventing future cavities before they can even form.

Building a Positive Relationship with Oral Care

Most adults have a nuanced relationship with their dental health—a mix of habit, fear, and personal experience. A positive first encounter with the dentist can shape a child’s attitude towards dental care, making it a familiar and non-threatening component of their health routine. Including dental health in regular health conversations at home further underscores its importance, ensuring oral health is always at the top of mind.

2. Detecting Issues Early

The adage “prevention is better than cure” rings especially true in dentistry. The first dental visit is an excellent platform for early detection of potential problems, particularly tooth decay, the most prevalent childhood disease. Catching issues in their infancy allows for prompt remedial action, preventing them from becoming significant concerns later.

Preventing Dental Problems Before They Escalate

The onset of dental caries can be swift and silent, necessitating frequent check-ups from an early age. Dr. Bilbeisi has the expertise to identify risk factors and implement protective treatments, such as fluoride application and dental sealants, that can shield vulnerable teeth. Even before the arrival of permanent teeth, she can address any concerns regarding oral habits (such as thumb sucking and pacifier use), early tooth loss, or oral anomalies. Such interventions can often substantially and positively impact a child’s future dental health and development, sparing them from invasive treatments.

3. Creating a Comfortable Experience

It’s no secret that many people—children especially—find dental visits daunting. The first visit is about acclimatization, making the dental office seem less like a foreign land and more like a reasonable destination with friendly faces. A vital part of the first dental visit is familiarizing children with the dentist’s office’s sights, sounds, and sensations. Every aspect is designed to minimize anxiety, from the cheerful waiting area to the kid-friendly treatment room.

Reducing Fear and Anxiety Associated with Dental Visits

The first impression is powerful, and a positive initial visit can significantly reduce the stress often associated with dental care, ensuring that children are more likely to grow into adults who approach their dental appointments calmly and confidently.

4. Customized Treatment Plans and Parent Education

Not all children’s dentist visits comprise clean bills of health. Some may require more insight and a game plan tailored to their unique dental needs. This is where the first visit truly shines—setting the tone for personalized oral health care.

Tailoring Oral Care Based on Individual Needs

Children are not just little adults. Their dental needs are specific to their stage of development, and any potential treatments should reflect that. A personalized approach, including orthodontic evaluations for alignment issues or specialized treatments for developmental problems, ensures that your child’s dental health is on the right track from day one.

Guidance on Home Oral Hygiene Practices

The advice and guidance you receive during your child’s first dental visit are invaluable. This educational component is empowering, equipping you with the tools to participate in your child’s oral well-being actively.

No professional can oversee your child’s dental care daily, so the first visit is heavy on home care advice. From brushing and flossing techniques to the appropriate use of dental products, parents are given comprehensive guidance to ensure that dental health is a family affair.

Encouraging the First Dental Visit in Urbandale, Iowa

From education and early intervention to fostering comfort and establishing personalized care, the inaugural appointment is a pivotal moment in your child’s oral health. For our young patients and their parents, the first dental visit is a gateway to thriving oral health and should be approached not with trepidation but with a sense of opportunity and purpose. Set your child on the path of preventive dentistry early, and schedule their first dental visit with Dr. Ayah Bilbeisi today!

Looking for an Urbandale Dentist? Your smile is a powerful asset. It reflects confidence, warmth, and the joy of a life well-lived. But behind every radiant smile is the careful craftsmanship of a skilled dentist at Cedar Ridge Esthetics and Family Dentistry. In Urbandale, Iowa, our dentist, Dr. Ayah Bilbeisi, has become synonymous with exceptional dental care, promising more than just brighter smiles – she pledges a deeper commitment to oral health and well-being.

Cedar Ridge Esthetic and Family Dentistry

Dr. Bilbeisi’s practice differs from your average dental office. It’s a warm and inviting space, meticulously designed to calm the apprehensions often accompanying a dentist trip. Patients experience an unwavering dedication to providing the highest standard of care with each visit. Our office is situated in the heart of Urbandale, with easy access to our office for everyone.

About Dr. Ayah Bilbeisi

A member of the dental profession for over a decade, Dr. Bilbeisi’s journey began with a passion for health sciences and a desire to impact lives through personalized care. She prides herself in providing a holistic approach to dental care, focusing on her patient’s smiles and overall health and comfort. She loves to get to know each of her patients individually and only wants what is best for you!

As for her education, she graduated from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry and completed a General Practice Residency at the University of Michigan.

Commitment to Patient Care

Dr. Bilbeisi’s practice isn’t just about clinical excellence – it’s about ensuring a sense of comfort and relaxation. When you walk into our office, you will feel right at home with the care and focus we provide. We offer an array of amenities to help ease your anxiety, such as plush blankets, heated neck wraps, diffusers of essential oils, massaging handballs, and lip balm.

Services Offered

Dr. Bilbeisi offers many services, from routine cleanings to complex dental restorations. Her clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, ensuring every patient receives the most advanced care.

Patient Testimonials

The stories of transformed smiles and improved lives are at the heart of any dental practice. Dr. Bilbeisi’s clinic is a testament to these anecdotes, with a gallery of patient testimonials that radiate positivity and gratitude. Testimonials from our patients are many, and with our five-star reviews from happy patients, you can only expect the best.

Candace P. left a review stating,

“I highly recommend this place for all dental needs. I got my first crown and so pleased with saving my tooth.

I have been going there for 6 months and am so pleased with there work.

Got my teeth bleached as well.

Did a great job“

Another review was from Scott K., who stated,

“I’ve been a patient at Cedar Ridge Denistry for years. I have always been satisfied with the service provided by Dr Bilbeisi and her staff. No one looks forward to going to the dentist, but you are in good hands with Dr. Bilbeisi and her staff.“

Your Dentist in Urbandale, Iowa

Choosing a dentist is not just about picking a name from a list – it’s about selecting a partner in your health journey. Dr. Ayah Bilbeisi embodies the qualities of a trusted partner: expertise, empathy, and a genuine interest in her patients’ well-being.

If you’re in Urbandale, Iowa, or the surrounding areas, Dr. Bilbeisi invites you to join her extended dental family. Experience the difference that her practice can make in your life – not just in your smile but overall vitality and happiness. Schedule your next appointment today and discover why Dr. Ayah Bilbeisi is more than a dentist. She’s a beacon of oral health and a source of dental care excellence in Urbandale, Iowa.

Root canal treatment at Cedar Ridge Esthetic and Family Dentistry in Urbandale, Iowa, has become a popular dental procedure. This procedure has been done to millions of teeth worldwide, with successful results. However, there are still many people who are hesitant to undergo root canal treatment because of misconceptions about the procedure. But what is root canal treatment, and why is it essential for tooth health? In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of root canal treatment, debunk myths, and provide you with an informative and fun read.

Saving Your Natural Tooth

One of the most significant benefits of root canal treatment is that it saves your natural tooth. A root canal procedure removes the infected tooth pulp and disinfects the root canal system. Dr. Ayah Bilbeisi will then fill the space with a filling material and place a crown on top of the tooth. This procedure prevents tooth extraction, preserving your natural tooth and preventing other dental problems arising from the gaps.

Alleviates Pain and Discomfort

When the pulp of your tooth becomes infected or inflamed, it can cause severe toothache, discomfort, and sensitivity. Root canal treatment addresses the source of the pain, alleviating discomfort and restoring the tooth’s functionality. After the procedure, patients report feeling relieved and comfortable, with a reduction in tooth sensitivity.

Prevents the Spread of Infection

Untreated infected pulp can lead to more dental issues, like abscesses and infections that can spread to the surrounding teeth, gums, and bone. Root canal treatment eliminates the infected pulp, preventing the infection’s progression and spread to other parts of the mouth while preserving your natural teeth.

Improves Oral Health

Keeping your natural teeth is essential for your oral health, overall health, and confidence. Root canal treatment helps maintain your teeth’ structure, keeping them in place and preventing problems such as bite issues, shifting, and misalignment. Oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing, can continue as usual with a root canal treatment.

Cost-effective

In addition to the cost-effectiveness, root canal treatment offers the advantage of preserving your natural teeth, maintaining the integrity of your smile, and preventing the need for extensive dental work in the future. Choosing root canal treatment can often be a more sustainable and conservative approach, minimizing the impact on surrounding teeth and supporting structures. Moreover, by opting for root canal therapy, you contribute to the long-term health of your oral cavity, fostering stability and preventing potential complications that may arise with alternative tooth replacement options.

Why Choose Us?

When you come to Cedar Ridge Esthetic and Family Dentistry, it is no secret why ‘family’ is in the title. We believe in providing the best care for everyone in our dental clinic, ensuring we treat each individual like family. From the moment you sit in the dental seat, you can experience a comfortable treatment with various amenities we proudly provide. From plush blankets, heated neck wraps, essential oil diffusers, massage handballs, and lip balms, you can experience relaxation like never before during a dental appointment.

Dr. Bilbeisi and her team are devoted to furthering their education in holistic dentistry, ensuring the provision of the safest and most biocompatible treatments to support your body’s healing process rather than mere treatment. We enjoy helping each of our patients, offering a fun and relaxing dental atmosphere!

Root Canal Treatment in Urbandale, Iowa

The benefits of root canal treatment are numerous and crucial for maintaining good oral health. With the various benefits, specifically, the treatment giving you a chance to save your natural tooth, you can get the care your smile needs here at our office! Please schedule a consultation with Dr. Ayah Bilbeisi to see if a root canal can help you! Remember, a healthy and beautiful smile starts with healthy teeth!

Dental implants can be an excellent solution for restoring your smile and confidence if you’re missing teeth due to aging, injury, or decay. However, dental implant treatment can seem complicated, and you may feel you need help determining where to go for the best care. The answer is Cedar Ridge Esthetic and Family Dentistry! We’re here to help and offer quality dental implants near you in Urbandale, Iowa.

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that we can surgically place into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth or bridge. They’re made from biocompatible materials like titanium that fuse with natural bone in a process called osseointegration. Dental implants can provide a permanent and natural-looking solution for replacing missing teeth.

The dental implant process typically involves several steps, including consultation, implant placement surgery, healing period, and crown or bridge placement. Our team provides the most comfortable and thorough experience possible.

Why Choose Dental Implants?

Dental implants have many benefits compared to tooth replacement options like dentures or bridges. There’s nothing wrong with dentures or bridges, both of which are excellent restorative dentistry options for many patients. But dental implants look and feel like natural teeth, are more comfortable and stable than other options, and can improve your ability to speak and eat. They also help preserve your jawbone and prevent bone loss, known to occur when teeth are missing.

How to Choose a Dental Implant Provider?

Choosing a dental implant provider is a crucial step in your treatment journey, as it can impact the success and longevity of your implants. Look for a provider with extensive experience and training in dental implant placement and access to advanced technology for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. Ask for before-and-after photos of their patients’ implant cases to ensure they have a track record of successful outcomes.

And, of course, we hope you’ll consider us for your dental implant treatment! We take pride in being dental implant specialists. Our patients can rest assured knowing they receive the best care possible regarding their dental implants.

What is the Dental Implant Process Like?

The process begins with a consultation to evaluate your candidacy for dental implants. During the procedure, we’ll insert a small titanium post into the jawbone, which will serve as the foundation for the dental implant. It can heal and fuse with the bone over a few months. Finally, a custom crown is placed on the implant, completing the restoration. Our team is committed to ensuring that our patients receive the full benefits of dental implants and leave our office with a beautiful, healthy smile they can be proud of.

How to Maintain Your Dental Implants?

Dental implants require the same level of care as natural teeth to ensure their longevity. Brush and floss regularly, use an antibacterial mouthwash, and attend regular dental checkups and cleanings. Avoid chewing on hard items like ice or using your implants as tools to prevent damage. Your provider may recommend additional maintenance steps based on your individual needs.

Dental Implants Near Me in Urbandale, Iowa

Cedar Ridge Esthetic and Family Dentistry is committed to helping our patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles with advanced dental technology and compassionate care. If you’re considering dental implants near you, we’d love to help you explore your options and create a customized treatment plan that fits your goals and needs.

From the initial consultation to the final restoration, our team will ensure that we meet each patient’s unique needs with the highest level of skill and expertise. We strive to make every step of the journey as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

Your smile is our top priority! Let us help you achieve the smile of your dreams with our exceptional restorative dentistry in Urbandale, Iowa. Contact us today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Ayah Bilbeisi and take the first step toward restoring your smile! We also offer cosmetic dentistry, family dentistry, and more!

Maintaining excellent oral health has significant benefits for one’s overall well-being. It’s not just about having a beautiful smile; it’s also about taking care of your teeth, gums, and mouth to prevent possible dental problems. One way to achieve optimal oral health is through Urbandale General Dentistry at Cedar Ridge Esthetic and Family Dentistry. We are excited to help you explore the ins and outs of general dentistry, its importance in maintaining oral wellness, and why you should consider Cedar Ridge Esthetic and Family Dentistry as your go-to dental clinic.

General dentistry encompasses many dental services that promote and maintain good oral health. As a general dentist, Dr. Ayah Bilbeisi handles patients’ various dental problems. Her primary goal is to prevent dental problems before they become severe and provide immediate treatment whenever necessary.

Standard general dentistry procedures include preventative treatments such as:

Routine dental cleanings – We understand the importance of keeping up with routine dental cleanings. While it may seem like a hassle, these cleanings can prevent more serious dental issues. Our experienced staff is dedicated to making your visit as comfortable as possible while thoroughly cleaning your teeth and examining your oral health. We believe proactive measures like routine cleanings are essential for optimal dental health. Don’t wait until you experience tooth pain or sensitivity – schedule your appointment today and let us help protect your smile!
X-rays – Cedar Ridge Esthetic and Family Dentistry knows how crucial it is to have the right tools for the job. One of the most important diagnostic procedures in our toolkit is using X-rays. This powerful technology lets us get a clear and complete picture of our patients’ dental health. This allows us to diagnose issues early on and treat them quickly and effectively. Whether a routine check-up or a more complex procedure, you can trust us to use the latest and safest tools to ensure your dental health is in top shape.
Cavity fillings – When caring for your teeth, we are your go-to place for all oral health needs. One of our many services is cavity fillings, a standard dental procedure that helps restore and strengthen decayed teeth. Our experienced and caring team uses the latest technology to ensure that we do your cavity filling in the most comfortable, convenient, and efficient way possible. With our attention to detail and commitment to excellence, you can trust that you’re in good hands at Cedar Ridge Esthetic and Family Dentistry.

General Dentistry For Optimal Dental Health

Regular dental visits with a general dentist like Dr. Bilbeisi are pivotal in maintaining optimal oral health. She can detect dental problems early, making them easier to treat and preventing more severe issues. Dr. Bilbeisi may diagnose and treat conditions such as gingivitis and halitosis, and she offers restorative treatments in Urbandale, Iowa, such as bridges and crowns.

Many systemic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, manifest symptoms in the mouth, making regular dental check-ups crucial. Also, staying on top of your oral health can prevent tooth loss, gum disease, and other health problems that can lead to other health issues, such as heart disease and diabetes.

Choosing Cedar Ridge Esthetic and Family Dentistry

Our experienced team of professionals can provide you with personalized care to maintain optimal oral health. Our clinic uses state-of-the-art technologies to detect, diagnose, and treat dental issues.

Our clinic offers convenient hours to accommodate our patients’ busy schedules. We provide transparent pricing so you’ll never have to worry about unexpected costs, and we offer a membership plan to help patients manage costs. Our clinic also has a relaxing, comfortable atmosphere to make you feel at home.

Urbandale General Dentistry

Maintaining excellent oral health is crucial to your overall well-being; general dentistry can help you achieve that. Choose Cedar Ridge Esthetic and Family Dentistry to provide personalized care, excellent service, and state-of-the-art technology to keep your oral health in optimal condition. Contact us today to book an appointment and start your journey towards better oral health.

Are you looking for the best Children’s Dental Health? The Cedar Ridge Esthetic and Family Dentistry team are here to provide comprehensive and affordable dental care. We offer a wide range of services, from general checkups to clear braces, fillings, and treatments for gum diseases. With our advanced equipment and experienced team of professionals, we guarantee that you’ll receive quality service with every visit. And did you know that February is Dental Health Month for Children? It’s the perfect time to schedule your child’s first dental appointment!

At Cedar Ridge Esthetic and Family Dentistry, we want you and your family to feel welcome in our office year-round—not just during February! We encourage you to reach out if you have any questions about how we can help keep your family smiling bright! We look forward to seeing you soon!

Celebrating Dental Health Month for Children with Cedar Ridge Esthetic and Family Dentistry

Children’s Dental Health Month is a time to celebrate the importance of oral hygiene, preventative dental care, and good nutrition for children. Dr. Ayah Bilbeisi and her team understand the importance of teaching children healthy habits that will stick with them for life.

As your trusted family dentist in Urbandale, Iowa, we want to share the importance of children’s dental health during this month-long celebration. Not only do proper oral hygiene habits impact your child’s overall well-being now, but they also set them up for future success. We’re here to help provide you and your child with the education and resources needed to take on a lifetime of healthy smiles!

Why is Your Child’s Dental Health so Important?

Your child’s oral health directly correlates with overall well-being—it goes beyond just brushing and flossing twice daily. Various issues can arise from poor oral hygiene or lack thereof, from cavities to gum disease. Children who receive regular checkups at our office are more likely to maintain good oral hygiene habits throughout their lives. Additionally, regular checkups can help detect potential problems early on, which may be more costly or difficult to treat if left untreated.

A healthy mouth is vital for overall physical health, so taking your child to the dentist as soon as their first tooth erupts or at least by their first birthday is recommended. Visiting the dentist should become common for children, as it helps ensure healthy teeth now and into adulthood. It is recommended that children go to the dentist twice a year. Visiting the dentist regularly also helps children become accustomed to a dental visit, making it less intimidating. The appointment timing can be essential for congenital conditions and corrective procedures that could give your child the best chance of maintaining healthy teeth into adulthood.

In addition to regular visits to our office for cleaning and checkup appointments, there are other ways you can ensure your child is taking care of their teeth properly:

Talk to your child about the importance of brushing twice daily (for two minutes each time!) and flossing once daily.
Make sure they eat balanced meals full of all the essential vitamins and minerals needed for healthy teeth. Avoid snacks too high in sugar or acidic drinks such as soda or juice, which can lead to cavities over time.
If your child plays contact sports, wear a mouthguard while playing! The mouthguard will protect them from any potential injuries while having fun!

Optimal Dental Health For Children

February is Children’s Dental Health Month – a time to celebrate the importance of taking care of our smiles! At Cedar Ridge Esthetic and Family Dentistry, we strive for excellence in providing top-quality dental services for adults and children alike. Our team is committed to helping families achieve optimal oral health through preventive measures such as professional cleanings, X-rays, fluoride treatments, sealants, nutritional counseling, orthodontic evaluations & more!

Your oral health is always in good hands at our practice. Let’s get those smiles shining bright together! So join us during this month-long celebration by scheduling an appointment today (515) 270-8301 or visit us online https://cedarridgedentistry.com.

Do you need a dentist in the Urbandale area? Welcome to Cedar Ridge Esthetic & Family Dentistry, where we provide quality dental care for patients of all ages. We offer a wide range of services, from general checkups to Invisalign in Urbandale IA. We’re dedicated to providing our patients with the best possible experience, and we make sure to prioritize customer service and comfort.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Ayah Bilbeisi today!

A Clear Choice For Kids & Teens

We are proud to offer Invisalign to our patients of all ages! Invisalign is an excellent option for children and teens looking for an alternative to traditional metal braces, including metal brackets glued to the teeth. Unlike Invisalign, braces are not removable, so you must be careful about what you eat. And because they’re made of metal, they’re more visible than Invisalign aligners.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a transparent aligner system that we use to straighten teeth. The aligners are made from a transparent, plastic material that is virtually invisible when worn. Invisalign aligners are also removable, which means they can be taken out for eating and brushing. Being removable makes them much more comfortable and easier to care for than traditional metal braces.

The best way to determine if Invisalign is right for your child or teen is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Bilbeisi and his team. We will examine your child’s teeth during the consultation and discuss the treatment options. If you decide to move forward with Invisalign, the next step is to have impressions of your child’s teeth made. We use these impressions to create custom aligners.

Once the aligners are ready, your child or teen must wear them for 20-22 hours daily. They’ll also need to visit us every four to six weeks so we can monitor the progress.

It would be best if your teen or child did a few things to ensure the clear aligners stay clean and effective. First, your child or teen must brush their teeth after every meal, using a soft-bristled brush and gentle circular motions. They should also floss at least once daily, careful not to snag the floss on their aligners. In addition, it’s best to clean the aligners regularly with mild soap and lukewarm water. By following these simple tips, they can keep your Invisalign aligners clean and effective and be well on their way to a beautiful straight smile.

Invisalign is also a good choice for people with busy schedules or who play sports, as the aligners are removable and won’t get in the way.

We don’t recommend Invisalign for people with severe dental problems, such as significant gaps between their teeth or very crooked teeth. In these cases, traditional braces may be a better option.

If you think Invisalign might be right for your child or teen, we invite you to call us today to schedule a consultation. Our experienced team would be more than happy to answer any questions you may have about this treatment option. We look forward to helping your child or teen achieve the beautiful, healthy smile they deserve!

Invisalign in Urbandale IA

You can rest assured that your family is in good hands at Cedar Ridge Esthetic & Family Dentistry. We have the experience and expertise to care for your dental needs. And we always put our patients first so that you can expect nothing but the best from us.

Invisible braces have become increasingly popular in recent years as more people seek alternatives to traditional metal braces. If you’re considering invisible braces for your child or teenager, we can help! We offer Invisalign treatments that are fast, effective, and practically invisible. Contact us today to get started!

Are you looking for a new smile? We provide high-quality family dentistry services at Cedar Ridge Esthetic & Family Dentistry. We offer everything from cosmetic dentistry to dental exams in Urbandale, so you can be sure you’re getting the best care for your needs. We know how important it is to have a great smile, and we’re dedicated to helping you achieve that.

Dr. Ayah Bilbeisi understands the importance of preventative dentistry and routine checkups. During a checkup, we can help you prevent common dental issues and keep an eye out for things like oral cancer.

November is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, and we are committed to spreading awareness about the importance of oral health. Oral cancer is a severe disease that can be fatal if not caught early, and we want to do our part to ensure that our patients are informed and proactive about their oral health.

Call us today to schedule a consultation in Urbandale, Iowa!

The Importance of Dental Exams in Urbandale – Oral Cancer Awareness Month

Fortunately, oral cancer is relatively rare. But it is possible for anyone, and it’s a good idea to be proactive about early detection. Oral cancer is also one of the most deadly forms of cancer. The good news is that oral cancer is highly treatable when caught early.

During your next dental visit, Dr. Bilbeisi can perform a thorough oral cancer screening as part of our commitment to providing comprehensive dental care. We encourage you to ask any questions about oral cancer and what you can do to reduce your risk.

What Happens During a Checkup?

A routine dental exam is vital for maintaining good oral health. During a routine exam, Dr. Bilbeisi will check for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer. He and his team will also clean your teeth and assess your need for fluoride treatment. If you have questions about oral health, this is also an excellent time to ask us.

Oral cancer screenings are also an essential part of a routine exam. We will look for signs of cancerous or precancerous cells in your mouth. Early detection is key to successful treatment, so it is essential to see us regularly.

In the meantime, here are some facts about oral cancer that everyone should know:

Risk Factors for Oral Cancer

There are several risk factors associated with oral cancer, including:

Tobacco use: Cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and smokeless tobacco all increase your risk of developing oral cancer. People who use tobacco products have a six times greater risk of developing oral cancer than those who do not.
Alcohol use: People who drink alcohol excessively are at an increased risk of developing oral cancer. It is estimated that 75% of people diagnosed with oral cancer are heavy drinkers.
HPV infection: The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted virus linked to an increased risk of several cancers, including cervical and oral cancers.
Age: The vast majority of people diagnosed with oral cancer are over the age of 40. However, the incidence of oral cancer among young adults has increased in recent years due to the increased prevalence of HPV infection.
Gender: Men are twice as likely as women to develop oral cancer.
Sun exposure: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can damage the DNA in your cells and increase your risk of skin cancers, including those on your lips.

Dental Exams in Urbandale

Oral Cancer Awareness Month is a great time to educate yourself about the risks associated with this disease and what you can do to reduce your risk. Remember to visit your dentist regularly for screenings and cleanings, and don’t hesitate to ask any questions you may have about oral health. Together we can help ensure everyone enjoys a healthy smile for years to come!

Parents, are you looking for a family dentist your children will love in Urbandale? Cedar Ridge Esthetic & Family Dentistry is the perfect place for your family. We specialize in caring for the teeth and gums of children, and we know how to make sure that they feel comfortable during their appointment. Our team takes the time to get to know each of our young patients, helping them relax and enjoy their dental care. We are the top children’s dentist in Urbandale.

One of the specialties we provide is preventative dentistry. Our goal is to help your children avoid cavities and other dental problems by teaching them how to care for their teeth properly.

You can trust that your child is in good hands at Cedar Ridge Esthetic & Family Dentistry. We will care for all their dental needs while ensuring they have a fun and enjoyable experience. Schedule an appointment today!

Preventative Dentistry and Caring For Your Children’s Teeth

As a parent, you know caring for your children’s teeth is essential. After all, healthy teeth are crucial for a lifetime of good oral health. But with so many different things to think about, it can be tough to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this list of eight helpful tips for caring for your children’s teeth.

Start early. It’s never too early to start caring for your child’s teeth. You should start cleaning your baby’s gums before their first tooth comes in. Use a soft, wet cloth or gauze pad to massage their gums after each feeding gently.
Use the right toothbrush. The size of the brush matters when choosing a toothbrush for your child. Look for a toothbrush with a small head and soft bristles. And don’t forget to replace it every three months or sooner if the bristles fray.
Be gentle. You might be tempted to scrub hard when brushing your child’s teeth, but that can damage their delicate gums and teeth. Instead, use gentle circular motions and let the toothbrush do the work for you.
Fluoride is your friend. Fluoride is a mineral that helps strengthen teeth and prevent cavities. You can find fluoride in tap water and many types of toothpaste. Talk to Dr. Bilbeisi about whether or not fluoride treatments are suitable for your child.
Avoid sugary snacks and drinks. Sugar is one of the main culprits behind cavities, so limiting your child’s intake of sugary snacks and beverages like candy, cookies, cake, soda, and fruit juice is essential. Opt for healthier alternatives like fruits and vegetables instead.
Teach them to floss. Flossing is just as important as brushing to keep teeth healthy and cavity-free. Please help your child get into the habit of flossing by demonstrating how to do it yourself and then supervising as they do it themselves until they can do it on their own.
Schedule regular dental checkups. Cavity prevention is critical, so be sure to schedule regular dental checkups for your child starting at around two or three years old. These checkups will help ensure that their teeth are healthy and that any problems are caught early on.
Be a good role model. The best way to encourage healthy habits is by setting a good example yourself. Be sure to brush and floss twice daily and visit the dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups. Your children will follow your lead.

Children’s Dentist in Urbandale, Iowa

Cavity prevention starts at home with proper oral care habits. By following these eight tips, you can help ensure that your child has strong, healthy teeth that will last a lifetime. Please schedule an appointment with us today! We would be happy to answer any questions about caring for your children’s teeth.

We offer quality, experience, and the latest in esthetic dentistry.