Friendly Dental Tips and Guidance

Skipping dental checkups? Here's why your family's smiles deserve twice-a-year care. Regular biannual dental checkups aren't just routine—they’re vital for catching small issues before they become big problems. At Pickett Family Dental in Keller, TX, we often see families who come in only when something hurts—and by then, treatment can be more extensive, stressful, and costly. When was the last time your family had their dental exam and cleaning? If it’s been over six months, here’s why now is the time to book. Prevent Cavities Before They Hurt Small cavities can be painless, but left unchecked, they grow. Regular cleanings remove plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing may miss, especially in kids with developing teeth. Exams [...]

Don’t Ignore Denture Discomfort—Here’s What to Do If Your Dentures No Longer Fit Comfortably It can be unsettling when dentures that once fit like a glove suddenly start to feel loose or cause sore spots. For many patients in Keller, TX, this change can impact eating, speaking, and overall confidence. At Pickett Family Dental, we understand how frustrating this can be—and we’re here to help you get back to a secure, natural-feeling smile. Dentures are designed to restore function and aesthetics, but over time, your gums and jawbone can change. Whether it’s a shift in fit or a sharp edge you didn’t notice before, discomfort is a sign that it’s time to see your dentist. Knowing what to do [...]

Wondering when your child should start flossing? The answer may surprise you—and starting early sets them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Most parents are well aware that brushing is essential for their child’s dental health, but when it comes to flossing, many are unsure when to begin. At Pickett Family Dental in Keller, TX, we often hear the question: “At what age should kids start flossing?” The truth is, flossing is just as important as brushing and should begin sooner than you might think. Here’s everything you need to know to help your child develop great oral hygiene habits early on. When Should Kids Start Flossing? A good rule of thumb is this: children should [...]

Pregnancy brings exciting changes—and some surprising challenges for your smile. Here's how to protect your oral health every step of the way. Pregnancy is one of the most transformative periods in a woman’s life, but while you’re tracking baby milestones and doctor visits, it’s easy to overlook your teeth and gums. At Pickett Family Dental in Keller, TX, we help expectant mothers stay healthy by providing gentle, personalized dental care during every stage of pregnancy. Whether you're brushing through morning sickness or wondering if it's safe to schedule a cleaning, here's everything you need to know to keep your mouth healthy for you and your baby. How Hormones Change Your Oral Health During Pregnancy Your body is [...]

During pregnancy, a woman’s body is subject to numerous changes both physical and on a hormonal level. Appetites change, sometimes every day. Your body aches and it’s not uncommon to feel ill. Maintaining your own personal health is a full-time task to ensure not only a healthy pregnancy, but a healthy you. Oral health during a pregnancy is very important for both yourself and the baby. Gum disease is the leading oral infection, and it can be even more common in pregnant women. Studies have found that 60 to 75% of pregnant women have at least an early stage of gum disease, often called gingivitis. Untreated gum disease has been shown to increase the risks of other health issues [...]

Lip Tie Laser Surgery: Get It Fixed, Fast. If you've recently had a baby, you may have noticed while breastfeeding that your baby has a lip tie. This is especially noticeable if your little one isn't latching well and it hurts! If you're noticing any difficulties, flip that upper lip up and check for a lip tie that looks like a thick divider that connects the upper lip to the gums. If this is the case, then your baby has a lip tie and needs lip tie laser surgery (a.k.a. frenectomy) immediately. What is a Frenectomy? A frenectomy is a quick procedure that we offer at Pickett Family Dental that can involve lip tie removal [...]

Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue that envelops the teeth deteriorates or is otherwise pulled back. When this happens, your teeth are dangerously exposed. Gum recession can get to a level where even the roots of your teeth are exposed. The process of gum recession begins when gaps between the gum and teeth are developed, allowing bacteria to build up and cause dental diseases. Because the process of gum recession is slow and gradual, many sufferers of this common condition are unaware that their gums are receding. However, if left unchecked the surrounding tissues and bone structures that make up the teeth and gum will be significantly damaged. With enough damage, your teeth will start to fall out. [...]

No, the Dr. Pickett, the dentist at Pickett Family Dental will not be grossed about by your teeth and you don't need to be emabarrassed. Many people feel self-conscious about their dental health and often wonder, "Will the dentist be grossed out by my teeth?" At Pickett Family Dental in Keller, TX, we understand this concern and want to reassure you that our goal is to provide a comfortable and non-judgmental environment for all our patients. In this blog, we will discuss why you shouldn't be embarrassed to visit the dentist, the common reasons people feel uneasy about dental appointments, and how to overcome these feelings. Dr. Pickett is a Non-Judgemental Dentist Dr. Pickett and the entire [...]

Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for the health of your teeth and gums. Proper oral hygiene practices at home can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease, as well as keep your breath fresh and your smile bright. In this article, we will provide five tips for practicing proper oral hygiene at home to help you maintain optimal oral health. Brush your teeth twice a day Brushing your teeth at least twice a day is an important part of maintaining good oral hygiene. It is recommended to brush your teeth in the morning and before bed. When brushing, use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Be sure to brush for at least two minutes each [...]

At Pickett Family Dental in Keller, TX, we believe that establishing good dental habits in children is essential for lifelong oral health. In this blog, we share helpful tips for taking care of your little one's teeth, ensuring they have a strong foundation for a healthy smile as they grow. Establishing a Dental Care Routine Starting a dental care routine early in your child's life is crucial for instilling good habits that will last a lifetime. Follow these steps to create an effective routine for your little one: Begin before teeth emerge: Even before your baby's first tooth appears, use a soft, damp washcloth to gently clean their gums after feedings to remove bacteria and prevent plaque [...]