September is National Office Manager Month

September is National Office Manager Month

Celebrating Sue: The Heart of Our Office

September is National Office Manager Appreciation Month, and here at Falmouth Dental Arts, we can’t let it pass without shining a spotlight on someone very special—Sue, our incredible office manager.

A True Team Leader

Sue has been a key part of the Falmouth Dental Arts team for over 35 years, and she brings a level of care and commitment that inspires all of us. She plays a vital role in making sure everything runs smoothly. From managing day-to-day operations to supporting both patients and staff, Sue is truly the glue that holds the office together.

Thank You, Sue!

This month—and every month—we’re grateful for Sue and all that she does behind the scenes. Her leadership, organization, and thoughtful support help create the calm, welcoming environment that makes Falmouth Dental Arts feel like home for both our patients and our team.

Next time you see her, don’t forget to say hi—and maybe give her an extra smile or two. 😊

Back to School: The Anatomy of Your Teeth!

Back to School: The Anatomy of Your Teeth!

It’s back-to-school season! While kids are getting ready with fresh notebooks and new routines, it’s also the perfect time to brush up on the basics of oral health—starting with what’s inside your smile. Understanding the different parts of your teeth can help you take better care of them. So let’s go back to basics with a refresher on the anatomy of your teeth!

What Are Teeth Made Of?

Your teeth are small, but they’re made of several layers that each have an important job. Here’s an explanation of each layer and how they work together.

Enamel

This is the hard, shiny outer layer of your tooth—and it’s the strongest substance in your body! Enamel protects your teeth from chewing, biting, and bacteria. But it can wear down over time, especially if you eat a lot of sugar or skip brushing.

 Dentin

Right underneath the enamel is dentin. It’s not as hard, and it’s a little yellowish in color. If enamel wears away, dentin can become exposed—and that can make your teeth feel sensitive.

Pulp

The pulp is in the center of the tooth. It’s soft and full of nerves and blood vessels. The pulp helps your tooth grow and stay healthy. If a tooth gets a deep cavity or crack, the pulp can get infected and may need treatment.

Cementum

This covers the root of the tooth and helps hold it in place. It’s not something you can see, but it works hard below the surface!

Periodontal Ligament

This is the stretchy tissue that connects your teeth to your jawbone. It acts like a cushion every time you bite or chew.

Why This Matters

Just like knowing how your heart or lungs work, understanding your teeth helps you keep them strong. When you brush and floss every day, you’re protecting all those layers—especially your enamel and gums. And remember: your permanent teeth need to last your whole life. The better you care for them now, the happier your smile will be in the future!

Back to School = Back to the Dentist!

The start of the school year is a great time to schedule a check-up. At Falmouth Dental Arts, we make visits easy and comfortable for the whole family. Whether your child is starting kindergarten or heading into high school, we’re here to keep their smiles healthy, strong, and ready to shine in school photos.

Spruce Up Your Smile: Cosmetic Services to Help You Shine

Spruce Up Your Smile: Cosmetic Services to Help You Shine

Is your smile ready for a little refresh? Whether you’ve got a big event coming up—or just want to feel more confident when you look in the mirror—cosmetic dentistry can help you love your smile a little more.

At Falmouth Dental Arts, we believe everyone deserves to feel great about their smile. That’s why we offer a range of cosmetic services, from small touch-ups to full smile makeovers, all delivered with the same care and comfort you’ve come to expect from our team.

What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your teeth, gums, and overall smile. It’s not just about looks—it’s about helping you feel confident and comfortable.

Here are a few of the ways we can help you spruce up your smile:

  • Teeth Whitening

           Brighten your smile with safe, professional whitening that removes stains and discoloration caused by coffee, tea, wine, or age.

  • Tooth-Colored Fillings

          We replace old silver fillings with natural-looking composite material that blends in beautifully with your teeth.

  • Dental Bonding

         A quick, affordable way to fix chips, small gaps, or misshapen teeth—bonding uses tooth-colored material to give your smile a smooth, even look.

  • Porcelain Veneers

         Want a dramatic change? Veneers are thin shells placed on the front of your teeth to correct shape, size, or color. They’re custom-made and long-lasting.

  • Same Day Crowns

          Restore damaged teeth quickly and beautifully with a crown made and placed in just one visit.

Not sure which option is right for you? That’s where we come in! Dr. B & Dr. K. take the time to listen, understand your goals, and create a personalized plan that fits your needs and your lifestyle.

Let’s Make Your Smile Shine

Whether you want a whiter smile, straighter teeth, or just a little polish, cosmetic dentistry can make a big difference in how you feel day to day. At Falmouth Dental Arts, we’re here to help you explore your options in a no-pressure, friendly environment.

We love seeing our patients walk out of the office smiling a little brighter—and we’d love to help you do the same.

Protect That Winning Smile: Mouthguards and Dental Tips for Student Athletes

Protect That Winning Smile: Mouthguards and Dental Tips for Student Athletes

Backpacks are packed, fall sports are in full swing, and for many kids and teens in Southern Maine, that means time on the field, court, rink, or at a park. At Falmouth Dental Arts, we love cheering on our young athletes—but we also want to make sure their smiles stay safe all season long.

Whether your child plays soccer, football, hockey, or even skateboards with friends after school, protecting their teeth is just as important as wearing a helmet or pads. Here’s how to keep those pearly whites game-ready.

Why Mouthguards Matter

Mouthguards are a simple and effective way to prevent dental injuries during sports. They help protect teeth, gums, lips, and even the jaw from impact.

Here’s what a good mouthguard can do:

  • Cushion the blow from a fall or collision
  • Protect against chipped, broken, or knocked-out teeth
  • Reduce the risk of cuts to lips and tongue
  • Even help prevent jaw injuries and concussions

A well-fitting mouthguard should feel snug but comfortable, and allow for easy breathing and talking.

Custom-fit is best:

At Falmouth Dental Arts, we offer custom-fitted mouthguards made right in our office. These are specially designed for your child’s mouth, offering better protection, comfort, and durability than over-the-counter versions. If your student athlete needs one, just let us know—we’re happy to help!

What If a Tooth Gets Cracked or Knocked Out?

Even with the best protection, accidents can still happen. Here’s what to do if your child has a dental injury during sports:

If a tooth is chipped or cracked:

  • Rinse the mouth gently with warm water
  • Save any tooth fragments (if you can)
  • Call our office as soon as possible—early care makes a big difference

If a tooth is knocked out:

  • Hold the tooth by the crown (not the root)
  • Gently rinse it off—don’t scrub
  • Try to place it back in the socket, or keep it in a glass of milk
  • Get to the dentist within 30 minutes if possible

Don’t panic—we’re here to help. Dental emergencies can feel overwhelming, but our caring team is just a phone call away. We’ll guide you through every step to protect your child’s smile.

Safe Smiles Start Here

At Falmouth Dental Arts, we believe every child deserves a confident, healthy smile—on and off the field. Whether you’re looking for a custom mouthguard or need quick help after an injury, we’re always here to support your family with trusted, compassionate care.

Connection Between Your Oral Health and Your Overall Health

Connection Between Your Oral Health and Your Overall Health

At Falmouth Dental Arts, we believe a healthy smile is about more than just teeth—it’s a vital part of your overall health and well-being. Taking care of your mouth helps protect the rest of your body, too!

Many people are surprised to learn that oral health is closely connected to heart health, diabetes, and more. So brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits aren’t just good for your smile—they’re good for your whole self!

What’s the Mouth-Body Connection?

Your mouth is the gateway to your body. When your gums are healthy and free from infection, it helps keep harmful bacteria in check. But when gum disease (also called periodontal disease) develops, bacteria can travel through your bloodstream and affect other areas of your body.

Research shows that poor oral health is linked to:

  • Heart disease: Gum disease may increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. 
  • Diabetes: People with diabetes are more likely to have gum problems, and gum disease can make blood sugar harder to control. 
  • Pregnancy complications: Poor oral health has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight. 
  • Respiratory issues: Bacteria from the mouth can reach the lungs, leading to infections like pneumonia. 

The Good News: You Can Take Control

Keeping your mouth healthy is one of the easiest ways to support your whole-body health. Here are some simple habits that go a long way:

  • Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste 
  • Floss once a day to clean between teeth 
  • Eat a balanced diet low in sugar 
  • Avoid tobacco 
  • Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings 

Our team is here to support your health every step of the way. If you have a health condition like diabetes or heart disease, let us know—we’ll tailor your care to meet your specific needs.

We’re Here to Help You Stay Healthy

We’re not just here to treat teeth—we’re here to care for the whole person. At Falmouth Dental Arts, we understand that your oral health is a key part of your overall wellness. Whether you’re coming in for a routine cleaning or have questions about how your health conditions affect your dental care, we’re always happy to talk.