# Acton Family Dentists > Read our blog to learn more about the dental services we offer and get useful tips on how to keep your smile healthy for years to come. --- ## Pages - [Nominate A Teacher](https://actonfamilydentists.com/contact-us/nominate-a-teacher/) - [Website Terms of Use](https://actonfamilydentists.com/website-terms-of-use/) - [Dental Membership Plan](https://actonfamilydentists.com/financial/dental-membership-plan/) - [Privacy Policy](https://actonfamilydentists.com/privacy-policy/) - [Accessibility Statement](https://actonfamilydentists.com/accessibility/) - [External Payment Plans](https://actonfamilydentists.com/external-payment-plans/) - [COVID-19 Protocols](https://actonfamilydentists.com/covid-19/) - [Intraoral Camera](https://actonfamilydentists.com/about/intraoral-camera/) - [Office Fees](https://actonfamilydentists.com/office-fees/) - [Current Patients](https://actonfamilydentists.com/about/current-patients/) - [Blog](https://actonfamilydentists.com/blog/) - [Home](https://actonfamilydentists.com/) - [Contact Us](https://actonfamilydentists.com/contact-us/) - [Services](https://actonfamilydentists.com/services/) - [Financial](https://actonfamilydentists.com/financial/) - [Dental Emergency Guide](https://actonfamilydentists.com/about/dental-emergency-guide/) - [New Patient Information](https://actonfamilydentists.com/about/new-patient-information/) - [About](https://actonfamilydentists.com/about/) --- --- ## Posts - [Dental Implants Aftercare: Best Practices for Long-Term Success](https://actonfamilydentists.com/dental-implants-aftercare-best-practices-for-long-term-success/) - [Is Dental Insurance Worth It?](https://actonfamilydentists.com/is-dental-insurance-worth-it/) - [Knocked Out Teeth: Next Steps for the Most Common Dental Emergency](https://actonfamilydentists.com/knocked-out-teeth-next-steps-for-the-most-common-dental-emergency/) - [What Issues Can Invisalign® Fix?](https://actonfamilydentists.com/what-issues-can-invisalign-fix/) - [What is Biofilm?](https://actonfamilydentists.com/what-is-biofilm/) - [What Can I Do to Improve the Appearance of My Smile?](https://actonfamilydentists.com/what-can-i-do-to-improve-the-appearance-of-my-smile/) --- # # Detailed Content ## Pages - Published: 2023-04-19 - Modified: 2023-08-18 - URL: https://actonfamilydentists.com/website-terms-of-use/ WEBSITE TERMS OF USE Last Modified: April 19, 2023 BY USING THE WEBSITE actonfamilydentists. com AND ALL ASSOCIATED SITES LINKED TO actonfamilydentists. com (THE "WEBSITE"), YOU CONFIRM THAT YOU HAVE READ THESE TERMS OF USE ("TERMS OF USE"), THAT YOU UNDERSTAND THEM, AND THAT YOU HAVE AGREED TO BE UNCONDITIONALLY BOUND BY THEM. THIS WEBSITE IS THE PROPERTY OF Acton Family Dentists AND ITS LICENSORS. YOU ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU UNDERSTAND AND ACCEPT THE DISCLAIMERS SET FORTH HEREIN AND DECLARE THAT THE WARRANTIES YOU MAKE BY USING THE WEBSITE ARE TRUE AND ACCURATE. IF YOU DO NOT AGREE TO ANY OF THE FOREGOING, YOU MUST NOT ACCESS OR USE THE WEBSITE. Acceptance of the Terms of Use These terms of use are entered into by and between you ("you" or "User") and Acton Family Dentists (the "Company", "we" or "us"). These Terms of Use govern your access to and use of the Website, including any content, functionality and services offered on or through the Website. Please read the Terms of Use carefully before you start to use the Website or any services that may be provided by accessing the Website. By clicking to agree to the Terms of Use when this option is made available to you, you accept and agree to be bound and abide by these Terms of Use and our Privacy Policy, found at actonfamilydentists. com/privacy-policy/, incorporated herein by reference ("Privacy Policy"). By using this Website, you represent and warrant that you are of legal age to form... --- - Published: 2021-11-05 - Modified: 2023-08-18 - URL: https://actonfamilydentists.com/privacy-policy/ Acton Family Dentists PRIVACY POLICY Last modified: April 19, 2023 Introduction Acton Family Dentists (the "Company" or "We") is committed to protecting your privacy and developing technology that gives you the most powerful and safe online experience. This Statement of Privacy applies to the Company's website, actonfamilydentists. com ("Website"), and governs data collection and usage. This privacy policy has been compiled to better serve those who are concerned with how their "Personally identifiable information" ("PII") is being used online. PII, as used in United States privacy law and information security, is information that can be used on its own or with other information to identify, contact, or locate a single person, or to identify an individual in context. Please read our privacy policy carefully to get a clear understanding of how we collect, use, protect or otherwise handle your PII in accordance with our Website. By using the Website, you consent to the data practices described in this privacy policy. This policy applies to information we collect: On the Website; In email, text, and other electronic messages between you and the Website; Through any mobile and/or desktop applications you download from the Website, which provide dedicated non-browser-based interaction between you and the Website; and When you interact with our advertising and applications on third-party websites and services if those applications or advertising include links to this policy. It does not apply to information collected by: Use offline or through any other means, including on any other website operated by the... --- - Published: 2021-11-05 - Modified: 2022-01-25 - URL: https://actonfamilydentists.com/accessibility/ Please find a few resources below to help make your experience on our site more accessible: If you have trouble seeing web pages Use your computer to read web pages out loud Use the keyboard to navigate screens Increase text size Magnify your screen Change background and text colors Make your mouse pointer more visible (available with Windows only) These tips were provided by the US Social Security Administration If you are looking for mouse and keyboard alternatives Speech recognition software such as Dragon allows a user to navigate around a website through voice commands. If you are deaf or hard of hearing Closed Captioning – Closed captioning on videos allows all users to experience the presentation by overlaying real-time visual transcripts of the audio track over the video. Learn how to turn captioning on and off in YouTube. Volume Controls – Every device such as a computer, tablet, or mobile device has the ability to adjust the volume. Additionally, videos and audio presentations have their own individual volume controls within their media players. Adjusting both your device’s volume and your media player’s volume can make the listening experience more enjoyable. If the recommendations above do not meet your needs, please contact us for assistance. --- - Published: 2020-03-13 - Modified: 2025-03-11 - URL: https://actonfamilydentists.com/ This is an example page. It's different from a blog post because it will stay in one place and will show up in your site navigation (in most themes). Most people start with an About page that introduces them to potential site visitors. It might say something like this: Hi there! I'm a bike messenger by day, aspiring actor by night, and this is my website. I live in Los Angeles, have a great dog named Jack, and I like piña coladas. (And gettin' caught in the rain. ) ... or something like this: The XYZ Doohickey Company was founded in 1971, and has been providing quality doohickeys to the public ever since. Located in Gotham City, XYZ employs over 2,000 people and does all kinds of awesome things for the Gotham community. As a new WordPress user, you should go to your dashboard to delete this page and create new pages for your content. Have fun! --- --- --- ## Posts - Published: 2025-08-08 - Modified: 2025-08-08 - URL: https://actonfamilydentists.com/dental-implants-aftercare-best-practices-for-long-term-success/ - Categories: Uncategorized While dental implants are designed to be durable and long-lasting, their success greatly depends on how well they’re cared for after placement. Dental implants with proper maintenance can last for decades, sometimes even a lifetime. Dental implants at Acton Family Dentists are a popular and highly effective solution for replacing missing teeth, offering aesthetic and functional benefits. While implants are designed to be durable and long-lasting, their success greatly depends on how well they’re cared for after placement. Dental implants with proper maintenance can last for decades, sometimes even a lifetime. Here’s why aftercare is essential and how you can protect your investment. Why Dental Implant Care Matters Although artificial, dental implants still rely on healthy gums and surrounding bone for stability. Without proper hygiene, issues like peri-implantitis—an infection similar to gum disease—can develop, potentially compromising the implant. Poor oral hygiene, smoking, or neglecting dental visits can lead to inflammation, bone loss, and ultimately, implant failure. However, by following a consistent care routine, you can extend the life of your implants and enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile for years. Best Practices for Dental Implant Aftercare Brush Twice Daily: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to clean around the implant and prosthetic crown. Electric toothbrushes can also help remove plaque more effectively. Floss or Use Interdental Cleaners: Daily flossing is crucial to remove debris between teeth and implants. Special implant-safe floss or interdental brushes can reach tight spaces without damaging the implant surface. Use Antibacterial Mouth Rinse: An antimicrobial rinse helps reduce bacteria in hard-to-reach areas and can support gum health, especially during healing. Avoid Smoking: Tobacco use impairs healing and increases the risk of implant failure. If you smoke, consider quitting to protect your... --- - Published: 2024-06-21 - Modified: 2024-06-21 - URL: https://actonfamilydentists.com/is-dental-insurance-worth-it/ - Categories: Uncategorized Wondering if dental insurance is worth it? Explore the benefits, costs, and factors to consider in our comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision about dental insurance. Is Dental Insurance Worth It? Dental insurance can be a valuable asset in managing your oral health and financial well-being. However, many people often wonder if it is truly worth the investment. With premiums, deductibles, co-pays, and various types of plans available, it’s essential to understand whether dental insurance aligns with your needs and budget. In this blog, we’ll explore the pros and cons of dental insurance, who can benefit the most, and factors to consider when deciding if dental insurance is worth it for you. Understanding Dental Insurance What Does Dental Insurance Cover? Dental insurance typically covers a range of services categorized into three main types: 1. Preventive Care: This includes routine check-ups, cleanings, x-rays, and sealants. Most plans cover preventive care at 100%, with no deductible. 2. Basic Procedures: These include fillings, extractions, and periodontal treatment. Coverage usually involves a co-pay or co-insurance, with the insurance covering 70-80% of the cost. 3. Major Procedures: This includes crowns, bridges, dentures, and sometimes orthodontics. Coverage for major procedures is often lower, typically covering 50% of the cost. Types of Dental Insurance Plans 1. Dental Preferred Provider Organization (DPPO): Offers a network of dentists who provide services at reduced rates. You can see any dentist, but you'll save more by choosing an in-network provider. 2. Dental Health Maintenance Organization (DHMO): This plan requires you to choose a primary dentist within the network and get referrals to see specialists. It often has lower premiums and no deductibles. 3. Discount Dental Plans: Not... --- - Published: 2023-09-01 - Modified: 2024-02-06 - URL: https://actonfamilydentists.com/knocked-out-teeth-next-steps-for-the-most-common-dental-emergency/ - Categories: Uncategorized As one of the most common dental emergencies knocked out or avulsed teeth can occur due to simple falls, face injuries, contact sports, and more. Beyond Fistfights: Common Causes of Knocked Out Teeth Forget Hollywood brawls. Knocked-out teeth, also known as avulsed teeth, happen more often than you might think. Simple falls, face injuries, and even contact sports can be the culprits. While it's a common dental emergency, only 9% of Americans know what to do when it strikes. This guide equips you with the knowledge and steps to potentially save your lost tooth! Quick Action is Key: Understanding the Timeframe Time is crucial! Ideally, aim to see your dentist within 30 minutes of losing the tooth. However, with immediate action, successful reimplantation has even occurred after an hour. So, stay calm and focused, follow these steps, and increase your chances of salvaging your smile. 1. Locate and Handle the Tooth Gently: Find the tooth and pick it up by the crown (white, chewing surface), not the roots. Rinse gently with lukewarm water for no more than 10 seconds if dirty. Avoid chemicals, soaps, or drying it. Excessive water or rough handling can damage the root cells needed for reimplantation. 2. Try Reimplantation (if Possible): If the tooth is whole, gently push it back into the socket by the crown. Hold it there with your fingers or bite down softly. 3. Keep the Tooth Moist: Never let the tooth dry out! If reimplantation isn't possible, keep it moist at all times. Here are your options: Place it in your cheek: The most natural and preferred method. Store it in milk: A temporary alternative if cheek-storing... --- - Published: 2022-09-12 - Modified: 2024-02-06 - URL: https://actonfamilydentists.com/what-issues-can-invisalign-fix/ - Categories: Uncategorized Invisalign® provides an excellent option for orthodontic treatment, but is it the best option for all orthodontic issues? Invisalign® transformed the world of orthodontics. Gone are the days of conspicuous metal braces. This innovative clear aligner system lets you discreetly achieve a straighter, healthier smile, boosting your confidence without compromising comfort. But with any treatment, considering your individual needs is crucial. While Invisalign® excels in many areas, understanding its limitations can help you make the best decision for your unique smile journey. Let's explore the issues Invisalign® effectively tackles: 1. Crooked Teeth: Say goodbye to misaligned teeth! Invisalign®'s gentle yet effective pressure gradually guides your teeth into their ideal positions, leaving you with a radiant, aligned smile. 2. Overbites and Underbites: Both overbites (where upper teeth protrude over lower teeth) and underbites (where the lower jaw extends beyond the upper jaw) can be effectively corrected with Invisalign®. The aligners precisely move your teeth to achieve proper jaw alignment and a balanced bite. 3. Crossbites: When your upper and lower teeth don't meet properly, causing misalignment, you have a crossbite. Invisalign® can meticulously adjust the positioning of your teeth, eliminating this issue and ensuring a harmonious bite. 4. Gaps and Crowding: Whether you have unsightly gaps between your teeth or teeth crammed together due to lack of space, Invisalign® offers a solution. It can close gaps or gently widen your jaw to accommodate crowded teeth, promoting optimal oral health and a beautiful smile. Now, let's acknowledge Invisalign®'s limitations: • Severe Orthodontic Issues: For complex cases requiring significant tooth movement or intrusion/extrusion (movement in a direction beyond the gum line),... --- - Published: 2022-08-26 - Modified: 2024-02-06 - URL: https://actonfamilydentists.com/what-is-biofilm/ - Categories: Uncategorized Your mouth has a flourishing microbiome that can only be seen under a microscope. Some of the bacteria are beneficial, but others can contribute to tooth decay. Conquer Your Microbiome: Key Strategies for a Healthy Mouth Ditch the plaque and boost your smile! Your mouth is teeming with microscopic life, and understanding their balance is key to oral health. This "microbiome" can influence teeth like helpful neighbors or mischievous pranksters. Here's how to keep them in check: Brushing and Beyond: Twice-daily brushing and flossing aren't just dental rituals – they're microbiome battles! Disrupting harmful "biofilm" (like plaque) prevents nasty bacteria from building strongholds on your teeth. Remember, mouthwash works like artillery, blasting them further. Sugar: The Enemy Within: Think of sugary treats as bacteria buffets. Overindulge, and they'll throw a cavity-causing party. Moderation is your shield, and water your ultimate weapon. Acidic foods can also tip the scales in favor of bad bacteria, so be mindful of their effects. Habits that Hurt: Smoking and nicotine use are like smoke grenades for your microbiome. They create dry mouth, depleting your natural antibacterial saliva, and leave a film that welcomes harmful guests. Chewing tobacco is a VIP invitation for bad bacteria! Checkups: Your Secret Weapon: Regular dental visits are like microbiome intel missions. Your dentist identifies imbalances and removes troublemakers before they cause problems. Ready to join the fight? We're here to help! Contact Acton Family Dentists at 978-266-9888 for an appointment and let's build a thriving oral ecosystem together. --- - Published: 2020-12-09 - Modified: 2023-04-27 - URL: https://actonfamilydentists.com/what-can-i-do-to-improve-the-appearance-of-my-smile/ - Categories: Uncategorized Looking for ways to improve your smile? Cosmetic dentistry services like teeth whitening and straightening can help you love your smile. Improving Your Smile Your smile is one of the first things people notice, and if you’re not confident in yours, it can be a cause for low self esteem and insecurities. That’s where cosmetic dentists come in. Cosmetic dentists are here to help you be confident in your teeth and smile. There are lots of things cosmetics dentists can do to make you love your smile. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of just some of the reasons why you should visit a cosmetic dentist. Straightening Teeth Crooked or misaligned teeth are really common for most people, but not everyone had braces in middle school. Now you might be an adult and don’t want to go the traditional teeth straightening route. That’s where your cosmetic dentist comes in. We can provide you with different methods of straightening your teeth, including but not limited to, clear braces, Invisalign®, and veneers. These options give you a way to straighten your teeth without the pain of braces and the hassle of going to an orthodontist. Replacing Missing Teeth Got some missing teeth? No worries! Cosmetic dentists have a variety of ways to fill gaps and missing teeth. These include crowns, implants, dentures, bridges and more. No matter how you lost your teeth, we can help get your smile complete again. Tooth Reshaping Some people don’t love the shape of their teeth, whether they are pointy or oddly shaped or whatever the reason may be. Reshaping your teeth can help get you that straight,... --- ---