Gentle Dental Care

09/04/2026

Fact Friday courtesy of ISDA 🦷

Don’t let yourself become part of this statistic! Give us a call today to schedule your next appointment!!

12th Avenue: 208-467-9690
Garrity: 208-466-3597

This , remember: Poor oral health impacts more than just your smile — it also affects productivity and overall well-being. Prioritize your oral health!

09/03/2026

Today we’re celebrating an incredible milestone for our treasured hygienist, Mikayla—13 amazing years with Gentle Dental Care! 🦷✨

Mikayla wears many hats around our office: she’s a dedicated and talented dental hygienist, our OSHA compliance officer, and a trusted Botox provider. Mikayla has the most positive attitude in everything she does, and her calming and genuinely kind heart are valued more than can be expressed!

For 13 years, Mikayla has brought compassion, skill, laughter, and genuine care to our patients and our team. We are so grateful for everything she does and for the heart she brings to Gentle Dental Care every day.

Happy 13-Year Anniversary, Mikayla!
We are so lucky to have you as part of our Gentle Dental Care family! 🎊

09/02/2026

The only thing we love more than a viral trend is MINDY 🫶🏻

09/02/2026

Gum Health Month! 🦷

09/01/2026

08/28/2026

Fact Friday, courtesy of Dental Daily 🦷

A tongue piercing may seem like a simple form of self-expression, but it can also affect oral health in ways many people don't expect.

Every time the metal jewelry contacts the teeth, it can place repeated stress on the enamel. Over months or years, this may increase the risk of chipped or cracked teeth, enamel wear, gum recession, and irritation of the surrounding soft tissues. Because the mouth naturally contains hundreds of species of bacteria, a fresh piercing also creates an opportunity for infection—especially if proper aftercare is not followed.

A 2025 scientific literature review found consistent evidence linking tongue piercings to complications such as tooth fractures, enamel damage, gingival recession, infections, and other oral problems. The American Dental Association (ADA) also advises against cosmetic oral piercings because the potential health risks outweigh the cosmetic benefits.

Many people wear tongue jewelry without experiencing major problems, but understanding the possible risks can help in making an informed decision and recognizing complications early.

Sources • Rojas-Rueda S, et al. Impact of Tongue Piercings on Oral Health: A Narrative Literature Review. Clin Pract. 2025.
• American Dental Association (ADA): Oral Piercing/Jewelry guidance.

08/27/2026

Let’s talk dental anxiety…. 😯

“It’s estimated that 36 % of people have a fear of dental treatment or going to the dentist. These fears can make people avoid the dentist altogether. Neglecting routine care or necessary procedures from the dentist because you’re scared could worsen your oral health, no matter your mouth’s condition.”

In the attached article, Delta Dental has graciously provided recommendations for calming apps to download to help ease your worry for upcoming dental visits!

Don’t forget if you find you need a little additional help to get through a dental appointment, we have nitrous (laughing gas) available for a small fee! Let us help make your next dental visit anxiety free!

12th Avenue: 208-467-9690
Garrity: 208-466-3597

It’s estimated that 36 % of people living in the United States have a fear of dental treatment or going to the dentist. These fears can make people avoid the dentist altogether. Neglecting routine care or necessary procedures from the dentist because you’re scared could worsen your oral health, ...

08/24/2026

Don’t let your insurance benefits go to waste! ⏰

12th Avenue: 208- 467- 9690
Flamingo: 208-466-3597

08/21/2026

What fun is work if you can’t troll your boss a little?! 🤗🫢

Thanks for being a good sport, Dr. Mark!

08/21/2026

Fact Friday brought to us courtesy of Dental Daily 🦷

👶This Is why thumb sucking should be stopped before permanent teeth erupt.

Thumb sucking is a normal self-soothing habit during infancy and early childhood. In most children, it stops naturally between 2 and 4 years of age. However, when the habit continues after the permanent front teeth begin to erupt, it can interfere with normal growth of the teeth and jaws.

The constant pressure from the thumb can push the upper front teeth forward, tip the lower front teeth inward, narrow the upper jaw, and create an anterior open bite—a condition in which the upper and lower front teeth no longer touch when the mouth is closed. Some children may also develop a posterior crossbite, speech difficulties, or problems biting and chewing.

The severity of these changes depends on how often, how long, and how forcefully the thumb is sucked. Children who suck their thumb for many hours each day are at a much higher risk of developing bite problems than those with an occasional habit.

The good news is that if the habit is stopped early—before significant skeletal changes occur—many dental changes can improve naturally as the child grows. Regular dental check-ups allow early detection, timely guidance, and intervention if the habit persists.

•Disclaimer: This post is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional dental advice.