7 Mistakes You're Making with Your Teeth (and How Your Family Dentist Salt Lake City Can Fix Them)
Published July 2, 2026
FLASH OFFER: New to the neighborhood? Mention this blog post to get your first exam, X-rays, and professional cleaning for just $99! Plus, we are a proud Medicaid dentist in Utah, ensuring every family member gets the care they deserve.
We get it, life in Utah is busy. Between hiking the Wasatch trails, commuting through Parleys Canyon, or just keeping up with the kids' soccer games in Riverton, dental care sometimes slides down the priority list. But here’s the thing: those "tiny" habits or minor delays can turn into major headaches (and major bills) before you know it.
At Salt Flats Dentistry, we don’t believe in lecturing our patients. We believe in being your partner in health. Whether you’re looking for a reliable family dentist in Salt Lake City or you need an emergency dentist near me right this second, we’re here to help you stop making these seven common mistakes and start smiling with confidence.
1. Waiting for Pain to Call an Emergency Dentist
The biggest mistake we see? Patients waiting until they can’t sleep or eat because of a toothache. By the time a tooth hurts, the problem is often deep.
The Fix: Don't ignore that "zing" when you drink cold water. If you feel a dull ache or notice a chip, search for an emergency dentist near me immediately. At Salt Flats, we prioritize same-day emergency visits to get you out of pain before it becomes an abscess or a lost tooth.
2. Letting Missing Teeth "Slide"
Losing a tooth isn't just a cosmetic issue. When a tooth is gone, your jawbone starts to shrink, and your other teeth begin to shift, like books falling over on a shelf. This can change your face shape and make eating a chore.
The Fix: Modern dental implants in Utah have changed the game. Whether you need a single implant or a full-arch restoration with all on 4 dental implants, we can restore your bite and your smile. For those who aren't ready for implants, high-quality dentures are a fantastic, natural-looking alternative.
3. The "Two-Week Wait" for Crowns
In the old days, getting a crown meant messy impressions, a temporary cap that always fell off, and waiting two weeks for a lab to send back the permanent one. Many people put off treatment because they simply don't have time for two appointments.
The Fix: We use Cerec technology to provide same day crowns. We scan your tooth digitally, mill the crown right in our office, and bond it in place, all in about 90 minutes. No temporaries, no second numbing, no wasted time.
4. Skipping the Routine Because of Dental Anxiety
If the sound of a dental drill makes your heart race, you aren't alone. Many Salt Lake residents skip their family dentist Salt Lake City visits for years due to fear, which only leads to more complex procedures later.
The Fix: We’ve designed our office to be a sanctuary. We offer noise-canceling headphones, ceiling-mounted TVs, and most importantly, sedation dentistry in Utah. You can literally sleep through your appointment and wake up with a healthy smile.
5. Trying "DIY" Trends Instead of a Cosmetic Dentist
From charcoal toothpaste that scrubs away your enamel to "home whitening" kits that burn your gums, social media is full of bad dental advice.
The Fix: If you want a "Hollywood Smile," see a professional cosmetic dentist in Salt Lake City. We offer professional-grade whitening and porcelain veneers that are custom-crafted to look natural and last for decades, not just for a TikTok video.
6. Assuming You Can't Afford the Dentist
Financial concerns are the #1 reason people avoid the dentist. Many assume that without high-end private insurance, they are stuck with poor oral health.
The Fix: We are a proudly Medicaid dentist in Utah. We believe everyone deserves a healthy mouth, regardless of their insurance provider. We also offer transparent pricing and payment plans for those without insurance. Don't let your Medicaid benefits go to waste, let us help you maximize your coverage before the year ends!
7. Treating Oral Health Like It's Separate from Your Body
Your mouth is the gateway to your overall health. Neglecting your gums can lead to heart issues and diabetes complications.
The Fix: Consistency is key. Whether you’re looking for dentists in Murray or dentists in Riverton, find a "dental home" where they know your history. Dr. Todd Vincent and our team focus on total-body wellness, starting with a healthy mouth.
Meet Your Local Expert: Dr. Todd Vincent
Dr. Vincent isn’t just a highly skilled dentist with years of experience in advanced restorative techniques like all on 4 dental implants; he’s a Utah local through and through. When he’s not in the office using our 3D CBCT scanners to plan a perfect implant surgery, you can find him exploring the local trails or spending time with his family. He’s known for his calm demeanor and his ability to make even the most nervous patient feel right at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you accept Medicaid?
Yes! We are one of the premier Medicaid dentists in Utah, and we are happy to help you understand what your specific plan covers.
How much do dental implants in Utah cost?
Cost varies depending on the number of teeth and bone health, but we offer free consultations to give you a transparent, line-item estimate.
Can I really get a crown in one day?
Absolutely. With our Cerec technology, we mill your permanent ceramic crown while you wait.
Are you taking new patients?
Yes! We love meeting our neighbors. We have convenient locations to serve you as your go-to family dentist in Salt Lake City, Murray, and Riverton.
Don't Wait for a Crisis: Book Your Visit Today!
Stop making the mistake of waiting. Whether you need a simple cleaning or a full smile makeover with porcelain veneers, the team at Salt Flats Dentistry is ready to help.
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Salt Flats Dentistry Locations:
- Cottonwood Heights: View Location
- Herriman: View Location
- Bangerter: View Location