Dentist Salt Lake City: 7 Mistakes You’re Making with Your Family’s Dental Routine
Published May 12, 2026
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Life in the Salt Lake Valley is busy. Between hiking the Wasatch trails, school drop-offs, and commuting through the morning rush, your family's dental routine can sometimes feel like just another chore to rush through.
But here’s the thing: keeping your family’s teeth healthy isn't just about brushing twice a day. Even the most diligent parents can fall into habits that lead to unexpected cavities or gum issues down the road.
As your local family-friendly experts at Salt Flats Dentistry, we’ve seen it all. We want to help you avoid the common pitfalls and keep your family's smiles as bright as a Utah sunrise. Here are 7 mistakes you might be making with your family’s dental routine, and how to fix them today.
1. Brushing Too Hard (The "Scrubbing" Mistake)
Many people think that the harder you scrub, the cleaner your teeth will be. In reality, your teeth aren't like a kitchen floor! Brushing too aggressively can actually wear down your enamel and cause your gums to recede, leading to sensitivity and pain.
- The Fix: Think of it as a massage for your teeth. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle, circular motions at a 45-degree angle to your gums. Let the bristles do the work, not your muscles.
2. Thinking Flossing is "Optional"
If you aren't flossing, you’re missing about 35% of the surface area of your teeth. For children, especially as their permanent teeth start coming in close together, flossing is essential to prevent "interproximal" cavities, the ones that hide between the teeth where a brush can't reach.
- The Fix: Make flossing a non-negotiable part of the bedtime routine. If traditional string floss is a struggle for your kids, try colorful floss picks or a water flosser. It makes the job easier and much more likely to actually happen!
3. The "Bedtime Bottle" or Juice Habit
It’s a common scene: a toddler wants a bottle of milk or a sippy cup of juice to help them fall asleep. Unfortunately, this is the leading cause of "baby bottle tooth decay." Sugars from the liquid sit on the teeth all night, feeding bacteria that produce acid and eat away at the enamel.
- The Fix: If your child needs a bottle at bedtime, fill it only with water. This keeps them hydrated and comforted without the risk of overnight decay.
4. Skipping the Tongue
Did you know that the majority of bacteria in your mouth actually live on your tongue? If you’re only brushing your teeth, you’re leaving behind a "reservoir" of bacteria that can cause bad breath and contribute to tooth decay.
- The Fix: Every time you brush, give your tongue a gentle swipe with your toothbrush or use a dedicated tongue scraper. It’s a 5-second habit that makes a world of difference for your oral health and breath.
5. Holding onto Toothbrushes for Too Long
We get it, life gets busy and replacing toothbrushes isn't always at the top of the grocery list. However, frayed bristles are less effective at removing plaque, and old brushes can harbor bacteria over time.
- The Fix: Replace toothbrushes (or electric brush heads) every 3 to 4 months, or immediately after someone in the family has been sick. A fresh brush is a more effective brush!
6. Waiting for Pain to Call the Dentist
One of the biggest mistakes families make is treating the dentist as a "reactive" service rather than a "preventative" one. If you wait until a tooth hurts to schedule an appointment, the problem is often much more advanced (and expensive) to fix.
- The Fix: Schedule regular check-ups every six months. At Salt Flats Dentistry, we use advanced technology like CBCT 3D x-rays to catch issues before they ever cause you pain. Preventive care is the key to a lifetime of healthy smiles.
7. Letting Dental Anxiety Stop the Visit
Many parents who had bad dental experiences as children accidentally pass that anxiety on to their kids. If you're nervous about the dentist, it’s easy to procrastinate on family appointments.
- The Fix: Choose a dentist that prioritizes comfort. At Salt Flats Dentistry, we designed our offices specifically for anxious patients. We offer:
- Noise-canceling headphones to block out clinic sounds.
- Ceiling-mounted TVs so you can watch your favorite show during your cleaning.
- Sedation options (like laughing gas) to help you feel completely at ease.
Why Choose Salt Flats Dentistry?
We aren't just another corporate dental office. We are a locally grown practice dedicated to providing high-quality, affordable care to our Utah neighbors. Whether you need a simple filling or a same-day permanent crown using our advanced Cerec technology, we make sure you are comfortable every step of the way.
We are also proud to be highly insurance-friendly and offer Medicaid dental care at our Bangerter location.
Meet Our Team
Our staff isn't just highly trained, they’re your neighbors!
Tori Vincent, DDS Dr. Tori Vincent is passionate about providing a welcoming and professional environment for every patient. With a focus on gentle care and modern techniques, she ensures that every visit to Salt Flats is a positive one. When she isn't in the office, you can find her enjoying the beautiful Utah outdoors.
You might also meet Dr. Schroeder, who is known for taking the time to walk patients through their X-rays and explaining every detail of their care, or "T," our fantastic hygienist who is a favorite among our younger patients for making cleanings fun!
Frequently Asked Questions
What insurances do you accept?
We accept almost every insurance and are happy to help you maximize your benefits! For those with Medicaid, we accept it specifically at our Bangerter location.
Can I get a crown in one day?
Yes! Thanks to our Cerec technology, we can often design, create, and place a permanent crown in a single visit. No messy impressions, no temporary crowns, and no second appointments needed.
Is the $99 New Patient Special available at all locations?
Yes, new patients can take advantage of this offer at any of our three convenient locations. It’s our way of saying "welcome to the family!"
Ready to Schedule?
Stop making the common mistakes and start your family on the path to perfect oral health. Choose the location most convenient for you and book your appointment online today!
Our Locations
Salt Flats Dentistry – Bangerter (Medicaid Accepted!) 3816 13400 S #200 Riverton, UT 84065 📞 +1-385-533-9393 Book at Bangerter
Salt Flats Dentistry – Herriman 5069 13400 S #200 Riverton, UT 84096 📞 +1-385-766-1717 Book at Herriman
Salt Flats Dentistry – Cottonwood 6095 S Fashion Blvd #200 Murray, UT 84107 📞 +1-801-262-4662 Book at Cottonwood