Summit Dental Group LLC

Thursday, January 26, 2017

Sleep Apnea and Obesity

If you suffer from obesity, you put yourself at a higher risk of developing sleep apnea. There are two different types of sleep apnea, but the one that is most common in obese individuals is obstructive sleep apnea.  This occurs when breathing repeatedly stops for 10 or more seconds during sleep.  If your partner is disturbed by your loud snoring or has told you that you stop breathing in the middle of the night, it might be time to visit with Dr. Charles Crouch of Summit Dental Group for a consultation.


Obstructive sleep apnea is more common in obese individuals because it is believed that the airway of the obese person becomes obstructed by large tonsils, enlarged tongue, and increased fat in the neck, all pressing on the airway when the throat muscles are relaxed during sleep. Studies show that men with a neck circumference of 17 inches or greater, and women with a neck circumference of 16 inches or greater are more likely to develop sleep apnea. Regardless of age (and weight), untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious complications, including cardiovascular disease, and high blood pressure.


If you suspect you have a tooth that may need to be extracted, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.summitdentalgroupllc.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Charles Crouch of Summit Dental Group call our Fort Worth, TX, office at 817-294-8505, or our Grand Prairie, TX, office at 972-695-2310.

Wednesday, January 4, 2017

How to Prevent Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is the destruction of your tooth enamel, the hard, outer layer of your teeth. Hundreds of different types of bacteria live on our teeth, gums, tongue and other crevices in the mouth. Some are helpful, but some can be harmful such as those that play a role in the tooth decay process. At Summit Dental Group, we want our patients to know that good oral and dental hygiene can help you avoid cavities and tooth decay.


When a tooth is exposed to acid frequently – for example, if you frequently eat foods or drinks containing sugar and starches – the repeated cycles of acid attacks cause the enamel to continue to lose minerals. This will cause a white spot to appear if the minerals have been lost. When this happens, this is a sign of early decay.


You can help prevent tooth decay by following these tips:



  • Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.

  • Clean between your teeth daily with floss or an interdental cleaner.

  • Eat nutritious and balanced meals and limit snacking.

  • Visit us for professional cleanings and oral examination.


If you need assistance maintaining your oral hygiene routine, give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.summitdentalgroupllc.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Charles Crouch of Summit Dental Group call our Fort Worth, TX, office at 817-294-8505.