Our Blog

Do Dental Fillings Hurt – What Can I Expect?
01/10/2024

At West Gate Dental in Lincoln, Nebraska, we offer many options to improve the state of your teeth. If you have cavities, you can get fillings. However, you may be concerned especially if it’s your first time getting dental fillings. If one of your concerns is whether they hurt, these are some things you should know.

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5 Myths and Realities of Dental X-Rays
12/10/2023

People who are afraid to see a dentist sometimes have irrational fears over X-rays. These fears stem from some myths about X-rays that, even in the modern day, have managed to perpetuate our culture. At West Gate Dental in Lincoln NE, dentists alleviate those fears by showing patients that these myths are wrong. Book your appointment today to speak to one of our qualified dentists at West Gate Dental in Lincoln NE.

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5 Dental Implant Aftercare Tips
11/10/2023

Dental implants are a permanent solution to filling gaps in your mouth. The abutment screws that are surgically implanted in your jaw are designed to stay put indefinitely unless you experience major trauma or infection or rejection to those areas. West Gate Dental in Lincoln, NE helps all of their new dental implant patients care for their implants so that every patient can have a long-lasting beautiful smile.

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How To Practice Dental Hygiene With Braces
10/10/2023

At West Gate Dental, we offer a wide array of options for straightening your teeth. If you choose traditional, lingual, or ceramic braces, you will be one step closer to getting the beautiful smile you crave. However, braces often pose challenges when it comes to practicing oral hygiene. These tips can help with your dental hygiene routine while you undergo your treatment.

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Myth or Fact? Thumb Sucking Ruins Teeth
09/10/2023

Years ago, many mothers would get upset with children who sucked their thumbs past infancy. The concern was that thumbsucking late in life caused your mouth to be misshapen. West Gate Dental, an excellent source for debunking dental myths, has a lot to say on this subject.

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How to Protect Your Enamel and Keep Your Teeth Strong
08/10/2023

Tooth enamel is the first line of defense when keeping your teeth healthy. A lot of things can weaken the enamel and even destroy it. The health of the enamel is a two-step care plan, dealing with both the inside and outside of every tooth.

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What Happens When Periodontal Disease Goes Untreated?
07/10/2023

If you're looking for a professional West Lincoln dentist, turn to Dr. Sowers at West Gate Dental. We're a family dental clinic that offers a variety of treatments. Besides general treatments, you can see us for cosmetic dentistry, implant dentistry, crowns, bridges, tooth whitening, and fillings. We can also help if you have periodontal disease.

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How long do the effects of teeth whitening last?
06/06/2023

If you want to have a bright, radiant smile, we can help! West Gate Dental is one of the best clinics for cosmetic dentistry in Lincoln NE, and teeth whitening is among our services. Dr. Rebecca Sowers would be happy to serve as your West Lincoln dentist.

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Different Types of Dental Crowns & Bridges
05/10/2023

If you're considering dental crowns in Lincoln, NE or cosmetic dentistry in Lincoln, NE, West Gate Dental is a great choice. Outfitted with the latest technology and an unwavering commitment to patient well-being, Dr. Sowers and her staff are ready to provide you with high-quality dental care to restore your smile.

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5 Benefits of Dental Implants
04/10/2023

At West Gate Dental in Lincoln, NE, we offer a wide array of options to help you regain your best smile. If you have problems involving missing or broken teeth and have strong, sufficient jaw bone, dental implants might be the best treatment for you. There are five benefits you can gain from dental implants.

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How to Maintain Your Crown & Bridges
03/10/2023

West Gate Dental offers cosmetic and restorative dentistry, routine checkups, and hygiene treatments. Dr. Rebecca Sowers and her team lead with compassion and professionalism wrapped inside a family-friendly atmosphere. We combine our expertise, fun energy, the latest technology, and upcoming market trends to provide the best dental experience for children, teens, and adults.

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Expert Tips for Taking Care of Your Tooth Fillings
02/10/2023

After receiving your dental fillings in Lincoln, NE, the first question that inevitably crosses your mind is how to care for your fillings in months and years to come. Luckily for you, taking care of dental fillings is a breeze and requires very little post-operative care for optimal recovery. If you're ready to start your journey towards a healthy and vibrant smile, here's how to care for your fillings once leaving our offices at West Gate Dental.

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Age and Reasons for First Dental Visit
01/04/2023

At West Gate Dental, Dr. Rebecca Sowers and her staff welcome everyone at any age for a first dental visit. Our practice serves the Lincoln, Nebraska, community from infant to senior age groups. Explore the age and reasons behind a first dental visit right now.

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Facts You Should Understand About Non-Surgical Gum Therapy
12/05/2022

Different types of dental conditions need different types of surgery. There may not even be a need for surgery if you have the option of non-surgical periodontal gum therapy from West Gate Dental. With West Gate Dental in Lincoln NE, you get a professional family dentist in Lincoln NE who has patients in mind.

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Have You Considered Teeth Whitening as a Christmas Gift?
11/07/2022

Do you need help with teeth whitening in Lincoln NE? When snow is falling, you want your teeth to be white enough to match. Christmas is the perfect time to gift teeth whitening to your friends, family, and loved ones.

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Are Dental X-rays Safe for Kids?
10/14/2022

If your child's dentist is asking to take x-rays of your child's mouth, you might initially be concerned. After all, they won't take x-rays of pregnant women and infants unless necessary due to the risks involved. However, you should know that West Gate Dental in Lincoln, NE has your child's health and well-being at the heart of everything they do. That said, you should know that modern x-ray equipment is relatively safe for children. To ease your troubled mind, you deserve an explanation about why x-rays are safe for kids.

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10 Foods To Avoid If You Have Periodontal Disease
06/30/2022

Dr. Rebecca Sowers and her team at West Gate Dental provide amazing dental care in the Lincoln NE area for the entire family. We have a commitment to providing the highest level of care for our patients when it comes to cleaning, evaluating, and treating their teeth. Additionally, we find it important to share educational information so you can take the best care of your teeth on your own, too!

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Top 5 Myths And Facts About Gum Disease
05/18/2022

Westgate Dental is your trusted Lincoln, Nebraska family dental clinic. We put your oral health first, offering multiple treatments to maintain or improve your dental needs. While the first thing that may come to mind when you hear “oral health” maybe teeth, the health of your gums is also a vital part of your overall well being.

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Food You Should Avoid Before and After Cosmetic Dentistry
04/25/2022

Preparing for a cosmetic dental procedure can be both exciting and scary. You’re looking forward to your healthy, gorgeous new smile, but you may be wondering what foods are okay to eat before and following your procedure. At West Gate Dental in Lincoln, NE, we are proud to offer a wide range of treatment and services, and we make sure our patients are well prepared for what to expect, including what foods you should be avoiding before and after your procedure.

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Fun Ways to Teach Kids About Oral Health
04/01/2022

We all know that kids can have a hard time keeping up with their oral hygiene. Making sure that they brush and floss every morning and night can be a nuisance. And kids would much rather play with their friends or toys rather than worry about their dental hygiene. But what about making oral healthy fun? At West Gate Dental, Dr. Sowers and staff have come up with fun ways to ensure that not only your kid’s brushes and flosses regularly, but that it can be a fun activity to enjoy. Here are some ways you can make oral health more fun for your children!

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Why Professional Teeth Whitening is Important
03/28/2022

Some people may think of professional teeth whitening as a superficial treatment, something that has merely cosmetic consequences but what if we told you that there is a deeper reason why professional teeth whitening is important? Here at West Gate Dental, your local family dental clinic in Lincoln, NE, we have seen time and time again the transformative effects of a whitened smile and how confidence in your smile goes much deeper than just the surface of your teeth. Find out how getting your teeth professionally whitened at our Lincoln, NE dentist can change your smile and change your life!

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How Long Do the Crown and Bridges Last And Why?
03/01/2022

If you are thinking about getting a crown or bridge to remedy a damaged or missing tooth, you may be wondering how long you can expect your crown or bridge to last. Chances are you also want to find a Lincoln, NE dentist who will give you a crown or bridge that will last as long as possible if so, you’ve come to the right place. Here at West Gate Dental, our mission is to help our patients’ teeth stay healthy for their whole life and that means helping improve the longevity of their crowns and bridges. Find out below how long you can expect a crown or bridge to last and why!

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Stages of Periodontal Disease
02/05/2022

As dentists, we are always worried about people’s oral health. No matter what age you are, periodontal disease can come up and spread. Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss. But can you detect early signs of periodontal disease? How can you stop the spread from becoming bigger and more detrimental? At West Gate Dental, we strive to educate patients on what to do when they’re not in the office. It’s important for everyone to know the early signs of periodontal disease. From our guide, learn what the stages of periodontal disease look like so you stop the spread from growing.

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4 Big Benefits for Beginning Early Dental Visits for Your Child
12/21/2021

At West Gate Dental in Lincoln, NE, we know parents only want the best for their kids. You want your kids’ futures to be filled with happiness and free of health and dental problems. That’s why we offer early dental care to families in Lincoln, NE, and the surrounding areas. We are passionate about providing the best dental care for your children, helping them start their adventure through life with a strong foundation of great oral health and healthy dental habits. We believe your child should start early dental care for four big reasons!

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Do Dental Implants Really Function Like Natural Teeth?
11/19/2021

If you have a missing tooth or teeth, getting dental implants is the best way to restore your smile. Unlike dentures or a dental bridge, dental implants can make you forget that you’ve missed teeth in the first place. At West Gate Dental, we provide comprehensive, high-quality implant dentistry. We want everyone to feel confident and comfortable about their smile. But many wonder if dental implants actually work like natural teeth, and how they work and feel. If you’re interested in getting a dental implant(s), here’s what you need to know about dental implants, and how they can restore your smile!

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The Importance of Children’s Dentistry
10/11/2021

We know that it’s important to take care of our family’s health, and oral health is not excluded. Oral health and physical health are the same and can affect each other. Dental experts encourage all parents to seek out dental care for their child as young as infancy, especially when their first milk tooth comes out. At West Gate Dental, we provide extensive professional pediatric dentistry in the Lincoln, NE community. If you are a new parent, here are things to know about children’s dentistry.

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Five Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings
10/11/2021

You hear the dreaded news- you have a cavity. However, it’s not the end of your tooth or teeth. Dentists generally use fillings to treat cavities. While no one wants to come in for a follow-up treatment, cavities left untreated can have lasting effects. At West Gate Dental, we offer tooth-colored fillings that can not only fill the cavity, but that can also work aesthetically well with your teeth. For a long time, fillings used to just be a silver metal color, making it stand out. Today, you don’t have to worry about that! To learn more about tooth-colored fillings, keep reading!

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How Often Should I Replace My Toothbrush?
08/31/2021

We all know to practice good oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing are the most important regimes to keep to prevent tooth decay and disease. But you may be wondering how often you should change your toothbrush? And what happens if you don’t? At West Gate Dental, our staff aims to educate all of our patients on everything dental-related. While going to the dentist is important, all of the work happens by yourself, every day, without supervision. However, we can help! We get asked this question all the time, so here’s what you need to know.

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Does Sugar Cause Cavities? FAQs About Cavities
04/15/2021

There are some common misconceptions about sugar and cavities. Fortunately, West Gate Dental is here to set the record straight. We want all of our patients to understand how cavities are formed, what part sugar plays in the formation of cavities, and how we can prevent tooth decay. Continue reading to learn the truth about sugar and cavities!

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How To Care For Whitened Teeth
02/10/2021

If you are looking for a dental office that offers teeth whitening in Lincoln NE—as well as helping to take care of your teeth before and after your whitening—look no further! Here at West Gate Dental, we are committed to the long-term dental health of our patients, and our highly skilled team will ensure that your procedure yields the results you are looking for.

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How Does Oral Health Affect Your Overall Health?
12/18/2020

Many think that just brushing your teeth and flossing takes care of all oral health needs. While proper hygiene is vital, dentistry as a whole encompasses more than just cleanliness.

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Halloween Season & Tips for Caring For Your Teeth!
10/12/2020

Halloween season is upon us and you know what that means—candy time!!! At West Gate Dental, while we enjoy indulging in a treat every now and then, our team also gets worried at this time of year for fear that you might not be taking the best care of your teeth.

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At-Home Dental Care Do's & Don'ts
08/17/2020

In this day and age, it is extremely important to stay at home and practice social distance. It is more important than ever, to take extra precautions with your overall health as well as your oral health.

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What Causes Bad Breath?
08/12/2020

Bad breath: it's something we've all experienced at one point or another. For some, it's nothing more than an occasional annoyance, but for others it can develop into a serious, long-term problem. But what's the cause behind this accursed phenomenon?

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Introducing Your Child To Dental Care For The First Time
07/06/2020

Teaching your child about the importance of dental care is one of the most important things you can do for their health. Cementing the basics and fundamentals of cleaning their teeth is going to determine the future of their oral health.

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Important Coronavirus Update from West Gate Dental
06/01/2020

This is a difficult time for all of us as we navigate our way through the coronavirus. From our family at West Gate Dental, we certainly hope that you and your family stay healthy as we get through this crisis together.

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National Children's Dental Health Month
02/01/2020

The best way to achieve a lifelong healthy smile is to start early, and at West Gate Dental, we're proud to provide comprehensive pediatric dental care to our young patients. But patient education is just as important as the care we provide in our office, which makes February a significant month at our practice.

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Tips to Maintain Straight Teeth After Invisalign or Braces
12/20/2019

At West Gate Dental, we want to ensure that all of our patients have a healthy, bright smile that they are proud of, especially our patients who have just undergone years of orthodontic treatment. For patients who have finished their Invisalign or braces treatment, it is essential to keep your teeth straight and clean for optimal dental health.

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Holiday Snacks That Are Healthy for Teeth!
11/14/2019

At West Gate Dental, we are committed to helping you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come. That’s why we provide exceptional dental treatments, including cosmetic dentistry, in Lincoln, NE and the surrounding areas. As your trusted family dental clinic in Lincoln, NE, we aim to help all of our patients develop healthy habits that will keep their smiles sparkling.

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How Often Should You Change Your Toothbrush
How Often Should You Change Your Toothbrush
10/23/2019

Following is an overview of when to change your toothbrush, why your toothbrush should be changed every three months, and how to keep it germ-free.

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 Why Am I Losing Tooth Enamel?
Why Am I Losing Tooth Enamel?
10/04/2019

Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the body, yet both the foods and drinks we consume can play havoc on your tooth enamel, which can lead to serious and painful dental issues. To protect your tooth enamel, learn more about what causes the erosion, what you can do to prevent it, and treatment options if you have a serious loss of your enamel.

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When Should Your Child Visit The Dentist For The First Time
When Should Your Child Visit The Dentist For The First Time
08/26/2019

The adage, “They’re just baby teeth” left many children with a mouthful of cavities or a serious build-up of plaque at age four or five when they saw a dentist for the first time. But in fact, a child’s baby teeth are very important to lifelong oral health.

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Tips From Your Lincoln Family Dentistry
How Often Should I Visit The Dentist?
07/18/2019

You know that brushing and flossing are important for keeping your smile healthy and clean. You also know it’s important to visit your dentist for professional cleanings every so often—but how often should you be keeping dentist appointments? At West Gate Dental, we’re committed to helping you achieve a beautiful smile that will last a lifetime, through expert dental treatments and superior care. Discover how often you should be visiting your Lincoln family dentistry for optimal oral health below!

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Foods For Healthy Teeth
05/29/2019

At West Gate Dental, we're proud to help patients throughout the greater Lincoln, NE area achieve gorgeous, healthy smiles through comprehensive dental care. But as much as the treatments we provide in our office are important to the health of your smile, equally important is how you care for your smile at home. Brushing and flossing are the cornerstones of oral hygiene, but they're far from the only aspect. And one surprising way you can keep your smile healthy is through the foods you eat.

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How To Properly Floss
03/21/2019

One of the most important oral hygiene habits you can practice is flossing — unfortunately, it’s also one of the most commonly skipped practices for many Americans. In fact, according to one survey performed by Delta Dental, only 40% of Americans floss daily, while 20% say they never floss — yikes! As your relied upon Lincoln Dentistry, West Gate Dental always stresses the importance of proper and regular flossing habits — including how to properly floss, how often, and the benefits to flossing those pearly whites!

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How To Whiten Teeth
01/08/2019

Americans are spending more than $11 billion on teeth whitening products and treatments annually. This figure includes spending over $1.4 billion on at-home teeth whitening products. Having bright white teeth is preferred by many people, especially since bright smiles have dominated the world of entertainment and social media.

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How To Care For Your Teeth This Holiday Season
12/14/2018

The holiday season is a great time to get together with family and friends, exchange gifts, and enjoy lots of delicious foods and treats. However, this does not mean we can neglect our teeth during the holidays. West Gate Dental wants to remind you to keep practicing your normal oral hygiene routine throughout the holiday season, especially when you are consuming more sugary foods and desserts. Our dentist and staff have put together an easy to-do list to follow and ensure your teeth stay healthy and cavity free this holiday season.

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