Mar 26, 2026
April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month—a time to learn more about a condition that often goes unnoticed. While oral cancer may not be something you think about every day, early detection can make a life-saving difference. At Falmouth Dental Arts, we care about your whole health—not just your teeth. Let’s take a closer look at what oral cancer is, what signs to watch for, and how you can protect yourself.
What Is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the mouth or throat. It can affect areas like the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, and the roof or floor of the mouth. Like many cancers, it can become serious if not treated early. The good news is that when caught in its early stages, oral cancer is often highly treatable. That’s why awareness and regular dental visits are so important.
Know the Warning Signs
Oral cancer isn’t always easy to spot, but there are some common symptoms to look out for:
- A sore in the mouth that doesn’t heal
- Red or white patches
- Lumps, bumps, or thickened areas
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Numbness in the lips or mouth
- Ongoing sore throat or hoarseness
If you notice any of these symptoms lasting more than two weeks, it’s important to schedule a dental exam.
Understanding the Risk Factors
While oral cancer can affect anyone, certain habits and conditions can increase your risk:
- Tobacco use, including smoking and chewing tobacco
- Vaping
- Heavy alcohol use
- Exposure to HPV (human papillomavirus)
- Frequent sun exposure (especially for lip cancer)
- A history of oral cancer
Being aware of these risk factors can help you make informed choices about your health.
The Importance of Regular Screenings
One of the most important ways to detect oral cancer early is through routine dental visits. During your cleaning appointments, our Falmouth Dental Arts hygienists perform an oral cancer screening as part of your care. This screening is quick, comfortable, and designed to check for any unusual changes in your mouth—often before you notice symptoms yourself. It’s a simple step that plays a big role in protecting your health.
Simple Steps to Protect Your Health
There are several easy steps you can take to reduce your risk of oral cancer:
- Avoid tobacco and vaping products
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Use lip balm with SPF when spending time outdoors
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet
- Visit your dentist regularly for exams and cleanings
These small habits can have a big impact on your long-term health.
💙 Your Health Matters
Oral Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder to stay informed and proactive about your health. Paying attention to changes in your mouth and keeping up with regular dental visits can help protect your smile—and more importantly, your overall well-being.
If you have questions or it’s time for your next checkup, the team at Falmouth Dental Arts is here to support you every step of the way.
Mar 26, 2026
Spring is in the air! It’s the perfect time to open the windows, clear out clutter, and start fresh. But while you’re busy tidying up your home, don’t forget about your smile. Your teeth and gums deserve a little spring cleaning too! At Falmouth Dental Arts, we love helping our patients build healthy habits that last all year long. Let’s take a look at a few simple ways you can refresh your dental routine this spring.
Check Your Tools
Just like you wouldn’t clean your house with old supplies, you shouldn’t take care of your teeth with worn-out tools.
- Toothbrush: If your bristles are frayed, it’s time for a new one. Most toothbrushes should be replaced every 3–4 months.
- Electric brush heads: Don’t forget to swap these out regularly too!
- Floss: Make sure you have plenty on hand so you don’t skip this important step.
Starting fresh with new tools can make brushing and flossing feel easier—and even a little more fun!
Refresh Your Routine
Spring is a great time to reset your daily habits. Ask yourself:
- Am I brushing twice a day for two full minutes?
- Am I flossing every day?
- Am I using mouthwash if recommended?
If you’ve fallen out of routine, don’t worry—it happens to everyone. Just take small steps to get back on track. Even tiny changes can make a big difference for your smile.
Clean Up Your Diet
Spring cleaning isn’t just about what you do—it’s also about what you eat! Try adding more smile-friendly foods like:
- Crunchy fruits and veggies (like apples and carrots)
- Dairy products (like cheese and yogurt)
- Plenty of water
And consider cutting back on sugary snacks and drinks. These can lead to plaque buildup and cavities over time.
Brighten Your Smile
After a long winter, many people want a brighter, whiter smile. Spring is a great time to explore safe whitening options. Whether you’re interested in professional whitening or just want tips for keeping your smile bright, our team at Falmouth Dental Arts is here to help you choose what’s best for you.
Schedule Your Dental Checkup
Nothing says “fresh start” like a professional cleaning!
Regular dental visits help:
- Remove plaque and tartar buildup
- Catch small issues before they become big problems
- Keep your smile looking and feeling its best
If it’s been a while since your last visit, now is the perfect time to schedule your spring appointment.
Start the Spring Season with Confidence
A clean, healthy smile can boost your confidence and help you feel your best. By taking a few simple steps this spring, you can set yourself up for a season full of bright smiles and healthy habits. Ready to refresh your smile? Falmouth Dental Arts is here for you every step of the way!
Mar 3, 2026
Every year on March 6th, we take a moment to recognize the men and women who dedicate their careers to keeping our smiles healthy and our overall health in check. This year, we’re using National Dentist’s Day to shine a well-deserved spotlight on our very own Dr. Brunacini and Dr. Karagiorgos and to share a little about why dentists matter more than most people realize.
More Than Just Teeth
It’s easy to think of dentistry as simply cleanings and fillings, but the scope of what dentists do goes much deeper than that. Dentists are healthcare professionals dedicated to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide variety of conditions affecting the teeth, mouth, and gums. Regular visits aren’t just about maintaining a healthy smile – they can also prevent complications that affect overall health. Conditions like gum disease, if left untreated, can contribute to more serious health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory illness.
And the role dentists play in detection is just as important as treatment. Regular check-ups can reveal signs of nutritional deficiencies, general infections, systemic diseases, or even more serious conditions like oral cancer. In other words, your dentist isn’t just looking after your teeth, they’re looking after you!
A Profession Built on Lifelong Learning
What many patients don’t see is the commitment behind the chair. The path to becoming a dentist requires years of education, training, and continued learning. Dental professionals commit to staying up to date with the latest research, techniques, and technologies to provide the best care possible, and that dedication doesn’t stop once they’re in practice. Here are just a few of the ways modern dentistry continues to evolve:
- Digital imaging for faster, more precise diagnostics
- Laser treatments that make procedures less invasive and more comfortable
- A growing connection between oral health and whole-body health, leading to a more integrated approach to patient care
Dr. B and Dr. K bring this same commitment to continuing education and innovation to every patient they see at FDA.
What Our Patients Say
Of course, nothing captures the impact of great dental care quite like hearing it from the people who experience it firsthand. Here’s what a few of our patients have shared:
“Dr. K is an artist and consummate craftsman with a fabulous chairside manner. He demonstrated mastery with the newest dental technology and an eye and hand for detail. He and the staff made sure I was comfortable, not in pain, and kept me informed about the steps during the entire procedure.”
“Going to the dentist gives me anxiety and everyone at Falmouth Dental Arts makes an unpleasant experience that much easier. I truly appreciate the kindness and caring given to me. Dr. B is awesome as well as a talented dentist. I have recommended Falmouth Dental Arts to several people!”
“Dr. K blew my expectations with a repair on two of my front teeth I had broken. I’ve been self conscious about my smile for 15 years, and I left his office feeling like a new person and showing my smile to everyone! You literally cannot tell that they are repaired. I feel SO good. Thank you Dr. K and FDA team. I’ll never go anywhere else.”
“Dr. Brunacini takes the time to explain and discuss things with you. The front desk and clinical staff welcome you with smiles and laughter is heard throughout the practice. I had a great visit.”
Use This Day as Your Reminder
National Dentist’s Day is also a perfect opportunity to reflect on your own oral health. Are you brushing and flossing regularly? Limiting sugary foods and drinks? Making dental check-ups a consistent part of your healthcare routine? If it’s been a while since your last visit, let today be the nudge you needed.
Thank You, Dr. Brunacini & Dr. Karagiorgos!
We are so grateful for your skill, your compassion, and your commitment to every patient who walks through the door. FDA is lucky to have you both.
Ready to schedule your next visit with Dr. B or Dr. K? Give us a call today at 207.781.5900. We’re here to be your partner in oral health – and we can’t wait to see you smile.
Mar 2, 2026
March 3–9 is National Dental Assistants Recognition Week, and we couldn’t let it pass without taking a moment to celebrate the people who make FDA run every single day. Lindsey, Mary, Mirela, and Pat: this one’s for you.
A Century of Dedication
Did you know that dental assisting has been a formalized profession for over 100 years? The first national convention of dental assistants took place in 1924, and the American Dental Assistants Association was founded the following year. Recognition Week itself has been observed since 1977. That’s a long legacy of skilled, compassionate professionals, and Lindsey, Mary, Mirela, and Pat are proudly carrying it forward.
More Than Meets the Eye
Most patients only see their dental assistant for a few minutes before a procedure, but the role goes far deeper than that. Dental assistant duties span the full scope of a dental practice, including:
- Patient Care – Greeting patients, recording medical histories, taking blood pressures and making them feel at ease from the moment they walk in
- Equipment Prep – Ensuring all instruments are sterilized, treatment rooms are disinfected and procedure areas are fully set up
- Chairside Assisting – Supporting Dr. B & Dr. K directly during procedures by making sure the dental materials and equipment are ready
- Imaging & Lab Tasks – Taking X-rays, digital scanning for crowns, nightguards and orthodontic treatments and assisting with other diagnostic procedures
- Patient Education – Explaining proper oral hygiene and home care techniques after appointments
- Referrals and Scheduling – Keeping the doctors’ day organized and helping the office run smoothly behind the scenes
A Day That Starts Before You Arrive
A typical day for the FDA dental assistants begins at 6:30 am, long before the first patient walks through the door. They get equipment up and running, verify sterilization, check in with the hygienists, and review the day’s schedule with Dr. Brunacini and Dr. Karagiorgos. By the time you arrive, everything is in place for a smooth, comfortable visit.
“We are all a team when it comes to seeing patients,” shares Lindsey. “We see patients for all different types of situations – from emergency visits to re-cementing an old crown. Being a Dental Assistant is never dull! There is always something to be done.”
Committed to Continuing Education
Something that often goes unrecognized is that dental assistants don’t just do their jobs, they continually invest in improving them. Continuing education credits are required to maintain certification, keeping dental assistants current on the latest trends, techniques, and protocols in dental care. From advances in digital imaging to updated infection control standards, our team stays on top of it all so that you receive the best possible care.
Champions of Patient Comfort
Dental anxiety is real and it affects far more adults than most people realize. Our team takes that seriously every single day.
Mirela shares, “Anyone can be afraid of going to the dentist – not just children. That’s why we do everything we can here at FDA to make patients feel comfortable and relaxed while they’re in our chairs.” Pat adds, “I love helping patients feel relaxed and at ease during their dental appointments. I hope my presence, compassion, and experience helps everyone have a better experience when coming here.”
The Reward of Real Impact
At the end of the day, what keeps Lindsey, Mary, Mirela, and Pat coming back is knowing the difference they make. Mary shares, “I love knowing that our patients feel good about themselves afterward. They see the success, too.”
Their contributions help patients receive exceptional care through diligence, professionalism, and daily commitment and we are so grateful for every bit of it.
Thank You, Lindsey, Mary, Mirela & Pat!
We are so lucky to have you. If you’re ready to schedule your next appointment and experience the FDA difference firsthand, give us a call at 207.781.5900. We look forward to seeing you!
Feb 12, 2026
At Falmouth Dental Arts, trust isn’t something we talk about often — it’s something we build quietly, visit by visit, year after year. For more than 40 years, FDA has had the privilege of caring for multiple generations of families. Parents bring their children, those children grow up and bring their own kids, and somewhere along the way, our team becomes a familiar part of their lives.
That kind of continuity doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of long-term relationships, consistent care, and a genuine commitment to knowing our patients as people, not just charts.
What makes those long relationships possible is the way our team shows up, year after year. Many of our patients have spent decades with the same dentist and hygienist, and that familiarity creates a sense of ease you can’t replicate overnight. Appointments feel less like checklists and more like conversations.
We notice the small changes and remember past concerns. We can have honest, straightforward conversations because there’s already a foundation of trust in place. That relationship allows us to focus on long-term oral health, not just what needs attention that day.
At FDA, we take pride in being approachable and down-to-earth. We want patients to feel comfortable asking questions, sharing concerns, or even just chatting about what is going on in their lives for a moment before their appointment begins. To create that personal experience, Dr. Brunacini and Dr. Karagiorgos have intentionally built an office culture that allows our team to care for our patients the way we believe is best — thoughtfully, consistently, and without rushing. It gives us the freedom to focus on relationships, not volume. To us, dentistry isn’t transactional. It’s personal.
At the heart of Falmouth Dental Arts is a simple goal: to care for our community with honesty, familiarity, and respect. Whether you’ve been coming here for decades or are new to the practice, we’re grateful for the trust you place in us. One smile at a time, we’ll keep doing what we’ve always done — showing up, listening, and caring for our patients like neighbors.
