We’d like to introduce you to Delta Dental dentist Dr. Kevin Schade (pronounced “Skaddy”) of Foothills Family Dentistry in Tucson, Ariz. Dr. Schade is a general dentist who offers a wide range of services, including family, cosmetic and restorative dentistry.
Dr. Schade was born and raised in Utah but now calls Arizona home. With a love for the outdoors, he is looking forward to raising his family in Tucson and enjoying all the Southwest desert has to offer.
What made you decide to become a dentist?
The biggest factor for me was being able to provide a service that helped people get better. I also enjoy developing relationships with patients throughout the community.
What is your specialty/area of interest?
I specialize in general dentistry, or as some might call it, “bread and butter dentistry.” My favorite area of general dentistry is aesthetic dental crowns.
Do you brush and floss as much as you recommend?
Brush, yes! Floss, probably more than I recommend. I always have floss hidden somewhere in the house that I can use if I feel something stuck in my teeth.
What is your favorite flavor toothpaste?
Mint.
Electric or manual toothbrush (for yourself and recommended for patients)?
Personally, I prefer a manual toothbrush. I recommend an electric toothbrush for my patients though because they can help if you don’t know the proper brushing technique or if you don’t spend enough time brushing.
Which celebrity do you think has the best smile and why?
Brad Pitt because his smile is his real teeth. It proves that you don’t have to have perfect, straight teeth for your smile to be good looking. Natural imperfections can be beautiful.
If you could tell patients to stop doing one thing, what would it be?
Smoking and drinking soda. Smoking has so many terrible side effects for your oral and overall health. It can stain your teeth and decrease the success of dental treatments.
Drinking soda is bad for your oral health because of the acidic effects on teeth.
What is the best dental advice you’ve ever received?
Treat your patients the way you want to be treated and everything else will fall into place. Take care of them, just like you’d want a provider to take care of you.
What is the best thing about being a Delta Dental dentist?
Not having to worry about patients being covered by insurance. If they have Delta Dental, I can feel confident that the patient will have help with the cost of the dental treatments they receive at my office.
What is your favorite dentist joke?
Q: What’s a dentist’s favorite time?
A: Tooth-thirty
What are three things that always make you smile?
- My wife
- My kids
- Seeing a patient react to their new, beautiful smile after a treatment
What are three things people can do to ensure they have a healthy and beautiful smile?
Floss, floss, floss! Just kidding, although flossing is very important. I would say floss, cut down on sugary drinks (like soda) and brush your teeth.
Oral health becomes increasingly important as we age. Are there any dental concerns seniors should be aware of?
Bacteria from decay or infections in your mouth can travel through your bloodstream to other parts of your body and can cause problems beyond a toothache. It’s very important to make sure your oral health is under control as you age. Keep up with your cleanings every 6 months so your dentist can catch any issues early on.
If you were stuck on a desert island, what three items would you bring?
- A house
- Air conditioner
- Lifetime supply of food
If you’d like to nominate a dentist to be featured in the Delta Dental AZ Blog, contact us.
