University Dental Group Blog

Halloween is almost here! Between the festive décor, scary movies, and terrifying costumes, you may think you’ve already seen all this spooky season has to offer. However, you haven’t really got a fright until you hear some of the latest dental statistics. Keep reading to learn what they are and some important oral health tips.

Did your dentist ask you about teeth clenching and grinding at your last checkup? This common habit is usually a nocturnal one, which is why it often flies under the radar for years. That is, however, until your teeth begin to show signs of excessive wear and tear. Fortunately, that’s where nightguards come in! This custom-made appliance can effectively protect your teeth as you sleep. However, after seeing the cost, you may be thinking of opting for an over-the-counter alternative instead. Here’s why you shouldn’t.

Whether you are missing one tooth or an entire arch, there is a reliable, durable, lifelike solution: dental implants. With their titanium posts and porcelain crowns, they seamlessly restore the entire tooth’s structure. Plus, this tooth-replacement option effectively preserves your jawbone and can last for 20+ years with proper care! Sound like the treatment you’ve been looking for? Then you may be curious about the cost of dental implants. While there is no all-encompassing answer, there are a few factors that play a role.

Nowadays, dentures are more comfortable, durable, and reliable than ever before! Dentures that are properly fitted shouldn’t need any extra support to stay in place or feel comfortable. However, many patients with this classic restoration enjoy having a little bit of added security provided by denture adhesives. But with so many types to choose from, it can be difficult determining which one is best for you! Read on as we break down what to look for when choosing the best adhesive for your unique smile.

From a young age, you’re taught the importance of brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning. However, there are other smile-preserving best practices that patients often forget, like using products with fluoride. If you’ve heard about this naturally occurring mineral, but aren’t exactly sure what it is, then keep reading to learn more about the effects of fluoride on teeth!

Did you know that roughly 235 million people around the world struggle with asthma? So, if you frequently experience difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing, and the tightening of your chest, you’re not alone. Unfortunately, however, that does mean you may be at a higher risk of developing dental problems, like gum disease. Keep reading to learn more about the link between asthma and oral health!

The sun is shining and the temperatures are rising, which means summer is here! It’s the best time of year to relax by the pool, enjoy your favorite summertime snacks, and… have your wisdom teeth removed? Having your third molars extracted may not be the first thing on your summer to-do list, but it’s the best time of year to get this important procedure out of the way. In fact, removing your wisdom teeth this summer can potentially save you a lot of time, money, and discomfort in the future, even if they’re not bothering you yet! Read on as we go over why summer is the best time to have your wisdom teeth removed.

Has it been a few months, or perhaps even a year or two, since you last visited your dentist? Maybe you’ve been putting off your next dental checkup because of finances, time constraints, dental anxiety, or the COVID-19 pandemic. Whatever the reason, it’s time to get your oral health back on track and schedule your next appointment! Your dentist won’t be interested in judging you or making you feel guilty. They just want to help you achieve the happy, healthy smile you deserve! If it’s been a while since your last dental checkup, read on to discover what you can expect.

Gum disease is a bacterial infection in the gums, and it’s an incredibly common problem. In fact, recent studies suggest that well over half of the US population has some form of gum disease, whether that be the earliest phases (gingivitis) or the more advanced stages (periodontitis). Not only does this common oral health condition cause swollen gums, bad breath, and an unhealthy mouth, but it’s the leading cause of tooth loss in the US! One of the first signs of gum disease is gum recession, where the gums pull away from the teeth. Read on to learn more about spotting gum recession and whether your gums can grow back after it has occurred.

Candy, sweets, and sugary treats are notorious for causing cavities. The processed sugars they contain fuel plaque and bacteria in your mouth, which in turn creates an acid that burns through the enamel on your teeth if not brushed away. However, even if you have a candy-free diet, you could still end up with tooth decay! Here are five surprising foods and drinks you may not have known can cause cavities.