Avoiding sweets and sugary beverages to prevent tooth decay is considered one of the basic rules of good oral health practices. Although solid advice, it isn’t quite as simple as that. As our blog post — “Common Dental Health Myths” — reveals, sugar itself doesn’t promote cavities. The amount of time the sugar remains in…
Is your teething baby irritable during the day and sleepless at night — keeping you awake, as well? Unfortunately, teething is a milestone in an infant’s development that involves pain and discomfort. As a new parent, you want to make this process as comfortable as possible. Whether your baby is currently teething — or you…
By now, it’s common knowledge that smoking — as well as any type of tobacco use — has a devastating effect on health. According to a 2020 Surgeon General’s report, smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that smoking causes cancer,…
If you are among the more than 37 million Americans living with diabetes, you already know the risk for medical complications in such areas as your heart, kidneys, eyes and skin. But did you also know that diabetes can affect your oral health? According to the American Diabetes Association, diabetes and oral health complications are…
The holiday season is here! Actually, it seems the season becomes longer every year, with Christmas décor decking the halls of stores starting in September. From October through December, candy, treats, holiday meals and party foods (and adult beverages) are in abundant supply, all tempting us to not only overindulge, but to neglect our oral…
Many people depend on energy drinks to power them through their demanding day. Although popular for their ability to enhance energy levels, physical alertness and performance, energy drinks have come under scrutiny for their adverse effects on health when consumed in excess. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the potential dangers…
As an expectant mom, you have a lot going on – not the least of which are the physical changes you’re experiencing. While you’re scheduling regular visits with your obstetrician to ensure a healthy pregnancy, be sure you also take care of your oral health during this important time! Is it Safe to Visit the…
Just hearing the words “root canal” may be enough to trigger a sense of pain. No matter whether you’ve had a less-than-positive experience with a root canal or know others who have, this common dental procedure is not as stressful as it may seem when performed by a skilled and experienced dentist or endodontist. From…
It’s the eternal debate. Do you call it soda or pop? Here in Chicago, most of us call it pop, but you’re more likely to call it soda if you’re from the South. Just as there are many colloquial terms for soda pop, the effects of those carbonated sugary drinks on your smile also come…
Dental implants are a routine restorative dental procedure. Anyone can potentially need an implant for any number of reasons—including major tooth injury, tooth decay or sudden tooth loss. Today’s dental implants are designed to blend in with your natural teeth and can provide an alternative to dentures or bridgework that do not fit well, as…
