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Healthy Smiles Blog

Healthy Smiles Blog Posts

Thinking About Another Sweet Gulp? Think Again

Thinking About Another Sweet Gulp? Think Again

Dental cavities, together with other dental problems, are linked to children's dental health, school performance, and psychosocial well-being. For instance, kids with dental problems are more likely to miss school and not perform as well in school. Sweetened drinks contribute to these dental problems. Here's why sugary drinks are not good for your teeth and gums.

What Older Adults Need to Know About Oral Health

What Older Adults Need to Know About Oral Health

Tooth decay is not just a problem for children. It can happen as long as you have natural teeth. And as we age, other specific conditions begin to affect oral health such as dry mouth or loss of taste. These changes can negatively impact oral health and overall quality of life. Here are some things to be aware of and how regular dentist checkups can help.

4 Ways Drinking Water Improves Your Smile

4 Ways Drinking Water Improves Your Smile

Drinking more water has a number of practical benefits which help improve oral health. Staying hydrated helps your system distribute healthy nutrients, gets rid of waste, gives your skin a healthy glow and keeps your muscles moving. And--drinking water really helps your teeth stay health – especially if it’s fluoridated. Here are 4 reasons why drinking more fluoridated water improves oral health.

Research to Fight Periodontal Disease

Research to Fight Periodontal Disease

Did you know that half of American adults suffer from periodontal (gum) disease? Our periodontists can help you take these preventive steps for good oral health and reduce your risk for periodontal disease.

Why is Oral Health Important for Men?

Why is Oral Health Important for Men?

Men are less likely than women to take care of their physical health and, according to surveys and studies, their oral health is equally ignored. Good oral health recently has been linked with longevity. Yet, one of the most common factors associated with infrequent dental checkups is just being male.

Functional Foods for Healthy Teeth

Functional Foods for Healthy Teeth

Dr. Wu’s lab at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) College of Dentistry focuses on plant-derived compounds and functional foods and beverages such as cranberries, tea and milk that benefit oral health, keep teeth healthy and reduce bad breath.

Advances in Dental Sleep Medicine

Advances in Dental Sleep Medicine

Dentists pioneered the use of oral appliance therapy for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea and snoring in adults. An oral appliance is a device worn in the mouth only during sleep. It fits like a sports mouth guard or orthodontic retainer.

Daily Care for Teeth and Gums

Daily Care for Teeth and Gums

Plaque is a sticky layer of material containing bacteria that accumulates on teeth, including where toothbrushes can't reach. Many of the foods you eat cause the bacteria in your mouth to produce acids.