If your child has ever left our office smiling, laughing, or proudly holding a new toothbrush, chances are a dental hygienist helped make that happen! During Dental Hygienist Week (April 12–18, 2026), we’re shining a spotlight on the incredible professionals who play a vital role at UPD Dental Associates. 

Spring is almost here, and that means soccer fields are filling up, baseballs are flying, bikes are rolling, and kids are back outside playing hard. While we love seeing our patients stay active, April also brings an important reminder: it’s National Facial Protection Month, sponsored by the Academy for Sports Dentistry (ASD). 

Every year on March 6th, dental communities across the nation celebrate National Dentist Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the vital role dentists play in promoting oral health, preventing disease, and improving smiles everywhere. The day encourages gratitude, awareness, and education, and here at UPD Dental Associates, it aligns beautifully with our mission to deliver exceptional pediatric and family-centered dental care throughout Western New York. 

At UPD Dental Associates, our mission has always been centered around delivering exceptional, compassionate, and advanced dental care to the children and families of Western New York. With five convenient locations across the Buffalo region, we take tremendous pride in our team and the high standard of care they provide every single day. [University...Dentistry] 

Most kids know George Washington as our nation’s first President, a brave general, and the face of the one‑dollar bill. However, did you know he was also famous for something far less heroic? His teeth! Washington’s lifelong dental struggles have become the stuff of legend, and Presidents Day is the perfect time to explore the truth behind his tooth troubles. 

Every February, dental professionals including yours truly, UPD Dental Associates, and families across the United States celebrate National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM). Sponsored by the American Dental Association (ADA), this month-long observance emphasizes the importance of oral health in children and encourages habits that lead to a lifetime of healthy smiles. Good oral health is not just about teeth; it impacts speech, nutrition, confidence, and overall well-being. 

From red carpets to magazine covers, Hollywood smiles are everywhere, gleaming, symmetrical, and seemingly flawless. But behind those picture-perfect grins lies a cosmetic dental procedure that's not as simple as it looks: veneers.  

Dental veneers have become the go-to solution for celebrities and everyday patients alike who want to transform their smiles. But while the results can be stunning, there's more to veneers than meets the eye. Let's explore what veneers really are, how they work, and what you should know before chasing that Hollywood glow.  

We use our teeth for just about everything we eat, but what do bugs use? It turns out that insects have some of the most creative chewing tools in nature. From sharp mandibles to straw-like proboscises, their “mouths” are mini-machines built for survival. 

The holiday season is a time for joy, family gatherings, and delicious treats. However, it’s also a time when oral health can easily take a backseat. Between sugary desserts, festive drinks, and disrupted routines, your teeth face extra challenges during the holidays. Neglecting dental care now can lead to cavities, gum issues, and costly dental visits later. Here’s how to enjoy the season without compromising your smile. 

When it comes to cavities, we think about sugary snacks, poor brushing habits, or skipping dental visits. But what if your risk for cavities is written in your DNA? Can cavities actually run in the family?  

The answer is yes; genetics can play a significant role in your susceptibility to tooth decay. While lifestyle and hygiene are major contributors, research shows that your family history may also influence your risk of developing cavities.