Are you feeling nervous about your upcoming dental visit? Do not fear; UPD Dental Associates is here, and we've got your back (and smile)! We understand that visiting the dentist can sometimes feel scary, especially if it may be your first time.  You're not alone! Lots of kids feel the same way, and even adults feel the same way, and that's okay. 

With seven convenient UPD locations, including services for individuals with disabilities, our pediatric dental offices ensure that every child receives the care they deserve. But oral health isn't just about visits to the dentist; it starts at home with a daily routine of toothbrush twice daily and good oral hygiene habits that can last a lifetime. 

Yellowing of teeth may be a common concern, but with proper knowledge, education, regular dental visits, and good oral habits, you can protect your smile and keep it shining bright. By practicing good oral hygiene, making healthy dietary choices, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking, you can ensure that your smile remains radiant and healthy. 

Every child or adult with autism has a unique set of challenges and strengths. There is no one size fits all approach. Many people with ASD have other conditions such as sleep disturbance, seizures, gastrointestinal (GI) distress, and oral health issues. If we address these conditions, we can improve attention, learning, and behavior. Many people also benefit from therapies for communication, social skills, or motor challenges, or to learn other skills like feeding or self-care.

People with Autism and sights, awareness of body cues (interoception). to internal sensitivities also position and body might experience differences touch. They may (vestibular), awareness of balance (proprioception), and with sounds, smells, taste have trouble.

Maple Check-In

Dental injury is unexpected, immediate and permanent. The American Dental Association and Sports Medicine Societies recommend a properly fitted mouth guard for protection during sports that can involve contact.  Impact studies have shown that wearing any type of mouthguard reduces the risk of tooth injury compared with not wearing a mouthguard.  A custom-made mouthguard is most comfortable and best tolerated interfering minimally with breathing, speaking and swallowing.

University Pediatric Dentistry started in 1989 as a way for pediatric dental residents to gain clinical understanding of advanced diagnostic and surgical procedures. While working at our offices, residents also gain knowledge of child psychology and clinical management, oral pathology, child-related pharmacology, radiology, child development, management of oral/facial trauma, care for patients with special needs, conscious sedation, and general anesthesia. 

Since our founding, we’ve expanded to multiple locations throughout the Buffalo region specializing in virtually every aspect of infant to adult oral health care, from simple check-ups to complex oral surgeries. We are the Western New York dental health care experts.

At UPD, we have fifteen wonderful dentists, some of which are faculty and teachers at the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine. They are all highly trained in their area of expertise. Our team of dentists work together to ensure the oral health of our community alongside residents, dental assistants, dental hygienists, surgical technicians, clerical staff, and administration.

That being said, let’s talk about some of the roles you will see across our seven sites.

Renowned fashion photographer has gifted photoshoots to WNY children.

Rick brings to Buffalo the opportunity to showcase how much we care for inclusivity within our own community.... With his visit we can teach inclusivity by action. With grace we can celebrate each person for who they are.” - Meelin D. Chin Kit-Wells, DDS

Here are some pictures from this past weekend.

Thank you for a fantastic event, Rick!

https://positiveexposure.org

ERIE COUNTY, NY - The holidays are a time for family, friends and festive gatherings. But they can also be a time for potential poisoning incidents involving medication, especially in children. That is why the Erie County Department of Health (ECDOH) and the Department of Social Services are reminding parents and caregivers to make medication safety a priority during this holiday season.

Here are some safety tips to keep your family safe this upcoming holiday season:

• All prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins and supplements should be stored securely, out of reach of children and pets. This includes pills, drops, liquids, creams and medications administered by injection.
• Dispose of unused or expired medications at community kiosks – there are dozens in Erie County; see thepointny.org.
• Anyone who has recently started taking a new drug should inform their family members about potential side effects if needed.
• Do not share prescription medications with others. Take prescription medications only under the guidance of a doctor or health care provider.
• Add the Poison Control number to your phone: 1-800-222-1222. Trained specialists answer these calls 24/7.

Erie County Commissioner of Health Dr. Gale Burstein and Commissioner of Senior Services Angela Marinucci are reinforcing these precautions for the holiday season.