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. 

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. 

“The widespread use of masks as an infection prevention tool reduced RSV and flu levels during the past two winter seasons,” said Commissioner of Health Dr. Gale Burstein. “Without those preventive measures, these illnesses are back, and disproportionately affecting our community’s youngest residents. These are common viruses, but they can be uncommonly severe for infants and young children. It’s incumbent on each of us to take steps to maintain our own health and protect vulnerable people in our community.”

ECDOH and OCH are echoing the messages shared by the New York State Department of Health on protecting against the “triple threat” of respiratory illnesses this winter season: RSV, flu and COVID-19.

• Stay up to date with flu vaccines and COVID-19 vaccines.
• Stay home from school, work, daycare and other activities if you are sick. 
• Wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth if you have symptoms of respiratory illness – coughing, stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat. 
• Masking indoors and social distancing may be important for those who live with higher risk individuals: infants, older adults, pregnant people, and people born pre-term or those with underlying health conditions. 
• Wash your hands often with soap and hot water for least 20 seconds to protect yourself from germs and avoid spreading them to others. 
• Do not cough or sneeze into your hands. Instead, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue. Teach and remind children to do this, too.
• Carry an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol to use when soap and water are not available. 

Teeth grinding, also known as “bruxism,” is the gnashing and clenching of your teeth. According to the American Sleep Association, roughly 30 million Americans are affected by this condition annually.

It’s no secret that children with decaying teeth often suffer through debilitating pain and embarrassment. But did you know that crooked teeth are a significant cause of bullying?