UCSF Dental Center

Merry Christmas! Enjoy the candy canes and peppermint bark but be sure to brush and floss for #healthy smiles!

Don't ignore jaw pain. It's a common symptom of temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ) which can damage your #healthysmiles but also can signal heart disease. Get medical help if you have this + other symptoms.

Retainers don't last forever. Is yours cracked or too loose? It may be time for a replacement or adjustment. Protect your investment (and your #healthysmiles)!

DYK: Diabetic patients are more likely to develop periodontal disease, which in turn can increase blood sugar and diabetic complications. Work w/your medical professionals to control both. #healthysmiles

Missing trick-or-treating this #Halloween? Shelter in place with a spooky movie and popcorn (don't forget to brush afterward). Boo! #healthysmiles

In stressful times, don't let self-care fall to the wayside. Exercise, balanced diet, good sleep and proper oral care (brush! floss!) are musts for good health and #healthysmiles.

#COVID19 may complicate how we celebrate #Thanksgiving find safe ways to connect, such as video chat. Shift focus from food to family/friends and share those #healthysmiles!

Are professional oral care kits safe for home use? Reviews are mixed; plaque scrapers in particular can do harm when used incorrectly. Get your dentist's advice to protect #healthysmiles.

Cold/flu season is here! Reduce risk of illness with your annual flu shot. If you do get sick, these tips will help you keep your #healthysmiles: Brush your teeth well; stay hydrated; replace your toothbrush when you recover; gargle with salt water; choose sugar-free medication.

California's #GreatShakeout drill is 10/15 it's a great reminder to prepare a disaster kit. Be sure to include oral hygiene supplies for the whole household for #healthysmiles!

October is Dental Hygiene Month: Here's to keeping our teeth and gums clean and well cared for, and a big salute to the hard-working, dedicated hygienists who often are the first line of defense in oral health care. #healthysmiles

It's hard to ignore bad breath if you're breathing into a mask and you shouldn't. Halitosis can signal oral health problems that should be treated. Consult your dentist to protect #healthysmiles.

Breastfeeding can positively impact baby's oral health: Less bottle feeding=lowered risk of decay, and is linked to fewer alignment issues. #healthysmiles

The boost you get from energy drinks may drag your teeth into the depths of decay. Skip the sugar; if you must indulge, brush or rinse afterward for #healthysmiles.

Treating food allergies can impact oral health: Antihistamines can cause dry mouth, which can lead to tooth decay. Drink plenty of H20 & consider dietary substitutions. #healthysmiles

Next month is Healthy Aging Month make sure the elders in your life are getting proper oral care, to benefit their overall health and well-being. #healthysmiles

Make Tooth Fairy visits special, whether it's the 1st or the last time: Craft a special pillow w/pocket for the tooth, or add a personalized note. BTW, 8/22 is Natl Tooth Fairy Day! #healthysmiles

Dental problems may be behind your throbbing head. Teeth grinding, misalignment and decay are common causes for headache. Ask your dentist at your next check-up. #healthysmiles

Whether your college student heads back to campus this fall or the next semester, don't forget to schedule a checkup. Follow your dentist's guidance for a safe visit to protect #healthysmiles.

As you age, decay more likely develops around old fillings or in the softer root of the tooth that is exposed as gums recede. Visit your dentist regularly to keep an eye on these vulnerable areas. #healthysmiles