With festive balloons, conversation hearts, and chocolates everywhere you go, the first two weeks of February are all about Valentine’s Day. Looking ahead, you might be thinking about your own plans for the 14^th. Going on a first date with someone you’re interested in? Keeping the much-loved tradition you and your spouse created years ago? Either way, you may be looking forward to a romantic kiss at the end of your evening. Here are five tips to help you be extra kissable on Valentine’s Day!

Bacteria are microorganisms that can be found everywhere. They’re in the food you eat, the plants you water, and different parts of the body, including your mouth. As abundant as bacteria are in the world around you, many people aren’t aware that not all bacteria are bad for you. For example, there are oral bacteria that naturally occur. Though some of these are the causes of gum disease or cavities, others can help keep your body healthy and functioning properly. Continue reading to learn how many oral bacteria the average person has and how they impact your smile.

When you understand the parts of the mouth, it makes sense you would be more motivated to stay on top of your oral health because you realize why it matters. You probably began brushing your teeth as a child simply because you were told to do so. But, as you grew up and started to understand why toothcare matters, the more likely it became that you would be consistent about brushing and not depend on someone to encourage you to do it. Keep reading as your dentist in Arlington Heights discusses the human mouth beyond just your teeth.

Everyone knows that a balanced diet is essential to promote overall wellness. But did you know certain foods can protect your smile? Although it may not be obvious, following a healthy dietary regimen and being conscious about what you eat can do wonders for your mouth and body. Read on to learn from your dentist in Arlington Heights about foods that benefit your oral health the most.

Fluoride is key when it comes to oral health – that’s why it’s been added to everything from toothpaste to the public water supply! However, there are other ways to incorporate this naturally occurring mineral into your life to help prevent tooth decay, like adding foods that are naturally high in fluoride to your diet. To learn a few, keep reading.

Morning breath – we’ve all had it at some point in our life. For some of us, it’s a frequent occurrence that happens as often as every day. While it certainly can be embarrassing, it’s absolutely nothing to be ashamed of. Fortunately, there are many ways you can prevent and treat this all too familiar odor. Read on to learn what causes morning breath and how you can wake up feeling fresher and smelling nicer.

Has your nose ever been stuffy to the point where you can’t breathe through it? It often happens when you have a bad cold. As a result, you may choose to breathe through your mouth instead. While that may seem like a harmless alternative, it can negatively affect your oral health. In this blog post, you’ll learn more about mouth breathing and how it can harm your smile.

Leaves are changing color, temperatures are dropping, and days are getting shorter. Do you know what that means? We’ve officially made it to the winter season! Many people look forward to this cold time of year, excited to bundle up and play in the snow. However, you shouldn’t forget to prioritize your oral health during this time. Cooler temperatures can lead to winter mouth issues like tooth sensitivity and chapped lips. Below, you’ll learn a few helpful tips to combat those problems and maintain a healthier mouth!

Do you go into autopilot the moment you pick up your toothbrush? Sadly, this can result in unhealthy habits, like applying too much pressure. Since this can lead to everything from sensitive teeth to receding gums, it’s crucial that you aren’t brushing your teeth too hard. Keep reading to learn the #1 sign that you are as well as the proper technique.

When it comes to oral health, teeth often steal the spotlight. So, it’s not surprising that many patients think brushing is all that’s needed to keep their smile happy and healthy! In reality, that’s not the case. In fact, roughly 50% of Americans struggle with some form of gum disease. As a result, there’s no time like the present to implement some new best practices designed to prioritize your gum health. Read on to learn a few!