Midwest Dental Center Blog

Halloween is a time for spooky costumes, fun parties, and of course—candy! While indulging in sweet treats is part of the celebration, the sugar rush can sometimes lead to dental disasters. Chipped teeth, broken braces, and painful toothaches are no one’s idea of a good scare. Fortunately, with a little planning and care, you can keep your teeth (and your children’s teeth) safe this Halloween. Here are 5 essential tips for avoiding dental emergencies while still enjoying all the holiday fun.

Dental implants are one of the most reliable and long-lasting tooth replacement options available today, boasting success rates of over 95 percent. However, like any medical procedure, complications can occasionally occur. When a dental implant fails — whether due to infection, bone loss, or improper integration — removal may be necessary to protect your oral health and pave the way for future restoration.

Here’s a detailed look at why implants sometimes fail, how dentists remove them, and what recovery looks like.

Your mouth is a complex and interconnected system of many different structures that work together in harmony. Not only does it support your smile, but it’s also the first stop for speaking, breathing, eating, and even protecting your body from germs. Each part of your oral anatomy has its own role in keeping you healthy. Continue reading to take a quick tour through the most important parts of your mouth and what they do.

Oral cancer is often overlooked, but it’s a serious health concern that can impact your mouth, tongue, throat, and even your overall well-being. Early detection is critical, as oral cancer can spread quickly if left untreated. Whether you are prioritizing preventive care or just learning about the risks, here are 5 important facts about oral cancer that everyone should know.

Have you ever wondered how your gums can be fine one day and bleeding the next? It’s probably gingivitis. This early stage of gum disease lurks out of sight, developing until your gums are swollen and red. Luckily, being the first stage means it’s the easiest to reverse! But how do you fight back, and how long does it take to heal? The answer depends on your habits, your oral health, and how quickly you spring into action.

Although visiting your dentist every six months for a routine checkup and cleaning can help prevent common oral issues, it’s also essential to care for your teeth and gums every day at home. For instance, implementing a twice-daily at-home hygiene routine is crucial for consistently removing plaque and bacteria that cause dental problems, such as cavities and gum disease.

However, it’s also important to avoid overly sugary foods that are known to harm your dental health. Continue reading to learn more about why this ingredient is so risky and whether sugar substitutes are better for your oral well-being!

Do you find yourself skipping routine checkups? Do you only go to the dentist when you feel some discomfort? You aren’t alone; many people choose to forego these trips if it seems like there isn’t any reason to. However, doing so can spell out bad news for you! Regular checkups and cleanings are essential to finding oral health problems while they are still minor. Continue reading to learn why early detection can benefit you in the long run.

You may already know how fluoride is essential when it comes to your dental care. You might overhear your dentist constantly saying how you have to get toothpaste with it and drink plenty of water. But how did this mineral find its way into these everyday items? Continue reading to learn the story of how fluoride became a part of modern dentistry.

Chronic stress is something many people deal with in today’s fast-paced world. While it’s well-known that ongoing stress can affect your heart, sleep, and immune system, what often gets overlooked is how it can also take a toll on your oral health. If you’ve been feeling stressed for a long time and are experiencing issues with your mouth, the two may be more connected than you think. Here are some of the most common ways chronic stress can negatively affect your teeth, gums, and overall oral health.

Bad breath, or halitosis, is a common problem that can be both embarrassing and frustrating. While brushing, flossing, and keeping regular dental visits are essential parts of keeping your breath fresh, some people are surprised to learn that certain foods may also help. One food that’s been getting attention for its breath-freshening potential is yogurt. But can yogurt really combat bad breath? Let’s explore how it works and what you should keep in mind.