Midwest Dental Center Blog

Saying Goodbye to Gloomy Gums: How Long Does Gingivitis Take to Heal?

July 11, 2025

Patient checking their gums for gingivitis

Have you ever wondered how your gums can be glowing 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 of gum disease 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.

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Sweet Smiles: Are Sugar Substitutes Better for My Teeth?

July 7, 2025

Word "Sugar" written in spilled sugar next to a pile of sweets

Although visiting your dentist every six months for a routine checkup and cleaning can help prevent common oral issues, like cavities and gum disease, 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 essential for consistently removing plaque and bacteria that cause dental problems.

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!

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Preventing Bigger Problems: The Benefits of Detecting Dental Issues Early

June 20, 2025

Woman smiling after her routine dental checkup

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.

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How Fluoride Became a Cornerstone of Modern Dentistry

June 6, 2025

Image of an open book with the word fluoride written on it

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.

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Always Stressed Out? It Could Hurt Your Oral Health

May 3, 2025

Woman stressed out.

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.

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Out of Mints? How Yogurt Can Combat Bad Breath

Man checking his breath.

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.

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What To Do if You’re Nervous About an Upcoming Tooth Extraction

April 3, 2025

Woman looking nervously at multiple gloved hands that are holding dental tools

The idea of your dentist pulling out your precious pearly white probably isn’t pleasant. No one would blame you for feeling nervous about your upcoming extraction! But it’s also not fun to be overwhelmed by anxiety until the process is over and done with. If you’re having trouble managing your stress, keep reading. This post will tell you what you can do to relieve your nerves.

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All About Dental Crown Materials: Which Type is Right for You?

March 3, 2025

Various types of dental crowns scattered on a white surface

There’s more than one way to make a dental crown! Nowadays, your dentist can use a variety of different materials for your restoration, depending on what your needs and preferences are. This means crowns are more versatile than ever before – and also that it will take some research to fully understand your options!

Don’t worry, this post will tell you all about dental crown materials so you can choose the right restoration for your smile.

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Am I Too Old to Replace My Missing Teeth with Dental Implants?

February 13, 2025

Woman smiling outside

Dental implants are the best tooth replacement option out there. Thanks to their ability to replace the roots of the missing teeth, implants offer a wide range of benefits that you can’t get from dentures or dental bridges. However, if you are a senior, you may be wondering if dental implants are still suitable for you. Age isn’t one of the main factors that is considered when determining eligibility. Continue reading to learn more about dental implants and who they are ideal for.

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Let’s Get Literate: Dental Implant Terms You Should Know

February 3, 2025

Dentist showing patient a dental implant.

We’ve all been in that situation: Someone is explaining something to you that you’re unfamiliar with, and all the words just sound like gibberish. Maybe it’s your buddy who’s recently taken up golf, or the co-worker who wants to tell you all about their jiu-jitsu class. Whatever it is, it can leave you feeling overwhelmed, perplexed, and maybe a little embarrassed. When it comes to your dental implants, rest assured that knowing these terms will put you ahead of the curve and help you understand the process you’re considering.

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