Education

At UPD Dental Associates (University Pediatric Dentistry), we have an uncompromising promise to deliver dental education and awareness to the Western New York community. Below are some tips, articles and links to improve your family’s oral health. Also, make sure to come see us at local schools and events near you!

Education

KEEP KIDS SAFE OVER THE HOLIDAYS: MEDICATION SAFETY AT HOME AND WHILE TRAVELING

KEEP KIDS SAFE OVER THE HOLIDAYS: MEDICATION SAFETY AT HOME AND WHILE TRAVELING

Kaleida Health Shares an Important Message With Us

Thursday, December 15, 2022/Number of views (584)

ERIE COUNTY, NY - The holidays are a time for family, friends and festive gatherings. But they can also be a time for potential poisoning incidents involving medication, especially in children. That is why the Erie County Department of Health (ECDOH) and the Department of Social Services are reminding parents and caregivers to make medication safety a priority during this holiday season.

Here are some safety tips to keep your family safe this upcoming holiday season:

  • All prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins and supplements should be stored securely, out of reach of children and pets. This includes pills, drops, liquids, creams and medications administered by injection.
  • Dispose of unused or expired medications at community kiosks – there are dozens in Erie County; see thepointny.org.
  • Anyone who has recently started taking a new drug should inform their family members about potential side effects if needed.
  • Do not share prescription medications with others. Take prescription medications only under the guidance of a doctor or health care provider.
  • Add the Poison Control number to your phone: 1-800-222-1222. Trained specialists answer these calls 24/7.

Erie County Commissioner of Health Dr. Gale Burstein and Commissioner of Senior Services Angela Marinucci are reinforcing these precautions for the holiday season.

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ERIE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND KALEIDA HEALTH ALERT COMMUNITY TO TRIPLE THREAT OF PEDIATRIC RESPIRATORY ILLNESSES

ERIE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND KALEIDA HEALTH ALERT COMMUNITY TO TRIPLE THREAT OF PEDIATRIC RESPIRATORY ILLNESSES

Surge in RSV and flu cases prompt warning and call to help prevent illness, protect vulnerable community members

Wednesday, November 16, 2022/Number of views (738)

“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. 
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The Tooth Fairy; Mythology and Methods

The Tooth Fairy; Mythology and Methods

Written by Julia Grace Dirkes-Jacks

Friday, July 1, 2022/Number of views (1322)

Most of us are familiar with the myth of the Tooth Fairy, a magical being, who whisks away discarded baby teeth from under our pillows, and replaces them with money. If you think about it, it is a strange tradition. We encourage children to barter away their teeth for a cash reward, in a deal that takes place while they sleep. Very few of us, however, know how this practice originated.

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Water Only in Sippy Cups

Water Only in Sippy Cups

Friday, April 1, 2016/Number of views (10831)

Sippy cups may make life a lot easier for parents, but did you know that their use can negatively affect your child’s dental health?

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University Pediatric Dentistry's Healthy Tips

Tuesday, March 1, 2016/Number of views (6299)

Did you know your child's first visit to the dentist should occur before his/her first birthday.

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Preventing Caries Starts At Birth

Wednesday, February 24, 2016/Number of views (5978)

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), caries or tooth decay is the single most common disease of children in the United States.

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