Choosing between braces and Invisalign? Both are great options, but what’s best for you depends on your needs and lifestyle. This quick guide breaks down the pros and cons of each, such as effectiveness, comfort, and appearance, so you can feel confident about your treatment and your future smile.

Flossing is more than just a bonus step; it’s a vital part of keeping your smile healthy. While brushing cleans the surfaces of your teeth, flossing removes the plaque and debris that hide between them. Skipping it can lead to gum disease, cavities, and even impact your overall health. Flossing just once a day helps protect your gums, supports your whole-body wellness, and keeps your smile strong for the long run.

Brushing your teeth at night is crucial for preventing cavities, gum disease, and systemic health issues. It removes harmful plaque, reduces inflammation, supports heart health, improves sleep, and benefits both children’s development and older adults' longevity. A simple habit, backed by science, with powerful long-term benefits.

The Department of Family Dentistry hosted its 2025 awards banquet on Thursday, May 22. The awards recognize the hard work and dedication of D4 students.

On Wednesday, May 21, the Department of Periodontics held its annual awards luncheon in W220. Dr. Siva Prakasam, DEO, hosted the event with awards presented to D2 and D4 students.

Dental students from all years plus one resident volunteered their time at His Hands Dental Clinic in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, providing dental care to over 60 patients in 2024-25.

Carlos Garaicoa-Pazmiño, clinical associate professor of periodontics and director of pre-doctoral periodontics, was recognized by campus for going above and beyond to provide students with career resources and guidance.

The Department of Orthodontics achieved second place in the highly competitive American Association of Orthodontics (AAO) Resident Case Competition at the AAO’s annual meeting last month in Philadelphia.

Dr. Jeff Banas has received an NIH subaward to support research on a novel dental material that resists biofilm buildup and secondary decay. In collaboration with East Carolina University, his lab will test antibacterial properties of new resin composites—advancing efforts to improve restoration longevity and patient oral health outcomes.