The Power of Smile ™ Blog
Meet The Clinicians
Learn about current topics and trends in dentistry and the importance of oral health as it relates to overall health from our team of experts.

Eileen Crespo, MD
Dr. Eileen Crespo is the Vice President of Medical Services at Delta Dental of Minnesota. Dr. Crespo is a practicing pediatrician of 20 years. She is currently a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and a member of the Board of Directors at Children’s Dental Service and the Minnesota Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

R. Bruce Templeton, DMD
Dr. Bruce Templeton is an oral surgeon and has served both on the board and as a medical consultant for Delta Dental of Minnesota since 2011. Dr. Templeton has served as both the Chief of Dentistry and Oral/Maxillofacial Surgery at the Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Health Care System, and as a clinical professor at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry.
This information in this post is for general educational purposes only and does not warrant or represent any information as related to health as specifically appropriate for you. It is not intended to be medical advice or replace the relationship that you have with your health care providers. You should always seek medical advice on any diagnosis or treatment from a qualified health care provider. The information is provided “as is” without any representations or warranties, express or implied.
Recent Blog Articles
How do I know if I have a cavity?
If you have never had a cavity before, you may be unsure what the experience will be like. Discoloration on your tooth, pain or sensitivity can all be signs that you might have developed a cavity. Your dentist can help you with all of these. See more inside.
Taste buds grow up, too
How and why do our taste buds change as we age? Even the pickiest eaters can grow up to enjoy a variety of foods. How does this happen? Find an explanation of the process here.
Canker and cold sores
In cold and flu season, you might experience canker or cold sores more often. What are these sores and what can cause them? Find out more inside.
Why do hot and cold hurt my teeth?
If you suffer from tooth sensitivity, eating or drinking things that are very hot or very cold can cause discomfort and even pain.
Chewing gum: a sticky subject
Don't get stuck with bad breath or cavity-causing bacteria in your mouth - try chewing some sugar-free gum! See our recommendations for choosing gum that supports your oral health and its possible benefits in this post.
TMJ Awareness Month
November is TMJ Awareness Month. Explore some of the causes, symptoms and possibly solutions in this blog. Be sure to seek help from your doctor or dentist if you experience TMJ pain.
Thanksgiving cravings to make you smile
Even when enjoying festive foods and drinks, you can still care for your oral health. Here are some ideas for creating a more healthy plate this Thanksgiving.
Mouthwash – ask a dentist!
We ask questions around a specific dental health practice or product and a dentist answers. The topic: mouthwash
Scare away cavities this Halloween
Enjoy the costumes, jack-o-lanterns, tricks and treats this Halloween, but scare away cavities with our fang-tastic oral health tips!