lip filler misconceptions

Your Las Cruces, NM Dentist Offers Botox and Fillers

Botox and fillers in Las Cruces, NM, are both popular procedures for people who want to eliminate wrinkles, regain facial fullness, and disguise other visible signs of aging. If you are considering one of these procedures, you may have assumed that you had to go to a medical spa or plastic surgery center to have them performed. That is no longer necessary since Dr. Kimberly Martin and Dr. Patricia Martin have each completed training to offer these procedures to our patients.

Botox Injections

Botulinum toxin, more commonly referred to as Botox, is a type of bacteria that is normally toxic to humans. However, scientists removed the harmful bacteria and created a substance that has treated muscle weakness and various neurological problems for decades. On April 15, 2002, the Food and Drug Administration approved Botox for cosmetic applications.

Botox works by temporarily paralyzing the muscles that cause wrinkles, crow’s feet, and frown lines that are common as people age. The treatment is especially effective for dynamic wrinkles between the eyes. The injections take just a few minutes, and you should start to notice results in two weeks. Most people can go several months before they need to come back for another Botox injection.

Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are an injectable solution used primarily to treat deeply set lines around the mouth. People also tend to lose facial fullness as they get older, leaving them with a sunken or hollow appearance. Fillers are an ideal choice for plumping up both the cheeks and lips. They can also help to disguise scars on the face or other parts of the body.

What could a simple procedure like Botox and fillers in Las Cruces, NM, do for your confidence? Schedule a consultation with us today to find out!

Why Invisalign® Works: A Path to Straighter Teeth

Is Invisalign Better than Traditional Braces? What to Know

Crooked or misaligned teeth need to be straightened, or your teeth can develop a variety of problems over time. Many people who have crooked or misaligned teeth have multiple options when it comes to getting their teeth straightened. Your dentist in Las Cruces, NM, can tell you whether braces and Invisalign are both options for you. If they are, you’ll need to make a choice. Knowing the differences between braces and Invisalign can help you make the right decision for yourself. Here’s what to know.

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign clear aligners are made from clear plastic that is custom-made to fit over your teeth. Each set of aligners is made to move the position of your teeth gently. As your teeth start to move into position, old aligners are replaced with new ones that further push the position of your teeth. There are many advantages of Invisalign, including:

  • Aligners can be removed for cleaning.
  • Aligners are clear and make little impact on your smile.
  • Aligners can be removed for meals, so they don’t impact which foods you can eat.

What Are Traditional Braces?

Traditional braces are made up of wires and brackets that are attached to the teeth. Over time, the wires are tightened to pull the teeth into the proper position. Braces are often more cost-effective than Invisalign, but they can’t be removed for cleaning or meals, and that can make life harder.

Which One Is Better?

Exactly which option is better for you depends. Many people prefer Invisalign because aligners make eating and teeth cleaning much simpler. Aligners also don’t impact the appearance of your smile.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Do you need your teeth straightened? University Family Dental can help you with traditional braces and Invisalign in Las Cruces, NM.

brush teeth it s our habit

3 Simple Reasons to Bring Your Whole Family to One Dentist in Las Cruces, NM

Choosing a family dentist in Las Cruces, NM doesn’t have to be complicated, but the impact on your family’s oral health can be enormous. When every member of your household visits the same dental practice, life gets simpler, appointments become easier, and your care becomes more consistent. Here are three reasons why Las Cruces families choose to consolidate their dental care under one roof.

Going to the dentist is something most families manage separately: different practices, different schedules, and different insurance paperwork. But what if there was a better way? At University Family Dental, we’ve built our practice around exactly that idea: a welcoming, state-of-the-art dental home for patients of every age, from your youngest child’s first visit to grandma’s routine cleaning.

Familiarity and Comfort for Every Member of Your Family

One of the biggest barriers to consistent dental care, especially for children and anxious adults, is unfamiliarity. A new dental office, a new face, and a new set of procedures can feel stressful. When your whole family visits the same dentist, those worries fade quickly.

You’ll get to know our team, our scheduling process, where to park at our office on 705 E University Ave, Suite B, and exactly what to expect at every appointment. Familiarity breeds comfort, and comfort is the foundation of great dental health.

At University Family Dental, we go out of our way to make every visit feel relaxed. Think warm blankets, freshly scented towels, massage chairs, ceiling-mounted TVs, and a team that genuinely remembers your name. Patients who once dreaded the dentist’s chair have told us it changed their entire relationship with dental care.

“Dr. Martin and the staff are such perfectionists. They always make sure you are satisfied before they let you go. Everyone is so pleasant, it’s like visiting with friends.” — Verified Patient

For children, especially, seeing that mom and dad trust and feel comfortable at the same practice sends a powerful message. It normalizes dental visits and builds healthy habits that last a lifetime.

Schedule Multiple Cleanings at Once — Save Your Whole Day

For busy Las Cruces families juggling school, work, and extracurriculars, time is the most precious resource. If everyone visits the same family dentist, you can book back-to-back appointments. Getting all your teeth cleanings done in a single trip rather than making three or four separate visits across different offices.

Our flexible scheduling includes early morning hours (we open at 7:00 AM on Fridays and 7:30 AM Monday through Thursday), making it easier to fit cleanings in before school or work. You can call our front desk at 1.575.521.0127 or use our online appointment request form to block out time for the entire household at once.

Consolidating appointments also means fewer insurance coordination headaches, one copay conversation, and a single set of post-visit instructions for your family to follow. It’s not just convenient, it’s genuinely better for your family’s long-term oral health because it makes skipping appointments harder to justify.

The American Dental Association recommends professional cleanings every six months for most patients. When everyone shares a dentist, those twice-yearly reminders apply to the whole household, so no one falls through the cracks.

One Search, One Decision: Finding a Dentist Made Simple

Finding a great dentist in Las Cruces means checking insurance acceptance, confirming new patient availability, verifying that the practice sees both children and adults, and reading enough reviews to feel confident. Doing that research for multiple practices is exhausting — doing it once is manageable.

When you choose University Family Dental, you’re choosing a practice that covers every stage of life:

  • Children’s Dental Care
  • Routine cleanings & exams
  • Invisalign® clear aligners
  • Teeth whitening
  • Dental implants
  • Porcelain veneers
  • Crowns & bridges
  • Periodontal (gum) care
  • Restorative Dentistry
  • Botox & Juvéderm
  • Emergency Dental Care
  • Senior Dental Care

Instead of a pediatric dentist for your kids, a cosmetic dentist for you, and a different provider for your spouse’s implant consultation, one call to our Las Cruces office handles everything. We’ve served the Las Cruces community since 2006, welcoming patients from Mesilla, Doña Ana, Mesquite, Vado, and surrounding areas.

Our dentists, Dr. Kimberly Martin, Dr. Patricia Martin, and Dr. Samantha Lee bring decades of combined experience and a philosophy rooted in honest, pressure-free care. We’re not just looking for patients; we’re looking to build long-term relationships.

What to Expect at Your First Family Visit

New to Las Cruces, or looking to switch dental practices? Our new patient experience is designed to put your entire family at ease from the very first appointment. We’ll review your dental history, complete a thorough exam, take low-dose digital X-rays, and discuss a care plan personalized to each family member’s needs, no pressure, no upselling, just honest recommendations.

You can also explore our full list of dental services in Las Cruces, read more about our dentists and team, or visit our new patient page to download forms and learn what to bring to your first visit.

Frequently Asked Questions About Family Dental Care in Las Cruces

What is a family dentist?

A family dentist provides dental care for patients of all ages — from toddlers getting their first checkup to seniors managing long-term oral health. Unlike a pediatric dentist who only sees children, or a general dentist who may not be equipped for very young patients, a true family dental practice is prepared for every stage of life.

At what age should children first visit the dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth appearing. Early visits help establish healthy habits and catch any early developmental concerns before they become bigger issues.

Does University Family Dental accept dental insurance?

We work with many insurance plans and can help you understand your benefits. Call our Las Cruces office at 1.575.521.0127 and our front desk team will be happy to verify your coverage before your appointment.

Does University Family Dental see patients with dental anxiety?

Absolutely. We offer pre-treatment anxiety medication, warm blankets, massage chairs, TVs, and a team trained in gentle, patient-first care. Many of our most loyal patients once described themselves as fearful of the dentist.

exhausted man sleeping his bed (1)

How Dentists Treat Sleep Apnea Successfully

Dentists can successfully treat patients who are suffering from sleep apnea. Here in Las Cruces, NM, at University Family Dental, we offer several services and treatments for this common sleep disorder. Discover what we can do to help you reduce the symptoms associated with sleep apnea so you can get a better night’s sleep.

What is Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder caused by a blocked windpipe that reduces airflow. This airflow reduction leads to snoring and a lack of sleep due to waking up to catch one’s breath. Insomnia, fatigue, stress, and heart disease are symptoms of sleep apnea.

Fortunately, we can treat sleep apnea at the Las Cruces, NM dentist. Several techniques and tools can reduce adverse health symptoms associated with sleep apnea. Let us assist you with opening up your airways and improving airflow.

How Dentists Treat Sleep Apnea

Using special appliances designed to improve breathing, we can help you reduce sleep apnea. There are a few oral instruments that are approved and available for sleep apnea treatments, including:

  • Tongue retainers
  • Mandibular advancement devices (MADs)

Tongue retainers help hold the lower jaw in place to reduce sleep apnea symptoms. A MAD works to push the jaw forward as a way to tighten the jaw and facial muscles. Both instruments can benefit patients suffering from snoring and high blood pressure caused by sleep apnea disorder.

Request Sleep Apnea Treatment in Las Cruces, NM

We have the tools you need to reduce sleep apnea symptoms in Las Cruces, NM. Contact University Family Dental at 575-521-0127 to schedule an appointment. Our dentists are ready to assist you with treating sleep apnea disorder.

We also provide comprehensive dental services for your entire family. Join our dental community today with an appointment for sleep apnea treatment.

sunglasses for summer

3 Ways To Take Care of Your Teeth This Summer

The way you take care of your teeth and oral hygiene may change a little from month to month. In winter, you may eat a lot of sugary holiday foods, which could lead to cavities.

In summer, you probably spend a lot of time with friends and family, outdoors, eating barbecued food. Through it all, it’s important to continue seeing the dentist in Las Cruces NM, and to continue taking care of your teeth. Below are four ways that you can take care of your teeth this summer.

1. Stay hydrated all summer long.

Hydration is important for your oral health. Staying properly hydrated helps your mouth produce saliva, which in turn helps keep your teeth clean and your breath smelling fresh. Whether you’re spending time working or playing in the sun, take care to drink enough water. Consider drinking sugarless sports drinks with electrolytes.

2. Protect your lips from the sun.

Did you know that your lips can get sunburned? They can! Wear chap stick with SPF protection to protect your lips from an uncomfortable and unhealthy problem.

3. Get your teeth whitened.

Summer is a time of big events like weddings, family reunions and trips to visit friends across the country. If you want your teeth to look their best for these events, try getting teeth whitening in Las Cruces, NM. Professional teeth whitening services can turn your teeth several shades whiter, so you can have confidence in your smile.

4. Floss after eating stringy barbecue food.

From corn with little stringy silk pieces to stringy pieces of meat, there are quite a few barbecued foods that can get stuck in your teeth. After eating these foods, step into a bathroom to floss your teeth and get rid of anything stuck in or near your gums.

Need an appointment for a dental cleaning or teeth whitening? Call University Family Dental to make an appointment.

dental crowns cerec

How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

Do you have teeth that need major structural repair? Restorative dentistry in Las Cruces, NM may be a good option. Restorative dentistry can involve a series of treatments, and dental crowns may be recommended. Dental crowns can restore the appearance and function of a tooth, but how long can dental crowns last? Find out more about the life span of dental crowns and what factors can influence their longevity below.

The Life Expectancy of a Dental Crown

The majority of dental crowns can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years. However, many patients see 20 years or more of dental crown function. The longevity of a dental crown relies heavily on the material used to make the crown. Dental crowns can be made out of many different materials, such as:

  • Porcelain fused to metal
  • Zirconia
  • Gold
  • Ceramic
  • Composite resin

In general, composite resin dental crowns are the least durable type of crown, while choices like gold and ceramic have the longest life span.

Factors That Affect a Crowns Lifespan

While a dental crown may not last forever, there are a few things that you can do to protect your crown for as long as possible. Certain factors can influence how long a dental crown will last, and certain actions can impede the crown’s ability to be long-lasting, such as:

  • Not practicing good oral hygiene habits
  • The experience of the dentist that installed the crown
  • Grinding your teeth
  • Eating extremely crunchy foods
  • Biting your nails or chewing on hard objects

One last factor that can affect the life of a crown is the health of the tooth the crown is mounted on. If the tooth or the root develop issues, this can lead to losing a crown faster.

Discuss Dental Crowns with a Las Cruces Dentist

If you believe you need a dental crown, be sure to seek the advice of a well-experienced Las Cruces, NM dentist. At University Family Dental, we offer comprehensive and experienced care. Reach out today to schedule an exam and consultation.

little girl at dentist

When Should My Baby Have Their First Dental Appointment?  

Your baby just started growing their teeth. Do you know when they should see the dentist in Las Cruces, NM for the first time? You should! This information can help you stay on track with your baby’s dental care. It’s important to make your child’s first appointments with the dentist on time to catch dental problems in their early stages. In this article, we’ll discuss when, why and what to expect during your child’s first visit to the dentist office.

When should a baby see the dentist for the first time?

Babies need to see the dentist within 6 months of growing their first teeth, or when they turn one (which ever comes first). Following that, they should see the dentist on whatever timeline the dentist recommends. The dentist recommendations will be based on the patient’s dental health and what the dentist determines during the first appointment.

What happens during the first dental appointment?

During the first dental appointment, the dentist will look inside your baby’s mouth, examine their teeth and answer any questions you may have about how to take care of your baby’s teeth. The dentist may also ask you basic questions like whether your baby uses a pacifier or sucks their thumb.

How can a parent take care of their baby’s teeth?

As a parent, you can take care of your baby’s first teeth by brushing them yourself twice daily. Use an age-appropriate toothbrush and toothpaste formulated with fluoride. Apply a tiny smear of toothpaste to the toothbrush, then brush your child’s teeth in circles. Encourage them to spit out the toothpaste when you’re done. Your dentist can show you how to do this while you’re at the first appointment.

Did your baby just grow their first teeth? It’s time to bring your little one in for a teeth cleaning in Las Cruces, NM. Call the dentist at University Family Dental today to make your baby’s appointment.

 

 

male professional dentist with gloves mask discuss what treatment will look like patient s teeth

4 Reasons a Family Dentist Is the Right Choice for Your Household

Choosing a dentist is one of those decisions that feels simple on the surface but carries a lot of weight. You’re not just picking someone for yourself — you’re choosing a provider for your partner, your kids, maybe even your parents. That’s why more and more Las Cruces families are turning to a dedicated family dental practice rather than piecing together care across multiple providers.

Family dentists offer a distinct set of advantages that general practices often can’t match. Understanding what those are will make it much easier to decide whether this approach is the right fit for your household.

Family Dentists Care for Patients at Every Stage of Life

One of the most practical advantages of a family dental practice is that it removes the need to find separate providers as your family grows and changes. A family dentist sees patients from infancy through the senior years, all under one roof, with a team that knows your history.

Here’s something many parents don’t know: the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling your child’s first dental visit as soon as their first tooth appears, typically around six months of age. Starting early sets the tone for a lifetime of good oral health, and doing it with the same dentist the rest of your family already trusts makes the experience far less intimidating for little ones.

A Wide Range of Treatments — All in One Place

Family dentists don’t just handle cleanings and cavities. A comprehensive family practice covers the full spectrum of oral health needs, which means your family rarely has to be referred out to an unfamiliar specialist for common treatments.

At University Family Dental, that means everything from preventive care and periodontal treatment to cosmetic procedures and restorative work, all handled by providers your family already knows and trusts.

Routine Cleanings
Cavity Fillings
Teeth Whitening
Invisalign®
Dental Implants
Periodontal Care
Porcelain Veneers
Crowns & Bridges
Dentures
Botox/Juvéderm

The Convenience of a Single Practice for the Whole Family

Coordinating dental appointments for multiple family members across different practices is a genuine logistical headache. When everyone sees the same dentist, scheduling becomes far simpler, and so does everything else. You know where you’re going, you know the team, and you know the process.

There’s also an emotional benefit that’s easy to overlook. When your children walk into a dental office that already feels familiar, the same faces, the same comfortable rooms, the same welcoming atmosphere, routine visits feel less like an ordeal and more like a normal part of life. That kind of comfort is built over time, and a family practice is specifically designed to nurture it.

Family Dentists Know How to Engage Young Patients

Children don’t always understand why dental care matters, and some actively resist it. A dentist with experience in child care knows how to meet kids where they are, explaining things at the right level, easing anxiety before it takes hold, and helping young patients feel genuinely at ease rather than just tolerated.

This matters more than it might seem. The habits and attitudes children develop around dental care early in life tend to stick. A positive experience in the dental chair today lays the groundwork for a lifetime of consistent, proactive oral health. something every parent wants for their child.

Ready to Make the Switch to a Family Dentist?

If you’ve been managing separate dental appointments across different providers, or your current practice doesn’t see younger children, now is a great time to simplify. University Family Dental has been the trusted choice for Las Cruces households since 2006 — welcoming patients of all ages, from baby teeth to bridges.

Booking is straightforward. Call the office or request an appointment online the team will work around your schedule and walk you through everything ahead of your first visit.

young couple have problem with man s snoring heterosexual couple bed man sleeps snoring with mouth open while tired woman irritated by snoring sitting bed with pillow her head

Sleep Apnea: What It Is and Why It Matters

Sleep apnea is a disorder that causes pauses in breathing during sleep. The term “apnea” derives from the Greek word for “without air.” Sleep apnea occurs when you stop breathing during sleep. This occurs either due to obstruction of your airway (obstructive sleep apnea) or because your brain is unable to manage your breathing adequately (central apnea).

The resultant shortage of oxygen triggers a survival reaction that briefly awakens you to begin breathing. This response keeps you alive, but it disrupts your sleep pattern. This impairs restful sleep and has other negative effects, including stressing the heart, which can have potentially fatal implications.

Who is at Risk For Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea can affect people of any age, from newborns and toddlers to older individuals and even senior citizens. The following categories of persons and situations are more likely to be affected by obstructive sleep apnea:

  • males under 50 years of age
  • men and women over 50 years of age
  • being overweight or obese
  • being of certain ethnicities
  • taking opioids
  • having certain heart conditions such as atrial fibrillation or congestive heart failure
  • living at high altitudes
  • and more

Note that just because you aren’t in any of the categories listed above, doesn’t mean you can’t get sleep apnea. Only your medical care provider can make a firm diagnosis of sleep apnea. Talk to your Las Cruces, NM dentist to learn more. However, there are some signs and symptoms of sleep apnea that you can be aware of.

Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

Lingering fatigue or tiredness after waking up – Sleep apnea patients may feel exhausted even after a full night of sleep.

Daytime drowsiness – In more extreme instances, this may make you drowsy when working, driving, or engaging in other tasks.

Snoring – Although it doesn’t always happen, this is a common symptom of sleep apnea. Sleep apnea can sometimes exist without any snoring at all.

Moodiness – Anxiety and depression are frequent signs of sleep apnea.

Brain function disruption – This includes problems with memory, concentration, or other brain-related problems.

Frequently waking up at night – Due to the fact that most individuals have trouble remembering when or why they wake up, this symptom may be more difficult to detect. Individuals who do this frequently recall waking up for a different cause, such as indigestion or the need to use the restroom.

Pauses in breathing – If you sleep with a partner, they are likely to notice that you stop breathing for increments of time.

Unusual breathing – The characteristic breathing pattern known as Cheyne-Stokes breathing (CSB) can be a symptom of central sleep apnea. Breathing is quick during CSB and becomes shallower until becoming completely nonexistent. A person will stop breathing for a few seconds before beginning again and repeating the process.

Insomnia – Having difficulty falling asleep is a common symptom of sleep apnea.

Suddenly waking up like you’re choking – If you startle awake feeling like you can’t breathe or you’re choking, this could be symptomatic of sleep apnea.

Dangers of Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is directly linked to dangerous conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and diabetes. It’s important to get sleep apnea treated, and also to address any underlying conditions that may be causing sleep apnea.

Your dentist in Las Cruces, NM has a variety of treatment options for sleep apnea. Contact us today to book your appointment.

dentist visit

When Is It Time to See the Dentist?

Do you know how often you’re supposed to see the dentist in Las Cruces, NM? We can help! It’s important to see the dentist for periodic cleanings and examinations. You should also see the dentist when you notice symptoms of a problem or when you’re having an emergency. Here’s what to know.

See the Dentist for Regular Appointments Twice Per Year

Most dentists recommend that their patients come for a dental cleaning in Las Cruces, NM, twice annually. During these twice-per-year dental appointments, the dental professional will clean your teeth and examine your teeth for problems. Your dentist may also give you a fluoride treatment or may x-ray your teeth if you haven’t had this done in a while.

Visit the Dentist If You Notice Symptoms and When It’s An Emergency

Watch your teeth for signs of a problem. If you notice any of the following problems, contact your dentist to make an appointment:

  • Sudden increased sensitivity in one tooth or one area of your mouth
  • Pain when chewing or pain at unpredictable times
  • Gums bleed, particularly when brushing your teeth

The following are dental emergencies. Contact your dentist as soon as possible if you have any one of the following problems:

  • Loss of a permanent tooth
  • Tooth is cracked, chipped or broken
  • Severe pain in one of your teeth, accompanied by swelling in the gums and nearby cheek
  • Injury and bleeding in the mouth

Whether you need a standard dental cleaning or you have a dental emergency, contact University Family Dental. We’ll be happy to clean your teeth, provide a diagnosis for your condition and help restore your teeth to good health. Call today to make an appointment.