Columbia Healthy Smiles Blog

From connecting with family to getting groceries, the COVID-19 pandemic has changed many activities we previously took for granted. This includes your dental appointments, which will likely look very different than any you’ve had before. There have been a variety of changes made to keep you as safe as possible while getting treatment for your smile. Here’s what to expect before, during, and after your first visit with your Columbia dentist when they reopen.

Thanks to their strict sanitation protocols, dental practices have always been exceptionally clean environments. However, it takes a lot more than simply spraying a store-bought disinfectant around the office to keep it germ-free, especially during a pandemic. Thankfully, your Columbia dentist follows extensive dental safety and infection control procedures to thoroughly eliminate any lingering particles. Here’s what they’re doing to keep their practice clean and ensure you are as safe as possible when coming in for dental care during COVID-19.

Your teeth are designed to last for a lifetime with the right care over the years, which is why you maintain your oral hygiene and visit your dentist twice a year. With your proactive approach to a healthy smile, you probably never expect a dental problem that requires urgent attention, but it occurs more often than you might realize. While many situations happen without any warning, like from a fall or accident, other issues result from an untreated condition that previously caused symptoms. Here are 5 signs that indicate you’re going to need an emergency dentist in Columbia.

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A healthy smile starts at home, but it also relies on the care you receive from your dentist in Columbia. Besides brushing and flossing, the American Dental Association recommends everyone sees their dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and checkup. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to schedule your routine appointments because of the current COVID-19 restrictions. Don’t worry, here are 6 tips to keep your smile healthy until you can get into your dental office for your next cleaning and checkup.

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Your teeth are designed to last for a lifetime with the right care. Your oral hygiene habits at home are equally important as the services you receive from your dentist in Columbia to ensure your smile lasts. Unfortunately, even with the best care, there are certain bad habits that can damage your teeth. If you want your smile to last, here are 5 things you shouldn’t do with your teeth.

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No one ever expects to lose a tooth, but 120 million Americans live with an incomplete smile. If you’re among those who have lost a tooth or two over the years, you can fill the empty spaces with a dental bridge. Your dentist in Columbia can replace your missing teeth with close replicas of your own. You’ll enjoy a long-term solution that looks natural.

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You’ve probably been cautioned against eating too many cookies, sweets, and chips for the sake of your smile. But did you know that regularly eating certain healthy foods can improve your oral health? By adding the right foods to your daily diet, you can fight off cavities, strengthen your teeth, and prevent gum disease! Find out which snacks your dentist in Columbia, MO recommends to naturally keep your smile happy and healthy!

Not only is February all about love and chocolates, but it’s also National Heart Health Awareness Month! It’s the perfect time to reflect on the health of your heart and take a look at your smile in the mirror. Health experts believe that more than 90% of all systemic, whole-body diseases present some of their earliest symptoms in the mouth, including cardiovascular disease. Read on as your Columbia dentist explains how taking care of your mouth protects your smile as well as your heart.

Alarmingly, gum disease is on the rise in America, as over half the adult population now suffer from the condition. It’s bigger than just an oral health issue, though. As you continue reading, you’ll discover how untreated gum disease can lead to some life-threatening issues and what you can do to protect yourself. Additionally, you’ll learn about the treatment options your dentist in Columbia provides.

Now that it’s January, have you started working on those New Year’s resolutions? If one or more of your new goals or habits has to do with improving your health, you’re certainly not alone. Going to the gym more, eating healthier, and cutting back on fast food are always some of the most popular resolutions around the world. This year, start your quest for better health with a trip to your dentist in Columbia! Find out why a dental checkup is the best way to get the New Year off to a great start.