Columbia Healthy Smiles Blog

If you straighten your teeth with metal braces, you could be undergoing treatment for one or two years. What’s better than that, generally speaking, is completing your treatment in 12 to 18 months with Invisalign. But what if you could have a straighter, brighter smile in as little as two weeks? Well, who wouldn’t choose that option, right?

This isn’t a random, fantastical scenario – you could in fact straighten your teeth in two weeks with porcelain veneers! If you want to know whether you’d be a good candidate for this “orthodontic” option, keep reading.

You could potentially benefit from veneers if you’re frustrated by chips, cracks, stubborn stains, mild gaps, or slight overcrowding in your grin. These thin porcelain shells are made to look just like your natural teeth, then are bonded to the front surface to mask imperfections.

These prosthetics are durable enough to shield the underlying teeth, but their primary function is to improve your appearance. As a result, many dental insurance plans don’t cover the cost. When you’ve personally invested in your dental work, it’s natural to want to do everything you can to maintain it. With that in mind, keep reading to learn about 4 ways to keep your veneers looking and feeling their best!

It’s the Halloween season again, and that means it’s time for spooky fun and frightening festivities. While many dentists enjoy celebrating this important occasion by dressing up in terrifying attire, watching monster movies, or enjoying a classic horror novel, the dental community has its concerns about the sheer volume of candy consumed and how it can affect patients’ oral health. Here’s a brief guide to keeping your smile gorgeous and strong while celebrating Halloween.

Dealing with tooth pain and unsure if it’s an emergency? A toothache can disrupt your daily activities, from work and school to sleep and family time. Recognizing when tooth pain signals a need for immediate dental attention is crucial. Keep reading if you want to learn about the different types of tooth pain and to discover which kinds of healthcare professionals can best address your concerns.

Are your teeth less than pristine? Do they fail to glow under the light of your bathroom mirror? Would you describe their hue as more yellowy? Stained pearly whites are a common source of frustration, so rest assured that your dissatisfaction is valid! Fortunately, with discipline and a little elbow grease, you can achieve whiter teeth. Keep reading for some time-tested tricks!

With summer finally here, it’s the perfect time for road trips, vacations, and plenty of photo ops to make memories. If you want to look your best for every moment of your adventures with friends and family, cosmetic dentistry may hold the key! Read on to find three cosmetic treatments that can help you achieve a stunning, sun-kissed smile.

Summer is here and that means it’s time for hot, sunny days filled with adventure. However, you don’t have to go to the beach or travel to some exotic location to have a new experience! If you have a tooth or two you’ve been meaning to have replaced, starting dental implants now is a great choice. But why is summer the best time to get your treatment started? Continue reading to find out!

You can’t put a price on the benefits of having a bright, beautiful smile. Unfortunately, many adults are embarrassed by stained or discolored teeth. Teeth come in many shades and tones naturally, and they change color over time. However, other factors can also lead to discoloration. You don’t have to live with brown or yellow teeth. Your cosmetic dentistry can turn back the clock using a personalized treatment plan with teeth whitening.

(more…)

A single dental crown is the most frequently performed restorative procedure. The cap covers the entire surface of a tooth down to the gum line. This provides an added layer of protection while also restoring its function and appearance. Crowns are also versatile because they can be used along with other procedures, like dental bridges or root canal therapy. No matter the reason, a dental crown is meant to serve as a long-lasting solution. Here’s how long you can expect your restoration to last before needing a replacement.

(more…)

Oral Cancer Awareness Month, observed every April, serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of early detection and prevention. Oral cancer affects thousands of people each year, but with greater awareness and knowledge, you can reduce your own risk. If you want to know more about the effects of oral cancer, continue reading. You’ll learn how to recognize its signs and take steps to protect your health.