Columbia Healthy Smiles Blog

Your smile is one of the first things people notice, and it can leave a lasting impression. If you have a special event coming up, like a wedding, graduation, or presentation, you might be thinking about whitening your teeth to make your smile shine. Whitening can certainly enhance your smile, but timing is key. Here’s what you need to know to plan effectively.

When you had all your natural teeth, you didn’t know much about prosthetic replacements, but now that you need them, you’re trying to become more familiar with your options. Although dental implants are the most complex solution for missing teeth, they are also the most comprehensive and beneficial. In other words, you should learn as much as possible about them! Here are five facts you might not already know about this option to help you determine if they could be right for you.

There’s nothing quite like a tall glass of cool water to make you say “Ah!” The refreshing liquid is a necessity for the human body to heal and move without pain. However, it can also be an oral health hack for those who struggle with forming better hygiene habits. While there’s no substitute for brushing and flossing, drinking more H20 can help your smile stay sparkling.

Continue reading to learn more about how hydration can help you reach your oral health goals.

February is commonly associated with Valentine’s Day, a time when many couples exchange gifts like flowers and chocolates. However, it’s not just about romance; February is also American Heart Health Month, focusing on cardiovascular health. Interestingly, taking care of your smile can impact your heart health positively. Keep reading as we explore how oral health is connected to the health of your heart.

In many people’s minds, medicine and dentistry are often separated. The truth is, though, that oral health is part of overall health. In fact, dentists are deeply interested in the head-to-toe wellness of their patients. Plus, they are deeply aware of the mouth-body connection. They might even be able to find signs of some systemic health conditions before your primary care practitioner provides a diagnosis! What are some specific medical conditions that your dentist might find first? Here are a few:

Did you know that suffering from allergies can impact your oral health? You might think that in winter it’s less of a problem because there are fewer plants spreading pollen during the colder months. However, your body could still have a response if you’re stuck inside with the dust bunnies or in a location that’s unseasonably warm due to increasing climate change. It’s important to understand how this affects your dental condition to avoid developing a problem. Keep reading to learn more about 3 ways your mouth is influenced by allergies and what you can do about it!

The next revolution in technology has been steadily making waves through many industries around the world. While AI (Artificial Intelligence) has been controversial in its use in art and web content, it has been quietly improving lives as part of the dental field. AI dentistry is here to stay, and its technology is only becoming smarter and more useful.

If you want to learn more about AI dentistry, and how your dentist may already be embracing this technology to serve you better, continue reading.

As time passes, our smiles may exhibit signs of aging, from chipped teeth to discolored pearly whites. The good news is that cosmetic dentistry offers a rejuvenating solution, ensuring your smile becomes a source of excitement. This is particularly beneficial if you’re on the journey to secure a new job, promotion, or client. Continue reading to explore how undergoing cosmetic dental treatments can significantly contribute to achieving the professional success you’ve been striving for.

Candy canes, chocolate bars, and peanut brittle are some of the most common stocking stuffers. Unfortunately, the high sugar content can result in significant tooth decay, which isn’t ideal, especially following sugar-filled holidays like Halloween and Thanksgiving. The good news is that there are gifts that are thoughtful, affordable, and smile-friendly! Here are six stocking stuffers that are dentist-approved.

As you gather around the table with friends and loved ones, Thanksgiving wouldn’t be the same if you didn’t have any teeth. Although you probably don’t think about your teeth very often, they are invaluable to your overall wellness and quality of life. Simple mistakes during the holidays can cause irreversible damage to your dental health. Thanksgiving doesn’t have to leave a lasting mark on your smile. Here are 5 tips to show your pearly whites a little appreciation.

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