Posts by Sally Powell
Why Do My Gums Bleed When Flossing and What Can I Do?
If you’ve been flossing and notice your gums start to bleed, you’re not alone. It catches a lot of people off guard, especially when it happens suddenly. You might be wondering if you’re flossing too hard or if something more serious could be going on. Gum bleeding can mean different things. Sometimes it’s a simple…
Read MoreUnderstanding TMJ and TMD Treatment Options For Jaw Pain
Jaw pain often catches people off guard. You might notice it in the morning, after chewing dinner, or while chatting with family. It can make even simple things like yawning or eating feel like a chore. If your jaw hurts or pops, or if you have been waking up with a sore face or headache,…
Read MoreHow a Dental Oral Exam Helps Catch Issues Before They Start
Dental problems do not usually show up all at once. Instead, they sneak in quietly, especially during winter when people tend to snack more, brush a little less carefully, and wait longer between appointments. Small issues can begin without any pain or visible signs, which is why seeing us regularly makes such a difference. A…
Read MoreGuide to Cosmetic Bonding for Chipped or Broken Teeth
A chipped or broken tooth has a way of showing up at the worst time. One minute you’re biting into something crunchy during a holiday party, and the next, you’re running your tongue across a sharp edge you didn’t feel before. In colder months around Columbia, MO, when more people enjoy warm drinks and chewy…
Read MoreWhat Happens During a Surgical Periodontal Therapy Session?
When gum disease reaches an advanced stage, we sometimes recommend a procedure called surgical periodontal therapy. This treatment helps clean out bad bacteria below the gumline and gives your gums a better chance to heal. If you’ve been told you might need it, knowing what to expect can help you feel more at ease. Surgical…
Read MoreWhy Are My Teeth Sensitive After Whitening in Columbia MO?
That sharp zing you feel when you sip your morning coffee after whitening your teeth? It’s more common than you might think. Many people notice extra sensitivity in their teeth after a brightening treatment, especially during colder months. If you’ve had teeth whitening in Columbia, MO, and find yourself wincing at hot or cold drinks,…
Read MoreDental Sealants: A Simple Solution for Protecting Your Smile
When it comes to protecting your family’s oral health, prevention truly is the best medicine. At Sally Powell, DDS in Columbia, MO, Dr. Powell believes in giving patients every advantage in maintaining healthy smiles for life. One of the most effective preventive treatments we offer is dental sealants – a simple, painless procedure that can dramatically reduce your risk of tooth decay.
Read MoreHow Smoking and Tobacco Impact Oral Health
If you’re a smoker or use tobacco products, you’ve likely heard about the risks to your lungs and heart. But did you know that your mouth is often the first part of your body to show the damaging effects of tobacco use? At Sally Powell, DDS in Columbia, MO, we see firsthand how smoking and tobacco can compromise oral health—and we’re here to help you understand these risks and find a path toward a healthier smile.
Read MoreFluoride and Dental Health: What You Need to Know
As your trusted dentist in Columbia, Missouri, at Sally Powell, DDS we frequently get questions about fluoride and its role in maintaining optimal oral health. With so much information—and misinformation—circulating about fluoride, it’s important to understand the facts about this naturally occurring mineral and how it protects your teeth.
Read MoreHow to Prevent and Treat Common Dental Issues Like Cavities and Gum Disease
Maintaining excellent oral health doesn’t have to be complicated. At Sally Powell, DDS in Columbia, MO, we believe that prevention is always better than treatment. Understanding how to protect your teeth and gums from common problems like cavities and gum disease empowers you to take control of your dental health and avoid more extensive procedures down the road.
Read More