Welcome to “Growing Smiles” from the practice of Dr. Bryan G. Foote, your comprehensive guide to dental care for teenagers and how the right dental home in Columbia, MO, can help set the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles. As a full-service dentist serving families across mid-Missouri, Dr. Foote understands the unique dental needs … Continued
The presence of fluoride in our drinking water has long been a topic of significant discussion, sparking fervent debates among public health officials, environmental advocates, and the general populace. While some laud its benefits for oral health, others raise concerns about potential risks. Explore the complexities of this public health debate and make informed decisions … Continued
Pregnancy is a remarkable journey that brings significant changes to a woman’s body, and among these, oral health often receives less attention than it deserves. This comprehensive guide will illuminate the critical importance of maintaining excellent dental health during pregnancy, emphasizing how it safeguards not only the mother’s well-being but also that of her developing … Continued
You brush twice a day. You floss. You see your dentist regularly. But there’s one more step that quietly protects your teeth more than almost anything else: fluoride. This natural mineral has been called “nature’s cavity fighter” for good reason. When used correctly, fluoride for oral care transforms how your teeth resist decay, repair early … Continued
Common Dental Emergencies 1. Knocked-Out Tooth This situation is a true emergency. You can save the tooth if you act within 30–60 minutes. Pick up the tooth by the crown (chewing surface), never the root. If dirty, gently rinse with water; do not scrub or use soap. Try to reinsert it into the socket and … Continued
The Shocking Statistics of Oral Health Before we dive into the fun facts, it is important to understand why dental care is so critical. Oral health is often a window to your overall well-being. According to the World Health Organization, oral diseases affect nearly 3.7 billion people worldwide. In fact, untreated tooth decay in permanent … Continued
Think braces are just for teenagers? Think again. More adults than ever are choosing orthodontic treatment to address dental issues that developed over time or were never fully corrected in youth. In fact, approximately one in three orthodontic patients is over 18. Your teeth naturally shift throughout life. Aging, hormonal changes, tooth loss, and habits … Continued
Introduction Did you know that the average dental practice uses about 360 gallons of water every single day? Or that dentistry in England alone creates nearly 23 million tons of carbon emissions each year? These numbers might surprise you, but they highlight an important truth: like all healthcare, dentistry has an environmental footprint. The good … Continued
You’re brushing. You’re flossing. You’re using mouthwash. So why does the bad breath keep coming back? If you feel like you’ve tried everything and nothing works, here’s the truth: you probably haven’t found the actual source yet. Bad breath isn’t a mystery. It’s bacteria. And once we find exactly where that bacteria is hiding, we … Continued
Smokers and vapers are more likely to experience gum disease, tooth loss, complications following oral surgery and tooth extraction, and oral cancer. They do not recover as well as non-smokers and non-vapers and are more prone to infections. Giving up smoking and vaping improves a person’s response to gum treatment and lowers their risk of … Continued