Run your tongue along the gumline behind your lower front teeth. Do you feel a ridge? This is probably tartar or dental calculus. Even if you brush and floss regularly, plaque and tartar can gradually accumulate. If not removed, these bacteria-breeding substances cause the gums to become irritated and swollen. Eventually, the gums become detached…
Gum Disease
3 Vital Reasons to Floss Regularly in Jefferson City

Are you an avid flosser? Many of us from time to time skip this needed habit. Studies show that around 68% of people report flossing at least once a week while 20% say they never floss. Skipping the daily flossing routine can have devastating consequences on your overall dental health and lead to pricey dental…
Periodontal Disease Is Linked To Systemic Diseases

What do your gums do? The soft tissue in your mouth, like skin, has a key job. It safeguards the roots of your teeth. It also provides a barrier for the connective tissues and ligaments that hold your teeth in their sockets. Plus the alveolar bone in which your teeth are anchored. What is gum…
The Link Between Gum Disease and Viral Infections

The COVID-19 pandemic has increased public awareness of the danger of viruses and the importance of a strong immune system. Our Immune System Protects Against Serious Illness The variation in the seriousness of COVID-19 illness is due, in part, to the strength of natural biological defenses. Of course, you may be wondering why we’re talking…
What Is Lurking Under Your Gumline?

Hello Jefferson City! Your overall oral health depends not only on healthy teeth but also healthy gums. Proper oral hygiene helps keep both your teeth and gums in good shape. When brushing, hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle with the bristle tips aimed at the line where the tooth and gum meet. The bristles…
Call Them What You Will, Just Keep Them Healthy

Chompers. Pearly Whites. Dents. Gnashers. Grill. There are lots of nicknames for teeth, and that’s okay; we use them all the time, at Jefferson City Dental Care in Jefferson City. Whatever you call them, take good care of them so they last! Making time in your busy day to brush and floss is a habit…
Flossing For Health And Happiness

Most Jefferson City men and women know that flossing is an important part of oral health. The value of this simple yet critical exercise in oral hygiene has been shown time and time again. Flossing offers a chance to remove bits and pieces that a toothbrush will undoubtedly miss. Being afraid of the ‘cavity bugs,’…
Gently Now (Protect Your Gums When You Brush)

Everyone wants nice, pearly whites so, naturally, we should brush our teeth more, right? The only dilemma with that is many individuals brush their teeth too aggressively, leading to gums receding or pulling away from teeth. You don’t want that. Gum recession is when your gum line exposes more of your teeth, or in severe…
How Does Your Overall Health Affect Your Smile?

Hi! I’m Dr. Justin Johnson, DDS. Almost every day, I can be found at my Jefferson City dental practice treating dental patients with tooth and gum problems or helping patients prevent them. There are many common medical conditions that pose a risk to oral health. 1) Jefferson City diabetes patients with high blood glucose often…
How Much Do You Know About Gum Disease?

1. Which of the things listed below are risk factors for gum disease (periodontitis)? a. Pregnancy b. Overbite c. Diabetes d. Genetics 2. Which of the things listed below are possible signs of gum disease? a. Teeth that look like they are longer b. A change in the way dentures fit c. Bad breath d.…