What is Tooth Decay?

Plaque is an insidious substance—a colorless, sticky film—that blankets your teeth and creates an environment in which bacteria erode tooth enamel, cause gum irritation, infection in inner structures such as pulp and the roots, and in extreme cases, tooth loss.

Some of the biggest culprits causing plaque are foods rich in sugar and carbohydrates, including soda beverages, some juices, candy and many kinds of pasta, breads and cereals.

Plaque also can attack fillings and other restorations in your mouth, which can lead to more costly treatment down the road.

Plaque is the main cause of tooth decay.  It can also cause your gums to become irritated, inflamed, and bleed. Over time, the plaque underneath your gums may cause periodontal disease, which can lead to bone loss and eventual tooth loss.

Inside your teeth, decay can gradually destroy the inner layer, or dentin.  It can also destroy the pulp, which contains blood vessels, nerves and other tissues, as well as the root. 

Periodontal disease is advanced gum disease. This serious condition occurs when the structures that support your teeth—the gums and bone—break down from the infection.  Pain, hypersensitivity and bleeding are some of the signs of periodontal disease.

Simple Preventative Measures

The two best defenses against tooth decay and gum disease are a healthy, well-balanced diet and good oral hygiene, including daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing and rinsing. Most public drinking water contains fluoride, but if you are unsure of your water supply, then use a good quality mouth rinse containing fluoride.

A good way to help your oral health between brushing is chewing sugarless gum; this stimulates your body's production of saliva, a powerful chemical that actually neutralizes plaque formation and rinses decay-causing food particles and debris from your mouth.

In some cases, our office can prescribe anti-cavity rinses or apply special anti-cavity varnishes or sealants to help fight decay.

Our Location

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Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

7:45 am-5:30 pm

Tuesday:

7:45 am-5:30 pm

Wednesday:

7:45 am-5:30 pm

Thursday:

7:45 am-5:30 pm

Friday:

Closed

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials

What Our Patients Say About Us

    The visit to Dr. Cleveland was a good experience. He makes you not fear coming to the dentist. I usually am very nervous but with him I was calm and felt safe. He is the greatest.

    Anonymous

    From the moment I called to make an appt. the staff was very friendly. They made me feel welcome (I am a new patient). My hygienist was friendly, professional and knowledgeable. Dr. Robinson was also friendly, professional and knowledgeable. I enjoyed my visit! Looking forward to many more years with the staff there.

    Jennifer G Customer since 2013

    This dental office is wonderful. The entire staff is friendly and caring. Having worked in the dental/orthodontic field in the past, this office does things correctly and they keep up with technology as well. Dr. Cleveland is a very caring man, which shows when he calls your home to see how you are doing after procedures. This dental practice is a blessing to have here in Jefferson.

    Dennis R Customer since 2008

    It was a pleasure to meet Dr. Robinson. I was impressed with his thoroughness at the conclusion of my prophy appointment. As always, the entire staff are friendly and fun. I look forward to future appointments.

    Sonya C Customer since 1997

    The experience of my viists with Dr Robinson were if in a course final exam, would be an "A". 

    Fred W Customer since 2006

    I just had a tooth filled,and as usual, it was an almost painless experience. Dr. Cleveland and his assistant were very gentle and efficient.

    Jane M Customer since 1981

    One of the best experiences I have ever had in a dentist office. Even though it was a challenge, Dr. Robinson did a fantastic job.

    Jack B Customer since 1992