The Smile Design Center of Baltimore

Smile in the Face of Fear: Soothing Stress with Sedation Dentistry

In the past, visiting the dentist was a stressful experience for many people. Today, though, more and more people are opting for sedation dentistry to make procedures easier, faster, and pain-free. There are several methods of sedation dentistry, and each of them works to address and alleviate mild, moderate, or severe dental fear. For the three out of every four Americans who experience dental fear, sedation is the best way to get through procedures efficiently and without anxiety. Take a look at this infographic from The Smile Design Center, a Baltimore sedation dentistry office, to discover more about sedation dentistry and your options. Help friends and family skip the stress for their next examination by sharing this informative infographic with them!

Click Through These Links For More Information About Dental Implants And How You Can Maintain Good Oral Health

Dental implants will restore your beautiful smile and keep your mouth healthy. Talk to your cosmetic dentist about good oral habits for your mouth. The dentists of the Smile Design Center in Baltimore welcome new patients; give us a call at (443) 275-9821 to set up an appointment. You can also learn more about dental implants and oral health by following the links below.

• Learn about the dangers of tooth loss and the steps you can take to prevent it with this article from WebMD.
• The Mayo Clinic offers a guide to healthy oral habits, including tips on proper flossing techniques.
• Diet has a direct effect on the health of your mouth. Read more about the connection with this link to Colgate.
• The American Academy of Periodontology discusses the different types of dental implants.
• Learn more about the benefits of dental implants with this link to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. You’ll also learn about the anatomy of a dental implant.

Common Reasons Why People Receive Dental Implants

Tooth loss is a common issue that can be caused by trauma, clenching and grinding, and periodontal disease. While preventative care by your dentist is always preferable to tooth loss, there are some solutions to dealing with missing teeth. Partial or complete dentures are one option, but many people prefer dental implants instead. Here’s a look at some of the reasons why dental implants are so popular:

Permanent Tooth Replacement
Unlike dentures, dental implants offer a lasting solution to tooth loss. You do not need to remove them to clean them every day—instead you can brush them just like your natural teeth. Implants are surgically placed into your jaw bone. These artificial teeth are quite durable and stable. By taking good care of them, you can ensure the implants will last for your lifetime.

Restoration of Confidence
It can be socially awkward to smile with missing teeth or dentures. If you’re embarrassed by your teeth, you’ll love the natural look and feel of dental implants. Many people prefer dental implants because they are a great confidence-booster.

Support of Dental Structures
Artificial teeth are used for more than just cosmetic reasons. Having missing teeth can encourage the other teeth to shift out of place, which may cause bite problems or even jaw pain. Dental implants resolve this issue, and can also support other dental fixtures, such as a bridge. If you choose to have partial dentures, you’ll find that having one or more dental implants will help make your dentures more comfortable and stable.

Restoring Natural Function
Having missing teeth can interfere with your ability to chew food properly and speak clearly. While dentures can sometimes slip and cause problems with chewing and speaking, artificial teeth will remain in place, allowing you to speak and eat with ease.

The expert cosmetic dentists of the Smile Design Center in Baltimore are dedicated to helping every patient achieve a great smile. If you have any questions about dental implants, please give us a call at (443) 275-9821. You could also visit our website to view our line of services.

Teeth Brushing Tips from Colgate

So you think you know how to brush your teeth? If you brush for at least two minutes, at least twice daily, you’re in good shape. Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles and toothpaste that contains fluoride. Then, place your toothbrush so that it is at a 45-degree angle against your teeth, and brush gently away from your gum line.

Compare your daily dental habits to this video from Colgate. The expert in this video demonstrates proper brushing habits, including which areas to brush first. You’ll also learn how best to clean those hard-to-reach areas and the number one thing you should do after cleaning your teeth.

To learn more about keeping your smile healthy, talk to the cosmetic dentists of the Smile Design Center in Baltimore. Call us at (443) 275-9821 or visit our website to view our services.

What to Include in Your Oral Health Care Plan

Do you have an oral health care plan? If not, talk to your dentist about developing one. Your oral health care plan is a set of guidelines that you’ll follow to treat any existing dental issues you have and prevent new problems from occurring. One of the most critical parts of your oral health care plan is maintaining open communication with your dentist about your health concerns and goals for your smile.

Communication
Your dentist should have your complete medical history. This includes any medical conditions you have and medications or supplements you are taking. Remember to keep your dentist updated about changing information, such as new diagnoses or medications. You might be surprised by how many seemingly unrelated conditions can affect your oral health, including diabetes and heart disease. Also tell your dentist if you become pregnant or plan to have any kind of surgery. Based on this information, your dentist can personalize your oral health care plan.

Smart Hygiene
Talk to your dentist about daily oral habits to keep your mouth healthy. If you have certain medical conditions, you may need to take extra steps to maintain oral health. Otherwise, the general recommendations are to brush at least twice daily and floss at least once daily. Your dentist might also recommend regular fluoride use.

Dietary Considerations
The foods that will help keep your mouth healthy are also the same types of foods that are beneficial for your overall health. Devise a meal plan that limits foods with simple sugars and starches, such as baked goods, soft drinks, and dried fruits. These foods accelerate the process of tooth decay. Instead, choose whole foods like vegetables, legumes, lean meats, and whole grains.

Regular Check-Ups
Schedule regular check-ups and cleanings with your dentist. The typical recommendation is to visit your dentist twice per year. Your dentist can offer you a schedule that best suits your specific needs. At each visit, tell your dentist if any new issues have developed or if you have noticed any abnormalities in your mouth.

Build a relationship with a qualified dentist who will provide you with a personalized treatment plan. Call the Smile Design Center of Baltimore at (443) 275-9821 to get started. We are a full-service dental practice, offering a range of services, from dental exams and cleanings to cosmetic dentistry.