Ellicott City Smiles Blog

If you have an upcoming dental visit that you’re feeling a little apathetic about, you might be wondering if there’s anything that can be done to ensure a smooth and stress-free visit. Fortunately, oral conscious sedation is one available option that is proven to help patients who struggle to sit in the dental chair, regardless of the reason for their difficulty. Keep reading to learn a little more about this innovative treatment option and how to know if you’re a good candidate for it.

If your palms sweat when it’s time to visit the dentist or you need a lengthy procedure, sedation dentistry can keep you comfortable during your appointment. However, there are many myths and rumors about dental sedation. Don’t let misconceptions about sedation dentistry prevent you from seeing your dentist. Here are the answers to 6 common questions to determine if it’s the right option for you.

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Many people avoid dentists or delay treatments due to their fear of pain. Dental sedation has been a wonderful tool to soothe anxieties so you can take care of your oral health. Oral conscious, nitrous oxide, and IV sedation have paved the way for you to have your most beautiful, healthy smile! But did you know that these dental sedations help more than just anxiety? Here are five ways these calming treatments can benefit you and your smile!

Having a toothache can be a real stressor. The discomfort may make it difficult to eat, spend time with loved ones, work, and even fall asleep. Depending on what’s causing the pain, your dentist may recommend getting a root canal to repair the tooth. But if your pain suddenly disappears, this may seem like a welcome break. Though you may think this means you no longer need treatment, is that really the case? Read on to learn if you will still need to get a root canal if your tooth stops hurting.

Do you have gums that are sore, red, and bleed easily? Gum disease is very common. In fact, approximately half of Americans over the age of 30 are suffering from gum disease at one severity or another. However, there is all sorts of misinformation floating around online, so it can be difficult to know what is reliable. Continue reading to learn about some of the most common myths out there and why they are incorrect.

Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them; and they often occur when it’s incredibly inconvenient! But sometimes, something like a toothache might not seem very urgent or bothersome—so is it okay to ignore it? Not at all! Here’s more from your emergency dentist about what causes toothaches and how they can lead to some pretty severe consequences if left untreated.

You inherit many different traits from your parents—virtually everything from your eye color to the length of your pinky toe is determined by genetics. But did you know that your genes can also leave you more vulnerable to certain medical conditions, including gum disease? Believe it or not, this condition isn’t just the result of poor oral habits! Keep reading to learn more from your dentist about how genetics can contribute to gum disease along with some tips for protecting your smile.

Did you know tooth decay isn’t the only cause of tooth loss? Gum disease is equally devastating; however, it doesn’t just affect your oral health. Research has found several connections between the preventable infection and various health issues, like cardiovascular disease, respiratory illness, and Alzheimer’s disease. Although the early signs of the infection (gingivitis) may not seem concerning, if it progresses to periodontitis, you can suffer irreversible damage. Here’s what you need to know to safeguard your health and wellness. 

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There are numerous people out there who aren’t happy with the appearance of their smile. However, it isn’t necessarily the teeth that are always the issue. Sometimes, cosmetic imperfections can exist within the gums instead of the teeth. Fortunately, gum recontouring is an increasingly popular option to help patients achieve the smile of their dreams – but is the procedure a safe one? Continue reading to learn what gum recontouring entails and whether or not there are any risks.

Has your dentist told you that you need gum surgery to treat your gum disease? If so, you might be nervous, and understandably so. Any form of surgery can be nerve-racking, especially when you have no idea what to expect. When it comes to surgical gum disease treatments, you’ll typically undergo what’s known as a gum graft to restore the tissue that has been lost. The specifics of your procedure will vary, but here’s a general guide to three common types of gum grafts that are used to treat gum disease.