Shane Smith DDS Blog

Root Canal Vs. Dental Implant: How to Choose the Best for Your Smile

September 22, 2023

Dentist smiling at patient while taking notes on clipboard

You can’t bear the pain any longer—your tooth has a deep cavity, and you need it treated right away! After examining you, your dentist presents two procedure options. You can either have root canal treatment and keep the tooth or have it extracted and replaced with a dental implant.

Before you make a rash, spur-of-the-moment decision, you should think about the pros and cons of each one. Do you really understand these treatments? Which one would be the best choice for your smile? Here is a comprehensive guide to help you select the right one for you!

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I’ve Just Gotten My Teeth Extracted—When Can I Get My Dentures?

September 13, 2023

denture sitting next to a clock

Dentures are sometimes used for patients who have been missing teeth for a long time, but it’s just as common for patients to need a tooth extraction before getting their dentures. Removing and replacing teeth is common in restorative dentistry, but patients who are in this situation are often presented with a problem: how soon after the tooth extraction can they get their prosthetic?

There are a couple of options available to you, and picking between them often comes down to personal preference. Here’s some information that can help you to make that evaluation.

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What Foods Should You Avoid with Dentures?

September 1, 2023

Senior woman laughing while enjoying a meal

Modern dentures are made out of materials that give them a lifelike appearance. However, just because they look natural doesn’t mean they’re exactly the same as new teeth, particularly when it comes to meals. There are several kinds of foods that can cause trouble for denture-wearers. If you want to take care of your new smile, it’s important to be aware of the foods that you’ll need to stay away from.

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3 Ways to Boost the Appearance of Your Smile Without Extensive Treatment

August 29, 2023

young woman with a healthy smile

It’s one thing to choose a more complex treatment when it comes to improving your oral and overall health; however, when it comes to addressing cosmetic flaws, you may prefer a less invasive option. With so many services to choose from, it can be hard to know which ones don’t require countless hours spent in a chair or trips driving back and forth to the dentist’s office. As you do your research to find a solution that aligns with your needs, here are 3 minimally invasive ways to improve your smile and save you time.

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Invisalign vs. SureSmile: Which One is Best for Straightening Teeth?  

August 16, 2023

woman holding clear aligners

Achieving a straighter smile doesn’t have to just happen with metal brackets and wires. Instead, clear aligner systems are quickly becoming the preferred choice for patients. With options like Invisalign and SureSmile, you can address your overcrowding, spacial gaps, and even bite misalignment without compromising your appearance. Before deciding how you want to improve the health and look of your smile, read on to learn which orthodontic solution is right for you.  

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What to Know for Tooth Fairy Day

August 7, 2023

A closeup of a felt tooth fairy pillow

Like most, you’ve probably heard of the tooth fairy. The stories say this figure offers money for kids’ baby teeth. That said, did you know there’s a National Tooth Fairy Day? Indeed, the holiday – a time to honor childhood oral health – is a few weeks away. You ought to mark the occasion by learning more about it. Luckily, your Jonesboro dentist can give you the details. Here are four things you should know for the upcoming National Tooth Fairy Day.

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Why (& How) Should You Take Care of Your Mouth?

July 28, 2023

father and daughter brushing teeth

The health of our mouth plays a large role in maintaining overall well-being and quality of life. The importance of dental health cannot be overstated, as it directly affects various aspects of our daily functioning. A healthy mouth allows us to chew our food effectively, promoting proper digestion and nutrient absorption. A healthy mouth allows us to speak clearly and effectively, influencing our communication with others and boosting self-confidence. In addition, good dental hygiene contributes to preventing severe issues like gum disease(periodontitis) and cavities. By creating a consistent oral care routine, individuals can minimize the risk of infections and painful conditions, preserving their natural teeth for a lifetime.

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I Have a Dental Emergency but No Insurance. What Now?

July 13, 2023

Woman with questioning expression.

It’s Friday night and you’re done with work for the week. You decide to start the weekend with your favorite bag of chips. You lift the crispy fried tortilla to your mouth, expecting spicy, crunchy bliss until your bite drives a shard into your molar. Then the pain begins, and after a few hours you realize it isn’t going away.

Whether it be dental, medical, or job-related, an emergency can happen at any time. Unfortunately, if you are without dental insurance, they can be quite expensive. The good news is you have options. Read on to find out more about what you can do during a dental emergency without insurance.

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How to Tell When Your Dentures Need Replacing

June 16, 2023

Set of upper and lower denturesDentures are the go-to solution to treat tooth loss because they are affordable, convenient, and look natural. Dentures are made of durable materials that are designed to last, but you will need replacements eventually. The average lifespan of a denture is 5 to 7 years, which is influenced by many things. Here are 4 signs it’s time to invest in a new set of chompers.

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Reasons Why You Should Get a Smile Makeover

April 20, 2023

Smiling woman sitting in a chairThe benefits of having an attractive smile are priceless, but few people have perfect teeth naturally. Whether you’re embarrassed by stained, chipped, or gapped teeth, your cosmetic dentist can revamp your pearly whites with a smile makeover. Here is why you should invest in the smile of your dreams.

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