Before you say “Yes!” to sedation for your dental treatment, it is important to know the potential side effects.  Sedation utilizes some relatively potent drugs, and they typically carry some side effects.  Not everyone experiences these side effects, but everyone is at risk for them. If you plan to undergo dental treatment while sedated, be prepared for the following possible[…]

Surprisingly, this is not a question we hear very often. But it is a question that people frequently ask Google. Does that mean this is something you feel a little sheepish asking your dentist or dental hygienist? Do you feel like you will be chastised for having bleeding gums? At Designer Smiles, nothing could be further from the truth! We[…]

Put simply, sedation dentistry is dental treatment that is performed while the patient is sedated. Sedation puts most people to sleep, and it creates a reduced awareness of sights, sounds, and any other feeling throughout the procedure. The term “sedation dentistry” usually consists of either oral sedative medication or IV sedation. In many cases, dental offices advertising sedation dentistry offer[…]

Oh, so we’re going to open this can of worms, are we? Should it be a can of worms? No. The reason some people make it into one is that there are actually really good arguments on both sides of the question. Let’s dive in. The Purpose of Brushing One great argument for all natural toothpaste lies in the purpose[…]

How do you know when you should have old fillings or crowns replaced? Are they supposed to last forever? Many people have fillings or crowns or bridges that last decades upon decades. It can be tough to know when or why to replace them. This blog will describe the most common reasons that old dental work needs to be replaced.[…]

Did you know that your smile can make you look younger or older than you really are? The shape, color, and position of the teeth and gums all have an impact on the “age” of your smile. This week’s blog describes the effects that aging can have on your smile. Attrition Attrition is the scientific term we use to describe[…]

Nightguards, also known as mouthguards, mouthpieces, appliances, and biteguards, are an important part of preventive dentistry.  Not everyone needs to wear a nightguard, but we are finding that more and more people do these days. What is a Nightguard? A nightguard is a protective appliance worn over the teeth to prevent damage from heavy forces that occur during teeth clenching[…]

It is safe to say, from what is popular on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest, that “all natural” products are trending.  Many people deem commercially available toothpastes unsafe, despite the lack of scientific evidence supporting this claim.  In fact, research studies show that any commercial toothpaste with the American Dental Association’s Seal of Approval is completely safe for daily, lifelong use.[…]

Dr. Ann Haggard and Dr. Lauren Eichblatt perform beautiful cosmetic dentistry, and both will tell you that the only way they are able to do it is through continual, lifelong learning.  Continuing education requires travel, long days in classes and seminars, time away from the office and families, and considerable expense.  However, it is all worth it when the results[…]

Many people are familiar with the term “veneers” when it comes to cosmetic dentistry.  In our age of information, it is difficult to know what actually applies to you when it comes to cosmetic dentistry.  One of the most important things to understand is that there are different types of veneers, which this blog will cover. What is a Veneer?[…]