Shane Smith DDS Blog

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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Are Dental Implants Safe?

February 27, 2023

3-D model of a dental implant

Dental implants are often recommended by dentists as a tooth replacement option, both on the basis of their realistic feel and their remarkable durability. That said, dental implants are also the only tooth replacement option that involves surgery, which can give certain patients pause.

If you have a dental implant procedure soon, you may wonder if the risks of the surgery outweigh its merits. Fortunately, here’s a guide that can put you at ease.

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3 Things That Contribute to the Dental Implant Success Rate

December 8, 2022

dentist talking to patient about dental implants

If you have ever lost a tooth, then you know what a hit this can be to your self-confidence. Having a gap in your grin can keep you from smiling around others and may make you feel self-conscious in social situations. Fortunately, dentists offer a range of tooth replacement options. Dental implants are one of the most popular because they are incredibly reliable. Continue reading to learn about three reasons why the 95% dental implant success rate is so high.

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How to Maximize Your Dental Insurance Benefits in 2022

November 4, 2022

Patient filling out dental insurance paperwork at desk

Do you have dental insurance, but have no idea how to utilize your coverage? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. In fact, many patients aren’t sure how to maximize their benefits, resulting in hundreds or thousands of valuable dollars going to waste each year. The good news is that there is still time to prevent that from happening this year. To learn how, keep reading!

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