Do you dread the dentist? Would you rather live with the pain than get any type of dental procedure? You are not alone. Dental anxiety is common and perfectly understandable. However, it is a problem when it stops you from getting essential care. Luckily, there is a solution that can change a dental visit from a source of stress into a pleasant experience: sedation dentistry.
We know you’re diligent about brushing, flossing, and getting regular dental exams. Yet, despite all your efforts, there is still a chance you will become one of the 80% of adults over the age of 35 with some form of gum disease. Even more concerning, you may be harboring harmful bacteria in your mouth without even knowing it. Keep reading to learn more about these invisible threats and what you can do to protect yourself.
On April 4, we hosted an open house at the Smiles by Holsinger & Higgins office featuring live demonstrations of CARE Esthetics procedures. It was an intimate event, with refreshments and music, and the main attraction — revolutionary CARE Esthetics beauty treatments. Everyone in attendance came away with a deeper knowledge of PRF therapy and its rejuvenating benefits, as well as other cosmetic treatments we offer.
It’s always an honor to be recognized in the community. You may already know that our dentists and team love to participate in community service, giving back whenever we can. We also pride ourselves on our commitment to innovation. The Caroline County Chamber of Commerce recently acknowledged our efforts in that area. Keep reading to learn more.
More and more cosmetic dentists are expanding into facial esthetics. This is only natural since dentists are experts in facial anatomy and undergo special training to administer treatments as safely, quickly, and painlessly as possible. Smiles by Holsinger & Higgins, located in Denton, MD, offers a variety of facial enhancement options through CARE Esthetics, the premier provider of facial rejuvenation treatments with PRF.
Our very own Dr. Holsinger was recently featured on WBOC’s DelmarvaLife segment, highlighting his expertise in treating sleep apnea. You can watch the entire segment here, but please keep reading for additional important information.
You may not realize it, but dentists are your allies in preventing and detecting harmful oral cancer. Oral cancer does not get the publicity other types of cancers do, but it is no less insidious, as it affects the lives of thousands of people in the US every year. Your dentist is specially trained to look for signs of oral cancer and can be essential in detecting it early, while it is most treatable.
As we get older, our oral health needs evolve. Our bodies become less effective at fighting off infection, it may take longer to recover from illness, and the risk of chronic disease begins to increase. Those are just a few of the reasons why we urge our patients to pay close attention to their teeth and gums as they age. Keep reading for our guide to caring for your oral health as an older adult.
When you look in the mirror, do you focus on the fine lines and wrinkles that frame your eyes and mouth and then complain about how they make you look older? Sure, smoother skin will give you a more youthful look, but do you realize how much your smile contributes to the appearance of your face? An unhealthy-looking smile can age you just as much as wrinkles and sagging skin.
Menopause is a time when hormones fluctuate wildly and cause a variety of physical symptoms. As women enter menopause, they may experience sudden changes that affect not only their bodies but their oral health as well, including one symptom that they may not immediately connect to menopause: dry mouth. Continue reading to learn more about the connection between menopause and dry mouth.
Screening Patients
When our patients update their medical histories, we have been actively screening them to learn about any history of travel or signs of infection like cough, fever or shortness of breath.
Taking Temperatures
Before performing any dental procedures, we have been taking everyone’s temperature. This is our new routine protocol during assessment of all patients.
Washing Hands
All patients and team members are required to perform proper hand hygiene by washing their hands thoroughly.
Wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
At our office, we have a strict policy to only practice dentistry when the right protective equipment is in place. We always wear surgical masks and eye protection. Masks are changed between patients. Rest assured, we are fully stocked in dental supplies.
Cleaning and Disinfecting
Throughout the day, we are rigorously cleaning all public areas in our office, including the reception area, bathroom, and operatories. This intensive cleaning includes everything from door handles to chairs.
Proper Social Distancing
You can rest assured that we are practicing proper social distancing in our office. We are actively working to make sure that patients are 6 feet or more away from others. We are encouraging patients to come in at their exact appointment time so that no one is waiting in our office.
