Entries by Smile Sarasota

Emergency Dental Care

When you are having a dental emergency, you may wonder what you should do or whether you should go to a hospital emergency room. An emergency room visit may help manage your pain, however, the best thing to do is to find a dentist who provides emergency dental care. Here are some common dental emergencies. […]

A healthy mouth, a confident you

Dental health is an essential aspect of overall health. Self Esteem Aging teeth can become stained, broken and missing leading to a less than attractive smile. If you are insecure about your teeth, you may be less willing to smile and show your teeth. Being insecure about your teeth often leads to a decrease in […]

Can Gums Grow Back?

Gum recession is a very common oral health problem. Unfortunately, once gums have receded, they do not grow back. However, there are treatments available that can replace missing gum tissue and restore your looks and oral health. One common surgical treatment is a gum graft. Gum grafting is a periodontal procedure designed to help patients […]

Will I need a crown after a root canal?

Nobody is excited to hear they need a root canal. Patients are usually terrified by the root canal process in and of itself, and generally aren’t excited by the prospect of having a crown done after. Although dental crowns are the final stage in many root canal procedures, many people question whether they are even […]

Jaw Pain Relief for TMJ Pain

Teeth grinding, tight clenching and constant contact between your upper and lower teeth all put stress on the temporomandibular joint, also referred to as the TMJ. These two joints connect your lower jaw to your skull. Jaw discomfort, tightness, facial pain, headaches, earaches and neck stiffness are all possible symptoms leading to TMJ. Joint anatomy: The […]

Happy Birthday Mr. CEREC!

Inventor of the revolutionary CEREC dental in-office crown machine turns 80. Just over 30 years ago the CEREC machine was invented. CEREC completely revolutionized how crowns and bridges are made in the dental office. The infamous creator behind this groundbreaking machine is well known as Prof. Em. Dr. Dr. Werner Mörmann, who just recently celebrated […]

Correction Without Ortho

Case Presentation Patient info: Female, mid 70’s, non-smoker and no history of dental disease. Chief Complaint: Fix and lighten look of her teeth. Expectation of dental treatment: Patient wanted the cosmetic appearance of her teeth changed without having to commit to orthodontic treatment.  Clinical Examination: The patient’s cosmetic desires were discussed. The patient wanted to […]

Gums, Teeth and Heart? Oh MY!

Did you know that your oral health can provide your dentist and doctors with warning signs for a range of diseases and conditions, including those in the heart? Recent studies show that if you have gum disease in moderate to advanced levels, you are at higher risk for heart disease than someone with healthy gums. […]

Are You Brushing Correctly?

Brushing your teeth everyday is the simplest way to keep your mouth feeling clean, not to mention your whole body too! Brushing your teeth is something that comes natural to you; however, you might be surprised at some common misconceptions on how to properly brush. Some patients may have been taught incorrectly at a younger […]

X-rays: Health through Images

Radiography with X-rays is the starting point for diagnosing a variety of dental related issues and concerns. With the constant improvement of digital X-rays, offices can provide comfortable and painless care to our patients. Dental X-rays are taken to check the health of the patient’s mouth, gums and teeth. X-rays are simply pictures of the […]

Why Do I Need To See A Dental Specialist?

Here at Smile Sarasota, we are often asked by patients if they can have all their dental treatment done under one roof. We are, of course, happy to see our patients for general routine exams, cleanings, and restorative dental treatment such as fillings or crowns. However, sometimes our smiles need more than your general standard […]

What is an Airflosser?

  Most people don’t love the thought of flossing; however, it is very necessary evil to achieve better oral health. The regular use of dental floss removes plaque, helping to prevent the buildup of tartar. Simply flossing your teeth daily can make them look brighter by removing plaque and excess food particles that may not […]

Welcome Sharon

Here is a little Q&A with our newest dental hygienist, Sharon. How long have you been a hygienist? Sharon: 38 years! What made you choose the hygienist career path? Sharon: I had orthodontics when I was young and loved going to the orthodontist and dentist. It was always a positive experience and I learned the […]

What is a Root Canal?

Just the phrase “root canal” creates anxiety and stress for some patients. However, there is no need to be worried if your dentist or endodontist prescribes a root canal procedure to treat your damaged or diseased tooth. Millions of teeth are treated and most importantly saved this way each year, relieving pain and making teeth […]

White is the New Silver

Amalgam was once one of the most common materials used to fill cavities by your dentist. Also known as “silver fillings”, amalgam fillings are silver in appearance, but not in composition. Here at Smile Sarasota, we use tooth-colored materials to fill cavities and restore teeth. What is Amalgam? Dental amalgam is a mixture of metals […]

You and Your Fillings

Composite resin bonding can be a fast, minimally invasive and inexpensive option for the beautiful smile you are looking for. Composite resins, better-known as tooth colored fillings, provide great durability and resistance to fractures. Small to mid-size fillings have the capability to withstand moderate pressure from constant stress of everyday living. Composite resins can be […]

Is Your Air Pure?

If you have concerns about your exposure to mold, allergens, and air pollutants, you will be interested to learn about the latest safety implementation here at Smile Sarasota! ActivePure® Technology goes beyond your traditional air purification systems in dental offices. Not only does it eliminate odors and reduce dust particles, but it actively eliminates harmful […]

Cutting Edge of Patient Safety

Smile Sarasota has always been on the cutting edge of patient safety. Many changes in infection control procedures and associated dental practices can be expected to arise in the post-Covid-19 world of dentistry. The extent and severity of changes will be dictated by evidence and research into the best and safest practices. Here at Smile […]

Can I Skip my Dental Exam?

“Is seeing the doctor and getting x-rays really necessary just to get my teeth cleaned?”, is a common question asked when new patients call to schedule an appointment here at Smile Sarasota. Most patients are generally looking to have a cleaning appointment with one of our hygienists hoping to bypass the x-rays and exam. The […]

Resumption of Dental Services

We hope this message finds you and your family in good health. Our community has been through a lot over the last few months, and all of us are looking forward to resuming our normal habits and routines. While many things have changed, one thing has remained the same: our commitment to your safety. Infection […]

What is a Dental Emergency During Covid-19?

Regulations are frequently changing in the dental community in efforts to manage the spread of the virus. In a statement issued April 1, 2020, “The American Dental Association (ADA) called on dentists nationwide to postpone non-urgent dental procedures to help slow the spread of Covid-19.” However, during this difficult time, dentists are called to concentrate […]

COVID-19 Update – Non-urgent care prohibited

Dear Patients, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has issued executive order #2020-72, declaring that dental practices and other health care providers are prohibited from providing any medical unnecessary, non-urgent or non-emergency procedure or surgery until May 8, 2020. This latest executive order is inline with the advice from the American Dental Association and Smile Sarasota’s previous […]

COVID-19 Update – Emergency and Urgent Care

Dear Patients, The health and well being of our patients, staff and community is of the highest importance to us.   Smile Sarasota is following the guidelines set forth by the American Dental Association (ADA) to postpone elective dental procedures in order for dentistry to do its part to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.  We […]

COVID-19 Message March 14 2020

Dear Patients, The health and well-being of our patients, staff and community is of the highest importance to us. We are proud to always maintain the highest levels of cleanliness and hygienic practices. We will continue to rigorously follow our exceedingly high standards of infection control and surpass the CDC and OSHA guidelines. We regularly […]

CEREC – The Machine Giving You Same Day Dentistry

CEREC machines have made their way into some dental practices these days offering patients the option for same day crown services. This is incredibly convenient for the on-the-go, busy schedule lifestyle individual. CEREC stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics. CEREC uses a program called CAD/CAM (Computer aided design/computer aided manufacturing) software to take […]

Give Thanks to a Great Smile

Holidays are the time of the year to bring family and friends together to celebrate, but what we all secretly look forward to is all the delicious food piled high on the dining room table. Here’s some enjoyable Thanksgiving foods to be grateful for: Turkey The good: The main course. Packed with protein! The bad: […]

Accidents Happen! – What to do in the case of a Dental Emergency

Dental emergencies can bring even the most reluctant person to the dentist. Dental emergencies like an injury to the teeth or gums could be potentially serious and should never be ignored. Ignoring dental problems can lead to an increased risk of permanent damage with the possibility of more expensive and extensive treatment later on. There […]

The Health Risk of Lost Teeth

According to the Oxford English Dictionary ‘middle age’ is defined as between about 45 and 65. The median age in Sarasota is 47, which is actually lower than past demographic studies, but as we know, much of our population leans more toward retirement-aged residents. About 30% of the people in Sarasota County are at least […]

Did You Forget Something?

Dr. Adam Still at our Smile Sarasota dental practice isn’t just concerned with the health of your teeth! We believe in helping to keep your entire body, including your brain, healthy! Researchers have discovered that the bacteria causing gingivitis can move from the mouth to the brain where the harmful enzymes they excrete can destroy […]

String, Water or Air?

In a recent Smile Sarasota Blog, we discussed cleaning between your teeth using a jet of water vs. string dental floss. In this discussion, we will compare floss vs. water vs. AIR! Yes…Air! If you compare air flossing vs. water flossing, you’ll find that both of these tools are flossers and both clean around and […]

String or Water?

In 1962, someone thought that forcing water between your teeth as part of home care might be a good thing. The hope was that pulses of water directed between your teeth would be more likable than using dental floss (which most patients are loath to do daily!) to remove food and plaque buildup. Plaque is […]

Healthy Mouth? Think Again – Part II

In Part I of our Smile Sarasota Blog on this topic, we discussed that it can be difficult to tell when you have oral health problems – not everything hurts. Smile Sarasota knows you want to be healthy in every way and your mouth will eventually ‘talk back to you’ if you aren’t paying attention! […]

Smile for the 3-D Camera!

Smile Sarasota has always been on the leading edge of technology. This is the second in a series of three interviews with Dr. Adam Still on SNN’s show, Aging Gracefully on the Suncoast with Nancy O’Neil.  Our topic is CAD/CAM Dentistry! So what is CAD/CAM? It stands for ‘computer aided dentistry’ ‘computer aided manufacturing’. It […]

Healthy Mouth? Think Again – Part I

Smile Sarasota knows you want healthy teeth and gums (and a great smile), but sometimes its hard to tell when your teeth are having issues. Your teeth may not be as healthy as you think they are. This is Part 1 exploring some things to look out for when it comes to your dental health. […]

An Ounce of Prevention

Recently, Dr. Adam Still was interviewed by SNN’s Nancy O’Neil on her show Aging Gracefully on Suncoast FYI. This topic of this interview is Preventative dentistry and we know you will find it informative! ‘Preventative dentistry’ is defined as measures that dental professionals take to prevent the development or progression of dental disease. The key […]

30 Thousand Cycles per Minute!

Smile Sarasota posted a popular Blog a few years ago about ultrasonic toothbrushes and we are glad so many of you have taken advantage of learning from our blog posts. As mentioned in that post, there are many types and makes of ultrasonic toothbrushes. Our favorite is the Phillips Sonicare, so let’s learn more about […]

Paying for Dental Treatment at Smile Sarasota

Paying for Dental Treatment at Smile Sarasota Occasionally we have a new patient at Smile Sarasota with questions, especially if they have dental insurance. They are sometimes surprised to hear in the initial conversation when appointing that we request payment for our dental services at the time they are performed. Actually, this is very common […]

Peace on Earth

As you prepare to enjoy the holidays…no matter which one you celebrate, Smile Sarasota thought we would re-run this fun “politically correct” version of The Night Before Christmas! Enjoy! Twas the night before Christmas and Santa’s a wreck… How to live in a world that’s politically correct? His workers no longer would answer to “Elves”, […]

What to Ask Your Dental Hygienist

In a recent Smile Sarasota Blog post, we discussed what to ask Dr. Still on your first visit to our office. You will also be meeting one of our awesome hygienists, Claire or Ann at your first visit and we thought you might want to think about what to ask them as well. Here are a […]

Happy Thanksgiving 2018 from Smile Sarasota!

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time of year. It is a time that brings families together, gives us an opportunity to appreciate and be thankful for all that has happened throughout the year. As Thanksgiving week approaches, we are reminded of how much we, in the dental profession, have to be thankful for. With Thanksgiving almost […]

Be Kissable!

You know the signs. The tingling starts and then the burning. We are not talking about falling in love! Oh no! It’s a cold sore on your lip. Also known as fever blisters, they are uncomfortable and they can really ruin your smile…and you can forget about being kissed! When you feel one coming on, […]

There Are No Dumb Questions!

As a new patient coming in to our Smile Sarasota dental practice and meeting Dr. Still for the first time, you may have questions but once you arrive, they may fly out of your head.  It’s a good idea to make a list of your questions and concerns prior to your first visit and that […]

Icky Oral Hygiene Facts

Dr. Still’s goal for our patients at Smile Sarasota is healthy teeth and gums for life. And we also like to keep you informed about the best ways to stay healthy and not just your teeth and gums, but your whole body. So here’s a wake-up call. There are some really icky facts that you […]

If it Ain’t Broke…It’s Cracked!

During your checkup or new patient exam at Smile Sarasota, Dr. Still may inform you that he is ‘watching’ some visible cracks in your teeth. Do not confuse this with a broken tooth, which is very obvious and needs immediate attention to restore you to normal chewing and cosmetic function. But cracks in your teeth […]

Ice Cream! Yay!

If you are having major restorative dentistry at Smile Sarasota such as multiple crowns or are having implants, oral surgery or periodontal surgery in conjunction with restorative dentistry, it’s a good idea to give your teeth a bit of a break while you are healing. For this reason, cold soups, smoothies, jello/puddings, and cold drinks should […]

Why are my Gums Bleeding?

Some of our Smile Sarasota patients in our dental practice mention to Dr. Still that they are concerned about bleeding gums. While some people experience this from time to time, it is definitely something that needs to be addressed. Bleeding gums are never a normal condition (not even when you have your teeth cleaned) and […]

Independence Day Smiles in Sarasota

The Smile Sarasota Team is ready for some fireworks! The 4th of July is here, and it’s time to celebrate! Bring out that grill and get ready for a great independence day cookout! And get ready to go watch a dazzling spectacle of lights at the Sarasota Bayfront! But with all the fun and festivities, […]

Dental Health at Every Age

Smile Sarasota treats dental patients in Sarasota of most any age- we have patients who range in age from about 10 to over 100. While most of our demographic is young adult to seniors, it’s important to have good dental care right from the beginning. Here are some eye-opening facts and tips about dental health […]

What Kind of Dental Patient are You?

Every day Smile Sarasota hears stories from friends and patients about the different economic dilemmas people are faced with. Dentistry is not immune to them and all too often gets neglected or just placed a little further down on people’s priority lists. We thought it would be helpful to clarify for patients (new and established) […]

Why Patient Feedback is Important

Smile Sarasota and Dr. Adam Still are so grateful for all the great reviews our patients post on Google and other sites. It means a lot to us to hear that you are happy with the care Dr. Still and and our great staff provide and we do our “Happy Dance” each time we receive […]

Brush or Soak?

If you’re one of the many denture wearers in the Sarasota, Florida area, you may wonder what the best way is to clean your dentures. Dr. Adam Still at Smile Sarasota realizes you’ve probably seen your parents or grandparents soak their dentures in a glass of water. The truth is that this is still one […]

Pickin’ and Grinnin’

Smile Sarasota constantly reminds you to make sure you clean between your teeth and there are plenty of people who would much rather use a toothpick than dental floss! And guess what? The toothpick has been around longer than mankind. The skulls of Neanderthals, as well as Homo sapiens, have shown clear signs of having […]

Does your smile say it all?

George Washington was born on February 22nd and of all the United States presidents, he was known to have the most discussion about his teeth. They were so awful teeth, he did not smile. Does your smile say it all? Most people think so. In a recent survey, 92.4% of North Americans agreed that an […]

EXPIRED!?

Dr. Still often has to prescribe medication for our Smile Sarasota patients for pain and infections, as well as antibiotic pre-medication for those who have artificial heart valves or artificial joints.. It’s important to know about the effectiveness of these drugs if they are close to expiration or have expired. To do that, our patients […]

Just Don’t Do It!

This is a subject that we have discussed in the past and felt it was time for a reminder! There are a hundred different things that we do every day which can harm our teeth. While some of these things are unavoidable, many can be prevented. For example, using the teeth to open bottles, jars, […]

New Year…New You

During the month of January, there is a huge emphasis on looking our best and getting fit for our overall health.  Most of us make resolutions to work out regularly, eat healthier diets and are determined to find a more robust anti-aging regime.  Along with a nutritious diet and exercise program, dental care is very […]

The Nose Knows!

Smile Sarasota has discussed the sense of taste, but closely linked is the sense of smell! Although the human sense of smell is feeble compared to that of many animals, it is still very acute. Often overlooked in favor of cooler, sexier senses such as sight or touch, smell and taste are more complicated than […]

Short Days Ahead!

Winter is just around the corner…even in Sarasota, Florida – the Sunshine State! Time to break out the sweaters, (maybe!) and set the clocks back for Daylight Saving Time ending on Sunday, November 5th. While the days get shorter, let’s prepare for the unwanted side effects to our health. Luckily, we found great ways to […]

Don’t Flush It! Wait…What?

WHAT: National Prescription Drug Take Back Day WHEN: Saturday, October 28, 2017 is 10:00 am to 2:00 pm WHERE: Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, 2071 Ringling Blvd. FOR OTHER LOCATIONS, CLICK HERE! At Smile Sarasota, Dr. Still sometimes has to prescribe medications for our patients. These medications are usually for pain, infections or antibiotic pre-medication for […]

Smiles – No Translation Needed!

There are hundreds of languages in the  world, but a SMILE speaks them all! A smile is the most universally recognized and understood gesture every culture understands and 99.9 percent of the population enjoys giving and receiving. We can identify a smile more easily than any other expression, even from a distance of up to 300 feet. […]

Labor Day Holiday – What, When and Why!

The first Monday in September is celebrated nationally as Labor Day. So how did we get the holiday and why is no one quite sure who created it? The Labor Day holiday grew out of the late 19th century organized labor movement, and it quickly became a national holiday as the labor movement assumed a […]

Healthy Gums and Teeth for Life!

At Smile Sarasota, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive and long-lasting treatment. Whether you are coming in for general care or a cosmetic dental treatment, following these oral hygiene tips from our experts will help you maintain a healthy smile: Brushing: Brushing your teeth regularly is the best way to upkeep oral hygiene. In order to […]

The Chicken or the Egg

Did you know that if you’re eating well but not taking care of your teeth, it can lead to bad health across the board? So…which comes first: Your bad dental health or your bad overall health? Are bad health issues causing bad dental health, or is bad dental health causing bad health issues? It can […]

Chemotherapy and Your Dental Health

Sadly, approximately 4 out of 10 of people will be diagnosed with some form of cancer during their lifetime. If you or a loved one are diagnosed with cancer, there are some things you should know about how cancer treatment can affect dental health and certain types of dental treatment. In this Blog, we will […]

An Apple a Day

July 11th is “Eat a Red Apple Day”! You’ve probably heard that an apple a day keeps the doctor away. But did you know they are also good for your teeth? What about all those other foods that go CRUNCH? So…let’s discuss the best and worst crisp and crunchy foods for your teeth. The Bad […]

Downtown Sarasota’s “Newest Oldest” Neighborhood

Gillespie Park in Sarasota, Florida is an up-and-coming place! A recent Smile Sarasota Blog focused on The Rosemary District and the old Ringling Shopping Center in downtown Sarasota, but we would be remiss if we didn’t discuss Gillespie Park! Gillespie Park has become one of Sarasota’s great places to live for young professionals and retirees […]

Hanging by a Thread

Your Health is Hanging by a Thread – The Story of Dental Floss When you think about New Orleans, you probably do not think of dental floss. New Orleans is the birthplace of a wonderful marvel of modern dentistry – dental floss! The exact date of the first use of dental floss is unknown but […]

Will Your Future Dentist be a Robot?

With driverless cars, advanced robotics and machine learning all dramatically improving very quickly, it’s easy to worry that we’re about to enter an age where the ordinary human will be out of work. There have been a lot of things published lately, as well as in the past, about artificial intelligence. This is not a […]

Time to Quit Smoking?

May 31st  is WORLD “NO TOBACCO DAY” If you use tobacco, there are many reasons to try to quit today. Not only does smoking cause multiple forms of cancer, it can also cause bad breath, discolored teeth, increase plaque and tartar buildup on teeth, and raise the risk of gum disease, tooth loss, and oral cancer. World […]

Walking the Tightrope of Patient Communication

Communication plays a vital role in breaking down barriers between the patient and dental health professional, and in strengthening the treatment alliance. At your first visit, the Comprehensive Exam, Dr. Still take the first steps in understanding your responses and reactions to your dental health and to gain as much information as possible about you. […]

White or Silver?

One controversy in dentistry over the last decade deals with the choice of using an amalgam (silver) or a white filling for cavities. Over the past few years, the popularity of white filling materials have increased tremendously. The white filling material is tooth colored so it blends in with your tooth and it can also […]

A Blood Pressure Surprise

There have been many times that patients new to Smile Sarasota were surprised when we asked them to extend their arms so we could take their blood pressure. Surprised looks were then followed with questions such as “Why is this necessary?” or “I’ve been going to the dentist at least every six months since I […]

Same Day Crowns – Magic!

One thing that many people definitely do not have is patience. Whether they are sitting in traffic or awaiting test results, many people find happiness in instant gratification. When it comes to their smiles, people are no different, wanting results as soon as possible. From teeth whitening to correcting a misalignment, many people opt for […]

Root Canals and New Crowns

When Dr. Still places a dental crown on a tooth, it is always his hope that this will be the last procedure that the tooth will need for a very long time. Unfortunately, since crowns are not placed on perfect teeth but instead on those teeth that have been seriously compromised by fracture, breakage or […]

Fast, Painless & Live Saving

APRIL IS ORAL CANCER MONTH – But Dr. Still checks for it at every dental exam! During your next checkup at Smile Sarasota, you may want to pay attention the oral cancer screening Dr. Still does to see if you are at risk of developing oral cancer. Oral cancer screenings are designed to try to […]

Hurry Up and Wait? Not at Smile Sarasota!

Everyone wants to be seen on time; it is simply human nature to not want to be kept waiting.  At Smile Sarasota it is always our goal to be prompt so that any waiting is minimized. Sometimes, however, our best intentions don’t go as planned  It is not unusual to have multiple patients call every […]

Another Headache? Dang!

Many people suffer with headaches for years without getting to the root cause of their problem. Up to 1 in 4 people may have some symptoms. Both men and women are equally affected, although women tend to ask for treatment more often than men. If you find yourself constantly popping painkillers to get through the […]

Choosing the Right Toothpaste

Choosing the right toothpaste can be a bit of a challenging task, especially if you’re unsure of what to look for. When strolling down the aisles of your local pharmacy or grocery store, you’ll be overwhelmed with the enormous variety of toothpaste options available. From whitening to anti-cavity to tartar control and everything in between, […]

Pizza Pizza! Watch Out!

It’s happened to the best of us at one time or another: We know that we should probably wait for that hot pizza to cool down before taking a bite but you’re hungry and it smells so good. You take out that first piece, dripping with cheese, take a big bit and…yow! The result is searing […]

ACHOO!

“Autosomal Dominant Compelling Helio-Ophthalmic Outburst” Huh?? Try: ACHOO! Cold and flu season will come and go and hopefully you got a flu shot. But sneezing is here to stay. We all do it, though some of us are more disruptively loud than others. It’s a reflex we simply can’t control. But other than the most […]

Why We Embrace Dental Technology

We recently asked our Technology Coordinator to research Virtual Reality Headsets for use by our patients in the treatment rooms. We are always looking for the ‘latest and greatest’ to better serve our patients. As far back as 2004, The Journal of the American Dental Association published a study about the integration of technology in the dental […]

The High Cost of Missing Teeth

Most people do not realize how not replacing a missing tooth can impact their life; they figure they will just take the cheap option of extraction and be done with it. Depending on your age, career path, and relationship status, the lifetime costs of a missing tooth can really add up if you’re not confident […]

Paul Revere Was a Dentist!

Do you watch CSI, or Bones? They often rely on forensics to identify remains. Dr. Still is not a forensic dentist, but we thought this topic was very interesting! Throughout history, dental forensics has played an important role. As dental professionals, we continue to play a key role by keeping quality records on each patient. […]

Got Milk?

We are all aware of the infamous, “Got Milk?” campaign, but have you ever really wondered why the big push to drink milk? Most of us grew up having milk with meals, but for some reason many people stop drinking milk as adults and this is just wrong, especially from a dental health standpoint! Calcium […]

A New Year – A New Smile

As we celebrate the beginning of a new year, many of us will use this opportunity to make resolutions to lose weight, stop smoking and spend more time with family. Some people even resolve to take care of the smile they’ve been hiding! At Smile Sarasota, we can help you fulfill your resolution to get the […]

Happy Holidays from Smile Sarasota!

At this crazy time of year, in the midst of the hustle and business of running from store to another line in another store and as you check off things on your list, perhaps a dental blog about whitening your teeth, or not eating too many sweets over the holidays might be expected. But, at […]

Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?

At Smile Sarasota, we utilize the most advanced dental technology and procedures in the industry to ensure that you and your family receive the quality dental care that you deserve. As a part of our comprehensive general and cosmetic dental services, we proudly offer dental implants to the families of Downtown Sarasota, The Rosemary District, […]

Ow! My Tooth Hurts!

No matter how conscientious you are about your oral care routine, at some point in your life you will probably experience the discomfort of a toothache. Though a cavity is the most likely culprit, it is only one of several possible causes of toothaches. And treatment has come a long way since ‘Cocaine Toothache Drops’! […]

Can Dr. Still Fix My Smile with Veneers?

Veneers, sometimes called porcelain veneers, are custom-made thin, semi-translucent “shells” bonded to your teeth. Veneers are customized from porcelain material and permanently bonded to your teeth. Veneers are a great alternative to otherwise more invasive dental procedures to improve the appearance of your smile. Common problems that veneers are used for: Spaces between the teeth […]

Osteoporosis and Dental Health

Once per year, Smile Sarasota requests that you update your health history with our office. Not everyone is happy about having to do this yearly but there are very good reasons to do so! Click here to read our Blog on that topic. One of the red flags on our health history form is osteoporosis. Osteoporosis […]

We Are Thankful!

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time of year. It is a time that brings families together, gives us an opportunity to appreciate and be thankful for all that has happened throughout the year. As Thanksgiving week approaches, we are reminded of how much we, in the dental profession, have to be thankful for. With Thanksgiving almost […]

The Bridge to Smile Sarasota

As you all know, part of Smile Sarasota’s logo is an awesome photo we commissioned of the John Ringling Causeway. For those of you who may not know the history of this beautiful bridge, we thought it might be interesting! After all, it’s the gateway to downtown Sarasota from Bird Key, St. Armand’s Circle and […]

Sharing Our Snowbirds

It’s that time of the year to say ‘WELCOME BACK’! Like many dental offices in Sarasota, Florida, Smile Sarasota sees our share of “Seasonals” or “Snowbirds” – patients who come down from up north to spend the winter here in Sarasota. They’re usually with us from November until May. Many of them have been patients […]

Trick or Treat Your Teeth!

Every Fall, kids of ALL ages anxiously wait for Halloween. A big question asked by concerned patients is how to reduce the “sugary” effects of eating all that Halloween candy…and for that matter, any sweets. Sweets and candies are great treats when taken in moderation; however, in excess they aren’t good for your oral health or […]

Dr. Adam Still is More than a Dentist!

Dr. Adam Still Isn’t Just a Dentist – He Stands Out in the Crowd! Have you ever thought about the qualities you like about your dentist? We don’t mean qualifications such as fabricating beautiful crowns, bridges and dentures. There are many dentists who are great at that part or they would not be in business. […]

Use it or Lose it!

At Smile Sarasota we take enormous pride in delivering expert dental care which includes keeping patients apprised of their pending dental services. Dental insurance typically provides annualized coverage up to a certain dollar value. Some patients do not realize they have unused benefits for the current year and that they could schedule needed treatment that […]

Gag Me!

Do you dread going to the dentist because you gag easily? Please know that you are not alone and we understand! For patients with a strong, involuntary gag reflex, nearly everything about dentistry is more challenging.  From taking x-rays, to restorative work like fillings and crowns, to having their teeth cleaned, a strong gag reflex […]

What Are You Smoking?

Needless to say, as a healthcare provider, Dr. Still encourages you not to smoke. If you have ever known anyone or seen anyone who has suffered with oral cancer, you will understand. And now there’s a new concern: E-Cigs. Chances are good that you’ve seen people “smoking” e-cigarettes: inhaling from cigarette-shaped devices, then puffing out […]

Heart Day is September 29th!

September 21st is Heart Day and is part of an international campaign to spread awareness about heart disease and stroke prevention. This is the perfect day to quit smoking, get exercising and start eating healthy – all in the name of keeping your ticker in good working order, and improving the health and well being of people […]

Love Your Teeth

Do you love your teeth? We mean, really love them. As in appreciate all that they do for you. As in being grateful that you have them, no matter how much trouble they may be giving you at the moment. People who are most happy with their smiles have healthy, straight teeth that sparkle when they laugh. If […]

Should You Floss?

SHOULD YOU FLOSS?? Smile Sarasota is very aware of the recent article published that discussed the recommendations regarding flossing, as well as the commentary in the Sarasota Herald Tribune. As with any topic, you need to make an informed decision and you may decide you don’t want to floss anymore. But…at the very least, think […]

You’ve Got a Friend

Most of here at Smile Sarasota have pets and those for who don’t, it’s only temporary until a new ‘furbaby’ is part of the family. We are starting a little contest today – we are posting photos of our staff’s furbabies on Facebook and asking our social media friends to guess who belongs to whom! We […]

Bad Dental Habits

Smile Sarasota is always nagging you about brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups because they are vital to good oral health. Moreover, it’s important to care for your teeth properly. But sometimes we just do bad things just out of habit. Here are several bad habits that Dr. Still wants you to avoid that can […]

Times Gone By

As most of you know, many of the staff at Smile Sarasota has lived in Sarasota for many years, and our dental office has been at its downtown Sarasota location at Ringling Boulevard for almost 25 years. This area has seen many changes over the decades. For a very long time, we used to shop […]

Wants vs. Needs

NEED- something you must have WANT – something you would like to have Over the past decade, Gallup polls have tracked Americans’ access to “basic necessities,” such as food, shelter, clean water, and healthcare. Gallup’s list of basic necessities includes 13 items, which can be grouped into three broad categories: Food Housing HEALTH Unless it’s a cosmetic situation, no one ever […]

Location, Location, Location

Being one of the few high quality restorative and cosmetic dental offices located in downtown Sarasota, we are very excited to hear all the news blurbs about the makeover of the up-and-coming Rosemary District. The unique Rosemary District, once known as Overtown, was part of the original plat of the Town of Sarasota in 1885. […]

‘Same-Day Dentures’ is a Misnomer

You have probably seen the advertisements for ‘Same-Day Dentures’ at a very low cost. This can be confusing because patients think a dentist can literally extract teeth and deliver the denture the same day. While there are a few clinic settings where this is done, we do not recommend it. The more proper terminology is […]

The Crazy World of Teeth

At Smile Sarasota, we of course talk a lot about teeth…usually HUMAN teeth. But there’s a whole world of other teeth out there! Human children have 20 baby teeth that fall out. Human adults have 32 teeth. Puppies have 28 teeth and adult dogs have 42. 42 teeth sounds like a lot, but it’s nothing […]

Hot Time Summer in the City!

Welcome to the sizzling dog days of Florida summer! Smile Sarasota is all about health – yours, your pets and that of our fragile environment. Here are some easy tips to both stay cool and save on electric bills! Use Fans: Moving air accelerates sweat evaporation. A fan on a low setting that can keep […]

Smile Sarasota Reaches Higher

From time to time we ask our patients to review our practice or fill out a survey about their experience in our office. Most surveys have check boxes and most businesses are happy when the customer checks the ‘Satisfied’ checkbox. At Smile Sarasota, we believe in reaching higher and making you feel not only satisfied […]

Did You Take Your Antibiotic?

We say these words almost every day. Our team here at Smile Sarasota is responsible for reminding our patients to take their premedication antibiotic or asking them at the appointment if they remembered to take it. So who needs to it? And why is this important? Infective (Bacterial) Endocarditis. Infective endocarditis is a scary sounding […]

Are You Afraid of Going to the Dentist?

If you fear going to the dentist, you are not alone. Between 9% and 20% of Americans avoid going to the dentist because of anxiety or fear. Indeed, it is a universal phenomenon. Dental phobia is a more serious condition than anxiety. It leaves people panic-stricken and terrified. People with dental phobia have an awareness […]

Memorial Day – Did You Know?

For nearly 150 years, Americans have gathered in late spring to honor the sacrifice of those who have given their lives in service to their country. What began with dozens of informal commemorations of those killed in the Civil War has grown to become one of the nation’s most solemn and hallowed holidays. From its […]

Are We Boring You?

Snakes and fish do it. Cats and dogs do it. Even human babies do it inside the womb. And maybe after seeing the picture of these adorable puppies, you’re doing it now: YAWNING. Yawning appears to be ubiquitous within the animal kingdom. But despite being such a widespread feature, scientists still can’t explain why yawning […]

Why You Need to Drink Water

We seem to carry bottled water everywhere we go these days. In fact, it has become the second most popular drink behind soft drinks. Why should you drink more water? It’s simple! Just look at some of the benefits: Water helps you feel full- are you really hungry or are you just thirsty? Before reaching […]

We Appreciate You!

At Smile Sarasota, the reason we continuously put effort into our work and strive to provide the best service is because of YOU. Our patients are the reason that we get up every morning and the reason that we are always smiling. It’s hard not to love your job when you have patients as amazing […]

One Dead Every Hour

APRIL IS ORAL CANCER MONTH  Oral Cancer collectively kills nearly one person every hour of every day of the year. Of the people newly diagnosed with these cancers, 40 percent will not survive longer than five years. Moreover, many who do survive suffer long-term problems, such as severe facial disfigurement or difficulties with eating and […]

What Are You Waiting For?

Dental Cleanings & Checkups…How Often? Many times we have heard patients say that they prefer to ‘wait until something hurts or bothers them’ rather than scheduling regular cleaning and checkup visits. This is just wrong! Aside from the importance of catching dental disease before it causes infection or tooth loss, your mouth is an early warning […]

Are You Scraping?

Have you ever heard of a tongue scraper?  A tongue scraper  (also called a tongue cleaner or tongue brush) is an oral hygiene device designed to clean off bacteria, food debris, fungi, and dead cells from the surface of your tongue.  The film that develops on your tongue while you sleep is a good indicator […]

Embarrassed About a Missing Tooth?

Are you missing a tooth? This can be embarrassing, especially if it’s in or near the front of your mouth. A missing tooth can also affect your biting and chewing ability. We can help!! Consider a dental implant. Single-tooth implants can be used in people who are missing one or more teeth. An implant is […]

Dog Breath?

It’s easy to improve your breath and keep your teeth and gums healthy at the same time. Try these simple steps to make your mouth feel fresh and clean. Brush and floss more often.  Plaque, the sticky buildup on your teeth, collects bacteria that cause bad breath.  Trapped food also adds to the problem. Brush […]

Do Not Ignore Dry Mouth!

The human body is a miraculous thing. The mouth is a perfect illustration. Whenever you eat or drink something, digestion begins as you chew. Saliva not only helps you move things around in the mouth to process, it delivers an acid that starts the digestive process. This acid helps to break down what you swallow […]

We Care

“Patients don’t care how much you know, until they know how much you care.” This is a saying that has been credited to many people and the saying appears to have started in the medical profession, emphasizing that caring for patients is just as important to them as a professional’s book knowledge. Yes, Dr. Still […]

Making a Difference by Supporting our Community

Studies have repeatedly shown that doing good deeds for others is good for the soul. In fact, everyone can benefit from doing something to improve another person’s way of life. Donating to worthy causes can benefit the givers as much as the receivers! Smile Sarasota does this in two ways – we support a number […]

Health History Update AGAIN??!!

Why do we ask you to do yearly health history updates? You may have wondered why our office has so many questions on our health history update sheet. And why does the dental staff insist on updating the medical history every time you visit the dental office? Each of the questions asked on the medical […]

Who Do You Inspire?

You have probably already made your New Year’s resolution and by now, have perhaps slid off the path of good intentions. But it’s not too late! For this week’s Smile Sarasota Blog, we chose to share someone else’s blog – Fred Joyal’s, because it was so good and…so INSPIRING! Read more here… We all have […]

Do You Grind Your Teeth?

DO YOU GRIND YOUR TEETH? You may not even be aware of it! Here are some of the signs and symptoms: Tooth sensitivity as enamel is worn away exposing softer, darker-colored dentin. Excess grinding of the back teeth can make teeth appear shorter. Upper teeth become more angled, thin and translucent, putting them at risk […]

Is it a Lemon?

There are five basic tastes that can be perceived by the human tongue. These are bitterness, sourness, saltiness, sweetness and savoriness. Bitter is the most sensitive among these tastes and is detected by the taste buds at the back of tongue and in the throat. Sour on the other hand is indicative of acidity and […]

Cavities and the Common Cold

It’s that time of the year again…everyone seems to be sneezing and coughing. Did you know that tooth decay is a common disorder, second only to the common cold? Tooth decay is a common cause of pain and tooth loss. Bacteria are normally found in your mouth. These bacteria change foods — especially sugar and starch — […]

Teeth Don’t Die…You Kill Them!

You may think that as you get older, you’ll lose some of your teeth. You probably know older people who have bridges, dentures or implants to replace missing teeth. It may seem obvious that tooth loss is just another part of aging. It isn’t…neglect is usually the cause of lost teeth. So what should you […]

Do You Love Yellow Teeth?

Millions of people suffer from tooth discoloration to varying degrees. Even those who brush, floss, and visit the dentist regularly may find that food, environmental factors, and the passage of time will eventually take their toll on the natural radiance of their teeth. Fortunately, professional teeth whitening is an incredibly effective way to lighten or […]

On Time!

It’s Important to be On Time! This is a common problem for any service that deals with the public, but it is very pertinent to dentists. At Smile Sarasota, if a patient is 5 or 10 minutes late, we can usually still see them, but when patients show up 20 minutes or more late for […]

Finding the Right Dentist in Sarasota

Considering that you and your dentist will be partners in your dental healthcare for the long haul, choosing the right dentist is an important decision for you and your family. How do you go about finding the right dentist? The American Dental Association (ADA) offers these suggestions: Ask family, friends, neighbors, or co-workers for their […]

Why Floss is the Boss!

Dental Floss…It may look like a simple piece of string, but dental floss is so much more! It’s a proven ally in maintaining healthy teeth and gums and helps give your overall health a boost. Do you floss daily? What techniques help you get the most out of your flossing experience, without injury to your […]

Don’t Drink That Acid!

Did you know that popular diet and sugared sodas are nearly as corrosive to dental enamel as battery acid? Prolonged exposure to soft drinks can lead to significant enamel loss, even though many people consider soft drinks to be harmless or just worry about their sugar content and the potential for putting on pounds. The […]

Fun ‘Teeth’ Facts

Time for some fun! Did you know a mosquito has 47 teeth? Here are the TOP 10 MOSQUITO FUN FACTS…we’re sure you’ve been hankering for this information! An adult mosquito can live as long as 5 months. It may take several months for a larva to develop to the adult stage in cold water. Eggs of […]

Part 2: Gum Recession – Why Your Hygienist is Counting Out Loud

In Part I of this Blog post, we discussed measuring pocket depth. Recession and pocketing are not the same. When measuring pockets or “probing”, a periodontal probe is placed down in-between the tooth and gums to determine where the attachment of gum starts and helps determine the general periodontal or gum health. Recession is the loss of gum tissue from […]

New Patients and Dental Emergencies

Our office welcomes new and existing patients with dental emergencies. Please contact Smile Sarasota at 941-957-3311 to arrange an appointment with Dr. Still. Listed below are some common problems and initial recommendations. Always seek professional help and call Dr. Still for definitive diagnosis and treatment. Abscess or Swelling: • Potentially serious infection associated with the tooth and […]

The Importance of Sunscreen

IT’S SUMMER…and there are many good reasons to use sunscreen on your skin and lips. The BEST reason is that you can stop by our Smile Sarasota office and we will give it to you! FREE! YES! Free sunscreen lotion and lip balm, so come on down and get yours! So…What are some of the […]

Dental Cap or Dental Crown?

There is no difference whatsoever between dental caps and crowns. At Smile Sarasota, Dr. Still does both laboratory crowns and CEREC “Same Day” crowns, depending on the situation. A crown is a restoration that covers, or “caps,” a tooth to restore it to its normal shape and size, strengthening and improving the appearance of a tooth. […]

The Real Tech Decade

Smile Sarasota is a very high-tech dental practice and most of us think all this stuff was just recently developed. Not true. We just wanted to share this because it’s so interesting to read about incredible advances that were made decades ago. We would not be where we are were it not for the brilliant […]

Heads Up!

The human head weighs about twelve pounds. But as the neck bends forward and down, the weight on the cervical spine begins to increase. At a 15-degree angle, this weight is about 27 pounds, at 30 degrees it’s 40 pounds, at 45 degrees it’s 49 pounds, and at 60 degrees it’s 60 pounds. That’s the burden […]

Preventive Dentistry vs. Neglect

Smile Sarasota tip: don’t wait until something hurts to call us!! Preventive dentistry is the practice of caring for one’s teeth to keep them healthy. This helps to avoid cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, enamel wear, and more. There are many forms of preventive dentistry, such as daily brushing and regular dental cleanings. It is […]

Do you use an ultrasonic toothbrush?

Do you use an ultrasonic toothbrush? If not, what are you waiting for? If you’ve been on fence about switching to an electric/ultrasonic toothbrush we’re here to help. Let’s to review the top benefits of using an ultrasonic  toothbrush: An ultrasonic toothbrush keeps your teeth, gums, and tongue cleaner and healthier: An electric toothbrush’s rotating head features bristles which […]

Can You Save a Life?

What the heck are we doing to each other??!! Pictured is Bill Sullivan of the American Heart Association, with Dr. Still, Liz and Lori,  brushing up on the life saving skills of CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation), use of an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) and the Heimlich Maneuver, now called the Abdominal Thrust, which could save someone […]

Do You Chew?

Do you chew gum? Chewing gum has been proven to increase brain function and overall cognitive thinking as well as suppress appetite. Now, there is an even better reason why we should all be chewing it. Research has been conducted and published that states that chewing gum can remove almost as much intra-oral bacteria as […]

Why are my Teeth Sensitive?

Tooth sensitivity can be difficult to deal with, especially when something as simple as drinking water can aggravate it. Teeth sensitivity has many causes, so it’s important to know what could be causing your sensitivity. Read over the list below to figure out what may be causing your teeth sensitivity. Brushing Too Hard: While brushing […]

Memorial Day Quotes

MEMORIAL DAY:  A day to remember the soldiers who live and die for their country – so it’s our duty to pay the tribute to them!  Here is a collection of great Memorial Day quotes: “Who kept the faith and fought the fight; The glory theirs, the duty ours.” – Wallace Bruce  “A hero is someone […]

Tooth Loss and Facial Changes

Yes, Smile Sarasota makes dentures, but our goal is to help you KEEP your teeth and not make dentures. Have you ever seen someone without their dentures in? Their facial structure collapses inward. This is not only due to tooth loss…it is due to bone loss. This process starts even if there is only one […]

The Spit Bowl

Depending upon your age, you may remember sitting in the dental chair and to your left was a bowl that was used to spit in. (The correct name for this bowl is a cuspidor.) Ever wonder why most dental offices no longer use them? It’s pretty simple if you think about it…first, the running water. […]

Well-Being and Dental Health

Sarasota, Florida is a great place to be and tops the list of U.S. major cities with the highest well-being. And…U.S. cities with highest well-being have good dental health! Another big difference: the state of their teeth. It turned out residents of the not-so-content cities were much less likely to have visited a dentist in […]

A White Teeth Diet

A tip for having white teeth: Go on a white-teeth diet! If you’re downing red wine and black tea, or smoking cigarettes or cigars, expect the results to show up as not-so-pearly whites. Other culprits to blame for dingy teeth include colas, gravies, and dark juices. Bottom line: If it’s dark before you put it in […]

Dental Implants Are Not New!

We tend to think of dental implants as a modern marvel, and in their current form, they are. But what many people don’t realize is that the idea behind dental implants has been around for centuries. In fact, the very first dental implant is attributed to the Mayans and dates back to 600 AD. It only took […]

Worth a Thousand Words

There is a lot of information needed for Dr. Still to perform a proper diagnosis. Depending on the reason for your visit to our office, we might make use of one of our favorite diagnostic tools: a digital intra-oral camera. Between a visual exam, x-rays, and sometimes study models for more involved cases, we use […]

Change is Difficult

YAY!! Our office is officially CHARTLESS! Thanks to Dentrix, our world-class dental charting and administrative software, Dexis, our digital X-ray system and to the hard work of our front desk staff over the past 5 years, all of our patient records are now digital. Several thousand paper charts have been scanned and are stored and […]

History of Flossing

We know all of you floss every day…right? Flossing & cleaning between the teeth has been going on a long time. Researchers have found dental floss and toothpick grooves in the teeth of prehistoric humans. Take a look at the timeline below to learn when floss was invented and how it became a popular oral […]

Dentists Wear Many Hats

We all know that a dentist must first and foremost, be a doctor of medical dentistry, combined with artistic and engineering abilities…but who knew Dr. Still can also juggle! He was called upon to demonstrate his amazing skills at Circus Sarasota recently. Great job, Doc! See more photos of Dr. Still’s performance on our FaceBook […]

What should you do if you break a tooth?

Chipping or breaking a tooth can be uncomfortable and worrisome. You should react quickly to avoid further damage to the tooth or any discomfort. After chipping or breaking a tooth, contacting us should be the first step. If the incident happens on the weekend or during the night, Dr. Still’s phone number is on our […]

We Combine the Compassion of Yesterday with the Technology of Today

So what does compassion mean when choosing a dental office? Compassion requires the ability to identify with a patient’s overall well-being. Relieving pain and suffering is a common attribute of dental practice. Acts of kindness and a sympathetic ear for the patient are all qualities of a caring, compassionate dentist.  We feel that the most […]