Keeping Your Family Cavity Free This Halloween

Halloween is just around the corner- and while we're sure you are busy putting the finishing touches on your costume, carving pumpkins and decorating, we wanted to take a moment to remind you all of the importance of oral hygiene, especially this weekend. We know how tempting this time of the year can be on our sweet tooth, and can be equally challenging for parents in setting limits for the inevitable piles of candy their children will gather from trick or treating. However, for most people, no Halloween is complete without a little candy.

Sweets remain a huge part of Halloween for tens of millions of Americans each year. The National Confectioners Association says 93 percent of children in the United States go trick-or-treating, and estimates candy sales will be higher this year than ever. While not all bad in moderation, Candy can lead to big problems in excess, especially if good oral hygiene habits are not followed.

To help, we have found 5 tips from the American Dental Association for parents to help maintain good oral health for Halloween, and the rest of the year too!

1. Consume candy during meals, when saliva can help neutralize the acids that are present in some candies (particular the sour variety)

2. Avoid sticky or hard candies that stay in your mouth for a long time. These candies can result in constant exposure of acids to your teeth- a quick ticket to a cavity!

3. Ensure the water your family drinks is fluoridated- which has been shown to help prevent cavities.

4. Stick to your daily oral hygiene habits- brush twice a day, and floss at least once too!

5. Maintain regular dental checkups and cleanings with us. We can help catch problems like cavities early to reduce their severity, as well as give you tips for improving your oral health.

Hope these tips help!

All of us at Stiles Dentistry wish you a happy, safe, and spooky Halloween!

Dr. Dennis Stiles Lectures on Sleep Apnea at The UMB Dental School

As we've discussed before, both Drs. Dennis & Marie Stiles are active participants in the dental community, and both volunteer time to teach at the University of Maryland Dental School in Baltimore on Fridays. Earlier today, Dr. Dennis Stiles gave a one hour lecture to UMB Dental School graduate students (in the advanced general dental residency) on sleep apnea. The focus of the lecture was on working with medical doctors and sleep specialists to help treat patients with the sleep apnea disorder.

We are please to help patients in the Gaithersburg area get a better night's sleep using oral appliance therapy, rather than the more traditional CPAP machine. We are able to work closely with your sleep specialist to custom-create an oral appliance that can serve as an effective treatment for sleep apnea. To learn more about how these appliances work, be sure to check out the video we created of Dr. Stiles explaining the device, as well as a video testimonial from Judy, one of our patients, who had a great experience with this form of treatment.

Dr. Marie Stiles Inducted into the International College of Dentists

Last weekend, both Drs. Stiles traveled to Orlando, FL for the International College of Dentists 2010 Convocation. Dr. Marie Stiles, along with several other members of the Washington DC chapter, was inducted as a fellow of the ICD. As we've mentioned before, The ICD is a worldwide organization of dentists, with membership only extended to dentists for significant contributions to the field of dentistry. On a local level, however, the Washington DC chapter gives out leadership awards to students in dental school, holds screening exams for people serving in the Peace Corps, and sponsors student exchange programs and white coat ceremonies at Howard Dental School. Dr. Dennis Stiles is currently serving as an officer in the Washington DC chapter of the ICD as Deputy Regent, and is responsible with programming for the chapter members.

Drs. Stiles at the Ballpark

Though they didn't produce the championship season we all hoped for, we still had a great time attending the Washington Nationals Baseball games this past season. We also had a great time giving out tickets to a few lucky patients this season- we hope you enjoyed your time at the ballpark too! We snapped a few photos at the final game of the season, check them all out on Facebook!

Stiles Dentistry Supporting the National Foundation for Cancer Research

A few weekends back, both Drs. Dennis and Marie Stiles participated in the 7th annual Golf for a Cure Classic, an annual fundraising event and auction to support the National Foundation for Cancer Research.

In addition to participating in the tournament itself, the doctors were also sponsors of the event, which was held at the Kenwood Golf & Country Club in Bethesda, MD. While both doctors are already very active in local charities and volunteer opportunities, this was one of the few chances to fit a little golf in at the same time! You can learn more about Golf for a Cure and the National Foundation for Cancer Research on their website, and sign up yourself for next year's event!

Continuing Education in 2010

Regardless of your career, continuing education is always important. Learning new skills, techniques and abilities, can help you advance in your job and improve the quality of your work. In dentistry, this is no different, and we spend many hours each year in ongoing continuing education courses to improve and expand our services to give our patients an even better dental experience.

We've been quite busy with CE in 2010. Below are a few highlights:

October will mark Dr. Marie Stiles' induction into the International College of Dentists at the annual American Dental Association national conference. The ICD is a worldwide organization of dentists working to share and contribute advances in the field of dentistry. Dr. Marie will join Dr. Dennis as a fellow of the ICD, an honor only extended to dentists for significant contributions to their profession. Dr. Marie Stiles will also be attending a sedation dentistry conference to further expand her expertise in this area.

Dr. Dennis Stiles has spent time in continuing education for a variety of specialties, including Implant Dentistry (38 hours), Prosthodontics (16 hours), as well as a 16 hour course on the brain and learning. Interestingly enough. its been found that some conditions related to the brain, such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can have an affect on sleep patterns and sleep disorders. Dr. Stiles' specialties is in customized sleep apnea devices, which may be prescribed by a sleep specialist to treat this disorder.

It is our goal to pass the value of continuing education courses like these to our patients, in the form of effective and long lasting dental health!

What do you love about Stiles Dentistry?

From your very first visit to our Kentlands dental practice, our doctors and team strive to provide superior treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. We thought we’d ask you, our wonderful patients: How have you enjoyed your experience? Did our team go out of their way to make your day? Are you in love with your new smile?

Whether you’ve just come in for a consultation or your family has been visiting our office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. Or, you can tell us by posting on our Facebook page or by giving us a call!

Thank you,
The Stiles Family Dentistry Team

September is National Gum Care Month

Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, can be difficult to recognize. Ma”ny people do not recognize the warning signs - bleeding and swollen gums - as a precursor to gum disease. This month, a national campaign is underway to raise awareness about gum health and periodontal disease, and we at Stiles Dentistry wanted to do our part to help spread the word!

Early recognition and action are the most important steps to health gums, and ultimately a health body too! Studies are published every year linking oral health, including the gums, to the health of other areas of the body, such as the heart. One of the most important steps to improving the care of your gums is recognizing the warning signs for gum disease. These can include:

• Gums that appear red or swollen
• Gums that feel tender
• Gums that bleed easily (during brushing or flossing)
• Gums that recede or pull away from the teeth
• Persistent halitosis, or bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Any change in the way teeth come together in the biting position

If you notice any of these signs, schedule an appointment with our office as soon as possible. We can take proactive steps to prevent gingivitis and gum disease, while showing you how to improve gum care in your daily oral hygiene habits.

Omega-3 may combat mouth bacteria, boost oral health

Recently, an article was published on the dental health benefits of Omega-3 fatty acids of marine and plant origin. A new study from the University of Kentucky reveals that all types of food-borne omega-3 fats (like tuna, walnuts and spinach) cut the numbers of oral disease bacteria by half or more.

The study found that "the dental health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids of marine and plant origin have been found to have strong anti-bacterial activity against a range of oral pathogens and "may include anti-bacterial effects, extending the benefits beyond inflammation." The doctors involved in the study said that they planned to conduct further studies needed to prove that omega-3s acids work to benefit oral health. While this is encouraging news, we wanted to remind you that diet, hygiene, and other factors, are key to improving your oral health. Remember to consult us at Stiles Dentistry if you have any questions about your diet and the effect it can have on your oral health.

Sleep Apnea Treatment Gaithersburg MD

If you or a loved one are a sufferer of sleep apnea, then Judy's story may not be too far off from your own. As sleep apnea diagnosis grows more common, so do some of the difficulties associated with its treatment. Previously, we've touched on some of the methods currently used to treat sleep apnea, and as Judy mentions, the use of the CPAP (Continuous Airway Pressure Device) machine meant that she and her husband often needed to sleep in separate rooms in order to get a good night's rest.

After numerous attempts at various CPAP machines, Judy was introduced to the sleep apnea appliance at Stiles Dentistry, and she is pleased to report that it works! For more information about oral appliance therapy for sleep apnea, be sure to check out the video of Dr. Dennis Stiles explaining how an oral sleep appliance works!

When Was Your Last Visit to Stiles Dentistry?

With the heat we've been getting, it's a little hard to believe that summer is nearly over! At Stiles Dentistry, we see entire families as patients, and for many of them its nearly time to head back to school. For those of you with sons and daughters in college, consider scheduling a checkup and cleaning with us before the fall semester begins. If its been more than six months since your or a family member's last cleaning, make it a priority to give us a call to schedule your next visit to Stiles Dentistry!

Even if you brush and floss every day, regular checkups are crucial to maintaining good oral health. We can check for problems that you may not see or feel, detect cavities and early signs of decay, and treat oral health problems early. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Video Testimonial- Invisalign and Veneers Treatment

We worked with this patient to achieve his dental goals using the Invisalign system and veneers. He had experienced years of bite problems, which were even causing him pain while eating.

To improve the aesthetics and function of his bite, Dr. Marie Stiles worked with this patient using Invisalign system. Dr. Dennis Stiles then placed veneers at the end of the treatment for a beautiful, health new smile!

At our Gaithersburg, MD dental practice, we work with patients to help them achieve their dental health goals through general, cosmetic, and implant dentistry. We invite you to learn more on our web site, or give us a call to set up your initial appointment!

The importance of oral cancer screenings, from Stiles Dentistry

In our continuing efforts to provide the most advanced technology and highest quality care available to our patients, we screen our patients for oral cancer. The fact is, every hour of every day in the U.S., someone dies of oral cancer, which is the sixth-most common diagnosed form of the disease. The five-year survival rate is only 50 percent, and oral cancer is one of the few cancers whose survival rate has not improved.

Early detection of pre-cancerous tissue can minimize or eliminate the potentially disfiguring effects of oral cancer and possibly save your life. Ask Drs. Stiles about a screening at your next appointment!

IV Sedation: What Makes it Different?

We've previously discussed an exciting service we now offer at Stiles Dentistry, IV sedation dentistry, yet many patients may not be aware of what makes IV sedation different than other forms of sedation.

You'll commonly see dental practices that offer sedation dentistry, however this is often quite different than IV sedation. Many offices administer sedation in a pill form, which can be effective, but is also much less predictable than IV sedation. These forms of general sedation can cause a deep sleep or even unconsciousness to relieve the patient of any anxiety or pain they might experience otherwise. These sedation techniques require less training and certification to provide, which is part of the reason why they are more common.

IV Sedation, on the other hand, does not cause a deep sleep, and patients are conscious and responsive throughout the entire process. Our approach with IV sedation is to help patients achieve a completely relaxed state, while having little memory of the actual procedure. This makes IV sedation a much more reliable procedure than other techniques. Dr. Marie Stiles completed over 80 hours of work to become certified to administer the IV sedation procedure to patients. She is one of only a handful of doctors in the area to have this certification. The process is completely safe, and can be an effective way to overcome dental fears or anxieties without the complications and side effects that the more common forms of sedation can cause.

We would be happy to set up a consultation with you to discuss the sedation procedure we provide, and answer any questions or concerns you may have. Don't let anxiety or fear stop you from achieving a beautiful, healthy smile at Stiles Dentistry, call us today!

Stiles Dentistry Gives Back to The Community

Besides providing quality dental care to our patients, we at Stiles Dentistry believe it important to give back to our community in the Kentlands, Gaithersburg and surrounding regions. Both Drs. Stiles and the entire team are involved in various community organizations and events. If you remember back in May, we participated at the Kentlands Day, a special community event that helps support the Kentlands Community Foundation. Dr. Dennis Stiles currently serves as the vice president with this non-profit organization, which aims to provide education, outreach, and cultural arts support to the community.

Both Drs. Dennis & Marie Stiles also volunteer time every Friday to teach at the University of Maryland Dental School in Baltimore. They also donate their services to organizations such as the Dental Health Federation, which provides pro bono dental care to individuals in need.

In the past we held a community dental health lecture and VELscope cancer screening in September, which was an great opportunity to connect with the community and help individuals take charge of their oral health!

These are just a few examples of how the Stiles Dentistry team takes an interest in the community. Feel free to ask us about our other community related activities on your next visit!

Smile Restoration at Stiles Dentistry

Listen as this patient tells his story of past dental work, and the need to restore his smile after so many years. He called us at Stiles Dentistry to formulate a treatment plan for restoring his smile just in time for his daughter's wedding. He couldn't be happier with the results!

Watch his video testimonial above, and then take a look at the his smile before and after his procedure at Stiles Dentistry.

Before

After

One Article Suggests the Connection Between Oral Hygiene and Heart Health

Here at Stiles Dentistry, we are always encouraging our patients to maintain a high standard of oral health, especially with the past studies linking oral health with heart health. A study was recently published to determine the relationship between daily oral hygiene and heart health. An 8 year study tracking oral hygiene habits and the likelihood of heart problems found that individuals who "rarely" or "never" brushed their teeth had a much higher chance of a heart problem - 70% higher in fact! Take a look at the article by clicking here.

How strong is your daily oral hygiene routine? If you aren't brushing twice a day and flossing at least once, you should be!

Why Visit Stiles Dentistry?

Some of the patients at Stiles Dentistry are not always from the Gaithersburg area, and are willing to drive from quite a ways to receive the great care they've come to expect from our office. While we strive to make our location and hours convenient for everyone, we are humbled by patients like these who go out of their way to see us-- it really makes it all worthwhile!

Have a safe and relaxing Fourth of July!

--Stiles Family Dentistry

Going Green at Stiles Dentistry

At Stiles Dentistry we are always taking steps to be a more environmentally friendly dental practice. One major effort we have made in the interest of decreasing our environmental footprint has been to become a paperless office.

For example, patients can fill out all their vital information- medical history and new patient forms included- on our secure Fast CheckIn kiosk in the office. In addition to making the process so much more convenient for patients, the process keeps all your information confidential, and eliminates the need for a paper form.

Patients can find additional convenience on our web site, where they can access their account 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with their patient login features. With this tool we can even send to our patients email appointment reminders instead of using postcards.

These are a few steps we have taken to make Stiles Dentistry more sustainable, and in turn, a more convenient and enjoyable experience for our patients! What efforts are you taking in your own life to be more sustainable? Leave a comment here on our blog, or post one on Facebook!

Stiles Dentistry Celebrating the National Smile Month

Now that we’re in June, our team at Stiles Dentistry thought we’d tell you June is National Smile Month, and a good time to remind all our patients to practice good oral hygiene between your visits to see us.

Below are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health so that you may celebrate National Smile Month for many, many years to come:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks
* Visit us regularly (every 6 months)!

If you have questions about any of these tips, we encourage you to give us a call!

Sleep Apnea Treatment with Oral Appliance Therapy at Stiles Dentistry

For those of you who suffer from, or have a spouse or family member who suffers from Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), then you probably already have recognized the negative affect it can have on your quality of life. Individuals with OSA suffer from interrupted sleep patterns, which decrease both the quantity and quality of their sleep. Besides taking a toll on your overall energy level, OSA can cause high blood pressure, which can lead to serious health risks including heart attack and stroke.

There are several different approaches to sleep apnea treatment, and one you might be familiar with is the Continuous Airway Pressure device (CPAP). The CPAP, which involves a special machine and mask to help keep throat muscles and tissue open while sleeping, is one of the most common forms of OSA therapy. However, it has some key disadvantages. For one, the machine is bulky and requires electricity, making it less portable for travel. Those of us with spouses using a CPAP know how noisy the machines can be. Finally, because the CPAP involves a mask and hose, it can limit your sleep positions, and prevent you from speaking and drinking while the machine is in use.

An alternative to the CPAP is an custom designed oral appliance that positions your jaw in a favorable position to keep your airway open while you sleep. These retainers are much less invasive than a CPAP machine (or surgery), are travel friendly, and most importantly: they work! Once you have completed a sleep study with your physician, and your eligibility for an oral appliance is assessed, our team can partner with your physician to create a custom appliance for you. We have included the video below, in which Dr. Dennis Stiles describes how one of these oral appliances works.



If you have been unhappy with the CPAP machine in the past, oral appliance therapy may be an alternative solution! We would be happy to refer you to a sleep apnea specialist, just give us a call!

Invisalign Treatment in Gaithersburg, MD

We pride ourselves in providing comprehensive dental care for our patients, including general, restorative, and cosmetic dental treatments. Dr. Marie Stiles has been expanding her services to include many new treatments, including IV sedation certification and Invisalign. Invisalign is an effective and discreet way to straighten your smile. Straight teeth can help you look your best, and are easier to clean too! We interviewed a few patients about their experience with Invisalign treatment with Dr. Marie Sties, and how it has helped them!





Do you have questions about Invisalign? Give us a call at , or leave a comment here!

Stiles Dentistry Asks- Share Your Thoughts!

From your very first visit to Stiles Dentistry, our doctors and team strive to provide superior treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. We thought we’d ask you, our wonderful patients about your experience at our office? Did a member of our team go out of their way to make your day? Are you in love with your new smile?

Whether you’ve just come in for a consultation or your family has been visiting our office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. If you'd like, you can leave a review on Google, or post a comment on our Facebook page.

We sincerely appreciate your feedback!

-The Stiles Dentistry Team

Spotlight: Dr. Marie Stiles

This week, we wanted to put the spotlight on Dr. Marie Stiles, and some of the exciting work she is doing here at Stiles Dentistry! Dr. Marie is pictured above with local Washington Post Columnist Bob Levy (far right), at a recent dinner meeting for the International College of Dentists, Washington DC Chapter. Dr. Marie Stiles will be inducted as a Fellow of the International College of Dentists in the Fall.

While both Drs. Dennis & Marie Stiles take pride in working with patients for a wide variety of dental needs, patients with dental fears and anxieties will be pleased to know that Dr. Marie is certified IV sedation dentistry. This certification involved 80 hours of education at the University of Southern California, and has made Dr. Marie Stiles one of the few dentists in the entire state of Maryland who is qualified to perform IV sedation dentistry. The treatment itself involves Dr. Marie monitoring the sedation while Dr. Dennis preforms the dental procedure itself. Finally, Dr. Marie is also our certified Invisalign provider at Stiles Dentistry, allow us to provide a straighter smile with removable, invisible aligners.

Want to learn more about the doctors and team behind Stiles Dentistry? Visit our web site, or give us a call at 240-252-1032!

A Few Words on Dental Insurance

At Stiles Dentistry, we receive questions about dental insurance all of the time, so we wanted to share a few points about how insurance works in our office. Depending on the insurance provider you or your company utilizes, dental insurance commonly includes a network of preferred providers to choose from to handle your dental work. You might notice that your insurance does not always list the doctor you wish to go to as one of their preferred providers.

It's important to know that just because we may not be listed on in your insurance plan's network, it does not mean that you cannot come to us for your dental needs. We work with the insurance companies to send out your claim electronically on the day of your visit, and typically our patients are reimbursed by their insurance provider directly within several days, at at level according to their individual plan.

We believe that you should have the freedom to choose which dental office or specialist to see, regardless of the list of options your insurance provider offers. Stiles Dentistry is a low volume, patient-centered practice. Both Drs. Dennis & Marie Stiles, along with the entire team, work to build lifelong relationships with our patients. The ability to choose who to trust for your dental care is important, and you should not have to feel hindered by the limitations of your insurance provider. If you have specific concerns about your coverage, we would be happy to see you for a free initial consultation to answer your questions.

Stiles Dentistry at the Kentlands Day

Last Saturday, May 1st, the Stiles Dentistry team participated in the Second Annual Kentlands day, a special community event which included a parade, carnival, great food, and much more. A portion of the proceeds from this event benefit the Kentlands Community Foundation, a non-profit organization focusing on educational, outreach, and cultural arts in the Kentlands and Gaithersburg. Dr. Dennis Stiles is on the Kentlands Foundation Board and is currently serving as Vice President.

At the Stiles Dentistry booth, we held a contest where participants answered trivia questions and spun a prize wheel to win dental prizes. We've posted a few photos on our Facebook page, which you can check out here. Did you get a chance to attend the Kentlands day last weekend and stop by our booth?

Access your account—any day, any time—at Stiles Dentistry

Access to your account, 24/7. Sounds convenient, doesn’t it?

Patients at our office enjoy access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our web site. You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, all from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages! Just see what some of our patients are saying about this innovative service:

I wanted to check on our balance, and it popped up quickly as well as our next appointments. Thank you. ~ Jean M.

I haven't even visited for my first time yet and I already love how much info I can access on my own. Coolest site ever (and the reason I called this dentist as opposed to the other 3 in my neighborhood). ~ Stevie P.

Just the email reminders alone is a wonderful service. ~ Mark Z.

This is the first time I have had this kind of service from a health professional. It seems like a great idea! ~ Phyllis P.

You, too, may sign up for this convenient service on our web site by clicking on the "Patient Login" button on our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions about getting started!

--Drs. Dennis & Marie Stiles, Dentistry in Gaithersburg MD

The importance of mouth guards, from Stiles Dentistry

April is National Facial Protection Month, and with summer rapidly approaching, the team at Stiles Dentistry understands the importance of being outside. So this week we wanted to talk about mouth guards, what they are, when to use them, the works. If you have any additional questions, give us a call! We'd love to hear from you!

Q: What are athletic mouth protectors?

A: Athletic mouth protectors, or mouth guards, are made of soft plastic. They are adapted to fit comfortably to the shape of the upper teeth.

Q: Why are mouth guards important?

A: Mouth guards hold top priority as sports equipment. They protect not just the teeth, but the lips, cheeks, and tongue. They help protect athletes from such head and neck injuries as concussions and jaw fractures. Increasingly, organized sports are requiring mouth guards to prevent injury to their athletes. Research shows that most oral injuries occur when athletes are not wearing mouth protection.

Q: When should I wear a mouth guard?

A: Whenever you are in an activity with a risk of falls or of head contact with other players or equipment. This includes football, baseball, basketball, soccer, hockey, skateboarding, even gymnastics. We usually think of football and hockey as the most dangerous to the teeth, but nearly half of sports-related mouth injuries occur in basketball and baseball.

Q: How do I choose a mouth guard?

A: Any mouth guard works better than no mouth guard. So, choose a mouth guard that you can wear comfortably. You can select from several options in mouth guards. First, preformed or "boil-to-fit" mouth guards are found in sports stores. Different types and brands vary in terms of comfort, protection, and cost. Second, we can fabricate a custom mouthguard for you, and even a performance enhancing one from Under Armor. A custom mouthguard will be more comfortable to wear, and more effective in preventing injuries. Call us at 240-252-1032 if you have any other questions!

-Drs. Dennis & Marie Stiles, dentistry in Gaithersburg, MD

Drs. Dennis & Marie Stiles Teaching at the University of Maryland Dental School

Did you know that both Drs. Dennis & Marie Stiles volunteer to teach at the University of Maryland Dental School? Every Friday morning, they travel to Baltimore to teach students on a variety of topics. Dr. Marie teaches in the EPOD department, which stands for Endontics (focusing on the tooth pulp and the tissues surrounding the root of a tooth), Prosthodontics (specialized in cosmetic changes and restoration of missing or deficient teeth), and Operative dentistry. She teaches the students in the 3rd and 4th years at the university.

Dr. Dennis Stiles teaches in the AEGD department, standing for the Advanced Education General Dentistry department. Dr. Stiles works specifically with graduate students, teaching some of the more advanced concepts in dentistry.

At Stiles Dentistry, besides providing quality dental care to our patients, we believe it important to give back to our communities, both in Gaithersburg, and in the dental community itself.

IV Sedation Dentistry in Gaithersburg, MD - Stiles Dentistry

While we strive to offer a comfortable experience for all our patients at Stiles Dentistry, we realize that fear or anxiety while visiting the dentist can affect some patients regardless. For patients who need extra comfort and relaxation during their dental visit, we are pleased to offer IV sedation. Dr. Marie Stiles is one of the few dentists in the entire state of Maryland licensed to perform IV sedation, which provides a deeper and more complete relaxation state than the more common oral medications.

If you choose to complete treatment with IV sedation, you can rest assured that you are in good hands with Stiles Dentistry! Both Drs. Dennis & Marie Stiles will be working with you through the entire process, with Dr. Marie monitoring the sedation while Dr. Dennis preforms the dental procedure itself. We are able to complete many different procedures, including complex smile makeovers, in just one office visit and with the most comfort for our patients.

Important things to remember about sedation dentistry:

-- Sedation dentistry is not the same as being unconscious-- you will be responsive and conscious throughout the entire procedure, but in a deeply relaxed state.

-- Because the sedation takes some time to wear off completely, it is important for you to have a friend or family member with you to transport you to and from our office safely.

-- IV Sedation is not the same as oral sedative medications. Most patients will not feel anything, and will remember little from the actual procedure. Call Drs. Stiles at 240-252-1032 to learn the specific differences, and which treatment is best for your needs.

--IV sedation dentistry is a safe, effective way to overcome dental fears or anxiety for patients of any age. Ask us about sedation dentistry during your next visit. We will take the time to explain the differences and help you decide if IV sedation is your best option.

There is additional information about sedation dentistry on our web site. We've also interviewed one of our patients on his experience with sedation dentistry at our office, check it out below!




Hope this helps!

--Drs. Dennis & Marie Stiles, Gaithersburg, MD

Laser Periodontal Care at Stiles Dentistry

We are introducing a new technology to Stiles Dentistry for periodontal care, the Odyssey Navigator soft tissue laser. With this laser, we are able to complete soft tissue procedures with precision and comfort for our patients. We can use it for a variety of purposes at our office, and we are excited to have such aN effective new technology available to our patients!

At your next appointment, be sure to ask us about this technology, or any other innovations that we have incorporated at our practice!

Hope every had a happy St. Patrick's Day!

-Stiles Dentistry of Gaithersburg, MD

Continuing Education in Esthetic Dentistry

Last Friday, Drs. Dennis and Marie Stiles, along with clinical assistant Steve attended a David Hornbrook esthetic dentistry seminar. David is a world renowned dentist and researcher, and hosts many clinical training seminars around the world.

David's seminars are unique because they allow hands-on training to master complex cases. Continuing education courses like these are an important part of providing the best treatment possible at Stiles Dentistry. Together, the doctors spend over 100 hours a year on continuing education!

Under Armor Performance Mouthwear Now Available at Stiles Dentistry

Stiles Dentistry has been recently certified as an Under Armor dental provider, and can now offer the exclusive Under Armor Performance Mouthwear line.

So what is the difference between a regular mouthguard and one of the UA Performance Mouthpieces? Several studies have concluded that teeth clenching, a common reflex during athletic activities, can release hormones that hurt your overall performance. By using an Under Armor Performance mouthpiece, you not only protect your teeth, but you perform better!

Under Armor has developed several different types of performance mouthpieces for sports ranging from contact sports like football and hockey to gymnastics, golf and tennis. You can learn more about the benefits of each mouthpiece on the Under Armor web site.

Give us a call at 240-252-1032 to schedule an appointment. We will first take an impression of your teeth, and then send it to a lab for fabrication. Once the completed mouthpiece has arrived at our office we will schedule a final fitting.

The Chicago Midwinter Meeting

This weekend, Dr. Dennis Stiles is in Chicago for the 145th annual Chicago Dental Society Midwinter Meeting, from February 25th to 27th. The Midwinter meeting is one of the largest dental exhibitions in the United States, and highlights the latest and greatest technologies in dentistry, along with plenty of continuing education courses. Dr Stiles is also in town for the American Equilibration Society (focused on TMJ and bite problems) and the Restorative Academy.

Yesterday, Dr. Stiles was also elected as the president of the American Prosthodontic Society Foundation. The APS mission statement is: To promote the advancement of the discipline of prosthodontics by integrating the generalist, specialist and dental laboratory technologist in a manner that will continuously seek improvement of patient treatment. We will accomplish this through education and research. Congratulations Dr. Stiles!

You can learn more about the Chicago Dental Society on their web site. You can also search for updates from the conference by searching #cds10 on Twitter! We will also be posting photos later, so check back soon.

Sleep Apnea: Risks and Treatment Options in Gaithersburg, MD

Sleep disorders are fairly common, with around 50 to 70 million Americans being affected by some type chronic sleep disorder, and some of these progressing to Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), which can cause loss of sleep among many other health problems. Snoring is one of the most easily identified symptoms, and as it worsens it can lead to full airway blockage while you sleep, which can severely disrupt your sleep patterns.

Sleep apnea is considered a serious medical problem that if left untreated can lead to high blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart failure and stroke. It can also take a toll on your overall energy level, as sleep apnea causes an ongoing state of fatigue.

There are several different approaches to sleep apnea treatment, including:

• Surgery to the jaws or airway tissue to open the airway. This is typically only used in the most severe cases.
• Continuous airway pressure therapy which involves a mask and machine (CPAP machine) to keep your throat muscles and tissue open while sleeping
• Oral appliance therapy, a less intrusive method involving a customized oral device that positions your jaw in a favorable position to keep your airway open while you sleep. Video: Dr. Stiles explains how a sleep apnea appliance works

If you suspect that you may suffer from a sleep disorder or sleep apnea, give us a call at 240-252-1032 and we can refer you to a sleep apnea specialist. Depending on your situation, treatment may involve an oral device that we can custom-create for you.

Pleasant and Professional Treatment at Stiles Dentistry, A Video Testimonial

If you've been in for an appointment in the past few months, then you know we have been interviewing patients about their experience at our office. In this video, one of our patients describes the restorative dental work that we were able to help her with. We are always pleased to hear the kind words our patients have to say about Stiles Dentistry.

We hope you have been staying warm and safe through the wild weather lately! Head to our Facebook Fan Page and check out the photos we took of the office with 30 inches of snow!

The Oral Systemic Connection

Brushing, flossing, and regular visits to our office are all key factors in maintaining a healthy mouth, but did you know that oral health also has an effect on your overall bodily health?

It’s called the Oral Systemic Connection, and it’s the idea that the health of your teeth and gums can have a significant effect on the rest of your body. Your mouth is full of bacteria, some good, and some harmful. As we illustrated in our blog last week, some types of bacteria can cause cavities, gingivitis, and even periodontal disease. Without proper oral care and hygiene, these harmful types of bacteria can then enter your blood stream through inflamed gums, inhaling through the mouth, and even through saliva.

In recent years, gum disease has been linked to a number of health problems. Researchers are studying possible connections between gum disease and:

--Heart disease: Gum disease may increase the risk of heart disease. Gum disease also is believed to worsen existing heart disease.
--Stroke: Gum disease may increase the risk of the type of stroke caused by blocked arteries
--Diabetes: People with diabetes and periodontal disease may be more likely to have trouble controlling their blood sugar than diabetics with healthy gums.
--Premature births: A woman who has gum diseases during pregnancy may be more likely deliver her baby too early and the infant may be more likely to be of low birth weight.

Mild cases of gingivitis are very common in Americans, and symptoms may include the following:
--redness or bleeding of gums while brushing teeth or using dental floss
--halitosis, or bad breath
--gum recession, resulting in apparent lengthening of teeth
--"pockets" between the teeth and gums indicating that the bone which holds the teeth in the mouth is dissolving
--loose teeth

Gum inflammation is often painless, causing people to wrongly assume that painless bleeding after teeth cleaning is insignificant, although this may be a symptom of progressing periodontal disease. Both Drs. Dennis & Marie Stiles are experts in identifying and treating periodontal disease. Call us today to schedule an appointment to improve your oral health and your overall health too!

CariFree: Fight Tooth Decay the Easy Way

Even if you brush and floss everyday, chances are that you've had a cavity or two sometime in your life. At Stiles Dentistry we are able to treat and fill your existing cavities, but more importantly, we are also able to help you prevent future cavities!

A caries infection is the term for the bacterial infection which causes cavities. When these acidic bacteria replace the normal, healthy bacteria in your mouth, they can create demineralized holes in your teeth, commonly known as cavities. The risk of a cavity is increased by prolonged exposure to this bacteria, such as eating a sour or sweet candies without rinsing out all the acidic bacteria in your mouth afterward.

Sometimes brushing and flossing are not enough, because they do not change the acidity level in your mouth to get rid of the infection once it starts. This is why we offer the CariFree line of products. These products, ranging from oral gels, rinses and chewing gum, are a great way of helping to prevent a caries infection by neutralizing the acidic bacteria in your mouth.

At your next appointment, ask us about CariFree products, and how they can help you prevent cavities before they start!

A Lifelong Patient at Stiles Dentistry

At Stiles Dentistry we welcome new patients, and look forward to building a life-long relationship with you! In this video, one of our patients describes his many years of dental care with Drs. Stiles, and whether you are in for a checkup or need urgent dental care, we are here for you!

Call us today to schedule an appointment! 240-252-1032

Dental Team Workshop

Part of our efforts to offer the best possible general and cosmetic dental care to patients is to keep up with the latest trends and advancements in the field. Recently the Stiles Dentistry team went to Chicago for a dental team workshop. The photo above shows the team with seminar leader Dr. Bill Blatchford.

We are always posting new photos, videos and news on this blog and our other social networks, so be sure to check back often to get the inside scoop from Stiles Dentistry!

A New Year, a New Smile

When choosing your new year's resolution, consider making your dental health a priority for 2010. Whether it is as simple as a cleaning and checkup every six months, or a complete smile makeover, we at Stiles Dentistry are here to help!

Even if you brush and floss every day, visiting us regularly is important to maintaining and improving your long term dental health. We can identify and treat problems that you may not have noticed, and can advise you on how to better care for your teeth on a daily basis.

Besides all of that, we can help your smile look its best with Invisalign, Zoom Teeth Whitening, Lumineers, and other cosmetic options.