Smith Family Dentistry Wv: J. Christopher Smith Dds Pllc

Smith Family Dentistry WV: J. Christopher Smith DDS PLLC - General dentist in Charleston, WV
1501 7th Ave, Charleston, WV 25387
Closed today
Opens Monday at 8:00am
SundayClosed
Monday8:00am - 5:00pm
Tuesday8:00am - 5:00pm
Wednesday8:00am - 5:00pm
Thursday8:00am - 5:00pm
Friday8:00am - 12:00pm
SaturdayClosed

Smith Family Dentistry is a family dentistry for more reasons than onenot only do we serve whole families, with expertise in both child and adult dental care, but we are also a family-run dentistry, with a long history as dentists in Charleston. Three generations of the Smith family have devoted their lives to taking care of peoples teeth, and after all those years of dental care we have still held to the same principles: top rate, comprehensive dental services, at a price you can afford. Whether you are looking for a cosmetic dentist in Charleston, the Smith family can help take care of your teeth with professionalism and efficacy, and in a welcoming environment!

Born in Morgantown, West Virginia and raised in Charleston, Dr. J. Christopher Smith is a third generation dentist, following his father Dr. Richard Duff Smith and his grandfather Dr. Ralph S. Smith. Chris earned his bachelors degree in food science technology from Virginia Tech in 1997 and later completed his dental degree at West Virginia University School of Dentistry in 2001. He has been a long time member of the American Dental Association, Kanawha Valley Dental Society, Academy of Operative Dentistry, Charleston Dental Study Club, International College of Dentists, and the West Virginia Dental Association, of which he is the president.

The oldest major honorary organization for dentists, The American College of Dentists, recently inducted Chris as a fellow, attesting to his outstanding leadership and exceptional contributions to dentistry and society.

When he is not being a dentist in Charleston, Chris spends his free time fishing, traveling, playing golf and skiing. Chris wife Sarah is a dental hygienist, and together they have two lovely children.

Born in Charleston, West Virginia, Dr. Richard Duff Smith is a second generation dentist, son to Dr. Ralph S. Smith and a graduate of Virginia Tech. He completed dental school at the University of Maryland and a masters in anatomy at West Virginia University. He joined his late fathers practice in 1977 and has been a dentist in Charleston ever since. Dr. Smith is a member of the American Dental Association, West Virginia Dental Association, Kanawha Valley Dental Society, International College of Dentists, Academy of Operative Dentistry as well as the American College of Dentists. Dr. Smith and his wife Kathy have three sons, the eldest being Dr. J Christopher Smith. When hes not practicing cosmetic dentistry in Charleston he loves visiting his four delightful grandchildren.

At Smith Family Dentistry, our mission is to provide comprehensive, high-quality dental care to the families of Charleston, West Virginia. Much of our work focuses on keeping the teeth healthy and preventing or treating dental decay but we also provide treatment for other related conditions, like dry mouth. Chronic dry mouth, also called xerostomia, is more than just an irritation. It may signify an underlying dental problem. That's why we're here to help you treat it.

We all suffer from a dry mouth occasionally, whether form dehydration, stress, or normal fluctuation in saliva production. But when dry mouth persists, it's called xerostomia, and it's a cause for concern.

Normally, the salivary glands produce saliva to keep the mouth moist. But if those glands stop functioning properly and don't secrete enough saliva, the mouth can feel dry. This is more than just a mild annoyance. Chronic dry mouth can have a variety of repercussions, including:

  • Medications: Without a doubt, medication is the most common cause of dry mouth. Over 500 medications can have dry mouth as a side effect, including both over the counter and prescription drugs. Anything from antihistamines to diuretics and antidepressants can cause dry mouth, and dry mouth is also a common side effect of chemotherapy drugs.
  • Radiation Therapy: If you're getting radiation therapy treatment for cancer or another condition, this may also cause dry mouth. If the treatment involves irradiating the head and neck, it may damage salivary glands and cause dry mouth.
  • Disease: Some diseases like Sjgren's syndrome, an autoimmune disease where the body attacks moisture-producing glands, can cause dry mouth. Other conditions like Parkinson's, cystic fibrosis, diabetes, or AIDS can also cause dry mouth.
  • If your dry mouth is caused by a medication or medical condition, talk with your doctor about ways to manage the side effects. In addition, there are several at-home remedies you can try to get relief from dry mouth:

  • Drinking Frequently: Sipping on tap water or other non-acidic, sugar-free beverages is a great way to control dry mouth. This is especially true during meals, which can often be when dry mouth is at its worst.
  • Sugarless Gum: Chewing gum stimulates salivary flow, so chewing a piece of sugar-free gum can help to alleviate dry mouth. It's important that the gum uses xylitol instead of sugar, as sugar can cause tooth decay.
  • Avoid Certain Foods or Beverages: Any dry or dehydrated food can make dry mouth worse, as can acidic, alcoholic, or caffeinated drink. You also may want to avoid spicy foods, as these can inflame xerostomia. Avoid Smoking: Smoking dries out the mouth and can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease, so it's best to avoid smoking if you suffer from xerostomia.
  • Synthetic Saliva: Some over-the-counter and prescription products can work to replace or stimulate salivary production. Talk with us about you symptoms and we can provide recommendations on what to look for.
  • If you have a missing tooth (or missing teeth), you may feel like a beautiful smile is permanently out of reach. However, when you come to your cosmetic dentist in Charleston, WV, our entire team here at Smith Family Dentistry can help you restore your smile. While there are many different options for tooth replacement, you wont find a more efficient solution. If youre unfamiliar with dental implants, wed like to take the time to explain more about them by answering some of these frequently asked questions.

    A dental implant is a small, titanium post thats inserted into a patients jawbone in order to replace the roots of a missing tooth. It requires a minor surgical procedure for it to be placed and after it has properly fused with the jawbone, a lifelike porcelain crown will be attached to it. In many cases, itll take several months for the implant to fuse with the jawbone so until that occurs, youll have to wear a temporary crown on the implant that will be placed on the day of the surgery.

    Not only can you get a dental implant to replace a singular tooth, but you can use them to replace multiple teeth and even all of your teeth as well. You wont even need to get a dental implant for each tooth you replace either; as few as two implants can support a removable lower denture while as few as four implants can provide a permanent set of either top or bottom teeth.

    Thankfully, most people find it very easy to tolerate dental implant surgery. If you have any discomfort after the operation is over, you can typically manage it by using ice or over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication and pain relievers.

    While our Charleston, WV dental implants may be more expensive than other methods of tooth replacement, they offer the most efficient long-term solution. Theyre much more durable and last many years longer than other tooth replacement options, making them a terrific investment in your future health, comfort, and well-being.

    One of the great things about dental implants is that they require the exact same care as the rest of your teeth. While dental implants wont decay, the gum tissues around them can become inflamed or infected. Just make sure to brush your teeth twice per day, floss daily, and visit your dentist in Charleston, WV once every six months to keep them in optimal shape. If you properly care for your dental implants, they can last a lifetime!

    No, implants cant be rejected because they dont contain living cells or genetically coded material. A dental implants titanium is completely biocompatible and any allergies to it are incredibly rare. However, an implant can fail to integrate with the jawbone if good oral hygiene isnt maintained and an infection develops or if its subjected to strong biting forces too soon. With that being said, a dental implant failing is very rare; implants have shown to succeed in over 95 percent of all cases.

    Reviews

    Rating 4.9 out of 5 based on 94 reviews

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    Anna Pennington
    a year ago
    After recently moving back to Charleston, Smith Family Dentistry was recommended to me by a trusted friend and I was not disappointed. The level of care is top notch and I could not be more pleased with the thoroughness and quality of care I received. I was met with a professional and friendly atmosphere from the moment I walked in the door. Smith Family Dentistry goes above and beyond to make your visit comfortable. I would highly recommend Dr. Smith and his team.


    Justin Ash
    a year ago
    My wife and myself, along with our 4 children have been going to Dr. Smith for 3 years now. They have the best service and staff. My kids love going to the dentist since starting here.


    Finny Wiggen
    2 years ago
    I just have to say... and I'm honestly surprised I haven't left a review in the past, how much our family absolutely adores the amazing people at Smith Family Dentistry. From office staff to dentists to hygenists, everyone is just fantastic. My son Oliver is on the spectrum, and has a very difficult time with noises, stress, and people in general. This is not a problem here though which I can't even begin to tell you what a miracle that is. Dr. Smith's wife has become his best bud, and just interacts with him in a way that I have seen very few able to do. He smiles for her, and laughs, and let's her work on him. Dr. Smith (the younger...) is professional, good with kids, and thourough. Dr. Smith (Senior) is hard not to love, because he is just so personable. Susan and Amy in the office are so easy to work with, and always go above and beyond for our family. We have been going here for the past three years, since moving into the community. They have worked on all of our children, as well as my wife and myself. They are just absolutely the best. Highly reccommended!


    Patricia Stevens
    2 years ago
    Excellent dentistry. Friendly and accommodating staff. Modern and clean office. Plenty of parking. What more could one ask?


    George Chapman
    2 years ago
    The team at smith family dentistry are GREAT, do an excellent job and always take good care of me and are very sweet . Dr Chris is very thorough and cares about my satisfaction and the best decisions for my dental health!!


    Jennifer Cajohn
    2 years ago
    Could not be happier with the services provided by Smith Family Dentistry! They provide a ton of information and options. I am receiving care and treatment that will result in complete oral health. Thank you to Dr. Chris Smith and Sarah Smith!


    Angela L. Janic
    2 years ago
    Worst dental experience ever. He has a condescending tone/attitude and the cost for a simple consultation was $175! DO NOT RECOMMEND. Giving one star because it won't let me give none.


    artster 100
    2 years ago
    Over 9 years now I have always been meet with cheerful, caring and professional staff at Smith Family Dentistry. Though teeth cleaning is still not my favorite activity, the Dentists and Dental Hygienists are highly skilled and makes the process less painful. I would say almost enjoyable.


    Richard and Karen Seabolt
    2 years ago
    The staff is great, Dr. Smith is great. Im a big chicken and everyone has been wonderful. Absolutely recommend.


    Kristina Betts
    2 years ago
    I love the family friendly staff and they take care of you. They work around your schedule and what is convenient for you to some in and see them thanks for being there for my family and I.


    Jason Crowder
    2 years ago
    Glad to have found this dentist. After our child's dentist stopped taking our insurance, we called them and immediately got him in. Many other offices were full until Spring of 2022. After the first visit, I decided to switch us all. Very friendly staff, knowledgeable, and willing to take time to make a patient understand the procedures. Definitely a great office for the entire family.


    Brian Humphreys
    2 years ago
    Excellent service, friendly staff, super clean and modern facility and office. They are great at explaining the procedures, showing the reasons why work may need done, communicating about costs before proceeding with treatments and schedules, and I'm grateful to have followed a referral here!


    Catherine Pierce
    2 years ago
    This place is a wonderful place to go because they are the kindest people in the world. I thank them for everything they have done for me.


    Makayla Cool
    2 years ago
    All of the staff are absolutely lovely! Very kind and understanding! I'm so glad I chose to come here! Most definitely recommend! Especially if you have any anxiety towards getting dental work! The staff is very thorough and takes the time to make sure that you understand all of your options and your treatment plan.


    TangibleTyler
    2 years ago
    From walking in the door, I was greeted very nicely and professionally. As a new client, the paper work was very straight forward and easy to complete. I arrived at my appointment 30 minutes early and no more than filled out my forms, when I was called in for my exam (early). All of the employees were wearing masks and gloves. The facility was very clean and sanitized. Sarah was very nice and great at explaining step by step what was going to happen in the exam room. She was very gentle and never once did I feel the slightest pain. Dr. Smith arrived promptly in the room as soon as Sarah was finished and he was very honest and catered to my thoughts. I will be back again and again! Highly recommend Smith & Smith dentistry. They are top notch!


    Tiara Woods
    2 years ago
    Drs Chris and the Smith dentistry family are great. I know when I come here my children and I are in good hands. My daughter loves the "no cativity of the month" contest. It's helped cutting out candy


    JAMES MURRAY
    2 years ago
    Very professional. I've been a patient my whole life. Highly recommend.


    Adola Miller
    2 years ago
    Love this dentist office. I have been going here for 30+ years. They are friendly, helpful and AWESOME.


    Morgan Robinson
    2 years ago
    In the past I have had major anxiety about dental visits and am always apprehensive and nervous prior to an appointment. Dr. Smith and the entire staff make a visit stress free, comfortable, and even FUN! Dr. Smith takes his time to truly explain everything he is doing and why he is doing it, and goes out of his way to ensure that you're comfortable with the procedure. I actually look forward to visits now instead of dreading them as I did previously with other dentists. I highly recommend Smith Family Dentistry. Not only are they a family run practice, they make you feel like part of the family as well.


    Nancy Atkins
    2 years ago
    My cleaning today was one of the best cleanings I've had. No discomfort, relaxed atmosphere and Cassie was excellent. Dentist, Dr Richard explained everything thoroughly and I felt like a partner in my care, an important aspect for me. I highly recommend this practice if you want a clean, comfortable atmosphere with great professionals for your dental care!


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