Dr. Shannon Gardner, DMD

Dr. Shannon Gardner, DMD is a Preventive Dentistry practitioner dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive Preventive Dental care. As a partner in preventive health featured on weprevent.org, she practices at her clinic in Sarasota, FL, and is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine, practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Her commitment to preventive care extends beyond individual teeth; she recognizes the crucial link between oral and systemic health, and she is committed to building a supportive, collaborative environment for her patients.

General Preventive Dentistry serves as your primary partner in lifelong oral health, creating personalized plans to prevent cavities and gum disease, coordinating necessary screenings, and managing your overall wellness to ensure optimal oral and systemic health. Dr. Shannon DMD understands the importance of early intervention and proactively works to maintain healthy gums and teeth, addressing potential issues before they escalate. She serves all ages, and patients should call (941) 444-6640 to confirm if she is currently accepting new patients.

Dr. Shannon Gardner, DMD is a dentistry practitioner in Sarasota, FL, committed to a collaborative, evidence-based approach to medicine. Her practice emphasizes empowering patients to take an active role in their long-term health, fostering a supportive environment where questions are encouraged and proactive measures are prioritized. Dr. Shannon DMD provides consultations primarily in English.

A key part of the WePrevent mission is building your personalized prevention roadmap. Dr. Shannon DMD is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on proactive strategies to protect and enhance your long-term health.

By working together, you and Dr. Shannon DMD can create a clear, actionable plan to address your unique risk factors and health goals.

A proactive approach to health involves understanding and managing potential risks. Dr. Shannon DMD provides expert care for a range of conditions, focusing on early detection and effective management to support your long-term wellness. Common areas of focus include:

• Cherubism: Cherubism is a rare genetic condition that causes swelling of the jawbones, and early diagnosis helps manage potential complications like difficulty chewing, speaking, or breathing.
• Tooth and Nail Syndrome: Tooth and Nail Syndrome, while rare, highlights the importance of regular dental checkups to catch any underlying conditions early, preventing potential complications.
• Open Bite: An open bite can affect your bite and jaw function, increasing the risk of wearing down your teeth prematurely, so early identification and treatment through preventive dentistry is vital.
• Tooth Malformation: Addressing tooth malformation proactively through dental interventions can prevent future issues such as increased susceptibility to decay, gum disease, and jaw pain, underscoring the importance of managing risk factors.
• Protruding Front Teeth: Protruding front teeth, if left unaddressed, can increase your risk of chipping or injury, highlighting the importance of early assessment and preventative measures.
• Treacher Collins Syndrome: Managing Treacher Collins Syndrome often involves proactive dental care, including specialized treatments and preventative measures to minimize the risk of cavities and gum disease.
• Sensitive Teeth: Protecting your teeth from sensitivity is key to preserving their long-term health and preventing the need for extensive dental work.

This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes only. The best way to understand your personal health and create a prevention plan is to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Taking proactive steps is central to long-term health. Dr. Shannon DMD offers a range of key preventive screenings and services designed to provide crucial insights into your health and support your well-being:

• Gum Graft Surgery: Take a proactive step towards preventing gum disease and tooth loss with gum graft surgery, which restores gum tissue to protect your teeth.
• Facebow Headgear: To ensure your bite is properly aligned, a facebow helps your dentist create accurate models for treatments, preventing discomfort and improving the longevity of your dental work.
• Dental X-Ray: Invest in your long-term oral health with a simple dental X-ray. This safe imaging procedure is key to early detection of hidden issues, helping your dentist provide preventative care and protect your overall well-being.
• ViziLite® Plus: ViziLite® Plus is a special light that helps your dentist detect abnormal areas in your mouth that may indicate oral cancer or precancerous lesions, allowing for early intervention.
• Tooth-Conserving Dentistry: Protecting your natural teeth is key to your overall health, and tooth-conserving dentistry provides the necessary preventive and restorative care to achieve that.
• Nobel Teeth in an Hour™: Invest in your oral health with a rapid check-up that helps spot early signs of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
• Digital Tomography: For comprehensive oral health assessment, digital tomography provides detailed images to help your dentist accurately diagnose and treat conditions affecting your teeth, gums, and jawbone.

Service availability can change, and not all services listed may be appropriate for every patient. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services and to create your personalized screening plan, please schedule a consultation.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Preventive Dentistry Services in Florida.

Dr. Shannon DMD is dedicated to partnering with Dental Caregivers to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how a proactive approach can make a tangible difference in a Patient's life:

• A family was relieved to learn that early detection of potential cherubism issues, guided by a proactive dental plan, allowed them to manage any future complications and maintain a healthy, happy lifestyle. By focusing on preventive care, they ensured a positive outlook for their child's oral and overall well-being.
• By attending regular dental checkups, a patient proactively managed potential issues, reducing the risk of complications associated with Tooth and Nail Syndrome and gaining peace of mind.
• By proactively addressing potential open bite issues through regular checkups and guidance, a patient ensured their smile and jaw function remained healthy, reducing the risk of future dental problems.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results may vary and depend on many factors specific to each patient. She will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.

Here are answers to some common questions about proactive Preventive Dental care with Dr. Shannon DMD:

How often should I visit the dentist for a check-up and cleaning?

Dr. Shannon DMD recommends visiting the dentist and dental hygienist every six months for a checkup and cleaning. This schedule is crucial for removing tartar buildup that brushing can't, catching cavities early, and screening for gum disease and oral cancer.

Why are routine dental cleanings so important for prevention?

Even with excellent brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar that only a professional cleaning can remove. This is crucial for preventing cavities and, importantly, gum disease, which is linked to other health problems.

How is oral health connected to my overall health?

Oral health is intrinsically linked to overall health. Chronic gum inflammation (periodontitis) has been associated with an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and poorly controlled diabetes. Preventive dental care is essential for maintaining optimal body health.

Do you perform oral cancer screenings?

Yes, oral cancer screenings are a routine and important part of every dental check-up. Dr. Shannon will visually inspect the lips, tongue, gums, and entire mouth for any abnormalities, as early detection is key to successful treatment.

How can I whiten my teeth safely?

The safest and most effective way to whiten your teeth is under professional supervision. Dr. Shannon DMD can assess your oral health to ensure you're a good candidate and offer professional-grade treatments, like custom trays or in-office procedures, for better and safer results than over-the-counter products.

What is TMJ disorder?

TMJ disorder is a condition affecting the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. Common symptoms include jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds, and headaches. Dr. Shannon can help diagnose the issue and recommend treatments like a custom nightguard to prevent damage from grinding.

What is the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis?

Gingivitis is an early, reversible stage of gum disease characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed easily. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more serious stage where the bone supporting your teeth is damaged, potentially leading to tooth loss.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are the modern gold standard for replacing missing teeth. They are titanium posts that act like artificial tooth roots, which are then topped with a natural-looking crown. This helps prevent bone loss and preserves the health of adjacent teeth.

1058 N Tamiami Trl
Sarasota FL 34236
Phone: (941) 444-6640

Dr. Shannon Gardner, DMD is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1508153735

Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.

The information on this profile, provided by weprevent.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with preventive health partners. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Preventive Dentistry Services like Dr. Shannon DMD are skilled in helping patients create proactive health plans. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your preventive dentistry about all aspects of your health and your personalized prevention plan.