Your Smile Matters Podcast

What's cooler than working in your pajamas, latte in hand in the comfort of your own home?  Talking to your dentist OF COURSE!! Total no brainer. We can all thank COVID for making this  growing trend.  In all seriousness...COVID sucks. But one of the things it did right was force us to adapt and change how we do business with you, in a safer more responsible manner.  In today's episode I talk about the virtual consultation trend in dentistry and how it impacts you and your care.  Enjoy the episode!

I'm sure that you're thinking - “What is so different about this guy? Why does he keep talking about this Smile Solutions Experience?” Allow me to defog your view and delve into what makes this experience so special.  In a nutshell, I explain how we make the process easier for you - whether you're local or from out of town.  We've looked into every barrier that would prevent you from taking the step to get a smile that makes you want to laugh out loud in every photo, and makes others around you wonder what kind of happy pills you're on that's causing you to smile EXCESSIVELY! Check out this episode and always please feel free to share with anyone you think would benefit from this information! If you have any questions about the Smile Solutions Experience, please do not hesitate to reach out. Learn More: www.smilesolutionsofbaltimore.com

Have you experienced?: Cracked teeth Broken teeth Muscle/Jaw pain or headaches Tooth wear or shortening These are all signs of Chronic Tooth Degradation.  Chronic Tooth Degradation is basically tooth wear that is slow.  Like Diabetes, Heart conditions and several other diseases, chronic tooth degradation is insidious in that it may be happening yet you're not aware of it. Oftentimes, it may go undetected if your dentist is not trained to see the signs. In this episode I discuss how it happens, how we can fix it and what the long term unfortunate consequences may be for you if left untreated. Listen to this episode to catch some important information that could help you if you are experiencing problems with tooth wear or fracturing teeth. Visit Our Website: https://www.smilesolutionsofbaltimore.com

I never believe that it's the smile transformation itself that causes a change for you. The cosmetic change is simply a catalyst...it opens up doors and possibilities that were always  available to you, yet not seen.  In today's episode I talk about an incredible email that I received from a client who just completed her cosmetic treatment. Her email was a beautiful message that reminded me why I love to do what I do. If my skills can help you become the person you need to be, to get what you so fervently desire in this life...consider it my pleasure to help you get there. Visit Our Website: https://www.smilesolutionsofbaltimore.com

I can't completely relate to you. Here's why.  I grew up in a middle class family in Selinsgrove, PA. I was fortunate enough to have a great mom (she passed away November 2018). Because of her love and care, I received excellent dental care.  My teeth were crowded and had a funny shape. So I got braces.  The day my orthodontist removed my braces, my mom took me to our dentist. To improve the shape of my teeth and close some gaps, my doc did some amazing cosmetic work that holds up to this day. I can remember that day vividly. By the end of the experience, I felt like a different person. I was smiling, confident and happy. Thanks mom.  The reason I say that I can't completely relate to you is because the investment was done on my parent's part. They spent the time and money making sure I got what I needed to have a healthy happy smile. If you're reading this, I'm assuming that you are on the hook financially to make this impactful decision.  Although I can share how cosmetic treatment has changed my confidence and life, I can't talk to you about how it was worth it, if I didn't make the time commitment or financial investment.  That's why it's important that I share my patient's stories with you. Because the reality is that aside from feeling happy and confident afterwards, they can share that the investment was worth it.  Visit Our Website: https://www.smilesolutionsofbaltimore.com

When you villainize something that you secretly desire in your life, the less likely it is that you will get it.  For example, take someone you consider that has “the good life” i.e. they have: A Fancy car A Beautiful home Plenty of time off for vacations A marvelous social life Basically insert whatever envy worthy aspect of their lives that you can think of.  For instance, if you look at them with disdain for having a fancy car, you will not have one. Even if you reaalllllly want that black ‘67 Shelby GT...you're not going to get it if you have an attitude of “Must be nice” This is just one example of many.  In a nutshell, when you apply shame, disdain or negative feelings towards a desire… How can you expect to take the steps forward towards getting what it is that you want?  How can you be open to possibility? I've had one patient explain to me that she felt shame around fixing her smile. She would look at others who made the decision to get a smile makeover with judgement, while also wondering why it is that she wanted a change for herself. Why didn't she deserve a new smile? What makes one person worthy over another? It wasn't until she came face to face with her true desire and dissolved the shame that was open to creative ways and action steps to get what she wanted: A new smile that helped her become more carefree and able to connect with others around her.  Visit Our Website: https://www.smilesolutionsofbaltimore.com

Which of the following would you prefer? 1) Driving an old beater car with 175,417 miles on it that has bald tires, chipped paint, trouble starting in the cold and every time you take it in for maintenance it needs $500+ of work. Once a year, something major happens like a transmission or serpentine belt going out leaving you sitting in the middle of a busy intersection on a hot summer day. You need to ask a few fellow citizens to help you push your car off to the side of the road while you lower your head in embarrassment.  OR 2) Drive a brand new car that you take in for regular maintenance and oil changes that starts every time and NEVER leaves you stranded or breaks down. You need to ask yourself the same question when deciding to fix your dental problems now or later.  It's a lifestyle choice. Do you want predictability and peace of mind, albeit, with increased upfront investment? Or, do you want to save money up front and constantly be dealing with broken teeth, root canals, new decay, food traps and a smile you're not proud of? In this episode I give you my thoughts on this issue.  Enjoy! Visit Our Website: https://www.smilesolutionsofbaltimore.com

Are you squandering your greatest power as a human being? The power to choose is what distinguishes human beings from all other creatures.  You have the ability to envision a future and make choices that move that make that vision a reality. We've all had pivotal moments in our lives that we believe define us: Getting cheated on in high school. A close friend dying tragically. Your father moving out after a fight with your mother. Don't fool yourself into believing that these events in your life are the reason you don't have what you want.  The truth is… It's your fault.  Every moment since those “defining” events in your life has been an opportunity to make a different choice. To take back control of your thoughts, emotions and actions.  You can't blame events that happened 20 years ago for keeping you stuck in your current situation. It's time to take responsibility and grab the reins of your life by making CHOICES that move you closer to your vision for the future. No more excuses. No more lying to yourself. Take back control. Make a decision. It's your time. Enjoy the episode! Visit Our Website: https://www.smilesolutionsofbaltimore.com

Isn't it strange that out of all of the species created on the planet, we are the only ones that sabotage ourselves on the daily?  Let me give you a few examples: “I dont deserve this.” “I'm not worthy” or “I'm worthless.” “I can't do this.” “I'm not meant for greatness.” Do you think there is a cheetah out there that talks himself out of getting the best out of his life? DOUBT IT!! Same goes for you.  What you expect and what you think about is what you get aka Law of Attraction. So when you talk yourself out of what it is you want in your life, you are engaging in self sabotage. Not only that, when you are not fulfilling your wants and desires, you are stealing from others.  You heard that right! Because you are willingly withholding what it is that you could bring to yourself and others around who would benefit from your service or your example.  In this video I discuss ways in which you hold yourself back, without even realizing you're doing it. Visit Our Website: https://www.smilesolutionsofbaltimore.com

A new smile costs dough. What most people don't think about is the OPPORTUNITY COST of guarding their smile, lowered self-confidence, weak self-image, anxiety, embarrassment, diving out of photos and progressive destruction from tooth wear.  All things that can be helped immensely with the new smile I can provide with Integral Cosmetic Dentistry via The Smile Solutions Experience. In this episode I invite you to reframe your mindset around an investment in cosmetic dentistry. Enjoy the episode!

There's a responsible way to do cosmetic dentistry. And there's an irresponsible way to do cosmetic dentistry. In today's episode I discuss the difference between basic/ single tooth dentistry and comprehensive dentistry. I also talk about why it's important to know the difference, especially if you're seeking:  Cosmetic treatment Complete health - finding relationships between your bodily and oral health (e.g. detecting sleep apnea or the relationship between diabetes and periodontal disease) Solutions to jaw, muscle or joint pain A plan to prevent further fracturing/breakage or wear of teeth To concurrently fix all of your dental problems at once  Ways to slow down the damage from grinding or clenching Enjoy the episode! Visit Our Website: https://www.smilesolutionsofbaltimore.com  

Here's the truth. Plain and simple. The dental industry as it stands, leaves little room for relationship, trust and high quality care.  Like any business: Time = Money.  What does that look like in a traditional dental office? Negligible amount of time with the dentist Rushed appointments Superficial exams Problem/Emergency based treatment How do I know this? Because I've been there. And I hated it.  I hated that I had little time to talk to my patients and get to know more about their personal lives as well as their dental concerns.  Furthermore, I detested that I had invested time and money to boost my skills and knowledge...to then not be able to share or use what I had learned.  Finally, I came to a point where I made the choice to change my practice.  I choose to spend more time with my clients.  I choose to practice high quality treatment while ensuring that my patients are well taken care of.  In today's episode I discuss a recent experience with one of my clients. I talk about how my team and I answered all her questions and addressed her concerns. End result: a fantastic and easy experience for not only us, but also my patient.  Enjoy the episode! In your corner,  Dr. Jesse Ritter Visit My Website: https://www.smilesolutionsofbaltimore.com

If you've ever thought about changing your smile, you've probably asked yourself this very question “Do my teeth have to be hacked down?” I would be lying to you if this were not a concern. In the past dental materials and techniques were not as conservative as they are now. Oftentimes, natural tooth structure was sacrificed in order to get clients like you a more esthetic result.  The good news is that, like most industries, our materials and techniques are advancing. Going to a highly trained cosmetic dentist (like myself) will ensure that you're getting the most esthetic yet natural result...minus the unnecessary cutting away of your tooth structure.  In this episode I will explain the recent advancements in materials and techniques that allow me to provide you with a healthy, natural, beautiful smile.  By the end, this concern will be the last thing on your mind if you're considering an awesome change like this for yourself.  Enjoy!

Have you ever wondered what makes a smile attractive?  In today's episode, I will talk to you about the physical characteristics of your teeth that affect the appearance of your smile. Things like:  Tooth positioning Color Shape I guarantee this is an episode you don't want to miss. You'll learn so much about why you may love or dislike your smile.  Enjoy the episode! Learn More About The Smile Solutions Experience Here: https://virtual.smilesolutionsofbaltimore.com/experience Visit Our Website: https://www.smilesolutionsofbaltimore.com/

Ahhh...the coveted coffee bar. Hot beverages and treats galore all waiting for you as you sit in that cushy chair at your dental office. As you leave you will depart with a warm farewell, a scheduled appointment and goody bag in hand (toothbrushes and floss? YAY!)   These days, an experience like this is quite common and frankly, should be expected.   But, being the dreamer that I am, up-leveling our experience is a non-negotiable.   Check out the video above to hear me explain what makes us different!    Here's an example of my latest client's experience: Breakfast and lunch provided from a restaurant of her choice Private lounge with massage chair, fuzzy blankets, favorite candle scent and TV. Her choice of music playing in the background  Constant pampering from my stellar team A spa day complete with lunch, wine, massage, facial, mani and pedi An amazing custom gift basket based on her interests : Beach Bag, Red wine, gift card to her favorite restaurant, fancy skin care products, flowers, and a framed picture of her family For out of town clients, you can expect to stay at the Sagamore Pendry with transportation provided.  “But doc, am I paying for all of this?” Nope. We have built relationships and found creative ways to provide this experience to you on our dime.  Why? Because we know that sucky experiences are a barrier to doing treatment. If doing this helps you make the decision and you are happy with the end result…then my wish to serve you has been fulfilled. Makes sense, right?  Enjoy the episode!

Traffic... Crappy wifi... Being placed on hold... Drivers who take up two parking spaces... You can guess that this list represents common annoyances that you deal with on a regular basis...and ones you could do without.  As a dentist I can tell you that one of the most inconvenient things to ask you to do is come in for multiple visits… Sure that's a little vague. But let me explain.  Anyone who has invested in enhancing their smile will most likely tell you that it was 100% worth it and wished that they had done it sooner (at least that is what all of my patients have told me.)  Yet, they may not mention the amount of time and discomfort that was involved in leveling up their smile. Some of these include: Wearing temporary acrylic teeth for weeks at a time until a technician has finished making the porcelain product... Dealing with the hassle of waiting even longer if the final restorations are not fitting or because you're not happy with the appearance... Coming in for many visits due to having an outside party doing simple tasks on the dentists behalf. Tasks like making models or creating a visual blueprint of your smile... In short, having another person involved in the process sucks! So what am I, as a dentist, supposed to do?! Right?  I have patients that WANT the change - they wanna go on that vacation with their beau and take some selfie cam shots sporting that new too-good-to-be-true smile. For that reason, I upped my game. After doing so, I've realized that there is no turning back...which is a good thing! First off, I make the process enjoyable by putting you up in a 5 star joint, providing you meals and transportation along with a myriad of other perks. When you're VIP, we treat you like one. And like any other VIP we value your time! In the video above I explain how our technology has allowed us to not only control the quality of our dentistry, but also ensure that we do the work efficiently and quickly by completing the majority (if not all) of the steps necessary in-house.  What does that mean for you? That with your investment, you will get what you want as easily as possible. Whether that's: Healthy teeth that don't break A smile to show off More self confidence Maximum comfort Take your pick! Enjoy the episode! Learn More About The Smile Solutions Experience Here: https://virtual.smilesolutionsofbaltimore.com/experience Visit Our Website: https://www.smilesolutionsofbaltimore.com/

God I miss pagers. They were comforting yet intensely badass. Maybe it was the stylish look on waistbands or the exhilarating *ping* you would hear when someone was trying to contact you. But the pager, like many other products in the past, are old news and pretty much obsolete (I'm not crying, you're crying.)  The truth is we all want things to be easier. Convenience is king. Hence the invention of the “horseless carriage”, microwaves, dishwashers, amazon, and yes...the cell phone.  The dental field is no different! There's always the next big thing. At one point Novocaine was the hot ticket item. Then it was tooth colored fillings and digital x-rays. Listen, the list goes on.  My point is that just like Amazon, we can help you get that knock your socks off smile, do it well and fast! Like pronto!! One day, I wouldn't be surprised if we had robots performing surgeries or electric cars that drive  us where we need to go! Oh wait, that already happened... Excuse me while I go get my terminator gear on... P.S. Warning - cuteness overload. My kids kinda crashed the party. Enjoy! Learn More About The Smile Solutions Experience: https://virtual.smilesolutionsofbaltimore.com/experience Visit Our Website: https://www.smilesolutionsofbaltimore.com/

If you were getting a new smile would you want it to be done quickly? In this episode I explain how it is entirely possible to get a new smile in one day. I talk about how I utilize the latest technology and techniques to speed the process up and make the entire experience more convenient. Enjoy the episode! Learn more about The Smile Solutions Experience Here: https://virtual.smilesolutionsofbaltimore.com/experience Visit My Website Here: https://www.smilesolutionsofbaltimore.com/

Confession. I, like many of you (or people you know)...suffer from Temporo-Mandibular Joint or TMJ pain (gasp!) Phew! Now that I've gotten that off of my chest I feel much better. When patients come in to see me for regular or maintenance care, I make it a priority to spend quality time with them by doing a thorough exam and asking questions about overall health. This is where jaw pain comes in.  I have dedicated a lot of time learning about the jaw joint and how it affects the health of our teeth, and at times, can cause pain. Pain can be in the form of broken teeth, discomfort while chewing or headaches.  Treatment for joint pain ranges from treating sleep disorders, fixing dental problems to healing the muscles connected to the joint. Like many aspects of our health, TMJ therapy is multi-faceted. There are many solutions. But, you can't fix a problem if you don't know that you have one. In the video above, I talk about my experience seeing a Physical Therapist who applied a “dry needling” technique to a few of my muscles. The experience was mind blowing to say the least! Learn More About The Smile Solutions Experience: https://virtual.smilesolutionsofbaltimore.com/experience

From cigarettes, alcohol, the absence of gloves and zero novocaine to bland, boring and sterile…the dental experience has certainly evolved over the past century.  The phrase “I hate the dentist” is one that I have heard throughout my career. Although I didn't cry myself to sleep every night hearing these complaints, I was compelled to investigate how I could flip the script and change the way we do things in the best interest of my patients.  You see, I LOVE cosmetic and transformative dentistry. I get to spend quality time with my patients helping them feel more confident, healthy and happy. If by 10xing the process I can help you say yes to yourself, to ultimate health, improved self-confidence and the ability to laugh and smile care free...I will do what is necessary to make that happen.  Because the truth is, smiling is the ultimate drug that increases our happiness. When you smile, you connect. You send a message of warmth and friendliness. Barriers get taken down and you can feel free to be who you are, without hiding. From our spa like amenities, meals, transportation, night stays at a 5 star hotel to ample (and safe) usage of medication, we customize our treatment so that you feel pampered, relaxed and taken care of when you see us. Heck, I would even call the experience fun! In this episode I explain how we navigate fear of pain as I cover a recent conversation with a patient whose primary barrier to fix her dental problems was fear of pain. Cheers!   Learn More About The Smile Solutions Experience: https://virtual.smilesolutionsofbaltimore.com/experience

In this episode I share how I became so passionate about having REAL IMPACT in my patient's lives. After a tragic event in my life back in 2018 I made a DECISION that I would no longer putz through my career doing dentistry that didn't fulfill me. If you're looking to make a change in your life, click the link below to learn more about The Smile Solutions Experience: https://virtual.smilesolutionsofbaltimore.com/experience

Hello Everyone! I am incredibly excited to launch this first episode! It's my mission to bring you the TRUTH. I'm going to help you: - Dismantle limiting beliefs - Uncover lies your dental insurance has made you believe - Debunk myths propagated in pop culture about cosmetic dentistry - Discuss what's possible with modern dentistry - Alleviate your fear of dentistry - Provide pros and cons of smile transformation - Navigate the waters of quantum leaps and big change in your life - Deal with external influences in your decision making (i.e. other people's opinions) Learn More About The Smile Solutions Experience: https://virtual.smilesolutionsofbaltimore.com/experience