National Dentist Day

National Dentist Day

National Dentist’s Day is March 6th! The purpose of National Dentist’s Day is to express gratitude to your dentist. Dr. Brian Leeson at 4th St Family Dentistry

In honor of National Dentist Day, we share all you need to know about our practice and Dr. Leeson, the best dentist in St. Pete. 

National Dentist Day | Get to Know Your Dentist in St Pete

Dr. Leeson and his wife, Dr. Brianne Wade, dentist in Pinellas Park, live in St. Petersburg with their rescue cat, Mittens. After working in private practice for a few years in the Tampa Bay area, Dr. Leeson decided to start his trial in the community he lives in and loves. 

Designing 4th St Family Dentistry

At 4th Street Family Dentistry, our patient’s satisfaction is a top priority. Dr. Leeson understands that visiting the dentist isn’t everyone’s favorite thing to do and that many people even fear the dentist. Thus, our dental office in St. Petersburg FL, is designed to make your experience feel easy-going.

When designing our practice, Dr. Leeson ensured that the exam room was carefully designed. He wanted to keep patient comfort at the forefront of his mind. As a result, it features amenities like flat-screen TVs and noise-canceling headphones. That way, you can feel at ease during your dental treatment. 

Our dentist in St Pete is committed to providing patients with comprehensive, all-inclusive dental care. Dr. Leeson and our knowledgeable team work closely with their patients to attain a healthier, more functioning smile. Dr. Leeson provides aesthetic, general, and restorative dental treatments to improve the appearance and function of a patient’s smile. Dr. Leeson not only provides the necessary dental procedures to meet your oral needs, but she also works to educate patients on the significance of keeping good oral health to build a healthier, brighter smile.

Giving Back to the St Pete Community 

In addition to creating a relaxing environment for St Pete patients, Dr. Leeson enjoys giving back to the community. He volunteers with local charity Tampa Bay Watch where he is committed to donating a portion of all new patient proceeds to support the non-profit’s efforts to restore the bay and keep our beaches clean. 

He also volunteers with the Florida Mission of Mercy Outreach Program each year, which provides free dentistry to the underserved population. When he is not practicing Dentistry, Dr. Leeson and his wife spend most of their free time cooking, brewing beer, playing sports, and just enjoying the outdoors.

Happy National Dentist Day!

At 4th Street Family Dentistry, we collaborate with each patient to ensure an excellent dental experience in our Atlanta dentist office. So, if you want to learn more about your dental choices or have any questions about your oral health, make an appointment at 4th St Family Dentistry today!

Celebrating Dental Hygiene Month

national dental hygiene month - 4th Street Family Dentistry

Celebrating Dental Hygiene Month

4th Street Family Dentistry will be celebrating Dental Hygiene Month all month long! Our staff has compiled a list of home dental hygiene guidelines to help you keep a healthy smile. You can always rely on 4th Street Family Dentistry if you’re looking for a  family dentist in St. Pete, FL, or if you require dental services. 

If you have any questions regarding early warning signs or are due for a cleaning, please contact our dentist in St. Pete right away.

Brush 2x a Day

It’s important to brush a minimum of two times a day. If you can, brush after each meal. Your toothbrush should have soft bristles and be big enough to brush one to two at a time. We recommend using an ADA approved toothpaste. When brushing, focus on the inner, outer areas of your teeth and tongue. If you’re having trouble brushing for the full two minutes, sing the ABC’s three times! Also, Dr. Leeson recommends that patients change their toothbrush every 3-4 months. 

Floss Daily

Brushing your teeth alone will not remove all the debris and plaque that collect between your teeth. That’s why it’s just as important to floss as it is to brush your teeth.

How to Floss Properly: 

  • Use about 18 inches of dental floss and wrap it around two fingers, leaving about 1-2 inches of floss.
  • Holding the floss with your thumb and index finger, you will insert the floss between two teeth.
  • Gently move the floss up and down, rubbing it against each tooth (avoid hitting your gums).
  • Once you’ve reached your gum line, curve the floss, and move it back and forth between one of the teeth.
  • Move the floss to the next set of teeth, repeat the steps above.

Rinse With Mouthwash 

Mouthwash can help put a stop to plaque, gingivitis, bad breath, and tooth decay! There are plenty of mouthwashes to choose from. Choose a mouthwash that will help you meet your oral health goals. Dr. Chris Green, a dentist in Parker, CO, points out that not all mouthwashes are used the same. So, make sure you read the directions carefully.

We recommend using a mouthwash that is ADA approved—rinsing before or after brushing/flossing depends on the product.

Chew Sugar-Free Gum

Did you know there are benefits of chewing sugar-free gum after a meal?

Benefits of Chewing Sugar-Free Gum

  • It helps increase saliva, which washes away harmful bacteria & relieves dry mouth.
  • Helps dislodge food stuck in your teeth, preventing plaque buildup.

Connection Between Oral Health and Body

Many studies show a link between gum disease and other diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, respiratory disease, osteoporosis, and more. Additionally, those with high blood sugar are more at risk of developing gum disease. Those with diabetes are highly encouraged to visit their dentist for regular cleanings. As you can see, it’s very important to take care of your oral health. It’s not too late to make a change today.

Why We Celebrate National Dental Hygiene Month

At 4th Street Family Dentistry, we like to celebrate smiles. National Dental Hygiene Month is the perfect way to honor our community and staff members. It also helps us to take our oral health into our own hands. Set a good example for you and your little ones by following the tips above. If you have any questions about your oral health or would like to set up an appointment, please contact 4th Street Family Dentistry today.

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in October 2020 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness. 

How Fluoride Fights Cavities

how fluoride fights cavities - St. pete dentist

How Fluoride Fights Cavities

Practicing good oral hygiene should be a high priority, especially for adults. For some, worrying about their teeth as well as their children’s can be difficult. Only about 32% of people say they are “concerned about the appearance of their teeth”. However, there are many dental problems that affect millions of people around the world. Fluoride treatments have become a common choice in the dental community, but the average dental patient is not fully aware of the ins and outs of this type of dental treatment. St. Pete dentist, Dr. Leeson, shares how fluoride fights cavities and improves oral health! 

What is Fluoride?

Fluoride is a natural mineral present in most food and water—the use of this mineral helps prevent tooth decay and improves tooth enamel.

What is the Primary Application of Fluoride Treatment? 

Fluoride can either be applied to the teeth via toothpaste and mouthwash, it can be ingested through water and some meals, and it can also be applied as a gel, foam, or varnish.

When are Children Expected to Start Using Fluoride? 

Many dentists in St. Pete agree that it is necessary for infants and children between 6 months and 16 years of age to be exposed to fluoride. There is a timeframe between six and 16 when permanent teeth come in, so it is important to reinforce them as much as possible during that time by using fluoride.

Should Adults get Fluoride Treatment?

Studies have shown topical fluoride applications create a significant benefit for adults with moderate to high cavities. Georgetown, KY dentist, Dr. Kristina Neda, says fluoride can help protect the margins of restorative work such as crowns or bridges. Therefore, fluoride treatments are recommended for adults! Dr. Brian Leeson adds that fluoride could be just the thing to keep your neglect from leading to cavities between your teeth.

Will the Treatment with Fluoride have any Other Benefits?

Yes! If you or your child have a history of recurrent cavities, dry mouth problems, or gum disease, additional fluoride may provide great dental benefits. While it’s crucial that you’re at least a little knowledge about what’s going on in the dental world, your best bet is to consult a dental professional. Visit a St. Petersburg FL dentist for all your dental needs.
We always prioritize our patients’ health, safety, and comfort. If you have some kind of toothache and need emergency dentistry in St. Petersburg, FL, please contact 4th Street Family Dentistry today.

New Year, New Smile

How to improve your smile - st. pete dentist

New Year, New Smile

Every January, millions of people are ready to change their lives for the better in the new year. Sometimes, it’s to lose weight, eat healthier, or promote at work. But there is one option that could really boost your health and your life in a variety of ways – no gym needed. Your St. Pete dentist, Dr. Brian Leeson, encourages you to make a unique resolution – new year, new smile! A happy and healthy smile boosts your physical well-being. And, it can also give you more confidence to help you make another positive improvement in your life. Below, we share how you can improve your smile in 2021.

Improve Your Smile, Be Confident

Dentists all over agree that oral health will make or break your smile. Our close friend and cosmetic dentist Shreveport LA, Dr. Ben Kacos, explains some habits of those that aren’t confident with their smiles. These habits include unintentionally covering their mouths with their hands or shying away from contact with others. This can influence confidence, making it difficult to do things like apply for a raise or approach new people.

This can cause self-esteem to suffer, and forego opportunities for a happier, more fulfilling life. Others can also view your actions as being stand-off or aloof unless you plan to do so.

However, if you’re satisfied with your teeth, you’ll feel relaxed and secure while talking to others in a personal and professional environment. You’ll feel confident during business meetings, a date, a presentation, or a lesson. Getting a bright smile will make a difference between reaching positive goals in your life and only sitting on the sidelines for another year. 

Your Body and Dental Hygiene

If you’ve been thinking about improving your health in 2021, you may want to start with your mouth. The list of diseases associated with poor oral health is lengthy. From heart disease to Alzheimer’s to osteoporosis, research has shown that an unhealthy mouth can contribute to health problems across the body.

The good news is, there are a few easy things you can do to improve your oral health this year. Dr. Leeson recommends starting with regular fluoride toothpaste brushing, flossing, and seeing your dentist every six months is important for healthy teeth. Replace your toothbrush at least every three months, or earlier if it shows signs of wear.

Visit Your Dentist in St. Pete

If you have pain, bleeding, or other issues in your mouth, tell your emergency dentist at St. Petersburg, FL. Much like you should see your doctor regularly for health issues and screening, your dentist should be an integral member of your health care team. Problems such as cavities and gum disease can be treated with the aid of a trained dentist – and the earlier they are treated, the better. And if you have lost your teeth or problems with misaligned teeth, these problems can be fixed to give you a happy and healthy smile. 
With a little extra work and commitment to your dental hygiene, you will be on your way to a more beautiful smile, a healthy body, and a wonderful year! If you need to schedule an appointment or need a smile consultation, contact 4th Street Family Dentistry today!

Finding the Best Cosmetic Dentist in St. Pete

Finding the Best Cosmetic Dentist in St. Pete FL

Finding the Best Cosmetic Dentist in St. Pete

Besides the health of your teeth, their appearance is just as critical to your self-esteem. If you’re like a lot of people, sadly, you probably don’t like how they look. You don’t have to live with your chipped, discolored, or unattractive teeth. You can get a smile from a cosmetic dentist in St. Pete, but who is the best cosmetic dentist? Here are five easy tips for finding the best cosmetic dentist in St. Pete.

Qualifications & Experience

There are many dentists providing cosmetic services in the city, but not all have undergone additional training to specialize in complex cosmetic treatments. You don’t want to put that smile in just anyone’s hands. You deserve to take advantage of the best cosmetic services in St. Pete. Look for a dentist who has completed specialized training in cosmetic dentistry. Often, search to see if they are part of a number of accreditations, such as the American Dental Association.

Various Services

You require more than just a cookie-cutter treatment plan to achieve the smile of your dreams. To get exactly what you want, you should have multiple choices, so take the time to look at the different dental services offered. Dr. O’Grady, a cosmetic dentist in Denver Highlands, CO, recommends finding a dentist who offers everything you and your family could need. That way you don’t have to see a specialist if you need an extraction someday. So, when looking for a cosmetic dentist, choose a dental office that includes a range of treatments, such as veneers, teeth whitening, Invisalign, and more.

Conveniently Located in St. Petersburg, FL 

We completely understand; life is busy. We want you to achieve the smile of your dreams, which should not feel like a chore! Choose a dentist that is convenient for you and your schedule. Luckily, 4th Street Family Dentistry is conveniently located for St. Petersburg, FL residents. We are also open five days a week and offer emergency dental services. 

Affordable Dental Services

Unfortunately, most insurance plans will not cover cosmetic care unless they also have restorative benefits. It’s likely you’ll need to pay out-of-pocket as a result. To lower the price of your cosmetic treatment, pick a dentist who partners with your insurance provider. Also, search for one who offers dental savings plans.

Testimonials & Reviews

You will learn a lot about a dentist and their staff by taking the time to read online reviews and testimonials. Patients are usually brutally honest when sharing their experiences online. If you’re looking for a cosmetic dentist in St. Pete, FL, consider looking at their work. Also, look on their Instagram or Facebook page to see if any before and after photos of recent cosmetic patients. This will make choosing your cosmetic dentist that much easier. So, to help make the right decision for your smile, you will have a clear understanding of the level of treatment and outcomes you would expect to get.

Choose the Best Dentist in St. Pete

Cosmetic dentistry can be costly, but it’s worth the investment. You deserve a happy and healthy smile that you are proud of. That being said, take the time and do your research when looking for a cosmetic dentist. If you’re in the St. Pete, FL area, Dr. Leeson will help you achieve a confident, beautiful smile that is made to last.

Why Dr. Leeson as Your St. Petersburg, FL Dentist

After practicing in private practice in the Tampa Bay area for the last few years, Dr. Leeson has chosen to start his own practice in the neighborhood he lives in and loves. Some of the cosmetic dentistry services offered at 4th Street Family Dentistry include teeth whitening, dental veneers, dental crowns, dental bonding, and more.

Dr. Leeson earned his dental degree from Temple University in Philadelphia. He loves giving back to his friends. He works with local charity Tampa Bay Watch where he is committed to contributing a portion of all new patient sales to support non-profit efforts to restore the bay and keep our beaches safe. 

He also works annually with the Florida Project Mercy Outreach Program, which offers free dentistry to the underserved community. When he’s not practicing Dentistry, Dr. Leeson and his wife spend much of their free time cooking, brewing beer, playing sports, and just enjoying the outdoors. 

Celebrating National Brush Day

National Brush Day - 4th street family dentistry

Celebrating National Brush Day

Is it really a coincidence that National Brush Day is on November 1, right after Halloween? Definitely not! Halloween comes with candy, lots and lots of candy. Many parents tend to get a little obsessed with ensuring that their children’s teeth get back in shape. This is where brushing comes in. While it is the most effective way to clean our teeth and keep them free from plaque and bacteria, brushing too much can also be a problem. 

The following are a few good practices the best dentist in St. Petersburg, FL, recommends for children and grownups to keep in mind when brushing their teeth. We’ve also added some bad practices to avoid while brushing your teeth.

Good Dental Hygiene Practices

Brushing Teeth the Proper Way

Dr. Chris Green, the best dentist in Parker, CO, emphasizes that brushing your teeth involves a lot more than a few up-down and right-left motions using your toothbrush. First, you need to hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against your gums. Follow this up with back and forth strokes on your teeth, making sure you clean the chewing surfaces as well as the inner and outer surfaces of your teeth with the same series of gentle motions. 

Focusing on the Invisible Sufaces

After you’re done brushing the tooth surfaces that are visible, you can now attend to the inside surfaces on the back of your front teeth. It should be noted that some dental complications, such as dental caries, originate from the back surface of your front teeth. Dentists in St. Petersburg state that it’s important to ensure that you remember to clean that area. Effectively but gently brushing your teeth using the proper technique two times a day, every day is good for your gums and teeth and tough on plaque and bacteria, which ensures optimal oral health. 

Choosing the Right Brush Size

When choosing a toothbrush for your child, you should remember that the one size fits all rule does not apply here. Your child’s toothbrush must not be too big or too small for their mouths. Making sure you choose the right size ensures your child does not experience discomfort while brushing. Moreover, using the right size toothbrush makes it easy to clean your child’s teeth properly as it reaches all the parts of the mouth. 

Family dentists in St. Pete also recommend investing in a toothpaste that has fluoride in it, as it’s good for your teeth. This is because fluoride prevents cavities from developing and also prevents tooth decay. Use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste to brush.

Flossing Your Teeth

Emergency dentists St. Pete adds that flossing rids your mouth of the plaque that is on your teeth. This prevents plaque buildup. In addition to this, flossing also helps prevent gum disease and takes care of both your gums and teeth.

Visiting Your Dentist, Dr. Brian Leeson, After or Before National Brush Day

Making a trip to your dentist 33704 for your annual checkup at least twice a year ensures that any issues or problems you might have with your teeth are well taken care of. They may also provide you with extra tips to help keep your teeth healthy.

Bad Dental Practices to Avoid

Brushing Immediately After Eating

Brushing your teeth after eating candy or consuming a meal may end up causing more harm to your teeth. This is because when we eat, the enamel of your teeth tends to soften and stay like that for about half an hour after you’re done eating. During this time, your enamel is weak, which means that if you brush your teeth, it may be scraped away together with plaque and bacteria. 

This National Brush Day, refrain from rushing your children to brush their teeth immediately when they are done eating. Waiting half an hour will give their enamel time to sufficiently harden before they brush, thus protecting their teeth.

Using Toothbrushes with Hard Bristles

Hard-bristled toothbrushes not only cause bleeding of your gums and pain, but they also damage your teeth enamel. Damaged gums may loosen their teeth grip, which may result in loss of teeth. It is, therefore, important to avoid getting hard bristled toothbrushes for your kids or using them yourself.

Not Brushing for the Proper Amount of Time

Effectively brushing your teeth requires at least two minutes. The two minutes ensure that your teeth are properly exposed to the toothbrush’s cleaning action. 

Using an Old Toothbrush

Frayed toothbrush bristles can damage your gums and teeth. If your toothbrush is more than three months old, then you need to get a new one to help you remove all that plaque buildup from your Halloween candy that’s on your teeth. This National Brush Day, contact 4th Street Family Dentistry to keep your smile bright and your teeth right!

5 Simple Ways to Prevent Cavities

ways to prevent cavities

5 Simple Ways to Prevent Cavities

All you hear is, brushing and flossing will help keep cavities away. Yet, you find one in four adults in America with tooth decay while half the teenage population either have or had cavities. Having a good oral regimen can prevent cavities and help maintain both teeth and gums. Brian Leeson DMD from 4th Street Family Dentistry discusses the measures individuals can take to keep cavities away:

Know your risk of developing cavities

Your dentist can help you determine your cavity risk level by conducting a thorough dental exam. The exam will analyze the current state of your oral health and its risk to cavities. As you continuously go to your dentist for regular visits, they will be able to detect bacteria forming immediately and suggest preventative dentistry measures to take to fight the cavity. This can be changing your oral regimen and or diet. 

Brush regularly 

Brushing cannot be emphasized enough when it comes to fighting cavities and tooth decay. Your mouth is home to millions of bacteria that are looking to pounce at the opportunity to multiply and lead to decay. You need to brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes to ensure you keep the bacteria at bay while also getting rid of harmful bacteria.

Dr. Green, a dentist in Parker CO, adds that When brushing, you want to use a toothbrush with soft bristles. This is so it doesn’t harm your gums. Brush with gentle circular motions and go from one end to the other. Once you are done with your teeth, be sure to also brush your tongue because bacteria can build upon it.

Focus on your diet

It may be hard to go without your daily cup of tea or coffee but you may have to. Coffee and tea are both acidic which are not good for the teeth. Acidic food is as bad as sugary foods. Both increase the risk of cavities so you need to control your diet and limit consumption of both. As you reduce your intake, you should consider drinking more water. Water consumption helps flush bacteria out of the mouth while also distribute the nutrients properly. 

Develop a habit of flossing

Flossing isn’t fun but it does keep your teeth and gums healthy. Most people think that brushing is enough but there are parts of the teeth you can’t reach with the brush, specifically between the teeth. Floss lets you clean out any food particle stuck between teeth and in the outer part of the gums. You don’t have to floss after every meal but try to do it at least once a day. 

Quit smoking

Smoking and tobacco are known to cause numerous diseases which include mouth cancer. Smoking leads to bad oral hygiene and makes your mouth more susceptible to bacteria leading to cavities. If you want to take care of your mouth and you smoke, quitting would be the first step. 

For anyone looking to improve their oral health in St. Petersburg, FL, contact 4th Street Family Dentistry. The team consists of experienced dentists and dental assistants that can help treat and prevent cavities and help you achieve the picture-perfect smile you’ve always wanted.

Everything You Should Know About Dental Sealants

dental sealants

Everything You Should Know About Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are generally used to prevent tooth decay. It is a thin plastic coat that is painted on to the surface of the teeth, specifically the chewing part, and forms a protective shield for the enamel. The purpose of the sealant is to ensure that food particles don’t easily get lodged in the nooks and crannies of yout teeth. While both brushing and flossing do this also, there are times when you don’t do either properly so particles remain and lead to bacteria build-up and decay.

Who Should Consider Getting Sealants?

Sealants help to prevent decay in the premolars and molars due to bacteria cultivation in the groves. Therefore, it is recommended for teenagers and children. Children are prone to cavities from 6 to 14, the sealant protects them from it. At times if children younger than 6 have deep grooves in their teeth, a dentist may recommend getting a sealant. 

How is Sealant Applied?

The application of sealants is painless and simple. Your dental hygienist can do it in a matter of minutes. The process starts with the cleansing of the mouth and teeth. The hygienist will perform a dental cleaning to have them prepped for the sealant. 

The teeth are then dried off and an absorbent material such as cotton is placed around them so the teeth remain dry. To help the sealant bond to the teeth, an acid solution is applied to the teeth after they are rinsed and dried off.

The sealant is then brushed on to the tooth enamel and it bonds and hardens to it. Your hygienist may also use a curing light to ensure it hardens properly. 

What is the Lifespan of Sealants?

Dr. Kacos, a dentist in Shreveport LA, says that with proper care, sealants can effectively protect your teeth for up to 10 years. Your dentist can check up on their condition to ensure there are no chips or wear each time you visit them. 

Are Sealants Covered by Insurance?

Depending on your dental coverage, sealants can be covered in the insurance plan specifically for children under the age of 18. You can contact your dental insurance company to check if they cover sealants. 

Where to Get Sealants?

While the process of getting sealants isn’t complex, you still want to make sure you go to a dental clinic you can trust. The dentists in St. Petersburg, FL at 4th Street Family Dentistry can help you get the dental care you need. They have been serving the city of St. Petersburg for decades, helping individuals achieve their best smiles. 

Must-Knows About Dental Crowns

must-knows about dental crowns

Must-Knows About Dental Crowns

You may have undergone root canal therapy recently, or you may have teeth that are severely worn down. These and other conditions may have led your dentist in St. Petersburg FL to recommend you get a dental crown. However, you are hesitant because you have limited information about these restorations. Here is a brief guide on everything you need to know about dental crowns so that you can make an informed decision about the suitability of these restorations for your needs.

Dental Crowns Defined

A tooth can be divided into two main parts. The first part that is visible below the gum line in upper teeth and above the gum line in lower teeth is called the crown. The second part, hidden beneath the gum line, is called the root of the tooth.

A dental crown is a restoration that covers most or all of the visible parts of your tooth. Dr. Brian Leeson, who performs cosmetic dentistry in St. Petersburg FL, points out that dental crowns may also be called dental caps.

Terms Associated with Crowns

The Margin. A margin refers to the edge of a dental crown that comes in contact with a tooth that has been prepared for this restoration. Dentists in St. Petersburg FL say that margins have to be smooth and devoid of ledges so they can sit firmly on the tooth.

Cusps. These are the pointed segments on the teeth that tear and chew food. A dental crown is necessary to repair a tooth whose cusps have been damaged due to root canal therapy or a fracture.

Crown Preparation. This refers to the design made of a tooth once that tooth has been shaved to create room for a dental crown. Dr. Ben Kacos, a dentist in Shreveport LA, asserts that the extent to which a tooth is prepared depends on several factors. Some of these factors include the extent to which the tooth is damaged and the material the dental crown will be fabricated with.

Temporary or Provisional Crown. As the name suggests, this is a crown that is designed to be used for a short time. This is during the time when the permanent crown is being made by a dental lab. However, practitioners of cosmetic dentistry in St. Petersburg FL may deliberately leave a temporary crown in place for an extended duration. This would be the case if you have tooth pain and the dentist wants to leave that provisional crown until the pain subsides.

When Would You Need a Dental Crown?

The experts at 4th Street Family Dentistry point out that many situations warrant the use of a crown to restore a tooth. The examples below show some of those situations.

When You Get a Large Filling. St. Pete dentists normally recommend a crown if you require a filling that covers at least half of the width of your tooth. A crown is necessary in this case because what is left of your natural tooth is normally so weak that it is likely to fracture. A crown restores strength to such a tooth.

Root Canal Therapy. After a root canal treatment, what is left of your tooth is likely to become brittle and fracture after the infected or dead tissue inside the tooth is cleaned out. To maintain the structural integrity of your tooth, Dr. Leeson will recommend a dental crown to be placed immediately after the root canal procedure.

Excessive Tooth Wear. Many factors, such as bruxism and GERD (gastrointestinal acid reflux), can cause teeth to be worn down excessively. As the teeth wear down, they become shorter and the best way to get them back to their normal size is by visiting 4th Street Family Dentistry to have crowns placed on those teeth.

Undesirable Appearance. If you are unhappy about the appearance of your teeth (due to discoloration, shape or gaps, for example), you may need dental crowns to fix those imperfections. Alternatively, the St. Pete dentist may opt for veneers as a better way to fix the cosmetic dental problems you face.

Steps to Getting Dental Crowns

First, the team at 4th Street Family Dentistry will use a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. When the anesthesia kicks in, Dr. Brian Leeson will shave down the tooth in order to make space for the crown.

Thereafter, the 4th Street Family Dentistry team will take an impression of the tooth using a digital scanner or a putty-like mold. This mold, together with the shade picked from a color guide, will be sent to a lab so that your customized crown can be fabricated.

Before you leave the dental office, the dental care team will place temporary crowns on the prepared teeth. This is so the prepared surfaces can be preserved and your teeth can be safeguarded from damage while you wait for the permanent crowns.

About two weeks later, you will be contacted by 4th Street Family Dentistry to return for your second visit. This is when the permanent crowns will be placed. During this visit, Dr. Leeson will remove the temporary crowns and replace them with permanent ones. Next, Dr. Leeson will inspect these crowns to confirm they fit well, have smooth margins, and don’t cause any bite problems. A special light is then used to cure the permanent cement used to attach the crown to your tooth.

Is the Procedure Painful?

The local anesthetic used as a crown is placed on your tooth ensures that the process is pain-free. When the anesthesia wears off, you may feel some discomfort. However, that can be alleviated with the pain medication prescribed by your dentist in St. Petersburg FL. You can then start enjoying the benefits of your brand new crown.

Still Have Questions?

Contact 4th Street Family Dentistry today and get answers to all your questions. Our experienced staff will go through all your options and recommend the best way to treat any dental issues you may have to achieve the smile of your dreams.

How to Prevent Tooth Decay

how to prevent tooth decay

How to Prevent Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is also referred to as caries or dental cavities. It describes permanent damage to the hard outer surface of your teeth that results in holes or tiny openings. Research shows that nine in ten adults in the U.S. have ever had cavities, so this makes tooth decay one of the most common health problems people of all ages face. Should you, therefore, resign to having this problem as part of your reality? Our dental care experts at 4th Street Family Dentistry in St. Petersburg FL don’t think so and urge you to implement the following recommendations to keep tooth decay at bay.

Brush Properly, Regularly and Using the Right Toothbrush

The simplest things, like brushing correctly and frequently, can have the most profound positive effect on your dental and overall health.

Dr. Brian Leeson, a dentist in St. Petersburg FL, explains that there are millions of microbes in your mouth. These microbes feed on the remains of what you eat or drink. As the bacteria feeds, it creates an acidic biofilm (plaque) that sticks on your teeth. If you don’t brush regularly (at least two times every day), dental plaque will allow bacteria to remain in contact with your teeth for longer and tooth decay will progress rapidly.

It is therefore important for you to brush correctly using the right toothbrush (a soft-bristled one) using fluoride toothpaste for a minimum of two times each day. This way the plaque-formation process can be halted.

Floss Every Day

Brushing is often inadequate in cleaning the spaces between your teeth. An interdental cleaner, such as dental floss, is necessary to get rid of the food debris trapped in these tiny spaces between your teeth. When done correctly, flossing can prevent cavities since bacteria will not have any food to feed on and grow.

Cut Back on Acidic and Sugary Drinks

We have already mentioned that bacteria feeds on the residues of what you put in your mouth. Acidic and sugary drinks are the worst culprits in terms of allowing bacteria colonies to multiply rapidly.

For this reason, St. Pete dentists recommend that you reduce the amount of sugary or acidic drinks you consume. These substances include soda, citrus juice, and alcohol. Such a step will save your teeth from being attacked by the acids in those drinks or the acidic residues left behind.

Eat Healthy

Proper nutrition is important in keeping tooth decay and other dental health problems at bay. For example, the vitamins and minerals that are contained in vegetables, fruits, dairy, and other food groups will provide the nutrients needed to mineralize your teeth. This means your teeth are more likely to fight off any infections that develop.

In the same vein, emergency dentists in St. Petersburg advise that you refrain from snacking frequently between meals. This is especially true if you like sugary snacks. Those snacks keep sugar on your teeth and that results in acidic damage to the surface of those teeth.

Visit Your Dentist

It is very important for you to visit your dentist in St. Petersburg FL regularly for dental cleanings and checkups.

A comprehensive exam by a St. Pete dentist will rate your tooth decay risk. That assessment will determine how frequently you need to visit 4th Street Family Dentistry. For example, if an existing medical condition increases your risk for tooth decay, Dr. Brian Leeson may recommend you come in every three or four months. If, however, your risk for cavities is low, then the frequency of visiting a general dentist in St. Petersburg FL will be lower.

The other advantage of visiting the dentist regularly is that the hygienist will have an opportunity to advise you on how to tweak your brushing and flossing techniques. This would be in light of any potential problem areas that are observed during the professional dental cleanings. Acting on the advice given will result in a reduced risk for tooth decay.

Get Dental Sealants

Another key way to reduce the chance of developing tooth decay is by getting dental sealants placed on the chewing surfaces of your back teeth. The sealant forms a protective shield that prevents acids and bacteria from damaging the teeth. Dr. Beth Herko, a dentist in New Providence NJ, says that while dental sealants are very common among kids, people of all ages, including adults, can benefit from them.

Use Mouthwash

If you are particularly prone to tooth decay, the St. Pete dentist may recommend an antimicrobial mouthwash. You can use this on a daily basis to keep bacterial activity minimal in your mouth. Even without a specific recommendation, you can buy an antibacterial over-the-counter mouthwash. Use this to rinse your mouth at home after brushing and flossing.

Chew Sugar-Free Gum

Sugar-free gum is helpful in fighting to keep cavities at bay. This gum helps increase the production of saliva in your mouth, thereby neutralizing any acids quickly. Saliva also regulates the pH levels in your mouth. This means that it gets harder for bacteria to thrive there. Buy sugarless gum that has the ADA (American Dental Association) seal of approval. 

You don’t have to fight tooth decay on your own. We are here to help, so don’t hesitate to contact 4th Street Family Dentistry to schedule an appointment for a complete evaluation. Your healthy smile is just a call away!