Emergency Dental Care in St. Pete

Emergency Dental Care in St. Pete

Emergency Dental Care in St. Pete

Emergency Dental Care in St. Pete: Quick Solutions for Broken or Chipped Teeth

Accidents happen, and unfortunately, some of them involve our teeth. Whether it’s a sports injury, a fall, or even biting down on something too hard, a broken or chipped tooth can be a painful and alarming experience. When such emergencies occur, it’s crucial to know where to turn for quick and effective dental care, especially in bustling cities like St. Pete, where finding immediate assistance can make all the difference.

Understanding the Urgency:

A broken or chipped tooth is not just a cosmetic issue; it can lead to severe pain, discomfort, and even further damage if left untreated. Immediate action is essential to prevent infection and ensure the best possible outcome for your oral health. Fortunately, St. Pete offers a range of options for emergency dental care, providing quick solutions when you need them most.

Finding Emergency Dental Services:

In St. Pete, emergency dental services are readily available for those facing sudden dental issues. From broken teeth to severe toothaches, these professionals specialize in providing prompt and effective care to alleviate pain and restore your smile. Many dentists in the area offer emergency appointments and prioritize patients in urgent need, ensuring that you don’t have to wait long for relief.

Temporary Solutions:

While waiting for your emergency dental appointment, there are steps you can take to alleviate discomfort and protect your tooth. Rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater can help clean the area and reduce swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also provide temporary relief until you can see a dentist. Avoiding hard or sticky foods and refraining from biting down on the affected tooth can prevent further damage in the meantime.

The Importance of Prompt Treatment:

When facing a dental emergency, it’s crucial to seek treatment as soon as possible. Delaying care can exacerbate the problem, leading to more extensive damage and increased pain. Additionally, untreated dental issues can result in complications such as infections or abscesses, which may require more invasive treatment down the line. By addressing the problem promptly, you can minimize discomfort and prevent further complications.

Common Treatment Options:

The appropriate treatment for a broken or chipped tooth depends on the severity of the damage. For minor chips or fractures, dental bonding or veneers may be used to restore the tooth’s appearance and function. In more severe cases, such as a broken tooth with exposed nerves, a root canal or dental crown may be necessary to preserve the tooth and prevent infection. Your dentist will assess the extent of the damage and recommend the best course of action for your individual needs.

Preventing Future Emergencies:

While accidents are sometimes unavoidable, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of dental emergencies. Wearing a mouthguard during sports activities can protect your teeth from injury, while avoiding chewing on hard objects can prevent fractures and chips. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental check-ups can help identify and address issues before they become emergencies.

Contact Us Today!

A broken or chipped tooth can be a distressing experience, but with prompt and effective dental care, you can quickly find relief and restore your smile. In St. Pete, emergency dental services are readily available to provide the care you need when you need it most. By understanding the urgency of dental emergencies and taking proactive measures to protect your oral health, you can minimize discomfort and prevent further complications. Remember, in the event of a dental emergency, don’t hesitate to seek professional help—your smile is worth it.

Steps During a Dental Emergency

Steps to Take During a Dental Emergency

We know you have a lot of St. Petersburg Dentists to choose from. Which is why we make every effort to provide a unique and personal experience for each and every one of our patients. We are 100 percent invested in top of the line dental technology, continued education and service. 

Steps to Take During a Dental Emergency

Dental emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere. From a sudden toothache to a broken tooth, anything can cause an emergency, resulting in immense pain, discomfort, and panic. During a dental emergency, it is essential to get immediate help to prevent the problem from getting worse. In such situations, 4th Street Family Dentistry in St. Pete is your go-to place for prompt and expert care. Our skilled and compassionate team of dental professionals is equipped to handle any emergency with ease. In this blog, we’ll talk about the steps you should take during a dental emergency at our clinic.

Stay Calm and Call Us Right Away

The first and foremost step during a dental emergency is to stay calm and composed, avoiding any panic or anxiety. This is easier said than done, but it’s vital to keep a clear mind and focus on taking the right steps. Secondly, immediately get in touch with our dental office in St. Pete by calling us and providing us with complete details of the emergency. Our friendly receptionist will guide you through the process and give you expert advice on what you should do next.

Explain Your Emergency Clearly

When you call us for a dental emergency, it is vital to explain your emergency as accurately and specifically as you can. Describe your symptoms or problem in detail so that we can determine the urgency of your situation and provide the appropriate care when you come to our office. This will help us prepare for your visit so that we can be ready for you when you arrive.

Visit Our Dental Office for Emergency Care

After discussing the details of your emergency over the phone, we’ll ask you to visit our dental office in St. Pete as soon as possible. Our team will be ready to receive you, and we’ll make sure that your emergency is resolved as quickly and comfortably as possible. Depending on your emergency, we may provide you with sedation to manage your pain and anxiety before we start treating you.

Follow-Up Care

After receiving emergency dental care from our dental experts at 4th Street Family Dentistry in St. Pete, we’ll schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure that your problem is resolved entirely and that you’re comfortable. Follow-up appointments are crucial to maintain your oral health and prevent future issues.

Call us for any Emergency dental needs today!

Dental emergencies can be scary and daunting, but with the right help and guidance, you can get through any problem with ease. At 4th Street Family Dentistry in St. Pete, our team of dental professionals is equipped to handle any emergency with skill and compassion. By following these steps during a dental emergency, you will be well-prepared to handle any situation that comes your way. So, don’t hesitate to call us when you need us – we’re here, ready to help!

Reduce Dental Anxiety

How to Overcome Fear of the Dentist

We know you have a lot of St. Petersburg Dentists to choose from. Which is why we make every effort to provide a unique and personal experience for each and every one of our patients. We are 100 percent invested in top of the line dental technology, continued education and service. 

How to Overcome Fear of the Dentist

Going to the dentist can be a nerve-wracking experience for some people. At 4th Street Family Dentistry in St. Petersburg, FL, we understand that dental anxiety is real and can be detrimental to your oral health. That’s why we want to help you overcome your fears and make your next visit to the dentist a lot more comfortable.

Communication is key

The first step to overcoming dental anxiety is to communicate with your dentist. Openly discussing your fears and concerns with your dentist can help to establish a comfortable level of trust between the two of you. Once they are aware of your worries, they can take the necessary steps to ease your fears and create a more relaxed environment. 

Practice Relaxation techniques

Relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and visualization can be effective ways to help manage dental anxiety. Taking a few deep breaths and focusing on positive imagery can help to minimize stress levels and keep you calm during your dental visit.

Bring a friend along

Having a friend or family member present during your dental appointment can help to create a sense of comfort and security. Having someone nearby who can provide support and reassurance can do wonders in easing your dental anxiety.

Choose a dental office that understands dental anxiety

Choosing an experienced dental office, such as 4th Street Family Dentistry, with a strong understanding of dental anxiety is crucial. Our team is trained to provide a relaxing environment, use gentle techniques during procedures, and work with you to ensure that your visit is as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

Contact us today to help overcome your dental anxiety

At 4th Street Family Dentistry in St. Petersburg, FL, Our goal is to provide a safe and welcoming environment that will help you feel more relaxed and less anxious during your visit. We help you work towards overcoming your dental anxiety and have a much more pleasant experience during your next dental visit. Contact us today to learn how we can help you overcome your dental anxiety!

Tooth Infection Signs

Tooth Infection Signs

What to Look For: The Signs of a Tooth Infection

A tooth infection, also known as an abscessed tooth, can cause serious dental problems if left untreated. It’s important to know the signs and symptoms of a tooth infection in order to seek treatment right away. In this blog post, we’ll cover the most common signs of a tooth infection so that patients of 4th Street Family Dentistry in St. Pete FL can identify them and take the necessary steps for treatment.

When it comes to identifying the signs of a tooth infection, there are some clear-cut indicators that you should look out for. Let’s review each one in detail:

Pain

Pain is often the first sign that something is wrong with your tooth. This pain may be localized to just one area or spread throughout multiple teeth or into your jawbone. If you experience any sort of pain when biting down on food or when flossing, it could be a sign that you have an infected tooth. Additionally, it’s important to note that this pain may become more intense over time as the infection worsens.

Swelling

Swelling around your mouth or near the affected area is another sign of a possible infection in your teeth or gums. This swelling may be accompanied by redness and soreness as well as tenderness when eating or drinking hot/cold foods and beverages. In some cases, swelling can also spread beyond your mouth and into other areas such as your neck, face, and head—which is why it’s important to seek medical attention right away if you notice any signs of swelling related to an infected tooth.

Fever

Fever is another telltale sign that something isn’t right with your teeth or gums—especially if you are experiencing other symptoms such as pain and swelling along with it. Be sure to check for a fever regularly during this time in order to ensure that the infection does not worsen further before seeking professional help from 4th Street Family Dentistry in St Pete FL.

Contact Us Today!

Tooth infections are serious matters which require prompt attention from dental professionals at 4th Street Family Dentistry in St Pete FL. By being aware of the signs associated with these infections—such as pain, swelling, and fever—you will be better equipped to seek timely treatment before things get worse. Don’t hesitate to call us today if you suspect that you may have an infected tooth! We’re here to help!

What To Do When Dental Emergency Happens?

What To Do When Dental Emergency Happens?

What To Do When You Need Immediate Dental Care

Whether it’s a knocked-out tooth, a sudden toothache, or an infection, dental emergencies in St. Pete FL can happen to anyone. They require immediate attention from a professional dentist near you. Here at 4th Street Family Dentistry in St. Pete FL, we are here for all of your dental needs and can provide assistance with any dental emergency you may experience. Let’s take a look at what you should do if you find yourself in the midst of a dental emergency.

Remain Calm and Call Your Dentist

The first step is to remain calm and contact your St Pete dentist as soon as possible. Depending on the situation, they may be able to provide same-day care or advise on the best course of action for your specific circumstances. It’s important to call them right away so they can help guide you through the steps necessary to alleviate your discomfort and address the issue before it gets worse.

Prevent Further Damage

In some cases, such as a knocked-out tooth or broken dental appliance, you may be able to prevent further damage by taking certain steps before visiting the dentist. For example, if you have lost a tooth due to trauma, place it in a cup of milk until you can get professional medical attention — this can help preserve your natural teeth and increase your chances of saving them. If you have broken a denture or other appliance, try not to wear it until it has been properly repaired by your dentist; doing so could cause further damage and make the repair more difficult.

Follow Up Care

Once your emergency has been addressed and treated by one of our professionals here at 4th Street Family Dentistry in St Pete FL, follow-up care will be necessary depending on the severity of the situation. This might include antibiotics or painkillers prescribed by our doctors as well as additional visits for further treatment such as fillings or root canals if needed. Following up with these treatments is key; failure to do so could lead to further complications and potentially even more severe issues down the line which could be costly both financially and medically.

Contact 4th Street Family Dentistry

Dental emergencies are never fun but they don’t always have to mean panic either! By remaining calm and contacting us here at 4th Street Family Dentistry in St Pete FL right away we can provide guidance on how best to handle the situation before visiting our office for treatment if needed. We understand that time is often of the essence when dealing with dental emergencies which is why we strive to provide quick yet effective care! Contact us today if you ever need immediate dental care!

When to See Your Emergency Dentist in St. Pete

When to See Your Emergency Dentist in St. Pete

If you have low-level, persistent discomfort in your teeth, gums, or jaw, you may think you can wait a few days to see your dentist at a routine visit. However, certain cases are so dangerous or cause so much agony that the only alternative is to schedule an emergency dental appointment and be seen as soon as possible.

Reasons You Might Need an Emergency Dentist Visit

You do not have to be “tough” or put up with unexplainable discomfort or swelling. Waiting too long might lead to more significant problems later on. I’m not sure what has to be addressed and what can wait a few days. Here are a few reasons you should schedule an emergency dental consultation as soon as possible.

A Tooth That Has Been Broken or Knocked Out

A badly fractured tooth may be giving you so much agony that you cannot function. A permanent tooth knocked out will bleed all over the place. Without prompt treatment for either circumstance, you will most likely be unhappy and may permanently lose that tooth. Worse, if you wait too long to get treatment, the solution may be considerably more intrusive and costly.

Fillings or Crowns That Are Missing

When a crown or filling comes loose, you may notice it right away. And sometimes, all you have on your tongue is a peculiar taste of pennies. Don’t ignore the flavor sensation; instead, go to an emergency dentist as soon as possible. If you wait too long, you may need a far more intrusive (and frequently feared) operation such as a root canal.

Tooth Pain That Isn’t Explainable

Maybe you bit down incorrectly or don’t know what occurred, but your mouth hurts. You get the sensation that your teeth are on fire. Even the air is painful. our friends over at Shreveport Dental Solutions, a dentist in Shreveport LA, talk about how while several factors might cause sudden and unexplained tooth pain, don’t put up with it for a few days until you can arrange an appointment during regular office hours. Instead, schedule an emergency dental appointment.

Gums That Bleed

When you have established conditions like gum disease or plaque buildup, it’s not uncommon for your gums to bleed slightly. Hopefully, you’re collaborating with your dentist to strengthen your gums and address any underlying dental or health issues. However, if your gums start to bleed and do not stop, or if you have discomfort or swelling, you should visit a dentist near you right away. Get in as soon as possible.

Tooth Abscess

You may be unaware that you have an abscessed tooth, but you will be in agony. You cannot speak, breathe, drink, or eat because the thought of anything touching your teeth is excruciating. Don’t wait until Monday or Tuesday to suffer. Instead, make an appointment with an emergency dentist to get the tooth repaired and the discomfort relieved.

Nerves Exposed

The pain from an exposed nerve, like an abscessed tooth, may be terrible. It’s almost hard to go about your typical evening or weekend activities. If the pain disappears quickly, you may have an exposed nerve or an abscessed tooth. This does not imply that the Tooth Fairy exists and that you have been healed. Instead, it might signify that the nerve has been so destroyed that you can no longer feel anything. This is an issue.

A Swollen Mouth

No, swelling in your jaw or mouth for no apparent cause is not normal or usual. Swelling, on the other hand, may be caused by many factors, ranging from enlarged lymph nodes to an infection in your mouth or jaw. Cancer may cause it in very rare circumstances. It’s better to come in for an emergency dental visit since there’s not always a reliable way to tell. You may be in such severe agony that you need to visit the dentist more than the swelling. Don’t delay, no matter whatever aspect bothers you the most.

Contact 4th Street Family Dentistry Today

Emergency dental visits were probably not an option decades ago. You had to suffer through your discomfort or yank your own teeth out back in the day. Nobody should have to go through a dental emergency in the twenty-first century. Instead, take advantage of your dentist’s emergency dental treatment near you. If they do not provide it, look for a dental clinic that can assist you in any dental emergency.

When To See The Emergency Dentist

When To See The Emergency Dentist

When To See The Emergency Dentist

How can you know whether your aches and pains are normal or if you have a serious toothache to worry about? Your St. Petersburg dentist states, if left unaddressed, those apparently little issues may soon escalate into a toothache you’ll never forget. Here are some signs to know when to see the emergency dentist 33704.

Signs You Need Emergency Dental Care

Toothaches occur in a variety of forms, sizes, and pain levels. Knowing what constitutes an emergency and what does not might help you save money over time. Putting off your aches and pains might sometimes lead to a worse dental issue down the road. Because your body is so interconnected, pinpointing the exact reason for your dental pain might be challenging. A proper diagnosis from Dr. Brian Leeson is the most reliable approach to get quick toothache relief and maybe avoid a more serious problem.

Loose Tooth

You should never suffer loss of teeth as an adult. If you’ve noticed that your teeth are becoming loose, there are a few factors that might be causing this. Patients may have severe pain as a result of this, and you should seek emergency dentist St. Pete right away. Whether it was a sports-related injury or a traffic accident, you’ll want to make sure your teeth are healthy and robust. Even if your teeth seem to be in good shape, you should see an emergency dentist rule out any nerve or jaw injury. While nerve or jaw injury may not show symptoms right away, it is critical to get treatment before your situation worsens. It’s better to be safe than sorry in this circumstance, as it is in most.

Toothache

The intensity of your toothache may indicate that you should see your dentist for fast toothache treatment. If your toothache is minimal, there are a few home remedies that you might try. If not, you should make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible, since toothaches may be caused by a variety of factors. Treatment will be determined by the underlying cause, thus accurate diagnosis is essential for long-term toothache treatment.

For patients, preventing a toothache in the first place is desirable, but we understand that this isn’t always possible. Habits and lifestyle choices may get in the way, and before you realize it, you’re dealing with a toothache. See your dentist if your toothache has become more severe and the pain persists following sensitivity to warmth or touch.

Swollen or Aching Gums

While seeing your gums bleed after flossing isn’t ‘normal,’ it might be an indication of gingivitis or early gum disease. However, if your gums are bleeding excessively, often, and even leave your gums sore, there are several red flags to be aware of. These are some of the most frequent gum disease symptoms.

If your gums are hurting or swollen, though, your dentist will need to check them to see what’s wrong. Early detection of gum disease is critical for maintaining the health and integrity of your gums and teeth. Untreated symptoms of gum disease, in particular, may progress to the point of no return. Because gum disease progresses in phases, some patients will be unable to return their teeth to their previous level of health. Treatment for periodontal disease is totally dependent on where you are in the disease’s progression.

Swollen Jaw

Swelling of the jaw might be an indication of a severe infection. Salivary gland infection is one of them. If you have a swollen jaw, a terrible taste in your mouth, a fever, difficulty breathing, or swallowing, you should get emergency dental help right away. A bacterial infection caused by a blockage in your salivary glands is known as a salivary gland infection. Saliva may get clogged, preventing it from fulfilling its task of breaking down food and washing away microbes. While this form of infection is unusual, you should see a dentist about your symptoms before disregarding them.

Abscess

If you see signs of a tooth abscess, you should contact your dentist right away. An abscessed tooth is a painful infection that develops at the base of the tooth. This is usually caused by an untreated cavity or severe gum disease. It might also be caused by any damage to your teeth, such as a chipped tooth. Fever, a bad taste in your mouth, pus, and swollen glands are all symptoms of an abscessed tooth. The symptoms are similar to those of the majority of other illnesses, and treatment should be sought as soon as possible. An abscessed tooth usually needs surgery to ensure that the infection is adequately drained and treated.

Canker Sore Isn’t Improving

This usually applies to any lesions that have developed in your mouth and are refusing to go away. Canker sores are common, and they may strike anybody at any moment. Only if the sores persist or get infected should this be a matter of worry. If you have an open sore in your mouth that hasn’t healed after two weeks, see your doctor or dentist to determine what’s wrong.

Regular Migraines

Our friend Dr. Eastham, best dentist in Grand Junction CO, states that headaches may be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, illness, or eating something cold too fast. If your headaches have become persistent and recurrent, though, it might be an indication of something more. Because your teeth and skull are linked, any discomfort in your mouth or jaw might cause or contribute to a headache. If you grind your teeth on a regular basis, you may have bruxism. Patients who grind their teeth on a regular basis sometimes suffer from headaches. If you believe this is the case, see your dentist about any additional bruxism warning symptoms, such as worn down tooth enamel or increased tooth sensitivity. Wearing a mouth guard at night might occasionally suffice as treatment.

Numb Tooth

If you had a terrible toothache and then suddenly lost all sensation in your tooth, it might be an indication that the infection has progressed to the root. A tooth that is completely devoid of sensation is never a good indication. It’s possible that an abscess has reached your root, where your nerves reside, necessitating a root canal. Keep a watchful eye on your toothaches, since they might signify a significant dental problem that requires immediate treatment.

It’s important to pay attention to what’s going on in your mouth as a patient. Any major changes might indicate the presence of a larger problem. An emergency dental appointment is usually a smart option if you have a toothache and require toothache treatment. 

Make an appointment with our office today if you have any of these symptoms.

Tooth Pain Relief

Tooth Pain relief st petersburg fl

What to Do When You Have Tooth Pain

If you’ve ever had a toothache, you know how painful it can be. Today on the blog, the best dentist in St. Petersburg FL, Dr. Brian Leeson discusses tooth pain relief.

Typically, a toothache or tooth pain occurs when the nerve in the root of a tooth or the area around a tooth is irritated. Dental (tooth) inflammation, rotting, fracture, or removal of a tooth are the most frequent sources of dental pain. Pain can also occur following an extraction (tooth is pulled out). Pain can originate in other places and radiate to the jaw, giving the appearance of tooth pain. Bacteria in your mouth can lead to gum disease and tooth erosion, all of which can cause discomfort. Mostly, gum disease does not cause much harm. Thus, flossing, cleaning with fluoride toothpaste, and getting your teeth professionally cleaned by your dentist twice a year will help you avoid the majority of dental issues. Sealants and fluoride can be applied by your emergency dentistry St. Petersburg, which is sometimes necessary for children’s teeth.

Toothache Causes


First off, let’s start with the basics. What causes a toothache? Toothaches are caused by inflammation of the pulp, the core part of the tooth. The pulp includes nerve endings that are very vulnerable to pain. Inflammation of the pulp, also known as pulpitis, may be caused by oral cavities, trauma, or infection. You may have toothache symptoms due to referred pain from the jaw.

Symptoms of Toothache


Is your toothache in your tooth? Is it in your jaw? Regardless, you’ll want toothache pain relief. If the pain gets more intense as the region of inflammation becomes larger, it can radiate to the cheek, lip, or jaw. As follows, other signs and symptoms that can prompt you to seek medical attention include the following:

  • Chewing pain
  • Exposure to heat and cold
  • Bleeding or leakage from a tooth or gums
  • Swelling around a tooth or in the jaw
  • Injury or trauma to the area

These signs and symptoms are often associated with dental decay, tooth fracture, or gum disease (periodontal disease). Dental deterioration or a region of redness around the tooth’s gum line may indicate the cause of the pain. Messing with an infected tooth can aggravate the pain, making it essential to see your St. Petersburg FL dentist immediately. Even if the tooth looks fine, this sign may indicate a problem tooth.

A toothache must be distinguished from other causes of pain in the face. Sinusitis, ear or throat pain, or an injury to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the jaw to the skull, can all be associated with toothache. Pressure from a deeper structure (referred pain) may travel along the nerve and be felt in the jaw or teeth.

How to Treat a Toothache at Home

If you can’t make it to our dentistry, there are a few things you can do for tooth pain relief at home. These are:

  • Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used. Take these as instructed on the box when you schedule a dental appointment.
  • Avoid hot or cold foods as they can aggravate the discomfort.
  • You can find comfort by chewing on a cotton ball soaked in clove oil.

Of course, we’d love to see you as soon as you experience tooth pain so that we can properly diagnose you and relieve your pain. Fillings, tooth extractions, and other procedures can be done by your St Petersburg FL dentist if needed. However, we will always try to save your tooth first. Though, if the condition is serious on permanent teeth, root canal surgery and crown operations are usually performed there is a fever or swelling of the mouth. In most cases, such operations are undertaken in steps, with pain and infection treated first and reconstructive procedures performed later (weeks to months). You will be allowed to return to work or school as you recover.

Tooth Pain Relief


Regular dental treatment can help most people prevent toothaches and serious dental issues. Preventative dentistry is key to the success of your oral health. That’s why all dentists recommend getting your teeth professionally cleaned twice a year.

Additionally, our friends over at Gentle Dental Group, the best dentist in Bethlehem GA, recommend maintaining a balanced diet. Dr. Uyen Hoang explains that bacteria feed on processed sugar which can get into the enamel on your teeth. Have an eye on what you eat and be wary of food that gets stuck on and under your teeth. They also recommend brushing immediately after breakfast.
Also, the American Dental Association recommends using a smooth toothbrush containing fluoride toothpaste. As follows, floss between the teeth on a regular basis. Additionally, using an antiseptic mouthwash on a regular basis to help eliminate bacteria that cause plaque and early gum disease.

Visit Your St. Petersburg Dentist Today

As stated above, prevention is key to oral health success. That’s why we recommend visiting us every six months for a proper cleaning to help prevent tooth infections. Ready to schedule your appointment? Contact us today!

Toothache Myths

St. Pete emergency dentist

There are plenty of theories and misconceptions when it comes to toothaches. When it comes to your health, don’t take any chances; find out the truth about toothaches. Below, Dr. Leeson, your St. Pete dentist, explores the different toothache myths that many patients believe today.

Toothache Myth: Painkillers Treat Toothaches

It’s not the case here. The pain can be momentarily relieved by taking panadol or nurofen, and antibiotics can combat infection surrounding the tooth, none of which is a remedy or permanent solution. The issue is still there and is only going to get worse.

Toothache Myth: A Toothache Equals Cavity

A toothache can often be caused, but not always, by a cavity or early decay. Your bite, scratching, a chip or crack, a fracture, or nerve issues may be associated with a toothache.

Toothache Myth: Toothaches Happen To Everyone

While toothaches are widespread, they are a sign of an issue and should not be ignored. The longer you neglect a toothache or put up with it, the worse the issue will get. If the pain is from a cavity, the cavity will decay more and more rapidly. If the ache is from nerve problems, if left untreated, the nerve will die.

Toothache Myth: If My Toothache Goes Away, My Tooth is Okay

Even if the toothache’s intensity decreases or even appears to vanish, it doesn’t mean that the issue is fixed, explains Dr. Christopher Green sedation dentist Parker CO. Decay can cause pain and sensitivity that comes and goes, or it may mean that because the nerve has died, you simply do not feel the pain anymore. You always see the dentist.

Toothache Myth: Sensitive Toothpaste Will Help Treat My Toothache 

Responsive toothpaste will temporarily alleviate a toothache that responds to hot or cold foods or beverages, but as with any other short-term solutions, this is not a permanent cure and will not necessarily address the cause of the toothache.

Now that you know the truth about toothaches, you can decide whether or not you should visit your dentist in St. Petersburg, FL. If you’re still unsure about seeing your dentist, contact 4th Street Family Dentistry for a consultation. Dr. Leeson will take dental x-rays, give you a full mouth evaluation, and treatment plan.

How to Repair a Broken Dental Crown

4th Street Family Dentistry - How to fix a broken crown

How to Repair a Broken Dental Crown in St. Pete

Sturdy as they may seem, our teeth aren’t immune to damage. Your teeth are susceptible to tooth decay and physical trauma. That’s where dental crowns come in. Said to be the single most productive procedure performed in dental practices, dental crowns are effective ‘caps’ that are placed over damaged teeth to restore their shape, size, strength, and appearance.

Dental crowns are usually used when the tooth is too damaged for dental fillings to restore functionality properly. On average, dental crowns can last between five to fifteen years, depending on the amount of wear and tear and your oral hygiene practices. But did you know crowns can get chipped or broken just like regular teeth? If you notice a chip or fracture in your crown, contact 4th Street Family Dentistry for emergency treatment. 

Before you had your crowns installed, you probably had a conversation with your dentist in St. Petersburg, FL, to determine the type of crown that will work best for you. Crowns are usually made from a variety of different materials, and this determines how resistant they will be to damage. Ceramic and resin crowns are usually the least durable, while crowns made from base metal alloys, gold alloys, and porcelain fused with metal are highly durable.

Signs Your Dental Crown is Fractured or Broken

The best dentists in St. Petersburg, FL, will tell you that spotting a cracked or broken crown may not be easy, especially if you don’t visit the dentist regularly. Digital Doc, the maker of the best intraoral cameras, says that cracks may start out small, making it almost impossible for you to spot them with the naked eye. Seeing your St. Pete dentist twice a year will allow them to catch the issue and treat it while it’s still early.

If the crack isn’t treated soon enough, you may notice increased pain or sensitivity. The sensitivity will occcur while chewing, sensitivity to hot or cold foods, or bleeding at the affected tooth. A crown may break due to a blow to the face, a fall, grinding your teeth, wear and tear, or biting down on something hard. If your crown gets broken from physical trauma or chips off as you chew, contact an emergency dentist in St. Pete for treatment.

In certain circumstances, a painful crown may be a sign that the underlying tooth is the issue. If it can no longer support the crown, your dentist in St. Petersburg may have to extract it and install a dental implant to restore the tooth’s functionality.

What You Should Do if Your Dental Crown Breaks

While broken crowns aren’t usually considered an emergency, you may require emergency treatment if caused by a fall or blow to the face and cause intense pain. If you notice it, the first thing you ought to do is examine the area to see the extent of the damage before contacting a dentist in St. Pete for further guidance. Get a mirror and study the affected area if the broken crown is visible. Use your tongue to check for sensitivity. Are pieces of the crown missing or dislodged? Are there any jagged edges that may cut the inside of your mouth? Does the area feel sensitive to air or food?

While dentists don’t always recommend it, you may have to pull off the crown if there is a risk of swallowing it. If there is any bleeding, use a piece of gauze to gently apply pressure to the area. Dr. Ben Kacos, a sedation dentist in Shreveport, LA, says you can apply a little clove oil with a cotton swab or dental cement directly to the tooth surface if it feels sensitive. This will protect the remaining tooth and reduce the pain and sensitivity until you can finally see a dentist. 

Treatment for a Broken Crown

Make sure you see a dentist within 5-7 days of your dental crown breaking, even if it isn’t causing you too much pain. Leaving it for too long creates the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and leads to infection down the road. If you are afraid of brushing around the broken crown before your dentist’s appointment, you can use mouthwash or a saltwater solution after brushing to kill off bacteria.

The dentist will thoroughly clean and examine the remaining tooth and crown to assess the damage’s extent. If the crown is too damaged to be reapplied and the tooth is strong enough to hold a new dental crown, you will be fitted with a temporary crown while a new permanent crown is fabricated. Your St. Petersburg, FL dentist can also bond a composite resin to a porcelain crown to repair the crown if it has a minor crack or fracture. However, this requires a very specific porcelain repair kit, and not every dentist has it.

If it turns out that the underlying tooth was the problem, you may have to undergo a tooth extraction. Then have a dental implant installed once you heal. While they can be uncomfortable, broken dental crowns are entirely fixable. Whether through bonding with a composite resin or outright replacing them. Leaving a broken crown in could lead to more severe dental problems down the road. Are you looking for a dentist to fix a broken crown? Contact 4th Family Street Dentistry for emergency treatment today.