The Role of Restorative Dentistry in Oral Health

The Role of Restorative Dentistry in Oral Health

The Role of Restorative Dentistry in Oral Health

The Role of Restorative Dentistry in Oral Health in St. Petersburg, FL

A healthy smile is more than just an attractive feature—it’s a vital part of your overall well-being. While preventive care focuses on avoiding dental issues, restorative dentistry is the branch that steps in when damage, decay, or tooth loss occurs. At 4th Street Family Dentistry in St. Petersburg, FL, our team is committed to helping patients restore their smiles, improve function, and enhance oral health through advanced restorative treatments.

If you’ve ever had a filling, crown, or dental implant, you’ve already benefited from restorative dentistry. Let’s take a closer look at what restorative dentistry is, why it matters, and how it supports your long-term oral health.

What Is Restorative Dentistry?

Restorative dentistry involves the diagnosis, treatment, and management of diseases of the teeth and their supporting structures. Its primary goal is to repair or replace damaged teeth, restore proper function, and maintain the natural structure of your mouth.

Common restorative procedures include:

  • Dental fillings

  • Crowns and bridges

  • Root canal therapy

  • Dental implants

  • Dentures

  • Inlays and onlays

These treatments not only restore your ability to chew, speak, and smile confidently, but also prevent further dental problems from developing.

Why Restorative Dentistry Is Important

Teeth and gums are constantly exposed to wear, bacteria, and trauma. Even with good oral hygiene, decay, injury, or aging can cause damage over time. Without timely treatment, small problems can quickly escalate into major issues like infections or tooth loss.

Here’s how restorative dentistry plays a key role in preserving oral health:

1. Preserves Natural Teeth

Whenever possible, restorative procedures aim to save your natural teeth. For instance, a root canal can rescue an infected tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted. Saving a natural tooth helps maintain jaw structure and prevents neighboring teeth from shifting.

2. Restores Function

Damaged or missing teeth can affect your ability to chew properly and speak clearly. Restorative dentistry ensures your mouth functions comfortably and effectively, whether you’re enjoying a meal or holding a conversation.

3. Prevents Further Complications

Neglecting a cracked tooth or untreated cavity can lead to infections, abscesses, and bone loss. Restorative procedures halt the progression of decay and protect your surrounding teeth, gums, and bone.

4. Improves Aesthetics

While restorative dentistry is primarily about function, many treatments also improve appearance. Dental crowns, tooth-colored fillings, and implants blend seamlessly with your natural smile.

Common Restorative Dentistry Procedures

At 4th Street Family Dentistry, we offer a range of restorative options tailored to each patient’s needs. Here are some of the most common:

Dental Fillings

Fillings are used to treat cavities caused by tooth decay. We use durable, tooth-colored composite materials that blend naturally with your smile and provide long-lasting results.

Crowns and Bridges

A dental crown covers a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance. When one or more teeth are missing, a bridge can be used to “bridge” the gap using neighboring teeth as anchors.

Root Canal Therapy

When the inside of a tooth becomes infected or inflamed, root canal therapy is used to clean out the infection, relieve pain, and save the tooth from extraction.

Dental Implants

Implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth. A titanium post is placed in the jawbone, serving as an artificial root, and is topped with a custom crown for a natural look and feel.

Dentures and Partials

Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth. Whether you’re missing a few teeth or need a full set, modern dentures offer a comfortable and attractive solution.

The Restorative Dentistry Process

Your journey to a restored smile begins with a thorough exam. At 4th Street Family Dentistry, we use advanced diagnostic tools to assess your oral health and identify any issues. From there, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan that may involve one or more restorative procedures.

Our goal is to make the process as comfortable and stress-free as possible. We’ll walk you through your options, answer your questions, and provide the care and support you need every step of the way.

Restorative Dentistry and Preventive Care: A Powerful Combination

Restorative dentistry and preventive care go hand in hand. After restoring your teeth, maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting the dentist regularly will help ensure your restorations last and your smile stays healthy.

Brushing, flossing, and biannual dental checkups help catch issues early—sometimes even before you notice symptoms. And if a small problem arises, restorative care can quickly resolve it before it becomes a bigger concern.

Trust Your Smile to 4th Street Family Dentistry

At 4th Street Family Dentistry in St. Petersburg, FL, we understand the importance of a fully functional, confident smile. Whether you need a simple filling or a full-mouth restoration, our compassionate dental team is here to provide expert care in a warm, welcoming environment.

We use the latest techniques and technology to deliver high-quality, personalized treatment that restores both the health and beauty of your smile.

Ready to take the next step toward better oral health? Schedule a consultation with us today and let’s work together to bring your smile back to life.

Treatment Options for Chipped Teeth

Treatment Options for Chipped Teeth

Treatment Options for Chipped Teeth

Reviving Your Smile: Tailored Treatment Options for Chipped Teeth in St. Petersburg

A chipped tooth can be a distressing experience, affecting both your appearance and oral health. Whether it’s due to a sports injury, biting down on something hard, or even just wear and tear over time, finding the right dentist in St. Petersburg, FL, is crucial to restoring your smile effectively. At 4th Street Family Dentistry, we specialize in providing personalized treatment options that not only repair chipped teeth but also enhance your overall dental health.

Understanding Chipped Teeth

Chipped teeth are a common dental issue that can vary in severity from minor cosmetic problems to more significant structural damage. They can expose the inner layers of the tooth to bacteria, leading to decay and further complications if left untreated. Additionally, a chipped tooth can impact your confidence, making you hesitant to smile or speak freely.

Comprehensive Dental Evaluation

At 4th Street Family Dentistry, our first step is to conduct a thorough dental evaluation. This allows us to assess the extent of the chipped tooth and any associated damage. Using advanced diagnostic tools and our expertise, we create a tailored treatment plan that suits your unique needs.

Restorative Options

We offer a range of restorative options to repair chipped teeth:

Dental Bonding: This is a quick and cost-effective treatment where a tooth-colored resin is applied to the chipped area and hardened with a special light. Dental bonding is ideal for minor chips and can be completed in a single visit.

Porcelain Veneers: For more significant chips or aesthetic concerns, porcelain veneers are custom-made shells that cover the front surface of the teeth. They not only restore the tooth’s appearance but also provide strength and durability.

Dental Crowns: In cases of extensive chipping or damage to a large portion of the tooth, a dental crown may be recommended. Crowns are caps that fit over the entire tooth, restoring its shape, size, and strength.

Cosmetic Considerations

Beyond functionality, we understand the importance of a natural-looking smile. Our team ensures that any treatment blends seamlessly with your existing teeth, maintaining a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Preventive Measures

Preventing future chipping is key to maintaining a healthy smile. We provide personalized advice on oral hygiene practices, dietary habits, and protective measures such as mouthguards for athletes to minimize the risk of dental injuries.

Why Choose 4th Street Family Dentistry?

Located in the heart of St. Petersburg, FL, 4th Street Family Dentistry is renowned for our commitment to exceptional patient care and comprehensive dental solutions. Here’s why we’re considered one of the best dentists in St. Petersburg, FL:

  • Expertise: Our team of experienced dentists and specialists ensures top-notch care using the latest techniques and technology.

  • Patient-Centered Approach: We prioritize your comfort and satisfaction, ensuring a positive dental experience from the moment you walk through our doors.

  • Advanced Technology: From digital imaging for precise diagnostics to advanced treatment options, we leverage technology to deliver superior outcomes.

  • Community Focused: We are proud to serve the St. Petersburg community and strive to build long-term relationships based on trust and mutual respect.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Don’t let a chipped tooth diminish your smile. Contact 4th Street Family Dentistry today to schedule your consultation. Our team will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that restores your smile’s natural beauty and functionality. Discover why we’re considered the best dentist in St. Petersburg, FL, for chipped teeth and comprehensive dental care. Restoring a chipped tooth goes beyond mere aesthetics—it’s about ensuring your oral health and confidence. At 4th Street Family Dentistry, we are dedicated to providing tailored treatments that prioritize both aspects, helping you achieve a smile you can proudly share with the world. Reach out to us today and take the first step towards revitalizing your smile!

Dental Health and Restorative Dentistry

Dental Health and Restorative Dentistry

Dental Health and Restorative Dentistry

Dental Health and Restorative Dentistry: How 4th Street Family Dentistry Improves Your Overall Wellness

Dental health is a vital aspect of overall well-being, and at 4th Street Family Dentistry, recognized as the Best Dentist in St. Petersburg, FL, we prioritize the restoration and maintenance of healthy smiles. 

The Foundation of Dental Health

Dental health goes beyond having a bright smile; it encompasses the well-being of your teeth, gums, and overall oral cavity. At 4th Street Family Dentistry, our approach to dental health begins with preventive care. Regular dental check-ups, cleanings, and education on proper oral hygiene lay the foundation for a healthy and resilient smile.

The Importance of Restorative Dentistry

Despite the best preventive efforts, dental issues may arise due to factors such as decay, trauma, or natural wear and tear. This is where restorative dentistry plays a crucial role. Restorative dentistry focuses on repairing and preserving the function and aesthetics of teeth, ensuring patients can enjoy a healthy and confident smile.

Customized Restorative Solutions

At 4th Street Family Dentistry, we understand that each patient’s dental needs are unique. Our skilled team offers a range of restorative solutions tailored to address individual concerns. From dental fillings to crowns, bridges, and dental implants, our goal is to provide customized treatments that restore both the form and function of your teeth.

Dental Fillings for Cavity Repair

Dental fillings are a common restorative treatment for addressing cavities caused by tooth decay. Our dental team utilizes advanced materials, including tooth-colored composite resin, to create fillings that seamlessly blend with natural teeth. This ensures effective cavity repair without compromising the aesthetics of your smile.

Dental Crowns and Bridges for Comprehensive Restoration

When a tooth is significantly damaged or lost, dental crowns and bridges offer comprehensive restoration. Crowns are used to encase a damaged tooth, providing strength and protection. Bridges, on the other hand, replace missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth to adjacent natural teeth. This approach not only restores the appearance of your smile but also maintains proper dental function.

Dental Implants for Permanent Tooth Replacement

For individuals with missing teeth, dental implants offer a permanent and durable solution. Our skilled practitioners at 4th Street Family Dentistry specialize in dental implant procedures, providing patients with a reliable tooth replacement option that mimics the look and function of natural teeth.

Full Mouth Reconstruction for Comprehensive Transformation

In cases of extensive dental issues, our Full Mouth Reconstruction services aim to comprehensively transform your oral health. This personalized approach combines various restorative procedures to address multiple concerns, ensuring a complete and harmonious smile makeover.

The Role of Technology in Restorative Dentistry

4th Street Family Dentistry embraces advanced dental technology to enhance the precision and efficiency of restorative procedures. From digital imaging for treatment planning to computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) for creating customized restorations, our use of cutting-edge technology ensures optimal outcomes for our patients.

The Connection Between Oral and Overall Health

Maintaining good dental health is not only essential for a beautiful smile but also contributes to overall well-being. Poor oral health has been linked to various systemic conditions, emphasizing the importance of regular dental care and timely restorative interventions.

Contact Us! Rediscover Your Smile at 4th Street Family Dentistry

Your journey to optimal dental health and a radiant smile begins at 4th Street Family Dentistry in St. Petersburg, FL. As the Best Dentist in the area, our commitment to personalized care, advanced techniques, and comprehensive restorative solutions sets us apart. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward reclaiming your smile with confidence and comfort. At 4th Street Family Dentistry, your oral health is our priority, and we look forward to assisting you on your path to a healthier, happier smile.

Silver Fillings Replaced

Silver Fillings Replaced

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. 

Replacing Your Silver Fillings

Do you have silver dental fillings that have become worn, discolored or loose? If you are experiencing these issues, it might be time to consider replacing them with new composite fillings. Old silver dental fillings are not only unsightly, but they can also cause potential health risks. In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of getting those silver fillings replaced with new composite fillings and why it’s important to do so.

Improved Aesthetics

Silver fillings can become worn and discolored over time, which can cause them to stand out from your natural teeth. Composite fillings, on the other hand, are custom-made to match your tooth color which makes them blend in seamlessly with your natural teeth. This will help to improve the overall appearance of your smile.

Better Functionality

Composite fillings also tend to be stronger than silver fillings, which can provide better chewing and biting functionality. Additionally, they are less prone to causing cracks or chips in your teeth, which can lead to further dental issues.

Reduced Sensitivity

Silver fillings can be sensitive to hot and cold temperatures, which can cause discomfort when eating or drinking. Composite fillings, however, are much less sensitive and better suited to handle these types of temperature changes.

Health Risks

Silver fillings are made from a mixture of metals, including mercury, which has been found to potentially cause health risks. While this has not been definitively proven, it’s better to err on the side of caution and have them replaced with composite fillings as a preventative.

Longevity

Composite fillings are known for their long-lasting durability, which can last up to 12 years or more with proper care. This means that you will be able to enjoy your new composite fillings for years to come.

In conclusion, if you have silver fillings that are worn, discolored or loose, it’s important to consider replacing them with new composite fillings. Not only will this improve the overall appearance of your smile, but it will also provide better functionality and reduce the potential health risks associated with silver fillings. At 4th Street Family Dentistry in St. Petersburg, Florida, we are proud to offer composite fillings as a safer and more efficient option for our patients. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about the benefits of composite fillings.

Dental Bridge Procedure

Dental Bridge Procedure

Dental Bridges – A Guide to the Procedure

Are you considering a dental bridge procedure? If so, you are in the right place. At 4th Street Family Dentistry in St. Pete FL, we want to make sure all our patients understand exactly what a dental bridge is and how this procedure can help improve their smile. Let’s dive right into it!

What Is A Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a restoration procedure that replaces one or more missing teeth. This is accomplished by anchoring artificial teeth (known as pontics) to your existing teeth with crowns on either side. The pontics fill the gap left by missing teeth and restore chewing function, improve speech, and maintain the shape of your face. This type of restoration gives you back your natural smile and helps prevent other teeth from shifting out of position.

Who Needs A Dental Bridge?

If you have one or more missing teeth, then you may be an ideal candidate for a dental bridge. When it comes to restoring your smile, a dental bridge could provide many benefits such as improved appearance, increased stability for adjacent teeth, restored ability to chew and speak normally again, and improved oral health overall. It’s important to note that not everyone is a good candidate for this procedure; only after an examination can we determine if a dental bridge is the best option for you.

How Does The Procedure Work?

The process begins with an initial consultation with 4th Street Family Dentistry where we will take X-rays and examine your mouth to ensure that a dental bridge is the best option for restoring your smile. We will also discuss any questions or concerns you may have about the procedure itself. Once approved, we will perform any necessary preparation work like removing damaged tooth structure or making impressions of your mouth which are used to create custom bridges that fit perfectly in your mouth. Once complete, the custom bridges are bonded into place using special adhesive cement and they look just like natural teeth!

Contact Us Today!

Are you interested in learning more about getting a dental bridge here at 4th Street Family Dentistry? We are here to answer all of your questions about this restorative dentistry procedure so please do not hesitate to reach out! A dental bridge can help restore lost functionality due to missing teeth while improving both your appearance and oral health overall — so don’t wait any longer — contact us today! We look forward to helping you achieve the beautiful smile you deserve!

Saving Your Natural Tooth

saving your natural tooth

Saving Your Natural Tooth

Nothing compares to the look, feel, and function of your natural tooth. Brushing and flossing on a regular basis, as well as dental checkups, can help you keep your teeth for a lifetime. Today on the blog, our dentist in St. Pete discusses why will always opt for saving your natural tooth in restorative dentistry.

Why We Want to Save Your Natural Tooth

Your teeth may get infected or diseased at times, necessitating further care. Treatments to save your teeth should always be considered when possible. You may think that having a tooth extracted is unnecessary. However, you will be aware that your tooth is missing. Importantly, this will have a detrimental influence on your quality of life.

Don’t get a tooth extracted because you believe it will be easier or less expensive. Missing teeth can cause other teeth to shift, impair your chewing abilities, and destroy your smile. Our Emergency dentist St. Pete explains that tooth extraction is frequently more painful than infection. Additionally, replacing an extracted tooth with an artificial one necessitates further dental visits, which can quickly add up.

Modern Endodontics

Modern endodontics advances in technologies, methods, and materials, providing you with a variety of treatment alternatives for preserving your natural teeth. It is critical to understand your options and how they will affect your tooth. Additionally, you should understand how it will impact your future dental health. When possible, it is always preferable to keep your original teeth. Thus, endodontic treatment should be your first choice for the best health and cosmetic results. Our team can assess your situation and provide the best treatment approach to help you save your teeth for life.

Here are some pointers to help you save your teeth:

When given the option of tooth extraction or root canal therapy, we will always recommend the root canal St. Petersburg. Our friends over at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, dentist Colorado Springs, agree. This is because no denture, bridge, or implant will ever look, feel, or operate as a natural tooth. Thus, when you notice swelling or pain, take action right away. Most endodontists can accept emergency cases, even on weekends, ensuring that you are seen as soon as possible.

How to Save Natural Teeth With Endodontic Treatment 

Dr. Brian Leeson, the best St. Pete dentist, explains that when the inside of your tooth (the pulp) becomes inflamed or infected, it is usually a result of deep decay. It could also be recurrent dental procedures, faulty crowns, or a crack or chip in the tooth. If so, endodontic or root canal treatment is required. Even if your tooth has no obvious chips or cracks, trauma to the tooth might cause pulp injury. Untreated pulp irritation or infection can cause pain or lead to an abscess. When you have a root canal or other endodontic treatment, the inflamed or infected pulp is removed. Then, the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and disinfected before being filled and sealed with gutta-percha, a rubber-like material.

Contact 4th St Today for Restorative Dentistry 

Contact 4th St Family Dentistry to discuss your options. If you are experiencing tooth pain or need restorative dentistry, we would love to assist.

Everything You Need to Know About Tooth-Colored Fillings

Everything You Need to Know About Tooth-Colored Fillings

Everything You Need to Know About Tooth-Colored Fillings

You’re probably hoping that when you go to see your Dentist in St. Petersburg that he won’t find a cavity. In fact, practically everyone has had a cavity or two at some point in their lives. Patients who have recently had a cavity were most often treated with a tooth-colored filling. Today on the blog, we discuss everything you need to know about tooth-colored fillings.

What Are Tooth Colored Fillings? 

Dr. Brian Leeson, the best dentist in St. Petersburg FL, explains that tooth-colored fillings are the current modern version of the old, silver fillings. They are formed out of a composite resin mix that fills and seals off a cavity after the damaged region has been removed. Tooth-colored fillings, as opposed to standard fillings, mix beautifully with your natural teeth to keep them appearing faultless. Given that tooth-colored fillings are one of the most popular procedures performed at 4th Street Family Dentistry, we thought we’d go over some of the most common questions people have about them.

How Much Do Tooth Colored Fillings Cost?

Many factors influence an individual’s cost for a composite resin filling no matter where you live. Our friends over at New Providence Dentistry, dentist in New Providence NJ, explains that the diameter of the cavity and if anesthesia is required are the two key components. We agree. Cavity treatment is a non-invasive procedure that may usually be completed in a single visit with only a local anesthetic. However, sedation, such as nitrous oxide (“laughing” gas) or oral-conscious medicine, is often recommended if you have dental phobias or a strong gag reflex. If you have dental insurance, your dentist in St. Pete should verify your coverage before billing you for the remaining amount. Many dental practices provide flexible payment alternatives or accept low-interest medical financing for customers who do not have dental insurance. For most patients, it is less expensive to repair a cavity with a composite resin filling than to ignore it until it worsens.

Why Get a Filling

In the long term, ignoring your dentist’s detection of a cavity and recommendation to get a tooth-colored filling might lead to additional suffering and more expensive treatments. When a cavity becomes too large for a filling, it can be corrected using an inlay. These treatments are larger than composite resin fillings but not as strong as crowns. They are precisely designed to cover the decaying portion of the tooth immediately after it has been prepared. If the decay has progressed to the pulp of the tooth, a root canal may be required.

When Root Canals Are Required

Root canal therapy takes the weakened pulp deep within the tooth, and the tooth is often sealed up with a customized crown. If you do not seek professional help, the infection may spread to the rest of your mouth and, eventually, enter your bloodstream, affecting your entire health. To summarize, the longer you wait to correct a cavity, the slower, more intrusive, expensive, and unpleasant the treatment will be.

Contact 4th St Family Dentistry Today

No one will notice that you have tooth-colored fillings because they blend in with the rest of your smile. Tooth-colored fillings are also a low-cost restorative alternative. Contact our St. Petersburg, FL dental office for more information on tooth-colored fillings.

Restorative vs. Cosmetic Dentistry

restorative v. cosmetic dentistry st petersburg FL

Restorative Dentistry vs. Cosmetic Dentistry

4th Street Family Dentistry offers both cosmetic dental care and restorative dental care. Cosmetic dentistry is mainly enhancing your smile and changing the general appearance of your teeth. As far as cosmetic dentistry is concerned, the focus here is on the art, not the actual science behind the procedure. In general, a St. Pete cosmetic dentist is actually a restorative dentist who has studied and trained extensively in the concepts of smile design and the use of dental materials that create the best possible smile for an individual. Check out the difference between restorative vs. cosmetic dentistry.

Determining Whether You Need Cosmetic or Restorative Dental Work

Although cosmetic dentistry and restorative dentistry do overlap, the main difference between the two is their focus and the level of dental expertise. A cosmetic dentist is one who goes beyond the process of restoration. If a restorative dentist stops helping an individual to achieve a set of fully functioning teeth, a cosmetic dentist will not only correct the functioning of the teeth but will also seek to achieve results that match the individual’s idea of a perfect smile. This requires quite some expertise and a very accurate level of finesse, as a cosmetic dentist needs to pay attention to even the smallest details, such as how many teeth a person should have visible while he/she smiles, etc.

Restorative Dental Treatments St. Pete

Restorative dentistry fixes structural problems. These problems include damaged or missing teeth. Restorative dentists use the below procedures to fix structural problem: 

Restoring your teeth and their proper functioning is where restorative dentistry comes to an end explains Dr. Cody Boals, dentist in Colorado Springs. If you want to make your smile better, seek the help of a cosmetic dentist. Cosmetic dentistry is completely concerned with the enhancement of your teeth. Cosmetic dentistry can eliminate these problems by helping you boost your overall confidence and appearance.

St. Pete Cosmetic Dental Treatments

All dental treatments that involve an esthetic improvement of your smile are considered cosmetic. They simply focus on the appearance of your teeth and help you restore their function and overall oral health. Some cosmetic dentistry treatments may include the following:

These are just a few examples of cosmetic dentistry procedures that you may be able to choose from. However, one major difference between cosmetic dentistry and restorative dentistry is the actual cost of treatment procedures, which may be a bit high for cosmetic dentistry treatments.

Contact 4th Street Family Dentistry 

You should also feel comfortable asking Dr. Brian Leeson any questions you are still unsure about. You and your St. Pete dentist will need to work together to find treatment options that will make your smile brighter and healthier. Contact us, today! 

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.

The Benefits of Dentures

benefits of dentures - St. Petersburg Fl

The Benefits of Dentures

Right from your childhood, your teeth play a crucial role in both your physical and social development. A strong, healthy set of teeth allows you to chew and eat properly. Similarly, a beautiful, aesthetic smile can help you conquer the world with confidence. However, teeth don’t always last a lifetime. So, you may find yourself considering tooth replacement options down the road.

Dentures are among the top teeth replacement options for people who’ve lost two or more teeth. Every dentist in St. Petersburg would advise you to have a missing tooth replaced as soon as possible. Not only will it restore both the aesthetic and functional roles of your teeth, but it will also save you from experiencing more severe dental issues.

Types of Dentures Your Dentist May Recommend

  • Full dentures – Are used when the patient has lost all of the teeth. They consist of a removable lower and upper arch with a row of porcelain or acrylic made teeth. 
  • Partial dentures – Can be used to replace either the lower or upper arch of teeth. They work better for people who haven’t lost all of their teeth.
  • Implant-supported dentures – These dentures are often used with patients who have only lost some of their teeth. A thin metal bar with posts attached to it is implanted onto your jawbone, right under your gums. Once your gums heal, a denture is clipped onto the posts.

Best Benefits of Dentures

If you are missing two or more teeth, you may be a suitable candidate for dentures, so contact 4th Street Family Dentistry today for a consultation. It may be the first step between you and a strong, healthy set of teeth.   

They Prevent Bone Loss

When your natural teeth are firmly implanted in your jaw, they constantly stimulate the jawbone, keeping it in a state of perpetual regeneration at a cellular level. When teeth are lost and aren’t replaced, the jawbone doesn’t receive stimulation, and as time passes, the process of constant regeneration will stop and reverse, resulting in bone loss. Over time, more and more of your jawbone will be lost, eventually resulting in changes in your face’s shape.

Restores the Function of the Teeth

Although teeth serve an aesthetic purpose, their greatest role is functional. They enable you to bite and chew your food. This ability is compromised once you have gaps in your teeth. All types of dentures are designed to look and work like the real thing, and once they are installed, you’ll be able to eat your food with ease. 

They Improve Your Speech

When you speak, your tongue pushes against the back of the teeth to help you make the right sounds and speak properly. If you have one or more missing teeth, you may find it hard to pronounce certain words, leading to self-consciousness and difficulty speaking with others. With dentures, your tongue will have an adequate surface to push against, allowing you to speak clearly and confidently.

They Restore Your Appearance and Give You Confidence

A clean, bright smile is a major confidence booster. Additionally, your teeth prevent your lips and cheeks from collapsing inwards. With gaps in your teeth, you may feel self-conscious. Dr. Kristina Neda, a dentist in Georgetown, KY, says that most of her patients opt for dentures because of how great the transformation is.

You Will Have Fewer Diet Restrictions with Dentures

If you are missing most or all of your teeth, the number of foods you can comfortably eat is severely limited. Not only will this impact the quality of life you lead, but it may also affect your health if you aren’t getting enough nutrients. With dentures, the range of food you can comfortably bite and chew. So, you’ll be able to eat a diverse, healthy, and balanced diet without much pain or frustration.

Dentures Protect Your Remaining Teeth from Extensive Wear and Tear

If you still haven’t lost all of your teeth but do not undergo restorative dentistry, your remaining teeth will take on way too much stress. Dr. Chris Green, a cosmetic dentist in Parker, CO, says that handling a load that was meant for 32 teeth will cause your remaining teeth to wear down faster over time. With a well-fitted set of dentures, the load will be spread evenly among your teeth, sparing your teeth from too much wear and tear and extending their lifetimes.

As you can see, there are so many benefits of dentures! If you have lost all or most of your teeth, dentures may be the best solution for you. Statistics show that at least 48 million Americans are missing all of their teeth, so you’re not alone. Search “St. Pete dentist near me” to see whether dentures can work for you. They are great at restoring tooth aesthetics and functionality, and they will ultimately prevent bone loss and preserve the structure of your face. Contact 4th Street Family Dental today for a consultation.