TMJ Awareness Month: What You Need to Know

TMJ Awareness Month: What You Need to Know 2021

We at 4th Street Family Dentistry, Dentist in St. Petersburg FL, are happy to answer some of the most common questions patients have about TMJ issues in honor of TMJ Awareness Month this November. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, roughly 10 million Americans are affected by this disorder. The next sections go through the essentials of TMJ/TMD.

What is TMJ?

The TMJ, or temporomandibular joint, works like a hinge that connects your jawbone to the skull. You can find this ball and socket joint on each side of your head. The joint has an intervening disc, and collectively, they make it possible for you to chew, swallow, and speak.

What are TMJ disorders?

TMJ disorders are also referred to as temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Dr. Brian Leeson, the family dentist in St. Petersburg, FL, explains that TMJ disorders refer to a group of symptoms related to defects in the TMJ. These symptoms normally include pain in and around the temporomandibular joint. TMD affects the jaw muscles and other structures around the TMJ.

What are the Symptoms of TMJ disorders?

The best dentist in Shreveport, LA, Dr. Ben Kacos, points out that the symptoms of TMJ disorders vary widely, but the following are the most common;

Pain in the jaw muscles or TMJ
Joint sounds, such as popping or clicking
Limitations in the range of movement of your jaw
Tension in your neck or face
Headaches, especially around your temples
Pain or difficulty while you chew

What Causes TMJ Disorders?

If you search for a “St. Pete dentist near me” and talk to that professional, they will tell you that it is sometimes difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of temporomandibular disorders.

Some of the possible causes of TMD are listed below:

Stress
Jaw dislocation
Arthritis
Genetics
Jaw or tooth alignment problems
Teeth grinding or clenching
Injuries affecting the side of your face or jaw joints.

What are the Available Treatment Options for TMD?

You need to see a family dentist in St. Petersburg, FL, for a proper diagnosis before appropriate treatment can be recommended. Since most TMJ disorders are self-limiting, Dr. Brian Leeson is likely to recommend a conservative treatment option, such as modifying your diet (eating softer foods, for example), avoiding repetitive functions (chewing gum or ice, for example), alleviating pain by using a heat pack, and practicing techniques aimed at making you relax your jaw muscles (meditation and biofeedback, for example). Also, Dr. Kim, Dentist Lexington KY, adds that your dentist can also prescribe medications. These include anti-anxiety drugs, muscle relaxants, analgesics, and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Sometimes, your emergency dentist in St. Petersburg, FL, may find it necessary to recommend a dental appliance such as a bite plate or night guard to limit how much you clench or grind your teeth. Surgery (arthroscopy and arthrocentesis, for example) are last-resort options when Dr. Brian Leeson determines that none of the conservative measures highlighted above will be of any help, or when they have been tried, and symptoms worsen or persist.

When Should One See a Dentist in St. Pete?

If you experience persistent jaw pain around the TMJ or have difficulties while opening or closing your jaw, see a dentist immediately. Contact 4th Street Family Dentistry, and Dr. Leeson will examine you and discuss the most appropriate treatment options to restore normalcy to the way your TMJ works.

Can 4th Street Family Dentistry Help with TMD?

Yes, Dr. Brian Leeson and our entire team have extensive experience treating different dental health conditions, including TMJ disorders. Don’t live another day with TMJ disorders; contact us today and schedule a consultation. We would be honored to help!

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

An Oral-Health Friendly Halloween

October is here, and Halloween is already upon us. In fact, over 600 lbs of candy will be purchased in the United States between now and October 31st. As your Dentist in St. Petersburg, we are here to provide tips for an oral-health friendly Halloween.

How to Have an Oral-Health Friendly Halloween

Whether you have children or not, Halloween is a time for excessive sugar consumption. Our dentist in St. Pete knows there will be plenty of candy available during the next month for everyone.

People will begin bringing candy to work. You’ll buy Halloween candy…only to start eating it before the trick-or-treaters come. When Halloween finally arrives, the average child will consume over 675 grams of sugar on that single day – equivalent to eating 170 sugar cubes.

The sugar will arrive one way or another, but will you be ready? Most likely, you will not be able or willing to stop the sugar train from arriving. And, while most of us (kids and adults) can’t resist the snacks, we can at least be conscious of eating them and safeguarding our teeth health.

Not All Candies Are Created Equal

Some are more damaging to the teeth than others – When it comes to your dental health, some sweets are really better for your teeth (or do less damage) than others. The stickier the candy, the more likely tooth decay. Our St. Petersburg FL dentist explains that sticky candies such as gummy bears, Tootsie rolls, Snickers, and Skittles require additional chewing time and can also adhere to and between your teeth. The longer candy remains in your mouth before being wiped away by saliva, the easier it is for bacteria-causing sugars to promote tooth decay and cavities. Sticky candy might also cause problems with your fillings and crowns. As follows, when it comes to snacks, chocolate is still better for your teeth because it is less sticky and dissolves more quickly.

Increase the Fluoride Treatment

Children who haven’t formed their permanent teeth can undoubtedly benefit from a little more fluoride. Our dentist 33704 explains that including a fluoride treatment in your dental appointments is a great option. These treatments can assist to provide an extra layer of protection against tooth decay and cavities. A little more fluoride can also help certain individuals, especially if they are predisposed to cavities. If you know you won’t be able to control your sweet craving over the Halloween season and have a history of cavities, fluoride treatment or mouth rinse may help you keep your teeth cavity-free during the sugar season.

Don’t Forget Your Toothbrush

If you know you’ll be working in a Halloween treat-filled atmosphere, bring a toothbrush. The sooner you can brush your teeth after you’ve consumed candy, the better. If you have children, use a Halloween-themed toothbrush to urge them to brush their teeth after eating candy.

Fixed a Time to Eat Sweets

The treats aren’t going away, so instead of munching on them throughout the day, designate a set “snack” time when some of the Halloween candy can be savored. Our friends over at Shreveport Dental Solutions, dentist in Shreveport LA, explain that a tip they have is to allow your children to select one or two pieces of candy from their Halloween haul. Having a set treat time can help limit the quantity of bacteria-building sugars that remain in your mouth throughout the day, giving your super-hero saliva a greater chance of neutralizing the bacteria.

Halloween is the holiday that brings out the child in all of us. And it’s that time of year when most of us will find it nearly impossible to resist the temptations. Rather than abstaining from sweets, try using some of these tips over the next few weeks to safeguard your teeth. And have a wonderful Halloween!

Contact 4th St Family Dentistry Today

P.S. If you need a tooth fixed, your teeth cleaned, or a fluoride treatment during or after Halloween, please let us know! Your friendly St. Pete dentist is always available! Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

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Gum Health Tips

When it comes to excellent oral hygiene, teeth sometimes receive all of the focus. Gum care, on the other hand, is equally vital for keeping your mouth and the rest of your body healthy. Luckily, there are many gum health tips you can use at home to better take care of your dental health. Read on to learn more from our Dentist in St. Petersburg.

National Gum Care Month

September is National Gum Care Month, making it the perfect opportunity to discuss gum health. Below, Dr. Brian Leeson, our dentist in St. Pete, shares his top gum health tips.

Correctly Clean Your Teeth & Gums

Brushing your teeth not only cleans them, but also stimulates your gums. However, our dentist 33704 explains this entails the following:

First, make sure you are using a soft bristle brush.
Next, brush your teeth at a 45-degree angle along the gum line.
In addition, make sure to brush all tooth surfaces, including the interior, exterior, and chewing surfaces. Ensure that you are brushing your teeth for two minutes at least twice a day.

Use the Proper Toothpaste.

In the grocery store’s oral care section, you’ll find a seemingly infinite variety of toothpaste. Fluoride, tartar-fighting powers, enamel protection, and safe, effective chemicals are distinguishing features of high-quality toothpaste, as shown by the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance.

Aside from these characteristics, seek for toothpaste with a nice flavor and texture, as well as optional extras like whitening and a sensitive formula. If you are prone to canker sores, avoid toothpaste containing sodium lauryl sulfate, as well as toothpaste that is excessively abrasive.

Floss Daily

To begin, flossing eliminates food and plaque from between the teeth and along the gum line. Tartar may develop if this material is not removed. This hard bacteria accumulation hurts your gums and can lead to gum disease. Thus, Dr. Leeson, the best dentist in St. Pete, suggests making flossing a regular ritual. It makes no difference when you do it – in the morning, after lunch, in the evening, before or after brushing your teeth—just do it!

Use a Therapeutic Mouthwash

While there are several mouthwash formulations available, they always fall into one of two main categories: aesthetic and medicinal. Cosmetic rinses reduce bad breath momentarily and leave a pleasant aftertaste in the mouth. They do not, however, have any long-term chemical or biological consequences.

Dr. Hoang, Bethlehem GA dentist, suggests using therapeutic mouthwash. We agree. This type of mouthwash contains active ingredients that successfully decrease plaque, eliminate bacteria that cause foul breath, combat tooth decay, and help prevent gingivitis. Look for the following components on a mouthwash container to help you recognize it as therapeutic:

Visit the Dentist Regularly

Your dentist will examine the general health of your mouth and look for signs of gum disease. Following that, a professional cleaning eliminates any plaque that you may have missed when brushing. Only expert dental instruments, such as scrapers and ultrasonic machines, can remove dark tartar stains from your teeth.

Regular dental checkups can detect gum disease in its early stages, known as gingivitis. At this time, it is possible to reverse the damage and avoid the development of more serious periodontal disease.

Give Up Smoking

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), smoking is a major cause of serious gum disease. Because smoking lowers your immune system, it makes it more difficult for your gums to recover if they get infected or damaged. If you use tobacco in any form, your chance of gum disease doubles, and the risk increases as you smoke more and for a longer period of time.

Watch What You Eat

Your diet can have an immediate influence on the health of your teeth and gums. Reduce the use of hazardous foods such as soda, alcohol, sweets, and starchy meals. Replace them with these better-for-your-mouth alternatives, such as fruit, dairy products, and foods with fluoride.

Prioritize Proper Gum Care

National Gum Care Month is a fantastic opportunity to reevaluate your dental health practices, but to avoid gum disease, you must be diligent all year. Contact 4th St. Family Dentistry today to schedule your next cleaning.

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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.

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Wisdom Tooth Removal Signs

If you have been experiencing some sensitivity in the back of your gums, you may be wondering if your wisdom teeth are coming in. Wisdom teeth are the third and last set of molars to emerge during the early stages of human development. However, thanks to advances in oral care and hygiene, they are now merely obsolete, as our molars are all that is required. Nonetheless, as wisdom teeth emerge, they might shift and affect the alignment of your teeth and jaw. Thus, this makes removing them critical. Today, we discuss wisdom tooth removal signs.

Do I Need My Wisdom Teeth Removed?

If you think your wisdom teeth may need to be removed, please don’t panic! Regular examinations with your Dentist in St. Petersburg will be beneficial. That’s because Dr. Leeson, the best dentist in St. Petersburg FL, will monitor their development. He will be able to easily tell if you need to have your teeth removed. However, there are several warning indications that you need wisdom teeth removed.

At 4th Street Family Dentistry, we tell our patients that wisdom teeth should be extracted only if they are causing issues or are likely to cause difficulties in the future. There are no scientifically documented benefits to extracting your last set of molars if they are not causing any problems.

When Wisdom Teeth Aren’t Necessarily Removed

If you have wisdom teeth or third molars, you can keep them in the rear of your mouth if they are:

The wisdom teeth are suitably positioned and biting with the opposing teeth.
Additionally, you can keep them if they are completely grown in without any issues to your bite or jaw.
Lastly, the positioning of the wisdom teeth allows them to be properly cleaned as part of routine dental hygiene.

When Should You Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?

However, wisdom teeth frequently develop at different angles, even horizontally, or do not have enough area to fully emerge. If your wisdom teeth emerge partially through the gums, your dentist 33704 may advise you to get them extracted. In that instance, the area would be difficult to view and clean properly. This will attract germs that can cause mouth infections and gum disease.

Additionally, if your wisdom teeth never erupt and stay totally buried within the gums, you may need them removed. If your wisdom cannot emerge naturally, it is common for it to become impacted within your jaw. Our dentistry St. Petersburg explains that this could result in an infection or a cyst, which could harm neighboring teeth or the supporting jaw bone.

Additionally, if you have crowded teeth, meaning that your wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to grow in, they might crowd or harm neighboring teeth.

Some dentists feel that wisdom teeth should be extracted before they fully emerge. Dentists also advise having them removed at a younger age, when recuperation is quicker and easier, and before the bone and tooth roots have fully grown.

Signs You Need Your Wisdom Teeth Removed

Sensitivity and pain in the back of your mouth are common indications that you need wisdom teeth removed. The earliest and most evident indicator that you need your wisdom teeth removed is when you start to feel them. If you begin to experience pain, sensitivity, or a faint throbbing sensation when eating, brushing your teeth, or doing nothing at all, it is time to arrange an appointment with your dentist to get them checked.

Additionally, our friends over at Gentle Dental Group, Bethlehem GA Dentistry, explains that inflammation of the gums is another tell-tale sign. When your wisdom tooth starts to erupt, it might cause gum inflammation. It will appear as reddish, somewhat swollen regions along the gum line that are painful to the touch and might make brushing difficult.

Another sign is the formation of cysts. If the wisdom teeth are ignored for a lengthy length of time, cysts can form in your mouth. Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can impinge on and damage the roots of neighboring teeth.

In addition, stiffness and pain can also occur around the jaw area. This will begin as wisdom teeth begin to displace the teeth and jawline. Limitations in opening and moving your mouth and jaw can also be a symptom of this.

Another common wisdom tooth removal sign is sinus issues. Sinus difficulties are frequently caused by dental difficulties, particularly wisdom teeth. If you feel nasal congestion, pressure, or pain, this could be a sign that you need your wisdom teeth removed.

Contact 4th Street Family Dentistry Today For Wisdom Tooth Removal

Although wisdom teeth extraction is one of the most popular dental treatments, it is not always a concern for many folks. When determining whether to extract wisdom teeth, keep in mind that removing them as soon as indicators such as the ones described here occur is critical to avoid harming and harming your teeth and jaw alignment. Of course, our team at 4th Street Family Dentistry will do a full mouth examination and help you make the best decision possible. We can Contact us to set up your next visit and get the relief you’ve been looking for.

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Benefits of Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are a valuable treatment at your St. Petersburg FL dentist office. This is due to their amazing capabilities to transform a smile and hide imperfections. Additionally, they may also be used in general restorative dentistry to restore broken or unsightly teeth. Of course, to every treatment, there are many things to consider before starting treatment. Today on the blog, Dr. Brian Lesson, the best dentist in St. Pete, shares the benefits of dental veneers.

Dental Veneers are Long Lasting

First, patients should know that dental veneers are long-lasting. This is due to the fact that porcelain veneers can last 10 to 15 years in the right circumstances. Of course, these circumstances involve how well you take care of them after our dental veneers St. Petersburg team takes care of them. However, veneers do have risks and complications: they can chip or fall out, resulting in a need for repair.

They Look Like Your Real Teeth

Additionally, since veneers are made of porcelain, they have a realistic look. As follows, they are remarkably accurate in simulating the light-reflecting qualities of real teeth and the features of tooth enamel. That being said, it’s possible to make them very slim and transparent.

They Are Placed Over Your Real Teeth

The porcelain veneer can be made to exactly mimic the color of your real teeth. This means that you don’t need to get any extractions or tooth removal to get veneers. We will place veneers over your

Dental Veneers Have Rapid & Dramatic Effects

Dental veneers can be used to complete a full smile makeover. In fact, OG Dental, specialists in veneers Denver CO, explain that this process is one of the leading cosmetic dentistry options for those looking to truly transform their smiles. Thus, porcelain veneers will simultaneously boost overall smile and color. As a result, whether you have several cosmetic defects, such as spaces, discoloration, staining, chipped or broken teeth, they will all be addressed at the same time. Depending on the case, a combined solution including other therapies can be needed.

If crowns, implants, and bridges are manufactured at the same time (i.e. with the same combination of porcelain), the porcelain of a veneer can combine together with the porcelain of crowns, implants, and bridges to give the teeth a perfectly uniform color. Of course, this assumes that the tooth under it isn’t so black that it affects the color. As follows, Veneers should be used to correct either a few teeth, any of your teeth, or a combination of therapies to achieve your beauty goals.

Treatment Time

Once you’ve decided to get veneers, you’ll usually have two to three appointments spread out over a few weeks. Additionally, you’re almost ready to go after the veneers have been placed. Since the veneers are tightly attached to your teeth, you can restore normal operation nearly instantly. For a few precautions to help you preserve your fresh teeth, see our veneer aftercare guidelines.

Personalized for You

Within the confines of your mouth, the form, color, and size of the veneers can be customized to give you the unique smile you’ve always desired. You are able to correct any insecuirites, and get the beautiful smile you’ve always dreamed of.

Contact 4th Street Today for Dental Veneers

As a leading dental team in cosmetic dentistry, our team at 4th Street Dentistry would love to discuss your options. Contact our team today to discuss dental veneers! We would love to discuss the benefits of this incredible treatment and what this increasingly popular cosmetic dentistry option can do for you.

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Root Canal FAQ

When most people hear the term “root canal,” they become terrified. A root canal does not have to be a scary experience with today’s cutting-edge technology and enhanced local anesthetic products, as well as some awareness. Root canals are a popular restorative dentistry treatment done at our dental office. In honor of Root Canal Awareness Week coming up, our dentist in St. Petersburg, FL, answers a brief root canal FAQ.

What is the Purpose of a Root Canal?

Dr. Leeson may recommend a root canal for a variety of reasons, including the following:

Your tooth infection that has spread to the nerves
Severe cavity
Damaged tooth
Cracked tooth
Broken tooth

What Exactly Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure used to prevent tooth loss and alleviate pain. The pulp within your teeth is made up of soft tissue blood, connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves. When your tooth becomes infected, your St. Pete dentist will likely recommend root canal therapy. During this procedure, Dr. Leeson and his team will remove the contaminated pulp. Once the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and, your tooth will be sealed. Our friend, Dr. Hoang, a dentist in Bethlehem, GA, says that patients are usually given a dental crown to fully restore the tooth and prevent any further damage.

What Can I Expect During a Root Canal Procedure?

When you visit 4th Street Family Dentistry in St. Pete, FL, you can expect nothing but the best. Our team will welcome you with open arms and make sure you feel right at home. Our team will ask you some general questions before numbing the tooth. The root canal procedure will begin once the area has been numbed.

The length of time it takes to complete your root canal depends on the number of roots that need to be treated. The majority of teeth have one root canal, while others have two or four. The operation for a single canal normally takes less than an hour. The more canals your tooth has, the longer it may take. In some situations, patients may have to come back for another visit. This will all be discussed with you beforehand.

Does Root Canal Therapy Hurt?

One of the most common questions our patients ask us is, does root canal therapy hurt? With the right dental technology and team, your procedure will be completely painless. You may feel some discomfort after your procedure, but this is all manageable. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen should help. Dr. Leeson can prescribe a prescription dose of pain medication in some cases. Within two days, you should feel much better and be able to resume your normal routine.

Contact Your Dentist in St. Pete

Now that you’ve read through our root canal FAQ, you should be able to better understand root canal therapy. Be sure to contact 4th Street Family Dentistry for dental services, including emergency dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, restorative dentistry, and preventative dentistry. Give us a call to schedule your appointment today!

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Tooth Pain Relief

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!

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Choosing the Best Dentist in St. Petersburg FL

If the thought of going to the dentist makes you nervous, you’re not alone. However, your dentist is your oral health partner. Routine dental examinations and treatment by your St. Petersburg FL dentist can help keep your teeth, mouth, and gums healthy and prevent dental disease. Furthermore, poor oral health can contribute to other health risks, such as cardiovascular disease. How do you go about choosing the best dentist in St. Petersburg FL for you? Here are some important considerations to bear in mind.

1. Obtain Referrals

Begin by compiling a list of potential dentists in St Pete. To do so, seek advice from family, friends, and other healthcare providers. Investigate the dentists’ credentials and experience on Healthgrades.com. As you narrow down your options, contact each dentist’s office and request a consultation appointment to meet and interview the dentist.

2. Examine the Dentist’s Credentials

When selecting a dentist, one of the most important factors to consider is board certification. It certifies that the dentist has the necessary training, skills, and experience to provide general dentistry care. Also, ensure that the dentist has no prior malpractice claims or disciplinary actions.

3.Think about the Dentist’s Experience

When it comes to oral health, experience counts. The more experience a dentist has with a condition or procedure, the better the outcome. Additional education is required for dental specialties such as orthodontics and endodontics. Inquire about the dentist’s experience treating patients with your specific condition. If you have dental anxiety, speak with your dentist about successful approaches he or she has used with other anxious patients. If you know you need a specific procedure, find out how many the dentist has performed and learn about complication rates—both the complications the dentist has encountered and your own risk of complications.

4. Capabilities of the best dentist in St. Petersburg FL

Dentists can use telecommunications technology, such as two-way video, smartphones, and email, to diagnose and treat some patients; this is known as telehealth explains the best dental camera manufacturer, Digital Doc. Inquire if the dentist provides telehealth services. Telehealth does not replace hands-on in-person office visits, but it does mean fewer trips to the dentist for many patients. Some conditions can be managed by sending symptoms and vital signs collected at home, as well as having a “virtual visit” with your provider. Telehealth is also useful for routine check-ups and minor complaints, making it a convenient option. Check to see if your health insurance covers telehealth services.

5. Assess Communication Style

Choose a dentist with whom you feel at ease talking and who understands your information needs. When you meet the dentist for the first time, ask a question and observe how he or she responds. Is he or she open to your questions and does he or she respond in a way that you can understand? Did you feel rushed or engaged when you left? Choose a St Petersburg dentist who is interested in getting to know you, will take your treatment preferences into account, and will respect your decision-making process.

7. Examine Patient Feedback

Reading what other people have to say about a dentist can give you an idea of how he or she practices general dentistry and runs his or her dental practice. Patient reviews typically reflect people’s experiences with scheduling appointments, wait times, the office environment, and the friendliness of the office staff. You can find out how well patients trust the dentist, how much time he or she spends with patients, and how well he or she answers questions.

Have you decided that 4th Street Family Dentistry is the right place for you? Contact us to schedule your appointment!

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Most Common Dental Problems & Solutions

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4 Common Dental Problems

Dental problems are never fun. However, the good news is that you can prevent most problems. Many dental problems can be solved by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, eating properly, and regular dental check-ups with Dr. Brian Leeson, the best dentist in St. Petersburg FL. Educating yourself about common dental problems and their causes can also go a long way towards prevention. Here’s a list of some of them:

Bad Breath

Bad breath, also called halitosis, can be quite embarrassing. According to the Journal of Natural Science, Biology, and Medicine, about 85% of people with persistent bad breath have a dental condition that is to blame.These dental conditions include:

Gum disease
Cavities
Oral cancer
Dry mouth
Tongue bacteria

Using mouthwash to cover up bad breath when there is a dental problem will only mask the smell and not cure it. If you have a chronic bad breath, please visit your St. Pete dentist to rule out any of these problems.

Decay of the tooth

Tooth decay, also known as cavities, is second only to common cold as the most prevalent disease in the United States. Tooth decay occurs when plaque, the sticky substance that forms on the teeth, is combined with sugars and/or starches in the food you eat. This combination produces acids that attack the enamel tooth.

You can get cavities at any age. As you age, you can develop cavities as your tooth enamel erupts. Dry mouth due to age or medication may also lead to cavities, explains our friend and the best dentist in Shreveport LA, Dr. Ben Kacos.

The best way to prevent tooth decay is by brushing twice a day, flossing every day, and going to your regular dental check-ups.

Eating healthy foods and avoiding high-sugar snacks and drinks are also ways to prevent decay. Your dentist may recommend additional treatments that may help to reduce your risk.

Gum Disease (Periodontal)

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a gum infection that surrounds the teeth. It is also one of the main causes of tooth loss amongst adults.

Everyone is at risk for gum disease, but it usually occurs after 30 years of age. Risk factors include smoking, diabetes, and dry mouth. Symptoms include bad breath, red, swollen, tender or bleeding gums, sensitive teeth, and painful chewing.

If you have any signs of gum disease, you should see your dentist and possibly get a deep cleaning St. Pete dentist, Dr. Leeson says. Gingivitis and periodontitis are two major stages of gum disease. Regular dental check-ups with at least twice daily brushing and flossing play an important role in the prevention of gum disease.

Toothache and St. Pete Emergency Dentist

While many toothaches and dental emergencies can easily be avoided through regular visits to the dentist, accidents can and do occur. It can be very painful and scary to have a dental emergency.

Common problems that require an emergency visit to your dentist include a broken or cracked tooth, abscessed tooth, or an accident tooth.

If you have a fractured or dislocated jaw or severe cuts to your tongue, lips, or mouth, go to the hospital for trauma treatment. If you have a tooth abscess that causes difficulty swallowing, or if you have developed a fever or facial swelling, take emergency care as well.

Contact 4th St Family Dentistry

If you are experiencing any of these four dental problems, it may be time to visit us. Please schedule an appointment with Dr. Leeson so he can get your oral health back on track.

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