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!

Use Your Dental Benefits Before They Expire

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Use Your Dental Benefits Before They Expire

Most dental insurance plans follow the calendar year, which means that your benefits will reset on January 1st. If you have dental insurance, now is the time to schedule any necessary appointments so you can take advantage of your annual maximum and avoid paying out of pocket. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you schedule your appointment.

How Do Dental Insurances Work?

Dental insurance plans usually have an annual maximum, which is the most they will pay out in a year. Once you reach that maximum, you are responsible for 100% of the costs of any additional dental work. Most people don’t realize that they have reached their maximum until they get a bill for services rendered. To avoid this, it’s important to be proactive and understand your coverage. Give our office a call, and we would be more than happy to review your benefits with you.

Co-pays and Deductibles

In addition to your annual maximum, most dental plans also have a deductible, which is the amount you are required to pay before the insurance company starts paying its portion. For example, if your deductible is $50 and you have a $100 dental bill, you will be responsible for the first $50 and the insurance company will pay the remaining $50.

Your plan may also have co-pays for certain procedures. A co-pay is a fixed dollar amount that you are responsible for paying at the time of service. For example, if your co-pay for a filling is $20 and you have a $100 dental bill, you will pay $20 at the time of service and the insurance company will pay the remaining $80.

Preventive Care vs. Restorative Care

Most dental plans offer some level of coverage for preventive care, which includes routine cleanings and exams. Some plans may also cover X-rays. Preventive care is important because it helps catch problems early, when they are often more easily treated and less expensive to fix.

Restorative care includes treatments such as fillings, crowns, root canals, extractions, etc. Many plans offer some coverage for restorative care, but it is often limited compared to preventive care coverage.

Contact Us Today!

Looking for a dentist in St. Pete? Look no further than 4th Street Family Dentistry! Our highly qualified team offers a wide range of dental services, from preventative care to complex restorative work. We use the latest technology and techniques to ensure that our patients receive the best possible care. And we’re always accepting new patients! So if you’re looking for a dentist near you, contact us today to schedule an appointment. We look forward to meeting you!

What To Do When A Dental Crown Falls Out

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What To Do When A Dental Crown Falls Out

If your crown falls out, it’s important to act quickly to ensure that the tooth doesn’t become damaged. First, try to determine if the crown can be re-cemented. If so, carefully clean the crown and the tooth before applying a small amount of dental adhesive to the inside of the crown. Once in place, bite down on something soft to help hold the crown in place until you can see a dentist near you. If the crown cannot be re-cemented, or if you are unable to place it back on the tooth, keep it safe and bring it with you when you see the dentist.  Be sure to see a dentist in St. Pete as soon as possible so that they can assess the situation and determine the best course of treatment.

Make Sure To Make A Dental Appointment Immediately 

If you have a dental crown that has come loose or fallen off, it’s important to schedule an emergency dental appointment as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the greater the risk of the tooth becoming damaged or further decay, as talked about with our friends over at Shreveport Dental Solutions, a dentist in Shreveport LA. During your appointment, the dentist will first assess the tooth’s condition and determine if it can be reattached. If so, they will clean the tooth and then bond it back into place with special dental cement. Once the crown is successfully reattached, you can expect to experience relief from any discomfort or sensitivity you were feeling. It’s important to take good care of your teeth after having a crown reattached, so be sure to brush and floss regularly and see your St. Pete dentist for regular checkups.

Contact 4th Street Family Dentistry For Emergency Dental Care

At 4th Street Family Dentistry, we understand that dental emergencies near you can happen at any time. Whether you’re dealing with a toothache, chipped tooth, or lost filling, we are here to help. Our experienced team offers a full range of emergency dental services in St. Pete, and we will work diligently to get you out of pain as quickly as possible. We understand that dental emergencies can be stressful, which is why we offer a calm and relaxing environment for our patients. Contact 4th Street Family Dentistry today to schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you get through this difficult time.

Diabetes And How It’s Connected To Your Oral Health

Dentist in St. Pete

Can Your Oral Health Lead To Diabetes?

Good oral health is essential for overall health and well-being. Poor oral health can lead to several problems. While brushing and flossing regularly can help to prevent these problems, it is also important to see a dentist regularly. A dentist in St. Pete can spot early signs of problems and provide treatment that can help to keep your mouth healthy. In addition, a dentist can provide advice on how to best care for your teeth and gums. By taking care of your oral health, you can help to avoid a number of serious health problems.

How Does Oral Health And Diabetes Connect

According to a conversation we had with our friends over at High Desert Dental, the best dentist in Grand Junction CO, there is growing evidence that oral health and diabetes may be connected. People with diabetes are more likely to have gum disease, and people with gum disease may be more likely to develop diabetes. Researchers are still working to understand the exact relationship between these two conditions, but there are a few possible explanations. Oral bacteria can cause inflammation throughout the body, which may contribute to the development of diabetes. Alternatively, high blood sugar levels may make it easier for bacteria to thrive in the mouth, leading to gum disease. Whatever the exact connection may be, it is clear that taking care of your oral health is important for people with diabetes. Brushing and flossing regularly, and visiting the dentist near you regularly, can help to keep both diabetes and gum disease under control.

Oral Health Tips

There are many ways to maintain good oral health; the best approach depends on your individual needs. However, there are a few basic steps that everyone should take to keep their teeth and gums healthy. First, brush your teeth at least twice a day with a toothpaste that contains fluoride. This will help to remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth. In addition, floss daily to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth. Finally, visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups. By following these simple steps, you can help ensure that your mouth stays healthy for years to come.

Contact 4th Street Family Dentistry Today

At 4th Street Family Dentistry, we provide high-quality dental care for the whole family. Whether you need routine cleaning or more complex dental work, our experienced team is here to help. We understand that some people may feel anxious about visiting your St. Pete dentist, which is why we strive to create a warm and welcoming environment. Our goal is to make every patient feel comfortable and relaxed while they are in our care. We offer a wide range of services, including general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry. We also offer convenient payment options to make dental care more affordable. Contact 4th Street Family Dentistry today to schedule your next appointment.

Benefits of Dental Bonding

benefits of dental bonding

4th St Family Dentistry provides cutting-edge cosmetic dentistry to help you achieve the perfect smile. Cosmetic dental bonding, which provides the same appearance and tackles the same concerns as veneers, is one of the most recent and efficient dental methods accessible today. To remodel chipped, fractured, or damaged teeth, the cosmetic dental bonding method molds composite resin over your existing tooth. Then, the teeth are prepped by slightly roughening the tooth’s surface. Next, our team applies a treatment that helps the resin adhere to the tooth. Dr. Brian Leeson will then apply resin to the tooth, mold it, and harden it to produce the look of a new tooth. This simple process offers patients a ton of benefits. As follows, Dr. Leeson, the best dentist in St Pete, shares the benefits of dental bonding below.

Why Dental Bonding

Cosmetic dental bonding is ideal for those who want to restore damaged teeth without requiring veneers or more extensive dental treatment. 4th St Family Dentistry, our dentist in St Pete, shares why choose dental bonding.

High-Quality Outcomes Immediately

Dental bonding can be completed in as little as 30-60 minutes per tooth. If you have a few uneven, crooked, or discolored teeth, this is an excellent option to replace them! If you need your smile back right away or don’t have the time for a lengthier treatment plan, cosmetic dental bonding can be accomplished in a single session. Our St Pete Dentist explains that this saves you hours of prep time. Cosmetic dental bonding lasts for years, with stunning white results after only one appointment. The procedure is also generally noninvasive.

A Perfect, Natural Smile

Composite resin is meant to match the color of your existing teeth, resulting in a natural, flawless smile. You may be able to leave the visit with even minimal alterations. Thus, this leaves you confident and ready to smile without anybody knowing you’ve undergone cosmetic dentistry. Additionally, Dr. Leeson can alter the composite resin at any time following your treatment. Our friends at Green Dental Care, best dentist in Parker CO, shares that this makes it both durable and adjustable. The finish of the resin is smooth and identical to the appearance of your existing teeth as well. Also, the strength of the resin allows for a perfectly natural eating function.

Safeguard Your Smile

Cosmetic dental bonding establishes a barrier between microorganisms and your mouth by forming a seal between the outside world and your teeth. While you must preserve them from discoloration by keeping excellent dental hygiene standards to keep them for as long as possible, the resin protects your teeth. In the past, silver or mixed metal fillings (also known as dental amalgams) might leach harmful compounds into your body. Composite resin is entirely biocompatible, consisting of organic and inorganic chemicals that do not react with your teeth and do not hurt your body. As a result, you may leave the consultation knowing that your teeth are safe from harm and will be safeguarded for a more extended period.

Forget About Your Cracked Teeth

If you have a cracked tooth, you may be concerned that the condition may worsen and the tooth will chip at some point in the future. However, with cosmetic dental bonding, you may be sure that your smile will remain intact after just one simple session.

Restore Your Smile at 4th St Family Dentistry

A patient may be concerned if they have broken, malformed, damaged, or shorter teeth, especially if they are near the front of their mouth. The 4th St Family Dentistry team, on the other hand, can restore your confidence in just one session. Contact us today for dental bonding in St Pete.

Children’s Oral Health Month

Children's Oral Health Month

Children’s Oral Health Month

Your child’s general health depends on their teeth. In honor of children’s oral healthy month we are going to break it all down for you. They assist your child with eating and speaking. Strong oral hygiene practices, taught by you and your dentist in St. Petersburg, help your kid develop excellent dental habits as he or she develops. Conversely, infection, illness, and other dental issues may all be caused by poor oral hygiene. It is important to schedule routine visits with the best dentist in St. Petersburg FL regularly.

Make Your Child’s Dental Hygiene Fun

-Allow kids to assist in the selection of their toothbrushes. For example, they may choose one based on their favorite color or character.

-Allow your child to assist in the selection of toothpaste. Then, they are free to choose their preferred taste and will be more willing to use it, explains Brian Leeson.

-Read literature or watch videos about dental hygiene and children’s oral health month.

-Set a timer to ensure that your children brush their teeth for two minutes. To help them keep track of time, play their favorite music.

-Reward kids who take excellent care of their teeth. 

-Plan an activity after your child’s dental appointment with dentist in St. Pete.

A Path to Better Dental Health

Fluoride’s Function

Fluoride is essential for the oral health of your kid. It has been shown to minimize cavities in primary (baby) and permanent (adult) teeth. It also helps to strengthen teeth by hardening the enamel. Fluoride is found in most drinking water. Therefore, fluoride must be added to tap water in several cities. 

Your youngster may need to take an oral fluoride supplement if your water does not contain fluoride. Consult your doctor to see whether your kid needs this treatment. When your kid first visits the dentist, they will get a fluoride varnish or a dental cleaning.

Too much fluoride may discolor your child’s teeth and damage their health. Make sure your youngster isn’t ingesting fluoride toothpaste or mouthwash. Follow all fluoride supplement directions.

Flossing and Brushing

Your child’s dental hygiene should begin when they are a newborn. Between ages one and two starts using a soft child-size toothbrush and clean their teeth twice a day with water. You may also use a tiny amount of fluoride-free toothpaste. This toothpaste is completely safe for your youngster to eat. You may switch to fluoride-containing toothpaste once your youngster is old enough to spit it out. Again, use just a little quantity. Teach your youngster how to distribute it evenly across their teeth, gums, and tongue. Ask your doctor or dentist to teach you how to clean your child’s teeth properly.

Until your kid is 7 or 8 years old, they will most likely require assistance cleaning their teeth. They can start using a bigger toothbrush around this time. Brushes should be replaced every 3 to 6 months. Flossing is an important component of your child’s dental hygiene regimen. At least once a day, teach your youngster to floss. To make things simpler, you may purchase floss with a handle.

Ensure your child brushes their teeth before going to bed; after all, eating and drinking (excluding water) has been completed.

Cavities

Cavities are holes in your teeth that can grow over time. When bacteria (germs) grow up in your mouth, this might happen. Sugar in meals and beverages converts to acid, which erodes your teeth. Cavities are widespread in youngsters because brushing their teeth is more difficult. Everyone in your household should brush and floss their teeth regularly. Cavity-causing bacteria may be passed on to pregnant babies, infants, and children by people who have cavities.

Protection

If your kid participates in sports, they should use a mouthguard.  If you need a custom-fit mouth guard, see your dentist.

There are many different types of teeth, from baby teeth to adult teeth. Baby teeth usually arrive between the ages of 4 and 7 months. The two bottom front teeth are generally the first to come through. By the age of three, children have almost all of their teeth explains Dr. Ari, pediatric dentist Murray Utah.

Baby teeth may fall out between 6 and 12 years old. As baby teeth fall out and adult teeth come through, your kid will have a mixture of teeth. Your dentist will then discuss potential dental issues with you including braces, which are required for certain children. 

When Children Should See a Dentist

Around age one, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) advises that children see a dentist. This allows the dentist to check for early signs of tooth decay in your kid. Pediatric dentists are experts in the care of children’s teeth. In addition, the dentist will discuss good dental hygiene with you.

Taking your kid to the dentist at a young age can make them feel more at ease. It also creates the positive habit of seeing the dentist on a regular basis. Every person should see the dentist at least twice a year.

Want to learn more about children’s oral health month? Be sure to contact our office today!

Healthy Teeth For the Holidays

healthy teeth for the holidays

Healthy Teeth For the Holidays

Dental health is so important, every month of the year. However, many of us often neglect our dental health when there’s a busy season of life, such as the holidays. However, it is essential to maintain healthy teeth for the holidays.

How to Maintain Healthy Teeth For the Holidays

Luckily, our team at 4th Street Family Dentistry is here to help! Today on the blog, Dr. Brian Leeson, dentist in St. Petersburg, shares how to maintain your healthy teeth for the holidays.

Try to Limit Your Sugar Consumption

Of course, we want you to splurge and treat yourself during the holidays! There are so many delicious treats to enjoy this season. However, don’t allow sugar, eggnog, and cookies get in the way of a beautiful smile. To keep your smile happy and bright this holiday season, we recommend trying to limit your sugar consumption. Our dentist in St. Pete’s explains that people tend to indulge and gorge during this festive time of year, and often forget to brush their teeth afterward.

Unfortunately, when you eat too many sweets your teeth may begin to rot and develop cavities. Treat yourself now and again, but don’t go overboard, and remember to brush and floss afterward. Without proper maintenance of your teeth, you might end up needing emergency dentist St. Pete.

Drink Water Between Meals

Drinking water is a great way to clear any extra gunk out of your teeth. We recommend drinking a full glass of water after every meal. This is a wonderful way to really clean your mouth and enhance saliva production.

Select the Appropriate Stocking Stuffers

Stockings are traditionally packed with sweets that cause cavities. This year, establish a new family tradition by putting a new toothbrush in each stocking to kick off the New Year. Dental accessories make for excellent stocking stuffers! Try adding some floss, fun toothpaste, and more for your loved ones.

Avoid Grazing

It’s normal to leave food out for folks to snack on throughout the day. “Grazing” not only contributes to weight gain over the holidays, but it also means that the bacteria in your mouth have continual food to consume, raising the risk of dental decay. To avoid this, serve food at mealtimes and hide leftovers away after everyone has eaten.

Chew Sugar Free Gum After Meals

Bethlehem Dentistry states, after a meal, chewing gum is a great way to unwind. It reduces snacking and creates more saliva, which helps to wash away germs that cause plaque development more rapidly. Make sure the gum you pick is sugar-free or includes xylitol, a natural sugar alcohol that aids in tooth decay prevention. After each meal, 20 minutes of chewing gum delivers significant cavity-fighting advantages.

We wish you a happy holiday season!

Don’t hesitate to call Dr. Leeson if you need assistance putting these holiday dental advice into action. We’re always happy to discuss your dental problems so that you can keep your smile bright and cheerful! Please contact us online or call 4th Street Family Dentistry to schedule an appointment!

Cosmetic Dentistry Options For Me

cosmetic dentistry options for me

Cosmetic Dentistry Options For Me

Approximately 55% of all New Year’s goals are connected to health, yet almost none of them include a brighter smile. Dr. Brian Leeson, dentist in St. Pete, wants to change that. While we focus on developing better meals and increasing physical exercise, we overlook the need of improving our dental health in order to keep that wholesome dietary routine. Even if you brush twice a day and floss once a day as recommended by the American Dental Association, you may desire stronger or whiter teeth. Below are some reasons why you should make cosmetic dentistry a new year’s resolution.

Make your New Year’s Resolution All About Your Smile

Cosmetic dentistry options with best dentist in St. Petersburg FL will not only improve your appearance, and give you a bright and healthy smile. If you want to improve your health and self-confidence be sure to consider cosmetic dentistry.

Improve Appearance with Cosmetic Dentistry.

A recent study revealed that the majority of Americans first look at a person’s smile when first meeting them. The research then went on to reveal that individuals with straight and white teeth are happier, more successful and more likely to have more friends. You only get one chance to make a lasting first impression. Brian Leeson and his team want to ensure that you make sure your smile reveals the real you.

Cosmetic Dentistry Strengthens Teeth

Cosmetic dentistry options like veneers and dental implants can restore your smile with strong teeth. Custom-fit porcelain veneers improve the strength of your teeth, especially areas of decay or other damage. Dental implants are the most natural tooth replacement option on the market today. So, a titanium screw acts as the tooth root while the crown can be made of ceramic or porcelain. If you suffer from rotted, infected or missing teeth, cosmetic dentistry might be a good option for you. Enjoy the foods you love without the risk of dentures sliding out of place.

Cosmetic Dentistry Prevents Future Issues

College Hill Dental Group, cosmetic dentist Easton PA, states that having your teeth restored with cosmetic dentistry gives you an aesthetically pleasing smile; however, it also helps prevent future dental issues. In order to prevent future cavities, tooth decay is addressed and composite bonding or veneers may be applied. The work performed by your St. Pete dentist will also reinforce a weak tooth, restore cracked or damaged teeth, and straighten your teeth, making cleaning easier.

Fresh Breath from Cosmetic Dentistry

Tooth decay is one of the biggest culprits of unpleasant breath. Because of this cosmetic dentistry addresses tooth decay and restores the affected tooth with high-quality, long-lasting material that will ensure your tooth roots are not exposed.

Kick off the New Year with a resolution to make your oral health and smile a priority. A consultation with 4th Street Family Dentistry will allow you to see the benefits of cosmetic dentistry. Our experienced staff will listen to your goals and help you determine which procedure is best for your desired results. We’ll ensure you know what to expect before, during, and after the procedure. 

Schedule your appointment with 4th Street Family Dentistry today.

In-Office vs. Take-Home Whitening

In-Office vs. Take-Home Whitening – The Differences

A number of teeth-whitening techniques can restore the luster to your smile. There are advantages and disadvantages to lightening up at the dentist’s office or at home with an at-home kit. Today on the blog, Dr. Brian Leeson, a Dentist in St. Petersburg, covers the difference between in-office vs. take-home whitening.

Products for the Home

First, you can use teeth whitening strips. One of the biggest benefits of teeth whitening strips is that they are simple to utilize. Because the whitening chemical in the product is only in touch with your teeth for a brief period of time, your teeth will gradually get brighter. After you’ve whitened your teeth, rinses can help prevent new stains.

Additionally, you can use toothpaste that brightens your teeth over time. It contains chemicals that, when gently brushed, erase surface stains and may give progressive brightness. However, our St. Pete dentist explains that people have tooth sensitivity as a result of using these products.

Lastly, you can use trays to whiten. These are filled with gel and are placed over your teeth. They can quickly whiten your choppers. However, because the trays in at-home kits are not custom-made, they are more prone to rub and irritate your gums. Make sure you carefully follow the instructions on the packaging.

In-Office Whitening

The most popular method we use for Professional teeth whitening St. Petersburg includes the use of custom-made trays loaded with bleaching solutions that fit snugly over your teeth. Because your dentist in St. Pete will be supervising the operation, a stronger bleaching solution than what is offered in-home kits can be utilized. In that instance, a light or heat source might be utilized to accelerate the process.

Another alternative is to have custom-made whitening trays produced for you to use at home. We offer that as well at 4th Street Family Dentistry. Our friends over at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, cosmetic dentist Colorado Springs, also allows their patients to get in-house whitening or take home as well.

Which Is the Best Option for You?

At-home whiteners are simple to use and reasonably priced. If your teeth or gums are sensitive, however, custom-made trays from your dentist’s office may help you prevent discomfort.

Because professional solutions used by your dentist are usually stronger than those used in over-the-counter kits, your teeth may whiten faster. They can also keep sensitive gums from becoming more inflamed.

Professional Teeth Whitening in St. Pete

Do you feel ashamed or self-conscious about your yellow teeth. We can assist you. At 4th Street Family Dentistry, we provide both in-office and take-home teeth whitening procedures to help you get rid of those stubborn stains. Our teeth whitening procedures are both quick and inexpensive! Visit our St. Petersburg dentistry to choose which teeth whitening procedure is ideal for your smile.