3 Reasons To Choose Invisalign

3 Reasons To Choose Invisalign

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. 

3 Reasons to Choose Invisalign

Orthodontic treatment has come a long way over the years. Today, there are more options than ever before for achieving a straighter and healthier smile. One of the most popular options among our patients is Invisalign. Here are three reasons why you should consider choosing Invisalign for your orthodontic needs.

Invisalign Is Designed To Enhance Your Appearance

One of the biggest benefits of Invisalign is the fact that it’s virtually invisible! The clear aligners are made from a comfortable plastic material that blends in with your teeth while they work to correct your smile. This means you can feel confident and secure during your treatment, and not have to worry about feeling self-conscious when wearing braces.

Convenience – Less Office Visits 

In addition to its discreet appearance, Invisalign is also incredibly convenient to use. Instead of having to visit us every few weeks for adjustments, like with traditional braces, you will receive several sets of aligners at once that you can switch out on your own at home. That way you won’t have to spend as much time coming into the office for appointments!

Invisalign Is Designed For Comfort

Finally, another great benefit of choosing Invisalign is that it’s much more comfortable than traditional braces. Unlike metal braces which can cause irritation and discomfort due to their sharp edges, Invisalign aligners are smooth and fit snugly against your teeth without causing any pain or discomfort. Plus, since they’re removable and made from flexible plastic material, they won’t irritate any gums or cheeks as metal braces sometimes can.

Removable Aligners Make Oral Hygiene Easier

One of the biggest benefits of choosing Invisalign is that they are removable aligners. This means that you can take them out while brushing and flossing, which makes oral hygiene easier than ever before. With traditional metal braces, it can be difficult to clean around all those wires and brackets, but with Invisalign, you don’t have to worry about food getting stuck in places where it’s hard to reach. Plus, since you can remove them while eating and drinking anything other than water, there’s no need to avoid certain foods like popcorn or sticky candy.

If you’re looking for an efficient and discreet way to straighten your teeth, then Invisalign may be right for you! With its virtually invisible appearance, convenient use, and comfortable fit, it’s no wonder why so many people choose this option as their preferred method of clear aligner treatment here in St Pete! If you would like more information or have any questions about how Invisalign works please don’t hesitate to reach out – we’d love to help you get started on your journey toward straighter teeth today!

3 Ways To Stop Fearing The Dentist

3 ways to stop fearing the dentist

3 Ways To Stop Fearing The Dentist

While some people may enjoy going to the dentist in St. Pete, others may not be so fond of the experience. For many, the idea of sitting in a chair with someone poking and prodding around their mouth can be quite nerve-wracking. However, it is important to remember that dental care is essential for maintaining good oral health. Regular checkups and cleanings can help to prevent cavities and other problems from developing. In addition, your St. Pete dentist can also spot early signs of trouble and provide treatment to help keep your mouth healthy. So, even if you don’t love going to the dentist, it is important to make sure that you keep up with your appointments. Your teeth will thank you in the long run.

Tips For Handling Dental Anxiety

About 25% of adults worldwide say they’re scared of the dentist. This percentage may seem high, but it’s actually down from previous years. There are a number of reasons why people may be afraid of the dentist, including fear of pain, fear of needles, and fear of being unable to breathe. However, there are ways to help ease these fears. With some patience and understanding, it is possible for anyone to overcome their fear of the dentist.

Schedule Your Appointment At A Good Time

Dental anxiety is a real thing, and it can prevent patients from getting the care they need. But it doesn’t have to be this way. There are things that you can do to help ease your anxiety, and one of those is scheduling your appointment at the right time. The best time to schedule your appointment is when you know that you’ll be relaxed and not hurried. This way, you can take your time and get settled in before the procedure begins. You should also avoid scheduling your appointment right after a meal or before bedtime. This is because these are times when you’re likely to be tired and your mouth may be more dry than usual. By following these simple tips, you can help ease your dental anxiety and get the care you need.

Take A Friend With You

Another option is to bring a friend or family member with you to your appointment. As talked about with our friends over at High Desert Dental, the best dentist in Grand Junction CO, having someone you trust by your side can help you feel more relaxed and comfortable. Don’t let dental anxiety keep you from getting the care you need. Talk to your dentist near you about ways to manage your anxiety and get the treatment you deserve.

Listen To Music

Research has shown that music can help to distract patients from the dental procedure and reduce levels of anxiety. In addition, music can help to provide a sense of control and empowerment for patients who may feel anxious or overwhelmed. For best results, patients should choose music that is relaxing and familiar.

Contact 4th Street Family Dentistry Today

At 4th Street Family Dentistry, we understand that many people experience anxiety when it comes to visiting the dentist. Our friendly and experienced staff will do everything we can to make you feel comfortable and relaxed during your appointment. We offer a wide range of dental services, so whether you need a routine cleaning or more complex treatment, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about how we can help you manage your dental anxiety. We look forward to meeting you!

 

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!

Why Are My Teeth Sensitive?

Why Are My Teeth Sensitive?

Why Are My Teeth Sensitive?

Have you ever felt pain or discomfort after eating a scoop of hot soup or a piece of ice cream? If that’s the case, you’re not alone. While discomfort from hot or cold meals may indicate a cavity, it’s also typical in individuals who have sensitive teeth, states Brian Leeson, dentist in St. Petersburg. Tooth sensitivity, also known as “dentin hypersensitivity,” is a condition in which the teeth experience pain or discomfort in reaction to particular stimuli, such as hot or cold temperatures. This may leave you wondering, “Why are my teeth sensitive?”

Reasons for Tooth Sensitivity

It may be a momentary or long-term issue, and it can affect one tooth, several teeth, or all of a person’s teeth. Various factors may cause it, but most instances of sensitive teeth can be resolved with a simple modification in your dental hygiene routine as instructed by dentist in St. Pete.

Symptoms

As a result of specific triggers, people with sensitive teeth may suffer pain or discomfort. This discomfort may be felt at the roots of the impacted teeth. The following are some of the most prevalent triggers:

  • Meals and drinks that are heated
  • Drinks and meals that are cold
  • Acidic foods and beverages chilly air sweet foods and drinks
  • Alcohol-based mouth rinses after brushing or flossing teeth

Your symptoms may come and go for no apparent cause over time. They might vary in severity from minor to severe. If they become unbearable it is important to give your emergency dentist St. Pete a call.

Causes

Because their enamel is thinner, some individuals have more sensitive teeth than others. The enamel is the protective outer covering of the tooth. The enamel of a tooth may be worn away in several ways, including:

  • Toothbrushing too vigorously
  • Using a harsh toothbrush
  • Eating or drinking acidic foods

A variety of factors may cause tooth sensitivity. Acid reflux, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), may cause acid to rise from the stomach and esophagus, wearing down teeth over time. In addition, the acid may wear away the enamel in conditions like gastroparesis and bulimia, which induce recurrent vomiting.

Gum recession may expose unprotected parts of the tooth, resulting in insensitivity.

Tooth decay, fractured teeth, chipped teeth, and worn-down fillings or crowns may expose the tooth’s dentin, resulting in insensitivity. If this is the case, you will most likely just have sensitivity in one tooth or area of the mouth rather than the whole mouth.

Following dental procedures such as fillings, crowns, or teeth whitening, your teeth may be momentarily sensitive. Sensitivity will be limited to one tooth or the teeth around the tooth that got dental treatment in this situation. This should go away in a few days.

Diagnosis

Make an appointment with 4th Street Family Dentistry if you are experiencing tooth sensitivity for the first time. Using our Healthline FindCare service, you may schedule an appointment with a dentist in your region. They may examine the condition of your teeth and search for issues such as cavities, loose fillings, or receding gums that might be causing the discomfort.

This is something your dentist can accomplish during a basic dental cleaning. First, they’ll clean your teeth and examine them visually. They may use dental equipment to feel your teeth for sensitivity, and they may also order an X-ray to rule out reasons such as cavities.

Treatment

You may attempt over-the-counter dental remedies if your tooth sensitivity is minor.

Select toothpaste that is particularly formulated for sensitive teeth. This toothpaste will not have any irritating components and may contain desensitizing compounds that prevent pain from reaching the tooth’s nerve.

Alcohol-free mouthwash is preferable since it is less irritating to sensitive teeth when it comes mouthwash.

Brushing softly and with softer toothbrushes might also help. Soft toothbrushes will be marked.

These cures usually need multiple applications to be practical. But, within a week, you should see a difference.

If non-prescription toothpaste and mouthwash don’t work, speak to your dentist about prescription toothpaste and mouthwash. In-office fluoride gel or prescription-grade desensitizing medications may also be used. These may assist in safeguarding your teeth by strengthening the enamel.

Treating Medical Conditions

Our friend Dr. Ben Kacos, Shreveport dentist, states that if underlying issues are causing your tooth sensitivity, you should address them before the enamel wears away and the teeth become damaged.

Brushing more gently and maintaining proper dental hygiene might help heal receding gums. In addition, your dentist may propose a gum transplant in situations of extreme sensitivity and pain caused by significant gum recession. This technique involves removing tissue from the palate and putting it over the tooth’s root to protect it.

By being conscious of not clenching or grinding your teeth throughout the day, you may learn to cease doing so. Reduced stress and caffeine use before bedtime may also help you avoid nighttime teeth grinding. If this doesn’t work, you may wear a mouthguard at night to protect your teeth from grinding.

Will It Go Away?

Talk to your dentist about a remedy if your tooth sensitivity is making it difficult to eat. Over-the-counter toothpaste and mouthwashes for sensitive teeth are widely available.

Consult your dentist about prescription toothpaste and mouthwash if they don’t work. If you have signs of cavities or possible root damage, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist right away so that you may obtain treatment and avoid consequences. These signs and symptoms might include:

  • A toothache out of nowhere
  • Localized sensitivity
  • Sharp pain
  • Staining of teeth
  • Pain when biting or chewing

If any of these symptoms occur be sure to contact our office as soon as possible.

Benefits of Invisalign

benefits of invisalign st pete dentist

When you first meet someone, one of the first things you notice is their grin. As follows, straight smiles typically increase self-esteem and make people feel fabulous. However, if you are unhappy with your grin, it could lower your self-esteem. Many people have dental issues such as crowded teeth, an overbite, or an underbite. Luckily, straightening your teeth is now easier than ever. At 4th Street Family Dentistry, Dr. Brian Leeson is proud to now offer Invisalign St. Pete to our patients. Below, our dentistry explains the advantages of Invisalign and how it compares to other teeth-straightening procedures.

What Exactly Is Invisalign?

Invisalign, sometimes known as “invisible aligners,” is a fantastic solution for tooth issues. Using clear guidelines, teeth are aligned to their proper position. The translucent guides fit over your teeth and are nearly invisible to others. When it comes to the debate between Invisalign and braces, each choice has advantages and disadvantages. However, you may be surprised by the benefits of Invisalign.

What Are the Benefits of Invisalign?

Invisalign provides comfort, ease of cleaning, less time at your St. Pete dentist office, and so much more. Below, your dentist near me lists each all of the benefits of Invisalign.

Invisalign is Affordable

The Invisalign process is known for its affordability because there is no need for costly office visits. With Invisalign® clear aligners, you only pay for the treatment plan that is best for your specific circumstance, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

Invisalign is Less Challenging to Clean Than Braces

We’ve all heard that conventional braces are difficult to keep clean. Whether you’re eating out or at home, keeping your teeth and brackets clean is a chore. Luckily, it is simple to remove the aligner trays while using Invisalign. Brush them gently with toothpaste and warm water before reinstalling them in your mouth.

Invisalign Requires Fewer Visits to the Office

Metal braces need a visit to the dentist to tighten the rubber bands or wires. In contrast, Invisalign allows you to participate in activities while your teeth are repositioned and aligned.

When you begin the Invisalign treatment program, you will be given aligner trays for the present and subsequent stages. Also, receiving the trays in advance helps you proceed to the following without returning to the office.

No Food Changes

Because the aligners are removable, you may eat and drink whatever you want with Invisalign. This cuts down on time it takes to clean your teeth afterward. However, before reinstalling the aligners, make sure to cleanse your mouth and brush your teeth.

Improve Your Appearance With Invisalign

Orthodontic patients, particularly adults, do not want to be noticed. Because of the transparent aligner trays, Invisalign allows you to conceal your dental treatment. Unless you tell them, no one needs to know you’re using aligners.

Increased Comfort

Even if you’ve never worn braces, you’re aware of the problems with pain. Our friend Dr. Oberst, Lexington KY dentist, explains that traditional braces function by applying tension to the brackets and wires in order to realign the teeth. Tightening the brackets generates soreness until the pressure is relieved, resulting in a cycle of suffering.

When using Invisalign, the person may remove the trays to eat, clean, and floss their teeth. In addition, invisalign reduces the annoyance of pain and scraping on your tongue, face, or gums.

Invisalign Can Be Used for Everyone!

Children, teenagers, and adults are all safe to use Invisalign. While children aged 8 to 12 are watched for tooth abnormalities and the possible usage of braces, many dentists recommend waiting until your child is 13 or 14 to get Invisalign.

Invisalign Resolves Dental Issues

Each person’s dental troubles are unique. Some of the alignment issues that necessitate braces or Invisalign are as follows:

  • Crossbite with Crowded Teeth
  • Teeth Gaps Misaligned Teeth Open Bite
  • Overbites & Underbites
  • Crooked Teeth

The use of orthodontics assists with bite and crowding concerns, which reduces the incidence of cavities and gum disease. It is advised that you make an appointment with your dental expert to explore your treatment choices. Consult your dentist in St Pete if you wish to receive Invisalign.

Contact 4th Street Family Dentistry for Invisalign Treatment in St Petersburg

Ready to get started on your Invisalign journey? We’re ready to help you smile with confidence! Please contact our Dentist in St Petersburg today to learn more about your options. This affordable and efficient treatment works so well to straighten your smile and boost your confidence.

We can’t wait to hear from you!

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!

An Oral-Health Friendly Halloween

An Oral-Health Friendly Halloween

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.

Gum Health Tips

Gum Health Tips

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.

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.

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.