Why Bite Matters

A crooked smile and uneven bite might create an endearing photograph, but an uneven bite may also create pain in the body that reaches far beyond the mouth. A misaligned jaw and teeth is called a "malocclusion" by dentists. Many individuals who have bite problems will experience a clicking noise whenever the jaw moves. Other problems may include tension headaches, neck pain, and even difficulties swallowing. Those problems are just the ones that may develop above the shoulders. Signs of a Bite Problem There are a few simple checks that anyone can perform to see if there might be a problem with the bite; however, each of these checks is very informal and should not be substituted for a checkup at the dentist. One of the easiest ways to see if there s a problem with your bite is to clench the teeth down hard, with nothing inside the mouth, and see if there s any tooth pain. If a bite is uneven, one tooth may be painful when the mouth is clenched tightly. Another sign of a bite problem i

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5 Tips for Resisting Sweets During the Holidays

Chocolate, cupcakes, candy canes and endless sweets are a delicious part of holiday celebrations yet aren t the best way to keep weight down and avoid cavities. Marketing of holiday treats and sweets goes into overdrive at the end of the year, and the madness only continues into January when advertisers start tempting buyers with giant chocolate hearts and Valentine s Day candy. The Body Makes Resistance Difficult Scientific data suggests avoiding sweets is difficult because of a particular chemical in the brain that is released after eating foods like chocolate as well as other sugary holiday treats. The hormones serotonin and dopamine are released by the brain after eating sugary treats, so after a person eats just one chocolate the brain will create an anticipatory response designed to make it almost impossible to resist more candy. Interestingly, sweets that cause these chemical reactions in the brain use the same hormones to create happiness and satisfaction that illegal drugs li

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New Year's Resolution: Smile More

Chocolate, cupcakes, candy canes and endless sweets are a delicious part of holiday celebrations yet aren t the best way to keep weight down and avoid cavities. Marketing of holiday treats and sweets goes into overdrive at the end of the year, and the madness only continues into January when advertisers start tempting buyers with giant chocolate hearts and Valentine s Day candy. The Body Makes Resistance Difficult Scientific data suggests avoiding sweets is difficult because of a particular chemical in the brain that is released after eating foods like chocolate as well as other sugary holiday treats. The hormones serotonin and dopamine are released by the brain after eating sugary treats, so after a person eats just one chocolate the brain will create an anticipatory response designed to make it almost impossible to resist more candy. Interestingly, sweets that cause these chemical reactions in the brain use the same hormones to create happiness and satisfaction that illegal drugs li

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Hermey Wants to be a Dentist. Do You?

Helping patients improve their smiles, take care of their teeth, and develop healthy oral care habits are only a few of the responsibilities of today s dentists. Deciding to go to school to become a dentist, like Hermey the Elf, is a significant decision because training takes several years and dental school is one of the most competitive educational arenas in all of higher education. According to the American Dental Association training to become a dentist is rigorous and requires a significant investment of time and money. However, for students who are fascinated with oral health and dental procedures, studying to become a dentist may lead to an exceptionally fulfilling life. One of the best ways to figure out if dentistry is right for you is by requesting to shadow dentists in Jacksonville to see how they spend their days. It s best to come to the dentist s office with a list of questions, so you won’t forget anything important during the shadowing process. Specializations in

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Tips for Hiring a Dental Hygienist

Maintaining dental health and good hygiene offers more than just a pretty smile, and doctors suggest that one of the most important indicators of overall health is the condition of the mouth, gums and teeth. This means that a dental hygienist, who will provide the essential semi-annual cleanings for patients, is one of the most important individuals dentists in Jacksonville hire. The responsibilities of a dental hygienists are varied and do require expertise in a number of areas. When hiring this type of professional, a dentist must confirm that the hygienist is experienced or knowledgeable in the following areas: -Initial patient interviews and screenings -Creating molds of patient teeth for evaluation -Instruction to patients of proper dental hygiene techniques -Plaque and calculus removal from the teeth -Sealants and fluoride application to the teeth -Surgical knowledge for assistance on procedures like gum grafts -Taking and developing X-rays Important Qualities for the Hygienist

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What Diabetics Should Know About Dental Care

A beautiful smile destroyed by gum disease is a terrible thing to experience, but patients who suffer from diabetes may also experience higher rates of gum disease due to inflamed gums. The American Dental Association (ADA) estimates that there are at least 7 million people in the United States alone who have diabetes and are unaware that their gums might be in danger. Diabetes Impact on Gums and Health The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says that diabetes sufferers who have chronic high glucose levels will experience a higher-than-average development of plaque. Unfortunately, patients with diabetes often take longer to heal than non-diabetes patients, and this may mean significant problems for a patient if severe gum disease develops. Gum disease impacts the ability of a diabetic to control his or her disease. Impact of Gum Disease Gum disease is an affliction that may start out as a mild problem and eventually destroy the soft tissue that supports the teeth and bones o

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Thank God for Cosmetic Dentistry

Decades of jokes about the British propensity for yellowed, crooked teeth have created some incredibly memorable characters on the silver screen, but thanks to cosmetic dental work, nobody needs to suffer with a mouth that looks like Austin Powers, International Man of Mystery. Most movie-goers are so adverse to crooked, aged teeth that Hollywood movies tend to shy away from accurate portrayals of the way people s teeth used to look hundreds of years ago: yellow, bent and missing. It s rare that Hollywood has featured performances with actors who have “era-appropriate” teeth, but there are a few notable examples. In 1998 s “Shakespeare in Love,” actor Geoffrey Rush, playing theater producer Philip Henslow, had a mouth full of so many crooked, yellow teeth that it looked as though one of his poor molars was about to pop out of his mouth and land right in a movie-goer s lap. Likewise, in the 1996 film “The Crucible,” actor Daniel Day-Lewis not only we

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Help Your Kids Overcome Fear of the Dentist

A trip to the dentist can be an anxious experience for adults, so it s no surprise that children are often resistant and even fearful. Given the importance of maintaining healthy family dentistry practices, however, regular trips to the dentist are crucial for young children. With the following tips, you ll have the tools to make your child s next visit to the dentist as easy and stress-free as possible. Start Early Perhaps the best way to help your child overcome their fear and anxiety is to start at a very young age. Regular trips to the dentist should begin by age 1, or as soon as the first tooth appears. Beginning at such a young age will help your child acclimate to the process, and it will alleviate the fear of the unknown that many kids experience. If possible, you should bring your child to the same dentist throughout their youth.

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All You Need to Know About Porcelain Veneers

Your smile is one of the most important factors in the way people perceive you. It may seem like a very superficial way to judge people, but if you look into a person s mouth and see a bunch of teeth that are crooked and yellow, you are not going to treat them the same way as a person with teeth that are white and perfectly straight. Because of this, people are taking steps to improve the appearance of their teeth through many methods. One such method is porcelain veneers. Let s take a look at exactly what veneers are: Types There are two primary types of veneers used in dentistry—composite and porcelain. The veneers made of porcelain are small, thin pieces of porcelain. These pieces are bonded to the teeth on the front side to give the appearance of teeth that are flawless. The dentist begins by making an impression of your teeth. The impression is sent to a lab, and a lab technician creates the actual veneer. Uses There are many different reasons why a person would choose to h

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Signs of an Infected Tooth

Going to the dentist is an activity that most people only do every six months for a routine cleaning, or when pain in the mouth leads a person to suspect a problem like a cavity. The medical community has long suggested that oral health is a key indicator of a person s overall condition. Lack of proper oral care may lead to severe health problems due to the presence and growth of natural bacteria that live in the mouth. One of the potential complications of bad oral hygiene is an infected tooth, which is often referred to as a tooth abscess. Why Infections Occur Regular brushing is essential to maintain good oral health; however, even terrific oral care cannot prevent all problems. As a painful and potentially dangerous condition, an infected tooth requires a visit to a healthy family dentistry to prevent this problem from impacting the entire body. An infection commonly occurs due to a crack or opening within the enamel of the tooth. Bacteria are allowed to enter through this vulnera

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Before You Commit: Jacksonville Orthodontists Reveal 5 Things You Should Know About Braces

The decision to get braces is a big one for many people. Not only because braces tend to be expensive, but because wearing braces requires a commitment to a specific diet. This is because there are certain foods that a person cannot eat when braces are being worn. If you are thinking about visiting a Jacksonville orthodontist in the near future to get braces, here are some things that you need to be aware of:

1. Braces have no age limit

There is the popular misconception that braces are only for young people. This is primarily due to the fact that most people get them while they are teenagers. However, it is becoming common for older people to get braces. For example, Tom Cruise made headlines when he got braces a few years ago while in his mid-40s. As long as a person's gums and teeth are healthy, braces can be worn by anyone. Many people can not afford to get braces when they are young. After these people have money as adults, they decide they want to fix their smile and straighten their teeth.

2. Go to an orthodontist for braces

Many dentists will offer to do braces at a significant discount from the price that a Jacksonville orthodontist typically charges. While you may have gone to your current dentist for many years, it is important to understand that an orthodontist has significantly more skill and training that a typical dentist. There have been many cases of dentists not doing an adequate job duing the braces procedure. This requires the patient to endure more years of treatment from an orthodontist to fix the damage that was done by the dentist. Your dentist is capable of doing many types of cosmetic dental work. However, you should leave braces to the experts.

3. Get multiple consultations

Choosing the orthodontist that will perform your braces procedure is a very important decision. It is best not to rush this decision by choosing the first orthodontist you meet with. The vast majority of orthodontists offer free consultations. Therefore, it is in your best interest to go to several different ones. Think of this as an interview process. You are interviewing the orthodontists to see which one will get the job. Another reason to visit multiple orthodontists is the price. Prices for braces tend to vary widely. This is also true of payment plans. Keep looking until you find an orthodontist that offers a price and payment plan that is acceptable to you.

4. Carefully read your contract

Before your orthodontic treatment can begin, you will be required to sign a contract. It is critical that you read the contract completely. Do not just skim it. The contract will list many important details, such as whether retainers are included in the price of the braces, the penalty for missing a payment and the specific terms of payment. This contract can serve as a legally binding agreement. It can be used against you if anything goes wrong, so you need to be aware of what you are signing.

5. There will be some pain

Unlike most forms of cosmetic dental work, getting braces does involve some pain. There will not be pain when the braces are first put on your teeth. The pressure and pain will start several days later. You will most likely feel soreness in your teeth. It is also common for the brackets to rub against the insides of your lips and gums. This could possibly cause sores in your mouth. A lip protector, which covers the brackets of your braces, will help protect against some cuts and sores. In addition, patients can take aspirin to help alleviate the pain, and sores can be soothed by rinsing with warm salt water a few times each day.

Nutrition and Dental Health: Is There a Connection?

Many people do not make the correlation between nutrition and oral health. Most assume that food and nutrients are only related to their physical health, especially since nutrition is such a hot topic among those in the fitness community. However, as any dentist in Jacksonville, FL will tell you, maintaining good oral health takes more than regular teeth cleanings; proper nutrition needs to be a part of it too.

Foods that are high in sugar are frowned on in the fitness community because consuming too many can wreak havoc on the body. The same goes for the teeth and mouth. Sugary foods leave behind dangerous deposits on your teeth that cause tooth decay and the erosion of tooth enamel. While it is recommended that you brush your teeth twice a day, it is also important that you limit the risk of damage by limiting your sugar intake. This also includes drinks that are full of sugar, such as soda. If large amounts of sugar are in your diet, by the time you brush your teeth for the second time of the day, damage has already been done.

Some people like to brush their teeth after each meal, but that can also be harmful to your teeth. It has been shown that certain foods and drinks can actually soften your teeth's enamel. Therefore, brushing right after a meal can actually begin to strip your teeth of that enamel.

Watching what you eat plays a key role in the health of your gums and teeth. Eating healthy by incorporating a nice variety of each of the food groups, practicing portion control, drinking plenty of water and limiting your daily sugar intake will all help to ensure your mouth stays healthy.

It is also important to note that foods high in acidic content can be detrimental to the health of your teeth. There are a variety of healthy foods that contain a lot of acid, such as some fruits and vegetables. As previously mentioned, do not brush your teeth immediately after eating these foods. Research has shown that waiting at least an hour after eating to brush your teeth will prevent any further erosion of tooth enamel.

It is always important to seek out professional dental care, but especially when damage has been done to teeth. Failure to do so will result in further damage to teeth, which becomes painful and sometimes irreversible. Teeth can become so worn down and broken that they either fall out or must be removed and replaced. If your teeth are broken, painful or missing, keeping a healthy, nutritional diet becomes extremely difficult to maintain. Certain foods become virtually impossible to eat if you are unable to use your teeth.

If you find yourself in need of reconstructive dentistry or would like to find a family dentist in Jacksonville, FL, contact David and Associates. Our group of trained professionals is here to meet all your dental and oral hygiene needs.

Reconstructive Dentistry Turns Damaged Teeth Into Brilliant Smiles

Reconstructive dentistry has improved the quality of life for countless dental patients. A dentist in the Jacksonville, FL area that specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive dentistry can eliminate serious dental problems caused by ageing, heredity or accident. It just isn’t easy to enjoy life when a tooth, bone or muscle is making it difficult to smile, breathe, chew or speak normally. Reconstructive dentistry can eliminate pain and restore normal function to your mouth.

Among the many dental problems that can be resolved with the aid of reconstructive dentistry include:

• Chipped or broken teeth
• Damaged teeth or bones due to injury
• Decay of gums, teeth or jaw
• Genetic speech impairment
• Jaw injuries
• Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ)
• Overcrowding

Insurance Coverage

Although many insurance companies will not pay for cosmetic procedures such as tooth whitening, most insurance companies provide coverage for reconstructive procedures. While cosmetic surgery is primarily aesthetic in nature, reconstructive dentistry has the potential to restore essential functions such as chewing or speaking without pain. Nevertheless, reconstructive dentistry frequently improves a patient’s appearance. Several common reconstructive procedures are:

Dentures
• Dental implants
• Root canal
• Dental crowns

Modern Dentistry

The dental profession is meeting the unique needs of older patients. Dental procedures to repair or replace worn and missing teeth are now commonplace. Missing or damaged teeth can have a dramatic effect on mouth tissue and bone. As we age, our teeth become worn down. Worn teeth can now be lengthened and rounded to make them as good as new. Even a single worn or damaged tooth can negatively impact the health and alignment of nearby teeth.

Many reconstructive dentists combine cosmetic and reconstructive procedures to restore the health and appearance of dental patients. They often employ porcelain veneers to revitalize worn teeth. Extremely thin veneers can be used to restore the size, shape, spacing and shade of worn or damaged teeth. The patient can even select the shade of their new custom-made teeth.

Sedation Dentistry

These days, reconstructive dentistry is performed while the patient is in a state of conscious sedation. Serious dental issues can be caused by trauma, genetics, aging or poor oral hygiene. When the normal function of the mouth is impaired by a serious dental condition, reconstructive dentistry becomes a medical necessity. Teeth can literally be reconstructed through the use of composite materials and modern dental techniques. Otherwise, healthy teeth may be provided with additional support to prevent future damage, or a bridge may need to be rebuilt or repaired to promote oral health.

When necessary, a reconstructive dentist can provide a patient with a full or partial set of dentures. It’s not at all uncommon for someone to endure the inconvenience of missing teeth for many years. Fortunately, the use of dental implants can restore normal chewing capacity and improve the overall health of a patient. Unfortunately, there are instances when a severe accident necessitates the complete reconstruction of a patient’s mouth. Advanced dentistry techniques can perform miraculous transformations to improve the quality of life for an accident or abuse victim.

David and Associates is a cosmetic and implant dental office specializing in dental restoration and the creation of brilliant smiles. The reconstructive dentistry specialists and support staff at David and Associates look forward to serving anyone that needs a quality dentist in the Jacksonville, FL area.

Healthy Family Dentistry Involves Oral Cancer Screening

When people are concerned about their oral health, they don't normally think of being screened for oral cancer in addition to normal checkups and cleanings. Unfortunately, oral cancer is a very real disease, and screening is the best way to prevent and detect before it's too late.

Healthy family dentistry is all about making sure everyone in your family has proper oral hygiene. This includes screening for oral cancer. This quick, non-invasive procedure simply involves an oral examination of the gums, inner cheeks and teeth of the patient to check for anything abnormal. It’s painless and can be performed right along with any other dental work, including checkups, x-rays, cleanings and other procedures.

The reason why oral cancer screening is rising in urgency is due to the fact that most patients don't even know they have the disease until it has spread to other areas of the body and is nearly impossible to treat. In fact, the five year survival rate after discovering a spreading oral cancer is only 50 percent. Caught early, survival rates are much higher. A great dentist in Jacksonville FL understands the need to check for oral cancer for the overall health of their patients, so any threat can be caught early on.

Another reason for the increase in oral cancer screenings is the number of people being diagnosed each year with the disease. Oral cancer used to be a rare form of cancer that afflicted mainly heavy drinkers and smokers, but a recent connection with HPV is believed to be causing the numbers to rise in oral cancer patients. Every year, 35,000 people are diagnosed with oral cancer, which is an alarming rate of increase.

Patients can make sure they are screened for oral cancer when they get their normal checkups and cleanings. A quality dentist in Jacksonville FL can use their expertise and skill to check certain areas of the mouth for signs of oral cancer quickly and discreetly. There is no pain, little discomfort, and the procedure can be done right along with other dental procedures. Since oral cancer is difficult to treat once it has spread, these simple screenings for oral cancer can make a huge difference and even save lives.

With good oral hygiene, healthy family dentisty and proper screenings, a patient can know if they have oral cancer sooner than ever before. Painless, quick and potentially life-saving, oral cancer screening is something that every person should think about when it comes to oral health. A simple screening can make a huge difference in a patient's health, and can help catch oral cancer before it spreads to other areas of the body.

Words of “Wisdom” from Jacksonville Florida Dentists: Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?

One of the most frequently posed questions to a Jacksonville Florida dentist is, “Do I need to have my wisdom teeth removed?” If you do just a little research, you will find conflicting information about whether or not wisdom teeth should be removed. So, here is a guide that will tell you everything you need to know about wisdom teeth.

What Are They?

Wisdom Teeth are the last set of teeth that humans grow, and they are the very last teeth in the jaw. A final set of molars, wisdom teeth usually sprout at the end of puberty. Most people’s wisdom teeth come in between the ages of 17 and 22.

The problem with wisdom teeth is that they are not really necessary. Like the appendix, they are an unnecessary part of the anatomy that is left over from earlier versions of human beings. Back before humans had tools to cut their food, they had to do an awful lot of chewing to digest their food. This required a bigger, stronger jaw that had room for wisdom teeth. However, now our jaw sizes have shrunk as the need to chew has drastically diminished. Unfortunately, wisdom teeth still exist.

The Problem With Wisdom Teeth

Because wisdom teeth were designed for the older, larger human jaw, they do not fit in the more recent, smaller jaws that we have. This means they often come in crooked or push into existing teeth. This can cause other teeth to go crooked, and it can lead to a lot of pain as well as infection.

Because of this, specialists in cosmetic dentistry in Florida sometimes recommend that everyone get their wisdom teeth removed when they come in. This has been the standard course of treatment for several decades.

However, new evidence shows that wisdom teeth removal may do more harm than good in some instances. The procedure can be very painful, and it can lead to complications such as infections. For some people with large jaws, the wisdom teeth will not have any kind of negative effect on the rest of their teeth. People like this can avoid the pain, expense and hassle of having their wisdom teeth removed.

It Helps

For the vast majority of patients, the removal of their wisdom teeth will be beneficial. Any professional of cosmetic dentistry in Florida can remove the wisdom teeth with a minimum of pain. Removing the wisdom teeth will ensure that they do not have a chance to overcrowd the jaw, which can lead to crooked teeth and excessive pain.

Also, if wisdom teeth are not removed, they can sometimes become infected. If this infection gets into the bloodstream, it can lead to life-threatening problems. Therefore, it is important for anyone who has wisdom teeth to get them checked by a Jacksonville Florida dentist. Even if your wisdom teeth have never given you any problems, you should check with a professional to be sure that they will not lead to any complications down the road.

You need your teeth for life. Take care of them by getting your wisdom teeth checked out. It could save you from a lot of pain, and it could even save your life.

Answers from Jacksonville Florida Dentists: “Does Bleaching Damage Your Teeth?”

Do a quick Google search and enter the words Jacksonville Florida dentist or cosmetic dentistry Florida, and it becomes clear David and Associates knows a thing or two in this sector. As cosmetic and implant dentistry experts in the Sunshine State, we are asked a myriad of questions by patients and prospective patients on a variety of topics. Yet one subject tends to stand out amongst the rest in terms of frequency and popularity—and that is teeth bleaching. It seems everyone wants to know how it works and, perhaps more importantly, “Will the process damage my teeth?”

In fact, teeth bleaching does not “damage” teeth. Often confused with “negative effects” of the process, teeth bleaching can sometimes heightens sensitivity in the gums and teeth while the process is occurring, however, the normal sensitivity range returns once whitening is completed. Contrary to popular myths circulating out there in the public sector, teeth bleaching causes no damage to the tooth structure, nor does it make the teeth weaker. The heightened sensitivity is simply what’s known as an “oxidation reaction” where electrons are exchanged.

Interestingly, the pursuit of super-white teeth dates back thousands of years – not just since the average public has been smitten by the look after sensationalized shows such as The Real Housewives Of… or Vegas Bad Girls made flashing sexy smiles all the rage. In fact, the National Museum of Dentistry has said ancient Greeks and early Renaissance Europeans applied mixtures and chemicals such as full-strength bleach to their teeth for the purpose of making them gleam. However, these legends also told of instances when the individuals would damage and lose their teeth in this ancient whitening procedure, and it may be from these annals of history that such rumors came to pass about damaged teeth from bleaching.

Fast-forward to circa 2000. Solutions such as teeth whitening strips found their way onto the market with a bleaching solution in a much safer and less-painful way than in Renaissance times, at least. Still, the question has been raised even in the midst of this phenomenon, “Do teeth whitening strips damage the teeth?” According to the American Dental Association (ADA), both over-the-counter and whitening products purchased from dental offices are “mostly safe and effective.” Some products are even eligible for the SDA Seal of Acceptance. There have been reports, though, of whitening agents in these strips causing gum irritation and tooth pain and/or sensitivity. What is paramount to consider in these situations is whether or not an individual patient’s teeth will respond to whitening strips or another method of bleaching. Dentists such as those practicing with David and Associates in Jacksonville can study tooth discoloration and recommend the most effective whitening path to take. Further, it has been established that gray and brown-tinged teeth often times won’t respond as well and sometimes not at all to whitening strips while yellow-stained tooth surfaces more often improve with bleaching.

But, studies of the effectiveness of whitening strips as a whole show that they do brighten and whiten smiles for most users, and at a cost ranging from less than $10 to about $30 for drugstore-branded whitening strips—and most well under $100 for strips sold through Jacksonville Florida dentist offices. Because whitening options are readily available, millions of individuals on a worldwide basis are “bleaching away” without worry. For more information on teeth whitening and cosmetic dentistry in Florida, visit drjoeldavid.com.

Tooth Sensitivity: Information and Advice from a Jacksonville Florida Dentist

We've all been there. You bite into an apple and feel a sudden ache, or you're brushing your teeth and they start to hurt for no apparent reason. You can't see any cavities and you haven't suffered any blows to the mouth. So what's the problem?

Tooth sensitivity affects one in eight Americans. Many people brush it off as a non-event, but it isn't actually a joke; in fact, it can be an indication of serious problems, like gum disease or tooth decay.

But how do you know when you should worry, when you can simply switch toothpastes and when you should start thinking about more serious options, like an appointment with a Jacksonville Florida dentist? Here are some basic facts to consider about tooth sensitivity.

Causes

It's a common misconception that you must have a cavity if your teeth start to hurt. Cosmetic dentistry in Florida actually reports that most sensitivity is caused by a breakdown in enamel, AKA the tissue protecting your teeth from the elements. Under the enamel is a substance called dentine, which is connected to the nerves of your mouth by a series of tubules. If your enamel thins or wears away, your dentine is exposed to air, cold and pressure, thus sending signals through your tubules that are interpreted as pain.

It doesn't take much stimulation to hurt your dentine. Remember, it's spent your entire life being protected by your enamel, the hardest substance in the human body. When dentine loses that cover, it is shocked and pained to be suddenly confronted with, say, ice cream.

Symptoms

Tooth sensitivity can come in any forms. Most patients report a dull aching sensation that seems to be everywhere and nowhere; others may consider it more of a stabbing or stinging. A strong sign of tooth sensitivity, as opposed to just a cracked tooth, is when multiple teeth are affected at once.

Other Potential Problems

If you think your enamel is fine, try taking a look at your gums. Are they receding from your teeth? Do they look discolored or inflamed in any way? Certain gum diseases can erode cementum, the stuff covering the roots of your teeth. As you can probably guess, exposed roots aren't any fun at all.

Other possible causes of tooth sensitivity include teeth grinding, teeth bleaching and the consumption of acidic foods. You may have also broken a filling or cracked a crown.

If you can't see any apparent reason for your tooth sensitivity, consider consulting a dentist instead of sleuthing it out on your own. There may be a deeper problem at work, and if you poke around too much without knowing what you're doing, you may wind up needing cosmetic dentistry in Florida!

Treatment

Stopping your tooth sensitivity depends on what's causing it. For example, if you're grinding your teeth while you sleep, buying a mouth guard will protect you from your nocturnal habit. If you've just been brushing too hard, you can switch to a softer toothbrush.

The bad news about enamel is that it can't be replaced. Once it's gone, there's no recovering it. The good news is that there's plenty you can do to strengthen and protect what you have left. Make an appointment with a Jacksonville Florida dentist and talk to them about special toothpastes and fluoride gels that are designed to help patients suffering from tooth sensitivity. Remember, you're far from alone in this problem. Your dentist can help!

Jacksonville Florida Dentists Dimystify Dental Implants

A Comprehensive Overview Of Dental Implants

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are titanium, root-like devices that are used to replace missing teeth. In many cases, dental implants are the best choice for replacing missing teeth. The vast majority of people with missing teeth are considered good candidates for dental implants.

Am I A Good Candidate For Dental Implants?

If you want to get dental implants, then you should see a dentist who specializes in cosmetic dentistry Florida. A Jacksonville Florida dentist will perform a thorough examination in order to determine whether you are a good candidate for dental implants. Keep in mind that there are a few issues that may prevent you from getting dental implants including the following:

Uncontrolled Diabetes

If you have uncontrolled diabetes, then your chances of suffering an infection after dental surgery will be greater. You may also have problems healing.

Periodontal Disease

You will need to get treatment before you get dental implants if you have periodontal disease. Your Jacksonville Florida dentist may refer you to a periodontist.

Certain Medications

Certain medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, may increase your risk of bleeding. They may also slow down the healing process. If you take one of those medications, then you will be asked to discontinue them before you get surgery.

Insufficient Bone Mass

You must have a sufficient amount of bone in the area to anchor the implant. The dentist may choose to perform a bone graft in order to ensure that the implant will adhere.

Smoking

Smoking decreases blood circulation, which can interfere with the healing process. It can also increase the risk of infection.

Pros of Dental Implants

There are several benefits that you can reap from getting dental implants. Below are some of those benefits:

• Look and feel natural—No one will be able to tell that you are wearing dental implants.
• Improved speech
• Improved self-esteem—You will be able to smile with confidence.
• Look younger—Missing teeth can cause your jaw line to sag, which can cause you to look older. Dental implants can help restore your youthful appearance.
• Long lasting—Dental implants can last anywhere from 20 to 25 years.
• Easier to eat

Cons Of Dental Implants

Even though there are a number of benefits to getting dental implants, it is important to remember that they do have their disadvantages. Below are some of those disadvantages:

• Expensive—Cosmetic dentistry in Florida is not cheap. The cost of getting dental implants can vary from dentist to dentist, but you can expect to pay at least $2,100 for a single implant. Dental insurance can offset some of the cost, but you will most likely have to pay for a portion of this procedure out of pocket.
• Pain—You will be given anesthesia before your dental implant surgery. However, you can expect to experience some pain after you get this surgery. This pain may linger for a few weeks.
• Complications—Just like any other procedure, dental implant surgery has its risks. Infection, sinus problems and bone loss are some of the potential complications.

Dentists in Jacksonville Warn Habits and Food May Be Staining Your Teeth

Want a bright and sparkling smile? Common foods and drinks can contain natural pigments that slyly grab on to your tooth enamel and invade your tooth’s protective barrier. This can seriously derail your quest for striking white teeth. Dentists in Jacksonville offer expert advice on everyday habits and foods that can stain your teeth and strain your smile. Learn about these culprits so that you can lower your risk, and keep your pearly whites gleaming.

Tobacco

Smoking causes terrible stains and is public enemy number one to teeth. Teeth stained by nicotine will eventually turn a dingy brown. The best way to stop nicotine stains is to quit smoking. If that isn’t feasible, try chewing sugar free gum the minute you finish a cigarette. This will help swish away the nicotine and reduce your risk.

Wine

If red wine can stain your carpet, rest assured it has the potential to stain your teeth. White wine is extremely acidic and can also lead to teeth stains. Experts recommend drinking wine fairly quickly. The longer wine lingers in your mouth, the more your teeth are exposed to stains.

Coffee and Tea

A lot of folks love their caffeine addiction. Several cups a day can cause significant discoloration on white teeth. Black tea is even worse than coffee, since it is rich in tannins that promote teeth staining. Try drinking less of these stain-producing beverages, or dilute them with milk to reduce the risk.

Soda, Cola and Sports Drinks

Soda and sports drinks can be very acidic. The acidity level is so intense that it compares to battery acid. Yikes. Imagine acid on your teeth, eroding your enamel and opening the pores. Your teeth will quickly become much more susceptible to staining. To make your teeth happy, drink water. If you can’t possibly give up soda, energy drinks or the like, always use a straw to limit the liquid’s contact with your teeth.

Berries

Many types of brightly colored berries such as blueberries, blackberries, cherries, dark grapes and others can cause teeth stains. Intensely pigmented molecules in these fruits stick to tooth enamel. To offset the staining effect, swish your mouth with water after eating, and be sure to brush and floss.

Sauces

They may be yummy, but intensely colored sauces such as tomato, soy and curry can stain your teeth. As with berries, rinse your mouth after consuming to lessen staining.

Candy and Sweets

Hard candies, popsicles, lollipops and other colored and sugary sweets can stain your lips, your tongue and your teeth. Luckily, if you don’t chomp on these treats regularly, your risk is minimal.

For a confidant smile, it’s important to keep your teeth clean by brushing, flossing and rinsing frequently. If teeth are already stained, dentists in Jacksonville can help you with comprehensive teeth cleaning and whitening.

Porcelain veneers are another option for badly stained teeth. Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that the dentist uses to restore the look of your natural teeth. The bond between the tooth and the porcelain veneer is critical to ensure correct function. Resin is placed between the original tooth and the veneer and hardened with a special curing light. Porcelain veneers can be a very successful option to change your grin from rather ghastly to simply great. For more details visit-  www.drjoeldavid.com