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.