WHY PREVENTATIVE DENTISTRY IS IMPORTANT

Dr. Deborah Lowry D.M.D. | Downtown St. Petersburg

ORAL HYGIENE INSTRUCTION

Maintaining proper oral hygiene is an essential component to preventing tooth decay and gum disease. Dr. Lowry offers oral hygiene instruction upon each visit to ensure every patient has the tools they need for a beautiful, healthy, vibrant smile.

Daily habits such as brushing, flossing, tongue scraping, and water picking are a few of Dr. Lowry’s favorite suggestions in achieving a top-notch dental routine.   

NUTRITIONAL COUNSELING

The foods and beverages you consume play a big role in the overall health of your smile. Sugary sweets, sodas, refined carbohydrates and acidic foods are a few of the things to be mindful of when prioritizing your dental health.

Foods that work as a natural defense against tooth decay include, dairy, fruits, vegetables and fluoridated water. Because nutrition has a direct influence on our oral health, Dr. Lowry offers nutritional counseling upon each dental visit. 

FLUORIDE

Fluoride is a mineral commonly used in dentistry to help strengthen enamel, to reverse signs of early tooth decay, and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.

Tooth enamel is precious and needs protection. For that reason, Dr. Lowry offers fluoride as an option for all patients to supplement their general dental exam and cleaning.  

FLOURIDE FAQ’S

  • Fluoride treatment is a professional dental service that applies a concentrated form of fluoride to your teeth. It strengthens enamel, helps prevent cavities, and can even reverse early signs of tooth decay.

  • Fluoride helps to remineralize weakened enamel, making teeth more resistant to decay. It also reduces the activity of bacteria that cause cavities, promoting overall oral health.

  • Fluoride treatments are beneficial for people of all ages. They are particularly recommended for:

    • Children, as their developing teeth are more susceptible to cavities.

    • Adults with a history of frequent cavities or weakened enamel.

    • Individuals with conditions like dry mouth, gum disease, or those undergoing orthodontic treatment.

  • Fluoride is applied as a gel, foam, or varnish directly to the teeth using a brush, tray, or rinse. The procedure is quick, painless, and typically takes only a few minutes.

  • Most dentists recommend fluoride treatments every six months during routine cleanings. However, individuals with a higher risk of tooth decay may benefit from more frequent applications.

  • Yes, fluoride is safe when used as directed. Professional treatments contain a controlled amount of fluoride, ensuring its effectiveness while minimizing any risk.

BITE GUARDS

Bite guards, otherwise known as occlusal guards, night guards or mouth guards, are recommended to patients that suffer from teeth grinding or clenching in their sleep. Properly adjusted bite guards can relieve muscle tension that derives from teeth grinding.

Bite guards also act as a great form of protection for those participating in sports activities. This custom fitting oral device protects your teeth, tongue, gums and cheeks from any unexpected trauma that may occur.

TMJ SCREENING

At Smile St. Pete Dentistry, TMJ screenings are an essential part of our comprehensive dental exams. Whether or not you have a TMJ Disorder, Dr. Lowry will be sure to set you up for success in regards to prevention and management.

TMJ is the abbreviated term for the temporomandibular joint. This joint can be described as a hinge that connects your lower jaw to your skull, allowing you to freely move your mouth, talk, yawn, and chew food. When individuals experience problems within the jaw and facial muscles around it, this can lead to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).

TMJ FAQ’S

  • During the screening, your dentist will:

    1. Examine your jaw for pain, tenderness, or restricted movement.

    2. Listen for clicking or popping sounds when you open or close your mouth.

    3. Assess your bite and look for signs of teeth grinding or clenching.

    4. Take X-rays or other imaging, if necessary, to get a closer look at the jaw joint.

  • MJ disorders can lead to chronic pain, difficulty eating, and other complications if left untreated. Early detection allows for effective treatment and can prevent further damage to your jaw and surrounding structures.

  • Treatment options vary based on severity and may include:

    • Lifestyle changes (e.g., stress management, avoiding hard foods)

    • Physical therapy or exercises for the jaw

    • Custom nightguards to prevent teeth grinding

    • Medications for pain or inflammation

    • In severe cases, surgical intervention

  • TMJ disorders can be caused by several factors, including:

    • Teeth grinding or clenching

    • Jaw injury or trauma

    • Arthritis in the joint

    • Misaligned teeth or bite issues

    • Stress, which can lead to tension in the jaw muscles

  • It's a good idea to include TMJ screening as part of your routine dental check-ups, especially if you have a history of jaw pain or other symptoms.

  • Yes, untreated TMJ disorders can lead to headaches, neck and shoulder pain, earaches, and even posture problems due to muscle tension and strain.

COMPREHENSIVE DENTAL EXAMS

Dr. Lowry’s thorough exams include an oral cancer screening and TMJ analysis, in addition to a full review of your teeth, gums and oral muscles. When creating your personalized treatment plan, Dr. Lowry will take all factors into account including dental history, cosmetic concerns, dental anxiety and budget.

Ensuring each patient feels comfortable, heard and cared for is our top priority! Dr. Lowry takes a careful and tactful approach with each patient, ensuring that all needs are met and future concerns are accounted for.

“Dr. Lowry is the kindest, most compassionate dentist I've ever been to. She genuinely cares about her patients' worries and fears.”

Rebeca P.

OUR TEAM

Compassionate care is at the forefront of Dr. Lowry’s practice. Because she prioritizes patient care, it is important that she surrounds her office with passionate and thoughtful team members. The team at Smile St. Pete Dentistry leaves no stone unturned when ensuring each and every patient has a remarkable experience.

“My experience with Dr. Lowry was great. As soon as you walk in you are greeted by helpful staff. Your wait is never long in the waiting room. When provided with treatment you are given a treatment plan that you are comfortable with and Dr. Lowry does everything she can to make your visit as pleasant as possible. I highly recommend Lowry and Obrochta Dentistry.”

— Joshua K. 

“Starting with the staff they are extremely helpful and friendly to Dr. Lowry herself who is the best dentist I have had.  She makes you feel so relaxed and that’s not easy for me in a dental chair!  Would recommend Dr. Lowry to anybody looking for a dentist.”

— Cheryl R. 

“Dr. Lowry is, by far, the kindest and gentlest dentist I have been to. I always leave there satisfied with the great service. For the price I can’t think of a better dentist. She is capable and can usually take care of any issue the same day. I don’t normally leave recommendations but for this dentist I would make an exception. I feel like family when I go there.”

— David P.