Uncategorized Archives - Patriot Dental Blog https://www.patriotdentalpensacola.com/blog/category/uncategorized/ Sun, 25 Jun 2023 23:50:20 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2.2 5 Signs You Should Replace Your Dentures https://www.patriotdentalpensacola.com/blog/2023/05/01/dentures-5-signs-you-need-to-replace-them-and-why/ Mon, 01 May 2023 23:47:58 +0000 https://www.patriotdentalpensacola.com/blog/?p=60 Understanding when it’s time to replace your dentures is crucial for maintaining good oral health and functionality. Whether you already wear dentures or are contemplating getting them as a tooth replacement option, being aware of the signs indicating the need for replacement will ensure a comfortable and effective denture experience. Continue reading to learn about […]

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dentist holding model of dentures

Understanding when it’s time to replace your dentures is crucial for maintaining good oral health and functionality. Whether you already wear dentures or are contemplating getting them as a tooth replacement option, being aware of the signs indicating the need for replacement will ensure a comfortable and effective denture experience. Continue reading to learn about 5 signs that it’s time for a denture replacement.

#1: Mouth Irritation

Comfortable eating is one of the key indicators of well-fitting and well-maintained dentures. If you encounter discomfort or irritation while eating, it could be a sign that your dentures need to be replaced.

Furthermore, the presence of sores, lesions, or any changes in your gums should not be ignored, as they may suggest issues with your dentures that require immediate attention from your dentist. Taking prompt action to address these signs is essential for maintaining optimal oral health and comfort.

#2: Changes in How they Fit

Over time, changes in the underlying bone structure can affect the fit of dentures. While well-fitting dentures should provide a snug connection between the dentures and gums, the shifting bone structure may cause them to become loose or even dislodged during chewing and speaking.

If your dentures are becoming loose or frequently falling out, it is important to have them evaluated by your dentist for adjustments or replacement. In the meantime, you can use denture adhesive as a temporary solution to minimize excessive movement and improve stability.

#3: Trouble Speaking

Loose-fitting dentures can impact your speech clarity, causing slurring or mispronunciation. If you experience these difficulties, it is important to consult your dentist. They can assess your dentures, make necessary adjustments, or recommend replacement to address the issue to restore your speech.

#4: Stains

Though discoloration can be avoided with proper care, your dentures may become somewhat yellowed with time. If you drink a lot of tea, cola, coffee, wine, or other highly pigmented beverages, they can also contribute to staining. If you want to maintain a bright smile, replacing your dentures can help restore the appearance of pearly whites.

#5: Damage

If you notice cracks, chips, or loose teeth in your dentures, it’s a clear indication that they need repair or replacement. Additionally, if the base of your dentures breaks, it compromises their functionality and calls for a replacement.

Seeking an evaluation from your dentist is crucial to determine the appropriate course of action for your dentures. This is important in order to prevent potential oral health issues, such as TMJ disorder. By seeking timely assessment and assistance, you can ensure the optimal function and well-being of your oral cavity.

To maintain optimal oral health and self-confidence, it is important to stay vigilant for these five warning signs of denture issues. Additionally, making regular visits to your dentist will help ensure an enduring, beautiful smile that functions at its best!

About the Practice

Located in Pensacola, Patriot Dental is committed to providing a range of services to ensure healthy smiles. Their expertise includes offering dependable and long-lasting dentures to fill in gapped smiles, allowing patients to embrace their confident, beautiful smiles. They are also skilled in denture replacements and repairs when needed. If you want to learn more about dentures or to set up an appointment with Patriot Dental, contact their office at (850) 477-1120 or visit their website.

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Common Dental Emergencies, and What can be Done About Them https://www.patriotdentalpensacola.com/blog/2023/04/08/common-dental-emergencies/ Sat, 08 Apr 2023 20:50:30 +0000 https://www.patriotdentalpensacola.com/blog/?p=55 When a dental emergency strikes, the last thing you want to do is to scramble around trying to figure out what to do. When you’re in pain, you don’t want to be thinking about what your next move should be. For that reason, it’s a good idea to try and have a working knowledge of […]

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someone holding their cheek and wincing

When a dental emergency strikes, the last thing you want to do is to scramble around trying to figure out what to do. When you’re in pain, you don’t want to be thinking about what your next move should be.

For that reason, it’s a good idea to try and have a working knowledge of the most common dental emergencies and what you can do about them. Here’s a guide to some urgent oral health problems you might have to face someday.

Lost Restorations

Most people have some kind of restoration on their teeth, whether it be as tame as fillings or as encompassing as multiple veneers. In any case, no dental work will last forever, which means that if you aren’t careful it’s easy for them to fall out.

If you lose a restoration, you should try to save it if possible. Depending on the condition of it and your teeth, you might be able to just put the restoration back onto your tooth. If not, then your dentist will replace it, either in-office or by ordering a replacement.

Cracked or Fractured Teeth

While this is fairly severe, it’s unfortunately not uncommon for people to suffer a serious injury to their teeth, resulting in a cracked or fractured tooth. This is a serious oral health problem that is not only deeply painful but can result in a wide variety of issues if left untreated.

Your dentist may treat a fractured tooth with a dental crown or root canal, but if the fracture extends far beneath the gum line and can’t be repaired, the tooth may need to be extracted.

Toothache

If you have a debilitating toothache, you should talk to a dentist as soon as possible about helping you. Toothaches are not only painful, but they’re also typically indicative of a serious infection that could deal damage if left untreated.

Toothaches are often treated via a root canal, which removes the infected pulp and covers the tooth with a crown. In the worst cases, dentists may also extract the infected tooth.

Now that you know a little more about these conditions, you can be better prepared if you have to deal with them.

About Our Practice

At Patriot Dental, we’re proud to offer conservative dental care to our patients, offering everything from preventive care to emergency treatment. Both Dr. Lisonbee and Dr. Henry love nothing more than being able to change their patients’ lives for the better via caring, comprehensive dentistry. No matter what brings you into our office, we’re happy to say that you’ll be able to leave with a healthy, beautiful smile.

If you have any questions about dental emergencies, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (850) 477-1120.

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What to Know About Dental Emergencies While on a Budget https://www.patriotdentalpensacola.com/blog/2023/03/04/dental-emergencies-while-on-a-budget/ Sat, 04 Mar 2023 03:41:12 +0000 https://www.patriotdentalpensacola.com/blog/?p=50 When something unexpected happens to your teeth, it can be quite alarming. You count on your pearly whites to not only make your smile look beautiful but for everyday functions like eating and speaking. However, many people put off treatment—no matter how much they need it—due to the fear of the unexpected cost. Unfortunately, ignoring […]

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a woman being treated by her emergency dentist

When something unexpected happens to your teeth, it can be quite alarming. You count on your pearly whites to not only make your smile look beautiful but for everyday functions like eating and speaking. However, many people put off treatment—no matter how much they need it—due to the fear of the unexpected cost. Unfortunately, ignoring dental pain can lead to more serious oral health issues. Your dentist in Pensacola is here to tell you what to know about dental emergencies while on a budget.

First Things First: What Is Considered a Dental Emergency?

If you are suffering from any abnormal symptoms, such as unusual swelling or abnormal pain, you should seek treatment as soon as possible. However, the following issues will require immediate attention from an emergency dentist:

  • A loose or knocked-out permanent tooth
  • Cracked or broken teeth
  • A lost filling, crown, or restoration
  • Painful swelling in or around the mouth
  • Uncontrollable bleeding in the mouth
  • An injured jaw

Be mindful that if a dental injury causes potentially life-threatening symptoms (such as difficulty breathing), you should call 911 or go to the nearest ER.

What if Your Dental Emergency Goes Untreated?

It can be tempting to minimize dental discomfort and put off treatment because you think it will save you money. However, this is not usually the case. Oral health issues are likely to grow progressively worse, costing you more in the long run. It’s best to treat your smile in the early stages of your dental issue so you can save your smile and your bucks.

How to Make Urgent Dental Care Affordable

While dental insurance helps make dental services more affordable, it’s not the only option. Many dental offices accept payment through third-party financiers, such as CareCredit. This option allows you to spread out the cost over a period of time with payments every month. Another benefit is it usually has low-to-no interest! Additionally, you can even pay for treatments that might not have been covered under a traditional insurance plan.

If you have a dental emergency, you don’t have to put off getting speedy and effective treatment. By contacting your dental team, you can find out which financing options they offer so you can return to a comfortable, happy smile again!

About the Practice

Patriot Dental proudly keeps the smiles of Pensacola whole and healthy through the expertise of Dr. Keith Lisonbee and Dr. Dan Henry. With a 5-star rating on Google, their customized emergency dental care can help you with any expected oral health issue. For your ease and convenience, they offer same-day appointments as well as financing through CareCredit. To schedule an appointment, contact them through their website or by phone at (850) 477-1120.

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5 Reasons Why Dental Implants Are Worth the Investment https://www.patriotdentalpensacola.com/blog/2023/02/04/reasons-why-dental-implants-are-worth-the-cost/ Sat, 04 Feb 2023 22:47:27 +0000 https://www.patriotdentalpensacola.com/blog/?p=45 If you have missing teeth, dental implants are the most reliable, comfortable, and long-lasting solution to complete your smile. They are often considered the gold standard in tooth-replacement options! However, due to those increased benefits, dental implants are more of a financial investment than dentures or dental bridges. So, what exactly makes them worth the […]

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a dental implant in front of some money

If you have missing teeth, dental implants are the most reliable, comfortable, and long-lasting solution to complete your smile. They are often considered the gold standard in tooth-replacement options! However, due to those increased benefits, dental implants are more of a financial investment than dentures or dental bridges. So, what exactly makes them worth the cost? Here are five reasons why dentists and patients alike believe that dental implants are well worth the price in the long run.

#1. You Will Save Money on Repairs & Replacements

Traditional dentures and dental bridges usually need to be replaced after about 10 years. Dentures may even need to be adjusted every year or two to keep the fit comfortable. Over time, this can end up costing you quite a bit of money and time. By contrast, dental implants are a reliable one-time investment that can easily last 30 years or more.

#2. Your Bone Health Will Improve

Unlike dentures or dental bridges, dental implants are embedded into your jawbone using a titanium post. With time, your jawbone naturally grows around the posts, which forms a bond that is as strong as your natural teeth! This stimulation prevents further deterioration that can occur with tooth loss.

#3. You’ll Look Younger & Vibrant for Years to Come

The roots of your teeth activate your jawbone whenever you bite or chew. When a tooth is lost, the jawbone loses circulation, causing it to break down. Eventually, this leads to a sunken, wrinkled facial appearance. Dental implants are the only tooth replacement that encourages blood flow in the jawbone, keeping it strong and healthy and preserving your youthful facial features.

#4. Your Smile Will Be More Functionality

Unlike dentures that can slip and slide when you’re speaking, eating, or smiling, dental implants are rooted firmly in your mouth. This means you can eat all of your favorite foods and speak confidently without fear of any mishaps from unexpected slippage. Implants provide peace of mind as your renewed smile feels and functions just like your natural one.

#5. You Will Achieve Priceless Confidence

Missing teeth not only affect your everyday life, but they can slowly melt away your confidence. Many people try to hide their smiles due to feeling self-conscious. Dental implants provide you with a serious self-esteem boost by allowing you to grin, talk, and chew with confidence for many years. Gone are the days of hiding your smile for photos and avoiding public speaking.

As you can see, the unique, long-term benefits of this tooth loss solution make them worth every single penny!

About the Practice

Patriot Dental proudly keeps the smiles of Pensacola whole and healthy through the expertise of Dr. Keith Lisonbee and Dr. Dan Henry. They offer a range of comprehensive dental services, including restorative procedures like dental implants. With a 5-star rating on Google, they use personalized care and advanced technology to successfully help you achieve your oral health goals. To schedule an appointment, they can be reached through their website or by phone at (850) 477-1120.

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Why Does My Root Canal Have to Be Redone? https://www.patriotdentalpensacola.com/blog/2022/12/04/reasons-for-root-canal-retreatment-pensacola/ Sun, 04 Dec 2022 01:24:00 +0000 https://www.patriotdentalpensacola.com/blog/?p=41 Have you ever undergone root canal therapy? If so, hopefully, you had a positive experience. Still, you may not be eager to get the treatment done a second time — especially if it is for the same tooth! Why is root canal retreatment in Pensacola sometimes necessary, and what can you expect during your appointment […]

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patient talking to dentist

Have you ever undergone root canal therapy? If so, hopefully, you had a positive experience. Still, you may not be eager to get the treatment done a second time — especially if it is for the same tooth! Why is root canal retreatment in Pensacola sometimes necessary, and what can you expect during your appointment if you have to undergo it? Read on to find out.

Reasons for Root Canal Retreatment

The need for root canal retreatment can arise weeks, months, years, or even decades after the original procedure. When this occurs, it is usually due to one of the following reasons:

Unsuccessful Initial Treatment

In the vast majority of cases, an initial root canal treatment is successful. (Statistics on this point vary, but according to some estimates, the initial success rate is over 90 percent.) Unfortunately, though, there are some cases where a dentist accidentally leaves behind some infected tissue within the tooth.

Often, it is not due to any shortcomings on the dentist’s part. It is extremely difficult to navigate the tiny spaces within a tooth, and it is virtually impossible to see in all its nooks and crannies. Therefore, some small spots of damaged tissue may get left behind. This issue is more common in molars than in front teeth.

New Damage to the Tooth

Even if an initial root canal is a resounding success, the treated tooth does not become invulnerable to new damage. If you delay getting a crown, or if an existing crown suffers damage, bacteria can attack your tooth and spark a new infection.

What to Expect During Endodontic Retreatment

Endodontic retreatment may be performed by your general dentist, but there is also the chance that you will be referred to a specialist. In either case, you can be confident that you are in good hands.

During your appointment, one of the first things your dental team will do is make you comfortable by thoroughly numbing the portion of your mouth where they will be working. Next, they will remove your crown and access your tooth’s interior. They will have to remove the filling material, called gutta-percha, that was placed after your first treatment.

Then, they will remove damaged and infected tissue before they fill the tooth back in. From beginning to end, endodontic retreatment usually takes a bit longer than an initial root canal.

Most of the time, endodontic retreatment is successful. If yours is not for any reason, your dentist will talk to you about other options for managing your damaged tooth. For example, you may need to get it removed altogether.

The idea of undergoing root canal retreatment might seem a little intimidating, but you can commit to the procedure with confidence that it will benefit your oral health and reduce your risk of future problems with your smile.

About the Author

Dr. Keith Lisonbee earned his dental doctorate from the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. He is a member of the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. If you need root canal treatment or retreatment, Dr. Lisonbee offers same-day emergency appointments and oral conscious sedation. Schedule an appointment on his website, but if it’s an emergency, call (850) 477-1120.

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The Importance of Soaking Your Dentures Overnight https://www.patriotdentalpensacola.com/blog/2022/11/04/reasons-to-soak-your-dentures-overnight/ Fri, 04 Nov 2022 19:33:10 +0000 https://www.patriotdentalpensacola.com/blog/?p=37 Dentures have been a wonderful tooth loss solution for many people. Whether you have a full or partial prosthetic, they return your confidence and the full functionality of a complete smile. However, to ensure your new pearly whites last as long as possible, they require certain care. One of those important oral health habits is […]

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dentures soaking in a glass

Dentures have been a wonderful tooth loss solution for many people. Whether you have a full or partial prosthetic, they return your confidence and the full functionality of a complete smile. However, to ensure your new pearly whites last as long as possible, they require certain care. One of those important oral health habits is soaking your dentures overnight. Here are four reasons why!

#1. Dentures Are Full of Pores

While dentures are made from a combination of dental materials, acrylic is the most common framework material. While your prosthetic appears completely solid to the naked eye, it’s actually full of microscopic pores. Bacteria easily grow in these tiny spaces, creating entire populations in these tiny holes. It’s important to not let their growth get to unhealthy levels that can lead to dental problems like gum disease. Soaking your dentures ensures the bacteria remains under control and wards off future oral health problems.

#2. Reduces the Risk of Increased Bacteria

The pores in your dentures are not the only thing that can expose your dentures to harmful bacteria. Research has shown that the population of bacteria in your mouth tends to increase as you get older. As time progresses, you can be exposed to newer populations that can leave you more susceptible to infection. In contrast, the ability to produce antibacterial saliva decreases with age, and can even be made worse by wearing dentures over an extended period of time. With these factors in mind, getting in the habit of soaking your prosthetics before you go to sleep can keep additional bacteria populations from growing.

#3. Your Gums Need to Rest Too!

Rest is essential for your body…even including your gums! Your gums are the main part of your mouth that bears the weight of your dentures all day. Unlike your jawbone, the soft tissues in your mouth are doing all the work to hold them in place. By giving your mouth a break from them throughout the night, you decrease the chances of them forming sores or becoming too fatigued for them. You not only get clean dentures in the morning but a renewed smile!

#4. Keeps Your Dentures Clean

It is always important to treat your prosthetic as you would your natural teeth by brushing them consistently and thoroughly. But brushing alone won’t be able to penetrate the pores as much as soaking can. In fact, soaking them overnight removes over 99.9% of oral bacteria, keeping your mouth healthy and your dentures comfortable and odor-free.

So, next time you are tempted to skip soaking your dentures overnight, be mindful of how it benefits your oral health and keeps your prosthetic in its best shape. Your complete smile will remain healthy for years to come!

About the Practice

Patriot Dental proudly serves the community of Pensacola under the expertise of Dr. Keith Lisonbee and Dr. Dan Henry. With a 5-star rating on Google and a focus on personalized care, they can help you achieve a complete, beautiful smile!  They provide a full range of prosthetic services to keep your smile healthy and comfortable, whether you have full, partial, or implant dentures. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, they can be reached through their website or by phone at (850) 477-1120.

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What Are the Differences Between Dental Crowns and Fillings? https://www.patriotdentalpensacola.com/blog/2022/11/04/the-differences-between-dental-crowns-and-fillings/ Fri, 04 Nov 2022 16:44:24 +0000 https://www.patriotdentalpensacola.com/blog/?p=34 You may have experienced either a tooth that needed to be returned to health or being unhappy with the appearance of one of your teeth. Restorative dentistry to the rescue! These dental services are used to both restore the function and aesthetics of your tooth. Dental crowns and fillings are very common treatments used by […]

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woman at the dentist getting her teeth examined

You may have experienced either a tooth that needed to be returned to health or being unhappy with the appearance of one of your teeth. Restorative dentistry to the rescue! These dental services are used to both restore the function and aesthetics of your tooth. Dental crowns and fillings are very common treatments used by dentists. But what are the differences between them? Read on to learn more!

Dental Crowns

A dental crown, or cap, is placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its size, shape, and function. It’s cemented into place over the entire tooth from the gum line up to its chewing surface. Crowns are made from durable materials that can withstand chewing. If the crown is placed in the back of the mouth, oftentimes gold will be used. For those restorations placed in more visible areas, your dentist can use materials to match the surrounding teeth, like zirconia. With the proper care, crowns can last anywhere between 5 to 15 years.

In summary, dental crowns:

  • Are often used to treat severe tooth decay or damage
  • Cover and strengthen the tooth
  • Require dental impressions
  • Usually takes take two dental appointments

Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are mainly used to “fill” up an area of your tooth that has been removed due to decay (a cavity). It repairs and protects your pearly white from further infection.  While silver used to be the more common material for this restoration, it is now more likely to be made from composite resin, which can match your tooth’s enamel. Like crowns, they are also expected to last from 5 to 15 years.

In summary, dental fillings:

  • Are often used to treat minor tooth decay or damage
  • Fill in the tooth
  • Do not require dental impressions
  • Usually only takes one dental appointment

Which Restoration is Best for You?

If the decay is caught in the early stages, then a small filling can easily and quickly restore your tooth. On the other hand, if your tooth has sustained a significant amount of damage or root canal therapy is necessary, then a dental crown would likely be the best option. After an examination and checkup, your dentist will decide which restoration would best fit your needs.

How to Care for Your Dental Crown and Filling

Although dental crowns and fillings differ in certain ways, they share one important thing in common: their lifespan relies on proper care. A regular oral health routine of brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily is essential.  It is also a good idea to limit sugary foods, stick to a vitamin-rich diet, and minimize poor dental habits, like smoking and using your teeth as tools. Lastly, maintaining your biannual dental visits will ensure good dental health, as well as help your restoration to last as long as possible!

About the Practice

Patriot Dental proudly serves the community of Pensacola under the leadership of Dr. Keith Lisonbee and Dr. Dan Henry. With a 5-star rating on Google and a focus on personalized care, they can help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile!  They are proud to offer a range of restorative services, including dental crowns and fillings. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, they can be reached through their website or by phone at (850) 477-1120.

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Is Cosmetic Dentistry Painful? https://www.patriotdentalpensacola.com/blog/2022/10/06/is-cosmetic-dentistry-painful/ Thu, 06 Oct 2022 00:18:46 +0000 https://www.patriotdentalpensacola.com/blog/?p=27 Everyone wants to be confident when they show off their smile, but many of us have cosmetic flaws that litter our teeth. Fortunately, you don’t need to settle for less when it comes to your pearly whites. There are a variety of cosmetic options out there that can help you achieve a smile that you’re […]

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Woman smiling at dentist

Everyone wants to be confident when they show off their smile, but many of us have cosmetic flaws that litter our teeth. Fortunately, you don’t need to settle for less when it comes to your pearly whites. There are a variety of cosmetic options out there that can help you achieve a smile that you’re proud to show off. However, many patients are hesitant to commit to treatment because they are worried that their treatment will be painful. Here’s what you should know!

Will Cosmetic Dentistry Hurt?

Many people are apprehensive when going to the dentist, even for cosmetic treatment, due to their fear of experiencing pain. The good news is that your dental team will do everything in their power to give you the most comfortable experience possible regardless of the treatment that you’re undergoing. Plenty of cosmetic treatments are non-invasive, and for others, anesthetics are used to ensure that you don’t feel any discomfort throughout the duration of your treatment. If there is anything that your dental team can do to make you feel more comfortable, just ask!

Which Cosmetic Dental Treatments Are Available?

Some of the most popular cosmetic treatments out there involve little to no discomfort at all! Here are a few of them:

  • Cosmetic Bonding – Direct bonding involves using a composite resin to correct chips, gaps, stains, and small cracks. Usually, this procedure is completely painless and doesn’t require the use of a local anesthetic. It is completed in just one appointment.
  • Teeth Whitening – Professional teeth whitening is entirely customized, so you can expect to have a comfortable experience. Some patients experience mild sensitivity afterward, but this generally subsides after a short period of time. If you are prone to tooth sensitivity, let your dentist know.
  • Veneers – It usually takes two appointments for veneers to be placed. During your first visit, your dentist will prepare your teeth by filing down a minimal portion of your enamel to ensure that the veneers lay flat against the line of your smile. During this time, you will likely receive a local anesthetic to numb the area. Once your teeth have been prepped, impressions are taken and sent to a dental lab. During your next visit, your permanent veneers will be placed. You may experience some soreness and sensitivity afterward, but this should be mild and temporary.

Don’t let fear get in the way of achieving your smile goals. Your dental team will do everything in their power to ensure that you have a pleasant, pain-free experience!

About the Author

Dr. Keith Lisonbee earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine and is committed to continuing education to keep his knowledge and skill sharp. Currently, he is a proud member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Dental Association, the Florida Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry. For more information on your cosmetic options, or to schedule a consultation at his office in Pensacola, visit his website or call (850) 477-1120.

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Love Being Original with Your Gift Ideas? Try Teeth Whitening! https://www.patriotdentalpensacola.com/blog/2022/09/19/reasons-why-teeth-whitening-is-the-perfect-gift/ Mon, 19 Sep 2022 00:51:00 +0000 https://www.patriotdentalpensacola.com/blog/?p=30 A survey conducted by OnePoll found some interesting facts about gifts. Three in five Americans have lied about how much they like and use a gift. Over a third hide undesirable ones in the closet! It is always fun to give a unique present that you know will be useful. Teeth whitening is a perfect […]

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a woman smiling at a present

A survey conducted by OnePoll found some interesting facts about gifts. Three in five Americans have lied about how much they like and use a gift. Over a third hide undesirable ones in the closet! It is always fun to give a unique present that you know will be useful. Teeth whitening is a perfect idea…and no one will want to hide a luminous smile in the closet! Here are four reasons why it will become one of your favorite things to give!

Reason #1: It Never Goes out of Style

Trends come and go. Whether it be the latest fashion, jewelry, or gadgets, there is always something new on the market to catch our attention. But before we know it, the “hot” can turn into a “not”. A beautiful smile NEVER goes out of style! It goes with any outfit and always catches attention. Teeth whitening is a wonderful gift because it will never be outdated.

Reason #2: It Can Help A Career

Being confident, connecting with others, and having a bright smile can help people to improve their careers. When your teeth are white, you feel more confident. You are more likely to reach out to others when you are comfortable with your appearance.  Showing those pearly whites always creates a more welcoming disposition, both professionally and personally.

Teeth whitening can also increase job offers and pay. In a study conducted by Crest, researchers found that people with white teeth greatly increased their chances of these valuable career opportunities. Now that’s a gift that can truly pay off!

Reason #3 It Improves Overall Health

Did you know just the simple ACT of smiling boosts the immune system? A strong immune system protects from illnesses and infections. Healthy people lead more active lives, which in turn benefits their health.

Smiling also triggers the release of the dopamine hormone in your body. Dopamine helps you to feel happy and improves your mood. When you feel good, you are more productive and present in your life. It also has been found to increase motivation and creativity, improve memory and learning, and help with sleep.

Reason #4 It Makes You Memorable!

It is so awesome to give presents that add value to your loved ones and remind them of how important they are in your life. Giving the gift of teeth whitening will certainly do that. Every time your family member or friend looks in the mirror and sees their luminous smile, they will remember your thoughtfulness. It truly is the gift that keeps giving!

Giving our loved ones presents that they will enjoy and use is a great way to show your appreciation for them. Teeth whitening is a gift sure to bring smiles for a long time to come!

About the Dentists

Patriot Dental proudly serves the community of Pensacola under the leadership of Dr. Keith Lisonbee and Dr. Dan Henry. They are proud to offer a range of dental services, including confidence-restoring cosmetic treatments like teeth whitening. If you’d like to know more, they can be reached through their website or by phone at (850) 477-1120.

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5 Tips to Help You Sleep After Having Wisdom Teeth Removed https://www.patriotdentalpensacola.com/blog/2022/08/25/sleeping-after-wisdom-tooth-extractions/ Thu, 25 Aug 2022 17:13:00 +0000 https://www.patriotdentalpensacola.com/blog/?p=23 Getting plenty of rest is essential for recovery once you’ve completed a wisdom tooth extraction. As with any surgery, though, you might find that you have some trouble sleeping afterward due to soreness. Fortunately, there are a few steps you can take to make sure you stay comfortable at night while your mouth is still […]

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Woman getting a good night’s rest after having wisdom teeth removed

Getting plenty of rest is essential for recovery once you’ve completed a wisdom tooth extraction. As with any surgery, though, you might find that you have some trouble sleeping afterward due to soreness. Fortunately, there are a few steps you can take to make sure you stay comfortable at night while your mouth is still healing. Below are 5 tips for sleeping after wisdom teeth extractions.

1. Make Sure You’re Sleeping in the Right Position

For at least 36 hours after a tooth extraction, you need to keep your head elevated at a 45-degree angle when lying down. This is necessary because when you’re lying flat, blood volume tends to increase near the surgical site and the blood vessels constrict more. If that happens, you’ll experience more pressure and bleeding, and the healing process will be delayed.

As such, you should take steps to make sure your head remains in an elevated position even while asleep. For extra safety, have someone nearby to keep an eye on you to ensure that your head stays where it needs to be.

2. Take Any Pain Medication as Directed

Your mouth will be numbed for the wisdom tooth procedure, but that doesn’t mean you won’t experience any discomfort afterward. The pain can be managed with medication, which should keep you comfortable enough to get a good night’s sleep. Regardless of whether the medication is prescribed or bought over the counter, you should only take it according to the instructions provided.

3. Create a Comfortable Sleeping Environment

In general, it’s easier to get to sleep if you create an environment that’s conducive to it. When it’s bedtime, make sure that the room is dark and cool. Using a humidifier can also help as it makes it easier to breathe comfortably at night, which is important for sleep.

4. Apply an Ice Pack to Any Swollen Areas

Some swelling is to be expected after wisdom tooth extraction, and the discomfort it causes can be part of what keeps you up at night. You can reduce swelling by applying an ice pack to the area multiple times throughout the day. Remember not to apply ice for any longer than 10 to 20 minutes at a time.

5. Follow Your Post-Op Instructions Carefully

Your dentist or oral surgeon will give you a series of instructions to follow while your mouth is healing, such as only eating soft foods for a while and protecting the blood clot that forms over the extraction site. Following these instructions will help keep you as comfortable as possible, which goes a long way toward making it easier to fall asleep when you want to.

Sleep is always an important part of the healing process. If you would like additional tips for getting some shuteye after having wisdom teeth taken out, don’t be afraid to reach out to your dentist.

About the Authors

Dr. Keith Lisonbee and Dr. Dan Henry are proud to be bringing Pensacola families state-of-the-art dentistry with their combined expertise. They can offer same-day appointments in the case of dental emergencies, and they are always more than happy to give patients advice on how to stay comfortable after wisdom teeth extraction and other procedures. To schedule an appointment with them at Patriot Dental, visit their website or call (850) 477-1120.

The post 5 Tips to Help You Sleep After Having Wisdom Teeth Removed appeared first on Patriot Dental Blog.

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