Monthly Archives: April 2017

Pros and Cons of Crowns, Bridges and Implants | Palm Harbor Dentist

dental crown and bridge palm harbor flThere are many risk factors that can result in tooth loss, such as injury, disease or tooth decay. Thankfully due to modern dentistry, proper dental treatments can replace your missing teeth while improving your confidence and smile. Before you choose which dental treatment to replace missing teeth, you should take the following into consideration:

Longevity. If taken of care of properly, dental implants can last many years. The crown may have to be replaced every 10-15 years due to normal wear and tear, but the implant itself is permanent. Dental bridges typically need to be replaced periodically, but can last up to 10 year or more by practicing proper oral hygiene

Long-term oral health. Bone and tissues loss occurs underneath dental bridges where the tooth was missing or extracted, which can cause the remaining teeth to become unstable. Dental implants, on the other hand, are the only dental restorations that simulate bone growth, which preserves both the bone and gums.

Oral hygiene. Using a specific type of floss and other dental tools are required to clean underneath the dental bridge and to keep them free of plaque. Dental implants require excellent oral hygiene, but can be brushed and flossed just like natural teeth.

Appearance. While modern bridges look natural, as the bone and gum tissue are lost over time, gaps can form underneath the dental appliance. Dental implants deliver the high-quality aesthetic results. The crown arises through the top of your gums in the same way a natural tooth would.

If you’re interested in learning more about cosmetic dental options, contact Dr. Larry Lieberman, DDS at 727-785-8017 to schedule a consultation today. Or visit www.dentist-lieberman.com for additional information.

Dr. Larry Lieberman proudly accepts patients from Safety Harbor, Palm Harbor, Clearwater, Dunedin, Tarpon Springs and surrounding areas.

Amalgam Fillings: Are They Worth It? | Palm Harbor Dentist

When we develop a cavity, it is important to get it treated before it gets worse. So, we make a trip to see the dentist, and they make us good as new with a filling. But have you ever thought about what makes up those fillings? Let’s take a closer look…

For a more traditional look, dental amalgam is a common material used to fill cavities. They are the kinds of fillings known as silver fillings. Silver fillings have been used for years to replace holes made by cavities or other tooth related injuries. Unfortunately, over the years, concerns have been raised about the use of amalgam because it contains mercury.

Mercury is a neurotoxin that, at high levels, may cause neurological issues, autoimmune disease, chronic illnesses, and mental disorders.  Amalgams are 50% mercury laced with a combination of silver, tin, and copper. At a high level of exposure, OSHA is claiming that they are unhealthy.  Because of these concerning factors, amalgam fillings have made a huge impact on the dental world. As of recently, the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination surveyed 31,000 adults and found that the number of dental fillings correlated to the incidence of cancer, mental conditions, thyroid conditions, neurological issues, and diseases of the eye. While statistics show for themselves, research still must be done in the search for a sure reason to take amalgams off of the market. At the same time, they are also responsible for saving millions of teeth around the world.

If you’re interested in learning more about amalgam fillings, contact Dr. Larry Lieberman, DDS at 727-785-8017 to schedule a consultation today. Or visit www.dentist-lieberman.com for additional information.

Dr. Larry Lieberman proudly accepts patients from Safety Harbor, Palm Harbor, Clearwater, Dunedin, Tarpon Springs and surrounding areas.