Monthly Archives: April 2021

What to Do When a Tooth Breaks | Palm Harbor Dentist

We are all under the understanding that teeth are very strong – but this does not mean they are indestructible. Much like the bone, teeth can chip, crack or break. This may happen if you bite down on something too hard, or if somebody hits you in your face or mouth. The same can also happen if you fall too hard on your face, your teeth have cavities, or your amalgam fillings no longer able to support the remaining enamel.

For cracked and fractured teeth, there’s no way to treat them at home. It is best to see the dentist immediately because even if the tooth looks fine, it may hurt whenever it’s exposed to temperature changes in your mouth. It may also be incredibly painful, a sign of a possibly damaged nerve or blood vessels, which warrants immediate medical attention.

For broken teeth, it is also important to see the dentist as soon as possible so they could see if a cavity caused the tooth to break or if there’s tooth damage.

Until you get to the dentist, here are a few tips:

  • Rinse and gargle with warm water until your mouth is clean.
  • If any area is bleeding, apply pressure with a piece of gauze for ten minutes. If this doesn’t help, try using a tea bag instead.
  • You can also try applying a cold pack to the cheek or lips over the side of the broken tooth to help reduce pain and swelling.
  • If it is not possible for you to see your dentist immediately, try to cover the damages with a temporary dental cement.
  • If the pain is too much, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever.

If you’re interested in learning more about broken teeth, contact Dr. Lieberman 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 Palm Harbor and all surrounding areas.

Don’t Skip Lunch on National Make Lunch Count Day | Palm Harbor Dentist

Today is a day to stop and enjoy your lunch break. According to a survey commissioned by TGI Fridays, many American workers don’t take full advantage of their lunch breaks. Some eat their lunch at their desk, some skip lunch altogether. Unfortunately, taking a break has many benefits. It improves your productivity and gives your brain a chance to relax and ingest some healthy foods to nourish your bodies. The following ten foods will not only fit those bills, but will also keep our smiles bright and shiny:

Pineapples can help whiten teeth due to an enzyme called bromelain, which acts as a natural stain remover while breaking up plaque.

Ginger can protect against gum disease, which causes the loss of bone and supportive connective tissue in your mouth.

Carrots contain vitamin A, needed for healthy tooth enamel. And eating them raw stimulates saliva, your mouth’s natural cleanser.

Basil is a natural antibiotic that reduces bacteria in the mouth.

Cheese is rich in protein, calcium, and phosphorus and they all help reduce acid in your mouth.

Sesame seeds help “scrub” away the plaque on your teeth. Not only that, but chewing nuts can also provide this coarse, scrubbing action.

Shiitake mushrooms contain a compound called lentinan, which inhibits bacteria from growing in your mouth.

Onions contain the sulfur compounds, thiosulfinates and thiosulfonates, which reduce bacteria that cause tooth decay, but you need to eat them raw.

Salmon not only provides calcium but also vitamin D, another nutrient needed for healthy bones and teeth.

Broccoli contains iron, which helps form an acid-resistant film or barrier that can protect the enamel of your teeth.

If you’re interested in learning more about smile-friendly foods, contact Dr. Lieberman 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 Palm Harbor and all surrounding areas.