The St. Pete Smiles Blog

St. Pete Smiles, wishing you a safe and relaxing Memorial Day weekend

2011-05-27T17:25:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day weekend, a time to remember and honor the men and women lost while serving for our country. Memorial Day is also the unofficial start of summer, and for many folks in St. Petersburg, Largo and Seminole, getting out of town for three days after being cooped up in the classroom or the office spells sweet, sweet relief.

What about you? What are you up to this Memorial Day weekend? Whether you are headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, or just hitting the great American open roads, we’d like to hear all about it!

Our entire team at St. Pete Smiles wishes you a happy, safe and relaxing Memorial Day weekend!

What, exactly, are wisdom teeth?

2011-05-20T08:13:00.000-07:00

Wisdom teeth are a type of molar that is found in the very back of your mouth and are the last molars to develop. There are four wisdom teeth: upper left, upper right, lower left, and lower right. These teeth usually appear in late teens or early twenties but may become impacted (fail to erupt) due to lack of room in the jaw or angle of entry. The removal of wisdom teeth has become so commonplace that it is almost a rite of passage for young adults.

Dr. Bracy will tell you that when a tooth is impacted, it may need to be removed. If it is not removed, you may develop gum tenderness, swelling, or even severe pain. Impacted wisdom teeth that are partially or fully erupted tend to be quite difficult to clean and are susceptible to tooth decay, recurring infections, and yes, even gum disease.

In addition to visiting our website with any questions you may have about wisdom teeth, our friends at WebMD have developed a helpful explanation about wisdom teeth and how they impact your health. Also, feel free to give us a call with any questions you have or ask us on Facebook!

Meet Marsha, St. Pete Smiles' Returning Dental Hygienist!

2011-05-10T14:46:00.002-07:00

Please join us in giving Marsha a warm St. Pete Smiles welcome. She will be joining us as a dental hygienist. Marsha was a part of the St. Pete Smiles team about 10 years ago, until she left to start a family. Married with 2 daughters now, we are thrilled that we had an opening at the time she wished to return to dentistry.

Welcome back, Marsha!

St. Pete Smiles celebrates Secretary's Day

2011-05-03T14:47:00.001-07:00

Last week, Dr. Bracy treated our staff at St. Pete Smiles to a delicious, extended lunch at the Vinoy in celebration of Secretary's Day. In our office, we not only honor our receptionist, Susie, for all her hard work and dedication throughout the year, but we make this our day to honor our assistant and hygienists as well. In addition to the wonderful meal, everyone received a lovely artisan crafted bracelet, each with a unique, beautiful natural stone. Our staff is truly a team when in comes to providing the best care possible for our patients.

Staff Spotlight: Welcome Becky to St. Pete Smiles!

2011-04-27T11:25:00.000-07:00

Dr. Bracy and our team are excited to welcome Becky as a new staff member at St. Pete Smiles. We are thrilled to have Becky as one of our hygienists. She has been practicing dental hygiene for 11 years now and has been an orthodontic assistant for 16 years. Becky is married, and has a 4 year old son.

Be sure to say "hello" to Becky at your next appointment!

Play it safe this spring, from St. Pete Smiles

2011-04-21T15:13:00.000-07:00

With spring here, many children, teens and adults in Saint Petersburg, Florida will once again pick up the ball, bring the bat out of seasonal retirement, and lace up their cleats to hit the fields for the return of spring sports! April is National Facial Protection Month, and during this time, Dr. Bracy and our dedicated team urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. According to the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation, children, high-school athletes and adults will have more than 5,000,000 teeth knocked out in sporting events this year.

Protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. We recommend that patients wear mouth guards, helmets, and any other appropriate facial protection. Please contact St. Pete Smiles if you have any questions. Stay safe and have fun!

April marks Oral Cancer Awareness Month

2011-04-11T11:31:00.000-07:00

Visiting Dr. Bracy regularly will not only help keep your teeth and mouth healthy, but will also help keep the rest of your body healthy. The fact is, every hour of every day in the U.S., someone dies of oral cancer, which is the sixth-most common diagnosed form of the disease. The five-year survival rate is only 50 percent, and oral cancer is one of the few cancers whose survival rate has not improved. Since April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Bracy would like to take this opportunity to remind all of our patients about the importance of visiting our office for regular checkups and maintaining good oral hygiene.

As a dentist, Dr. Bracy is a specialist who works to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health problems. Please let us now if you have any questions about your oral health during your next appointment. Take care of your teeth, and smile bright!

Smoke screen

2011-04-06T16:37:00.001-07:00

Everybody knows that smoking causes lung cancer, but did you also know that smokers and tobacco users are susceptible to a variety of oral health problems at a faster rate than non-smokers?

It’s true! Smoking is responsible for almost 75 percent of gum disease in adults; and, similar to smokers, adults who smoke pipes and cigars, as well as those using smokeless tobacco, are just as susceptible to gum disease and other tobacco related health problems.

As soon as you use tobacco products, you become more likely to experience any of these oral health problems:

• Oral cancer
• Gum disease
• Tooth loss
• Loss of bone in the jaw
• Gum recession
• Delayed/impaired healing process after oral surgery or any other treatment
• Decreased success rate of dental implant (tooth replacement) procedures
• Mouth sores
• Loss of your sense of taste and smell
• Bad breath
• Tooth and tongue stains

If you are interested in protecting your oral health, we strongly recommend you quit using tobacco products! The following steps are recommended by the Surgeon General to help you quit smoking and using tobacco:

• Get ready – set a quitting date and remove all materials from your home, car and office
• Get support
• Learn new skills and behaviors
• Get medication and use it correctly
• Be prepared for relapse or difficult situations

For support, start with St. Pete Smiles! We can help by recommending different options to help you quit, and above all we will support you throughout the quitting process. We are dedicated to helping you protect your oral health – and quitting smoking is significant step in the right direction.

Smile, and you might just live longer!

2011-03-29T16:22:00.000-07:00

Folks with big smiles may actually live longer than those who don’t, according to a March 2010 study at Michigan’s Wayne State University. Dr. Bracy has known for quite some time that positive emotion has been linked to both physical and mental health, but researchers at the university did something quite interesting: they looked at photos of 230 ball-players who began their careers in baseball prior to 1950 and studied their smile intensity (ranging from big smile, no smile or partial smile). The players' smile ratings were compared with data from deaths that occurred from 2006 through 2009. The researchers then took into account other factors that impact life longevity, including body mass index, career length and even college attendance.

The results? Researchers found that players who weren't smiling in the photos died at the average age of 72.9 years. Players with partial smiles lived to be 75. Those with big smiles, however, lived on average to be 79.9 years old.

The take-away from the new study? Smile now, smile often and you might just live longer! Have you been perfecting your smile by visiting St. Pete Smiles on a regular basis? If not, give us a call!

What’s so bad about nail biting?

2011-03-22T08:43:00.000-07:00

We’ve all heard that biting your nails is an awful habit, but you many wonder- really- what’s so bad about it? Recently, our team at St. Pete Smiles found an interesting article that discusses how biting your nails affect your teeth and oral health.

Nail biting, also known as Onychophagia, is a common habit among various age groups, including primarily children, teens and young adults. Nail biting is generally triggered by stress and most often decreases with age. That being said, nail biting is unsanitary, unattractive, as well as unhealthy for your teeth!

Here’s why:
• It’s unsanitary. Your nails are dirty, almost twice as dirty as your fingers! Hence, biting your nails is just asking for germs and bacteria.
• No good things come to your teeth. Nail biting causes your teeth to constantly be chewing, which is not good for them. This excessive motion wears your teeth down faster than a non-nail biter’s and puts a large amount of stress on your front teeth- contributing to teeth misalignment.
• It can be costly. Nail biting can result in up to $4,000 in additional dental bills over one lifetime, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Yikes!

What can you do about it?
Now that you know how harmful nail biting can be, it’s time to take action to break your nail biting habit. Try to be conscious of your fingernails and to keep them looking good- this will help you resist the temptation. Ask Dr. Bracy or visit the article for tips on how to break a nail biting habit.

Good luck!

Your friends at St. Pete Smiles

How to freshen bad breath, from Dr. Bracy

2011-03-16T13:40:00.000-07:00

Dr. Bracy, your St. Petersburg dentist, recognizes that many of our patients are concerned about bad breath, or halitosis. While some cases of bad breath are persistent (chronic bad breath), generally bad breath is transient, and can be prevented.

We recently came across this helpful video about bad breath and thought it was worth sharing with our patients. The video explains what might cause bad breath and some ways that it can be avoided. In most instances, bad breath can be prevented by practicing common oral hygiene techniques that you have probably heard us emphasize during a visit to St. Pete Smiles, such as brushing and flossing daily. We encourage you to watch this video for additional tips on how to keep bad breath at bay. Enjoy!

March is National Nutrition Month!

2011-03-08T10:17:00.000-08:00

March has arrived, and that can only mean one thing: it’s National Nutrition Month. Every March, Dr. Bracy and thousands of dentists and hygienists celebrate this occasion, and this year is no different. This March, Dr. Bracy and our team want you to think diabetes, obesity and periodontal disease, and how healthful eating and physical activity may improve periodontal health.

Small changes really can make a big difference, and the American Dietetic Association (ADA) has some advice on ways to start improving your diet this March:

• Focus on fruits and vegetables: Add a serving each day to one meal and increase it every few weeks. Adding more of these foods into your diet is important whether you buy frozen, fresh or organic.

• Think fresh, think local: From farmer’s markets to community-supported agriculture, you have many options to find new, fresh foods in Saint Petersburg, FL.

• Make each and every calorie count: When you are choosing between options, focus instead on the one with more of the vitamins and nutrients that you need. Sometimes, foods with fewer calories aren’t always the healthiest options.

• It’s tempting, but…: If you have a sweet tooth, have fruit and yogurt for dessert. If you crave a snack in the afternoon, enjoy some trail mix or nuts.

• Expand your horizons: Try a fish you’ve never eaten before or find a new vegetable recipe. By testing yourself, you might find new healthy favorites to add to your regular grocery list.

If you have additional questions about periodontal disease or keeping yourself and your mouth healthy, please give us a call!

Getting Married? Smile Bright!

2011-03-02T16:29:00.000-08:00

It’s winter, and it’s cold. But, believe it or not, there is a growing trend of brides choosing to tie the knot in the winter wonderland. If you are gearing up for a wedding this winter, consider matching that white dress to a perfectly white smile!

At St. Pete Smiles we offer in-office teeth whitening for the bride, the groom, or the entire wedding party! You get the girls together to get their nails done, and now you can get them together to get their teeth done!

In-office whitening is the quickest, most effective way to achieve whiter teeth. Because we are dental professionals, we have the expertise to use higher percentages of whitening agents than the at-home systems allow. So you can get a brighter white, usually in just one visit!

Give us a ring and let us add some extra sparkle to your “I do”!

The importance of regular checkups

2011-02-25T10:44:00.000-08:00

If you’re brushing and flossing on a regular basis, we think that’s fantastic! But, don’t forget that it’s also important to visit St. Pete Smiles every six months, in addition to brushing your teeth a couple times a day. Because your dental health is important to us, we'd like to remind you that it's time for your examination.
Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health. Dr. Bracy can:

• Check for problems that might not be seen or felt

• Detect cavities and early signs of decay

• Treat oral health problems early

During an oral exam we will usually check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If you have not been to our office in the last six months (or as recommended), call us to schedule an appointment. We look forward to seeing you!

St. Pete Smiles supports National Children’s Dental Health Month

2011-02-15T09:39:00.000-08:00

With February being National Children's Dental Health Month, our team at St. Pete Smiles thought we'd share a few good oral hygiene tips with our patients, courtesy of the American Dental Association, or ADA.

• Teeth brushing techniques: It takes only two minutes to properly brush, using short, gentle strokes and devoting extra attention to the gumline, areas around fillings and hard-to-reach areas such as the back teeth.
• Flossing: hold the floss snugly between thumbs and index finger and place between each of the teeth, making sure to go beneath the gumline and curving the floss around the base of each tooth.
• Snack wisely: choose healthy snacks such as vegetables, fruits and cheese and avoid sticky, chewy candies that can stick to the teeth. If you eat these snacks, make sure to brush after doing so.
• Carbonated or sugary drinks: these beverages create acids that can damage the teeth when mixed with saliva, so they should be avoided altogether. When drinking one of these beverages, avoid sipping on it throughout the day. Rather, have a drink and then brush your teeth.
• Regular dental visits: You should visit us regularly (approximately every six months).

National Children's Dental Health Month, now in its 61st year, aims to increase awareness about the importance of kids' oral health. If you have any questions about keeping your mouth healthy, or about your treatment with St. Pete Smiles, please feel free to give us a call!

Dr. Bracy attends the West Coast District Dental Association Annual Meeting

2011-02-07T15:50:00.000-08:00

St. Pete Smiles was closed Friday while Dr. Bracy attended the West Coast District Dental Association Annual Meeting. The all day seminar was held at the Tampa Convention Center, and presented by a nationally known dentist. The seminar's subject was how to better treat and prevent debilitating conditions in the mouth due to excessive wear. Several ideas presented during the conference can be put implemented immediately to help our patients deal with these issues.

February is American Heart Month

2011-02-02T10:14:00.000-08:00

Did you know February is Heart Month? It’s a great time to take notice of the health of your heart, says Dr. Bracy. Cardiovascular disease remains American's number one killer, according to the American Heart Association. Studies have shown a correlation between gum disease and heart disease, underscoring the importance of good oral health care.

Visiting our office on a regular basis can help prevent gum disease or at least catch it in its early stages. And because people with dental insurance are more likely to visit their dentist when they should, a healthy mouth begins with a visit to St. Pete Smiles. In observance of Heart Month, Dr. Bracy says it’s also important to know your numbers: blood pressure (less than 120/80), cholesterol (less than 200) and BMI (less than 25). If you have any questions about heart health, or about your treatment at St. Pete Smiles, please give us a call today.

Toothbrush Trivia with Dr. Bracy

2011-01-25T13:27:00.000-08:00

It isn’t any big news to dentist Dr. Bracy that people have been brushing their teeth for thousands of years. In fact, the first “toothbrush” was created around 3000BC! Ancient civilizations used a thin twig with a frayed edge to rub against their teeth for cleaning.

The first toothbrush with bristles – similar to today’s toothbrushes – was invented in 1498 in China. Brushes were made out of bone or bamboo with bristles made from the hairs on the back of a hog’s neck.

It wasn’t until 1938 that the first nylon bristle toothbrush was introduced, and people began practicing good oral hygiene.

Here are some other interesting facts about your toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss:

• Most people are said to use blue toothbrushes over any other color
• If you don’t floss, you are only cleaning 65% of your tooth surfaces
• The first toothpaste was used in 500 BC in China and India
• On average, children smile about 400 times per day
• Replace your toothbrush every two months, when bristles appear worn, or after recovering from a cold or flu
• The first known toothpaste was used in 1780, Crest was introduced in the US in 1955 and Colgate in 1873

Parsley and Other Ways to Brighten Your Smile

2011-01-19T08:10:00.000-08:00

At St. Pete Smiles we know that many patients are concerned about bad breath and the brightness of their teeth. Naturally, good oral hygiene is the first step. With proper brushing and regular dental checkups you can keep bad breath (halitosis) in check. There are also certain foods that can be used as home remedies to help keep your teeth sparkling and beautiful.

Here are a few home remedies to keep you smiling bright:
Spice up your life: Snack on some cloves, fennel, or anise after each particularly odorous snack.
Be weary of dark beverages: The worst options for your teeth are coffee, wine, whiskey, and beer. If you do indulge in these beverages, we recommend that you use a straw to protect your teeth from dyes.
Apples, celery, and carrots: These foods are known to increase saliva production, and can act as natural stain removers.
Enjoy your strawberries: This fruit contains malic acid and fiber, which may help whiten and remove bacteria from your teeth.
Parsley’s there for a reason: Finish your parsley after you finish your dinner and you’ll find a refreshing breath enhancer. Hate the texture? Throw a couple sprigs in a blender to sip after each meal.
Frequent brushing: Carry a toothbrush with you so brushing after each meal is convenient and refreshing! Trust us, you’ll love the way it makes you feel. If you can’t brush, still swish around a couple sips of water to remove any lingering food.
Don’t forget the tongue: Lots of people brush their teeth regularly, but leave the tongue alone. One of the main causes of bad breath is food and plaque residue on the surface of your tongue. So give it a nice gentle brush-over too!
Sugarless gum: Always a good idea to carry some mints or sugarless gum for that quick spruce up before you meet the boss.

For more tips on teeth whitening, you can visit this great article by AOL health, or give St. Pete Smiles a call! Dr. Bracy is specially trained to offer out patients Zoom! professional teeth whitening, which whitens teeth an average of eight shades - in just one hour.

Gummy Tummy, from Dr. Bracy

2011-01-11T16:58:00.000-08:00

At St. Pete Smiles we know the rumors going around—mostly among young people—that once you swallow a piece of chewing gum it will stake a claim and take up residency in your stomach for at least seven years! We really hate to take all the fun out of the mystery, but the truth is that chewing gum, when swallowed, will enter the stomach and move through the digestive system just like any other piece of food and leave the body long before seven years! So, if you ever have accidentally swallowed a piece of gum, there is no need to worry!

This being said, gum does not have any dietary benefits, so while it’s not harmful to swallow, you still want to avoid swallowing it. If you are a gum-chewer, make sure you chew sugarless gum, because gum with sugar can lead to cavities. Sugarless gum still has the same amount of flavor, but with less cavity causing ingredients. You see, when the bacterium in your mouth breaks down sugar, what’s left behind is acid. This acid eats away at the enamel coating of your teeth, causing holes that we call cavities. Cavities can lead to other long term mouth problems if they are not treated in time, so it is best to try and avoid overexposing your teeth to too many harmful substances!

Happy (sugar-free) gum chewing!

What are patients saying about St. Pete Smiles?

2011-01-05T16:27:00.000-08:00

St. Pete Smiles, serving St. Petersburg, Largo, and Seminole, FL and surrounding areas, has been receiving some great patient reviews lately! Check out what our current patients are saying about Dr. Bracy and team!

"Prior to a girlfriend recommending Dr Bracy, I had been to quite a few dentists in the St Pete area. Something was always amiss until I went to Dr Bracy! Susie, his receptionist, is always pleasant, sweet and willing to work with me. Very knowledgeable with insurance, and teeth which makes it a lot easier and pleasant. Hygienist...I like a good, deep cleaning and I always get that. Know of others that don't care for it that deep and they also have hygienist that provide that type of service. Dr Bracy...complete check after every cleaning. Recommends what needs to be done and shows you the evidence of his findings. He puts money back into his practice. He has the latest technology, which improves my health greatly. Most important to me is having a clean, safe environment, current technology, and a doctor that does exceptional dental work. I have found all of this with St Pete Smiles!" ~Kathleen

"This office came highly recommended. The dentist, assistant, and office personnel were all very knowledgeable. I didn't have to wait for anything, and the price was respectable. The scheduling and records requests were faster than any office I've ever seen. I've been searching for a good dentist for quite some time now, and am happy to say that I think I've FINALLY found one!" ~Jessica

"I can't speak highly enough of Dr. Bracy & his staff. They are always pleasant, smiling & helpful. They have been my dentist for several years & I have had major dental work completed..." ~Sue

Make 2011 the year to improve your oral health

2010-12-27T13:25:00.000-08:00

Many folks in St. Petersburg consider the beginning of a new year a time to not only reflect on the year that was, but also to set personal goals for the upcoming year. How are you planning to improve your health and happiness in 2011? Dr. Bracy and our team recommend that you make a New Year’s resolution to benefit your oral health!

It is important that New Year’s resolutions are reasonable and attainable, and that they improve your overall quality of life—for example, did you know that flossing every day is the very best way to prevent periodontal, or gum, disease? Using a straw when drinking sugary beverages can also help prevent cavities. There are many small steps that you can take to prevent cavities, oral infections and bad breath.

Be sure to give us a call if you need a few suggestions on ways to improve your oral health, or visit this helpful article from our friends at the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). After all, your oral health is about more than just a beautiful smile.

Happy New Year!

-The team at St. Pete Smiles

Family Resources Holiday Collection

2010-12-22T10:41:00.000-08:00

The St. Pete Smiles holiday collection for Family Resources was a huge success. They were thrilled to receive the much needed items. Dr. Bracy and our team hope to make this an annual event, thanks to the generosity of our staff and patients. Happy Holidays!

St. Pete Smiles Holiday Staff Luncheon

2010-12-20T16:02:00.000-08:00

Dr. Bracy and our team at St. Pete Smiles had a wonderful holiday luncheon at Malio's Steakhouse in downtown Tampa. Great minds must think alike, because Dr Bracy got the staff e-readers as gifts, and that's the gift they got Dr. Bracy as well! There will be alot of reading going on at St. Pete Smiles this winter.

After our holiday luncheon, we had fun ice skating at the rink set up along the Riverwalk. Ice skating brought back memories for our former figure skater receptionist Susie. First timer assistant Michele was a good sport and tried ice skating. Dr. Bracy and his wife Donna held their own out on the rink.

This holiday season we would like to ask you, our wonderful patients: What do you love about the holidays this year? Spending time with loved ones? Winter activities, such as ice skating? All of the delicious holiday treats?

Please feel free to share your thoughts on our Facebook page. Happy holidays!

Michele is certified with the Mark of Dental Assisting Excellence

2010-12-13T13:09:00.000-08:00

St. Pete Smiles dental assistant Michele was recently recognized by the Dental Assisting Board for the milestone of reaching 25 years as a Certified Dental Assistant. This certification is the "Mark of Dental Assisting Excellence", and reflects her commitment to the dental assisting profession and dedication to quality patient care. Her award includes a certificate, anniversary pin, and commemorative gift. Congratulations, Michele!

Be sure to ask Michele for more information about her certification the next time you're in for an appointment. We're all very proud of her achievements.

Dr. Bracy invites patients to join us in supporting Family Resources

2010-12-06T11:42:00.000-08:00

St. Pete Smiles is a holiday collection site for Family Resources. We encourage patients to join us in supporting Family Resources, a private not-for-profit organization, this holiday season. The organization's mission is to "strengthen families and build better communities by providing prevention, support and counseling to children, teens and families."

A few donation ideas
• Non-perishable food items
• Sheet sets that are new or gently used
• Fast food gift cards, such as McDonalds, Burger King, Taco Bell, Chick-fil-A

Our collection box will be available until Dec. 17 for dropping off donations. Gift cards can also be mailed to the St. Pete Smiles office.

Thank you!

-The team at St. Pete Smiles

Imagining your life with Invisalign® at St. Pete Smiles

2010-11-29T16:30:00.000-08:00

Are you wondering what Invisalign treatment is really like, and what effect it will have on your day-to-day activities? Will it slur your speech? Will people know you're in treatment? You're not alone in your concerns! Dr. Bracy and our team thought we’d share this list of questions and answers for anyone pondering the St. Pete Smiles Invisalign Special Event.

How exactly does Invisalign work?
Using 3-D computer imaging technology, Invisalign creates a series of custom-made, clear aligners exclusively for your teeth, based on the treatment plan that we specify for you. Each aligner moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved.

Will I experience pain during treatment?
Most people experience temporary discomfort for a few days after a new aligner is placed. This feeling of pressure is normal and is a sign that Invisalign is working by sequentially moving your teeth to their final destination.

Can other people see that I'm in treatment?
One of the benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners are clear. You can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.

How do I clean my aligners?
The best way to clean your aligners is by brushing and rinsing them in lukewarm water.

How often must I visit St. Pete Smiles during treatment?
For most patients, visits every 4-6 weeks are frequent enough for us to determine that your treatment is progressing properly. Dr. Bracy will provide you with a specific schedule that supports your individual treatment plan.

Happy Thanksgiving, from St. Pete Smiles

2010-11-22T11:20:00.000-08:00

Dr. Bracy and team would like to wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving. It's a big food holiday, so be careful to brush and floss after eating! If you have any stories or pictures to share with us, we'd encourage you to send them along or call our office and ask how.

Gobble Gobble!

What do you love about St. Pete Smiles?

2010-11-17T11:01:00.000-08:00

From your very first visit to St. Pete Smiles our doctor and team strive to provide the highest quality of general dental and cosmetic dental care in the St. Petersburg community. We thought we’d ask you, our wonderful patients: Have you been especially impressed by Dr. Bracy's work? Did our team go out of their way to answer your questions? Are you in love with your new smile?

Whether you’ve just come in for a consultation or your family has been visiting our office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. You can write a review here on our Google Place page. Or, you can tell us by posting on our Facebook page or by giving us a call!

Thank you,

The team at St. Pete Smiles

St. Pete Smiles hosts Invisalign® Special Event

2010-11-11T08:30:00.000-08:00

Dr. Dewey Bracy, your St. Petersburg Invisalign Preferred Provider, will be hosting a special Invisalign Event now through the end of the year. We will be providing complimentary consultations to answer all of your questions about Invisalign, the clear way to straighten teeth.

During this special event, we will also be offering patients $250 off treatment, complimentary whitening with Invisalign treatment, and 24 month no interest financing.

If you have wondered if Invisalign is right for you, don't delay in making an appointment at St. Pete Smiles for this special event. Space is limited to the first 10 appointments.

Invisalign and your oral health, from Dr. Bracy

2010-11-03T16:33:00.000-07:00

When considering treatment options, patients often ask us how Invisalign treatment is so different than traditional braces. Well, there are more reasons to smile about Invisalign with St. Pete Smiles than you may know. Invisalign is a series of removable aligners that are nearly invisible, and besides straightening your teeth, can improve your oral health. Here’s how:

Healthy gums: Straight teeth allow a close fit for gums. This lessens the gum stress that is caused by crowded or widely spaced teeth, thus also reducing red and swollen gums.

Easy cleaning: Invisalign is removable, therefore brushing and flossing is easier and you are able to maintain a healthy mouth. These habits are vital to avoiding tooth decay, plaque and even gum disease.

Improved speech and chewing: Properly-aligned teeth don’t have the discomfort or compound speech impediments that can be caused by crowded teeth or a deteriorating jawbone.

If you have any questions about Invisalign, just ask Dr. Bracy the next time you’re in for an appointment. Or, you may post your question on our Facebook page! You can also visit the Florida Dental Association website for more information on oral health care.

Dr. Bracy, protecting your family from cavities this Halloween

2010-10-25T15:01:00.000-07:00

With Halloween quickly approaching, Dr. Bracy and our team knows that there will soon be many tricks and treats! While this festive holiday is full of costumes and fun community activities, it can also be a harmful time for the teeth of young trick-or-treaters in our St. Petersburg, FL neighborhoods.

With all of the sugary, sticky, and chewy treats that are often shared with trick-or-treaters, it is important to protect your teeth from cavities this Halloween. A cavity is caused by plaque, a sticky substance that forms on the tooth as a result of germ and bacteria build-up. Plaque is acidic and as it clings to your teeth the acids eat away the outside of the tooth (also called the enamel) and a hole is formed.

Here are a few simple steps you can take to prevent cavities this Halloween:

• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily
• Gently brush your gums to keep them healthy (when choosing a toothbrush it is recommended to use soft bristles)
• Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food that may be caught between the teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach
• Limit the amount of soda and sugary treats you eat/drink
• Be sure to visit your dentist every six months for a teeth cleaning and check-up

Dr. Bracy asks: Would you like to receive 10% off your next bill?

2010-10-19T16:41:00.000-07:00

St. Pete Smiles, serving St. Petersburg, Largo, and Seminole, FL, would like to provide a special Halloween treat for all of our patients that connect with Dr. Bracy and team online. If you call before Halloween and schedule an appointment (by Nov. 15, 2010) for any restorative treatment on your treatment plan, you will receive 10% off your bill! What a great savings!

Don't forget to mention that you heard about this special on the Blog, or on Facebook, so that you can receive this online exclusive offer. Happy Halloween!

A few helpful webisodes about fluoridation, from Dr. Bracy

2010-10-13T13:21:00.000-07:00

Dr. Bracy and his team at St. Pete Smiles would like to point you to a few interesting webisodes about fluoridation, located on the Florida Dental Association YouTube channel.

There, they tend to post some very pertinent videos about fluoridation, as well as information about oral health care, access to dental care, and dental education. These include "Fluoridation," "Tips for Terrific Teeth," and "A Trip to the Dentist."

Did you know that the National Centers for Disease Control "recognizes the fluoridation of drinking water to prevent dental decay as one ten great public health achievements of the 21st century?"

We think you may find these webisodes interesting, as well as enlightening. If you have any questions about the videos, or your treatment here at St. Pete Smiles, please give us a call at 727-280-5812.

The benefits of dairy, from Dr. Bracy

2010-10-06T08:58:00.000-07:00

Dr. Bracy and our team at St. Pete Smiles want to know: Is dairy a major part of your diet? If not, maybe it should be! A 2008 study from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) has found that regular consumption of dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, can actually lower your chances of contracting periodontal disease (also known as gum disease). Results of the study also showed that adults who consume at least 55 grams of lactic acid a day are less at risk for gum disease.

Cheese is one of the healthiest snacks for your child's teeth. In addition to providing large amounts of much-needed calcium, cheese also does its part to fight cavities. Cheddar, Swiss, Mozzarella, and Monterey Jack all stimulate the body's salivary glands to clear the mouth of debris and protect them from acids that weaken them, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. This means cheese disrupts the development of cavities, especially when eaten as a snack or at the end of a meal. Calcium and phosphorous found in cheese reduce or prevent decreases in the plaque's ph level and work to re-mineralize the enamel of your child's teeth.

Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection in the mouth that affects the gums and jaw. Gum disease results in a loss of teeth and bone, and has been connected to certain cases of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease and osteoporosis.

Eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth. Next time you reach for a quick snack, choose some cheese, or a glass of milk, and remember with each bite, and every sip you are preserving your teeth for a lifetime of smiles and good oral health!

For more information about which dairy foods are best for keeping your teeth healthy, please give St. Pete Smiles a call.

Ask Dr. Bracy: Is Invisalign® really customized for each patient?

2010-10-01T12:51:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is, and that’s part of what makes it work, says Dr. Bracy. To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment, the first thing we do is to take an impression of your teeth as they are now and digitize it. Using special software, we look at the current positioning of your teeth and compare it to the way your teeth should look.

Next we use special software to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning of your treatment to the end. Based on the results, a set of custom aligners are created just for your teeth. Throughout the course of treatment, you will be required to wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time; each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. The best thing about it all? Nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Dr. Bracy is a certified Invisalign provider in St. Petersburg, FL. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, please give us a call.

Take care of those gums! September is National Gum Care Month

2010-09-20T14:27:00.000-07:00

Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, can be difficult to recognize. Many people do not recognize the warning signs - bleeding and swollen gums - as a precursor to gum disease. This month, a national campaign is underway to raise awareness about gum health and periodontal disease, and we at St. Pete Smiles wanted to do our part to help spread the word!

Early recognition and action are the most important steps to health gums, and ultimately a health body too! Studies are published every year linking oral health, including the gums, to the health of other areas of the body, such as the heart. One of the most important steps to improving the care of your gums is recognizing the warning signs for gum disease. These can include:

• Gums that appear red or swollen
• Gums that feel tender
• Gums that bleed easily (during brushing or flossing)
• Gums that recede or pull away from the teeth
• Persistent halitosis, or bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Any change in the way teeth come together in the biting position

If you notice any of these signs, schedule an appointment with our office as soon as possible. We can take proactive steps to prevent gingivitis and gum disease, while showing you how to improve gum care in your daily oral hygiene habits.

Expect only the highest quality of dental products and treatment at St. Pete Smiles

2010-09-13T16:08:00.000-07:00

Since dental laboratory outsourcing has become so prevalent these days, Dr. Bracy and our team feels that it is essential that our patients know that at St. Pete Smiles we use only superior materials that have been made locally. Our lab-made appliances, such as crowns and partials, do not contain inferior materials or products manufactured in countries where regulations are not mandatory. Our practice will not participate in laboratory cost cutting that can pose health risks to our patients.

If you have any questions about how our office offers the highest quality of general and cosmetic dental care to our patients, just give us a call at 727-280-5812 and ask! There is no potentially risky dentistry at St Pete Smiles!

At St. Pete Smiles, we respect your time

2010-09-07T16:48:00.000-07:00

At St. Pete Smiles, we provide the highest quality of general dental and cosmetic dental care in the St. Petersburg community. Unlike other practices that book multiple patients into the same time slots, we choose the approach of individual attention to minimize delays. We respect your time and do our best to not make you wait. Dr. Bracy and our team runs an organized and on-time schedule because we know that your time is important.

If you have any questions about our modern approach to dentistry, state-of-the-art facility, or specific treatments at our office, feel free to give us a call at 727-280-5812. We look forward to hearing from you!

Exclusive Oral B offer at St. Pete Smiles!

2010-08-30T16:31:00.000-07:00

Today, Dr. Bracy and our team wanted to share with you a special Oral B offer, which we still find hard to believe. Right now, you can purchase the Oral B Professional Care SmartSeries 5000 electric toothbrush at St. Pete Smiles for a discounted price of $120 ($140 at Bed, Bath and Beyond). Then, you are able to send in for a 50% rebate of $60, and an additional rebate of $15. With these rebates, the Oral B Professional Care SmartSeries 5000 electric brush will only cost $45!

We believe this offer will be available through September. Feel free to give us a call if you would like to verify our inventory, or if you have any additional questions about this special offer.

Thank you,

-Dr. Bracy and team

Meet Bella, our friendly St. Pete Smiles cat!

2010-08-23T15:06:00.000-07:00

Bella the cat has been a fixture at St. Pete Smiles since last winter. Starting out wild and starved, she's now a healthy one-year-old (after a trip to the vet for shots and spay). She greets the office staff every morning looking for attention and breakfast!

Michele and Susie trade off coming by on the weekends to feed her. Even Laura, who cleans the office on the weekend, pitches in. And you can be sure Bella doesn't let us forget to give her a "snack" and a pet before leaving at the end of the day!

-Dr. Bracy and team

Zoom!® Whitening at St. Pete Smiles

2010-08-16T13:00:00.000-07:00

A whiter smile is one just one dentist visit away! ZOOM!® professional teeth whitening brightens and whitens your teeth in just 45 minutes. Once you have gone through the Zoom!® treatment we will send you home with an at-home whitening bleaching kit with custom made trays. Using the take home trays will allow you to maintain your desired level of whitening over several months.

While Zoom!® Smile Whitening is a great way to enhance the appearance of your smile, it's not always for everyone. Those with deep, dark stains that remain unaffected by whitening treatments and patients with regular tooth sensitivity may not be good candidates. Find out more about teeth whitening at our web site; and when you are ready to have a whiter, brighter smile contact Dr. Bracy for an evaluation!

5 Reasons why you should visit St. Pete Smiles today!

2010-08-09T07:58:00.000-07:00

Dr. Bracy and our team at St. Pete Smiles knows that achieving and maintaining a healthy smile is not only an important aspect of your appearance, but it is also very important to the health of your entire body. That being said, summer is also a time when folks are putting off visiting the dentist due to the nice weather, vacations, and other obligations. Today, Dr. Bracy and our team wanted to share with you five reasons why you should schedule an appointment with St. Pete Smiles this summer.

5 Reasons to come see us this summer:

1. The year's half over- don't let the 2010 insurance benefits slip through your fingers

2. Get the kids in for their back to school checkups

3. Avoid the end of the year rush with the holidays

4. Prevention is key- don't let your health fall by the wayside

5. Small problems turn into bigger ones with time

Have a great week everyone!

-Dr. Bracy and team

Getting social with Dr. Bracy and our team!

2010-08-03T11:12:00.000-07:00

Isn’t social media great? Dr. Bracy and team love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or communicating ideas on our interactive Facebook page. For social media to be effective, conversation is essential, and that’s why we invite you to join in and tell us what’s on your mind. Although social media is hugely popular these days, we know it is unpredictable and ever-changing.

While we’re taking a little time to research and decide how to best use social media, we thought we’d ask you, our loyal patients: How would you like us to use our social networks? What would you like us to share on our blog? Send us your thoughts or give us a call!

-The team at St. Pete Smiles

Dr. Bracy and our team are back in the office!

2010-07-27T11:13:00.000-07:00

Dr. Bracy and our team at St. Pete Smiles in St. Petersburg, FL, just returned from a week out of the office. We're coming back to the office recharged and refreshed, after a little R&R and time with family.

One of Dr. Bracy's activities while out of the office was to spend a day at the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art and Estate in Sarasota. What a local gem! I highly recommend a visit (less than an hour from here)!

While the office was closed, we had the office treatment rooms refreshed. We removed some wallpaper and added a bright new coat of paint. It turned out great! Be sure to take a look the next time you're in for a visit at St. Pete Smiles!

Have a great week,

-Dr. Bracy and team

Meet Dr. Bracy

2010-07-15T08:05:00.000-07:00

I am a detail oriented person by nature, which fits perfectly with the practice of dentistry. Dentistry is never boring to me, since no two procedures or patients' needs are exactly the same. It is personally fulfilling to change people's lives by improving their smile and contributing to their overall health. My patients are like family. They have interesting and diverse personalities and lifestyles, which makes every day a special day when they share a little bit of their lives with us.

I received my Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from University of Florida and went on to earn my Doctor of Medical Dentistry from the Florida College of Dentistry. I constantly take continuing education to keep up with cutting-edge techniques and procedures to provide the highest level of care for my patients. I have received advanced certification in Invisalign® and participate in numerous educational dental study groups.

I have lived in Tampa Bay my entire life and live there now with my wife, two sons, and two cats. I enjoy attending my kid's sporting events, collecting wine, attending Florida Gator football, reading, re-learning to play the piano, and improving my snow skiing technique. I attend and contribute to various charity events including the American Cancer Society and Family Resources and I volunteer at Second Harvest Food Bank and Faith Café.