Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

At Gordon Dental Associates, we believe exceptional dental care should always be accessible and budget-friendly for every patient. Dr. Jeremy Gordon and our team are committed to helping you navigate all of your financial options so you can receive high-quality care without unexpected financial stress.

Understanding Dental Savings Plans 

We proudly accept a wide variety of dental savings plans and discount networks. Unlike traditional insurance, dental savings plans offer reduced rates on dental procedures without the hassle of claim approvals, waiting periods, or annual maximums. Dr. Jeremy Gordon and our team will happily guide you through how your specific plan works, review which preventive or restorative treatments are included, and show you exact ways to maximize your benefits to minimize your out-of-pocket costs before any treatment begins.

Medicaid Coverage and Policy Verification

Medicaid coverage details, eligibility rules, and covered procedures can vary significantly based on your specific plan, age, and policy guidelines. Because Medicaid regulations and service coverage details frequently update, we strongly recommend contacting our office prior to your visit. Our experienced administrative staff will verify your exact coverage, outline what treatments are included under your plan, and clearly explain all available options so you know precisely what to expect.

Contact Us to Plan Your Visit 

If you have questions about your coverage, need help navigating a dental savings plan, or want assistance verifying your benefits, we are here to help. Please reach out to us at (904) 460-0999 to schedule an appointment online with Dr. Jeremy Gordon and our team to discuss your oral health needs and receive personalized care!

Navigating dental insurance can often feel overwhelming, but at Gordon Dental Associates in St. Augustine, FL, we are dedicated to making your dental care as seamless and affordable as possible. Dr. Jeremy Gordon and our team proudly work with a wide variety of major dental insurance providers to ensure you receive the high-quality care you deserve without any unnecessary financial stress.

How We Help You Maximize Your Benefits

We believe in complete transparency when it comes to your health investments. Before you even sit in the dental chair, our knowledgeable administrative staff will proactively verify your insurance benefits. We take the time to thoroughly review your coverage details, break down the complex insurance jargon, and clearly explain exactly which preventive, restorative, or cosmetic services are included under your plan. We will also provide you with a comprehensive, easy-to-understand cost estimate for any out-of-pocket expenses upfront, ensuring there are never any surprises when it comes to billing.

Navigating Your Unique Policy

Because every insurance policy is unique each featuring its own specific deductibles, annual maximums, waiting periods, co-pays, and coverage limitations it’s crucial to understand the nuances of your individual plan. Instead of leaving you to figure this out on your own, Dr. Jeremy Gordon and our team are here to act as your advocates. We will gladly file all necessary claims on your behalf, track their progress, and handle the tedious paperwork so you don't have to. We work diligently to help you maximize your insurance benefits before they expire at the end of the year, making the entire process incredibly simple and entirely stress-free.

Get in Touch

Whether you have a PPO, an employer-sponsored plan, or any other type of coverage, we are here to help you navigate it. If you are unsure about your specific coverage details, want to learn how to maximize your remaining benefits, or simply need to confirm that we accept your current plan, we are just a phone call away.

Please reach out to us at (904) 460-0999 for booking appointments, verifying your insurance, or getting answers to your financial questions. Let Gordon Dental Associates take care of the logistics while you focus on achieving a healthy, confident smile!

Are you looking for a highly trusted and experienced dentist in St. Augustine, FL? Look no further than Gordon Dental Associates! Dr. Jeremy Gordon and our team are thrilled to welcome you to our modern and comfortable practice.

Our Convenient Location 

Our dental office is centrally located at 300 Plantation Island Dr S, St. Augustine, FL 32080. You can easily find us on Plantation Island Drive, nestled right between Hannah L. Cole Drive and Mizelle Road. For a quick visual reference, we are situated in the exact same parking lot as the Wells Fargo Bank and just next door to the Gate Gas Station. We also offer ample free parking for all of our patients to make your arrival as smooth and stress-free as possible.

For easy navigation right to our front door, you can view our location and get directions using this Google Maps.

Making High-Quality Dentistry Accessible and Affordable 

At Gordon Dental Associates, we understand that our patients have busy schedules. That is why we offer convenient early morning and evening appointments to easily accommodate your busy lifestyle. Dr. Jeremy Gordon and our team combine their extensive skills, advanced knowledge, and years of expertise to provide a comprehensive range of dental services under one roof. Because of our wide range of services, you will likely never have to travel to a separate specialist for your oral health needs.

If you do not currently have dental insurance, our Gordon Dental Membership Plan makes it incredibly easy to fit essential treatment into your budget. For one low annual membership fee, your preventive dentistry services are fully covered for the year. You will not have to worry about the yearly maximums, waiting periods, or treatment limitations commonly experienced with traditional dental insurance policies. Members also receive exclusive additional savings on various treatment procedures throughout the entire year.

Schedule Your Visit Today 

We are currently accepting new patients and would absolutely love to meet you and your family! Please call us at (904) 460-0999 for booking appointments or request an appointment online. Let us help you achieve your healthiest smile right here in St. Augustine!

Yes! At Gordon Dental Associates, we offer several non-surgical cosmetic treatments designed to enhance your smile comfortably, safely, and efficiently. Dr. Jeremy Gordon and our team believe you do not always need invasive procedures to achieve a radiant, confident smile.

Minimally Invasive Dental Treatments 

We provide a full suite of non-surgical cosmetic procedures tailored to correct stained, chipped, worn, or slightly misaligned teeth:

• Professional Teeth Whitening: Lifts stubborn stains caused by food, drink, or aging, giving you a dramatically brighter smile far beyond what over-the-counter products can achieve.
• Tooth-Colored Fillings: Seamlessly repairs decay or minor tooth damage using natural-looking composite resin that blends invisibly with your enamel.
• Dental Bonding: Quickly repairs minor chips, gaps, cracks, or discoloration in just one convenient visit using a durable, tooth-colored resin.
• Porcelain Veneers: Custom-designed, ultra-thin shells crafted to cover the front surface of your teeth, instantly transforming their color, shape, size, and symmetry.

Facial Aesthetics and Tension Relief 

To complement your enhanced smile, Dr. Jeremy Gordon and our team also offer Botox treatments. Botox gently softens fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth, brow, and eyes while relieving muscle tension and discomfort caused by jaw clenching or TMJ disorders.

Schedule Your Consultation 

During your visit, Dr. Jeremy Gordon and our team will evaluate your goals, answer your questions, and recommend a conservative, personalized plan to help you achieve a natural-looking smile.

If you are ready to explore your options, please call us directly at (904) 460-0999 to schedule an appointment online today!

Replacing missing teeth is essential not only for restoring your smile's appearance, but also for maintaining your overall oral health, proper bite alignment, and long-term jawbone structure. At Gordon Dental Associates, Dr. Jeremy Gordon and our team offer several advanced restorative solutions tailored to your unique needs. The best option for you depends on factors such as the number of missing teeth, your remaining jawbone density, your lifestyle, and your budget.

Customized Restorative Solutions

• Dental Implants: Widely considered the gold standard for tooth replacement, dental implants replace both the root and crown of a missing tooth. Biocompatible posts anchor securely into your jawbone, providing unmatched stability, preventing bone loss, and functioning just like natural teeth.
• Dental Bridges: A durable, non-removable option designed to fill the gap left by one or more missing teeth. A custom bridge uses neighboring teeth as anchors to hold a natural-looking replacement tooth securely in place.
• Full or Partial Dentures: A practical, cost-effective, and removable option designed to restore multiple missing teeth or an entire arch. Modern dentures are custom-crafted for a comfortable fit and a seamless, natural appearance.

Personalized Care and Guidance 

During your consultation, Dr. Jeremy Gordon and our team will perform a thorough evaluation, take high-resolution digital imaging, and discuss your personal health goals. We take the time to clearly explain the benefits and considerations of each option so you can make an informed choice with complete confidence.

Schedule Your Consultation Today 

If you are ready to explore your tooth replacement options and restore full function to your smile, please call us directly at (904) 460-0999 to book your visit. You can also request an appointment online with Dr. Jeremy Gordon and our team to get started on your journey to a renewed smile!

Tooth-colored dental fillings, which are also known as composite fillings, are made from a durable resin designed to blend naturally with the color of teeth. Composite fillings are a popular alternative to traditional metal fillings. They’re commonly used by patients looking for in St. Augustine, FL, for restoring cavities and replacing old restorations, especially in visible teeth.

Comparing Tooth-Colored and Metal Fillings

A big functional benefit of composite fillings is that they bond directly to enamel, allowing dentists to preserve more of a tooth’s natural structure. They also expand and contract less than metal fillings with temperature changes, which may reduce the risk of cracks over time. And while metal fillings may be more durable, tooth-colored alternatives don’t require you to sacrifice strength when preserving your smile’s natural appearance.

Your dentist in St. Augustine can help determine which filling material is best based on the size and location of the cavity, as well as your bite and oral health needs.

Durable, Natural-Looking Fillings in St. Augustine, FL

If you’re in St. Augustine and want to learn more about tooth-colored fillings and other restorative options, contact Dr. Jeremy Gordon and the caring, skilled Gordon Dental Associates team at (904) 460-0999 to request an appointment online today to get started! 

Dental fillings can last up to a decade or longer, depending on lifestyle and habits. Gordon Dental Associates uses durable, natural-looking materials.

At Gordon Dental Associates, we use tooth-colored fillings because our patients prefer the aesthetic finish.

About Dental Fillings in St. Augustine, FL

Tooth-colored fillings are made of a composite material that is applied to the tooth in layers. Your dentist uses it to carefully close the treated area of decay. Then, we set the material with a special light and polish the tooth. 

To help your filling last longer, be sure to brush and floss regularly and visit the dentist every six months. 

You should avoid chewing on objects other than food (e.g., pens). Also, if you show signs of bruxism (nighttime teeth grinding), talk to the dentist. 

Lower Your Risks for Tooth Decay

To lower your risk of tooth decay, be sure to see your dentist regularly and maintain an excellent oral care routine between checkups and cleanings. 

Tooth decay results from plaque and tartar left on the teeth and the resulting acids that erode your enamel.

Is It Time for Your Next Dental Visit?

To learn more or to schedule your next preventive visit with your dentist in St. Augustine, call us today (904) 460-0999. 

Periodontal disease, more commonly known as gum disease, is a progressive condition that affects a person’s gum tissue and the bones that support their teeth. It typically begins as less severe gingivitis, marked by redness, swelling, and bleeding gums.

Left untreated, however, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis. With periodontitis, the gums can become infected and begin pulling away from the teeth, and bones may start losing density. Without proper treatment, this can result in serious pain and, ultimately, tooth loss.

Seeking periodontal disease treatment in St. Augustine, FL, early can prevent such serious damage.

How Gum Disease Is Treated

Periodontal treatment depends on the severity of a patient’s gum disease. Mild cases may be reversed with professional cleanings and diligent at-home care. More advanced cases generally call for more targeted care, like scaling and root planing, a deep-cleaning treatment that eliminates bacteria below the gumline. Also, in these cases, ongoing maintenance is critical to prevent recurrence and heart issues.

Many patients don’t realize they have gum disease until symptoms worsen, which is why regular exams are essential. Effective gum disease treatment in St. Augustine, FL, focuses on stopping progression, reducing inflammation, and preserving natural teeth.

Effective Gum Disease Treatment in St. Augustine, FL

If you’re in St. Augustine and want to learn more about treating gum disease and tips for long-term periodontal health, contact Dr. Jeremy Gordon and the excellent Gordon Dental Associates team at (904) 460-0999 to request an appointment online today to get started!

Periodontal disease often develops gradually. Recognizing early warning signs helps protect your gums, teeth, and overall oral health. Learn more!

Some of the most common signs of periodontal disease include:

• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath
• Receding gums or teeth that appear longer
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Pain when chewing
• Pus between the teeth and gums

Many people experience little or no pain during the early stages of gum disease, which is why regular dental checkups are so important. Your dentist can identify signs of periodontal disease before they become more serious and recommend treatment to help restore your gum health.

Left untreated, periodontal disease can damage the tissues and bone that support your teeth, increasing the risk of tooth loss. Fortunately, early intervention often helps slow or stop the progression of the disease.

Treat Gum Disease in St. Augustine, FL 

At Gordon Dental Associates, we provide personalized care for periodontal disease in St. Augustine, FL. Our team can evaluate your gums, discuss your treatment options, and help you maintain a healthy smile. Scheduling regular dental exams and cleanings is one of the best ways to prevent gum disease and keep your oral health on track.

Call us today (904) 460-0999 to book your visit!

If you feel self-conscious about the shape, size, or symmetry of your teeth, Gordon Dental Associates is here to help. Dr. Jeremy Gordon and our team specialize in personalized cosmetic dentistry solutions designed to refine your smile and boost your overall confidence.

Customized Cosmetic Solutions 

We offer a variety of minimally invasive and highly transformative options tailored to correct uneven, worn, chipped, or irregularly shaped teeth:

• Porcelain Veneers: Ultra-thin, custom-crafted porcelain shells fitted to the front surface of your teeth to completely transform their shape, size, alignment, and color for a flawless finish.
• Cosmetic Bonding: A quick, cost-effective treatment that uses durable, tooth-colored resin to smooth out uneven edges, fill minor gaps, or repair chipped teeth in just one visit.
• Enamel Contouring and Reshaping: A gentle procedure that smooths away small surface imperfections, removes sharp edges, and balances slightly overlapping teeth without requiring extensive dental work.

Natural-Looking Results Tailored to You 

Every smile is unique. Dr. Jeremy Gordon and our team focus on creating natural-looking results that complement your distinct facial features, lips, and personal preferences rather than giving you a generic, one-size-fits-all appearance.

Schedule Your Cosmetic Consultation 

You deserve a smile you feel proud to show off. To discuss your concerns and explore your options with Dr. Jeremy Gordon and our team, please call us directly at (904) 460-0999 to request an appointment online today to get started!

Cosmetic dentistry in St. Augustine, FL, offers simple, effective ways to make it happen. These treatments focus on improving the appearance of your teeth while boosting your confidence.

Cosmetic dentistry addresses common concerns such as stained teeth, chips, gaps, uneven shapes, and minor alignment issues. Each treatment plan is customized to ensure your results look natural and meet your goals.

Popular options include:

• Teeth whitening to lift stains and brighten your smile quickly
• Dental veneers to cover chips, gaps, and uneven teeth
• Dental bonding for fast, subtle repairs
• Clear aligners to straighten teeth without traditional braces

These treatments don’t just enhance your smile; they change how you feel about it. Patients often notice a boost in confidence, improved symmetry, and a more youthful appearance, sometimes from even small changes.

If you’re not fully happy with your smile, cosmetic dentistry is worth exploring. It starts with a consultation where your dentist evaluates your teeth and discusses what you’d like to improve. From there, you’ll get a personalized plan designed around you.

Cosmetic Dentistry in St. Augustine, FL

With modern cosmetic dentistry in St. Augustine, FL, achieving a smile you love is easier than ever. To discuss your concerns and explore your options with Dr. Jeremy Gordon and our team, please call us directly at (904) 460-0999 to request an appointment online today to get started!

From brightening stained teeth to correcting minor imperfections, cosmetic treatments enhance your smile's color, shape, and overall appearance.

At Gordon Dental Associates, we provide personalized cosmetic dentistry in St. Augustine, FL, to help patients achieve smiles that look natural and complement their facial features.

Common cosmetic dentistry treatments include:

• Teeth whitening — Brightens stained or discolored teeth to create a fresher, more radiant smile
• Dental veneers — Thin, custom-made shells that cover the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance
• Tooth-colored fillings — Restore cavities and minor damage while blending seamlessly with your natural teeth
• Dental bonding — Repairs chips, gaps, and small imperfections using a tooth-colored composite material
• Smile makeovers — Combine multiple cosmetic treatments to address several aesthetic concerns at once

Many treatments also support better function, protect your teeth, and improve your confidence when speaking, eating, and smiling.

Call Us for Cosmetic Dentistry in St. Augustine, FL

During your consultation, our team evaluates your smile, listens to your goals, and recommends treatments that fit your needs and lifestyle. Gordon Dental Associates helps you explore your options for a healthier, more confident smile!

Call us today (904) 460-0999 to book your appointment with our friendly team. 

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that cover the front of your teeth to improve their color, shape, and overall appearance.

Porcelain veneers in St. Augustine, FL are a popular choice for correcting:

• Stained or discolored teeth
• Chipped or worn edges
• Gaps between teeth
• Uneven or misshapen teeth

Each veneer is designed to match your natural smile, creating results that look both beautiful and realistic.

The process typically starts with a consultation, where your dentist evaluates your smile and discusses your goals. Then, a small amount of enamel is gently removed to make room for the veneers. Impressions are taken, and your custom veneers are created. Once ready, they’re bonded securely to your teeth for a long-lasting transformation.

One of the biggest advantages of porcelain veneers is how quickly they deliver results. In just a few visits, you can achieve a brighter, more even smile that would otherwise take months or years with other treatments.

Veneers are a great option if you want a durable, low-maintenance solution for cosmetic concerns. However, they may not be ideal for patients with significant tooth damage or untreated oral health issues.

Porcelain Veneers in St. Augustine, FL

If you’re ready to upgrade your smile, porcelain veneers offer a reliable, natural-looking option. please call  directly Gordon Dental Associates team at (904) 460-0999 to request an appointment online today to get started!

Professional teeth whitening in St. Augustine, FL is one of the most affordable and quickest ways to give your smile a boost by eliminating tooth discoloration and stains, and now it's never been easier.

At Gordon Dental Associates, we offer professional teeth whitening with custom take-home trays you can use whenever it's convenient for your schedule. 

How Take-Home Professional Teeth Whitening Works

We start by taking impressions of your teeth that we'll use to make custom bleaching trays. The trays fit snugly over your teeth to ensure great results and protect your soft tissues from the whitening gel.

Our dentists will recommend a prescription-strength whitening gel for you based on your needs, and we'll show you how to apply it to your trays.

You'll wear your trays at home for 30 minutes a day. Most patients reach their desired results in 10-14 days. Best of all, you'll always have your whitening trays to use whenever you'd like to update your teeth whitening in the future. We sell additional tubes of bleaching gel at Gordon Dental Associates. 

Contact Our Team

Your brighter smile awaits! If you'd like more information about professional teeth whitening in St. Augustine, FL, you can talk with our team by calling at (904) 460-0999.

Most patients are pleasantly surprised to find that getting a dental implant is not as painful as they expect. At Gordon Dental in St. Augustine, FL, the procedure is performed using local anesthesia to keep you comfortable throughout the process. You may feel slight pressure during the placement, but not pain.

After the procedure, it’s normal to experience mild soreness or swelling for a few days, similar to what you might feel after a tooth extraction. This can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and following your dentist’s aftercare instructions.

Our team is committed to making your experience as smooth and comfortable as possible. If you have concerns or would like to learn more, call us at (904) 460-0999 or schedule an appointment at our St. Augustine, FL office today.

Right after we place your implant, your mouth needs a little time to heal. Most patients start eating soft foods shortly after the procedure. You can eat foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies, eggs, or soup.

Within about 24 hours, many patients feel ready to resume light eating, as long as they continue to avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods. Protecting the area during this early stage helps your implant heal properly.

Following Post-Op Instructions

Every patient heals a bit differently, so Dr. Gordon provides detailed post-operative instructions tailored specifically to you. These guidelines play an important role in ensuring proper healing and minimizing the risk of complications.

You may need to:

• Avoid chewing directly on the implant site.
• Stick to soft foods for a few days.
• Maintain gentle but consistent oral hygiene.
• Avoid very hot foods or drinks at first.

Following these instructions closely helps you recover more comfortably and efficiently.

Dental Implants in St. Augustine: Returning to Your Normal Diet

Once your implant fully heals and we place your permanent crown, you can go back to enjoying all your favorite foods. At that point, your dental implant functions just like a natural tooth.

Call us today to learn more or book your appointment.

At Gordon Dental in St. Augustine, FL, the dental implant process is completed in several stages to ensure long-term success and a natural-looking result. It begins with a comprehensive consultation where we evaluate your oral health, take digital images, and determine if you’re a good candidate for implants.

Next, the implant post is surgically placed into the jawbone, where it acts as a replacement root. Over the next few months, the implant fuses with the bone in a process called osseointegration, creating a strong and stable foundation.

Once healing is complete, an abutment is attached to connect the implant to your new restoration. Finally, a custom-made crown is placed on top, designed to match the shape and color of your natural teeth.

Our team will guide you through each step and ensure you’re comfortable throughout the process. To learn more, call us at (904) 460-0999 or schedule an appointment at our St. Augustine, FL office today.

A bridge can be an ideal tooth-replacement solution for one or more adjacent missing teeth, especially if the patient is not a candidate for dental implants or doesn't want to undergo surgery. 

How a Porcelain Bridge in St. Augustine, FL, Works

A bridge uses healthy teeth as anchors, while supporting prosthetic teeth in between. The bridge is made of ceramic porcelain that we customize to blend seamlessly with your smile. Your bridge is a fixed appliance, which means it's not removable.

Keeping your anchor teeth clean and plaque-free is the key to the successful longevity of a dental bridge. While your crowns can't decay, the tooth structure beneath them can, so it's important to brush and floss carefully around your bridge each day.

What Are the Advantages of a Dental Bridge?

Dental bridges offer several benefits that some patients love. 

• Non-surgical procedure — A bridge doesn't require surgery for placement, as a dental implant does. 
• Quick turnaround — A bridge takes weeks to complete instead of months, like a dental implant.
• Prevents tooth movement — Replacing one or multiple missing teeth with a bridge prevents your remaining teeth from shifting and causing bite misalignment.
• Restore aesthetics — You'll smile with confidence again once we place your dental bridge.

Talk with Our Team

Would you like to learn more about dental bridges? Contact our team at (904) 460-0999.

Missing teeth can affect your self-confidence and keep you from living your life to the fullest. Fortunately, modern dentistry makes it possible to replace your missing teeth and comfortably smile in pictures and laugh without feeling embarrassed.

So, what is a dental bridge and how does it work?

What Is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth. We attach prosthetic teeth to dental crowns on either side, filling the empty space and making it possible for you to eat your favorite foods.

How Does a Dental Bridge Work as a Restorative Dentistry Option?

Dental bridges are commonly used restorative options because they function as a single unit. Your natural teeth hold your artificial teeth in place and distribute the chewing force since your artificial teeth no longer have roots to support them.

A dental bridge can last 15 years or more with proper care and is often less expensive than dental implants.

Restorative Dentistry Options St. Augustine, FL

If you have questions about how a dental bridge can fill the gap in your smile, our caring team is ready to take your call! At Gordon Dental Associates, we strive to help every patient make the best oral health decisions possible.

Please reach out to us for more information or to schedule a visit!

Dentures can be an excellent solution for replacing multiple missing teeth, and even an entire arch. Here's what you should know.

Understanding Dentures in St. Augustine, FL

Partial Dentures

A partial denture replaces multiple missing teeth while maintaining your natural, healthy remaining teeth. The partial is removable and attaches to healthy teeth as anchors with plastic or metal clasps. Prosthetic teeth are attached to the appliance and fill in the gaps left by missing teeth.

Complete Dentures

A full or complete denture replaces an entire upper or lower arch of teeth. The appliance is made of acrylic and thoughtfully designed by our dentists to support your facial structure and complement your skin tone for a natural look.

Traditional dentures are removable and rely on suction and a snug fit to your jawbone to stay in place. Our dentists can also use two to six dental implants to support a denture, which snaps into them. Implant dentures help you avoid movement and slippage during talking and eating. 

Are You Considering Dentures?

Our dentists would love to discuss your options. Contact our team at (904) 460-0999 to schedule an evaluation with one of our dentists. 

The length of Invisalign treatment can vary depending on your specific needs, but most patients at Gordon Dental in St. Augustine, FL wear Invisalign for about 12 to 18 months. Minor alignment issues may be corrected in as little as 6 months, while more complex cases can take longer.

For the best results, aligners should be worn 20 to 22 hours per day, only removing them for eating, drinking (anything other than water), and oral hygiene. Consistently wearing your aligners as directed helps keep your treatment on track and ensures optimal results.

During your consultation, our team will provide a personalized timeline based on your smile goals. To get started, call us at (904) 460-0999 or schedule an appointment at our St. Augustine, FL office today.

Invisalign and traditional braces both straighten teeth, but they do so in different ways. At Gordon Dental in St. Augustine, FL, Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners that gradually shift your teeth into place, making it a more discreet and flexible option. Traditional braces, on the other hand, use metal brackets and wires that are fixed to your teeth and adjusted over time.

One of the main advantages of Invisalign is that the aligners can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing, allowing for easier oral hygiene and fewer dietary restrictions. Braces are not removable, which means patients need to be more mindful of certain foods and cleaning techniques.

While Invisalign is ideal for many mild to moderate alignment issues, traditional braces may be recommended for more complex cases. During your visit, our team will evaluate your needs and help you choose the best option for your smile.

To learn more, call us at (904) 460-0999 or schedule an appointment at our St. Augustine, FL office today.

Your jaw joint (TMJ) is a complex system in your body that's responsible for opening and closing your mouth, moving your jaw side to side, chewing, talking, eating, and laughing. When your TMJ is dysfunctional, it can result in a painful disorder known as temporomandibular disorder (TMD). 

What Are the Symptoms of TMD?

TMD can significantly impact quality of life for some patients. Some of the symptoms you may experience are:

• Pain or tenderness when chewing
• Earaches
• Clicking or popping jaw joints
• Jaw locking closed or open
• Neck and shoulder pain
• Frequent headaches or migraines

Many patients experience multiple symptoms with TMD that can be quite debilitating.

Treating TMD/TMJ in St. Augustine, FL

Everyone's TMD experience is different. Our dentists aim to identify the root cause of your TMD to make the right treatment recommendations for your needs. Depending on your needs, here are some of the treatment recommendations they might make to help you find relief:

• Stress management techniques, such as massage and yoga
• Physical therapy
• Orthodontic treatment
• Therapeutic injections
• Custom oral appliances

Contact Gordon Dental Associates

If you have questions about TMD or would like to learn more about treatment options, you can talk with a team member at (904) 460-0999 to schedule an evaluation with one of our dentists.

Yes! Good oral hygiene removes the plaque and bacteria that contribute to gum disease, tooth decay, and cavities. Here's what you should know.

How Tooth Decay Develops

When you eat snacks or a meal, a white, sticky film called plaque builds up on your teeth. Plaque houses the bacteria that contribute to problems like gum disease and tooth decay. Sugar fuels those bacteria, and they produce acid as a byproduct, which eats away at tooth enamel and can cause cavities. 

You can disrupt this process by brushing your teeth, which removes plaque and bacteria and protects your teeth from decay. 

Understanding Gum Disease

Gum disease develops when plaque and bacteria move below the gumline and cause an infection in the soft tissues and bone around your teeth. If it's not treated, the infection slowly progresses and eventually destroys your teeth's support system, resulting in tooth loss. Did you know that gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in American adults? 

Protect Your Healthy Smile

Routine preventive teeth cleanings and exams with your dentist can protect your smile from problems like gum disease and tooth decay. If it's time for your biannual visit, contact our team at (904) 460-0999 to schedule an appointment. 

An old, cracked, or damaged dental crown requires prompt professional attention to protect the vulnerable tooth structure underneath. At Gordon Dental Associates, Dr. Jeremy Gordon and our team are here to evaluate the condition of your crown, relieve any discomfort, and restore your bite quickly and effectively.

Why Timely Treatment Is Essential 

Ignoring a broken or compromised crown can lead to worsening oral health issues. Prompt action helps prevent:

• Underlying Tooth Decay: Cracks or loose seals allow food debris and bacteria to seep under the crown, causing decay in the natural tooth structure beneath.
• Sensitivity and Pain: Exposed tooth dentin or nerves can trigger sharp pain, especially when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet foods.
• Further Tooth Damage: A compromised crown no longer offers structural protection, leaving the remaining natural tooth susceptible to fractures or complete loss.

How We Restore Your Smile 

In most cases, a worn or broken crown will need to be replaced to fully restore strength, function, and aesthetic appeal. Dr. Jeremy Gordon and our team will carefully examine the underlying tooth and take digital images to determine the best course of action. If a replacement is needed, we custom-craft high-quality, tooth-colored crowns that fit comfortably, blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, and restore your ability to chew with complete confidence.

Schedule Your Evaluation Today

If you notice damage to an existing crown, feel sharp edges, or experience any sudden discomfort, please call us directly at (904) 460-0999 to schedule an evaluation. You can also request an appointment online with Dr. Jeremy Gordon and our team for prompt, compassionate care.

Are you unhappy with certain aspects of your smile? Do you have teeth in need of repair? You may be an excellent candidate for smile design. 

At Gordon Dental Associates, our dentists use smile design in St. Augustine, FL, to create personalized treatment plans that address a wide array of problems, such as:

• Missing teeth
• Stained teeth
• Overlapped teeth
• Broken teeth
• Chipped teeth
• Crooked teeth
• Gaps between teeth
• Discolored teeth
• Poor-fitting dentures or partials
• Failing restorations
• Decayed or misshapen teeth
• Gummy smiles

A smile design treatment plan may combine one or more procedures, depending on your needs and smile goals. If you have an extensive full-mouth reconstruction treatment plan, we may be able to break it into phases that more conveniently fit your schedule and budget. 

How Can I Get Started?

The best way to learn more about what's possible for your smile is to schedule an evaluation with one of our dentists. During your consultation, you'll learn about your treatment options, what procedures entail, and what your out-of-pocket expenses may be. Our goal is to help you make the best decision for your needs, goals, and budget. 

You can schedule an evaluation by contacting our team at (904) 460-0999 or request a visit online.