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Should You Worry About Your Gapped Teeth?

April 8, 2022

If you are bothered by the tiny gap in between your front teeth, you should consult with an orthodontist in Tamarac, so you’ll know your options. Any gap in your teeth is called diastema, but it’s more commonly used to refer to a specific gap between your two front teeth. There are two possible reasons why you’ve developed diastema.

One, it could be because of simple teeth misalignment, or two, your teeth are not related to the size of your jaw. Luckily, teeth gaps are easy to fix. All you need is to see an orthodontist. However, many people question if it’s necessary to fix a tooth gap. Do you need to close the gap?

Orthodontist in Tamarac applying Invisalign on patient

Should You Treat Diastema?

It Can Lead to Bite Problems and Crowded Teeth

If you have a large tooth gap between your two front teeth and you leave it alone, it can cause bite problems and crowded teeth in the long run. Eventually, this will lead to jaw pain and crooked teeth, and it may even increase your risk of developing gum disease and tooth decay.

You see, crowded teeth are more challenging to clean because plaque and bacteria will have more places to hide. And your toothbrush may not effectively reach these areas, making them prone to plaque formation. Therefore, when you are already experiencing jaw pain, you should have it treated as soon as possible before it gets worse.

Sign of Gum Disease

Did you know that if your tooth gaps are getting wider and wider as time goes by, it could indicate periodontal disease? When plaque starts irritating your gums, it will result in chronic gum inflammation and infection. Furthermore, as the disease progresses, it will eventually damage the connective tissues holding your teeth in place, causing them to become loose.

woman getting braces from her Orthodontist in Tamarac

Do You Need to See an Orthodontist in Tamarac?

Some teeth gaps cause problems while others don’t. If you’re okay with your tooth gap and it’s not causing you any issues, then you don’t need to have it fixed, but if it does, you must see an orthodontist. At TLC Dental, we offer affordable orthodontic treatments that are tailor-made to cater to your needs. Call us for an appointment.

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Top Foods That Are Sure to Damage Your Teeth

April 6, 2022

Should you watch what you eat? According to the best dentist in North Lauderdale, if you want to keep your teeth and gums healthy, you should. It appears that your diet not only affects your weight but it also impacts your oral health. Studies show that certain foods are bad for your teeth and gums.

When you consume starchy and sugary foods, you are encouraging the growth of bacteria and plaque in your mouth. Plaque is a thin biofilm loaded with harmful bacteria. As plaque continues to multiply, they begin covering the surfaces of your teeth and areas along your gum line, causing tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease.

a woman biting into an orange lollipop against the advice of a Dentist in North Lauderdale

Foods That Are Bad for Your Teeth

The Don’ts

As much as possible, limit your consumption of the following foods:

  • Sticky sweets and hard candies – If you have a sweet tooth, and you can’t help but enjoy some treats after or in between your meals, your dentist suggests you choose those that clear from your mouth fast, which means don’t indulge in caramels, toffee, and lollipops.
  • Starchy foods – Starchy foods such as potato chips and bread can lodge in your teeth and encourage plaque and bacteria buildup.
  • Carbonated drinks – Carbonated drinks like sodas are not only loaded with sugar, but they are also highly acidic. The sugars can cause cavities, while the acids can lead to premature enamel erosion.

The Do’s

Try replacing notorious foods with foods that are healthy and nutritious. You’d be surprised that some of the foods you haven’t tried before taste delicious.

  • Fruits and vegetables – Fruits and vegetables are packed with nutrients and vitamins and are rich in fiber. According to the American Dental Association, foods rich in fiber are good for your teeth and gums as they help keep them clean.
  • Dairy products – Dairy products like yogurt, milk, and cheese are excellent food sources that encourage saliva production. Saliva helps reduce the harmful effects of acids on your teeth. In addition, saliva contains small amounts of phosphate and calcium that help keep your teeth strong.
A man eats a salad as advised by a Dentist in North Lauderdale

Do You Need to See a Dentist in North Lauderdale Today?

You only have one set of teeth, so make sure you take good care of them. At TLC Dental, we help create and restore beautiful smiles with our customized treatment plans. We base your plan according to your needs, budget, and lifestyle. Call us today for an appointment.

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How Often Should You See Your Orthodontist?

April 4, 2022

When some people get braces for the first time and experience the discomfort firsthand, they’ll start dreading seeing their orthodontist in Ft. Lauderdale. Sadly, this makes them do not go back. But did you know that if you want a successful orthodontic treatment, you need to visit your orthodontist regularly for the entire length of your treatment?

On average, orthodontic treatments last between 12 and 36 months. However, the treatment time varies from person to person, but if you want to expedite your treatment and stay within your timeline, you must visit your orthodontist for adjustments.

a man with a magnifying glass showing his braces after seeing an Orthodontist in Ft. Lauderdale

How Often Should You Visit Your Orthodontist?

Traditional Braces

If you opted for traditional metal braces, you’d need to see your orthodontist every four to eight weeks. Traditional braces encompass metal wires and brackets. The brackets are attached to your teeth while the wires run across them.

Your first appointment will usually take around two hours. The appointments that follow are much shorter, with typically only small adjustments needed. These visits are essential to the success of your treatment as they allow your orthodontist to check your progress and adjust the wires and elastics when necessary.

Invisalign®

Invisalign® is an ultra-modern orthodontic treatment that uses clear trays that your orthodontist will place over your teeth to correct misalignment. To acquire clear aligners, you’ll need two separate appointments.

The first appointment is when your orthodontist evaluates and scans your teeth, while the second appointment is when your aligners are ready. You’ll also receive further instructions and guidance on how to wear them. Orthodontic visits are usually every four to six weeks.

a patient gets clear aligners from an Orthodontist in Ft. Lauderdale

Are You Looking for an Experienced Orthodontist in Ft. Lauderdale?

At TLC Dental, we are committed to restoring and enhancing your natural smile using conservative procedures that will give you beautiful and long-lasting smiles! Our team has the knowledge, skills, passion, and experience to provide you with the best care. So call us today for an appointment.

*Invisalign®, the Invisalign logo, and iTero®, among others, are trademarks and/ or service marks of Align Technology, Inc. or one of its subsidiaries or affiliated companies and may be registered in the U.S. and/or other countries.

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What Type of Braces Do You Need?

March 30, 2022

During your initial consultation with your orthodontist, you’ll be asked to choose what type of braces in North Lauderdale you’d like to get. Unfortunately, some people get so overwhelmed with their options that they end up asking their orthodontist to choose for them.

Although your orthodontist knows a lot about braces, ultimately, you’ll be the one wearing the device for months or years. So, you must think long and hard about it. Before your treatment, we suggest you do your research to make it easier to decide what type of treatment is best for you.

The dentist checks a patient's braces in North Lauderdale

How to Choose the Right Type of Braces

Identify What Your Needs Are

Having plenty of options is a good thing, but many people find it difficult and confusing. Before you start exploring your options, we believe you should identify your needs. How much money are you willing to spend on braces? Are you in a rush to complete the treatment? Do you have qualms about clear braces? Your orthodontist can help narrow down your options by basing them on your unique case.

Research Each Type on Your List

Now that you have narrowed down your list, it’s time to go in-depth with your research. Go over your list again and research each type, learning about its pros and cons.

For example, although metal braces are glaring and bulky, they can treat severe and complex cases. Meanwhile, clear aligners are less obvious, the trays are removable and super easy to maintain, but they aren’t the best choice if you have a complicated case.  

a dentist examines a patient's clear Braces in North Lauderdale

Have You Decided What Type of Braces in North Lauderdale to Get?

If you need more information about braces, we’d be more than happy to discuss them with you. At TLC Dental & Orthodontics, we are dedicated to providing you with superior quality dental care. We also strive to educate our patients to make the best decisions for their oral health. Call us today for an appointment.

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How to Care for Your New Veneers

March 25, 2022

Do you need to see a cosmetic dentist in South Florida? The answer depends on how you feel about your smile. How would you rate your smile on a scale of 1 to 10, with one as the lowest and 10 as the highest? Interestingly, it’s very rare for people to rate their smile as a 10.

Crooked teeth, large tooth gaps, chipped and broken teeth, and severely discolored teeth are just some of the many reasons people feel unhappy and insecure about their teeth. A popular cosmetic dental procedure that can cover all of these notorious dental imperfections is called veneers. How do you care for your veneers so you can enjoy their maximum lifespan?

a woman takes care of her veneers as instructed by her cosmetic Dentist in South Florida

Caring For Your Veneers 101

What are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are customizable ultra-thin tooth-colored shells made from composite resin or porcelain. According to dental health experts, veneers are expected to last up to 10 years. But reports show that if you care for your veneers correctly, they can last up to two decades, and sometimes even more.

How Do You Care for Your Veneers?

If you want to make the most of your veneers, you should care for them as you would care for your natural teeth. For example, do not use your teeth as tools to open bags of chips or bottle caps, and avoid chewing on inedible objects like your fingernails or pens.

Don’t use your front teeth to chew when you're eating tough foods. Use a mouthguard if you’re into sports and a nightguard if you grind your teeth in your sleep.

a woman getting Cosmetic Dentist in South Florida

Do You Need More Tips from Your Cosmetic Dentist in South Florida?

Are you worried that your veneers might get damaged or destroyed? With these tips, we’re sure you’ll get to enjoy a beautiful smile for a long time. But if you want to learn more information on veneer care, we’ll be happy to discuss them with you.

At TLC Dental & Orthodontics, we offer affordable cosmetic dental treatments guaranteed to improve your smile. Call us today for an appointment.

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Are My Dental Implants Failing?

March 21, 2022

Since dental implants in Coral Springs were introduced in the dental industry, the demand for implants continues to soar. More and more people want implants because of their unmatched durability, strength, and their ability to mimic the structure, function, and look of natural teeth.

Even though it’s a surgical procedure, many still love them because of their incredibly high success rate of up to 98%! However, there’s a very slim chance that dental implants fail and, unfortunately, it does happen – and it can happen to you if you’re not careful.

woman with Dental Implants in Coral Springs suffers bruxism

Why Do Dental Implants Fail?

Teeth Grinding

Do you grind your teeth when you’re stressed? Whether you do it consciously or unconsciously (teeth grinding during sleep), this dangerous habit can take a toll on your implants. Teeth grinding exerts excessive force on your implants that can break or damage your crowns.

If you suffer from bruxism or teeth grinding, you should consider ways of reducing your stress since stress is a major contributing factor to teeth grinding. Wearing a nightguard when you sleep is also beneficial.

Gum Disease

Dental implants are resistant to infection and decay, but the gums surrounding them, including your bone tissues, aren’t. So, when plaque builds along the gum line, it can irritate and weaken your gum tissues, causing your implants to come loose.

This condition is known as peri-implantitis. Peri-implantitis is when the gum and bone tissues surrounding your implants are infected and start to deteriorate. To prevent peri-implantitis, you should practice good oral hygiene.

a dentist examines a senior patients' Dental Implants in Coral Springs

Are You Taking Good Care of Your Dental Implants in Coral Springs?

If you want to learn more about caring for your implants, we can teach you how. At TLC Dental & Orthodontics, we offer restorative dental care to bring out your best smile. In addition, we will customize your treatments for you to make them fit your needs, lifestyle, and budget. Call us today if you want to request a reservation.

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The Battle Between Amalgam and Composite Fillings

March 16, 2022

Composite and amalgam – how do you know which one is better? Your dentist in Tamarac can present the pros and cons of each type but ultimately, the decision is up to you. Both fillings have their fair share of perks and drawbacks. So, make sure you are fully aware of these before making your final decision.

A dental filling is the standard treatment for tooth repair. Back in the day, people had no choice but to go for a silver amalgam filling because it’s the only one available. However, today, most dental offices offer composite resin fillings.

dentist in Tamarac checking patient's teeth

Composite Versus Amalgam

Pros and Cons of Composite

Composite fillings are made from ceramic and acrylic and are customized to match the color of your natural teeth so that once they are applied, you’ll have a beautifully seamless smile. In terms of aesthetics, composite gets the upper hand.

Furthermore, your dentist will only remove a small portion of your enamel to prepare your tooth for the fillings preserving most of your tooth’s structure. The downsides to composite are their cost. These fillings are a little pricier than amalgam due to their longevity and appearance.

Pros and Cons of Amalgam

Amalgam fillings are made from metals like copper, mercury, silver, and zinc. Most people like to call them metal or silver fillings because of their color. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly filling, amalgam is your choice.

However, many are apprehensive about amalgam because of its mercury content. This option may not be for you if you have metal sensitivities or allergies. Silver fillings also have a darker color, which can make you self-conscious when you smile.

dentist in Tamarac applying dental filling on patient

Do You Want to Learn More About Fillings from Your Dentist in Tamarac?

Your dentist can provide you with more in-depth information about dental fillings so you can decide which one is right for you. At TLC Dental & Orthodontics, we offer a wide range of restorative and cosmetic dental treatments to give you a beautiful and functional smile. Call us today for an appointment.

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What Are the Age Requirements for Wearing Dental Implants?

March 11, 2022

Dental implants in Hollywood are by far the best option when it comes to restoring your smile. They are undoubtedly strong, impressively durable, and they remarkably share the same characteristics and features as natural teeth. Even if you ask around, you’ll likely get the same answer. Surveys reveal that most Americans prefer dental implants compared to other tooth replacement solutions. Unfortunately, implants are not for everyone. Let’s find out if you qualify.

dental implants in Hollywood

When Can I Get Dental Implants?

Younger Age Group

Sadly, the younger age group may not qualify for dental implants unless their jawbone is fully developed. Generally, you must be at least 17 or 18 years old to undergo dental implant placement. But, since everyone is different and their level of growth and development varies, your oral surgeon may request an X-ray to confirm if you are eligible to receive dental implants.

The Elderly

The good news is that there is no maximum age limit for dental implants. Studies show that as old as 80 and 90 years old have experienced successful dental implants, given that they are healthy. In addition, research reveals that at least half of the American population over 65 have at least one missing tooth, making them the perfect candidates for dental implant surgery.

woman choosing a shade for her dental implants in Hollywood

Do You Qualify for Dental Implants in Hollywood?

The best way to know if you qualify for dental implant placement is to schedule an initial consultation with your oral surgeon. Your oral surgeon will assess the quality and volume of your jawbone at the site of implantation.  

At TLC Dental & Orthodontics, we offer a wide array of honest, customizable, and affordable dental services to improve your smile and oral health. Our team has the skills, knowledge, and experience to give you the best possible care. Call us today to request a reservation.

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Can You Make Your Braces Less Noticeable?

March 7, 2022

Even though millions of Americans are wearing braces, there are still those who feel self-conscious about wearing orthodontic devices. Luckily, your orthodontist in North Lauderdale can give you a few tips to help make your braces less noticeable.

If you’re stressed about your braces, these tips will surely come in handy. Trust us; your patience and diligence in keeping up with your dental appointments will be worth it in the end. While you wait for your braces to come off, you may want to consider the following.

Orthodontist in North Lauderdale checking patient's teeth

Tips to Make Your Braces Inconspicuous

#1 Don’t Be Self-Conscious

We know you’re feeling self-conscious, but the more you feel uncomfortable with your braces, the more obvious they become. After a while, everyone around you will get used to your braces, and they probably won’t even notice them anymore.

Besides, it’s not like you’re going to wear them forever. Once your treatment is over, you will enjoy a beautiful and healthy smile.

#2 Choose Your Bands

You can make your braces less obvious if you choose neutral-colored elastic bands. These are the small bands placed around your brackets to help keep the wires securely in place. Over time, you’ll get used to your braces, and by then, you can start experimenting with bands in different colors.

#3 Smile Without Showing Your Teeth

Smile without showing your teeth is a great way to take photos without showing your braces. Celebrities still look beautiful even if they smile without their teeth. All it takes is some practice to finally master how to smile confidently while your lips are pursed.

Orthodontist in North Lauderdale about to adjust patient's teeth

Do You Need More Tips from Your Orthodontist in North Lauderdale?

If you’re still not convinced, you may want to talk to your orthodontist to ask for other options. Some people will never get used to metal braces, and if you’re one of them, you can check out clear aligners. At TLC Dental & Orthodontics, your oral health is our top priority. We offer a wide range of dental services that we can customize to fit your needs and budget. Call us today for a reservation.

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Are You Brushing Your Teeth Correctly?

March 2, 2022

Do you ever wonder why your dentist in Ft. Lauderdale never gets tired of reminding you to brush your teeth every day? Even your kids’ teachers at school keep telling them never to forget to brush their teeth. It’s no secret that brushing is one of the cornerstones of good oral health. But, you can only achieve optimum dental health if you are brushing your teeth correctly.

Many patients complain of toothaches, cavities, and gum disease even though they brush daily. Why is this so? Dentists concluded that their mouths are unhealthy because they are not practicing the correct brushing strokes.

dentist in Ft. Lauderdale shows image of toothbrush

How Should You Brush Your Teeth?

The Proper Brushing Technique

Take a soft-bristled toothbrush and place it at a 45-degree angle toward your gums. Using gentle and short strokes, brush your teeth back and forth. Make sure to brush all areas of your teeth, including the inner, outer, and chewing surfaces. Just tilt your toothbrush vertically if you are going to clean the insides of your teeth. Again, use short up and down strokes.

Other Important Reminders

In addition to brushing, you should also strive to floss at least once daily. Dentists prefer to floss before bedtime to remove bacteria and food debris in the tiny spaces between your teeth, especially before going to bed.

Flossing helps prevent plaque formation. Check your toothbrush from time to time. Ideally, you should replace your toothbrush after three months, but if the bristles already look worn and torn before that, you should buy a new one. Frayed bristles will not be able to clean your teeth effectively.

woman shows her dentist in Ft. Lauderdale she is brushing her teeth

Do You Need to See a Dentist in Ft. Lauderdale?  

If you want to learn more about improving your oral health, we are more than happy to assist and guide you. At TLC Dental & Orthodontics, we treat our patients and encourage patient education. In addition, we offer a wide range of superior quality dental services to help improve your smile and oral health. Call us today if you want to request a reservation.

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