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How to Prevent White Spots on Your Teeth While Wearing Braces

February 28, 2022

You’ve been waiting for months to get your braces in Tamarac off, and you’re so excited to see your new smile, but to your surprise, you discover unsightly white spots on your teeth where the braces were once placed.

Why did these white spots appear all of a sudden, or were they there all along? How did it happen? The white spots result from decalcification caused by poor hygiene practices during your treatment.

teeth with Braces in Tamarac

How to Prevent White Spots

What Caused White Spots to Appear on Your Teeth?

The design of braces is a bit complex, and because of its intricate shape, plaque tends to accumulate around the brackets and wires. Plaque is a yellowish biofilm filled with bacteria and is the leading cause of tooth decay and cavities.

Bacteria in plaque produce acids that cause tooth demineralization. Your teeth contain phosphate and calcium, and when these essential minerals are stripped off because of acids, they leave chalky white spots on the affected areas.

Since brackets cover a part of your teeth, these covered areas are spared, which explains why the color difference becomes more apparent when your braces are removed.

How Can You Prevent These Infamous White Spots?

The only way to prevent white spots is to ensure you don’t let plaque linger for long. You can do this by brushing your teeth thoroughly. Follow your orthodontist’s recommended brushing technique.

With the design of braces, you have to be extra thorough, ensuring you don’t miss anything. It’s also crucial that you floss every day. This can be challenging with braces, but you have to make certain sacrifices if you want to achieve that flawless smile after your treatment.

Dentist tools in front of mouth with braces in Tamarac

Do You Have More Concerns About White Spots While Wearing Braces in Tamarac?

If you still have questions that aren’t addressed here, we’ll be happy to answer them. At TLC Dental, we not only provide preventive and restorative dental care, but we also strive to educate our patients so they can achieve optimum oral health while at home. Should you wish to book an appointment, click here to request a reservation.

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Are DIY Braces Harmful?

February 25, 2022

Have you heard of DIY braces in Coral Springs? We’re sure you’ve seen videos of teenagers bragging about how they straightened their crooked teeth at half the price. Sure, it can be tempting to choose the cheaper option, but if you ever plan to give DIY braces a try, we’re here to tell you that it’s not worth it.

Skip these YouTube video tutorials when you see them because studies show that people who attempted to fix their teeth themselves suffered from major irreparable dental damage. So, before you start rummaging your kitchen for supplies, learn the facts.

girl wearing braces in Coral Springs opening her mouth

Are DIY Braces Bad for You?

How Do These Handcrafted Braces Work?   

Braces are a dental treatment that slowly moves your teeth until they are positioned correctly. The only person authorized to provide this treatment is a licensed orthodontist. Therefore, if you see videos persuading you to make your own braces, don’t believe them.   

According to experts, if you make homemade braces, the ligaments holding your teeth could break. DIY braces can move your teeth, but there is a 95 percent chance that your teeth could come loose during the process.

How Can DIY Braces Harm Your Teeth?

If your goal is to achieve a beautiful smile, DIY braces are not the answer. Did you know that if you order DIY braces kits online or make your own from household supplies, you could suffer from irreparable teeth damage, bone damage, gum damage? DIY braces also create gaps in your teeth, predispose you to infection, and cause tooth sensitivity.

man in green shirt wearing brace in Coral Springs

DIY Braces or Professional Braces in Coral Springs?

To protect your teeth against permanent damage, choose braces made exclusively by your orthodontist. At TLC Dental, we offer safe and affordable orthodontic treatment to give you a smile you deserve. Our team has the skills, experience, and knowledge to provide you with the best possible care. Should you wish to book an appointment, click here to request a reservation.

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Are Your Dental Implants Loose? Here's What to Do

February 21, 2022

Low self-esteem, difficulty chewing, trouble speaking – these are just some of the many drawbacks of missing teeth. Luckily, dental implants in Hollywood can restore all these. Dental implants are the closest thing to having natural teeth because of their longevity, durability, stability, and strength.

The mere fact that implants are embedded in your jawbone to act like natural tooth roots is enough to convince you of their unparalleled security. But implants aren’t perfect. There are rare cases where patients complain that their implants feel loose. If it happens to you, what are you going to do?

Dental in Implants Hollywood on patient

Why Are My Dental Implants Loose?

Is it the Crown or Implant?

The crown part of your implant can come loose over time due to wear and tear. You shouldn’t worry too much about this. Your dentist will simply tighten it or replace it if necessary.

Failed Osseointegration

Another factor that may contribute to loosen implants is a failed osseointegration process. Osseointegration is an integral step in dental implant surgery. Peri-implantitis is an infection that will eventually lead to dental implant failure.

What Should You Do If Your Implants Are Loose?

Don’t attempt to fix your implant yourself, and it’s also not a good idea to leave it alone. The best thing you can do is let your cosmetic dentist know about it. The dentist will assess the implant and determine what’s making it come loose. If you wait too long, your dentist may have to remove your implant, and then you’ll have to go back to square one.

three Dental Implants in Hollywood close up

Do You Have More Questions About Loose Dental Implants in Hollywood?

If you experience signs of dental implant failure, don’t hesitate to call us. At TLC Dental, your oral health is our priority. We will assess your implant and determine the underlying cause so we can fix it right away. Our team offers superior quality service to help maintain and improve your oral health. Click here to request a reservation.

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Why Do My Teeth Hurt?

February 18, 2022

You know something is wrong when you experience pain in your teeth. When this happens, you should let your dentist in Dania Beach know right away so that the cause of the pain can be identified and addressed. The earlier it is determined, the better. According to a survey conducted by the American Family Physician, it was found that 22% of American adults have experienced pain in their jaw, gums, and teeth in the last six months. What causes tooth pain?

woman suffering from tooth pain needing a dentist in Dania Beach

What Factors Contribute to Tooth Pain?

Enamel Erosion

The hardest layer of your teeth is the enamel. It is a strong and durable coating designed to protect your teeth. Unfortunately, wear and tear and brushing too hard can cause your enamel to erode. If the outermost layer of your teeth is stripped off, it will expose the second layer known as the dentin.

When the dentin is unprotected, you’ll likely suffer from dentin hypersensitivity. This explains why you experience sharp, stabbing pain when consuming certain food and drinks.  

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay or cavities are another reason why you suffer from tooth pain. Tooth decay happens over time, and in most cases, you probably won’t even notice it. However, you’ll know it’s there when the decay has already advanced because it will start to feel painful. When the decay has progressed and is close to becoming an infection, you’ll experience pain.

dentist in Dania Beach showing patient his cavities

Do You Need to See a Dentist in Dania Beach?

When you start to feel pain in your teeth, don’t shrug it off and don’t disregard it. Let your dentist know immediately. At TLC Dental, your oral health is our top priority. We offer affordable and customizable dental services to help you achieve optimum oral health and wellness. Should you wish to book an appointment, click here to request a reservation.

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Braces Facts You Should Know Before Getting Them

February 14, 2022

The moment your braces in North Lauderdale are off, your life is going to change forever. Braces will significantly enhance your smile and improve your oral function. But, there’s more to wearing braces than transforming your physical appearance and improving the way you speak and chew.  

blonder girl wearing Braces North Lauderdale holding an apple

Braces Facts You Should Be Aware Of

Braces Require Commitment

During the duration of your treatment, you must practice good oral hygiene. Besides diligently brushing and flossing your teeth, you are also obliged to show up during appointments. These appointments are needed so that your orthodontist can adjust your braces and move your teeth to their proper positions.

Once you have completed your treatment, you will be asked to wear another device called retainers. These retainers are designed to preserve the straightness of your teeth. Without them, your teeth could go back to their original positions. In a nutshell, wearing braces require commitment. If you can’t commit, then this treatment may not be right for you.  

Diet Changes Are Part of the Process

While you have braces, expect that there will be changes made to your diet. For example, you’ll be asked to avoid eating or chewing hard foods as these could potentially cause your brackets to come loose and your wires to bend and break.

Apples, corn (on the cob), and hard candies are some examples of these foods.  

patient getting her Braces in North Lauderdale adjusted

Do You Have More Questions About Living with Braces in North Lauderdale?

Living with braces has its ups and downs. Make sure you know everything about your treatment. At TLC Dental, we are committed to providing you with excellent and personalized care to make your visits as pleasant and as comfortable as possible. Our team has years of experience to ensure you get what you pay for. Call us today for an appointment.

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How to Sleep Soundly at Night After a Braces Adjustment

February 11, 2022

“No pain, no gain” - this is the motto behind every person wearing braces in Coral Springs. Wearing braces can sometimes be uncomfortable, especially after an adjustment.

The pain is caused by the pressure exerted by the wires. The force is necessary to correct teeth misalignment, so if you plan to wear braces, you have to learn how to deal with the minor discomfort and pressure. Don’t worry, as the pain is tolerable and can be managed. If you are anxious that you’ll lose sleep over it, here are a few tips that can help.

beautiful woman wearing braces in Coral Springs

How to Sleep Soundly with Braces   

Don’t Forget Your Oral Care Routine

People wearing braces are more prone to experience tooth decay and gum disease because braces make it more challenging to clean your teeth. Therefore, it’s crucial that you brush and floss your teeth diligently to avoid oral health problems from developing. The last thing you want is to suffer from tooth pain and tender gums.

Over-the-Counter Pain Medications

Don’t be afraid to take over-the-counter painkillers as long as you follow your dentist’s prescribed dosage. If the pain interferes with your sleep, especially during the first few days following adjustment, we recommend you take pain medications like Tylenol. Don’t take NSAIDs because studies show that these meds may potentially slow down your teeth’s movement.  

female patient getting her braces in Coral Springs adjusted

Do You Need More Tips on Living with Braces in Coral Springs?   

If you want to learn more about braces, we’ll tell you everything you need to know. At TLC Dental, we are committed to helping you improve your oral health and achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed about. We offer different types of orthodontic treatment to suit your lifestyle, budget, and preference. Should you wish to book an appointment, click here to request a reservation.

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2 Reasons Why Seeing Your Dentist Is Not a Waste of Time

February 7, 2022

How often are you supposed to visit your dentist in Ft. Lauderdale? Dental visits fall on debatable ground because many assume that you should only book an appointment when there’s a problem. While it’s true that a dentist’s job is to restore your dental health, it’s also their job to protect you against oral health issues through patient education, regular oral exams, and routine teeth cleaning.

2 Reasons Why Dental Visits Are Necessary

Dentist in Ft. Lauderdale and patient

Screens You for Oral Cancer

Every year thousands of Americans die of oral cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 54,000 new cases of oral cancer are projected this year. Although an oral exam cannot prevent cancer, early detection means early treatment. When cancer is identified early, there’s a big chance it can be treated. When cancer is discovered late, it will metastasize.   

Protect Against Tooth Decay and Gum Disease

Many people wonder why they still succumb to tooth decay and gum disease even though they brush and floss daily. When you visit your dentist, you will discover why through patient education.  

Dentists not only treat you, but they are also obliged to educate you. Did you know that your efforts will be in vain if you use the wrong brushing and flossing techniques? This means you’ll still get tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease because plaque and tartar are not effectively removed from your mouth. Your dentist will teach you the proper way of cleaning your teeth and gums.

Dentist in Ft. Lauderdale smiling

Are You Looking for a Dentist in Ft. Lauderdale?

If you’re looking for an experienced and reliable dentist to take care of you, you’ve come to the right place. At TLC Dental & Orthodontics, we provide a wide range of dental services to help improve your oral health and enhance oral function. Our years in the industry have allowed us to provide superior quality dental service to all our patients. Click here to request a reservation.

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Exploring the Different Types of Dental Crowns

January 31, 2022

According to a dentist in North Lauderdale, the most requested restorative dental care procedure these days are dental crowns.

Dental crowns are highly in demand because more and more people have succumbed to cavities and other oral problems because of an unhealthy lifestyle. For example, people who practice poor oral hygiene, smoke tobacco, drink alcohol, and consume an unhealthy diet rich in sugar and starches will eventually need dental crowns.

dental crowns fabricated by a Dentist in North Lauderdale

What Are the Different Types of Dental Crowns?

All-Porcelain Crowns

All-porcelain dental crowns are the most popular of all types of crowns because of their impressive resemblance to your natural teeth. Porcelain shares the same shade and translucence as real teeth. In addition, porcelain crowns are durable and long-lasting.

Dentists can fabricate these crowns to mimic the color, shape, and size of surrounding teeth. It’s the ideal crown type for your front teeth.  

Gold Crowns

The strongest and most durable of all crowns are the gold crowns. But, since they are made of metal, they may not be the best choice in terms of aesthetics because of their visibility.

People who are allergic to metal should steer clear of gold crowns since they contain chromium, nickel, copper, and a combination of other metals. However, they make a great choice for your back teeth because of their unparalleled strength.  

patient given silver crowns by his Dentist in North Lauderdale

Do You Need to See a Dentist North in Lauderdale?

If you need dental crowns to restore your teeth, you’ve come to the right place. At TLC Dental & Orthodontics, we are committed to enhancing the quality of life while restoring self-assurance, rebuilding confident smiles, and encouraging dental and medical wellness.  

We provide comprehensive treatment planning and use restorative and cosmetic dentistry to achieve optimal dental health. Click here to request a reservation.

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How Long Will I Be Wearing My Braces?

January 26, 2022

Whenever patients consider braces in Tamarac, they always want to know how long they’re expected to wear them. As much as your orthodontist wants to give you an exact answer, they can’t because it will depend on your condition and how committed you are to show up during braces adjustments. Whenever you skip an appointment, your treatment time gets delayed.

close up image of Braces in Tamarac

How Long Are You Expected to Wear Braces?

What’s the Average Treatment Duration?

On average, braces wearers are expected to complete treatment within two years. However, some patients get to complete their treatment in less than a year. There are also cases where patients need three years or more before their teeth reach the desired position.

Orthodontic treatments are not the same for everyone because every mouth is different. One person can get faster results while others take a bit more time.   

Does Your Age Make a Difference?

Your age can affect how fast you can get results. Studies show that children and teenagers have a shorter orthodontic treatment time than adults because their jaws are still developing, which means their teeth are easier to move.

But just because you’re an adult doesn’t mean you need 24 months to complete your treatment. Some adults can get results in less than 12 months if they have mild orthodontic issues.

woman smiling wearing Braces in Tamarac

Do You Have More Questions About Treatment Time for Your Braces in Tamarac?  

The best way to know how long you’ll need treatment is to book a consultation with your orthodontist. At TLC Dental & Orthodontics, we are dedicated to providing you with superior quality dental treatments that are personalized based on your needs.

Our team is trained and skilled in handling all your dental concerns. With our years of experience in the industry, we are confident that we offer you the best possible care. Call us today for a reservation.

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Unhealthy Habits That Are Destroying Your Child's Teeth

January 24, 2022

As parents, you should find a pediatric dentist in Fort Lauderdale for your children. Pediatric dentists have specialized knowledge in handling oral health issues from infancy through teenage years. They also help educate children in breaking bad habits detrimental to their teeth and jaws. Remember, kids are kids. Many of them do things guiltlessly without regard for the consequences. Take your children to a pediatric dentist as early as six months old or the moment their first tooth emerges.

Habits That Are Bad for Your Child’s Teeth

child getting a dental exam from a Pediatric Dentist in Fort Lauderdale

Chewing on Toys

Many children chew on their toys, pencils, crayons, and many other things they can find. Biting on inedible things can cause their teeth to chip and break. Not only will this destroy their teeth, but these objects may contain toxic material that could make them sick.

Eating Too Many Sweets

Children love sweets. We’re not saying you should deprive your children of sweet treats, but you must control their consumption of sugary candies and cakes because these sweet treats will predispose them to cavities and tooth decay.

Drinking Soda

Soda and chips are always a tasty pair, but they’re not healthy – that’s why they call them junk food. Carbonated soda will erode your child’s teeth. In addition, these drinks are loaded with sugars that will lead to tooth decay and cavity development.

Forgetting to Brush Their Teeth

Parents are either busy or too tired to assist their children in brushing, but it is your main responsibility to ensure that your children are brushing their teeth properly. If you don’t guide them, they could be using the wrong technique or not brush at all.

young boy getting his teeth checked by a Pediatric Dentist in Fort Lauderdale

Are You Looking for a Pediatric Dentist in Fort Lauderdale?

If you need to partner with a pediatric dentist, we’re here for you. At TLC Dental & Orthodontics, we are committed to enhancing the quality of life while restoring self-assurance, rebuilding confident smiles, and encouraging dental and medical wellness. Click here to request a reservation.

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