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How Can Your Oral Health Benefit from Regular Dental Cleanings?

September 12, 2022

Visiting your dentist in Tamarac twice a year is just as important as brushing your teeth daily. Achieving optimum oral health is impossible if you don’t see your dentist bi-annually. Regular teeth cleanings give you an attractive smile and improve your health in ways you never thought possible. What can you get from routine teeth cleanings besides enhancing your smile?

seeing a dentist in Tamarac

The Benefits of Regular Dental Cleanings

Gum Disease Prevention

Gum disease is characterized by the inflammation and infection of gum tissues that support your teeth. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease where patients experience red, swollen, and bleeding gums.  

As the disease progresses, it may advance to periodontitis, where the gum starts to recede and pull away from your teeth. It’s also accompanied by bone and tooth loss.

Your susceptibility to developing gum disease is heightened if you don’t practice good oral hygiene and when you fail to visit your dentist to have your teeth professionally cleaned.

Reduce Your Chances of Developing Heart Disease

Did you know that your risk of developing a heart attack increases by up to 24% if you have gum disease? Studies show when you brush and floss your teeth every day, your risk decreases by up to nine percent, and if you regularly see your dentist for professional teeth cleaning, your risk is reduced by up to 14%. Sacrificing your time to see your dentist will go a long way.  

Dentist Tamarac

Call Your Dentist in Tamarac Today!  

While an oral care routine can help control plaque buildup, the main culprit for almost all oral diseases, it’s not enough. You need professional help to effectively remove plaque, especially in hard-to-reach areas, and prevent it from turning into hardened tartar.  

At TLC Dental, we perform thorough dental cleanings to ensure that your teeth are plaque and tartar-free. Contact us today for an appointment.

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How Can Dental Implants Improve Your Oral Health?

September 9, 2022

Your permanent teeth are meant to last a long time, but if you succumbed to advanced-stage gum disease or severe tooth decay that resulted in premature tooth loss, your dentist could recommend dental implants in Hollywood. Dental implants are innovatively designed to mimic the function and look of natural teeth.  

Even though you’ve lost your original teeth, once your implants have fully fused with your jawbone, it’s as if you grew new teeth because they can restore everything, including your smile, oral function, and everything in between.  

Dental Implants Hollywood

How Can Dental Implants Boost Your Oral Health?

Preserve Your Jawbone

Did you know that when you lose your teeth, you will also gradually lose the bone tissues that surround the empty sockets? Without stimulation from chewing, your jawbone will eventually weaken. As it loses density and volume, it will not be able to support your teeth leading to further tooth loss.  

Dental implants are the only tooth replacement solution that can preserve bone density by providing bone tissues with adequate stimulation needed for regeneration. This feature is lacking in bridges and dentures.  

Lower Your Risk of Gum Disease  

The empty sockets left by missing teeth can become an entryway for bacteria to destroy your gum tissues leading to gum inflammation and infection.  

Unfortunately, gum disease is not just a localized problem because if the bacteria can get into your bloodstream, they can travel to other parts of your body, predisposing you to complications like coronary artery disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and respiratory disease. Dental implants can prevent these issues by filling in and protecting the empty sockets.  

Dental Implants Hollywood

Get Your Dental Implants in Hollywood!

Choosing dental implants is a great step toward achieving optimum oral health. At TLC Dental, we believe restoring your smile, and oral function need not be expensive. We offer affordable, and personalized treatment plans to help you achieve your dental goals. Contact us today to request an appointment.  

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Do You Need Braces?

September 5, 2022

How do you know if you need braces? Usually, your dentist will refer you to an orthodontist in North Lauderdale if you require orthodontic treatment. Not many are thrilled at the idea of wearing braces because it is an added expense, and the mere thought of wearing a mouth full of metal can be uncomfortable.  

However, if your teeth are crooked, braces are often recommended for a more aesthetically pleasing smile and improved oral health.

Orthodontist North Lauderdale

Why Do You Need Braces?

What Are Braces?

Straightening your teeth can be accomplished in several ways, but the most commonly used treatment is the application of braces. Braces consist of small square-shaped brackets that are cemented directly to your teeth. The brackets are connected through a wire. Patients can choose between tooth-colored and metal brackets.  

How Do You Know If You Need Braces?

Some of the symptoms that indicate you may need braces are the following:

  • Crowded teeth

Are There Other Alternatives to Braces?

If metal and ceramic braces don’t appeal to you, you can ask your orthodontist if you qualify for clear aligners. Clear aligners can also help move your teeth into their correct positions. Just like braces, these aligners are designed to apply force on your teeth to control their movements without needing rough brackets and wires.  

However, since they’re removable trays, you must be disciplined to wear them at least 20 to 22 hours a day for the treatment to be effective.  

Orthodontist North Lauderdale

See an Orthodontist in North Lauderdale Today!

Don’t take recommendations for granted because people who ignore the advice from their orthodontists usually end up paying for costly treatments because of the complications they had to go through.  

At TLC Dental, we aim to provide you with the best treatments tailored to your needs. We will work closely with you to ensure you achieve your dental goals. Contact us today for an appointment.  

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The Consequences of Missing Your Dental Appointments

September 2, 2022

Are you confident that your oral care regimen will spare you from dental issues? A dentist in Ft. Lauderdale says brushing and flossing are not enough to protect your teeth and gums against complications.  

Bi-annual dental visits are vital for good oral health. If you keep canceling your appointments, it will only be a matter of time before you start experiencing tooth pain, bleeding gums, and tooth loss. Why wait for these to happen when you can avoid them in the first place?

Dentist Ft. Lauderdale

What Happens If You Don’t See Your Dentist Regularly?

Plaque Will Populate Your Mouth

What is plaque, and why do you need to remove it? Plaque is a sticky film filled with bacteria that coats your teeth. Bacteria in plaque release acids, leading to enamel erosion and cavity formation. You just need to brush and floss your teeth daily to remove plaque.  

When plaque is left to linger for 24 to 72 hours, it will accumulate minerals from your saliva and harden into tartar. Your home care regimen can remove plaque, but if it has calcified into tartar, you need to visit your dentist because you can’t get rid of it yourself.  

Your Teeth Can Get Discolored

The ADA recommends you visit your dentist every six months. With every visit, your dentist will remove accumulated plaque and tartar on your teeth. Since the cleaning is more thorough, surface stains are removed, resulting in a brighter smile.  

Patients who are diligent in visiting their dentists are so satisfied with the color of their teeth that they don’t need to spend on cosmetic treatments.  

Dentist Ft. Lauderdale

See Your Dentist in Ft. Lauderdale Today!  

Are you looking for a dentist you can trust? At TLC Dental, we strive to create, maintain, and restore beautiful smiles with our personalized and affordable dental treatments. We use the latest methods and technology to create lasting smiles. Contact us today, and we’ll schedule an appointment for you.  

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Alternative Procedures to Dental Implants

August 25, 2022

Dental implants are a great way to fix issues with missing teeth. But they sometimes come at a high price or you’re ineligible for treatment. If you need advice on alternative procedures to dental implants in South Florida, we've got you covered.

There are several dental procedures that you can take advantage of to fill the gaps of your missing teeth.

a photo dental implants in South Florida

What Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant procedure is an invasive treatment used to replace a single tooth or multiple missing ones. This is done by making an incision in the gums and inserting a titanium implant in the jawbone.

The dentist then places the visible crown, giving you a new replacement tooth. Over time, the implant integrates into the bone, making it more stable.

Alternative Treatments for Missing Teeth

If you can't afford a dental implant, here are some cheaper alternatives to help you solve your problem.

Fixed Dental Bridges

A great alternative that you can go for is a dental bridge. This type of procedure involves cementing the false teeth into place. Only a dental expert can remove them. There are tools and equipment needed for the removal process.

Removable Bridges

Removable bridges are a lot like their fixed counterparts, but you are able to take them out on your own without the help of a professional.

dentist places dental implants in South Florida

Looking to Find Alternatives to Dental Implants in South Florida?

If you're looking to get a more affordable alternative to dental implants visit TLC Dental for an appointment. We have dental specialists who can give you advice on what type of treatment works best for you.  

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How Do You Know If You're with the Right Orthodontist?

August 18, 2022

If your crooked or misaligned teeth already bother you, you'll need help from a reliable orthodontist. There are a lot of orthodontists who can do your braces or clear aligners, but you need to be careful in choosing. You'll need to know that you're with the best orthodontist in South Florida to ensure that your orthodontic choices are of the best quality.  

But how do you know if you're with the right orthodontist?  

orthodontist in South Florida cleans patient's teeth

orthodontist in South Florida

How an Orthodontist Should Make You Feel  

Comfortable  

Being in a dental office isn't always easy for everyone. You're lucky if you don't have dental fears and anxiety. However, you could be in trouble if it scares you to see an orthodontist.  

It would be best if your orthodontist knew how to make you feel comfortable. You won't want to spend hours in a dental office if your dentist is rude and arrogant.  

Cared  

What's the use of going to an orthodontist if your orthodontic needs are not cared for? You need to ensure that your orthodontist can provide the proper type of braces that you need to correct your misaligned teeth.  

If the orthodontist can't give you the correct diagnosis and proper treatment, you'll need to look for a new one. It wouldn't be helpful to pay for incorrect orthodontic treatment.  

orthodontist in South Florida checks patient's teeth

Are You Sure You're with the Best Orthodontist in South Florida?

With the number of orthodontists in the dental industry, picking the right one could sometimes be tricky. If you want to ensure that your dental health is in good hands, TLC Dental is where you should be headed to. We offer high-quality orthodontic treatment to help you regain your beautiful smile. Should you want to know more about our orthodontic options, please leave us a message.  

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What Are Braces Elastics For?

August 15, 2022

Did your orthodontist in Tamarac mention that you’ll get elastics during your next appointment? Did you ask what those are for? Elastics are essential in your orthodontic treatment. These elastic bands help correct misaligned teeth and malocclusion (underbite, overbite, crossbite, and open bite) by applying additional force to certain areas of your mouth. Patients who use elastics have a shorter treatment time than those who don’t.

orthodontist in Tamarac checks patient's braces

Understanding How Braces Elastics Work

What Are the Different Kinds of Elastics?

There are two different types of elastics. The first are the tiny colorful rings that are placed around each bracket. This elastic ring applies force to your teeth to move them into the proper position. Your orthodontist usually offers different elastic colors during your appointments. You can request to change the colors whenever you come back to the office for an adjustment.

The second type of elastic is the one that’s between your top and bottom jaws. Not everyone is required to wear this type of elastic. It’s usually recommended for people who have jaw alignment issues.

Are There Other Types of Elastics and What Do They Do?

There are three classes of elastics.

·      Class 1 is designed to close tooth gaps between your teeth.

·      Class 2 works by pulling your upper teeth back and moving your lower teeth forward.

·      Class 3 functions by pulling your lower teeth back and your upper teeth forward.

The force applied by these elastic bands is categorized as light, medium, and heavy. They also come in various sizes.

How Long Should You Wear Them?

You need to wear elastic rings throughout your treatment. But for the second type, you’re only required to wear them for a couple of weeks since your teeth move quickly, and the distance they need to close isn’t far. However, those with severe bite problems may be asked to wear them for a year.

orthodontist in Tamarac prepares teeth of patient for braces

Looking for a Reliable Orthodontist in Tamarac?

Do you have questions about braces? Feel free to ask us! At TLC Dental, we provide a wide array of orthodontic treatments for you to choose from. Our friendly staff will accommodate you and answer all your questions. We take pride in our latest systems, methods, and technology to create lasting smiles. Contact us today for an appointment.

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Earliest Possible Time to Take Kids to the Dentist

August 11, 2022

When should your child's first dental appointment be scheduled? This is one of the top questions every pediatric dentist in Fort Lauderdale is asked. A lot of parents are unaware that infants and young children can get cavities, but they do. Your kid's new teeth could start to deteriorate as soon as they erupt. This is why it's crucial to arrange for a dental examination as soon as their first tooth erupts.  

In fact, even if no teeth have yet come in, the CDC, American Dental Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry all advises that you bring your kid in for a dental examination no later than their first birthday. Surprised? Read on to know why.

pediatric dentist in Fort Lauderdale checks kids teeth

When Can a Child Start Visiting the Dentist?

Consider Your Kid’s Milestones

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry advises that you take your kid to a pediatric dentist as soon as possible after any of the following two milestones: (1) when their first tooth erupts and (2) their first birthday. Yes, when your child is still a newborn, you should take them to the dentist.

Is a Visit to the Dentist for Your Child Really Necessary?

If you think that taking your child to the dentist by the time they turn one year old seems early, keep in mind that more than 21% of American children between the ages of two and five have cavities. Also, kids who go to the dentist by the time they turn one may have less tooth decay than kids who wait until they are older. In fact, a child's likelihood of developing tooth decay nearly doubles every year after their first birthday.

How Can Checkups Lower Their Chance of Developing Cavities?  

To begin with, a lot of parents are unaware of what they don't know about their kid's oral health. There is a lot of inaccurate information about dental health out there. Additionally, your kid’s dentist will be able to work with you to try to cure any early decay that is already showing on your little one's teeth before it turns into a cavity. You have a better chance of being able to stop any tooth decay before it permanently harms the tooth if you take them to the dentist as soon as possible.

staff and pediatric dentist in Fort Lauderdale poses in front of camera with patient

Contact a Pediatric Dentist in Fort Lauderdale

Early cavity treatment is crucial. Early childhood tooth decay is very aggressive and, if left unaddressed, can soon cause catastrophic infections and tooth loss. Call us!

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What’s Going to Happen If I Skip Brace Adjustment Appointments?

August 8, 2022

The last time you had your braces in Tamarac adjusted, you had trouble eating for a couple of days because of the discomfort. Now that it’s time for another adjustment, you decide to cancel because you don’t want to go through the pain and inconveniences that come with braces adjustments.  

Unfortunately, getting braces is a long-term commitment, and part of your responsibility is to show up for your braces adjustments. Although the average treatment time for braces can vary, yours can take much longer if you stop visiting your orthodontist. Here’s what it means if you continue wearing your braces and not have them adjusted.  

blonde hair person with braces in Tamarac

Ramifications for Not Having Your Braces Adjusted  

Your Teeth Won’t Move  

Braces are designed to move your teeth so that they shift toward the direction planned by your orthodontist to correct misalignment and close tooth gaps. The movement is only possible if your orthodontist adjusts and tightens your braces every six to eight weeks.  

Your teeth will stop moving when you don’t show up for your adjustment appointment. Studies show that when people wear braces for too long, it will affect their oral health.  

Plaque Formation  

Having metal brackets on every tooth can make it challenging for you to keep them clean. You have to be thorough with your brushing and flossing. It’s also essential to use special cleaning devices designed for braces.  

If you’re not committed, plaque and tartar will eventually accumulate around them, putting you at risk of gum disease, cavities, and tooth decay. Orthodontists not only make certain adjustments to your wires, but they also check your teeth and offer cleaning when necessary to prevent plaque and tartar formation.  

dentist checks braces in Tamarac

Have Your Braces in Tamarac Adjusted Today!  

We understand your worries and fears, which is why at TLC Dental, we strive to provide our patients with a relaxing and comfortable environment to keep them at ease during their dental appointment. We also offer patient education to help deal with braces pain after an adjustment. Contact us today to learn more.

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Tooth Pain and What It Means

August 5, 2022

Have you been putting off your dental appointments because you think you could fix tooth pain without the help of a dentist in Coral Springs, FL? Some people are so confident that Google can solve all their problems, including tooth pain. As a consequence, they resort to self-medication. You are mistaken if you think you could treat dental issues by yourself just by using search engine sites. Doing so can put your oral health and life at risk.  

When you’re experiencing tooth pain, the best course of action is to consult with a dental health expert. Your dentist will perform an oral exam and run some tests to determine what’s causing the pain. Once the root cause is addressed, only then will you be able to experience pain relief.  

dentist in Coral Springs, FL takes out tooth to prevent dental pain

What Are the Different Types of Tooth Pain?  

Dull and Persistent Pain  

The most common type of tooth pain is described as dull and persistent. There are many reasons why you may experience dull tooth pain. It could be because food debris is stuck between your teeth or gums, teeth grinding, or an abscess. If it’s food, all you need is to floss and rinse your mouth with water.  

These actions can help dislodge the food stuck in your teeth and gums. The dentist will likely prescribe a mouthguard when the cause is bruxism or teeth grinding. A tooth abscess is a dental emergency that should be treated immediately to stop the infection from spreading.  

Dental Sensitivity  

Tooth pain triggered by hot and cold food and drinks will also warrant a visit to your dentist. Pay attention to what triggers the pain and take note of how long the pain usually lasts. If it only lasts temporarily and the pain is tolerable, it could be because of a worn-down enamel, but if your pain is intense and lasts for more than thirty seconds, it could be serious. The only way to find out is to have your dentist check your mouth.  

dentist in Coral Springs, FL carries tooth and cupcake toys

See Your Dentist in Coral Springs, FL!  

If you experience any kind of tooth pain, let your dentist know about it right away. At TLC Dental, we strive to provide you with the best possible care so that you can have your smile and oral function restored in no time. Our team will accommodate you until you meet your goals. Contact us today for a reservation.

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