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Why Did My Orthodontist Recommend Braces?

August 1, 2022

If you have spacing problems or an incorrect bite, don’t be surprised if your dentist refers you to an orthodontist in South Florida. Contrary to popular belief, braces are not just for teenagers. These teeth-straightening appliances are designed for people of all ages with orthodontic problems.  

Although metal braces may look uncomfortable, and perhaps you’ve heard of stories of braces wearers complaining of pain post adjustment, all these sacrifices are worth it because once you complete the treatment, you’ll love your new smile. In addition, you’ll notice a significant improvement in your oral health.  

Orthodontist in South Florida checks patient's teeth

Reasons Why You’ll Need Braces  

Overbite  

An overbite is when your bottom teeth hit the roof of your mouth when you bite. A pronounced overbite is when you are asked to bite, and your lower teeth disappear entirely. Without treatment, people with pronounced overbites can suffer damage to their gum tissues and front teeth. Braces can help fix even the most pronounced overbite.  

Underbite  

The opposite of overbite is an underbite, a condition wherein your lower teeth overlap with your front teeth. The good news is that this, too, can be treated with braces. Underbites should be corrected because if left untreated, they can increase your risk of oral injury when you eat and talk.  

Spacing  

If your teeth have wide gaps, you need to see an orthodontist. People may think tooth gaps are merely a cosmetic concern, but it’s just one of the many problems spacing creates.  

Closing tooth gaps will help protect your oral health because if your teeth have wide spaces between them, food particles can get lodged in your gum's tissues, leading to gum problems, cavities in the rest of your teeth, and even bad breath.  

half-faced photo of an otrthodontist in South Florida

See an Orthodontist in South Florida Today!  

If you have an odd bite that’s causing you problems or wide tooth gaps, we can help you. At TLC Dental, we strive to improve your smile and oral health with our wide range of affordable dental treatments. We provide various orthodontic devices that suit your needs and budget. Contact us today for a reservation.

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Is Dental Implant Surgery Complicated?

July 12, 2022

What’s stopping you from getting dental implants in Hollywood? Is it because it’s a surgical procedure that comes with risks? Millions of Americans get dental implants every year, and do you know why? The procedure has an impressively high success rate of up to 98%. Although it comes with some health risks, problems arising from dental implant placement are rare and can easily be treated.  

3D model of dental implants in Hollywood

Is Getting Dental Implants a Complicated Process?  

What Are the Steps of Dental Implant Surgery?  

The process of getting dental implants involves several steps and can take months to complete. First, it starts with an initial consultation. Your oral surgeon will assess your general health and the condition of your teeth, gums, and jawbone to determine if you qualify for surgery.  

Bone Grafting  

Part of the eligibility criteria is sufficient bone mass to anchor the implants securely. Patients whose jawbones are too thin or too soft are usually advised to undergo bone grafting. Bone grafting is a procedure that aims to rebuild and restructure your jawbone.  

Placing Dental Implants  

On the day of the surgery, the site will be anesthetized so you won’t feel pain. An incision is made in your gum tissue to access the jawbone. Tiny holes are drilled into your jawbone, where the implants will be placed.  

Placing Abutments  

When osteointegration is successfully achieved, the abutments are placed next. These are connectors to which the crowns will be attached.    

Getting New Teeth  

When your gums have healed, an impression or scan of your mouth is taken to make the crowns. The crowns are designed to look natural to give you a seamless smile.

patient gets dental implants in Hollywood

Interested in Dental Implants in Hollywood?  

At TLC Dental, we offer affordable tooth replacement solutions to give you a beautiful and functional smile. Our team has years of experience in the industry, and we'll do everything possible to meet and even exceed your expectations. Contact us today for a reservation.

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What’s Going to Happen if You Continue to Ignore Crooked Teeth?

July 8, 2022

Your partner thinks you don’t need to visit an orthodontist in North Lauderdale because they find your crooked teeth adorable. They say you should accept your flaws. In fact, they urge you to embrace them. And while this may apply to other aspects of your life, for you, crooked teeth just doesn’t seem to be one of them.  

Unfortunately, if you don’t get severe misalignment issues adjusted, your oral health could even suffer the consequences. Crooked teeth are not always just a cosmetic concern. Neglecting to seek treatment can impact your dental health in more ways than one.  

patient consults an orthodontist in North Lauderdale

Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Crooked Teeth  

Plaque and Tartar Form Faster  

Whether your teeth are straight or crooked, plaque is ever-present and constantly forms on your teeth. It’s a sticky film that contains harmful bacteria. If you don’t remove plaque within 24-72 hours, it can quickly calcify and turn into hardened tartar.  

This is unfortunate for people with crooked teeth because they are twice as likely to develop tartar due to teeth misalignment. When teeth are crooked, plaque can develop in the tiny spaces they create, putting you at risk of tooth decay and gum disease.  

Your Bite Can Make Your Mouth Work Harder  

Did you know that crooked teeth can also affect your bite? If your teeth don’t meet correctly, the pressure distributed to your jaws when you bite becomes uneven. Consequently, it forces your muscles and jaw joints to work harder. The imbalance can lead to further teeth misalignment exacerbating the effects of crooked teeth.  

orthodontist in North Lauderdale performs dental treatment

Fix Crooked Teeth by Seeing an Orthodontist in North Lauderdale Today!  

The good news is that there are many ways to correct crooked teeth. At TLC Dental, we offer an array of orthodontic treatments for you to choose from. Our team has years of training, education, and experience to provide you with the best care at affordable rates. To learn more, schedule a consultation with us today.

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What to Do If My Child Is Scared of The Dentist

July 5, 2022

Is your child scared of a pediatric dentist in Fort Lauderdale? If yes, don’t worry too much about it because it’s not a hopeless case. There are many reasons why children develop dental fears. Even many adults are scared of the dentist.

But how do these fears develop, and what can you do about them? As parents, you should never give up. Part of maintaining good oral health is to ensure that your children visit their dentist at least twice a year. These visits should start as early as six months old or when their first tooth erupts.

kid smiles at a pediatric dentist in Fort Lauderdale

What to Do if My Child Doesn’t Want to Go to the Dentist?  

Describe the Pediatric Dentist Optimistically  

Fear can sometimes stem from the unknown. Children who don’t know what to expect develop unpleasant feelings toward dental visits.  

If you take the time to talk to your child and explain that a dentist can help protect their teeth against painful cavities and tooth decay, your child will have a new appreciation of dental checkups. And who knows? The idea of a dental superhero might get them excited!  

Be a Role Model  

One of the ways to get your child to acquiesce is to inspire them that dental visits are okay and that there’s nothing to worry about. But be mindful because if you also have a negative attitude toward oral exams and cleanings, your child will pick up on those. So be careful with your actions because your children are watching you.  

According to studies, having a parent model helps lower the average heart rate of children when they are in the dental office. In other words, they feel calmer when their parents are relaxed during their checkups.  

kid shows his teeth to pediatric dentist in Fort Lauderdale

Partner With Our Friendly Pediatric Dentist in Fort Lauderdale!  

It truly helps to find a reliable pediatric dentist for your children to make their visits smooth and comfortable. TLC Dental provides a wide array of dental treatments tailored to your children’s needs. Our experienced pediatric dentists know how to handle children so that they feel relaxed and comfortable during their visits. Contact us today for a reservation.

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The Benefits of Replacing Missing Teeth with Implants

June 29, 2022

Have you ever wondered what life is like without teeth? Your dentist in Tamarac would always urge you to replace missing teeth as soon as possible. Tooth loss is not just a superficial cosmetic issue. Studies reveal that people with missing teeth are more prone to experience oral health problems than those who underwent restorative dental care. If you’re looking for a reliable tooth replacement solution, we suggest giving dental implants some thought.

woman checking her new dental implants installed by her Dentist in Tamarac

What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?

Life-Like Appearance  

Dental implants resemble natural teeth in so many ways. First, they act as artificial tooth roots offering a secure foundation for your dental crowns. Next, the crowns are ingeniously designed to mimic the physical features of real teeth.

Once they are in your mouth, no one can distinguish between the implants and your existing teeth. Your cosmetic dentist will also ensure that the crowns have the same color as your nearby teeth for a seamless look.

Convenience

Many denture wearers don’t feel confident when they laugh or speak for fear that their dentures might accidentally slip out of their mouths. Dentures also require regular readjustments to get a perfect fit. Meanwhile, dental implants are stable once they are implanted. Readjustments are not necessary.

Dentist in Tamarac in the clinic

Ask Our Expert Dentist in Tamarac for Your Dental Implant Concerns

If you’ve recently lost some of your teeth and looking for a permanent solution to tooth loss, dental implants are the best! They offer convenience, durability, and stability unlike any other! Plus, they impeccably mimic the attributes of natural teeth and give you a beautiful and natural-looking smile.  

At TLC Dental, we offer a wide range of tooth replacement options, including dental implant surgery. Our team has the knowledge and skills to give you the best care. Contact us today for a reservation.

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What Can I Do to Prevent Oral Health Problems?

June 22, 2022

How do you feel about the quote, “Share your smile with the world. It’s a symbol of friendship and peace,” by Christie Brinkley? If it made you cringe, it might be time to see your dentist in Tamarac. Is it possible to achieve a great smile? The answer is yes, but you need to be proactive. You can’t just laze around, skip dental appointments, do nothing, and expect to have a beautiful and healthy smile. It takes sacrifice and effort to be able to share your smile with the world confidently.

woman brushing her teeth as recommended by her Dentist in Tamarac

How Do You Keep Your Teeth and Gums Healthy?

Know the Importance of Good Dental Hygiene

People with beautiful smiles spend two minutes twice a day thoroughly brushing their teeth, ensuring that plaque and tartar don’t build up on the surface and along the gumline. And they don’t stop there.

Aside from brushing, they also make an effort to floss each tooth to remove food particles and plaque lodged in the tiny spaces between their teeth. Your family dentists suggest you use toothpaste that contains fluoride and has the ADA seal of acceptance on the label for added protection.

Visit a Family Dentist Biannually

Dental appointments are essential for your oral health because it allows your family dentist to evaluate the condition of your teeth and gums. If a problem is detected, a treatment plan is made to stop it from spreading and wreaking havoc in your mouth.

Part of your bi-annual dental visit is a routine in-office tooth cleaning. This procedure aims to remove all traces of plaque and tartar that you may have missed in your oral care routine.  

Dentist in Tamarac showing patient his new teeth

Looking for a Dentist in Tamarac You Can Trust?

If you’re looking for a family dentist who can help you achieve and maintain optimum oral health, we’re the best person for the job. At TLC Dental, we provide our patients with superior quality dental care at an affordable price. Our team has the training and experience to give you the smile of your dreams. Contact us today to request a reservation.

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FAQs About Dental Implant Recovery

June 15, 2022

We know you’re eager to have your smile back since you’ve asked your dentist in Tamarac all possible questions about the dental implant process. But while you’re all caught up in the excitement, you may forget that getting a dental implant is a surgical procedure that requires recovery.

Not everyone recovers at the same pace since each case is unique. However, knowing the factors that influence recovery can give you an advantage to breeze through it as quickly and hassle-free as possible.

Dentist in Tamarac checking patient's implants

Understanding Dental Implant Recovery

What Can Influence Recovery Time?

The recovery time can be affected by the location of the implants and the number of implants you plan to have. Patients who do not have sufficient jawbone mass and density may need to undergo bone grafting. A bone graft procedure can prolong the recovery time.

How Should I Care For My Dental Implants While Healing?

Successful recovery also relies on how well you care for your dental implants. Luckily, it doesn’t require special care. All you have to do is maintain good oral hygiene. However, you should not brush your teeth within the first 24 hours post-op.

You can rinse it with a warm salt solution to keep it clean. After 24 hours, you can slowly and gently brush your teeth to prevent infection. It’s also essential to take your medications as prescribed.  

How Long Will It Take for My Mouth to Recover?

As mentioned, plenty of factors could affect the healing and recovery time. For individuals who did not receive bone grafts and only had one to two implants, recovery time can take up to a few days, but if you received multiple implants plus a bone graft, the recovery time could take up to several weeks. Other factors that could affect healing are hygiene, health, and age.

beautiful Dentist in Tamarac smiles at the camera

For Dental Implant Inquiries, See Your Dentist in Tamarac Today

At TLC Dental, we want you to be proud and confident of your smile. We offer an extensive array of restorative dental treatments to boost oral health and give you a smile you’ve always wanted. Get in touch with us today to request a reservation.

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What Comes First: Brushing or Flossing?

June 8, 2022

Your dentist in Tamarac mentioned brushing and flossing but did they tell you about the correct order? Most people assume that they're okay as long as they practice good dental hygiene. When it comes to your oral care routine, very few acknowledge the importance of proper sequence, especially if they’ve been doing it for years. Does the order matter? Which should come first – brushing or flossing?

woman flossing taught by her Dentist in  Tamarac

The Proper Oral Care Routine Order

What Do Dentists Recommend?

Your oral care routine doesn’t just involve brushing. It has to be coupled with flossing to ensure that almost all surfaces of your teeth are plaque-free. Plaque is a colorless sticky film containing bacteria that coats your teeth. Brushing alone is not enough to remove cavity-causing plaque. Everyone knows brushing and flossing go hand in hand but not many know which comes first. To keep your mouth healthy, dentists recommend flossing first before brushing.

Why Is Flossing Done First?

The problem with the brushing and flossing sequence is that food debris, bacteria and plaque removed by flossing can remain in your mouth until your next brushing session. Meanwhile, if you floss and then brush, the brushing action helps remove the dislodged food debris and plaque from flossing, thereby reducing the risk of plaque staying in your mouth. This also helps lower your chances of developing tooth decay and periodontal disease.

Dentist in Tamarac teaches patient how to brush teeth properly

Your Dentist in Tamarac Is Open to Answering Questions

If you have more questions about the proper brushing and flossing techniques and their correct sequence, we can answer them. At TLC Dental, we take your oral health seriously. We strive to provide you with the best possible care to meet your dental goals. Our team is happy and ready to assist you. We have the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to give you the best care. Contact us today for a reservation.

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How Does Malocclusion Affect Your Quality of Life?

June 6, 2022

Does malocclusion warrant a visit to an orthodontist in Hollywood? Although it’s not a life-threatening condition requiring urgent care, studies show that it can negatively and significantly impact your quality of life and overall well-being. In malocclusion, the upper and lower teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed. It usually happens when you have crooked or crowded teeth. You can also have malocclusion if your jaws are not properly aligned.    

The good news is that malocclusion can be treated with braces. However, if the malocclusion is severe, your orthodontist may suggest surgery. When left untreated, the condition can put you at risk of health problems such as tooth loss, tooth decay, and gum disease.

beautiful patient visits Orthodontist in Hollywood

How Can Malocclusion Affect Your Life?

Develop Social Anxiety

Sadly, teeth and jaw misalignment can lead to emotional consequences. People who have bad bites find ways to hide their teeth from other people to the point where they’d cover their mouths when they speak or smile. They also develop anxiety and fear when socializing. Some of them prefer to withdraw.

Unfortunately, this can make it difficult for them to build and maintain personal relationships. The condition can also affect their performance at work since they won’t be able to effectively communicate with their employers, officemates, partners, and clients.

Negative Expectations From Society

Society can be unfair because we tend to judge people based on appearance. Individuals who meet the expectations of society’s aesthetic standards are viewed as more friendly and capable and have more opportunities to achieve tremendous professional success compared to those who do not possess desirable qualities. This alone will prove that your looks can directly influence your quality of life.  

Orthodontist in Hollywood and patient

Let Our Orthodontist in Hollywood Help You Today

Malocclusion is a treatable condition. If you want to know your options, we encourage you to visit our clinic. At TLC Dental, we provide tailored treatment plans to help you achieve your goals! Call us today for a reservation.

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What Are the Symptoms of Tooth Decay?

June 3, 2022

Every day, your dentist in North Lauderdale sees numerous patients complaining of tooth pain due to tooth decay. In America, more than one in four adults have untreated tooth decay. Tooth decay occurs when bacteria in plaque release acids that eat away your enamel. It is imperative that you stop plaque buildup. The moment plaque is allowed to accumulate on the surface of your teeth, cavities, tooth decay, and abscess are likely outcomes.

a woman in pain who needs to see a Dentist in North Lauderdale

Symptoms of Tooth Decay

How To Know If You Have Tooth Decay

You may or may not experience pain if you have tooth decay. However, most patients do suffer from persistent sharp and shooting pain. Tooth decay also causes tooth sensitivity. You may experience pain or tenderness when your teeth are exposed to sweet, cold, or hot food and drinks.

Furthermore, you may notice black, brown, or gray spots on your teeth, unpleasant breath, and an odd taste in your mouth.  

How to Prevent Tooth Decay

If you suspect tooth decay, your best option is to see a dentist to have it treated before it turns into an abscess. The earlier tooth decay is detected, the easier it is to treat. It’s also more affordable to treat tooth decay during the early stages. To prevent tooth decay, dentists suggest you religiously practice good oral hygiene and visit your dentist for check-ups and cleanings at least once every six months.

Dentist in North Lauderdale performs oral exam

See a Dentist in North Lauderdale Today

Tooth decay is treated depending on how advanced and severe it is. It’s important to let your dentist evaluate the severity and extent of the decay so we can come up with a personalized treatment plan. At TLC Dental, we offer restorative dental treatments at an affordable price. Our goal is to restore your health as soon as possible. Contact us today for a reservation.

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