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The Best Foods To Keep Your Smile Healthy

March 17, 2023

What’s interesting about visiting your dentist in Tamarac is you get to learn so many new things that can help maintain the beauty and glimmer of your smile. One of the things you’ll learn during your visits is the relationship between food and your oral health. Are you aware of what foods can affect your oral health?

They can either make your teeth stronger or damage them. Understanding the role diet plays can help you make an informed decision about what you consume so you can have a brighter and healthier smile.

Plate of leafy greens recommended by a dentist in Tamarac

What Foods Are Good for Your Smile?

  • Cheese – If you’re a cheese person, you’ll love it even more. In one study published in 2013 by the American Academy of General Dentistry, it was found that consuming cheese elevated the pH level in the participants’ mouths, which helped reduce their risk of tooth decay. Cheese also contains protein and calcium that helps build stronger teeth.

  • Yogurt – Stock up on yogurt. These healthy treats are loaded with protein and calcium that are known to strengthen your enamel. They also contain probiotics (good bacteria) that can outnumber cavity-causing bacteria. In addition, it has also been found that yogurt is beneficial to your gums. However, make sure you choose the plain one without the added sugar.

  • Leafy Greens – Everyone knows green, leafy vegetables are good for your body, but did you know they’re also great for your teeth? Several studies show leafy green vegetables like spinach and kale help boost your oral health. They also contain calcium to help build stronger teeth.  

  • Apples – Although the American Dental Association discourages you from consuming anything sweet, there are exceptions to the rule. Apples are sweet, but you are allowed to indulge guiltlessly because it’s a fruit high in water and fiber. Chewing an apple also increases saliva production, which helps rinse bacteria away.
Woman eating an apple recommended by a dentist in Tamarac

See a Dentist in Tamarac for More Tips

By making smart food choices, you can help protect your teeth from decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems and ensure that you have a bright, healthy smile for years to come. At TLC Dental, we offer dental treatments and provide patient education to help you better care for your oral health. Contact us for an appointment.

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What Are the Steps Involved in Professional Teeth Cleaning?

March 13, 2023

Professional teeth cleaning in Hollywood, FL, is an integral aspect of oral hygiene and overall health. Regular cleaning helps remove plaque and tartar, which are responsible for causing cavities and periodontal disease.  

It's also an opportunity to identify early signs of oral health issues, such as tooth decay and gum disease before they become more serious. If you've ever had your teeth cleaned at a dental office, you probably have no idea what the procedure involves. This blog is dedicated to briefly discussing the steps during teeth cleaning.

Dentist performing a teeth cleaning in hollywood fl

Steps in Professional Teeth Cleaning

Oral Exam  

Before your dentist gets into cleaning, you’ll undergo an extensive oral exam. During an oral exam, you’ll be asked to open your mouth wide so your dentist can check your teeth and gums for signs of problems.  

Digital X-rays

For patients who haven’t had their teeth cleaned for more than six months, sometimes the dentist recommends taking a digital X-ray of the mouth to check for teeth movement, bone loss, cysts, tooth decay, and gum disease. The information obtained from your x-ray will be used to make your treatment plan.  

Removing Plaque and Tartar

Using a concave mirror, your dentist will use a special tool known as a scaler to scrape away plaque and tartar from your teeth gently. A manual scaler removes small amounts of tartar, but for large tartar deposits, your dentist will opt for an ultrasonic scaler. By combining gentle vibration with water, large amounts of tartar can be removed effectively.

Polishing

Once all the plaque and tartar are removed, your dentist will polish your teeth using a high-powered brush and gritty toothpaste.  

Flossing

Part of the cleaning process is flossing your teeth to remove plaque and bacteria accumulated in the tiny spaces between your teeth.  

Final Examination

Last but not least, your dentist will evaluate your teeth to check for alignment, gum disease, and grinding issues. Some dentists may also perform oral cancer screening.

Patient getting a teeth cleaning in hollywood fl

Are You Due for Teeth Cleaning in Hollywood, FL?  

Has it been six months since you last had your teeth cleaned? At TLC Dental, we offer comprehensive oral exams and teeth cleanings at an affordable price. We strive to create a relaxing environment to keep you comfortable. Contact us to request a reservation.

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First Orthodontic Visit: What to Expect

March 10, 2023

When are you supposed to see an orthodontist in North Lauderdale? Not everyone needs to see an orthodontist, but your general dentist may refer you to one if your dental issues require specialized care. An orthodontist is a dentist specializing in diagnosing and treating crooked teeth and misaligned jaws. Orthodontics uses fixed and removable devices like retainers, aligners, and braces to change the position of your teeth. Here’s what to expect during your first orthodontic visit.

Man holding teeth mold with braces during an orthodontist visit in North Lauderdale

The First Orthodontic Appointment: How Does It Go?  

1. Dental History

On your first appointment, your orthodontist will ask you about your medical and dental history. You may be asked to fill out forms. Answer them honestly, and do not withhold information from your orthodontist. All the information obtained from your interview and medical records are considered when designing your treatment plan.

2. Oral Exam

After the consultation, your orthodontist will visually examine your mouth in a comprehensive oral examination to check for any issues that were not included in your records. For example, a cavity that developed after your last dental visit. It’s critical to address these issues before starting your treatment.

3. Treatment Plan


The next step is to produce an initial treatment plan. The plan may include procedures that address your existing dental issues like cavities or gum disease. These problems must be treated first before your braces are put on.

4. Question and Answers  

Your orthodontist will present options that are appropriate to your case. Once you’ve decided on a dental appliance, your orthodontist will encourage you to ask questions. Take this opportunity to learn what you can expect during the treatment, how much you’ll be paying, and how long the treatment will last.  

Smiling patient with braces at the orthodontist in North Lauderdale

See an Orthodontist in North Lauderdale for a Consultation

If you want to correct crooked teeth or a misaligned bite, you’re welcome in our dental office. At TLC Dental, we offer various treatments to create lasting smiles. Our team uses the latest systems, technology, and methods to boost your oral health. Contact us to request an appointment.

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Is It Too Late to Get Braces?

March 6, 2023

You’re in your late 30s, and you decide to finally see an orthodontist in Ft. Lauderdale for consultation because you have had enough of your crooked teeth and low self-esteem. But you’re unsure if your age fits the criteria for orthodontic treatment.  

Are you too old for braces? Is age a limiting factor for orthodontic treatment? Braces are indeed more common in children and teens, but orthodontic experts say adults can also wear them. No matter how old you are, now is the best time to get braces!

Patient getting her braces checked at the orthodontist in Ft. Lauderdale

How Old Is Too Old for Braces?

Set An Appointment

To kickstart your journey towards achieving a straight smile, we recommend you set an appointment for a consultation so that your orthodontist can thoroughly evaluate your teeth and determine what type of treatment is ideal for your situation. During the consultation, your orthodontist will ask questions about your oral health, lifestyle habits, and dental goals. From there, a treatment plan is made.  

Know Your Options

Your orthodontist will present you with various options based on your case. Some of your options include traditional metal braces and ceramic braces.

  • Traditional metal braces – The most popular type is stainless steel. Traditional metal braces consist of small square brackets cemented into each tooth. Arch wires run along the brackets and span the width of your teeth. They are more popular among teens.  
  • Ceramic Braces – Ceramic braces are ideal for adults who want a more inconspicuous design. The components are similar to metal braces except that the material is made of ceramic and has more or less the same color as your teeth, making them less noticeable.
Smiling patient with braces at the orthodontist in ft. Lauderdale

See an Orthodontist in Ft. Lauderdale

Want to learn more about braces? At TLC Dental, we provide our patients with tailored treatment plans that are convenient, effective, and affordable. Our team has years of experience in the industry to provide you with the best care. Contact us to request an appointment.

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How Do I Choose My Braces?

February 27, 2023

A variety of orthodontic treatments are available to fix crooked teeth. The most popular braces in Coral Springs are traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, and clear aligners. The decision can be difficult if you qualify for all three types. That's why we've come up with a brief description of each type so you can choose which may work best for you.

close-up of braces in Coral Springs

What Braces Are Right for Me?

Traditional Metal Braces  

The most common type of braces is traditional metal braces. People prefer them because they’re effective and can treat even the most severe orthodontic cases despite how bulky and uncomfortable they are. Metal braces have brackets attached to each tooth while arch wires run across them. Unlike clear aligners, metal braces are cemented into place and will only be removed once your treatment is over.    

Ceramic Braces

The biggest difference between ceramic and metal braces is that ceramic braces are more discreet because of the color of the material used. It’s a great option for those not qualified for clear aligners and are looking for a less visible way of straightening their teeth. As for cost, ceramic braces are more expensive than metal braces but more affordable than clear aligners.  

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are removable trays uniquely designed to move your teeth until they are properly aligned. Since they are removable, you must be disciplined to put them back on after eating or brushing. This treatment is ideal for mild to moderate dental issues but not for complex cases.  

invisalign instead of braces in Coral Springs

Do You Have More Questions About Braces in Coral Springs?

If you require more information about your options, feel free to call us. At TLC Dental, we strive to provide you with the best care. We offer an extensive array of dental treatments designed to help improve your smile and oral health. Contact us for a reservation.  

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How Do Cavities Develop?

February 24, 2023

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cavities are more prevalent than you thought. Among adolescents between 12 to 19 years old, 57% have had a cavity, while 90% of adults older than 20 have at least one cavity. The only person authorized to treat cavities is a dentist in 33020. What are cavities, and how do they develop?  

dentist in 33020 checks patient's cracked tooth

Understanding Cavities  

What Are Cavities and How Do They Form?  

Cavities, also known as tooth decay or caries, are tiny, permanent craters that develop on the hard surface of your teeth due to dental plaque and oral bacteria. The bacteria, which are normally present in the mouth, produce acid that eats away at the enamel and dentin of the teeth, creating cavities.    

If left untreated, cavities can lead to tooth pain, infection, and even tooth loss. They are most commonly caused by poor oral hygiene and a diet high in sugar and other refined carbohydrates.  

How Do Dentists Treat Cavities?  

Dentists typically treat cavities by removing the decayed parts of the tooth and filling the area with a material such as composite resin, amalgam, or glass ionomer. The treatment depends on the size, severity, location of the cavity, and the patient's preferences.

  • A dental filling is the most common treatment for cavities. The dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic and then use a drilling tool to remove the decayed portion of the tooth. The cleaned-out space is then filled with a material such as composite resin, amalgam, or glass ionomer.
  • Inlays or onlays are used when a cavity is too large to be filled with a regular filling. They are custom-made in a dental laboratory, and your dentist cements them into the tooth.
  • Crowns, or caps, are recommended when a cavity is too large that it threatens the structural integrity of the tooth. Your dentist will numb the area, remove the decay, and shape the remaining tooth to fit a crown. The artificial crown is then placed over the prepared tooth and cemented in place.
woman with severe tooth decay goes to a dentist in 33020

Looking for a Dentist in 33020?  

If you think you have cavities or your tooth is starting to hurt, we can examine your mouth and prepare a tailored treatment plan to restore your smile and oral function. At TLC Dental, we offer a wide range of restorative dental treatments that are easy on the budget. Contact us for a reservation.

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Braces and Dental Hygiene

February 22, 2023

Everyone is familiar with the obtrusive design of traditional braces in Tamarac. While the design makes it highly effective, unfortunately, it’s also one of the reasons you could get tooth decay or gum disease. To. To keep your mouth healthy while on treatment, we suggest you learn the appropriate techniques and build skills to clean your teeth and gums.    

dentist who specializes in braces in Tamarac holds a teeth model

Cleaning Teeth With Braces  

Get the Necessary Tools  

Before you start, ensure you have everything you need for your oral care routine. A typical at-home oral care routine consists of a toothbrush, toothpaste, and a floss or floss threader. The toothbrush should be small enough to reach the nooks and crannies and the tiny spaces between your teeth and braces. The toothbrush should have soft nylon bristles.    

Keeping Your Teeth Clean

When brushing, angle the bristles of your toothbrush at the top portion of your bracket and aim for the tooth. Use small back-and-forth strokes as you gently brush the brackets of every quadrant.    

Don’t forget to include the teeth at the back of your mouth and your tongue, as these areas are prone to harbor plaque and bacteria. Be gentle on your gums and use circular strokes when cleaning them.    

Flossing is just as important. The technique used to floss with or without braces is the same except for one thing – you must use a threader to clean under the archwire and between your teeth. Most people find a floss threader to be easier compared to conventional floss. If flossing is challenging, you may ask your orthodontist for assistance.    

patient is done with braces in Tamarac

Do You Have Questions About Braces in Tamarac?  

It can be overwhelming at first, but you’ll get used to the habit over time. What’s important is you start your oral care right to avoid oral health problems and delays in your treatment. At TLC Dental, we offer a wide range of dental treatments to help improve your oral health. Contact us for a reservation.  

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Invisalign® Aligners: Care and Maintenance

February 20, 2023

Are you ready to hear some good news? You don’t have to wear uncomfortable, rough metal braces to straighten your teeth. With Invisalign® in Coral Springs, you can say goodbye to painful canker sores that form inside your lips and cheeks, resulting from the brackets irritating your oral mucosa. This unique orthodontic treatment can help align your teeth and improve your bite through clear aligner trays. The best part is they are easy to maintain. Here’s how to care for your Invisalign® aligners.

Invisalign coral springs

Caring for Invisalign

Clean Your Trays Daily

Cleaning your aligners is paramount. To make it easier to remember, we suggest you clean your trays every time you brush your teeth. You may use toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove dirt and other food debris from your aligners. Regular cleaning is vital to prevent bacteria and plaque from forming.  

Don’t Use Harsh Products

Talk to your orthodontist about what products are acceptable when cleaning your aligners. Some products contain harsh and abrasive ingredients that can affect the invisibility of your aligners.  

Remove Aligners When Eating

One major advantage of Invisalign is you get to remove them when eating. But make sure you put them back on once you’re done brushing your teeth for the treatment to be effective. You need to remove your Invisalign trays to avoid staining or damaging them. The only drink you can have while wearing aligners is water.

Get an Invisalign Case

We recommend our patients invest in an Invisalign case. So that if you take them out when eating or brushing your teeth, they’re kept safe. Some patients who wrap their trays in tissue accidentally throw them away. To be sure, keep them in a safe case.  

woman smiling and caring for her Invisalign coral springs

 

Find Out How to Care for Invisalign in Coral Springs

Are you interested in learning more tips on caring for your Invisalign trays? We can help. At TLC Dental, we offer a wide range of affordable and personalized dental treatments that can help improve your smile and boost your oral health. Contact us for a reservation.

*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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Can I Get My Braces Removed Early if I Want To?

February 20, 2023

If your teeth are crooked or crowded, you need braces in Hollywood to correct your smile. The average treatment time for braces is about two years, but this can vary depending on the severity of your orthodontic problem.    

Some patients are lucky to have their braces early, while some must wait up to three years before they can have theirs taken out. The bottom line is that you can’t have your braces removed unless your orthodontist says so. What happens if you insist on removing them?    

patient is about to get braces in Hollywood

What Are the Consequences of Removing My Braces Early?  

You can have them removed if you insist, but your orthodontist will likely discourage you from doing so. Removing your braces early can lead to a relapse, cause improper positioning of your teeth, and put you at risk of other oral health complications.  

If you don’t complete your treatment, you only waste time, money, and effort. Typically, you will be asked to sign a form stating you wanted them removed early and accept the risks and potential problems with it.    

Can You Get Your Braces Off Early?  

During your consultations, your orthodontist will give you an estimated timeline of how long your treatment will take. But you can complete it early if you diligently visit the dental office for braces adjustments and follow proper dental hygiene practices.    

patient undergo checkup of her braces in Hollywood

Do You Have More Questions About Braces in Hollywood?  

As Tiger Woods would say, there are no shortcuts to success. If you are determined to get the smile you’ve always desired, you must listen to your orthodontist’s advice and wait until your teeth are properly positioned. At TLC Dental, we offer various dental treatments for your needs. Our staff has years of training and skills to provide you with the best care. Contact us to request a reservation.  

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Why Aren't My Braces Working?

February 6, 2023

A straightforward solution to straightening crooked teeth and closing tooth gaps are braces in North Lauderdale. Braces have been around for a long time, and they are proven safe and effective in treating a wide range of orthodontic issues. However, it is possible that your teeth may not move, and some gaps may not close. Most of the time, it comes down to one of the following reasons.

patient with braces in North Lauderdale smiles

My Braces Don’t Seem to Be Working  

Your Teeth  

One of the most common reasons your teeth aren’t closing up is because of the position, shape, and size of your teeth. Your tooth could be way too small to fit the space. In such a case, your orthodontist may recommend reshaping your tooth or resizing it to fill the gap appropriately.    

Another problem is the position of your teeth. It’s possible that they could be angled oddly, or the roots of two adjacent teeth are already in contact with each other preventing the crowns from coming together.    

Surrounding Structures  

If your teeth are not the problem, then it could be the structures surrounding them. Some factors that could stop the spaces from closing are thick gum tissues between the teeth, tongue posturing problems, ligament problems, and cysts that grow between tooth roots.    

Your Bite  

If your teeth and surrounding structures are normal, it’s probably your bite. Spaces can develop when the lower front teeth push against the back of the upper front teeth. Some patients can have a wedge inside a tooth gaps preventing it from closing.  

dentist allows patient to check her braces in North Lauderdale

Do You Need Braces in North Lauderdale?  

For your braces to work, your orthodontist will make sure that they are placed after thoroughly evaluating your teeth and bite and providing you with the appropriate treatment. TLC Dental offers affordable orthodontic treatments to restore your smile and oral health. Contact us to request a reservation.  

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