Blog

What Orthodontic Problem Do You Have?

December 19, 2022

You know you have orthodontic problems when your dentist refers you to an orthodontist in South Florida. Orthodontic issues can affect anyone at any age.  

It is possible to develop orthodontic problems even if you had braces as a child since chewing and biting forces can gradually move your teeth out of alignment. The good news is that it doesn't matter how your teeth are positioned because there is a solution to every problem.  

crooked teeth that only an orthodontist in South Florida can fix

The Most Common Orthodontic Problems  

Abnormal Eruption

You'll need orthodontic treatment if a tooth erupts in the wrong place. Also, suppose a tooth is blocked from fully emerging, like in the case of an impaction. In that case, your orthodontist may suggest a minor surgical operation to expose the tooth before starting treatment.  

Crossbite

A crossbite is a misalignment issue wherein the upper teeth settle inside the lower teeth when a person bites instead of outside. The usual cause of crossbites is the misalignment of your upper and lower jaws. Children with crossbites can use a palatal expander to widen their upper jaw; this usually fixes the problem.  

Crowding  

Crowding occurs when there isn't enough space in your jaws to accommodate your teeth. It could be that your jaws might be too small or your teeth too large. Your orthodontist will assess your teeth to determine what procedure is best. Some possible solutions are extracting excess teeth to make room for others, using a palatal expander, or through a minor surgical operation.  

Excessive Spacing

Excessive spacing may result from missing teeth caused by trauma, disease, or abnormal jaw-to-tooth proportions. Too much space can cause nearby teeth to shift out of position; therefore, filling the gaps is vital. Your orthodontist may recommend braces to close the gap.

orthodontists in South Florida check patient's braces

Need to See an Orthodontist in South Florida?

If you are worried about your teeth' unusual alignment, we recommend seeing an orthodontist. Correcting alignment and bite issues will spare you from other oral health complications. TLC Dental offers affordable orthodontic treatments to restore your smile and oral function. Our team has years of experience in providing quality care. Contact us today to learn about your options.

+ Read More

Tips to Make Your Dental Visits Enjoyable

December 16, 2022

Besides losing weight, one of the hardest things to do is see your dentist in Tamarac. If you finally plucked up the courage to drive to the dental office and sit there while you wait for your turn, congratulations!    

Most people prefer to avoid the dentist. Unfortunately, if you keep avoiding your dentist, your oral health will suffer, and at some point, it may get so bad that you’ll need more aggressive and costly treatments. We understand dental anxiety can be uncomfortable, but we have a few tricks up our sleeve that can help make your trips surprisingly comfortable.    

patients shows teeth to a dentist in Tamarac

How to Make Your Dental Visits Fun  

Visit Regularly  

It may seem ironic, but the more you see your dentist, the more familiar you’ll become with your dental care provider, the staff, the environment in the office, and the procedures. Unfamiliarity is one of the reasons why you feel anxious and tense.    

Regular visits also allow you to build rapport with your dentist. During your consultation, ask about the frequency of your visits. These visits will be aligned with your needs and goals.    

Step Up Your Dental Hygiene Game  

People are afraid of the dentist because they are scared of being judged. The reason is that they haven’t been diligent with their oral care routine. If you brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily, you’ll feel confident about seeing your dentist. Also, good oral hygiene helps lower your risk of cavities and gum disease.    

See a Dentist When Something Feels Off  

Did you know that dental issues need to be addressed, no matter small or trivial they may seem? Believe it or not, a small problem can quickly turn serious if left untreated. If you have tooth sensitivity, loose tooth, chips in your tooth, chronic bad breath, or bleeding gums, the more you need to see your dentist to have it checked out.    

patient gives thumbs up while on the dental chair of a dentist in Tamarac

See Our Friendly Dentist in Tamarac  

These tips can make your visits to our clinic more fun! At TLC Dental, we take pride in our friendly and approachable staff. We strive to make our dental office a comfortable and relaxing environment for our patients. Contact us today for an appointment.  

+ Read More

FAQs About Pediatric Sealants

December 14, 2022

Candies and sodas are go-to treats for most kids, so parents must do everything within their reach to protect their children's mouths from dangerous decay. Once dentists in Whittier, NC, clean a child's teeth thoroughly, they apply pediatric sealants as a preventive measure against cavities. Get answers to the most popular questions about these protective coatings to learn how they can change the oral health of your little ones.  

kid's teeth that needs pediatric sealants in Whittier, NC

Five Common Questions About Pediatric Sealants  

What Are the Pediatric Sealants?  

Pediatric sealants are resin layers that protect your child's teeth from cavities. Decay is one of the leading dental problems in the world, affecting over half of American children from six to eight years old. To combat this disease, dentists place sealants on the biting section of your kid's teeth so acidic and harmful substances cannot penetrate enamel and damage more sensitive parts like the pulp or root. After your child gets pediatric sealants, their smile can battle over 80% of bacteria entering their mouth, keeping oral issues at bay.  

What's the Difference Between Sealants and Fillings?  

While sealants and fillings are valuable weapons against cavities, the difference lies in their purpose. A dental professional will use fillings to cover holes that tooth decay has already drilled in your teeth. On the other hand, pediatric sealants stop cavities from hurting your teeth, so dentists will never need to patch up any damage with fillings. Both methods protect your teeth, but fillings restore and sealants prevent.  

patient undergoes dental cleaning after availing pediatric sealants in Whittier, NC

When Can My Child Get Pediatric Sealants?  

Dentists only place sealants over the teeth your child uses to chew, as these are the ones that come into contact with food remains and bacteria the most. These permanent teeth, known as molars, erupt between ages six and 12, which is the ideal time to ask your pediatric dentist for sealants. Letting more time pass increases your child's chances of getting tooth decay, so make sure to ask a dental professional if your children are ready for sealants over their next appointment.  

Are Pediatric Sealants Painful?  

Lucky for your kids, getting pediatric sealants won't hurt in the slightest. After your dentist cleans your kid's teeth, they'll place sealants on the molars and shine a UV light to help the resin harden. Over the first few days after the procedure, children might be able to feel this thin later if they press their tongues against it. Yet, they'll quickly adapt to this new coat without discomfort or pain.  

How Long Do Pediatric Sealants Last?  

When applied by a qualified dentist, sealants can protect your molars for up to a decade. Still, if your child has been binging on sugar or not taking proper care of their teeth, dentists can reapply sealants after cleanings to ensure your kid's smile remains protected. Pediatric sealants can stay in tip-top shape if you teach your children to adopt habits such as:  

adult patient gets pediatric sealants in Whittier, NC

Visit Cataloochee Dental Group If Your Children Need Pediatric Sealants in Whittier, NC  

Choosing pediatric sealants allows your kids to enjoy their childhood without worrying about cavities and tooth decay. At Cataloochee Dental Group, we prioritize your and your family's health. If you want to keep your child's smile bacteria-free, contact us today and book an appointment!

+ Read More

How Often Should You See Your Orthodontist?

December 12, 2022

Everything there is to know about your treatment has been discussed during your consultation. Now that you’re finally on it, what’s the next move? Do you still need to keep seeing your orthodontist in Hollywood? The answer is yes.  

The frequency of your visits depends on the severity of your case, the stage of your treatment, and your dental goals. Don’t worry because your orthodontist will likely give you a schedule of your adjustment appointments. Your goal is not to miss a single one to expedite your treatment.  

orthodontist in Hollywood checks patient's mouth

Orthodontic Visits: Your Handy Guide  

How Often Should You See Your Orthodontist?  

Whether you choose traditional metal braces or clear aligners, part of the journey is visiting your orthodontist regularly. If you opt for traditional metal braces, you can expect to see your orthodontist every four to eight weeks.    

The reasons for these visits are for your orthodontist to check your teeth and see if they are moving according to plan. They will also replace wires, tighten brackets, and make other adjustments.    

For clear aligner wearers, you’ll need to return to the dental office every four to six weeks. Again, the reason is to track the progress of your smile and dispense a new set of aligners as part of the plan.  

Do You Still Need an Appointment for Other Treatments?  

Since every patient is different, it’s important to mention that not all orthodontic treatments involve clear aligners and metal braces. Some patients require expanders and headgear to address bite and jaw problems. These treatments may require regular dental appointments so that your orthodontist can check if any adjustments are necessary.    

patient smiles back at orthodontist in Hollywood

Visit Your Orthodontist in Hollywood  

Orthodontic treatment requires commitment and sacrifice but don’t worry because once your treatment is over, you can enjoy a youthful, vibrant, beautiful, and healthy smile. At TLC Dental, we strive to provide you with the best dental care with our wide array of affordable treatments. Get in touch with our team to request a reservation.

+ Read More

How to Know If You Need to Visit Your Dentist

December 12, 2022

Many people believe dental visits are only necessary when an emergency occurs. As a result, nearly 50% of the American population skipped dental visits in 2021. This bleak situation creates the perfect breeding ground for bacteria to cause dental problems. If you haven’t visited your dentist in Whittier, NC, in a while, try asking yourself some questions to determine if it’s time to give them a call.  

man has a toothache and needs to visit a dentist in Whittier, NC

Answer These Questions to Know If You Need a Dentist Visit  

When Was My Last Visit?  

Not remembering the last time you saw your dentist is a red flag. The golden rule of dental visits is to schedule them at least once every six months. A professional should give you an oral examination and cleaning to rid your smile of any potential issues like tooth decay. If you check your schedule and see no signs of previous dental check-ups, you should book an appointment right away.  

How Do My Teeth Look?  

If you cannot tell when you last visited your dentist, you can look at your teeth in the mirror and find out if a professional should check them out. Since your pearly whites are porous substances, many harmful or tarnishing substances stick to them when they absorb nutrients. When time passes, and your dentist doesn’t clean your teeth, your smile becomes yellow and worn-out, increasing your chances of getting cavities. Even when you can get a white smile by learning how to properly care for your teeth at home, stains, spots, or unappealing shades are signs a dental visit is long overdue.  

dentist in Whittier, NC checks patient's teeth

How Are My Gums?  

Your gums can also give away if it’s high time you see your dentist. Lack of proper oral habits, such as overbrushing or using a hard-bristle toothbrush, can cause plaque and tartar build-ups around your teeth, making your gums recede, swell, and bleed. Not only does this situation produce tooth sensitivity, but it also exposes your tooth pulp and root to dangerous substances. You can prevent this condition, known as gum disease, by visiting your dentist more often and learning the best way to keep your smile healthy and clean.  

Do My Teeth Hurt?  

Sometimes, even the most attractive smiles and gums hide excruciating tooth pain and ask for a dentist visit. When your teeth have been exposed to harmful bacteria, they erode tooth enamel and reach more sensitive tissue, causing discomfort and soreness. If you pay no mind to this issue, you give bacteria a free pass to wreak more havoc in your mouth and cause more severe dental problems. You should book an appointment as soon as your teeth itch or hurt.  

Does My Breath Smell?  

Finally, your breath is a noticeable indicator your oral health is at risk, and you require a dentist visit. When bacteria accumulate around your teeth and gums, especially those from certain foods, they produce foul odors that will affect your confidence and distance you from others. Give your breath a whiff, and call a dental professional when it’s not fresh.  

dentist in Whittier, NC records patient's dental history

Looking for a Top-Quality Dentist in Whittier, NC?  

Your teeth, gums, and tongue can easily tell you if your smile could use the expert hands of a dentist, and leaving them unattended can risk your oral and overall health. If, after answering some questions, you realize only a professional can save your teeth, our team has you covered. Contact us today to book an appointment and get the smile you deserve!

+ Read More

Key Facts Your Orthodontist Wants You to Know

December 7, 2022

Every year, hundreds of patients seek professional help from an orthodontist in North Lauderdale to help them achieve their best smiles. Despite the popularity of braces, many people have yet to learn about orthodontics.    

While the internet can be a great place to get information, it’s also an unsafe avenue for misinformation. If you want to get facts, head to your orthodontist for a consultation. The following are interesting facts about orthodontic care.  

kid shows dental tools to an orthodontist in North Lauderdale

Vital Facts You’ll Learn From Your Orthodontist  

#1 Braces Can Do More Than Just Give You Beautiful Smiles  

One of the reasons why patients want to get treatment is because they want to make their smiles more attractive. What they don’t know is that orthodontics offers numerous benefits beyond aesthetics.    

Did you know that when your crooked teeth are corrected, they are easier to clean? Properly aligned teeth lower your risk of cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease. Furthermore, orthodontics can address jaw misalignment issues improving your chewing, speaking, and overall quality of life.    

#2 Your Orthodontist Knows if You Haven’t Been Wearing Your Clear Aligners  

Today, patients can straighten their teeth more discreetly through clear aligners. Clear aligners are gaining popularity because of their ability to straighten your teeth without the need for rough brackets and wires.    

But, for the treatment to be effective, you must wear them as instructed. Unfortunately, some patients don’t wear them diligently. You can’t lie because your orthodontist will know if you haven’t been wearing them.    

kid points to braces and while showing it to an orthodontist in North Lauderdale

See an Orthodontist in North Lauderdale  

If you want your orthodontic treatment to be successful, you must do your part. Learning about the facts and applying them to your life can make your journey easy and fun. At TLC Dental, we will work closely with you to help craft the smile you’ve always wanted. We offer various orthodontic treatments that will fit your needs. Contact us today to request a reservation.  

+ Read More

What Foods Affect Your Child’s Oral Health?

December 5, 2022

Childrens dentist in Fort Lauderdale encourages parents to be more mindful of their food preparation. Did you know that what you feed your kids can affect their oral health? Most parents are focused on taste that they forget to check if the meals are good or bad for their child’s teeth.    

To keep your child’s oral health in excellent shape, you must prepare a well-balanced nutritional diet. Healthy eating habits and daily brushing and flossing are necessary to promote overall health and protect your child’s teeth against cavities and gums from periodontal disease.    

Childrens dentist in Fort Lauderdale shows decayed teeth

Food Choices: What’s Healthy and What’s Not

Foods That Promote Healthy Teeth  

Some foods help keep your teeth clean and strong and protect against tooth decay. Meanwhile, certain foods can also feed oral bacteria prompting them to erode your teeth and cause damage. Examples of foods that are good for your child’s teeth are the following:  

  • Raw fruits and vegetables. Apples, carrots, celery, cucumbers, melons, and pears help remove bacteria from the teeth because of their crunchy texture. Furthermore, these foods stimulate saliva production to wash away bacteria and food debris that cling to your child’s teeth.  
  • Green leafy vegetables. Try adding kale, spinach, and other leafy greens to their meals. Leafy greens are high in calcium and contain essential vitamins and minerals that strengthen the enamel.  
  • Calcium-rich foods such as yogurt, milk, low-fat cheese, and broccoli are rich in calcium that keeps teeth strong. Cheese also increases the pH level in your child’s mouth, lowering their risk of developing cavities. Yogurt contains probiotics and proteins that fight against cavity-causing bacteria.    

Food and Drinks To Minimize

  • Sweet juices. Sweet beverages are popular with children, but you should limit their consumption because sugars from sodas and juices can weaken the enamel on their teeth. Instead, train your child to drink at least eight glasses of water a day.  
  • Starchy, sugary, and high-carb snacks. Did you know snacking on chips, cookies, candies, and cakes can instigate the tooth decay process? As much as possible, limit their consumption of anything that contains sugar.  
tooth and toothbrush by Childrens dentist in Fort Lauderdale

Looking For A Reliable Childrens Dentist in Fort Lauderdale?  

As parents, you should encourage your children to develop healthy eating habits and teach them proper brushing and flossing techniques. Furthermore, encourage them to visit the dentist regularly. At TLC Dental, we offer a wide array of dental services to help promote good oral health. We are happy to answer if you have questions about food choices. Contact us today to request a reservation.

+ Read More

How Your Lifestyle Impacts Your Oral Health

November 21, 2022

When you think of a healthy lifestyle, what initially comes to mind? Is it diet or perhaps exercise? Did it ever occur to you that visiting your family dentist in South Florida is part of it? While following a healthy diet and working out as much as you can help keep your body healthy, you must also pay enough attention to your oral health. Studies show that your oral health is directly linked to your overall health. To protect your body, you must ensure that your mouth is disease-free.    

patient smiles at family dentist in South Florida

What Unhealthy Lifestyle Habits Can Affect Your Oral Health?  

Smoking  

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 30.8 million American adults are smoking cigarettes. Research shows that smoking can stain and discolor your teeth because of the tar and nicotine in cigarettes. However, discoloration is not the only thing you should worry about. Smoking has also been linked to tooth loss, decreased blood flow to the gums and teeth, and oral cancer.    

Alcohol    

Alcohol is one of the major contributors to premature enamel erosion. Besides the acids and sugars in alcoholic drinks, people who drink too much usually go straight to bed, forgetting to brush their teeth. This leaves their vulnerable teeth exposed to harmful acids, increasing their risk of tooth decay.    

Stress  

Stress is the root cause of almost all diseases, so it’s essential to learn how to manage it. It has been found that stress can lead to teeth and gum problems. Some people even develop cold ulcers and mouth ulcers because of it.    

Another issue linked to stress is teeth grinding. Certain people unconsciously grind and clench their teeth as a stress coping mechanism. Unfortunately, if left untreated, it can develop into TMD or TMJ disorder (Temporomandibular disorder).

family dentist in South Florida

Schedule an Appointment with Your Family Dentist in South Florida  

If you want to learn lifestyle habits that can improve your oral health, we can help. At TLC Dental, we are proud to offer dental services and patient education so you can maintain good oral health while you’re at home. Contact us today to book an appointment.

+ Read More

Famous Stars Who Have Had Braces

November 21, 2022

Whenever you see celebrities sporting perfectly flawless smiles, don’t be fooled, because many of them had cosmetic work done. To achieve the perfect teeth alignment, these celebrities had to wear braces. Not everyone is lucky enough to be born with perfect teeth. But don’t worry, because there is hope in the form of braces in Hollywood, and these celebrities are living proof that braces can miraculously change your appearance.    

retainer and braces in Hollywood

Celebrities Who Used Braces to Achieve Beautiful Smiles  

Angeline Jolie  

Angelina Jolie is a famous actress and filmmaker who has received several accolades, including the Golden Globe Award and the Academy Award. She’s also been named one of Hollywood’s highest-paid actresses. And while these awards can be owed to her talent, you can’t deny that her bedazzling smile helped a little.  

Emma Watson  

Emma Watson’s smile is immaculate, but she wasn’t born with it. She had to wear braces to fix her crooked teeth. Tabloids show that she had them on between the third and fourth Harry Potter movies.    

Jaden and Willow Smith  

During their teen years, megastars Jaden and Willow Smith underwent orthodontic treatment, specifically traditional metal braces. All the sacrifices they had to go through paid off because their smiles look undeniably gorgeous.  

Kendall Jenner  

You can instantly spot Kendall if you’ve been following the famous Kardashians clan on social media. Kendall stands out because of her supermodel figure. But besides her svelte and perfect body, one of the things people (and paparazzi) love about her is her bright and beaming smile. Kendal wore braces when she was still 13 years old but had them removed as she switched to invisible braces.    

sisters with braces in Hollywood

Get Your Braces in Hollywood!  

Your teeth may not look stunning now, but once you complete your orthodontic treatment, you’ll be happy you had braces. At TLC Dental, we offer affordable orthodontic treatment that can give you the smile of your dreams while improving your oral health. Contact us today for a reservation.

+ Read More

Why Crooked Teeth Are a Concern

November 18, 2022

Why spend money on braces in Coral Springs and endure the discomfort when everyone who matters accepts you for who you are? Unfortunately, orthodontists are saying otherwise.    

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, teeth misalignment is not just an aesthetic concern but can pose health problems. Let’s find out what problems can arise from having crooked teeth.    

teeth with or without braces in Coral Springs

Health Consequences of Crooked Teeth  

You Become Susceptible to Gum Disease  

People with crooked teeth are twice as likely to develop gum disease than those with straight teeth because crooked teeth are more difficult to clean.    

Even if the effort is there, you won’t be able to efficiently clean the spaces between your teeth, especially the areas along the gumline. When plaque and tartar are allowed to accumulate, they can start irritating your gum tissues leading to inflammation and eventually resulting in gum infection.  

Your Teeth Wear Out Faster  

Did you know that crooked teeth wear out faster? For example, if your lower teeth are crooked, several of your teeth could protrude and rub against your upper teeth.    

It may not be a problem with you now, but over time, as your enamel continues to rub against each other, the protective outer layer of your teeth can prematurely wear out, putting you susceptible to cavities and tooth abscesses.    

Bad Breath Is a Possibility

Bacteria and plaque lodge in your teeth if you cannot clean them properly due to misalignment. You'll have bad breath if you can’t get all the bacteria out. The only way to solve this problem is to fix the misalignment with braces.  

removal of braces in Coral Springs

Braces in Coral Springs Are the Solution for Crooked Teeth

Say goodbye to crooked teeth with our affordable orthodontic dental care treatments. At TLC Dental, we offer a wide array of dental services tailored to your needs to create a healthy and beautiful smile. Contact us today for an appointment.  

+ Read More

Request a

Reservation

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.