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Holiday Oral Health Tips for Braces Wearers

December 25, 2021

What are you looking forward to this holiday season? You don’t have to tell us; we know what’s on your mind – FOOD! Christmas is all about the turkey and the trimmings, the cakes, and the pies. It’s easy to forget about your oral health when you’re having a good time, but if you don’t want to suffer the consequences, you should be aware of what you’re eating, especially if you are wearing braces in North Lauderdale.

Did you know that braces wearers are more prone to tooth decay and gum disease? That’s because the brackets and wires make it hard to keep your teeth clean. So, to help protect your oral health this season, we’ve come up with two easy-to-follow tips.

Closeup of a woman smiling and brushing her teeth wearing braces in North Lauderdale

 

Oral Health Tips for Christmas

Don’t Go to Bed Without Brushing and Flossing

All that partying, laughing, and dancing will surely deplete your energy, but save some for later since you’ll be brushing and flossing your teeth before retiring to bed. Plaque can turn into tartar in just a matter of hours if you don’t remove them.

So, brush your teeth for two minutes, and don’t forget to floss in between. Flossing with braces can be pretty challenging, but with practice, you’ll get the hang of it.

Resist The Temptation

Sugary drinks and starchy food will surely be all over the place and while it’s okay to enjoy yourself, just make sure you don’t go overboard. If possible, rinse your mouth with water after enjoying sugar-laden treats to prevent cavities and tooth decay.

Frosted cupcakes to avoid when wearing braces in North Lauderdale

 

Do You Want to Learn More Tips Regarding Braces in North Lauderdale Care?

If you want to learn more about keeping your teeth in great shape while wearing braces, we’re here for you. At TLC Dental & Orthodontics, we are committed to enhancing the quality of life while restoring self-assurance, rebuilding confident smiles, and encouraging dental and medical wellness. Call us today for an appointment.

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How to Prepare Yourself Mentally for Dental Implant Surgery

December 22, 2021

There’s no question dental implants in South Florida are the best option when it comes to replacing missing teeth. But since the procedure involves surgery, many people are reluctant to push through with it.

Concerns of pain, safety, and risks are in question. Preparing for the surgery can make you feel nervous and tense. In fact, many back out at the last minute because of fear. Don’t let fear rob you of a beautiful smile. Here’s how to prepare for dental implant surgery.

oral surgeon holding a model of Dental Implants South Florida

Tips on How to Mentally Prepare Yourself for Dental Implant Placement  

Ask as Many Questions as You Want

One of the reasons people are scared is the lack of information. They'll think of the worst when they don’t know what to expect. So besides doing your research, we suggest you ask your dentist questions.

Don’t feel embarrassed. Ask as many questions as you want until you feel secure. The more information you know, the more assured you’ll be.  

Prepare Yourself for Recovery  

Surgery is one thing, while recovery is another. Most people get tense and anxious because they didn’t prepare ahead of time. Make sure you schedule and plan everything to rest well and recover fast post-op.

Assign a loved one to drive you home after surgery, ask for days off work to rest, and fill your pantry and fridge with soft foods like yogurt and smoothies since you’ll be on a soft diet for a few days.

patient listening to a discussion about Dental Implants South Florida

Are You Ready to Get Dental Implants in South Florida?

Getting dental implants may sound scary, but when you know what to expect and prepare ahead of time, you’ll be mentally ready to go through with the procedure!  

At TLC Dental & Orthodontics, we provide superior quality dental services guaranteed to restore your self-esteem, rebuild your smile, and improve your dental wellness. Call us today for an appointment.

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Braces Pain: What to Expect 

December 20, 2021

If there is one thing braces are notoriously known for, it is none other than the pain associated with the chunky metal wires and brackets. We’re not going to lie, braces in Hollywood can be uncomfortable to wear, but they don’t always hurt. Unfortunately, most people think that once the braces are on, they’re going to hurt from day one until your orthodontist takes them off – completely false! So, we’ll set the record straight and enlighten you about what to expect.

Traditional Braces in Hollywood

Facts About Pain from Braces

Braces Placement 

Applying the brackets and wires to your teeth will typically cause some pressure, and you will experience some discomfort for the next few hours. The discomfort is owed to your mouth adjusting to the rough metal brackets attached to your teeth. 

It may also be quite challenging to chew food during the first few days. Therefore, we recommend sticking to a soft diet like yogurt, soups, smoothies, shakes, lasagna, and mashed potatoes.  

Three Days After Placement 

This period may still feel uncomfortable for you since your teeth are gradually shifting, a sensation you haven’t experienced before. The alignment process can cause some pain, but don’t worry – it’s tolerable. If it bothers you, you can take over-the-counter painkillers like Advil or Motrin. Rinsing with a warm saline solution also helps with the soreness.

Dential Braces in Hollywood

Do You Have More Questions About Braces in Hollywood? 

There are ways to help ease the discomfort. Besides, no one would be wearing braces if it were that painful. But, if you want to learn more, our doors are open.   

At TLC Dental & Orthodontics, we offer affordable and customized dental services to help improve your smile and oral function. Our team has the skills and knowledge to boost your oral health. Call today for an appointment.

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What You Need to Know About Inlays and Onlays

December 16, 2021

What are cavities? Millions of Americans suffer from cavities every year. Cavities are holes in your teeth that result from decay. When bacteria in plaque release acids, they will wear your teeth down and create pits and holes on your enamel. Both children and adults can get cavities, but they can be prevented with regular brushing, flossing, and professional teeth cleanings. But what happens if you already have them? Sometimes, your dentist in Tamarac will recommend inlays and onlays to treat cavities.  

Dentist Tamarac checking patient's teeth

What Makes Inlays Different from Onlays?  

What Are Inlays?  

Your back teeth have a much wider surface than your front teeth, and the crevices are deeper, making it easy for plaque to get trapped and cause cavities. Unfortunately, conventional dental fillings aren’t enough to restore the cavities of your back teeth.  

Most dentists recommend inlays. Inlays retain healthy parts of your teeth and keep them intact. In addition, through inlays, root canals and extractions can be avoided.

What Are Onlays?

Onlays are quite like inlays, but the notable difference between the two is the size. Onlays are relatively larger. They are the ideal option for people who have decay in the center of the chewing surface of their teeth or if the cavities affect one or more tooth cusps. In terms of cost, they are pricier since they cover a larger area of decay. The process for both is the same.

Dentist Tamarac applying curing light on patient's teeth

Are You Looking for a Dentist in Tamarac?

If you want to know more about dental fillings, inlays, and onlays, we’ll be happy to discuss them with you. At TLC Dental & Orthodontics, we are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life while restoring self-assurance, rebuilding confident smiles, and encouraging both dental and medical wellness. Call us today to learn more about our services.

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Is It Time to See an Orthodontist? 

December 13, 2021

If your dentist suggested that you see an orthodontist in North Lauderdale, trust that it’s for a good reason. Dentists won’t make recommendations unless they’re necessary. Orthodontists are dental health professionals specializing in correcting teeth misalignment, bite issues, and jaw problems. 

Interestingly, orthodontic treatment isn’t just concerned with giving you a beautiful smile, although that’s one of the benefits. The main reason why orthodontic issues must be addressed is that they can lead to far more complex oral problems down the road.

Dental work by an Orthodontist in North Lauderdale

Why Do You Need to See an Orthodontist?

Your Teeth Are Misaligned 

If you don’t belong to the lucky few who are born with perfectly aligned teeth, then yes, you do need to see an orthodontist. Crooked teeth will not only negatively impact your smile. They also predispose you to oral health problems like tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease because they are more complicated and more challenging to clean. Talk to your orthodontist about your options. 

Overcrowded Teeth 

Did you know that some people have too many teeth in their mouths? Unfortunately, this can lead to overcrowding. Just like teeth misalignment, overcrowded teeth are also harder to clean, resulting in plaque buildup, and everyone knows that plaque is the culprit of tooth decay, cavities, and gum problems. 

Your orthodontist can address overcrowding by extracting some of your teeth and offering you teeth straightening options like braces or clear aligners.

Smiling Orthodontist in North Lauderdale

Are You Looking for An Orthodontist in North Lauderdale? 

If your teeth are misaligned or overcrowded, then yes, it is time to see an orthodontist. At TLC Dental & Orthodontics, we provide a wide array of orthodontic treatments to help you achieve optimal oral health. 

We have a highly skilled and trained team to give you the best possible dental care. Call us today if you want to learn more about our services or if you wish to make an appointment. 

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How Stress Affects Your Child's Oral Health

December 7, 2021

Is stress a good thing or a bad thing? Experts say too little stress can cause boredom, while too much can lead to poor oral health. On the other hand, just enough can help spice up your life and motivate you to do better. Surveys reveal that adults handle and cope with stress better than children do. Unfortunately, when kids are stressed, it can affect their oral health. If your child is suffering from stress-induced oral health issues, you should consider speaking with a children’s dentist in Fort Lauderdale.

Looking for Childrens Dentist in Fort Lauderdale

How Can Stress Affect Your Child’s Mouth?  

Teeth Grinding  

Teeth grinding or bruxism is an unconscious habit of grinding teeth. Unfortunately, this can lead to premature enamel erosion. Without intervention, it will lead to loose teeth and, inevitably, tooth loss.

As teeth grinding continues, other problems develop, such as TMD or temporomandibular joint disorder, headaches, and gum recession. If your child grinds their teeth, especially at night, you should let their pediatric dentist know about it to address the issue. Pediatric dentists usually prescribe a protective appliance (nightguard) to prevent your child’s teeth from rubbing against each other.   

Poor Oral Hygiene

Did you know that too much stress can cause your child to skip brushing and flossing? They either forget to do it, or they deliberately avoid it. Unfortunately, if your child doesn’t follow an oral care routine, plaque will build up and wreak havoc in their mouth. This means they’ll be susceptible to cavity formation, tooth decay, and periodontal disease.

Two kids enjoying Childrens Dentist in Fort Lauderdale

Are You Looking for a Children’s Dentist in Fort Lauderdale?  

If you need help preserving, maintaining, and improving your child’s oral health, you don’t have to look far. At TLC Dental & Orthodontics, we take pride in our team of highly skilled and trained clinicians.  

We offer the best possible service and results, and we are committed to continual education and learning because we believe you deserve nothing but the best. Call us today for an appointment.

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How Painful Is Getting Dental Implants?

December 1, 2021

Are you considering getting dental implants in Coral Springs? If you’re torn between implants and dentures, we suggest you go for the former, especially if you qualify. Dental implants resemble the strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal of natural teeth plus they are designed to last forever!  

Their features are unparalleled, which explains why dental implants are the most in demand solution for replacing missing teeth. Since the procedure requires surgery, many people want to know if they’ll be in great pain. Are dental implants painful?

image of Dental Implants Coral Springs

Will Dental Implant Surgery Hurt?  

What to Expect During Surgery

The procedure is divided into two phases. The first phase is the surgery, while the second phase is the recovery. Your oral surgeon will cut through your gums to expose your jawbone. Ironically, this will not cause any pain since the site will be locally anesthetized.

Once the anesthesia kicks in and your gums are numb, that’s the time your oral surgeon will make the incision. Holes are drilled into your jawbone to make room for the implants. You will not be in pain, but you will feel some pressure from the drilling.

The insertion will last up to an hour depending on the number of implants used. When the anesthesia fades, you will experience mild discomfort.

Reducing Discomfort During Recovery

Mild discomfort is expected after the surgery. To minimize the discomfort, we suggest you follow your oral surgeon’s instructions like taking painkillers and prescribed antibiotics.

You should also rinse your mouth with lukewarm saline solution to expedite the healing process. During recovery, avoid spicy, hot, and hard foods to reduce irritation and infection.

oral surgeon showing patient Dental Implants Coral Springs

Are You Interested in Dental Implants in Coral Springs?  

If you want to know whether or not you qualify for dental implants, our clinic is open to screen you. At TLC Dental & Orthodontics, we are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life while restoring self-assurance, rebuilding confident smiles, and encouraging both dental and medical wellness. Call us today to learn more about our services.

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Two of the Biggest Misconceptions About Braces

November 29, 2021

We’re all used to society painting a bad picture on almost anything. Braces are not exempted, which is why many Americans are apprehensive about giving braces in Hollywood a try, even if their orthodontist says it’s necessary.

Some information you’ll find online can be so compelling that many do not take the time to verify whether these are facts or fiction. If you’re one of those people who dread getting braces because of all the awful things you’ve been told or have read, we’ll get the facts straight.

Boy with braces in Hollywood

Braces Misconceptions You Shouldn’t Believe In

You Need to Wear Them for a Long Time

You bumped into your college classmate two days ago, and you were shocked that he’s still wearing the same braces as he did ten years ago. Does it take decades to complete orthodontic treatment? The answer is no.

The duration of the treatment relies on the complexity of your case and your commitment to show up during dental appointments. Severe cases take much longer, however treatment times are a lot faster than in the past.

You’ll Experience Constant Pain

No one likes pain. So, if you were told that you’d constantly be in pain when wearing braces, you wouldn’t want them. While it’s true that you will experience pain to some degree, the discomfort is only temporary.

During the first few weeks of treatment, you may feel uncomfortable, but you will get used to them over time. It’s also normal to feel some discomfort after having your braces adjusted, but again, this is only temporary and will subside after a couple of days.

Girl with braces in Hollywood

Are You Interested in Braces in Hollywood?

If you want to learn more about braces or if you have questions about this treatment, we encourage you to ask us, and we’ll answer all of your questions.

At TLC Dental & Orthodontics, we are committed to enhancing the quality of life while restoring self-assurance, rebuilding confident smiles, and encouraging both dental and medical wellness. Call us today for an appointment.

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How Can I Benefit from Routine Teeth Cleanings?

November 26, 2021

Do you remember when your family dentist in South Florida told you to come back after six months for another routine teeth cleaning session? What was on the back of your mind? Sadly, many Americans do not see the value of professional teeth cleaning because they think it’s a waste of money and time.

Why spend to have someone clean your teeth when you can do it at home for free? These people do not realize that routine teeth cleanings are different from the usual brushing and flossing they do at home.

Teeth cleaning at Family Dentist in South Florida

Why Are Routine Dental Cleanings Necessary  

What Does Routine Teeth Cleaning Involve?

Routine dental cleanings are different because your family dentist will use special tools and instruments to remove plaque and tartar on the surface of your teeth and along the gumline. This is necessary to keep plaque and tartar under control.

During your appointment, you’ll not only get your teeth cleaned, but you’ll also learn tips and tricks on how to improve your oral health.

What are The Benefits of Dental Cleanings?

Every day, plaque forms and coats your teeth. Although your oral care routine can help get rid of plaque, there are some areas in your mouth that you could miss, especially the spots where your toothbrush can’t reach. These are prone to plaque and tartar buildup.

Everyone knows that when tartar forms on your teeth, it will only be a matter of time before you experience tooth decay and periodontal disease.

Routine teeth cleanings allow your dentist to scrape away calcified tartar on all areas of your mouth. It’s a preventive measure to boost your oral health. Sadly, your soft-bristled toothbrush cannot remove hardened tartar.

Woman at Family Dentist in South Florida

Are You Looking for a Family Dentist in South Florida?  

Even if you brush your teeth daily, you still need to see a family dentist twice yearly for dental cleanings. At TLC Dental & Orthodontics, we aim to improve your quality of life by enhancing your smile and oral health. We have a skilled and experienced team that’s ready to help you achieve the smile of your dreams! Call us today for an appointment.

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Can You Close Tooth Gaps Without Braces?

November 23, 2021

Do you feel self-conscious about your tooth gap? In most cases, patients are referred to an orthodontist for braces in Coral Springs. But did you know that braces aren’t the only option for closing tooth gaps?

Quite surprisingly, there are cosmetic dental procedures that can help complete your smile without you having to undergo orthodontic treatment. Your dentist will assess the extent of the tooth gap and recommend treatments that will suit you best.

Woman discussing with her dentist whether she needs braces in Coral Springs

How to Close Tooth Gaps Without Braces

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are customizable, ultra-thin tooth-colored shells that your cosmetic dentist will attach to your front teeth to recreate your smile. Despite their thinness, veneers are quite strong and durable.

This is a great option for people who would like to improve their teeth's size, shape, and color. If you have a narrow gap in between your front teeth, your cosmetic dentist can reshape two veneers and place them side by side to cover the gap.

Dental Implants

People who have missing teeth obviously have large tooth gaps. It would take more than braces to restore smile and oral function. Therefore, cosmetic dentists recommend dental implant placement. A dental implant is usually made from titanium or zirconia.

These posts are surgically implanted into your jawbone to replace missing tooth roots. Once they are in place and have fully integrated with your jawbone, the crowns are added next. Dental implant surgery is the ideal option if you have multiple tooth gaps or if the gap is too large.

Woman who got straight teeth because of braces in Coral Springs

Do You Want to Learn More About Braces in Coral Springs?

Each patient’s case is different. To know what method is best for you, you should consult with your dentist. If you are interested to learn more about braces, we’re more than happy to discuss this with you during your next appointment.  

At TLC Dental & Orthodontics, our goal is to improve your quality of life with our wide array of affordable dental treatments. We offer affordable, honest, and customizable treatments to improve your smile and oral health. Call us today to learn more about our services.

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