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Visiting the dentist at least twice a year is crucial to maintaining your oral health. However, there’s more to dentistry than not having cavities. A cosmetic dentist in 33144 can also help you whiten your teeth, improve their shape, and enhance your smile. 

Many patients lack confidence in their smiles due to misalignments or stained teeth but are afraid of doing something about it. Here’s a small guide to the differences between cosmetic and preventive dentistry, so you can understand them better and take advantage of each one to the fullest.

What’s General Dentistry?

General dentistry focuses on offering preventative care to ensure you don’t develop any dental diseases. A preventive dentist is your primary dental care provider and will meet you yearly for check-ups to see the state of your mouth.

Some of the procedures they do are:

• Dental fillings 

• Crowns 

• Bridges 

• Teeth cleanings 

If you suffer from one of these conditions, your general dentist will diagnose it by interpreting your X-rays and designing a treatment plan to restore your dental health. 

What’s Cosmetic Dentistry?

A cosmetic dentist focuses on making your smile more attractive by improving how your teeth and gums look. They often undergo additional training beyond dental education to specialize in cosmetic dentistry.

Some popular cosmetic dental procedures are:

• Veneers

• Dental bonding

• Teeth whitening

The Overlap of Cosmetic and Preventive Dentistry

However, drawing a straight line between these two branches is not easy. While cosmetic dentists specialize in improving the appearance of the mouth, many of their treatments also help strengthen your teeth. Furthermore, poorly executed cosmetic procedures can permanently damage the tooth enamel.

Because of that, cosmetic dentists are just as important as any other specialist.

Ready to Meet a Dentist in 33144?

Whether you’re looking for a cosmetic or general dentist, the team at LP Dental & Cosmetic is eager to help. Give us a call!

Facing a dental emergency can be alarming and catch us off guard. From sudden toothaches to knocked-out teeth, knowing how to respond promptly is crucial for preserving your dental health with a dentist in 33144. Preparation can ease pain, prevent complications, and even save a tooth. 

Here’s what you should know about dental emergency preparedness. 

Steps to Follow in an Emergency Situation

Keep Your Cool 

Remaining composed is key in any emergency. Panic can cloud judgment and hinder effective decision-making. 

Evaluate the Situation 

Assess the severity of the dental emergency. Determine whether prompt attention is necessary or if it can wait until regular dental hours. Urgent situations include severe tooth pain, a knocked-out tooth, or a broken tooth with sharp edges. 

Contact Your Dentist 

If a dental emergency arises, contact your dentist immediately. Many dental offices offer emergency care and can provide guidance over the phone. 

Manage Discomfort 

Over-the-counter pain relievers can offer temporary relief. However, avoid applying aspirin directly to the gums or tooth to prevent irritation. 

Dealing with a Knocked-Out Tooth 

Handle the knocked-out tooth by its crown (the top part), avoiding contact with the roots. Rinse it gently with water if dirty, but refrain from scrubbing or removing any attached tissues. If possible, reinsert the tooth into its socket or store it in milk or saliva until you can see a dentist. 

Toothache Relief 

Rinse your mouth with warm water and gently floss to remove trapped debris. Refrain from placing aspirin or any medication directly on the gums. 

Addressing a Broken or Chipped Tooth 

Wash your mouth with lukewarm water to clean the area. If bleeding occurs, apply gauze to the affected area with gentle pressure. Save any shattered tooth fragments and bring them to your dental consultation. 

Mouth Protection 

To prevent further injury, shield your mouth during physical activities with a mouthguard. Avoid biting down on dense objects or using your teeth as tools. 

Emergency Kit 

Consider assembling a dental emergency kit containing items like gauze, a small container with a lid, over-the-counter pain relievers, and your dentist’s contact information. 

Follow Through 

After receiving initial treatment for a dental emergency, schedule a follow-up appointment with your dentist for further evaluation and necessary procedures to prevent future issues. 

Do You Need Our Skilled Dentist in 33144?

Preparedness for dental emergencies empowers you to react swiftly and effectively, potentially saving your teeth and minimizing discomfort. Remember to stay composed, assess the situation, and seek professional dental care promptly. LP Dental and Cosmetic is your ally in maintaining optimal dental health, so don’t hesitate to reach out when needed. Call us now! 

Your smile is one of your most valuable assets; taking care of it goes beyond brushing and flossing daily. Regular check-ups with a dentist in 33144 are crucial in maintaining oral health and overall well-being. Today, we will dive into why you shouldn’t skip these essential appointments with dentists. 

Why You Should Go for Regular Dental Check-ups

Early Detection of Problems 

Regular dental check-ups allow dentists to identify issues like cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer in their early stages. These problems are easier and less expensive to treat when caught early. Ignoring them can lead to more extensive and costly procedures down the road. 

Preventing Tooth Decay

Even if you’re diligent about oral hygiene, it’s easy to miss hidden areas where plaque and tartar can accumulate. Professional cleanings during check-ups can help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. 

Maintaining Gum Health

Gum disease is a common dental problem that can lead to tooth loss and other health issues if left untreated. Dentists can assess your gum health during check-ups and guide you on maintaining healthy gums. 

Oral Cancer Screening

Oral cancer can be life-threatening if not detected early. Dentists are trained to recognize the signs of oral cancer, and regular check-ups include screenings to ensure any abnormalities are addressed promptly. 

Personalized Oral Health Guidance

Dentists can provide personalized advice on your oral care routine, diet, and lifestyle choices to ensure you’re doing the best for your dental health. 

Better Overall Health

Oral health is closely connected to your overall health. Problems in the mouth can affect other parts of your body, such as the heart. Regular dental check-ups can help prevent systemic health issues. 

Do You Need a Dentist in 33144?

Regular check-ups with a dentist are not just about having a beautiful smile; they are a fundamental part of your overall health maintenance. Skipping these appointments might save you time in the short term, but it can lead to more significant issues and expenses down the road. 

Prioritize your oral health by scheduling with LP Dental & Cosmetic and keeping those important dental check-ups on your calendar. Contact us today! 

Did you know that enamel erosion is a dental issue that affects around 80% of the adult population in the United States? This sneaky problem gradually wears away at the enamel, the hard protective layer covering your teeth. As you expose your teeth to erosive agents, you’ll notice changes in your smile that could significantly impact your oral health and well-being. The best dentist in 33144 pulled together the top causes of enamel erosion to help you understand the importance of protecting your tooth enamel.

Top Causes of Enamel Erosion

Poor Dental Hygiene

Without regular brushing and flossing, a sticky film of acid-forming bacteria called plaque will build up on your teeth. Enamel erosion results from the acid that attacks and weakens the enamel. You can prevent this by brushing your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time, flossing daily, and rinsing with mouthwash to eliminate bacteria.

Acidic Foods and Drinks

The tooth enamel begins to dissolve when the pH level in the mouth drops below 5.5. For this reason, regular consumption of acidic foods and beverages can weaken your tooth enamel and make it more vulnerable to erosion.

Limiting your intake of citrus fruits, berries, tomatoes, vinegar, soda, fruit juices, and sports drinks will help keep your tooth enamel intact. If you can’t avoid these foods and drinks, you’ll want to neutralize the acid by rinsing your mouth with water immediately afterward.

Acid Reflux

Stomach acid flows up into the esophagus and mouth during acid reflux. When acid comes into contact with your teeth, it can erode your enamel. The best way to prevent acid reflux is to treat it with medication, avoid trigger foods, and sleep with your head elevated.

Teeth Grinding

People with bruxism, a condition involving involuntary teeth grinding during sleep, are more susceptible to enamel erosion than those who don’t. Bruxism puts pressure on the enamel, causing it to wear down over time. If you have bruxism, your dentist may recommend wearing a mouthguard to protect your teeth.

Looking for a Dentist in 33144?

At LP Dental & Cosmetic, we deliver high-quality comprehensive dental and cosmetic care to give you the smile you deserve. Contact us today to make an appointment.

Choosing a good dentist in 33144 can be difficult. How can you know if your dentist is good? What do you need to be cautious with? Especially if going to the clinic causes you some anxiety or even fear, it’s important that you know in whose hands you are putting yourself. So that you don’t have any misgivings or bad experiences, we are going to explain some keys to making your visit to the clinic as pleasant as possible. 

1. Your Experience Is Good from Beginning to End

If your dentist goes out of his way to make your office experience a pleasant one, especially when you’re nervous, they’re showing you that they care about you, such as the way they answer the phone, your first day in the office, the follow-up on your treatment plan, their availability, etc. Everything should be taken into account and appreciated during the first visits to make sure that your dentist cares. 

2. Be Wary If the Visit Is Too Short.

When you visit a dentist for the first time, you should undergo a thorough examination to determine the health of your mouth. The professional will explain the treatment, duration, and necessary tests.  

3. Your Family, Friends, and Even Google Recommend Them.

In addition to the information that friends and family can give us to find the right dentist, social networks are very useful too. It’s highly recommended that you read Google reviews of your dentist, and also leave opinions to help others make good decisions in the future. 

4. State-of-the-Art Technology.

It’s the duty of a professional in this sector to make the most advanced material and technology available to his patients, not obsolete. A trained, up-to-date professional will perform work properly and use top-of-the-line technology for it. 

Searching for a Dentist in 33144? Call Us Now! 

If your dentist meets all of these points, you know you are in good hands. Here at LP Dental & Cosmetics, we care about your experience and well-being. Contact us today!

Oral health is more than avoiding gum disease or cavities. A dentist in 33144 will tell you that there is an overlap between your oral health and overall health. If you don´t have treatment or care, you can suffer from tooth decay and gum problems that can later lead to pain and even tooth loss. These can affect your eating habits, nutrition, speech, and other aspects of your life, like work or school.  

How can you prevent these situations? You can avoid them by having proper dental care and visiting your dentist.  

4 Suggestions for Great Oral Health   

Brush Regularly but Not Aggressive  

People know that brushing their teeth twice daily is essential to a dental care routine. But brushing is only effective if you use the correct technique. Use small circular motions and be aware of brushing the front, back, and top of every tooth. This process should take two minutes. 

Use Fluoride and Mouthwash 

Many experts point out that fluoride can help you prevent cavities, and the best part is it’s a common ingredient in toothpaste and mouthwash.  

Floss Once a Day  

Flossing is essential for your oral health. It can help you prevent bad breath by removing debris and bacteria between your teeth.  

See Your Dentist Regularly

You should visit your dentist every six months. When you get a routine dental examination, the hygienist will clean and remove the harder tartar that’s not removed when you brush at home.   

Your dentist will also check if you have signs of cavities, gum disease, mouth cancer, and other oral issues.

Ready to Visit Your Dentist in 33144?

You will enjoy a healthy mouth if you practice good oral health from childhood to adulthood. Call us today for an appointment. 

It’s an experience that we all share. You wake up in the morning, yawn, and find out that your breath smells terrible. However, you don’t always have to rush to your West Miami dentist in 33144 at the first sign of bad breath. The reason behind morning breath is not always something alarming. 

Stinky Breath Is a Natural Byproduct of Sleep 

As the body rests during sleep, the mouth decreases its saliva production. Saliva is vital to removing bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause plaque and foul-smelling breath.  

Because the mouth is secreting less saliva as you sleep, these oral fauna thrive and multiply. In this case, you can eliminate bad breath by gargling mouthwash or water after waking up. You can also prevent it from coming back by drinking at least eight glasses of water a day. 

When Is Halitosis a Cause of Concern? 

You may have a dental problem if the smell persists throughout the day, even after observing proper oral hygiene. Here are some possible reasons you continue to have a foul odor in your mouth. 

Plaque 

Plaque can still form even when you regularly brush your teeth. Malocclusion, or crooked teeth, may leave food bits in areas the bristles cannot reach. These particles will attract bacteria that coat your teeth if not removed. Adding flossing to your oral health routine may help remove plaque and prevent smelly breath. 

Gum Infections 

Both gingivitis and periodontitis can manifest as potent breath. In gingivitis, the foul smell comes from plaque that hardened into a shell called tartar. Your dentist can treat and remove tartar, as well as bad breath.  

On the other hand, periodontitis causes tissue recession that exposes microscopic gaps between gums and teeth where bacteria can multiply and cause bad breath. 

Tobacco 

Tobacco deposits chemicals into your teeth that add to plaque’s effect and worsen pungent breath. Smoking also dehydrates the mouth and decreases saliva levels, allowing more bacteria to reproduce. 

Visit Your West Miami Dentist in 33144 Regularly 

You can prevent situations that cause pervasive foul oral odor by regularly visiting your dentist in West Miami. For appointments, contact our office now. 

Many people are scared to go to the dentist in 33144 because they don’t want to be judged, especially those who haven’t been conscientious about their oral care routine. Sadly, many of them lie about their dental hygiene practices. Truth be told, your dentist knows that you’re lying. Statistics show that more than a quarter of the US population lie to their dentist.    

2 Reasons Why You Should Be Honest with Your Dentist 

#1 Your Dentist Won’t Judge 

Why do patients lie to their dentists? The reason why they lie is that they are afraid they’ll be judged. Lying to your dentist will not solve the problem. To set the record straight, your dentist will not judge you, and they won’t blame you nor condemn you for what happened. In fact, they’ll do the opposite. 

Dentists are understanding and compassionate, and instead of insulting or shaming you, they’ll educate you on what to do and give you tips to help improve your oral health. 

#2 Your Dentist Knows the Truth 

Lying is a complete waste of time because your dentist knows the truth. Just by looking at your teeth during an oral exam, your dentist will know. So, don’t lie about brushing your teeth every day if you only brush whenever you remember. 

Your unhealthy lifestyle will show on your teeth and gums. Dentists also know if you only floss your teeth the day before your appointment. Months of neglect will cause plaque and tartar to accumulate on your teeth, and this is something you can’t get rid of overnight. 

Are You Honest with Your Dentist in 33144? 

Being honest with your dentist will result in better dental care. At LP Dental and Cosmetic, we are proud of our decades of experience in the industry. Over the years, we’ve provided our patients with excellent dental services that are customized to fit their needs. Call us today for an appointment. 

Despite how busy your mornings are, you still find time to brush your teeth. And, even if you are dead tired from work, you make sure you brush and floss your teeth before going to bed. But you get the shock of your life when your dentist tells you that you have cavities. How could that be when you religiously followed the advice of your dentist in 33144.  What went wrong? You were sure you did everything by the book. 

Why Do I Still Have Cavities Despite Brushing and Flossing Daily?  

You’re Brushing and Flossing Wrong 

Some people brush their teeth using the wrong toothbrush, and then some brush too hard. Others brush too fast. Unfortunately, if you don’t follow the proper techniques for brushing and flossing, all your efforts are for nothing. 

Ideally, you should brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes using gentle, circular strokes. However, brushing too hard and too fast is counterproductive, and doing so will only predispose you to enamel erosion and cavity development.  

It’s also important to know the proper way to floss your teeth to ensure that all crevices are free from plaque and traces of food debris.

You Snack Frequently 

Did you know that frequent snacking will put you at risk of cavity formation? When you frequently snack, especially if your snacks are loaded with starch or sugar, plaque will continuously form in your mouth. Remember that the bacteria present in plaque produce acids that will eat away your enamel and create pits and holes known as cavities. 

Do You Need to See a Dentist in 33144? 

Aside from an oral care routine, you must also regularly visit your dentist for an oral exam and professional teeth cleaning. At LP Dental and Cosmetic, your dental health is our priority. We also ensure that the dental treatments you’re about to undergo will meet your needs, lifestyle, and budget. Call us today for an appointment. 

Who would have thought toothbrushes have rules too? Your dentist in 33144 will not only teach you the proper way to brush your teeth but will also educate you about the type of toothbrush you should be using when cleaning your mouth.

Not only that, but most dentists will also give you tips regarding how often you should be changing your toothbrush. It may seem unnecessary but trust us, it will make all the difference in the world.

When Should You Change Your Toothbrush?

The Three-Month Rule

The American Dental Association urges everyone to change their toothbrush every three months. The rationale behind this recommendation is to prevent the buildup of bacteria in the bristles of your toothbrush.

Remember, your mouth is a portal of entry into your body. You don’t want bacteria from your toothbrush compromising your overall health.

Also, your bathroom is a breeding ground for bacteria especially if you flush your toilet with the seat pan open.

Check The Bristles

If the bristles of your toothbrush look worn or frayed even if it hasn’t reached three months yet, you need to get yourself a new one.

When the bristles don’t look the way they used to, they won’t be effective in removing plaque, bacteria, and food particles in your teeth. Without a new toothbrush, your risk of developing cavities and gum disease is high.

Do You Need to See a Dentist in 33144?

If you have more questions about how to keep your oral health in tiptop shape, we can help you.

At LP Dental and Cosmetic, we offer a wide range of dental services to all our clients. We don’t provide a generic treatment plan. Every treatment we offer is bespoke to your needs. Our team of dental health experts has the experience, knowledge, and skills.  Call us today for an appointment!