Blog

Gum disease is among the most troubling dental illnesses. It causes gum recession and bleeding, which may be painful. If you don’t visit your West Miami dentist in a timely manner, it may lead to even more serious consequences, like tooth loss and severe jawbone recession.

Sadly, around 75% of Americans currently suffer from periodontal disease, making it a highly common disease. Unbeknown to most, periodontitis is a pretty contagious disease. It can easily spread to your loved ones if you’re not careful and don’t oversee the importance of getting a periodontal treatment.

Here’s what you need to know about this.

Is Periodontal Disease Contagious?

The answer is yes.

Gingivitis is caused by a bacterial infection that spreads to the gums from plaque buildup. This bacteria can pass from person to person. Although short-term, casual contact cannot transmit gum disease, prolonged, frequent salivary contact (e.g., kissing) can raise your risk of developing periodontal disease.

Pregnant Women and Gingivitis

Did you know that several biological factors make pregnant women more susceptible to gingivitis? If it goes unnoticed, it’s easy for them to pass it to their baby once they’re born by taste-testing their food or gauging its temperature before offering it to them. Even giving them kisses on the lips can also help spread the bacteria.

Babies and Gum Disease

Due to their developing immune systems, babies are more likely to get gingivitis. In fact, a 2008 study indicates that because of shared bacteria, children are more likely to have gum disease if their parents do.

Because of this, prompt diagnosis of periodontal disease is key to keeping the mouths of you and your family happy and healthy.

Treat Your Gum Disease with Our West Miami Dentist

Having gum disease is not the end of the world! You can keep the illness at bay by maintaining proper oral hygiene and visiting a professional at LP Dental & Cosmetic. Still, it’s important not to leave it untreated.

Without treatment, gum disease can cause serious damage to your mouth and easily spread to your loved ones. To prevent this from happening, reach out to us and let someone from our qualified team help you!

Your braces journey is an exciting path toward achieving that perfect smile. However, it comes with its set of challenges, especially when it comes to keeping your teeth and braces in tip-top shape. Fortunately, your West Miami dentist has you covered with some insider tips on maintaining oral hygiene during your orthodontic treatment. Let’s dive in! 

Brushing 

Brushing with braces can challenging, as you’ll need to maneuver around those tiny metal towns on your teeth. Opt for a soft-bristled brush or an electric one to make your life easier. The trick is to angle your toothbrush at the gum line and then tackle above and below the brackets. Aim for at least two minutes, twice a day. Be sure to use fluoride toothpaste. 

Flossing 

Use a floss threader or orthodontic floss to navigate through those wires. It’s like threading a needle through your braces to get to the spaces between your teeth. Yes, it’s a bit more time-consuming, but consider it an investment in your future dazzling smile. Plus, there’s always the option of a water flosser, which can get rid of those pesky food particles with minimal fuss. 

Eating 

Now, onto the fun part – eating! Your West Miami dentist will probably give you a list of foods to avoid, and trust us, it’s for a good reason. Hard, sticky, and chewy foods are a big no-no. They can break your brackets or get stuck in your braces, leading to a not-so-fun emergency visit.  

Instead, embrace braces-friendly foods like soft fruits, veggies, and lean proteins. And when you’re craving something sweet, swap that candy bar with healthy alternatives like yogurt or smoothies. 

Regular Check-ups 

Last but not least, keep up with your regular check-ups with your dentist. They can spot any potential issues before they become big problems and can give your teeth a thorough cleaning that’s hard to achieve at home with braces. 

Ready to Flash Your Dream Smile Thanks to a West Miami Dentist?  

Did you know that you can find the finest dentist, or shall we say, dentists here at LP Dental and Cosmetic? Whether you’re looking to straighten things out with braces or just aiming for that glow-up, our highly skilled team has your back (and your smile).  

Get in touch with us now! 

In the intricate web of our lives, stress weaves its way into different facets, affecting not only our mental state but also leaving subtle marks on our physical health. A less-explored link that often slips under the radar is the connection between stress and teeth discoloration. Luckily, we have teeth whitening in to keep your teeth looking like pearly whites. 

Stress and Teeth Discoloration 

Subpar Oral Hygiene: A Stress Fallout 

When stress becomes a constant companion, self-care routines often take a backseat. Those under prolonged stress might neglect oral hygiene, skipping brushing or flossing. This neglect fosters an environment ripe for plaque buildup, not just leading to cavities but also contributing to teeth discoloration over time. 

Stress-Driven Dietary Choices 

Stress has a peculiar way of shaping our dietary preferences. Many turn to sugary or caffeinated comfort foods during stressful periods. Unfortunately, these choices not only impact overall health but can also contribute to tooth discoloration. Sugars feed mouth bacteria, leading to acid production that erodes enamel and stains teeth. 

Hormonal Changes: Stress as a Catalyst 

Stress triggers hormonal shifts, affecting saliva production. Reduced saliva flow means less natural cleansing for the teeth. Coupled with the mouth acidity from stress-induced dietary changes, this sets the stage for discoloration. 

Tackling the Core Issue 

Understanding the link between stress and teeth discoloration is the initial step toward maintaining a brighter, healthier smile. Alongside consistent oral care, managing stress through mindfulness practices, exercise, and seeking professional help can break the cycle and preserve the natural radiance of your teeth.  

Brighten Up Your Smile with Teeth Whitening in Miami!  

In the quest for a radiant smile, recognizing the intricate relationship between stress and teeth discoloration empowers us to take proactive measures. By cultivating positive habits, and maintaining oral care, we can escape the silent grip of discoloration.  

A healthier mind often translates to a brighter smile, evidence of the interconnectedness of our well-being. So, journey toward stress management, allowing your smile to shine as brilliantly as your resilient spirit. 

With LP Dental & Cosmetic, if you notice your teeth aren’t as white as they used to be, we can help with expert teeth whitening services! Call us today! 

In the realm of affordable dentistry, an often overlooked but incredibly effective strategy is preventive care. As the old saying goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” and this couldn’t be truer in the world of dental health. 

Let’s delve into the reasons why prioritizing preventive dentistry with an affordable Miami dentist can save your smile and your hard-earned dollars. 

How Preventive Dentistry Helps You Save Money 

Regular Check-ups 

Scheduling routine dental check-ups might seem like a simple task, but it’s a powerful way to catch potential issues before they become costly problems. Dentists can identify and address concerns in their early stages, preventing the need for more extensive and expensive treatments down the road. 

Professional Cleanings 

Regular cleanings help maintain optimal oral hygiene by removing plaque and tartar buildup. This keeps your teeth and gums healthy and prevents the development of conditions that could lead to expensive interventions. 

Screenings for Early Detection 

Preventive dentistry includes screenings for oral health issues such as cavities and gum disease. Detecting these problems early allows for less invasive and more budget-friendly treatment options. 

Fluoride Treatments 

Incorporating fluoride treatments into your preventive dental routine strengthens tooth enamel, reducing the risk of cavities. This simple and affordable intervention can save you from the expenses associated with cavity fillings. 

Schedule Your Appointment Today with an Affordable Miami Dentist! 

Prioritizing preventive dentistry isn’t just about maintaining a healthy smile; it’s about being financially savvy regarding oral health. By incorporating these preventive measures into your routine, you’re investing in your teeth and a future of affordable and sustainable dental care from LP Dental & Cosmetic Dentistry. Learn more from us today! 

Cosmetic dentistry has become a game-changer in the pursuit of a dazzling smile, offering an array of procedures that go beyond aesthetics to boost confidence and leave a lasting impact. Let’s delve into the transformative benefits of three key treatments you can get from our West Miami dentist: teeth whitening, cosmetic composite restorations, and veneers. 

Common Cosmetic Dentistry Services 

Cosmetic dentistry offers a wide range of services to improve the appearance and function of your smile. Many cosmetic dental procedures are minimally invasive and provide dramatic, transformative results. Here are just a few of the options available to you: 

Teeth Whitening 

Professional teeth whitening treatments deliver swift and effective results, whether administered in-office or through dentist-prescribed at-home kits. By addressing common culprits like coffee stains, tobacco discoloration, and the natural aging process, these treatments rejuvenate your smile, restoring its youthful vibrancy. 

Cosmetic Composite Restorations 

Say goodbye to conspicuous silver amalgam fillings! Cosmetic composite restorations, also known as tooth-colored fillings, seamlessly blend with natural teeth. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these restorations bond directly to the tooth, preserving its natural structure while discreetly addressing cavities and minor dental flaws. 

Veneers 

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that cover the front surface of teeth, offering a comprehensive solution to various imperfections like stains, chips, and gaps. Veneers enhance aesthetics and durability, creating a long-lasting, symmetrical smile beyond cosmetic improvements. 

Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry 

Investing in cosmetic dentistry isn’t just about looks; it’s an investment in confidence and overall well-being. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits: 

• Enhanced visual appeal 
• Improved oral health and function 
• Discreet and natural-looking solutions 
• Long-lasting and durable results 

Are You Looking for a West Miami Dentist? 

So, embrace the power of a radiant smile with LP Dental & Cosmetic Dentistry. Our cosmetic services are your gateway to social and professional success, all while fostering a sense of pride in your appearance. Contact us for more details! 

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for a healthy smile, and flossing plays a crucial role in that regimen. Yet, some individuals remain skeptical, questioning whether their dentist’s insistence on flossing is genuinely necessary. Let’s put these doubts to rest and explore why your West Miami dentist isn’t lying to you about flossing. 

Facts About Flossing Advice from a Dentist

Plaque Removal

Your toothbrush can’t reach all the nooks and crannies between your teeth, where food particles and bacteria tend to accumulate. Flossing helps remove plaque from these tight spaces, preventing the development of cavities and gum disease. 

Gum Health

Neglecting to floss can lead to gum inflammation and bleeding. Regular flossing stimulates the gums and promotes blood circulation, reducing the risk of gum disease. Your dentist’s advice on flossing stems from their commitment to preserving your oral health. 

Prevention is Key

Dentists prioritize preventive care to avoid costly and invasive treatments down the road. Flossing, along with brushing and routine dental visits, is an effective way to prevent dental issues and maintain a beautiful smile. 

Cavity Prevention

Flossing helps remove food particles that your toothbrush might miss, preventing the formation of cavities between teeth. By flossing daily, you’re taking a proactive step to protect your teeth from decay. 

Bad Breath Control

Those hidden food particles can contribute to bad breath. Flossing regularly helps eliminate odor-causing bacteria and keeps your breath fresh. 

Overall Health Connection

Emerging research indicates a link between oral health and systemic health issues like cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Flossing can play a role in reducing inflammation and potentially lowering the risk of these health conditions. 

An Expert West Miami Dentist Has Your Back!

Your dentist’s advice on flossing isn’t a ploy to sell dental products – it’s a sincere effort to safeguard your oral health. Flossing, when done correctly, is a simple and effective practice that contributes to a radiant smile and a healthier you.  

So, the next time you reach for that floss, remember that LP Dental and Cosmetic isn’t just spouting nonsense – we are offering guidance that can truly make a difference in your oral well-being. Call us today! 

In the realm of modern dentistry, technological advancements have given rise to remarkable innovations, and same-day crowns in Miami are a stellar example of this progress. Traditionally, the process of obtaining a dental crown was a multi-step, time-consuming ordeal that spanned across several appointments. However, with the advent of same-day crowns, this narrative has taken an expedited and convenient turn. Let’s delve into the reasons behind the success of same-day crowns and how they work their magic.

Digital Impressions

Unlike the traditional method of using messy impression materials, same-day crowns utilize digital scanners to create a precise 3D model of the patient’s tooth. This not only ensures a more accurate fit but also eliminates discomfort.

Computer-Aided Design (CAD)

The digital impression is fed into specialized software, where a detailed and customized crown design is created. Dentists can fine-tune every contour and dimension to guarantee a perfect match.

Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM)

Once the design is finalized, cutting-edge milling machines craft the crown from a solid block of high-quality ceramic. This step eliminates the need for off-site fabrication, which significantly reduces the waiting time.

Immediate Placement

The freshly milled crown is immediately placed onto the patient’s tooth, restoring its functionality and aesthetics in just a single visit. This eliminates the discomfort and inconvenience of wearing a temporary crown while waiting for the permanent one.

Optimal Aesthetics

Same-day crowns are made from advanced ceramic materials that mimic the natural translucency and color of teeth, resulting in a seamless and aesthetically pleasing restoration.

Do You Need Same Day Crowns in Miami?

In essence, same-day crowns exemplify the synergy between dental expertise and cutting-edge technology. They offer a streamlined, patient-centered approach to dental restorations, demonstrating how innovation continues to reshape the field of dentistry for the better. Call us to get started.

Many people still shy away from the dentist’s chair, leaving their pearly whites to fend for themselves. So, what are the top reasons why people avoid their West Miami dentist? Let’s uncover the truth behind each reluctance to help those neglected molars find the care they so desperately crave. 

Why Do People Avoid the Dentist?

Fear and Anxiety 

One of the primary reasons people avoid dental visits is fear. Dental anxiety can stem from various sources, such as previous negative experiences, fear of pain, or the sound of the dentist’s tools. The mere thought of reclining in that chair, mouth wide open, can send shivers down the spine of even the bravest souls.   

To overcome this, dentists now offer various techniques to manage anxiety, including sedation dentistry, distraction techniques, and open communication to address patients’ concerns. 

Cost Concerns

Dental treatments can be expensive, especially for those without insurance coverage or limited financial resources. The fear of high bills and potential out-of-pocket expenses can dissuade individuals from seeking dental care. However, neglecting regular dental visits often leads to more significant oral health issues down the line, resulting in even costlier treatments.  

Dentists now work with patients to develop financial plans, offer affordable options, and explore insurance coverage to alleviate these concerns.

Time Constraints

In our fast-paced world, time is a precious commodity. Squeezing in a dental appointment amidst hectic schedules can be challenging. Juggling work, family responsibilities, and personal commitments can make finding a spare moment for a dental visit seem impossible.  

However, modern dental practices adapt to these time constraints by offering flexible scheduling, extended office hours, and weekend appointments to accommodate busy individuals. 

Embarrassment or Shame

The state of one’s oral health can be a sensitive topic for many individuals. Those who have neglected dental care for an extended period may feel embarrassed or ashamed of their teeth and gums. This self-consciousness can prevent them from seeking professional help.   

Dental professionals play a crucial role in creating a non-judgmental and supportive environment, reassuring patients that they are there to help, not to criticize. 

Are You Looking for a West Miami Dentist?  

At LP Dental & Cosmetics, we have experienced and well-trained dentists, cosmetic surgeons, and staff who can make you feel comfortable from the moment you walk through the front door. Call now to make an appointment.

Over 120 million people in the US have an incomplete smile, which shows how necessary tooth replacements are nowadays. An affordable dentist in Miami offers countless alternatives to replace missing teeth, and dental bridges are among the most popular ones. These long-lasting artificial teeth have the power to enhance your looks and quality of life the minute they become a part of your mouth. 

What Are Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges are porcelain and ceramic artificial teeth that your dentist permanently attaches to your smile. Bridges have a pontic that will cover the empty socket in your mouth and two crowns that your dental professional will fix to the adjacent natural teeth. If you take proper care of them, dental bridges can last up to seven years, but their lifespan has a lot to do with the oral habits you adopt at home. 

For your dental bridges to stick around for longer, you can adopt the following habits: 

• Brush at least twice a day 
• Floss 
• Visit your dentist regularly 

What Are the Benefits of Getting Dental Bridges?

Enhanced Chewing

By covering the empty spaces in your mouth with dental bridges, you’ll have more teeth to chop your food into smaller pieces and have an easier time enjoying and digesting your favorite meals. 

Improved Speech

When there are empty sockets in your mouth, you have trouble uttering some sounds. By replacing all of your missing teeth, you’ll be able to speak perfectly once again and restore your confidence. 

No Adjacent Teeth Shifting

Gaps in your smile give neighboring natural teeth a chance to switch position and shift toward the empty sockets. Covering the spaces nips this problem in the bud, keeping adjacent teeth stable and straight. 

Looking for an Affordable Miami Dentist Who Can Restore Your Smile?

Dental bridges owe their popularity to their long lifespan and the advantages they provide to their wearer. Dentists in Miami are qualified to give you a beaming and healthy smile, so schedule a visit today! 

Kids would always rather spend their day playing with their toys and friends than visiting their doctors, so parents are responsible for making dental visits fun and less scary. A qualified pediatric dentist in West Miami explains how often children should see a dental professional and how you can get your little ones to feel relaxed and excited before their dentist appointment. 

How Often Should Children Visit a Pediatric Dentist?

You should schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist as soon as your kid gets their first set of baby teeth. After that, children should visit a dental professional once every six months for an oral examination and dental cleanings. This rule of thumb will prevent common dental problems like tooth decay and gum disease. 

How Can I Get Kids Ready for a Dentist Appointment?

Choose the Right Time

When your kid has had the chance to sleep well and eat a delicious breakfast or lunch, they’ll probably be more willing to do something they otherwise wouldn’t do. For this reason, try scheduling an appointment in the morning or early afternoon. 

Tell Them the Truth 

You might think hiding your child the truth about a dentist visit prevents them from feeling scared or stressed. However, being honest beforehand gives your kid time to process any fear they might feel and leave room for them to ask any questions. If necessary, talk to a dental professional to get information about preventive dentistry procedures. 

Give Them a Prize 

Offering your kid a reward they can claim once the procedure is over will take them from terrified to eager in no time. If the prize is food-related, follow the pediatric dentist’s instructions and wait the required time. 

Looking for a Pediatric West Miami Dentist?

Kids can get ready for their appointment if their parents are honest and kind. Our team can provide top-quality pediatric services, so schedule a visit today!