During your first visit to our office, you will receive a thorough dental examination that includes X-rays and comprehensive risk assessments. Your dentist will develop a Personal Dental Care Plan based upon your immediate needs, current dental health and long-term oral health goals. This individual plan will include recommendations for cleanings, restorations and preventive treatments. Most patients will receive a cleaning at their first visit, based on the assessment and recommendation from your dentist.
We recommend twice-yearly check ups and dental cleanings. Individuals with special dental needs may need more frequent visits. Talk to us for specific needs and follow-up procedures to determine what is best for you.
Floss is cheap, so don’t be stingy! Tear off about a forearm’s length to start. Wrap one end around the middle finger of one hand to “anchor” it, and pick up the other end about 4-6 inches away with the middle finger of the other hand. This allows you to manipulate the floss with your thumb and fore finger. As you soil a section of floss, “reel” in another 4-6 inches of clean floss with the anchor finger as you release the floss with the other finger.
Once you get the floss past the tooth contact, move the floss up and down, perpendicular to the tooth. Never shoe-shine the teeth in a back-and-forth motion! You will either notch your teeth or cut your gums, or both!
For most people, a complete radiographic survey should be done every 3-5 years, and a “check up” or “recall” set every 6 to 12 months. Doctors use x-rays as an aid in diagnosing problems. Without x-rays “seeing” the problem will be difficult if not impossible.
Bleeding and sensitive gums can occur due to many factors, including medical problems, pregnancy, build-up of plaque, periodontal (gum) disease or improper brushing and flossing. Plaque increase bacteria in the mouth and more bacteria can contribute to swollen gums that can bleed easily. For a proper diagnosis, see your dentist.
Tooth discoloration is a normal part of aging. As people age, enamel wears down, and teeth take on a duller appearance. Teeth can also become discolored from smoking and heavy consumption of coffee or tea. Other causes of tooth discoloration include side effects of medications (specifically certain antibiotics) used during the developmental phase of the teeth, an individual’s genetic makeup, and excessive fluoride consumption (fluorosis, seen in both children and adults). Teeth whitening and veneers offer a cosmetic dentistry solution for people with discolored or dull-looking teeth.
Silver amalgam fillings are made of metal and have a silver-gray color. White or tooth-colored fillings are made of porcelain or a composite material, and are made to match the color of your teeth. While there is no health reason not to use amalgam (silver) fillings, today most dentists recommend the use of composite materials. These modern fillings form a stronger bond with the tooth and offer improved cosmetic results.
Regardless of how diligent you are about brushing and flossing, it is possible that you may experience some degree of tooth decay. Because this can lead to serious oral health problems, it is important to see a dentist for regular checkups and at any sign of trouble. Cavities can be a problem at any age, even if you have never had cavities before. As you age, receding gums can expose roots to plaque, leading to decay, tooth sensitivity, and gum disease.
No. In cases involving severe discoloration, teeth whitening may not result in a bright, white smile. Individuals with severe tooth discoloration should consider other options, such as porcelain veneers or composite bonding.
Smoking is a leading cause of tooth loss. Smokers also have an increased risk for periodontal disease (gum disease), leukoplakia, loss of bone structure, inflammation of the salivary gland, and development of lung, throat, or oral cancer. Smokers therefore face an additional set of considerations when exploring cosmetic dentistry treatment.
One restriction for smokers involves dental implants. Smoking increases the risk that a dental implant will fail to integrate with bone tissue (osseointegration). Smoking also affects gum health, and unhealthy gums can lead to dental implant failure. If you smoke, you need to quit before having an implant.
Another restriction involves teeth whitening. If you whiten your teeth but continue to smoke, the whitening effect will not last as long, because smoking stains the teeth.
Fillings may need to be replaced due to age of the filling or simple wear over time. Your dentist can determine if any fillings should be replaced. Let your dentist know if you are experiencing any pain
Similar discomfort or sensation may occur with either situation. The dentist will need to assess the tooth to determine the proper diagnosis. Please call our practice to schedule an appointment.
People who are missing teeth have several replacement options. Dental implants are the permanent addition of an artificial tooth, anchored into the jaw bone using a titanium screw. Dental bridges affix the artificial tooth not to the jaw bone, but to the teeth on either side of the gap. Removable appliances such as dentures are other option, whether you are missing one teeth are several. There are both advantages and disadvantages of each solution; discuss them with your cosmetic dentist to determine the right option for you.
We accept most PPO insurance. Please contact our practice directly to discuss the specific details regarding your insurance.
We do our very best to ensure there are no surprises. Please note that insurance is an arrangement between you and the insurance company. Specific questions about your insurance and coverage should be directed to your insurance company.
It is often difficult to determine exactly what your portion will be dependent on the various insurance and employer plans. At your initial visit, we will present to you an itemized list of your needs for future visits with an estimated cost per visit. This will give you opportunity to verify with your insurance company also. It is expected that we will collect your portion of the fees at the time of service.
We want to help any way we can. If you still have questions, please feel free to call us during business hours at (954) 757-6644
We are conveniently located just off the Coral Ridge Exit from the Sawgrass Expressway Get Directions
Dr Fabiola Liendo, DDS with Sawgrass Dental Arts understands that you, as a patient in her practice, have your very own specific and particular dental needs. She is an expert in dental health and cosmetic procedures using the most advanced and up to date techniques and materials and always taking in consideration the main goals that are specific for your individual oral health and smile improvement.
5693 Coral Ridge Dr
Coral Springs, FL 33076
Call Us: (954) 757-6644
Fax: (954) 757-6999