A Holiday Survival Guide for Your Smile From Miami Dentist David Carroll

 Happy Holidays! The holidays are upon us, and 'tis the season for a bit of togetherness (and a lot of indulgence). We don't all celebrate the same holidays or adhere to the same belief systems, but there is one thing that seems to unite us all: comfort food.

Cold weather and sweets go hand-in-hand. What's a good snowball fight without a warm cup of cocoa to come home to? Even in warmer climates, it's difficult to dissuade dreams of sugar plums after a good night of classic movies with your family. So, while this "soul food" may be good for your spirits, take a moment to think about what it's doing to your teeth.

How Could Something So Good Be So Bad?

Sugar can wreak havoc on your pearly whites. It's a complicated process, but here's the scoop. Bacteria in your mouth use your sweets as energy, growing and multiplying faster than they would otherwise. Some bond with the sugar to form a sticky glue called plaque. Plaque, in turn, produces acid. The acid dissolves the minerals that make your tooth enamel hard, and the surface becomes porous. The acid causes these tiny holes in the enamel to become bigger until one large hole appears. This is a cavity.

Does This Mean No More?

While ideally we would never expose our teeth to sugar or anything else that promotes tooth

decay, that's just not realistic. All we can do is try to minimize the damage. Don't let your holiday routine interrupt your dental care regimen. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste (unless you're a young tyke), and floss at least once.

If you decide to indulge in more sweets than usual, it's a good idea to brush more often. If you don't have your toothbrush on hand, rinse your mouth out with warm water. Certain sugar -free gums can help as well. Choose those with Xylitol, an artificial sweetener that can help prevent tooth decay. And finally, try to mix up your snacks. If you're eating a sugary treat, try to also eat a bit of cheese (or a similar protein) as well.

 

For more information on how to keep your smile healthy call us today at (305) 948-9102

or visit our website http://www.CarrollDentistry.com

North Miami Dentist | Dr. Carroll (305) 948-9102

Dentist in Miami, North Miami, and Aventura

C A R R O L L   D E N T I S T R Y
15801 Biscayne Blvd., Suite 200
North Miami Beach, Florida 33160

 

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

Even though they are temporary, your child's baby teeth are important, and are still susceptible to cavities. Tooth decay in infants and toddlers is often referred to as Baby Bottle Tooth Decay, or Early Childhood Caries. Children need strong, healthy teeth to chew their food, speak and have a good-looking smile. Their first teeth also help make sure their adult teeth come in correctly. It’s important to start infants off with good oral care to help protect their teeth for decades to come.

What causes Baby Bottle Tooth Decay?

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay most often occurs in the upper front teeth, but other teeth may also be affected.
There are many factors which can cause tooth decay. One common cause is the frequent, prolonged exposure of the baby’s teeth to drinks that contain sugar. Tooth decay can occur when the baby is put to bed with a bottle, or when a bottle is used as a pacifier for a fussy baby.
Tooth decay is a disease that can begin with cavity-causing bacteria being passed from the mother (or primary caregiver) to the infant. These bacteria are passed through the saliva. When the mother puts the baby’s feeding spoon in her mouth, or cleans a pacifier in her mouth, the bacteria can be passed to the baby.
If your infant or toddler does not receive an adequate amount of fluoride, they may also have an increased risk for tooth decay. The good news is that decay is preventable.

Preventing Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

• Try not to share saliva with the baby through common use of feeding spoons or licking pacifiers. After each feeding, wipe your child’s gums with a clean, damp gauze pad or washcloth.
• When your child’s teeth come in, brush them gently with a child-size toothbrush and a smear (or grain of rice sized amount) of fluoride toothpaste until the age of 3. 
• Brush the teeth with a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste from the ages of 3 to 6.
• Supervise brushing until your child can be counted on to spit and not swallow toothpaste—usually not before he or she is 6 or 7.
• Place only formula, milk or breastmilk in bottles. Avoid filling the bottle with liquids such as sugar water, juice or soft drinks.
• Infants should finish their bedtime and naptime bottles before going to bed.
• If your child uses a pacifier, provide one that is clean—don’t dip it in sugar or honey.
• Encourage your child to drink from a cup by his/her first birthday.
• Encourage healthy eating habits.

When your child’s first tooth appears, talk to your dentist about scheduling the first dental visit. Treat the first dental visit as you would a well-baby checkup with the child’s physician. Remember: starting early is the key to a lifetime of good dental health.


Carroll Dentistry is a multi-generational practice that seamlessly merges hard earned wisdom from years of practice with next generation technology and innovation. Led by dynamic father-son team of Drs. Lewis and David Carroll, patients benefit from incomparable personalized care, cutting edge treatments and time tested expertise of highly trained specialists. For more information visit us at www.carrolldentistry.com or call our office at (305)948-9102

Happy Thanksgiving from Miami Dentist Dr. Carroll

 

Happy Thanksgiving from Miami Dentist

A special greeting of Thanksgiving time to express to you our sincere appreciation for your confidence and loyalty. We are deeply thankful and extend to you our best wishes for a happy and healthy Thanksgiving Day

Dr. David Carroll, Dr. Lewis Carroll, & Staff

www.CarrollDentistry.com

Dentures

Dentures

Dentures are removable appliances that can replace missing teeth and help restore your smile. If you’ve lost all of your natural teeth, whether from gum disease, tooth decay or injury, replacing missing teeth will benefit your appearance and your health. That’s because dentures make it easier to eat and speak better than you could without teeth—things that people often take for granted.
When you lose all of your teeth, facial muscles can sag, making you look older. Dentures can help fill out the appearance of your face and profile. They can be made to closely resemble your natural teeth so that your appearance does not change much. Dentures may even improve the look of your smile.

Types of dentures:

• Conventional. This full removable denture is made and placed in your mouth after the remaining teeth are removed and tissues have healed, which may take several months. 
• Immediate. This removable denture is inserted on the same day that the remaining teeth are removed. Your dentist will take measurements and make models of your jaw during a preliminary visit. You don’t have to be without teeth during the healing period, but may need to have the denture relined or remade after your jaw has healed. 
• Overdenture. Sometimes some of your teeth can be saved to preserve your jawbone and provide stability and support for the denture. An overdenture fits over a small number of remaining natural teeth after they have been prepared by your dentist. Implants can serve the same function, too.

New dentures may feel awkward for a few weeks until you become accustomed to them. The dentures may feel loose while the muscles of your cheek and tongue learn to keep them in place. It is not unusual to experience minor irritation or soreness. You may find that saliva flow temporarily increases. As your mouth becomes accustomed to the dentures, these problems should go away. Follow-up appointments with the dentist are generally needed after a denture is inserted so the fit can be checked and adjusted. If any problem persists, particularly irritation or soreness, be sure to consult your dentist.
Even if you wear full dentures, you still have to practice good dental hygiene. Brush your gums, tongue and roof of your mouth every morning with a soft-bristled brush before you insert your dentures to stimulate circulation in your tissues and help remove plaque.

Like your teeth, your dentures should be brushed daily to remove food particles and plaque. Brushing also can help keep the teeth from staining. 

• Rinse your dentures before brushing to remove any loose food or debris. 
• Use a soft bristle toothbrush and a non-abrasive cleanser to gently brush all the surfaces of the dentures so they don't get scratched.
• When brushing, clean your mouth thoroughly—including your gums, cheeks, roof of your mouth and tongue to remove any plaque. This can help reduce the risk of oral irritation and bad breath. 
• When you’re not wearing your dentures, put them in a safe place covered in water to keep them from warping.
• Occasionally, denture wearers may use adhesives. Adhesives come in many forms: creams, powders, pads/wafers, strips or liquids. If you use one of these products, read the instructions, and use them exactly as directed. Your dentist can recommend appropriate cleansers and adhesives.

If you have any questions about your dentures, or if they stop fitting well or become damaged, contact your dentist. Be sure to schedule regular dental checkups, too. The dentist will examine your mouth to see if your dentures continue to fit properly.

Carroll Dentistry is a multi-generational practice that seamlessly merges hard earned wisdom from years of practice with next generation technology and innovation. Led by dynamic father-son team of Drs. Lewis and David Carroll, patients benefit from incomparable personalized care, cutting edge treatments and time tested expertise of highly trained specialists. For more information visit us at www.Carrolldentistry.com or to make an appointment call us at 305.948.9102

Sensitive Teeth

Sensitive Teeth

Is the taste of ice cream or a sip of hot coffee sometimes a painful experience for you? Does brushing or flossing make you wince occasionally? If so, you may have sensitive teeth.
Possible causes include:

• Tooth decay (cavities)
• Fractured teeth
• Worn fillings
• Gum disease
• Worn tooth enamel
• Exposed tooth root

In healthy teeth, a layer of enamel protects the crowns of your teeth—the part above the gum line. Under the gum line a layer called cementum protects the tooth root. Underneath both the enamel and the cementum is dentin.

 Dentin is less dense than enamel and cementum and contains microscopic tubules (small hollow tubes or canals). When dentin loses its protective covering of enamel or cementum these tubules allow heat and cold or acidic or sticky foods to reach the nerves and cells inside the tooth. Dentin may also be exposed when gums recede. The result can be hypersensitivity.

Sensitive teeth can be treated. The type of treatment will depend on what is causing the sensitivity. Your dentist may suggest one of a variety of treatments:

• Desensitizing toothpaste. This contains compounds that help block transmission of sensation from the tooth surface to the nerve, and usually requires several applications before the sensitivity is reduced.
• Fluoride gel. An in-office technique which strengthens tooth enamel and reduces the transmission of sensations.
• A crown, inlay or bonding. These may be used to correct a flaw or decay that results in sensitivity.
• Surgical gum graft. If gum tissue has been lost from the root, this will protect the root and reduce sensitivity.
• Root canal. If sensitivity is severe and persistent and cannot be treated by other means, your dentist may recommend this treatment to eliminate the problem.

Proper oral hygiene is the key to preventing sensitive-tooth pain. Ask your dentist if you have any questions about your daily oral hygiene routine or concerns about tooth sensitivity.

At Carroll Dentistry, we understand that the foundation for a beautiful smile is a healthy mouth. We encourage all of our patients to develop diligent oral hygiene habits to prevent infection and other oral health problems. In some instances, however, further care is needed to preserve a patient's oral health. Whether you require a small filling or more involved treatment such as periodontal care, we can provide you with the treatment you need for sustained oral health. For more information please visit us at www.carrolldentistry.com

Miami Cosmetic Dentist | Dr. Carroll (305) 948-9102 | Great Patient Review

Oral Cancer

Oral Cancer

Did you know almost 42,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral and throat cancers this year? And that the 5-year survival rate of those diagnosed is only slightly more than 64 percent? When cancer is detected and treated early, treatment-related health problems are reduced.

The oral cavity includes your lips, cheek lining, gums, front part of your tongue, floor of the mouth beneath the tongue and the hard palate that makes up the roof of your mouth. The throat (pharynx) starts at the soft part of the roof of your mouth and continues back into your throat. It includes the back section of your tongue as well as the base where the tongue attaches to the floor of your mouth.
During your dental visit, your dentist can talk to you about your health history and examine these areas for signs of mouth and/or throat cancer. The screening will consist of a visual inspection of the mouth and palpation of the jaw and neck. Regular visits to your dentist can improve the chances that any suspicious changes in your oral health will be caught early, at a time when cancer can be treated more easily. In between visits, it's important to be aware of the following signs and symptoms and to see your dentist if they do not disappear after two weeks.

The symptoms of mouth or throat cancer can include:

• a sore or irritation that doesn't go away
• red or white patches
• pain, tenderness or numbness in mouth or lips
• a lump, thickening, rough spot, crust or small eroded area
• difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving your tongue or jaw
• a change in the way your teeth fit together when you close your mouth

Research has identified a number of factors that contribute to the development of mouth and throat cancers. Smokers and excessive alcohol drinkers older than 50 are the most at risk. More recently, the human papilloma virus (HPV), which is sexually transmitted, has been associated with cancers of the oropharyngeal region that is the part of the throat at the back of the mouth. HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancers are related to the increasing incidence of throat cancers in non-smoking adults.

HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancers typically develop in the throat at the base of the tongue and near or on the tonsils making them difficult to detect. Although HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancers are often diagnosed at a later stage, people with HPV-positive cancers have a lower risk of dying or having recurrence than those with HPV-negative cancers. It is likely that there is a complex interaction of many external and internal factors that play a role in the development of HPV-positive cancers.

Keeping your mouth healthy during treatment:

The first thing you should do before beginning cancer treatment is to see your dentist. After your treatment begins, be sure to check your mouth every day for sores or other changes.
Other tips to keep your mouth moist:

• Keep your mouth moist.
• Drink a lot of water.
• Suck ice chips.
• Use sugarless gum or sugar-free hard candy.
• Use a saliva substitute to help moisten your mouth.

Tips for cleaning your mouth:

• Brush your teeth, gums, and tongue with an extra-soft toothbrush after every meal and at bedtime. If it hurts, soften the bristles in warm water.
• Use a fluoride toothpaste.
• Use the special fluoride gel that your dentist prescribes.
• Don't use mouthwashes with alcohol in them.
• Floss your teeth gently every day. If your gums bleed and hurt, avoid the areas that are bleeding or sore, but keep flossing your other teeth.
• Rinse your mouth several times a day with a solution of 1/4 teaspoon each of baking soda and salt in one quart of warm water. Follow with a plain water rinse.
• Dentures that don't fit well can cause problems. Talk to your cancer doctor or dentist about your dentures.

Carroll Dentistry is a multi-generational practice that seamlessly merges hard earned wisdom from years of practice with next generation technology and innovation. Led by dynamic father-son team of Drs. Lewis and David Carroll, patients benefit from incomparable personalized care, cutting edge treatments and time tested expertise of highly trained specialists. www.carrolldentistry.com

15801 Biscayne Blvd., Suite 200
North Miami Beach, Florida 33160
Phone: 305.948.9102

North Miami Dentist | Dr. Carroll (305) 948-9102 | Great Patient Review

Miami Dentist

We truly appreciate great patients. Thank you for trusting us with your smile.

We offer a wide variety of dental services including: Dentalimplants, Lumineers, porcelain crowns, Invisalign, and teeth whitening to help
you achieve a healthy smile.

If you're unhappy with your smile, then give us a call. We
would love to work with you and make the smile you've always wanted become a
reality. Give us a call at (305) 948-9102 and let us help you look and feel
your best with a beautiful smile. Having a healthy, bright, beautiful smile
enhances your appearance and allows you to smile with confidence. Thanks to the
advances in modern cosmetic dentistry, we are able to improve your teeth and
smile with quick, painless and surprisingly affordable treatments.

Don't wait! Call us today at (305) 948-9102 & visit our website http://www.CarrollDentistry.com

C A R R O L L   D E N T I S T R Y

15801 Biscayne Blvd., Suite 200

North Miami Beach, Florida 33160

Diabetes and Dental Health

Diabetes and Dental Health

Diabetes is a chronic disease which affects your body’s ability to process sugar. The resulting high blood sugar can cause problems with your eyes, nerves, kidneys, heart and other parts of your body. Diabetes can lower your resistance to infection and can slow the healing process.

If you have diabetes, you are at greater risk of developing some oral health problems. The most common oral health problems associated with diabetes are:

• Gum disease. Recent research suggests that the connection between gum disease and diabetes goes both ways. On the one hand, because of lowered resistance and a longer healing process, gum disease appears to be more frequent and more severe among those with diabetes. Conversely, it appears that treating gum disease in people with diabetes can help improve blood sugar control.
• Fungal infections. Since diabetes compromises your immune system, you may be prone to developing fungal infections. Symptoms include painful sores and difficulty swallowing. If you develop a fungal infection, see your dentist.
• Infection and delayed healing. If you are having extensive oral surgery, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to minimize the risk of infection. To help the healing process, keep your blood glucose levels under control before, during and after surgery.

Good oral hygiene habits, including professional cleanings at the dental office, are important if you are to control the progression of gum disease and other oral health problems. Regular dental checkups and periodontal screenings are important for evaluating overall dental health and for treating dental problems in their initial stages. Your dentist may recommend more frequent evaluations and preventive procedures, such as teeth cleaning, to maintain good oral health.
At Carroll Dentistry, we understand that the foundation for a beautiful smile is a healthy mouth. We encourage all of our patients to develop diligent oral hygiene habits to prevent infection and other oral health problems. In some instances, however, further care is needed to preserve a patient's oral health. Whether you require a small filling or more involved treatment such as periodontal care, we can provide you with the treatment you need for sustained oral health. For more information visit us at www.carrolldentistry.com

Braces

Braces

Braces and orthodontic treatment are used to correct “bad bites,” or malocclusion (teeth that are crowded or crooked). In some cases your teeth may be straight, but your upper and lower jaws may not meet properly. These jaw or tooth alignment problems may be inherited or could result from injury, early or late tooth loss, or thumbsucking.

If you have an abnormal bite your dentist may recommend braces or another orthodontic treatment to straighten out your smile. Correcting the problem can create a nice-looking smile, but more importantly, orthodontic treatment results in a healthier mouth. Not correcting an abnormal bite could result in further oral health problems, including:

• tooth decay
• gum disease
• tooth loss
• affected speech and/or chewing
• abnormal wear to tooth enamel
• jaw problems

Straightening your teeth can be accomplished in different ways. The kind of orthodontic treatment you have will depend on your preference and the options provided by your dentist or orthodontist. Traditional braces realign teeth by applying pressure. They usually consist of small brackets cemented to your teeth, connected by a wire, which is periodically tightened by your dentist or orthodontist to gradually shift your teeth and jaw. The brackets may be metal or tooth colored. Sometimes they are placed behind your teeth. Removable aligners are another option for treating orthodontic problems.

Orthodontic treatment may be provided by your dentist or an orthodontist, a dentist who specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. It will depend on the orthodontic experience of your dentist and the severity of your case.
Since abnormal bites usually become noticeable between the ages of 6 and 12, orthodontic treatment often begins between ages 8 and 14. Treatment that begins while a child is growing helps produce optimal results. That doesn’t mean that adults can’t have braces; healthy teeth can be orthodontically treated at any age.

 Treatment plans will vary based on your situation, but most people are in treatment from one to three years. This is followed by a period of wearing a retainer that holds teeth in their new positions. Today’s braces are more comfortable than ever before. Newer materials apply a constant, gentle force to move teeth and usually require fewer adjustments.

While you have braces it’s important to maintain a balanced diet for the health of your teeth. Of course, a healthy diet is always important, but eating too many sugary foods with braces can lead to plaque build-up around your brackets that could permanently stain or damage your teeth. Avoiding foods like popcorn, corn on the cob, chewing gum, whole apples, and other sticky foods is also a good idea. Ask your dentist about foods to avoid while you are in treatment. Not all of us are born with beautiful smiles, but with a good oral hygiene routine, and a little help from orthodontics, you can have a beautiful and healthy smile.

If you have questions regarding braces, please call our office or visit our website at http://www.carrolldentistry.com

 
 

C A R R O L L   D E N T I S T R Y
15801 Biscayne Blvd., Suite 200
North Miami Beach, Florida 33160
Phone: 305.948.9102 | Fax: 305.940.4801

Miami Dentist Discusses The Causes of Bad Breath (Halitosis)

We have all been on the receiving end of halitosis (bad breath) and it's no fun. While bad breath might be a symptom of some other disorder, it most likely stems from
dental decay and periodontitis. It's more than just socially awkward - it's a serious threat to your oral health.

Periodontitis is a disease affecting gums and bone that support the teeth, and it is

caused by inadequate brushing and flossing. In this disease, the irritated gums pull
away from the teeth and form pockets between the teeth and the gums. These pockets fill with bacteria and pus which give off a foul odor.
 
Patients with bad breath should be referred for a complete dental evaluation. If gum disease and/or dental decay is diagnosed, it can be treated readily. The patient will no longer have an infection in his or her mouth, and will no longer have the embarrassment of bad breath.

There's no need to live with bad breath, and no reason to neglect your dental health. If you have questions regarding halitosis, please call our office or visit our website at http://www.carrolldentistry.com

 
 

C A R R O L L   D E N T I S T R Y
15801 Biscayne Blvd., Suite 200
North Miami Beach, Florida 33160
Phone: 305.948.9102 | Fax: 305.940.4801

Dental Sealants Area Great Back to School Strategy - Miami Dentist David Carroll

What is a Dental Sealant?

You probably heard people say that their dentist sealed their teeth to help prevent cavities. They are correct! They are probably talking about a dental sealant. A dental sealant is a clear or white, liquid-plastic material put on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. The sealant bonds into the depressions and grooves (pits and fissures) of teeth and protects them from tooth decay and cavities. Although children and teens usually use sealants, adults can use them, too.

Applying a dental sealant is a relatively simple procedure. To put in a sealant, your dentist or dental hygienist will place a cotton roll around your teeth to absorb saliva and prevent moisture from getting on the teeth. A sheet of rubber (rubber dam) may be used to isolate the teeth. Then the dentist will apply the solution that will glue the sealant to the tooth. After about a minute, he or she will rinse off the excess glue, dry your teeth, and put on the sealant.

One type of sealant hardens very quickly through the use of a bright light. The other hardens more gradually. Sealants may wear down over a period of years. Your dentist should check them regularly and reapply them if needed.

Getting dental sealants at the beginning of the new school year is a good idea. It is a great way to prevent decay and cavities throughout the school year. For more information on dental sealants call our office or visit our website at http://www.carrolldentistry.com

C A R R O L L   D E N T I S T R Y
15801 Biscayne Blvd., Suite 200
North Miami Beach, Florida 33160
Phone: 305.948.9102 | Fax: 305.940.4801

 

 

 

Aventura Dentist, Dr. David Carroll, Discusses the Advantages of Dental Veneers

Miami Dentist

What are dental veneers? Veneers are thin, custom-made shells crafted of tooth-colored materials designed to cover the front side of teeth. They are an option for correcting stained, chipped, decayed or crooked teeth. Veneers are made by a dental technician, usually in a dental lab, working from a model. Placing veneers is usually an irreversible process, because it's necessary to remove a small amount of enamel from your tooth to accommodate the shell. It is recommended that you avoid some foods and beverages that may stain or discolor your veneers such as coffee, tea or red wine. Veneers are a great way to achieve a great smile in just a few visits. In fact, dental veneers are the secret of many  Hollywood smiles. The results are more than worth it. If you have any questions about veneers Please call our office for more information about improving your smile or visit our website www.CarrollDentistry.com

C A R R O L L   D E N T I S T R Y
15801 Biscayne Blvd., Suite 200
North Miami Beach, Florida 33160
Phone: 305.948.9102 | Fax: 305.940.4801