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Wisdom Tooth Extraction 101 - What Foods & Drinks Are Allowed After the Procedure

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 14:46:41 GMT

Updated: Oct 16, 2023. Originally Published: Nov 21, 2019.

Wisdom teeth normally come in somewhere between 17 and 21 years . Some people never get them, while others may only have a partial set. When wisdom teeth come in and cause severe problems with your other teeth, your dentist may opt to extract them.

If you're scheduled for wisdom tooth extraction, you'll want to prepare for your post-surgery care.

After surgery, it's vital that you follow a proper diet. You'll have a better chance of a smooth recovery. What can you eat and drink?

We've put together a wisdom teeth food timeline. Read on to find out what foods and drinks are allowed during the recovery period.

What to Eat During the Initial Recovery Period

In the first few hours post-surgery, you won't be able to eat solid food. The main reason is that you need to allow some time for the anesthesia to wear off.

At first, you won't have much sensation in your mouth. Eating when you can't feel anything could result in accidental biting of the numb areas of your mouth.

That doesn't mean you should avoid all food. During the initial recovery period, feel free to eat lukewarm broth. You can also try liquid diet supplements.

If you'd like something sweet, try low-acid juice , such as pear or carrot juice. Some patients find drinking beet juice or a juice made with cucumber or watermelon works well.

Highly-acidic juices may irritate the incision site. Avoid drinking citrus juices (lemon, orange, grapefruit). Not only will they cause discomfort, they may cause enough irritation that it slows down the healing process.

Can You Drink Water Right After Surgery?

Most patients can, and should, drink water shortly after a wisdom tooth extraction . Staying hydrated will help the healing process.

The problem-as mentioned above-Is that your mouth might still be numb from the anesthesia. Drinking anything, including water, may be challenging at first. The numbness increases the risk of biting your cheek or lip.

Dentists suggest waiting until the numbness wears off before you attempt to drink.

After you regain sensation in your mouth, you can start sipping water. There is a caveat: avoid straws. In fact, you should avoid straws for the first few days after your wisdom tooth extraction.

Sucking on a straw could dislodge the blood clots that form in your extraction site(s). When that happens, it can lead to a painful condition called dry socket.

When you are able to drink water, opt for room temperature. Hot and cold beverages may cause discomfort.

What about rinsing your mouth with water? Many dentists and oral surgeons recommend rinsing with either salt water or a prescription mouth rinse. Make sure to follow the dentist's instructions about rinsing to promote healing.

The key to healing after a tooth extraction procedure is hydration. Once you're comfortable, sip water throughout the day. This ensures you stay adequately hydrated.

No matter what, listen to your body. Pain, discomfort, or bleeding while drinking water is a signal to pause. Then, consult your dentist.

First 24 Hours after Surgery

By the time you've been drinking water for a few hours, you'll likely feel hungry. This isn't the time to eat that steak dinner you're craving.

In the initial 24 hours, stick to a full liquid diet to avoid disturbing the surgical site. Of course, continue drinking room temperature water, but you can also add clear broths and non-acidic juices.

Broth should be cool or at room temperature, and so should any juice you drink.

Some patients really crave something sweet and creamy after surgery. As long as you don't use a straw, go ahead and drink a smoothie or a liquid nutritional supplement.

What about ice cream?

The cold texture of plain ice cream is usually soothing to the extraction site. Go ahead and indulge. Just don't choose ice cream with nuts, pieces of candy, or chunks of fruit.

What Is the Big Deal about Chewing?

Limiting chewing after a wisdom tooth extraction is critical for a smooth and successful healing process. Here's why:

Protects Blood Clots

After a tooth extraction, a blood clot forms in the socket. The clot protects the underlying bone and nerves. Chewing too soon or too vigorously can dislodge this clot.

If dislodging a blood clot leads to a dry socket, you may experience extreme discomfort. That's because dry socket exposes the sensitive nerves and bone.

Dry socket not only hurts, it delays healing.

Reduces Irritation

Chewing involves moving your jaw. It also puts pressure on the surgical area. Pressure can cause irritation, swelling, and bleeding. All of these things may hinder the healing process.

Minimizes Infection Risk

The first few days after surgery are a critical period for healing. Dislodging blood clots and causing irritation can create an entry point for bacteria. This increases the risk of infection.

Promotes Blood Flow

Resting and avoiding excessive chewing allows the blood vessels in the extraction area to be repaired. It also nourishes the tissues more effectively.

Preserves Sutures

Chewing too soon or too forcefully can strain your sutures. Your oral surgeon placed sutures to close the surgical site. Chewing too soon could potentially cause them to loosen or break.

Reduces Pain and Discomfort

Chewing can be painful and uncomfortable in the days following a tooth extraction. This is especially true when the surgical sites are still healing. Limiting chewing during healing helps manage pain and discomfort.

Encourages Proper Healing

Allowing the extraction site to heal without disturbance ensures the gum tissue and bone mends properly. Chewing too soon can interfere with healing.

It's important to follow the post-extraction instructions provided by your dentist or oral surgeon. These instructions will help optimize your healing and prevent complications.

As your healing progresses, you can gradually reintroduce normal eating habits.

How to Eat 24-48 Hours Post-Surgery

Congratulations, you made it through your first 24 hours! Now, you can gradually start eating soft and easy-to-chew foods. These are a few foods most people can tolerate after a wisdom tooth extraction:

Mashed potatoes
Yogurt
Pudding
Applesauce
Jell-O

Purees made from fruite or vegetables are another tasty addition to your post-extraction diet. Cream soups work well as long as they don't have pieces of meat or vegetables that you have to chew.

Remember, your gums will be sensitive for several days. Eating foods such as mashed white or sweet potatoes and creamy soups is great, but eat them at a lukewarm temperature. Hot foods may cause pain to the surgery site.

Can You Chew Ice after Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Your dentist or oral surgeon will remind you that it's important to stay hydrated after your extraction. Anesthesia can make your mouth dry, so drinking water will likely feel comforting. Water helps replace the saliva in your mouth.

Sipping clear liquids, especially water, also helps keep your mouth and the surgical site clean.

It would seem that since ice is frozen water, you could suck on ice chips, right?

Sucking or chewing on ice after oral surgery can interfere with recovery. Sucking on anything can irritate the surgical site.

Remember, the sucking action, whether it's through a straw or sucking on ice chips, can dislodge the blood clot at the extraction site. The clot forms to protect the site, and if dislodged you could end up with a dry socket.

It's vital that you stay hydrated after your procedure, but there are better ways to do it than sucking on ice chips.

Count Down to Solid Foods

Once you pass the 48-hour mark, you can begin adding more solid foods to your diet. You should have already experienced some healing at the extraction site by this time.

Most patients feel at least a little bit excited to add some of the following foods:

Soft pasta
Scrambled eggs
Oatmeal
Cottage cheese
Avocado
Yogurt with soft fruits
Steamed vegetables

Let's talk a little more about what these soft foods add to the diet of someone healing from a tooth extraction procedure.

What Value Do Soft Foods Offer?

After a tooth extraction procedure , your body needs help recovering. You'll want to make sure you get enough protein-rich foods in your diet. You'll also need plenty of vitamins and minerals.

The soft foods you're able to eat during the week after your procedure can help with recovery.

You may feel ravenous by now and pasta is filling. Cook your pasta until it's very soft. Combine it with a gentle sauce and voila, and you have a filling meal.

Soft, scrambled eggs provide protein. Unlike some other protein sources, you won't need to chew scrambled eggs forcefully.

Cooked oatmeal is a warm and nourishing option that's easy to eat. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon, and you have a sweet, yet substantial breakfast.

Cottage cheese is a soft protein source that's gentle on your mouth.

If you love avocado, this week, you can eat as much as you want. Mashed avocado eaten with a spoon is a decadent meal. If you enjoy avocado toast, it's better to hold off for another week or so as you'll need to chew it.

Mix yogurt with well-ripened and soft fruits for added flavor and nutrition.

You might not think of carrots and broccoli as something you can eat after oral surgery. If you cut them into small, bite-sized pieces, you can manage them comfortably.

We haven't mentioned tea up to this point. This week, feel free to add room temperature herbal teas to your diet. They may provide soothing relief without causing discomfort.

What To Eat After One Week

One week after your wisdom teeth extraction , the world is your oyster. You can even eat oysters if you really love them, but only because most people swallow oysters without chewing.

What about the rest of the foods you've been craving?

Most people find that even though they feel much better in one week, they're still not usually ready to eat a burger or a steak. Why not?

For one thing, your jaw may feel sore and stiff. Some people struggle to open their mouth fully so soon after oral surgery. That limits your ability to wrap your mouth around a juicy hamburger.

So, take it slow and keep your tooth extraction diet limited to foods you can chew easily.

We recommend avoiding hard, crunchy, and spicy foods. In another week or so, you can eat chips, popcorn, and other crunch snacks. You likely won't be ready for salads or other foods that require heavy chewing.

When Can You Drink Coffee?

If you count on your morning brew to get moving in the morning, you'll need to wait until at least 24-48 hours after your procedure. Some dentists advise to wait at least five days before consuming any caffeinated drink.

Caffeine causes your blood vessels to dilate. This can lead to increased blood flow (and blood pressure). At that point, you're at risk for bleeding, which could dislodge the blood clot(s).

Once you're able to introduce warm and hot beverages back into your diet, coffee is fine. Although coffee may not be ideal for your overall dental health. The same suggestion stands for tea-regular and herbal.

What About Alcohol?

This is a question for your oral surgeon. Generally, you have to wait at least 48 hours after your procedure to consume alcoholic beverages.

The main reason for this is that your dentist or surgeon may prescribe pain medication to get you through the first few days after surgery. Combining alcohol and certain medications (including prescription pain meds) can be dangerous.

Check with your oral surgeon and follow their guidelines. You don't want to do anything that harms you or interferes with healing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Questions About Your Wisdom Teeth Food Timeline?

If your wisdom tooth extraction is coming up soon, keep this article handy. That way, when you're ready to eat and drink, you won't need to feel stressed and worry that you're consuming things that interfere with healing.

The dental care team at Daas Dentistry can also answer any questions you may have regarding your wisdom teeth food timeline.

If you're experiencing pain from impacted wisdom teeth or have other dental concerns, please book an appointment at either our Mississauga or Stoney Creek offices. We look forward to helping you with all of your dental needs.

Root Canal Aftercare_ 3 Tips for a Quicker Recovery

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 18:28:24 GMT

Updated: July 12, 2023. Originally Published: Oct 24, 2019.

Canada alone employs more than 118,000 people in the dental industry to help us maintain excellent oral health.

That is an undeniable sign of how much we get out of modern dental care. At the same time, some people feel intimidated by the prospect of getting a root canal from even the most skilled dental service. The good news is that you can enjoy a much more pleasant experience when you are prepared for effective root canal aftercare.

A lot of people have discovered many different tips that help them heal faster and with less stress after a root canal procedure. Learning about these tips can help you enjoy a speedy recovery and may also help you come up with your own techniques to improve your aftercare. So what can you do after a root canal treatment to recover as soon as you can?

Read on to learn about the biggest things to keep in mind for a speedy root canal recovery process!

1. Prepare in Advance for Root Canal Recovery

A great root canal recovery process starts with preparing in advance. If you wait until your procedure is over to start looking for ways to facilitate the healing process, you may experience significant discomfort while you get everything ready.

Ask Your Dentist for Advice

Start by asking your dentist for any root canal recovery advice they can offer. They will understand more about your unique situation, so their advice may be more valuable than what you can find online.

On top of that, your dentist will have seen for themselves the wide variety of things people try to recover faster after a root canal. They can tell you what they have seen work for others as well as what they have seen fail.

Make Sure You Have Pain Medication Ready

After you have your infected tooth pulp managed by your root canal procedure, you will want to have painkillers ready and at hand. The last thing you want is to realize that you need to take a trip to the store when you are in the middle of serious discomfort or pain.

Along with making sure you have standard painkillers like acetaminophen on hand, you can speak with your dentist about over-the-counter medications. Depending on your situation, they might be able to prescribe you with more powerful painkillers.

Understand Your Limits After a Root Canal

After Some people figure out their limits after a root canal through a process of trial and error. They try out lots of things and then stop doing anything that causes them extra discomfort or swelling.

However, learning through these kinds of errors can cause a lot of unnecessary stress. It is far better if you have some sense of your limits in advance so that you know what to avoid doing while you recover.

Talk to Others About Their Root Canals

Different people have different experiences while recovering from a root canal. Your dentist might be able to provide you with the most authoritative advice but it can also be helpful to speak with people you are close to about their own root canals.

You may receive some extra tips for handling the recovery process. On the other hand, you might find it even more helpful to hear about how much milder the root canal process is that some people fear. Although these procedures were more difficult in the past, modern dentistry has found ways to help people avoid pain and discomfort and enjoy faster healing after a root canal.

Bring Support to Your Appointment

There are a few benefits to bringing someone with you to your root canal treatment . First, they can drive you home once it is complete. Since you will be coming off of painkillers, that will be much safer than driving yourself home.

Second, bringing support to your root canal can help you manage your stress and remember to provide yourself with effective aftercare once your appointment is over.

Arrive Rested for Your Procedure

Effective aftercare starts with making sure that your procedure itself goes as smoothly as possible. The better the condition your body is in during your root canal, the easier it will be to manage the recovery process afterward.

Try to get a good night's sleep before your root canal appointment . It might also be a good idea to avoid strenuous exercise or anything else that might tire you out too much before you get to your dentist's office.

Have a Meal Before Your Appointment

After you receive your root canal, your mouth will be sensitive for a while. That means that it is often a good idea to have a hearty meal a few hours before your root canal. That way, your body will have as much access to quality nutrition as possible as it recovers from your treatment.

Consider Taking a Painkiller

You might even want to take a painkiller about 30 minutes before your root canal procedure. After all, it can take about that long for painkillers to take effect . Taking one in advance means that you will walk out of your procedure with as little discomfort as possible.

This can also be helpful if you are struggling to manage stress as your appointment approaches.

Stay Away From Smoking and Drinking

The longer you can avoid smoking and drinking before your procedure, the easier it will be for your body to heal during the recovery process. Both smoking and drinking can cause inflammation around the mouth , making it more difficult for it to manage stress and healing. You will also want to avoid smoking and drinking while you heal after your treatment.

Schedule Recovery Time for Yourself

Make a plan in advance to have sufficient recovery time once your appointment is over. Especially for the first couple of days after your procedure, you will want to be able to get plenty of rest. Even after that, extra time for rest will go a long way toward helping you enjoy the fastest recovery process possible.

2. Avoid Mistakes When Healing From a Root Canal

Once you have received your root canal treatment, it is just as important to avoid mistakes as it is to do things that will speed up your healing process. In fact, avoiding things that can slow down your healing is sometimes even more vital than taking steps to speed it up.

Be Prepared for Discomfort

First, don't be surprised by how sensitive your mouth might be after your treatment. A certain amount of discomfort and sensitivity is completely normal.

You might have an instinct to poke at the most sensitive parts of your mouth with your tongue or other objects. However, messing with your treatment site too much can slow down the healing process.

Avoid Eating Right After Your Procedure

Make sure to avoid eating solid foods until your treatment site has calmed down after your procedure. Instead, stick with liquids and foods you don't have to chew. Even later on, you will want to try to eat without using the most sensitive parts of your mouth.

Be Gentle With Your Oral Hygiene

After a root canal, it is important that you enjoy excellent oral hygiene. That will provide your mouth with the ideal environment for healing. At the same time, you can go too far with flossing and brushing your teeth. Try to be gentle during your oral hygiene habits, especially around your treatment site.

Keep in mind that there are other ways to get rid of bacteria in your mouth, so you don't have to rely only on more abrasive tools like toothbrushes.

Avoid Foods That Might Irritate Your Mouth

If you notice that a food irritates your mouth, try to avoid it or find a way to eat it that diminishes your discomfort. As a general rule, chewy and crunchy foods can cause a small amount of extra damage to your sensitive mouth after a root canal.

You should also avoid any foods that might get stuck around your treatment side. If you get anything stuck between your teeth, try to be as gentle as possible while removing it to provide your mouth with a clean healing environment.

Avoid Activities That Slow Healing

Even simple actions like sucking too hard on a straw can irritate your treatment side after a root canal. In some cases, talking too much might also cause extra swelling around your mouth.

Pay attention to anything that seems to put extra stress on your mouth during root canal aftercare. You will also want to avoid strenuous exercise for at least a few days after your root canal.

3. Speeding up Recovery After a Root Canal Procedure

By avoiding these mistakes, you will set yourself up for a smooth recovery process. However, there are also some things you can do to help manage swelling and discomfort. The more comfortable you are, the easier it will be for your body to heal as fast as possible.

Take Painkillers as Necessary

If you experience a lot of pain after your root canal procedure, try to avoid toughing it out too much. It is often better to relieve that pain with painkillers so that your body is not distracted by the stress of discomfort.

Decrease Inflammation With Elevation

The more swollen your mouth is, the harder it will be for your treatment site to recover. As a result, look for ways to bring down inflammation whenever you can.

One of the best ways to do this is to keep your mouth elevated as often as possible. If you can manage it, it can even be helpful to sleep with your mouth elevated so that it does not swell with blood while you are unconscious. That way, you will get the most healing possible out of your sleep.

Reduce Swelling With Ice

Another great way to manage both swelling and pain is to use ice. Before you apply ice to your mouth or face, wrap it in a cloth to protect your skin from excess cold exposure. It's also important to avoid holding ice against your body for longer than about 20 minutes at a time.

Stay Hydrated While You Heal

If your mouth dries out, it will heal much more slowly. Staying as hydrated as possible is a great way to keep your mouth moist while also providing your body's healing systems with the water they need to function.

Work Your Way Up to Appropriate Exercise

After a couple of days off from exercise, look for opportunities to gently get the blood pumping. You might start with some stretching or take a short walk or bicycle ride when you feel up to it. However, if you notice yourself getting too tired or your mouth becoming irritated as you do these things, make sure to slow down.

Try Massaging Around Your Mouth

Try to avoid poking at or massaging your treatment site while you recover. At the same time, it can be helpful to massage around nearby areas. If you find that gentle massage brings your discomfort down, you can continue using it as long as it does not lead to greater swelling at some point.

Try Gargling With Salt Water

Gargling with salt water can be an effective way to get rid of bacteria in your mouth without having to abrade your treatment site with a toothbrush. On top of that, it can help keep your mouth moist, speeding up the recovery process even more. Try gargling with salt water a couple of times each day or whenever you feel that your treatment site is throbbing or swelling.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Enjoy a Speedy Recovery With Root Canal Aftercare

The better you are prepared for effective root canal aftercare, the less you will have to stress out about your procedure. Following the tips in this article can help you relax and heal as fast as possible once your root canal procedure is over. Once you have had a smooth experience recovering from a root canal, you may feel much less intimidated by future root canals as well.

To find the right dental services for you, contact us at Daas Dentistry at any time! Both of our offices (Mississauga and Stoney Creek) are ready to serve you.

5 Things to Do in Preparation for Your Root Canal Procedure - Our Guide

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 14:47:09 GMT

Updated: April 12, 2023. Originally Published: December 05, 2019.

In Canada alone, there are almost 30,000 dental practices . Together, they make sure that people can receive emergency root canal procedures and other dental care when they need it.

Of course, as valuable as these procedures are, some people are intimidated by the idea of getting an emergency root canal. On the other hand, many people have figured out how to prepare for these procedures in a way that allows them to relax.

By learning from the experiences of others, you can prepare for your root canal and the recovery process that follows. So what can you do to prepare for your procedure to make sure that things go as smoothly as possible?

Read on to learn all about the most important steps to take as you get ready for your emergency root canal procedure!

1. Know What to Expect From Your Dental Procedure

The truth is that many people have overblown concerns when it comes to root canal procedures. They imagine that they will have to withstand pain and discomfort throughout the process. Some people also think that the recovery process is much more arduous than it is.

As a result, knowledge is sometimes the best way to help you relax as you get ready for your root canal.

Understand Your Procedure

The first thing to understand about root canal procedures is that they do not cause significant pain. Although receiving an anesthetic shot can be uncomfortable, it will keep you from suffering throughout the procedure.

Once your mouth is safe from potential pain, your dentist will move on to treating the decaying parts of your teeth.

They will start by removing them with a drill. After that, your dentist will clean the area and disinfect it.

Once that is done, they will finish by applying a crown or cap. This will protect your tooth from taking more damage in the future.

Ask Your Dentist All of Your Questions

However, the best time to learn about a root canal procedure might be during the preceding dental appointment. This can even be a good idea if you don't expect to get a root canal in the immediate future. It is worth understanding more about common dental procedures just in case you ever need to receive one on short notice.

When you get the opportunity, ask your dentist any questions you have about root canal treatments. Sometimes, people feel nervous without knowing exactly what to ask their dentist. The good news is that your dentist will have helped people with their dental procedure concerns many times in the past.

If you ask your dentist what many people want to know about root canal procedures, they can probably give you the answers to the common questions that concern people. This is also a good time for you to ask your dentist about what you can do to make the recovery process as pleasant as possible.

In fact, it is better to find this out as soon as you can. If you wait until your root canal procedure is over to find out how to recover, you may not have the time to get everything you need for a smooth recovery.

Plus, your dentist might be able to prescribe you some over-the-counter drugs to help you manage the pain once your procedure is over.

Consider Asking Others for Advice

Even if you don't know it, several people you know have probably received their own root canal procedures. Although your dentist will have more expertise, you might find even more comfort in speaking with people you know on a more intimate level.

Consider asking friends or family members about their own concerns as they approached a root canal treatment. There is a good chance that many of them will tell you that they were much more worried than they needed to be. They can also give you their own perspective about the process itself and the recovery that follows.

Later, we will discuss some of the things you can do to make sure that you are ready to recover as smoothly as possible from your root canal treatment. However, it's still worth asking your friends and family if they have any advice about how to make your recovery process easier.

Know the Signs You Need a Root Canal Procedure

Some people need a root canal procedure even though they don't know it. It's important to know the signs that you might need to see your dentist for a root canal treatment.

Infected root canal signs include pain and swelling in your gums or your jaw. Some people even develop a fever or experience nausea.

When this happens, it can be easy to think that you might have a normal toothache or something like sinusitis. However, the more of these symptoms you have, the higher the chance that you will need to get ready for your first time root canal.

2. Prepare for the Root Canal Procedure Appointment

So what can you do in the hours leading up to your root canal appointment ? Although root canal procedures are much less intimidating than some people think, there's still a lot you can do to help them go as smoothly as possible. If you have heard of anyone having a bad experience with a root canal treatment, it is possible that it happened because they did not know how to prepare.

Rest and Relax

Preparing for a root canal treatment starts with making sure that you get quality rest the night before. If you are stressed out due to lack of sleep, you might feel more anxiety during your procedure.

After you get a good night's sleep, it can also be helpful to do some relaxation exercises if you are still feeling nervous. Something as simple as taking 10 deep breaths can often dramatically change your mood with very little effort. If you have habits you use to manage your stress, it can also be a good idea to use some of them as you get ready for your procedure.

Take a Painkiller in Advance

It might sound counterintuitive, but it can be helpful to take a painkiller even before you receive your root canal procedure. That way, the medicine will already be in your system once your procedure begins.

Of course, you will receive more powerful painkillers from your dentist. However, taking a normal painkiller like ibuprofen can be a great way to help you feel more at ease as your procedure approaches.

But always check with your doctor and dentist first before taking any medications and painkillers.

Avoid Drinking and Smoking

The healthier your mouth is, the better it will handle your root canal. Some of the worst ways to irritate your mouth before your procedure are to smoke tobacco or drink alcohol. In fact, you should avoid these both leading up to your procedure as well as during the recovery process that follows.

That way, your mouth will be maximally prepared to handle the stresses of the procedure and heal as fast as it can.

Eat Before Your Procedure

Some people are used to avoiding eating before certain surgical treatments. However, this is not necessary before a milder treatment like a root canal.

In fact, it can help to make a special point of getting in a good meal before your procedure. After all, once your mouth is sensitive from your treatment, you may not have another good opportunity to eat a robust meal for a while.

Have Some Ice Ready

Ice is one of the best ways to alleviate swelling and pain after a root canal. Some unlucky people have come home from their root canal procedure only to realize that they don't have any ice ready in the freezer.

Make sure to make some ice before you head to the dentist's office. You might even want to wrap it in a cloth to get it ready to use once you get home.

Bring Someone to Help You

Although it is not strictly necessary, it can help to bring someone along to your root canal treatment. For one thing, they will be able to drive you home after your procedure. Since you will have received anesthetic from your dentist, it is much safer to have someone else drive you.

Of course, you can always arrange for a ride or take an Uber to get home if you can't find someone to come along. However, having someone come with you can also provide you with valuable moral support. Although you may not feel any need for this once you have seen for yourself how mild the root canal procedure is, it can be a good idea if you feel nervous leading up to your first root canal ever.

3. Know How to Avoid Irritating Your Mouth

Once your root canal is done, it is important to avoid anything that might slow down your healing process.

However, it is best if you can learn about how to recover as fast as possible before your actual treatment. That way, you can make any necessary preparations in advance. This will also save you from making mistakes that might exacerbate your recovering tooth.

Be Careful Brushing and Floosing

Some people think that they can't brush their teeth or floss them after a root canal. The truth is you can brush and floss after your treatment, but it is important to be careful. If you are rough on your tooth, you could cause unnecessary pain or provoke extra inflammation.

Also, make sure not to use mouthwash or fluoride toothpaste until your tooth has healed. That means you may want to prepare in advance by buying a kind of toothpaste that does not contain fluoride.

Avoid Irritating Foods While Healing

Make sure to avoid acidic foods while your tooth is recovering from your procedure. That goes double for things like carbonated sodas.

You will also want to avoid anything hard or sticky that could place a significant amount of stress on your healing teeth. Whatever you eat, try to make sure that none of it gets stuck between your recovering tooth and its neighbors. If this happens, gently floss the area so that your tooth has the best environment for recovery.

4. Prepare to Manage Tooth Pain After Your Procedure

You might have some swelling and pain around your treated tooth after your treatment. As we have discussed, having some ice or a cold compress ready can help you manage these issues.

You can also continue to take pain relievers throughout the recovery process. Anything that can help keep your swelling down will also help reduce your pain.

As a result, you might want to try to keep your head elevated even while you sleep. You can try lying down flat, but if you feel extra blood pumping around your mouth, it might be a better idea to sit up at least part way.

If you are nervous as your treatment approaches, you might even want to make a list of ways you can manage any pain you might be facing afterward. This can include things like massaging around your mouth to alleviate attention and inflammation. Sometimes, taking a walk can also help you enjoy better blood circulation and relax during your recovery process.

5. See Your Dentist Again Soon

Even before your root canal procedure , it can help to prepare by scheduling a follow-up appointment. You can ask your dentist when the right time for you both is, but a quick follow-up appointment can be a great way to check up on your recovery process and make sure that everything is going well.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Know How to Prepare for an Emergency Root Canal

Some people get frightened by the mere idea of receiving an emergency root canal procedure. However, as long as you know how to prepare, you will be able to show up for your procedure with confidence. We hope the tips in this article will help you manage your procedure and its recovery process as smoothly as possible.

To find out more about how you can find the right dental care for your needs, get in touch with us at Daas Dentistry at any time!

6 Tips to Ease Your Post-Wisdom-Tooth Surgery Experience

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 19:21:19 GMT

Updated: January 16, 2023. Originally Published: October 17, 2019.

Around Canada, it takes more than 118,000 people to help us enjoy quality dental care.

That is a strong sign of how much value we get out of modern dental procedures. However, certain dental treatments, like wisdom tooth extraction, can come with a significant recovery process. The good news is that knowing how to speed up wisdom teeth recovery can help you get back to your normal life as soon as possible.

On top of that, the right recovery tips can help you minimize discomfort and stress while your body heals. So what should you focus on to ease your post-wisdom tooth surgery experience?

Read on to learn all about the top tips for recovering from your wisdom tooth procedure as fast as possible!

1. Know What to Expect After a Wisdom Tooth Procedure

Without the right preparation, you might be caught off guard by the post-wisdom tooth surgery experience. The more prepared you are, the easier you will find the recovery process.

Even before your wisdom teeth procedure , it is worth finding out what to expect. You can do this by reading online, but it might be even more effective to speak with others who have gone through similar procedures. There's a very good chance that several people you know have had their wisdom teeth removed.

Consider reaching out to them and asking them to help you understand what to expect. This is also a great opportunity for you to ask them for any recovery tips . Although we will discuss many such tips in this article, it is always possible that someone you speak to will have other great ideas to add.

It is likely that your mouth will be swollen for two or three days after your surgery. Even after that, you may encounter recurring aches around your surgical sites.

There is a good chance you will receive medications to help you manage your pain. However, you might also be able to take more common pain relievers like acetaminophen.

If you encounter any bleeding while you recover, don't worry. Especially within the first 24 hours of your procedure, this is common. However, you can bite down on a gauze pad over your surgical sites to help limit bleeding as much as possible.

Get Ready Before Your Procedure

Once you have an idea of what to expect after your wisdom tooth procedure, you may want to start getting ready. That can include things like buying the right foods and making sure you have a plan for how to manage any discomfort you might encounter.

If you put this off until later, you can always figure it out once your wisdom teeth are already gone. However, you might find that more stressful.

2. Start With Clear Liquids After a Tooth Extraction

The further you get through your recovery process, the easier it will be for your mouth to handle regular foods. That means that you will go through several stages of sensitivity once your procedure is finished.

In the immediate aftermath of having your wisdom teeth removed, you will want to avoid almost all foods and limit yourself to clear liquids. For about 2 days, try to stick with things like water, Gatorade, and milk.

Among other things, this will help you keep nausea down as much as possible. If you're not careful, you might vomit if you eat the wrong foods too soon.

Another great liquid to drink while recovering is cold coconut water . Many people enjoy the flavour of this drink, helping them feel better about not being able to eat normal foods. On top of that, drinking chilled coconut water can help soothe discomfort in your mouth.

Plus, coconut water is a great source of electrolytes, providing your body with the nutrients it needs to recover as fast as possible.

Enjoy Other Wisdom Tooth Removal Foods

After a couple of days, you can move on to the foods like soup and yogurt. Your body may still need a few more days before you can start handling solid foods.

However, that doesn't mean that you should start eating normally. Instead, try to eat foods like eggs and pasta. For one thing, these foods are still quite soft, helping to avoid irritating your surgical sites.

However, they are also the right size. After your wisdom tooth extraction, it is important to avoid foods made out of small, solid pieces. This can include things like popcorn and rice.

As a general rule, try to avoid eating anything that might get stuck around or even in your extraction sites.

Once your extraction sites are no longer tender, you can start trying to eat normal foods again. However, make sure to be as mindful as possible as you start eating normal foods.

If you notice that they cause further tenderness or pain, go back to softer foods. Everyone recovers at different speeds, but the gentler you can be with your surgical sites, the faster you will recover.

3. Avoid Certain Activities During Your Recovery

Right after your surgery, it is important to avoid strenuous activities. This includes things like heavy lifting or running.

After a few days of recovery time, you might be able to handle some gentle exercise. This can include things like walking and stretching.

However, you should be mindful while you engage in these activities. If you notice them irritating your surgical sites, you should take things slower until you are closer to being fully recovered.

Throughout your recovery process, it is important to avoid spitting and sucking. Both of these activities can exert a lot of force on your surgical sites. They can even open them back up, causing pain and requiring you to see your dentist again for assistance.

You will also want to avoid things like rinsing your mouth or swishing water around it. However, you can gently hold water in your mouth. In fact, exposing your surgical sites to warm salt water can be a great way to soothe them and protect them from potential buildups of bacteria.

As you recover, make sure to avoid alcohol and smoking as well. Both of these activities can irritate your surgical sites and cause more inflammation. The more often you do them, the longer it will take for your mouth to recover.

4. Protect Your Wisdom Tooth Removal Recovery Clot

Although it is important to avoid these specific activities, there is also a general rule you should pay attention to. You want to make sure that your surgical site blood clots remain intact for as long as possible. If these clots dissolve or are pulled off, you might experience much more bleeding.

In other cases, a dislodged blood clot can lead to something called "dry socket." This condition can cause a lot of pain. Try to avoid touching your blood clots too much with your fingers, tongue, or anything else.

Make Sure Your Mouth Stays Moist

If you let your mouth get too dry, there is a higher chance that your blood clots will weaken. As a result, try to drink water or other liquids on a regular basis. That goes double if you notice your mouth starting to get dry.

You will also want to avoid breathing through your mouth too much after your surgery. Especially for the first couple of days, you might want to have someone tell you if you are breathing through your mouth while you sleep. If so, there is a higher chance that your mouth will dry out and begin to cultivate growths of bacteria.

Along with slowing down your recovery process, this can lead to cavities. The good news is that you can use oral cavity moisturizers if necessary to keep your mouth moist.

5. Try Elevation for Wisdom Tooth Removal Pain

There are several things you can do to try to minimize discomfort and swelling while you recover. One of the most important is to keep your head elevated as much as possible.

Especially for the first few days after your procedure, try not to let your head get lower than a 45° angle. The lower your head gets, the more blood will rush into your surgical sites. That can increase swelling, which will lead to more discomfort.

It will also slow down your recovery process, especially if it keeps you from enjoying quality sleep.

During the day, you might even want to stay upright as much as possible. Try sitting down rather than lying down for as long as is comfortable. Although you can experiment with reclining a little more if you feel the need to, make sure to be mindful of any increases in discomfort that start to develop.

Use Ice to Manage Any Discomfort

If you are experiencing a lot of discomfort or swelling, you can use ice to try to calm it down. However, you should avoid applying ice directly to your skin. Instead, wrap it in cloth and hold it near the outside of your swollen sites.

Try not to do this for longer than 20 minutes at a time. Excess exposure to cold may cause discomfort or even damage to your skin. However, in moderate amounts, using ice can help reduce blood flow to your swollen mouth.

The less blood flow reaches these areas, the more swelling will go down, bringing pain down with it.

Some people are used to using heat to manage discomfort as well. However, it is important to avoid this after wisdom tooth extraction.

Applying heat near your surgical sites will cause extra blood to rush into the area. That can increase inflammation and slow down your recovery process.

Use Massage to Alleviate Tension

Sometimes, your mouth will stay inflamed because blood is having trouble circulating through and out of the area. One great tool for managing this as well as other sources of discomfort can be gentle massage.

However, you will want to be careful to avoid massaging your surgical sites directly. This could lead to damaging your blood clots. Instead, try massaging the areas right below your ears.

You can also massage other areas around your mouth as long as you don't get too close to your extraction sites. Gentle massage can help soften tense tissue in the area, helping blood flow through it more easily. You might find that this massage also helps you diminish discomfort.

At the same time, make sure to pay attention while you are massaging around your mouth. If you massage too much or too hard, you might cause more inflammation or pain.

6. Cultivate General Health While Recovering

Anything that helps you cultivate good general health will also help you recover faster from your wisdom teeth procedure . Although it is important to avoid strenuous activities after your surgery, that does not mean that you can't get any exercise at all.

After your first few days of rest, it might be a good idea to make a habit of taking walks. This can help you get blood circulating around your whole body. However, it is again important to pay attention to your body and exercise less if it seems to be making you too tired or exacerbating your discomfort.

Another great way to speed up your recovery process is to make sure to enjoy quality nutrition. While following the food restrictions we have discussed, try to get a diet that is rich in a wide variety of vitamins and nutrients. While you are recovering from your wisdom tooth surgery, it can also be helpful to find safe ways to get plenty of fibre in your diet.

If you find yourself getting sleepy more often than usual, give yourself permission to get plenty of extra rest. Sometimes, good sleep is the best medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Know How to Speed up Wisdom Teeth Recovery

We hope that knowing how to speed up wisdom teeth recovery processes will help you get back to your life as soon as possible after your procedure. It is easy to make the mistake of waiting until after your tooth extraction to figure out how to handle the recovery process. However, learning more about what to expect and what you can do about it can help you minimize discomfort and downtime.

To find out more about how you can receive quality dental treatment, contact us at Daas Family & Cosmetic Dentistry at any time!

Everything You Need to Consider When Choosing a Children's Dentist

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 01:36:34 GMT

Kids should first see a dentist starting at age 1 . Having your child see a dentist at this age enables you to ensure that no early dental problems are present. It also allows your child's dentist a chance to correct small problems before they become big ones.

That said, how do you go about choosing a children's dentist? We're going to jump into this question below. Here's how to find the right pediatric dentist when scheduling a dental appointment for your child.

The Dentist's Experience

One of the first things you need to consider when choosing a pediatric dentist for your child is the dentist's experience. Not only should you consider how long they've been practicing but how much pediatric dentistry experience they have, specifically.

Experience is important because it enables a dentist the time to fine-tune themselves. It not only allows them time to work on dental techniques but also helps them to perfect their bedside manner. When it comes to working with kids, the latter, in particular, is extremely important.

We recommend choosing a dentist with at least a year of pediatric dentistry experience. If a dentist has established a solid reputation over this length of time, they'll likely provide quality service.

The Dentist's Reputation

It's not just the dentist's experience that you need to check out but their reputation as well. In fact, you could argue that the dentist's reputation is the most important factor to consider. After all, reputation explains the level of quality that a dentist can provide.

What you might wonder, though, is how to assess a specific dentist's reputation. The easiest way to do so is by reading online reviews. You can find these on sites like Facebook, Google, Yelp, and more.

Type the name of the dentist into a search engine. This will bring up a list of links, some of which will have yellow stars beside them. These are the links that will contain reviews.

Click through these reviews and use them to get a feel for each individual dentist. Odds are, these reviews will help answer the questions that you have. They will also alert you to any major flaws that a particular dentist might possess.

Apart from looking at online reviews, you can simply consult with people in your life. Ask your friends and family whether their children have ever gone to a specific dentist on your list. A recommendation from a close friend or family member could be just the push you need to finalize your decision.

Whether the Dentist Accepts Your Insurance

Do you have dental insurance? If so, you're advised to find a dentist who accepts it. If you don't, you'll have to pay the full costs that are charged to you.

How do you determine whether a specific dentist accepts your insurance? You can start by using your insurance company's "in-network" provider tool. Most insurance companies have these on their website, allowing their customers to quickly and seamlessly find eligible providers.

Once you've found an "in-network" dentist and you've decided that you want to use their services, give them a call and verify that they do, indeed, accept your insurance. If they say that they do, they'll be good to go.

Services Provided

Another thing you should consider when choosing a pediatric dentist is the services that they provide. See, not all pediatric dentists provide all dental services. While some do, others provide only a small selection of services.

How do you go about determining what services a specific dentist provides? You can start by looking at their website. Most dentists will have a 'Services' page covering all the individual services that they offer.

If a 'Services' page doesn't exist for a specific dentist, you should instead just call them and ask them about their services verbally.

Now, you might be thinking: my child doesn't need anything more than a routine dental exam. What's the point in checking for other services at this point?

It's all about the future. Yes, your child might not need additional services now but they could someday. And if that day comes, you don't want to have to make them switch dentists, especially right before an intensive procedure.

Some of the services that pediatric dentists provide include:

General Checkups

Children are advised to have their teeth and gums checked by a professional 2 times each year. General checkups help patients spot both existing and impending problems. This is important, as it enables them to combat these problems early in their existence before they've done much harm.

Essentially every pediatric dentist in existence provides general checkups. That said, there are some specialists out there who might not.

Cavity Fillings

Approximately 59% of Canadian children between the ages of 12 and 19 have had at least one cavity. This means that there's a fairly high chance of your child eventually needing cavity filling. Most pediatric dentists provide this service, but you should still make sure before choosing them.

Orthodontic Treatment

Another service to consider is orthodontic treatment. Your child may have crooked or misaligned teeth that eventually need correction. While you always have the choice to take your child to an independent orthodontist, you will likely find it easier if your child's existing dentist is capable of providing such treatment.

You should inquire about both traditional braces and Invisalign braces. Both of these have the potential to help your child in the future.

Cosmetic Dentistry

At some point, your child may chip, crack, or lose one of their teeth. In order to return their teeth to their prime state, they'll need to use cosmetic dentistry services. These services run the gamut from crowns to bridges to dental implants to teeth whitening and more.

While many pediatric dentists provide these services, some don't. Be sure to check before choosing your child's dentist.

Their Office Hours

Getting your child to the dentist can be a challenge, especially if you work in the middle of the day. Yes, you might be able to get some time off so that you can bring them in during traditional work hours. However, if that's not a possibility, you'll need to find a dentist whose office is open outside of those hours.

Be sure to check your prospective dentist's website before making any calls. They'll likely have their open hours listed on their website's 'Contact' page, and probably in the header and footer of the website as well.

Their Location

The location of the dentist matters as well. After all, you don't want to have to drive to a different town or city just to get dental services for your child. In fact, doing so could just build up negative anticipation for your child, making for an even more stressful experience than what would already be present.

That said, we advise choosing a dentist within 30 minutes of your home. There should be plenty of options for dentists within that time scope.

Whether Your Child Will Feel Comfortable With the Dentist

Visiting the dentist can be a stressful and anxiety-inducing experience, even for adults. For kids, it can be downright scary. This is why, when choosing a pediatric dentist, you need to get a good idea as to whether your child will feel comfortable with them.

Young kids' minds can sometimes be set at ease by toys and kid-friendly decor. As such, it might be a good idea to choose a dental office that provides such things.

It can also be a good idea to call the office before arriving for the first appointment. This helps you determine the tone and atmosphere of the office.

Whether Your Child Qualifies for Free Dental Care

One last thing to consider is whether your child qualifies for free dental care. In the province of Ontario, many kids 17 years of age and under can receive free dental care under the Healthy Smiles program.

This program is specifically designed for low-income families. If you believe that you make less than the average income for your family size in your area, you should give the program a closer look. You can do so by clicking on the link posted above.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Choosing a Children's Dentist Is About Doing Your Research

When all is said and done, there's no shortcut to choosing a children's dentist. You have to do your research and you have to put in the time. But as long as you use the advice detailed in this article, you should be successful in finding your child's first dentist.

Are you looking for a pediatric dentist in Mississauga or Stoney Creek? Daas Dentistry has you covered.

How to Prevent Tooth Decay in Children

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 01:07:44 GMT

While Canadians as a whole tend to have good oral health, early childhood caries (or cavities) are remarkably common. Many parents don't believe that childhood cavities are significant because their baby teeth will fall out, but they can actually have a long-term effect on your child's oral health.

As a parent, it's your responsibility to keep your child's teeth clean and healthy, but it's not always easy. We're here to help. Read on to learn all about how to prevent tooth decay in children.

Model Good Oral Health Habits

When you have a young child, you have a responsibility to be on your best behaviour whenever you're within eyesight of them! That's a lot of pressure put on you, but it's for a good reason. Children imitate almost everything their parents do, and you want to set a good example.

When your child is learning how to take care of their teeth and gums , you need to show them. This means that you'll have to model good oral health habits. You may end up brushing or flossing your teeth during inopportune times (in this case, your child's bedtime instead of yours), but that temporary inconvenience will be worthwhile.

Go above and beyond to take care of your teeth while your child is young, both for your oral health and theirs. Be over-enthusiastic about brushing and flossing.

Watch Your Child Brush

When your child is a late toddler, they'll be able to start brushing and flossing on their own. This will be incredibly exciting for you as a parent who no longer has to meticulously brush each tiny tooth for your baby.

You should observe your child while they brush, however, at least until they get the hang of it. Even after they've already learned and practiced for several years, it's a good idea to check your child's toothbrush to make sure they brushed their teeth. Children can be sneaky!

Watching your child will let you know that they're using good brushing habits and give you time to correct bad habits.

Modify Your Child's Diet

It's no secret that there are a lot of foods that are terrible for your child's teeth. Unfortunately, a lot of those foods are tasty ones.

It's a good idea to get your child into the habit of a low-sugar diet right away. While sugar is okay in moderation, in excess, it's bad for your oral health and your physical health in general. Sugar can lead to dental decay as the bacteria in your child's mouth thrive on it.

Most parents are aware that sugary treats are just that, treats. But they may forget about another common source of sugar for children: juice.

If you give your child too much juice, the sugar and acid can harm their teeth. If they're sipping juice throughout the day, the sugar has a lot of time to do damage.

Make water the drink of choice in your home and reserve other drinks for during meals or snacks. Water will also flush bacteria out of your child's mouth throughout the day.

You should also avoid any acidic foods too close before it's time to brush. Acidic foods and drinks will weaken the enamel on your child's teeth and make them more likely to develop oral tooth decay if that enamel isn't given time to harden back up again.

Make Oral Health Fun

This is going to take some creativity, but it's a great way to prevent cavities in children. Do your best to make oral health enjoyable.

How can you do that?

Start by using the right products.

Find a fun toothbrush that your child enjoys. Consider letting them pick it out themself! Many children's toothbrushes have recognizable characters on them and some even play music.

Then pick a flavoured toothpaste. This isn't necessary, but it can help if your child is resistant to the taste of mint.

Look for apps that encourage good brushing habits for children. Generally speaking, the apps are simple games that encourage your child to brush for the proper amount of time. Some of them include popular characters from movies or television shows.

When your child is able to "gamify" brushing their teeth, they're more likely to do it.

Reward Good Behaviour

Children love reward systems. Reward good behaviour and your child will continue displaying good behaviour.

The way you reward good brushing habits will depend on your specific child. Some children love having reward charts, so perhaps you'll add a tally to the chart every day they flossed without being asked to, and after 30 days they get a special treat.

Younger children may need more immediate rewards. Perhaps they get 10 more minutes of playtime at night if they brush their teeth without arguing.

Modify your rewards to suit your individual child's needs.

Normalize the Dentist

This is one of the best things you can do to prevent early tooth decay and cavities in children. You need to normalize the dentist . The earlier you start taking your child to the dentist, the better.

Ideally, children will see the dentist for the first time by their first birthday and they'll go about twice per year after that (once per year at the very least).

Because your child will start seeing the dentist during their infancy, the dentist shouldn't be scary. A child who's eager to go to the dentist will have healthier teeth. The dentist will be able to catch any problems before they start.

Tips for Babies and Toddlers

The above tips are helpful for older children, but what about if you have an infant? If you have a baby or young toddler, you're responsible for their oral health! They're not able to take care of their own teeth yet.

For new parents, this can be daunting. You need to protect those tiny baby teeth, but how? Here's a quick rundown.

Clean the Baby's Mouth After Every Meal

Even if your baby isn't eating solid food yet, it's a good idea to clean their mouth after every meal to get rid of bacteria. If they have a few tiny teeth, you can use a soft toothbrush. If there are no teeth at all, you can use a soft cloth.

You don't have to do too much here. A quick wipe with some warm water should be enough for an infant and a quick brush will be enough for a baby with a few budding teeth.

Avoid Bedtime Bottles

Does your baby or toddler self-soothe with a bottle? This is normal, but it's not great for your child's teeth. It's a good idea to find other ways to help your child drift off to sleep so they don't have to rely on the bottle anymore.

When your child drifts off to sleep with a bottle, the bacteria from the sugar present in the milk will linger in their mouth. This isn't a catastrophe if your child has no teeth at all, but once they start teething, it could cause problems for their baby teeth.

You should also avoid letting your child carry a bottle around all day. When it's not time for a meal, have your child drink water (as long as they're old enough, of course).

Ask the Dentist for Advice

As we mentioned before, your child should start seeing the dentist before their first birthday. If you're a first-time parent, those dentist visits are the perfect opportunity for you to ask questions! Pediatric dentists fully expect you to need a bit of help, so don't be embarrassed.

Ask the dentist to show you how to clean your infant's teeth and gums if you're unsure. Ask them about the best toothpaste on the market and when your child should start brushing. You can even ask them when your child should stop using a pacifier or sucking their thumb.

The dentist is there to help you. They're a valuable resource, so use them!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Tooth Decay in Children Is Preventable

Preventing tooth decay in children is the responsibility of parents and dentists. Are you up to the challenge?

This guide is a great starting point, but don't forget to make an appointment with your child's dentist. At the end of the day, receiving proper dental care as early as possible is one of the best ways to prevent cavities and other oral health issues.

If your child is in need of dental care in Mississauga or Stoney Creek, we're here for you! Contact us today to set up an appointment at either of our locations.

Everything Parents Should Know About Braces for Kids

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 22:12:29 GMT

In North America (Canada and the U.S. combined), about 4 million teens have braces. Are you considering getting braces for your child or teenager?

Braces for kids are common, but how much do you really know about them? How do you know if getting braces is the right choice for your child? What are your options?

We're here to answer your questions so you can make an informed decision for your child. Read on to learn more.

Benefits of Dental Braces for Children

So why would you want to get braces for your child?

In reality, not all children need braces. Many children could get straighter smiles from proper orthodontic care, but braces may not improve anything beyond visible appearance.

On the other hand, many children actually need braces to correct crooked teeth to prevent or fix larger oral health issues. Here's a quick breakdown of some of the benefits of braces for children.

Visible Benefits

Let's start with the obvious benefits. Getting braces is the best way to get straight teeth. If your child is self-conscious about their crooked smile, why not help them fix it with braces?

Not all malocclusions are dangerous. Even if teeth are slightly crooked in such a way that they aren't posing any type of health risk, however, your child may still be unhappy with them.

If your child never smiles with their teeth in photos or if they always cover their mouth when they laugh, it could be a sign that they don't feel good about their smile. A trip to the child orthodontist can help.

It's best to take care of the problem during childhood. Your child can grow up with straight and beautiful teeth that they'll love to show off!

Better Oral Health

There are also oral health benefits of getting braces. While the appearance of straighter teeth is certainly appealing, for many children, getting braces is actually a necessity. Braces can fix and prevent many oral health issues down the road.

Children with excess crowding can have a hard time properly cleaning their teeth. They may end up with tooth decay and cavities that can lead to pain, and eventually, tooth loss and gum disease.

Crooked teeth can make it harder for children to eat and they may make it more likely for children to break their teeth in the future.

There are also bite problems to consider. Children with malformed bites may struggle to eat and they may develop speech impediments.

Getting braces for your child can set them up for a future of good oral health and easier oral care. Help your child keep their mouth healthy.

Types of Braces for Kids

Many years ago, if a child got braces, they were always going to get the standard metal braces with large brackets and painful wires. As a result, many kids are nervous about getting braces.

This is no longer the case. Technology has improved, so even standard metal braces are better than ever. There are also several other options that are all suitable for children (under the right circumstances, of course).

Here's a quick overview of the different types of braces your child may be able to get. Note that depending on your child's specific case, they may be limited to a specific type. The only way to know for sure is to schedule a consultation!

Standard Metal Braces

When you think of "braces," this is likely what comes to mind. Standard metal braces consist of metal brackets and wires with rubber bands to encourage movement. During each appointment, the orthodontist will adjust the braces so your child's teeth move slowly into place over time.

Metal braces are effective for a wide range of orthodontic issues. Even a child who needs significant teeth straightening can benefit from standard metal braces. They also tend to be the most affordable option (though this will depend on your child's case).

Standard metal braces are great for children because your child will be unable to lose them or break them irreparably.

Children do have to change their dietary and oral health habits after getting braces, but it's typically an easy and quick adjustment. Some children also struggle with the idea of wearing braces due to how they look. Make sure your child understands that braces are temporary, and in a matter of months or years, they'll have straighter teeth.

It can also be helpful to allow your child to wear colourful rubber bands so they can make their metal braces suit their style.

"Invisible" Braces

"Invisible" braces aren't truly invisible, but they're a less visible version of standard braces. The brackets are clear but the wires are still going to be made of metal, so they're still visible.

These braces can fix all of the same problems as standard metal braces, so they're a fantastic option for the vast majority of children. They also have the added benefit of being less obvious.

Children who need braces, but who are afraid of having obvious metal brackets and wires may feel more comfortable with clear braces. These children may not be ready for clear aligners (more on that later), so clear braces are a great alternative.

These braces are super fun to decorate with colourful rubber bands.

Self-Ligating Braces

Self-ligating braces look like standard braces, but they're a bit different. Instead of using rubber bands to hold the wire in place, the brackets clip directly over it.

This may provide a quicker and more comfortable experience for people receiving orthodontic treatment.

Invisalign Clear Aligners

Invisalign clear aligners are fantastic. While they were once best for mild orthodontic cases, they're now effective for a wide range of orthodontic problems. They can handle almost any issue that standard braces can fix.

Instead of brackets and wires, patients get tooth-coloured attachments and clear plastic aligners. Every week (or every other week, depending on the case), the patient switches to a new set of aligners to slowly move their teeth into proper alignment.

Clear aligners require fewer dietary changes than standard braces and they're the least visible way to straighten your child's teeth. They also tend to be more comfortable than standard braces.

Typically, Invisalign is best for teens rather than young children, but it depends on your child's maturity level. The child has to be capable of removing and protecting their aligners during meals and brushing their teeth after every meal, even when they're at school. If a child loses a set of aligners, they can set back their treatment.

Are Braces Painful for Kids?

Many parents worry that braces will be too painful for their children. While it's true that braces (and even clear aligners) are uncomfortable, that discomfort is tolerable and it fades.

Of course, braces are more comfortable than cavities and gum disease.

When your child gets their braces tightened or switches to a new clear aligner, they may feel mild pain. An over-the-counter pain medication should be more than enough to soothe their discomfort. Have them eat soft food on the days of their appointments.

Your orthodontist can also provide your child with orthodontic wax to cover sharp brackets or attachments.

How Long Do Children Wear Braces?

The length of your child's orthodontic treatment will depend on their case and the treatment method that you choose for them. Some children only need to wear braces for several months. Others wear braces for over a year.

Children's jaws are still forming, so their teeth move faster than adult teeth.

Note that even after treatment, your child will need to wear a retainer. If your child is young, you'll likely need to remind them of this.

Basic Care for Braces

If your child has braces or clear aligners, their oral care won't change too much. They may have to visit the dentist more often and brush an extra time or two per day, but otherwise, oral care is straightforward.

Make sure your child knows how to brush and floss with braces . It takes some getting used to.

You may also have to change your child's diet. If they have clear aligners, no dietary changes are necessary. If they have braces, they will need to avoid hard and sticky foods for the duration of treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does Your Child Need Braces?

If your child has crooked teeth or a misaligned bite, it's time to consider braces! Braces for kids are safe and commonplace, and when your child is finished with their treatment, they'll have an amazing superstar smile they'll be excited to show off with pride.

Do you need a dentist in Mississauga or Stoney Creek for your child? We'd love to meet you. Contact us to book an appointment today so your child can start their journey toward a straighter and healthier smile.

How to Prevent Early Periodontal Disease from Getting Worse

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 18:51:59 GMT

As many as 7 out of 10 people in Canada will suffer from gum disease at least once in their lives. Needless to say, gum disease is a very common oral health issue that many people in Canada suffer from. Because it is so common, you might not think that gum disease is anything to worry about, but you would be incorrect.

Even early periodontal disease can be very harmful to your overall dental health. If left untreated, it could lead to some serious consequences including tooth loss and infection. But what exactly is periodontal disease and what can you do to prevent it?

Keep reading and learn more about it below.

Why You Need to Know About Periodontal Disease

Gum disease starts out innocently enough with gingivitis. Many people have gingivitis without even knowing it. This is because the early stages of gingivitis often don't cause any symptoms in most people.

Symptoms only start to arise as the disease progresses . But what causes gum disease in the first place? It almost always has to do with poor dental hygiene.

While some people may be more genetically predisposed to develop gum disease, rigorous and vigilant dental hygiene should still be able to prevent gum disease in everyone. The reason why poor dental hygiene often leads to periodontal disease is due to the bacteria that live in your mouth. Oral bacteria tend to secrete acid and plaque when they are exposed to particles of food.

Plaque is typically a sticky substance that coats the surface of your teeth and the inside of your mouth. It is generally harmless and you can easily brush it away with your toothbrush. However, if you don't often brush your teeth, the plaque will sit on the inside of your mouth for a long period of time until it eventually turns into another substance: tartar.

The Details

Tartar is a much more harmful substance compared to plaque because it is very hard and stubborn. You won't be able to use a toothbrush to get rid of it. Instead, you would need to visit a dentist and the dentist would need to use special metal tools to pick at and chip away at the tartar until it finally comes loose.

Tartar usually builds up around the base of your teeth near the surface of your gum line. The problem with tartar is that, besides looking bad for your teeth, it is especially irritating to your gums. This is because it puts pressure on your gums and also traps bacteria against them.

This inflames the gums and makes them unhealthy, causing gingivitis which is the first stage of gum disease. Gingivitis is generally a mild condition, but if it is left untreated, it can easily turn into periodontitis which is a far more serious disease. Periodontitis is characterized by a slew of unpleasant effects such as bleeding gums, bad breath, tooth loss, and infection.

So what can you do to prevent this disease from happening?

How to Prevent Periodontal Disease From Getting Worse

There are several periodontal disease stages and it is important to catch this disease as early as possible. The earlier you catch it, the less severe the damage will be to your gums and the rest of your mouth. On the other hand, if you wait until the more advanced stages to start treating this condition, you may already be dealing with many permanent consequences left over from the disease.

One of the best ways you can prevent this disease from getting any worse is to simply brush your teeth. Brushing your teeth is the foundation of good oral health. Ideally, you should brush your teeth at least twice a day, but brushing your teeth after you eat a meal is also a good rule to follow.

Any time you consume food or a beverage, the particles of that food will stick to your teeth. From there, the bacteria in your mouth will eat the food particles and produce acid and plaque as a result which will wear down your teeth and gums. But if you brush your teeth right away, there won't be a chance for this to happen.

Brushing your teeth also stimulates your gums and ensures that they receive a healthy flow of blood. If your gums bleed when you brush your teeth, this is a sign that you are suffering from the early stages of gum disease. This is because diseased gums are puffy, red, and more sensitive compared to healthy gums which are firm and pink.

Using the right toothpaste will also help to remove excess food particles from your mouth and also keep harmful oral bacteria at bay.

What You Need to Know

Besides brushing your teeth, however, flossing your teeth is also very important. Most people know that they're supposed to floss on a regular basis but few people ever actually do it.

But if you are concerned about periodontal disease and if you are already showing the signs of this disease, it is important to start flossing right away. Your gums will most likely bleed when you start flossing, but this is completely normal. As mentioned before, diseased and inflamed gums are more likely to bleed because they are more sensitive.

But as you make flossing a part of your everyday oral hygiene routine, you will find that your gums will no longer bleed. They will also start looking much better. Instead of being red and puffy, they will instead be firm and show off a healthy shade of pink.

You should aim to floss at least once a day. Flossing is important because it can reach portions of your teeth that a regular toothbrush cannot. Floss can also reach into the periodontal pockets which are where the bottom of your teeth meet the tops of your gums.

These pockets often become impacted with food and tartar which can seriously irritate the gums. But when you floss them regularly and keep them clear, there should be no reason for your gums to become irritated or diseased in the first place.

Other Treatments for Periodontal Disease

Once you start brushing and flossing your teeth on a regular basis, you shouldn't have to deal with the early stages of periodontal disease any longer. Instead, your gums will become healthier and healthier until the disease is cured. As long as you follow these simple dental hygiene practices every day, your gum disease should not return.

But what should you do if your periodontal disease has already advanced and caused some serious damage to your gums? Some common signs of this include receding gums, loose teeth, lost teeth, bleeding gums, and more. Receding gums can be particularly painful to deal with since the roots of your teeth will be more exposed and more sensitive to hot and cold substances.

In the case of more advanced periodontal disease, brushing and flossing can still help the situation, but only to a certain extent. At a certain point, it will be necessary to visit your local dentist and get professional treatment. For example, if you are dealing with dead or diseased gum tissue, it may be necessary to consider a laser treatment like the Periowave laser.

What to Know

This type of laser can remove dead or diseased gum tissue. This is important because if you leave diseased gum tissue unattended, it can spread to healthy gum tissue and infect it as well. Laser treatment cauterizes your gum tissue so there won't be any excessive bleeding and it will also kill any bacteria in the area so that the chances of developing an infection will be very low.

Professional deep cleaning for periodontal disease may also be beneficial for you. Deep cleaning is exactly what it sounds like: it involves cleaning all the nooks and crevices in and around your teeth and gums. This includes the periodontal pockets which, as mentioned before, are havens for bacteria, decaying food, and tartar.

Deep cleaning your teeth and gums in this way will soothe your gums so that they won't be as inflamed anymore. After that, regular dental hygiene and perhaps some antibiotics should be enough to solve your gum disease problem.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

All About Early Periodontal Disease

Early periodontal disease is easy to treat, but only if you catch it right away. You can treat this condition by brushing and flossing your teeth every day, though professional deep cleaning may also be a big help.

To learn more about treating gum disease, book an appointment with us here .

Understanding the Steps of Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 18:22:18 GMT

Around 84% of people who live in Canada have excellent oral health, and while that may sound like a lot, there is still a large chunk that has less-than-ideal oral health. When you don't take good care of your teeth, all sorts of dental problems can occur. One of the most unpleasant dental issues is a tooth infection.

The only real way to treat such an infection is with a root canal, but what is the root canal treatment cost? More importantly, what should you expect from a root canal treatment and what does it involve? Keep reading and learn more about root canal treatment costs as well as what this procedure is and why you may need one.

Why Do You Need to Extract Your Wisdom Teeth?

There are many reasons why wisdom teeth removal might be necessary. The main factor that comes into play is when wisdom teeth become impacted. Wisdom teeth erupt in the mouth in a person's late adolescence or early adulthood.

They are the final pair of teeth that a person will develop and they erupt at the very back of the mouth behind your molars. Many thousands of years ago in the past, wisdom teeth used to be very helpful for people to chew on tough food like raw meat and ligaments. Also, back then, people had larger mouths and stronger jaws.

However, today, our mouths are much smaller and our jaws are much more delicate. This is simply the course of evolution that occurred as foods became more processed and softer. Today, wisdom teeth are not very useful and they often cause more harm than good.

When a wisdom tooth is impacted, this usually means that it is stuck against a nearby molar. As it tries to erupt out of the mouth, it may do so crookedly, which would then cause the tooth to press up against a nearby molar. Doing this could damage the molar and cause a lot of pain and inflammation.

The Details

In other cases, a wisdom tooth may not be impacted but may still need to be extracted. For example, wisdom teeth sometimes erupt sideways rather than right-side up. As you can imagine, this could cause some serious problems for your dental health and it certainly wouldn't make chewing food any easier.

In other cases, wisdom teeth may cause general inflammation and pain. Wisdom teeth can sometimes even result in bad infections. It is very important to get your tooth treated if you think it is infected.

This is because tooth infections can get very serious in only a short period of time. If the infection happens to spread, it could damage the rest of your teeth. Besides that, if the infection spreads to the rest of your body, it could be very dangerous to your overall health.

For that reason, if you are experiencing any pain or inflammation due to a wisdom tooth, it is a good sign to have it extracted. But what is the extraction process like?

Understanding the Wisdom Tooth Extraction Process

For the procedure, your dentist will use a special type of sedation to help relax you and numb you from the pain. Most extractions are outpatient procedures, which means that you can go home on the same day as the procedure. Extracting a wisdom tooth is generally a straightforward procedure, but there are certain things that can complicate it.

For example, if your wisdom teeth are impacted into your jaw bone or otherwise stuck in the bone under the gumline, it will be necessary to go through a more invasive type of procedure. You may even need to go to a special oral surgeon to go through this procedure safely since it is so much more invasive than a regular extraction.

With a surgical extraction , you will be rendered unconscious with general anesthesia. That way, you won't be aware of the procedure as it's happening and you won't feel any pain either. It will be necessary to cut into the gums and remove the teeth from the jawbone without damaging the delicate nerves in the area.

Fortunately, this type of surgical extraction is not very common. In most cases, general anesthesia is not necessary and instead, your dentist will use local anesthesia or IV sedation. With local anesthesia, you will still be conscious but you won't feel anything but a bit of pressure as the dentist removes the tooth.

With IV sedation, you will still be conscious but very woosy and numb, and you may even fall asleep.

What You Need to Know

Whatever the case, you will need someone to drive you home after the procedure if the dentist uses IV sedation or general anesthesia. Before the procedure even starts, you will have the chance to ask your dentist some important questions such as the length of the procedure, and so on.

Once the procedure is ready to go, your dentist will make an incision along the gum line to get better access to the wisdom tooth. In some cases, it may even be necessary to remove a small portion of the jaw bone that is holding onto the wisdom tooth. Then, with a special tool, the dentist will remove the tooth from your mouth.

This will leave a large hole and it will be necessary to sew it shut with the remaining flaps of gum tissue. Besides that, it will be necessary to pack the area with plenty of gauze to stop the bleeding and protect the hole. Before doing this, of course, the dentist will clean the area as much as possible so that an infection shouldn't take hold.

Once that's done, the procedure should be done and over with, and, as mentioned before, you should be able to go home the same day, as long as you have someone to drive you home, of course. But what should you expect as you recover from the procedure?

Dental Care After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

It is important to be very delicate with your dental care after extracting a wisdom tooth. This is because the site of the extraction will be very tender and sensitive. You will likely experience a variety of side effects after the procedure.

Most commonly, the area will bleed and be quite swollen and painful. Your dentist will likely give you some pain medication to help you get through the first few days or first week of recovery. The first week will be the hardest part of the recovery process since that is when the swelling will be at its worst.

For that reason, it is important to use cold packs to reduce the swelling . Eating cold, soft foods like ice cream can also help numb the area and soothe it. You may even develop some bruising around your jaw where the tooth was taken out.

This bruising will go away on its own after a week or so. The rest of the side effects should also go away after a week. Also, during the first few days of recovery, you should give yourself plenty of time to rest so your body can repair itself.

What to Know

Try to keep any physical activity to a minimum and be sure to stay hydrated. Drinking water is essential. In the same vein, you should avoid hot drinks like coffee or tea and you should avoid alcoholic drinks as these may irritate the treated site.

Do not eat any food that has crunchy or hard pieces like nuts. These foods can scrape up the treated area and irritate it even more. This is not to mention that hard pieces of food can get stuck in the area and even cause an infection.

Try to stick with hard foods like ice cream, yogurt, and so on. As for your dental hygiene, you shouldn't use a toothbrush for a few days to clean your teeth. Instead, try using mouthwash or a similar product to wash out your mouth.

This is because a toothbrush is yet another thing that could irritate the area. After about two weeks, your mouth should be much better.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

All About Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Wisdom tooth extraction may sound like a scary procedure, but it is really very straightforward and you can even go home the same day. As long as you take care of the treated site afterward, it should heal without any issues.

If you need to have a tooth extracted, contact us here .

Root Canal Treatment Cost: Everything You Need to Know

Sat, 16 Jul 2022 01:18:11 GMT

How Can You Know if You Need a Root Canal?

Before we dive into the cost of root canal treatments, it is first important to understand the anatomy of your teeth and what a root canal is. Every tooth is made up of tooth enamel which is the shiny white part of the tooth that you can see. However, further inside the tooth there is a portion known as the pulp.

The pulp is a very sensitive part of the tooth that is enriched with blood vessels and nerves. It is what supplies blood to your tooth and allows a tooth to live. In a healthy tooth, the enamel protects the pulp so that it can do its job of supplying blood and nutrients to the tooth. However, if a person takes very bad care of their teeth, the enamel will eventually start to decay.

This is the case with tooth decay and cavities which thin and weakens the protective layer of enamel.

At a certain point, the pulp inside the tooth will be exposed. This not only creates sensitivity and pain, but it also can be a big problem if bacteria get involved.

Once bacteria enter the center of the tooth where the pulp is, a serious tooth infection can take hold. Once that happens, you can experience a whole host of symptoms. For one, the infection will cause a lot of pain in the area along with swelling, little white bumps on the gums, discoloration of the affected tooth, and in some cases, the tooth may even come loose.

The Details

Once you develop a tooth infection, it is important to treat it right away. This is because the infection could easily spread to the rest of your teeth and it may even cause them to fall out. In severe cases, the infection may spread to the rest of your body which can potentially be fatal.

Whatever the case, all of these symptoms are signs that you should visit the dentist right away as you may need to get a root canal. A root canal has a bad reputation for being a very painful procedure, and while this was true in the past, it is not anymore. This is because modern dentistry has several sedation and numbing options to make sure that the procedure is as comfortable as possible for you.

A root canal essentially involves drilling into the root of your tooth and cleaning out the infection that is there. It may also be necessary to remove any infected or dead tissue in the area.

How Much Does Root Canal Treatment Cost?

The exact cost of root canal treatment will depend on a variety of factors. For example, it will largely depend on your location, what kind of dentist you go to, the severity of the tooth infection, and so on. Besides that, the exact cost will also depend on the extent of the tooth that needs to be restored after the procedure as well as where the tooth is in your mouth.

The harder and more complex the procedure is and the more time the dentist needs to spend on it, the more the procedure is going to cost. If you catch the tooth infection early, it likely won't be that expensive because there won't be any need to restore a large portion of the tooth. However, if you wait to treat a tooth infection, it will destroy a larger portion of your tooth and, as a result, it will be necessary to spend more time to repair the tooth which translates to a larger cost for the procedure.

The cost may also vary depending on whether or not you need a dental crown to cover your tooth, if you're seeing a specialist, and if your insurance covers the root canal procedure or not. After all, a root canal does not only consist of removing portions of diseased tissue. It also involves using fillers to reconstruct the tooth as much as possible so that it looks normal and healthy again.

What You Need to Know

In general, the cost of a root canal can range from $800 to more than $1,000. This may sound like quite a large range, but again, a root canal is a very intense and detailed procedure and it generally takes a long time to do. This is because it is very important that the dentist or specialist removes all the infected tissue and bacteria from the inside of your tooth.

Otherwise, the infection could easily come back. But as long as your tooth is completely cleaned out and then sealed off so that no more bacteria can infiltrate your tooth, your tooth should be good to go. Keep in mind that as long as you have good dental insurance, you likely won't have to pay so much for a root canal.

And, as mentioned before, if you catch the infection early, it likely won't be as expensive either. It is important not to put off treatment because you are afraid of the cost. The longer you wait, the more serious the infection will become.

Not only will it become harder and more expensive to treat but it could also become a hazard to your health if you wait too long, and there have even been people who have died due to untreated tooth infections.

What Else Should You Know About Root Canals?

Now that you know about the general cost range of a root canal , you should know a bit more about the procedure itself. As mentioned before, the goal of this procedure is to clean out the inside of the tooth so that there is no more infected tissue or bacteria present. This applies not only to the inside of the tooth but also to the roots of the tooth.

Cleaning out the canals in the roots of your tooth (hence the name root canal) ensures that there are no microscopic particles of bacteria left behind. Once that's done, your dentist will fill the tooth with a special material known as gutta-percha. This will act as a protectant layer for your tooth, that way, no more bacteria can penetrate it.

A dental filling will also accomplish this. Despite this level of restoration, there is a good chance that you will need a crown to cover the affected tooth. This is because the tooth will be too sensitive or deformed to go without a crown.

What to Know

But what about the pain of the procedure? As mentioned before, numbing and sedation will make sure that the procedure is as comfortable as possible. Once the infection is removed from the tooth, the tooth should no longer be in pain.

However, if you experience intense, throbbing pain after the procedure , it is important to see your dentist as soon as possible as this may be a sign that the infection has come back. After the procedure, you should only feel dull pain and sensitivity, both of which are normal.

It takes around a week to recover from a root canal procedure. By that time, any side effects like pain, sensitivity, and swelling should be gone or almost gone. As you recover, be sure to be gentle with your tooth.

Avoid hard and crunchy foods as these may irritate the tooth. Instead, stick with foods that are soft like yogurt, ice cream, and so on. Cold foods can also numb the area and make it more comfortable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

All About Root Canal Treatment Cost

How much does root canal treatment cost? It depends on a variety of factors such as what kind of dentist you go to, how severe your tooth infection is, your location, and so on. Whatever the case, it is always important to treat a tooth infection ASAP.

If you're thinking about getting a root canal, contact us here to book an appointment.

How to Choose the Right Gum Treatment Option for You

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 23:56:45 GMT

Around 6.4% of people in Canada don't have any teeth at all. One of the common causes of lost teeth has to do with gum disease. Gum disease can come in different severities, but once it becomes severe enough, it will no longer be a good foundation for your teeth and they can easily fall out.

This is not to mention that other problems can arise such as infection, bad breath, and so on. Fortunately, there are many gum treatment options out there to consider and, of course, there is also the power of prevention. Keep reading and learn more about what gum disease is, why it happens, and what you can do to treat it.

What You Need to Know About Gum Disease

Gum disease can happen for a variety of reasons, but it usually has to do with poor dental hygiene. In particular, when you don't often brush your teeth, the oral bacteria in your mouth will start to produce a substance known as plaque. Plaque is a thin, sticky substance that sticks to your teeth.

If it isn't brushed away, it will eventually turn into a harder substance known as tartar. Tartar is a very hard yellow or white substance that builds up around the base of your teeth and is usually too difficult to remove without the professional help of a dentist. The problem with tartar is that it can irritate your gums and inflame them.

This is not to mention that tartar traps bacteria against the gums and makes things even worse. At a certain point, your gums will become diseased. The first stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis.

Many people have gingivitis without even realizing it. If you ever floss your teeth and find your gums bleeding, this is a sign that you have gingivitis. This is because whenever your gums bleed, this is a sign that your gums are inflamed and puffy.

The Details

If you have gingivitis , you may notice that your gums are red and swollen rather than firm and pink. Even brushing your teeth may cause your gums to bleed. At a certain point, if you don't take care of your teeth and gums, gingivitis will become a much worse situation once it turns into another condition known as periodontitis.

Once your gums get into such a severe state, you may notice more serious symptoms such as loose teeth, constantly bleeding and painful gums, and more. You may start to lose some of your teeth and your gums may start to recede. In some cases, an infection may take hold.

Gum infections can be quite serious since they can easily spread to the rest of your mouth and kill off your teeth, causing them to fall out. In some cases, the infection may spread to the rest of your body which would be a very serious health hazard.

Whatever the case, once your gums start to suffer from the effects of gum disease, it can be hard or even impossible to reverse those effects without the help of professional dental treatment.

What Are Your Gum Treatment Options?

From gum infection treatment to gum recession treatment and beyond, there are many treatment options to consider if you are suffering from gum disease. The treatment you need will mainly depend on the severity of your gum disease. If you only have gingivitis, then the treatment for you won't be very invasive.

A good and effective treatment option for gingivitis mainly involves typical gum cleaning. As mentioned before, gum disease is often caused by poor dental hygiene, especially once tartar builds up around the base of your teeth. Tartar not only can build up around the teeth but it may build up under the teeth in periodontal pockets which is what connects the base of a tooth to your gumline.

Tartar and bacteria can easily get stuck in these crevices if you rarely brush your teeth or floss. However, a dentist can clean out these regions with ease. Usually, your dentist will use a special tool that produces a small jet of water along with other tools to remove excess tartar, plaque, particles of food, and anything else that may be irritating your gums.

A deep cleaning is usually best for those with gum disease as it will ensure that your gums have a clean slate. As soon as your dentist removes all of that debris, your gums will immediately have more room to breathe and relax.

Choosing the Right Treatment

As a result, they won't be as red and inflamed as before. However, this type of gum treatment may not work for everyone. If your gum disease has already advanced to the next stage, you may need a more intense treatment.

In particular, once gingivitis moves onto the next stage, your gums will likely start to recede and some portions of gum tissue may even die off. In this case, it is important to treat your gum disease before it gets any worse because from there, it would be very easy for your teeth to start falling out. A good treatment for receding gums or dead gum tissue involves laser treatment.

There are many laser treatments out there but they all function to do the same thing: remove dead gum tissue. Removing dead or diseased gum tissue with a laser is a very efficient process. The laser will cauterize the gum tissue so that it doesn't bleed and so that the risk of developing an infection is very low.

Your gums, of course, will be numbed for the procedure so that you won't feel the pain of the laser. Removing dead and diseased gum tissue is important because if you just let it sit around, the diseased tissue could spread to healthy tissue and make the situation much worse. Whatever the case, there are many treatment options out there for gums that suffer from gum disease.

But how can you prevent this problem from happening in the first place?

How to Prevent Gum Disease

Preventing gum disease is actually quite easy because all you really need to do is practice regular dental hygiene. For example, brushing your teeth at least twice a day is essential. This will remove plaque from your teeth before it has the chance to become tartar which, of course, will only function to irritate your gums.

Besides that, brushing your teeth can protect your teeth from tooth decay, cavities, tooth infections, and many other dental problems. Brushing your teeth will also stimulate your gums so that there is less of a chance that they will become red, inflamed, or sensitive. Another thing to consider is flossing.

Many people know that flossing is important but rarely bother to do it. However, if you are really intent on keeping your gums as healthy as possible, it is important to floss at least once every day. Doing this stimulates your gums and keeps them firm and healthy.

If your gums bleed once you start flossing, don't worry. As mentioned before, bleeding gums is a sign that your gums are slightly inflamed. However, once you start flossing on a regular basis, you will find that your gums will stop bleeding and that they will become much firmer and healthier.

What to Know

Flossing your teeth is also a great way to remove food particles from between your teeth. While brushing your teeth is great for doing this as well, the bristles of the toothbrush won't be able to fit between your teeth as well as a piece of floss can. Even a small piece of food stuck between your teeth can cause big problems for your dental health.

This is because the bacteria in your mouth will flock to it and produce plaque, tartar, acid, and all sorts of other byproducts that won't be good for your teeth. As long as you floss your teeth on a regular basis, you won't have to worry about any of those problems.

This is not to mention that flossing will improve your breath. Again, this is because there won't be any decaying food or gum tissue in your mouth to worsen your breath.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Choosing the Right Gum Treatment

There are many gum treatment options out there and it is important to find the right one for you. For example, if you only have mild gum disease, you can opt for a gum cleaning treatment. If you have severe gum disease, laser treatment may be more beneficial.

To learn more about it, book an appointment with us here .

Who Is a Good Candidate for Invisalign Treatment?

Mon, 16 May 2022 23:04:06 GMT

As many as 70% of Canadians are happy with their teeth, but that still leaves a significant percentage that is unhappy. People may not like their teeth for a variety of reasons such as discoloration, malocclusion, and so on. Whatever the case, it is important to know that these are all common problems and can be easily fixed.

Invisalign treatment is particularly great for those who have crooked teeth and want to fix them as fast as possible. But what exactly does an Invisalign clinic do and what can these clear aligners do for your teeth compared to regular braces? Are you even a good candidate for Invisalign?

Keep reading and learn more about how it works below.

What You Need to Know About Invisalign

Before we dive into the details of the matter, let's first take a closer look at Invisalign and see what makes it unique. You likely have seen Invisalign before: they are a pair of invisible aligners that fit onto a person's teeth. The thing that makes them special, of course, is that they are pretty much invisible.

This is one of the reasons why they are so popular. Many people don't like the appearance of regular braces on their teeth because they are so noticeable. This is especially true for adults who weren't able to get braces during their childhood or adolescence.

Many adults may feel subconscious about wearing braces (as with children), but with Invisalign, there will be no need to feel subconscious because no one will be able to see the aligners.

It would be necessary for someone to stand very close to you to have any idea that you are wearing these aligners.

Because they are invisible, these aligners allow a person to maintain their confidence while still straightening the person's teeth in an effective way. When it comes to Invisalign treatments, you will find that the function of the aligners is more or less the same as regular braces, but they come with even more benefits .

The Details

For one, regular braces have the downside of staining a person's teeth. Once the dentist takes off a pair of regular braces, there is a good chance that white stains could be left on your teeth. Once those form, it would be very hard to get them off.

With Invisalign, on the other hand, they make it much easier to clean your teeth. After all, you can take out these aligners any time you want because they aren't glued to your teeth. This makes it very easy to take them out every time you have to eat or brush your teeth.

It is important to eat without your aligners since biting down on them could damage their shape. This, of course, would ruin the efficiency of the aligners for straightening your teeth. Besides that, Invisalign is famous for being able to straighten teeth very comfortably and quickly.

But how can you know if you're a good candidate for these aligners?

Are You a Good Candidate for Invisalign?

There are many factors that may make you a good candidate for Invisalign. In short, if you are a good candidate for braces, then there is no reason why you wouldn't be a good candidate for these invisible aligners. The main reason why you would get the aligners in the first place is to straighten your teeth.

Crooked teeth are known as malocclusion and many people have to deal with it. There are different severities of crooked teeth. Some may only be a cosmetic problem while others may be so severe that it may be hard for a person to speak properly or even chew food.

Most people get their crooked teeth fixed early in life, but others wait until they're adults to get the problem fixed. For adults, it is especially important to have straight teeth. This is because studies have shown that adults are taken more seriously, especially in work environments, if they have straight and healthy teeth.

However, there are a few other factors you need to consider if you want to be considered a good candidate for Invisalign. For one, the severity of your crooked teeth is important. While these aligners are designed to fit just about any pair of teeth, they may not be a good choice if your teeth are severely crooked.

In that case, you may be better off getting a pair of old-fashioned metal braces or something similar.

What You Need to Know

You also need to make sure that your dental health is in good shape before you get your aligners. For example, if you are suffering from a variety of problems such as gum disease, tooth decay, cavities, and so on, you likely won't be a good candidate for these aligners.

Getting a pair of aligners will not make these problems go away. Your dentist will likely tell you to take better care of your teeth and treat these dental issues before you can get Invisalign aligners. Besides that, you also need to be dedicated when it comes to wearing these aligners.

Even though you can take them out of your mouth whenever you feel like it, that doesn't mean you should. Some people take them out of their mouths because they don't feel like wearing them throughout the day. However, if you don't wear these aligners for at least 23 hours every day, the aligners won't have the opportunity to straighten your teeth.

As a result, getting the Invisalign would be a waste of time. So, you need to make sure that you have the dedication to put in and take out the aligners only when necessary. For example, you should only take out the aligners to brush your teeth and eat.

You need to keep them in your mouth even when you sleep. That way, the aligners should be able to straighten your teeth without any problems. But what else should you know about these aligners?

Other Factors to Consider About Invisalign

Getting these aligners isn't hard, although it may take a bit of time. The dentist will first need to make sure that your teeth are in good health, as mentioned before, otherwise, you won't be a good candidate for the treatment. The next step of the Invisalign treatment service is to take an impression of your teeth.

Then, the impression will be sent off to a lab. The impression is very important as it will take an exact physical copy of your teeth in their current crooked state.

From that mold, several Invisalign aligners will be created. Unlike traditional braces that only come in one pair, you need several pairs with these invisible aligners.

That's because, as your teeth get straighter and straighter, you will need to keep switching to different aligners that are slightly different in shape. This will ensure that your teeth continue to straighten at a steady pace. It will also ensure that all your teeth get aligned at the same time.

Taking care of your teeth is very important when you get these aligners. After all, these aligners only function to straighten their teeth. They won't do anything to keep your teeth clean or keep cavities at bay.

What to Know About Cleaning Your Teeth

For that reason, it is important to keep your teeth clean, especially after eating a meal. If you put your aligners in before cleaning them, you could actually damage them. This is because certain particles of food like sugar or acid could get trapped in the aligners and start to wear down the material.

This, of course, would be a waste of money, especially since these aligners can be quite expensive. Cleaning the aligners themselves is also important due to the fact that they can pick up particles of food and bacteria. All you really need to do is gently brush them with a toothbrush every once in a while.

This will also protect your teeth since you won't be trapping bacteria against your teeth. Other than that, Invisalign aligners are very effective as long as you take care of them and your teeth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

All About Invisalign Treatment

Invisalign treatment for crooked teeth is arguably one of the best dental options you can choose from. These aligners have the advantage of being invisible and you can also take them out throughout the day. They are also very efficient at straightening teeth.

To learn more about it, book an appointment with us here .

What Are the Benefits of Zoom Teeth Whitening?

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 20:34:27 GMT

Nearly 99% of Americans believe a smile is an essential social asset. This is why a healthy white smile is on just about everyone’s wish list. But your teeth may develop stains or discoloration over time, losing their brightness.

If you want to restore your pearly whites, you should consider Zoom teeth whitening. This whitening system is an excellent option to deal with tough stains and discolored teeth. In this article, we’ll discuss how the Zoom teeth whitening procedure works and its benefits.

What Is Zoom Teeth Whitening?

Zoom teeth whitening is a treatment that involves the removal teeth stains, giving your smile a healthy brightness. It involves the use of a special bleaching gel that’s applied to your teeth and then activated by the Zoom light.

The Zoom light speeds up the whitening process, helping the gel penetrate deeper into the teeth. As a result, you can enjoy a brighter, more attractive smile.

This treatment usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour to complete. During the treatment, you will sit back and relax while the dental professional monitors the progress of the whitening.

How Zoom Teeth Whitening Works

Zoom teeth whitening is a professional teeth whitening treatment that is performed by a dental professional in a dental office. The process typically involves the following steps:

Step 1: Consultation

Before starting the Zoom treatment, you will have a consultation with your dentist to discuss your goals and any potential concerns. Your dentist will also assess the condition of your gums and teeth to ensure that you are a good candidate for the treatment.

This treatment isn’t recommended for pregnant women, people with gum disease, and people allergic to bleaching agents used in the treatment.

Step 2: Preparation

To prepare for a Zoom teeth whitening treatment, the dentist will start with a thorough dental cleaning of gums to remove any plaque or tartar. They will also protect your gums and any other sensitive areas of your mouth with a rubber dam or protective gel. This will help prevent irritation.

Step 3: Bleaching Gel Application

Next, a bleaching gel will be applied to your teeth and left on for about 15-30 minutes. This gel contains hydrogen peroxide—an active ingredient that whitens your teeth.

Step 4: Activation of the Bleaching Gel

Your dental expert will then activate the bleaching gel using the Zoom light. The light source is usually a specialized LED light that emits a specific wavelength of light that can penetrate the surface of the teeth and reach the inner layers where the stains and discoloration are located.

It allows the teeth whitening gel to penetrate the enamel of your teeth and break down the stains in the teeth to whiten them.

Step 5: Rinse and Repeat

The dentist will rinse off the gel and repeat the process until the desired level of whiteness is achieved. They will repeat the process several times during the treatment, depending on the severity of the staining.

Step 6: Finishing Up

Once it’s done, the dentist will rinse your mouth and apply a fluoride treatment to help protect your teeth from sensitivity. It is common to experience some sensitivity after treatment. But this should go away within a few days.

Step 7: Aftercare

After the treatment is complete, your dentist will give you instructions on how to care for your teeth to maintain the results. This may include avoiding certain foods and beverages, using a special toothpaste, and having regular touch-up treatments.

Benefits of Zoom Teeth Whitening

Are you considering teeth whitening services in Mississauga? Here are reasons why you should opt for Zoom teeth whitening:

Convenience

You can do Zoom teeth whitening in the comfort of your own home, making it a convenient option for busy individuals. Zoom at-home whitening options will often include custom trays that you will need to fit over your teeth. Your at-home whitening procedure will involve:

Cleaning your teeth
Adding a small amount of bleaching gel to the trays offered by your dentist
Fitting the trays over your teeth and wearing them for the prescribed period
Removing the trays and cleaning your teeth

Your dentist will give you the teeth whitening supplies needed. However, doing at-home Zoom treatments will depend on the severity of your tooth discoloration.

Simple Procedure

Zoom whitening takes about 45 minutes to an hour to brighten your smile. You can book a Mississauga teeth whitening appointment and get it done during your lunch break. With just one office visit, you can get noticeable results.

Customizable

The Zoom teeth whitening procedure can be tailored to meet your needs. Your dentist will customize the strength of the bleaching solution and the length of the treatment to give you the desired results.

Safe and Effective

With a lot of over-the-counter teeth whitening options on the market, why opt for professional Zoom whitening treatments? Well, because it’s more effective. Most over-the-counter bleaching treatments contain ingredients that can harm your tooth enamel over time, resulting in tooth sensitivity.

What’s more, the results from over-the-counter whitening products aren't always noticeable. With our Zoom teeth whitening services, you can get a whiter smile after just one treatment.

The treatment is also safe and non-invasive. It doesn’t involve tooth removal or drilling, so it won’t affect the structures of your teeth.

Ideal for People with Sensitivity

If you have sensitive teeth, you may be hesitant to try teeth whitening. However, Zoom teeth whitening is specially formulated to minimize sensitivity, so it may be a good option for you.

Long-Lasting Results

The results of Zoom teeth whitening can last for several months or even more than a year. But it depends on factors such as diet and oral hygiene habits.

Boosts Self-Confidence

Stained and discolored teeth can make you feel embarrassed about showing off your smile. This can lower your self-esteem.

Zoom teeth whitening can make your teeth brighter and whiter. As a result, you can expect an immediate self-confidence boost. It can also enhance your appearance.

Improves Oral Health

Oral health is of the utmost importance to your overall health. Poor mouth health can lead to a lot of health complications including heart conditions, organ failure, and more.

When you get professional Zoom teeth whitening, it reinforces the health and strength of your teeth. This reduces the risk of cavities and gum diseases that can result in severe health problems.

Having a brighter smile can also encourage you to practice proper oral hygiene habits , leading to overall better health.

Can Be Combined With Other Treatments

Zoom teeth whitening can be combined with other cosmetic treatments to enhance the overall appearance of the smile. Some common cosmetic treatments that you can use together with Zoom teeth whitening include veneers, bonding, gum reshaping, and orthodontic treatment .

It's important to consult with your dentist to determine which combination of treatments will best meet your needs and goals.

Affordable

Zoom teeth whitening can be more affordable than some other professional teeth whitening treatments like veneers and bonding. But the cost can vary depending on factors such as the severity of the tooth discoloration, the location of the dental office, and the specific treatment plan recommended by the dentist.

When to Consider Zoom Teeth Whitening Services

There are several signs that you may need Zoom teeth whitening to improve the appearance of your teeth. These include:

Yellow or Discolored Teeth

If your teeth have a yellow-like appearance or have visible discoloration, Zoom teeth whitening may be an ideal treatment. It can help lighten the color of your teeth, improving the overall appearance of your smile.

Resistant Teeth Stains

In case you brush your teeth regularly or use over-the-counter whitening products but haven’t achieved the desired level of whiteness, Zoom teeth whitening may be a more effective option.

Special Occasions or Events

Need a whiter smile for your upcoming events such as a wedding or job interview? Zoom teeth whitening may be a quick and easy way to enhance your smile and boost your confidence.

Personal Preference

If you simply want to improve the appearance of your teeth and enhance your smile, Zoom teeth whitening may be a good option for you.

Who is the Suitable Candidate for Zoom Teeth Whitening?

While zoom whitening can help get rid of tooth discoloration, it isn’t for everyone. The people who are not recommended to undergo Zoom teeth whitening treatments are:

Children under the age of 16
People with gum disease
Pregnant and Lactating mothers
People with severe tooth sensitivity
Individuals receiving any form of photochemotherapy
People allergic to the bleaching gel
Individuals with multiple tooth restorations
People with increased sensitivity to light
Patients with melanoma or any other type of skin cancer

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Access Professional Teeth Whitening Services in Mississauga and Stoney Creek

Got discolored teeth? Need to brighten your smile?

Look no further than Daas Family & Cosmetic Dentistry. We offer high-quality Zoom teeth whitening to brighten your smile and make you more self-confident. Our dentists will customize your Zoom treatments depending on your needs so you can get effective results.

The Surprising Effects of Misaligned Teeth (And How You Can Fix Them)

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 23:57:56 GMT

There's a silent, painless disease that 70% of Canadians will develop . It's called gum disease. Not surprisingly, it's one of the most common dental problems in the country and even the world.

Thankfully, gum disease is easily preventable with regular brushing and flossing. This removes plaque that gets below the gums. However, if you have misaligned teeth, it can be hard to reach these areas.

This makes it hard to clean your teeth effectively. It can make you more prone to this unfortunate disease.

But, it's not the only health risk misaligned teeth can trigger. There are quite a few others. Read on to find out what they are and how you can prevent them from occurring.

What Causes Misaligned Teeth

Having misaligned or crooked teeth is also referred to as malocclusion. It occurs when the upper and lower teeth don't fit together as they should. Whether slight or noticeable, here are a few reasons your "fit" or bite may be less than perfect:

The Size of Your Jaw

If you were born with a small jaw, this can cause problems. There may not be enough room for your teeth to grow and align as they should in your mouth. The result is teeth that become crooked as they grow out.

The Size of Your Teeth

Large teeth may have the same effect as a smaller jaw. The combination of the two is even worse. This can cause overcrowding making your teeth misaligned to fit in your mouth.

The Number of Teeth in Your Mouth

Tooth size is not the only issue that can cause misalignment. The number of teeth you have can affect their straightness as well.

The average adult has 32 teeth. However, some may have a few more in addition to their wisdom teeth. This too can cause overcrowding as your teeth vie for a position in your mouth.

But don't think that you're at an advantage if you have fewer teeth than normal. Conversely, this causes gaps in your mouth. The more room there is, the greater the likelihood of teeth moving out of alignment.

Early Loss of Baby Teeth

The early loss of baby teeth can have the same effect as having fewer teeth in your mouth. Baby teeth usually fall out shortly before your adult teeth grow into your mouth. This allows them to grow in the correct position.

If you lose your baby teeth earlier than normal, it may take some time for your adult teeth to grow. This can result in improper growth due to the extra room in your mouth.

Sucking Your Thumb

Most people would consider this one of the major reasons for misaligned teeth. Although it might be a natural, harmless habit for a baby, it can become a problem after the age of four. This is around the time when thumbsucking can push the teeth forward permanently.

Pushing Your Tongue Against Your Teeth

Although seemingly harmless, pressing your tongue against your teeth can misalign them. This usually occurs if the habit starts during early childhood.

Your teeth will naturally want to grow into the correct position. But constantly pushing your tongue against them can disrupt this. This can result in crooked teeth.

Health Risks Associated with Having Misaligned Teeth

If you have misaligned teeth you might be self-conscious about your smile. But there are other things about this condition that should concern you. These are more than aesthetics.

Difficulty Maintaining Clean Teeth

You already know one of the major risk factors of misaligned teeth is the development of gum disease. Having crooked teeth can make keeping them clean difficult. This not only involves brushing but flossing as well.

It's often hard to get to the tight spaces between misaligned teeth. If left unattended this can also lead to dental decay.

The Greater Chance of Halitosis

Halitosis is more commonly known as bad breath. It's an inevitable consequence if you're unable to maintain clean teeth. The levels of bacteria in your mouth increase, leading to extremely bad breath.

Even mouthwash may not be a quick fix as it may still not reach the tight spaces where the bacteria is present. Bad breath can make you self-conscious and avoid social settings. You may find yourself missing out on many opportunities as a result of this.

Increased Wear on Your Enamel

In addition to having crooked teeth, the last thing you'll want is a chipped tooth. But the possibility of this increases with misaligned teeth. Your bottom teeth can protrude due to overcrowding.

They'll inevitably end up rubbing against your upper teeth. This wears your teeth down over time which compromises your enamel. Your teeth become weaker and can chip or break easily.

This weakness can also result in an abscess or cavities. All of these can be extremely painful. Not to mention, they can result in high dental costs.

Jaw Abnormalities

Jaw abnormalities, specifically temporomandibular disorder (TMD or TMJ) can result from misaligned teeth. It occurs when there's excessive wear on your jaw and hinge joint.

It's extremely painful and can cause discomfort in your shoulders, face, and neck. Symptoms can also include jaw locking and popping. It's a common occurrence when you have misaligned teeth.

Difficulty Chewing

If you have crooked teeth because of a misaligned jaw, this can make chewing difficult. It's often due to the bottom and upper teeth rubbing together. Unfortunately, difficulty chewing food can lead to choking or digestive issues.

Losing Your Smile

Crooked teeth can make you self-conscious when you smile. You may even stop smiling to hide them. But this can have a psychological effect.

Smiling is often linked with feelings of happiness and confidence. It can also help lessen feelings of anxiety and stress. Losing these important elements can have an adverse effect on your mental health.

Effects on Your Heart Health

The bacteria building up in hard-to-reach places in and around your teeth may not only stay in your mouth. They can travel through your bloodstream as well. This can affect your heart valves and lead to heart-related complications.

Increased Headaches

Your heart isn't the only part of your body that misaligned teeth can affect. They can increase the number of headaches you get as well.

These are often caused by the pressure from your teeth constantly rubbing together. This also puts a strain on jaw muscles.

Headaches will not only be more frequent, but painful too. If you've been getting headaches and aren't sure why you might want to ask your dentist.

Speech Issues

Did you know crooked teeth could result in speech issues? Severe misalignment of the teeth can make it difficult to form sounds including "c", "j", and "s".

It may make you avoid speaking in public and fill you with trepidation at the thought of meeting new people. This may cause you to avoid social situations, even potential job interviews.

Ways to Fix Misaligned Teeth

There are a lot of far-reaching consequences of having misaligned teeth. But these don't have to be a fait accompli. The good news is that it's possible to straighten crooked teeth.

The advancements in orthodontic treatment give you more options. These are also a lot less painful than past treatments. An orthodontist can recommend the best course of action based on your condition. These can include:

Metal bonded braces
Braces with clear brackets
Clear aligners
Braces with self-ligating brackets
Retainers

The use of these treatments may also require additional appliances depending on the severity of your case. You may also want to consider cosmetic dental treatments. This includes veneers to realign your teeth.

Veneers are usually either made of composite material or dental porcelain. It's placed over your tooth so that it protects it from damage. It also straightens your teeth and enhances your smile.

A Healthy Smile That Builds Confidence

First impressions count and unfortunately, crooked teeth can alter your smile. This can affect your level of confidence and may even cause you to smile less. But there are also other concerns associated with misaligned teeth.

If left untreated they can adversely affect your health. You'll want to get it corrected as soon as possible to avoid this. But you'll need to find the right dentist to provide you with the appropriate treatment.

In Mississauga and Stoney Creek you don't have to look very far. Daas Dentistry can provide you with the dental care you need. We have over 25 years of experience and offer a wide range of dental services. Why wait? Book your appointment today!

How Often Should I Get Professional Teeth Whitening Services?

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 00:03:44 GMT

Did you know that around 74% of Canadians go to the dentist every year? Teeth whitening services are one of the most popular dental services out there. This is because one of the most common dental complaints that people have is that their teeth are discoloured.

While there are DIY teeth whitening tricks you can try, you'll find that professional whitening provides some of the best results and, at the same time, it is a very safe procedure. However, there is a problem: how often is too often to get your teeth whitened?

Could you damage your teeth if you get your teeth whitened too often? Is there anything else you can do to keep your teeth white besides going to the dentist? Keep reading and learn more about how often you can get your teeth whitened and what could happen if you go through with the procedure too often.

Why Do Your Teeth Become Discoloured in the First Place?

You might be wondering why your teeth become discoloured at all and if there is a way to prevent this problem so you don't have to get your teeth whitened in the first place. The first thing you should know is that your teeth will eventually become discoloured no matter what you do. Even if you take good care of your teeth, your teeth will eventually lose their white sheen.

This is simply because, over the years, your tooth enamel will experience a certain degree of wear and tear from all the food and drinks that you consume. However, there are certain things that make your teeth discolour at a much faster rate. First of all, if you don't brush your teeth very often, this will cause your teeth to become discoloured quite quickly.

This is because particles from all the food and drinks you consume will stick to your enamel. If you don't use a toothbrush to scrub away these particles, they will eventually stain your enamel. Once your enamel is stained, a simple toothbrush won't be able to make your teeth white again.

What You Need to Know

Even if you use whitening toothpaste, this will only do so much to whiten your teeth. That's why so many people go to get their teeth whitened at the dentist's office since dentists use substances that are much more powerful than toothpaste to whiten teeth.

Eating certain foods can also make it much more likely for your teeth to become stained and discoloured. Usually, food and drinks that contain dark pigments are the biggest culprits. For example, coffee, whether it be black or otherwise, is one of the most common causes of stained teeth.

Coffee is full of tiny, dark particles that love to stick to tooth enamel. If you don't brush your teeth soon after drinking coffee, these particles will turn your tooth enamel yellow or even brown in colour. This is also the case with red wine and cranberry juice.

So, where do teeth whitening services fit into all this?

How Often Should You Get Your Teeth Professionally Whitened?

Most dentists will not perform more than one teeth whitening procedure on a person per year. Some dentists will even wait 18 months before whitening a person's tooth enamel again. But is it so simple?

Why can't you get your teeth whitened more often than this? First of all, you should know that the results of professional teeth whitening last quite some time. After the procedure, you will find that your teeth are as white as they can possibly be.

Even months after the procedure, the colour of your teeth should not be too much different. It is only after a year that the colour will start to become a bit discoloured. However, even then, as long as you take good care of your teeth, your teeth shouldn't go straight back to being yellow or brown.

If anything, your teeth might have a dull tinge, but even after a year, your teeth should still be relatively white. This is why most dentists recommend not to get your teeth whitened any more than once a year. There wouldn't be much of a point in whitening teeth that are still bright white.

After a year to 18 months, if you are unhappy with the colour of your teeth, you can go back and get your teeth whitened again if you want to maintain that bright white smile. Keep in mind that if you don't brush your teeth very often or if you consume substances with dark pigments, the discolouration of your teeth may be more dramatic after a year than an average person.

In this case, it would make sense to get your teeth whitened again.

The Dangers of Excessive Teeth Whitening

Keep in mind, however, that it is a bad idea to whiten your teeth more often than this. This is because excessive teeth whitening could end up damaging your tooth enamel.

Most dentists use a paste made of highly concentrated hydrogen peroxide to whiten teeth. The dentist will leave this paste on your teeth for a certain amount of time where it will eat away at whatever stains you may have on your teeth. Each time you go through with this procedure, you will weaken your tooth enamel a bit more each time.

Doing this once in a while won't harm your teeth and it is very safe, especially when compared to DIY teeth whitening methods. However, if you do it more often than what is recommended, you could run into some serious dental health concerns. As you can imagine, if you get this procedure done all the time, the hydrogen peroxide will start to thin out your enamel quite severely.

This could lead to tooth sensitivity and other dental problems. But as long as you only whiten your teeth around once a year, your teeth should stay in great shape.

Understanding the Tooth Whitening Procedure

A typical tooth whitening procedure is quite simple and, as mentioned before, it is much safer than most DIY whitening methods. This is because most DIY whitening methods involve removing a significant amount of tooth enamel such as brushing your teeth with baking soda. Even doing this a few times can result in dental problems such as tooth sensitivity.

Fortunately, as long as you follow a dentist's recommendation, you won't have to worry about these problems when opting for professional teeth whitening. The entire procedure usually takes less than an hour and it is quite painless. Your dentist will protect your gums so that none of the hydrogen peroxide gel will get on them.

This is important because, otherwise, your gums would end up bleached. Once your gums are protected, your dentist will apply the whitening solution to your teeth. You will need to sit with your mouth open for around a half-hour, otherwise, the whitening solution would get spread around your mouth which could be dangerous for oral health.

As the whitening solution sits on your teeth, you should not feel any discomfort. However, during this time, the whitening agent will destroy and lift away the stains on your teeth, even the most stubborn ones.

The Details

To activate the whitening agent, your dentist will need to shine a special light on your teeth. This will stimulate the whitening agent so that it can do its job as it's supposed to.

During this time, you should be able to sit back and relax while the whitening agent works its magic. Depending on the colour of your teeth, the length of the procedure could vary.

If your teeth are not all that discoloured, the procedure may only be around 15 minutes. Of course, if your teeth are very discoloured, this process will typically take a bit longer. The hydrogen peroxide gel used is of a much higher concentration than any other whitening agency you can buy at the store which is why it works so well.

For example, many whitening toothpastes have hydrogen peroxide but at very low concentrations. So, they might whiten your teeth a bit, but not as much as a professional whitening service can.

What You Need to Know About Teeth Whitening Services

When it comes to professional teeth whitening services, you should avoid whitening your teeth more than once a year. If you try to whiten your teeth more often than this, you risk damaging your tooth enamel and developing problems such as tooth sensitivity. As long as you follow your dentist's recommendations on teeth whitening, your teeth would remain bright, white, and in great shape.

If you're interested in teeth whitening, don't hesitate to book an appointment with us here .

Signs It Might Be Time for a Root Canal

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 23:01:30 GMT

Around 84% of Canadians have good or excellent dental health, but what about the remaining percentage? Those who do not have good or excellent dental health may suffer from a variety of dental problems such as tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, and more. If tooth decay becomes severe enough, a root canal may be necessary.

Many people are afraid of getting root canals but this dental procedure can actually be very helpful when it comes to treating an infected tooth. However, how can you know whether or not you need a root canal? Keep reading and learn more about the signs that you need one.

You Don’t Brush or Floss Your Teeth

If you don't brush or floss your teeth very often (or at all) there is a good chance that you have bad dental health. This does not necessarily mean that you need a root canal right away, but the less you take care of your teeth, the more likely you will need to suffer through root canals, cavity fillings, and a variety of other dental procedures.

But what does not brushing your teeth have to do with root canals, you might ask? When you don't brush your teeth, your tooth enamel will inevitably start to decay. This has to do with the different strains of bacteria that live in your mouth.

When you eat or drink something, the oral bacteria will latch onto the food particles stuck to your teeth. As the bacteria break down and consume these food particles, they will produce acid as a waste product. This acid isn't strong enough to cause your mouth any pain, but it is strong enough to break down your tooth enamel .

This says something about the strength of the bacterial acid since tooth enamel is the strongest tissue in the human body. You won't notice the signs of decay right away, but after a while of not brushing or flossing, your teeth will slowly start to weaken. Your enamel will soon become sensitive to hot and cold temperatures, your teeth will become stained, and even the shape of your teeth could start to break down.

Dental Consequences

This is not to mention that cavities will start to form. When your dental health becomes so precarious, it will be much more likely for an infection to form in your teeth. This is because the sensitive inner tissues of your teeth, known as the pulp, will become exposed.

Dental pulp is rich in blood vessels and nerves. When bacteria have the chance to crawl into this space, there is a good chance for an infection to occur. Once the infection becomes serious enough, a root canal will be necessary.

If you leave an infected tooth untreated, it could spread to your other teeth. When this happens, you could end up losing many of your teeth. More than that, there is a chance that the infection could spread to the rest of your body.

This could have very serious, if not fatal, consequences.

Bumps on Your Gums

As Many people don't know that bumps on the gums are a clear sign that a root canal may be necessary. When you have a tooth infection , you may not know that you have one at first until the pain starts. However, before you start to experience any pain, you might see strange little pink or even white bumps along your gums or localized to a certain spot on your gums.

These bumps tend to be quite small and almost similar to pimples in their appearance. They may be swollen or tender when you press on them and they tend to be quite hard. If left untreated, these bumps may grow and become a more serious problem.

These bumps are a sign of irritation or infection in one or more of your teeth. These bumps are called fistula. They can quickly turn into abscesses if you're not careful and can cause even more dental troubles.

If you see a bump or two on your gums, don't just blow them off as nothing important. Soon after you start seeing the first signs of these bumps, your dental health will likely start to get worse. You may start to experience pain in one or more of your teeth.

Pain is a much clearer sign of a dental infection. However, once you have already started to experience tooth pain, that is a sign that your tooth problems are already quite bad. As mentioned before, if you don't get this problem treated as soon as possible, the consequences can be quite bad for both your dental and overall health.

In particular, tooth loss is a big consequence.

Tooth Loss

Once your tooth becomes infected, there is a chance that the infection could spread to the blood vessels that supply the tooth with oxygen and nutrients. If the infection attacks the blood vessels and prevents the tooth from obtaining nutrients from the blood, the tooth could easily die off as a result.

While it is possible to keep a dead tooth in your mouth, dead teeth have a tendency to fall out on their own. This is because they no longer have the strength and life supplied to them by their original blood supply. As a result, they will be very weak in their sockets and it will be very easy for them to fall out.

As mentioned before, if you leave the infection untreated, it could also spread to your nearby teeth and destroy them in the same way. This is not to mention that a spreading infection could be quite painful. Of course, the last thing you want is for a bunch of your teeth to fall out.

So, it's best to look for signs of a tooth infection early on. If you see any dental fistula on your gums, make sure that you go to the dentist right away and get your dental health sorted out.

Dark or Tender Gums

To If you have a tooth infection in need of a root canal, you may start to notice a segment of your gums turning a darker shade of red or pink. Many people know that a darkening tooth is a bad sign of a tooth infection, but dark gums are another very bad sign to look out for. If your gums start darkening, this is a sign that the infection is starting to spread to your gums.

This also means that you may end up losing your tooth if you don't act fast because the infection has already spread so far. Once your gums start to change colour, this means that the infection has affected the blood supply to the gums and your tooth to a serious extent. If you notice that your gums are starting to become even slightly darker than usual and if you have already experienced other signs of a tooth infection, you should go to your dentist right away.

If you get a root canal as soon as possible, there is a chance that you could save your tooth. A root canal functions to completely remove the infection from the affected tooth. A dentist does this by drilling into the tooth and its roots to remove the decayed enamel.

The Details

The dentist does this with a special drill that breaks up the infected tissue. After doing that, the dentist will then rinse out the tooth and fill it with a substance such as composite resin. As long as there is still some blood supplying the tooth, you should not lose it.

On the other hand, if the blood supply is cut off from the tooth , the tooth will die and it may fall out or need to be removed. Besides darkening gums, tender gums are another sign that you need a root canal.

Tender and swollen gums are a sign of inflammation and infection. This tenderness may start out gradually and then worsen over time. Eventually, the tenderness and swelling will become quite painful and hard to deal with.

Again, if you experience any of these symptoms, you should go see your dentist right away before the problem gets any worse.

Top Signs You Need a Root Canal

If you think you need a root canal, you should get one right away. Some of the signs that you need one include bumps on the gums, darkening or tender gums, and poor dental health from not brushing or flossing your teeth. If your tooth becomes infected, the infection could spread to your other teeth and result in tooth loss or a serious infection that could threaten your overall health.

Fortunately, a simple root canal can prevent a tooth infection from getting any worse. To learn more, contact us here .

All About Periowave Laser Treatment for Gum Disease

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 22:37:43 GMT

Did you know that 7 out of 10 peo pl e in Canada will develop a form of gum disease at least once in their lives? Gum disease is one of the most common dental problems in Canada and when left untreated, it can quickly become a serious problem. Fortunately, there are ways to treat gum disease even once it has become severe.

One of the best ways to treat gum disease is with Periowave laser treatment. But what is Periowave laser treatment for periodontal disease, you might ask? It is quite a unique and relatively new treatment that can improve the health of your gums in a short period of time in a pain-free fashion.

Keep reading and learn more about this laser treatment and why gum disease is so harmful to your oral health.

What You Need to Know About the Dangers of Gum Disease

Gum disease often happens to those who don't often brush or floss their teeth. When you don't clean your teeth on a regular basis, certain strains of bacteria in your mouth will start to take a toll on your oral health. In particular, when you eat, the bacteria will consume the remaining food particles in your mouth and produce acid as a byproduct.

This acid will start to break down your too th enamel and irritate your gums. This can lead to tooth decay and cavities. Besides that, the same bacteria also produce a substance known as dental plaque . This plaque is a soft and sticky substance that covers the teeth.

You can easily remove it by brushing your teeth. However, if you leave plaque on the surface of your teeth, it will eventually become another substance known as tartar or calculus. Tartar is a very hard, white or yellow substance that often builds up at the base of your teeth and between your teeth.

It is too hard to remove on your own with a toothbrush or floss, so you would need to go to the dentists office to remove it. If left untreated, tartar can start to irritate your gums and cause gingivitis. Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease.

Many people actually have gingivitis without even knowing it. This is because gingivitis usually does not produce any symptoms at first. However, your gums may occasionally bleed when you brush or floss.

The Details

This happens because gingivitis makes your gums swollen and sensitive and therefore more sensitive to bleeding. As gingivitis gets worse, it will eventually become periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is quite a serious condition.

It involves the recession of your gum line which can make your teeth very sensitive. It also involves the reddening of the gums, gum pain and sensitivity, and bleeding gums. In severe cases, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and tooth infections.

These tooth infections can sometimes spread to other teeth and destroy your oral health. In some cases, these dental infections can also spread to the rest of the body and can be very serious or even fatal. The only true way to prevent these problems from occurring is to brush and floss your teeth every day.

However, if your gum disease has already progressed to a more advanced point, you may have to opt for Periowave laser treatment.

What Is Periowave Laser Treatment Exactly?

As mentioned before, gum disease has a lot to do with harmful oral bacteria. Bacteria are what cause gum disease to advance and get worse, often leading to inflammation, swelling, and infection. Periowave laser treatment works by destroying the harmful bacteria around your gums, especially within gum pockets which are normally hard to reach.

The se gum pockets, also known as periodontal sockets, are important because they help keep your teeth in place. If these pockets start to decay, your teeth will become loose and you may even lose them. In the past, to fix advanced periodontal disease , it would be necessary to cut away the diseased gum tissue.

This, of course, is quite an invasive and painful procedure. This is not to mention that it could seriously change the shape of your gum line. This kind of surgery would also include several weeks of healing time.

If you have a busy schedule, the last thing you want to deal with is recovery time or painful procedures. Periowave laser treatment is much different compared to these older treatments because it does not involve the removal of gum tissue. Instead, the laser removes whatever bacteria may be latching onto your gums and causing gum inflammation.

Periowave is a non-invasive treatment, so you don't have to worry about going under the knife to fix your gum problems. You also don't need to worry so much about the healing process because, as mentioned before, Periowave does not involve any cutting or removing of your gum tissue. There is also very little chance of infection from this treatment.

The Benefits of Periowave

This is important because the traditional way of improving gum disease is to cut away at the disease gums. This results in a lot of bleeding which gives the bacteria in your mouth a perfect opportunity to enter your body and create an infection. This often occurred in the past and would lead to even more dental procedures to fix the problem.

Fortunately, you don't have to worry about that when you opt for Periowave laser treatment. You also don't have to worry about the procedure being painful either. Because Periowave doesn't use heat or damage the gum tissue in any way, it should be a relatively painless procedure.

This is not to mention that the side effects after the procedure will be quite minimal, especially when compared to older treatment options. You won't have to worry so much about typical side effects such as gum swelling, redness, or pain. But what should you expect from the procedure if you do decide to opt for Periowave laser treatment?

What to Expect From the Periowave Laser Treatment Procedure

To start, your dentist will completely numb the treatment area. This will ensure that you won't feel any discomfort during the procedure. Once your gums are numb, your dentist will then use a small fiberoptic device which will be inserted into your gum pocket.

Again, because your gums will be numb by this point, you won't feel this insertion. After the fiberoptic tip is activated, the laser treatment will begin. From there, the fiberoptic laser will start to destroy and remove whatever bacteria may be inhabiting your gum pocket.

This laser can also remove parasites. In some cases, gum disease may be caused by small parasites which irritate and infect the gum tissue. However, it is more common for gum dise ase to be caused by bacteria.

After that, your dentist will then go into the same gum pocket with a special ultrasonic cleaner. This is a very powerful device that can break up tartar that has built up within the gum pocket and also between teeth and at the base of your teeth. This is important because, as me ntioned before, tartar irritates the gums and is a big culprit when it comes to the development of gum disease.

What You Need to Know

By removing not only harmful bacteria but also tartar from your teeth and gums, this procedure gives your gums a chance to breathe. This will also reduce the inflammation and swelling that your gums may be experiencing as a result of gum disease. Once the ultrasonic tool breaks up and removes the tartar, your dentist will then reintroduce the fibreoptic tool back into your gum pocket.

Doing this will clean up any remaining bacteria that may have been reintroduced into the gum socket by the tartar. This entire procedure usually can be completed within the span of two hours. However, if your gum disease is quite severe or if you have a lot of tartar development, the procedure may take even longer.

Also, keep in mind that the Periowave treatment is not a permanent way of keeping gum disease at bay.

Once Periowave improves your gum health, you will need to continue to keep your gums healthy by brushing and flossing your teeth on a regular basis. That way, you can keep your overall oral health in good shape.

All About Periowave Laser Treatment

Periowave Laster treatment is the latest innovation in dental technology for the treatment of gum disease. It does not involve removing any diseased gum tissue. Instead, it functions to destroy the bacteria and parasites causing the disease in the first place.

Doing t his will improve your gum health and give your gums a fresh start. To learn more, contact us here .

The Ultimate Guide to the Different Types of Orthodontic Treatment

Tue, 16 Nov 2021 02:04:17 GMT

Did you know that one in four people who wear braces are over 21?

Whether you've never had orthodontic treatment or your teeth have shifted out of alignment over the years, it's never too late to seek orthodontic care. Not treating misaligned teeth can result in issues like gum disease or tooth decay.

Many assume traditional metal braces are the only solution for fixing crooked teeth. That's not the case. Many types of braces and other devices can help you achieve the smile of your dreams.

This guide will discuss the different types of orthodontic treatments you can receive in Ontario. Discover the advancements in orthodontia that make treatment less apparent and more comfortable.

Metal Braces

Metal braces are commonly used to straighten misaligned teeth. The braces get bonded to your teeth. They include a track where an archwire is placed to help guide your teeth into place.

There are two types of metal braces:

Self-ligating braces
Traditional braces

Traditional braces require metal ties or tiny elastics called ligatures to secure the metal wires to the brackets. Metal braces are excellent for treating mild to severe tooth crowding. Traditional braces are sturdy and long-lasting.

Self-ligating braces are very similar to traditional braces, except they use a built-in system to attach the wire to the braces brackets. Some of the benefits of self-ligating braces include:

Easier cleaning
Shorter visits to the orthodontist
Less discomfort

Your orthodontist might recommend ceramic self-ligating braces. Ceramic braces blend more seamlessly than metal ones because of their white or transparent appearance.

Invisible Aligners

Many people prefer to straighten their teeth without using traditional braces. Invisible aligners are a great option.

Clear aligners consist of removable and clear plastic trays. Your orthodontist will customize a plan for you based on your goals and your current teeth alignment. Once the initial appointments have been completed, your orthodontist will create custom aligners.

You should wear your clear aligners for around 22 hours each day. You'll swap your aligners for a new set every week or two. How often you swap out your aligners depends upon your teeth's movement.

The clear aligners incrementally and gently push your teeth into alignment. Some of the benefits of clear aligners include:

Fewer appointments
Virtually invisible
Drink and eat whatever you want
Floss and brush according to your regular schedule
Shorter treatment time

With clear aligners, your orthodontist will attach small bumps the same colour as your teeth to specific teeth. The small bumps help your trays align properly onto your teeth. Once your treatment plan is done, the bumps will get removed.

Retainers

Retainers are another type of orthodontic treatment . A retainer is typically required after you receive braces or a different kind of treatment. The goal of a retainer is to keep your teeth in the correct alignment.

Once you've finished your orthodontic treatment plan, you'll get fitted for a custom retainer. There are a few different kinds of retainers:

Permanent Retainer: A metal wire that's cemented to the inside of your teeth
Hawley Retainer: A removable device that includes a metal wire around your teeth and an acrylic piece
Essix Retainer: Clear, removable retainers made from plastic

Your orthodontist will provide instructions on how to put in your retainer, how to clean it, and how often you should wear it. How you put it in depends on what type of retainer you have.

For example, your orthodontist will bond a permanent retainer to your teeth. It'll always stay in place, meaning you don't have to take it out and in.

Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontic Treatment

At Daas Dentistry, we see various patients that have different questions and concerns. Let's discuss the most commonly asked questions we get about orthodontic treatment.

What's an Orthodontist?

An orthodontist is trained to identify, prevent, and reedy jaw and teeth irregularities. They can fix existing conditions and identify problems that might arise in the future. An orthodontist works with individuals of all ages, from kids to adults.

Orthodontists use different devices, such as bands, retainers, and braces, to change a person's teeth positioning. Some of the dental abnormalities they can help with are:

Jaw misalignment
Far apart teeth
Crowded teeth
Bite problems, such as an under or overbite

The primary goal of orthodontic treatment is to improve a person's bite. A healthy bite helps a person chew, speak, and eat properly.

When Should I See an Orthodontist?

You can visit the orthodontist at any age if you want to change the feel and look of your smile. It's recommended that children at the age of 7 start seeing an orthodontist.

That's because their adult teeth are beginning to come in. An orthodontist can identify various problems and potentially correct them early.

However, don't be discouraged if you're an adult. There are many treatment options available so you can straighten your teeth.

What Are the Best Ways to Take Care of My Teeth While Wearing a Retainer or Braces?

You should practice healthy oral hygiene habits whether you have braces or a retainer. Brush your teeth after each meal and floss once a day. You should also use toothpaste that has fluoride in it since it prevents cavities.

For those who have to remove their retainer to eat, make sure you floss and brush before putting it back on. You'll also want to secure your retainer by putting it in its retainer. If you have a permanent retainer, you can purchase special floss.

To keep your retainer clean, gently brush it with toothpaste and a toothbrush. Don't put your retainer in the dishwasher or boiling water.

You'll want to avoid eating chewy, sticky, or hard foods if you wear braces. These foods can include:

Caramel
Gum
Nuts
Ice cubes
Corn on the cob
Ribs
Taffy

Continue receiving routine dental cleanings from your dentist during this time as well.

How Long Will I Have to Wear Braces?

The time you have to wear braces or clear aligners depends upon your teeth and goals. Every smile is different. Orthodontic treatment can take six months or a few years.

Does It Hurt to Wear Braces?

Braces don't hurt. However, you might feel discomfort for a few days when you first get your braces. You might also experience similar sensations when your orthodontist tightens your braces.

Will Braces Get in the Way of Singing, Playing an Instrument, or Spots?

Contact sports or playing a musical instrument might require a slight adjustment when you first get braces. Wearing braces won't stop you from participating in your favourite activities. For those who play contact sports, you might consider wearing a mouthguard to protect your mouth and braces.

Can I Wear an Old Retainer to Straighten My Teeth?

Many people who had braces or clear aligners as a child or teen might wonder if they could put in their old retainer to get their teeth back in alignment. If you've been on top of wearing your retainer and your teeth have only moved a little bit, then you might be able to wear your old retainer. You don't want to have to force it in.

If your teeth have shifted a moderate or severe amount, wearing an old retainer won't help. Forcing your retainer in could damage your teeth or cause you great pain.

Before deciding to put back on an old retainer, it's best to make an appointment with a qualified orthodontist.

What Orthodontic Treatment Option Is the Best?

The best orthodontic treatment option depends on your goals, lifestyle, and preferences.

Your orthodontist will provide you with expert recommendations on what they believe the best treatment course to be. When choosing an orthodontist, you'll want to find one with the proper accreditation and certifications.

Can I Get Braces Just on My Bottom Teeth?

Some patients only have crooked bottom teeth. Whether wearing braces on the bottom will be enough to get your teeth into alignment is a question best answered by your orthodontist. Your top teeth might be out of alignment in ways you don't realize.

Will I Need to Have Teeth Removed?

Patients who have severe overcrowded or impacted teeth might need extraction. Severe overcrowding can be caused by various things, such as a small mouth. Your orthodontist will let you know if they believe extraction to be necessary.

Are Orthodontic Treatments Expensive?

The cost of orthodontic care depends upon the treatment. Many orthodontists accept insurance and/or offer financing options. Speak with your orthodontist to find out more information.

Make an Appointment With Daas Dentistry in Mississauga and Stoney Creek

No matter what your goals are, many orthodontic treatment options can help. Whether you've never had braces or want to get your teeth in alignment again, we can help.

The staff at Daas Dentistry is here to help you discover how to restore your confidence and give you a fantastic smile. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at one of our locations and get an opinion.

Crown vs Bridge: What's the Difference Between These Dental Procedures?

Tue, 19 Oct 2021 00:38:56 GMT

Dentists don't take offense when they hear that their patients don't want to see them. Every year, the average Canadian spends $378 on dental procedures , but that figure can quickly rise with one simple procedure.

Well, that's why it's so important to choose the right one for your needs! If you need some serious dental work, then you may have heard some options for replacing or covering missing or broken teeth. Let's settle the score on the dental crown vs bridge and see which is right for you!

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is essentially a cover for your tooth. If your tooth is broken, damaged, chipped, or has a severe cavity, losing that enamel leaves your tooth vulnerable to further damage. Once it's gone, there's no getting it back.

Essentially, the crown covers and secures what's left of this tooth and holds it together. Depending on the material you choose, this could return your tooth to its original strength or even make it stronger than before.

Dental Crown Procedure

The dental procedure may require a root canal or drilling into the tooth to eliminate any existing decay if the tooth needs a crown due to a severe cavity or decay. From there, the tooth will need drying, and the crown will need to be secured to your tooth.

More likely, the dentist will have to file down the outer layer of your tooth and take an impression of the trimmed tooth and surrounding teeth. This will help them size the crown appropriately. This may require a separate visit.

If so, they may put a temporary crown over your tooth and schedule the procedure with you. If that's the case, limit your chewing on that tooth until the day of the procedure, especially on hard or sticky foods.

The crown will then be created, and they will secure it to your existing tooth. For a front tooth, this may involve color-matching with your existing teeth, which your dentist will also plan ahead of time.

From there, the procedure itself is relatively straightforward. You will only need local anesthesia and an hour or two for your appointment. Recovery may take anywhere from a few hours to 3 days at most, and you should contact your dentist if you experience any prolonged discomfort or pain.

Advantages of a Crown

If you can get a crown, most dentists would recommend it. A crown is a much easier and more secure procedure than other options, as the crown is secured to the existing tooth enamel. This won't require tooth or root extraction.

As a result, this can save money! Crowns require less material than bridges and don't require as invasive of a procedure, making them more affordable on average. However, there are exceptions.

Crowns tend to last much longer than dental bridges, as they attach to an existing tooth and prevent further decay. A crowned tooth can easily last a lifetime with proper care, especially for larger crowns that protect the tooth.

Disadvantages of a Crown

Relatively speaking, there aren't too many downsides to a crown. Of course, no dental procedure is blissful, but a dental crown can be a great way to improve the health and security of your teeth without overspending. It isn't the best option for a missing tooth or a tooth broken down to the root, but that isn't what it was designed to do.

What Is a Dental Bridge?

Bridges are made similarly to crowns, using similar materials, and created with CNC machines or similar technology. However, they seek to replace the entire tooth without the root. For this reason, bridges are a replacement, not a cover for an existing tooth.

Dental Bridge Procedure

The procedure may look different between patients, as your circumstances will largely determine how the bridge is secured. Your dentist will design the bridge to fit where the replacement is needed, which may include color-matching, sizing, and more. Typically, you'll have a separate visit for measuring and creating your new bridge ahead of the procedure.

If you require a tooth extraction, you will need to wait longer for the bridge procedure than you would between a root canal and a crown. The bone and gums will need time to heal before the procedure.

After that, you'll visit your dentist for the bridge procedure, which may include securing the tooth to your gums, existing enamel, or surrounding teeth. Again, this depends on your circumstances.

The bridge procedure is very similar to a crown procedure from the patient's perspective. It will only require local anesthesia and a similar recovery period. The only significant difference is a possible root extraction beforehand if necessary.

Again, contact your dentist if you experience any pain or discomfort for more than 3 days after your bridge procedure or tooth extraction. You should adjust fully to your new tooth within 2 weeks after the procedure.

Advantages of a Bridge

If you're missing a tooth, then a bridge is the cheapest and least invasive option to replace it. A dental implant can cost up to $6,000 for one tooth, depending on the circumstances and materials. On the other hand, a bridge may only cost $800 to 2,000, even without insurance.

Of course, this heavily depends on the material and the type of procedure required. However, you can still choose the type of material you want and have it custom-fit to your mouth.

Disdvantages of a Bridge

A bridge's most critical disadvantage is that it doesn't last forever. If you need to replace an entire tooth, a dental implant is the way to go, as it can last for 20 years to a lifetime. However, a bridge is still an affordable way to replace a tooth.

That's not to suggest that they will break immediately, especially with the right materials. Dental bridges typically last for at least 5 to 7 years and up to 15, depending on their material and how they are secured. Visit your dentist and determine your best option and how long you can expect to hold onto your bridge.

Also, while crowns can potentially strengthen your existing tooth, bridges may have the opposite effect. If a bridge is secured to surrounding teeth, this can harm those teeth over time.

Different Materials for Crowns and Bridges

Many of the above statements, particularly about the strength or integrity of a crown or bridge, depending on your chosen material. There are plenty of different materials to use for crowns or bridges, each with different advantages. Let's talk about how to choose out of the most popular materials.

Porcelain

Porcelain is a very common choice for dental crowns or bridges. It's the best material for color matching, and it feels similar to your existing teeth.

Yes, porcelain is a reasonably fragile material, but not when used in teeth. Porcelain can be made very strong and can last for years with proper care, typically lasting 5 to 15 years for crowns. However, there are stronger materials to choose from!

Ceramic

Ceramic is very similar to porcelain in terms of strength, but it tends to be cheaper than porcelain. The type of ceramic used in dentistry is very dense and strong for long-lasting effects. They should still last for about as long as a porcelain crown or bridge!

Metal Alloys

All-metal crowns tend to be cheaper than gold or porcelain crowns, and there are several options to choose from. Some of the most common include silver, platinum, palladium, nickel, chromium, and cobalt, as well as alloys of these metals.

Of course, platinum and palladium are the most expensive options, but hard metals are great for providing extra strength. The only downside is their appearance. However, this isn't a big deal if they are in the back of your mouth, as they can offer the same functions for a lower price.

Porcelain-Fused Metal

If you want the best of both worlds, porcelain or ceramic can be fused with metal for strength and appearance. This is becoming increasingly popular for dental procedures like crowns and bridges . Talk to your dentist to see which material is right for you!

Crown vs Bridge: Which Is Better?

Crowns and bridges are essential procedures for different patients with different needs. A bridge is an excellent solution if you need to replace an entire tooth. However, a crown is a much simpler and long-lasting solution if you have enough existing enamel.

Now that we've settled the score on crown vs bridge stay up to date with our latest dental tips, and feel free to contact us with any questions or schedule an appointment!

How to Take Care of Yourself After Wisdom Teeth Removal

Tue, 14 Sep 2021 00:16:35 GMT

With an already stressful year due to a global pandemic, the recovery process from wisdom teeth removal can seem overwhelming. However, knowing what to expect afterward can make the process less stressful.

Some patients put off their dental surgery because of the anxiety related to pain and recovery. This only results in more pain and potentially more complications.

In this article, we discuss what to expect after dental surgery and how to take the best care of yourself during recovery. Continue reading to find out what our experts in wisdom teeth removal in Stoney Creek and Mississauga recommend.

Waking Up From Dental Surgery

Wisdom teeth removal is an outpatient dental surgery. So, you'll be going home the day of your procedure. Depending on if you select anesthesia or sedation , the amount of time for recovery varies. Regardless, the moment you wake up from your wisdom teeth removal, the healing process begins. It helps to know what to expect as far as pain, bleeding, and swelling.

Post-Dental Surgery Pain

As you awake from your dentist visit, your pain should be minimal. This is due to the local anesthesia given to prevent pain after the procedure. However, this wears off quickly, so be prepared.

A combination of pain management and ice is the best for pain management following this procedure. Your orthodontist may prescribe medications to help manage post-operative pain. Plus, there are other home remedies you can try.

The combination of the anesthesia/sedation and the pain medication will leave you feeling drowsy. For this reason, we suggest patients have someone available to drive them to and from their appointment.

Bleeding and What to Expect

Don't be alarmed if you notice some bleeding after your procedure; this is common. Your dental team will recommend placing gauze near the surgery area to help absorb blood and saliva. If you notice excessive bleeding, more than just blood-tinged saliva, talk with your surgeon.

Our specialists in wisdom teeth removal in Mississauga often recommend biting on a moist tea bag for thirty minutes to help with excessive bleeding. The tannic acid helps to stop bleeding in this case.

Additionally, avoid excessive rinsing of the area. This can cause bleeding to occur. For the same reason, avoid touching the area as much as possible for the first few days.

Minimizing Swelling

Swelling is common in the 24 hours following dental surgery. You will notice gradual swelling for 2-3 days before it starts to improve.

Ice packs are a great option for both pain management and to reduce swelling. We recommend icing for 30 minutes every hour for the first 1-3 days after surgery. After this period of time, ice will no longer help with swelling.

Going Home

Our team will send you home with post-surgery instructions. These will make sure you know how to take the best care of yourself in the days following your procedure.

What to Expect

As we discussed, you should expect pain, swelling, and some bleeding immediately following your procedure. This will continue as you recover.

Your first 24 hours will likely leave you feeling tired and disoriented as you recover from the anesthesia or sedation. We recommend resting as much as possible to help with the recovery process.

Recovery Time

Our team in wisdom teeth removal in Stoney Creek will tell you that the general recovery window is about 3 days.

In some cases, patients experience pain up to one week following their procedure. However, keep in mind that complications such as infection can lengthen this time frame.

Healing Process

Over the 3 days following your procedure, you need to pay attention to how you care for yourself and your surgery site. Following your surgeon's instructions is the difference between a quick healing process and many complications.

Promote Quick Healing

The best way to promote quick healing after your wisdom teeth removal in Mississauga or Stoney Creek is through rest. After most routine surgeries, you can return to your regular activities within 24-48 hours.

However, we recommend waiting at least a week. The COVID-19 pandemic makes this somewhat easier for our patients since there are fewer opportunities to venture out of the house.

We also recommend staying on top of swelling and pain management. Use ice and medications as directed at your dentist visit to stay comfortable.

Maintain Hygiene

Good hygiene is especially important after wisdom teeth removal. While we recommend against any kind of rinsing in the 24 hours following surgery, it's an important part of recovery.

After the first 24 hours, we recommend rinsing with warm saltwater. This should be done every 5 to 6 hours. The saltwater helps dislodge any pieces of food stuck in or near your sockets and also helps clean the area.

The COVID-19 pandemic and widespread quarantines have resulted in weight gain for many people. This is a result of eating more and exercising less.

This makes it even more important to maintain good hygiene during your recovery process. If you are frequently snacking on different foods, it's important to keep up on your saltwater rinses and other oral hygiene practices.

Other Considerations

As we discussed, the first 24 hours are the most sensitive time after your dental surgery. This is why we instruct our patients not to brush their teeth or floss during this time. Even if you don't brush or floss near the site, the risk of causing damage is too high.

Proper use of gauze is another important part of recovery. Gauze helps absorb and stop bleeding. It also keeps blood clots in place inside of the socket. These blood clots are essential in preventing dry sockets .

Our team will instruct you on how to properly use and replace your gauze. The gauze should be kept in place at all times in the first 24 to 48 hours except while sleeping or eating. This helps control bleeding and oozing.

Also, avoid the use of straws, smoking, and strenuous activity. These are other ways to promote healing and avoid dry sockets.

Eating After Surgery

In order to promote healing and avoid pain and infection, there are limitations on what you can and can't eat. It's also important to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.

Keep in mind, the first 24 hours should be restricted to mostly liquids or foods that don't require any chewing. After the first 24 hours, you can move to other foods on the list below.

What to Eat

Soup
Apple sauce
Mashed potatoes
Yogurt
Pudding
Milkshakes or smoothies (no straws)
Cottage cheese
Eggs

What NOT to Eat

Chips
Nuts
Gum
Hard candy
Sticky candy
Chewy foods

Potential Complications

Just like any surgery, wisdom teeth removal can come with complications. In order to promote good healing, it's important that you monitor for any of these issues. If they occur, call your surgeon's office.

Dry Socket

Dry sockets are the most common post-dental surgery complication we see. A dry socket occurs when the blood clot in the tooth socket is dislodged. This leaves the bone exposed and is very painful.

Excessive Bleeding

Bleeding and oozing are a normal part of dental surgery since incisions were made to remove your teeth. The proper use of gauze or tea bags can help stop bleeding. However, some cases of bleeding should be evaluated by your doctor.

These cases include ongoing bleeding after 4 hours post-surgery, bloody nose, and vomiting blood. While these symptoms are uncommon, it's important to call your surgeon's office immediately.

Ongoing Pain or Nausea

Pain is part of the healing process with wisdom teeth removal. However, if you experience throbbing pain after taking your pain medications, it's worth a call or a dentist visit. The same can be said if you experience a sudden increase in your pain after a day or two.

Nausea is less common, but can still happen. If nausea or vomiting occurs after 10 hours post-surgery, call your doctor immediately.

Infection

Infection occurs for a number of reasons such as improper care of the surgery site. Address the infection as soon as possible to avoid serious consequences.

Signs of infection include fever, increased or ongoing swelling, throbbing pain, and heat to the area. You might also notice pus or discoloration of the area.

Be Prepared for Your Wisdom Teeth Removal

The process of recovering from wisdom teeth removal can seem overwhelming, especially since there is a lot to consider. However, by keeping yourself informed and by being prepared, it can go smoothly.

Be sure to have a designated driver for the day of your procedure. Also, keep appropriate foods in the house so you can stay home and rest. Finally, make sure you keep an eye out for any post-surgery complications and keep your doctor informed.

How to Take Care of Your Teeth in Between Dentist Visits

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 21:04:54 GMT

Have you been avoiding the dentist for a year now due to the pandemic? You're not alone. According to a 2020 study, 46.7% of respondents said that they delayed dentist visits because of the COVID-19 threat.

Although it's important to get regular checkups, there are ways that you can stay on top of oral care in order to avoid larger issues like cavities and gingivitis. With the right routines in place, teeth care can even be a good time of the day to unwind.

With this in mind, read on to learn how to care for your teeth even if you've delayed seeing your Mississauga and Stoney Creek dentist!

Results of Poor Dental Hygiene

Before we get into the steps you can take today in order to improve your oral health between dental visits, it's important that you know about the consequences of poor dental hygiene . Your Stoney Creek dentist should be able to discuss these repercussions with you during dental appointments, but we're here to remind you why brushing and flossing are just so important.

Gum Disease

Gum disease is a major risk factor if you fail to brush your teeth regularly. Plaque forms on your teeth from a buildup of bacteria that are normally brushed and rinsed away each day. However, if you fail to brush your teeth after a certain amount of time, tartar can form.

This buildup of plaque and tartar can lead to gum inflammation called gingivitis. Your gums will become inflamed and bleed easily while brushing or flossing. The bone that holds your teeth in place can also start deteriorating as your immune system fights the infection.

There are gum treatments available if you're having issues with gum tenderness, swelling, pockets, or more.

Cavities

As plaque and tartar build-up on your teeth over time, they can also start eating away at the enamel of your teeth. Eventually, holes in your teeth are formed called cavities.

If you don't treat a cavity soon enough, the inside of your tooth will decay. This will require more extensive dental work such as a root canal, crowns, fillings, or even the total removal of your tooth!

You may have a cavity if you're experiencing toothaches, especially after eating sweet, hot, or cold foods. You may also notice pits or holes in your teeth on closer examination.

Heart Disease

One aspect of poor dental hygiene that's often overlooked is that it affects more than just your mouth. Bacteria buildup in your mouth can also creep into your bloodstream, affecting the valves of your heart.

If you're at risk for diabetes or heart disease, it's important to take daily oral hygiene seriously to mitigate the risk of bacteria buildup. It's even more important if you have artificial heart valves.

How to Take Care of Your Teeth

Now that you know some of the risks for ignoring oral hygiene in between dental checkups, how do you make sure your teeth are clean? Here are some recommended tips to get you started on the right foot:

Brush Your Teeth Regularly

The top tip is to remember to brush your teeth at least twice a day. The best times to brush are in the morning before your breakfast and in the evening before you go to bed.

The reason you want to brush before you eat instead of after is because you're brushing away bacteria that may have built up in your mouth overnight. Brushing without rinsing in the morning also ensures that there's a protective layer of fluoride toothpaste on your teeth guarding against the acidic effects of coffee, sugar, and orange juice.

Use the Right Tools

Brushing with an electric toothbrush is recommended over a regular one, as you'll be able to get a deeper clean. However, brushing with a regular toothbrush is still a good option, especially if you're on a budget. Just remember to purchase a new toothbrush at least every three months.

Here are some of our top recommendations for the best electric toothbrushes:

Regular brushing and flossing
Oral-B Pro 1000
Philips Sonicare DiamondClean
Oral-B GENIUS X
Philips Sonicare Flexcare Plus
Smile Direct Club Electric Toothbrush
Rotadent Contour

If you want to purchase an electric toothbrush, take into account your budget as well as your own tooth problems. For instance, the Rotadent Contour is one of the best options for sensitive gums. The Smile Direct Club toothbrush is great for people on a budget.

You'll want to use a soft-bristle toothbrush regardless of whether it's electric or manual. This is because you don't want to irritate your gums by putting too much force or pressure on them.

Brush the Right Way

There's also the right technique while brushing. Make sure you're brushing long enough by humming the "happy birthday" song to yourself as you brush, or listen to a song that's two minutes long.

With your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle towards the gum line, brush the front of your teeth first, then the inside linguals, and lastly the biting surfaces of your teeth. Ensure that you're using small circular motions if you're using a manual toothbrush.

It's also important to remember not to put too much pressure. If you're using an electric toothbrush, glide it slowly across the surfaces of your teeth at the same angle.

Don't Rinse

This tip may take some getting used to, but it's often recommended to avoid rinsing after you're brushing your teeth. The reason for this is because you want a nice layer of toothpaste to remain on your teeth. This helps the fluoride do its job more effectively at protecting your teeth against bacteria.

Fluoride also works better when it's left on your teeth over time. Think about the way you clean your countertops at home–many cleaning products recommended letting the product sit for a few minutes before wiping it away. The same logic is applied here.

Floss Your Teeth

Did you know that only 28% of Canadians floss their teeth? This is understandable, as flossing seems to be an unnecessary step in an already long dental hygiene process. However, once you make a habit of flossing your teeth you can greatly speed up the process.

Start by wrapping a few inches of floss on each of your index fingers. Then slide the floss in-between your teeth and "hug" either side of your teeth, ensuring that you're getting all of the particles out on either side.

If you're not able to get used to using floss, there are also a number of alternatives that you can use such as:

Interdental brushes
Water flossing
Dental picks
Pre-threaded floss
Soft-Picks

Many of these options are the best alternatives if you're wearing braces. Once you get used to flossing, make sure that you floss before you brush your teeth. This will make it easier for the toothpaste and bristles of your brush to reach areas where food particles were previously blocking.

Don't Forget Your Tongue

The tongue is an often forgotten part of an oral health regime, even though it's a prominent muscle in your mouth! The surface of your tongue can also harbor bacteria, so it's important that you brush your tongue after you're done brushing your teeth.

Use gentle, circular motions as you would with your teeth. You can also use a tongue scraper in order for more effective cleaning. If you do use a tongue scraper, start at the back of your mouth and draw the scraper down to the tip of your tongue. Rinse it off and then do it again a few number times until your tongue looks noticeably cleaner. If you suffer from bad breath, you'll find that cleaning your tongue regularly will help reduce it.

Healthy Teeth In-Between Dentist Visits

You may be wondering if it's possible to keep your mouth squeaky clean between dentist visits, and we hope that this guide has shown that it is. It's important that you create a routine that you can follow each day.

Even though brushing after every meal is the best way to keep your teeth clean, sometimes this isn't possible for everyone. Set a goal for brushing at least twice a day and stick to it. Next, creating a flossing habit is the next most important step to ensuring that bacteria isn't forming in-between your teeth.

If you're having trouble getting used to floss, we recommend using any of the alternatives listed above. Although they may not be as effective as flossing with a string, it's better to do something in order to dislodge the particles in-between your teeth!

Ready to ensure that your mouth is clean and healthy? Book an appointment with us today to get started!

What Are the Signs of Periodontal Disease?

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 19:34:36 GMT

Are you suffering from mouth pains, and you don’t know the reason behind it?

It’s likely because of gum disease. It’s more common than you think since 7 out of 10 Canadians develop it at some point in their lives. Periodontal disease treatment is easy, as long as you detect it early.

What’s the best way to do it? It’s through knowing the signs of periodontal disease. Read on and learn everything about gum problems:

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal’s literal meaning is “around the tooth.” As such, periodontal diseases are infections and inflammations surrounding your teeth. This includes your ligaments, gums, and bones.

These diseases have varying severity levels. Periodontitis starts as inflammation, but as time passes without treatment, it gets worse. Here are the stages of this disease:

1. Inflammation (Gingivitis)

Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums. If you’re suffering from this condition, your gums will bleed whenever you brush or floss. In some cases, your teeth may lose their bright white- color.

Bacteria are always inside your mouth. They’re harmless unless certain conditions allow them to multiply drastically. It happens when you don’t do basic dental hygiene or go for a regular dentist visit.

2. Early Periodontal Disease

During its early stages, your gums will pull away from your teeth. Small pockets will form between your teeth and gums. These pockets serve as breeding grounds for harmful bacteria. As your immune system responds, it tries to stave off the infection. As with gingivitis, brushing and flossing will result in bleeding. You’ll also experience some bone loss during this period.

3. Moderate Periodontal Disease

After its initial stages, you'll now experience pain and bleeding around your teeth. Your gums will further recede. It causes your teeth to become loose since they won’t have enough bone support. The infection will cause your body to become inflamed. The inflammation goes beyond your mouth area at this point.

4. Advanced Periodontal Disease

Once you reach this phase, your teeth start falling off. The connective tissue holding them deteriorates. At the same time, the infection destroys your gums, bones, and other supportive tissues. Advanced periodontitis means experiencing severe pains while chewing. You may also get bad breath, and your mouth will always taste foul. Losing a few teeth is certain at this stage.

What Causes Periodontal Disease?

Developing periodontal disease starts with plaque. It’s a sticky film that houses millions of bacteria. If you don't do anything about it, the plaque around your teeth will accumulate. When you don’t remove the plaque regularly, it hardens to tartar. It forms near your gums, at the base of your teeth. Like wisdom tooth removal , getting rid of tartar is only possible through professional means. The plaque will trigger an immune response. It destroys your gum tissue and develops more complications.

Risk Factors Affecting Periodontal Disease

Situations that lead to drastic hormonal changes put you at risk for periodontitis. The gum tissue becomes more sensitive during these situations. For example, entering puberty, menopause, menstrual cycles, or pregnancies raises your risk of inflammation. Some diseases also increase your chances of getting gingivitis. This includes diabetes, HIV, and cancer.

If you have a medical condition, you might take some medications. However, some side effects may increase your chances of getting gum diseases. When your medicine decreases your saliva flow, it will make you vulnerable to periodontal disease. Some examples include Dilantin and some brands of anti-angina medicine. These often cause your gum tissue to grow abnormally. Your age and family history also contribute to your gingivitis risks. If your parents have these diseases, you’re at risk. It comes from the bacteria type you get early on in life.

People with poor diet and lifestyle choices are at risk of gingivitis. If your daily menu lacks vitamin C, you’ll develop gum disorders. Regular smokers will experience gingivitis more.

Signs of Periodontal Disease

Now you know the stages of periodontal disease, it’s time to learn the symptoms. Knowing what to look out for allows you to know when it’s time to get treatment. Go to a licensed dentist when you’re experiencing these:

Red, Swollen Gums

These are some of the most common first signs of gum problems. In most cases, they start as inflammation along your gum line. They feel tender when touched. The swelling can get worse in time, causing your gums to bleed whenever you floss or brush.

Bad Breath

Your mouth’s environment provides a nice, warm, and moist home for millions of microbes. These creatures eat your plaque for sustenance and reproduction. The more you have, the faster they multiply. When they eat, bacteria will release toxins that irritate your gums. It causes you to have a foul mouth odor. It’s also a symptom of serious gum disorders since your breath won’t smell bad with gingivitis.

Receding Gums

If your teeth have a longer appearance than before, they may stop growing. This will make your gums start receding. As bones break, the gums make separate from the tooth, making a pocket.

Sensitive Teeth

Sipping a cold drink is nice during hot weather, but wincing at the pain can kill the mood. Sensitive teeth are a definitive symptom of gum diseases. They occur at the same time as receding gums. When your gums shrink, it exposes the more sensitive part of your tooth, the dentin. It causes you to experience pain when drinking hot or cold water. You’ll also feel the pain when you leave your mouth open for long.

Wiggling or Shifting Teeth

Ask yourself whether your smile is consistent with your earlier pictures. If you notice something different, it might be a sign of gum disease. It attacks the bones holding your teeth together, loosening them. When your condition becomes too severe, the way you bite changes. Gum infections change how your teeth fit together. This often results in bite problems as time passes.

How Do Dentists Diagnose Periodontitis?

During a routine dental checkup, your dentist will see periodontitis symptoms. They can track your status to ensure it won’t get worse. It’s one of the many benefits of visiting a dentist regularly. If they suspect gum disease, they will use a probe. It’s a tiny ruler that will measure any gum pockets. It’s painless, allowing them to know whether it’s time to go to a periodontist.

How to Treat Periodontitis

When treating periodontitis, ask your dentist for more tips. You must also change your lifestyle alongside taking proper medications and treatments. You aim to remove both plaque and bacteria residing on your gums and teeth.

Here are some treatment options:

1. Good Oral Hygiene Practices

Once diagnosed, dentists will instruct you on how to decrease bacteria in your mouth. It involves methods that keep your teeth and gums clean. They’ll teach the proper toothbrush and flossing methods.

They will recommend oral hygiene products to complement your situation. In most cases, all you need is to brush your teeth twice each day. Use fluoride toothpaste to ensure you’re clean. If you have the budget, buy an electric toothbrush since it’s more effective. Floss every day to get rid of plaque. Never smoke or chew tobacco since it accelerates plaque growth.

2. Professional Cleaning

During this procedure, dentists will use tools and chemicals to remove plaque and tartar from teeth. They do it until the roots for a deeper level of cleaning. After that, they polish them before doing fluoride-based treatments.

For periodontal pockets, opt for deeper cleaning. Scaling and root planing helps remove tartar and rough spots on the tooth root. Expect bacterial levels to decrease a lot after these treatments.

3. Antibiotics

Sometimes, your dentist will prescribe antibiotics to help with hard-to-remove gum infections. It’s usually after professional cleaning failed to get rid of them. Depending on your preference, your antibiotic could be a tablet, capsule, gel, or mouthwash.

4. Follow-up Appointments

While treating gingivitis, your dentist will request follow-up sessions within the next few weeks. After that, your appointments will happen every three to six months. They will look into your progress.

If you still have periodontal pockets, they’ll likely prescribe other treatment procedures. In severe cases, surgery is the only option.

5. Surgery

Dentists recommend surgical treatments like flap surgery when the inflammation is in inaccessible mouth areas. These are places where you can’t brush or floss. This procedure cleans the deposits underneath your gums.

Flap surgery will place you in anesthesia. After that, they lift your gums away and clean the roots. They suture your gums back into place to finish the surgery.

When your periodontitis is bad enough, you’ll suffer from bone loss. In this situation, dentists recommend bone grafting procedures alongside flap surgery. It helps regenerate the lost bone mass.

Visit Your Dentist Now!

You must never ignore the early signs of periodontal disease. If you’re experiencing any of them, go to your dentist and ask them for advice.

Do you need help with your gum disease? No matter how minor, contact us today and let us help.

How to Help Your Child Prepare For Their First Dentist Visit

Tue, 15 Jun 2021 00:18:49 GMT

Your child will meet important milestones as he or she grows. One milestone you'll be on the lookout for is your child's first tooth. After the first tooth starts to come in, there's another important milestone to focus on.

The appearance of the first tooth marks the to prepare your child for the first dentist visit. There's no doubt that this is one milestone that most parents don't tend to get excited about.

A child should see a dentist for the first time by their first birthday . Most parents take their child to the dentist for the first time when the child is between 1 and 3.

As a parent, you want to make sure that your child's first dentist visit is a good experience. Read this article to learn how to help your child prepare for their first dentist visit.

Get Your Child Excited About Dentistry

To help your child get ready for their first dentist visit, you have to make dentistry exciting. This must start at an early age as it's a process.

This may not be an easy task for most parents. If you want your child to feel comfortable and not have any anxiety, you must talk to your child about the dentist. You can start by telling your child what a dentist does.

Naturally, your child may have a lot of questions about the dentist. Do your best to answer every question, but be honest. You have to explain to your child what the dentist will do during the first visit.

Do make sure to engage in a positive dialogue about dentistry. Tell your child that all children have to go to the dentist to get their teeth checked. You can share with them the positive experiences you have had at the dentist.

You want to refrain from passing on any of your anxiety to your child. Children can pick up on a parent's anxiety and fear. You don't want to pass on any anxiety you may have about your child's first dentist visit.

Have you been brushing your child's teeth since your child was an infant? There's a higher likelihood your child will have less anxiety when it's time to go to their first dentist appointment. Your child will feel comfortable as the dentist looks over the teeth.

Read a Book About Going to the Dentist

You should consider reading your child a book about going to the dentist. This is a great way to introduce your child to the dentist.

There are lots of children's books that are all about the dentist. These books have pictures that show the characters having a positive experience at the dentist. Consider buying books that feature your child's favorite characters from TV.

This can help your child relate to the character. This will help to lessen the fears they may have about going to the dentist. If by any chance your child gets nervous again, take out the book to remind your child will be safe.

Play Dentist With Your Child

Role-playing is one of the favorite activities for most children. Children have a vivid form of imagination, so it's beneficial for them if they can play dentist at home.

Your child can assume the role of the dentist. The patient can be one of their favorite stuffed animals or dolls. You can talk your child through the steps a dentist takes.

This is a great way to give your child a sense of control over a new experience. Plus, it will give your child an idea of what to expect during their first dentist visit.

Make an Appointment With a Pediatric Dentist

It's a good idea to schedule your child's first dentist appointment with a pediatric dentist. This type of dentist has the knowledge and training needed to work with children from birth through adolescence.

The dentist will make every effort to make your child's first visit comfortable as possible. The dentist will have tons of tricks to make it a fun experience.

From the moment your child walks into the dentist's office, he or she will start to feel comfortable. You can expect the staff to do everything they can to help your child feel at ease.

A pediatric dentist will do more than help make your child feel at ease. The training these dentists get enables them to effectively treat childhood dental problems .

Schedule the Appointment for the Best Time

It's a good idea if you schedule your child's first dental visit at a time that works best for your little one. Take into consideration your child's nap time and lunch time.

The last thing you want is for your child to go all cranky to the dentist. This will make for a bad first experience at the dentist. If your child feels better after a nap, try to schedule the appointment after this time.

Your best bet is to schedule the first dentist appointment when your child is well-rested. It will also help if your child isn't hungry.

Ask the Dentist If Your Child Can Tour the Office

It doesn't hurt if you ask the dentist if your child can tour the office. Dentists who work with children understand the anxiety and fear that children have when they first go for a dental checkup. This is why many of them offer their patient's a tour of the office.

Ask your child's dentist if they offer a virtual office tour. This is something many dentists are now doing. A virtual tour of the office can help children understand what goes on at the dentist.

In the comfort of your home, you and your little one can view all the equipment and rooms at the office. You can explain what each piece of equipment is for.

You should also look over the staff's pictures if there are any on the dentist's website. This can help your child become familiar with the persons who may end up caring for him. Children tend to feel more comfortable around familiar faces.

Bring a Comfort Item to the Appointment

Speaking of being comfortable. On the night before the dentist's visit, you can let your child take one item with him or her to the dentist.

The goal is for your child to take a comfort item. This can be a favorite toy, stuffed animal, or even a blanket. Your child can keep this item by his or her side throughout the visit.

Treat Them With a Reward

You can tell your son or daughter that their dentist will offer them a reward if they behave well. The dentist will likely offer your child a toothbrush, toothpaste, or another item at the end of the visit. The item should serve as a reward for doing a great job.

You don't want to bribe your child. This can have the opposite effect of what you desire to do. It can cause your child to become dependent on one every time there's a dentist appointment.

You should offer your child a lot of praise after their first dental visit. Be sure to point out your child's good behavior and bravery as well.

Be Ready for Resistance

Despite all the actions you take and how much you prepare your child for the first dentist visit, be aware that resistance can arise. It's normal for children to be apprehensive. It's also normal for them to want to avoid being examined by a stranger.

Little children may even cry or throw a major temper tantrum on the morning leading up to the dentist visit. Your child may even do this on the way to the dentist.

Whatever happens, you can count on the staff members to help your child feel comfortable at all times. You can trust them and the dentist to guide you and your child through the process.

The best dentist understands that a child's first dentist visit can be nerve-racking. The dentist will invite you to go in with your child so you can be by your child's side.

You can reassure your child that you'll be right there with him or her. If it will make your child feel better, you can hold their hands. You're your child's greatest comfort, so stay present.

Time to Schedule Your Child's First Dentist Visit

The time has come for your child to go to their first dentist visit. There are several things you can do to help your child prepare for this dentist visit. You want to make sure your child is as comfortable as possible.

If you are looking for the best dentist for children make an appointment with us. Contact us to make your child's first dentist appointment at one of our two locations.

11 Questions to Ask During Your Next Mississauga Dentist Visit

Fri, 14 May 2021 18:25:50 GMT

According to a report on The State of Oral Health in Canada , over the last 40 years, there's been a significant improvement in the dental health of Canadians. This might be as a result of more people accessing dental care regularly as approximately 80% of Canadians have a dentist.

Despite this positive statistic, a dentist visit is not easy for everyone. This can be as a result of financial or time constraints. In addition to this, anywhere from 48% to 60% of Canadians experience extreme dental fear or some form of dental anxiety.

If you fall into this category and have never been to the dentist, knowing what to expect at your first dental visit can help. Being comfortable enough to ask your dentist the right questions can also put your mind at ease.

If you're ready to take the leap, read on to find out some important questions to ask your dentist that will make your visit a lot easier.

11 Questions to Ask At Your Dentist Visit

Regular dental checkups are important not only for your oral health but your overall health as well. It's also essential to know what to do between dental visits to maintain the health of your teeth. Here are a few questions you can ask your dentist for better teeth health as well as to have a smooth dentist visit.

1. Do You Accept My Dental Plan?

This is important to find out so that you don't run into any financial issues. You should actually ask this question when scheduling your appointment so you can determine the best way forward. Depending on the cost, you might be able to manage payment without insurance.

2. What's the Best Way to Keep My Teeth Healthy?

Keeping your teeth healthy means preventing tooth decay, gum disease, gingivitis, and other oral health problems. Your dentist will recommend general things you can do including:

Regular brushing and flossing
Regular dental checkups
Eating a balanced diet

Your dentist visits are important to ensure you get a professional cleaning . It also allows your dentist to spot any issues early and treat them successfully before they become major concerns.

3. What Should My Daily Dental Routine Be?

To maintain teeth health, you need to have a good daily dental routine. Your dentist will more than likely tell you to:

Brush your teeth at least twice a day
Floss at least once a day
Avoid foods that are high in sugar or acidic content
Avoid products that can stain your teeth
Include fruits and vegetables and foods rich in protein for a balanced diet
Use products with fluoride

You can prevent tooth decay or tooth loss as well as other issues by having good daily oral hygiene habits.

4. Will I Need An X-Ray?

More than likely, your first dentist visit will include dental x-rays. This will give your dentist a better idea of the condition of your teeth. Dental x-rays also allow your dentist to monitor any changes that occur over the years of your treatment.

5. How Is My Overall Oral Health?

Ideally, you should ask this after your examination, as only then, will your dentist be able to give you a comprehensive answer. Besides cleaning your teeth, during your first examination, your dentist will check for cavities and gum disease. The exam will also help to determine your risk of developing other oral health issues.

You should let your dentist know a complete history of your overall health, as well as that of your family. Family history can play a part in your dental health as some conditions can run in your family. You might have a predisposition to tooth decay, gum disease, and other issues due to your family history.

6. Do I Have Any Cavities?

Your dental x-rays will give your dentist a good indication if you have any cavities. Sometimes your dentist can also determine this from a physical exam, depending on how bad the cavity is. You should also indicate if you experience any sensitivity, especially when consuming hot or cold liquids.

7. What Dental Products Do You Recommend For Me?

There are a variety of dental products available and you may sometimes have difficulty choosing the right products for you. Your dentist can recommend the most effective toothpaste, toothbrush, floss, and rinse that will work best for you. This eliminates your need to pore over a slew of products, especially with new ones being added, every time you run out.

8. Can I Get My Teeth Whiter?

One of the keys to whiter teeth is staying away from foods that can stain them such as tea, coffee, and wine. However, for teeth that are already discolored, your dentist can do a whitening treatment. Doing this at every visit can help remove some of the discolorations.

9. What Are the Signs of Gum Disease?

Periodontitis , also familiarly known as gum disease is an infection of the gum that causes soft tissue damage. If left untreated, it can destroy the bone that supports your teeth. This causes teeth to loosen and eventually fall out.

It's also linked to chronic diseases such as diabetes, Alzheimer's, and heart disease. During your visit your dentist will check for signs of gum disease which can include:

Swollen, tender, or puffy gums
Bad breath
Pus between teeth and gums

If you see traces of blood, especially after brushing, you should tell your dentist. Gum disease is preventable if caught early.

10. How Do I Prevent Bad Breath?

The major cause of bad breath is the build-up of bacteria in your mouth. Brushing can remove most of this along with practicing good oral hygiene by following the daily routine advised by your dentist. In addition, you can also use toothpaste and rinse that contain antibacterial agents.

11. How Often Should I Schedule A Visit?

The frequency of dental visits is really dependent on the patient and their dental health. Some patients may have dental work that will require more frequent visits. However, in general, dentists usually recommend visits every six months.

What You Should Expect At Your First Dental Visit

If you're visiting your dentist for the first time, after reading the answers to the questions above, you might have a better idea of what your visit will entail. As you continue to go, these visits will become just as routine for you as they are for your dentist. But to be sure you know what to expect, here are some activities that will take place:

Professional Cleaning - Your dentist may have a dental hygienist cleans your teeth. Don't worry as he/she would be well-trained in providing this service. The cleaning will include scraping below your gumline, removing any buildup of plaque, flossing, and polishing. Your dentist may also do a whitening treatment to help move any discoloration.

A Complete Examination - As mentioned, the dentist will do a thorough examination of your mouth. This will include not only looking at the health of your teeth but your gums as well. This examination will determine if you have any signs of disease or other issues.

X-Rays - Many dentists provide digital x-rays. This allows them to spot issues that may otherwise go unnoticed.

These issues can include abscesses, tooth decay, impacted teeth, jawbone damage, cysts, or tumors. There are also various types of x-rays you can expect. Your dentist will take full-mouth x-rays every four to five years, while bitewing x-rays are usually taken yearly. The frequency will change for patients that have a high risk of developing dental issues. They may need to have x-rays taken every six to 18 months.

Because this will be your first visit, set aside enough time in your schedule. This will allow your dentist to complete all these activities. It will also give you time to ask as many questions, as necessary. In addition to your questions, you should also make a note of any symptoms you may be having.

Dental Care Without Fear

Knowledge of what a dentist visit entails can eliminate a lot of the fear you may have. Even if you're still unsure after scheduling your appointment, writing down questions that you'd like your dentist to provide the answers to can help.

You must find a dentist that you're comfortable with. There are many dentists in Mississauga and Stoney Creek, but finding the right family dentist isn't difficult.

Daas Dentistry has been providing dental care since 2014. We offer a wide variety of services for your entire family. We can put you at ease while providing you with high-quality treatment. Book your appointment now for dental care that eliminates all fear.

Is Black Coffee Bad For Your Teeth? Here's What You Need to Know

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 16:47:22 GMT

As normal human beings, we tend to thrive with a set schedule. With the Covid-19 pandemic, all the schedules have been thrown to the wind.

It's probably been difficult for you to get in to see a dentist, or you're worried about potential consequences. We've all probably slacked off a little on our teeth health in the past year.

With many people working from home it's been easy to over-indulge in sweets and coffee. Did you know that drinking coffee might be bad for your teeth? So it's important to know how seemingly innocent drinks are potentially affecting your teeth health.

Keep reading to find out if coffee is bad for your teeth and what to do about it.

Is Coffee Bad for Teeth Health?

In short, yes. Although, it's certainly not the worst thing for them. The pH level of coffee is mildly acidic around a 5.

There are many other popular drinks and foods that can have a worse pH - and consequently worse acidity. Even typical healthy foods like lemons and oranges can be more damaging in terms of acidity.

But don't worry, there are ways to mitigate the effects of coffee on teeth health. First, let's learn the ways in which coffee can harm your teeth, and then we'll discuss what to do with your specific situation.

Coffee Can Stain and Discolor Teeth

Coffee, much like tea, wine, and some other plant-based foods, contains tannins. When placed in water these tannins break down. When they break down they cause colour which latches onto your teeth.

As a result, discoloration begins. This is different from the yellowing caused by enamel wearing away, and it's much easier to fix. Be sure to keep reading to learn what can cause your enamel to be damaged.

If you are worried about the colour of your teeth for any reason, it's a good idea to consult your dentist. They might be able to help you fix it.

Currently, Zoom Whitening is becoming popular as a quick way to gain a noticeably brighter smile. Check out our post about Zoom Whitening to learn more.

Coffee Can Cause Cavities

If you drink a lot of coffee you are at risk of significant tooth damage if you are not careful. Coffee is an acidic drink. And, just like other acidic drinks like lemonade and red wine, it can damage your tooth enamel.

Your enamel eroding can cause your teeth to become more thin and brittle over time. It's important to keep your teeth strong so you aren't prone to sensitivity and expensive cavities.

Coffee Can Make Your Teeth More Yellow

Similar to how coffee and other acidic drinks can cause cavities, the same process also causes a yellow appearance. This is because your enamel is being worn away by the acidity.

This causes a lower layer of your teeth, called the dentin, to become exposed. This can cause a more yellow appearance that is beyond the typical discoloration seen from drinking darker beverages.

Coffee Can Cause Teeth Sensitivity

Your tooth enamel is what protects your teeth from sensitivity problems as well as decay. When that enamel begins to wear away, you are more likely to experience tooth sensitivity.

This potentially painful when you are consuming things at different temperatures. It could also be the first step towards the aforementioned cavities.

It Isn't Just Coffee

There are many foods and drinks that we tend to consume that are just as bad for our teeth. Coffee happens to be one of the most talked about, but it's important to discuss others so you can be aware.

Many popular drinks are bad for your teeth health, not merely coffee. Red wine, dark teas, dark juices, and soft drinks are also large culprits for teeth staining.

Did you know that some food can also have the same effect? Berries, beetroot, tomato sauce, dark vinegar, and soy sauce are all staining fiends in the making. Keep reading to find out what you can do to prevent staining from these common foods and drinks.

But What About Black Coffee?

If you only drink black coffee, you are actually having less of an effect on your teeth health than other ways of drinking coffee. If you are drinking coffee with lots of sugar or cream, this is actually worse for your teeth.

If you're looking for a quick way to improve your dental situation, consider switching to black coffee. Flavoured creamers tend to have sugar in them which is more damaging for your teeth. Outright adding sugar to your coffee is also worse for your teeth health.

If you consume a great deal of coffee, it might be a good idea to cut back somewhat. Not only is drinking too much coffee bad for you in general, but it's also especially bad for your teeth.

Drinking too many caffeinated beverages can cause a number of side effects, from mild dizziness to an abnormal heart rate. Generally, it's accepted that drinking more than six cups of regular coffee a day puts you more at risk for things like cardiovascular disease.

What Can You Do to Prevent Teeth Damage?

Luckily, after all this bad news, there are several ways to mitigate the damage done by coffee and other similar drinks. Check out these 6 ways to prevent damage to your teeth from acidic drinks and food.

1. Teeth Cleaning

Of course, if you're concerned it is a good idea to head for one of your biannual teeth cleanings. This is one of the best ways to check up on the damage and make decisions about how to proceed.

There are always more reasons to schedule your dental cleaning, especially if you've been lagging during the pandemic. Check out these 7 Eye-Opening Reasons to Schedule a Dental Cleaning . You can talk to them about potential teeth whitening options at the same time.

2. Add Some Milk

Specific to improving your black coffee and perhaps black tea, adding milk will lighten the colour of the drink. The colour of drinks has been linked with discoloration, which is why dark juices and dark teas are more likely to cause issues. While this won't help you with the acidity necessarily, it will at least help with the staining.

3. Straws

One of the easiest ways to prevent teeth damage is to drink your coffee through a straw. Consider using a paper or reusable straw, though, as plastic straws are bad for the environment . Straws are useful for protecting your teeth because they tend to lessen how much coffee actually gets on your teeth.

It can especially prevent visible stains since the coffee will be more on the inside than outside. And, your front teeth won't be bearing the brunt of the coffee deluge.

4. Water

After drinking something acidic, it's a good idea to drink some water. By drinking water, you can wash away some of the acidity still sticking to your teeth. With less acid on your teeth, there won't be as much damage.

Of course, drinking water is important for your health in more ways than one. Coffee can have a mild diuretic effect, and while it's unlikely to dehydrate you it's always a good idea to drink more water.

5. Waiting to Brush

This may seem counter-intuitive. But if you have recently been drinking an acidic drink, it's a good idea to wait at least 15 minutes before brushing your teeth. This gives your teeth a chance to recover from the acidity.

The time will give your enamel a chance to re-harden. This goes for other acidic drinks as well!

6. Eating Fruits and Vegetables

Crunchy, less acidic fruits are excellent for scrubbing your teeth and producing more saliva. In a way, they are a natural stain remover for your teeth. Although, they won't help as much as actually brushing your teeth and they aren't as good at preventing enamel damage.

7. Use an Electric Toothbrush

There are many reasons why you should consider an upgrade to an electric toothbrush. They are significantly better at removing plaque and other residues from your teeth, for one. But they are also far more effective than a normal toothbrush at removing the acidity left behind from drinking coffee.

What Else Should I Know About Teeth Health?

Now you have an understanding of the effect coffee can have on teeth. And, you know what to do about it!

But, you shouldn't stop learning here. There is so much more to consider when it comes to your teeth.

Be sure to check out our blog for more information, such as how cavities form . You can take your teeth health to the next level just by reading some quick articles!

Here Are The Main Benefits of a Temporary Dental Bridge

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 17:15:02 GMT

69% of adults between ages 35 and 44 have lost at least one tooth. If you've lost a tooth due to an accident, decay, gum disease, or a failed root canal, a temporary dental bridge can help.

What is a temporary bridge and what can it do for your teeth?

Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about dental bridges. In this guide, we'll discuss the benefits, different options, and who makes an ideal candidate for this procedure.

Learn more about bridgework for your teeth with this guide!

What is a Dental Bridge?

Dental bridges literally bridge the gap if you're missing teeth.

A bridge is created from two or more crowns for the teeth located on either side of the gap. The two or more anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth. Then, a false tooth or teeth are located between the anchors.

The false teeth are called pontics. These teeth are made from gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these various materials. While metal alloys are the cheapest option to choose from, they look the least like natural teeth.

Instead, you can choose a porcelain or ceramic bridge. These bridges are made to look like natural teeth, allowing you to maintain a natural-looking smile.

You can also choose a ceramic or porcelain bridge fused to a metal base. This option can help you balance cost with appearance. This type of bridge can lose its aesthetic appearance over time.

Your natural teeth or other implants help support your dental bridges.

Some people receive dental bridges to treat hypodontia, or congenitally missing teeth. Others use bridges to complete their smile after experiencing an accident or tooth decay.

A temporary dental bridge is used to protect your teeth and gums while you wait for your new porcelain or metal bridge.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

One of the main benefits of a temporary dental bridge is its ability to restore your smile. After all, you probably don't want to take pictures with a noticeable gap between your teeth. A bridge will hide the gap, allowing you to smile without anyone noticing you've lost a tooth.

Dental bridges can also restore your ability to speak and chew properly.

Missing teeth can cause you to develop a lisp. Issues speaking could impact your self-confidence and self-esteem. By restoring your smile, you're also maintaining your ability to speak without any discernible issues.

A gap between your teeth can make chewing difficult or uncomfortable. The gap also makes it easier for food particles to get trapped between your teeth.

Letting food particles settle between gives bacteria the chance to build. As bacteria builds, it forms plaque, a sticky substance that clings to your teeth. Plaque hardens into tartar, which you can't remove without a professional dentist's help.

When left untreated, plaque and tartar can lead to gum disease, including gingivitis and periodontal disease.

Choosing to receive a temporary dental bridge now can help you avoid these problems in the future.

Your dental bridge will also distribute the forces in your bite by replacing missing teeth. When you leave the gap for too long, it can cause your teeth to shift. Allowing your teeth to drift out of position can lead to an awkward bite or speech problems.

It can also change the shape of your face.

Replacing a missing tooth or teeth with a bridge as soon as possible can help you maintain the best possible oral health.

Types of Bridges

There are four main types of dental bridges you can choose from.

The first is called a traditional bridge. These bridges require your dentist to create a crown for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth. Then, a pontic is placed in between.

Traditional bridges are the most common type of dental bridge. They're created either using porcelain fused to metal or ceramics.

These bridges are either made to remain fixed in your mouth or removable. A fixed bridge is more common. These bridges provide a stronger, more durable way to replace your teeth.

A cantilever bridge only needs one crown for support. This type of bridge requires a less intensive procedure. It's usually the ideal option for patients who don't want to risk damaging healthy teeth.

The single crown can sometimes act as a lever, however. This could increase your risk of tooth or jaw damage.

Maryland bridges are more conservative and less invasive than the options mentioned above.

With a Maryland bridge, the bridge is anchored by porcelain or metal frameworks. These frameworks are attached to the back of your teeth on either side of the gap.

These bridges are ideal if you want to preserve healthy teeth. However, they're sometimes less secure than the other options.

The fourth type of dental bridge is called an implant-supported bridge. These bridges use dental implants as anchors. The procedure is more invasive and expensive, but the bridges will remain secure.

The Process

Increasing incidences of oral disease are driving the growth of the dental bridges market . If you're considering a temporary dental bridge, it helps to know what to expect during the procedure.

During your first visit, the dentist will prepare your abutment teeth. Preparation involves recontouring the teeth by removing a portion of your enamel. Removing a small amount of enamel makes room to place the crown over your teeth.

Next, the dentist will make impressions of your teeth.

These impressions will serve as a model. A dental lab will use the impressions to make the bridge, pontic, and crowns.

Meanwhile, your dentist will make a temporary bridge to protect your exposed gums and teeth while the main bridge is getting made.

During your next visit, your dentist will remove your temporary bridge. Then, they'll check the new porcelain or metal bridge. If needed, they'll adjust the bridge to make sure it fits properly.

It can take several visits to check the fit of the metal framework. During these visits, your dentist will also make sure your bite is even. The fit depends on each patient's individual case.

If you requested a fixed bridge, your dentist may temporarily cement it in place for a few weeks. This process will allow them to ensure your bridge is fitting properly. After a few weeks, the bridge is then cemented into place.

Considerations

There are a few factors you should consider when discussing dental bridges with your dentist.

Cost

The cost of dental bridge procedures depends on the type of bridge you choose and the materials. The cost can also differ based on where you're having the procedure performed.

Dental insurance can usually pay for a percentage of the fee. However, this can depend on your individual dental plan. Make sure to speak with your insurance provider to determine your coverage.

How Long Do They Ask?

How long do dental bridges last? A temporary dental bridge can last between five and 15 years. Some can last longer depending on your oral hygiene habits.

Good oral hygiene and regular checkups can ensure your bridges last as long as possible.

Make sure to speak with your dentist to determine if there are any steps you can take to keep your bridges lasting.

Eating

Replacing your missing teeth with a dental bridge should make eating easier. In some cases, however, you might need time to adapt to having the bridge. Until you grow used to it, consider eating soft foods and cutting your food into smaller pieces.

Care

Make sure to keep your teeth healthy and strong. The success of your dental bridge often depends on the solid foundation your surrounding teeth provide.

First, make sure to brush twice a day and floss regularly. You can also use an antiseptic mouthwash daily to reduce your risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Both conditions can lead to tooth loss.

Your dentist or dental hygienist can show you how to properly brush and floss to maximize results.

Make sure to schedule regular professional cleanings as well. Your dentist can diagnose any problems during the early stages. Catching problems early on can make treatment easier and more effective.

A balanced diet and proper nutrition are also important for improving your oral health.

Here are a few foods to avoid in order to keep your teeth healthy and strong:

Dried fruit
Sticky candies
Chocolate (dark chocolate is a better alternative)
Chewable vitamins
Seltzers
Kombucha

Instead, try to eat foods that are good for your teeth. These include:

Almonds
Celery
Carrots
Leafy greens
Yogurt
Cheese
Apples

Eating fibrous vegetables, leafy greens, and dairy products can help you maintain a healthy smile. In the meantime, try to avoid sugary drinks, such as soda and red wine. Instead, make sure to drink plenty of water.

Bridge the Gap: The Main Benefits of a Temporary Dental Bridge & More

Don't let a gap in your teeth affect your smile or oral health. Instead, consider getting a temporary dental bridge before receiving a fixed bridge. Your dental bridge will restore your smile, speech, and more!

Ready to restore your smile? Schedule an appointment with our team today!

5 Reasons to Book a Invisalign Consultation With Your Dentist

Mon, 15 Feb 2021 17:56:17 GMT

In a survey conducted on January 2-4, 2019, at least 84% of each adult generation felt that bad teeth negatively impact both your personal and professional life. But bad teeth can mean anything from cavities to crooked teeth.

If your biggest problem is that your teeth aren't straight, thanks to modern advances in dental technology, there are now options available such as Invisalign. Some people are still in the dark when it comes to Invisalign.

And for many adults, getting traditional braces aren't an option for a variety of reasons. If you've been thinking of booking an Invisalign consultation , keep reading.

We're sharing with you five reasons to schedule that appointment.

What Invisalign Is

Invisalign is a clear orthodontic device that's made of plastic. It's a form of braces used to adjust teeth.

These aligners come in pairs numbering 18 to 30. All aligners are custom-made to fit tightly over the top and/or bottom teeth.

Treats a Range of Oral Issues

Invisalign is fully removable and easy to clean. Invisalign treats problems such as:

Open bites
Crossbites
Gaps
Uneven tooth lengths
Overbites
Underbites
Crowding

Invisalign also helps correct tooth rotation and tooth tipping.

What You'll Learn at an Invisalign Consultation

If you're wondering, "should I get Invisalign" a trip to your dentist can quickly help you make that decision. Take the opportunity to write down any questions you have on a piece of paper so you don't forget them.

During the exam, your dentist will perform an examination.

Examinations Your Dentist Performs

He or she looks at the following:

X-rays to determine root positioning and the health of your jawbone
Bite registration to see how your upper and lower teeth fit together
Dental impressions to get an imprint of your teeth
Full-face and photos from various angles are taken

Eight Invisalign photos are required for every case to ensure your fit is custom-made.

The Prescription is Made

Once it's determined you're a good candidate, your dentist fills out a prescription for Invisalign. Everything is sent to the lab where Invisalign technicians use that information to create an animation showing the sequence in which your teeth move to their final resting space.

Once the treatment model is approved by your dentist, your aligners are then produced.

Your Treatment Begins

Once your aligners are made and sent back to your dentist, you're ready to begin treatment. Your dentist will explain at your next appointment how long you should wear your Invisalign aligners every day.

He or she will also explain how to care for them. You'll receive instructions on when to switch to a new set.

1. Invisalign Looks and Feels Great

While getting braces as a kid is a right of passage, it's not as easy when you're an adult. Many adults like the braces results, just not the look of them while they're going through treatment.

And that can prevent some adults from living a life where they feel confident smiling. Thankfully, one of the biggest benefits Invisalign has is that it's virtually invisible.

That's because they're made from clear, think plastic. It's often difficult for most people to even notice you're wearing them.

Comfort

Traditional braces often involve brackets and/or wires. These can scrape against your tongue, gums, and cheeks and it's very uncomfortable.

Invisalign is customized to fit your teeth perfectly. While there is some initial soreness every time you change trays, but it typically lasts 24 hours or less.

After the first day, there shouldn't be any noticeable discomfort. Since you can remove them, if you play a sport or instrument, there's no need to worry about your Invisalign causing pain.

2. They're Convenient

While one major convenience is that they're clear, there are plenty more. You receive your replacements every one or two weeks but if you do misplace one or two, that's okay.

Invisalign offers up to six free replacement trays free of charge.

No Need to See a Specialist

You also won't have to shuttle back and forth to the dentist as much. Typically, patients only need to visit their dentist every four to six weeks. And since your dentist can provide you with Invisalign, you won't have to see a specialist such as an orthodontist in order to achieve perfect teeth.

Since they're removable, you don't have to worry about getting food stuck in your teeth as you eat. You also won't have to avoid eating or drinking anything like you would if you had traditional braces placed on your teeth.

Faster results

The more you wear Invisalign, the more quickly your teeth straighten. By wearing your aligners 20-22 hours every day, you can actually speed up your Invisalign treatment time.

That's not something most other methods can do.

Easy to Clean

Invisalign is easy to keep clean. Always rinse your aligners after removing them since saliva and plaque retain bacteria.

You should soak your aligners using Invisalign crystals or denture cleaner. Then clean your aligners using a clear anti-bacterial soft soap. Next, carefully brush your aligners.

Always brush and floss your teeth before you reinsert your aligners.

3. They Protect Your Teeth

Braces can cause your gums to recede. It's also hard to floss and brush your teeth wearing traditional metal braces.

With Invisalign, the trays are removable. You can easily floss and brush your teeth carefully. This will help you prevent any tooth decay or additional oral health issues from arising when wearing them.

Acts as a Barrier

In fact, Invisalign can help protect your teeth from the following issues:

Tooth discoloration
Difficult eating
Plaque buildup
Tooth decay
Injuries caused by brace wires
Mouth sores

If you grind your teeth, wearing your Invisalign helps protect your teeth from wear and tear. And if you're active, wearing Invisalign serves as a protective mouthguard.

4. They Can Help Protect and Improve Your Overall Health

Crooked teeth aren't just unsightly, they can lead to poor health both physically and mentally. Crooked teeth are harder to keep clean which can lead to a build-up in plaque, tartar, and bacteria.

If not treated properly, that can lead to gum disease and cavities. And that's when your oral health begins affecting your mental and physical health.

The Link Between Oral & Mental Health

Data shows a direct link between oral and mental health.

In fact, the data shows that almost two-thirds of those living with depression experienced a toothache within the last year. And half of those with depression rated the condition of their teeth as poor or fair.

Mood Conditions & Gum Disease

There are also links between gum disease and mood conditions such as:

Distress
Stress
Anxiety

Even loneliness was linked with gum disease.

The Link Between Oral and Physical Health

Unhealthy gums and teeth can also severely impact our physical health.

Bacteria from the inflammation of gums and periodontal disease can enter your body through your bloodstream.

Health Issues Linked to Poor Oral Health

Once that bacteria is in your bloodstream, it can travel to different parts of your body and cause the following health issues:

Cardiovascular disease
Dementia
Respiratory infections
Diabetic complications

Continue brushing and flossing regularly while going through Invisalign treatments to keep up your oral health.

Smiling Helps Improve Health

Invisalign helps you improve your smile. And studies show that smiling helps reduce the following health conditions:

Lowers blood pressure
Lowers heart rate
Reduces stress

Another study suggests that smiling can lead to a longer life.

5. Invisalign is Cost-Effective

Invisalign isn't cheap, for most people, it's the only treatment they'll need to enjoy a lifetime of beautiful, healthy teeth . How much Invisalign costs depends on the patient and how complex the situation is.

Most dental offices offer flexible payment plans for Invisalign patients.

Also, Invisalign is usually covered by most dental insurance companies. Talk to your dental insurance company to make sure they will cover your treatments before you begin.

Flexible Savings Accounts

An FSA (flexible savings account) often lets you pay for dental costs such as Invisalign. This is managed by your employer and you can pay money into your account throughout the year.

You can set aside up to $2,600 annually to help you pay tax-free for your Invisalign.

Health Savings Accounts

An HSA (health savings account) is a special account designed to help people with high-deductible insurance plans. Like FSA's you put money into your savings account tax-free.

You can then use that money to cover medical, dental, and orthodontic costs, including Invisalign. You can set aside $3,400 annually for individuals or $6,750 for families.

However, to open an HSA, you must meet IRS eligibility requirements.

Schedule Your Consultation

It's important to work with a dentist or orthodontist you feel comfortable with. When you book your Invisalign consultation, make sure that your dentist answers all your questions and sets you at ease.

We're committed to improving the lives of our patients one smile at a time. We recommend Invisalign to our patients because of the life-changing results we see.

It's time to let the world see your beautiful smile. Click here to schedule your appointment today .

7 Eye-Opening Reasons to Schedule a Dental Cleaning

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 16:37:51 GMT

Your teeth are such a vital part of your body. They help you eat and speak, and they even give your face the shape it has. They are also the first thing people notice when you smile.

So knowing this, why is it that you can't even remember the last time you visited a dentist for a cleaning?

A lot of people skip dental visits for a number of different reasons, but one reason is that many people don't realize just how important these visits are.

If you're starting to think that you should schedule an appointment for a dental cleaning, check out the following seven eye-opening reasons that explain the importance of regular visits and cleanings.

Hopefully, after reading this, you'll agree that scheduling a visit for a cleaning is a great idea.

1. A Dental Cleaning Makes Your Teeth Look Nicer

A typical dental cleaning only takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes but the results can be remarkable. A hygienist is trained to know how to clean your teeth, and the main things a hygienist works on is removing tartar and plaque from teeth.

Plaque is an enemy of your teeth, and it turns into tartar when left undisturbed on your teeth. Plaque not only causes problems with teeth, but it also tends to discolor teeth.

The plaque you have on your teeth is there from the food you eat. When you eat, small particles of food remains in your mouth and on your teeth. As food particles remain there, they turn into plaque. Plaque is sticky, smelly, and harmful.

As a result, removing the plaque from your teeth will naturally cause your teeth to look nicer. Your teeth will also feel nicer. When you rub your tongue against them, they'll feel smooth and cleaner than they did.

If your teeth currently look dull, yellowish, or discolored in any way, a routine cleaning could result in a noticeable difference with the looks of your teeth.

2. Cleanings Reduce the Risks of Cavities

As mentioned, plaque is a harmful substance that is an enemy of your teeth. Plaque left on your teeth is the leading cause of cavities. A cavity is decay, and decay eats tooth structure.

When you have a cavity on a tooth, it will spread if left untreated. If left for too long, it can literally consume an entire tooth.

If you want to prevent cavities, you'll have to find a way to eliminate the plaque you have on your teeth. You can do this by properly brushing your teeth a couple of times each day, but even this is not always enough.

Plaque can hide in your mouth. It can hide in between your teeth or on your tongue. It can find its way into areas of your mouth that you have trouble accessing.

The good news is that a dental hygienist can remove all the plaque you have on your teeth, and a hygienist is even able to remove some of the tartar that is present. If you remove the plaque, you won't be able to get cavities.

3. You'll Have Fresher Breath

You might not realize that plaque also affects your breath. Plaque is like a film on your teeth, and you actually can feel it if you rub your tongue on your teeth. This film is loaded with bacteria.

The problem with this is that bacteria smells bad. If you can remember your last dental visit, you might remember the odors you detected as the hygienist scraped your teeth. The odor you likely smelled was that of plaque.

You may not even notice that your breath is bad, though. It's very hard to smell your own breath. It's just something you get used to smelling because your nose becomes accustomed to it.

Just because you can't smell it doesn't mean it's not there. If your teeth have plaque on them, you can almost certainly guarantee that your breath is not as fresh as you'd like it to be.

One of the benefits of teeth cleanings, therefore, is having fresher breath.

4. Your Dentist Can Spot Early Signs Of Problems

A dental cleaning offers multiple different steps, and one of the final steps it may involve is a dental examination. This occurs when the hygienist finishes cleaning your teeth. He or she will then call the dentist in to take a peek at your mouth.

The examination a dentist completes is designed for several purposes, but the main one is to locate problems or potential risks. As the dentist looks in your mouth, he or she will also take a look at the x-rays the hygienist took of your teeth.

Through a physical examination of your teeth and by viewing the x-rays, your dentist will find any issue that is present - even small issues.

The eye-opening benefit of this is that treating a small problem with a tooth is so much easier, faster, and cheaper than treating a big problem with a tooth. Almost any small problem you have with a tooth will - at some point - turn into a bigger problem.

You should also realize that dental x-rays show dentists a lot more than they can see with their eyes. They allow dentists a way to see your jawbone, wisdom teeth, tooth roots, and more.

5. Your Risks For Gum Disease Will Greatly Decrease

You'll also notice that a routine dental visit and cleaning includes a test designed to measure your gums. This test involves the use of a small dental tool that measures the pockets in your gum lines in terms of millimeters.

The test doesn't hurt but it can take a few minutes as they must measure the gum lines of each tooth in several different areas.

This test helps a dentist monitor gum recession in your mouth and is the first indication of gum disease.

Gum disease is basically a condition that involves an infection in your gums and leads to receding gum lines. You can have receding gum lines without having gum disease, but you cannot have gum disease without having receding gum lines.

Detection of gum disease at an early stage makes the condition less harmful to your mouth and much easier to treat. If you visit a dentist every six months for a routine cleaning, your dentist will have an easier time monitoring your gum lines.

If your gums are just now beginning to recede, your dentist can talk to you about this. He or she can fill you in on ways to stop them from receding more, and on ways to treat the problems they currently have.

Following these recommendations will help decrease your risks of developing gum disease.

6. Your Teeth Will Last Longer

Did you know that 20 percent of people over the age of 65 no longer have any of their natural teeth left? Living without your natural teeth either leaves you living with an empty mouth or living with dentures or some other form of tooth replacement.

If you do not care for your teeth throughout your entire life, you could become one of these statistics.

Caring for your teeth will greatly reduce the risks of losing teeth in the future, and a great way to care for your teeth is prioritizing routine dental visits.

7. You Can Reduce The Risks Of Heart Problems

One last thing to tell you about is the correlation between gum disease and heart problems.

A person living with gum disease has a 20 percent greater risk of developing heart disease. This means that if you can prevent gum disease in your mouth, you can reduce the risks of developing heart disease.

While experts do not know everything about this correlation, there are several things they do know.

One, gum disease causes inflammation in the mouth and is a result of bacteria. Two, the bacteria from a person's mouth can spread through the person's bloodstream and straight to the heart. Three, this can lead to an infection in the heart.

There is also evidence of correlations between gum disease and numerous other health issues including osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Schedule A Visit To Reap The Benefits

Failing to care for your teeth will result in more oral issues and a much higher risk of losing teeth. Are you willing to take these risks, or would you prefer to have a healthier mouth?

If you decide you'd rather reap the benefits listed here, schedule a visit today for a dental cleaning. Your teeth will thank you for this, and you'll likely be more inclined to smile more to show off your great-looking smile.

You can schedule an appointment by calling us or by filling out this form on our website.

Traditional or Digital X-Ray: Which Is Best for Dental Use?

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 17:00:02 GMT

Good oral health may literally save your life. That's right: researchers are now discussing a link between tooth loss and risk of heart disease . Considering that heart disease is the leading cause of death in Canada, focusing on your oral hygiene could possibly save your life.

The first step in your oral health journey is to get a digital x-ray done at your dentist's office. Oral images help dentists diagnose issues that could lead to tooth decay or, worse, tooth loss later in your life.

Yet, before you head in for your appointment, you need to be educated on the different types of dental x-rays offered. Specifically, digital or traditional radiography.

Don't know the difference between the two? You're not alone, which is why we're bringing you this guide. Keep reading to learn how traditional and digital imaging procedures differ plus find out why we always recommend choosing digital.

Who Needs Dental X-Rays?

Dentists order oral x-rays when they want to check out the health of your mouth, gums, and teeth. X-rays are pictures of the inside of your mouth, which your dentist can use to diagnose problems. For example:

Cavities
Tooth decay
Impacted teeth

If your dentist recommended dental x-rays, don't feel too anxious. They're commonplace, as essential as your routine teeth cleanings. In fact, children, aging individuals, and people with a history of poor oral health (i.e., gum disease ) may need once-yearly dental x-rays.

Also, keep in mind that any time you switch caregivers, your new dentist will want to start off with a fresh set of x-rays. This is especially true if you've never had dental images taken before.

Two Different X-Ray Techniques: Traditional vs. Digital X-Ray

Traditional x-rays used to be the only type of radiography dentists offered. Enter digital x-ray technology AKA digital radiography. Today, digital x-rays are more popular than ever and, considering their many benefits, it's no wonder.

Let's explore both of these x-ray techniques and why we always recommend going digital.

Traditional X-Rays

After being discovered in 1895, practitioners started using traditional x-rays in practice as early as the 1900s. Dentists and doctors used these x-rays to visualize the structure of the body.

Traditional x-rays use radiation to interact with the teeth, gums, and bones in and around the mouth. This interaction produces x-ray images on film, which a dentist would develop and use to diagnose any oral health issues.

Types of Traditional Oral X-Rays

There are two broad types of traditional x-ray images: intraoral and extraoral x-rays. Intraoral x-rays are the most common since they photograph the inside of your mouth. Your dentist orders extraoral x-rays when he or she thinks the issue is with the jaw instead of the teeth or gums.

There are many different types of traditional intraoral x-rays, depending on the part of your mouth the dentist wants to see.

Bitewing x-rays look at how well your back teeth match up on each side and check for cavities between the teeth. Occlusal x-rays check for underbites or overbites. Panoramic x-rays help the dentist visualize your entire mouth and have multiple uses, including identifying wisdom teeth that need to be removed.

Yet, traditional imaging isn't the only technique out there. In fact, it's not even the technique dentists prefer to use these days. Traditional x-rays have a long history of scrutiny for the high levels of radiation to which they expose patients.

That's why digital x-rays were such an exciting innovation.

Digital X-Rays

Nearly 90 years after the discovery of traditional x-rays, scientists introduce a new type of x-ray: the digital x-ray. This new technology was introduced to dentists in 1987 .

Digital radiography combines the power of computer technology with electronic sensors and very small bursts of radiation. Instead of printing out on film, the image forms almost as soon as the sensor is placed in the mouth and projects to a computer screen.

While digital x-ray technology requires additional training for dentists, most practitioners believe the advantages of digital x-ray far outweigh its downsides. Here's why.

The Advantages and Risks of Traditional X-Ray

One of the only benefits of traditional x-ray over digital x-ray is that the former has been used in practice for over 100 years. However, it's this very fact that helped scientists realize that traditional x-rays can be deleterious to human health.

Without the years of traditional x-ray use, researchers may have never understood the link between radiation and cell damage.

The Risks of Traditional Radiography

Have you ever had a traditional x-ray taken? If so, it can be difficult to forget that giant lead apron or sheet placed over your body during the procedure. That lead covering helped protect your internal organs from unnecessary radiation.

Why? Because radiation exposure can cause changes to your body's cells or, worse, can damage your DNA.

Fortunately, the level of radiation experienced during traditional dental imaging isn't enough to cause problems on its own. Still, multiple traditional imaging procedures over time can add up, leading to some of the negative health effects of radiation exposure.

That's why we recommend always choosing digital x-rays whenever possible.

Why Digital X-Rays are Better

Many dental offices today only offer digital x-ray for patients. Not only does this reduce liability for the dentist, but it also improves the patient experience. More specifically, digital dental x-rays are cheaper, quicker, clearer, and safer than normal radiography.

That's not all: digital x-rays allow easier storage of your oral health records. Unlike traditional x-ray images, digital ones are kept in a computer system, which has virtually unlimited storage space. That makes it easier to transfer from one dentist to the next without losing any of your medical data.

Here are five reasons why digital x-rays are better than traditional radiography.

1. Digital Imaging is Less Expensive

That's right: digital x-rays will typically cost you less than their traditional counterpart. That's because the cost of film to develop traditional x-ray images really adds up. Think about how much it costs to buy film for your Polaroid camera, and you can see why digital radiography is the better choice.

After all, a digital x-ray image projects onto the dentist's computer. This is also why digital imaging offers much quicker results.

2. Digital X-rays Offer Faster Results

Traditional x-rays are printed on film, which means these images have to be developed. The developing process takes time, meaning you and your dentist have to wait for results. Worse, you may have to schedule another appointment before the dentist can diagnose your oral health issue.

With digital radiography, there is no wait. Almost as soon as the dentist places the sensor in your mouth, the image projects onto his or her computer screen. It really is that easy!

3. Digital Radiography Produces Better Images

Think again about those pictures you get from your Polaroid. In today's all-digital world, you're sure to notice the difference in resolution between the photo you take with your smartphone and the pictures that come out of a film camera.

Yet, it's not just the resolution that's better in digital imaging. Traditional x-rays can only project images in 25 different shades. Meanwhile, a digital image can pick up variations of up to 256 shades of grey.

Digital radiography can also access more angles inside the mouth, offering one streamlined view of the entire oral structure. What's more, a dentist can enhance digital images even further using computer programs for an even clearer view.

4. The Digital X-Ray Procedure is More Comfortable

If you get anxious about the dentist, it's likely because you feel uncomfortable with all the unfamiliar sights and smells. You'll be happy to hear, then, that digital imaging procedures offer a much more comfortable experience than traditional ones.

That's because you don't have to wear all the lead protective coverings as you do during a normal x-ray. Also, because digital radiography utilizes a sensor only, you won't have to undergo the lengthy process of scanning or biting down for long periods of time.

5. Digital Radiography Exposes You to Safer Levels of Radiation

The most important benefit of digital x-rays over traditional ones is safety. Digital imaging may reduce radiation exposure for both the patient and the dentist by up to 90% . This prevents health complications of too much radiation, including:

Radiation sickness
Skin burns
An increased risk of cancer

Even if your dentist does use digital imaging techniques instead of normal x-ray, though, he or she should use precautionary measures to ensure your safety.

Where to Get Digital X-Rays in Mississauga & Stoney Creek

So, what's the final word on getting a digital x-ray at your upcoming dental appointment? As long as you choose a dentist you can trust, you'll always be in safe hands during a digital imaging procedure.

Are you searching for a dentist in Mississauga or Stoney Creek where you can get your digital x-rays done? Daas Dentistry is here for you. Schedule an appointment at our offices today and discover the Daas difference!

Dental Implants: Problems They Can Solve, and When You Should Get Them

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 14:18:03 GMT

There are about two to three million implant-supported crowns placed each year in the US. Despite such high rates of placement, many people have questions about dental implants.

Have you been considering dental implants? If so, your biggest question likely has to do with dental implant problems. What could go wrong?

Continue reading to learn everything you need to know about dental implants.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are small titanium rods that serve as replacement roots for teeth. They can be used to replace individual teeth using crowns. Or, they can be used to help anchor removable dentures in place without the need for an adhesive.

Implants can provide a strong foundation for false teeth. They also help preserve bone density and health in the jaw.

Dental implants have an incredibly high success rate of up to 98 percent. If taken care of properly, implants can last a lifetime without ever needing to be replaced.

Who Should Get Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a good solution for people who have missing teeth. They can also be used in place of dentures or bridges for people who need to have teeth removed.

Most people healthy enough to undergo dental extraction surgeries are candidates for implants. Some people may not be, however.

Just a few reasons you may not be a good candidate for dental implants include:

Heavy smoking
Extensive use of alcohol or recreational drugs
Uncontrolled chronic conditions (like diabetes)
Previous radiation to the head, neck, or surrounding areas
HIV/AIDS
Severe psychiatric conditions
An acute illness
Any diseases or infections in the gums or bones, including osteoarthritis

For some of the reasons listed above, fixing the issue can make you a candidate for dental implants. In the case of an acute illness, for example, you might be a candidate once well again. In the case of heavy smoking, reducing the amount smoked or quitting can make you a candidate.

What Is the Dental Implant Process?

The dental implant process is straightforward. But, patients should be aware they won't see instant results.

From start to finish, the dental implant process can take several months. How long it takes will depend on several factors. We'll look at the process in-depth below.

Creating a Plan

Before anything else, a team of dental professionals will create an individualized plan. This plan will vary based on your unique needs, health, and desired outcome.

In some cases, an individualized dental plan is simple. It will simply be a plan to replace a single tooth (or two) with crowns.

In other cases, this dental plan is more complex. In cases of extreme dental problems, such as mouth-wide decay, the plan will be more complex. Your plan could include extractions, implants, dentures, and others.

Tooth Removal (Sometimes)

If a tooth is already missing, this step isn't necessary. If the implant is replacing a tooth that is cracked, broken, or decayed beyond repair, it will need to be removed.

Some people can get their root implant done on the same day as their tooth extraction. In some cases, the implant can't be inserted until the swelling has decreased. Full healing can take between a few days and a few weeks.

Root Implant & Gum Healing

Next, the small titanium root implant will be inserted into the socket of the missing tooth. The implant will need to go into the jaw bone, so it's securely fitted.

As the jaw bone heals, it will grow around the new implant. By fusing the bone, implants create a permanent root for your missing tooth.

Before moving to the next step of the process, your jaw bone will have to be completely healed. This is because the post won't be able to heal properly if it has to support too much weight. The healing process generally takes between six and twelve weeks.

Abutment

When your jaw bone has fully healed, you'll go back to the dentist to have an abutment placed over the implant. This will be the part that attaches to your crown or dentures.

Attaching the Crown or Dentures

If you're replacing a single tooth (or a few teeth), you'll have a crown fitted over the abutment. The crown should look and feel like your regular teeth. The dentist will try to match the color and shape of your missing natural tooth as much as possible.

If you're getting dentures, the dentures should have been created at this point. These dentures will be made to look like real teeth and feel as natural as possible.

The dentist will attach the dentures over the new implants by snapping them into place. They will check the fit is comfortable and can make minor adjustments in the office if necessary.

What Are the Advantages of Dental Implants?

There are many advantages to dental implants when compared to alternatives. For some, the alternatives might be living without teeth or traditional dentures. For others, it could include living with broken teeth or partial bridges.

Some of the most common advantages of having dental implants include:

Improved appearance
Increased confidence (and an ability to smile again)
Easier to eat
Better durability than alternative methods
Improved speech versus dentures

The biggest benefit of dental implants is that the titanium posts fuse of the jaw bone. This creates a permanent structure and gets rid of the need for messy denture adhesives.

Dental implants can also improve oral health. If your teeth were damaged or decaying, replacing them will create an immediate difference.

Dental implants will also decrease sensitivity in nearby teeth. This decreases toothaches and pains.

Dental implants are the most convenient option for missing or damaged teeth. The implants themselves never have to be removed.

If used with a crown, the implants won't have to be removed at all. If used with dentures, implants increase the holding power of your false teeth. The implants will allow dentures to sit securely at all times, so you don't have to fear them slipping.

What Potential Dental Implant Problems Are There?

The dental implant process requires surgery. With all surgical procedures, there are some risks associated. A few common dental implant problems include:

Reaction to the anesthesia
Nerve damage in the face or gums that alters sensations (temporarily or permanently)
The incision reopening, which increases healing time and infection risks
Movement of the implant to where it isn't supposed to be
Exposure of the implant above the gums
Infection, which can be mild or severe
Increased deterioration of the jaw in people with diseases leading to bone loss

Most people who undergo dental implant surgery have no complications. A few signs you may be experiencing dental implant problems include:

Itching or hives (allergic reaction)
Difficulty breathing or severe swelling (severe allergic reaction)
The implant is excessively mobile or wiggling too much
It hurts if the dental implant is tapped (after localized swelling has gone away)
Rapid, progressive bone loss
Pus or other excretions at the incision site
Excessive bleeding

If you experience any of these issues, let your dentist know immediately. To reduce the risk of dental implant problems, be honest about your medical history. Be sure to mention any allergies you might have, even if you don't think they'd be related.

If you're honest with your dentist and generally healthy, you should experience no severe complications.

Normal Post-Surgery Healing

Some discomfort is normal after any surgery. With dental implant surgery , you may have minor to moderate swelling at the incision site. Minor swelling or redness in the face near the insertion site is also normal.

Swelling can cause pain, which might last a few days. Swelling and pain can be treated with over-the-counter medications like Motrin or Tylenol. After the pain is reduced, it's common to be a little sore for a week or more after.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Implants?

No, dental implants aren't generally covered by insurance. You'll likely have to pay out-of-pocket for these costs.

If you're getting teeth extracted, this is usually covered by dental insurance. Part or all the costs of dentures are also usually covered. This means if you're getting implants to support dentures, some costs might be covered.

Do You Think Dental Implants Are the Right Choice for You?

Dental implants provide a lot of benefits and comparatively few downsides. They can help replace one or more teeth. This replacement is the closest to a natural look and feel when compared to alternative methods.

After learning about dental implant problems and advantages, do you think they're the right choice for you? Or, do you still have questions about dental implants?

Contact us today . One of our associates would be happy to schedule you an appointment or answer any questions you may have.

Here Are the Major Causes of Tooth Enamel Loss (And How to Stop It!)

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 17:00:04 GMT

More than nine in 10 Canadians have had dental decay at some point in their lives. This makes tooth decay the most common oral condition in Canada, and, in fact, throughout the world.

The good news is, tooth decay is preventable. This is much thanks to the enamel, the extremely hard material that covers and protects the teeth.

This doesn't mean that the enamel is impervious to damage, though. Tooth enamel loss can still occur, and it can happen way faster if you make the wrong food and drink choices.

Ready to learn more about enamel and the many things that can weaken it? Then let's get right into it!

What Is the Enamel?

The enamel is the hard, outermost layer of the teeth. Think of it as a shield protecting the inner, more sensitive parts of your teeth. In fact, it's this material that protects your teeth from the bad bacteria that live in the mouth.

97% of the enamel is hydroxyapatite, the mineralized form of calcium phosphate. This makes the enamel the hardest material in the body -- even harder than bone and steel. However, the enamel is also a lot more brittle than both.

As such, no matter how hard the enamel is, it can corrode, erode, and wear away over time. Enamel loss is one of the main causes of tooth sensitivity and eventually, dental decay. When this occurs, your gums will become more susceptible to gum disease.

Contrary to popular belief though, aging isn't the sole culprit behind the loss of enamel. Yes, you'll lose some of this protective covering as a natural part of the aging process. However, there are many other things that can speed up the deterioration of the enamel.

Here’s a quick look at 10 of them.

1. Poor Dental Hygiene

The oral cavity is home to about 700 bacterial species . Most of these microorganisms are benign or harmless, while others aid in digestion. Some even help protect the gums and teeth from diseases.

Many others, however, are the primary reason for tooth decay and gum disease. These are the bacteria that feed on the carbohydrates left by the food and drinks you consume. As they eat away and digest these carbs, these bacteria produce acids on the teeth.

These acids turn into plaque once they get mixed with your saliva and the other bacteria in your mouth. Plaque is the soft, sticky, and clear film that forms on the surfaces of and between teeth. It can also cover the areas above and below your gum line.

Plaque contains millions of bacteria that attack the teeth enamel. Repeated attacks will ultimately wear away and weaken the enamel.

The thing is, detectable plaque can form on undisturbed teeth in as little as 12 hours.

This is why you need to brush and floss at least twice a day. Otherwise, you'll give the bad bacteria in your mouth enough time to eat away at the tooth enamel.

2. Using the Wrong Kind of Mouth Wash

Chlorhexidine gluconate is a disinfectant and antiseptic used in germicidal mouthwashes. As effective as it is in fighting bacteria though, it has also shown to increase tartar formation . Tartar is the hardened form of dental plaque, so you definitely don't want it on your teeth.

You can still gargle with a germicidal mouthwash, but limit it to short-term use. For regular gargling, stick to plaque-inhibiting or preventive mouthwashes. You should also refrain from rinsing, drinking, or eating 30 minutes after you gargle.

3. Swigging Soda

100 grams of sucrose or table sugar contains 42.11 grams of carbon . A 325 ml can or bottle of regular Coca-Cola has 39 grams of sugar . So, aside from all that sugar, that regular Coke also contains 16.4 grams of carbon.

Every time you drink soda, these two components interact with the bacteria in your mouth. They'll form even more acids that attack the teeth. Over time, these assaults will take their toll on your enamel and cause it to break down.

4. Too Much Citric Acid

As healthy as they are, orange and apple juices contain high levels of citric acid that can wear down the enamel. In fact, the citric acid in these juices can be five times more corrosive than the citric acid in some types of soda. Moreover, these acids can trigger the development of white marks on your teeth.

You don't have to completely ban them from your diet, but if you do eat or drink them, be sure to rinse with plain water after. This will help wash away some of the acids they leave behind.

5. Regular Consumption of Carbonated Water

Drinking carbonated water all the time can also result in tooth enamel loss. In fact, carbonated water is acidic enough to weaken etched and sealed enamel!

6. Snacking on Sugar

If you're like 40% of Canadians, then you eat candy at least three times a week. If you like these sweets a lot, then you may even be part of the 28% who eat them every day.

Unfortunately, two-thirds of the carbohydrates in hard candy is pure sugar. Chewy caramels also contain almost 7 grams of sugar apiece.

Anything sugary is a threat to your teeth and gums because bacteria also love to feast on them. Combine this with poor dental hygiene, and it won't take long before your enamel wears away.

7. Feasting on Starches

White bread, crackers, pasta, rice, and cakes contain "rapidly digestible starches" (RDS). These processed starches are simple carbohydrates that break down quickly into sugars.

8. Guzzling Alcohol

Saliva helps prevent enamel loss and tooth loss by neutralizing bacterial acids. They also help stop plaque-causing bacteria from growing and multiplying.

Unfortunately, the alcohol and acid content of alcoholic drinks reduces saliva. Without enough saliva, your mouth will become a haven for harmful microorganisms. The longer this mouth dryness goes on, the more your teeth will be at risk of enamel loss and decay.

This is why people with an alcohol use disorder usually have higher plaque levels. These people are also three times more likely to suffer from permanent tooth loss.

9. Bruxism

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, affects 10% of the adult population . It occurs more often during sleep, although some people also have awake bruxism.

Either way, all that grinding, clenching, and gnashing of the teeth can wear away the enamel. In fact, severe bruxism can even cause outright damage, such as cracks or breaks, on the teeth.

10. Acid Reflux Disease

One in six Canadians suffers from gastroesophageal reflux (acid reflux or GERD). If you have this condition, your stomach acids reach your mouth throughout the day.

As with the rest of the acids in this list, gastric acid can also wear away the teeth enamel.

Putting a Stop To Tooth Enamel Loss

Keep in mind that once you lose enamel, you can't bring it back. However, you can still restore and strengthen weakened enamel. Still, it's much better (and easier) to keep your existing enamel.

Here are some tips on how you can stop enamel loss.

Brush for No Less Than 2 Minutes

Make sure that you spend at least two minutes on brushing your teeth. This gets rid of 26% more plaque compared to brushing for 45 seconds (which most people do).

Upgrade to a Tapered-Tip Toothbrush

This type of toothbrush has soft bristles with tips that are narrower than a regular brush. Their tapered tips give them the ability to go under the gums without hurting the soft tissues. As a result, they get to remove plaque that may be hiding under your gum line!

In fact, one study confirmed that tapered-tip toothbrushes removed 71% of plaque . The researchers say that this is much higher than the plaque removed by a normal toothbrush.

Up Your Fluoride Intake

In 2017, 13.9 million Canadians were drinking fluoridated community water. Thanks to the fluoride in this water, tooth decay rates in both kids and adults went down by 30%.

Drinking fluoridated water is one of the best ways on how to strengthen teeth enamel. This helps keep your teeth hard while also combatting bad oral bacteria.

Moreover, fluoride also restores enamel in small amounts. It does so by re-mineralizing the surfaces of the teeth. It won't bring back all the lost enamel, but it can help restore part of the teeth surfaces.

Say Hi To Your Dentist After Every Six Months

Visit your dentist for tooth cleaning and gum treatments to prevent enamel loss. Seeing your dentist at least twice a year can help you ensure you don't have hidden tartar buildup. Routine check-ups also help your dentist track any potential enamel loss or damage.

Don’t Lose Any More of Your Dental Enamel

There you have it, your ultimate guide on the common culprits behind tooth enamel loss. Now that you know what they are, it'll be easier to keep them away from your teeth. This way, you can reduce your chances of losing your teeth's protective coating.

Ready to see a dentist who can help your entire family achieve optimal oral health? Then please don't hesitate to connect with us now! Our dental team here at Daas Family will be more than happy to take your call and set your dental appointment!

How Do Cavities Form? - The Hidden Causes Of Cavities You Need To Know

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 23:23:58 GMT

Oral diseases are the most common noncommunicable diseases. They can affect anyone at any age, causing discomfort, pain, disfigurement, or even death.

How do cavities form? Namely, sugar causes bacteria to build up against your teeth and gums, allowing cavities to form. However, sugar is only one culprit that can affect your teeth.

Asking yourself, "Why do I keep getting cavities?" Keep reading to discover the nine hidden causes of cavities. With this guide, you can lower your risk of developing cavities.

Keep your smile bright and healthy! Avoid these nine causes of cavities and brush up on proper oral hygiene with these tips.

1. Medicines

We take medicines to maintain our health. Unfortunately, certain medications can also jeopardize your oral hygiene. You might not realize how much sugar is in the medicines you're taking.

Here are two types of medicines you might want to evaluate if you're asking, "How do cavities form?"

Chewable Vitamins

Chewable vitamins can cause you to develop cavities. While vitamins contain nutrients meant to keep you healthy, their form is the issue. Chewable vitamins and sticky and sugary, which are as harmful to your teeth as actual candies.

Chewable vitamins can stick to your teeth. The longer they cling to the surface of your teeth and your gums, the more likely that sugar will cause bacteria to spread. Remember, bacteria cause cavities.

Instead of taking chewable vitamins, take your vitamins in pill form.

If you have kids, they might protest against taking pills. Try to look for a sugar-free vitamin solution for your children instead.

Cough Medicine

Are you sneezing, coughing, or feeling congested each day? Most people reach for cough syrup or throat lozenges. Unfortunately, both cause you to experience cavity symptoms.

Cough drops and cough syrup are both bad for your teeth.

These medicinal options contain a lot of sugar or high fructose corn syrups. Both ingredients can impact your oral health.

If you do take these forms of medicine, make sure to brush your teeth immediately afterward. Taking your medicine right before bed can cause the sugar to linger against your teeth and gums, slowly causing erosion.

Make sure to brush your teeth after using cough syrup. Try to look for sugar-free throat lozenges and cough syrups the next time you have a cold.

2. Your Diet

You are what you eat! The foods you eat each day could cause you to notice symptoms of a cavity, including:

Toothache
Spontaneous pain
Tooth sensitivity
Mild to sharp pain when you eat or drink something hot or cold
Visible holes or pits in your teeth
White, black, or brown staining against the surface of a tooth
Pai n when you bite down

Tooth decay is actually four times more common in minors than asthma.

To keep your family's teeth healthy and cavity-free, try avoiding these foods that can contribute to cavity formation.

If you notice unwanted white marks on your teeth, try these tips.

Hard Seltzer

Keep an eye out for any drinks that contain high levels of sugar, such as hard seltzer.

Carbonated drinks decrease the pH levels in your mouth. A lower pH level will create an acidic oral environment in your mouth. The acid causes your enamel to become more vulnerable to bacteria.

Alcoholic drinks can also dry out your mouth, which stops saliva production. Salivary flow can help keep a healthy stream of nutrients to your oral tissues.

Make sure to stay hydrated as you drink these beverages. The water can increase saliva production and rinse your mouth.

Wine

When you drink red wine, you might notice your teeth become stained purple. Red wine, along with coffee and tea, contains tannins, acids, and chromogens. These three components cause your teeth to stain.

White wine has even more acid, which can cause more staining than red wine.

The high acid level can break down minerals in your teeth, like calcium, that otherwise keep your enamel from eroding.

While white wine won't stain your teeth, the tannins and acids can make your tooth enamel more porous. As a result, your teeth will become more susceptible to absorbing color from other foods and drinks.

Make sure to brush your teeth after drinking a glass of wine. You can also curb some of the damage by eating cheese along with the wine. The calcium in cheese helps strengthen your tooth enamel against the wine's acidity.

Cheese also helps your mouth produce more saliva, which can protect you from decay-causing bacteria.

Here are eight more habits that can end up staining your teeth.

Pumpkin Spice Lattes

Mulled wine, hot cider, and pumpkin spice lattes all contain high sugar content. You're also likely to sip these drinks over a long period of time. Drinking these beverages can increase the acidity in your mouth.

Plus, the sugar will coat your teeth and cause erosion.

When the acidity level increases, your enamel will soften. This can leave your teeth more vulnerable to wear, bacterial invasion, and erosion.

Kombucha

Kombucha is becoming more popular. While the antioxidants and probiotics are good for your gut, the fermented, fizzy beverage is also very acidic.

The high acidity can cause enamel erosion as well as decoloration.

Don't brush your teeth immediately following an acidic substance. Brushing could remove your softened enamel. Instead, rinse your teeth with water.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a delicious spice that reduces inflammation. However, the highly pigmented spice can cause your teeth to yellow and stain.

Make sure to rinse your teeth using water after eating anything with turmeric.

Dried Fruit

Be wary of eating sugar-heavy foods like dried fruit.

Some fresh fruits can actually support your oral health. Dried fruit, on the other hand, is full of non-cellulose fiber and sugar. This fiber traps sugar against your teeth and gums the same way chewable vitamins do.

Try to eat fibrous fruit like pears and apples instead. These fruits have high water content levels. The water will help dilute the negative effects of sugars in the fruit.

3. Older Age

Age can also cause you to develop symptoms of a cavity.

There are a few reasons cavities become more common with age. For example, you might start taking a prescription medication that can cause your mouth to dry out. Remember, saliva helps rinse your mouth out of harmful sugars.

As you age, your gums will also start to recede. This can leave your teeth more vulnerable to cavities.

4. Excess Brushing

That's right: brushing too much can cause you to experience cavity symptoms.

Brushing too much and too hard can wear the protective enamel on your teeth down. With time, this can leave your teeth vulnerable to bacteria, which will cause decay.

If it feels like your teeth aren't clean even with normal brushing, make sure to speak with your dentist. They can evaluate your teeth to determine the issue. Otherwise, try not to brush too hard.

5. Genetics

Genetics can also leave you susceptible to cavities. For example, you might inherit enamel issues or deep tooth crevices. Both can contribute to cavity development.

There are different ways genetics play a role in tooth decay. For one, your sweet tooth could cause you to develop a preference for candy and sugary snacks. Eating too much sugar can cause you to develop tooth decay.

Some people are also born with softer tooth enamel than others. When your enamel is soft, it's easier for bacteria to dig in and cause cavities.

Your taste ability can leave you genetically predisposed to certain flavors. As a result, you might prefer foods that contribute to cavities.

Strong, healthy teeth require calcium, potassium, and other elements to fight off decay. Some gene variants can change your saliva.

Lastly, your microbiome contributes to the bacteria in your body.

Healthy bacteria can help you fight off cavity-causing bacteria.

6. Tooth Grinding

Do you tend to grind your teeth? You might use teeth grinding to deal with stress. Unfortunately, tooth grinding can strip away the outer layer of your tooth enamel, which contributes to tooth decay.

You can prevent your tooth grinding by wearing a nightguard.

7. Dry Mouth Issues

Saliva helps inhibit the growth of plaque. If you have a dry mouth condition, it can leave you at a higher risk for developing cavities. Dry mouth is caused by genetics, some medical conditions like diabetes, and certain medications.

8. Enamel Issues

Enamel issues and deep crevices in your teeth can leave you likely to develop issues. The deep crevices give bacteria and plaque easy access for growth.

Dental sealants can prevent tooth decay if you have enamel issues or deep tooth crevices.

9. Poor Oral Hygiene

16.9% of children and 31.6% of adults have untreated dental caries (cavities). Constant poor oral hygiene habits play a big part in your oral health. If you're not brushing your teeth regularly, you could end up experiencing cavity symptoms.

Make sure to brush for at least two minutes twice a day. And try using an electric toothbrush.

How Do Cavities Form?: 9 Hidden Causes of Cavities to Consider

To recap, how do cavities form? Bacteria buildup and enamel erosion can harm your teeth, leaving you at the risk of developing cavities. Keep track of these hidden causes of cavities to improve your oral health.

Keep your oral hygiene at its best! Book an appointment with our staff today to keep your teeth white and healthy.

Zoom Whitening from A-Z

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 22:21:29 GMT

Maybe you have a wedding coming up? Perhaps you're due for a job interview? Whatever the case may be, you're looking to whiten your teeth as much as possible.

While you have a number of options available to you, you're likely to find the best results with Zoom Teeth Whitening . An in-office procedure, it's both quick and effective.

Looking to learn more about Zoom whitening? Then read on. This is the guide for you.

What Exactly is Zoom Teeth Whitening?

Simply put, Zoom Teeth Whitening is the most effective teeth whitening procedure available on the market today. It's a bleaching procedure wherein the dentin and enamel of the teeth are brightened by several shades. Taking place in a dentist's office, it is carried out by a licensed dentist.

Unlike with home teeth whitening procedures, Zoom Teeth Whitening makes use of light. This light, working in tandem with hydrogen peroxide gel, causes the teeth to take on a drastically brighter shade in just a short amount of time.

Each Zoom session takes a little under 60 minutes to complete. This includes preparation, the procedure itself, and any necessary cleanup.

Zoom Teeth Whitening: Going Through the Procedure

We've discussed the basics of Zoom Teeth Whitening. Now, we're going to get into the specifics of the procedure itself, discussing every step involved. Let's go.

Consult With the Dentist

Before the procedure begins, your dentist will speak with you about what's going to happen. This will serve as an opportunity during which you can learn and ask relevant questions. It will also give you a chance to back out of the procedure in the event that you decide that it's not right for you.

In some cases, this consultation will be coupled with a tooth cleaning session. Note, though, that if your teeth have been cleaned recently, cleaning won't be necessary at this time.

Prep for the Procedure

Once you're done consulting with your dentist, you can begin prepping for the procedure. This starts with the covering of the lips and the gums. The lips and gums are covered with a resistant substance, ensuring that only the teeth are exposed to the whitening gel and the whitening lamp.

You will also wear a special pair of sunglasses. These will shield your eyes from the effects of the whitening lamp, ensuring that they aren't harmed in the course of the procedure.

Undergo the Procedure Itself

Now that precautions have been taken, the procedure can begin. The dentist will begin the procedure by applying the Zoom whitening gel to your teeth, leaving no spot uncovered.

Once the gel has been applied, the dentist will turn on the whitening lamp. It will remain on for approximately 15 minutes, effectively baking the whitening gel into the dentin of your teeth.

Once these 15 minutes have passed, a break will begin, giving you a few minutes to relax. Then, the lamp will be turned on once again, providing your teeth with at least 2 more 15-minute whitening sessions.

Throughout the procedure, you will be sitting in one place. If you wish, you can watch TV while the procedure is going on. While you might experience some tooth discomfort or sensitivity, it's only minor.

Receive Fluoride Treatment

Though it might not be the case with you, in some cases, the dentist will apply a fluoride treatment to the teeth after the whitening procedure has been completed. This can help with tooth sensitivity, making the recovery process as comfortable as possible.

Zoom Whitening Aftercare

Just because the procedure has ended doesn't mean that the results have yet set in. If you want your whitening session to be as successful as possible, you need to engage in some post-procedure care. This includes the following.

Stay Away from Trouble Foods

For the next 48 hours following your whitening session, you're advised to avoid foods that could stain your teeth. These include coffee, wine, soda, potato chips, soy sauce, lettuce, tomatoes, berries, and citrus fruits.

Eating these foods within the 48-hour window could reverse the effects of the whitening procedure, effectively making it useless.

Avoid Colored Dental Hygiene Products

Not only do you need to avoid specific trouble foods in the 48 hours following the procedure but colored dental hygiene products as well. If your toothpaste or mouthwash contains a bright color, it could very well stain your teeth.

Cease Smoking

Smoking can have a major detrimental effect on the color of your teeth. As such, you're advised to stop smoking for the 48 hours directly following the procedure. If you want long-term results, however, you'll have to stop smoking for good.

Tend to Your Teeth and Gums

Receiving a whitening treatment is no excuse to stop tending to your teeth and your gums. Make sure that you're brushing and flossing twice a day and once a day, respectively. Doing so will prevent the buildup of plaque, thus preventing tooth discoloration over time.

Make Use of the Take-home Whitening Trays

In most cases, after the procedure has been completed, the dentist will provide the patient with take-home whitening trays. These trays allow the patient to whiten his or her teeth a few more times in the days following the procedure.

It's imperative that you use these trays. They will strengthen the effects of the in-office procedure and provide you with the longest-lasting results possible.

Zoom Whitening Cost

The cost of Zoom whitening averages around $500. This cost includes the in-office procedure as well as the take-home whitening trays, which allow you to prolong your results.

Note, in the vast majority of cases, Zoom Whitening will not be covered by dental insurance. Of course, exceptions exist, and your insurance policy could be one of them. Make sure to give your insurance company a call prior to the procedure.

Are There Any Risks Associated With Zoom Whitening?

By and large, there are no risks associated with Zoom Whitening. At most, you might experience some tooth and gum sensitivity in the few days following the procedure. This is because the light used to solidify the whitening gel can have a slight burning effect.

Apart from that, there's nothing to worry about. This is a safe, straightforward, cosmetic procedure. There's never an occasion in which the pros don't far outweigh the cons.

What Causes Tooth Discoloration?

Now, you might be wondering: what causes tooth discoloration in the first place? There are a number of factors, the most prominent of which we'll discuss below.

Specific Drinks

There are a number of drinks that can lead to tooth discoloration. These drinks include but aren't limited to soda, coffee, wine, and juice. When not instantly washed away with water, these beverages can become trapped under plaque, leading to long-term staining.

Specific Foods

Just as there are a number of drinks that can lead to tooth discoloration, there are a number of foods that can lead to tooth discoloration as well. These foods include citrus fruits, candy, tomato sauce, and berries, to name just a few.

Tobacco

Tobacco can very often lead to tooth discoloration as well. For this reason, smokers very often suffer from either yellowed or browned teeth.

Select Medications

There are a few medications that can cause the teeth to become discolored. These medications include select antibiotics, select antipsychotics, select antihypertensives, and most antihistamines. Note, though, that taking these medications isn't a guarantee of tooth discoloration.

Particular Diseases

There are a number of diseases that can alter the dentin and the enamel of the teeth, causing them to become discolored. Those suffering from cancer often have discolored teeth, usually due to the effects of chemotherapy treatment.

Genetics

Simply put, some people are born to have discolored teeth. It's a part of their genetics. That said, while these individuals can't avoid tooth discoloration entirely, they can take measures to combat it (like Zoom!).

Lack of Oral Health Care

The most common cause of tooth discoloration is a lack of oral health care . Failure to tend to the teeth on a regular basis allows plaque to build upon them. Over time, this plaque stains the teeth, giving them a yellowed appearance.

While teeth whitening procedures can be used to combat this problem, they're not the be-all, end-all. Proactive measures (ie. regular brushing and flossing) are needed as well.

Looking to Take Advantage of Zoom Whitening?

What do you say? Is Zoom whitening right for you? If so and if you're looking for a dentist in Mississauga, Daas Dentistry has you covered.

We've performed countless Zoom whitening procedures on countless patients, helping them all to achieve the smiles they once sought. We look forward to doing the same for you.

Why Do My Teeth Hurt? Your Guide to Tooth Sensitivity

Thu, 16 Jul 2020 17:20:18 GMT

According to WebMD, a whopping one out of eight adults suffer from sudden tooth sensitivity. If eating or drinking something cold leads to extreme oral pain, we're here to show you what the real deal is.

Are you asking yourself, "why do my teeth hurt when I eat or drink anything?"

To be quite honest with you, this question haunts many who haven't seen the dentist in a while. Here's your guide to tooth sensitivity!

Why Do My Teeth Hurt?

First of all, what causes sensitive teeth all of a sudden?

We're glad that you asked. Like most things, there are a few factors behind this question. If you're sick and tired of researching "teeth sensitive to sugar," you're not alone.

Let's dive in. Surprisingly enough, sensitive teeth and gums are most popular among people between the ages of 20 to 40 years old. On top of that, teeth sensitivity is most likely to be suffered by men.

Now that we've got that covered, we'll explore a couple of common reasons why your teeth might be hurting in the first place. In case you didn't know, significantly worn-down enamel can be a significant cause of teeth sensitivity. As the foundation of your teeth, enamel protects the tooth nerves and dentine that lie underneath.

Once your enamel starts to wear out, don't be shocked if the phrase "teeth suddenly sensitive" comes to mind. If this isn't the case, perhaps you have an exposed tooth root. In a nutshell, exposed tooth roots can occur on the least protected part of your tooth.

That's why the odds are so high that this is the root of your problem (see what we did there?) All jokes aside, cavities can be to blame for how your tooth nerves and dentine became exposed too. Of course, cavities lead to sensitivity and sore teeth like no other.

Besides this, having a chipped or cracked tooth can expose your nerves to harsh conditions. Also, people that have an ill-fitting or worn-out filling are a greater risk of developing cavities as well.

Naturally, this can cause problems similar to what they may have experienced before they got a filling. Between gum erosion and disease, the odds of having teeth sensitivity increase tenfold!

How to Treat Sensitive Teeth

When it comes to treating sensitive teeth, there are a plethora of dental products that you can try. Sometimes, store-bought products or home remedies can be an easy, quick fix for tooth sensitivity. However, more serious cases of sensitive teeth require an emergency trip to the dentist. That's because the underlying root of your teeth sensitivity can turn into a terrible toothache if left untreated. In the meantime, take a look at a few natural dental treatments that might work for you.

You may be surprised to find out that coconut oil is the number one remedy for sensitive teeth. Here's how it works. By doing a process called oil pulling , you can swish around coconut oil in your mouth to strengthen sensitive teeth and reduce gum disease.

In addition to this, saltwater rinses can alleviate sensitivity immediately. In case you didn't know, saltwater is known to reduce inflammation with its anti-septic properties. Do yourself a favor and add a teaspoon of sea salt to a cup of boiling water. Then, stir in the salt until it evaporates. Next, let it cool and use it to rinse your mouth for instant relief from tooth pain.

Bonus points: saltwater is also celebrated for its ability to eliminate plaque like nothing else.

Have you tried warm water and honey rinse yet? If not, expect it to work as well as a saltwater rinse. Due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-septic properties, warm water and honey rinses destroy tooth pain. Lastly, there's clove oil gel. Miraculously enough, this can be used to kill tooth sensitivity within 10 minutes.

If these natural remedies don't work, we highly recommend finding a mouthwash or toothpaste for tooth sensitivity. Be on the lookout for toothpaste with up to 1500 ppm of fluoride for the best results!

Fixing Teeth Sensitivity Permanently

If you're looking to improve your smile , then you might want to learn how to fix tooth sensitivity permanently. For those of you who are nodding your head "yes," here is the breakdown.

Once you visit the dentist to see what's causing your tooth sensitivity, you can work on avoiding it in the future. Don't be too confused when your dentist prescribes you fluoride to prevent tooth decay and enamel loss. By painting fluoride over the most sensitive areas, your dentist will help you to get faster results than ever.

What about prescription toothpaste?

The dentist might fill a prescription for an ultra-strength toothpaste. This will typically have 5000 ppm of fluoride, which is much more than regular toothpaste does. That way, your enamel will toughen up in no time.

Better yet, your dentist may recommend bonding resin for teeth sensitivity. This is used to protect sensitive spots with worn-out enamel. Believe it or not, bonding resin covers up the problem, reducing sensitivity instantly.

For those with tooth pain caused by cavities, the dentist might suggest a filling to prevent it from getting worse. On the other hand, people with receding gum lines and sensitive teeth may have to undergo a surgical procedure.

This can include removing gum tissue from another part of your mouth and grafting it onto your receding gumline. The best part about this procedure is that it will improve the appearance of your gumline too. Not to mention that it's a long-term solution for teeth sensitivity.

Last but not least, root canal surgery is always an option. Even though this surgical procedure is reserved for extreme cases, it works well for removing exposed tooth nerves. While this might sound drastic, it's the ultimate cure for tooth sensitivity!

FAQs About Sensitive Teeth

Now that you've soaked up the treatments, causes, and solutions for teeth sensitivity, we'll answer your final questions. Some of the most frequently asked questions about tooth sensitivity can be found below.

What is making my teeth so sensitive?

Essentially, sensitive teeth and gums are the results of a worn-away enamel coating on your teeth. That's not all. If your tooth sensitivity starts to feel out of this world, then infection, cavity, or gum disease might be to blame. Visit your local dentist for a check-up to spot any underlying problems that should be treated.

How can I get rid of tooth sensitivity?

You can reduce tooth pain sensitivity by using mouthwash and toothpaste that can strengthen and protect your enamel. For a more permanent fix, you'll have to see your dentist for a filling, a gum graft or a bonding resin procedure. The last resort is this: root canal treatment.

Why are my teeth sensitive during pregnancy?

You might be astonished to find out that tooth sensitivity is heightened for pregnant women. Hormonal changes can make your mouth more vulnerable to plaque-like build up. Sadly, this can cause gum disease, plaque, and much worse.

In some countries, pregnant women and new mothers are provided with free dental care for the first year after birth. If free dentistry isn't available in your country, book an appointment at your nearest dentist's office instead.

Will whitening products make my teeth sensitive?

You can develop tooth sensitivity after using a home whitening kit or visiting your dentist. Nonetheless, some whitening kits are specially designed to be gentle on your teeth. You can use whitening products for half the amount of recommended time as well. Then, build up your whitening treatment slowly, depending on how your teeth are feeling!

Don't Let Sudden Teeth Sensitivity Stop You

You might be wondering: why do my teeth hurt?

Fortunately for you, we've compiled a useful guide to help you figure out why your teeth are hurting and how to stop the pain. After you find out what's making your teeth hurt, you've got to discover how to treat it correctly.

Whether it's using a remedy at home or making a dentist appointment, the smartest thing that you can do is to take action right away. Otherwise, you're putting yourself at a greater risk of developing gum disease, erosion, and more.

Nobody wants that, right? We didn't think so. So, pick up the phone and call your local dentist now.

Trust us - you won't regret it!

Looking for a family dentist in the Mississauga area?

Should I Get My Wisdom Teeth Removed? Here Are the Signs You Should!

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 15:44:31 GMT

Most of us know that when we get to a certain age, dentists start recommending we get our wisdom teeth taken out. Most of the adults we know have probably had their wisdom teeth removed. But why do we do that, and is it really a necessary procedure?

If you’ve ever wondered, “Should I get my wisdom teeth removed?” you aren’t alone. But while this procedure isn’t strictly necessary in all cases, it’s a good idea most of the time. Read on to discover some signs it’s time to have those teeth removed and what can happen if you ignore those symptoms.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Before we dive into the symptoms that show it’s time to get your wisdom teeth removed, let’s talk about what wisdom teeth are in the first place. Wisdom teeth are your third set of molars that usually emerge around your late teens or early twenties. Your first set of molars starts coming in when you’re six or seven years old, and your second set emerges around age twelve or thirteen.

Your wisdom teeth are located at the far back of your jaw. They earned their name because they erupt when you’re beginning to gain the wisdom of adulthood. Most of us have them removed because the placement of these teeth can cause complications as you get older.

1. Tooth Pain

One of the first things that will tell you your wisdom teeth are starting to cause trouble is tooth pain . This may be pain in the wisdom teeth themselves or in your other sets of molars. You’ll notice a steady, persistent aching in those teeth, and they may become sensitive if you bite down on them.

Wisdom teeth can come in sideways, which can damage the other teeth around them. Over time, you’ll start to feel this damage as the nerves are impacted. You may also get pain from cavities or infections, which we’ll discuss more later.

2. Swelling

You might also notice swelling in your gums around your wisdom teeth. As your wisdom teeth come in, they’re breaking through that tissue. That disruption, as well as the infections that can result, can cause your gums to swell up.

Although there are ways to treat swollen gums, this swelling can cause a problem. As that tissue starts to expand, it creates pockets where food and other debris can get stuck. Over time, that can start to cause, cavities and infections, and it’s hard to reach a toothbrush that far back in your mouth to brush that debris out.

3. Impacted Teeth

In many cases, wisdom teeth may not come in all the way. They may stay partially or entirely hidden under your gums. When they do this, it’s called having impacted teeth, and it can cause a lot of problems.

If your wisdom teeth have partially emerged, they can create those same pockets for cavities and infections that we just discussed. They may also start to develop cysts around them inside your jaw. These cysts can cause all sorts of damage that we’ll discuss more later.

4. Infections

If you develop infections in the gums around your wisdom teeth, you may start to notice it. You may notice pain, redness, oozing, or a bad smell. Trust us when we say you don’t want to have an infection in your mouth.

But aside from being unpleasant, having an infection in your mouth can be very dangerous. If an infection makes its way into your bloodstream, you could go into septic shock , a condition that is often fatal. And given that your mouth has an enormous concentration of blood vessels, a mouth infection is a great opportunity for sepsis to take hold.

5. Cavities

We’ve all heard about the dangers of cavities before. If we don’t brush properly, the enamel of our teeth can begin to rot away, leaving the soft pulp of our teeth vulnerable to damage. If left untreated, the tooth could rot out completely, and we could have to have a root canal done to fix it.

You probably also know that the best way to prevent cavities is to brush and floss your teeth, but how are you going to brush your wisdom teeth? They’re too far back in your mouth to reach, and oftentimes, they may be hidden under your gums. This makes the likelihood that you get cavities in your wisdom teeth much higher.

6. Shifting Teeth

If you had braces as a teenager, you’ll remember the pain and long years of working to get your teeth aligned. But as your wisdom teeth come in, you may start to notice that alignment shifting. If you wear a retainer, it may be harder to get it in, and if you don’t, you may notice teeth starting to move in front of other teeth.

This is because most people’s jaws aren’t big enough to hold all thirty-two of the teeth we’re born with. Humans have evolved over time, and wisdom teeth are a leftover from when we had larger jaws. As those teeth force their way into your mouth, they can shove your other teeth around, undoing thousands of dollars’ worth of orthodontia.

7. Sensitive Gums

You may notice the gums around your wisdom teeth starting to become more sensitive. You may have to avoid chewing on certain sides of your mouth, and you may want to avoid those areas with a toothbrush. But those swollen gums may be a sign that you haven’t been brushing well enough.

Sensitive gums are another symptom of those mouth infections we were discussing. Gargling with warm salt water can help to bring down the swelling and sensitivity some, but the main problem will still persist. You’re going to get an infection in those teeth, and you can’t fight it off forever.

8. Sinus Pain

You may have noticed lately that you seem to be getting a lot more sinus headaches. You might feel pressure and congestion in your cheeks, forehead, nasal area, and other sinus cavities. And it might surprise you to learn that these issues can be related to your wisdom teeth.

We don’t often think about it, but your top wisdom teeth are pressed right up against your sinus cavities. As those teeth move and the roots develop, they can start to press and rub on your sinuses. This can cause that persistent feeling of pressure, pain, or congestion.

9. Jaw Pain

In addition to the pain in your teeth and sinuses, you may start to notice your jaw hurts more. Part of this may be due to the strain for space and the shifting of your teeth. But a bigger part of it may be due to those cysts we mentioned earlier that can develop inside your jaw.

When your wisdom teeth are trapped beneath your gums, they may start to develop pockets of infection around them. You may not even know you have these infections at first until they start to eat away into the bone and tissue of your jaw. Then you might start to notice some pain and nerve damage, but by that point, it’s often too late.

10. Bad Odor or Taste

Do people often tell you that you have bad breath even though you brush your teeth every day? Do you carry chewing gum or mints with you everywhere you go to try to control the smell? If you still have your wisdom teeth, your halitosis may not be the result of improper brushing.

One of the major symptoms of infection in any part of your body is a bad smell. This may seem like bad breath since the smell from that infection is coming from so far back in your mouth. You may also notice a persistent bad taste in your mouth, especially as that infection spreads.

Answer, “Should I Get My Wisdom Teeth Removed?”

If you’ve wondered, “Should I get my wisdom teeth removed?” the answer is probably yes. Wisdom tooth removal is a simple procedure that can prevent a lot of complications further down the road. You’ll spend a couple of days on the couch eating ice cream, and then you’ll be free to continue with the rest of your life, worry- and cavity-free.

If you need to talk to someone about getting your wisdom teeth removed, reach out to us at Daas Dentistry. We provide a full range of services, from tooth whitening to crown and bridge treatments and more. Contact us today to schedule a surgical wisdom tooth extraction and keep your smile beautiful.

Here Are the Best Teeth Whitening Products to Use at Home (That Work!)

Fri, 13 Mar 2020 16:43:51 GMT

Everybody wants white teeth. But sometimes it seems like no matter how much you brush, you just can't get that pearly white look you desire! How do they even do it over there in Hollywood?

Let the search for a perfect smile end here. Here are 10 of the best teeth whitening products and solutions out there today.

1. Crest 3D White Luxe Whitestrips

There's a reason that Crest is at the top of the game for whitening solutions. Crest 3D Whitestrips are effective, fast working, and won't hurt your enamel. If you use these with toothpaste, you'll be able to remove up to 10 years of stains from your teeth!

The Luxe Whitestrips boast 25x the whitening power of toothpaste. Of course, you shouldn't replace your toothpaste with these strips, but use them in conjunction. Put one of these strips on your teeth once a day for 30 minutes and you'll start noticing a big difference!

With Crest's Advanced Seal Technology, the strips will grip in place with no fear of moving. You can even drink a glass of water with these strips on! Now that's a strong product.

2. Trippix Teeth Whitening Pen

Teeth whitening pens are an effective alternative to strips. They're also affordable, simple, and offer fast results! Just remove the cap, twist the bottom of the pen, and spread the gel on your teeth. It'll start removing stains from your teeth right away, and can whiten your teeth in as fast as a week!

The Trippix pen is easy on the gums and enamel and perfect for those with sensitive teeth. It's perfect for busy, on-the-go type people thanks to its small size and portability. Use the Trippix pen anywhere you are, from the bus to the office and beyond.

Don't let coffee or dark drinks slow down your whitening process any longer. Just whip out this whitening pen afterward and get back in the game. Your smile will thank you!

3. Apple Cider Vinegar Mouthwash

If you're looking for a more natural way to help whiten teeth, try an apple cider vinegar mouthwash. Studies show that the acidic properties of vinegar work to kill bacteria and whiten teeth. Vinegar has a long history of being used as a disinfectant, so you're not stepping into unknown territory here.

Dilute the vinegar with some water, swish it around, and spit. As simple as that, you're on your way to whiter teeth.

Because of the acidity, you shouldn't use apple cider vinegar every day. Try to limit yourself to just a few days a week, as it can also cause light enamel erosion with too much use. As far as natural whitening remedies go though, apple cider vinegar has more science backing it than other methods.

4. Arm & Hammer AdvanceWhite Toothpaste

Don't let the cheaper price point fool you. Arm & Hammer AdvanceWhite toothpaste is one of the better whitening toothpaste on the market.

AdvanceWhite uses a mixture of baking soda and peroxide to give your smile a brilliant boost. It neutralizes erosion, protects against tartar, strengthens your enamel, prevents cavities, and whitens. That's a pretty hefty workload for one toothpaste!

Baking soda and peroxide are often used as natural teeth whiteners. While opinions about using them on their own are mixed, they do seem to lead to whiter teeth. If you're interested in trying these natural methods, why not start with AdvanceWhite toothpaste?

It doesn't get much more effective and affordable than this. Give Arm & Hammer a go and see what it can do for your teeth!

5. MySmile Home Whitening Kit

LED light treatment is a revolution in the teeth whitening game. If you're interested in giving it a go, start with the MySmile Home Whitening kit.

This comes with nine teeth whitening treatments, an LED light, and a mouthpiece. Just attach the light to the mouthpiece, squirt the treatment onto both sides of the piece, and gently bite down on it. Hit the power button on the LED light and it will help speed up the whitening process!

The mouthpiece is one-size-fits-all, meaning no molding or having to search out the perfect size. And you don't even need to use the light if you don't want it! It'll just help make the process faster.

This is one of the faster ways to pearly white teeth and a very trustable method. It's a little more costly than whites strips but gives what many consider the best results. Your smile is worth it!

6. Oil Pulling (Coconut Oil)

Coconut oil has become a regular in many peoples' tooth care routines. The practice of oil pulling comes from India . It involves swishing oil around in your mouth to reap its benefits. These include fighting bacteria, reducing inflammation and bad breath, and whitening the teeth.

While there are a few different oils used in oil pulling, coconut oil seems to be the way to go. It's edible and offers no risks to the user. Plus, it's very easy to do.

Take a tablespoon of coconut oil and swish it in your mouth. 15-20 minutes is recommended, but even 5 to 10 minutes will give you results. If you find it hard to swish for 20 minutes due to taste or texture, start lower and work your way up.

Spit the oil in the garbage and then brush your teeth. This does not replace brushing but works with it to remove stains and whiten teeth.

If you're looking for a natural solution, give coconut oil a go. There are no downsides to worry about, so you've got nothing to lose!

7. Majestic Pure Activated Charcoal Powder

Activated charcoal powder is one of the more interesting ways to get whiter teeth. Just twist open the jar, put it on your toothbrush, and brush it onto your teeth. You wouldn't expect something that makes your mouth so black to help whiten teeth, but it will!

Because activated charcoal is so abrasive, it's recommended you use a soft bristle toothbrush with this. This should also be used in conjunction with toothpaste, not instead of. Just brush with it for two minutes per day and start noticing results!

This product will help remove all types of stubborn stains and plaque from your teeth after just a few uses.

8. Go SMiLE Teeth Whitening Gel

Teeth whitening gel is one of the easiest ways to achieve a whiter smile. Just put it on your toothbrush with your toothpaste and get brushing. No extra steps or long wait times!

Go SMiLE gel will get your teeth two shades whiter in the first three days, and seven shades whiter in 30. It won't cause any issues for those with sensitive teeth and can be used on any teeth, including braces and false teeth. It really is one of the most convenient ways to whiter teeth!

9. Colgate Max White Toothpaste

Max White is a top tier whitening toothpaste. It offers instant results, scrubbing away stubborn stains and giving you a whiter smile. It uses the same ingredients dentists do during whitenings to give you the whitest smile possible .

Max White won't damage your enamel and will reverse years of yellow teeth. Just use it twice daily like any other toothpaste for results.

Colgate Max White uses an Advanced Brighteners System. It makes your teeth reflect blue light, making them visibly whiter after just one brush. If you're looking for a more confident smile right away, Max White is the toothpaste for you.

10. Crest 3D Whitestrips With Light

Everybody is getting on that light game, even Crest! This package comes with strips and a handy LED light to give you fast and effective teeth whitening action. LED lights solutions are highly touted in Hollywood. With Crest 3D Whitestrips, that movie star smile you desire doesn't have to be a dream.

Just peel a strip, place it on your teeth, then use the light to boost the effects and speed of the strip. You only need to use the light for 10 minutes after the strips are applied for an hour. It's that easy! The light has an auto-shutoff feature, so you don't need to worry about timing or overdoing it. It's designed to last through the 10 given treatments, and be discarded afterward.

If you want to get whiter teeth using peak technology from a trustable company, look no further. Try the Crest 3D Whitestrips with light and see what all the rave is about!

Finding the Best Teeth Whitening Products

Look no further for the best teeth whitening products on the market. Try one of the ten items listed above and you'll be sure to find something you like.

Every person has a unique smile and preferences, so different products will work for different people. Don't be afraid to experiment and find what works for you. You'll be thankful you did when you see that pearly white smile looking back at you in the mirror!

For more on tooth whitening and dentistry, check out the rest of our blog.

Invisalign Pros and Cons- Why You Should Choose Invisalign Over Braces

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 14:25:53 GMT

About one in five young adults between 18 and 34 years cut down on socialization due to dental problems.

Misaligned teeth are one of the dental issues that can go beyond taking away your beautiful smile. If you’re unsure about your smile, you will indeed have trouble interacting with others.

Fortunately, you don’t have to wallow in depression over a set of crooked teeth. Invisalign is a life-saver when it comes to restoring your smile.

If you are looking to straighten your teeth, Invisalign is an option you can’t afford to ignore. Here are some of the Invisalign pros and cons that will guide you when making the decision.

What Is Invisalign?

Before we delve into the benefits of Invisalign and the shortcomings, it is crucial to understand what this dental treatment involves. Invisalign refers to custom-made, clear braces, which cover your entire teeth to pull them into the right position over time. While they function as the traditional metal braces, they are clear and less noticeable.

At most, orthodontics recommends wearing the braces for 12 to 18 months. However, the type of correction required determines the period of treatment. For the teeth aligners to be effective, you might need to wear them for 22 hours each day. More importantly, you’ll need to visit your dentist regularly to change the aligners. As your teeth take the position, fresh aligners are necessary. Within a few months, you'll have a restored smile.

If you've been wondering about the options you have when wearing braces as an adult , Invisalign is an option that could work. You don’t have to limit yourself to the standard braces. While at it, it’s crucial to know that Invisalign has its pros and cons.

Invisalign Pros

When compared to the traditional braces, Invisalign is the better option. Invisalign makes you smile confidently when still on treatment. Braces, on the other hand, can be too conspicuous to go unnoticed.

The pros of Invisalign go beyond appearance. Keep reading to know why Invisalign might be a better option to the standard braces.

1. Pleasing Aesthetics

One of the reasons why most people prefer Invisalign to braces is the appearance. Metal braces can be unattractive. The unsightly chunks of metal in your mouth make your dental formula appear awkward. Conversely, Invisalign trays are almost invisible and transparent. People can’t see wires or brackets when you smile. Invisalign is a great option, especially if you are self-conscious.

In case you aren’t in a position to have Invisalign, you can research to know more about porcelain veneers , which is another alternative that will guarantee you desirable aesthetics. When you go for your dental consultation, your dentist will determine the orthodontic treatment depending on the extent of the problem.

2. Improved Hygiene

If you've been wearing metal braces for long, stains around the rims are imminent. Worse still, braces can cause darkening of gums and cavities. Flossing and brushing around braces is almost impossible. Maneuvering around the wires of the typical braces is hard. In fact, you might end up hurting your gums. Removing food particles that are stuck between the teeth is impossible when you have braces.

With Invisalign, poor oral hygiene would be an excuse. The fact that you can remove the aligners makes it possible to brush and floss as recommended. What’s more, you can even whiten your teeth to add to the sparkle.

3. No Food Limitations

According to the World Health Organization, more than 3.58 billion people across the world have at least one type of oral disease. Consumption of unhealthy foods, mostly laden with sugar, is the main culprit. That's not to mean you can't enjoy your sweet snacks; unless you have braces.

When you have metal braces, forget about popcorn, candy, taffy, or pretzels. While it is recommendable to avoid such foods, whether or not you're in braces, enjoying a candy occasionally isn't a big deal. However, when your doctor fits you with the metal braces, the list of foods you will have to avoid might be distressing.

Invisalign won’t limit your food consumption. With these teeth aligners, you don’t have to worry about damaging the brackets or breaking the wires after biting a crunchy apple. You can remove your aligners when taking your food, which also enables you to brush your teeth thoroughly before replacing the aligners.

4. Safety

When outlining the Invisalign pros and cons, safety is a factor that ranks high on the list. Metal braces have protrusions that can scratch and puncture your gums and the rest of the mouth. With the sharp edges of the conventional braces, you might need to be keener when chewing and brushing your teeth.

Using oral pain relievers isn't a permanent solution for the discomfort caused by the metal braces. Dealing with constant mouth pain can be distressing. If you opt for Invisalign, the discomfort will be a thing of the past.

The BPA-free plastic that makes the Invisalign aligners is comfortable. These aligners don’t have metal pieces, wires, or brackets. As such, you don’t have to worry about scraping your gums.

5. Sports Restrictions

If you're a sports enthusiast, you might want to avoid the typical metal braces. A blow on your mouth can damage your teeth. It can further cause significant injuries due to the popping metals.

Invisalign is not limiting. You can choose to remove the tray of aligners when you're playing and replace them later. Keeping them in is another option, which wouldn't hinder your sporting activities. What's more, you can travel to compete in another continent without worrying about a doctor's appointment. Keeping several sets of Invisalign trays ensure that you have adequate replacements. If they ran out, you could use the last set as a retainer until you get time for a dentist's visit.

6. Digital Scanning

When you check out some of the reasons why you need to see an orthodontist, you'll realize the extent of issues that these specialists address. As such, a typical orthodontic clinic might have tools such as pliers, forceps, retractors, and distal end cutters, among others. If you're like most people, anxiety might set in.

Invisalign treatment might appear less complicated. Specialists use 3D digital scanning, which is non-invasive and painless. The tools used during the procedure will help you relax. The computer software used for Invisalign treatment allows unmatched precision.

The orthodontist can make real-time adjustments for a comprehensive and accurate treatment plan. With the 3D scanner, the visual representations show you the anticipated outcome, which gives you more confidence throughout the process.

7. Invisalign Improves Self Esteem

A beautiful smile makes you approachable. On the contrary, crooked or protruding teeth can make one overly self-conscious, leading to less smiling. If you feel unattractive due to the appearance of your teeth, interacting with others can be daunting.

Worse still, young people are at risk of teasing and harassment following teeth abnormalities. To avert such cases, Invisalign aligners can come in handy. The fact that they're inconspicuous makes them more desirable, particularly for teenagers.

While crooked teeth are unsightly, metal braces that scream for attention might not be effective in addressing one's self-confidence. People would want to have the best set of teeth without the world, knowing they have aligners.

Cons of Invisalign

While Invisalign has a myriad of benefits, it is far from perfect. However, it remains more suitable when compared with other forms of orthodontic treatments such as metal braces. Here are some of the cons of Invisalign.

1. Cost

A survey by the National Poll on Healthy aging found out that about 69% of adults aged above 50 years feel that the cost of dental care is a significant barrier to seeking orthodontic treatment.

Invisalign treatment is arguably more expensive than typical metal braces. With the type of technology used in this treatment, the cost implication is inevitable.

If you’re in Mississauga, you’re in luck. Daas Family & Cosmetic Dentistry accepts all types of insurance. You can use Healthy Smiles Ontario and Government Plan to get the most coveted Invisalign treatment.

2. Easy to Lose

The removable nature of Invisalign is both an advantage and a disadvantage. If you don't store your set well, the risk of losing your Invisalign is real. You need to have the Invisalign in a case most of the time.

3. You Need to Wear Full-time

The effectiveness of Invisalign depends on your commitment. You have to wear the aligners for at least 22 hours every day. Since you can’t eat with your set of aligners, you need to have a strict schedule that allows you to remove your Invisalign, eat, brush your teeth, and replace the aligners.

The process can be overwhelming, especially for kids. Yet, failure to wear the Invisalign as recommended will hinder the treatment process.

The Invisalign Pros and Cons Guide You in Knowing If They Can Be the Best Fit for You

If you need to straighten your crooked teeth perfectly and discreetly, Invisalign aligners are the best deal.

When you check the Invisalign pros and cons, you'll realize that the benefits outweigh the cost. Visit your orthodontist to know if you're the right candidate for Invisalign and start the fantastic journey as soon as possible.

If you are in Mississauga, Brampton, Oakville, or Etobicoke, Daas Family & Cosmetic Dentistry is here for you. Contact us today to book your appointment. We have a team of experienced and highly skilled dentists to attend to all your dental needs.

7 Amazing Benefits of Having a Family Dentist

Thu, 02 Jan 2020 18:18:51 GMT

If you are like most people, you probably muddled through life without regular visits to the dentist, and you know the price you had to pay for it. Waiting for oral health issues to progress is always a big mistake because they cause pain, discomfort, and usually cost a lot to treat.

Now that you have started a family, you wouldn’t want your children to go through the same thing. Having a family dentist may be the best decision you could make for your whole family.

Oral health is highly important. Apart from having a great smile, oral hygiene reduces the chances of infections, heart disease, and even cancer. It's a crucial part of you and your family’s overall health and wellness.

While you may feel that a pediatric dentist would be much more suitable for your kids, a family dentist is just as qualified to take excellent care of their oral health.

One of the major benefits of a family doctor is the convenience of making just one phone call to book appointments of the whole family and driving to the same location with everyone. Let’s look at more family dentistry benefits.

What Is Family Dentistry?

A family dentist is a dental practitioner who treats patients of all ages, from kids to adults. They offer a wide array of treatments, such as dental checkups, cleaning, examinations, fillings, x-rays, fluoride treatments, sealants, among others.

Your family deserves a professional family dentist who’ll not only maintain but improve your oral health. Lifelong family dentistry can be beneficial to your family as you’ll see in the list below.

1. To Eliminate Dental Anxiety

Dental phobia and anxiety is a serious issue that even adults combat. Both dental phobia and dental anxiety can result in delaying or avoidance of dental treatment. If one or more of your family members have any of these conditions, it helps to have your dental checkups together as a family.

Children, especially, develop dental anxiety at an early age, and to help them overcome it, having a family dentist helps. When your children see that you are also going for a checkup or treatment, they gain confidence and get more comfortable with the experience. Children mimic the actions and sentiments of their parents. Showing them that visiting a dentist regularly is essential, you’ll create a lasting impression.

The best thing about going to a family dentist together is that once they overcome their fear at an early age, they’ll be comfortable with dentists for the rest of their lives. Regular dental checkups are imperative for amazing oral health, and if they are not afraid, they’ll never miss their appointments.

2. Having a Family Dentist Is Convenient

The convenience of having a family dentist for the whole household cannot be ignored. You simplify your life by making one appointment for several people or the whole family. You don’t have to leave work on different days to go for your appointment, take your kids to the pediatric dentist, and your teenagers elsewhere.

As long as you have a professional and trustworthy family dentist, all your dental needs will be well taken care of.

3. Family Dentists Know Your Family Dental History

One of the most significant advantages of lifelong family dentistry is the fact that they’ll know your family’s dental history. If you had past dental diseases, surgeries, allergies, or sensitivities, they’ll have all that on record. This means that they’ll know the suitable treatments based on that information.

A proactive family dentist will notice new symptoms since your last checkup and take action. Some issues may also be genetic, and it helps to have the same dentist for the whole family. If, for instance, they have treated you with orthodontic issues, they’ll be vigilant when treating your children.

4. Having a Family Dentist Means a Lasting Relationship

There are numerous reasons why trust is vital between you and your dentist. When there’s trust, it’s easy to communicate honestly and openly, leaving no information to yourself. When the dentist has all the information, they diagnose symptoms accurately and you and your family members will get the right treatment.

It’s also easier to share your fears with a dentist you trust, and they’ll do everything to ease the treatment process for you.

5. Regular and Consistent Services

To maintain you and your family members’ oral health, you need to visit your family dentist at least twice a year for checkups and cleaning. Having a family dentist means that you’ll be confident about visiting and hence never miss an appointment.

By having the same dentist attend to your needs every time, you have consistent treatments. A family dentist will provide your family with consistent services every time you visit.

6. Preventative Care

Family dentists specialize in various dental fields for people of all ages. Children always require special care given than their teeth are still at the developmental stage. The dentist will teach them preventative practices that will keep their teeth healthy at all times. If at one point, one of your kids needs teeth alignment, it will be done while still young, which is much better in kids than adults.

With regular dental checkups, brushing, flossing, and rinsing, you and your family can prevent cavities, gum disease, and other serious issues that may develop in the long run.

7. Emergency Dental Services

When something happens, and you need dental care immediately, it helps to know that you have a dentist available. One you can trust with any member of your family. Every time you think “I need an emergency dentist” you don’t need to search for one. You can give your family dentist a call and book an immediate appointment.

Your kid may experience a chipped or knocked out tooth, and such emergencies always happen at the most inconvenient time. Having a family dentist you can trust means you can see them anytime, and be assured of quality services, regardless of the situation.

Wrapping It All Up!

Having a family dentist in Mississauga is something you simply cannot overlook. Besides all the benefits stated above, you’ll also get updates and education about your oral health from one practitioner. They’ll give you updates about the best dentistry technology, the best practices to help with your daily oral care, and the best diet for your oral health.

Now that you know the benefits of having a family dentist, you will undoubtedly be looking for one. We’re here for you and your family. For the ideal family dentist in Mississauga, please give us a call and we’ll be more than glad to assist you.

6 Practical Tips for Dealing with Teeth Whitening Sensitivity

Thu, 26 Dec 2019 17:49:39 GMT

Most people love to sport pearly white smiles. Because of this, teeth whitening procedures is one dental work that many individuals resort to. Not only does it make your teeth sparkly white, but it also improves your smile and boosts your overall confidence.

Teeth whitening is a relatively simple dental procedure that can be pulled off at a dental office or even at home. The only problem is that after the application, you may experience teeth sensitivity. If you aren't used to it, you may feel some pain, particularly as a response to cold air or water.

Although the exact cause of tooth sensitivity is still vague, it is often attributed to properties of peroxide, which is an active ingredient in most tooth whitening products. It is believed to cause irritation or inflammation, which leads to a tingling sensation or cold sensitivity.

Fret not, however, as there are many practical ways to remedy teeth sensitivity. Below are six practical tips on how you can deal with teeth sensitivity after a teeth whitening procedure.

1. Follow the dentist's instruction

It is vital that you follow the instructions of your dentist whenever facing teeth sensitivity. When you have your teeth whitening treatment at a dental office, seek professional advice from your dentist right after and make sure to follow the instructions provided. If you perform the teeth whitening treatment at home, check the manufacturer's instructions and follow them entirely.

2. Take Advil or Aleve.

It's best to take pain medications such as Advil or Aleve before the teeth whitening treatment, as they are meant to reduce the symptoms. You can also check if your product has a lower peroxide level (six to ten percent) because you don't want to end up miserable by using a product with high levels of peroxide. To ease the pain after the treatment, make sure that you take medications beforehand.

3. Limit cold foods and beverages.

Keep in mind that you should also limit your intake of cold foods and beverages after whitening procedures. Although your teeth may not be sensitive in normal temperature conditions, teeth whitening can exasperate sensitivity issues, so you should be wary of what you eat and drink.

4. Don't overuse whitening products.

If you have just undergone teeth whitening treatment, you should stop using whitening products. Know that if these products are used in excess, they have the potential to make your teeth very sensitive or, worse, damage them.

5. Brush and floss your teeth gently.

After the teeth whitening treatment, remember to brush and floss your teeth with gentle strokes. As much as possible, make sure to use a soft-bristled brush as it is gentler on your teeth and gums. Doing so will help cut back on your symptoms of tooth sensitivity.

6. Check with your dentist.

After the treatment, you may ask your dentist about desensitizing products that can be applied to your teeth. These products have been known to be effective at reducing sensitivity. Know that the tooth sensitivity with whitening is very common and is expected to last from 24 to 48 hours. If your sensitivity issues persist or worsen, however, always inform your dentist immediately.

// Final words

Teeth sensitivity can be a little bit debilitating. If sensitivity occurs after your teeth whitening procedure, simply follow the six techniques mentioned above. Teeth whitening ought to give you that perfect smile. At the same time, however, the teeth sensitivity should also be properly managed.

If you’re looking for a local dentist to help you improve your dental health , get in touch with us today to see how we can help!

5 Best Home Remedies for Wisdom Tooth Pain - What to Know

Thu, 19 Dec 2019 17:40:06 GMT

Wisdom tooth pain affects your overall productivity because the degree of pain is distracting. It’s a pain that can unexpectedly arise due to an underlying problem in your teeth. It may even have been nagging you for the longest time because of an infection around your teeth and gums.

If you’re looking for a way to alleviate the pain, the first step you need to take is to book an appointment with your dentist. They will help in assessing the cause of your wisdom tooth pain and address it professionally.

It will be hard to manage the pain of wisdom teeth as it can also cause headaches and fatigue. If you do not have the energy and time to go to a local drug store, there are helpful home remedies that you can try while waiting for your dentist appointment.

That said, listed below are five best home remedies for your wisdom tooth pain.

1. Aspirin

The most common remedy you can try is aspirin. Once you feel pain, take an aspirin or any kind of over-the-counter pain killer. This will not only relieve your toothache but also eliminate the headache that comes with it. Make sure to eat a substantial amount of food before taking your pain killer. After taking the pill, the pain will start to dull after a few minutes. Though this remedy is undoubtedly effective, you should always refer to your dentist or doctor first regarding the right dosage for you.

2. Saltwater rinse

If you want to veer away from allowing the drugs inside your body, you may want to opt for natural remedies instead. Try out the saltwater rinse by rinsing your gums with a mix of warm water and diluted salt. The salt will help in killing harmful bacteria and will also be good for your gums.

3. Peppermint

Another great alternative is using peppermint leaves oil. Peppermint leaves can help alleviate pain by reducing inflammation. To apply peppermint, soak cotton with some peppermint extract directly to the affected area.

4. Clove oil

Cloves help in fighting bacteria inside your mouth. You can use cloves by boiling four to six pieces with water. Then try to massage the clove mixture to your gums. You can also use cloves oil extract as an alternative.

5. Crushed garlic and ginger

Aside from clove, you can even use crushed garlic and ginger instead. Garlic and ginger are powerful germ killers because they fight off pathogens that enter the gum line. To try this remedy, mix garlic with crushed ginger and turn it into a paste form. Then, apply the paste to the affected area inside your mouth and wait for a few minutes for it to take effect.

Conclusion

Your wisdom tooth needs extra and careful attention because they have the most significant impact on your overall oral care. They can be packed with bacteria because of their size and shape. Though there are home remedies that will help you alleviate the throbbing pain you feel, try out several of them to find which one works best for you. On the other hand, keep in mind that it’s always best to rely on your trusted dentist who will provide proper dental treatment.

If you’re looking for a dentist in Mississauga to help you with your wisdom tooth pain, get in touch with us today to see how we can help!

How to Avoid Unwanted White Marks on Your Teeth - Our Guide

Wed, 11 Dec 2019 15:47:23 GMT

That white mark on your teeth is often an indication of the beginning of the cavity. Yet, by following several simple steps, you can avoid it from spreading. Brushing your teeth and staying away from acidic food and beverages help prevent these white marks. You can seek orthodontic treatment to make sure that you get that perfect smile.

Simple Ways to Avoid White Marks on Your Teeth

Cleaning your teeth is not rocket science. You simply have to remember what you have learned about brushing your teeth and not overeating sweets. Whether you are at home, school, or work, make sure that you brush your teeth every after the meal. Also, it is essential that you floss at least once a day. You must limit your intake of acidic food and beverage, which include soda, sports drinks, carbonated water, and others alike.

Nevertheless, certain products make cleaning teeth more thorough and efficient. These products come in the form of power toothbrushes, water irrigators, floss holders, floss readers, and interproximal brushes. You can also use fluoride toothpaste to make sure that your teeth remain clean.

Follow the Right Teeth-Cleaning Steps

If you do not follow the right measures to keep your teeth clean, the white marks on our teeth can become permanent and turn into a full-blown decay. That white mark on your tooth is caused by a build-up in calcium and plaque. It can also be caused by minerals on your tooth that leach out, which leaves that white mark. The plaque commonly comes from the bacteria and other particles from saliva and food. These bacteria feed on sweets, which is why it is best to avoid those sugary foods.

Remove Aligners When Taking in Acidic Food and Beverages

That white mark you see on your teeth is called decalcification, which is the removal of calcium ions on your teeth. It can quickly happen in a matter of weeks, especially to those who love to drink sugary drinks. If you are wearing aligners when you consume sweets, the white mark will be worse. Because of this, make sure that you take out your aligners whenever you consume acidic foods and sugary beverages. The bacteria that sticks to your aligner can easily cause those unwanted white marks that can lead to cavity and decay.

Care for Your Teeth

If you really want to have that perfect smile, it is essential that you take care of your teeth properly. It also helps that you receive the necessary orthodontic treatment. Some people believe that orthodontic treatment often causes the white marks that appear on your teeth, but they can actually happen independently. Brushing your teeth and not taking in the wrong food and beverage may seem like an easy task to accomplish. However, without sufficient discipline, you can easily neglect these little preventive measures.

Look for the right treatment in Mississauga to have your teeth thoroughly cleaned. If you want to make sure that you do not get those unwanted white marks on your teeth, follow the right steps in keeping your teeth clean and get the necessary orthodontic treatment.

If you’re looking for a teeth whitening dentist in Mississauga, get in touch with us today to see how we can help!

Our Guide to Wearing Braces as an Adult - Know Your Options

Thu, 28 Nov 2019 15:46:55 GMT

Many people aren’t blessed with having perfectly aligned teeth. More than cosmetic concerns, having crooked teeth or misaligned bites may lead to severe oral issues, such as gum disease and speech defects. The best time to address these is during childhood, the time when the facial bones and gum tissues are still developing. However, modern advances in dental technology have allowed adults to seek help for oral difficulties they’ve been dealing with for years.

If you’ve been suffering from an overcrowded smile or a painfully misaligned bite, you should see an orthodontist as soon as possible. Orthodontics is a specialized practice of dentistry that deals with the alignment of teeth and jaws. The most common treatment for such problems is to wear braces. Wearing braces is a simple, temporary solution that offers long-term results. However, for people over 18 years old, there are several factors to consider.

For one, the entire process could take longer. Simple procedures may typically last between six months to a year for children, but this could take up to two years for adults. Because an older person’s bones have stopped growing, surgery may be needed to fix structural problems. Additionally, adults are more prone to developing gum diseases, so the patient may need to consult with another specialist as well.

The good news is that the statistics of people getting their dental issues fixed as adults are encouraging. If you’re considering to wear braces in your 20s, 30s, or 40s, here are your options:

1. Standard Braces

Traditional braces are a fixed treatment option in which brackets are glued to the front of the teeth. A wire goes through the brackets, secured by small rubber bands. By tightening this thin metal line, tension is put on the teeth to move them into the desired position. Results can be achieved within one to three years, depending on the patient’s teeth condition and the amount of straightening that needs to be done. Standard braces come in different colours. For adult patients, they can opt for transparent bands to make them less visible and awkward.

2. Damon Braces

This option uses a slide mechanism instead of elastic bands to keep the wires in place. However, some patients don’t like the friction that these rubber pieces create against the insides of their mouths. Without them, the braces become much more comfortable and less noticeable. While it’s more expensive than the standard type, Damon braces are the preferred method among most adults.

3. Invisible Braces

Invisible braces, also known as lingual braces, are another option for those who are concerned with their looks. These are placed at the back of the teeth instead of the front. They are more complicated to install and, not to mention, more expensive.

4. Invisalign

Invisalign is a more recent innovation that uses transparent plastic aligners that are custom-made to fit your teeth. They are worn as retainers and are removable when the patient is eating and brushing. Patients are required to get new ones every two weeks until they achieve their desired results. Because of its convenience and wearability, Invisalign is an excellent alternative to metal braces.

It’s never too late to get your teeth straightened. With proper oral care and the right team of dentists, you can achieve a healthier, more radiant smile at any age!

If you’re looking for orthodontic treatment in Mississauga to help you choose the right braces, get in touch with DAAS Dentistry to see how we can help.

The Causes of Sensitive Teeth & How You Can Deal With Them - What to Know

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 15:07:02 GMT

Ever bitten into something really cold and felt a sharp pain deep down your teeth? The chances are that you're dealing with sensitive teeth. Many things can trigger that painful sensation—eating something hot, cold, or even sour.

You might be wondering, what causes teeth to be sensitive? What can you do to reduce the sensitivity? Let's find out.

The Cause of Sensitive Teeth

Several reasons can cause teeth to be sensitive. These include teeth wear, gum disease, and tooth decay.

Teeth wear is a natural thing to occur. Over time, the enamel of the tooth wears down, exposing dentine, which is the inner part of the teeth. It is the dentine—small tubes—that lead to the nerves located inside teeth. When eating something cold or hot, the sensation travels through the dentine, reaching the nerves.

Wearing down of the teeth can also be due to habits, such as teeth grinding. This speeds up the wearing down processes, exposing dentine even faster. For some, this can even cause the teeth to chip into small bits, exposing the dentine even further.

Overly brushing your teeth can cause sensitivity, as well. Brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with tough bristles can scratch away at the enamel that's protecting the dentine.

Gum diseases left untreated can also cause teeth to be sensitive, along with tooth decay, allowing bacteria to infect the tooth and cause sensitivity.

A visit to the dentist can also cause your teeth to be extra sensitive. Fortunately, the sensation does leave within a couple of weeks.

Fighting Tooth Sensitivity

With all the pain you need to go through to enjoy your favorite ice cream, you'd want to get rid of the sensitivity. How do you go about this? Book an appointment with the dentist. They'll check your teeth for any possible causes for tooth sensitivity, whether that is tooth decay, damage, or other reasons.

If you have any fillings present, the dentist will also make sure that it sits snugly and isn't loose. If the dentist discovers damage, such as a crack or a chip, he or she will get to work fixing it. If signs prove that enamel wear-down is present, a fluoride treatment may be carried out to strengthen the enamel once more.

Other than looking for a dentist to help address your tooth sensitivity, there are some things you can do by yourself. For instance, you can change your brushing habits, switching from a hard brush to a soft-bristled one.

One of the most useful things you can do if you haven't already is to switch your toothpaste for one that helps reduces sensitivity. It works by covering up the dentine's tiny tubes, keeping cold or hot away from the nerves. Although you need to keep up with the use of such a toothpaste to see its effects, it is great at what it does—addressing your sensitive teeth.

If you're dealing with sensitive teeth and want to get rid of it, don't hesitate to see a dentist right away. They'll determine the root cause of the problem and will create a solution that works for you.

If you’re looking for a dentist in Mississauga to help you deal with your sensitive teeth , get in touch with DAAS Dentistry to see how we can help!

How You Can Improve Your Smile Regardless of Your Age

Thu, 07 Nov 2019 19:12:53 GMT

Having a perfect smile is something that many people should care about. It starts by practicing proper dental care. Not only will taking care of your teeth keep them healthy and protected against cavities, but it also helps give you that smile that makes you feel confident.

As the years pass by and you continue to cruise through every major stage in your life, you’ll probably notice that your smile could probably use a bit more work. On some days, your pearly whites may seem more like an “eggshell white” than a “flat white,” and something may seem a bit more wrong with the alignment of your teeth. Most people don’t want to admit that they end up shrugging off these concerns.

If you’ve been hearing a little voice at the back of your head telling you to brush your teeth one more time or floss a bit more thoroughly, then it’s safe to assume that you truly want to improve your smile. When you’re in your 30s or 40s, having this concern over the state of our teeth tends to make you wonder, “Is it too late to improve my smile?”

Well, to answer your question: No, it’s never too late to improve your smile.

With the field of cosmetic and functional dentistry evolving over the years, it should come as no surprise that dental treatment will always help regardless of how old a patient may be. By taking the major step of heading over to your local dentist, you’ll most likely be greeted with a wide variety of options ranging from high-quality implants and crowns to adult braces.

Every treatment that you can avail of from your dentist can help tremendously with ensuring that you have a set of teeth that you can smile with all day, all night. Let’s look at the various treatments you can choose from:

1. Teeth whitening treatments

Teeth whitening treatments are an excellent way to get started on your goal of attaining optimal dental health. From dentist-prescribed tooth whiteners to in-clinic whitening procedures, there are various teeth whitening treatments to choose from on your next visit to the dentist. Teeth whitening treatments, contrary to popular belief, will not harm the rest of your oral health in any way, making it the perfect option to start your tooth-reviving efforts with.

2. Old filling renewal

A common misconception that most people tend to have regarding their old fillings is that they can last forever. The truth is that even the most durable fillings still need to be changed eventually. The simple and cost-friendly option of renewing your old fillings can make a significant difference in how your smile works without having to do anything drastic in the process.

Generally, old filling renewals are a predominantly cosmetic dentistry treatment, but it can also help significantly with protecting your overall dental health.

3. Adult braces

Around 70 to 80 percent of adults struggle with maintaining their dental health simply because their teeth aren’t aligned properly. Given the odds of having uncomfortably-misaligned teeth, the chances are that you’re struggling with the same problem now. This is where adult braces can easily help.

Aside from having straighter teeth, braces also help with maintaining healthier-looking teeth and gums, which makes a significant difference in how great your smile looks overall. In addition, it’s also worth noting that adult braces can do wonders for the health of your jaw, preventing several issues, such as bone loss, headaches, and temporomandibular joint disease (TMJ).

The only way that you’ll ever be too old to improve your smile is if you maintain the mindset that says so. On the contrary, there are dozens of treatments out there that you can get at any age. By getting the three simple, yet effective treatments for your dental health mentioned on this list, you can easily improve your smile without having to break the bank or let age get in the way.

If you are looking for a dentist to help you improve your dental health, get in touch with DAAS Dentistry to see how we can help!

5 Signs You Need to Get a Root Canal Treatment

Thu, 10 Oct 2019 16:47:31 GMT

Picture the pulp of your tooth, which is composed of blood vessels and nerves. Once it’s damaged, the decay will spread to other parts of the tooth and may even impair other teeth and your gums. A root canal procedure removes the inside of your tooth, so it can be cleaned and then sealed. For some people, the thought of getting a root canal is frightening and distressing. While root canals are infamous for being painful, they are essential procedures that dentists use to save and repair your teeth.

Often, people wait until they feel persistent, nerve-wracking pain before they go to the dentist. But this is a sign that the tooth infection is already advanced. Don’t wait until you can’t eat and drink before you see your dentist. Ignoring signs of damaged and decaying teeth can cause a myriad of dental problems, that’s why early detection is imperative.

Here are other symptoms that one or more of your teeth needs immediate attention:

1. A chipped tooth

A chipped tooth may sound minor, but one should never ignore it. Chips and cracks expose the nerves beneath its surface. This allows bacteria to fester, forming an infection that can enter the bloodstream and lead to severe dental problems.

If you crack a tooth, either by biting on something hard or while playing contact sports, visit your dentist immediately. An untreated chipped tooth requires a root canal to prevent more damage.

2. Tooth sensitivity

If you notice any discomfort while sipping a hot cup of tea or eating ice cream, it’s best to schedule a trip to the dentist. Tooth sensitivity often starts as a dull ache that can get worse and more painful over time. Usually, damaged blood vessels and nerve endings are to blame. A root canal procedure will be able to address this problem.

3. Swollen gums

Swollen gums shouldn’t be ignored because they can be a sign of a deeper problem. If inflammation or infection is to blame, your dentist may decide to perform a root canal.

4. Tooth Discoloration

Most times, discoloured teeth are due to poor dental hygiene. Smoking and exposure to particular food and drinks, such as coffee and tea, can also cause your teeth to turn yellowish or brownish. A thorough cleaning can usually fix this problem, but sometimes, a darkening tooth is a sign of nerve or root damage beneath its surface. When your dentist detects this, he or she needs to perform a root canal to prevent further damage.

5. Persistent and prolonged pain

If that tooth pain has been bothering you for weeks and is not showing any signs of improvement, a root canal may be your saviour. Persistent and prolonged pain is often the result of a badly damaged root, which will not heal on its own. Sometimes, the tooth may be repaired and spared, so it’s best to be proactive and see your dentist immediately.

When your dental practitioner tells you that a root canal is your only option, you don’t have to go into full panic mode. Root canals are quite common, and with an experienced doctor, they don’t have to be as painful as you would imagine.

If you suspect any of the above problems with your teeth or you need a root canal treatment, get in touch with DAAS Dentistry to see how we can help!

Everything You Need to Know About Adult Braces - What to Know

Thu, 03 Oct 2019 12:35:32 GMT

Some people are born with a natural, picture-perfect smile, but most have to deal with crooked, misaligned teeth. When it comes to correcting alignment, bite issues, and bringing back the confidence behind your smile, braces are a highly effective form of orthodontic treatment.

Why Do People Need Braces?

Braces and other forms of orthodontic treatment help alignment problems such as overbite, underbite, overcrowding of teeth, crooked teeth, or even jaw misalignment. Beyond serving to fix cosmetic damages, braces help ease problems with eating and speech.

Additionally, failing to fix your crooked teeth can compromise your oral hygiene. For instance, an improper bite may make it difficult to brush or floss your teeth. Meanwhile, an underbite can lead to a negative impact with your jaw as the upper front set collides with the lower front set.

For that reason, orthodontic treatments like braces for adults are necessary to help realign the teeth. Additionally, it helps support the positioning of your jaw and sustain the new alignment.

What are the Benefits of Braces?

Having improper positioning of the teeth can mitigate many things - from tooth decay, gingivitis, and even low self-esteem. With that in mind, orthodontic treatments like braces is an effective procedure that can help solve the following dental issues:

● Close gaps between teeth

● Ensure that your teeth and jaw are properly aligned

● Straighten crooked teeth

● Improve oral functions such as eating and speech, which may have been originally impaired due to a bad bite

● Mend improper bites

Who Needs Braces?

A dentist will need to examine the state of a patient’s teeth in two ways: create a plaster model of their teeth or have their X-ray taken. Braces are recommended for thus suffering from the following:

● Overbite - the state where the upper front teeth are sticking too far forward over the lower teeth, which is also known as having buck teeth.

● Underbite - also known as a bulldog, this is where the lower teeth are too far forward over the upper teeth.

● Crossbite - this is when the upper front teeth and lower front teeth meet in the middle when biting down.

● Open bite - this includes spaces in between the biting surfaces of the front or side teeth upon biting down.

● Misplaced midline - this is a case where the center of your upper front teeth is misaligned from the center of your lower front teeth.

● Spacing - this means that there are gaps or spaces in between your teeth

● Crowding - the opposite of spacing, this is a case where there are too many teeth for the dental ridge to handle.

Modern Braces for Adults: Invisalign

Invisalign is a modern solution and alternative to braces. These ‘adult braces’ are made of clear aligner trays and work similarly to retainers. It is a clear, smooth, and durable plastic that is moulded into a set of nearly invisible aligners. However, you will need to visit your dentist every two weeks to adjust the tightness according to what your teeth needs.

The flexibility it provides makes it ideal for everyday use as it does not limit what you can eat or drink. Additionally, it makes it easier for you to maintain proper oral hygiene compared to traditional braces.

At DAAS Dentistry, we provide dental services for everyone. We have caring and experienced professional staff who are highly trained to ensure that you have a pleasant visit. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help.

8 Reasons Why You Need to Go See an Orthodontist

Thu, 26 Sep 2019 22:06:28 GMT

While we are told to have our teeth checked at least twice a year, many people don’t think much about their oral health. Dentists will clean our teeth, check for signs of damage, and tell us if we are suffering from other conditions that need further treatment.

Your dentist may refer you to an orthodontist, a specialist who fixes bite and jaw irregularities. It’s not just about giving you a beautiful smile—getting your teeth aligned will also prevent other serious problems. Is it time to see an orthodontist? Check out the signs listed below:

1. Teeth Straightening

Most people see an orthodontist to have their teeth straightened. Having crooked teeth is not only physically bothersome, but it can also affect one’s confidence and self-esteem. Often, this is a quick and easy fix. There are many kinds of braces available now that suit every lifestyle.

2. Overcrowded Teeth

Some adults develop too many teeth in one space in their mouths, causing the mouth to be overcrowded. Because teeth are harder to clean this way, overcrowding can cause other long-term dental and gum problems. An orthodontist can address this issue in several ways, such as extracting one or two teeth and putting on braces.

3. Gaps

Sometimes, a person’s teeth naturally grow with spaces between them. Other times, they lose one or two molars and never get dentures. The other teeth start to move, or space out, causing decay and other physical problems.

4. Bite Issues

A misaligned bite, or malocclusion, is also typical in many adults. There are four types of bite issues: the overbite, underbite, open bite, and crossbite. Bite problems affect the shape of a person’s face. Vanity aside, it is crucial to correct them because they can cause other physical issues, such as grinding, clenching, headaches, and even speech problems.

Overbites are also known as having buck teeth. It is when the upper front teeth stick out over the lower teeth even with the mouth closed. An underbite is the opposite. It is often called the bulldog look, referring to the animal’s distinct facial feature. When your jaw is resting, you may notice that your lower teeth are resting in front of your upper teeth.

An open bite is when you close your mouth, you will notice that there is a space between your rows of teeth. The gap could either be in front or the sides of your teeth.

A crossbite is a form of malocclusion that tends to be genetic. Some children are born with a narrow upper jaw, causing teeth to be misaligned with the lower. When left unfixed, this can cause pain, arthritis, and severe damage in the jaws.

5. Facial Imbalance

There are adults whose centre front teeth don’t align to the centre of their bottom front teeth. A misplaced midline causes additional strain to the jaw and can be uncomfortable as you grow older.

6. Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD)

The temporomandibular joint is a hinge that connects your jaw to the temporal bones of your skull. It allows movement to the jaws. If you’re experiencing pain in your jaw muscles or having difficulties moving them to eat and talk, you may have temporomandibular disorders.

7. Teeth Grinding

Sometimes, our upper and lower teeth grind against each other voluntarily. Teeth grinding may also occur while we’re sleeping, causing our jaws to be sore when we wake up. When you notice this problem, it’s best to see your orthodontist immediately.

8. Sleeping Problems

Sleep apnea is when your breathing is interrupted in your sleep. It is a serious medical condition that needs immediate care. While many factors cause sleep apnea, it is sometimes linked to how your jaws and teeth are aligned. Conducting a sleep study and consulting with an orthodontist can help with this condition.

Orthodontic treatment should not be delayed. These days, there are new technologies orthodontists use to treat your issues conveniently and successfully. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, get in touch with our clinic today and book an appointment!

At DAAS Dentistry, we provide dental services for everyone. We have caring and experienced professional staff who are highly trained to ensure that you have a pleasant visit. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help.

8 Habits That Will Stain Your Teeth – What to Know

Thu, 19 Sep 2019 15:23:58 GMT

We all want to have the cleanest and whitest teeth, don't we? We head for teeth-whitening treatments and use products to keep our teeth in good condition. Unfortunately, most of us are unaware of the detrimental effects some of our habits have on our teeth.

The best way to keep your smile bright is to avoid staining them with different substances in the first place.

Here are seven habits you must avoid if you want to keep your teeth bright and white:

1. Teeth-Staining Beverages

Of all the drinks in the world, coffee is the most well-known cause of stained teeth. If you drink it regularly and do not rinse your mouth right after, dark pigments can stick to the surface of your teeth. These pigments—chromogens—will cause your teeth to darken over time.

2. Acidic Beverages

If you're drinking white wine because you're afraid that red wine will stain your teeth, think again. Acid from some wines can weaken the enamel of your teeth, making them more prone to staining. Carbonated soft drinks also contain acid as well as pigments that will stain your teeth.

To keep your teeth in good shape while enjoying these indulgences, drink in moderation. Otherwise, stop consuming these beverages altogether.

3. Staining Foods

Just like how drinks can stain your teeth, food can too. Foods that are rich in colour like berries, beetroots, lollipops, and dishes with rich sauces can stain. Lightly coloured food items won't stain your teeth as much.

4. Holding Food and Drinks in Your Mouth

The longer the food or drink sits in your mouth, the higher the chances your teeth will be left stained. Your enamel may also be weakened as a result, so avoid keeping food and beverages in your mouth longer than necessary. Consider using straws when drinking beverages as this will help reduce the amount of time the liquid comes into contact with your teeth.

5. Not Drinking Enough Water

Drinking enough water is essential to keep your body well hydrated. It also helps clean away any stains that are left on your teeth. If you live in a place where water has fluoride added to it, you gain the benefit of protecting your teeth from decay.

6. Smoking

There are so many health reasons as well as aesthetic reasons to quit smoking. Whether it is chewed or smoked, tobacco will leave stains on your teeth. Additionally, smoking is one of the major causes of oral health issues, which isn’t very good if you're looking for a bright smile. If you smoke, it’s time to quit so that your body can start its recovery process.

7. Not Brushing or Flossing your Teeth

Dental plaque on your teeth retain stains too well, so an excellent oral hygiene routine will reduce plaque buildup. Dentists recommend that you brush your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste along with flossing once a day. Of course, eating a balanced diet without sugar helps keep your teeth and gums healthy as well.

8. Not Visiting Your Dentist

Regular check-ups are vital to make sure that your teeth are in good shape. Your dentist will check your gums and teeth, and look for any signs of problems as well as give you advice on how you can keep your oral health in tip-top condition.

At DAAS Dentistry, we provide dental services for everyone. We have caring and experienced professional staff who are highly trained to ensure that you have a pleasant visit. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help.

What You Must Know About Periodontal Screening – Dental House 101

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 14:57:02 GMT

Gums are an integral part of your mouth that protect your teeth and the bones around it. When gums become swollen and tender, along with some bleeding, your body is trying to tell you that your immune system has been triggered.

This happens when the bad bacteria in your mouth overrule the good bacteria, disrupting the balance of the germs, which is critical to your oral health.

What is periodontal screening?

Once a year, your dentist will conduct a gum evaluation called periodontal screening. This procedure allows them to assess the health of your gums and the bones around it. Some of the signs of unhealthy gums are receding gums, inflammation, and bleeding. When your gums are pink and firm, that indicated that they are healthy.

The periodontal screening will also check the pockets between your gums and teeth. When bacteria accumulates in these pockets, it triggers the immune system, which sends more white blood cells to kill bacteria. However, the WBC can also destroy gum tissue, causing the pockets to become deeper. When left untreated, the pockets will continue to deepen because of bacteria, leading to bone loss. When this happens, your teeth become loose and cannot be saved after some point.

Early detection of gum disease

Gum disease is a silent disease; it usually goes unnoticed until the damage has become severe. If you are not visiting your dentist regularly, it is unlikely that you will realize the presence of gum disease in your mouth. It is one of the main reasons why many adults lose their teeth. To avoid this, early detection is important, and it is possible with annual periodontal screening. It can help you detect and prevent chronic inflammatory gum diseases, such as periodontitis and gingivitis.

Keep your teeth healthy with proper oral hygiene

One of the best ways to avoid gums disease is to practice good oral hygiene, and that begins at home. Brushing must be done at least two times a day and flossing before bedtime. You must also avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks, and reduce your meal frequency to three meals a day. Your saliva needs time to neutralize acids and repair their damage on the teeth, and snacking will prevent that.

If you have diabetes and heart disease, always consult your doctor to keep the diseases under control. Moreover, if you are smoking cigarettes, it would be best if you quit as soon as possible, as smokers have high risks of developing periodontitis.

Bottom line

Periodontal screening is a necessary procedure that you must not neglect. It will help prevent gum diseases that can cause irreversible damages, as well as to detect signs of severe gum problems. This screening will also allow your dentist to prescribe you with the proper treatment. Early detection can save you from undergoing more invasive treatments, such as surgery.

Poor oral health can have detrimental effects on your overall health, so you must take care of it.

At DAAS Dentistry, we provide dental services for everyone. We have caring and experienced professional staff who are highly trained to ensure that you have a pleasant visit. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help.

5 Ways to Combat Gingivitis - Our Guide

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 18:25:03 GMT

Gingivitis is an oral health condition involving inflammation, swelling, and reddening of the gums. Pre-existing plaque or tartar in the teeth can breed bacteria, which can cause bleeding and inflammation. If left untreated, the underlying bones and adjacent gum tissues will also be affected, which could lead to tooth loss, painful gums, and bad breath. No one wants that, right? Fortunately, there are ways you can prevent and treat gingivitis.

1. Have your dentist clean your teeth routinely

Prophylaxis or “dental cleaning” is what your dentist does to get rid of plaque and tartar in the hard-to-reach areas of your mouth. If you have pre-existing tooth decay, your dentist will clean and fill the affected area to prevent bacteria from growing inside the damaged enamel of your teeth.

Your dentist will use a hand-held instrument to polish the surface of your teeth and remove stubborn tartar. They will also use a tool to literally scrape away the tartar forming at the junction of your roots and teeth. Prophylaxis will ensure there’s less plaque in your teeth, which will lessen the chances that bacteria will form and start to infect your gums.

Dental cleaning can be done every six months, but if you already have gum disease, you may need to go to your dentist every four or three months. After you see a dentist, make sure you have good oral hygiene to prevent a swift buildup of plaque, tartar, and consequently, bacteria.

2. Brush and floss your teeth regularly

Aside from going to the dentist to have your teeth cleaned, you also need to brush and floss your teeth at home daily. The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) suggests that you brush your teeth two to three minutes every day—after breakfast and dinner. Change your brushing pattern from time to time, as brushing the same way every day may mean you are neglecting to clean other areas of your teeth. Floss after brushing to remove any bits of food that may have gotten stuck between your teeth.

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid abrasion in the gums. Replace it every three months and use toothbrush brands that the CDA has pronounced beneficial. If you observe that your gums appear to look thinner than usual or your toothbrush's bristles appear worn often, you are brushing with too much pressure.

3. Use antibacterial mouthwash

While brushing and flossing are intended to remove larger food particles that may cause tooth decay, these methods alone aren’t enough to deal with gum disease. There are also smaller bacteria in your mouth that can cause gingivitis. You should also rinse your mouth with antibacterial mouthwash after you brush your teeth. Gargling with mouthwash in your mouth for 30 seconds will help you fend off gingivitis-causing bacteria, especially if you do it twice a day. Not only will it help keep your mouth clean, but it will also give you fresh breath.

4. Cut down on carbs and sugars

You might not believe it, but tooth decay became an epidemic only after humankind learned how to eat sugary and starchy foods. Sugars from candy, dried fruits, carbonated drinks, and white bread can stick to your teeth, which will attract plaque and gingivitis-causing bacteria. Starches from chips and other junk food can also leave bits of food in your teeth.

So drink fresh water instead of soda or synthetic fruit juices. Carrots, fruits, nuts, seeds, and whole grains are healthier alternatives to candy, chips, and white bread. If you can’t resist the urge to chew on something, especially when you’re hungry or waiting for an appointment, you can try sugarless chewing gum.

5. No smoking

Keep your teeth and lungs clean by saying no to smoking. Tar in tobacco products can harm your gums, causing gingivitis. If you are currently a smoker, you should seriously consider stopping your habit. Undergo tobacco rehabilitation if you think that you can’t quit on your own.

At DAAS Dentistry, we provide dental services for everyone. We have caring and experienced professional staff who are highly trained to ensure that you have a pleasant visit. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help.

Our Guide to Dental Implants – The Benefits and Risks

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 18:28:49 GMT

Everyone dreams of having a Hollywood-worthy smile, but not all are gifted with a perfect set of teeth. For that reason, many are seeking dental procedures that can help improve the state of their teeth. This can include improving fractures, cavities, or treating gum disease, all of which can act as a hindrance to your confidence and overall dental health.

To that end, the role of dental implants is vital as it permanently replaces your decaying teeth and enhances your smile. Not only is this a healthy option, but it also enables you to fully express your joy to others as it eliminates any insecurities you may have with your teeth. If you’re on a mission to bring back the confidence behind your smile, the list below explores how dental implants can help you in various ways.

Benefit #1: Dental Implants Can Guarantee Better Comfort and Functionality

Patients suffering from missing teeth can use dental implants as a permanent solution. Unlike dentures, dental implants do not need regular replacement as it is designed to specifically fill any gaps within your teeth. It also functions like natural teeth, which enables patients to comfortably go on with daily life without encountering issues on biting, speaking, or chewing food.

This is because the roots of your teeth are replaced with titanium, which serves as a durable anchor for your jawbone that can last a lifetime. Since it is deeply embedded into the sockets of your gums, there’s no need to be on the lookout for any adverse side effects like shifting or friction.

Risk #1: Failure to Integrate

Dental implants that are not appropriately integrated can weaken the bone structure of your jaw and compromise its stability. Prophylactic antibiotics are typically given prior to the procedure to combat this and help reduce the risk of implant failure.

Benefit #2: Special Maintenance is not Needed

Maintaining your dental implants is a lot like caring for your natural teeth - all it takes is regular brushing to keep it in its spick-and-span state. You can reinforce the cleanliness by following it up with mouthwash.

Flossing, on the other hand, may require you to consult with your dentist first. The cementum layer between your natural teeth are now absent as it is replaced with an implant, so it’s in your best interest to floss with caution to avoid the risk of damaging your gum line.

Risk #2: Perforation

Perforation includes injuries caused to nearby anatomic structures like the maxillary sinus, inferior border, lingual plate, labial plate, inferior alveolar canal, or gingiva. In the case that any of these are damaged by the implant, it can result in infections as well as sinus problems in the future.

Benefit #3: Reduce the Risk of Tooth and Gum Disease

Empty sockets from a recently extracted tooth are tropical breeding grounds for bacteria, and even dentures or dental bridges are not enough to completely fill the hard-to-reach areas where bacteria will eventually build up. On the other hand, dental implants reach deep into your jawline and fill any holes completely, and without any exposure, the chances of developing tooth or gum disease are significantly reduced.

Risk #3: Implant Breakage or Fracture

The riskiest and most serious complication that can happen is the breakage of the abutment screw of the implant. It is not a simple problem to fix as it involves replacing the dental implant entirely, but the complication arises when the remaining bone may be weakened to a point where it can no longer support new implants. If the abutment screw is fractured, the most it can do is cause aesthetic damages. Fortunately, it is significantly easier to fix.

At DAAS Dentistry, we provide dental services for everyone. We have caring and experienced professional staff who are highly trained to ensure that you have a pleasant visit. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help.

3 Ways You Dentist Can Help Save Your Oral Health – What to Know

Mon, 19 Aug 2019 21:22:17 GMT

Many people fail to realize how important dental exams are. The truth, however, is that they are just as important as physical exams.

Dentists can help detect various health issues, as oral health can be indicative of one’s overall health. Little do most people know that the condition their mouth and teeth are in can have a great impact on their body.

Have you ever noticed that when something is wrong with your teeth, your body often shows symptoms of sickness elsewhere? When you have a toothache, don’t you find it difficult to function normally?

Seeing a dentist regularly can save you from serious trouble in the long run. Here’s how:

1. Your dentist can help prevent infection from spreading

More often than not, people go to the dentist only when they feel pain. In fact, some only see a dentist when they’re already feeling extreme pain — the kind that can no longer be remedied by over-the-counter painkillers.

Some even beg their dentist to pull out their problematic tooth just to make the pain go away. When the dentist refuses, suggesting that the patient take antibiotics first, the patient will leave the clinic disappointed, thinking that the dentist didn’t help him or her.

Worse, after the prescription has run out and the pain has gone, the patient will not come back to proceed with the tooth extraction.

What’s wrong with this picture? The doctor prescribed antibiotics before deciding to extract the problematic tooth for a very good reason.

When you have a toothache, it typically means there is an infection underneath the tooth. This is known as impaction. When the dentist pulls out a tooth, it leaves a hole that goes all the way down to the jawbone.

With the tooth gone, the infection can easily spread to the bone and blood, which could cause you to get sick. You could even end up with a bad case of blood poisoning, which can be fatal.

For this reason, don’t get mad at your dentist just because they didn’t pull your aching tooth on your initial visit. They’re just preventing infection from spreading.

You should also return to the clinic after taking the antibiotics so your dentist can check if the tooth really needs to be pulled or if there’s another way that they can help you.

2. Your dentist can detect gum disease that can lead to serious problems

A dentist will only be able to tell if you have gum disease if you undergo a dental exam. Gum disease is mostly invisible to the naked eye. People only see the dentist when they notice something wrong with their gums—which means your gum disease has advanced to the point where it’s at its worst.

Gum disease can lead to serious infections that will affect your internal organs. For instance, infection originating from the gums can damage your ears, throat, heart, and even your brain.

If you get regular dental exams, you can nip gum disease in the bud before it spreads.

3. Your dentist can help detect some cancers

Throat and oral cancers are often overlooked until they’ve gotten worse. When you submit yourself to regular dental exams, the dentist can take note of suspicious symptoms and request tests and further checks immediately, leading to prompt treatment.

At DAAS Dentistry, we provide dental services for everyone. We have caring and experienced professional staff who are highly trained to ensure that you have a pleasant visit. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help.

3 Ways to Treat Gum Recession & Why You Need to Take Care of it

Fri, 09 Aug 2019 21:16:05 GMT

Gum recession or gingival retreat is a common condition that can have a lasting impact on your health and well-being. It increases the risk of gum and dentin infection, as the more your gums recede, the more exposed the nerve endings in the roots of your teeth will be.

This will make you more likely to experience pain and sensitivity in your teeth. Therefore, it’s imperative that you know how to take care of your gums to avoid this problem so that you don’t end up dealing with more severe illnesses.

With that said, here are our tips on how to take care of your gums when you notice signs of recession:

Why Gum Recession is a Serious Problem?

The first thing you need to do when you notice that your gums are receding is to assess the root cause of the problem. Typically, receding gums are caused by excessive or violent brushing, as the bristles of your toothbrush will push down your gums with each session. That said, it can also be caused by other behaviors, such as improper use of dental floss or toothpicks.

Chewing tobacco, smoking, and the excessive consumption of alcohol can also increase the risk of gum recession. This can also be a hereditary condition, so if your family has a history with it, we recommend that you talk about it with your dentist.

What are bridges?

Dental bridges are used to replace a missing tooth by providing a stand for the tooth replacement to sit on top of. The base structure is fitted into the gumline via a small incision. The root of the bridges will then be placed in the section of the gum where the tooth once was, which will then be locked in place. A replicated tooth will then be placed on top of the bridge and secured in place. Compared to dental implants, bridges may not be as long-lasting and secure, but it’s an affordable option that can help get the job done all the same. It can help prevent gum recession and infection as well, making it an all-around great treatment option for tooth loss.

Top Treatments for Gum Recession:

Now that you know what causes gum recession, let’s move on to how you can treat it to avoid having to get surgery:

1. Deep Cleaning

The first and best option to stop gum recession is to get your teeth deep-cleaned by a dentist. Gum recession can be caused by stains between your teeth, which means that deep cleaning can help to slow down the progress of receding gums and buy you some more time.

2. Gingival Graft

Gum grafting is a minor surgical process that takes a part of your gum from another area of your mouth and places it where your gums have receded the most. It’s a painless, low-risk, and fast process that can restore your gum to the best condition within weeks.

3. Bone Regeneration

For a severe case of gum recession, there may be some damage to the bone structure under your gums. If that happened to you, you will need to undergo a bone regeneration treatment to give your gums a healthier foundation to hold on to. This is a much more time-consuming and expensive treatment, but it can help return your teeth and gums to the best condition. This treatment will also help reduce the risk of cavity and dentin infection.

At DAAS Dentistry, we provide dental services for everyone. We have caring and experienced professional staff who are highly trained to ensure that you have a pleasant visit. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help.

Why You Shouldn’t Take Dental Checkups for Granted

Thu, 25 Jul 2019 21:09:42 GMT

You may be one of the many people who are taking their oral health for granted. When was the last time you visited your dentist for a thorough checkup? You may want to clear up space in your schedule and set an appointment with your dentist because regularly visiting a dental clinic can save your life.

When you have a toothache, it can be incredibly hard to go about your daily life as normal. Your teeth and mouth’s health, in general, have a serious impact on your body. Your dentist is the one who can catch the signs of potentially serious illnesses based on your oral health.

Here are some reasons why a regular trip to the dentist can save your life:

1. Your dentist prevents infections from spreading

When there are signs of inflammation in your mouth, your dentist will put you on antibiotics for a week before any tooth extractions can be carried out.

This is because there’s an infection in your mouth, and pulling out the tooth may lead the infection spreading straight to your bone marrow and blood. It is important to stop the inflammation and remove the infection before anything else, saving you a trip to the hospital.

2. Your dentist can catch some of the early signs of cancer

A dental exam can catch very early signs of mouth and throat cancer, which is often overlooked. To survive these types of cancer, you need to be treated immediately. A thorough mouth exam that includes dental X-rays is incredibly helpful in early diagnosis.

3. Your dentist can tell when gum disease can lead to serious infections

Gum problems should not be taken lightly because it can lead to profoundly serious infections that can spread to the entire body and affect your internal organs. Gum diseases are more than just the case of your mouth. Infections from gum diseases are often detected only when you visit your dentist.

When the infection becomes septic, it’s a sure ticket to the hospital and can be life-threatening. When the infection reaches the heart, it can lead to arrhythmia and a heart attack that can potentially kill you.

4. Your dentist is trained to look for signs of illnesses that show up in the mouth tissue

More than taking care of your teeth, ensuring that they are clean and healthy, a doctor of dentistry is trained to see symptoms of diseases through your mouth.

Many diseases are caught through the tissue of the mouth. For example, your dentist will know that you are diabetic before you do because people with diabetes are prone to certain types of teeth issues. Diabetics experience periodontal issues that lead to receding gums.

Visiting your dentist regularly does not only ensure that you have a healthy mouth but can also save your life one day. Gum disease, serious infections, early signs of cancer and symptoms of diabetes—only someone who is trained can catch these by looking into your mouth.

Clear up your calendar and schedule an appointment with your dentist. At DAAS Dentistry, we provide dental services for everyone. We have caring and experienced professional staff who are highly trained to ensure that you have a pleasant visit. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help.

4 Reasons Why You Should Go to the Dentist Every 6 Months

Mon, 08 Jul 2019 20:51:16 GMT

Dental care is a concept that most people are aware of since dental habits such as brushing and flossing were forced upon them at an early age. As time passes and people get older, it’s easy to forget about keeping on top of their dental health. This is because regular dental checkups take a backseat when you assume that brushing your teeth twice a day is sufficient for keeping a visit to the dentist away. The truth is that in spite of having impeccable dental habits, a regular trip to the dentist is still a necessity. Sparkly-white teeth aren’t necessarily healthy and happy.

Although visiting the dentist every six months might seem like an expensive habit that you can forgo with the help of a toothbrush, floss, and toothpaste, these checkups are necessary for keeping your teeth in tip-top shape. The common mistake that people usually make is putting off a visit until they have a hard time using their mouth or encounter pain while chewing. By that time, it’s often too late to prevent anything else from coming up.

While the optimum frequency for dental check-ups is every two months, the minimum acceptable rate of how often you should go to the dentist to ensure that your teeth are in perfect health is twice a year. Although it might not be obvious now, you aren’t a dental professional and are most likely overlooking some risks in your dental health that can’t be spotted by your untrained eye. It’s best to visit a dentist biannually to prevent any deep rooted problems that have the potential to rack up a huge final bill.

Here are a few reasons why you should go to the dentist AT LEAST twice a year:

1. There are dental problems that need an X-ray to be treated effectively

Aside from common issues that an untrained human eye (such as yours) tends to overlook, some special dental problems require an x-ray in order to be diagnosed and treated properly. Assorted problems, such as bone decay, growing teeth, impacted wisdom teeth, jaw bone damage, and tumors or cysts can only be identified with the help of an x-ray machine and can cause even more severe problems when left undetected.

2. You might be picking up plaque, cavities, and tartar

No matter how many times you ferociously brush and floss your teeth, there are certain areas in your mouth that your toothbrush and other dental tools can’t reach. This later on leads to plaque and tartar buildup which, in turn, can result in cavities. These hard-to-reach spots accumulate food particles that later on solidify and turn into plaque, which then hardens and forms tartar. Known as the “pimples of the teeth,” tartar has the potential to erode the tooth and create cavity-forming holes that end up decaying the teeth far beyond repair. In order to avoid this dental chain reaction, you’ll have to visit your dentist regularly so that they can help prevent any instances of these conditions from occurring.

3. You’ll need to control your negative habits

Aside from maintaining dental health and spotting underlying problems, a trip to the dentist can help with controlling the effects of negative habits that could compromise the health of your teeth. While you might find yourself unable to quit a bad habit, your dentist can help to prevent bad habits from carrying over to bad dental health. If you smoke, chew tobacco, grind your teeth, clench your jaws, drink too much coffee, bite your nails, or eat hard and sticky foods, it’s best to schedule an appointment with your dentist to avoid any unwanted complications from coming up.

4. Oral cancer might be looming

As one of the trickier diseases to spot, oral cancer often goes undetected for some time due to the absence of pain. By the time you notice any issues such as swelling, lumps, or lymph nodes on your jawline or neck, it may be too late. Oral cancer hits you hard and fast. Fortunately, you can identify this disease early on by visiting your dentist regularly. He or she can perform a velscope examination that can analyze your mouth for any signs of oral cancer, which will later on lead to you being prescribed certain measures or being treated to prevent the disease from spreading even further.

If you’re looking for a dentist in Mississauga, DAAS Dentistry is your best option. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help.

What You Need to Know About Periodontics – Our Guide

Mon, 24 Jun 2019 20:44:33 GMT

Oral hygiene is a crucial part of your overall health. It is, therefore, imperative to perform oral care on a regular basis. This is why visiting your dentist regularly is so important. Neglecting to take care of your mouth, your teeth, your gums, and your oral structure as a whole leads to all sorts of dental problems - from tooth decay and toothache down to gum disease.

While we’re on the topic of periodontal disease, it’s important to mention that such an ailment can be quite life-altering. If left untreated, it will lead to severe damage in your teeth. It will affect your oral functionality and even compromise your breath, affecting your confidence and your quality of life.

The question, then is what should you do if you are suffering from periodontal disease? What should be your next course of action? In the next section, we will discuss all that you need to know about periodontal disease and what the treatment plan entails. Here’s what you need to know about periodontics:

What is it?

In a nutshell, periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a bacterial infection of the gums and tissues that support your teeth. What causes such disease? The build-up of plaque and tartar brings about bacterial infection. This build-up occurs when your teeth are not routinely brushed and regularly flossed.

There are two major stages of periodontal disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is caused by plaque build-up around the gum line, which causes inflammation of the gums. It is merely a mild form of gum disease. If you further neglect this, your gums will then appear red and swell even more. You can experience bleeding when you brush or floss. The alarming part is that when you leave such a condition untreated, gingivitis can quickly turn into periodontitis.

Periodontal Disease Treatment

If you have periodontitis, what better way to proceed to the next course of action than to undergo periodontal disease treatment? Periodontal treatment depends on the type and severity of the disease. Prior to the treatment, the dental specialist will first evaluate the periodontal disease and develop an appropriate treatment plan. The treatment to be performed largely depends upon the stage of your infection and the deterioration of your gums, teeth, supporting tissues, and bone.

After reviewing your digital radiographs and performing a thorough periodontal exam, your dentist will go over the following:

● What happens during and after the procedure

● Possible complications, risks, benefits, and costs of treatment

● The number of office visits required for treatment

● What to do post-treatment as your gums heal

● How to keep gum disease under control after treatment is complete

● What the maintenance program for your periodontics entails

Scaling and Root Planning

In line with the topic, scaling and root planning are two well-known non-surgical treatments for early stages of gum disease. These are just minor procedures that involve a careful removal of plaque and tartar from the affected gums. It may also be essential to treat the tooth root to remove any bacterial toxins. Your hygienist will remove harmful bacteria and irritants from deep beneath your gums to prevent plaque from accumulating again. With scaling and root planning, patients need not have any further treatment. However, it is highly recommended that you visit your dentist on a regular basis in order to maintain your overall oral health.

If you’re looking for a dentist in Mississauga, DAAS Dentistry is your best option. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help.

All You Need to Know About Dental Crowns and Bridges

Wed, 12 Jun 2019 22:12:38 GMT

Losing a tooth can be one of the most devastating things to happen to you, as it’s typically caused by something dangerous such as gum disease or a blunt force impact at high velocity. Your teeth rest against each other, providing support for the overall structure of the jawline. When one tooth is missing, the pressure will be misplaced, potentially leading to the collapse of the overall structure.

Dental crowns and bridges are two solutions that most dentists will suggest when a patient is presented with an absent or a highly damaged tooth. However, the general public doesn’t understand much about them. In this article, we’ll talk about dental crowns and bridges and what they can do for you when you have a missing tooth.

What are crowns?

Dental crowns are covers or “caps” placed on damaged teeth that have the same appearance and texture as natural teeth do. This can help to prevent the infection in the gum while restoring proper function to the damaged tooth.

What are bridges?

How are crowns and bridges fitted?

Step 1: Assessment

The first thing the dentist will do is to inspect the gum and jaw structure and decide whether a crown or bridge is a viable treatment option. They will perform an X-ray examination and review your medical and dental history to assess whether it’s the right treatment option for you.

Step 2: Fitting

Once the dentist deems that it’s safe for you to receive the treatment, they will measure your tooth and gum so that they can order a custom dental bridge or crown to fit your teeth. Once the crown or bridge is ready, the dentist will call you in to have the structures installed in your mouth.

Step 3: Adjustment

Once the fitting is done, the dentist may ask you about how you feel. If there’s any pain or discomfort, the dentist will then make an adjustment to ensure that it fits comfortably.

If you have had to deal with a loss of a tooth, you know that it can be both embarrassing and painful, not to mention that it hinders your ability to enjoy your life. These treatment options allow you to have the same quality of life without any glaring side effects.

If you’re looking for a dentist in Mississauga, DAAS Dentistry is your best option. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help.

5 Tips on How to Find the Best Cosmetic Dentist for You

Tue, 28 May 2019 22:05:40 GMT

Our teeth are one of the most crucial elements of our overall facial structure. A smile is a sign of sincerity and friendliness.

Many of us are naturally wary of those who refuse to smile. However, the reason behind one refusing to smile may be as simple as the condition of their teeth. When we’re self-conscious about something, it’s difficult for us to feel comfortable exhibiting it. The same is true for smiles, as when you have a bad set of teeth, it may prevent you from being willing to put your pearly whites on display.

If this is the case for you, then you need a cosmetic dentist to help your teeth look whiter and more well-aligned. With that said, here are six tips on how to find the best cosmetic dentist for you:

1. Ask For Referrals

The first thing you should do when you’re looking for a cosmetic dentist is to ask for recommendations from your friends, family, neighbors, or your current dentist. Some dental office may not have the tools for specific cosmetic dental procedures and may be able to recommend a more specialized one for you instead.

2. Read Online Reviews

Once you have the name of a dental office, the next thing you will need to do is to check for their online reviews to see what people are saying about the establishment. You need to make sure that you work with a clean, credible, and professional dental office. This will ensure that you get to visit one that offers the best service.

3. Look For Testimonials

Another place to go to look for some ideas is by looking at the testimonials from the patients and clients. This is often the most reliable source of information, as these people are willing to tell you all about the experiences they have had. Websites such as Yelp and TrustPilot are the best places for you to go to see what people think about that specific business. By going through the comments and reviews, you will have a better idea of what the dental office is like and whether or not you should pay for their service.

4. Choose a Dental Office That Specializes In What You’re Looking For

Most cosmetic dental offices offer the same services, but not every single one of them specializes in the same thing. For example, an office may have the best tools and staff for dental whitening, while others may be better equipped to carry out orthodontics work. Therefore, you need to find one that fits with your needs so that you can enjoy the best results for the procedure you’re looking to do.

5. Talk To The Dentist About Your Insurance Policy

The costs of cosmetic dentistry can be rather high, so you should make sure that the insurance policy you have will cover the price. Additionally, some dental offices have deals with certain insurance companies, which means that they won’t accept the coverage from their competitors. You need to make sure that you talk with the dentist ahead of time so that you don’t run into any issues later on.

If you’re looking for a dentist in Mississauga, DAAS Dentistry is your best option. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help.

5 Common Types of Cosmetic Dentistry – Our Guide

Sat, 18 May 2019 22:01:34 GMT

The appearance of your teeth plays a significant role in how you are perceived as a person, which means that it has an effect in terms of both your professional and personal life. Therefore, it’s important that you learn how to keep your teeth in the best condition possible.

If the state of your natural teeth is not enough, however, advancements in the field have yielded several cosmetic procedures that can help to ensure that your teeth look and feel better than ever.

Here are five types of cosmetic dentistry that you may want to consider if you want to upgrade your smile:

1. Inlays and Onlays

The onlay is the top layer of the crown of a tooth, which is the area that’s most susceptible to damage. The inlay is the layer inside of the crown, which is where cavities usually form. When there’s significant damage to either of these structures of the teeth, you may need an inlay and/or onlay filler or replacement. The dentist will first take a sample of the bite of the patient to make a mold from their teeth structure. They will then measure where the refitting will need to be installed before they call the patient in for the procedure. The fillers are made in the lab to fit the patient’s natural tooth structure, meaning they will resemble your natural teeth very closely.

2. Composite Bonding

Some types of tooth damage will require your dentist to repair them using composite bonding. Again, the dentist will have to take a sample of your bite to see where they can fit the sculpts onto your teeth to resemble your natural ones. This procedure is commonly used for conditions such as tooth decay, chipped teeth, or worn-down edges and ridges.

3. Dental Veneers

Veneers are fitted to the front side of an individual’s teeth in a natural manner to improve the appearance of their smile. Veneers can be made from many different materials such as ceramic, porcelain, and composite substances. Dental veneers can be used to treat damaged teeth in a similar way to composite bonding. It can also be used for gapped, bent, and chipped teeth as well.

4. Teeth Whitening

When we smile, people expect to see a set of pearly white teeth and not yellowed and browned ones. If your pearly whites aren’t very pearly white, you may want to discuss your course of action with your cosmetic dentist right away. Yellowed teeth can be caused by many things - coffee stains, poor dental hygiene, or even genetics. Regardless of what the cause of your dull teeth may be, your dentist can bring your smile back to life with teeth whitening treatment.

5. Implants

Tooth loss is a much more concerning issue than you may think, as it can lead to significant problems such as the collapse of your dental structure. The teeth in your mouth rest against one another, pushing against each other with a certain amount of pressure. When one tooth is missing, the weight will be pressed against nothing, which means that the teeth adjacent to the absent tooth will start to cave in over with time. Dental implants are built to resemble real teeth, as well as the roots. The dentist will bury a root structure into the jaw bone to act as a base for the implant to be fitted on top of. Once the root is secured, the implant can be mounted on top of it, which will act and feel like a real tooth.

If you’re looking for a dentist in Mississauga, DAAS Dentistry is your best option. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help.

All You Need to Know About Porcelain Veneers

Mon, 13 May 2019 21:44:56 GMT

There’s a lot more to a white and healthy set of teeth than aesthetics. Humans make judgments about one another based on their facial features. One of the facial features that are given the most attention is one’s teeth. After all, a smile helps to show the intention of the individual, as we perceive it to be a gesture of friendliness, sincerity, and trustworthiness.

For this reason, it’s crucial that you keep your teeth in the best condition possible to ensure that you can preserve your pearly whites. Unfortunately, no one can guarantee that there won’t be any problems with your oral health. Therefore, it’s good to know what treatment options are available when problems arise.

Porcelain veneers are one of the most common treatments for many types of dental issues. Are you wondering what exactly it is and what it can be used for? Keep reading to find out!

What are porcelain veneers?

Veneers are shells made from porcelain that is made according to the precise measurements of your teeth. Since they are custom-made, they fit perfectly. Veneers ensure that you have a set of beautiful pearly whites to reveal to the world. If you have a yellow, crooked, gapped, or broken teeth, porcelain veneers are often the treatment that your dentist will recommend.

Are veneers permanent?

Veneers are usually replaced every ten to twenty years, depending on how well you care for them. Although we can consider them a long-term solution, veneers are not permanent.

How are veneers fitted?

The first thing the dentist will do is determine whether or not veneers are a viable option for you. In some cases, a patient’s teeth may be too damaged for veneers, which means that some other treatment option may be required.

If the dentist determines that you are a good candidate for veneers, they will start by getting a print of your bite, which they will then use as a mold for the veneers. The dentist will remove the top layer of the enamel and apply an adhesive substance to the surface of the teeth before applying the veneers onto the surface of the teeth. Once the veneers are fitted, they will be bonded to the enamel before they are cleaned, smoothened, and polished.

Is the procedure painful?

90% of the time, the process is not at all painful, but you may feel some sensitivity in your mouth due to enamel removal. However, there shouldn’t be any significant pain that you need to be worried about.

What are the concerns about porcelain veneers?

Porcelain veneers are prone to breaking, as they aren’t the most durable material. In the case that this happens, you can expect to pay a rather large sum of money for repairs.

After the first week of having the veneers fitted, you should avoid hard foods such as nuts, chips, hard candy, and even large chunks of apples for that matter. These foods may cause your veneers to move out of alignment, as the bonding may not have properly fused.

What are the dentistry requirements for veneers?

If you want to get veneers, you must not have any record of previous veneer bonding or significant damage to your enamel layer. Additionally, you will need a strong and healthy set of teeth to ensure that they can make it through the enamel removal process.

What is the difference between porcelain and ceramic veneers?

Porcelain is much whiter and smoother than ceramic material, giving it a much more pleasing aesthetic appeal, as well as a closer resemblance to natural teeth.

If you’re looking for a dentist in Mississauga, DAAS Dentistry is your best option. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help.

Three Practical Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry

Mon, 06 May 2019 21:22:44 GMT

Cosmetic dentistry is about more than just aesthetic beauty, not only will you get that perfect smile, but cosmetic dentistry will promote oral hygiene, enhance oral function and improve oral health.

So what does cosmetic dentistry entail? To simply put it, cosmetic dentistry involves any dental work with the sole purpose of improving the appearance of the bite, teeth, or gums. The dental work for cosmetic dentistry is focused on improving the alignment, position, size, colour, and shape of an individual’s gums and teeth.

While most individuals undergo cosmetic dentistry for aesthetic purposes, it is worthy to note that the benefits that you can get from cosmetic dentistry go beyond your looks. With that being said, here are three important benefits that you can get from going to a dental clinic for cosmetic dental work:

1. It enhances oral function

Many people think of a perfect smile and a beautiful set of pearly whites as a way to look incredible and make that special someone swoon. That serves as the main reason why an individual visits a dentist for cosmetic dentistry. But many fail to realize that the primary purpose of your mouth, teeth, and oral structure is to eat. Eating is one of man’s basic needs, and we need not argue with Abraham Maslow.

As with the need to take care of our body and keep it healthy, we also need to care for our mouth. Why? If the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, the way to a man’s stomach for food and nutrition is through his mouth. A mouth with a set of strong, healthy teeth will make a great deal of difference in their nourishment. Think of an old man who has a hard time chewing and gnawing. Imagine having a toothache and having to starve yourself for a week or two while you live on smoothies. If your teeth aren’t aligned, eating might be a bit bothersome with all those food chunks getting stuck in between your molars.

The bottom line is that cosmetic dentistry is a way to enhance your oral function. Some of these procedures include gum lifts, dental bridges, gum grafts, Invisalign, dental implants, bite reclamation, and tooth reshaping. Through these procedures, you’ll find eating to be much easier!

2. It promotes oral hygiene

Another benefit of cosmetic dentistry is that it promotes oral hygiene. Most cosmetic procedures require a little bit of dental cleaning prior to the actual treatment. Oral prophylaxis removes tartar and stains accumulated through time brought by smoking, eating, and drinking.

Apart from this, most of these dental procedures focus on restoring broken and cracked teeth. These include inlays, onlays, bonding, crowns, and veneers. Tooth repair will prevent your tooth from further damage and keep it from affecting other teeth as well. Not only will your teeth get strong, but your gums will also be healthy.

Hence, cosmetic dentistry is a good way to promote and maintain oral hygiene. Visiting your dentist on a regular basis will definitely make a difference in your oral hygiene. You will be more confident with your set of teeth and your breath.

3. It improves oral health

Finally, cosmetic dentistry improves oral health by improving your bite, repairing weak teeth, and improving overall function. This results in improved oral health, preventing more serious dental problems in the future.

And there’s more to it than meets to eye. Researchers continue to find evidence that your oral health might have an indirect connection to your overall health. This is seemingly true given that food and nutrition get into your body via eating. Thus, improving oral health can alleviate some common health problems, translating into better overall health.