Why are my teeth sensitive?
There are a number of factors that may cause teeth to be sensitive, and there are a number of types of sensitivity that my be experienced. One of the most common types of sensitivity reported is sensitivity to hot and/or cold. Often, this type of sensitivity is due to recession of your gums. To manage and treat this type of sensitivity, there are a number of toothpastes, gels and some dental procedures that can be applied. We can help you determine the cause of your sensitivity and offer advise for managing the problem.
What should I do to prevent gum disease and tooth decay?
Great teeth and gums begin at home. Regular brushing and flossing are the best way to maintain optimal oral health. Following a daily schedule for home care will greatly minimize the risk of gingivitis or tooth decay. It is also important to maintain regular visits with a dental professional.
What is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is a common and mild form of gum disease that causes irritation, redness and swelling of your gingiva (the part of your gum around the base of your teeth). It is important to take gingivitis seriously and treat it immediately. Left untreated, gingivitis can lead to more serious gum disease. Good home care and regular visits to a Dental Hygienist are imperative. During a dental hygiene appointment, our Hygiene team will offer tips on proper brushing and flossing techniques and will establish a schedule for your regular visits to our office. Together we can achieve optimal oral health.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal Disease commonly known as "Gum Disease", and is a serious gum infection that damages soft tissue and destroys the bone that surrounds teeth. Periodontitis can cause teeth to loosen or lead to tooth loss. One of the first signs of disease is bleeding of gums when brushing, indicating gingivitis. Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, often without any signs to alert you.
As periodontal disease advances, you may notice symptoms, such as:
- Foul Breath
- Gum Recession
- Gum Sensitivity to Acidic Foods
- Abscesses
- Tooth Pain
- Tooth Loss
How Do You Treat Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal Disease is a chronic condition that demands immediate attention. With a series of periodontal cleanings, root planing & scaling by a Dental Hygienist, and possibly local Antibiotics, this condition can be controlled. A referral to a Periodontist ("gum" specialist) and Periodontal Surgery may also be recommended. A Dentist and a Dental Hygienist can evaluate your situation and advise you of the treatment you require.
What is the Difference Between a White Filling and a Silver Filling?
"Silver" Fillings, known as Amalgams, have been around for decades. Amalgams are composed of metal alloy and were once considered the material of choice for restorations (fillings). Ease of application, strength, and durability are all factors which made amalgams favorable. Recent concern about detrimental health effects, aesthetics, and environmental concerns have led to a decline in use. "White" Fillings, also known as composites, are often made of powdered glass and acrylic resin. They are cosmetically appealing and allow a cavity to be filled with a substance that will look and feel just like your existing tooth structure.
How Can I Improve My Smile?
There are many options with which you can enhance your smile. Tooth whitening, bonding, porcelain veneers, porcelain crowns, orthodontics are but a few options available. A consultation with a dentist is the best way to determine which options will work best for your situation. Contact our office so that we may provide you with a customized treatment plan.
What is Tooth Whitening?
Tooth Whitening is a cost effective and safe procedure used to enhance and improve the color of your teeth. Tooth Whitening should be monitored by your dentist and the procedure should be done only after a comprehensive exam and hygiene cleaning. The whitening process can last for a number of years if maintained properly. Beverages such as coffee, tea, cola and wine will reduce the lasting effect. Periodic "refresher" treatment can be used to maintain the desired color.
What is Bonding?
Bonding is a procedure used to improve the aesthetics of a smile. It is a resin material and can be used to close spaces between teeth, or to change a tooth’s color or shape. The immediate results are amazing. Bonding will change color over time due to coffee, tea, cola, wine or smoking.
What are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that are placed directly on the face of your natural teeth. Veneers can be used to change the size, shape and color of a tooth. This procedure is used to repair fractured teeth, teeth darkened by age or medication, or minor misalignment. A Porcelain veneer is often more desirable than bonding because it will not stain as bonding material will. Porcelain veneers require two office visits and are more costly than bonding.
What are Crowns?
A Crown (also called a cap)is a permanent restoration. It is fabricated in a lab and is cemented over the entire tooth. A crown may be used to restore shape, appearance and function to a tooth. A crown will be necessary if you have had a root canal, a large filling in a tooth or a broken tooth.
What is a Dental Implant?
A Dental Implant is a “man-made” replacement for a missing tooth or tooth root. Made from titanium, this screw-like object is inserted under the gum and directly into the upper or lower jaw bone. There is usually minimal discomfort involved with this procedure. After a period of a few months, the Dental Implant and the bone fuse together. This creates an anchor for the new tooth to be placed onto the dental implant.
What are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
- Dental Implants look and function like your natural tooth.
- Dental Implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth.
- Dental Implants are maintained by routine hygiene visits to your dental office.
- Dental Implants decrease the possibility of bone loss, periodontal disease, tooth movement, and further tooth loss.
- Dental Implants replace the need for a Partial Denture and greatly augments a full denture
- Dental Implants focus only on the tooth or teeth that are missing. A traditional bridge would involve the two or more adjacent teeth being compromised to create a false tooth in between.
Who is a candidate for Dental Implants?
With major advancements in Dentistry and Dental Implants, most people are candidates for Dental Implants. There may be exceptions due to chronic illness, heart disease, and severe osteoporosis.
What does the Dental Implant Procedure Involve?
The average Dental Implant Procedure involves 3 - 4 appointments. The initial visit will include taking records to be used as a guide, and an impression from which a temporary prosthesis will be fabricated to cover the Implant. During the next visit, the implant will be placed. The procedure is usually completed with minor discomfort. You will next return in approximately 3 months to begin creating the Porcelain Crown to place over the Implant.
How Much Does a Dental Implant Cost?
Fees from Dental Implants vary from dentist to dentist, province to province. Always schedule an Implant consultation to discuss the procedure and all fees involved.
How long does a Dental Implant last?
With routine dental hygiene scheduled and proper home care, a Dental Implant can last approximately 30 years to a lifetime.
Does your office offer financing for services provided?
We will certainly work with you to help make your dental requirements affordable. Please contact us to discuss some options.