Recent studies have shown that by the age of three, a child is already at risk of having cavities which can be caused by something as innocent as fruit leather snacks or putting a baby to sleep with a bottle of warm milk. Along with taking our first look at your child’s oral condition, this first appointment is also largely focused on the parents and helping them to establish a good oral hygiene routine and diet for their child.

It is a little known fact that a child’s baby teeth (or primary teeth) are vital to the long-term health of their permanent adult teeth. The early loss of baby teeth can cause serious complications including poorly spaced and crooked adult teeth. As a result, it is just as important to care for a child’s baby teeth as it is to care for the adult teeth that follow.

The Canadian Dental Association recommends that children first see a dentist as early as six months of age and no later than one year of age. During this time, your child’s baby teeth will be coming in and your dentist can examine the health of your child’s first few teeth. After the first visit, be sure to schedule regular checkups every six months.

Cosmetic dentistry combines both art and science to give you a healthy, aesthetic, flawless smile. While general dentistry is aimed at maintaining the health of your teeth and gums, cosmetic dentistry provides comprehensive treatment options that improve and preserve the way your smile looks and feels.

Common cosmetic treatments include:

• Teeth whitening
• Contouring/tooth reshaping
• Bridges
• Veneers
• Crowns
• Dental implants
• White fillings
• And more

Just as every smile we treat is unique, so are the treatments we provide. While cosmetic treatment times may vary, some treatments are completed within one office visit!

Patients who experience the most benefits from having their teeth whitened:

• Are in good dental health
• Maintain good dental health (i.e. brush two times a day, floss, receive regular dental checkups every six months, etc.)
• May suffer from slightly discoloured teeth
• Wish to improve the look of their smile

Teeth whitening is a safe, effective procedure and does not typically include any negative side effects. Minor side effects may consist of:

• Increased tooth sensitivity to hot or cold
• White spots on the surface of the teeth (a potential side effect of at-home whitening systems)
• Nighttime whitening trays may cause additional gum sensitivity or irritation

A cavity is a small hole that forms inside the tooth because of tooth decay. Cavities are formed when plaque builds up on the outside of the tooth, combined with sugars and starches in the food you eat. This produces an acid that can eat away the enamel on your tooth. If a cavity is left untreated, it can lead to more serious oral health problems. Cavities can be prevented by remembering to brush your teeth at least two times a day and floss between teeth at least once.

Your toothbrush will eventually wear out, especially if you are brushing your teeth twice a day. Adults and children should change their toothbrush every three months. If you are using an electric toothbrush, be sure to read the directions because you may not need to change toothbrush heads as frequently. Patients with gum disease are encouraged to change their toothbrush every four to six weeks to keep any bacteria from spreading. After brushing, rinse your toothbrush with hot water to kill germs and keep the bristles clean. If you’ve been sick, be sure to change your toothbrush as soon as possible.

Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease is mostly caused by plaque and bacteria buildup that is not treated in its early stage. Other causes of periodontal disease include tobacco use, teeth grinding, some medications, and genetics. Gingivitis is the beginning stage of gum disease and, if detected, is treatable. Gingivitis left untreated may turn into gum disease. Advanced gum disease will lead to tooth and bone loss. Brushing your teeth regularly and visiting the dentist every six months will help prevent gingivitis and more severe cases of periodontal disease. Common signs of gum disease include:

• Red, irritated, bleeding, or swollen gums
• Chronic bad breath
• Loose teeth, or loss of teeth
• Extreme tooth sensitivity
• Receding gum line
• Abscesses on gums

Simply call our office or request an appointment online! Our friendly staff will be happy to help schedule your next dental checkup at your convenience. If you are a new patient, just fill out a new patient form and we’ll provide you with all the information you need for your first dental visit.