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Dental FAQs

Dentistry is the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions, disorders, and diseases of the teeth, gums, mouth, and jaw. Often considered necessary for complete oral health, dentistry can have an impact on the health of your entire body.

Dentists do much more than fix teeth, they diagnose, treat, and help prevent oral health problems. After at least eight years of schooling, they earn either a DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine). Some go on to specialize. For example, pediatric dentists focus on children from infancy to their teen years, with extra training to make visits easier for kids. Other specialties include:

  • Endodontics – root canals

  • Oral & Maxillofacial – pathology, radiology, surgery

  • Orthodontics – braces and bite alignment

  • Periodontics – gum disease care

  • Prosthodontics – implants and restorations

Regular dental visits don’t just protect your smile, they support your overall health too. Good dental care:

  • Prevents cavities and gum disease

  • Fights bad breath by reducing harmful bacteria

  • Keeps your smile bright and confidence high

  • Protects against tooth and bone loss

  • Helps your teeth stay strong for life

A healthy mouth means a healthier, happier you.

Children, teens, and adults should all see the dentist for a regular checkup at least once every six months. Patients who are at a greater risk for oral cancer or gum disease may be required to see the dentist more than just twice a year. Your doctor will help determine how often you should visit the dentist for regular checkups.

A cavity is a hole in the tooth caused by decay. It forms when plaque mixes with sugars and starches in your food, creating acid that eats away at enamel. Left untreated, cavities can lead to serious dental problems. The good news? Brushing twice a day and flossing daily goes a long way in preventing them.

A filling is a synthetic material that your dentist uses to fill a cavity after all of the tooth decay has been removed. Fillings do not generally hurt because your dentist will numb your mouth with an anesthetic. Fillings are made from a variety of different materials, including composites, gold, or ceramic. If you need a filling, be sure to talk to your doctor about what type is best for you and your teeth.

Dentists and the Canadian Dental Association recommend brushing at least twice a day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with fluoride toothpaste, and spend about a minute on your top teeth and a minute on the bottom. Don’t forget your tongue, it helps keep your breath fresh!

Change your toothbrush every three months, or sooner if you’ve been sick. If you have gum disease, switch it out every month or so. Always rinse it well with hot water after brushing to keep it clean. For electric brushes, follow the guide on when to replace the heads.

Even if your teeth feel fine, regular dental visits are important because issues can hide without pain. Your dentist helps keep your smile healthy and bright. With modern treatments like whitening, natural-looking fillings, and tooth replacements, you can have a smile you’re proud of.

Choose a dentist who feels like a good fit for you and your family. On your first visit, see if the schedule is convenient, the office is clean and nearby, and your health history is properly recorded. Make sure the dentist explains oral care clearly and discusses costs upfront. Checking if they’re a member of the Canadian Dental Association can also give you confidence.

Take care of your teeth by brushing twice a day and flossing daily. Use fluoride toothpaste, and ask your dentist about fluoride rinses to prevent cavities. Cut back on sugary foods and avoid tobacco to protect your teeth and gums. Don’t forget to brush your tongue to keep your breath fresh. And remember to schedule dental checkups every six months.

The Canadian Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (CAPD) 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.

Children, teens, and adults should all see the dentist for a regular checkup at least once every six months. Patients who are at a greater risk for oral cancer or gum disease may be required to see the dentist more than just twice a year. Your doctor will help determine how often you should visit the dentist for regular checkups.

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, starts when plaque and bacteria aren’t treated early. It can also be caused by tobacco, teeth grinding, certain medications, and genetics. The early stage, gingivitis, is treatable, but if ignored, it can lead to permanent tooth and bone loss. Brushing regularly and seeing your dentist every six months helps prevent it. Watch for red, swollen, or bleeding gums, bad breath, loose teeth, sensitivity, receding gums, or abscesses.

Yes! In fact, it’s even more important that patients receiving orthodontic treatment visit their dentist regularly. With braces, food may be caught in places that your toothbrush can’t reach. This causes bacteria to build up and can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Your dentist will work closely with your orthodontist to make sure that your teeth stay clean and healthy while wearing braces.

Simply call our practice! Our front desk staff will be happy to help schedule your next dental checkup at your convenience. If you are a new patient, please let us know and we will provide you with all the information you need for your first dental visit.