Everything You Need to Know about Orthodontic Treatments

Several orthodontic treatment options exist today for people who are interested in improving their smile. From traditional braces, headgear, removable appliances, retainers to Invisalign® aligners, there are several options for you to choose from. It can be a challenge to decide which choice is the best for your particular needs. That’s why you should visit your dentist. They will refer you to an orthodontist who can work with you to explain what best suits your needs. We’ve put together some quick facts to help you along the way with your decision.

Are you a candidate for orthodontics?

If your top and bottom teeth do not fit together properly (this is known as a malocclusion or a bad bite) speak to your dentist. There are several things that can affect your bite such as thumb sucking or missing, crooked, crowded or protruding teeth. A bad bite can make it hard to chew some foods, cause your teeth to wear down, cause muscle tension and pain and make you more susceptible to chipped or broken teeth. Orthodontic treatments not only improve your  smile and your health but also reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease as straighter teeth are easier to clean.

There are two types of braces offered:  fixed, which are worn all of the time and can be removed by a dentist and removable, which you can take out of your mouth. The most common types are:

Traditional Braces:

Braces consist of metal brackets being placed on your teeth with an adhesive and are connected by wire and rubber bands. Although they are still metal, you can get brackets that match your teeth enamel (making them more discreet), or choose the colour of your choice. They require periodic tightening so steady pressure can gradually straighten your teeth and align your jaw.

Who is a candidate for traditional braces:

  • If you have a complex bite and alignment issues
  • If you have extreme crowding, gapped or misaligned teeth
  • If you need to address issues with your back teeth, need to rotate teeth or move teeth vertically

Invisalign:

As an alternative to traditional metal braces, Invisalign is an orthodontic adjustment approach that uses a series of clear aligners or trays to gradually adjust your teeth. Invisalign is particularly popular with adults and teenagers that are concerned about the appearance of braces.

How does Invisalign work?

A series of custom-made clear aligners are made using 3D computer imaging technology that gradually shift your teeth. Rather than going to the orthodontist on a bi-monthly basis to have your wires tightened, you’ll be provided with a series of aligners to wear every day and change at home every couple of weeks.

Who is a candidate for invisalign:

  • Those who suffer from mild to moderate bite issues
  • Those who are self conscious about having a “metal mouth”

Key Differences between Invisalign and Traditional Braces

  • Easy to Maintain: the plastic aligners are removable, so it’s easy to brush and floss regularly
  • Shorter Duration of Treatments: Someone who wears metal braces might expect the treatment to take as long as five years. Invisalign normally takes about a year or year-and-a-half to straighten your teeth.
  • Appearance: Some people (especially adults) are self conscious with metal braces as they are unsightly, and can get food caught in them without you being aware of it. Invisalign offers an alternative.
  • Cost: Invisalign is normally more expensive than traditional braces…but both are costly procedures.

If you would like to learn more, please do not hesitate to give us a call or contact us to book an appointment.

What to Expect at a Dental Checkup?

According to the Canadian Dental Association, about 80 percent of Canadians visit their dentist at least once each year for a regular dental checkup. However many people have little to no idea what is actually happening in their mouth while they’re in the dental chair. Whether it’s a first-time visit, or you haven’t had a dental exam in a while, you may be wondering how your appointment will go.

What happens during your dental checkup?

A dental exam

The goal of the examination is to maintain your good oral health and to identify and prevent problems from becoming serious. During the exam, your dentist will check your face, neck and underneath your bottom jawline for any abnormalities (lumps, bumps or swelling). They’ll also inspect and do a thorough examination of your teeth, gums and mouth, looking for signs of tooth decay, gingivitis, and periodontal disease. They’ll  discuss any problems you’ve been experiencing, such as toothaches, sensitivity, or cosmetic concerns as well as put together a personalized treatment plan designed to improve your oral health.

X-rays

Since the majority of problems with your teeth and the jawbone are not visible to the naked eye, your first dental appointment will most likely include new X-rays. X-rays play a key role in providing a more accurate look at what is really going on inside your mouth and below your teeth and gums. By using X-rays, your dentist can diagnose problems otherwise unnoticed, such as damage to jawbones, impacted teeth, abscesses, cysts or tumors, decay between the teeth and check for any bone loss.

A thorough cleaning

Prior to sitting in the chair, it is important that your dental care team knows about any health concerns, anxieties, or allergies you may have in order to avoid any mishaps and to make sure you get the kind of care you need. Before anything is done inside your mouth your hygienist will need to know about your medical history if this is your first appointment at the dental practice, if you have been to the practice before, any changes in your health (i.e. new medications, pregnancy, etc).

Scheduling your next appointment:

According to the Canadian Dental Association, you should be visiting the dentist twice annually for routine hygiene appointments. To maintain a proper oral regime or if further  dental treatment is required (i.e. filling a cavity, removing a wisdom tooth, or repairing a broken crown — you should make an appointment before leaving the office.

If you would like to learn more, please do not hesitate to give us a call or contact us to book an appointment.

Is Sedation Dentistry a Solution for Anxiety?

If you suffer from dental anxiety, you’re not alone. Reports show that 40 percent of Canadians worry about the potential pain and discomfort that they may encounter during regular hygiene appointments or more complex dental work (i.e. periodontics, extractions, etc.) While sedation dentistry can ease your mind and help you feel more relaxed during procedures, is it always right for you?

Below we’ve provided some information on sedation and sleep dentistry.

What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry administers medication to help patients relax and ease the pain during or after dental procedures. Although it’s commonly interchanged with sleep dentistry; the difference between the two is that sleep dentistry uses general anesthetics which makes you unconscious while, sedatives relax you, but won’t totally knock you out.

Common types of sedation/sleep dentistry:

  • Nitrous oxide: Also known as ‘laughing gas’ this helps relax you during your procedure. It wears off fairly quickly, so you may be able to drive home after and function within a reasonable time frame.
  • Oral sedatives: Oral sedatives (e.g. such as diazepam or valium), also helps relax you during dental procedures. You typically take them an hour or so before your appointment as they take longer to break down than gas. With oral sedatives, you’re fully awake but less anxious, and you might feel a little sleepy and/or incoherent.
  • Intravenous sedatives: Intravenous/IV sedatives (needles that are inserted into veins) can put you in varying stages of consciousness and will put you into a deep or twilight sleep (one where you’re less aware of your surrounding and generally incoherent).

Who is the most appropriate candidate for sedation dentistry?

Sedation is most appropriate for people with an overwhelming fear or anxiety that prevents them from going to the dentist. It can generally help patients get through many types of dental work (i.e. root canals, extractions, dental implants/dentures, etc), but is not typically offered for regular dental cleanings, x-rays, and other routine care.

Other patients who may need sedation dentistry include:

  • Patients who suffer from dental phobia (fear of the dentist or dental procedures)
  • Patients who have had negative experiences with past dentists
  • Those who have a strong gag reflex
  • Those who are resistant to local anesthetics
  • Those who are having extensive/complex work done

Is sedation dentistry safe?

Yes, but keep in mind that there are only a small percentage of dentists, oral, maxillofacial surgeons and dentist anesthesiologists who have completed the accreditations in sleep sedation and general anesthesia.

Here’s a checklist of what needs to be done if you’re a candidate for sedation dentistry:

  • Prior to your procedure, your dentist should go over your medical history to determine whether you are an appropriate candidate for sedation and ask about any medications you’re currently taking. They’ll also provide you with information if there any risks associated with the anesthetic and let you know all the information you need before starting your procedure.
  • Ensure your dentist/anesthesiologist has the proper amount of training needed to perform these techniques from guidelines stipulated from the Royal College of Dental Surgeons in Ontario.
  • Ask relevant questions, such as: what sedative is appropriate for your age, general questions associated with risks (if you have any health issues).

Our goal is for you to be relaxed and comfortable so you can enjoy a pleasant experience at our practice. To determine if you’re a candidate for sedation dentistry or experience any anxiety about dental procedures, please reach out to our dental professionals.

Types of Dentures Explained

Are you in the process of researching different types of dentures and tooth replacement to see which one is right for you or a family member?  We’ve compiled a little tip sheet to help you in your decision-making process.

What are dentures? 

Implant dentistry (aka dentures) is the ideal long-term solution for tooth loss. Dentures are removable appliances that can behave as either a full or partial set of teeth replacement appliances in one or more areas of your mouth.

Why would someone need dentures?

The three most common reason people may need dentures are:

  1. Decay:  if you’ve suffered from tooth decay for years, this may lead to your have led to teeth rotting and falling out.  Reasons for tooth decay can result from lack of goodhereditary or diet related, despite regular brushing and dental checkups.
  2. Gum Disease: if left untreated, gum disease can result in the loss of teeth, making dentures the best (and in some cases the only) option for restoring a smile.
  3. Injuries: a facial injury can result in multiple teeth falling out or becoming seriously damaged. Dentures can quickly and easily restore your smile if you’ve ever experienced a hit to your face that damaged your teeth.

What are the types of dentures: 

There are several different types of dentures based on your needs.

Full Dentures: Dentures for replacing a full set of teeth; these dentures include a flesh-colored acrylic base that covers the gums and the roof of the mouth, allowing an entire set of false teeth to sit firmly.

Partial Dentures:  When just a few teeth are missing, partial dentures fill the gap.

Custom dentures: Custom dentures are made of more expensive teeth which results in a more natural-looking smile.

Immediate dentures: Immediate dentures are typically placed on the same day that the teeth are removed/extracted.

Implant supported dentures: The denture provides a great amount of support for a solid foundation, which allows the denture to stay securely in place.

Snap-in dentures: Snap-in dentures are very stable and are used when a patient doesn’t have any teeth, but enough bone density to support an implant.

Overdentures: Titanium posts (implants) are inserted into the jaw where the bone will heal around them. An overdenture sits on top of the gums and is held in place with dental implants. It can be placed on the upper and/or the lower jaw, depending on the patient’s needs. The overdenture is also removable.

Upper dentures: Upper dentures are just that—-dentures for the upper teeth—-if you are missing teeth in the upper jaw.

Economy dentures:  Generic in nature, economy dentures are typically the cheapest form of dentures. They normally don’t fit securely or comfortably in the mouth and they look artificial.

If you have any additional questions, it’s best to speak to your dentist or be referred to a denturist, as they’re professionals in the field and would have the most accurate answers.

How much do dentures cost?

The cost of dentures can range depending on whether they are for the upper or lower arch, the quality, materials used, fees that the denturist charges (based on their level of expertise and the services they provide). If you or your spouse have insurance/benefits this may also cover some of the costs (depending on your plan coverage).

What payment plans are available?

Dentures or any type of dental implants are expensive (whether or not you have coverage). We offer financing for all of our procedures, making oral care affordable for you and your family.

If you would like to learn more, please do not hesitate to give us a call or contact us to book an appointment.

 

Can Tooth Enamel be Restored?

According to the Canadian Dental Association, there are a significant number of Canadians who suffer from enamel erosion. Because enamel plays a vital role in protecting your teeth from decay, it’s best to do everything that you can to prevent your enamel from eroding.

What is tooth enamel?

Enamel is a mineral that acts as a strong barrier for your teeth sheilding the inner layers from your teeth from the effects of acids and plaque as well as hot and cold foods. It’s one of the hardest tissues in your body, however similar to bones in your body, once the enamel is gone, the lost portion can’t ever be replaced; however if it has become weakened, it can be restored.

Here are some causes of tooth enamel erosion:

  • Acidic drinks (e.g. citrus juices, pop, etc.)
  • Starches and sugars
  • Medical conditions like acid reflux disease, dry mouth, inherited genetic conditions, low salivary flow and gastrointestinal problems
  • Wear and tear, teeth grinding (bruxism), friction, brushing too hard, brushing when tooth enamel is softened
  • Poor oral hygiene can cause enamel erosion

How you can spot tooth erosion?

Early detection and treatment of tooth decay is important, so here are some symptoms to look out for.

  • Tooth sensitivity: your teeth may hurt when you eat very hot or cold foods, when you brush, or when your gum line is exposed to air
  • Yellow teeth: when your teeth appear to be yellow, the enamel is so thin, you’re actually seeing the dentin (which is yellow in colour)
  • Uneven edges: when your tooth enamel wears away, it can result in rough edges, chips and cracks
  • Dental spots: shiny white spots on your teeth is indicative of demineralization. Dark, brown or other forms of discolouration may be signs of a cavity
  • Increased tooth decay: when the protective surface on your teeth becomes worn down, your teeth become more susceptible to cavities
  • Tooth fracturing: as enamel grows weaker, your teeth eventually become weaker which can cause cracks and fractures
  • Bad breath: pesky, stuck-on bacteria causes plaque build up which causes bad breath. Depending on the severity of the build-up this may weaken the tooth pulp within the gum line which can also often emit bad odours

Prevention and restoration techniques: 

Since it’s impossible for your body to make new enamel, your goal should be to strengthen and repair the enamel you have. One of the best ways to restore your tooth enamel is to maintain good oral hygiene. The Oral Health Foundation recommends these steps to help prevent tooth enamel erosion:

  • Brushing and flossing your teeth daily and after every meal
  • Little to no consumption of too sugars, snacks and acidic foods (i.e. sports drinks, fruits like lemons, oranges, etc.)
  • Avoiding mouthwashes and toothpastes that contain alcohol in it
  • Avoid clenching and grinding your teeth
  • Chewing sugar-free gum after eating to maintain a steady saliva flow
  • Receiving regular hygiene appointments with your dentist (minimum of twice a year)

April is National Oral Health Month. Each year, approximately 3,200 Canadians are diagnosed with oral cancer with 1,050 deaths occurring. This is why Altima Dental offers free oral cancer health screenings each April, as we strive to detect and prevent oral cancer.

If you would like to learn more, please do not hesitate to give us a call or contact us to book an appointment.

 

How Does Nutrition Affect Dental Health?

Did you know that healthy teeth is linked to a balanced diet and eating healthy? As much as brushing consistently, flossing and rinsing is important, what you eat can have a significant impact on your oral health. By getting rid of unhealthy food from your diet and visiting the dentist regularly, you’re drastically increasing your chances of maintaining healthy teeth and decreasing your chances of acquiring gum disease.

What is the correlation between diet and healthy teeth nutrition?

Foods that contain sugars can lead to tooth decay. In fact, many researchers believe that the disease progresses faster and is potentially more severe in people with poor nutrition. According to the Canadian Dental Association, a proper, balanced diet is good for your overall and dental health. Without proper nutrients, your teeth and gums become more susceptible to decay and gum disease and it may be more difficult for tissues in your mouth to resist infection. To control the amount of sugar you eat, read the nutrition facts and ingredient labels on foods and beverages, choose options that are lowest in sugar but your best bet is to buy natural ingredients (as opposed to processed or canned foods) to properly maintain your diet.

Foods/Snacks to avoid:

  • Sugary snacks: sugar is one of the main causes of dental problems. The average Canadian eats the equivalent of 110 grams of sugar each day (approximately 21 percent of your daily energy intake).
  • Processed Foods of foods that have been genetically modified.
  • Foods that are high in sugar or sugar substitutes (typically ending in -ose like high fructose corn syrup).
  • Sports drinks: sports drinks do not contain of sugars but contain a lot of acids. The acid in these drinks breaks down the tooth’s enamel, causing your teeth to become overly sensitive to temperature changes and touch.
  • Refrain from drinks that stain your teeth.
  • Tobacco: Cigarettes, cigars and chewing/smokeless tobacco are all harmful for you oral and overall health. In addition to containing nicotine, cigarettes also contain approximately 28 harmful chemicals.

Some great-tasting snacks that won’t harm your teeth:

  • Foods that contain dairy: Milk, buttermilk, yogurt and cheese contain calcium, which help assist with tooth development and strengthen your teeth and gums.
  • Fruit and raw vegetables: For vegetarians, vegans or those with dietary restrictions, (i.e. lactose intolerance) fruits and veggies contain a ton of vitamins which are very important for good oral health. Eating one cup of dark leafy greens (e.g. kale, bok choy, spinach, collards, etc.) daily provides nearly 10 percent of the recommended daily calcium allowance. Fruits and vegetables are also fibrous in nature, meaning they’re able to stimulate the salivary glands to release lots of saliva, which in turn protects your teeth.
  • Sugar-free gum: Sugar-free chewing gum increased the salivary flow in your mouth.  Saliva can washes away food, neutralizes acid in the mouth, and can repair damaged teeth.  If you can’t brush after you eat, try chewing a piece of gum. Some gums, contain xylitol, which is a sugar-alcohol that can actually kill the bacteria that ruin your teeth.

Everything you eat affects your whole body, which is why it is so important to visit your dentist regularly, as they’re the only people who have the skills and expertise to properly address all your oral health care needs.

If you would like to learn more, please do not hesitate to give us a call or contact us to book an appointment.

 

How Does Dental Scaling and Root Planing Help Prevent Gum Disease

According to the Canadian Dental Association, 70 per cent of the Canadian population will develop gum disease at some point in their life. Gum disease occurs when your gum line becomes inflamed with bacteria (caused by plaque and tartar build up) that can spread to the bones that surround and support your teeth. There are three stages of gum disease: gingivitis (mild gum inflammation), periodontitis and advanced periodontitis. While curable and preventable, gum disease can often go undetected and once symptoms are spotted it’s often to the point where it’s so advanced you may need dental scaling and/or root planing. If untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis causing tooth decay and loss.

What is dental scaling and root planing?

Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical procedure done to treat periodontal disease. Often referred to as a deep cleaning, the procedure involves thoroughly removing bacterial toxins and tartar deposits from your teeth, root and crown surfaces. If you have gum pockets that are four to six millimetres in depth, you may require root planing, which removes hard tartar and surface dentin and smooths all rough areas on your root surfaces. Smooth root surfaces keep bacteria, plaque and tartar from re-adhering underneath the gum line, allowing your gums to heal and reattach themselves more firmly.

When would someone need dental scaling and root planing? 

Mild forms of gum disease don’t show any symptoms which is why having regular dental visits are key. If you have a stubborn plaque that can’t be removed by brushing or flossing, your dentist may recommend scaling – which acts as a preventative measure to help reduce the risk of gum disease. It’s also different from a standard dental cleaning as it involves cleaning areas of the tooth below the gum line. When you have more advanced signs of gum disease this is when you would require root planing.

Is scaling a painful procedure?

Not really, as the hygienist or dentist numbs your gums and teeth with a local anaesthetic. After the procedure, your gums may be a little tender and numb; however, by maintaining a proper oral home care routine your gums should be pink and healthy within a few hours.

How to maintain your teeth after treatment:

According to Oral-B, the easiest way to maintain healthy teeth and gums after periodontitis/gum disease is having a robust oral care routine to help keep your mouth healthy. Regular hygiene visits to your dentist are also strongly recommended.

If you’re looking to maintain healthy teeth or gums after treatment or reduce the risks of developing a gum disease, try these simple but effective methods.

  • Brush at least twice daily
  • Replace your toothbrush when bristles are worn
  • Floss daily in between your teeth to remove hidden plaque
  • Use an antimicrobial mouthwash

To ensure optimal dental health, it’s best that you maintain proper oral health regimes as gum disease can open the door to several other oral and physical conditions.

If you would like to learn more, please do not hesitate to give us a call or contact us to book an appointment.

Five Tips for Prevention And Treatment of Toothaches

Toothaches can create a mouthful of pain for anyone dealing with dental problems. Tooth decay is the main reason why toothaches occur, however other reasons include: infection, gum disease, an abnormal bite, and teeth grinding.

Below are some tips to not only prevent but to also provide relief if you have encountered tooth pain.

  • Floss Regularly:  Food particles sometimes get trapped in places where your toothbrush won’t go. Lodged food particles cause bacteria to grow in between the teeth and gums which will cause abscesses to grow, eventually leading to toothaches. Regular flossing reduces your risk of developing gum disease because it removes the hidden plaque.
  • Brush twice daily:  Whether you use a manual or electric toothbrush, brush with a fluoride toothpaste to decrease your risk of getting a cavity.
  • Eat Vitamin C:  There’s a strong connection between vitamin C and healthy gums. Vitamin C is a powerful antibiotic that destroys bacteria and helps with blood flow and tissue repair. Studies from the American Dental Association show that the less vitamin C one consumes, the greater the risk of periodontal disease.
  • Decrease consumption of sugars:  Despite what you eat, bacteria is continuously growing on your teeth. This bacteria thrives on sugary substances, and it will only build up and harden after consuming sugary foods. This makes it harder for the bacteria to be cleaned with flossing and brushing and creates an environment for the bacteria to thrive.
  • Use a toothpaste for sensitive teeth:  According to Colgate, sensitivity occurs on your teeth when enamel is damaged, thinned or eroded which leaves the underlying dentin exposed. Whether you have sensitive teeth or not, toothpastes designed for sensitivity have ingredients to reduce teeth sensitivity which will make you less susceptible to discomfort.

Prevention is key!  However, if you have a toothache it’s best to visit a dentist right away, Here are a few tips you can follow to treat the pain if you can’t see your dentist immediately.

  • Do a salt water rinse: If your gums are in pain make a salt water rinse and gargle the water in your mouth, paying special attention to the affected area. Repeat 4-5 times daily/or until the pain subsides.
  • Keep your head elevated: If you are suffering from a toothache, try sleeping with your head slightly elevated as it limits the effect of increased blood pressure to the head relieving the pain associated with toothaches. It also relieves pressure in blood vessels along sensitive areas of the gum line.
  • Drink clove oil: This herb is beneficial as it contains anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant and anesthetic properties that help alleviate tooth pain and help combat infection.
  • Eat small amounts of onions: Onions offer antiseptic and antimicrobial properties that are known to kill the bacteria in the mouth and placing a raw onion on the tooth ache reduces inflammation.
  • Take painkillers or Benzocaine:  Anti-inflammatory drugs like Ibuprofen and Aspirin and Benzocaine (often known as Orajel) will help temporarily relieve the pain for most minor toothaches.
  • Avoid extreme hot and cold foods:  Over time, tiny cracks can develop as your teeth expand and contract with exposure to hot and cold temperatures; this may create erosion in your enamel which may cause tooth aches.

Taking proper care of your teeth through a regular oral hygiene routine can help with sensitivity due to decay and gum disease. Even with the best care, sensitivity can be the result of a cracked tooth or regular wear and tear. By defining your symptoms and seeing your dentist, you can have the healthy teeth you’ve always wanted.

Four Healthy Mouth Tips

With a new year now here, what better time is there to evaluate your oral health? Considering oral health has a direct impact on your overall health, your mouth acts as a window to the rest of your body and often detects early signs of systemic disease.

Here are four tips for a healthy mouth:

  1. Visit the dentist regularly and consistently. According to the Canadian Dental Association, 75 percent of Canadians go to the dentist annually and they recommend that patients should visit dentists approximately twice a year to keep your teeth and gums strong and healthy. Regular cleanings and dental exams can help prevent gingivitis, periodontitis. It also decreases your chances of gum disease and helps to prevent future oral problems.
  2. Eat well and Watch your sugar intake. It’s important to monitor or reduce sugar intake (i.e. carbonated beverages, fruit juices, coffee, and alcohol). These sugary snacks create an environment for halitosis (bad breath), as well as produce acid which breaks down the enamel on your teeth causing excessive plaque to build up; which if not taken care of will eat away at your teeth and gums. A balanced diet is also crucial to your teeth. Studies from the University of Manitoba found that not only do nutrients help create stronger teeth; some fatty acids (i.e. Omega 3, calcium, vitamin D) can lower the risk of gum disease.
  3. Avoid Smoking. Most people are under the assumption that smoking only discolours your teeth, however cigarettes also contribute to gum disease and oral cancer as the nicotine and tar eats away at your gums and tissues, making your mouth more susceptible to bacteria and plaque that will infiltrate your teeth.
  4. Brush and Floss Your Teeth and Tongue Consistently. To maintain a healthy smile, it’s best to brush your teeth and tongue a minimum of twice a day to remove any plaque and tartar buildup. Most toothpaste also contains fluoride which helps prevent tooth decay as well as freshens your breath. The Canadian Dental Association recommends you floss a minimum of once per day. Flossing is important as it acts as an interdental cleaner while helps clean the spaces where the toothbrush can’t reach as well as it removes the stuck on tartar and food particles that reside there.

What better time is there to implement a proper dental regime?

If you would like to learn more, please do not hesitate to give us a call or contact us to book an appointment.