Dental Services

There are a few different ideas swirling around out there about how frequently you actually need to visit the dentist.

Most people need to visit their dentist for a regular hygiene visit twice a year, or once every six months.

There are exceptions to this rule, however. If you have gum disease, or a history of gum disease, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits. Another reason you may need to see the dentist more frequently is if you are undergoing orthodontic treatment.

The bottom line is that you need to at least see the dentist twice a year and you need to comply if it is recommended that you make those visits more frequent.

Regular exams help spot trouble early to prevent bigger and more costly treatments later.A dental hygienist will start by cleaning buildup from your teeth. Then the dentist will probe spots on the surfaces and near the gumline with special tools. If it’s been a while between appointments, you may have some sore and sensitive areas.You should get an exam every 6 months, or more often if your dentist recommends it. Find one who makes you feel at ease and lets you know what to expect. Often the dread of seeing the dentist turns to big relief when the visit is over and you have a care plan set up. Being positive as a parent can help your kids overcome any of their fears.

Flossing reduces the number of bacteria in your mouth.

There are millions of these microscopic creatures feeding on food particles left on your teeth. These bacteria live in plaque which can be removed by flossing. Brushing your teeth gets rid of some of the bacteria in your mouth. Flossing gets rid of the bacteria the toothbrush can’t get to. That’s the bacteria hiding in the tiny spaces between your teeth. If you do not floss, you allow plaque to remain between your teeth. Eventually it hardens into tartar. Plaque can be removed by brushing. Only the dentist can remove tartar.

Ask your dentist to show you the proper way to floss. You will both notice the difference at the next cleaning appointment.

Many diseases of the teeth and surrounding tissues cannot be seen when the dentist examines the mouth.
An X-ray examination may reveal:

• small areas of decay between the teeth or below existing restorations (fillings)

• infections in the bone

• periodontal (gum) disease

• abscesses or cysts

• developmental abnormalities

• some types of tumours

Finding and treating dental problems at an early stage can save time, money and often unnecessary discomfort. X-rays can detect damage to oral structures not visible during a regular exam. If you have a hidden tumour, X-rays may even help save your life. Dentist will evaluate your need for X-rays based on the conditions present in development. There are many benefits to having X-rays taken.

Any additional questions or concerns should be discussed with your dentist.

Cavities break through the surface enamel of teeth, and they’ll probably get bigger unless you close them off with fillings.Your dentist will numb your mouth before drilling around the cavity to prep it. A combination of strong materials or a white mix called a composite goes into the cavity soft and then hardens as it dries. You may feel pain or pressure when getting the numbing shot and during the drilling.Once set, fillings can last a long time but need replacing if they break or wear down