Taking the Fear Out of a Dental Visit – 5 Tips for An Easy Appointment

Taking the Fear Out of a Dental Visit – 5 Tips for An Easy Appointment — Pickering, ON

Did you know that an estimated 40% of Canadians have a fear of visiting the dentist?

Despite many impressive technological advances that make most types of dental work a breeze compared to what they once were, dental anxiety is still a very common occurrence. This is primarily because fear is a psychological phenomenon, but one that still feels very real, nonetheless.

In addition, there are numerous variations of fear that people can experience when it comes to a visit to the dentist. Some people may have a fear of needles, some may dislike drills and other dental tools, and some might be self-conscious about their oral health and hygiene.

Our Top 5 Tips to Make Your Dental Visit Easier

Dental Care

The good news is that it is totally possible to overcome your dental anxiety and walk into your dentist office with confidence.

Here’s how:

1. Be Honest and Straightforward About Your Fears

If you are afraid of needles, drills, or anything else, be sure to let your dental professional know so that they can numb the area and make the experience less stressful for you.

Also, if you would like an anti-anxiety pill, be sure to ask if this is possible in advance of your appointment.

2. Bring Along a Friend

If you’re nervous about visiting your dentist, ask a friend or relative to join you. You will be surprised at how much just having somebody to talk to and support you will lessen the stress of the experience.

3. Talk to Your Dentist or Dental Hygienist Before Your Appointment

When you let your dental professional know about any fears or anxieties before your appointment, they can inform you about what to expect during the experience.

Many patients later report that their fear was much worse than the actual visit. By managing expectations in a realistic way, you will prevent your mind from running away with you and creating any unnecessary stress.

4. Arrive Early the Day of Your Appointment

When you are distressed, feeling rushed will only serve to compound that feeling.

Arriving early for your appointment and giving yourself some time to sit down with a magazine, book, or even your headphones as you wait will help stop the flow of adrenaline, automatically sooth your system, and help you feel relaxed and prepared.

5. Prioritize Your Oral Hygiene

By educating yourself on good oral hygiene and making it a priority to follow through, you are much more likely to have a pleasant and positive dental experience, and you’ll realize that your fears are unfounded.

We Are Committed to Your Oral and Emotional Health

veneers

At Pickering Square Dental, we understand that visiting the dentist can be a truly nerve-wracking experience. That is where we go out of our way to provide exceptional service, quality, and professionalism so that you will have renewed faith in dental professionals.

We believe that education is the key to a better dental experience for everyone. To learn more, contact us online or give us a call at 905.420.1777 today!

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

The Canadian Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist at least twice a year for regular check-ups and cleanings. Some patients may need more frequent visits depending on their oral health needs. Call Pickering Square Dental at (905) 420-1777 to schedule your next appointment.

Do you accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?

Yes, Pickering Square Dental participates in the Canadian Dental Care Plan. Our team can help you understand your coverage and ensure you receive the dental care you need. Contact us for more details about CDCP eligibility and benefits.

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

We offer a full range of dental services including family dentistry, emergency dental care, sedation dentistry, dental implants, laser dentistry, teeth whitening, root canal therapy, dental extractions, periodontal care, and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Lean and our team serve patients in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, and Scarborough.

The Basics On Gum Health

The Basics On Gum Health — Pickering, ON

When it comes to oral health, a lot of people are only doing half the work that they need to, and it tends to start with your gums. Half of the U.S. population over 30 has some form of periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, and it’s a problem here in Canada as well. The bad news is that if left unchecked, unhealthy gums can be painful and potentially even lead to loose or lost teeth if the gums recede. The good news is that it’s very possible to keep your gums healthy with basic oral health practices.

Where gum trouble starts is when plaque starts to build up along the gumline as opposed to on the surface of the teeth. The earliest stage of gum disease is gingivitis, where the presence of this bacteria along the gums causes symptoms like redness, tenderness, or bleeding when you brush your teeth. This can be reversed, though, unlike periodontitis, which is the stage where the bones and fiber supporting your teeth start to be impacted.

Along with what we mentioned before, other symptoms of gum disease include prolonged bad breath, gums that start to pull away from the teeth, or pain when chewing. Factors like smoking, diabetes, or taking certain medications may lead to increased gum disease risk.

So, now that you know the stakes, what can you do to take care of your gums? One good thing to do is make sure you don’t neglect them during your brushing and flossing. Flossing in particular is useful because it catches those particles that your toothbrush can’t reach. Bacteria that leads to plaque and gingivitis can also grow on your tongue, so make sure that your brush your tongue as well or use a scraper if possible. You also want to be careful with where you store your toothbrush. Covering it or putting it in a closed container may lead to microorganism growth.

Along with making sure to brush your gums and tongue while flossing thoroughly, you don’t really need to do anything else unique besides taking care of your teeth as normal. Try to minimize sugary foods and make sure to meet with your dentist.

Gum health is one of the most commonly neglected parts of oral health, which is why you want your dentist to check on them. Be sure to regularly visit the dentists at Pickering Square Dental to keep your teeth clean and stay on top of other oral health issues.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Contact Pickering Square Dental to book your appointment with Dr. Marvin Lean. Call us at (905) 420-1777 or visit us at 1450 Kingston Rd, Unit #4, Pickering, ON.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

The Canadian Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist at least twice a year for regular check-ups and cleanings. Some patients may need more frequent visits depending on their oral health needs. Call Pickering Square Dental at (905) 420-1777 to schedule your next appointment.

Do you accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?

Yes, Pickering Square Dental participates in the Canadian Dental Care Plan. Our team can help you understand your coverage and ensure you receive the dental care you need. Contact us for more details about CDCP eligibility and benefits.

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

We offer a full range of dental services including family dentistry, emergency dental care, sedation dentistry, dental implants, laser dentistry, teeth whitening, root canal therapy, dental extractions, periodontal care, and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Lean and our team serve patients in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, and Scarborough.

Busting Myths About Bad Breath

Busting Myths About Bad Breath — Pickering, ON

There are few things people dread when they’re in a social situation or out on the town like a case of bad breath. While it’s embarrassing, a lot of people get in the habit of using things like mouthwash or oral sprays to try and “get rid” of bad breath. However, the thing about it is that these mask bad breath rather than treating the root cause. Working through this issue is key to keeping your breath fresh.

The true root cause of bad breath is bacteria developing in the mouth. When you don’t brush or floss on a regular basis, bacteria tend to grow on the little pieces of food left in your teeth. These bacteria release certain compounds that contribute to bad-smelling breath. Some foods have certain oils that can smell also, but technically, any food can lead to bad breath if you don’t take care of your teeth.

The first thing you may be thinking is “but I brushed this morning!” However, remember that brushing for a few seconds isn’t going to be enough to get the job done. Not only do you need to brush for two to three minutes, but you want to make sure you are flossing as well. There are a few other things that lead to an added risk of bad breath as well, like dry mouth or smoking.

One other oral health step that a lot of people don’t take is brushing their tongue or using a tongue scraper to deal with bad breath. A lot of that bacteria ends up on the back of your tongue, and clearing out this can help with breath issues. Speaking of which, this fact is also the reason why the classic tip of breathing into your hands to check your breath doesn’t work. Why is this the case? When you breathe into your hand, the breath doesn’t come out of your mouth the same way as it does as if you were talking to someone. So, the breath that goes into your hand may not pass over the back of the tongue, so you don’t smell anything bad.

Mouthwash isn’t the answer on a permanent basis, but it’s not hard to address bad breath. Most of the time, bad breath is something you can fix with a few oral health practices. In other cases, it may be an indicator of a bigger problem. Be sure to regularly visit the dentists at Pickering Square Dental to keep your teeth clean and stay on top of other oral health issues.

 

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Contact Pickering Square Dental to book your appointment with Dr. Marvin Lean. Call us at (905) 420-1777 or visit us at 1450 Kingston Rd, Unit #4, Pickering, ON.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

The Canadian Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist at least twice a year for regular check-ups and cleanings. Some patients may need more frequent visits depending on their oral health needs. Call Pickering Square Dental at (905) 420-1777 to schedule your next appointment.

Do you accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?

Yes, Pickering Square Dental participates in the Canadian Dental Care Plan. Our team can help you understand your coverage and ensure you receive the dental care you need. Contact us for more details about CDCP eligibility and benefits.

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

We offer a full range of dental services including family dentistry, emergency dental care, sedation dentistry, dental implants, laser dentistry, teeth whitening, root canal therapy, dental extractions, periodontal care, and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Lean and our team serve patients in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, and Scarborough.

How To Keep Your Teeth Healthy (Besides brushing)

How To Keep Your Teeth Healthy (Besides brushing) — Pickering, ON

It’s easy to get tunnel vision when it comes to taking care of your teeth. To keep healthy, all you need to do is brush every day, and mix in some flossing, right? In some cases, you can keep your teeth clean with this, but the fact of the matter is that there’s a lot more that you can be doing in terms of your oral health. Here are some key options that can be a bit off the beaten path.

For one thing, don’t forget that when it comes to what you eat, there is such a thing as teeth-friendly foods. Along with avoiding sugary and syrupy foods, be sure to eat plenty of leafy green vegetables as well as dairy foods that are rich in calcium. Why? These foods have nutrients that are essential for keeping your teeth healthy.

If you’re ready to incorporate some new dental tools outside of your toothbrush, a great place to start is a tongue scraper. To use this, simply run the scraper over your tongue at least once a day along you’re your brushing. This is great because it reduces the number of bacteria in the mouth that can end up becoming plaque and tartar. If you find yourself on the go and don’t have any floss, it may be a good idea to use sugar-free gum in a pinch. This is because it can stimulate saliva production, which has a natural benefit for oral health.

In some cases, you may want to turn to the natural and herbal world, and this is where the South Asian tradition of oil pulling comes in. Oil pulling involves using coconut oil or sesame oil and swishing it around in your mouth to take advantage of its anti-bacterial effects. There are a surprising amount of different herbal components that you can make into different mouthwashes. These include aloe vera, sage, and tea tree oil. This helps not only avoid plaque, but also take care of your gums. As a note, though, if you plan on putting these into action, it may be a good idea to check with a doctor first.

Remember, the purpose of some of these practices is to complement your typical oral health routine, not replace it. Be sure to regularly visit the dentists at Pickering Square Dental to keep your teeth clean and stay on top of other oral health issues.

 

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Contact Pickering Square Dental to book your appointment with Dr. Marvin Lean. Call us at (905) 420-1777 or visit us at 1450 Kingston Rd, Unit #4, Pickering, ON.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

The Canadian Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist at least twice a year for regular check-ups and cleanings. Some patients may need more frequent visits depending on their oral health needs. Call Pickering Square Dental at (905) 420-1777 to schedule your next appointment.

Do you accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?

Yes, Pickering Square Dental participates in the Canadian Dental Care Plan. Our team can help you understand your coverage and ensure you receive the dental care you need. Contact us for more details about CDCP eligibility and benefits.

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

We offer a full range of dental services including family dentistry, emergency dental care, sedation dentistry, dental implants, laser dentistry, teeth whitening, root canal therapy, dental extractions, periodontal care, and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Lean and our team serve patients in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, and Scarborough.

Understanding Dental Implants

Understanding Dental Implants — Pickering, ON

A lot of time, despite doing the best you can to take care of your oral health, you may end up losing your teeth or having chipped and broken teeth. These can be caused by issues like gum disease, aging, or accidents, and can be a source of hurt confidence. However, there are many cosmetic options available to help with this issue, and dental implants may be the perfect solution to your problem.

A dental implant is basically a metal frame or post that is surgically put into the jawbone beneath your gums. After the implant is put in, your dentist can put a replacement tooth on top it, which is what people will actually see when you smile. Every dental implant has three major parts. The implant itself is a screw, and then there is a piece called an abutment. The abutment is a permanent connector between the implant and false tooth, the crown. Generally, these are made of porcelain or zirconium.

Because of the nature of dental implants, you don’t have to just get one at a time. It’s possible to get implants done for multiple teeth or even entire rows of teeth on the top or bottom of your mouth. However, there are a few things to consider. The ideal candidate will need to be in good oral health and general health, as this is a surgical procedure. In addition, good gum health is important, as is adequate bone in the jaw to support the implant. Also, compared to some of the other options available for replacement teeth, it takes a few months to get the implant completed. The bulk of this time is waiting for your jaw to heal after the initial implant surgery.

There are a variety of different benefits to getting dental implants if you are willing to deal with the expense and the amount of time it takes for them to get installed. For one thing, these are closer to feeling and looking like real teeth as opposed to alternatives like bridges or dentures. Along with aesthetics, these are also the strongest option in term of function, making it easier to eat.

Be sure to bring up dental implants as an option to your dentist, and they will help walk you through what options fit you best. In addition, also regularly visit the dentists at Pickering Square Dental to keep your teeth clean and stay on top of other oral health issues.

Looking for professional help? Learn more about our dental implant services at Pickering Square Dental or call (905) 420-1777 to book an appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do dental implants last?

With proper care and regular dental check-ups, dental implants can last 25 years or more. Many patients enjoy their implants for a lifetime. At Pickering Square Dental, Dr. Lean uses high-quality titanium implants designed for long-term durability.

Are dental implants painful?

Most patients report less discomfort than expected. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, and sedation options are available. Post-procedure soreness typically resolves within a few days with over-the-counter pain relief.

Am I a candidate for dental implants?

Most adults with good general health are candidates for dental implants. You need adequate jawbone density to support the implant. Dr. Lean will assess your bone health and overall suitability during a consultation at our Pickering office.

Top 5 Beneficial Foods for Oral Health

Top 5 Best Foods For Your Teeth — Pickering, ON

Nearly 25 percent of Americans are currently dealing with untreated tooth decay.

In addition to causing you physical pain, tooth decay can lead to gum disease, dental abscesses, and even bacteria that travels from the mouth into your bloodstream.

While it’s important to get help for your tooth decay as soon as possible, prevention is the best cure when it comes to a healthy mouth.

What you eat can help you to get healthy teeth.

Read on to learn all about the best foods for your teeth.

 

What Are the Best Foods for Your Teeth?

Teeth Whitening

Along with regular dental cleanings, what you eat can improve your teeth.

Start by eating more carrots, as this causes your mouth to produce more saliva, lowering your risk of developing a cavity.

Also, top salads and eggs with shiitake mushrooms, which contain lentinan. Lentinan helps to fight off plaque, as it contains antibacterial properties that can protect your gum line and the spaces between your teeth.

Make sure you’re getting your fill of leafy greens, like spinach or chard and kale. They’re high in Vitamin C, which lowers inflammation and gives red blood cell production in the body a boost. Plus, since they take a while to chew, you’ll see an increase in your saliva production.

If you’re looking for an influx of tooth-strengthening calcium without the sugar, opt for a handful of almonds as a snack.

Finally, you might be surprised to learn that eating cheese is great for your oral health. That’s because it actually increases pH levels in the mouth, which makes you less likely to deal with tooth decay as you age.

 

The Worst Foods to Eat for Healthy Teeth

In addition to discussing the best foods for teeth, you also need to know which foods to stay away from if you want healthy gums and teeth.

First of all, kick your ice-chewing habit, and switch to water instead. The hard texture can damage your enamel and put you at risk for chips and cracks.

Also steer clear of acidic foods, like lemons, limes, and grapefruit. Not only will they make any mouth sores you have worse, but they’ll also quickly wear down your enamel.

Watch out for sticky, gummy foods like dried fruits and sour candies. While they might be delicious, they easily get lodged in between teeth and in your mouth. Plus, they’re high in sugar, which means you’re at a higher risk for developing cavities.

 

Beyond The Best Foods for Your Teeth

Family Dentists

We hope this post has helped to serve as a reminder that eating the best foods for your teeth now — and staying away from ones that could damage them — is a form of preventative dental care.

Of course, you also need to make regular brushing, flossing, and dental procedures a part of your routine.

Our expert team at Pickering Square Dental works to make getting professional dental care as pleasant and comfortable as possible. By combining oral care that takes advantage of the latest technology with a commitment to excellent patient service, we can help your teeth look their best for years to come.

Learn more about our services and book your appointment with us today.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Contact Pickering Square Dental to book your appointment with Dr. Marvin Lean. Call us at (905) 420-1777 or visit us at 1450 Kingston Rd, Unit #4, Pickering, ON.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

The Canadian Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist at least twice a year for regular check-ups and cleanings. Some patients may need more frequent visits depending on their oral health needs. Call Pickering Square Dental at (905) 420-1777 to schedule your next appointment.

Do you accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?

Yes, Pickering Square Dental participates in the Canadian Dental Care Plan. Our team can help you understand your coverage and ensure you receive the dental care you need. Contact us for more details about CDCP eligibility and benefits.

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

We offer a full range of dental services including family dentistry, emergency dental care, sedation dentistry, dental implants, laser dentistry, teeth whitening, root canal therapy, dental extractions, periodontal care, and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Lean and our team serve patients in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, and Scarborough.

Top 5 Signs You May Have a Cavity

Cavity Symptoms — Pickering, ON

Did you know that almost 100 percent of the adults in the world suffer from some form of tooth decay every year? Additionally, somewhere between 60 and 90 percent of kids suffer from tooth decay as well.

Tooth decay can, unfortunately, lead to cavities. And if cavities are left untreated for a long period of time, they can lead to even more serious oral health issues.

No matter how old you are, it’s important for you to keep a close eye out for cavity symptoms. It’ll allow you to avoid the potentially dangerous consequences that can come along with cavities.

Here are 5 signs that’ll let you know you may have a cavity.

1. Unexplained Toothaches

implant dentistry

Do you have a toothache that just popped up out of nowhere? This is one of the most common cavity symptoms.

In some cases, you might have a dull, throbbing toothache that just won’t seem to go away. In others, you might have a toothache that comes and goes and seems to affect you most when you’re eating and drinking.

Either way, a toothache is an obvious sign of a cavity and should be investigated further.

2. Tooth Sensitivity

There are some people who have more sensitive teeth than others. Food and drinks that are hot, cold, sweet, acidic, and sticky may bother them almost all the time.

But if you notice that your teeth are suddenly sensitive to any of these things without warning, it could be because of a cavity. A dentist can check out your teeth to see what is causing your tooth sensitivity.

3. Noticeable Holes in Teeth

Oral Surgeon

If you think you might have a cavity, use a flashlight to shine some light into your mouth and look at the area that’s giving you trouble.

Can you see any small holes in any of your teeth? If so, those holes are cavities that need to be filled.

You can’t always spot a cavity in your mouth, even if it’s a bad one. But many times, it’ll be possible to see cavities as they develop.

4. Tooth Discoloration

It’s not uncommon to see someone who drinks a lot of coffee or wine to experience discoloration in their teeth. But in these instances, all of their teeth will be a shade darker than they used to be.

Tooth discoloration tied to a cavity will usually only affect a small portion of a single tooth. You may see a spot that is slightly whiter than the rest of your teeth or a spot that has turned brown or black.

5. Pain When Biting Down

Do you feel pain when you bite down, even when you don’t have anything in your mouth?

You could very well have a cavity that is affecting the root of one of your teeth. It’s essential for you to get to a dentist as soon as possible for this type of cavity as it could start to take a toll on the bone underneath your teeth.

Seek Treatment If You Experience Any of These Cavity Symptoms

By learning how to tell if you have a cavity and picking up on cavity symptoms, you can prevent cavities from wreaking havoc on your oral health.

The key is catching decay and cavities at the early and preventative stages. This may save you from having to go through extensive dental procedures to fix your teeth and keep your teeth and health in better shape overall.

Contact us to schedule an appointment with a dentist if you suspect you might have a cavity.

 

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Contact Pickering Square Dental to book your appointment with Dr. Marvin Lean. Call us at (905) 420-1777 or visit us at 1450 Kingston Rd, Unit #4, Pickering, ON.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as a dental emergency?

Severe tooth pain, a knocked-out tooth, a cracked or broken tooth, uncontrolled bleeding, dental abscess, and lost fillings or crowns all qualify as dental emergencies. Call Pickering Square Dental at (905) 420-1777 for same-day emergency care.

Can I go to the emergency room for a dental emergency?

While the ER can manage pain and infection, they typically cannot perform dental procedures. A dental office like Pickering Square Dental is better equipped to treat the underlying cause. We reserve same-day appointments for emergencies.

What should I do if a tooth is knocked out?

Pick up the tooth by the crown, gently rinse it, and try to place it back in the socket. If that is not possible, keep it in milk or saliva. Get to our Pickering office within 30 minutes for the best chance of saving the tooth.

5 Surprising Benefits of Regular Dental Cleanings

Dental Cleanings — Pickering, ON

We all know that having a routine dental cleaning can remove stains from your teeth and prevent bad breath. That’s why many people think it’s okay to skip their trip to the dentist.

Little do they know that having a regular dental cleaning is essential for keeping your smile and body healthy.

The benefits of dental cleanings are surprising and can have a positive impact on your overall health:

1. Reduced Risk of Heart Attacks and Stroke

Shocking, right?

There’s actually a connection between gum disease and cardiovascular problems. Infrequent dental cleanings lead to gum disease, which can possibly cause inflammation in the heart.

A large study shows that those who had their teeth cleaned regularly were 24% less likely to have a heart attack than those who didn’t. In addition, their likelihood of having a stroke fell 13%.

2. Save Money

You might think that having frequent dental cleanings is more expensive than not. However, these teeth cleanings save you money in the long run.

Going for a long period of time without seeing the dentist causes more problems with your teeth and leads to expensive dental procedures in the future. Regular teeth cleanings prevent cavities, tooth decay, and tooth loss, allowing you to avoid the expense of root canals and dental implants.

3. Give Birth to a Healthy Baby

It’s very important to take care of your teeth when you’re pregnant. Pregnant mothers are more susceptible to gingivitis due to higher hormone levels.

Expectant mothers who don’t have their teeth cleaned are at slightly higher risk of having a preterm birth and a baby with a low birth weight.

Gum disease can also impede your fertility. This can make it longer to become pregnant if you’re trying to conceive.

4. Lowered Risk of Alzheimer’s and Dementia

If you’re younger, you may not be thinking about the possibility of getting Alzheimer’s or dementia. But when your teeth aren’t clean, you can be at a higher risk of developing these diseases.

Bacteria in the mouth caused by infrequent cleanings can travel to the bloodstream. Eventually, it can end up in the brain and cause tissue degeneration related to Alzheimer’s.

When you receive frequent dental cleanings, you are safeguarding yourself against a buildup of bacteria that can damage your health in the future.

5. Control and Prevent Diabetes

The importance of dental cleanings even applies to those with diabetes. Diabetics are more likely to develop gum disease due to uncontrolled blood sugar levels. In turn, fighting a gum infection can lead to difficulty in controlling blood sugar levels and worsening of diabetic symptoms.

Getting a regular teeth cleaning can help diabetics manage their symptoms while preventing any further complications.

Dental Cleanings Keep You Healthy

In order to live a healthy life, it’s important to see your dentist and have routine dental cleaning. The benefits of teeth cleaning outweigh any hangups you may have about going to the dentist.

At Pickering Dental, we are passionate about giving you your best smile. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Contact Pickering Square Dental to book your appointment with Dr. Marvin Lean. Call us at (905) 420-1777 or visit us at 1450 Kingston Rd, Unit #4, Pickering, ON.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

The Canadian Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist at least twice a year for regular check-ups and cleanings. Some patients may need more frequent visits depending on their oral health needs. Call Pickering Square Dental at (905) 420-1777 to schedule your next appointment.

Do you accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?

Yes, Pickering Square Dental participates in the Canadian Dental Care Plan. Our team can help you understand your coverage and ensure you receive the dental care you need. Contact us for more details about CDCP eligibility and benefits.

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

We offer a full range of dental services including family dentistry, emergency dental care, sedation dentistry, dental implants, laser dentistry, teeth whitening, root canal therapy, dental extractions, periodontal care, and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Lean and our team serve patients in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, and Scarborough.

5 Surprising Benefits of Dental X-Rays

Benefits Of Dental X Rays — Pickering, ON

Regular dental care is an invaluable asset to your quality of life. Dentists do more than clean your teeth and fix your smile. They play a crucial role in the overall well-being of every single patient they see.

One way dentists do this is by using x-rays to help them identify issues, plan a course of action, and follow-up on treatment. If you don’t mind going to the dentist, but you’re not a fan of taking x-rays, keep reading to discover 5 awesome benefits of dental x-rays.

1. To Track Tooth Growth and Development

Have you ever broken a bone then watched the progress of its healing with regular x-rays? It’s pretty cool to see, isn’t it?

In a similar way, dentists use x-rays to track healthy tooth growth and development. They can do this with their own eyes too, but only to a certain extent. Advanced medical equipment helps them assess the situation from all angles.

With just one set of x-rays, a dentist can see if your teeth are prone to crowding or tooth gaping. From there, they may consult with you to receive some sort of orthodontic treatment.

2. To Identify Dental Decay

The next benefit of dental x-rays worth mentioning is to identify decay. This is a serious matter worth treating as soon as possible. The growth of decay in your mouth can lead to gum disease, rotten teeth, or other health issues in the body.

If you want to keep bacteria from spreading, you need to catch it in action right away. You need to allow the dentist to take the necessary x-rays.

3. To Check for Gum Disease

Maybe it’s too late for you to identify the presence of dental decay early on. Maybe you’re already suffering from bleeding or inflamed gums and wondering what to do about it.

The best thing you can do is call your dentist who will likely require x-rays to aid in determining the severity of your potential Gum Disease. Most dentists can identify gum disease from a mile away. But, it’s only with an up-close look and support of x-rays that they can see the root of the problem and start planning a cure.

4. To Assure Treatment Success

It’s one thing to plan a course of action for dental treatment and another to see it through. As such, dentists often take follow-up x-rays to assure their work is complete. Some will even take x-rays at each stage of treatment to track progress.

This may mean you have two or three sets of x-rays done or maybe even four or five. However many times you’re asked to take them, always comply. The more x-rays a dentist has to compare, the better they can do their job and bring you back to good health.

5. To Act Quickly on Dental Issues

Speaking of bringing you to good health, at the end of the day, a dentist can’t do this if you don’t let them. It’s not enough to go in for cleanings and keep up with flossing at home.

You’re going to have to take x-rays from time to time to make sure your dental health is as good as you think it is. Not to mention, if something is wrong, you’ll be glad you took the x-rays sooner rather than later.

Discover the Benefits of Dental X-Rays for Yourself

Dental x-rays are nothing to fear or cause a fuss over. They’re incredibly safe, and although a little uncomfortable, quick to do when you follow directions.

The most important rule of going to the dentist, though, is to actually go! If it’s been a while since you sat in the dentist’s chair and you need to make an appointment, click here to set one up with us right away.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Contact Pickering Square Dental to book your appointment with Dr. Marvin Lean. Call us at (905) 420-1777 or visit us at 1450 Kingston Rd, Unit #4, Pickering, ON.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

The Canadian Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist at least twice a year for regular check-ups and cleanings. Some patients may need more frequent visits depending on their oral health needs. Call Pickering Square Dental at (905) 420-1777 to schedule your next appointment.

Do you accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?

Yes, Pickering Square Dental participates in the Canadian Dental Care Plan. Our team can help you understand your coverage and ensure you receive the dental care you need. Contact us for more details about CDCP eligibility and benefits.

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

We offer a full range of dental services including family dentistry, emergency dental care, sedation dentistry, dental implants, laser dentistry, teeth whitening, root canal therapy, dental extractions, periodontal care, and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Lean and our team serve patients in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, and Scarborough.

How Dental Veneers Have Changed Over the Years

Dentist showing porcelain crowns to the female patient.

Did you know that dental veneers have been around for about a century? And in that long span of time, dental veneers have evolved drastically. Dental veneers of today are so far from those removable tooth caps that started it all. If you think you will need veneers, it is a good idea to know more about how they have changed over the years!

Porcelain veneers have first been used in the late 1920s. Its use began in Hollywood when a dentist from California named Charles Pincus thought of a way to improve the smiles of his celebrity patients. Dr. Pincus came up with the idea of making an acrylic tooth cap and fitting it over a patient’s existing tooth. Hollywood stars would wear those caps during the filming of movie scenes and then remove them afterward. This may seem too different from the porcelain permanent veneers that we have today, but it really is the beginning of dental veneers and how they were used to perfect people’s smiles.

Regular people then began getting that particular type of dental veneers to improve their smile up until the early 1950s. This dental solution was especially popular among those who have damaged or lost teeth. In the 1950s, dentists were already bonding veneers to the surface of teeth. The problem, however, was that the veneers, which were then already made of either composite or porcelain, would not adhere properly to the teeth’s surface. It was Dr. Michael Bunocore who discovered that using a mild acid to lightly etch the surface of the tooth made bonding easier and stronger. It was during this time that veneers became a more permanent and attractive option.

It was in the early 1980s that veneers that are similar to what we have today began. Dental veneers also became more affordable, making them popular among people who wish to get improvements for cosmetic reasons.

 

Veneers of Today

Today’s veneers look very real that it is very hard to tell if someone is wearing them. Now you can choose between two options: traditional and no-preparation veneers. For traditional veneers, a small amount of enamel from your teeth will be removed to make room for the veneers. For no-preparation veneers, there is no need to modify your natural teeth as the veneers are directly fitted over your natural teeth.

While the very first veneers were temporary and for short-term use, the ones we have available today are permanent. High-quality veneers can last anywhere between 2 to 20 years.

Veneers have really come a long way and now it has reached that stage where they look just like your natural teeth. Colour- matching with your existing teeth is, of course, an important aspect and that’s where the dentist’s and the dental laboratory’s skills come into play. Being able to create a natural-looking veneer with subtle translucency and the right shape for our patients is what sets Pickering Square Dental apart from others.

Veneers can fix a lot of problems like chipped, decayed, broken, or gapped tooth. But don’t just get veneers anywhere! Choose Pickering Square Dental to make sure that you get the best veneers! Our attention to detail and meticulous veneer application ensure that you will get that gorgeous smile that you are looking for.

Helpful Resources

tooth coloured fillings

For more information, visit the CDA Dental Procedures Guide.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Contact Pickering Square Dental to book your appointment with Dr. Marvin Lean. Call us at (905) 420-1777 or visit us at 1450 Kingston Rd, Unit #4, Pickering, ON.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

The Canadian Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist at least twice a year for regular check-ups and cleanings. Some patients may need more frequent visits depending on their oral health needs. Call Pickering Square Dental at (905) 420-1777 to schedule your next appointment.

Do you accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?

Yes, Pickering Square Dental participates in the Canadian Dental Care Plan. Our team can help you understand your coverage and ensure you receive the dental care you need. Contact us for more details about CDCP eligibility and benefits.

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

We offer a full range of dental services including family dentistry, emergency dental care, sedation dentistry, dental implants, laser dentistry, teeth whitening, root canal therapy, dental extractions, periodontal care, and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Lean and our team serve patients in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, and Scarborough.