How Not to Let Holiday Spirits Lead to Dental Cavities

Happy family in the room with the Christmas tree.The family is enjoying in the holidays.They are celebrating their first Christmas together.

Christmas is the time where everyone celebrates the birth of Christ. We celebrate love and everything that’s good. It’s when we spend time with family and friends and usually, we do that over festive dinners and fun parties.

But even though the holidays are all about festivities, we should not neglect our oral health. Now more than ever, we should recognize the importance of preventing caries. After all, it is during the holidays when we double or even triple the amount of sugary foods and beverages that we consume.

Make sure you maintain good oral health during the holidays with these tips:

  1. Use a straw when drinking sugary beverages like pop, punch, and more. You can limit the exposure of your teeth to sugar by using a straw. See, when you sip out of a glass or a bottle directly, the liquid lingers in the mouth and coats your teeth. When you use a straw the liquid is directed away from your teeth, so it’s less damaging to your teeth.
  2. If you must indulge in something sweet, go for dark chocolate. Tannin in cocoa can help reduce plaque growth. Dark chocolate contains less sugar than other kinds of chocolate and it is also the least processed variety. Take note, however, that you should still not overindulge. It’s still best to eat dark chocolates in moderation!
  3. Reduce the number of times you eat sweets. Did you know that a big slice of cake throughout the day is even more harmful than eating it in just one sitting? According to studies, tooth decay has more to do with the frequency of eating rather than the amount of sugar itself, meaning how often you eat has more weight than how much you eat. If you have Christmas treats to enjoy it’s best to do so directly after each meal. Snacking throughout the day will expose your teeth to acid (produced when bacteria come in contact with sugar) constantly.
  4. Brush your teeth twice a day and don’t forget to floss. To lessen the amount of plaque on your teeth, you need to brush at least twice daily, ideally in the morning and before you go to bed at night. It is also important that you floss, especially during the holidays, to remove all the debris stuck in between your teeth. Skipping this step can greatly affect your oral health in the long run.

See? You don’t have to completely say no to that scrumptious fruit cake or those candy canes. As long as you take the necessary steps to remove sugar and thoroughly clean your teeth, you can still enjoy those holiday sweets! To make sure that your teeth are not compromised by the treats you eat, you can always visit Pickering Square Dental to have your teeth professionally cleaned, too!

Helpful Resources

Dental Care

For more information, visit the Canadian Dental Association Oral Health.

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.

Hello! How are Your Gums Doing?

Young female sitting in dentist office and looking at her doctor with smile

Have you ever noticed blood in the sink when you brush your teeth? Do you feel embarrassed at times because you believe you have bad breath? This could mean you have gum disease or gingivitis.

If gingivitis isn’t treated at once, it can progress to an even worse dental health problem which is periodontitis.

Most people brush their teeth twice a day, but is that enough?

To help reduce your risk of getting gum disease, here are some tips:

Brush your teeth for at least two minutes each time. Ideally, you should brush your teeth before you go to bed and at least once more in the day. At times, people feel like they don’t have time to brush for the entirety for two minutes, but you should really make it a point to brush your teeth for at least that long. If it helps, you can set a timer on your phone so you’d know when you’re done.  Lastly, proper brushing technique is critical to your overall success too.  Ask us to tweak your technique or routine at your next visit.

Change your toothpaste. If you constantly have bleeding gums, you might have to switch to a toothpaste that is specifically formulated for this condition. There are clinically proven products that are available commercially, but of course, you can always ask your dentist at Pickering Square Dental for recommendations.

Don’t skip the floss! You want to be sure that you are cleaning the space between your teeth thoroughly. Often, bacteria hide in places where your toothbrush cannot reach. Regularly cleaning between your teeth prevents both gum disease and tooth decay. Some people find flossing a little tricky, so you might want to check out interdental brushes to reach the gap in between your teeth.  Ask us to tweak your tweak your technique. 

Swish some mouthwash. You want to protect your mouth in those hours between brushing. Mouthwash can help you with that by lowering the levels of bacteria in your mouth. Remember, though, that mouthwash should be used in addition to regular brushing and flossing and not instead of. Mouthwash can help in rinsing out food particles from your mouth and of course, it can deter bad breath with its fresh and minty smell.

Stop smoking. People who smoke are more susceptible to gum infection because tobacco causes a lack of oxygen in the bloodstream. This results in reduced flow of nutrients and blood to the gum tissues.

Don’t wait for things to get worse. If you notice any sign of change at all in your gums, including redness, tenderness, and bleeding, contact your dentist. That can be an early sign of gum disease.

Because gum disease is a progressive condition, you should not leave it untreated. If you’re concerned, you can call Pickering Square Dental and book an appointment as soon as possible.

Helpful Resources

sedation

For more information, visit the Canadian Dental Association Oral Health.

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.

It Does Not Hurt, So Why Worry?

examination and treatment of the teeth in the dental clinic

On occasion a patient may come into our office just for a routine check-up and get surprised when we tell them that they would need a treatment like a filling, a crown, or a root canal. Why are they surprised? It’s because they haven’t even felt any pain. They often question the need for the recommended treatment because they feel fine.

Well, the answer is pretty simple. Many people do not know this, but the truth is, by the time a patient feels pain, the problem has already escalated and the decay has probably progressed to a more serious or damaging level, affecting the tooth and its surrounding tissues. That often means a more involved and probably more expensive procedure would be needed, too.

Cavity

For instance, you may already know that a cavity is simply a hole in the tooth caused by plaque (a sticky substance in your mouth made up of germs. If a dental professional catches the cavity in its early stages, a simple treatment like a filling can solve the problem. Cavities seldom cause pain until they’ve been ignored and the decay has gotten bigger. This is often that stage when the decay has broken through the enamel or outer layer all the way to the pulp or nerves. In this more advanced stage, a simple filling may not work or, may lead to the need for a root canal, which is a more extensive procedure, may be needed.

Root Canal

When the pulp of the tooth has been affected by decay, a root canal is performed by dentists. You see, the canal reaches down through the roots of your tooth and into its surrounding bone. A root canal basically hollows out the middle part of the tooth, fills it, and seals it completely to prevent any bacteria from getting inside. The main purpose of this procedure is to save the tooth since the soft middle part is not necessary for the tooth to function normally in your mouth.

You may think that if your tooth requires a root canal, then you’d definitely feel some pain, right? Well, not really. Sometimes, even teeth that need root canal don’t cause any pain. Your trusted dentist from Pickering Square Dental can see if there is anything wrong with the pulp of your tooth – it may be damaged or there may be some signs of infection. If your dentist finds a need for a root canal, then it would be done to avoid further infection both to the tooth and the nearby tissue.

Crown or Cap

This is another procedure that is often necessary, even if the patient is not feeling any kind of pain. The crown is the part above the gum line that you see. A dental crown is a replacement that is created to partially or completely cover the outside of your natural tooth. There are a few reasons a dentist might recommend a crown. For one, a tooth may have a large filling that shows signs of cracking or weakening. You cannot wait until that filling actually cracks because that would expose the nerves and you’ll experience extreme pain. A tooth that has undergone a root canal almost always needs a crown. In other instances, a dentist notices that a tooth is beginning to crack. In such a case, a crown can hold the tooth together and prevent further problems.

A regular check-up for preventive care can make a huge difference. You can avoid most dental problems or keep them from getting worse. Unfortunately, some people only visit their dentist when they are in pain, thinking they feel fine so there must be nothing wrong. But as with most other medical conditions, catching dental problems in the early stages could spare you from more complex and more expensive procedures.

Be responsible and give your oral health enough attention. A quick trip to Pickering Square Dental as scheduled can help you enjoy the benefits of healthy teeth and gums. Call us and we’d schedule you for a check-up!

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

Helpful Resources

sedation dentistry

For more information, visit the CDA Dental Emergency Guide.

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.

A Closer Look at Antibiotics in Dentistry

Pills, tablets capsules heap in hand, close up view

At Pickering Square Dental, your dentist provides dental procedures that are safe and comfortable; and for most patients, medication is not necessary. However, there are cases wherein the patient’s medical history indicates that he or she would benefit from what is known as “antibiotic prophylaxis”.

What is Antibiotic Prophylaxis?

Basically, it means taking preventative antibiotics before a procedure. To help you understand this better, let’s go and pay closer attention to what goes on inside your mouth.

There are more or less 600 species of bacteria living inside your mouth, and that is normal. But there are some dental treatments that can allow some of these bacteria to reach your bloodstream. This situation is called bacteremia. Usually, bacteria in the bloodstream are quickly mitigated by the immune system which recognizes those “non-self” cells that are in your blood and zap them.

Unfortunately for some patients, bacteremia can put them at risk for other infections in their bodies which can be dangerous.

Who Needs Antibiotic Prophylaxis?

Antibiotic prophylaxis is primarily recommended for patients with certain heart conditions and some transplant situations. That is why it is important that you discuss your medical history with your Pickering Square Dental dentist so we’d know how we can provide you with the best dental care possible. In certain cases where a patient’s medical history affects oral care, your dentist can work with other professionals in your healthcare team.

Patients who may require antibiotic prophylaxis are people who have had:

  • A heart transplant
  • A history of infective endocarditis
  • An artificial heart valve
  • Heart conditions since birth
  • Some transplant situations

It was previously recommended by experts that patients with joint replacements get antibiotic prophylaxis, too, but this has been re-evaluated and is no longer considered standard procedure. If you have further inquiries about these changes, you might want to speak to your orthopaedic doctor. Of course, you can also reach out to your Pickering Square Dental dentist who is up-to-date about these matters.

We know that the terms bacteremia and antibiotic prophylaxis can be quite intimidating or even scary. But it’s always better to know and understand what they really mean. If you or a loved one needs a dental procedure and you are not sure whether or not antibiotic prophylaxis would be necessary, don’t be afraid to ask about it. You can have a conversation about it with your trusted dentist, and we’re sure your primary care provider or your cardiologist, specialists or physician would be willing to answer your questions, too. Together, we can ensure that the dental procedures that you’ll have will always take your health history into consideration and we’ll make certain that we will not put you in any risks.


 

Helpful Resources

child brushing teeth

For more information, visit the Canadian Dental Association Oral Health.

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.

Are Your Teeth Prepared for Trick or Treat?

Halloween Party With Children Trick Or Treating In Costume

Halloween is finally here! While the kids are preparing their costumes and getting excited about all those treats, dentists and doctors are also gearing up for all those patients coming in with problems that are associated with excessive sugar intake and tooth injuries.

There are three important things that we want you to remember.

  • Hard Halloween treats can crack teeth
  • Sticky sweets are more difficult to remove from your teeth
  • If you don’t thoroughly clean your mouth and teeth after you eat sugary snacks, you are creating an environment for unhealthy bacterial growth and eventually, tooth decay

Halloween is fun and your kids will definitely want to be a part of the festivities. But you might want to take an active participation this year. Here are some of our top tips for you:

Check the treats that your kids collect. If your kids are up for it, you can propose a “swap”, see if you can trade those hard sticky candies and the chewy ones that are made of sugar and very little else for better treats.

Think of better and healthier treats to purchase and give away, too.  You might also want to consider swapping sweets altogether for toys, plastic jewelry, or some school supplies. You can also try healthier chips and crackers. You should save some of those and try to trade them with the sweets your kids collect.

If you do have to have some candies (for your teens or even the adults), it’s better to go for those sweets that contain nuts as they supply some nutrition. Of course, this is only if no one has nut allergies. Stay away from taffies and sticky candies that are particularly harsh on tooth enamel.

Don’t let your guard down with the sweets. We understand that even parents have a tendency to be careless during this holiday and just dip into the candy bowls anytime they want. Keep your and your child’s access to candies in check. Limit the number of treats that your kids will have per day in an effort to maintaining a healthy balance!

Be vigilant about brushing after eating candies. It’s easy to just settle with a light and quick brushing, especially if you have to rush to another activity during a busy day. Try to avoid that, especially now that the kids are consuming more sugar than they probably do any other time of the year.

You don’t need to deprive your children of all the fun this Halloween. All it takes for you and your kids to enjoy this holiday without compromising your teeth are a few smart tricks and you can go and enjoy your treats!

 

 

Helpful Resources

Sedation Dentistry

For more information, visit the Health Canada Children’s Dental Health.

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.

Sinus Pressure and Tooth Pain – How are They Related?

Frustrated young man touching his cheek and keeping eyes closed while sitting on the couch at home

If you have ever experienced any type of toothache, then you know how uncomfortable and painful it can be. Now there are a number of reasons a person can get affected by tooth pain. That includes those common ailments like tooth sensitivity, cracked teeth, and cavities. But there is a lesser-known cause of tooth pain – a sinus infection! You read right. Here’s some information you need to be aware of:

What is Sinusitis?

More commonly called a sinus infection, sinusitis happens when the nasal passage cavities get inflamed and swollen. Because the sinuses cannot drain, it results in a mucus build-up. This is often caused by the common cold, although allergies may also be a culprit. When the sinuses are blocked, it leads to excessive mucus creating a moist environment which is considered a fertile ground for all kinds of infections. Another symptom that can possibly affect one’s oral health is bad breath that is caused by postnasal drip.

Sinusitis and Your Tooth Pain

In most instances, the reason behind your tooth pain is quite obvious. But like we said, a sinus infection as a culprit should not be discounted, and often you can tell whether it’s the cause or not based on the location of the toothache. The roots of your upper molars are really close to the sinus cavities, and when the sinuses get infected and all swollen, it is easy to mistake the pain as originating in the teeth. If you believe you have a sinus infection, it’s best to see your doctor about it. While some over-the-counter medications can offer you pain relief, a physician is the best person to ask about the course of treatment that you need.

Easing Your Tooth Pain

Aside from seeing your doctor who may prescribe you some medicine for pain relief and treatment, you can also try a few home remedies. You can apply a warm compress on your face a few times each day. You can also increase your fluid intake to thin the mucus. You can also inhale steam several times a day and use a humidifier when you’re sleeping. When your sinus infection gets treated, you’ll find that your tooth pain will also be gone.

However, you should remember that sinus infection is just one cause of tooth pain and you should always do your best that you avoid all the other types of toothaches as well. To make sure that your teeth and gums are healthy, regularly visit Pickering Square Dental, and we’ll help you take care of your smile!

Helpful Resources

dental implants

For more information, visit the CDA Dental Emergency 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

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.

Whitening for Life

Dental Visit

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

Helpful Resources

teeth whitening

For more information, visit the Canadian Dental Association Oral Health.

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 Important is a Dental Checkup?

Teeth checkup at dentist's office. Dentist examining girls teeth in the dentists chair

We can never stress enough the importance of proper teeth cleaning and a dental checkup for your oral general health and well-being. While we do realize that everyone lives busy lives these days, it’s still essential that you take good care of your teeth. If you take care of your oral health, you’ll increase your chances of never having to get extensive treatments and dentures.

Here are some of the benefits of having your teeth regularly cleaned and checked by a dental professional:

Prevents Periodontal Disease

Plaque build-up can result in gum (periodontal) disease. Bacteria in plaque can cause irritation and potentially serious inflammation of the gums.  As well, may lead to a multitude of medical related diseases.

Prevents Halitosis

Nobody wants to have bad breath, right? Well, poor oral hygiene, as well as food bits lodged in hard-to-reach areas and gum disease, can all cause halitosis or bad breath. Getting your teeth cleaned and regular visits to your dentist are the best ways to ensure that you won’t have to deal with bad breath.

Lets You Enjoy a Whiter and  Brighter Smile

When you always brush your teeth and floss, you remove stains on your teeth that are caused by food and drinks like tea, coffee, wine, and more. There are also certain medications that can cause discoloration.

Helps You Keep Your Teeth

Who wants to lose their teeth? Poor oral hygiene may ultimately result in advanced gum disease, meaning the supporting bone can also be destroyed as plaque moves further into your teeth’s roots. You can avoid this by regular brushing and flossing, as well as thorough cleanings done by a dental professional.

Aids in Maintaining Good Health

These past years, studies have linked gum disease to other serious health concerns including heart attacks and strokes. While the correlation between them is not that clear yet, regular cleaning of your teeth can possibly lessen your risk of having a stroke and heart disease.

The only way your dentist can detect potential problems with your gums and teeth is when you go for regular dental check-ups. You see, there may be some potential problems that you are not even aware of. In a routine check-up, your dentist will check for cavities, plaque, and tartar build-up. Your gums will also be checked. Additionally, your dentist may also examine your throat, neck, face, and head to see if there are any signs of trouble like swelling or even cancer.

 We do hope that you understand the importance of regular dental check-ups and thorough teeth cleaning. Regardless of your age, a beautiful and healthy smile is always an asset. If you want your teeth and gums taken care of, don’t hesitate to contact Pickering Square Dental!

 

 

 

Helpful Resources

Dental Extractions

For more information, visit the Canadian Dental Association Oral Health.

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.

Fluoride for Toddlers – Good or Bad?

Fluoride for Toddlers – Good or Bad?

What can be cuter than a toddler giving you the biggest smile?

If you have a toddler, you’d probably agree that there’s nothing you wouldn’t do to keep your little one’s smile looking perfect. And if you’re like most parents, you probably have done a little research on the things that you can do to maintain your toddler’s oral health, as well as things can be harmful to small children. You probably have encountered the two different stands on the safety of fluoride for toddlers.

Some say it is better to wait until your child reaches the age of two before you introduce fluoride toothpaste. Others claim that parents can use a “smear” of fluoride toothpaste as soon as the baby’s teeth start to show.

Knowing What’s Best for Your Child

You might think that baby teeth eventually come out anyway, so why should you worry too much about them? It is because it takes years before baby teeth are replaced by permanent ones, and your child can get cavities that can be really painful. Fluoride can prevent cavities but too much of it can put your child at risk for other health issues. It is a good idea to find out first whether or not you have fluoride in your drinking water. You can have your water tested if you’re not sure about that. Also consider your child’s diet. If he or she frequently eats sugary snacks, then the harmful effect of sugar on his or her teeth should be reversed, and fluoride can help do the job.

So… Should You Be Using Fluoridated Toothpaste with Your Toddler?

According to CDA, that if your child is under the age of three, using fluoridated toothpaste should be determined by the risk level of tooth decay. You can take your little one for a dental check-up at Pickering Square Dental. Our dental health experts can determine whether he or she is at risk of getting tooth decay. If so, you can use a minimal amount of fluoridated toothpaste about the size of a rice grain and make sure that you brush your child’s teeth. Using just the tiniest amount helps achieve the perfect balance of reaping the benefits of fluoride for your child’s oral health and keeping the risk of developing fluorosis at bay. 

Dr. Lean and the Pickering Square Dental Team can thoroughly assess your child’s oral health and also take into consideration all the factors before giving you a clear idea as to whether or not toothpaste with fluoride would be good for your precious toddler.

 

Helpful Resources

veneers

For more information, visit the Health Canada Children’s Dental Health.

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.

Back-to-School Dental Checklist for Healthier Teeth

Back-to-School Dental Checklist for Healthier Teeth

So, you’ve got everything ready and you’re excited to go back to school. Wait! How about your back-to-school dental checklist? You should not forget it because it’s going to be your key to keeping that strong, healthy, and beautiful smile – and you don’t want anything less, eh?

Because we don’t want you to forget anything important, we rounded up some of the most important things that you should definitely add to your checklist:

ESTABLISH A GOOD ORAL HYGIENE ROUTINE

It’s very easy to forget about brushing your teeth when you’re rushing off to school in the morning or when you’re crawling your way to your bed tired from the very busy day at school. The thing is, you don’t just have to establish an oral hygiene routine, what’s more important is that you make time for it. Brush your teeth every morning and night. Floss your teeth once or twice a day, too. It’s also a good idea to rinse the mouth with antibacterial mouthwash. Sticking with this routine will reduce your risks of having dental concerns. That means no emergency appointments with the dentist and no missing out on school in the future!

SCHEDULE APPOINTMENTS WITH YOUR DENTIST EVERY SIX MONTHS

Visiting your dentist every six months is very important if you want to have a clean and healthy mouth. You may think that you’re taking good enough care of your teeth, but there are things that only a dental professional can see. You can call Pickering Square Dental and we can easily schedule you for a check-up and cleaning!

OPT FOR HEALTHIER SNACKS AND LUNCHES

Healthy food is good not only for your body but also for your teeth. Choosing healthier food for your lunch and snack every day can help you keep a strong set of teeth. Don’t have any ideas what to pack? You can add vegetables, fruits, and string cheese, among others. Swap your usual can of pop for good old water.

USE A SPORTS MOUTH-GUARD

If you are an athlete, it is always a good idea to protect your teeth and gums with a sports mouth-guard that is customized just for you.  You can find off-the-shelf ones, but you won’t get the same level of protection and comfort that you would from a custom-made appliance.  You can have yours made at Pickering Square Dental.  Dr. Lean, the official dentist of the Toronto Maple Leafs customize one for you, too!

If you need more tips on how you can turn your smile into your best asset this school year, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Every member of our team will be more than happy to talk to you!

Helpful Resources

sedation dentistry

For more information, visit the Health Canada Children’s Dental Health.

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.