Are You Taking Care of Your Tongue?

Healthy Food For Your Teeth — Pickering, ON

You might be conscious when it comes to your teeth and gums and the routine for brushing and flossing, but is it the same with your tongue? Our tongue is a pretty awesome part of our mouth. It not only helps us chew our food, speakclearly, but it also plays an important role in our dental and overall health. If we fail to take care of our tongue, it can create some serious dental concerns. Read on to know more about the tongue.

 

A Little Background

Our tongue is home to over 10,000 taste buds and it is often the most exposed area to most bacteria and acid. Each tiny taste bud and all the other bumps (papillae) and dips we can feel and see on the tongue’s surface make a great place for both bacteria and acid to hide.

 

Why It Should Be Taken Care Of
Learn more about frequently asked questions.

The tongue is in constant contact with our teeth. If the tongue is not clean or worse, teeming with bacteria, all of the bacteria will be transferred right onto your teeth. When this happens, the chance for tooth decay greatly increases. If you have a clean tongue, it also leads to better-tasting meals. It is true that bad breath can be caused by many different things, but cleaning your tongue is one great way to help keep your breath smelling fresh. Remember that trapped germs on the tongue can lead to bad breath and it can also affect your sense of taste. Overgrowth of bacteria can turn your tongue white, yellow or even black.

 

How to Take Care of It

Each time you brush your teeth, spare a few extra seconds for brushing your tongue. Simply stick out your tongue and gently scrub it with your toothbrush. Try to reach right to the back of your tongue. If this triggers your gag reflex, don’t give up… the trick is to keep trying. Eventually, your gag reflex will ease up. If you really find it difficult and uncomfortable to brush your tongue, you are not alone. Many people will say this is true for them. An alternative cleaning solution would be with the help of a tongue scraper. This tool gently removes bacteria from the surface of the tongue and it is easier to use for those people who have sensitive gag reflexes. It even comes in various shapes and sizes. Make it a habit to clean your tongue thoroughly.

 

Special Cases

If a tongue has been neglected for a long time, it may be coated and crusty. Sometimes this is seen in people who have problems with physical dexterity or those who rely on others for their oral care, or are mouth breathers. People that   take certain medications that dry the mouth are more likely to have a coated tongue. If your tongue is too dry when you try to scrape it, you might be damaging the tissue. Try brushing instead after cleaning your teeth – this way, the mouth is still moist.

 

If you have any concerns with your tongue, gums and teeth, have your mouth checked to avoid more complex problems. Contact Dr. Marvin Lean and his team to book an appointment.

 

 

Helpful Resources

Root Canal

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.

What Laser Dentistry Can Improve

Since 1994, lasers have been used in the field of dentistry to treat a number of dental problems. These lasers are not similar to the ones used in phototherapy for the relief of headaches, inflammation and pain. Laser dentistry can be a precise and effective way to perform a number of dental procedures. Here are some of the oral conditions that can be improved with the help of a laser:

 

Tooth Decay

Cavities, referred to as tooth decay, which occurs when certain types of bacteria produce acid that destroys the tooth’s enamel. Lasers are used to remove tooth decay as well as prepare the surrounding enamel to receive the filling.

 

Lesion Removal

Small lesions can be in the form of; canker sores, cold sores or mouth ulcers, and they usually develop in the mouth or at the base of the gums. They can make drinking, eating and talking uncomfortable. Lasers are also used to remove lesions in the mouth to relieve the pain of canker sores. Lasers can also be used to remove a small piece of tissue (biopsy) so that it can be examined further too if necessary.

Gum Disease

Our mouths are full of bacteria that can form a colourless, sticky ‘plaque’ on the teeth. Brushing and flossing do help get rid of plaque, but plaque that isn’t removed can harden and form ‘tartar’. When this worsens, you can develop gum disease. Lasers are also used to reshape gums and to remove bacteria during a root canal procedure.

 

Teeth Whitening

Our teeth, over the years, can get discolouration due to the foods and drinks we ingest. Tooth- whitening lightens the teeth and helps to remove stains and discolouration that cannot be removed by simply brushing the teeth. Lasers can also be used to speed up in-office teeth whitening procedures.

 

 

If you are somewhat of an anxious dental patient, the ease and comfort of the laser might just be what you are looking for. For Laser information, please consult Dr. Marvin Lean or a team member at Pickering Square Dental, as he has incorporated laser dentistry techniques into his practices and treatments over the years. For a complete list of conditions treated by laser dentistry, it is also best to set an appointment with Dr. Marvin Lean and his team for a more in-depth discussion on your dental concerns. 

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

Helpful Resources

implant dentistry

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.

Junk Food and What It Does to Our Teeth

Some people find it difficult to quit eating junk food completely – and this goes without saying.  Some foods that we consume on a daily basis can cause enamel erosion that leads to increased teeth sensitivity to cold, hot, sour and sweet. If a person’s oral hygiene with proper brushing and flossing is not maintained dental enamel damage may result with teeth likely to develop a cavity..

 

Acidic Foods

Although lemons are healthy, using them as a home remedy for whitening teeth might not be the best move as they might be very harmful to the teeth. After eating lemons, tomatoes, oranges and grapefruit, the teeth should be rinsed with plain water thoroughly.

 

Long-Lasting, Sticky Sweets
Learn more about teeth whitening and aesthetics.

Hard candies tend to stick and cling to the surfaces of your teeth. Hard candies can also take a long time to dissolve – making them harmful to the teeth too. Hard sweets can also crack a tooth when you bite into them. It isn’t about the amount of sugar that is damaging, but how often the intake is and, how long the sugars are left on or, in between teeth or in your saliva.

 

Starchy Foods

We tend to consume a lot of starchy junk food without even knowing their after effects. White bread, pizza, potato chips, burgers, and pasta can easily get lodged in-between the teeth and the crevices. Even though they are not sweet nor sugary, starchy foods can be converted into sugar almost immediately because of the digestive process that begins in our mouths. The sugar might cause our enamel to decalcify leading to tooth decay.

 

Sports Drinks and Sodas

Sugary drinks like sports drinks and other carbonated beverages are bad for the teeth especially if consumed regularly. Soft drinks are loaded with phosphoric and citric acids that erode the enamel of the teeth. These beverages are also the leading source of added sugar in both children and adolescent diets. Sipping on a sugary beverage for hours is harmful because the high sugar content in drinks is bad for both our teeth and body.

 

Dried Fruits

Munching on dried fruits instead of fresh ones might also be harmful for the teeth because of the concentrated sugar content and stickiness they possess. Examples of dried fruits are dried prunes, raisins and apricots. Parts of them easily adhere to teeth and the sugar in them promotes bacteria growth in the mouth, leading to the erosion of tooth enamel.

 

If you are seeing signs of damaged teeth as a result of eating too much junk foods, consult Dr. Lean. D. Lean and his team can handle all types of oral conditions. It’s best to take care of your teeth now rather than later. 

Helpful Resources

Wisdom Teeth Surgery

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.

Gingivitis: What You Need to Know

Gingivitis is the most common form of gum disease but the good news is: it’s reversible and, preventable.  Find out everything you need to know about this oral medical condition here:

 

What It Is

Gingivitis is an early form of gum disease that can easily be detected and caught because it causes the gums to become red and puffy or swollen. When you are brushing or flossing your teeth, gingivitis sometimes may cause discomfort and bleeding, however, it is not usually painful. If left untreated, it can be a precursor to a more serious oral condition called periodontitis – this contributes to gum decay and bone and tooth loss. Beyond that, periodontitis is also associated with chronic health conditions such as heart and lung diseases as well as diabetes to name a few.  Gingivitis is not the worst oral condition, but clearly addressing and treating it quickly will aid in avoiding having more serious problems.

 

Causes

Plaque, a combination of the leftover particles from food and drinks you consume within the day, can cause gingivitis. If you don’t practice proper oral habits, plaque build-up, in the form of an unpleasant, sticky film, will cling to your teeth and gums. Plaque can be removed by flossing and brushing your teeth, but if you do not do it regularly and, with proper technique, plaque hardens into a rough substance called tartar. Tartar is a breeding ground for bacteria and once it gathers in your mouth, it can easily infect your gums.

 
Learn more about family dentistry services in Pickering.

Symptoms

Since gingivitis affects the gums, it results in irritation, puffy/swollen, redness and bleeding in the gums – especially when brushing and flossing. Other symptoms may include; tooth sensitivity, pain as well as bad breath.  Some people do not experience discomfort in the early stages, but as the condition progresses symptoms may become more noticeable. Since the symptoms are mild, some people are not made aware that they have this condition.  Together with regular dental examinations and professional dental hygiene visits with our Dental Professionals here at Pickering Dental we can closely monitor and treat this condition.

 

Predisposing Factors

These factors are likely to increase one’s chances of developing gingivitis:

*Diabetes

*Tobacco chewing or smoking

*Certain medications (oral contraceptives)

*Genetics

*Pregnancy

*Crooked teeth

*Autoimmune diseases

 

A study also shows that there is a link between gingivitis and heart disease. With that said, gingivitis may lead to more than just periodontitis.

 

Treatments

The most effective way to prevent gingivitis from developing is by maintaining healthy oral habits such as regular brushing and flossing and, simply monitoring by examination if you have this disease. A healthy diet and lifestyle also help in preventing gingivitis from occurring. You may also use an anti-bacterial mouthwash that is beneficial in keeping the gums healthy and strong. Gingivitis might cause bleeding, receding gums leading to bone loss. If you notice these signs, it is best to consult Dr. Lean and his team. Gum disease treatments involve a thorough cleaning and removing as much plaque and buildup.   

Helpful Resources

Emergency Dental

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.

Take the Perfect Selfie with Sparkling Whites & Bright Smile

Nowadays, almost everyone is taking their own portraits – better known as ‘selfies’. If you are fond of taking photos of yourself, don’t you want to have a perfect smile to go with your photos? Here are some tips on how to keep your teeth picture-perfect:

 

Brush and Floss Properly

It’s surprising to know that some adults grow old and never learn how to brush and floss properly. Even if you do brush and floss daily, but your techniques are wrong, then your teeth and gums will not get the maximum care and protection that they need to become stronger and healthier. An expert said that the more you floss, the tougher your gums become – even if flossing hurts or makes your gums bleed at first.

 

Stop Smoking
Learn more about periodontal care in Pickering.

A study by the American Dental Association states that smokers get periodontal disease at two to three times more the rate of non-smokers. This is why it’s important to stop this bad habit immediately. Smokers do not heal as fast as non-smokers following a treatment for gum infections. If you want your teeth and gums to be stronger and healthier and to have less risk for periodontal diseases, it’s best to quit smoking.

 

Stay Away from Caffeinated and Carbonated Drinks

Just like smoking cigarettes, drinking caffeinated drinks also damages your perfect smile and pearly whites. Why? These drinks are loaded with high-acid content. Did you know that acid weakens tooth enamel and makes it softer? After drinking these beverages, make sure that you rinse your mouth with clean water. It would be better if you can brush and floss immediately after drinking too!

 

See Your Dentist Regularly

As we get older, the busier we also get. A hectic schedule should never be an excuse to miss out on your dental appointments and maintaining your optimal overall healthcare. No matter how busy you are, it is essential that you still make time for your dentist. It cannot be reiterated enough, the importance of regular dental visits. If you follow your schedule, the dentist will be able to detect serious illnesses at an earlier time.

 

Get Rid of Grinding

If you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth – get rid of it as soon as possible. Even if you are stressed out or upset, keep in mind that this habit causes excessive wear and tear of teeth. Your dentist will be able to tell if you have been grinding your teeth because areas of the tooth enamel will be smooth. If you have this habit, Dr. Marvin Lean and our Team of Health Care provideres can recommend a night mouth guard for you to use when sleeping.

 

For the perfect set of teeth, have Dr. Lean and his team of experts take a look at your teeth and gums. It is best to have a team of trusted professionals to take care of something as important as your teeth. 

Helpful Resources

Veneers

For more information, visit the Government of Canada Oral Health 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.

Oral Care in the Elderly

As we get older, several oral conditions that were not present when we were younger might develop. These are as follows:

 

*Dry Mouth – This can result from physical changes our body goes through as it ages. However, this can also be caused by certain medications. This increases the risk for oral disease since saliva helps kill bacteria and rebuild enamel.

 

*Gum Disease – Manual Dexterity issues, regular visits year round addressing travel issues to the office too.

 

*Root Decay – This is often accompanied by gum disease and might lead to an increased rated of decay as we age.

 

*Attrition – This is basically the wear and tear that many years of chewing and grinding has brought upon. When the enamel of our teeth wears down, the risk for cavities increases.

 

*Darkened Teeth – This is caused by a lifetime consumption of stain-causing foods and beverages. It might also be caused by the thinning of the outer enamel layer that lets the darker, yellower dentin show through.
Learn more about contact our Pickering dental office.

 

*Loss Sense of Taste – Advancing age impairs the sense of taste. Medications, diseases and dentures also contribute to this sensory loss.

 

*Uneven Jawbone – This is caused by tooth growth and not replacing missing teeth, allowing the rest of the teeth to drift and shit into available spaces.

 

*Denture-Induced Stomatitis – This is caused by ill-fitting dentures and poor dental hygiene, as well as the build-up of the fungus Candida Albicans. This is the inflammation of the tissue underlying a denture.

 

Proper Oral Care

Increase Oral Hydration

If you are taking any maintenance medications, ask your doctor if there is any substitute for your medication – one that doesn’t produce dry mouth. If this is not a possible option, drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol as this tends to dehydrate the body. You may also chew a sugar-free gum.

 

Increase Fluoridation

It is best to switch to fluoride toothpaste. You may also choose to incorporate fluoride rinse into your daily routine. This helps in adding prevention of plaque build-up and reducing the bacteria in your mouth.

 

Avoid Tobacco

Tobacco, in any form, has been linked to an increased risk for mouth and throat cancer, as well as heart disease and other serious conditions. Chewing tobacco even leads to more decay as many tobacco formulations contain sugar.

 

Brush and Floss Regularly

Prevention is better than cure – this has never been truer when it comes to your oral health. Since the elderly tend to be at more risk for infections, it is essential that you adhere to brushing and flossing your teeth regularly.

 

Regular Dental Visits

The more you age, the more important it is to not miss out any medical or dental appointment. Dr. Marvin Lean and his team will help detect any oral diseases early if you are able to visit them regularly. This definitely helps in ensuring that your oral health is in an optimal state. 

Helpful Resources

sedation dentistry

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.

What To Do When Your Child Has a Dental Emergency

Children, especially the younger ones, are prone to accidents. Since their reflexes are not as quick as teenagers’ or adults’, they tend to damage their teeth when they fall face-flat on the ground. As parents or guardians, we don’t want to see them in pain.  However, dental emergencies are unavoidable at this point in their lives, so we should be ready should such instances arise.

 

Knocked-Out Tooth (Dental Avulsion)

If your child’s tooth had been knocked-out of his or her mouth completely, it is best to contact Pickering Square Dental immediately. Time is an important factor in saving a tooth. Dentists, in general, do not attempt to re-implant primary (baby) teeth because the procedure itself might cause damage to the tooth bud. While you are not with Dr. Marvin Lean and his team, it is best to recover the tooth. Be careful not to touch the root, just handle the crown carefully. Gently rinse off the tooth with water but do not scrub the tooth. Keep the tooth wet ( a glass of milk is ideal) during transportation as moisture is important for the tooth to be re-implanted successfully.

 

Toothache

This is common in children of all ages and it rarely occurs without cause. If pain persists, give us a call. Some common causes of toothache are tooth decay, tooth trauma, tooth fractures, and wisdom teeth eruption (for adolescents). You can help your child relieve the pain by cleansing the area using warm water. It is best to hold off medication if you haven’t seen your dentist. Apply cold compress to the affected area in order to reduce the swelling.

 

Dental Intrusion

When a child gets into an accident and causes dental trauma, this might force a tooth (or several teeth) upwards into the jawbone. The force of trauma could be great enough to injure the tooth’s ligament, and fracturing its socket. It’s important to rinse your child’s mouth with cold water and apply cold compress around the affected areas to reduce swelling. Make sure to call us right away to completely relieve your child of the pain.

 

Tooth Displacement (Extrusion, Luxation, Lateral Displacement)

Tooth displacement depends on how the tooth is angled following the trauma. Extrusion implicates that the tooth has become partly removed from its socket. Dental treatment should be sought for permanent teeth that have been displaced in order to attempt whenever possible to save the tooth as well as prevent infection. Apply cold, moist compress on the affected area and offer pain relief that has been approved by paediatricians.

 

Broken Tooth

Dr. Marvin Lean and our Professional Dental Team can easily assess the severity of a fracture by the use of dental X-rays. If there are any changes in tooth color, this indicates an emergency warning sign. While you are on your way to our office, make sure to apply cold, moist compress on the affected area to reduce swelling.  Do not wait another day to have this looked by the dentist.

 

There are other dental emergencies that your child can experience. Make sure to consult us right away to prevent any further damage or infection from developing. We here at Pickering Square Dental and serve Durham and surrounding areas for their Emergency Dental needs. 

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

Helpful Resources

Family Dental Clinic

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

Visiting Your Dentist – Why It’s A Must

Maintaining your oral health should never be compromised.  

Reasons for Regular Dental Visits

*Early diagnosis of tooth decay – By seeing your dentist based on personalized treatment recommendations, you will be able to avoid the risks associated with dental issues such as gum disease and tooth decay, among others. Although minor, these issues might lead to more complex ones if left untreated.

 

* Prevention of Gum Disease – Keeping teeth clean – Brushing and flossing the teeth is very beneficial but, never enough to keep everything perfectly clean.

 

Regular Dental Visits
Learn more about contact our Pickering dental office.

A regular dental visit consists of two parts: check-up and cleaning. For the first part, the dentist checks for cavities and assesses if there is build-up of plaque or tartar on your teeth or any other dental concerns too. Plaque is a clear and sticky layer of bacteria. If this is not removed, it hardens overtime and becomes tartar. Tartar cannot be removed by brushing and flossing the teeth. If there’s a build-up of plaque and tartar, the risk for oral diseases is increased. The gums, tongue, throat, face, neck and head are also checked-up by the dentist to look for any signs of swelling and other problems that might be connected to your oral health.

 

The second part which is cleaning involves special tools used by the dentist and dental hygienist to remove tartar. This is termed as scaling. This is to remove tartar build-up that cannot be done with normal brushing and flossing.

 

In-Between Visits

Your oral health is not defined just by having regular dental visits. You are also held accountable in-between your dental visits too! It is essential that you take care of your teeth and gums in order to prevent oral diseases from occurring. Plaque is always forming on the teeth, but you can get rid of it by brushing and flossing the teeth regularly. Good oral care can be done at home by doing the following regularly:

 

*Brushing at least twice a day – use toothpaste that contains fluoride.

*Flossing at least once a day.

*Using a mouth rinse – this helps get rid of plaque bacteria and to freshen breath.

 

Post-Visits

Once Dr. Lean or one of our Team of Dentists at Pickering Square Dental has performed the examination and cleaning, they will tell you about the current health of your teeth and gums. Recommendations will also come at this point – make sure you visit them regularly to ensure maximum oral health. 

Helpful Resources

Family Dentists

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.

Food and Drinks That are Bad for the Teeth

Although there are many available dental procedures and treatments that ensure optimal dental health, prevention is still better than any cure. Other than brushing and flossing your teeth on a regular basis, avoiding the wrong foods and drinks also help in keeping your teeth healthy. Here are some of the foods and drinks that damage the teeth:

 

Citrus Fruits

Although loaded with vitamin C and other nutrients that are good for the body, citrus fruits also contain sugar and acid that might erode tooth enamel over time. Grapefruit and lemon juice, in particular, are highly acidic. In 2008, a study found that among all the citrus juices, these two can cause the most damage to the teeth. Orange juice was said to cause the least damage based on the same study. Brushing, flossing and/or simple rinsing with plain water as soon as possible following consumption will help in minimizing any risks.

 

Ice

Some people think that ice is good for their teeth. Although it’s made of water and does not contain any sugar or other additives, ice can cause damage to the teeth when chewed because it’s hard. Chewing on hard substances leaves your teeth vulnerable to enamel damage and other dental emergencies.  Enjoy water in its liquid form, instead of its solid form.
Learn more about teeth whitening and aesthetics.

 

Caffeinated Drinks

Coffee and tea, in their natural form, can be healthy beverage preferences. However, some people cannot drink these beverages without adding sugar. Caffeinated drinks are known for drying out the mouth. Frequent drinking of coffee and tea also leads to staining the teeth. When you do consume coffee or tea, make sure that you drink plenty of water afterwards.

 

Sticky Foods

Dried fruits are being eaten by some people because they are healthy, but a lot of dried fruits are sticky – these can also damage the teeth. Sticky foods tend to stay on the teeth longer than any other types of food. If you eat dried fruits often, make sure you rinse your mouth with water afterwards. Brushing and flossing your teeth afterwards also helps in preventing teeth damage.  

 

Crunchy Foods

Crunch snacks such as potato chips are filled with starch. This additive tends to get trapped in between the teeth. If you are fond of eating these snacks, make sure that you floss carefully to remove food particles that lead to the build-up of plaque.

 

Alcoholic Beverages

Alcohol is not just bad for the teeth; it is also bad for overall health. Alcohol causes dry mouth and dehydration. People who drink alcohol excessively may find their saliva flow to reduce as time passes. This can lead to tooth decay and other oral infections including gum disease. Heavy alcohol use also increases the risk for mouth cancer.

 

For dental problems associated with eating and drinking the wrong foods and snacks, we can help you fix them. Contact Dr. Lean and his team of experts to prevent further teeth damage. 

Helpful Resources

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.

Dr. Marvin Lean: The Ontario Dentist for All Ages

Some people, both young and old, tend to be scared of dental procedures and dentists, in general. It might be due to an old and painful experience with a dental procedure, or it could be a dentist that wasn’t too caring during a procedure. For whatever reason, neither dentists nor dental procedures should be deemed as scary. 

Here at Pickering Square Dental, our very own Dr. Marvin Lean, along with the rest of the team, aims to provide dental procedures that all patients will be sure to appreciate. Let us get to know a little more about our beloved dentist. 
Learn more about frequently asked questions.

NHL Hockey Team Dentist
For all hockey enthusiasts, you might be happy to know that Dr. Marvin Lean has been a huge contributor to the Toronto Maple Leafs Organization as their dentist. For 10 years, he has been dedicating his services to ensure that the oral health of our dear professional athletes is optimal and generally well taken care of. He was not the only dentist for the Leafs but during the All-Star game in Nashville, he was there to help out all the athletes with their concerns on dental health. He is also part of the meeting for the Winter Classic that will be held in Toronto for their 100th anniversary. This, of course, is a proud moment for those who are from the Board of NHL Team Dentists. 

Kids and Adults
Dr. Lean is not just available for the pros – he is available for everyone, in general. He and his team work doubly hard to ensure great dental services that will be appreciated by both children and adults. They adapt procedures that cater to patients who have low pain tolerance, and those who prefer to be sedated during a procedure. Small things such as those mentioned go to show how much the staff at Pickering Square Dental cares about their patients. 

For over 25 years, Dr. Marvin Lean has been providing remarkable dental procedures. If you have been looking for a dentist in Ontario that you can entrust your teeth with (as well as your whole family’s), then Dr. Lean is your best bet. Contact us today and set up an appointment with us. You will not regret being under the hands of someone who even professional athletes trust. See you soon!

Helpful Resources

Teeth whitening

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.