4 Qualities You Really Need in a Toothbrush

Family Dental

Old and new toothbrushIn order to have good oral hygiene practices, it is also important that we use the right type of toothbrush. Partner that with proper brushing techniques and good fluoride-containing toothpaste – you are sure to remove plaque from teeth effectively. Toothbrushes don’t just clean the teeth, they also help in keeping the tongue and gums clean. Here are the 5 qualities that you need to look for when buying a toothbrush:

Size

The shape of the head of a toothbrush actually makes no difference. What you should be concerned about is the size of the head. Small-headed toothbrushes are ideal because they are able to reach all areas of the mouth including the sides and backs of your molars. For adults, a toothbrush with a half-inch wide and one-inch tall head would be the most efficient and easiest one to use. 
Learn more about frequently asked questions.

Bristles

If you think that hard-bristled toothbrushes are the ones to use, then you’re wrong. Dental professionals would attest that a soft-bristled toothbrush is the most effective when it comes to removing debris and plaque from your teeth. Not only that, but a soft-bristled brush helps in protecting the gums, the tooth enamel and the root surface. Bristles come in many shapes such as: flat, rippled, dome-shaped – you should choose the one that’s most comfortable to you. There are also brushes that come in multi-height bristles – these reach every corner of your mouth. The bristles on a toothbrush with rounded tips offer more tooth protection. 

Handle

A good toothbrush should have a handle that’s long enough for you to comfortable hold in your hand. There are different types of handles such as: flexible necks or non-slip grips – these can be chosen as per the user’s preference. The grip plays an important factor because a comfortable one will make your brushing experience more effective, especially when you’re brushing the hard-to-reach areas such as your back molars. When you use a toothbrush that comes with a handle that feels comfortable in your hand, it also improves your ability to clean your teeth. Some brushes come with tongue-and-cheek cleaners on the other side of the bristles. 

Manual or Powered

Powered toothbrushes are said to be a lazy man’s way of brushing. However, if you have a condition that limits your movements, then investing in an electric toothbrush is a good idea. Though they may be a bit expensive, they definitely give you a good brushing experience.  Electric brushes loosen effortlessly and they also dispense plaque with their high-frequency micro-movements. Electric brushes are easy-to-use, convenient and effective. 

Helpful Resources

dentistry maintenance

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.

3 Tips for Preventing Toothaches

Dental Implants

Woman suffering from toothacheToothaches are unforgettable.  If you’ve ever had one, you’re sure to remember how it felt.  Usually, toothaches are either dull, sharp, or worse, throbbing. Toothaches are triggered differently, often, depending on the degree of damage to the tooth, gum tissue or supporting bone.  Some teeth hurt when there’s applied pressure, while other teeth just hurt even when you’re sleeping. When a tooth is infected, fever, headache, and a foul odour or taste in your mouth might also be present. It can also be caused by a number of several things such as:

– abscessed (infected) teeth
– teeth fractures
– damaged fillings
– extensive tooth decay
– teeth grinding
– gum infection
– teeth injuries

Whatever the cause is, what’s important is for the pain to be relieved. Here are some of the ways to prevent toothaches:

Good Oral Hygiene
Learn more about frequently asked questions.

Toothaches are definitely prevented by keeping good practices of oral hygiene. This can be done by brushing regularly with toothpaste containing fluoride. You also need to floss at least once daily, rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash once or twice a day, and make sure you have your teeth professionally cleaned by our dental team at Pickering Square Dental at least  twice a year.

Healthy Diet

Food plays an important role when dealing with toothaches. You should keep a low-sugar diet if you want to prevent cavities. You should also be mindful when eating hard foods. If you have an existing injured or fractured tooth, you have to stay away from foods that are hard to bite and chew. Failure to do so may lead to larger issues.

Regular Dentist Trips

Not a lot of people enjoy going to the dentist. However, this is essential when you want to totally avoid the excruciating pains of damaged teeth. Your dentist can definitely help you in preventing toothaches by addressing the potential problems with your teeth. Treatments depend on the cause.  If your toothache is coming from a cavity, one of our Dentists can assess the tooth and typically a simple filling can be placed.  If your tooth’s infected nerve is causing the pain, then a root canal might be required. This happens when bacteria have worked their way in the inner parts of the tooth. If there is fever or swelling of the jaw, then an antibiotic might be prescribed.

 

There are other dental treatments available – again, they vary depending on the causes. To ensure that your teeth and gums are taken care of, do not delay your trip to our office.  Your invested effort in visiting Dr. Lean and our Team of Dentists is nothing compared to the potential problems or possible pain you may be dealing with if you choose not to come.

Helpful Resources

dentist

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.

Why We Love Brushing Our Teeth (and You Should, too!)

Oral Surgeon

family brushing teeth

Some people think that brushing one’s teeth is just to keep our breaths smelling good and our teeth pearly white. There must be something more than just those two reasons since brushing our teeth had been important since we were kids. Despite how long you’ve known that it is essential, you still tend to forget to brush your teeth as often as you should. Let’s be reminded on why it’s important that we brush our teeth:

 

 
Learn more about sedation dentistry options.

Prevents Bad Breath

Bad breath is not necessarily the lack of oral hygiene – it can actually be caused by other existing health problems. However, its common cause would be poor dental hygiene. 

Prevents Loss of Teeth

For babies, tooth loss is a normal thing. However, it is definitely not a normal thing for adults. For adults, tooth loss might be due to an injury, gum disease or, tooth decay. This might be a bit frustrating for adults, especially in social gatherings.

Prevents Cavities

Cavities are permanent damage that comes in the form of tiny holes in the teeth – more so found on the hard surface.  These holes, known as decay are breached by acids from certain sugary foods and liquids. When this happens, it can and sometimes causes pain or tooth sensitivity.

Prevents Gingivitis

When a person fails to brush or floss his or her teeth adequately, plaque forms and tends to stay on the gums and the teeth – this is how gingivitis develops.  It’s a form of gum disease that creeps beneath one’s gum line and it separates the teeth from the gums.

Helpful Resources

dental fillings

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.

Choosing the Right Toothbrush

If you think that having a toothbrush is enough for oral health care, you’re wrong. Choosing the right toothbrush plays an initial role when it comes to taking care of your teeth.  So how do you choose your toothbrush?

 

The Basics

Since a toothbrush is an exclusive property, you have to choose the one that best suits your preference. Your comfort while using it should be considered. It should fit perfectly on your hand and the toothbrush should feel comfortable in your mouth, reaching every tooth surface.

Soft Bristles

According to the Canadian Dental Association, a toothbrush with soft, rounded bristles is the best one to choose. Most people don’t get that ‘clean feeling’ unless they use a toothbrush with stiff bristles but that habit can be unhealthy on the teeth and gums. Brushing the teeth too hard is a leading cause of sensitive teeth.
Learn more about periodontal care in Pickering.

Mind the Handles

The design of the handle might seem unimportant but there are easier-to-use designs nowadays. Because of their design, brushing becomes more effective. Toothbrushes with straight and rigid handles are difficult to control. The ones that have bent or tilted necks are easier to use and also helpful in reaching behind the teeth as well as around the back teeth.

Consider the Age

Toothbrushes, just like shoes, depend on the user’s age. Babies should use baby toothbrushes because they have small mouths, and the same goes for older children. Since you want to promote oral health care at an early age, let your children pick their own design at the supermarket, making their toothbrushes more personal for them.

 

Quality vs. Quantity

You might be seeing those 5-in-1 toothbrushes for the whole family in supermarkets.  As much as you can save money by buying those, it’s still better to go for the familiar ones, instead.  Nameless products might be made of weaker materials and since you put a toothbrush in your mouth, it’s better to be safe than sorry.  

Power and Battery-Operated Options

Over the years, it has been proven that power toothbrushes remove 10 to 40% more plaque than manual brushes. It’s because these power toothbrushes have round oscillating heads and fixed bristles. Studies also show that more than 35% of adults and children brush for a longer period of time when using power brushes.

 

Ideally, a toothbrush should be replaced every three months, but some people tend to wear out their brushes earlier than that.  If you see that your toothbrush is already worn out even before the three-month period, then it’s time to get a new one. 

Helpful Resources

dental fillings

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.

Keeping Teeth Safe in Spring

Winter has gone and spring is here – finally! Have you already planned your activities for this season?  There are many things to choose from, really. Getting back outdoors is tops on our list!  You can enjoy hiking with your friends, or go fishing with your family; you can even spend time with your loved one at a cottage, just enjoying the beauty of nature.

Whatever you decide to do, make sure you get the most out of it, but don’t forget that your safety and overall health should still be your priority! If you are planning on having some fun under the sun, be sure to always be prepared for whatever dental emergency you might encounter.

 

Picnics and Get-togethers
Learn more about family dentistry services in Pickering.

Outdoor activities usually involve picnics and having a beer or two with friends. Make sure you bring a bottle opener so that you (or one of your friends) won’t have to use your teeth in desperate times. Just in case this can’t be avoided and one of your friends chips a tooth in the process, don’t worry! Be sure to rinse your mouth with warm water as soon as possible. No bacteria should be present in the affected area to reduce the risk of any infection. For swelling that might appear in a few minutes, use a cold compress and apply pressure on the affected area.

 

Spring Sports

If your idea of fun is playing sports with your buddies, then be sure to wear the proper protective gear. For physical sports, it is best to protect your mouth using a mouth guard. This protects teeth from being knocked out, broken or chipped, and is definitely a good way to avoid a potential concussion. Before you go out and play, equip yourself with this first.

Hiking

One of the most famous activities in spring is hiking. Most people enjoy going up trails during this time because the air is somewhat cool and warm at the same time. However, trips and slips are also common during these times. The soil tends to be soft and muddy – slippery. In a case of a knocked out tooth during a climb, use a cold substance and apply it to the affected area – cold compress will do. If bleeding occurs, bite on a wet towel with pressure.  It’s important to hold on to the tooth as you need to show that to your dentist. Some teeth have the chance to be re-implanted! 

Helpful Resources

dental treatment

For more information, visit the CDA Oral Health Resources.

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.

Mouth Sores and How to Deal With Them

Dental health doesn’t only involve the teeth and gums. Sores and irritations may develop inside and around the mouth.

Mouth sores are common ailments that affect most people at some point in their lives. These sores usually appear on any soft tissues in the mouth including the lips, gums, tongue, and the floor and roof of the mouth.

 

Causes

These sores come in different shapes and sizes and might be caused by one of the following:

*Irritation from a loose orthodontic wire, sharp edge from a filling or a broken tooth or, a denture that doesn’t perfectly fit

*Burns from hot food and beverage

*Brushing your teeth too hard with a very firm toothbrush

*Chewing tobacco

*Biting your tongue, cheek or lip

*Infections from various bacteria, fungus or viruses

*The symptom of a disease or disorder

*Over-the-counter or prescription medications

*Weakened immune system
Learn more about periodontal care in Pickering.

 

Symptoms

Mouth sores commonly cause redness and pain, most especially when drinking and eating. They come in various sizes and severity, and they may be located on the different parts of your mouth.  These sores may also develop blisters, making it difficult for a person to eat, talk, or smile.

 

If a sore does not go away after a couple of weeks, or once they start getting worse, it’s time to consult a doctor for further examinations. The doctor will check your mouth, tongue and lips and may perform other necessary tests.

 

Treatment

Minor mouth sores often heal naturally within 10 to 14 days.  To help ease the pain, you may try the following:

*Gargle with salt water.  

*avoid hot, spicy, salty, citrusy, and sweet foods.

*Avoid tobacco and alcoholic drinks.

*Avoid squeezing or picking at the blisters and sores.

*Eat ice chips, sherbet, or other cold foods.

*Take over-the-counter anti-pain medications.

 

For more severe cases, however, the doctor might prescribe a pain medication, steroid gel, or an anti-inflammatory drug. If results show that the sores are caused by a virus, bacteria or fungus, then the proper medication will be prescribed to treat the infection.

 

Prevention

There is no absolute way on how mouth sores can be prevented. However, these practices might be helpful in reducing the risk for having these painful sores:

*Be careful with very hot foods and drinks.

*Chew with caution.

* Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and practice good and regular dental hygiene.

*Eat a balanced diet.

*Drink plenty of water.

*Do not smoke or use tobacco.

*Avoid or limit alcohol consumption.

*Take vitamin supplements, especially B vitamins.

*Let your dentist know if any dental wire of teeth may be irritating your mouth.

*Avoid excessive stress. 

Helpful Resources

woman smiling

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.

Great Looking Fixes for Your Teeth

Having great-looking teeth is important to maintain one’s self-confidence and self-esteem. Not a lot of people can pull of having missing teeth, and going about life normally. If this is a problem you are currently struggling with, maybe it’s time to have a visit at our office.  Before coming to visit us, you might want to know of some options:

1.     Teeth Whitening

This is one of the most common (and inexpensive) fixes to achieve that beautiful smile.  Tooth whitening can be accomplished at home with professionally made and monitored products from our office.  Another option is our in office whitening system.

2.     Composite Bonding

If a chipped tooth (or teeth) is your main concern, you might opt for a tooth-coloured composite resin.  Attached to the teeth, this can improve the strength and the appearance of chipped teeth.  This usually requires the dentist having to prepare your teeth for the bonding.

3.     Dental Implants

Nowadays, dental implants are usually made of titanium. It is used to replace not just the missing tooth, but the actual root portion of a missing tooth which makes them extremely strong.  Dental implants are fitted with a crown to have that natural-looking feeling and appearance.

4.     Tooth-Coloured Fillings

Tooth fillings used to be obvious in earlier times because of their different colours.  Thanks to modern technology and innovation, tooth fillings now have the same colour as that of natural teeth and are barely noticeable!

5.     Clear Orthodontic Aligners

Just like the old tooth fillings, metal braces are slowly fading from the picture. All thanks to another new trend: clear orthodontic aligners! Many adults, and some teenagers, are already going for this alternative to straighten crooked teeth.

6.     Tooth Contouring

Do you wish to have a different shape for your teeth? That’s not a problem! Cosmetic dentists have the ability to smoothen or reshape teeth with the use of a laser or small drill.

7.     Porcelain Veneers

Veneers are designed to substitute for tooth enamel.  They are made of hard, thin shells of tooth-coloured material that can mask a variety of dental imperfections.

8.     Porcelain Crowns

Heavily damaged teeth are still teeth that can be saved with natural-looking porcelain crowns. These replace more natural tooth structure than veneers.

 

Dental treatments depend on the different and individual needs of each person.  A trip to the dentist will determine the best option for you. 

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

Helpful Resources

dental service

For more information, visit the CDA Dental Procedures Guide.

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 You Need to Know About Baby Teeth

Baby teeth, medically termed as deciduous teeth, are the first set of teeth in the growth development of humans and other mammals. They are also called milk teeth, and now more commonly primary teeth. They develop as early as the embryonic stage – while in the fetus – and become visible in the mouth during infancy. They are meant to be lost and replaced by permanent teeth, but can remain functional for many years.

The ages when baby teeth usually appear and fall out are as follows:

Central Incisors

The first two visible teeth on the upper and lower gums usually appear i the first 6 to 12 months and fall out once the child turns 6 or 7 years old.

Lateral Incisors
Learn more about frequently asked questions.

These are the two upper and lower teeth next to the central incisors that appear between the 6th and 12th month. They usually fall out in the 7th and 8th year.

Canine/Cuspid teeth (16-23 months)

The first canine (also known as cuspid) teeth become visible on the upper gums, appearing between the 16th and 22nd month. They usually fall out in the 10th and 12th year. The lower canine teeth usually appear on the 17th and 23rd month, and fall out in the 9th or 12th year.

First molars (13-19 months)

The upper first molars become visible when the child enters their 13th to 19th month, while the lower first molars appear between the 14th and 18th month.  All molars s fall out when the child turns approximately 9-11 years old.

Second molars: (22-33 months)

The last set of primary teeth appear first on the lower gums, sometime between the 23rd-31st month, while the second molars on the upper gums become visible between the 25th-33rd month.  The second molars commonly fall out when the child turns 10 or 12 years old.

The oral health care for babies start even before any tooth becomes visible. After each feeding, wipe the gums off with a warm, wet washcloth. Soft, thimble-like rubbery devices are also used for rubbing off excess food.

Once teeth start coming in, you can now start using a toothbrush for babies.  The most ideal brushes come with soft bristles, a small head and a large handle.  As soon as teeth erupt (come in), a grain-sized portion of child toothpaste may be used, increasing to a pea-sized amount when the child turns 3 years old.  Toothpaste should always be spit out and not swallowed.

Helpful Resources

dental implants

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.

The Other Health Benefits of Dental Care

Taking care of your oral health means more than just having a beautiful smile. The mouth is known to be ‘the gateway of the body’. Bacteria from the teeth and gums might do more damage to your overall health than you think. What are other advantages of oral health care, you ask?

 

1.     Reduces Risk of Heart Disease

Gum disease produces chronic inflammation and this has been associated with development of certain cardiovascular problems including stroke, heart disease and blockage of blood vessels. The bacteria and plaque from periodontal diseases might enter the bloodstream through the gums. The bacteria can clog arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack.

2.     Lowers Risk of Infection and Inflammation
Learn more about periodontal care in Pickering.

Various studies have found an association between gum disease and rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune disease causing joint inflammation). Poor oral health has also known to cause the development of infection in other areas of the body.

 

3.     Lessens Risk of Cancer

Researchers have also found that men who had gum disease were 54% more likely to develop pancreatic cancer, 49% more likely to develop kidney cancer, and 30% more likely to develop blood cancer. Smokers, who are at the highest risk of such cancers, are less likely to visit a dentist.

4.     Decreases Risk of Premature Birth for Pregnant Women

Women might develop an infection during pregnancy, and one of the most common sites of infection is the mouth. Some studies made suggest that there’s a relationship between gum disease and premature birth. Brushing, flossing and the use of a non-alcohol antimicrobial mouthwash in pregnant women decrease the rate of premature deliveries.

5.     Preserves Memory

Early onset of Alzheimer’s disease can lead to a cause of tooth loss often seen due a decrease in overall dental health. The infection in the gums is found to release inflammatory substances which increase brain inflammation. This can cause neuronal (brain cell) death. Adults with gingivitis (inflamed gums) are said to perform worse on memory tests and other cognitive skills than those with healthier mouths.

 

Good dental practices do more good to the rest of your body, not only your teeth and gums. Regular trips to the dentist not only save your teeth, but overall health as well. If you are having any problems with your teeth or gums, it’s best to call our office as soon as possible to avoid more serious circumstances. 

Helpful Resources

woman brushing teeth

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.

Creating a More Confident Smile

Who doesn’t want to have a dazzling smile? We trust that everybody wants just that. Most people do not find their smiles beautiful enough, but that shouldn’t be the case. Contrary to popular belief, having a confident smile is totally up to the willingness of the beholder – that and proper oral health routines.

If you find it difficult to socialize with others because you have to talk, laugh and smile most of the time, then maybe it’s time to rethink of your oral health routines and practices.

It Starts Within

Pearly whites make all the difference, yes, but you have to make sure that all your other teeth are healthy as well. If you have damaged teeth that need treatment, you should work on those first. They might not be hurting now, but once they do start being sensitive, smiling would be the last thing on your mind.

Stick to a Healthy Routine
Learn more about family dentistry services in Pickering.

Brushing your teeth should never be skipped nor forgotten – no matter how busy you are. Keep in mind that our mouths are one of the dirtiest parts of our bodies. Ending the day without brushing your teeth is similar to sleeping with dirty clothes on.    

Keep It Sparkly

Most people with confident white smiles have had their teeth whitened. If you know you have sparkling whites to show, you are more likely to flaunt it than keep it hidden. Having perfect white teeth doesn’t come naturally.  Professional whitening systems at our office create dazzling white teeth!

Say No to Bad Breath

The most common reason for having foul-smelling breath is poor oral hygiene practices. Some people find it difficult to keep a conversation longer than 2 minutes because they are too conscious of their breath and other people smelling it.  Brushing and flossing your teeth on a daily basis helps you prevent this.

Replace Missing Ones

Losing our teeth can be very traumatic. Even if you take care of your teeth, certain circumstances might have caused you to have lost a tooth or two at some point. Don’t leave it like that.  Consider getting dental implants as soon as possible to restore your mouth and its ability to function well as well as for your own self-esteem.

Regularize Trips to the Dentist

Maintaining your teeth in the best condition is done with the help of a professional.  We are here to help and are well worth the time and commitment. 

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.