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.

Guide to Your Child’s First Dental Visit

Experts recommend that a child’s first dental visit should be by the age of 1 or within 6 months after his or her first tooth comes in. Some dentists recommend that a child should see a dentist for the first time by their first birthday – with two-time annual dental check-ups. For toddlers, the first trip to the dentist might be a scary thing. Be sure that loud noises, new faces and strange instruments can make your child upset. Here are some things you need to do before your child’s first trip to the dentist. 

Health Information
It is best that you provide your child’s dentist with all of the medical conditions of your child, or if he or she is taking any medication. You should also keep your paediatrician’s contact information should the dentist need additional health information. If your child has a sucking habit, inform the dentist too, as that habit might affect your child’s teeth and jaws. 
Learn more about sedation dentistry options.

Orientation
It’s important to have a talk with your child as to what will happen. It’s best to practice brushing with your child before going to the dentist’s office, so that your child will be used to having a toothbrush in his or her mouth. 

The First Visit
The actual visit is going to be short and informal. The dentist will want to meet and greet the child for the first time, and to build some level of trust. Depending on your child’s age and comfort level, the parents might be asked to hold the child while the dentist looks around his or her mouth. The parents might also be asked to sit in the waiting room so the toddler can have some quality time with the dentist and staff on his or her own. 

Schedule
The dentist will let you know when the next visit will be and this will be based on how your toddler’s teeth look. It is important not to miss out on your dentist’s appointment especially with your kids. 

Dr. Lean and the team are keen on providing comfortable dental services to both kids and adults. Contact us today if your kid needs to have his or her first dental visit. See you soon!

Helpful Resources

Toothbrush

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.

Bruxism (Teeth Grinding) & How to Overcome It

Maintaining oral health is not just about brushing and flossing your teeth regularly. Sometimes, unconscious habits such as bruxism can also destroy the structure of teeth. Bruxism is a habit that involves grinding of the teeth. This often occurs during times of excessive anxiety, stress, anger, and other negative emotions. However, if a person does it continuously, it can certainly be damaging. 

If you are experiencing this, or if you know someone else who is, read this article to give you tips on how to stop this negative habit. 

Self-Awareness
Habitual teeth-grinding is commonly experienced at night, but it can also occur during daytime. If you are the person experiencing it, you should practice self-awareness by concentrating on what your body is doing. The moment you start to notice your jaw clenching, make an effort to relax it. You can do this by placing the tip of your tongue between the upper and lower part of your front teeth to fight the tooth-grinding urge. Self-preservation should prevent clamping down on your tongue. This will also force your jaws to relax. 
Learn more about frequently asked questions.

Relaxation
Experts agree that stress is one of the risk factors of bruxism. If you are feeling stressed out, it is best to take up a relaxing hobby or come up with a healthy routine such as yoga classes or exercise. It will be helpful to learn how to meditate even for small periods at a time, especially when you have stressful moments throughout the day. It is important that you find seclusion to calm your mind and to be able to relieve the day’s stress. 

Proper Equipment
There are times when a person suffering from bruxism (teeth grinding) cannot be self-aware because it occurs while sleeping. You can still protect yourself at night by having Dr. Lean fit you with a custom sleep guard. This is similar to a sports mouth guard. The only difference is wearing this at night to keep your teeth separated while you sleep. This will serve as a barrier that prevents your teeth from scraping across each other. This helps in preventing dental damage associated with bruxism. 

Lifestyle Change
Teeth grinding might worsen after consuming excessive amounts of alcohol or stress. More disturbed sleep means less rest and the more nocturnal activity you have, the more your teeth grinding would manifest. You should also stay away from chewing gum often. Chewing gum or pen lids might make your jaws used to clamping. 

Dr. Lean and the team are dedicated to address conditions such as this. Contact us today if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, or if someone you love is.

Helpful Resources

Testimonials — Pickering, ON

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.

Fruit Juices and Smoothies: Are They Bad for Our Teeth?

West-facing home windows with strong afternoon sunlight in Florida

Contrary to popular belief, it is not just sugar that damages our teeth, but acid, too. Acid is usually found in frizzy drinks such as sodas, and wines. However, another source of acid would be… fruit juices. Yes, you read it correctly. Though fruit juices are healthy for the body, they might not be too healthy for our teeth. Fruit juice contains concentrated amounts of all nutrients found in fruits such as vitamin C, vitamin A and antioxidants. However, they also contain other substances that are harmful to the teeth. 

Sugar
Sugar is one of the substances that are most harmful to the teeth. It is consumed by bacteria in the mouth and gets converted to acid – this causes cavities and wears away teeth. Dental plaque is what we call the build-up of these bacteria on the tooth surface. The bacteria also irritate the gums – this might lead to gum disease and can weaken the teeth, causing them to fall out. Even fruit juices that come in their pure form contain large amounts of natural sugars that also affect the teeth. In reality, a pure fruit juice might even contain more sugar than a soda. 
Learn more about frequently asked questions.

Acid
The enamel on the teeth is more fragile than most of us think. It gets affected by the acid released by mouth bacteria, and it wears down even faster by acids found in common fruit juices. Lime or cranberry fruit juices can actually be more acidic than vinegar when consumed excessively. This can wear down tooth enamel, leading to sensitive teeth, cavities and tooth loss, eventually. Fruit juices, which are often used as a substitute for sodas especially for children, might even cause more damage as it is acidic. Orange juice, in particular, has been found to decrease tooth hardness and roughen the surface of the teeth which leave them more prone to cavities and plaque. 

Prevention
Some fruit juices are still nutritious compared to sodas, despite some harmful effects on the teeth. To prevent teeth damage, it is best to limit the consumption of fruit juices. You can also dilute the juice in water to decrease the amount of damage to the teeth. It is, of course, necessary to brush regularly, especially after drinking juice – this helps in controlling the levels of bacteria on the teeth. You may also drink fruit juices using straws to decrease the damage it can cause to the teeth. 

For any dental concerns such as build-up of cavities and plaque, contact us. Here at Pickering Square Dental, we aim to solve any dental issues for our beloved patients. 

Helpful Resources

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.

Summer Fun: Keep Your Teeth Safe

Summertime is the perfect time to be with your family and friends, and have fun under the sun! Since you will probably be thinking about all the good things you will be doing, you might neglect your teeth – but you shouldn’t. Here are some tips on how you can keep your teeth safe and shiny this summer:

Rinse your mouth after swimming
The acidity of the water in swimming pools can affect your tooth enamel. In order to prevent this from happening, rinse with clean water throughout the day as well as after swimming. Brushing your teeth within an hour of pool time should be avoided as the enamel might still be vulnerable. 

Drink enough water
Dry mouth contributes to cavities so it is important that you drink enough water to stay hydrated throughout the whole day. This is not just for your teeth, but for your overall health as well. (so-so)
Learn more about sedation dentistry options.

Use straws when drinking fresh coolers
Drinking lemonades, sodas, and other sweet and acidic drinks can be bad for your teeth. Help your teeth by drinking through straws – this limits the impact of the acids on your teeth. You should also rinse with water after drinking sugary or acidic drinks as this helps, too. 

Brush your teeth after eating sweets
Hard candies soak your teeth in sugar for a long time while sticky candies, on the other hand, get stuck on your teeth. In order to protect your teeth and gums from too much sugar, you should brush and floss after these types of treats. If that’s not possible, you can just rinse with water or you can also chew sugarless gum, instead. 

Use proper protective equipment
When you are playing contact sports, make sure you use mouth guards accordingly. It doesn’t just protect your teeth, but it also helps prevent concussions. There are different types of mouth guards that are appropriate for different kinds of sports. To make sure that you are using the right one, it is best to consult Dr. Lean and his Team. 

We encourage you to take special care of your teeth during the summer. Brushing and flossing your teeth daily are important especially when you’re on vacation. Summer can also be the best time to catch up on your missed dental appointments. Here at Pickering Square Dental, we make sure that we prioritize all our patients’ teeth. We provide the best dental services we can give for our valued patients. Call us today!

Helpful Resources

man at the dentist

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.

How to Beat Dental Problems and Stay Smiling

Some people tend to take oral health for granted. They only pay attention to their mouth when they experience throbbing and incessant pain. Some fail to make their oral health their priority and use their busy schedules as their excuse. However, your oral health is as important as your overall health. Here are some ways on how to beat dental problems and stay smiling all the time:

Halitosis (Bad Breath)
This problem involves a person that has an unpleasant and foul odour coming from his or her mouth. This problem might be caused by several things: lingering food particles in the mouth, dryness of the mouth, poor dental hygiene, mouth infections, or illness. Resolving this problem depends on its cause but for some, this may be resolved simply by brushing the teeth to remove build-up of plaque, as well as brushing the tongue to remove bacteria. If you are suffering from this, it’s important that you replace your toothbrush every three months and have regular cleaning appointments. If this is caused by dry mouth, chew gum or drink water at regular intervals.
Learn more about frequently asked questions.

Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease)
Gums are the tissue inside one’s mouth that serves as teeth support. When they get infected due to plaque, it is called periodontal disease. The two basic types are: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is a milder form and it is reversible. When left untreated, it develops to periodontitis – an advanced stage of gum disease. Bacteria can cause deterioration of the gums as well as destruction of tooth-supporting bones in this case. It might lead to tooth loss. Prevention is the key when it comes to this disease. Proper tooth brushing and flossing techniques remove the plaque and bacteria. Make sure you practice good oral hygiene.

Tooth Decay
As plaque forms on the teeth, it also produces acids. These acids attack the enamel and if not removed properly, it can damage the tooth enamel – this is called tooth decay. If this is not treated at the soonest possible time, it can result in cavities (small holes in the teeth). Tooth decay is caused by poor brushing techniques or failure to brush one’s teeth regularly or with proper technique.  It is highly preventable with basic oral maintenance – daily brushing and flossing after every meal.

Mouth Sores
Mouth sores vary in types and they can appear on the gums, inner cheeks, tongue and lips and even at the bottom of the mouth. They range from mild sores to more serious ones. Mouth sores can be prevented depending on the type of sore. People who get sores from biting their cheeks can prevent sores by chewing more carefully and slowly. Being careful when drinking hot substances also help in preventing sores from burns. Antiviral medications can also be given as they help prevent cold sores from appearing.

Helpful Resources

woman smiling

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.