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.

Dealing With an Abscessed Tooth

 An abscess is an area of puss that forms as part of the body’s effort to fight a bacterial infection. It can form in almost any part of the body. In the mouth, abscesses form in the gums, teeth, or roots of the teeth. People with a lowered resistance to infection are most likely to develop an abscess.

Bacteria can enter and cause an abscess through:

1.     Trauma (food or any debris embedded deep in the gums)

2.     Decay (a cavity) leading into the tooth nerve and blood vessels (dental pulp)
Learn more about root canal therapy.

3.     Deep gap (pocket) between the teeth and gums

An abscessed tooth usually delivers a throbbing pain that just won’t go away. The tooth will be sensitive to pressure from chewing, as well as heat. A swollen face or jaw often signals a growing infection, and jaw pain from the swelling might be present, as well. Most people develop a fever, and lymph nodes found under the jaw or in the neck area may swell and become tender. If the abscess accidentally breaks open, a sudden rush of foul-tasting and foul-smelling fluid will spill into your mouth.

Saving an abscessed tooth begins with draining the infection. The dentist will need to open up the tooth to drain the infection (puss) and there will be a need to fill the canal. This procedure is called root canal treatment. If there is no swelling present, the infection can be drained directly from the inside of the tooth.

The treatment for an abscessed tooth should be done as soon as possible. If the tooth cannot be saved, it should be extracted (removed). In doing this, the source of the infection is completely removed and the jawbone and gums are allowed to heal.

In children’s primary teeth, the treatment depends on the extent of infection. If the abscessed primary tooth is still in the early stages of infection and is not moving in the tooth socket, the infection is usually cleared out within the pulp chamber. The space would be filled with a paste such as zinc oxide eugenol. However, if the infection is advanced and has caused the tooth to move, the best thing to do is to extract the tooth.

During pregnancy, a dental abscess requires immediate attention to minimize further spread of the infection at the soonest possible time. Any risk of infection during pregnancy is a concern as the infection can be more severe in pregnant women and could be detrimental to the fetus.

If the abscess is found in the gums, the dentist might suggest that you rinse with warm salt water few times a day for several days. You might also be prescribed antibiotics to help kill the infection lessen the swelling.

Following a root canal treatment, the dentist usually requires a dental X-ray six months later to see whether healthy bone and tissue are filling the area of the abscess. If the bone does not fill in after the said treatment, a visit to the specialist is the next best step. 

Helpful Resources

dental implant

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.

How to Help Your Teething Infant

Do your baby’s cries keep you up in the middle of the night? Is he/she still crying even after you’ve just fed them, changed his diaper, and tried rocking him gently to sleep? Maybe he’s in distress. Maybe his tummy is aching

Or maybe… maybe your baby is teething.

Teething usually occurs somewhere between 2 and 12 months, or sometimes even later than that. The first few teeth might show with ease, but it could be a long, painful process. The pain is common because just like with an adult’s wisdom tooth, the teeth are pushing through the gums. That is the reason why there’s so much pain and swelling so be sure you know how to help ease the pain!

 

Signs and symptoms of teething include:

*reddish, swollen gums

*flushed cheeks or face

*gum-rubbing, biting or sucking
Learn more about frequently asked questions.

*heavy drooling

*rubbing his ear on the same side as an erupting tooth

*not eating as much as usual

*irritable, agitated

*sleepless at night, but wakeful during the day

*increased temperature and diarrhea (might be caused by something else, consult a doctor to be sure)

 

Putting pressure on your baby’s teeth by chewing may relieve the pain. However, your baby’s gums might be sensitive at this time so there’s a tendency for him to turn away from your breast or his bottle during the teething phase.

 

There are several ways to soothe your baby’s painful gums before resorting to teething gels and other pain relief products. As much as possible, you would want to ease the pain naturally. Try some of these tried and tested practices:

*Rub a clean finger gently over your baby’s sore gums to temporarily numb the pain.

*Get your baby a teething ring. It’s better to buy the solid, silicone-based teething ring rather than the liquid-filled ones as the latter could leak. Before giving the teething ring, put it in the fridge for that cooling effect. Do not put it in the freezer as that could hurt your baby’s gums. Avoid teething necklaces as they are hazardous to babies.

*Offer cold drinks and cold food. For babies over six months, a bottle of icy cold water can be a relief for painful gums. You can also give ice-free water in a cup. For food, chilled yogurt, applesauce and blended peaches can be your options, as long as food has already been introduced to your baby.

*Never use rubbing alcohol on your baby’s gums. Parents should also avoid any herbal or homeopathic natural teething meds as those can contain ingredients that cause heart problems and drowsiness.

*Comfort – lots and lots of extra hugs, kisses and patience are required for our little ones throughout this painful process.

 

If you would opt to go for pain relief medicines or products, it is best to always consult your paediatrician first. Since you’re dealing with babies, it is not advisable to have them take medicines without prescription from a medical professional. 

Helpful Resources

dental bridges

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 Benefits of Dental Implants

Not everyone is concerned with having healthy teeth or worried about losing a tooth or two. However, replacing a missing tooth is the right way to go. Failure to do so might result to your other teeth moving or loss of chewing function, as well.

It is common for dentists to recommend having dental implants for damaged or missing teeth, but the real question is, what are the benefits?

 

Closest to Natural Teeth

Dental implants are artificial teeth roots that are placed into one’s jaw to hold replacement teeth. Although it is artificial, technology allows these implants to look, fit, feel and function like natural teeth. One of the downsides of losing teeth is people also lose their self-esteem and self-confidence. With dental implants, however, you can eat, speak and smile just like anyone else!

 

A Long-Term Solution

Alternate options include dental crowns and tooth bridges (fixed prosthetic devices that are cemented onto existing teeth). These usually last a minimum of 5 to 7 years, and often last more than 10 years, given the proper care. At some point, however, they would still need to be replaced. Dental implants, on the other hand, may need some adjustments from time-to-time, but can definitely last a lifetime when properly taken care of and put to place.

 

Smile like a Champion

You no longer have to worry about covering your smile in public because of a missing tooth or teeth. When someone loses a tooth, the face usually sags and might appear sad-looking. With dental implants, your face would be brought back to its natural shape.

 

No Food Limitations

Dental implants also give you the freedom to enjoy all the foods you love without having to worry about losing your teeth again. You can bite just as you did when you had natural teeth. Unlike having removable dentures, you can be sure to have the full taste of the food you eat with dental implants.

 

No More Cavities

Cavities can no longer occur in dental implants. However, gum disease still can so, following the scheduled visits to the dentist is still a must. Proper care and cleaning for the implants, your gums and mouth on a daily basis is still needed, just like with natural teeth.

 

No Falling Teeth

The common problem with dentures is the fact that they may slip while you’re eating, smiling, laughing, coughing, or worse – talking. Avoid having that public humiliation as dental implants or bridges are fixed in place.

 

Proven to be More Reliable

Dental implant treatment has proved itself to be reliable as there are many success stories by patients all around the world. It is often considered to be more predictable than other treatments when it comes to repair or replacing missing tooth or teeth. 

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 implant

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.

What to Do in a Dental Emergency

Dental emergencies can come out of nowhere.  A bad slip that lands you on your face, biting down on something you weren’t expecting, or some form of freak accident could cause you severe dental or oral distress.  When incidents like this happen you should seek a dental professional as soon as possible and in the meantime do what you can to try to mitigate the issue.  Here are some common dental emergencies and how to deal with them.

Pain or Bleeding

For toothaches call your dentist and explain the nature of the pain and any other symptoms you might be experiencing.  It is likely they’ll be able to give you some advice and that should be adhered to. 

If you find yourself bleeding from your gums, tongue, or lip, apply pressure with a clean cloth.  For swelling use an ice pack to try to keep it down.  The bleeding should stop relatively quickly but if it does not seek help at a hospital Emergency room.

Damaged Teeth

If a tooth is fully knocked out of your mouth pick it up and examine it.  If it appears clean and intact you can attempt to put it back in its socket.  If this is not possible for whatever reason gently rinse it with milk or water and place it in a container of cold milk and seek out dental assistance right away.  Within two hours – and preferably within ten minutes – the tooth has the potential to take root again.  After that the odds are decreased.

Broken teeth or dental work can usually be repaired.  For lost fillings you can safely secure the area by placing a piece of sugar free gum in the cavity until you can see dentist – which should be as soon as possible.

Dental emergencies can be stressful and scary but with the knowledge above you’ll know how to take action as you seek out dental help.  If you have a dental issue, emergency or not, contact Pickering Square Dental today.

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

Dental Crown

For more information, visit the CDA Dental Emergency Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as a dental emergency?

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

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

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

What should I do if a tooth is knocked out?

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

Dentistry and Other Medical Conditions – Part 2

On our website we have an informative article about medical conditions that can affect your teeth and that your dentist might be able to help with.  For more information on conditions like diabetes, oral cancer, bulimia and anorexia nervosa you should consult Part 1.  In this blog post we’ll take a look at some other medical issues that can have an impact on your oral health.

Temporomandibular Disorder

The temporomandibular is a name for the joints and muscles around the jaw that let us chew, swallow, and speak.   When there issues with this area it may be indicative of temporomandibular disorder or TMD.  Symptoms include tender or saw jaw muscles, issues opening and closing your mouth, headaches, or clicking when you chew or yawn.  Your dentist can help by examining you and treating your TMD possibly with a specially designed appliance custom made for you.  
Learn more about periodontal care in Pickering.

Anemia

Anemia is a disorder in which your red blood cells don’t contain enough of the iron-rich protein hemoglobin or less of them are produced than is normal.  This means your body may not get the oxygen it needs through the bloodstream which could result in serious medical issues including heart failure.  It has oral effects as well including a higher risk of periodontitis, pale mouth tissue, or an inflammation of the tongue.  If you have anemia it is vital to let your dentist know since some forms could carry higher risk of infection and your dentist may need to prescribe antibiotics  (in severe cases) before performing any procedures to minimize that risk.

Thyroid Problems

Your thyroid produces and regulates many very important hormones in the body and conditions that affect it can disrupt the functionality of organs and various bodily systems.  In terms of oral care thyroid problems carry a greater risk of gum disease since it can inhibit the body’s ability to heal.  Additionally, dry mouth can be caused which may result in a greater chance of cavities.  The tongue may also be afflicted through enlargement or a distorted sense of taste.  Make sure to inform your dentist of any thyroid problems to ensure they know how to best deal with your particular issues.

There are many medical issues that can have a serious impact on dental and oral health and these are just few more.  If you have any questions regarding the impact of an illness you may have or are looking to solve some unrelated dental issues contact Pickering Square Dental today.

Helpful Resources

tooth repair

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.