What Dietary Supplements Are Good For Oral Health?

With dietary supplements now more commonly available than ever before, it’s important that patients research the marketplace carefully and make sure they’re selecting the right products for their oral health requirements. The question regarding dietary supplements and oral health is one that we often receive from patients within our clinic and so within this post, we’ll outline several of the dietary supplements that have been proven effective in protecting and boosting oral health over the long-term. Vitamin D Low vitamin D levels have been linked with periodontal disease in numerous studies. Vitamin D works in numerous ways to improve oral health. For example, the supplement can produce cathelicidin and defensins, which have antimicrobial properties. These compounds work to reduce the number of bacteria in the mouth, helping to prevent disease from impacting the patient over time. Vitamin D also works to reduce matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which have also been associated with periodontal disease. Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids Many take vitamin C on a regular basis to improve their health in the fight to prevent colds and other conditions. However, vitamin C has also been shown to impact oral health as well. For example, studies have shown that patients who take vitamin C with bioflavonoids can achieve greater gum healing effects. This could be beneficial for those who experience regular gum bleeding as vitamin C works to promote the tissue healing process. Green Tea Supplements Taking green tea in the form of a supplement or in liquid form has been shown to significantly improve oral health. Patients can reduce the risk of losing teeth by up-to 20% by taking green tea supplements on a regular basis, according to a recent study in Japan. Recent studies have also indicated that green tea can help to inhibit certain kinds of oral bacteria and increase the acid resistance of tooth enamel. It’s a supplement that could offer protection to those with numerous challenging oral health conditions. These are just a few of the examples of health supplements that can improve dental health and reduce oral care issues for the years ahead. It’s important to speak with your dental care professional before taking any dietary supplement for oral health. To learn more about the various supplements available on the marketplace, speak with our trusted and trained team today!

Helpful Resources

periodontal care

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

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Contact Pickering Square Dental to book your appointment with Dr. Marvin Lean. Call us at (905) 420-1777 or visit us at 1450 Kingston Rd, Unit #4, Pickering, ON.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

The Canadian Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist at least twice a year for regular check-ups and cleanings. Some patients may need more frequent visits depending on their oral health needs. Call Pickering Square Dental at (905) 420-1777 to schedule your next appointment.

Do you accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?

Yes, Pickering Square Dental participates in the Canadian Dental Care Plan. Our team can help you understand your coverage and ensure you receive the dental care you need. Contact us for more details about CDCP eligibility and benefits.

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

We offer a full range of dental services including family dentistry, emergency dental care, sedation dentistry, dental implants, laser dentistry, teeth whitening, root canal therapy, dental extractions, periodontal care, and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Lean and our team serve patients in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, and Scarborough.

Did You Know That Plaque Could Help Prevent Disease?

Dentist Pickering

Long thought of as simply a mass of bacteria that grows on our teeth over time, plaque apparently could offer great insight into our oral health. The latest studies completed by the Oral Microbiome and Metagenomics Research Lab (OMMR) at the Faculty of Dentistry have shown that plaque could be a more complex material that first thought. Within this post, we’ll go into greater detail on the new data and what it could mean for future dental treatments.

Greater Consistency than Saliva Sampling

One of the major benefits discovered through the latest research was that plaque could provide researchers with a greater degree of sample consistency than current saliva sampling techniques. The problem with saliva samples is that the bacteria within saliva can change throughout the day, preventing professionals from achieving a clear picture on the person’s oral health. The bacterial content from plaque samples, however, remains quite stable over time. This provides health care teams with a greater foundation to understanding a patient’s health.
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Non-Invasive

Plaque samples could also offer a non-invasive method of locating stable bacteria samples. Many research teams currently use bacteria from the intestines and the stomach to understand the processes taking place in a patient’s system. But these procedures often require surgery and are considered invasive. Plaque sampling can be completed simply and requires no invasive methods.

Comparison with Biomarkers

The researchers at the OMMR lab found that by using the 16S rRNA gene, which is found in all bacteria on the planet, they could then identify other bacteria present in a plaque sample. Through this process, the research team could distinguish biomarkers that correlate with certain health conditions. This could allow medical teams to build a proactive treatment regimen that is customized to the patient’s unique health conditions. Because this analysis can be completed in just hours, it’s an exciting development in the area of medical diagnosis and could prevent millions from being misdiagnosed in future.

By understanding the bacteria in our mouths and by learning more about what plaque is telling us about the individual patient, we, as care professionals, can improve treatment results and help patients maximize their health over the long-term. It’s exciting news for all hardworking healthcare professionals. To discuss this latest research with an expert, please contact our office team directly today! 

Helpful Resources

Tooth Extraction

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.

Should I Brush My Teeth With Coconut Oil?

Using coconut oil as a way to improve oral health has gained significant attention in the dental community over the past decade. While it began as an alternative wellness trend, dental professionals now acknowledge that coconut oil — particularly virgin, cold-pressed varieties — does offer certain oral health benefits worth exploring. Here is what the research says about incorporating coconut oil into your dental care routine.

What Is Oil Pulling?

dentist

Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice where you swish one to two tablespoons of oil in your mouth for 15 to 20 minutes, then spit it out. Coconut oil is the most popular choice due to its pleasant taste and high lauric acid content. Lauric acid is known for its antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce harmful bacteria in the mouth.

A 2016 study published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine found that oil pulling with coconut oil significantly reduced Streptococcus mutans counts — the primary bacteria responsible for tooth decay. Participants who practiced oil pulling for two weeks showed a measurable decrease in bacterial colonies compared to the control group.

Benefits of Coconut Oil for Oral Health

Reduces Harmful Bacteria

The lauric acid in coconut oil has strong antimicrobial properties. Research published in the Nigerian Medical Journal (2015) confirmed that oil pulling can reduce plaque formation and plaque-induced gingivitis. This makes it a useful complementary practice — though not a replacement — for brushing and flossing.

Helps Fight Bad Breath

Halitosis (bad breath) is primarily caused by bacteria and food particles trapped in the mouth. By reducing the bacterial load, oil pulling with coconut oil can help improve breath freshness. A study in the Journal of Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry (2011) found oil pulling was as effective as chlorhexidine mouthwash in reducing halitosis-causing organisms.

Contains No Harmful Chemicals

Unlike some commercial mouthwashes and toothpastes that contain alcohol, sodium lauryl sulfate, or artificial preservatives, coconut oil is a single-ingredient, natural product. For patients who prefer to minimize chemical exposure in their daily routine, coconut oil offers a gentle alternative for supplemental oral care.

May Support Gum Health

Inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) can lead to more serious periodontal disease if left untreated. Preliminary research suggests that the anti-inflammatory properties of coconut oil may help soothe irritated gum tissue and reduce bleeding during brushing. However, patients with signs of gum disease should still seek professional periodontal care for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Cost-Effective Supplemental Care

A jar of virgin coconut oil is inexpensive and widely available at grocery stores across Pickering, Ajax, and the Durham Region. For families looking for affordable ways to support oral health between dental visits, oil pulling is an accessible option.

Important Limitations to Keep in Mind

dental filling

While coconut oil has demonstrated benefits, it is essential to understand what it cannot do:

  • It does not replace brushing and flossing. Oil pulling does not remove plaque as effectively as mechanical brushing with fluoride toothpaste.
  • It does not whiten teeth dramatically. Some anecdotal reports claim whitening effects, but there is limited clinical evidence to support significant colour change.
  • It should not be used to treat cavities or infections. If you have tooth pain, a cracked tooth, or signs of infection, please contact our office for an emergency dental appointment.

The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) does not currently endorse oil pulling as a substitute for conventional oral hygiene practices but acknowledges that more research is underway.

How to Try Oil Pulling Safely

  1. Use one tablespoon of virgin, cold-pressed coconut oil.
  2. Swish gently for 15 to 20 minutes (start with 5 minutes if you are new to the practice).
  3. Spit the oil into a trash can — not the sink, as it can solidify and clog drains.
  4. Rinse your mouth with warm water, then brush your teeth as normal.
  5. Practice oil pulling in the morning before eating for best results.

Talk to Your Dentist About Your Oral Care Routine

At Pickering Square Dental, Dr. Marvin Lean and our team encourage patients to discuss any complementary practices they use — including oil pulling — during their regular checkups. We can help you build a complete oral health routine that works for your needs, whether you prefer all-natural products or a combination approach.

If you have questions about oil pulling, oral hygiene, or any other dental topic, contact our Pickering dental office or call us at (905) 420-1777 to schedule a consultation. We serve families in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Scarborough, Oshawa, and Markham.

Helpful Resources

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.

An Introduction to the Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants are an artificial root structure produced using titanium metal. They can be inserted into the jawbone to replace natural teeth and have become immensely popular among the population for both the comfort and the aesthetic value they provide.  Our Team of experts have great experience integrating dental implants for our patients. And within this blog, we’ll provide further insights on the lasting benefits provided by dental implant treatment.

1. A Long-Term Solution

Unlike dental bridges, dental implants can last a lifetime when maintained properly. This not only assures wearers of long-term comfort but also of the value for their dental investment.

2. Retain Natural Facial Structure

Because dental implants are designed to help imitate a patient’s natural teeth, they can help each individual retain the natural structure of their mouth and cheeks. This ensures a vibrant appeal that helps the patient maintain their confidence.

3. The Next Best Thing after Natural Teeth

Each element of the construction of dental implants is refined to ensure the closest possible alternative to natural teeth. From the structure of the dental implant to its shape and colour, patients will see how seamlessly the dental implant fits within their mouth. It’s one of the leading advantages compared with other options that may cause bone deterioration and may interfere with actions such as smiling and speaking.

4. A Track Record of Reliability

Because of the research, and the proven track record that dental implants offer, patients can be rest assured that their implant will be expertly integrated.  Patients experience few problems and have great long-term outcomes as a result of their implant treatments replacing their missing teeth.    

5. Less Impact on Other Teeth

Tooth supported bridge work may require the dentist to remove or replace other healthy teeth to complete the treatment process. However, dental implant treatment does not require the removal of nearby teeth to support the implant. This means that patients retain more of their teeth and the recovery time from dental implant treatment is reduced in comparison to other forms of restorative dentistry.

It’s a treatment option that is becoming a viable solution for a range of patients. To discover more on the benefits of dental implants, speak with a member of our Team at Pickering Square DEntal at our office today! 

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 treatment

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.

7 Healthy Foods that Can Improve Your Dental Health

The food you’re using to nourish your body and achieve the nutrients you require for a healthy lifestyle can have a significant impact on your teeth, oral and overall health and well-being.  We have to consider how our diet impacts our oral health. By making a few simple changes, you may be able to improve your oral health over time and so within this blog, we’ll review seven healthy foods that can improve your dental health.

1. Apples

Apples have been called nature’s toothbrush for many decades because they work to stimulate the gums and increase the saliva flow in the mouth. This helps reduce the bacteria that can cause cavities and other dental conditions.

2. Carrots

Carrots are a leading source of beta carotene. Beta carotene can be turned into vitamin A by the body, ensuring optimal nutritional performance.
Learn more about teeth whitening and aesthetics.

3. Cheese

While acid in the food that we eat can impact our tooth enamel, cheese and milk products work to reduce the level of acid within your mouth. Because a glass of milk or a piece of cheese is also filling, it also helps provide greater levels of nutritional energy than high sugar products filled with empty calories.

4. Raw Onions

Research continues to show that fresh, raw onion holds anti-bacterial properties. Studies have proven that raw onions can be used to wipe away four different types of bacteria that can cause cavities and gum disease.

5. Cashews

Cashew nut oil has been shown to have microbe-fighting properties that protect against the bacteria that cause decay. These nuts can keep your teeth clean as well as fighting against skin issues such as acne! 

6. Wasabi

New research from Japan has shown that wasabi may be effective in stopping bacteria from sticking to your teeth. It’s a reason to give sushi a try

7. Spinach

Spinach and other high fiber foods are important for healthy teeth because they generate saliva during the chewing process. And they also work to physically scrub your teeth, removing any nasty bacteria in the process.

By keeping to a strict diet and allowing yourself to snack on only teeth-healthy foods, you can minimize the long-term damage to your teeth and, overall dental and medical health!  To learn more on the various teeth-healthy foods available, contact our office team here at Pickering Square Dental directly! 

Helpful Resources

dental treatment

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.

5 Things to Consider When Having Wisdom Teeth Taken Out

Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure. Each year, millions of North Americans have their wisdom teeth removed due to reasons such as overcrowding, infection and disease. It’s a process that can become complex for those who don’t prepare adequately. We’ve helped thousands of patients achieve effective wisdom teeth removal and in this blog, we’ll present five things to consider when having your wisdom teeth taken out.

1. Watch What You Eat

It’s important, both immediately before the surgery and immediately after the surgery to watch your diet and find out which foods could impact your oral health. Immediately afterwards, you should try to only eat softer foods such as pudding. And try to avoid eating spicy foods and hot foods that might cause significant pain if they come into contact with the treated area.

2. Rest As Much Possible
Learn more about family dentistry services in Pickering.

You’ll achieve a faster recovery if you’re able to rest as much as possible in the time immediately before and in the week or two after treatment. Before the treatment begins, the rest and relaxation will help lower your blood pressure and protect your health during the surgery. Afterwards, the rest will provide your mouth with the required time to heal. It’s important to wait at least three days after the surgery before committing to any exercise.

3. Try to Quit Smoking Before Your Surgery

While quitting smoking should be a leading goal at all times, it’s especially important before wisdom tooth surgery. Smoking can limit the healing process after your surgery and may cause you to miss more work or social time. Try to begin the quitting process in the weeks preceding your wisdom teeth removal.

4. Talk to Your Dentist About the Healing Process

Depending on the unique elements of your procedure, your healing process could take several days, a week or more. It’s important to consult with your dental professional throughout the healing process to ensure everything is going according to plan.

5. Make Sure You’re Prepared for Travel Post Surgery

Post-surgery, you’ll unlikely be able to drive yourself home. It’s important to have someone pick you up from our office after the procedure has been completed. Make sure this is organized well in advance to avoid unnecessary delays on the day!

Wisdom teeth removal can help patients achieve complete comfort in their everyday lives. But the process should be completed carefully alongside a trusted expert. To learn more tips for ensuring effective recovery from wisdom teeth removal procedure, contact our office team directly!  

Helpful Resources

Canadian Dental Care Plan — 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.

5 Common Treatments for Sensitive Teeth

It can happen at a moment’s notice. That sudden pang of pain due to sensitive teeth is an experience with which we’re too all familiar. It’s one of the reasons why so many people are now seeking out treatments for this common problem. Within this blog, we’ll review five treatments for sensitive teeth.

1. Desensitizing Toothpaste

While desensitizing toothpastes are more often associated with simply offering a more comfortable brushing experience, they can also help desensitize teeth over time. They can to block the pain that some people suffer due to their sensitive teeth.

2. Root Canal Treatments

In cases where a dentist has tried other treatments unsuccessfully, they may recommend a root canal to treat problems within the tooth’s dental pulp. These problems are often the cause of sensitive teeth and can be effectively resolved through the use of root canal treatment.

3. Receding Gum Treatment

In cases where the gum has receded and the root has been exposed, a person will likely suffer significant pain each time anything comes into contact with the root. Dentists are often able to restore receding gums with treatments such as gum grafts. This is a treatment option that has helped hundreds to minimize the pain of their sensitive teeth and to restore full gum and teeth functionality over the long-term.

4. Bonding Agents

Dentists will often use bonding agents as way to protect patients from the continual pain of sensitive teeth. Bonding agents work by sealing the dentin surface against potential stimuli that can impact the nerves. This ensures the dentin is protected and the potential for the throbbing pain events associated with sensitive teeth is minimized.

5. Fluoride Varnish

Many dentists will be able to provide patients with fluoride varnish treatments to reduce the pain from sensitive teeth. These treatments work by helping to strengthen the enamel around the tooth and by helping build the dentin to ensure optimal strength.

Millions of Canadians suffer from sensitive teeth. But with the latest treatment options available, it’s a problem that is slowly being eradicated among the general population. To discuss your potential sensitive teeth treatment options with a specialist, contact our expert team directly today!

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

Helpful Resources

dental implant restoration

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

3 Tips for Relieving Dental Anxiety

It’s a problem that impacts thousands of Canadians each year. That fear and panic before you go to the dentist is natural. But it’s a problem that can be overcome to ensure you achieve optimal dental health in the long-term. Our specialists have many years’ experience dealing with dental care anxiety and within this blog, we’ll provide three tips to help you overcome your or, your loved ones fears and ensure exceptional oral health over the long-term.

1. Visit the Dentist Office with a Loved One

If it’s been a while since visiting the Dentist, sometimes having a loved one by your side can be really beneficial!  This can help you to become more relaxed as you wait for your treatment to begin. You can develop personalized coping strategies alongside your loved one to ensure there’s always someone ready and able to calm you down should anxiety begin to get the best of you at the office. This strategy will then ensure you’re more focused and relaxed, when you visit the dentist by yourself in future.
Learn more about family dentistry services in Pickering.

2. Avoid Caffeine in the Hours before the Dentist

Caffeine is one of the leading causes of anxiety among the general Canadian population. If you’re already nervous about an upcoming dental appointment, drinking that cup of coffee or tea in the morning may make your day even more stressful. Simply avoid coffee during the morning and try to take relaxing caffeine-free drinks such as green tea. This will help ensure you’re in the right frame of mind to take control of your anxiety as your enter the dental office.

3. Speak with our Dental Team Before the Appointment.

A large majority of the cases of anxiety are related to the unknown. Anxiety is often our mind creating the worst-case scenarios in our head.  By speaking with our Dental team ahead of your next appointment, and going over the treatments with them, you can prepare yourself mentally for the dental office experience. Not only will this help you remain calm in the days leading up to the appointment, it will also help ensure you avoid anxiety triggers at the office, as you’ll be prepared completely for a safe and effective treatment.

Consider the preceding guidelines next time you’re suffering from anxiety due to a future dental appointment. There’s no need to stress your mind and body over your dental needs.  Speak to our team directly today to learn more on how to alleviate anxiety.

Helpful Resources

Dental Fillings

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 Impact of Smoking on Your Oral Health – Make Oral Heath Month Your Time to Quit

Dentist Pickering

The latest data shows that smoking has a number of adverse effects on your oral health. Many smokers are aware of the way that smoking impacts their lungs. But the habit’s impact on their teeth and gums has long been overlooked. Fortunately, new campaigns are bringing this important issue to light.   Now is the ideal time for smokers to quit their habit as a way to mark Oral Health Month in Canada. This blog will highlight several ways smoking can impact your oral health.

Gum Disease Strongly Linked with Smoking

Gum disease is one of the leading risk factors associated with long-term smoking in Canadian adults. Smoking interferes with the normal function of the gum tissue cells to make smokers more susceptible to issues such as periodontal disease.  Smoking impedes blood flow, smokers will experience limited gum wound healing compared with non-smokers. Below are several oral health conditions linked with smoking:

·      Increased plaque

·      Bad breath

·      Increased loss of bone in the jaw

·      Lower success rate for dental implants

·      Increased risk of oral cancers
Learn more about periodontal care in Pickering.

The Steps to Begin the Quitting Process

Smoking is a notoriously difficult habit to quit. We know this from the numerous studies conducted across Canada in recent years. However, this doesn’t mean quitting is impossible. We know now there are many effective methods for guiding dental health patients to reduce and quit the smoking of cigarettes. To improve your chances of quitting smoking, review the following steps:

 

·      Talk to your dentist about developing a quitting strategy

 

Your dentist will likely be able to guide you on a customized approach to the treatment process. We know that not every strategy suits all smokers and so an individualized approach to the process can empower success.

 

·      Reward yourself for achieving quitting goals

 

Addiction specialists believe that cigarettes trigger a risk-reward process in our brains that prevents us from taking the logical action and quitting. It’s important to block that risk-reward process by rewarding yourself for small steps in quitting. Get a friend’s help to ensure you stay on-track and make the reward something out of the ordinary.

 

·      Try sugarless gum

 

One proven treatment solution to smoking addiction is the use of sugarless gum. While this approach is not 100% effective in all patients, it can help you begin the quitting process. It can make you less susceptible to cravings and give you the foundation to moving forward. You might also try drinking water when cravings hit, as this can temporarily block the cravings; often long enough for them to subside for a few hours.

By working alongside your dentist as well as your medical doctor… gaining a better understanding of your smoking addiction, you can join the millions across the country who are quitting the habit and improving their oral health. To discuss the impact smoking can have on your oral health, contact our office team today! 

Helpful Resources

Kids-Feel-Comfortable-at-the-Dentist

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.

April is Oral Health Month – A Factual Guide to Oral Care in Canada

Only through comprehensive research can we, as a society, move forward in combating many of the oral health issues that exist within Canada. While our research companies and our research practitioners are making great strides in terms of new treatments, many challenges still exist in helping patients achieve optimal oral care across the country. Within this article, we’ll present a few facts to enlighten our readers on several predominant challenges the oral health industry faces.

57 per cent of Canadian Children between 6 and 11 years Old have had a Cavity

The number of children suffering from dental cavities and decay is rising across the country. We’re now at the point where the majority of children ages 6-to-11 have had a cavity. While there is little conclusive research behind the rise in cavities in children, one possible cause put forth by experts is the changing diet of our young children. Many children are now drinking juices and soda products with high sugar content as well as consuming highly acids foods and drinks that can quickly wear down their teeth’s enamel.  It is imperative parents teach children about oral health from a young age, and begin taking their child to the dentist by age two. This can help combat potential issues with cavities as they grow.
Learn more about periodontal care in Pickering.

Six Million Canadians per Year Avoid Visiting the Dentist for Economic Reasons

The latest data shows that six millions Canadians will put off that important trip to the dentist simply because they don’t feel that they have the financial resources to pay for treatment. However, we know that oral health care is essential to our long-term wellbeing and so it’s important to work with dentists to ensure affordable care options. Most patients will find that our office extends financing programs for those who cannot pay the full treatment amount during their initial visit helpful.  These programs ensure a simple payment process. It’s important to remember the value and long-term importance of your oral health and to speak with our team when financial elements are the only concern in achieving treatment. There is usually a solution to this type of problem.  Remember too that keeping current with your oral health may prevent small issues from turning into larger and potentially more costly problems!

 

28% of Canadians Floss at Least 5 Times a Week

There are many preventable dental health conditions and flossing is one of the leading preventative measures Canadians can take to improve their oral health. Yet the vast majority of Canadians are still not flossing regularly. Why not purchase floss during a future visit to the grocery store and then begin using the product during your daily dental care regimen? Simply flossing for one minute a day can help protect against a range of oral and systemic health conditions.

By understanding the data and reviewing their own personal oral health regimen, Canadians can take a small yet active role in improving oral health across the country. To learn more, speak with one of our office experts directly!

Helpful Resources

dental implants

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.