It Does Not Hurt, So Why Worry?

examination and treatment of the teeth in the dental clinic

On occasion a patient may come into our office just for a routine check-up and get surprised when we tell them that they would need a treatment like a filling, a crown, or a root canal. Why are they surprised? It’s because they haven’t even felt any pain. They often question the need for the recommended treatment because they feel fine.

Well, the answer is pretty simple. Many people do not know this, but the truth is, by the time a patient feels pain, the problem has already escalated and the decay has probably progressed to a more serious or damaging level, affecting the tooth and its surrounding tissues. That often means a more involved and probably more expensive procedure would be needed, too.

Cavity

For instance, you may already know that a cavity is simply a hole in the tooth caused by plaque (a sticky substance in your mouth made up of germs. If a dental professional catches the cavity in its early stages, a simple treatment like a filling can solve the problem. Cavities seldom cause pain until they’ve been ignored and the decay has gotten bigger. This is often that stage when the decay has broken through the enamel or outer layer all the way to the pulp or nerves. In this more advanced stage, a simple filling may not work or, may lead to the need for a root canal, which is a more extensive procedure, may be needed.

Root Canal

When the pulp of the tooth has been affected by decay, a root canal is performed by dentists. You see, the canal reaches down through the roots of your tooth and into its surrounding bone. A root canal basically hollows out the middle part of the tooth, fills it, and seals it completely to prevent any bacteria from getting inside. The main purpose of this procedure is to save the tooth since the soft middle part is not necessary for the tooth to function normally in your mouth.

You may think that if your tooth requires a root canal, then you’d definitely feel some pain, right? Well, not really. Sometimes, even teeth that need root canal don’t cause any pain. Your trusted dentist from Pickering Square Dental can see if there is anything wrong with the pulp of your tooth – it may be damaged or there may be some signs of infection. If your dentist finds a need for a root canal, then it would be done to avoid further infection both to the tooth and the nearby tissue.

Crown or Cap

This is another procedure that is often necessary, even if the patient is not feeling any kind of pain. The crown is the part above the gum line that you see. A dental crown is a replacement that is created to partially or completely cover the outside of your natural tooth. There are a few reasons a dentist might recommend a crown. For one, a tooth may have a large filling that shows signs of cracking or weakening. You cannot wait until that filling actually cracks because that would expose the nerves and you’ll experience extreme pain. A tooth that has undergone a root canal almost always needs a crown. In other instances, a dentist notices that a tooth is beginning to crack. In such a case, a crown can hold the tooth together and prevent further problems.

A regular check-up for preventive care can make a huge difference. You can avoid most dental problems or keep them from getting worse. Unfortunately, some people only visit their dentist when they are in pain, thinking they feel fine so there must be nothing wrong. But as with most other medical conditions, catching dental problems in the early stages could spare you from more complex and more expensive procedures.

Be responsible and give your oral health enough attention. A quick trip to Pickering Square Dental as scheduled can help you enjoy the benefits of healthy teeth and gums. Call us and we’d schedule you for a check-up!

A Closer Look at Antibiotics in Dentistry

Pills, tablets capsules heap in hand, close up view

At Pickering Square Dental, your dentist provides dental procedures that are safe and comfortable; and for most patients, medication is not necessary. However, there are cases wherein the patient’s medical history indicates that he or she would benefit from what is known as “antibiotic prophylaxis”.

What is Antibiotic Prophylaxis?

Basically, it means taking preventative antibiotics before a procedure. To help you understand this better, let’s go and pay closer attention to what goes on inside your mouth.

There are more or less 600 species of bacteria living inside your mouth, and that is normal. But there are some dental treatments that can allow some of these bacteria to reach your bloodstream. This situation is called bacteremia. Usually, bacteria in the bloodstream are quickly mitigated by the immune system which recognizes those “non-self” cells that are in your blood and zap them.

Unfortunately for some patients, bacteremia can put them at risk for other infections in their bodies which can be dangerous.

Who Needs Antibiotic Prophylaxis?

Antibiotic prophylaxis is primarily recommended for patients with certain heart conditions and some transplant situations. That is why it is important that you discuss your medical history with your Pickering Square Dental dentist so we’d know how we can provide you with the best dental care possible. In certain cases where a patient’s medical history affects oral care, your dentist can work with other professionals in your healthcare team.

Patients who may require antibiotic prophylaxis are people who have had:

  • A heart transplant
  • A history of infective endocarditis
  • An artificial heart valve
  • Heart conditions since birth
  • Some transplant situations

It was previously recommended by experts that patients with joint replacements get antibiotic prophylaxis, too, but this has been re-evaluated and is no longer considered standard procedure. If you have further inquiries about these changes, you might want to speak to your orthopaedic doctor. Of course, you can also reach out to your Pickering Square Dental dentist who is up-to-date about these matters.

We know that the terms bacteremia and antibiotic prophylaxis can be quite intimidating or even scary. But it’s always better to know and understand what they really mean. If you or a loved one needs a dental procedure and you are not sure whether or not antibiotic prophylaxis would be necessary, don’t be afraid to ask about it. You can have a conversation about it with your trusted dentist, and we’re sure your primary care provider or your cardiologist, specialists or physician would be willing to answer your questions, too. Together, we can ensure that the dental procedures that you’ll have will always take your health history into consideration and we’ll make certain that we will not put you in any risks.


 

Are Your Teeth Prepared for Trick or Treat?

Halloween Party With Children Trick Or Treating In Costume

Halloween is finally here! While the kids are preparing their costumes and getting excited about all those treats, dentists and doctors are also gearing up for all those patients coming in with problems that are associated with excessive sugar intake and tooth injuries.

There are three important things that we want you to remember.

  • Hard Halloween treats can crack teeth
  • Sticky sweets are more difficult to remove from your teeth
  • If you don’t thoroughly clean your mouth and teeth after you eat sugary snacks, you are creating an environment for unhealthy bacterial growth and eventually, tooth decay

Halloween is fun and your kids will definitely want to be a part of the festivities. But you might want to take an active participation this year. Here are some of our top tips for you:

Check the treats that your kids collect. If your kids are up for it, you can propose a “swap”, see if you can trade those hard sticky candies and the chewy ones that are made of sugar and very little else for better treats.

Think of better and healthier treats to purchase and give away, too.  You might also want to consider swapping sweets altogether for toys, plastic jewelry, or some school supplies. You can also try healthier chips and crackers. You should save some of those and try to trade them with the sweets your kids collect.

If you do have to have some candies (for your teens or even the adults), it’s better to go for those sweets that contain nuts as they supply some nutrition. Of course, this is only if no one has nut allergies. Stay away from taffies and sticky candies that are particularly harsh on tooth enamel.

Don’t let your guard down with the sweets. We understand that even parents have a tendency to be careless during this holiday and just dip into the candy bowls anytime they want. Keep your and your child’s access to candies in check. Limit the number of treats that your kids will have per day in an effort to maintaining a healthy balance!

Be vigilant about brushing after eating candies. It’s easy to just settle with a light and quick brushing, especially if you have to rush to another activity during a busy day. Try to avoid that, especially now that the kids are consuming more sugar than they probably do any other time of the year.

You don’t need to deprive your children of all the fun this Halloween. All it takes for you and your kids to enjoy this holiday without compromising your teeth are a few smart tricks and you can go and enjoy your treats!

 

 

Sinus Pressure and Tooth Pain – How are They Related?

Frustrated young man touching his cheek and keeping eyes closed while sitting on the couch at home

If you have ever experienced any type of toothache, then you know how uncomfortable and painful it can be. Now there are a number of reasons a person can get affected by tooth pain. That includes those common ailments like tooth sensitivity, cracked teeth, and cavities. But there is a lesser-known cause of tooth pain – a sinus infection! You read right. Here’s some information you need to be aware of:

What is Sinusitis?

More commonly called a sinus infection, sinusitis happens when the nasal passage cavities get inflamed and swollen. Because the sinuses cannot drain, it results in a mucus build-up. This is often caused by the common cold, although allergies may also be a culprit. When the sinuses are blocked, it leads to excessive mucus creating a moist environment which is considered a fertile ground for all kinds of infections. Another symptom that can possibly affect one’s oral health is bad breath that is caused by postnasal drip.

Sinusitis and Your Tooth Pain

In most instances, the reason behind your tooth pain is quite obvious. But like we said, a sinus infection as a culprit should not be discounted, and often you can tell whether it’s the cause or not based on the location of the toothache. The roots of your upper molars are really close to the sinus cavities, and when the sinuses get infected and all swollen, it is easy to mistake the pain as originating in the teeth. If you believe you have a sinus infection, it’s best to see your doctor about it. While some over-the-counter medications can offer you pain relief, a physician is the best person to ask about the course of treatment that you need.

Easing Your Tooth Pain

Aside from seeing your doctor who may prescribe you some medicine for pain relief and treatment, you can also try a few home remedies. You can apply a warm compress on your face a few times each day. You can also increase your fluid intake to thin the mucus. You can also inhale steam several times a day and use a humidifier when you’re sleeping. When your sinus infection gets treated, you’ll find that your tooth pain will also be gone.

However, you should remember that sinus infection is just one cause of tooth pain and you should always do your best that you avoid all the other types of toothaches as well. To make sure that your teeth and gums are healthy, regularly visit Pickering Square Dental, and we’ll help you take care of your smile!

How Important is a Dental Checkup?

Teeth checkup at dentist's office. Dentist examining girls teeth in the dentists chair

We can never stress enough the importance of proper teeth cleaning and a dental checkup for your oral general health and well-being. While we do realize that everyone lives busy lives these days, it’s still essential that you take good care of your teeth. If you take care of your oral health, you’ll increase your chances of never having to get extensive treatments and dentures.

Here are some of the benefits of having your teeth regularly cleaned and checked by a dental professional:

Prevents Periodontal Disease

Plaque build-up can result in gum (periodontal) disease. Bacteria in plaque can cause irritation and potentially serious inflammation of the gums.  As well, may lead to a multitude of medical related diseases.

Prevents Halitosis

Nobody wants to have bad breath, right? Well, poor oral hygiene, as well as food bits lodged in hard-to-reach areas and gum disease, can all cause halitosis or bad breath. Getting your teeth cleaned and regular visits to your dentist are the best ways to ensure that you won’t have to deal with bad breath.

Lets You Enjoy a Whiter and  Brighter Smile

When you always brush your teeth and floss, you remove stains on your teeth that are caused by food and drinks like tea, coffee, wine, and more. There are also certain medications that can cause discoloration.

Helps You Keep Your Teeth

Who wants to lose their teeth? Poor oral hygiene may ultimately result in advanced gum disease, meaning the supporting bone can also be destroyed as plaque moves further into your teeth’s roots. You can avoid this by regular brushing and flossing, as well as thorough cleanings done by a dental professional.

Aids in Maintaining Good Health

These past years, studies have linked gum disease to other serious health concerns including heart attacks and strokes. While the correlation between them is not that clear yet, regular cleaning of your teeth can possibly lessen your risk of having a stroke and heart disease.

The only way your dentist can detect potential problems with your gums and teeth is when you go for regular dental check-ups. You see, there may be some potential problems that you are not even aware of. In a routine check-up, your dentist will check for cavities, plaque, and tartar build-up. Your gums will also be checked. Additionally, your dentist may also examine your throat, neck, face, and head to see if there are any signs of trouble like swelling or even cancer.

 We do hope that you understand the importance of regular dental check-ups and thorough teeth cleaning. Regardless of your age, a beautiful and healthy smile is always an asset. If you want your teeth and gums taken care of, don’t hesitate to contact Pickering Square Dental!

 

 

 

Fluoride for Toddlers – Good or Bad?

Fluoride for Toddlers – Good or Bad?

What can be cuter than a toddler giving you the biggest smile?

If you have a toddler, you’d probably agree that there’s nothing you wouldn’t do to keep your little one’s smile looking perfect. And if you’re like most parents, you probably have done a little research on the things that you can do to maintain your toddler’s oral health, as well as things can be harmful to small children. You probably have encountered the two different stands on the safety of fluoride for toddlers.

Some say it is better to wait until your child reaches the age of two before you introduce fluoride toothpaste. Others claim that parents can use a “smear” of fluoride toothpaste as soon as the baby’s teeth start to show.

Knowing What’s Best for Your Child

You might think that baby teeth eventually come out anyway, so why should you worry too much about them? It is because it takes years before baby teeth are replaced by permanent ones, and your child can get cavities that can be really painful. Fluoride can prevent cavities but too much of it can put your child at risk for other health issues. It is a good idea to find out first whether or not you have fluoride in your drinking water. You can have your water tested if you’re not sure about that. Also consider your child’s diet. If he or she frequently eats sugary snacks, then the harmful effect of sugar on his or her teeth should be reversed, and fluoride can help do the job.

So… Should You Be Using Fluoridated Toothpaste with Your Toddler?

According to CDA, that if your child is under the age of three, using fluoridated toothpaste should be determined by the risk level of tooth decay. You can take your little one for a dental check-up at Pickering Square Dental. Our dental health experts can determine whether he or she is at risk of getting tooth decay. If so, you can use a minimal amount of fluoridated toothpaste about the size of a rice grain and make sure that you brush your child’s teeth. Using just the tiniest amount helps achieve the perfect balance of reaping the benefits of fluoride for your child’s oral health and keeping the risk of developing fluorosis at bay. 

Dr. Lean and the Pickering Square Dental Team can thoroughly assess your child’s oral health and also take into consideration all the factors before giving you a clear idea as to whether or not toothpaste with fluoride would be good for your precious toddler.

 

Back-to-School Dental Checklist for Healthier Teeth

Back-to-School Dental Checklist for Healthier Teeth

So, you’ve got everything ready and you’re excited to go back to school. Wait! How about your back-to-school dental checklist? You should not forget it because it’s going to be your key to keeping that strong, healthy, and beautiful smile – and you don’t want anything less, eh?

Because we don’t want you to forget anything important, we rounded up some of the most important things that you should definitely add to your checklist:

ESTABLISH A GOOD ORAL HYGIENE ROUTINE

It’s very easy to forget about brushing your teeth when you’re rushing off to school in the morning or when you’re crawling your way to your bed tired from the very busy day at school. The thing is, you don’t just have to establish an oral hygiene routine, what’s more important is that you make time for it. Brush your teeth every morning and night. Floss your teeth once or twice a day, too. It’s also a good idea to rinse the mouth with antibacterial mouthwash. Sticking with this routine will reduce your risks of having dental concerns. That means no emergency appointments with the dentist and no missing out on school in the future!

SCHEDULE APPOINTMENTS WITH YOUR DENTIST EVERY SIX MONTHS

Visiting your dentist every six months is very important if you want to have a clean and healthy mouth. You may think that you’re taking good enough care of your teeth, but there are things that only a dental professional can see. You can call Pickering Square Dental and we can easily schedule you for a check-up and cleaning!

OPT FOR HEALTHIER SNACKS AND LUNCHES

Healthy food is good not only for your body but also for your teeth. Choosing healthier food for your lunch and snack every day can help you keep a strong set of teeth. Don’t have any ideas what to pack? You can add vegetables, fruits, and string cheese, among others. Swap your usual can of pop for good old water.

USE A SPORTS MOUTH-GUARD

If you are an athlete, it is always a good idea to protect your teeth and gums with a sports mouth-guard that is customized just for you.  You can find off-the-shelf ones, but you won’t get the same level of protection and comfort that you would from a custom-made appliance.  You can have yours made at Pickering Square Dental.  Dr. Lean, the official dentist of the Toronto Maple Leafs customize one for you, too!

If you need more tips on how you can turn your smile into your best asset this school year, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Every member of our team will be more than happy to talk to you!

Toronto Maple Leafs: Dr. Lean’s Involvement

Toronto Maple Leafs: Dr. Lean’s Involvement

When on the lookout for a new dentist for yourself and your kids, you want to be sure that you find one that you know you can trust and be comfortable with.  After all, your family’s dental health is not something you can entrust to just anybody.  Little kids, especially, can be challenging as they are often anxious about going to the dentist and introducing them to a new one can be disastrous. It’s not like you’re taking them to meet their favourite hockey player, right? 

Well, we’ve got the next best thing. How about taking them to the dentist of their favourite hockey stars? Yes, that’s right. You can now tell your child that you’re going to take them to the man who takes care of all the players of the Toronto Maple Leafs.  That’s sure to get the attention of any Canadian kid!

Dr. Marvin Lean’s Services for the Toronto Maple Leafs

As the Toronto Maple Leafs’ official dentists, Dr. Marvin Lean and his partner provide these highly-admired hockey players with thorough dental services, just like they do with every single one of their patients.  That means that choosing Pickering Square Dental means that you’re getting the best dental services available.

What do Dr. Lean and his partner do for the team? Since 2005, they have been attending the Toronto Maple Leaf’s training camp to perform meticulous dental assessments on every single member of the team. Aside from that, Dr. Lean and his partner customize durable yet comfortable sports mouth guards for every player to make sure that their teeth are protected when they are playing our favourite sport.

Whenever there are home games held at the Air Canada Center, Dr. Marvin Lean and his partner are always present to ensure that all the players, including those from the visiting teams, are provided with professional dental assistance when needed. Can you imagine how many respected athletes rely on Dr. Lean and his partner to take care of their teeth?

You Can Receive the Same Quality of Dental Care

If you are looking for a truly professional dentist, you need not look anywhere else! Pickering Square Dental has been providing top-notch dental care services for more than 25 years. We welcome patients of all ages, from the littlest toddlers to beloved seniors who are looking for a family dental location that is comfortable. Our dental experts and staff will ensure that you are relaxed while you have your dental treatment.  Check out our amazing services now!

Crossbite: What You Need to Know

crossbite

When a child is brought to the dentist, braces may be the last thing parents expect to hear about.  Many do not know that even kids as young as three or four can be diagnosed with a crossbite, and if that’s the case, parents should be prepared to hear about braces, retainers, and sagittal expanders.  But before those orthodontic appliances are discussed, you are probably wondering – what is a crossbite and what should be done about it?  Here are the answers.

 

What Is a Crossbite?

A crossbite can involve just a single tooth or several teeth on either side of the mouth (or even both). If any of your or your child’s tooth or several teeth lay closer to the tongue or cheek instead of standing together evenly, you probably have a crossbite.

 

What Can Be Done About It?

The dental industry is still divided into two sides when the topic is the right time to initiate crossbite treatment. Some suggest that treatment should start as soon as a diagnosis is made, which can be as early as three years old. Others say that parents should wait at least until a child’s molars come out. But even with the difference of opinion regarding when treatment should be done, all dental professionals agree that crossbite is not a condition that should be left untreated. Why? Because it presents a number of complications that include gum and tooth wear, temporomandibular joint disorder, and even facial asymmetry.

 

What Is the Treatment Like?

Crossbite treatment aims for the bite pattern to match evenly on all sides, and that involves adjusting how a child’s teeth are spread using dental appliances. It can be done using dental expanders which are similar to orthodontic retainers. They include a screw that you can tighten every night to “spread” a child’s bite to the width prescribed by the dentist. Other options like dental headgear, clear aligners, and braces may also be used, usually when a single tooth is out of alignment.

 

Crossbites are generally considered as a genetic condition, so they are not that common. But if your child happens to have it, know that it is imperative that crossbite is treated before it can permanently affect your child’s oral and facial development. That’s why if your visit to the dentist leads to a discussion about your child having a crossbite and needing to wear a dental expander, don’t just shrug it off. Learn more about it and the necessary treatment to address this problem.

 

Have your child scheduled for a dental check up with Dr. Marvin Lean at Pickering Square Dental. He can tell if your child has a crossbite and offer you the best treatment approach possible.