Why Your Teeth Should Be Professionally Cleaned

Taking good care of your teeth is something you do as a matter of course.  Brushing three times a day, flossing after each meal, and staying away from sticky sweets is just a regular part of your daily routine.  You look in the mirror and your smile is bright and beautiful and so you may wonder if maybe it might be fine to just go ahead and skip your next cleaning.  Here are the reasons why it’s a good idea not to.

Keep Your Teeth Healthy

Plaque is the biggest reason!  Plaque is a film that builds up on your teeth and causes decay and can be removed by brushing and flossing.  Over time however, plaque can turn into a hardened substance called tartar which can only be removed through a dental cleaning – as only the steel scrapers of a dentist can get it loose.  Plaque and tartar will lead to gum disease which can lead to tooth loss among many other issues.  Having regularly cleanings will prevent tartar and plaque from building up.
Learn more about family dentistry services in Pickering.

Polished to a Gleam

Teeth can become stained just through daily contact with coffee, tea, or other staining beverages.  Food can stain teeth as can tobacco.  Dental cleanings will remove those stains and polish teeth to a shine that will give you a brighter and more beautiful smile.

Saves Money and Pain

Much like most forms of preventative maintenance the short term effort of having a dental cleaning done is offset by not having to endure the effects of failing to get it done.  Dental surgery can be costly and painful and, barring injury, can be prevented by regular cleanings.  It’s just better to get professionally cleaned rather than wait for large problems to develop.

Your at-home dental care regimen is important but to maximize your health of your teeth and gum they should be cleaned by a professional regularly.  In addition to the cleaning the dentist will also be able to check for any additional problems that may have occurred since the last time you were in the office.  If you’re looking for a professional cleaning contact us at Pickering Square Dental today.

Helpful Resources

Gum Problems

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

Schedule Your Appointment Today

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

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

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

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

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

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

Why do I need to replace missing teeth?

After having a tooth extracted or losing a tooth due to an impact or disease, you face a number of treatment options. While some choose to simply leave the space in their mouth, this tends to have a number of consequences. Within this post, we’ll examine why it’s important to review your replacement options when you have missing teeth.

Tooth Shifting

One of the leading problems caused when you have missing teeth is tooth shifting. When you have a space in your mouth where a tooth used to be, the surrounding teeth will shift to fill the gap. This can shift your teeth out of alignment and thereby cause numerous knock-on effects. For example, when a tooth is out of alignment it can change the shape of your smile and lead to more crooked and broken teeth over the long-term.
Learn more about frequently asked questions.

Facial Changes

When the tooth root is not replaced after you lose a tooth, bone deterioration can quickly develop in the area. In a short amount of time this can lead to facial changes taking place which alter the way in which your mouth and lower jaw look. It’s a problem that many people with missing teeth experience and it’s one of the leading reasons it’s so important to replace missing teeth.

Aesthetic Issues

While you might feel comfortable with your current appearance if you’re missing one tooth, your feelings might change over time. However, if you wait too long to replace your missing teeth, a number of health issues can occur which might prevent the integration of an implant or another type of restoration or replacement option. It’s important to understand the risks involved in waiting to replace missing teeth and to consider all options available.

At our dental practice, we work with hundreds of people each year to provide seamless replacements for their missing teeth. Our specialists can advise you of your tooth replacement options and carry out the work directly within our cutting-edge treatment facility. To learn more on your treatment options, contact our office team directly! 

Helpful Resources

dental implant surgery

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

Schedule Your Appointment Today

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

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

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

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

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

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

Why DIY Dentistry Is Something You Should Avoid

DIY dentistry is now a growing phenomenon throughout the country, as Canadians seek alternative means of completing their required treatments. It’s important to understand why DIY dentistry is so dangerous. And so within this post, we’ll examine the many problems that you can cause with a DIY approach to oral care.

You Can Easily Miss Vital Treatment Stages

Even with the leading DIY kits on the market, it’s very easy for you to miss vital stages in the treatment process. For example, there have been cases of people trying to complete their own fillings at home. When completing this type of process, you can easily miss a small piece of dental decay or plaque. This material can then remain under the newly placed filling and cause even further problems that could have been resolved by simply going to the dentist in the first place.
Learn more about frequently asked questions.

You Don’t Know How to Respond in an Emergency

In some cases, patients can experience an emergency in the dental chair when they have a bad reaction to a specific product being used in their treatment. Dentists are trained to respond to this type of scenario and can ensure your safety if you experience this type of problem. But if you’re completing the treatment at home, you won’t have expert help to guide you through the process, meaning that you could suffer a significant health issue without a trained professional there to respond.

You Might Choose the Wrong Treatment

Dentists are trained to spot specific oral health issues. They can tell you whether you have an abscess or a cavity, whether you require a filling or a root canal… But in some cases, those who have committed their time to DIY dentistry have even worked on the wrong tooth. They’ve extracted the tooth next to the problem tooth and caused themselves a new series of problems. It’s simpler and more cost-effective in the long-term to simply work with a dentist to resolve your oral health issues.

To learn more on this subject, contact our team directly! We’re always delighted to discuss your dental health concerns and show you that dental treatment doesn’t have to be a difficult experience. 

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.

How Turmeric Can Help Treat Oral Cancer

 In recent years, there have been numerous studies conducted to measure the impact of natural products on our health. Now, we’ve recently discovered that the yellow spice turmeric could be beneficial in treating some forms of oral cancer. Our latest blog will go into further detail on the benefits turmeric provides and how you can begin to integrate the product within your daily health care regimen.

HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) is a leading factor behind the development of oral cancer. While researchers are studying potential cures for oral cancer and for HPV, they’ve found that the spice turmeric offers “established anti-viral and anti-cancer properties”. Researchers originally noted the impacted that turmeric can have on HPV and cervical cancers in 2005. Then, medical teams found that turmeric can help slow the expression of HPV and could control the HPV infection. The new findings further highlight the benefits that turmeric can have on our oral health.
Learn more about frequently asked questions.

The studies showed that turmeric can turn down the expression of HPV in infected oral cancer cells by down-regulating the AP-1 and NF-kB cellular transcription factors. These findings could indicate that turmeric can have a therapeutic role in oral cancer control as medical teams seek to minimize the extent of the danger oral cancer causes and control its spread across the body.

Turmeric for Daily Oral Health

In addition to its cancer-fighting properties, turmeric can also impact day-to-day oral health, research from the Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology has shown. A study completed in 2014 found that rinsing the mouth daily with a solution containing 0.1% turmeric extract was more beneficial in terms of treating gingivitis than traditional mouthwash products. The study also showed that turmeric contained anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory and anti-plaque properties.

These studies continue to show that turmeric supplements, commonly available at most health food stores, can have a significant impact on oral health. It’s an area of rich promise for the dental health field and one that could be crucial to ensuring your optimal dental health in future! To learn more on this exciting development, speak with our trusted clinic team today!

Helpful Resources

oral sedation

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.

Oral Health Tips For Midlife

If you’re entering your late 40s and early 50s, you might have recently discovered your oral health deteriorating. We know from industry data that visits to dental practices peak at the midlife stage. Oral health care is a significant issue for all patients, but especially those in the older age brackets. It’s important to understand how to protect your oral health as you age, and so within this post, we’ll outline several leading health tips for those in their mid-life stage.

Learn the Risks of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is a disease that predominantly impacts older patients. The latest data shows that most oral cancer patients survive at least five years after diagnosis, however early diagnosis is essential to ensuring survival. If you’re entering the midlife stages, it’s now essential that you become acquainted with the risks factors behind oral cancer.

Risk factors include:

Excessive alcohol consumption

A family history of HPV

Heavy sun exposure

Heavy smoking

It’s also important to undergo regular oral cancer screenings with your dental health professional to ensure potential problems are found and treated at the earliest opportunity.

Understand the Signs of Gum Disease

As we grow older, problems with gum disease become more prevalent. More than half of adults over the age of 50 have some form of gum disease. Dental industry researchers have shown that gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other forms of oral health damage over time and so it’s important to recognize the signs of gum disease quickly as you grow older. Please review the following signs and ensure you visit a dental office as soon as possible if you have any of these issues:

Red, swollen or, puffy gums

Bleeding while brushing or flossing

Separating or, loose teeth

Receding gums

 

Discover your Cosmetic Dentistry Options

Cosmetic dentistry is a quickly evolving field. While, once, cosmetic treatments were only for those with enough money and time to undergo significant care work, now cosmetic treatments can be completely simply and effectively within your local dentist office. Options such as whitening, dental implants and veneers are available for all dental patients. If you feel the look of your teeth is impacting your well-being, it could be the ideal time to speak one of our Team Members here at Pickering Square Dental about your cosmetic options.

Our bodies are continuously changing as we age. It’s important to recognize how these changes are taking place and what it means for our oral health. Effective care at any age requires consistent treatment alongside a trusted professional. To discover more midlife oral health care tips, speak with the team at our dental clinic today!

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

Helpful Resources

dental implants

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 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.

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.

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
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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.

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.