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!

Helpful Resources

man brushing teeth

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

Schedule Your Appointment Today

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

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

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

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

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

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

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.

Helpful Resources

Emergency Dental Care

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.

Keeping Your Teeth Straight Post-Braces

smiling female holding invisible teeth braces front of perfect smile

If you have been wearing braces for years, you are probably looking forward to the day when you finally get to have yours removed! Of course, you are excited about finally getting to see your improved smile, with your teeth perfectly aligned. Imagine how enjoyable your first meal will be, too!

 

Before you get too excited though, there’s one thing you need to know about first – retainers. Yes. When it comes to keeping your teeth straight post-braces, retention plays a very important role.

 

Why Should I Wear a Retainer?

Just because your braces are now ready to be removed doesn’t mean your teeth won’t move anymore. The remodelling process done with your bone that has helped transform your smile didn’t start overnight. You can’t expect it to stop abruptly either.  The pressure from your aligner trays or arch wire made the bone and the connective tissue around your teeth to slightly loosen up, shift, and rebuild the bone around the teeth in the new and corrected positions. This is a really slow and continuous process and it continues even after the pressure from the arch wire or the aligner trays is gone. That’s why you should be committed to wearing retainers after your braces are taken off, to ensure that you get to enjoy that amazing new smile for years and years.

 

How Does a Retainer Work?

Retainers act like brakes, preventing teeth from moving or shifting. Teeth like to shift little by little over time. Retainers tell the roots of your teeth to stop moving, stay in place and properly aligned. There are some retainers that are fixed behind your teeth. The more common ones though are removable. They are made of a metal wire and acrylic fitted to your mouth, intended to guide your teeth. You have to remember though that retainers need to be worn regularly if you want them to work.

 

How Long Would I Have to Wear Retainers For?

The really crucial period is during the first six months after the braces are removed. This is because the teeth are still trying to move actively. For this reason, it is suggested that you wear your retainers for those six months full time. When that is over, you can start wearing your removable retainers only at night, for the rest of your life.

 

You have read right. You see, while your teeth are really strong, they also shift naturally. And the only way you can keep your teeth looking as good as they are now for as long as you can is to wear retainers. Remember that you only have to wear them at night.

 

Since you have already invested a lot of your time and (maybe your money, too) on your orthodontic treatment, it is only right that you take care of the results for the rest of your life. Talk to your orthodontist about your options, and the things you need to do to make sure your retainers are working for you.

 

 

Helpful Resources

Pedodontics

For more information, visit the CDA Dental Procedures 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.

Missing a Tooth? Here are Some Great Options !

Close up on a man smiling while he is missing a tooth.

It is quite common for a Canadian between the ages of 20 and 65 to have more than two decayed or missing teeth. It’s a real concern for many. Why does it matter, you ask? Well, even if the missing tooth is not noticeable, it still affects the way you speak and chew your food – especially if you’re missing teeth in the back, which are meant for heavy chewing. When you lose those, you have no other choice but to use your front teeth for chewing. Because they are not intended for all that hard action, there’s a high probability that they’ll break down, as well. The remaining teeth may also shift when there’s a space that’s not supposed to be there.

 

If you are missing one or more teeth, you are probably wondering what options you have for you to be able to restore your smile. We’ll help you decide!

 

PARTIAL DENTURE (removable)

It is considered the most economical way to replace missing teeth. A partial denture is removable. It has replacement teeth on a plastic base that is colored to match the patient’s gums. It is connected to adjacent teeth using metal clasps. This is how partial dentures snap in place for both support and retention.

 

FIXED BRIDGE (non-removable)

A fixed bridge is yet another good option for replacing one or more missing teeth. A bridge replaces a patient’s missing tooth by connecting to adjacent teeth. For large restorations, multiple teeth are attached. What a fixed bridge basically is a crown on supporting teeth on either end and a false tooth in the middle.

 

DENTAL IMPLANTS (non-removable)

Implants are considered by many to be the best option for replacing one or more missing teeth. With an implant, a titanium anchor is integrated into your jaw bone, similar to your natural tooth root. An aesthetic crown is then attached to that implant as a replacement for the missing tooth.   Additionally, an implant helps you keep the bone height you have and it’s very hygienic, too.

 

It is important that you take care of your oral health to avoid losing a tooth. However, if it has already happened, know that you always have the option to get a tooth replaced. To know which one is the most suitable for you, you can contact Pickering Square Dental and we’d help you choose the best option for you.

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

Helpful Resources

sedation dentistry

For more information, visit the CDA Dental Emergency Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as a dental emergency?

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

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

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

What should I do if a tooth is knocked out?

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

Getting Braces? Here’s What You Can Expect

Close-up teeth with braces. Woman healthy smile. Orthodontic Treatment

Are you about to get your braces? If so, you are probably feeling a bit anxious now, wondering if braces hurt and what it will be like when you have them on. Well, you can relax, because in truth, the discomfort you will feel from braces is really manageable.

 

We know you would feel more confident when you know more so here are some things you’d want to know if you are getting braces:

 

PLACEMENT

You can expect some discomfort when braces are applied to your teeth. You have to eat slower and your meals will definitely take longer as you’d have to adjust to chewing. It is advisable that you only eat a soft food diet for the first couple of days. You can have soup and yoghurt, eggs, and pasta for example.

 

FIRST THREE DAYS

As your teeth start to realign, you are going to feel some discomfort. It will take time until you get used to the pressure of having wires and elastic ligatures in your mouth. You may find relief from discomfort by taking over-the-counter pain medication. Of course, your orthodontist will provide you with instructions on how you can deal with this discomfort.  In most cases, the slight pain and discomfort are gone by day five.

 

REGULAR ORTHODONTIC APPOINTMENTS

Getting your braces on is only the beginning of the process of straightening your teeth. You are going to have your braces adjusted by your orthodontist from time to time so that your teeth will continue to move properly. Make sure you make it to your appointments. Some discomfort is also expected for a couple of days after each orthodontist appointments.

 

HOW TO DEAL WITH DISCOMFORT

While the discomfort that may be caused by braces is inconvenient, it’s still very manageable. Besides, they only last for a few days after your braces are applied and when you get them adjusted. Over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen and acetaminophen may help to relieve a headache and soreness that are often associated with getting braces. Rinsing with salt water solution may also help alleviate swelling and discomfort.

 

You are not the only one feeling anxious about getting braces. But you need not fret over it much. The question of whether or not braces will hurt should be set aside because they are really bearable. Think of why you’re getting braces instead, and focus on how great your teeth and your smile will be after the braces have done their job!

Helpful Resources

dental treatment

For more information, visit the CDA Dental Procedures 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.

Oral Health Problems to be Aware of If You Have Diabetes

toothache.adult man. isolated

Did you know that people with diabetes are at a higher risk of getting tooth and gum disease than those with regular glucose levels? This is because of their lowered resistance to infections and because they do not heal easily.

 

Those who have diabetes need to pay extra attention to their oral health on top of controlling their blood glucose levels. If you are diabetic, you should definitely visit your dentist more regularly and ask for advice on how you can keep your gums and teeth really healthy.

 

The first signs of diabetes can occur in your mouth, so you have to pay attention to your oral health, as that can help with early diagnosis and timely treatment. Some of the most common oral health issues that affect diabetic patients include:

  • Periodontal or gum disease
  • Gum abscess
  • Thrush and other fungal infections
  • Mouth ulcers
  • Dry/Burning mouth
  • Taste Disturbances

 

PERIODONTAL DISEASE AND DIABETES

Periodontal or gum disease is the result of an infection that destroys the bone that supports your teeth.  The bone connects your teeth to the jawbone, allowing you to eat food with ease.

 

Dental plaque from bacteria and food debris cause gum disease. If plaque is left on the teeth and gums for some time, it hardens and forms a tartar or calculus. These irritate the gums around your teeth, making them red and swollen and sometimes causing them to bleed.  As this gum problem worsens, more bone is lost and teeth may fall out when they become too loose.

 

This oral health problem is more common in diabetic people who have irregular blood glucose levels. To help prevent gum disease, it is important that you take care of your oral health by visiting your dentist often and controlling your blood sugar levels.

 

TOOTH DECAY AND DIABETES

Because of their increased blood glucose levels, diabetic patients have more glucose in their saliva and noticeably dry mouths. These all contribute to dental plaque buildup on your teeth, which ultimately leads to cavities and tooth decay.

 

Dental plaque can be removed by brushing your teeth and gums twice daily and using dental floss to clean between your teeth. Doing these good oral habits can help you prevent cavities and gum disease, as well.

 

THRUSH AND DIABETES

Oral thrush or candidiasis is a fungal infection caused by the overgrowth of the yeast Candida albicans which are naturally in the mouth. High glucose in saliva, dry mouth, and poor resistance to infection, which are all caused by diabetes, can also contribute to oral thrush.

 

Oral thrush causes red or white patches on the tissue which result to ulcers and discomfort. Optimal blood glucose levels and good oral hygiene are important in treating oral thrush. Your dentist can treat this with antifungal medications if required.


 

Looking for professional help? Learn more about our periodontal care in Pickering 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.

Make Your Child’s First Dental Visit a Success

Little girl at the dentist

As your kids get older, their biannual dental checkups and cleanings become more important, not only for their oral health but their overall well-being as well.

 

But as a parent, you probably already know how the very first visit can be a little scary both for you and your little one. If you have a son or daughter who is soon to make that initial visit, then you should read on.

 

Here are some useful tips to make sure that your child’s first dental visit is a success:

  • Encourage your child by giving him or her positive words, explaining that the dentist is a friend and the dental office is a nice and happy place. More importantly, reassure that there is absolutely nothing to be worried about or scared off. After all, the dentist will only make those little teeth whiter and prettier!

 

  • Be creative with it! Search for children shows and find books that tell fun dental stories. There are a lot of materials available online. You can also try playing pretend with your child. If it helps, buy some safe toy dentist tools at the nearest toy store. Take turns in being the patient and the dentist. This will give your child the idea that a dental procedure is fun and actually stress-free.

 

  • Take your child grocery shopping where you can encourage him or her to choose his very own dental supplies. Let your little one pick out his or her own toothpaste, toothbrush, and dental floss. This will tell your child that you are allowing him or her to make the decisions about caring for those pearly whites.

 

  • As early as possible, teach your child the importance of keeping his or her teeth and gums healthy. Let your toddler know that brushing teeth after every meal and visiting the dentist means no cavities!

 

  • Choose a dental facility that is child-friendly. You don’t know how bad it can affect your child’s attitude towards going to the dentist if the hygienist or even the receptionist is somewhat rude or even just really formal. You want to make sure that you go to a dental office that welcomes children and whose staffs know how to make kids’ dental visits fun and hassle-free.

 

Is your child big enough for that first dental visit? Start preparing him or her at home and when everything is ready, come and visit us at Pickering Square Dental! We’ll make sure your little one’s initial visit to the dentist is a memorable one… in a really good way!

 


 

Helpful Resources

Sedation Dentistry

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.

Pregnancy Gingivitis – Are You at Risk?

Beautiful woman doing different expressions in different sets of clothes: toothache

Pregnant women have enough on their plates what with the health of their babies and their own on their minds 24/7. Unfortunately with all that to worry about, most of the time, oral health gets overlooked or even neglected. But did you know that there are some oral concerns that may arise while you are carrying a baby, like getting pregnancy gingivitis?

 

Keep in Touch with Your Dentist While You are Pregnant

You are probably thinking you have an excellent excuse to skip those dental visits while you are pregnant. Surely your dentist would understand how sensitive you are, right? And didn’t your mother tell you that those dental treatments could potentially harm your baby? That old tale could not be more wrong. In fact, neglecting your teeth and gums could do your little one and you a lot of harm.

 

Oral Health Side Effects during Your Pregnancy

Don’t forget. Your oral health has an undeniable impact on your well-being and that of your baby’s. As you know, you have supercharged hormones while you are pregnant and that may cause your gums to swell too. Having swollen gums means you are at a higher risk of irritating or infecting them, too.

 

Did you know that about 40% of all pregnant women are experiencing some kind of dental health concern, including tooth decay and gum infections? If you continue visiting your dentist even during your pregnancy, tartar and plaque won’t accumulate on your teeth and your chances of developing oral health problems are minimized.

 

If you feel or notice that your gums are quite swollen, tender, or even bleeding while you are pregnant, immediately set an appointment with your dentist for appropriate treatment.

 

Oral Health Practices to Observe During Your Pregnancy

Now, more than ever, you should realize the importance of preventive dental care. (However, x-rays should be avoided when possible.) Preventive dental care will help ensure that you don’t get troubled by gingivitis and other oral health problems.

 

Cosmetic dentistry, on the other hand, can wait until after you give birth. Of course, after you deliver you can definitely give yourself the gift of a gleaming white smile!

 

Restorative dentistry treatments, especially if they require sedation should be approached with extra care. Make sure you discuss any necessary dental treatments with your OB/GYN before having them done. Also, ask your dentist if the treatment can wait until after you deliver. Weigh the situation with both your dentist and your physician.

 

Being an expectant mother is not easy. Naturally, you would always want to put the health of your baby at the top of your priorities. However, make sure that while you do that, you also take care of your teeth and gums to avoid gingivitis and other oral health concerns. If you have questions or if you suspect you have pregnancy gingivitis, contact us at Pickering Square Dental and we can discuss your concerns.

Helpful Resources

sedation dentistry

For more information, visit the CDA Dental Emergency 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

What counts as a dental emergency?

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

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

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

What should I do if a tooth is knocked out?

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

What You Should Look for in a Toothpaste

Portrait of smiling young brunette selecting dental treatment in drugstore

We are still celebrating Dental Health Month, and we decided to focus the spotlight on a dental product that we do use every day – our toothpaste!

 

When you are purchasing a tube of toothpaste you can be one of these two: a.) passive –not really caring what kind you get and most likely to go for a reasonably priced toothpaste brand or b.) confused – paying too much attention on every detail, including flavour, ingredients, packaging, and more.

 

While it is not advisable that you just grab the first product you see on the shelf, we don’t think you should worry too much either. After all, most formulas you’d find on those shelves will definitely protect your teeth. To help you make a decision though, we’ll explain some of the most common label terms you find printed on toothpaste boxes.

 

Cavity- Fighting

Of course, all toothpaste products should be able to fight cavities by removing plaque. That is what they are for, after all. What you should look for though is fluoride, which for years has been proven to keep your tooth enamel from decaying. The use of fluoride in dental hygiene is recognized by the CDA, Health Canada, and many other national health organizations.

 

Antibacterial

You probably have seen toothpastes that claim to have antibacterial agents, specifically triclosan, that can protect your gums from gingivitis and other bacterial infections. So if you are prone to gingivitis, this can be good for you. Check with your dentist whether or not this kind of toothpaste would be beneficial to you.

 

Whitening

What whitening toothpastes actually do is help in combating stains but you cannot expect the same results that dental office treatments can deliver. Whitening toothpastes, cleans the surface harder to remove stains giving the illusion of whiter teeth. However most whitening toothpastes contain an abrasive agent which is not for everyone. So again, check with your dentist if it suits you.

 

For Sensitive Teeth

Does your mouth ache when you eat ice cream? You need toothpaste that are meant for sensitive teeth. When you have sensitive teeth, your gums may be receded thus exposing the roots of your teeth. Because the roots have no enamel it can easily be affected by temperature changes, sweets, and more. Toothpaste for sensitive teeth can block whatever the stimulus is from getting through the surface of your roots.

 

These are just some of the labels you see on toothpaste boxes. And while every product aims to provide you with healthier teeth and gums, it also wouldn’t hurt to look for something that works a little extra to address your specific concerns. If you are still unsure what to get, you can visit Pickering Square Dental and consult with our expert dentists for advice.

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

Helpful Resources

woman brushing teeth

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

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

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

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

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

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

What You Need to Know about Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Closeup of x-ray image of teeth and mouth with all four molars vertically impacted and still not grown and visible in the jaw bone. Filled cavities visible. Impacted molars (wisdom teeth, teeth number 8) on the right side of the face (image left) shown red.

It’s April again, folks! You know what that means – It’s Dental Health month! We think we’d start the month with this informative post about impacted wisdom teeth. So if you are wondering about wisdom teeth, what an impacted wisdom tooth actually is or if you need yours extracted, then this post is perfect for you.

 

Before we talk about impacted wisdom teeth, let’s first have a quick overview on wisdom teeth.

 

What are They, Really?                         

Wisdom teeth are the final set of molars that are found at the very back of your mouth. They often appear long after all you get all your other adult teeth. Usually, wisdom teeth would break through your gum line in your last few years as a teenager or while you’re in your early twenties. They may cause discomfort in varying degrees.

 

Are All Wisdom Teeth Crooked?

You may hear of this from your parents or grandparents, but it’s just a myth. Of course, not all wisdom teeth grow in crooked! In fact, there are countless cases that show wisdom teeth can also grow in really straight. Needless to say, if this is the case, there is absolutely no reason for your wisdom tooth to be removed.

 

When they do grow in crooked, though, it is possible that they would affect all the other teeth that surround them – damage the adjacent teeth, crowd the other teeth, damage a nerve or even your jaw, and more.

 

What are Impacted Wisdom Teeth?

Impacted wisdom teeth are those that are not able to break through the gum line. It is often because there’s another tooth blocking the way of the wisdom tooth and there is no sufficient space for the wisdom tooth to ‘erupt’. As you can probably imagine, impacted wisdom teeth can cause greater discomfort and even pain. Impacted wisdom teeth can damage your gums, jaw, and your other teeth or cause infection.

 

Should You Have Them Removed?

It actually depends on your particular case and a lot of factors like, whether your wisdom tooth has broken through the gum line or not, whether it’s causing damage to your mouth and more. Only your dentist can tell what you should do about it.

 

If your wisdom tooth has broken through the gum line, it can be easily extracted. However, if the offending tooth is embedded in your bone, the procedure can be a little more complicated. In any case, the extraction would require the application of a local anaesthetic (or sedation if that is what you prefer).

 

How Long is the Recovery Period?

It varies from patient to patient. For some, it just takes a couple of days while for others it could take a few weeks. What is important though, is that you follow every direction given by your dentist so as not to aggravate your gum and ruin the stitches.

 

So, are you concerned about your wisdom tooth? Visit Pickering Square Dental and have it checked by Dr. Lean and his expert Dental Team.

 


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.