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.

What Dietary Supplements Are Good For Oral Health?

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

Helpful Resources

periodontal care

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

Schedule Your Appointment Today

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

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

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

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

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

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

Did You Know That Plaque Could Help Prevent Disease?

Dentist Pickering

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

Greater Consistency than Saliva Sampling

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

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

Comparison with Biomarkers

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

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

Helpful Resources

Tooth Extraction

For more information, visit the Health Canada Children’s Dental Health.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

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

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

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

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

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

Should I Brush My Teeth With Coconut Oil?

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

What Is Oil Pulling?

dentist

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

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

Benefits of Coconut Oil for Oral Health

Reduces Harmful Bacteria

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

Helps Fight Bad Breath

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

Contains No Harmful Chemicals

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

May Support Gum Health

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

Cost-Effective Supplemental Care

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

Important Limitations to Keep in Mind

dental filling

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

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

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

How to Try Oil Pulling Safely

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

Talk to Your Dentist About Your Oral Care Routine

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

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

Helpful Resources

For more information, visit the CDA Dental Procedures Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

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

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

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

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

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

7 Healthy Foods that Can Improve Your Dental Health

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

1. Apples

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

2. Carrots

Carrots are a leading source of beta carotene. Beta carotene can be turned into vitamin A by the body, ensuring optimal nutritional performance.
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3. Cheese

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

4. Raw Onions

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

5. Cashews

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

6. Wasabi

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

7. Spinach

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

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

Helpful Resources

dental treatment

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

Schedule Your Appointment Today

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

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

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

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

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

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

Holiday Time Safety: Tooth Friendly Desserts That Will STILL Make the Holiday Season Sweet

Holiday Time Safety: Tooth Friendly Desserts That Will STILL Make the Holiday Season Sweet

It’s getting closer to that time of the year when families come together to celebrate the holiday season. While spending time with loved ones, it’s important to consider the types of foods you’re consuming and their effect on your teeth. Sugary treats are a staple of the holiday season and both children and adults can benefit in the long-term by using this time to change their eating habits and discover healthy treats. By choosing some of the following options, you can protect your teeth for the many exciting holiday seasons to come.

Specialty Cheeses

Selecting a collection of cheese for a holiday snack is a great way to protect teeth while ensuring all guests enjoy delicious treat. Cheese actually works to protect enamel against erosion caused by coffee, soda and sugary snacks. This means that, in addition to being healthier for you than that chocolate cake, cheese snacks also actively work to prevent many future dental health challenges.
Learn more about teeth whitening and aesthetics.

Apple Crisp

Apple crisp is a widely popular dessert that can become a key part of a tooth-health focused holiday meal plan. By using calcium rich walnuts as a topping, and only adding small amounts of a mild sweetener such as maple syrup, this healthy desert can be made to protect against enamel erosion. Adding raisins or cranberries is a great way to add texture to the apple crisp without sacrificing oral health. But remember to brush immediately after eating to remove sticky raisins, cranberries and sugars from your teeth.

Rice Pudding

Rice pudding, when it’s made with natural ingredients in the home can be a delicious and healthy alternative to sugar-laden ice-cream.  Not only does it have fewer calories than most other dairy-based treats, it is also low in cholesterol and an exceptional source of calcium. It’s important to limit the amount of sugar used in the rice pudding to maximize the dessert’s benefits. One idea is replacing the required sugar with cinnamon can ensure the desired taste while limiting potential tooth erosion.

By committing to an oral-health focused diet this coming holiday season, you can set a great example to family members and showcase your own cooking creativity!  To learn more on maintaining effective oral health during the upcoming holiday, speak with a member of our Team at Pickering Square Dental.

Helpful Resources

woman smiling

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.

Food and Your Teeth: What Foods Harm Your Teeth

Food and Your Teeth: What Foods Harm Your Teeth — Pickering, ON

Let’s face it – we all enjoy eating food!  Whether it’s a nice, hearty meal, or a brief snack during work, it gives us the energy we need to get through our day.  However, it’s important to remember, some foods can detrimentally affect your teeth!  We all know the significance of keeping a pearly-white smile, so we’re going to take a look at some of the foods that can have a negative impact on your teeth.

Food and Your Teeth: What Foods Harm Your Teeth

Listed below are some of the foods that can harm your teeth:

-Candy: There is a large appeal for hard candies, gummies, and other sugar-heavy treats- even with adults!  Unfortunately, these sweet morsels can easily lead to cavities in your teeth.

-Soda pop: Even the diet versions of these sweet beverages can wreak havoc on your teeth- many of them contain an acid that can even weaken the enamel on your teeth.

-Popcorn: These salty snacks can easily get stuck in between your teeth, which can result in sore gums or, a buildup of bacteria.

-Apples: Surprisingly, apples have a high amount of acidic content, which can cause harm to our enamel.

-Corn on the cob: When eating corn on the cob, this popular summer snack can easily get stuck in between our teeth. Unfortunately, it can also cause inflammation around the gums if not cleaned properly.  As well, it is not recommended for those wearing braces or any wires in their mouth.

-Peanut butter and jam: These sugary spreads can also have a negative impact on your enamel.  We recommend that you brush and floss your teeth immediately after eating anything that contains these ingredients.

A reputable dental clinic that’s been highly praised for over 25 years is Pickering Square Dental. This family dentistry location provides all visitors, from children to seniors, with a comfortable, soothing environment.  Whether you want to watch TV or listen to music, these dental experts will help you relax while they take proper care of your teeth. On top of the multitude of services that are available to patients, Pickering Square Dental also offers laser dentistry!  To learn more about this popular dental clinic, check out pickeringsquaredental.com.

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.