How Proper Oral Hygiene Improves Your Overall Health

Dental Services

Open mouth during oral checkupNot a lot of people know that a healthy mouth equates to a healthy body.  Did you know that just by a swab of saliva, a doctor can tell a lot of things about what’s going on inside your body? Our mouths are helpful in detecting early signs and symptoms of certain systemic diseases (diseases that affect our entire bodies, not just one of their parts). Diabetes, for example, often becomes apparent as oral problems. Here are some of the conditions that might affect your oral health:

Cardiovascular Disease

Some studies suggest that clogged arteries, heart disease and stroke might be linked to the infections and inflammations that can are contributed to oral bacteria. 

Diabetes

Diabetes puts the gums at risk because it reduces the body’s resistance to infection. Gum disease might appear to be more frequent and severe among people who have diabetes. Studies show that people with gum disease have a harder time controlling the levels of their blood sugar. 

Endocarditis
Learn more about frequently asked questions.

Endocarditis is the infection of the inner lining of your heart (endocardium). It typically occurs when bacteria and other germs from another part of your body – such as your mouth – spread through your bloodstream, and attach to the damaged areas in your heart. 

Osteoporosis

This condition causes bones to become weak and brittle. It might be linked with tooth loss as well as periodontal bone loss. 

Pregnancy and Birth

Periodontitis has also been linked to low birth weight and premature birth in some cases. 

Alzheimer’s Disease

Tooth loss before the age of 35 might be a risk factor for this certain disease. 

Other Conditions

Due to these potential links, make sure that you let your dentist know if you are taking any medications or if you’ve had any changes in your overall health – most especially if you’ve had any recent illnesses, or you have a present chronic condition such as diabetes. 

It is a must to protect your overall health by practicing good oral hygiene every day. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, and floss daily. You should also eat a healthy diet and it’s a must to replace your toothbrush as soon as your bristles are worn out. 

Don’t forget to contact your dentist as soon as you experience an oral health problem. It’s best to have regular trips to the dentist. Keep in mind that when you invest in your oral health, you are also investing in your overall health. 

Helpful Resources

dental veneer

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.

4 Qualities You Really Need in a Toothbrush

Family Dental

Old and new toothbrushIn order to have good oral hygiene practices, it is also important that we use the right type of toothbrush. Partner that with proper brushing techniques and good fluoride-containing toothpaste – you are sure to remove plaque from teeth effectively. Toothbrushes don’t just clean the teeth, they also help in keeping the tongue and gums clean. Here are the 5 qualities that you need to look for when buying a toothbrush:

Size

The shape of the head of a toothbrush actually makes no difference. What you should be concerned about is the size of the head. Small-headed toothbrushes are ideal because they are able to reach all areas of the mouth including the sides and backs of your molars. For adults, a toothbrush with a half-inch wide and one-inch tall head would be the most efficient and easiest one to use. 
Learn more about frequently asked questions.

Bristles

If you think that hard-bristled toothbrushes are the ones to use, then you’re wrong. Dental professionals would attest that a soft-bristled toothbrush is the most effective when it comes to removing debris and plaque from your teeth. Not only that, but a soft-bristled brush helps in protecting the gums, the tooth enamel and the root surface. Bristles come in many shapes such as: flat, rippled, dome-shaped – you should choose the one that’s most comfortable to you. There are also brushes that come in multi-height bristles – these reach every corner of your mouth. The bristles on a toothbrush with rounded tips offer more tooth protection. 

Handle

A good toothbrush should have a handle that’s long enough for you to comfortable hold in your hand. There are different types of handles such as: flexible necks or non-slip grips – these can be chosen as per the user’s preference. The grip plays an important factor because a comfortable one will make your brushing experience more effective, especially when you’re brushing the hard-to-reach areas such as your back molars. When you use a toothbrush that comes with a handle that feels comfortable in your hand, it also improves your ability to clean your teeth. Some brushes come with tongue-and-cheek cleaners on the other side of the bristles. 

Manual or Powered

Powered toothbrushes are said to be a lazy man’s way of brushing. However, if you have a condition that limits your movements, then investing in an electric toothbrush is a good idea. Though they may be a bit expensive, they definitely give you a good brushing experience.  Electric brushes loosen effortlessly and they also dispense plaque with their high-frequency micro-movements. Electric brushes are easy-to-use, convenient and effective. 

Helpful Resources

dentistry maintenance

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 Preventing Toothaches

Dental Implants

Woman suffering from toothacheToothaches are unforgettable.  If you’ve ever had one, you’re sure to remember how it felt.  Usually, toothaches are either dull, sharp, or worse, throbbing. Toothaches are triggered differently, often, depending on the degree of damage to the tooth, gum tissue or supporting bone.  Some teeth hurt when there’s applied pressure, while other teeth just hurt even when you’re sleeping. When a tooth is infected, fever, headache, and a foul odour or taste in your mouth might also be present. It can also be caused by a number of several things such as:

– abscessed (infected) teeth
– teeth fractures
– damaged fillings
– extensive tooth decay
– teeth grinding
– gum infection
– teeth injuries

Whatever the cause is, what’s important is for the pain to be relieved. Here are some of the ways to prevent toothaches:

Good Oral Hygiene
Learn more about frequently asked questions.

Toothaches are definitely prevented by keeping good practices of oral hygiene. This can be done by brushing regularly with toothpaste containing fluoride. You also need to floss at least once daily, rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash once or twice a day, and make sure you have your teeth professionally cleaned by our dental team at Pickering Square Dental at least  twice a year.

Healthy Diet

Food plays an important role when dealing with toothaches. You should keep a low-sugar diet if you want to prevent cavities. You should also be mindful when eating hard foods. If you have an existing injured or fractured tooth, you have to stay away from foods that are hard to bite and chew. Failure to do so may lead to larger issues.

Regular Dentist Trips

Not a lot of people enjoy going to the dentist. However, this is essential when you want to totally avoid the excruciating pains of damaged teeth. Your dentist can definitely help you in preventing toothaches by addressing the potential problems with your teeth. Treatments depend on the cause.  If your toothache is coming from a cavity, one of our Dentists can assess the tooth and typically a simple filling can be placed.  If your tooth’s infected nerve is causing the pain, then a root canal might be required. This happens when bacteria have worked their way in the inner parts of the tooth. If there is fever or swelling of the jaw, then an antibiotic might be prescribed.

 

There are other dental treatments available – again, they vary depending on the causes. To ensure that your teeth and gums are taken care of, do not delay your trip to our office.  Your invested effort in visiting Dr. Lean and our Team of Dentists is nothing compared to the potential problems or possible pain you may be dealing with if you choose not to come.

Helpful Resources

dentist

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 We Love Brushing Our Teeth (and You Should, too!)

Oral Surgeon

family brushing teeth

Some people think that brushing one’s teeth is just to keep our breaths smelling good and our teeth pearly white. There must be something more than just those two reasons since brushing our teeth had been important since we were kids. Despite how long you’ve known that it is essential, you still tend to forget to brush your teeth as often as you should. Let’s be reminded on why it’s important that we brush our teeth:

 

 
Learn more about sedation dentistry options.

Prevents Bad Breath

Bad breath is not necessarily the lack of oral hygiene – it can actually be caused by other existing health problems. However, its common cause would be poor dental hygiene. 

Prevents Loss of Teeth

For babies, tooth loss is a normal thing. However, it is definitely not a normal thing for adults. For adults, tooth loss might be due to an injury, gum disease or, tooth decay. This might be a bit frustrating for adults, especially in social gatherings.

Prevents Cavities

Cavities are permanent damage that comes in the form of tiny holes in the teeth – more so found on the hard surface.  These holes, known as decay are breached by acids from certain sugary foods and liquids. When this happens, it can and sometimes causes pain or tooth sensitivity.

Prevents Gingivitis

When a person fails to brush or floss his or her teeth adequately, plaque forms and tends to stay on the gums and the teeth – this is how gingivitis develops.  It’s a form of gum disease that creeps beneath one’s gum line and it separates the teeth from the gums.

Helpful Resources

dental fillings

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.

Choosing the Right Toothbrush

If you think that having a toothbrush is enough for oral health care, you’re wrong. Choosing the right toothbrush plays an initial role when it comes to taking care of your teeth.  So how do you choose your toothbrush?

 

The Basics

Since a toothbrush is an exclusive property, you have to choose the one that best suits your preference. Your comfort while using it should be considered. It should fit perfectly on your hand and the toothbrush should feel comfortable in your mouth, reaching every tooth surface.

Soft Bristles

According to the Canadian Dental Association, a toothbrush with soft, rounded bristles is the best one to choose. Most people don’t get that ‘clean feeling’ unless they use a toothbrush with stiff bristles but that habit can be unhealthy on the teeth and gums. Brushing the teeth too hard is a leading cause of sensitive teeth.
Learn more about periodontal care in Pickering.

Mind the Handles

The design of the handle might seem unimportant but there are easier-to-use designs nowadays. Because of their design, brushing becomes more effective. Toothbrushes with straight and rigid handles are difficult to control. The ones that have bent or tilted necks are easier to use and also helpful in reaching behind the teeth as well as around the back teeth.

Consider the Age

Toothbrushes, just like shoes, depend on the user’s age. Babies should use baby toothbrushes because they have small mouths, and the same goes for older children. Since you want to promote oral health care at an early age, let your children pick their own design at the supermarket, making their toothbrushes more personal for them.

 

Quality vs. Quantity

You might be seeing those 5-in-1 toothbrushes for the whole family in supermarkets.  As much as you can save money by buying those, it’s still better to go for the familiar ones, instead.  Nameless products might be made of weaker materials and since you put a toothbrush in your mouth, it’s better to be safe than sorry.  

Power and Battery-Operated Options

Over the years, it has been proven that power toothbrushes remove 10 to 40% more plaque than manual brushes. It’s because these power toothbrushes have round oscillating heads and fixed bristles. Studies also show that more than 35% of adults and children brush for a longer period of time when using power brushes.

 

Ideally, a toothbrush should be replaced every three months, but some people tend to wear out their brushes earlier than that.  If you see that your toothbrush is already worn out even before the three-month period, then it’s time to get a new one. 

Helpful Resources

dental fillings

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

Schedule Your Appointment Today

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

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

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

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

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

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

Mouth Sores and How to Deal With Them

Dental health doesn’t only involve the teeth and gums. Sores and irritations may develop inside and around the mouth.

Mouth sores are common ailments that affect most people at some point in their lives. These sores usually appear on any soft tissues in the mouth including the lips, gums, tongue, and the floor and roof of the mouth.

 

Causes

These sores come in different shapes and sizes and might be caused by one of the following:

*Irritation from a loose orthodontic wire, sharp edge from a filling or a broken tooth or, a denture that doesn’t perfectly fit

*Burns from hot food and beverage

*Brushing your teeth too hard with a very firm toothbrush

*Chewing tobacco

*Biting your tongue, cheek or lip

*Infections from various bacteria, fungus or viruses

*The symptom of a disease or disorder

*Over-the-counter or prescription medications

*Weakened immune system
Learn more about periodontal care in Pickering.

 

Symptoms

Mouth sores commonly cause redness and pain, most especially when drinking and eating. They come in various sizes and severity, and they may be located on the different parts of your mouth.  These sores may also develop blisters, making it difficult for a person to eat, talk, or smile.

 

If a sore does not go away after a couple of weeks, or once they start getting worse, it’s time to consult a doctor for further examinations. The doctor will check your mouth, tongue and lips and may perform other necessary tests.

 

Treatment

Minor mouth sores often heal naturally within 10 to 14 days.  To help ease the pain, you may try the following:

*Gargle with salt water.  

*avoid hot, spicy, salty, citrusy, and sweet foods.

*Avoid tobacco and alcoholic drinks.

*Avoid squeezing or picking at the blisters and sores.

*Eat ice chips, sherbet, or other cold foods.

*Take over-the-counter anti-pain medications.

 

For more severe cases, however, the doctor might prescribe a pain medication, steroid gel, or an anti-inflammatory drug. If results show that the sores are caused by a virus, bacteria or fungus, then the proper medication will be prescribed to treat the infection.

 

Prevention

There is no absolute way on how mouth sores can be prevented. However, these practices might be helpful in reducing the risk for having these painful sores:

*Be careful with very hot foods and drinks.

*Chew with caution.

* Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and practice good and regular dental hygiene.

*Eat a balanced diet.

*Drink plenty of water.

*Do not smoke or use tobacco.

*Avoid or limit alcohol consumption.

*Take vitamin supplements, especially B vitamins.

*Let your dentist know if any dental wire of teeth may be irritating your mouth.

*Avoid excessive stress. 

Helpful Resources

woman smiling

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

Schedule Your Appointment Today

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

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

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

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

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

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

The Other Health Benefits of Dental Care

Taking care of your oral health means more than just having a beautiful smile. The mouth is known to be ‘the gateway of the body’. Bacteria from the teeth and gums might do more damage to your overall health than you think. What are other advantages of oral health care, you ask?

 

1.     Reduces Risk of Heart Disease

Gum disease produces chronic inflammation and this has been associated with development of certain cardiovascular problems including stroke, heart disease and blockage of blood vessels. The bacteria and plaque from periodontal diseases might enter the bloodstream through the gums. The bacteria can clog arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack.

2.     Lowers Risk of Infection and Inflammation
Learn more about periodontal care in Pickering.

Various studies have found an association between gum disease and rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune disease causing joint inflammation). Poor oral health has also known to cause the development of infection in other areas of the body.

 

3.     Lessens Risk of Cancer

Researchers have also found that men who had gum disease were 54% more likely to develop pancreatic cancer, 49% more likely to develop kidney cancer, and 30% more likely to develop blood cancer. Smokers, who are at the highest risk of such cancers, are less likely to visit a dentist.

4.     Decreases Risk of Premature Birth for Pregnant Women

Women might develop an infection during pregnancy, and one of the most common sites of infection is the mouth. Some studies made suggest that there’s a relationship between gum disease and premature birth. Brushing, flossing and the use of a non-alcohol antimicrobial mouthwash in pregnant women decrease the rate of premature deliveries.

5.     Preserves Memory

Early onset of Alzheimer’s disease can lead to a cause of tooth loss often seen due a decrease in overall dental health. The infection in the gums is found to release inflammatory substances which increase brain inflammation. This can cause neuronal (brain cell) death. Adults with gingivitis (inflamed gums) are said to perform worse on memory tests and other cognitive skills than those with healthier mouths.

 

Good dental practices do more good to the rest of your body, not only your teeth and gums. Regular trips to the dentist not only save your teeth, but overall health as well. If you are having any problems with your teeth or gums, it’s best to call our office as soon as possible to avoid more serious circumstances. 

Helpful Resources

woman brushing teeth

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

Schedule Your Appointment Today

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

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

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

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

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

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

Dentistry and Other Medical Conditions – Part 2

On our website we have an informative article about medical conditions that can affect your teeth and that your dentist might be able to help with.  For more information on conditions like diabetes, oral cancer, bulimia and anorexia nervosa you should consult Part 1.  In this blog post we’ll take a look at some other medical issues that can have an impact on your oral health.

Temporomandibular Disorder

The temporomandibular is a name for the joints and muscles around the jaw that let us chew, swallow, and speak.   When there issues with this area it may be indicative of temporomandibular disorder or TMD.  Symptoms include tender or saw jaw muscles, issues opening and closing your mouth, headaches, or clicking when you chew or yawn.  Your dentist can help by examining you and treating your TMD possibly with a specially designed appliance custom made for you.  
Learn more about periodontal care in Pickering.

Anemia

Anemia is a disorder in which your red blood cells don’t contain enough of the iron-rich protein hemoglobin or less of them are produced than is normal.  This means your body may not get the oxygen it needs through the bloodstream which could result in serious medical issues including heart failure.  It has oral effects as well including a higher risk of periodontitis, pale mouth tissue, or an inflammation of the tongue.  If you have anemia it is vital to let your dentist know since some forms could carry higher risk of infection and your dentist may need to prescribe antibiotics  (in severe cases) before performing any procedures to minimize that risk.

Thyroid Problems

Your thyroid produces and regulates many very important hormones in the body and conditions that affect it can disrupt the functionality of organs and various bodily systems.  In terms of oral care thyroid problems carry a greater risk of gum disease since it can inhibit the body’s ability to heal.  Additionally, dry mouth can be caused which may result in a greater chance of cavities.  The tongue may also be afflicted through enlargement or a distorted sense of taste.  Make sure to inform your dentist of any thyroid problems to ensure they know how to best deal with your particular issues.

There are many medical issues that can have a serious impact on dental and oral health and these are just few more.  If you have any questions regarding the impact of an illness you may have or are looking to solve some unrelated dental issues contact Pickering Square Dental today.

Helpful Resources

tooth repair

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

Schedule Your Appointment Today

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

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

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

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

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

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

Dental Health Resolutions for the New Year

The New Year is a time for renewal, not just of our calendars, but of our lives.  It’s an opportunity to start fresh, yet again, and live a better and healthier life with a new set of guidelines.  If you’re like many people you don’t take care of your teeth as well as you should so January 1st represents a great time to make a change towards better dental health.  Here are some teeth-friendly resolutions you should consider sticking to this year.

Brush up on The Basics

You should brush three times a day and floss daily and if you stick to those basics that’s a lot of preventative maintenance done for your teeth right there.  If flossing has been too much of a hassle for you traditionally consider floss picks or interdental brushes as an alternative.

Get Your Teeth Whiter
Learn more about periodontal care in Pickering.

You look in the mirror and your teeth are ruddier or more yellow than you’d like.  You can address that with a trip to the dentist.

Get Those Imperfections Fixed

Maybe you have a chip or a crack that doesn’t really bother you, except when you see it in the mirror.  Make the time this year to get those problems taken care of.  Keeping your smile bright and without glaring flaws can be a big boost for your self-esteem.

Teach Your Kids

You know you need to pass on good hygiene habits to the little ones so this is the year to do it.  Take the time to show them how to brush and floss properly and explain the reasons why it’s important.

See Your Dentist More Often

Maybe 2015 has been a busy year, perhaps with the New Year and January around the corner… it’s a great time to get back on schedule to make sure little problems don’t become big ones.  Even a quick dental cleaning can save you a lot in pain and bills down the road.  Make this year the year you start taking really great care of your teeth. 

As a reminder, a majority of dental insured patients has an annual renewal of their dental benefits January 1st.  If you’re one of our patients fortunate enough to have benefits, remember, unused benefits do not get carried forward, they’re lost forever.  If you have any issues or questions about your dental benefits and want some guidance contact us at Pickering Square Dental today.

Helpful Resources

Kids teeth Health

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

Schedule Your Appointment Today

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

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

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

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

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

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

Probiotic Ice Cream Could Improve Your Child’s Oral Health

As a parent, it’s important you review the latest marketplace data and take in the latest research on your child’s oral health. The industry is continually evolving and discovering new products that can offer a beneficial impact for your child and their long-term dental care needs. Within this post, we’ll examine one of the latest products to come under the research microscope – probiotic ice cream – and the benefits it can have for your child’s oral health.

Probiotic Ice Cream Can Reduce Number of Streptococcus Mutans
Learn more about sedation dentistry options.

Streptococcus mutans are gram-positive bacteria that live in your mouth and work to metabolize different kinds of carbohydrates, creating an acidic environment in the mouth, which can then breakdown tooth enamel and begin the tooth decaying process. Over time, tooth decay then leads to cavities. This highlights the relationship between streptococcus mutans and cavities. The latest studies in India show that probiotic ice cream can work to significantly reduce the number of streptococcus mutans in children’s mouths.

While these studies are only at the preliminary stages and effects of the probiotic ice cream have only been proven over the short-term, this has prompted further exciting research into the benefits of probiotic products on the oral health of children around the globe. With the short-term benefits of probiotic ice cream now highlighted in proven studies, many are now reviewing how probiotic ice cream impact oral health in other areas, including reducing gingivitis and periodontitis. These are two of the leading causes of oral health concerns in children and researching their cause will help researchers to form the latest treatments to help combat their patients’ symptoms.

Speak with Your Local Dentist to Research Your Options

As ever, it’s important to only trust the advice of your local dental health professional when it comes to your child’s health. While research is on-going on the benefits of probiotic ice cream, contact your local dental office directly to learn more. Our specialists are available today to help answer your questions and book a consultation for you and your child. Call today to learn more!

Helpful Resources

dental bonding

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.