The Benefits of a Custom Mouth Guard

Mouthguard

Contact sports like hockey, football, basketball or soccer can get pretty rough so protecting your or your child’s most vulnerable areas, including the mouth, and protection for concussion are crucially important whether the damage is intentional or incidental.  Even in many non-contact sports like biking or gymnastics, the potential for injury to the mouth is a real risk, and guarding against that particular harm may be prudent.  The best way to protect the mouth is with a custom and professionally made and fitted mouth guard that is designed to distribute the shock of an impact to minimize damage to the teeth and reduce the force going to the skull and brain cavity.  The mouth guard is a solid piece of protective gear, but not all mouth guards are created equal.  In fact, there are some distinct advantages to a custom guard over generic store bought models.  Here are some of those advantages.

Stability

A custom-fitted mouth guard is made when a dentist takes an impression of the patient’s teeth, and that impression is then used to mold a guard specifically tailored to an individual.  Due to your unique specifications, the mouth guard will remain stable in the mouth, not prone to falling out or creating pain due to tightness like a generic mouth guard would thus, provide you with the best results of protection!
Learn more about family dentistry services in Pickering.

Breathability

Store-bought mouth guards are made to be ready-to-wear regardless of specific needs, and as a result, they tend be bulkier and ill-fitting – increasing proneness to gagging and making breathing difficult because they require the jaw to be shut in order to be held in place.

Fit and Protectiveness

These two things – fit and protectiveness – go hand in hand when it comes to mouth guards.  The more comfortable and stable the guard is directly translates to better shock absorption on impact.  If a mouth guard is loose or bulky its ability to take a hit will be greatly compromised.  Good news, proper fit and maximum comfort adds up to providing the best possible tolerance in wearing mouth guards.

A professionally fit and made mouth guard is superior in every way to a store-bought model.  And while it is more expensive, the reduction of risk to injury for everything from teeth damage to jaw fractures, to concussions or brain damage makes them well worth the additional cost.   If you are looking for a custom mouth guard, or need professional advice on dental issues of any kind, contact our team today.

 

Helpful Resources

oral health

For more information, visit the CDA Oral Health Resources.

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.

Are All Mouthwashes Equal?

Mouthwash is an important part of a rigorous dental health regimen, and has been around in one type or another for thousands of years, though it’s only entered common use since the 1960s.  An anti-septic mouth rinse, mouthwash has been shown to be useful in aiding in the prevention of the buildup of plaque and lowering the associated risk of gingivitis and decay, as well as for fighting bad breath.   There are numerous brands and types of mouthwash available on the market today, but are they all worthy tools in preventing dental issues?

The short answer is: no.  The longer answer is that there are two types of mouthwash, cosmetic and therapeutic.  Cosmetic mouthwash is mainly associated with keeping the teeth free of debris and keeping breath smelling nice.  Therapeutic mouthwash on the other hand is anti-bacterial in nature, making it effective against plaque, gingivitis, cavities, and bad breath.  Obviously, therapeutic mouthwash is far more preferable, and on top of that, it’s easy to spot – just look for a recommendation from the Canadian Dental Association.

Beyond that simple division there are other things worth considering.  Alcohol is a primary ingredient in many mouthwashes but can cause dry mouth, which paradoxically can irritate oral issues and cause bad breath.  Alcohol-free mouthwashes are available as well, but many of those ingredients have side effects too.  Some oils may have an unpleasant taste, and others with Chlorhexidine should only be used for a short time frame as they can brown teeth or change your sense of taste.
Learn more about family dentistry services in Pickering.

Mouthwash has its pros and cons, but on the whole it’s usually worth using as part of your at-home dental care routine, provided you stick with the therapeutic varieties.   It’s also critical to remember, that no matter how good your mouthwash is, it is never a replacement for brushing and flossing.  If you have any dental issues that mouthwash isn’t helping with, please contact us today, and we’ll do what we can to help.

 

 

 

Helpful Resources

woman's 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.

How Turmeric Can Help Treat Oral Cancer

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

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

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

Turmeric for Daily Oral Health

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

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

Helpful Resources

oral sedation

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

Schedule Your Appointment Today

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

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

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

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

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

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

Oral Health Tips For Midlife

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

Learn the Risks of Oral Cancer

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

Risk factors include:

Excessive alcohol consumption

A family history of HPV

Heavy sun exposure

Heavy smoking

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

Understand the Signs of Gum Disease

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

Red, swollen or, puffy gums

Bleeding while brushing or flossing

Separating or, loose teeth

Receding gums

 

Discover your Cosmetic Dentistry Options

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

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

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

Helpful Resources

dental implants

For more information, visit the CDA Dental Procedures Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

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

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

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

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

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

What Dietary Supplements Are Good For Oral Health?

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

Helpful Resources

periodontal care

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

Schedule Your Appointment Today

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

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

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

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

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

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

Should I Brush My Teeth With Coconut Oil?

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

What Is Oil Pulling?

dentist

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

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

Benefits of Coconut Oil for Oral Health

Reduces Harmful Bacteria

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

Helps Fight Bad Breath

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

Contains No Harmful Chemicals

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

May Support Gum Health

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

Cost-Effective Supplemental Care

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

Important Limitations to Keep in Mind

dental filling

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

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

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

How to Try Oil Pulling Safely

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

Talk to Your Dentist About Your Oral Care Routine

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

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

Helpful Resources

For more information, visit the CDA Dental Procedures Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

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

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

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

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

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

DRY MOUTH AND LIPS: Tips for Prevention and its Complications during Wintertime

DRY MOUTH AND LIPS: Tips for Prevention and its Complications during Wintertime — Pickering, ON

Winter brings with it its own set of skin care issues. For those with dry skin, the scourge of dry mouth and dry lips can prevent even the most wonderful winter day from being enjoyed. The painful cracking and peeling of dry lips can be prevented, however! And in this blog, we’ll look at several preventative measures as well as review the complications that can arise during the wintertime.

1. Keep Your Body Hydrated

During the dry winter months, your body requires hydration to stave off dry lips. Take steps to prevent dehydration such as keeping a water bottle with you at all times. And try to eat more fruits and vegetables on a daily basis to ensure you achieve optimal nutrition in the wintertime.

2. Exfoliate Your Skin to Remove Dry Buildup
Learn more about family dentistry services in Pickering.

The dry flakey skin that can occur in wintertime should be removed on a regular basis to help further ensure comfort. Use a damp cloth to gently exfoliate the skin and remove any dry patches. You might also consider a specialized lip scrub to remove the dry skin areas. However, it’s important to ensure the lip scrub is fragrance free to prevent any further skin reaction.

3. Use a Humidifier

Heated indoor air is one of the leading causes of dry skin around the lips and mouth. To combat this issue, set up a humidifier within an office space or home area where you spend the majority of your time. Setting a humidity level of 30-40% can often help prevent the occurrence of dry lips.

4. Don’t Lick Your Lips!

It’s very common for those with dry lips to try to resolve the issue by licking them. But unfortunately, this can have more of a negative than positive effect. That’s because the digestive enzymes present in the saliva can dry tissue out very quickly. And so, when the moisture evaporates, your lips can become even drier than before. The application of a specially designed moisturizer or lip balm is often a superior solution to the problem especially when routinely applied in wintertime after brushing your teeth morning and night and as required in between..

This winter, try to protect the skin on your lips by following the guidelines highlighted within this article. You’ll feel more comfortable and ready to enjoy the many activities that winter living in Canada has to offer! 

Helpful Resources

Tooth Coloured Fillings

For more information, visit the CDA Oral Health Resources.

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.

SPORTS INJURY & SPORTS GUARDS: Recommended Jaw and Teeth Protection Measures When Playing Sports

SPORTS INJURY & SPORTS GUARDS: Recommended Jaw and Teeth Protection Measures When Playing Sports

Playing sports such as football and hockey is a leading cause of injury for Canadians. It’s important to understand how simple preventive measures can help to protect your teeth and jaw and ensure safety while playing your favourite sports.  Within this blog, we’ll highlight several measures to protect your teeth and jaw during sports play.

Wear Custom Designed Mouth Guards

Custom-made mouth guards created by a dental professional can help keep your teeth and jaw secure when playing sports. The latest data shows that an athlete is 60 times more likely to sustain damage to their teeth when not wearing a protective mouth guard. It has also been estimated that mouth guards aid in preventing over 200,000 injuries each year including concussions. The leading advantages of custom made mouth guards is their comfort and customized and precision fit.  They will help protect your mouth and jaw without detracting from the sporting experience as well as aiding in preventing concussions.
Learn more about family dentistry services in Pickering.

Select an Effective Helmet

The latest helmet products have been designed to protect you from serious head injury during contact sports such as football and hockey. The helmet can absorb the blow of an impact and ensure your jaw, teeth and spine don’t take the brunt of the force. But it’s important to select an effective helmet for your head size. Speak with a local sports specialist in your area to discuss helmet sizing and the factors behind effective helmet performance.

Stop Play Immediately If an Issue Arises

One of the leading causes of the most serious head injuries during sports is when a player doesn’t exit the field or ice when they’re injured. Many try to play on after suffering a severe blow to the head. But it’s important to remove yourself from play until you regain your composure and have been cleared to return to play.  If you experience any dizziness or loss of vision, it’s imperative to speak with a medical professional as soon as possible who can help ensure you haven’t suffered a concussion or another serious head injury.

By taking precautions during play and preparing yourself with the leading properly fitting equipment for the next game, you can protect your jaw and teeth over the long-term. Speak with one of our in-house experts directly to learn more about customized mouth guard options.
 

Helpful Resources

Dental Implants

For more information, visit the CDA Oral Health Resources.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

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

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

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

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

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

How to Reduce Cold Air Tooth Sensitivity during Winter

In the cool winter air, many Canadians are now finding that their teeth are becoming sensitive to cold temperatures. The throbbing pain of sensitive teeth can make anyone want to stay inside. But it’s important to be proactive when experiencing this type of dental care issue. In this blog, we’ll highlight a few tips for reducing cold air tooth sensitivity during wintertime.

 

Use Desensitizing Toothpaste

 

Some tooth pastes actually include abrasive ingredients that may be too harsh on those with sensitive teeth. Whitening toothpastes for example are designed to be abrasive to remove tough stains. These products can worsen tooth sensitivity especially during the wintertime. To protect their teeth and gums against this type of sensitivity, Canadians can use desensitizing tooth paste recommended by their dentist.

 

Limit the Intake of Acid Products

 

Acid products are known to wear down tooth enamel quickly. It’s important to reduce the intake of these products to help protect the enamel against erosion. Those that are experiencing sensitive teeth in the wintertime might be feeling the effects of drinking too many soft drinks and fruit juices on their teeth. By restricting their intake of these acid products, and changing their diet over time, tooth sensitivity sufferers can ensure their teeth are protected for this winter and future winter seasons.

 

Stop Using Over the Counter Whitening Products

 

A leading recent cause behind a rise in tooth sensitivity issues across the country is the use of over counter whitening products. While these products are being improved upon, many dental patients still experience discomfort after use and tooth sensitivity is a common side-effect during cooler weather. It’s important that patients with tooth sensitivity seek out products that contain higher levels of hydrogen peroxide. These products are more likely to limit the amount of tooth sensitivity they suffer. Dental professionals can also recommend specific whitening treatments for those suffering from teeth sensitivity issues.

 

The pain of tooth sensitivity can be reduced by researching the issue and removing from your lifestyle the products that are widely considered a leading risk factor. To learn more on the process of reducing tooth sensitivity, contact our team today! 

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

Dental Sedation

For more information, visit the CDA Oral Health Resources.

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 Three Most Common Dental Issues Suffered During The Winter

With the cooler weather now arriving across Canada, Canadians are now finding that those familiar winter dental issues are re-occurring. The cool weather and icy ground can make a significant impact on dental health. In this blog, we’ll highlight three of the most common dental issues patients suffer from during the cooler winter months.

 

1) Tooth Sensitivity

 

Cold temperature tooth sensitivity is a problem suffered by millions of Canadians each year. While not unique to this part of the world, the cooler temperatures mean that Canadians suffer from cold temperature sensitivity more than millions of others around the globe. Tooth sensitivity during cold weather is related to a number of factors. But often, the problem is caused by small cracks or cavities in the teeth. If the tooth sensitivity is prolonged over a period of three days or more, it’s important to speak with a local dentist. The dental professional can help analyze teeth and ensure a larger issue is not to blame for the cold weather sensitivity.
Learn more about family dentistry services in Pickering.

 

2) Broken or Chipped Tooth

 

Hockey is one of the leading Canadian pastimes. It’s a sport that millions across the country enjoy during the winter months, and a hobby that can sometimes lead to painful dental injuries. While even the best protection might not be enough to prevent injury, it is important Canadians use helmets and mouth guards effectively next time they step out on the ice. Canadians are also at risk of slipping during their morning and evening commute to and from work this wintertime. It’s important to stay on guard for black ice during the evening, and to contact a dental specialist immediately after chipping or breaking a tooth during this winter season.

 

3) Dry Mouth

 

While it might feel more of an annoyance than a challenging dental issue, dry mouth can cause prolonged dental issues for Canadians. Dry mouth is often caused by exposure to very dry indoor air. And can lead to problems such as tooth decay, halitosis and gingivitis. The optimal way to respond to this issue is by drinking lots of water and staying well hydrated during prolonged periods indoors. This can help to stave off dry mouth and ensure a comfortable winter season.

 

By maintaining an understanding of the most common dental care issues and their causes, Canadians can keep themselves and their families completely safe over the winter season. To learn more, speak with a trusted Pickering Square Dental specialist directly. 

Helpful Resources

Teeth Whitening

For more information, visit the CDA Oral Health Resources.

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.