What You Need to Know about Impacted Wisdom Teeth

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

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

 

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

 

What are They, Really?                         

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

 

Are All Wisdom Teeth Crooked?

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

 

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

 

What are Impacted Wisdom Teeth?

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

 

Should You Have Them Removed?

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

 

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

 

How Long is the Recovery Period?

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

 

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

 


Helpful Resources

sedation dentistry

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

Schedule Your Appointment Today

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

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

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

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

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

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

5 Ways You are Damaging Your Teeth Unknowingly

Woman with cracks on her teeth

Most of us know how important it is to brush our teeth at least twice a day. Many of us religiously floss and rinse, too. But do you know that there are also a lot of people who are damaging their teeth on a daily basis without even knowing it?

 

Here we have listed  for you five ways you could be unknowingly damaging your teeth. Check it out and see if you are guilty of any of these:

 

RINSING WITH WATER AFTER YOU BRUSH

It is not advisable to rinse your mouth with water after brushing your teeth. Why? It is simply because when you do, you just wash away the fluoride which is what your teeth need and what helps you to prevent tooth decay. What to do with all that excess toothpaste? Just spit it out.

 

BRUSHING YOUR TEETH RIGHT AWAY AFTER MEALS

We understand how you can be in a rush. But you should really wait for about 30 – 40 minutes before brushing. Doing so will allow saliva to naturally neutralize the low PH level in the mouth that is caused by food and drinks. Brushing straight away causes the acid in your mouth to get brushed into your teeth. This causes erosion and tooth enamel loss, leading to tooth sensitivity and weakening.

 

CHOOSING A TOOTHBRUSH WITH HARD BRISTLES

Perhaps you think harder bristles will do a better job at removing food particles. It is; however, better to use a medium-soft bristled toothbrush as it is a lot kinder to your teeth. Hard bristled ones can damage your gums, as well as the root surface and the protective enamel.

 

OPENING BOTTLES WITH YOUR TEETH

You probably have tried this before out of curiosity or at least seen one do it at a party once or twice. While it may seem a pretty neat party trick, opening a bottle (or even a bag of chips for that matter) using your teeth can be quite damaging. It wears away your teeth and also, you are risking a chipped tooth.

 

 

DRINKING COLOURED DRINKS

Drinking coloured beverages like coke or rum are the worst when it comes to damaging and eroding your teeth. That includes pop and other fizzy drinks. Dark coloured drinks have the lowest pH so they are more acidic. Lighter coloured drinks like champagne and Prosecco, you’d be glad to know, are your better options as they have a higher pH level.

 

There you go – five seemingly harmless acts that are actually damaging to your teeth. To know if you are doing the right things for your teeth, ask the advice of an oral health care professional from Pickering Square Dental. We’d love to hear from you soon!

 

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.

Cavities: Myths and Facts You Should Be Aware Of

dentist's drill treating a sick tooth

Everybody, young or old, is afraid of dental cavities or what we commonly call tooth decay. Hundreds of years ago, ancient folks used to believe that worms are responsible for one’s toothaches. They are said to be boring their way into teeth. If a tooth was aching, then that only meant the worm is wiggling.

 

Now we all know that that particular story is nothing but a myth, although it still is an interesting theory that seems to work wonders with children. But while that particular myth is already established as such, there are some that still confuse us.

 

Here we will clear the air about what is factual and what is actually a myth:

 

MYTH: Only Sugar Can Cause Cavities

Here is how one opens the door to some serious cavities – You eat. Bacteria in your mouth then act on the food that you have eaten and produce acid that attacks your teeth. This bacterial activity requires carbohydrates like rice, bread, potatoes, and also sugar. Those are the primary source of energy of those bacteria. Remember that for a tooth to actually decay, four things are needed: a tooth surface, bacteria that causes caries, carbohydrates that can be fermented, and time. Sugar is not the sole culprit.

 

FACT: Acidic Foods Can Cause Cavities

Citrusy foods and juices like lemons can break down your tooth’s enamel and weaken it. Weaker teeth are more prone to decay. Like we mentioned bacteria act on food substances to produce acid, eating foods that are already acidic speeds up the process.

 

MYTH: You Shouldn’t Worry About Cavities in Baby Teeth

This cannot be farther from the truth – so please do worry! What many do not realize is that baby teeth actually keep the space in line for permanent teeth. Aside from that, cavities are a bacterial infection that when left untreated may spread into the adult teeth that are also developing underneath. Early loss of baby teeth due to a cavity blocks and disrupts the ideal eruption of the adult teeth.

 

FACT: The Decay Stops As Soon as the Tooth is Treated

A tooth is not capable of repairing itself. That is why when there is a cavity; “fillings” should cover the hole. Your dentist fills that cavity with the right amount of restorative material and the decay at that particular spot stops. However, that does not give immunity to the tooth. Without proper care, a new cavity may start to develop in the same tooth.

 

MYTH: Gaps in Between Teeth Cause Cavities

This is just a myth. In truth, it is easier to clean teeth with big gaps in between. The spaces make it harder for bacteria to reside there. Therefore it is less likely for you to get cavities.

 

FACT: You Can Actually Prevent Cavities

This is true. A cavity that is sealed on time can save a tooth. Prevention is always better than cure. You can prevent cavities from forming by brushing your teeth twice in a day, as well as flossing and rinsing.

 

 


 

Helpful Resources

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.

Love Your Teeth More this Valentine’s Day, Unlocking the Secret to a Healthier Smile

woman's portrait with chocolate

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and as it gets closer, you may also be getting more and more anxious about what kind of celebration your loved one has planned, or just hoping you’d find a date before that big day. Equip yourself with one of the best weapons for Valentine’s – a beautiful smile. Research shows that nothing is more attractive to the opposite sex than a bright and white smile.

 

What is ironic is that Valentine’s Day, which we often spend smiling, is actually a bad day for your teeth – and your smile. People tend to get carried away with all the delicious chocolates and sweets, as well as wine and other great food. These can all take their toll on your teeth.

Bacteria that grow in your mouth feed on sugar, so the more sugar you eat, the more those bacteria can damage your teeth. That is when they start creating cavities that also hurt the inner layer of your teeth and enamel. Because we cannot totally ban sugar, especially on Valentine’s Day, the least we can do is to limit our intake and try to avoid sticky candies that are more damaging than the others.

 

To get a better and healthier smile, here are our Valentine-proof tips just for you:

 

Choose Strawberries. Not everyone knows that strawberries have that substance called malic acid that acts as a natural tooth whitener. It can remove any discoloration on the surface of your teeth.

 

If strawberries are not your thing, you can eat red apples instead. They increase saliva production that help wash debris away.

 

If you can’t skip the chocolates, at least go for dark ones. Dark chocolates are known to have calcium and other ingredients that actually promote stronger and better teeth.

 

Drink lots of water to help flush away food particles that are left in your mouth. Stay hydrated!

 

Do not forget to visit your dentist at least twice in a year. Only a professional can tell whether or not your teeth are in good condition. You dentist can also help you in maintaining a healthy mouth.

 

Valentine’s Day is holiday that is best celebrated with a loved one. Instead of following the norms of giving sweets and chocolates, why not start a new one? Perhaps we can give a fruit basket instead a box of chocolates. That would make Valentine’s Day even more special than it already is.

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.

Serious Health Risks Directly Linked to Your Oral Health… What to Do This New Year

caucasian woman tGingivitis portrait isolated studio on white background

Even when you regularly brush your teeth, there still may be some dangerous bacteria living inside your mouth. Thinking about it instantly gives visuals of extreme pain in your gums and perhaps bleeding. While periodontitis is indeed an inevitable result of poor oral hygiene, certain studies found a link between poor dental hygiene and some major health concerns.

 

Here are some serious health issues that are connected with your oral hygiene:

 

  1. Gum Disease May Lead to Coronary Artery Disease

Yes, those who suffer from periodontitis are more likely to develop coronary artery disease. Some researchers say that it is possible that harmful bacteria from the mouth could enter the bloodstream. Once it does, it can attach to some fatty plaques in your heart’s blood vessels. This can lead to inflammation and later on, trigger heart attacks.

 

  1. Your Memory May Also Be Affected

There are some researches that suggest a tie between poor oral condition and a higher risk of dementia. Experts believe that similar to how it happens with coronary artery diseases; oral bacteria may also reach the brain through cranial nerves and the bloodstream. It may also contribute to the specific type of plaque that has been connected to Alzheimer’s disease.

 

  1. It Has an Effect on Your Blood Sugar

Those with diabetes, in particular, are more prone to periodontal disease than those who do not. Perhaps the fact that diabetes patients are highly susceptible to infections is a factor. Additionally, research shows that gum disease could also make controlling your blood sugar more difficult. Treating it also improves one’s symptoms.

 

  1. You May Be at Risk of Getting Respiratory Infections

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, as well as pneumonia, may be caused by the inhalation of some harmful bacteria from your mouth into the lungs and result to inflammation of the airways.

 

  1. Your Fertility May Be Affected

Researchers in Western Australia discovered that for women with gum disease, it took an average of two months longer than usual to conceive. Additionally, gum disease in pregnant women increases the risk of having a miscarriage.

Because of these more serious risks, it is only expected that you’d be more interested in caring for the health of your mouth. To achieve a healthier mouth, you’d want to:

 

  • Use mouthwash twice a day to reduce the risk of gum disease by an astounding 60%.
  • Choose a toothbrush with really soft bristles.
  • Floss before you brush your teeth to remove any food remnants.
  • Brush for at least two full minutes to thoroughly clean your teeth and mouth.

 

Just follow these expert tips and you’ll maintain not only really fresh breath, but also a healthier and stronger body.

Helpful Resources

dental fillings

For more information, visit the CDA Guide to Gum Disease.

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.

5 New Year’s Resolutions to Commit to for Better Oral Health

Closeup of young man flossing his teeth. Cleaning teeth with dental floss

Everyone comes up with New Year’s resolutions, but whether or not you follow through depends on you alone. While it is indeed difficult to instantly change once the New Year sets in, it is something worth working hard for, especially when it has something to do with your health.

If you are like us who are looking for better ways to care for our teeth and gums, here are some resolutions that might make things easier for you:

Floss, Please!
Yes, brushing your teeth twice a day can help keep fresher breath. While that is important, you should also take note that no matter how hard you brush, it just isn’t enough to avoid the buildup of plaque in between your teeth, it also can’t remove food remnants completely. Flossing can help you with that. If you haven’t been diligent about flossing, then it should definitely be included in your New Year’s resolutions.

Reduce Your Sugar Intake
A study that was published in BMC Public Health in 2014- states that there is a direct link between a person’s sugar consumption and tooth decay. The logic is quite simple. If you cut back on sugar, you also reduce the risk for tooth decay.

Opt For Mouth-Healthy Snacks
To optimize the benefits of your diet on your teeth, resolve to eat more mouth-healthy foods on a daily basis. You can do this, as you cut back on sugar. Dairy products, as we know are high in calcium and work great for your teeth. Fibrous foods also scrub away plaque and other food remnants.

Finally Kick the Habit!
You may have been planning this for a while now. Have the willingness to finally do it. Get rid of all trigger products from your home and office. Ask for help from your friends and family. Remember that smoking is linked to an array of health issues.

Visit Your Dentist As Soon As Possible
If you have skipped a few dentist appointments in the past few weeks, you probably feel too guilty by now to feel comfortable visiting him or her again, but that should not be the case. Make it a point to show up to your appointments, even if you feel everything is fine with your teeth.

These are just five really simple resolutions that will benefit your teeth now and in the long run. Can you add more to the list? What are your New Year’s oral resolutions?

Helpful Resources

dental bridges

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 Your Gums are Bleeding

Gums — Pickering, ON

Do you sometimes notice blood on your toothbrush or in your sink when you brush your teeth? If so, then you should know that it is something that you should never ignore. It is possible that your gums bled a bit because you ate something coarse and it scratched them. However, if this is a regular occurrence, then it might be a more serious problem.

 

If you have no idea why your gums are bleeding, read on, as we give you five reasons why they do and what you can do to stop them:

 

  1. Gingivitis

Plaque and cavity-causing bacteria can build up on your teeth and result to inflammation of your gums. This is what we call gingivitis. It is usually painless and there are no symptoms so there is a possibility that you don’t know you have one, except there are bloodstains on your toothbrush. Gingivitis can progress to a periodontal disease and lead to eventual tooth loss. It can still be reversed though, or avoid altogether. The solution? A meticulous routine that includes thorough brushing and flossing, to make sure you have removed all that plaque.

 

  1. Smoking

Smokers are simply prone to bleeding gums. Irritating toxins are left on your teeth when you inhale smoke and it could be hard to remove the stains once there’s a build-up. These same substances can irritate the gums and cause them to bleed.

 

  1. Poor Diet

If you do not eat the recommended servings of vegetables and fruits for each day, you could be giving your gums reason to be inflamed. Remember that staying healthy is the best defense you can have to protect yourself from any problem.

 

  1. Pregnancy

It could be because of hormonal changes that are common when a woman is pregnant. If you are not, then it could be because of your menstruation. It is not uncommon for women to experience hormonal gingivitis which is associated with their monthly periods.

 

  1. Poor Oral Hygiene

Are you brushing way too hard? Or have you been forgetting you should brush every time you eat?  If you do not have a regular oral hygiene routine, it will be your gums to suffer the consequences. You should brush your teeth, floss, and make sure you remove all the plaque and other food debris.

These are only some of the possible reasons why your gums are bleeding. Whatever is causing it though, you have to make sure you pay your dentist a visit at Pickering Square Dental to check it for you.

Helpful Resources

Dental Bridges

For more information, visit the CDA Guide to Gum Disease.

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.

Tips on Keeping Your Teeth in Good Condition During Holiday Season

Teeth — Pickering, ON

The holiday season is almost here, and as your friends, we want to wish you a happy holiday! As your oral health care provider though, it is our responsibility to remind you about keeping your teeth healthy during this season that’s filled with parties!

 

As you probably have no time for dental visits this season, we are hoping you would follow these tips to make sure your teeth makes it through the month!

  1. Skip the candy canes. We know that these candy canes and other hard candies like peppermints taste especially delicious during the holidays but you should be extra careful when you eat them. For one, they are so hard they can crack your teeth if you bite them the wrong way. If you can’t help having a piece or two, then just let the candy dissolve to prevent having chipped tooth. Don’t forget to brush your teeth after having a candy that sweet!

 

  1. Avoid chugging pop. In every party, you would probably find pop and you very well know that this sugary drink is really bad for your teeth. Try fizzy water as an alternative. If you really must have soda, at least use a straw to keep acid on your teeth at a minimal.

 

 

  1. Go for the turkey. If there is one holiday food that we recommend you to munch on, that would be turkey. Why? Turkey is an excellent source of phosphorus and protein which are both great for helping you keep your teeth strong and fight tooth decay, too.

 

  1. Fill your plate with greens. We know those holiday cookies and brownies look a whole lot more tempting than the salad or the stir-fried veggies, but the latter is the better choice.

 

 

  1. Choose cheese. When you have to snack on something while having a drink at some party, snack on cheese. It would help neutralize the acid in your beverage and of course, the calcium is food for your teeth!

 

  1. Hum while you brush. You probably know that efficient brushing takes about two minutes. This is the best time for you to practice that carol, or at least hum one! By the time you finish chorus, it’s likely you have cleaned your teeth, tongue, and gums thoroughly, too!

 

We know that holidays are the perfect excuse to kick back and have some fun, have that extra chocolate bar, drink that extra glass of wine. Whatever kind of fun you decide to go for this holiday, we do hope you don’t forget how important it is to keep your teeth healthy. After all, you still want to welcome the New Year with a bright smile, don’t you?

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.

Best Oral Practices You Need to Start Doing Now

Best Oral Practices You Need to Start Doing Now — Pickering, ON

When people tell you that you have nice teeth, defiantly do not start taking your teeth for granted. Achieving healthy teeth means you will be taking care of your teeth for the rest of your life. It is essential to take care of your teeth on a regular daily basis. Here are some tips that will help you take care of your teeth the proper way:

 

Don’t go to bed without brushing your teeth.

The recommended times of brushing your teeth is at least twice a day. However, many of us continue to neglect brushing our teeth at night – before going to bed. Brushing our teeth at this time gets rid of the germs and plaque that have accumulated all throughout the day and will literally sit in our mouth hard at work while you sleep!

 

Brush and floss properly.

The way you brush and floss your teeth plays an important role in maintaining good oral health practices. In fact, brushing your teeth poorly is almost as bad as not brushing at all. When you are brushing your teeth, make sure you take time to move your toothbrush in gentle, circular motions – this removes the plaque. Remember that failure to remove plaque can lead to its hardening and build-up. When it builds up, it might lead to gingivitis. Flossing is best done before brushing your teeth. Flossing is not just getting rid of food that gets stuck in between the teeth. It’s also a way to stimulate the gums, help lower inflammation in the area, and reduce plaque.  Learning, practicing, regular and routine brushing and flossing techniques for life will aid in all sorts of dental concerns.

 

Don’t forget to take care of your tongue and cheeks.

Plaque does not just build up on the teeth; it also does on the tongue and even your cheeks. This does not just lead to bad breath, but it might also lead to other oral health problems. Make it a habit that after brushing your teeth, you gently brush your tongue and cheeks (inside your mouth), too. Make sure that you do not leave any toothpaste residue in your mouth. If you find this uncomfortable, you can use a ‘tongue scraper’ to avoid from gagging when you clean your tongue.

 

Use fluoride-filled toothpaste.

When it comes to choosing which toothpaste to use, make sure that it contains fluoride. Fluoride is a leading defense against tooth decay. It fights off germs that can lead to tooth decay, and it also provides a protective barrier for your teeth.

 

Hydrate throughout the day.

Water is still the best beverage for our overall health – this includes your oral health. It is recommended to drink water after each meal as this helps wash out some of the negative effects of acidic and sticky foods and beverages in between brushing and flossing.

 

Limit sugary and acidic foods and beverages.

Sugar converts into acid in the mouth, and this causes erosion of teeth enamel. These acids are what actually lead to cavities. Acidic fruits, coffee and tea can also wear down tooth enamel. You don’t have to avoid all these foods and drinks, but you just have to take the necessary precautions needed to lessen their damaging effects on the teeth.

Helpful Resources

Teeth Whitening

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.

Different Types of Mouth Sores

You might have, at some point in your life, experienced having a mouth ulcer. Mouth ulcers are painful sores developing in the mouth. They are uncomfortable and painful for some, but they are usually harmless and clear up by themselves within a week or two. Mouth ulcers are common but when your ulcer has lasted for longer than three weeks, you should visit Dr. Marvin Lean for further examination. Here are some of the common soft-tissue disturbances you might experience:

 

Canker Sores

These sores often develop inside the mouth as small white or gray sores that have a red border. These are not contagious and they may occur as one sore or several ones at the same time. The cause is unknown in some cases, but trauma to oral soft tissues is a common cause. They usually heal on their own within one to two weeks. Spicy, salty or acidic foods such as citrus juices and fruits can irritate this type of sore and prolong healing.

 

Cold Sores

These are also known as ‘fever blisters’ and they appear in clusters of red, raised blisters outside the mouth – typically around the lips, though they can also develop under the nose or around the chin. Cold sore blisters are filled with fluid and they can break open, allowing the fluid to leak out. Afterwards, they scab over until they heal. Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus and these sores are highly contagious. These sores usually heal by themselves in about one week.

 

 

Candidiasis

This sore is also called “oral thrush” – it is a yeast infection that occurs on the soft, moist tissues inside your mouth. It appears as a smooth, white patch with a red base – this can be sore or it can also bleed. This is caused by a fungus and typically develops when the immune systems is weakened. People with poor health (very young or very old), and people with systemic diseases such as diabetes are at risk of developing this sore. Treating this sore consists of controlling the conditions that cause the outbreak. Dr. Marvin Lean can help you out if you develop this condition.

 

Leukoplakia

This sore is an overgrowth of cells resulting in a rough patch of whitish tissue which develops anywhere in your mouth. The patches are typically not painful and not contagious. They can be a result of irritations such as the habit of chewing on the inside of the cheek or ill-fitting dentures. Sometimes, leukoplakia is associated with more serious health concerns, so it’s important that you have Dr. Marvin Lean examine your mouth if you notice any of these patches developing.

Helpful Resources

Emergency Dental

For more information, visit the CDA Dental Emergency Guide.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as a dental emergency?

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

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

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

What should I do if a tooth is knocked out?

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