Oral Health Problems to be Aware of If You Have Diabetes

toothache.adult man. isolated

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

 

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

 

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

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

 

PERIODONTAL DISEASE AND DIABETES

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

 

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

 

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

 

TOOTH DECAY AND DIABETES

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

 

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

 

THRUSH AND DIABETES

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

 

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


 

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

Helpful Resources

dental treatment

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

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

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

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

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

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

Dental Tips for Moms

mother and daughter brush their teeth

Mothers all over the world deserve to be honored and celebrated every single day. If you are a mom, then you should know that you should be able to give yourself that precious gift that can last forever – exceptional dental health.

 

Of course, we know that as a mother, you are probably very busy. You do have your children and the entire household to take care of, and you might even have to work or run a business. In all that business, it’s not hard to understand why you sometimes have no choice but to prioritize. That means some things get compromised – and unfortunately, most of the time that includes your teeth.

 

It should not be that way, though! Your oral health is very important. When you pay attention to your teeth and care for them like you care for your family, you can expect them to be in great condition for a really long time, too.

 

Because we care for you, here are some great dental care tips that you should add on your to-do list:

  1. Brush your teeth properly. Doing so doesn’t mean you should brush too hard, as that could hurt your gums. But make sure you brush all the surfaces, front and back, up and down.
  2. Brush your teeth for at least two minutes. It takes at least a couple of minutes for you to really remove plaque from your teeth!
  3. Don’t forget to floss! We know that would take an extra minute or two but you should not skip it. It’s the only way you can remove plaque from between your teeth and protect them from cavities.
  4. Do some de-stressing! Believe it or not, stress can affect your oral health. It can lead to teeth grinding and clenching, cause TMJ even outbreaks of cold sores and canker sores. Do yoga or some meditative activity to relax.
  5. Eat a lot of fruits and vegetables. You know this of course. This is the exact same thing you tell your kids at the table every meal time. Don’t forget that fruits and veggies are not only good for your overall health but your teeth as well!
  6. Visit your dentist regularly! Do not push back those dental appointments. You are scheduled to have those cleanings and treatments for a reason. Besides, you do not want your kids to think it is okay to skip dental appointments, do you?

 

Your kids look up to you and they need you. You want to always set a good example and you want to always be there for them. Keeping your teeth healthy helps you do both!

 

Are you looking for a dental office that you and your kids can visit and feel comfortable and welcome? Call or visit Pickering Square Dental now!

Helpful Resources

veneers

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

Schedule Your Appointment Today

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

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

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

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

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

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

Pregnancy Gingivitis – Are You at Risk?

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

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

 

Keep in Touch with Your Dentist While You are Pregnant

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

 

Oral Health Side Effects during Your Pregnancy

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

 

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

 

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

 

Oral Health Practices to Observe During Your Pregnancy

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

Helpful Resources

sedation dentistry

For more information, visit the CDA Dental Emergency Guide.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as a dental emergency?

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

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

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

What should I do if a tooth is knocked out?

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

What You Should Look for in a Toothpaste

Portrait of smiling young brunette selecting dental treatment in drugstore

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

 

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

 

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

 

Cavity- Fighting

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

 

Antibacterial

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

 

Whitening

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

 

For Sensitive Teeth

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

 

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

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

Helpful Resources

woman brushing teeth

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

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

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

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

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

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

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.

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.

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.

Dental Anxiety: Causes and Solutions

Pretty woman with swollen cheek from toothache.

A lot of people dread going to the dentist’s office. More often than not, the level of anxiety felt by patients is really high that it causes them to miss necessary appointments and treatments. This only results to making a problem worse than it should have been.

Here are some common causes of dental anxiety and some solutions, too:

 

  1. You had a bad experience at a dentist’s office before.

This is probably the most common reason for dental anxiety, and it’s unfortunate that so many people have experienced bad sessions before. Yours may have happened when you were younger. You probably worried for days about a tooth extraction. It could be the sound of a drill and metals clanking that scared you. Others complain of staff that had been anything but reassuring.

 

  1. You have heard terrible stories about some dental procedures.

For some reason, there are people who like to mislead others into believing something that is actually untrue. Unfortunately, there are parents or guardians who sometimes use the dental office as the setting for their scary stories when they’re trying to discipline little kids. This has a really negative effect, and it may cause a long term fear.

 

  1. You haven’t been to the dentist for so long that you fear you would have to get a major procedure done to correct whatever dental problem you might have.

It is understandable that you worry about something you don’t know. You probably also fear that your dentist would give you a lecture about how you should regularly visit your dentist for exams and cleaning sessions. While that is right, you have to know that at Pickering Square Dental, our main goal is to keep your teeth and gums healthy. We also treat our patients politely and with respect.

 

In most cases, you can overcome your dental anxiety by trying to relax yourself and putting on a brave face. It helps if you have a dentist you can trust and the dental office you’ll visit is also comfortable and relaxing, like Pickering Square Dental. You can talk to your dentist to know about procedures and ways you can minimize pain during and after, if that’s what you are worried about.

 

It is also possible that anxiety is so high that there is an actual need for sedation dentistry. Pickering Square Dental has a variety of techniques that can put you at ease. You can give us a call to know what technique is appropriate for your case. We look forward to hearing from you!

 

Helpful Resources

Endodontics

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.