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.

Medical Conditions linked to Dentistry… Did You Know?

Dentist Pickering

In the past decade, there has been a considerable increase in the amount of research on the connection between oral health and bodily health. The level of research time dedicated to studying this connection is due to the latest figures, which show that people with serious gum disease are 40% more likely to suffer from another chronic condition as well. It’s important to known which medical conditions are linked to oral health. In this blog, we’ll examine the connection through several conditions.

 

Diabetes

 

It’s now been proven that inflammation within the mouth can weaken the body’s ability to control blood sugar. This reduction in blood-sugar level control can lead to the development of diabetes in those patients who were previously healthy. The link between periodontal disease and diabetes is further highlighted by the fact the high blood sugar then provides the ideal conditions in which gum infections can emerge. Many diabetes patients find that, once they get their gum disease under control, their diabetes symptoms begin to subside. While the connection between the two conditions is still being investigated within the medical field, it’s important that those with both gum disease and diabetes understand the risks and speak with a specialist about any symptoms they’re experiencing.
Learn more about frequently asked questions.

 

Heart Disease

 

It has been proven that 91% of people with heart disease have periodontitis. This compares with 66% of people without heart disease. The two conditions are linked by several risk factors – including smoking, excessive weight and an unhealthy diet. Many leading medical professionals also suspect that inflammation in the mouth causes inflammation in the heart. It’s the reason that researchers are looking more closely at the importance of regular teeth brushing on heart health, as the connection between the two becomes ever clearer.

 

Dementia

 

A recent medical study has found a link between dementia and periodontal disease for the first time. Researchers have found the presence of products of Porphyromonas gingivitis in the brains of patients with Alzheimer’s. These products enter the bloodstream through daily brushing activities and may trigger an immune response from brain cells, causing the cells to kill-off healthy neurons. Researchers suggest that this could be one of the mechanisms that leads to the changes in the brain found in patients with Alzheimer’s.

 

It’s important to remain informed on the latest links between common medical conditions and oral health. As the research continues within the oral care community, patients must speak with their local area specialists about any symptoms they have been experiencing that could indicate a larger medical issue. To learn more, book an appointment to speak with a Pickering Square Dental specialist today. 

Helpful Resources

Root Canal Therapy

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.

Three Emerging Trends in Dental Care for 2015

The dental care industry continues to evolve in response to demand for new treatments and new targets within the marketplace. As specialists within the industry, our team has witnessed the many changes that have taken place within the oral health field in recent years. We’ve seen the introduction of digital x-rays, laser dentistry and the evolution of cleaning technologies. In this blog, we’ll highlight three of the emerging trends set to take hold in 2015.

1) Improved Patient Access to Treatment Information

With the technology now available to patients, they’re able to research various industry treatments from the touch-of-a-button. This access to information will increase in 2015, when it’s expected a greater proportion of the population will have access to smart phone technology. This technology will also be utilized to help improve communication between patients and their oral care professional to reduce the knowledge gap and ensure optimal treatment results.

2) Longer Lasting Whitening Treatments

Where previously, patients could only achieve high quality whitening that lasted for a period of a few months, many are now able to achieve bright white teeth whitening over many years. And the latest products for 2015 are set to provide whitening performance over a period of a lifetime with just one simple treatment. We’re learning a lot about the way teeth react to whitening products and the leading manufacturers are honing their whitening agents to ensure lasting performance. Speak with our team to learn more on this exciting area of cosmetic dentistry!

3) Laser Treatments Limiting Pain for Common Procedures

Another leading trend heading for 2015 is the common use of lasers within dental practices for a wide range of treatments. Laser technology continues to be honed to provide performance benefits beyond the initial aesthetic advantages early laser systems offered. Instead of simply using laser treatment for their teeth whitening processes, professionals will now be able to use the technology for treatments such as periodontal therapy. 

We’re in an ever-changing dental care environment in which new treatments are being introduced to help ensure improved results for patients across the globe. 2015 promises to be an exciting year for dentistry and we’ll be working to bring the latest treatments to our patients. To learn more, speak with a member of our team directly. 

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

Helpful Resources

Oral Surgeon

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 Strategies for Making Teeth Cleaning a Fun, Interactive Experience for Children

Helping your child to enjoy the teeth cleaning experience will help them to develop the oral care habits that will protect their teeth and gums over many years. But some parents find it difficult to engage their children within the teeth cleaning process. And so within this blog, we’ll highlight 5 proven strategies for making teeth cleaning a fun and interactive experience for children.

1. Create Stories

Children thrive when their imagination is able to take control of their experiences. And so it’s important that parents use the power of the child’s imagination to ensure they brush their teeth. Parents could tell their children a story on the importance of brushing teeth. It could be a story about the sugar bugs that can make holes in their teeth or a story about a princess with a bright white smile. 

2. Use Show and Tell
Learn more about sedation dentistry options.

Every child loves to learn. Parents can inspire their children by using a dissolving agent to show them where the plaque is on their teeth. This process will help the child to see the difference that brushing their teeth can make to the way their teeth look.

3. Bring a Favourite Stuffed Animal

It’s important to bring the child’s toys into the bathroom when teaching teeth cleaning to children. This will help them both to remember to clean and to become comfortable with the process with the stuffed animal beside them. Adults might pretend to brush the stuffed animal’s teeth to show the child there’s nothing to be afraid of during cleaning.

4. Compliment Children on their Cleaning

Encouragement is crucial in any sort of teaching process for young children. And so parents will find their children more responsive if they give them compliments for the job they’ve done. It’s important to show the child they are doing well. 

5. Use the Alphabet Song

When trying to get a child to brush their teeth for the full recommended two minutes, try to get them to hum the alphabet song as they brush. This helps focus the child on the task of singing while they continue to brush. It’s a proven learning technique used by many organizations. 

By creating an effective and enjoyable oral care experience for their children, parents can instill a sense of confidence and commitment. To learn more on the optimal strategies for success, speak with one of our experts directly. 

Helpful Resources

Family Dentists

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.

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.

Three Tips for Starting Your 2015 Oral Care Regimen

It’s the start of a new year – the perfect time to begin a new schedule for improving your teeth. During the last year, you might have put off many important oral health habits through a lack of focus or energy. But it’s now the ideal point at which to start an oral health care regimen. And so in this blog, we’ll provide three tips to help you get started on maintaining your oral health in 2015 and beyond.

 

1. Begin Simply by Rinsing Your Mouth after each Meal

 

It’s important not to make the beginning of your oral care too overwhelming. You can simply begin the process by ensuring that you rinse your mouth with water after each meal. This will help remove the food that has been lodged in your teeth as you eat. You might also use floss to remove any elements that are stuck in small gaps between teeth. By going through this process with each meal, you’ll have the ideal foundation to strong oral health.

 
Learn more about periodontal care in Pickering.

2. Purchase Products Approved by the Canadian Dental Association

 

There’s little benefit to knowing the best ways to achieve oral health without having the tools to accomplish your objectives. So it’s important that when you’re beginning your 2015 oral health care regimen you buy products that have been approved by the industry experts. The Canadian Dental Association is the authority on oral care products in Canada and they offer their recommendations on tooth brushes, flosses, gums and other products for you to integrate into your oral care regimen.

 

 

 

3. Update Your Bathroom Fixtures

 

While seemingly insignificant, the elements within the bathroom can play a role in your mood when you go to brush your teeth or wash your face in the evening. If you’re greeted by a cluttered mess, you might not want to spend much time in the bathroom. And so it’s important to begin 2015 by de-cluttering your bathroom sink space and updating fixtures such as vanities and wall mirrors to enhance the comfort of the bathroom environment. It’s a process that will help ensure you find time for important oral care activities in future.

 

The beginning of a new year represents the ideal time in which to begin your new oral care regimen. It promises to be a fresh start for you and your oral health. Begin the process today. To learn more, speak with a specialist at Pickering Square Dental directly. 

Helpful Resources

Dental Implants

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

Schedule Your Appointment Today

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

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

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

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

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

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

Three Tips for Improving Results of Emergency Dental Treatment This Winter

Pickering Square Dental logo

It can happen at a moment’s notice. A quick bite down and all of a sudden a tooth is broken in several pieces. This is the type of emergency dental issue that many thousands of Canadians encounter each year. The majority are unprepared for this type of dental care challenge when it arises. By utilizing the following three tips, Canadians can improve the results of their emergency dental treatment and enjoy the remaining winter-time with family and friends.

 

1) Conduct a Quick Review and Contact Dentist’s Office Immediately

 

When responding to a dental emergency, the speed of the response is one of the critical factors in the success of any future treatment. But before contacting their local dentist, patients should first analyze the extent of their emergency. It’s important to know whether the problem is a chipped tooth, a painful abscess or a lost filling, for example. Each of these emergency issues is separated by the extent of any future damage.

 

A cracked tooth might be repaired a week after it occurs, while a possible jaw fracture should be reviewed immediately to prevent permanent damage and excruciating pain. Once the problem has been assessed and determined to be an emergency, patients must contact the dentist’s office to schedule an appointment immediately.

 

2) Only Use Dentist-Recommended Pharmaceuticals

 

Dental patients can often exacerbate their dental emergency by using pharmaceutical products that have not been recommended by a professional within the dental field. An example often used within the dental care field is aspirin. Many patients take aspirin when they have a toothache or a broken tooth. But aspirin can actually inflame gum tissue in some patients. Therefore, it’s recommended to only use pharmaceutical products when they’ve been recommended by an emergency dentistry specialist. This can help patients reduce their recovery period and mitigate risks associated with adding to their dental issues.

 

3) Rinse Detached Teeth in Water before the Emergency Visit

 

For those who have had teeth knocked out of their mouth, it’s important to rinse the tooth or teeth in cold water and place it in a cup of milk as quickly as possible and before visiting the dentist’s emergency clinic. This will prevent the tooth from drying during the journey.  Oftentimes, those who lose their teeth try to scrub dirt and other contaminants from the tooth before they store it for traveling to their dentist.  However, scrubbing teeth can remove integral tissue.

 

By acting quickly and following the advice of the professionals leading the dental field, patients can achieve exceptional results with their emergency dental care.  To learn more on how to respond during a dental care emergency, speak with our expert emergency dental treatment team today. 

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

Helpful Resources

dental filling

For more information, visit the CDA Dental Emergency Guide.

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.

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.

5 Quick Tips for Improving Your Oral Health This Holiday Season

The holiday season is now making its way onto social calendars across the country, and Canadians are welcoming friends and family members for delicious holiday feasts. With the amount of sugary foods available at this time of year, and the limited timeframe in which to consider oral health matters, it’s important to understand how to maintain optimal oral care during this busy period. Here, we’ll focus on 5 quick tips for improving your oral health this coming holiday season.

 

1) Rinse Teeth after Eating

 

With larger meals often consumed this time of year, it’s critical that Canadians commit to regularly rinsing their mouth out with antibacterial products after eating. Canadians with limited access to a bathroom and rinsing products after eating might also consider chewing gum to increase their saliva flow after eating. This increased saliva flow helps naturally wash away bacteria and neutralize acids that erode enamel.

 

2) Cut Down on Acidic Products

 
Learn more about periodontal care in Pickering.

Products such as wine and sweets can dissolve the minerals that are essential for maintaining healthy teeth. To keep teeth white and healthy this holiday season, it’s important to reduce consumption of acidic products as much as possible. When consuming such products, it’s important to brush an hour after the meal has been completed to avoid the staining and enamel damage these products cause.

 

3) Clean your Tongue

 

The tongue is one of the most common areas for plaque build-up in the mouth. Canadians that clean their tongue can not only help eliminate a leading source of enamel erosion but also improve their breath!  It’s important to speak with a dental health professional about the various tongue scraping products on the market.

 

4) Drink Lots of Water

 

Canadians that drink a lot of water during the holiday season can keep their teeth healthy throughout. Drinking water helps flush some of the bacteria and irritants from the mouth and through the system. It’s also critical to achieving a healthy lifestyle in the long-term future.

 

5) Stay Away from Hard Candy

 

A cracked or broken tooth can be a painful memory of a delicious holiday feast. This means it’s best to avoid those hard candy products that can be a haunting Halloween reminder. For those with a sweet tooth, softer, chewable sugary treats should be sought out. But as with any diet, the most important element is moderation.

 

It can be difficult to stay on track with oral health with so many devilishly delicious treats available during the holiday season. But those who remain vigilant can prevent the pain and annoyances that teeth issues bring. By creating a focused and well-planned oral health care regimen, all Canadians can enjoy a fun and memorable 2014 holiday season. 

Helpful Resources

wisdom teeth removal

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

Schedule Your Appointment Today

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

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

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

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

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

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

A Guide to Protecting Children’s Teeth over the Holiday Season

It’s the time that children wait patiently for each year. The beginning of the holiday season brings with it joy and happiness and lasting memories of time spent with family and friends. But, for those with children, it’s the ideal time in which to enforce dietary discipline and protect children’s teeth for the years ahead. Here, we’ll offer our quick guide to protecting children’s teeth during the holiday season.

 

Teach Children to Clean Teeth One Hour after Eating Candy and Desserts

 

The majority of the damage caused to children’s teeth during the holiday season takes place after eating sugary treats. Candy and dessert are among the leading causes of cavities. And during the holidays, children tend to consume far more of these sugary delights than they do throughout the year.
Learn more about family dentistry services in Pickering.

 

This makes the holidays the ideal point to introduce children to the importance of cleaning teeth one hour after eating. This timing will give the child’s natural saliva the opportunity to bring the acid level of the sugary content down and prevent rubbing acidic elements further into the tooth. It will also ensure that any substances from the candy or dessert are removed before they affect oral health.

Create a Daily Cleaning Schedule

 

It’s exceptionally important that children understand the importance of daily teeth cleaning, especially during the busy holiday season when they might be visiting with other family members and not following their normal routine. With the excitement of the holidays, it can be easy for children to get off-track.

 

Adults can help children by creating a day-to-day cleaning schedule for their teeth. Schedules should be placed in the bathroom area to ensure they’re easily noticeable. For the first few nights of the schedule, it’s worth considering watching the child as they brush their teeth. This will help ensure they’re following the routine and brushing using an effective cleaning technique.

 

By creating an effective oral health regimen during the important holiday period, adults can help children begin a commitment to dental health that will protect them in years to come. To learn more on the dental care teaching process, speak with a specialist at Pickering Square Dental directly. 

Helpful Resources

woman having a dental cleaning

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.