Other Services

ROOT CANAL TREATMENT

This is a valuable dental procedure used to treat and preserve teeth with badly infected roots. The pulp is the live portion of the tooth that extends into the root and contains nerve endings and tissues. When it becomes infected, patients can experience pain, swelling and even total tooth loss unless treated. Root canal treatment helps to remove the damaged parts of the tooth and infected root. In some cases, an antibiotic is prescribed to help prevent further infection within the tooth. The organic portion of the tooth that remains may be restored using a cap or crown that provides a natural appearance and normal tooth function.

Frequently asked question
When do I need a Root Canal treatment?
Do you have any of the following symptoms?
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
  • Discomfort when chewing or biting
  • Dull ache or severe pain
  • Discomfort that wakes you up at night
  • Your dentist has diagnosed the need for Endodontic (root canal) treatment either by clinical examination or an x-ray.

If you answered yes to any of the above, you might very well need a root canal. Please call and schedule for an evaluation.

Be aware! Not all teeth that are in need of Root Canal therapy will cause pain. It is possible to be pain-free and still need a Root Canal.

What will happen at my appointment?

We will examine the x-ray and the tooth, and then administer a local anaesthetic. After the tooth is numbed, an opening will be made in the crown of the tooth and small instruments will be used to clean the canals and to shape the canal spaces for filling. Once the canals have been adequately cleaned and shaped, they will then be filled with a polyester synthetic root canal filling and sealer. A temporary filling is then placed to close the opening. Your dentist will remove the temporary filling before the tooth is restored.

How many sittings are required for a Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment along with the crown can be completed in 2-3sittings. Only in cases of swelling, severe pain, or long standing infection, the number of sittings may increase.

Why is a crown required after Root canal treatment?

After Root Canal Treatment the tooth tends to become weak and brittle and prone to fracture. That’s why after Root Canal Treatment a crown is very important to protect the tooth and hold it together. Placing a crown helps the tooth to be able to withstand chewing forces and function like a normal tooth. Moreover, it completes the sealing of the tooth, preventing breakage of root canal filling and re-infection.

Will it hurt during the procedure?

With modern techniques and varied local anaesthetic solutions, it is rare to have any sensation in the tooth during treatment. For the first few days after treatment, it is normal for your tooth to be sensitive to biting. This discomfort can be relieved with over-the-counter or prescription medications in order to control normal post-treatment discomfort.

Will it hurt afterward?

In most cases the discomfort will subside dramatically within the first 24-48 hours. Any sensitivity to cold, hot or even breathing air “in” will be gone after your visit. Nevertheless, you may experience mild discomfort to pressure that could last for several days after treatment.

The most common predictor of post-treatment pain is the pre-treatment pain. If the tooth is already hurting, the root canal procedure will remove the cause and allow healing to begin. During the first 72 – 96 hrs, we will prescribe an analgesic regimen that should allow you to begin the healing process pain-free.

The most common complaint is tenderness to touch, bite, tapping or chewing on the tooth. It is always best to chew on the other side until a permanent restoration replaces the temporary restoration.

Benefits of Root Canal Therapy versus Extraction

The single most important benefit of Root Canal therapy is that you keep your tooth. Extraction may lead to other dental problems such as drifting of teeth, bite problems, TMJ discomfort, and the need to treat adjacent teeth that do not otherwise need dental treatment in order to restore the missing tooth. No matter how effective modern tooth replacements are – and they can be very effective – nothing is a good as your natural tooth!

CROWNS AND BRIDGES

Dental crowns and bridges are custom-fitted tooth prosthetics that are used to replace or restore damaged or missing teeth. Crowns, also known as caps are fixed over the surfaces of natural tooth structures or dental implants. Bridges are used to fill in the gaps left by missing teeth and are anchored in place by the natural teeth or crowns nearest to the empty space. Both crowns and bridges are non-removable and must be cemented in place by a Prosthodontist – a specialist in the field. Patients, who get crowns or bridges to restore their smiles, achieve both function and appearance of natural, healthy looking teeth.

Types of crowns:

Zirconium crowns versus Porcelain-fused metal (PFM) crowns

  • Zirconium crowns are aesthetically superior to all the other available crowns in the market. It is important that you have dental crowns that will look natural especially if it will be placed at the front teeth and will be visible beside the natural teeth.
  • Zirconium crown will not only replace a tooth but it can be shaped so that it will look better than the one it will be replacing with. This therefore is why you can sport that perfect natural looking smile anytime!
  • Zirconium crowns are definitely more robust than Porcelain-fused metal (PFM) crowns. They last longer too, compared to PFM that chip and break.Since PFM needs to be fused to a metal base, the metal will appear as a black unsightly line above the gums which is unappealing especially on the front teeth.
  • Since Zirconium crowns are milled from a chunk of crystal, they are guaranteed to be at least 5 times stronger than the PFM crowns. Zirconium crowns also provide strength without the bulky appearance that the PFM crowns are known for.

Metal crowns

This type of crown is made out of metals or alloys, including gold, palladium, nickel or chromium. In the past it made an excellent choice for teeth that are expected to withstand heavy chewing and biting forces, usually molars located in the back of the mouth. However, the latest ceramic technology has provided an ideal substitute for teeth of this nature. Of course the biggest disadvantage of all-metal crowns is the colour that makes it unsuitable for those teeth that are aesthetically on display.

Get in touch with our team at Zen Orthodontic & Dental Care to make a dramatic difference to your smile with dental crowns and other cosmetic procedures.

Frequently asked questions

Is a crown or bridge right for me?

If you have a tooth that is damaged or decayed, but still intact, a dental crown may be right for you. If your tooth is missing, but its former position is surrounded by other tooth structures, a bridge may be the solution for you. Schedule an office consultation to determine whether you could benefit from crowns or bridges.

What should I expect when I have my crown or bridge placed?

If you are a candidate for a crown or bridge, your teeth will be reduced to ensure a proper fit. An impression will then be taken of your bite and used to fabricate a mould for the crown or bridge. If you are choosing porcelain prosthesis, its colour will be matched to the natural shade of your other teeth. If a dental lab is making your crown or bridge, you may be fitted with a temporary restoration until the permanent one is ready for placement.

Do I need to follow any post-treatment care guidelines?

Your teeth will need time to heal following the crown and bridge placement process, so it is normal for you to experience some sensitivity – especially to hot and cold. Additionally, you may experience soreness in the gums surrounding your restorations, which should subside within a few days.

DENTAL IMPLANTS

 

The benefits of dental implants from our team at Zen Orthodontic & Dental Care can be life changing, providing an answer to any embarrassment, discomfort or inconvenience caused by missing teeth or loose dentures.

Dental implants are our treatment of choice for missing teeth because they look and feel like natural teeth whilst restoring normal function and appearance. Implant dentistry can change your smile and life for years to come!

Frequently asked questions

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a titanium screw that is placed carefully into the jawbone to act as an anchor to support one or more replacement teeth. Also implants can be used to anchor loose dentures.

Am I a Candidate For Dental Implants?

Anyone who is healthy enough to undergo a tooth extraction is likely a suitable candidate for dental implants. However, there are certain contraindications that may complicate or prohibit implant treatment. Patients with certain conditions, such as chronic diseases, heavy smoking or alcohol abuse may not be candidates for implants. Our team will determine whether or not this treatment is right for you after a complete physical examination and evaluation of your medical history.

 Why should I consider dental implants?

If you, like lots of people have lost one or more teeth, you may be all too familiar with the unpleasant consequences. For many, missing teeth leads to:

  • An unattractive smile
  • Embarrassment from loose dentures
  • Pain or difficulty with eating.

Dental implants can solve all these issues and empower you with a beautiful smile!

What alternative treatments might I consider?

We will discuss various treatment options with you in order to find what approach is best for you. Traditional dentistry can provide replacements for missing teeth using bridges, or removable partial or full dentures.

However each of these solutions has its problems:

  • Bridgework usually involves altering natural teeth to provide a stable foundation for support of replacement teeth.
  • Partial and full dentures can, at times, be unstable leading to denture sores or speech difficulties; there is also the psychological effect of having to “remove your teeth” at night, which some patients find difficult.
  • Another little known problem associated with tooth loss is a process known as “atrophy,” a shrinking of the jawbone that can progress relentlessly over the years. Bone atrophy not only affects jaw function, but can cause adverse facial cosmetic changes.

What are some of the benefits of dental implants?

Dental implants offer an effective, safe and predictable solution to the problems resulting from missing teeth. Many patients report exciting benefits from dental implants, such as:

  • Replaced teeth look, feel and function like natural teeth
  • Improved taste and appetite
  • Improved cosmetic appearance
  • The ability to chew without pain or gum irritation
  • Improved quality of life

One additional and very important benefit can be the reduction or elimination of bone atrophy or shrinkage, commonly associated with loss of teeth.

What does the treatment involve?

Dental implants are usually completed in two phases after a thorough assessment, occasionally involving a CBCT scan.

Phase 1: This is the actual implant placement, a process generally performed in our dental practice with local anaesthesia to help make you more comfortable. Using precise, gentle surgical techniques, the implants are placed into the jawbone.

The implants are left for 3 to 6 months while osseointegration (bonding to bone) takes place. This helps ensure a strong, solid foundation for replacement teeth. During this time, temporary bridges or dentures may be used to minimize any cosmetic or chewing inconvenience. In some cases temporary teeth can be attached to the implants the same day, thereby avoiding the need to wear a removable denture. We will explain which approach is recommended in your case.

Phase 2: This involves creating and attaching the new tooth or teeth to the anchored implant(s) in your jaw. Dental implants can replace a single tooth, several teeth or complete dentures.

Can dentures be made into implants?

Dentures cannot be “made into implants”. Implants are metal screws placed into the jawbone to help anchor and support artificial teeth (dentures). It may be possible to have implants placed beneath existing dentures to aid in the stabilization and support for those dentures. This could only be done if the current dentures were otherwise in excellent condition. You should consult with our Prosthodontist to have your existing dentures carefully examined.

How successful is the treatment?

Dental implants are truly revolutionary, solving an age old problem, safely and predictably. Implantology is a tried and tested treatment concept. 95% of modern implants last for at least 15 years and there are now patients who have had implant supported teeth for more than 25 years.

On the rare occasion that integration does not occur and the implant is loosening, then it can be removed and the site will be allowed to heal, with placement of another implant at a later stage.

Do I need to do anything special to maintain the implant?

Dental implants are firmly secured to bone and, as with natural teeth, require thorough cleaning. If this is not carried out then you may experience problems similar to that of gum disease with infection around the implant resulting in bone loss, loosening and failure. Cleaning around implants is no more difficult than cleaning your natural teeth and we will strongly advise you to see us on a regular basis to maintain the healthy status of your implant and the rest of your teeth and gums.

VENEERS /LAMINATES

Veneers are thin shells made of tooth coloured materials (either from porcelain or tooth-coloured plastic filling materials) that are custom made and bonded to your teeth to improve their appearance (changing the colour, shape, size or length).  If there is damage such as cracks, chips or gaps, porcelain veneers are the perfect solution to cosmetically and structurally improving the teeth. Porcelain veneers are usually made in the lab and are more resistant to staining compared to veneers made of tooth coloured filling material.

Frequently asked question

How much time does it take from start to finish?

Porcelain veneers can be completed in two visits spaced one to two weeks apart. The first visit includes a lengthy consultation where the dental plan is formed based on what the patient wants to achieve. Then the teeth are shaped and prepared for the veneers. An impression is taken of the teeth and temporary veneers are placed.

During the second visit, the veneers prepared by the lab are permanently placed. Before they are bonded, patients have an opportunity to have further adjustments made to colour or shape as after they are bonded, they are permanently affixed.

What kind of anaesthetic is used?

Most patients are comfortable having the usual local anaesthetic commonly used for dental procedures. During the shaping and preparation procedures approximately 0.5 mm of the surface of the teeth is removed. Depending on the amount of preparation work that will be done, an anaesthetic may not be needed at all.

Is the process reversible?

Because a very thin layer of tooth enamel must be removed to accommodate the thickness of the veneer, the process isn’t considered reversible.

How do I take care of my teeth after veneers are placed?

Once veneers are permanently bonded to the teeth they are essentially your teeth, only stronger! Normal hygiene practices of brushing and flossing and regular visits for cleaning are essential to maintain dental health.

Will having veneers make my teeth more prone to cavities?

No. The veneer makes the teeth more impervious to decay since the veneer is bonded to the natural tooth. There is no greater incidence of decay. However, teeth must be cared for to avoid cavities forming in the non-bonded natural teeth.

Will my teeth be sensitive to hot and cold?

There will likely be some sensitivity to hot and cold food and beverages for a short time due to having a thin layer of enamel removed. This should disappear in a few days. Avoiding hot and cold foods is recommended for the first few days to allow the veneers to settle.

Can only the top or bottom of the teeth be treated with veneers?

The goal of the finished product is to ensure everything in the mouth matches, whether a full set of veneers is placed or just a few teeth are treated. Patients are advised to have the untreated teeth whitened before placement of the veneers to ensure uniformity of colour.

How strong are veneers? Are there restrictions on what I can eat?

Porcelain veneers are very strong. However porcelain is a glass and can crack if very strong forces are applied. It is advised to avoid chewing ice, hard nuts, candy apples, popcorn kernels as well as avoiding using the teeth to open packages, etc.

The natural teeth are often damaged by these same foods and practices and while porcelain veneers are very strong, they aren’t invincible.

I grind my teeth at night. Will this damage my porcelain veneers?

Yes this will eventually damage your veneers just as this behaviour will grind down natural teeth. In such situations, we at Zen Orthodontic & Dental Care will provide you with a protective bite guard to wear at night to reduce the stress on your teeth while you sleep.

How long will porcelain veneers last?

Porcelain veneers last a long time. Most patients get ten to twenty years use from their veneers before they need to be replaced. The aging is derived from the natural teeth as gums recede and teeth become brittle. If a veneer comes off, we at Zen Orthodontic & Dental Care can re-bond it to the tooth or replace it if it has been damaged.

*Note: Do not try to re-bond the veneer yourself. If you are away from home, your best option is to find a qualified dentist who is specialized in Veneers, who can properly re-bond your veneer.

Do veneers stain?

No, they should never stain. If you have natural teeth without veneers you will need to maintain regular dental cleanings and take measures to avoid staining if drinking red wine, coffee etc.

TEETH WHITENING

Everyone wants a whiter and brighter smile. Teeth whitening procedures accomplish these goals by reducing the shades to almost 3 times in a single session. Professional teeth whitening services can be performed in our office setting or prescribed for take-home use by a patient. In comparison to over-the-counter teeth whitening treatments, professional whitening uses stronger whitening agents that deliver faster and more effective results.

Frequently asked questions

Are teeth whitening bad for my enamel?

There is no permanent damage caused to the enamel or any other tooth structures by teeth whitening.

Do teeth whitening cause permanent tooth sensitivity?

Sensitivity from teeth whitening is always transient. It normally goes away within one to two days after the treatment, and the patient returns to the state of sensitivity he or she had prior to starting the whitening process.

Can I get my teeth whitened?

Most people are candidates for teeth whitening, but again, each situation is unique and it’s best to contact your dental professionals at Zen Orthodontic & Dental Care.

How long does teeth whitening last?

Typically you can expect whitening to last from six months to two years. Avoiding red wine, coffee, and smoking, all of which can cause staining, helps preserve the results.

Do teeth whitening procedure affect fillings, veneers, or crowns?

Teeth whitening has little or no effect on restorative materials such as porcelain or crowns, but it may temporarily reduce the bond strength between enamel and composite restorations. This is why it’s a good idea to check with your dental professional before beginning any course of teeth whitening.

Do toothpaste whiteners work?

Whitening toothpastes typically only clean surface stains and don’t actually change the colour of the teeth. There may be some visible results but the teeth aren’t actually being whitened.

What should I expect when I get my teeth whitened?

At Zen Orthodontic & Dental Care, teeth whitening consists of a thorough cleaning and polishing of the teeth, with all debris carefully removed. Your dentist will then protect your gums before applying a whitening agent to the surface of your teeth. The product will be activated and left on the teeth for several minutes before being washed off with water. Your results will vary according to the natural shade of your teeth and degree of discoloration, but it is normal for patients to experience a lightening of several shades in a single visit.

What type of post-treatment care is required after having my teeth whitened?

It is normal to experience some teeth sensitivity following a professional whitening treatment. You may be instructed to avoid consuming highly pigmented beverages for at least 24 hours to prevent the teeth from becoming stained again. Examples include tea, coffee and wine. Depending on your results and long-term teeth whitening goals, you may also be sent home from your procedure with an at-home whitening kit for later use.

TOOTH EXTRACTION

Tooth extractions are routine dental procedures used to remove decayed, damaged or otherwise problematic teeth. We here at Zen Orthodontic & Dental Care, usually make every effort to preserve natural teeth, although sometimes an extraction is necessary. Depending on which teeth are removed, they may be replaced with a dental implant or Crown/Bridge.

Other reasons for a tooth extraction include making space in the mouth for braces or other orthodontic treatment, or in the case of paediatric patients, to allow room for adult teeth to grow.

Frequently asked questions

What are the steps involved in a tooth extraction?

Regular Tooth Extraction:

 A tooth that has fully erupted through the gum line can usually be removed as easily as any other tooth via a regular extraction.

Surgical Tooth Extraction and Oral Surgery: 

A wisdom tooth or other tooth that is impacted or is still under the gum line or embedded in the jaw bone may require a surgical extraction, which is a form of oral surgery. A surgical extraction means the Oral Surgeon-specialist will make an incision along your gum line to expose the tooth, and remove any bone that is still covering the tooth to allow it to be removed.

The specialist may recommend extracting one tooth at a time, or focus on one area of your mouth at a time. Before removing the tooth, he or she will numb the surrounding tissue with a local anaesthetic.

Once the area has been numbed, the specialist will remove the tooth, control any bleeding, and if necessary, may use sutures (stitches) to close the gums.  Your dentist may prescribe or recommend over the counter medications to help control any post-procedure pain or swelling.

Wisdom Tooth Extractions:

Wisdom teeth do not always have to cause you pain to cause future problems. The movement of surrounding teeth caused by wisdom teeth is often slow, and may not cause any pain. However, if you or a loved one have had braces or other orthodontic treatment, crowding from wisdom teeth can potentially un-do that work, resulting in crooked and misaligned teeth and jaws, as well as wisdom teeth pain.

Our team will review your x-rays and the positioning of your wisdom teeth at your regular check-up visits. He or she may recommend removing some or all of your wisdom teeth to help alleviate any pain, swelling or infection you may currently have, or to avoid future problems. Additionally, your dentist may recommend removing wisdom teeth earlier rather than later, because future extractions may become more painful or complicated, or even result in a dental emergency.

Paediatric Dental Extractions for Children:

The tooth extraction procedure and recovery for pediatric patients is very similar to that of adults.

Dental Extractions for Orthodontics & Braces:

Sometimes, orthodontic treatment is needed to facilitate other dental procedures such as crowns, veneers and implants. Also, certain orthodontic problems require collaboration with oral surgeons (for example: to expose impacted teeth or correct severe bite problems and facial deformities). Our dentist and Orthodontic specialist use this team-based approach as a part of our comprehensive suite of treatment services.

Post-procedure care for Dental Extractions:

It is very important for patients to follow the post-procedure recovery instructions, which includes avoiding smoking, chewing hard or tough foods, and strenuous physical activity for a period of time to allow the gums and jaw to heal.

After an extraction, some pain and swelling can be expected for a while. Our team will tell you what you might expect, and also let you know when it may be a good idea to call the office to report if you are experiencing any problems beyond what is normally expected, such as bleeding or a dry socket.

Once the healing process is complete, people who have had tooth extractions can typically get right back to life as usual.

Are tooth extractions painful?  What can I expect?

Some pain, swelling and bleeding are to be expected after most extractions. Each extraction is different and everyone experiences pain and recovery differently. We at Zen Orthodontic & Dental care will provide a post-extraction instruction guide after your procedure. This guide contains helpful information to make your recovery as speedy and complete as possible and avoid common issues such as dry sockets or pulled sutures.

We will also explain what signs to look for that may tell you it’s time to call our office. If you had a surgical extraction, we will give you a post-op courtesy call a day or two after your procedure to see how you are feeling or if you have any questions. We are happy to answer your questions any time.

DENTAL FILLINGS

Dental fillings provide excellent way to restore decayed teeth.

Frequently asked questions

Why Do I Need Dental Fillings?

A filling is usually used to fill a cavity. If left untreated, a cavity will get worse and could ultimately lead to tooth loss.

Is the Procedure Painful?

Your mouth will be numbed using local anaesthesia if necessary, so you should feel no pain during the procedure. You may have some slight tooth sensitivity afterward.

 What Types of Dental Fillings Are There?

You’ll have several different options, each with its own pros and cons. We can help you select the right option based on your dental care needs, preferences, and budget:

Composite Resins

These are tooth-colour fillings that are growing in popularity in recent years because they are more cosmetically-pleasing compared to silver fillings. Made from composite resins, natural-colour fillings are best for small-to-medium-sized fillings that don’t need to withstand as much chewing pressure as molar teeth.

Benefits of composite fillings:

  • The colour of your fillings can be matched to the natural colour of your other teeth, completely hiding fillings when you laugh or open your mouth.
  • Composite fillings can be used in front teeth.
  • Composite fillings greatly reduce the amount of tooth structure that needs to be removed compared to the prep that’s needed to accommodate an amalgam filling.
  • Composite fillings bond to the tooth, and in some cases, can actually strengthen the tooth.

Glass ionomers

These tooth-colour materials are sometimes used for large cavities where the chewing pressure is more. Some release small amounts of fluoride, which can help if you’re prone to getting cavities.

Are Dental Fillings costly?

Costs vary according to the location and extent of your tooth decay or enamel erosion as well as the type of filling material used. We’ll help you determine the best choice for your dental needs and finances.

When Should I Replace the Fillings?

If you have older amalgam fillings that are defective, are causing gum inflammation, or show signs of decay underneath, they should be replaced. Generally, replacing amalgam fillings because of appearance, it should be done only after careful consideration.

Still have questions about your existing fillings or getting new fillings? Please contact our office with any concerns—we’d love to hear from you.

COSMETIC DENTISTRY

 

Your self-image has a lot to do with how you feel about your appearance, and particularly your smile. If you are unhappy with the way you look, cosmetic dentistry may be the answer to your problems.

Frequently asked questions

What do we mean by cosmetic dentistry? 

The word “cosmetic” refers to beneficial changes in appearance. Thus cosmetic dentistry is all dental work that restores or improves a person’s appearance.

Who is a cosmetic dentist? 

Every dentist learns to do procedures in a way that conserves or improves a patient’s appearance. Some dentists continue to study and specialize in procedures that are done specifically for the purpose of enhancing a person’s appearance.

What is a smile analysis? 

Smile analysis involves a study of all the elements of your smile such as teeth appearance and alignment, gums, jaws and also your facial features and how they all fit together. This is the first step towards achieving your beautiful smile.

How can I choose the right cosmetic dentist? 

Ask your dentist about his or her training and experience. Ask for photos of previous work. You may need to select more than one person, working as a team to take best advantage of each one’s experience, skills, and training.

What can be done to improve a smile using 21st century techniques? 

We are fortunate to live in times in which numerous options are available. These include making teeth whiter; altering their size, shape, balance, colour, and alignment; filling in parts of teeth that are missing because of decay or injury; and even replacing teeth that are missing entirely.

How can chipped or discoloured front teeth be restored? 

This can often be done by bonding with composite resin.

How can damaged back teeth be restored? 

Back teeth with cavities or traumatic injuries can now be repaired with non-metallic tooth-coloured material that bonds to the tooth substance.

What techniques can be used to correct more severe problems?

Porcelain veneers, thin layers of porcelain material, can be used to change the appearance of misshapen or undersized tooth. Porcelain crowns can be used to replace the part of the tooth that rises above the gums.

How can we change the position of teeth that do not meet together well?

Orthodontists are dentists who specialize in correcting malocclusions (bad bites). Dr. Anitha Alageshan is a trained Orthodontist who can guide you with the best options available in the market.  We use traditional braces or clear aligners to move teeth into more attractive and functional positions.

What if some teeth are missing?

A dental implant replaces the root of a missing tooth. A porcelain crown that looks just like a natural tooth can then be connected to the implant.

DENTAL CONSULTATION & CLEANING

Preventive care is the foundation of dentistry. It is recommended that you visit your dentist regularly, usually about twice yearly – for full cleanings, examinations, and consultations for potential treatment. Professional dental cleanings help remove built-up plaque that is not removable using conventional brushing and flossing. Often, dentists are also capable of identifying potential problems that patients are not yet able to see or feel. When you maintain regular preventive dental appointments, you can avoid decay and gum disease, as well as identify the beginnings of oral health problems before they become severe.

Frequently asked questions

Do I really need to have my teeth professionally cleaned?

Yes. Even if you brush and floss after every meal and before bed, bacteria-harbouring plaque can accumulate in the tiniest crevices, grooves and pits. Overtime, the teeth will begin to decay in those areas, which may result in pain and partial or total tooth loss.

What should I expect at my examination and cleaning consultation?

It will consist of a visible examination of the teeth and gums. If you haven’t been to the dentist in a while, you may also require x-rays for a more comprehensive view of your teeth. You’ll also consult with your dentist about any oral health problems you may have been having or questions that you may have. The cleaning will follow, during which the dentist will use special instruments to remove hardened plaque from your teeth. Finally, your teeth will be polished followed by Fluoride application. Next your dentist will discuss any treatment recommendations he or she may have for you followed by oral hygiene and brushing instructions.

What types of guidelines should I follow after my visit?

In between dental cleanings and consultations, be sure to maintain good oral habits at home. This includes daily flossing and brushing after meals. It’s also important to drink fluoridated water and use fluoridated toothpaste.

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