We recommend brushing twice daily for 2 minutes with a soft or electric toothbrush. Flossing is recommended once daily to remove plaque as this will harden to become tartar that forms wedges between the teeth. Ask your hygienist for a comprehensive list of dental aids available other than floss. Regular dental check ups and hygiene are recommended every 6/9/12 months depending on your oral health. Periodontal referrals are available for more serious gum disease.
Most people have some discolouration of their teeth that increases over years. Whitening or abrasive toothpastes treat superficial stains from tea, coffee, smoking etc… Bleaching kits sold in stores stay on the teeth longer but can be difficult to use and ill fitting trays mean you swallow a lot of the bleaching gel. Ask our office about whitening procedures custom made for you. For deeper stains composite bonding or veneers might be another alternative
Within 6 months of your child’s first tooth coming in or by 1 year of age. Always clean your child’s mouth with a damp cloth between feeds and with a soft toothbrush once they have their 1st tooth. Limit sugary drinks or food. Use a toothbrush appropriate for your child’s age and remember there is no flouride in the water supply in the Cowichan Valley so a flouride or calcium-phosphate toothpaste is recommended. Always check your toothpaste tube for recommended age and amount to use.
Please refer to the Canadian Dental Association website for questions related to safety as this will give the most up to date information available – https://cda-adc.ca/en/oral_health/faqs/
Many diseases of the teeth and bone cannot be seen by the dentist during an exam. An x-ray shows decay between teeth, infection or developmental abnormalities of the bone, periodontal disease and abscesses, cysts or tumours. We use digital x-rays at our clinic so the radiation emission is 80-90% less.
Caps are crowns that cover the tooth making them stronger. It is permanently cemented into place and cannot be removed like a denture.
Options are often available to fill these spaces depending where they are. Dentures that are removed at night can be full or partial. Bridges and implants replace missing teeth, however unlike dentures, these are permanently in place.
This can occur due to poor oral hygiene, types of food or some unhealthy lifestyle habits. Improvement in these areas normally help. Persistant bad breath can also be a sign of dry mouth, periodontal disease, respiratory or sinus problems, postnasal drip, diabetes, acid reflux or liver and kidney disease.
Original copies of dental records belong to the dentist, however, you can have copies sent to your new dentist. You may be required to sign a release from from your former office.
The role of your dentist is to make a treatment plan based on your oral health needs. Your dental plan is a contract between you and your employer. Our dental staff are not aware of what procedures are covered under your plan and may need to pre authorize certain ones. Be aware of procedures that are covered by your dental plan, to what extent or percentage and annual maximums or procedure maximums. Your insurance company may not cover certain procedures recommended by the dentist. You are responsible for any costs your insurance doesn’t cover.