How often should I see a dentist?

The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) guidelines recommend visiting a dentist at least twice a year for a checkup and professional cleaning. Our office also recommends a minimum of two visits per year. Dental and gum disease has been linked to a myriad of afflictions including but not limited to; heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, which means your oral health can influence your overall health.

What should I expect during my dental appointment?

One of our staff members will compile your medical and dental history during your first visit. We will then examine your teeth and gums, screen you for oral cancer, make fast and convenient digital X-rays of your teeth as needed and complete a TMJ (temporomandibular or jaw joint) exam. After we review your dental profile, we will discuss our findings with you. Should you require additional treatment, we will explore the options available and their cost and help you determine the best plan to fit your needs.During regular follow-up visits, we will examine your teeth and gums, screen you for oral cancer, clean your teeth and make plans for treatment, as needed. We will discuss any concerns and answer any questions you may have.

How do digital x-rays (radiographs) work?

A sensor is placed in the mouth, and a computer generates an image. This takes approximately 30 seconds as opposed to the general 4-6 minute wait time for images taken on dental film. The digital x-ray is viewed on the computer in the room and is a full screen image making it easier to see. Digital x-rays provide us with invaluable information about your oral and dental health and they are eco-friendly as they do not require chemicals to develop them like the old film x-rays.

Are digital x-rays safe?

While radiographic equipment does produce radiation (and depends on that radiation to function properly); modern advances in technology are continually reducing the amount of radiation that is produced. In fact, studies have shown that the amount of radiation produced by these machines is not significantly higher than other “normal” sources of radiation that we are exposed to on perhaps a daily basis, such as televisions and airplanes. Compared to the old x-rays, digital radiographs reduce a patient’s radiation exposure by up to 80 percent!

What can you do if I feel anxious?

Some people feel anxious about their dental appointments. If you are one of those people, we recommend you avoid stimulants like sugar and caffeine before your appointment. We will talk with you and address any concerns you have before we begin any treatment. We also have a variety of sedation techniques available from nitrous oxide (laughing gas), to oral sedation, I.V. sedation, and general anesthesia. We want you to feel comfortable.For more information on Sedation Dentistry.

What if I have a dental emergency?

Please call our office as soon as you determine that you have a dental emergency. We will be glad to work you into our schedule if you have a dental emergency during regular business hours. We are open 7 days a week. If our office is closed then you should go to the hospital.

Can I bring my child to King Ritson Dental Clinic?

Of course! We are a very child-friendly office with amenities that kids love such as TV’s in every room, a children’s play area, X-Box and PlayStation, treasure chest, headsets with ipods, and a 150-gallon aquarium. We also have orthodontists on staff who can monitor your child’s oral development and recommend orthodontic treatment if necessary.

At what age should my child have his/her first dental visit?

We recommend that your child have his/her first dental visit no later than by age 3. Earlier visits, however, can provide us good opportunities to monitor your child’s dental development and/or give helpful advice on early dental treatment and oral hygiene for infants and toddlers.

What is baby bottle tooth decay and how can I prevent it?

Baby bottle tooth decay is a pattern of rapid decay associated with prolonged nursing/bottle feeding. It happens when a child regularly goes to sleep while breast-feeding or bottle-feeding. During sleep, the flow of saliva is reduced and the natural self-cleansing action of the mouth is diminished. Avoid nursing children to sleep or putting anything other than water in their bedtime bottle. Encourage your child to drink from a cup as they approach their first birthday. He/she should be weaned from the bottle at 12-14 months of age.

Can the dentist whiten my teeth?

There are several methods available for bleaching the teeth. Zoom2! bleaching is done in our office. One session generally lasts one and a half to two hours, and you can read, watch TV or listen to music and relax during the treatment. We also offer Zoom Weekender for at home bleaching. We make an impression of your teeth and create a bleaching tray that fits your bite. You fill the bleaching tray with a small amount of bleaching gel and wear it for approximately 20 minutes during the day. This at-home bleaching process takes 3 or 4 days.

What is periodontal disease, and am I at risk of developing it?

The term “periodontal” simply means “around the tooth.” Periodontal disease affects the gums and bones supporting the teeth. Also known as gum disease, periodontal disease is mainly attributed to the bacteria in dental plaque, which causes the gums to become inflamed and infected. Other factors, such as smoking or tobacco use, poor nutrition, stress or pregnancy, may put you at risk of developing gum disease.

What if I have a gap in my teeth, a chipped tooth or teeth that do not respond to normal bleaching methods?

Bonding and veneers are great ways to solve these issues. Porcelain veneers are designed to look like your natural teeth and are individually and permanently attached to the fronts of your existing teeth. Bonding utilizes a composite material made of plastic to fill in areas of your teeth and correct chipping and shape problems. Both porcelain veneers and bonding are color-matched to the rest of your teeth.

The CEREC system has revolutionized the dental field by meeting the needs of our patients in a more convenient manner. Gone are the days where the patient must return for multiple visits to complete a restoration. CEREC Technology allows us to design, fabricate and place a ceramic restoration in just one visit! Also, with this new system, the need for temporaries or impressions has been eliminated. Using Cerec technology, we can save more of the healthy tooth structure in our patients while giving them beautiful, tooth-colored restorations that are metal-free and durable. Contact us for more information about Cerec restorations.

What are LUMINEERS®?

LUMINEERS® by Cerinate® are porcelain veneers that can be made as thin as a contact lens. They are placed over existing teeth without drilling or requiring the removal of tooth structure. LUMINEERS are a permanent cosmetic solution for stained, chipped, discolored or misaligned teeth. They are almost as natural as your real teeth and are clinically proven to last up to 20 years.

BLOGS

5 Tips for Choosing a Kids Dentist in Oshawa

Apr 7, 2026 | Dentistry For Kids

As a parent, choosing the right kids' dentist in Oshawa is one of the most important decisions you'll make for your child's health and well-being. A pediatric dentist who specializes in caring for children's oral health can make all the difference in establishing good...

What to Expect During Your First Visit to a Dental Clinic?

Apr 7, 2026 | Dental Care

Visiting a dental clinic for the first time can be daunting, but it is essential for maintaining oral health. Whether you have just moved to the area or are looking to establish a relationship with a new dentist, knowing what to expect can help ease your anxiety. Let...

7 Common Dental Emergencies and How Oshawa Dentists Can Help

Apr 7, 2026 | emergency dentist oshawa, Uncategorized

Dental emergencies often happen when least expected, causing discomfort, stress, and even disruption to daily life. Understanding what qualifies as a dental emergency and knowing how to respond can make a significant difference in preserving oral health. Fortunately,...

How to Find a Reliable Emergency Dental Clinic in Oshawa?

Apr 7, 2026 | emergency dentist oshawa

Dental emergencies can occur without warning, whether it is a sudden toothache, a chipped tooth, or a lost filling. In these situations, finding a reliable emergency dentist in Oshawa becomes essential. Prompt attention may help prevent the problem from getting worse...

When Do You Need a Dental Crown? Signs and Solutions

Apr 7, 2026 | dental crowns oshawa

Have you ever winced when biting down, or felt sensitivity that just won’t ease? Ignoring warning signs in your teeth can turn a simple cavity into a full-blown emergency. If you’re searching for an emergency dentist in Oshawa or a reliable dental office in your...

How to Choose a Reliable Dental Clinic in Oshawa?

Apr 7, 2026 | Dental Care

Choosing a dental clinic isn’t just about finding someone to clean your teeth — it’s about trusting a partner in your health. If you’ve ever been in pain in the middle of the night, needing an emergency dentist in Oshawa, you know how stressful it is. With so many...

How an Orthodontist in Oshawa Can Transform Your Smile?

Apr 7, 2026 | orthodontist oshawa

A confident smile can influence many aspects of daily life, from how you interact with others to how you feel about yourself. For individuals seeking to improve the alignment of their teeth or correct bite concerns, visiting an orthodontist in Oshawa may offer a...

Why Early Dental Visits Are Important for Kids in Oshawa?

Apr 7, 2026 | Dentistry For Kids

Healthy dental habits begin much earlier than many parents realize. Children benefit greatly from visiting a dentist before problems appear, and early checkups play an important role in guiding their long-term oral health. Families looking for an Oshawa dentist often...

Top Cosmetic Dentistry Services in Oshawa

Jan 11, 2026 | Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry in Oshawa has been expanded considerably over the past decade, with more residents seeking treatments that go beyond basic oral health. As it turns out, the demand for smile makeovers is often driven by professional needs rather than purely aesthetic desires. Services like porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, and dental implants are now being offered by multiple clinics throughout the city. The quality of care can be varied significantly between providers; this makes research essential before treatment is committed to. Finding the right cosmetic dentist often comes down to experience, technology, and patient comfort levels.

« Older Entries