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.

Best Dental Hygiene Tips for Allergy Season

The arrival of spring brings blooming flowers, warmer weather, and, unfortunately, allergy season. For those who suffer from seasonal allergies, this time of year can take a toll on your overall health and hygiene habits. Allergy symptoms like sneezing, coughing, runny nose, watery eyes, and itchy throat can make maintaining good oral health difficult. Here are some of the best dental hygiene tips to follow during allergy season:

Manage Post-Nasal Drip

Post-nasal drip is when mucus accumulates in the throat or back of the nose. It’s a common symptom for those with allergies and can cause bad breath. To manage post-nasal drip:

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
Use a humidifier at home and work
Try a nasal spray or antihistamine medication

This will thin out the mucus, allowing you to clear your throat more easily. Be sure to gargle with an antibacterial mouthwash after excessive coughing or throat clearing.

Clean Your Toothbrush

Allergens and bacteria can cling to toothbrush bristles after each use. To prevent contamination, rinse your toothbrush thoroughly with hot water at the end of each day. Allow it to air dry, then store it upright in its holder. Always cover your toothbrush when sneezing or coughing. Replace your toothbrush every 2-3 months or after an illness.

Focus on Your Tongue

Allergy drainage can coat your tongue with bacteria that cause bad breath. Using a tongue scraper daily removes this buildup and freshens your breath. Gently scrape from back to front until you’ve cleaned the entire surface of your tongue. You can also use an antibacterial mouthwash formulated to kill bad breath bacteria.

Moisten Your Mouth

Nasal congestion and mouth breathing can dry out your mouth, allowing bacteria to multiply. Drink plenty of water and avoid sugary or acidic drinks that dehydrate oral tissues. Use an alcohol-free mouthwash to kill bacteria and moisten the mouth. Chewing xylitol-sweetened gum also stimulates saliva flow.

Don’t Forget to Floss

Congestion and facial pressure can make flossing uncomfortable, but don’t skip this critical step. Allergy drainage allows more bacteria and particles to accumulate between teeth. Take your time and floss gently, using short strokes to clean each tooth’s surface. Y-shaped flossers can make the job easier when your sinuses are inflamed.

See Your Dentist

At your next checkup, let your dentist know you’re experiencing allergy symptoms. Allergy symptoms, such as a runny nose, irritated eyes, coughing, and frequent throat clearing, can hinder proper oral care. Your dentist may recommend additional preventive care, like frequent cleanings, during allergy season. Follow their guidance to keep your mouth healthy during allergy flare-ups.

Minor adjustments to your oral care routine can help you maintain great dental health during allergy season. If symptoms disrupt proper brushing, flossing, or medication use, check in with your dentist. Implementing these hygienic habits will help you feel better while waiting for allergy relief.

If you have any concerns about your dental health during this time, don’t hesitate to contact our dental office in Oshawa. At King Ritson Dental Clinic, we’re here to help you navigate your dental care needs and ensure oral health remains a priority, no matter the season. Book your appointment today!