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.

Tips for Invisalign Braces | King Ritson Dental

Invisalign has become a popular alternative for teeth straightening because of its subtlety. Unlike braces, Invisalign does not require brackets or wires and, instead, uses clear, customizable aligners. These removable pieces are virtually undetectable, which means hardly anyone will notice that you are wearing them.

Your dentist uses the latest 3D technology to create custom aligners that fit your teeth perfectly. Every few weeks, they will change your aligners so that your teeth gradually and comfortably shift into a straight and beautiful smile. You should follow these tips to make your Invisalign process go as smoothly as possible.

Use Your Case

Always carry your Invisalign case with you to easily store your aligners. Leaving them out in the open makes it easier for them to get lost or accidentally thrown away. Your case also protects your aligners from germs and dirt that are found in pockets, bags, and tables.

Brush After Eating

Brushing your teeth after every meal or snack before putting your aligners back in will keep them clean. If you put them back on while there is still food particles on your teeth, you increase your chances of stubborn plaque buildup. That is because normally your saliva helps breakdown food left on your teeth but, with aligners on, saliva cannot do its job. Remember, you should never eat or drink anything besides water while you have aligners on.

Exercise Your Aligners

Chew on plastic chewies for at least 10 minutes every day. This exercise keeps your trays moulded to your teeth and in line. It can also prevent you from unnecessary snacking throughout the day.

Set Alarms

Many patients end up having to prolong their treatment because they forgot to put their aligners back after eating. That is why you should set a timer when you remove your aligners so that you remember to put them back in when you are done eating. Doing this will ensure your treatment plan gives you the desired results quicker.

Soak Trays

While you are eating, it is an excellent habit to soak your aligners in retainer or denture cleaner. That way they are less likely to develop a bad odour or become stained. Soaking your aligners for at least 20 minutes each day will keep them clean and smelling fresh.

Take Trays Out While Working Out

Intense cardio or playing sports with your aligners in can be challenging because of the spit and dryness that can accumulate in your mouth. That is why you should take them out while you workout – just remember to put them back in.

The team at KR Dental are committed to helping you straighten your teeth and achieve a brighter smile. We also specialize in creating customized dentures for patients and serve people in the Oshawa area.

Tips for Invisalign braces