Protecting Your Oral Health
Routine oral exams, ideally twice a year, can help catch and treat oral health issues before they escalate into more serious problems such as tooth decay and gum disease.
When your teeth aren't causing you pain or discomfort, you might think that there’s no need to see the dentist. However, tooth decay and gum disease often develop silently, without obvious symptoms, until they reach more advanced stages.
An oral exam, which includes an inspection of your teeth, gums, jaw and bite, can help spot these issues in their early stages. Dental X-rays may also be required to help your dentist detect issues that may not be visible to the naked eye. To complete your exam, a hygienist will perform a dental cleaning.
Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer can develop anywhere in the mouth or surrounding tissues. During your exam, your dentist will check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, and gums for any signs of oral cancer by feeling for any lumps or irregularities. Your dentist can also use an oral cancer screening device, which has a special light that changes colour when it detects abnormalities.
Oral Health Care at Home
Maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine is important for good dental health. Remember to brush your teeth for two minutes twice daily and floss at least once a day.
Dental Hygiene Cleanings
While daily brushing and flossing are essential for keeping your teeth clean and healthy, they won't remove all of the harmful bacteria that can build up. By attending routine cleanings, we can help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
To begin, a dental hygienist will perform a deep cleaning of your teeth and gums using a scaler to remove any tartar and plaque build-up. Next, they will use a polisher and coarse toothpaste to remove any leftover stains or plaque. They will then proceed to thoroughly floss your teeth and gums to complete the cleaning process.
Your hygienist will also evaluate your soft tissues for signs of gum disease and provide you with oral hygiene recommendations based on your individual needs.
We also use guided biofilm therapy (GBT) which uses heated water and air to gently remove biofilm.
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral used to strengthen teeth and prevent cavities. Our dentists may suggest fluoride treatment for both adults and children who are at an increased risk of tooth decay.
