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Tooth decay is caused by bacteria that eat away at the outer layer of the tooth. If your teeth are not taken care of in a proper way, the enamel wears out, which can happen even at a younger age. Habits that we take, and get used to, contribute to much of the health of our teeth. We visited one of the most reputable dentist’s Fort Worth offices and he shared some of the habits we ought to practice on our children in order to prevent them from suffering from tooth decay.

1. Ensure your child brushes and flosses daily: The first step towards avoiding any type of mouth problems and maintaining oral hygiene is keep your mouth clean. You should clean your child’s gums everyday with a soft pad to remove any plaque before his or her first teeth come in. Once the child’s teeth start growing, clean them using a soft toothbrush. Flossing should start as soon as your child’s teeth start touching each other.

2. Your teeth and gums should also be well taken care of: Saliva contains bacteria that contributes to tooth decay, so if you don’t take good care of your teeth, you are more likely to transfer these bacterium to your child. You should avoid sharing spoons and other utensils with your child because this will stop any transfer of bacteria. Also, clean your baby’s pacifier before putting it in his or her mouth.

3. Give your baby health foods: Once the baby has started eating, ensure that you are giving him or her healthy and nutritious foods  that would reduce any risk of tooth decay. For instance, give your kids meals containing whole grains, vegetables and fruits. Cheese, milk and yoghurt are also very good for teeth. These foods help clear out any harmful sugars that can exist in the mouth and also prevent the formation of plaque. It is also important to brush or rinse out your child’s mouth after eating foods high in sugar.

4. Encourage your baby to take less tasty or plain water: When your child is almost 12 months, you should give him or her beverages from bottles ad cups. If there are problems with weaning your child, it is advisable to dilute the high sugar liquids to make them less tasty. You should also encourage the baby to drink plain water especially at night.

Practicing these tips will fully protect your child from getting tooth decay. Drinking water with fluoride is safe for both children and adults, but should your baby need extra fluoride, your dentist can recommend available supplements. These supplements should only be used as advised because too much can become toxic and would stain the child’s teeth.

Your teeth are part of the image you present to the world.  People strive to keep their teeth in top shape and as white as can be.This can be a daunting task with pretty much everything that goes into your mouth leaving behind traces that can color your teeth.After a while, coffee, wine, chocolates, smoking etc. can leave your pearly whites not so white anymore.Aside from brightening your smile, your teeth also perform a much more important function for your body.They break up food into small pieces as you chew, rendering your intake much easier to digest.Remember your mother telling you to “Chew 60 times before you swallow”? Well, she knew what she was talking about.The problem is that with our busy lives, sometimes tooth care gets neglected.Tooth brushing is rushed, flossing is forgotten and routine dental check ups or cleanings are few and far between.The result is that your lovely teeth become discolored and decay over time.

A dental professional or dental hygienist is often able to counteract your bad habits through teeth cleaning, teeth whitening and other dental restorations.However, sometimes teeth have decayed to the point where even the most skilled dentist will be unable to bring back your white smile.In this case there are other treatment options available to you.Through advances in the art of cosmetic dentistry, procedures such as teeth whitening, dentures or dental implants have become commonplace and produce very high success rates.

The catch is that some procedures can be costly and time consuming.The most intrusive but also the most beneficial of the procedures is dental implants.Dental implants come into play when regular teeth are too damaged by neglect, disease or accidental trauma to be repaired.

Once the decision has been made to begin a dental implant program make sure you are fully aware of what the procedure entails and what your tasks are; before, during treatment and after.  Also, make sure you have an open channel of communication with your dental professional to ensure you are both on the same page.Normally a straightforward procedure, dental implants require your existing teeth or tooth to be removed and an assessment to be made of the part of your jaw into which the teeth attach.If the bone structure in your jaw remains in good shape, an attachment platform for the implant will be placed onto your jawbone.

This will serve as the anchor point for your tooth implants.If however your jawbone is also damaged or unable to support the implant, then an additional procedure called bone grafting.Once the implant anchors have been installed, implant teeth are manufactured and shaped so that they fit into your mouth properly but also maintain a natural appearance.Most of the time your replacement teeth will mimic existing ones in shape, size and sometimes color.

There are numerous advantages to dental implants, which make them a better fix than dentures.The fit is perfect with implants and the teeth are rock solid.No worrying about what you eat or dealing with the hassle of a cleaning regiment as is the case with dentures.Your smile will look and feel absolutely natural and in some cases will surpass the beauty of your real teeth. If you’re deciding on dental implants, talk to a cosmetic dentist such as the dental implant professionals at Barrhaven dental in Nepean, to see if the option is right for you.You wont regret it and the world around will see a new you with a beautiful smile.

Patients who suffer from spinal cord disorders suffer chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) which result to a state of continuous exhaustion that cannot be curbed by whatever the amount of bed rest. This type of disorder was dismissed for a long time by the medic practitioners as it did not show any test after being diagnosed. As the old adage says, who feels it knows it, the people who suffered this condition could tell that this was a serious disorder. As much as this syndrome may not be diagnosed, there are some notable symptoms that include;

• Feeling exhausted both mentally and physically.
• You suffer from headache and pain on your joints and muscles.
• There is difficulty in concentration as well as thinking.
• To some patients, there may be a lot of sweating during the night, they are quite sensitive to light and their muscles are really weak.

A number of patients have wasted their time and money trying different medical systems. However, CFS can only be approved by a medic if these symptoms have been there for at least 6 months. Instead of waiting and suffering for six months, you can receive great care from some of the most reputed chiropractor Greenville NC, USA as they are specialists of the spinal cord disorders as well as the general nervous system and they fully understand any kind of neurological dysfunction as it begins from the spinal cord. 

Basically, chiropractic does not involve any kind of medication. It is the alignment of the spine with gentle adjustments. Chiropractors correct any underlying cause of the chronic fatigue syndrome thus reopening the energy pathways within the nervous system.

Overcoming the chiropractic fatigue system:

When one suffers from this syndrome, they feel that their quality of life has been undermined and they have a fear of feeling helpless. This is so if this syndrome goes for more than two years. One of the advices that you may receive from a chiropractor is the change of your lifestyle and improvement in your nutrition, that is, if it is applicable. According to your situation, you will be customized to a program of light exercise. These exercises are important as they help in increasing your levels of energy. In order to take charge of your health and as well as gaining a sense of control, you need to do the following:

• Watch your nutrition
• Practice techniques of reducing and managing stress.
• Get adequate sleep, and
• Go for regular check-ups from your chiropractor.

The above steps may seem to be minor but they go a long way in ensuring that your spine and nervous system are in the best health possible.

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For whatever reasons, we don't attach as much importance to oral health as we should. This leads to much complication and problems later in life. This is actually surprising as taking care of your mouth, teeth and gums is quite simple, yet we falter somewhere. A monthly visit to the dentist and consumption of some super foods should keep your teeth kicking and happy. To make dental care even simpler for you, here are a list of foods that you must include in your diet to keep your teeth strong, gums healthy and mouth feeling and looking good.

Cheese

There are some foods that are made more infamous than they deserve. Cheese is definitely one of those. Though they have been made out to be these huge calorie gainers, they are actually a brilliant source of calcium, phosphorous and protein for the human body. These elements also make them a great food for oral health.

When we consume a lot of sugary and sticky food (read lollipops, candies, cookies, cakes, pies, lemons,) the minerals of our teeth eroded away. The protective enamel on the teeth gets damaged, and the teeth become prone to many health hazards. It is impertinent that the minerals are returned to the teeth. Cheese is one of those foods that help to redeposit the tooth enamel and protect your teeth. Besides cheese and other milk products also kill the bacteria in the mouth and thus prevents cavities and gum diseases.

Water

This magical component makes it to every possible health list. Drinking lots of water is a great way to prevent bacteria formation in the mouth and keep it hydrated. Water stimulates saliva formation that acts like a mouthwash and does not let particles deposit in the gaps of the teeth. The water thus washes away food residue, acids and sometimes even bacteria, and keeps your mouth clean and protected. .

Apples

We have all heard how an apple a day keeps the doctor away, well it turns out that's the case with dentists too. Apples ward off a host of dental disorders and often serve as mini toothbrushes to your teeth. Fiber-rich apples are slightly acidic in nature and act as mild astringents on your teeth. When had without peeling off the skin, apples actually cleanse and brighten your teeth.

Eating crunchy foods like apples, carrots and celery are also helpful as they help scrub away the stubborn stains over time, gives exercise to your teeth and gums, keeps you fuller, makes you snack less and thus gives the much needed rest and rejuvenation time to your mouth and teeth.

However, it must be remembered that nothing of too much is good, and this applies to apples too. Though beneficial, it can't be denied that apples have sugar and acid content in them. So eat them wisely and drink lots of water after consuming an apple.

Tea

Drinking sweetened beverages like coffee, juices and carbonated drinks throughout the day is disastrous for your oral health. Constant exposure to sugar leads to acid and plaque formation and accumulation, which ultimately causes tooth decay.

In such circumstances, unsweetened tea can serve as a boon for your teeth. Black tea contains polyphenols which curb the growth of bacteria that cause cavities. It also helps in bad breath.

Green tea contains catechins that kill bacteria that causes plaque and thus limits cavities and gum diseases.

The expensive and rare yellow tea is also good for dental health, as it is an excellent source of antioxidants and fluoride. Yellow tea prevents tooth decay and strengthens the bones.

Oolong tea is also beneficial for oral health as it produces bacteria that prevents tooth decay and oral cancers.

Shiitake Mushrooms

What makes Shiitake mushrooms so good for dental health is the presence of a natural sugar called lentinan. This prevents mouth bacteria from forming plaque. The shiitake mushrooms kill the cavity causing bacteria, while leaving the good bacteria unaffected. These mushrooms also help to prevent gingivitis. Gingivitis is a gum inflammation typically characterized by redness, swelling, bleeding and build-up of bacterial biofilm. Shiitake mushrooms fight against biofilm and keep your mouth healthy.

Onions

These delicious, tear inducing vegetables are packed with benefits for the teeth. Recent research at a Korean University indicates that onions can eradicate four strains of bacteria that causes cavities and periodontal disease. They contain powerful antimicrobial sulfur compounds that are great for oral health. Onions are most beneficial when eaten fresh and raw.

Nuts

Nuts contain micro-nutrients like phosphorous, magnesium, potassium, zinc and calcium. All of these contribute towards stronger teeth and tooth remineralization.

Cashew nuts are especially beneficial for the teeth as cashew nut shell oil contains microbe-fighting properties that attack and kill bacteria that causes tooth decay. These nuts also help to keep your teeth clean and so a great way to maintain dental hygiene when a toothbrush is not around.

Sesame Seeds

Like different varieties of nuts, sesame seeds too are high in calcium which makes them great for teeth. These seeds protect the bone around the teeth and gums and wards off plaque and strengthens the tooth enamel.

To Conclude,

We know now what foods can give us gleaming and healthy pearlies. In fact healthy teeth can reap a lot of benefits. From impressing on your first date with a gorgeous laugh to clinching the interview with a confident smile, your teeth can do it all. Besides, your dental health is generally an indicator of your overall bodily health as well. Research has concluded that bad oral health usually has strong connections with high blood sugar, heart diseases, clogged arteries and difficult pregnancy.

With a little care teeth and gums can stay in a good condition. From the right foods as listed above to the right toothbrush and toothpaste, (electric or disposable) find out all you need to know about oral care. Opt for monthly dentist check-ups and find a dentist you will be comfortable with. And don't forget the holy routine of brushing and flossing daily to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

About Author

Jordan Colton is Marketing Manager at Arizona Periodontal Group LLC, located in Phoenix. He looks after the PR and marketing functions across all media channels and markets. He has vast experience in developing new and effective marketing strategies and managing marketing campaigns across multiple channels.

By Homer Dental Centre

At our downtown dental clinic we often see people with cavities after the holidays. We thought we would share some tips to help you take care of your teeth during the sweet season. It is that wonderful time of year where we often let ourselves enjoy the lovely taste of sweets and hard candies. Sharing  chocolates, cookies and hard candies  at work is common. Receiving candy as gifts is synonymous of this time of year.  How do we enjoy our sweets, save our precious smile, and  continue to be cavity free over the holidays.  These tips will ensure you keep your teeth in top notch condition over holidays. We love see our patients at our downtown vancouver dental clinic however we also want to make sure you enjoy the holidays without needing a dental visit.

Only have a bit of Candy. With Shortbread, gingerbread, candy canes, chocolate, and so much more we often fill our bellies with things we normally wouldn't touch. No one wants to skip the holiday treats. It is important to be aware of what and how much candy you are eating. Hard candies and toffees can have the worst impact.

Brush your teeth often. After eating candy it is always a good idea to get that sugary substance off your teeth. If you do brush right after you have a crunchy or sugary candy your teeth will thank you  and your smile won’t be damaged once the holidays are done.  This simple act will reduce the risk of tooth decay.

Keep a Routine: The holidays often change routines as we jet here and there to see loved ones. It is important to keep brushing twice a day. And if eating candy brush more often.

Be Prepared: put that toothbrush and a mini toothpaste in your purse or bag for those  just in case moments. If you do find yourself without a toothbrush while enjoying the festive season get some sugarless gum. Chewing helps stir up saliva which can help get rid of food debris.

Flossing: We all know we should floss but this is the time of year where it is most essential.  This little act twice a day or more could save you a dentist visit in the coming months.

We at Homer Dental Centre, your downtown Vancouver dentist hope you have a wonderful holiday season. We wish you and your pearly whites the best.

Keep Brushing

Yours Truly

Homer Dental Centre

The adoption of the Canadian Health Act in 1984 meant Canadians across the country were given access to basic health services. There were some notable exemptions against the vast array of services offered most especially dental. Canadians either pay out of pocket for dental services or contribute to a health plan. These plans are acquired through a group plan from employers or personally.

According to the latest Canadian Health Measures Survey (CHMS), 62% of Canadian have private dental insurance. This means that a third of Canadians do NOT have dental insurance. For families in the lower income brackets in British Columbia, who qualify for MSP premium assistance, they have access to the Healthy Kids program which covers $1400 of basic dental services every two years.

Shifting towards private health insurance options, Pacific Blue Cross has a stand-alone dental insurance that lower cost monthly but only covers 60% of cost for the first year. Though this coverage increases to 80% by the third year. The rate starts at $29 for a single person to $96 for a family. Comparing insurance quotes is not the focus of this article.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach since everyone is in a unique situation. Each family needs to evaluate how their budget can fit the plan as well as emergencies. Comparing the monthly cost to the coverage stated in the plan will help families decide. Some plans may be more expensive monthly but have no wait time before they are enacted which may be helpful depending on the circumstances. Thankfully insurances websites make it easy to have multiple quotes open so families can quickly compare and find the best plan for them.

Do you still have Mercury fillings in your teeth? Heavy metals–like mercury are toxic to our bodies. High levels of mercury can contribute to chronic fatigue syndrome, muscle pain, twitches, insomnia and anxiety to name a few. In the past 100 years Mercury levels have dramatically increased in the environment. Industrialization was a major contributing factor.

Mercury is lipophilic, which means that it concentrates in fatty tissues. As the brain is mostly fatty tissue Mercury seems to concentrate there. Inorganic mercury from dental fillings (amalgams) can affect and does affect the body once this mercury is in your body; it is primarily distributed in the kidneys and brain. Although mercury can be dispelled from the body, it has an affinity for sulfur-containing molecules and can bind to them causing a build up in the fatty tissue.

Mercury from silver dental fillings (amalgam) is constantly absorbed into your body from chewing, brushing, grinding, and even slows corrosion. There is a large question about these silver fillings causing toxic levels of mercury in our bodies. Mercury has a long half life and sticks around for up to 18 years after the fillings have been removed from the body. The American Dental Association states that the use of amalgam fillings is safe.However, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) believes old mercury fillings (removed from the body) are toxic waste and therefore has to be disposed of in such a way as not to contaminate landfills. So mercury fillings in our mouths are still considered a normal practice, but they cannot be thrown in the garbage due to safety concerns. That doesn't seem to make sense.

Research forces us to question the safety of certain types of fillings. Silver filling can be removed safely and effectively if done by a trained dentist. Have you asked your doctor about your mercury fillings and if so, what was their response?

References

(i) Lindh U. Removal of dental amalgam and other metal alloys supported by antioxidant therapy alleviates symptoms and improves quality of life in patients with amalgam-associated all health. Neuroendocrinology Letters 2002; 23(5/6):459-482.

(iv) Prochazkova, J., et al. The beneficial effect of amalgam replacement on health in patients with autoimmunity. Neuroendocrinology Letters. 2004; 25(3): 211-218.

(v) Stejskal, J. and Stejskal, V. The role of metals in autoimmunity and the link to neuroendocrinology.Neuroendocrinology Letters.1999; 20: 351-364.

As summer ends and school starts up again, it is time to catch up on your to-do list. Visiting the dentist for your bi-annual cleaning and checkup is a great way to check on your overall health as well as maintaining your smile and oral health. Technology is at the center of how your dentist makes your visit comfortable and quick.

Long gone are the days of pulling teeth to fix your toothache. Dentistry continues to evolve every year so that adults barely recognize the dentist's office from their youth. Improvements in preventative care, sedation, pain relief, cosmetics and restorations revolutionize nearly every procedure so that more reliable and safer than ever imagined. Even visiting 123 Dentist clinics has improved from check-in to transferring your files.

Your Teeth before Retirement

The easiest way to have good oral health in the future is to take care of them now. Flossing once a blue moon and skipping brushing once a day are habits that you need to change now. Taking care of them presently means they will be within your twilight years. Watch out more damaging, your enamel, keeping gum disease in check, and keeping receding gums in check.

Dry Mouth: Lack of saliva can be a factor of any medical conditions such as diabetes and cancer treatments. It is also normal to lose saliva as you age which can cause other dental issues

Darkened teeth: A lifetime of staining food and drink will show their effects over time and change the dentin.

Diminished taste: Medications, diseases, and other effects of aging can change your taste.

Root Decay: While not a new problem, it becomes more difficult to manage as you aged. This is especially if you did not take care of your teeth when you were younger.

Gum Disease: Plaque build-up means decay and receding gums. This can lead to loose teeth with means.

Tooth Loss: Take care of them or lose them. It is that simple.

Oral Health for Seniors: Your Teeth beyond Retirement

Getting older is something we all experience and people are living longer than ever. This means you need to keep your teeth maintenance more rigorous to keep your oral health up through your longer and fuller life. For the most part, dental health is slowly increasing vigilance rather than an abrupt change at any particular age. Just like diet and exercise, oral health is important to have healthy and rich life.

As adults we know the value of taking care of our teeth. As children we have to be taught not only about our teeth but why taking care of them is so important. If we were to ask people how many teeth they have many may  not be able to answer without counting. This let us to believe that we should share what we know about the tooth.

As adults the average amount of teeth we have is 32. Children have less and begin to lose them at about age six. Losing our baby teeth is a rite of passage and the first sign of growing up. Parents coo over this by saving teeth and pretending to be the tooth fairy.  We continue to lose our baby teeth into our teens. Our permanent adult teeth replace all those baby teeth we lost plus some. As adults we have 8 incisors, 4 canines, 8 premolars, and 12 molars, these include our 4 wisdom teeth.

Our teeth our the first step in the digestive process. We use all parts of our mouth to chew, cut up and begin to digest our food. Our teeth help us break apart the food and our saliva begins the process of digesting that food. Our teeth are located in our upper and lower jaw bones and are supported by gingival tissues (better known as gums). A tooth is similar to a plant; some parts you can see and some parts you can't. The part of the tooth that can be seen is called the 'crown.' It would be similar to the flower and stem of the plant. It is the viable portion of the tooth. The neck is the section between the tooth and root, it is small and located where your gums are. The root area is the remaining part of the tooth, and is the buried part of the tooth, much like a plant’s root systems. A tooth’s root system extends past the  gums and  into the jaw bone. We call these root systems or roots  the 'dental root.'

Along with these parts of the tooth the tooth is also made up of various layers. We will go from outside in. The outer part of the crown (the part of the tooth you can see) is covered by enamel. That Enamel is a very hard substance rather like a crystal. This enamel helps protect our teeth from daily wear and tear. Just below the enamel is a layer that is softer called ‘Dentin.’ Dentin is much like bone and makes up most of our tooth. It is what gives our teeth their colour. At the core of the tooth you will find what we call ‘Pulp.’ Inside the the pulp chamber (where the pulp is located) blood vessels and nerves enter the tooth and become part of the pulp. These nerves feed the tooth nutrients which keep it alive. The last part of the tooth to mention is called ‘Apical Foramen.’ The Apical Foramen is a small opening at the top of each root which allows the nerves and blood vessels into the tooth.

We at Homer Dental believe that taking care of your teeth is a process. And the first step in that process is understanding your teeth.  

Homer Dental Center - Professional Vancouver dentists

We at Homer Dental will always try to show you your different options when it comes to choosing what to do with your teeth. Most things change over time, your teeth are no different. Today we are going to share some information about teeth whitening. Many different factors contribute to the discoloration of our teeth. As we age our teeth change colour. This can be due to what we eat and drink or just our DNA make. Even if we brush, floss, and go for our regular checkups our teeth naturally become less bright over time.

Even environmental factors such as air quality can contribute to teeth losing their natural radiance. Professional teeth whitening is an effective way to lighten, brighten, and eliminate stains. We all want that naturally white smile. Nowadays teeth whitening is a common practice. And like anything there are choices. You can either whiten your teeth at home or you can go and see your dentist to get the procedure done. If you choose to go to the drugstore you will find ample shelf space dedicated to tooth whitening products. There are many over-the-counter name brand products to choose from. However if you are unsure or squeamish about the whole at home whitening thing the best thing to do is go and speak to your dentist. Getting your teeth professionally whitened might be the best option for you. Dentist-supervised treatments are safer and offer more dependable results.

One thing to be aware of when whitening your teeth is that the results will vary depending on the treatment you choose. Most people are satisfied with the outcome of their whitening treatment as the teeth become shades lighter making your smile brighter. Most people are very pleased with their bright new smile following the professional procedure.

The terms "whitening" and "bleaching" are often used interchangeably. However the FDA uses the term "bleaching" to define only products that contain bleach better known as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)/carbamide peroxide (CH6N2O3). Bleaching can lighten teeth shades beyond their natural shade state.

Teeth whitening is a common practice and a low-risk procedure today. As this is a non-invasive procedure the side effects seen are mild and rare.

Not only can whitening teeth contribute to one's overall dental health it can also help achieve that pearly white smile that often boosts one's self confidence.

The Cost of whitening one's teeth will depend upon which type of treatment is chosen, your dentist, the duration of your treatment, and more. The Average cost of an over the counter treatment at home treatment is about $50.00. You can get cheaper but like anything the cheaper something less effective it can become hazardous. One should be aware of the levels of peroxide in each brand as that can have a damaging effect.

The take home treatments from the dentist are usually around $200 dollars. Some dentists even throw this in if you go to them for your initial procedure. In office dentist whitening is usually between 200 and 400 a visit. It is however the most effective and safest route to go. You are being monitored, cared for, and in the hands of trained professionals.

Each of these methods vary with risks, price, and outcome. There are different dentists, different brands, different cost, different teeth. All these things contribute to the outcome and experience of teeth whitening The best thing we can say about teeth whitening is that when done properly patients feel more confident, happy and ready to smile. They truly have a pearly white smile.

Homer Dental Center - Dental clinic in downtown Vancouver Dentist

How to Find the Right Vancouver Dentist

Choosing a dentist is an important task.You want a dentist you can talk to, learn from and feel good about visiting.  It is a partnership in healthcare and you want to use the same dentist for years to come. How do you go about finding the right dentist?

The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) offers several suggestions:

Recommendations – Ask Friends, relatives, co-workers, neighbors, other group members, your physician or your pharmacist and see who they use as their Vancouver Dentist

Referral – See if your current dentist can suggest someone in your new area.

Professional listings – Contact your provincial or territorial regulatory authority or dental association. Many association websites have a dentist locator or dentist directory. Good oral health care requires a good relationship between you, your dentist, and the dental team. You may want to call or visit more than one dental practice before making your final decision.

To help we’ve come up with a list of the top 10 things to consider when looking for a new Vancouver Dentist :

1. Does the dental office submit claims to all insurances?

Ask if they submit claims to all insurance providers of if you have to do that yourself and pay first. Most dental offices do submit claims and they may even send in an estimate claim before you get any work done. It is worth asking as you don't want to be caught off guard at the end of your dental visit

2. What  payment options are available? and if you are not insured what do they offer  non-insured patients?

Dental insurance is a big deal and you want to know what your plan is.  If you don’t have insurance asking your new dental office about a big consideration financing options is important. Some practices what payment upfront and others offer payment plans. It is always good to know what you are getting into before you decide on a dentist.

3. Where is the office located and What are the office hours?

The Location of the Dentist office. Is the location convenient? How long does it take to get an appointment? What are the office hours? are they open on weekends? A big part of getting to the dentist is convenience. To maintain a healthy set of chompers  you must be able to make your biannual appointments.  Convenience is key  when choosing a dentist.

4. Does the Dental office offer specials or do anything to show

appreciation for current patients?

Introductory offers  and referral programs are common in dental practices.    Some practices even have promotions to show their appreciation for existing patients. This might be something to consider when looking for a dentist.

5. How does the Dentist help make patients comfortable.

Not many people asks this question but it is important to know.  What do the dentist do to make sure you are comfortable. If you have anxiety some dentists will offer you anti anxiety medication. Knowing what your dentist does and what the  dentist’s approach to helping patients is a key component to feeling safe and comfortable when getting treated.

6. Continued Training & Education

Does the dentist continually educate themselves on current information. Are they part of any groups or ongoing educational programs? Dentists that are up to date on current practices and dental advancements will make your overall all dental experience better

7. In an emergency what can you expect?

It is always good to know what to do in case of an emergency. Many dentists will have an informational message as their outgoing message to help patients know what do when an emergency happens.  Ask your new dentist  if they have emergency hours or  what they should do in case of an emergency. It is always good to be prepared.

8. Do they discuss treatment plans and  give cost estimates?

Your treatment plan is going to be personalized. Having a discussing about  your treatment is important. Ask questions about if procedures are covered under your insurance plan.  Ask what you should expence and how do do your aftercare. A dental office should detail everything that will happen so you know what to expect, how many visits you might need, how much it will cost.

9. What is the office like?

You will be visiting the dentist office at least twice a year.  Make sure you are comfortable. Things to consider are cleanliness and friendliness. Is this a place where you can see yourself visiting

Choosing a new dentist is an important decision. It is a partnership and mos likely a long term relationship. Hopefully these tips above will help you find the perfect practice. If you are looking for a new dentist, give us a call  (604) 408-2408 to set up an appointment to make a visit and meet the doctors. Our office is in the heart of Yaletown steps away from the skytrain

Root canals are one of the most common procedures performed in dentist offices, however they are one of the most preventable dental conditions with regular checkups. Still there are many reasons that a person might need this procedure. The following are some of the most common causes of a root canal. If you have experienced, or are experiencing any of these symptoms, you may need to contact a dental professional.

Genetics 
We inherit our teeth from our parents. Some people have soft teeth that decay easier than hard teeth, and require more maintenance than the average person. If soft teeth are ignored, then decay can happen rapidly and lead to the need for a root canal.

Decay 
Decay is the main instigator of root canals. If the decay finds its way into the pulp chamber, it may cause sensitivity while drinking hot or cold beverages. If the decay has progressed too far, it can cause an infection or abscesses. If abscesses become too large, the only way to fix it will be to extract the tooth or to have this procedure.

Tooth Fracture 
Tooth fractures may also lead to this procedure. Fractures can happen because of excessive grinding or clenching of the teeth. Or from chewing ice or hard foods. Sometimes teeth can develop hairline type fractures that let bacteria into the tooth's pulp chamber which leads to infections. A root canal can be performed and a post is stationed at the canal of the tooth to maintain its integrity.

Trauma 
This procedure may be necessary if a tooth is hit with great force. Car accidents, injuries that occur during sporting events, slips or falls can all cause trauma to the tooth. When significant trauma occurs, the nerve can be severed and may eventually die. This may happen immediately or over time.

Extensive Dental Work 
Sometimes having extensive or repetitive dental work completed can lead to the need for this procedure. When deep fillings are done and the old fillings are replaced with new composite fillings, this can be traumatic to some nerves in the teeth and cause inflammation.

Deep Cavity 
Deep cavities allow infected bacteria to thrive within the pulp chambers of the tooth. If this happens the tooth can become inflamed or can die. It is possible that a tooth can have a cavity and not be in pain, but can still be infected. If individuals do not have regular dental checkups, then small cavities can become deep over time and require extensive dental work.

Pain 
A toothache is perhaps the most obvious symptom of a root canal. If the tooth is still alive, it will be sensitive to cold or hot foods and beverages. The tooth will hurt at random, even without the presence of a stimulus like food or drink. The pain can get so severe that it may cause perpetual headaches and earaches. If the tooth is dead and contains an abscess, it can lead to severe swelling of the jaw, cheek, or throat. If these symptoms occur, an emergency root canal will be necessary.

Genetics, decay, tooth fractures, trauma, too much dental work, deep cavities, and pain are circumstances that can lead to the need for a root canal. Contact a dental office for routine check-ups to prevent the need for a root canal.

You only get one set of adult teeth in your lifetime. Do you feel like you are "stuck" with the set that you have? There are many adults to feel that they could benefit from whiter, straighter teeth or even just MORE teeth. When it comes to finding a new job, meeting new people, or just going about your day, whether or not you have a smile to show off can make the difference between a good day and a bad one. More than half of adults would say that if they just had another set of teeth, that their lives would be drastically changed.

A lack of self-confidence can be discouraging. Starting with the restoration of your smile can really be a self-esteem and confidence booster! Teeth that are decaying, broken or left untreated can account for chronic tooth pain, and difficulty speaking and eating. Missing teeth that haven't been replaced with implants cause bone loss and an aging appearance. Restoring your smile with a simple whitening, crowns, fillings, or filling in gaps can take 10 years off your age!

Most dental offices thrive at the opportunity to help those suffering tooth problems to restore their confidence and get their life back. Often a smile makeover is in store and will bring the desired results from someone seeking out a confidence boost. A smile makeover is a detailed process with many factors that must be taken into consideration. The goal is to make the new smile look natural and beautifully blended in with the patient's mouth and face shape. Some of the aspects dental professionals consider are:

• Tooth shape - the shape and length of teeth play a big part in making a smile seem more masculine or feminine or older or younger. The dentist may look at old photographs to try to match the natural appearance of the patient's youth as much as possible.
• Tooth color - of course we all want white teeth, but it is possible to go too white. The dentist may choose a slightly less brilliant white for an older patient to make the smile look more natural. A good rule of thumb is to choose a color that is not whiter than the whites of your eyes.
• Tooth proportions - the dentist will examine the teeth to correctly proportion each one against the other teeth so the two central front teeth are dominant and the smile line appears natural.

While it is possible to keep them healthy for life, odds are your teeth will require treatment at some point. In fact, most us of experience our first oral health issues while we are still in grade school. We are speaking, of course, about tooth decay. Often caused by excessive sugar intake, tooth decay can lead to a hole in a tooth called a cavity. And as we all know, cavities must be filled to prevent further damage to teeth.

In the past, amalgam fillings made of metals such as silver or gold were used to stop the spread of a cavity and to improve the damaged tooth's structural integrity. Generally speaking, they performed quite well because amalgams were durable and easy to work with. They did not, however, maintain their alluring luster for long.

What Happens?

No matter which metals are used, most amalgams corrode over time and turn a dark gray, even black color. They also begin to wear out after about a decade, which increases the risk of future decay to an already compromised tooth. It is for this reason that many people with old metal filings choose to replace them with a new, non-metallic option.

What Are Resin Fillings?

Most of us know resin as a kind of plastic that is used to make everything from furniture to jewelry. But putting it in our mouths? Actually, resin is much safer than most dental amalgams, since it does not contain mercury -- a metal that is linked to a laundry list of health risks. Resin is also durable and strong and will not change shades over time. Made of tooth-colored plastic, composite fillings are virtually undetectable by the untrained eye, and they've become the preferred choice in most cosmetic dentist offices.

Who Needs Them?

Anyone who has a cavity that must be filled is a candidate for composite resin fillings. But because they are more expensive than traditional metal amalgams, they are more popular with adults than with kids. After all, a child may lose his deciduous teeth before they have a chance to change colors and become unsightly.

How Expensive Are They?

The good news is that many dental insurance plans cover the cost of composite filings. That said, they generally only pay 50% to 80% of the total bill. The remainder must be paid by the patient. And since resin composites are pricier than metal amalgams, you will pay more out of your own pocket to the cosmetic dentist.

Are They Worth It?

If you ask the average cosmetic dentist, odds are she will say that composite resin is clearly superior to metal amalgam. Not only is it more attractive and more versatile, it should also last longer with proper care.

Lots of people avoid visiting a dentist fearing that they might have to undergo a painful dental treatment. Due to ignorance, many people are unaware of the fact that dental science has made a tremendous progress in the last few years and now, most of the dental treatment procedures are simple, quick and painless. Another point that has to be understood is that even if a certain dental treatment involves some pain, it is still necessary to get it done because ignoring it might have severe consequences on your overall health. In this article, we will try to educate you more about the developments that have been made in modern dentistry so that you feel encouraged to visit a dentist.

In early days, there was no anaesthesia and whenever people went to a dentist to get his tooth filled or removed, they did not had any option but to bear the pain. But as the time passed, anaesthesia came into play and it was able to reduce the amount of pain involved in a dental treatment in a big way. Still, some people are too afraid of the needles or the sound of drilling machine. They need to know that there is a medical gel, which can be applied to the gums before giving anaesthetic treatment. The gel makes gums numb and then the person will not feel any pain while being treated with anaesthesia. Apart from it, there are many dental treatments that can be done without anaesthesia.

So now that you know that most of the dental treatments are quick and painless, you should visit the dentist at your earliest. It is essential that the oral health is taken care of at all the time to avoid any major treatment in future. If you want to ensure that your teeth remain healthy and serve you for a long time, then you have to take care of them as well. It is not hard to maintain oral health; all that you would require is to brush your teeth after having meals and floss them at least once in a day. This might not seem like a big ask but one has to be consistent with it. It is also advised that you visit a dentist once in every six months. If that is not possible then try to visit the dentist at least twice a year. This will minimize chances of any major oral issue occurring to you as the dentist would be able to detect the problem at an early stage and fix it before it harms you in a serious way.

Bad breath or halitosis, periodontal disease and gingivitis and general dental decay are all caused by anaerobic bacteria that live in between the teeth and around the gums in our mouths. This type of bacteria does not need oxygen to survive and is pathological in nature. In fact, bad breath is most likely a strong indicator of anaerobic bacteria present, but can also suggest other health issue that needs treatment.

Generally speaking, bad breath is most often caused by the odor given off by bacteria which is living off particles of food, dying tissue and even each other in the mouth. The anaerobic bacteria which cause bad breath can also live and reproduce on the tongue.

The bacteria produce the plaque that is found along the gum line. The plaque is gummy and sticky and attracts more germs and bacteria which in turn attack the teeth and gums, creating additional issues such as an inflammation and periodontal disease that may eventually cause the loss of the teeth.

Some common causes of halitosis:

Gingivitis: This is the inflammation of the gums which is created by your own immune system trying to fight off the bacterial infection. If left unchecked, it could cause an inflammation epidemic that can ravage the teeth and gums.

Dental Decay: This is caused by the acidic excrement from the bacteria as it consumes the teeth. The acid given off by the bacteria is actually dissolving the tooth in the mouth itself.

Periodontal Disease: This is the loss of bone and the tissue attachment around the tooth. This condition is caused by a microbial invasion by anaerobic bacteria around the tooth itself.

However, there are other causes for bad breath as well:

Diabetes: This disease can cause acidosis which in turn creates bad breath. There are usually other health indicators of diabetes which can be identified.

Other conditions than those listed above, that may cause halitosis are smoking, some medications, mouthwashes (that are alcohol-based) and even excessive mouth breathing (which can cause the mouth to dry out and not allow the saliva to remove the bacteria causing the odor). In rare situations, medical conditions, such as certain types of cancer and malfunctioning kidneys may also be the source of the bad breath.

Keeping bad breath caused by anaerobic bacteria under control starts with good oral hygiene. This means a strict home regimen of cleaning the teeth at least twice daily is necessary. The use of chlorhexidine gluconate, chlorine dioxide, or hydrogen peroxide as mouthwash can also assist in killing the germs and bacteria while washing them away. In addition to diligent home care, it is important to get professional dental cleanings at least twice yearly, and as often as every three months.

If the bad breath continues even after consistent proper oral hygiene, then other causes should be investigated to determine if the bad breath is from another source.

Consult with your dentist so that together you can learn the root cause of the bad breath and engage in proper oral hygiene that will reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth.

In addition to death and taxes, another universal truth that applies to all of us is that our bodies wear out as we age: bones become more brittle, muscles flabbier, and hair harder to come by. But the structures that often endure the most abuse and wear out sooner than any other are our teeth. According to a recent report from the Centers for Diseases Control & Prevention (CDC), a quarter of American adults age 60 years and older are entirely edentulous, or toothless.

Although there is no official statistic, it is reliably estimated that between 30 and 40 million U.S. seniors wear dentures. Those numbers are only expected to rise as the largest generation in the history of the nation - the baby boomers - enters their golden years in the next decade. Will all of them wear false teeth? Not with dental implants as an available, quite possibly superior, option.

What Are They?

Stronger and more stain-resistant than real choppers, dental implants are a permanent solution to tooth loss for people of all ages. The only problem is that they're expensive. Most general and cosmetic dentists charge between $1,000 and $3,000 for a single implant! We should also mention that dental insurance will not cover these costs. As a result, implants are not a viable option for folks who need dozens of teeth replaced and don't have deep pockets.

Why Dentures?

At the end of the day, cost is the main, determinative factor. A good pair of false teeth only costs about $1,000, compared with the tens of thousands of bucks it would cost for a full set of implants. The fact is, most elderly Americans simply cannot afford the latter, making fake choppers an attractive alternative.

The Numbers

Once again, there are no official statistics, but it is estimated that nearly 60 percent of seniors in the 65- to 74-year-old age group wear fake choppers. Some wear full sets of artificial teeth, while others have partial pairs. In fact, about half of the over-55 age group has at least one false tooth.

The Pros

False teeth have been around for thousands of years, but they haven't always had a natural appearance. Because their primary purpose was to improve functionality, dentures were made from materials that looked nothing like real teeth, such as ivory and gold. Modern models, on the other hand, are made of high-tech ceramics and acrylics - materials that are much harder, more stain-resistant, and more natural- looking than their predecessors.

In addition to the aesthetic improvement having a set of pearly whites provides, artificial models also help their wearers speak clearly again. Not to mention the fact that they enhance chewing ability and make eating more enjoyable. But as effective as they may be, fake choppers are far from perfect.

The Cons

Unlike implants, dentures are not designed to last forever. It's not that the prosthetics themselves wear out, but that the gum line shifts and changes shape as we age. In time, you may notice that your fake choppers are beginning to slip because they no longer fit. At that point, you must purchase another pair. On average, a new pair of replacement teeth will last for five to seven years.

You will also need to clean them on a regular basis, and you must use adhesives to keep them in place. Most wearers don't mind these daily rituals, but some complain that the cost of maintenance and cleaning can really add up. Of course, it is often less expensive than even a single dental implant!

In spite of their shortcomings, dentures are an affordable, reliable tooth replacement option for people of all ages.

When asked to rate the most attractive physical feature, both men and women consistently agree that the smile outranks the eyes, hair, and even the body! A nice smile has an immediate, often subconscious impact on everyone you meet. It can convey more about you in an instant than your words ever could. Are you a nice, warm, approachable person, or maybe a bit standoffish? Yes, a genuine smile is arguably the most powerful expression in human history. But sometimes things get in the way of what we're trying to say with our smiles.

Even if we take good care of our teeth, brush and floss and gargle as instructed, they often lose their luster as we age. The primary cause of tooth discoloration is the loss of dental enamel, which makes our teeth more absorbent and prone to stain. There are a few things we can do to slow the process, but teeth will eventually become duller and yellower when enamel loss occurs. That is the main reason why tooth whitening is the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedure on the planet!

Does It Work?

No matter how faded or discolored your not-so pearly whites may be, they can almost always be lightened several shades with a simple in-office dental treatment. Because this professional procedure is far more effective than home teeth whitening products and kits, they have become increasingly popular with patients of all ages. In fact, a recent report from the American Dental Association (ADA) estimated that it is a multi-billion-dollar industry in the U.S.

Whitening Systems

As we mentioned, over-the-counter brightening products are widely available in America. According to a study from the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, we spend more than $1.4 billion on them each year! Why do we love them? The main reasons are that they're cheap, easy to find, and easy to use. You can pick them up at nearly any supermarket or drugstore in America. They are also fairly effective at brightening choppers a couple of shades in the short term. With that said, no do-it-yourself system can compare with the average results of a professional teeth whitening procedure at the dentist. Why is this?

To begin with, the commercial solutions that are available for sale are not nearly as powerful as the ones a professional will use. Secondly, these kits do not include the expensive tools and dental equipment that is needed to professionally complete the procedure. And thirdly, you aren't a dentist! It is also important to note that whitening strips and gels can cause irritation, even numbness of teeth and gums if they are overused or improperly applied.

Professional Whitening

Much safer, more effective, and longer lasting than anything you might use at home, the only reason professional whitening isn't always used when someone wants to brighten their smile is that it can be expensive. Prices range from around $300 to $800, depending on the dentist and the number of treatments needed.

The Bottom Line

Even if that price seems steep, the truth is that you'll probably end up paying nearly as much if you use high-quality commercial products, since you'll have to use more of them for a much longer period of time. So, if you really want that movie-star smile, it's best to invest in yourself and get what you pay for.

Teeth that are crooked or ones that do not correctly fit together are more challenging when it comes to cleaning. They are also vulnerable to tooth decay as well as other types of periodontal diseases. Such teeth cause extra stress on your chewing muscles leading to periodic headaches, shoulder, neck and back pains, and even the TMJ syndrome. Crooked teeth impact negatively on your physical appearance, and they dent personal confidence and self esteem.

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that deals with issues of correcting jaws and teeth that are improperly positioned. A specialist in this specific dental field is referred to as an orthodontist. Qualified and certified orthodontists must have gone through the required number of years at a dental school under the watch of the Australian Dental Council (ADC).

Do You Need The Treatment?

Your dentist can identify the need and refer you to a specialist. However, it is only an orthodontist that can establish if you stand to profit from treatment. An orthodontist is best fit to establish whether this mode of treatment is recommended and then generate a customized treatment plan for you. A treatment plan will be based on a variety of diagnostic tools such as a clinical exam, full dental and medical health history, photographs and X-rays, and plaster models of your teeth.

You would be a right a candidate for orthodontic treatment in case you got any of the following:

- Overbite (buck-teeth): where your upper front teeth are lying too far forward and are sticking out over your lower teeth.

- Underbite (bulldog bite): where your lower teeth appear to protrude forward. The upper teeth could also be placed too far back.

- Open bite: when you're having a space between your biting surfaces.

- Crossbite: when your upper teeth don't come slightly in front of your lower ones when you bite down.

- Spacing: when you got gaps between your teeth due to loss or teeth that are not filling up your mouth.

- Crowding: when you seem to have excess teeth than your jaw or dental ridge would accommodate.

- Misplaced midline: when the center of your upper front teeth center is not lining up with your lower front teeth center.

In addition to correcting the above abnormities, the other benefits include a more pleasant look, a healthier mouth, and teeth likely to last you an entire lifetime.

How Does It Work?

There are several types of orthodontic tools, both removable and fixed that an orthodontist would use in moving your teeth, retraining muscles and in affecting the growth of your jaws. They operate by exerting some gentle, but constant pressure on your jaws and teeth. An orthodontic approach that realizes the best outcomes depends on the severity of your dental problem.

Removable orthodontic appliances are generally more widely employed by most orthodontists. These appliances include:

- Dental aligners 
- Appliances for jaw repositioning 
- Removable space maintainers 
- Palatal expander 
- Lip and cheek bumpers 
- Removable retainers 
- Headgear

Fixed Appliances Include:

1. Braces 
2. Fixed space maintainers 
3. Special fixed appliances

Teeth are important for us in many ways and to ensure that they serve us better, we should try to take care of them in very possible way. However, this is easier said than done. It will be hard to find someone in this world, who has never faced any kind of oral issues ever in his life. In our lifetime, we have to visit a dentist several times in our life due to oral issue or the other. In this article, we will provide you some useful information about root canal treatment so that you can learn more about it and take preventive measures against the same. So let us get started with this subject.

The best thing that can be done about root canal treatment is to try to avoid it in every possible way! This may not be possible if you are careless with your oral health care and ignore the pain that occurs frequently in your teeth. This may well be a sign of some serious oral issue that needs to be addresses and fixed as early as possible or else you might have to get root canal treatment done later on. So, the best thing to do here would be to take your oral health issues seriously and get yourself thoroughly checked by a dentist until it's too late. In the latter case when the oral issue has gone way too far, you will have no other option abut to opt for root canal treatment.

You might get a bit worried when you learn that you have to undergo such a treatment but it is not as dangerous as it sounds! It simply means that one of the teeth of your mouth has decayed to such an extent that it has affected the inner nerves in the mouth, due to which you have to bear pain frequently. In order to fix this issue, the dentist will need to treat you with the method of root canal, in which he will first clean the portion that is been badly affected due the decay of the tooth and then fill it. In most of the cases, the decay of the tooth is partial and the dentist removes the decayed portion of the tooth, performs the treatment and then fills the remaining portion of the tooth so that it can be prevented from further decay. The only sad part here is that had you been a little more careful in this matter and had you reported this issue to the dentist on time, then you could have saved yourself from this treatment at the first place!