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While adult teeth can last a lifetime, many Canadians will lose at least one to injury, decay, gum disease, or oral health problems. In addition to the mental distress it causes, this loss can have significant health impacts too. Fortunately, modern dentistry has come up with several excellent solutions to replace a missing tooth. Today, we will examine some of these problems and solutions in further detail to help you decide how to handle your missing tooth troubles.

5 Problems a Missing Tooth Can Create

Missing teeth are more than just a cosmetic problem. People who lose a tooth are at risk for many secondary issues that can be devastating to their physical and emotional health.

Drifting Teeth

Teeth are held in position partly by the presence of the other teeth around them. If one of them is missing, the teeth around it can begin to drift out of alignment. Opposing teeth that no longer have the steady pressure of their counterpart to keep them from pushing out of the gums may over-erupt and leave you with one tooth that is significantly longer than all the rest. Teeth can even tilt sideways into the gap, making it impossible to chew with them.

Bone Loss

Your jawbone relies on stimulation and feedback from your teeth to remain healthy. When a tooth is missing, the bone below the tooth does not get this feedback. This can cause it to begin deteriorating below the gumline. Eventually, this bone loss can become so severe that the teeth around it could become unstable. It can also make it more difficult to replace those missing teeth with prosthetics, although this can usually be fixed with a bone graft.

Difficulty Eating and Speaking

The main purpose of teeth is to help you chew your food properly. If one or more are missing, the others will have to work harder to make up for the loss. You will not be able to chew properly in the area with the missing tooth and will have to shift food around in your mouth to avoid it. You may also not be able to eat hard or chewy foods like crusty bread and steak.

Teeth also serve a function in speech. Your tongue makes contact with them in order to produce certain sounds. If you are missing teeth, it may be difficult for you to speak clearly enough to be understood. You may also produce a whistling sound when you speak.

Facial Changes

Tooth loss leads to bone loss, and bone loss changes the shape of your face. Although the changes usually do not become visible for many years, bone degradation will eventually cause you to lose much of the definition of your jaw. It can also make your cheeks look sunken and cause premature wrinkling around the lips.

Decreased Self-Esteem

Having a visible missing tooth can take a toll on a person’s self-esteem. You may feel too self-conscious to smile and laugh freely or even to eat or speak around other people. This can lead to intense loneliness and feelings of isolation.

5 Options for Replacing a Missing Tooth

You do not have to suffer the negative effects of a missing tooth. There are many dental prosthetics available, and many of them are nearly impossible to distinguish from a real tooth.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are prosthetic teeth that are anchored by a screw that has been surgically implanted in your jawbone.

It takes several months to receive an implant, making it a sub-optimal choice for people who need a more immediate solution. Implants are also costly and may be out of some people’s budgets.

On the other hand, implants also offer exceptional aesthetics and utility. They look, feel, and function almost exactly like a natural tooth. They are considered the gold standard of tooth replacement prosthetics and are always worth considering if you are healthy enough to undergo the placement process.

Tooth-Supported Bridges

Tooth-supported bridges are bridges that are anchored by the teeth on either side of the missing tooth. They can be used to replace a single tooth or multiple teeth at a time.

Tooth-supported bridges offer very good aesthetic results. They are also less invasive and more affordable than implants. However, they do have some downsides.

Tooth-supported bridges require your abutment teeth to be filed down to accommodate the bridge, sacrificing healthy tooth enamel that you could have kept for many years. This may damage the teeth and make them more susceptible to decay under the crowns. Food may also become trapped under the bridge, leading to gum irritation in the affected spots.

Implant-Supported Bridges

Implant-supported bridges are attached to implant screws instead of abutment teeth. They offer all of the same benefits that dental implants do but can be used to replace several missing teeth in a row.

Implant-supported bridges look like natural teeth and are easy to chew and speak with. They can also be expensive and require many appointments to place the implant screws and install the crowns.

Removable Partial Dentures

Removable partial dentures are thin plates of plastic with false teeth attached to them. They are worn inside your mouth so that the false teeth fill in the gaps in your arch. You can remove them at any time.

These prosthetics are minimally invasive and can be used to replace several teeth at once. They are also affordable and easy to repair or replace.

Unfortunately, removable partial dentures can be uncomfortable to wear. They have little to anchor them in your mouth, so they may slip and slide around while you are wearing them. They are bulky and may make it difficult for you to speak and chew naturally. They also need to be removed and cleaned every night, adding additional maintenance to your dental routine.

Flippers

Flippers are prosthetics similar to removable partial dentures. They have no metal clasps to help anchor them and can flip into and out of place in your mouth.

Flippers are very light and relatively inexpensive, making them an excellent temporary missing tooth replacement. However, they are not made to serve as a permanent replacement for a tooth. They can be uncomfortable to wear and will break much more quickly than a professionally made prosthetic.

Replace Your Missing Tooth with Beautiful Prosthetics from Trillium Smile Dentistry

If you are ready to replace your missing tooth, you will need to get in touch with a skilled dentist by contacting Trillium Smile Dentistry. We work with patients who are missing teeth all the time, and we have helped them restore their smiles with gorgeous prosthetics that provide superior aesthetics and function. Let us help you feel proud to smile again.

Many people who are thinking about getting dental implants feel apprehensive about the process. With so many unknowns to contend with, this is no surprise. Learning more about dental implants and the procedure needed to place them can put your mind at ease and help you discover if they are right for you.

This guide will tell you everything you need to know about dental implants, including who can get them, which types of implants exist, and what you need to do to prepare for the procedure.

The Ideal Candidate for Dental Implants

Most people can get dental implants to replace a missing tooth, but not everyone can safely undergo the procedure. The best candidates:

If you do not meet these requirements but still want to receive an implant, talk to your dentist. They can help you take steps toward becoming a good implant candidate in the future.

What Are the Different Types of Dental Implants?

Endosteal

Endosteal implants are implants that are anchored to the jawbone using a titanium screw. These are the most common type of implants due to the many benefits they offer. Not only does anchoring the implant to your jaw offer better comfort and functionality, but it also provides stimulation to the jawbone to prevent future bone loss.

Subperiosteal

Subperiosteal implants are very similar to endosteal implants, but the screw that holds them up is placed just under the gums instead of inside the jawbone.

These types of implants can provide passable results, but they are not nearly as stable or functional as endosteal implants. Their main benefit is that patients can receive them even with advanced bone loss.

Many dentists do not perform subperiosteal implants except in rare circumstances. Ideally, people who do not have enough jawbone for an endosteal implant should be given a bone graft to correct this problem. If this is not possible, a subperiosteal implant may be an option.

Single Stage

Single stage implants are placed in a single surgical appointment. A long implant screw is inserted into the jawbone and left exposed above the gumline. Then, the patient is given time to heal. Once they are fully healed a few months later, the implant is attached to the exposed part of the screw.

Two Stage

Two stage implants are placed in two surgical appointments. During the first, the dentist installs the main part of the implant screw in the jawbone. The top of this screw will be covered by the patient’s gums during the healing process. The second appointment removes the gum in this area and places a connecting piece that will hold the implant crown. This procedure is more complex than single stage implants, but it offers a better fusion of screw and jawbone.

Dental Implant Materials

Titanium Dental Implants

Titanium dental implants are the most common type of implant. This is because titanium is highly biocompatible and allows bone to grow around it, making it easier for it to fuse properly with your jawbone. Many modern titanium dental implants are actually made from titanium alloy, making them safer for people who are allergic to pure titanium.

Zirconia Dental Implants

Zirconia dental implants are made from the same material as many dental bridges and crowns. This material has not been used for implants for very long, so it lacks the same scientific support as titanium. Dentists have observed that it is more brittle than titanium but integrates almost as well with human bone. It is also rust-resistant and light-coloured, making it the superior aesthetic choice.

Potential Issues During the Dental Implant Procedure

Some potential issues that may arise during the dental implant procedure include:

What to Expect as a Patient

Before receiving a dental implant, you will need to:

After the procedure, you will likely feel tired as the anesthesia begins to wear off. After this, you will feel some discomfort that you can manage by taking your prescribed pain medication. You may experience mild swelling, bruising, and bleeding during the healing process.

A few months later, you will need a second surgery to attach the implant’s connector hardware. This time, the dentist will open your gums and place the connector above your gumline. Once this heals, you will receive your implant crown, and the procedure will be over.

Pre-Care Requirements

Before your surgery, you will need to:

Dental Implants in Mississauga

Getting dental implants in Mississauga is much easier than many people think, so what are you waiting for? Call Trillium Smile Dentistry today. Our expert staff and glowing reviews make us a top choice for people searching for dental implants near where they live. Contact us to book an appointment or receive more information on the procedure, the cost, or anything else you would like to know.

Invisalign is a popular way to get a straighter, more attractive smile, but its benefits extend far beyond that. Like any type of orthodontic treatment, Invisalign can be used to treat a number of functional problems related to your teeth and jaw.

Addressing these issues will significantly improve your oral health and your quality of life. Whether you have never considered getting Invisalign or are currently trying to decide if it would be worth your money, the following benefits will completely change your understanding of this type of orthodontic treatment.

9 Reasons Invisalign Treatment Is Not Just for Looks

A Better Bite

Teeth work best and last longest when you have a good bite. If your teeth do not come together properly when you bite down, you might experience pain, grind down your teeth, or destroy expensive dental work.

Improving your bite with Invisalign will improve your overall health and help you ensure that your teeth last you a lifetime. This is especially important if your teeth already have many restorations in them – you cannot afford to put those weakened teeth under unnecessary stress.

Better Jaw Alignment

The position of your teeth has a significant impact on how your jaws come together. If you cannot open and close your jaws smoothly, your jaw joint will endure extra stress. Over time, this can lead to problems like joint pain, disruptive clicking and popping, and painful chewing.

Invisalign sets your teeth in the correct positions for proper jaw function, eliminating that excess stress. While there is no guarantee you will not struggle with jaw issues, keeping your teeth in line makes it much less likely.

Better Digestion

To digest your food properly, you must first chew it thoroughly. This can be difficult to do if your teeth and jaw are not in the proper position. You may have too few contacts between your teeth, too little bite force, or experience too much pain to chew as much as you need to.

Once your teeth have been rearranged using Invisalign, you should be able to chew much more easily. This will help you start the digestion process on the right foot, making it easier for your body to break that food down into the nutrients it needs.

Improved Bone Architecture and Gum Position

Good oral health is not just about the health of your teeth and gums. Your jawbone has a lot to do with it as well. If your jawbone is not properly shaped to support your teeth and gums, you will have difficulty maintaining good oral health.

Getting treatment from an Invisalign dentist can reshape your bone structure below the surface. This may improve the aesthetics of your facial structure and will set you up for better oral health for life.

Less Jaw, Neck, and Face Pain

Misaligned teeth often lead to teeth grinding, a destructive habit that erodes your tooth enamel and puts unnatural amounts of strain on your neck, jaw, and facial muscles.

Invisalign treatment can resolve your grinding problem and reduce the pain you experience as a result. While there may be other factors involved that complicate the problem, many people with bruxism (teeth grinding) report feeling much better after undergoing orthodontic treatment.

Eliminate Food Impaction

Food impaction is the dental term for food that gets stuck between your teeth. The bacteria in your mouth then feast on those food particles for hours, creating ideal conditions for tooth decay and gum disease.

Food impaction rarely happens when teeth are properly aligned, and when it does, it is easy to fix the problem with simple flossing. Invisalign can help you get your teeth in the proper position. You will still need to floss, but you will find that a lot less food gets stuck between your teeth.

Easier Speech

Whether you are aware of it or not, you depend on your teeth to pronounce certain words or make certain sounds. If your teeth are not straight, you may not be able to speak as clearly as you could.

Invisalign treatment gives you the tools you need to speak clearly and be understood by the people around you. It puts your teeth back into their proper position and allows you to complete the mouth and tongue movements necessary for speech.

Better Cleaning

Straighter teeth are also much easier to keep clean. Twisted, rotated, poorly aligned teeth create all sorts of nooks and crannies where food particles and bacteria can hide. It is easy to miss these areas when you brush and floss, allowing the plaque to build up into tartar that your dental hygienist needs to scrape off.

With straighter teeth, plaque has nowhere to hide. Not only will less of it build up to begin with, but you will also have no difficulty scrubbing away most of it each day. Your hygienist will easily be able to scrape off the few traces of tartar that are left, leading to shorter dental appointments and maybe even lower dental bills.

You Can Re-Use the Appliance

Invisalign treatment is carried out using a set of custom plastic trays made specifically to fit your mouth. You do not have to throw these trays away when you are finished with your treatment.

Your old Invisalign tray can be used to hold whitening products or as a nightguard to minimize teeth grinding. Wearing this appliance often will also help keep your teeth from drifting out of their corrected positions. Just be sure to use only the last tray to avoid undoing your beautiful results!

Improve Your Smile and Oral Health with Invisalign in Mississauga

If you are ready to start searching for Invisalign, Trillium Smile Dentistry is here to help you get the Invisalign treatment you need and all the extra benefits it provides. Contact us today to take the first step toward straighter teeth and better oral health. Our team will be happy to give you an estimate of Invisalign costs in Toronto or book a consultation appointment for you.

Have you always wanted a dazzling celebrity smile? With dental veneers, your smile could look just like the ones you see on magazine covers. These thin layers of porcelain or composite can completely change the shape, size, position, and even colour of your teeth.

Whether you are interested in getting a few veneers or a full set, you will want to know more about this popular cosmetic dentistry treatment before you commit to it. Our guide will tell you everything you need to know about getting veneers, including what the process is like, how much it will cost, and which dental problems they can help you solve.

Dental Veneers Procedure Overview

Procedure for Traditional Veneers

The process for getting traditional porcelain veneers starts with a dental examination and a series of x-rays. Your dentist uses the information they gather during this period to determine if you are a suitable candidate for veneers. If you have problems with your teeth or gums, you may need to receive treatment for those issues before you can safely get your veneers.

After this, your dentist will prepare your teeth for your veneers. Using a fine drill or a special acid, they will remove a very thin layer of enamel from the front of your teeth. This will allow the dental adhesive to get a better grip on your enamel.

Your dentist will then take impressions of your prepared teeth and ask you to choose the colour of your final veneers. These impressions and colour information are sent to the lab where your veneers will be fabricated. In the meantime, your dentist will place a set of temporary veneers over your prepared teeth. These will be removed when your final set is ready.

Once your dentist has your final veneers, they will call you in for another appointment. This time, they will remove the temporary veneers and replace them with permanent ones. Your dentist may make some adjustments to their positioning based on your feedback.

When you are happy with how your veneers look and feel in your mouth, your dentist will clean away the excess dental cement and send you on your way.

Procedure for Composite Veneers

Getting composite veneers is an even simpler procedure than getting porcelain ones. Like with porcelain veneers, your dentist will examine your mouth and take some x-rays of your teeth and gums. If they determine that you are a suitable candidate for veneers, you can get them placed immediately.

Your dentist will begin by applying the composite directly to your teeth. They will slowly lay down several layers of composite material to create the veneers, shaping them as they go. You will have multiple opportunities to check on their progress and provide feedback on the shape, size, and colour of the veneers being applied. There are no injections involved, and the entire process can be completed in just one appointment.

What Problems Can Dental Veneers Fix?

Discoloured Teeth

Many people struggle to keep their teeth the shade of white that they want them to be. Teeth get more yellow with age, and some people have permanent stains in their tooth enamel that will not respond to whitening treatments. Veneers are an easy solution to problems with discolouration. Although veneers can still be stained by dark-coloured food and drink, they can give you the shiny white smile you are looking for.

Teeth with Gaps

Gapped teeth leave obvious holes in your smile that make some people feel extremely self-conscious. They can also cause problems with chewing and make you more susceptible to gum disease. Veneers can be made slightly wider than your natural teeth, allowing you to close those gaps and resolve all these issues.

Misaligned Teeth

Misaligned teeth are usually fixed with orthodontic treatment, but this process takes a long time and can be very expensive. Instead, veneers can be placed on top of your misaligned teeth to make them look as if they are straight.

Chipped or Cracked Teeth

Teeth can easily become cracked or chipped due to trauma. For some people, this may even be part of normal wear and tear. Placing veneers over the affected teeth can disguise these defects and make your smile whole again.

Filed Teeth

Some people have had their teeth filed down slightly for aesthetic or medical reasons. Veneers can restore your teeth to their original shape, making it look like they were never altered in the first place.

Guide to Dental Veneers Cost

Factors That Affect Pricing

The price of veneers depends on many factors. Some of the most significant include:

If you are considering getting veneers, ask your dentist for an estimate. Their quote will account for all of these factors and give you a concrete idea of how much this procedure will cost you.

Are Lumineers Cheaper Than Veneers?

Lumineers are a type of dental veneer that is even thinner than a standard porcelain veneer. They are custom-made and provide aesthetically pleasing results, but they are less durable and can easily break and chip if they are not properly cared for.

While they are slightly cheaper than porcelain veneers, they are more expensive than composite ones. They serve as a convenient middle ground between the two options.

Veneers Compared to Other Options

Teeth Bonding vs Veneers

Teeth bonding is the process of adding dental composite to teeth. Unlike composite veneers, teeth bonding usually does not cover the whole tooth. Instead, it is applied to specific areas to repair cracks and chips or alter the shape of a tooth. Teeth bonding is a quicker and cheaper procedure than getting veneers, but it will not last as long – just 3 to 5 years in most cases. With proper care, veneers can last triple that time and will look much more impressive.

Implants vs Veneers

Dental implants can last a lifetime and offer attractive results that look very similar to veneers. However, they can only be placed as a replacement for a lost tooth. They cannot help you make an existing tooth look better. Dental implants are also costly, take months to place, and require invasive surgery. Their main benefit over veneers is the additional function they offer. Your dentist will let you know if implants are a good fit for your needs.

Braces vs Veneers

Both veneers and braces can be used to improve the look of misaligned teeth. The difference between the two is that while braces offer a permanent, holistic solution, veneers help to visually camouflage any existing issues. Ask your dentist if your alignment problems are better addressed using braces or veneers. They will tell you if they have any concerns about your bite that would make orthodontic treatment the better option.

Crowns vs Veneers

Crowns are more durable than veneers, offering a solid reinforced structure that can support biting and chewing almost as well as natural teeth. However, they are also significantly more expensive and require more of your tooth enamel to be removed before they can be placed. They are a good option for back teeth that need to withstand more pressure, but veneers are usually a better choice for your front teeth.

Book Your Expert Consultation for Dental Veneers Today

If you are interested in getting dental veneers, your next step is to set up a consultation appointment. Contact Trillium Smile Dentistry and book an appointment with Dr. Tousi. Her many years of experience in cosmetic dentistry have made her one of the leading providers of dental veneers in Mississauga. Call us today at 905-828-9894 or use our online form to get started.

Have you booked your next dental checkup yet? If not, you should. There is a good reason that your dentist recommends you visit them for a checkup every six months. These appointments give them the chance to perform many critical tasks that keep your teeth and gums in good shape. Our list of 8 things your
family dentist in Mississauga does during each checkup will help you understand why these biannual trips are so important.

8 Things Your Dentist in Mississauga Does During Checkups

X-Rays

Taking x-rays is the first thing your dentist will do during any checkup. X-rays give dentists valuable insight into how the soft and hard tissues of your mouth are faring in areas they cannot see first-hand. X-ray imaging can identify tooth decay, bone loss, tumours, impacted teeth, and other serious problems. Getting regular checkups is key to catching these issues early and mitigating their destructive potential.

Comprehensive Visual Exam

Once your x-rays are done, your dentist will look at the inside of your mouth. Using their trained professional eye, they will look for damaged dental work, gum disease, visible signs of tooth decay, and other red flags that may indicate an oral health problem. They may also measure the depth of your gum pockets with a special probe to determine the severity of any gum disease.

Bite Evaluation

The way your teeth meet when you close your mouth is called your bite. Your dentist will check your bite to make sure that none of your teeth are under too much pressure during normal speaking and eating. They will also look for evidence of a shifting bite that might become a problem soon. If they find any issues, they may recommend orthodontic treatment to address them.

Salivary Gland Inspection

Adequate saliva production is critical to good oral health, so dentists look at your salivary glands as part of the checkup process. They examine the glands for signs of problems, such as swelling or abnormal coloration. They also gauge how much saliva your glands can produce. If they are not satisfied with the results, they may order further tests or offer advice on how to stimulate those glands and boost their productivity.

Tongue Evaluation

The condition of your tongue can tell your dentist a lot about your oral health and even your general health. Your dentist will check its colour, texture, and size during your checkup to see if anything is amiss. If they observe signs that point to possible health conditions like diabetes or vitamin B12 deficiency, they will let you know so you can see your doctor for treatment.

Early Detection

Dentists are trained to care for a wide variety of oral health issues, and they use checkups as an opportunity to keep on top of these things. Your dentist will look for indications of severe problems like oral cancer, nerve damage, and impacted wisdom teeth, as well as cavities and gum disease. They will also evaluate how well attached your teeth are to your gums and bone. If any are loose, they may be able to initiate treatment that will reattach it and avoid irreversible tooth loss.

Oral Cancer Screening

One of the most important duties a dentist has is to check their patients for oral cancer. This cancer can develop anywhere along the lips, gums, tongue, the insides of your cheeks and throat, and the roof and floor of your mouth.

Your dentist will look for telltale signs of the condition, such as white patches and abnormal growths, but you should let them know if you have experienced any problems like tenderness in your mouth or lips, sores that are slow to heal, or a feeling like something is stuck in your throat. The survival rate for this type of cancer is higher the earlier it is caught, so it is important not to overlook this aspect of dental checkups.

Building Rapport

Just like a doctor, a good dentist takes the time to get to know their patients. During your checkups, your dentist will chat with you to learn more about your personality and oral health habits.

Are you a nervous person who needs a gentler approach? Does your oral hygiene need some work, and if so, which challenges are getting in your way? Do you have a family history of oral health conditions like amelogenesis imperfecta? All of these things are important for your dentist to know and can help inform the way they provide your care. This is one of the reasons why it is beneficial to keep seeing the same dentist for many years. Over time, they will come to know all of your quirks and traits, and you will feel more comfortable with them as a result.

Book a Dental Exam with the Best Family Dentist in Mississauga

Dental checkups are extremely important opportunities to evaluate your oral health. They should never be skipped, and your dentist should never rush the process. At Trillium Smile Dentistry, we put your oral health first. We are a leading family and emergency dentist in Mississauga with staff who are trusted by countless patients. Contact us today to book your next dental checkup – when you visit us, you can be sure that you are in good hands.

Teeth whitening treatments are one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures around. While do-it-yourself options like whitening kits exist, professional-grade whitening treatments like Zoom whitening are by far the superior option for your teeth whitening needs. Our list of 10 reasons to get your teeth whitening done by a dentist will show you why.

10 Benefits of Getting Teeth Whitening from a Dentist

Improve Your Appearance

White teeth are a key sign of attractiveness. People with a brilliant white smile are perceived as friendly, trustworthy, and intelligent, giving them a massive advantage in social situations.

Over-the-counter teeth whitening kits can only whiten your teeth by a few shades. Luckily, professional-grade whitening treatments are strong enough to get rid of those stubborn surface stains and give you a truly radiant white smile.

Boost Your Confidence

Many people with darker teeth are self-conscious about the discolouration. You might hesitate to smile or laugh to avoid showing people your yellow teeth, holding you back from fully experiencing all of the joys of life.

Again, pharmacy whitening solutions will not provide the same bright white results that professional treatments can offer. With professionally whitened teeth, you will not only feel comfortable smiling – you will be excited to show the world your beautiful teeth.

Look Younger

Teeth naturally yellow with age, so people with darker teeth tend to look older. Older people have also had more time for surface stains to build up on their teeth, further compounding the problem.

Professional whitening treatments can loosen up those old stains and get your teeth looking bright and youthful. You will be amazed at how many years this simple change can take off your appearance.

Faster Results

Over-the-counter whitening treatments require many applications to see real results. By the time you have managed to lighten your teeth enough for the difference to be noticeable, you will have spent many hours with uncomfortable whitening strips or trays resting against your teeth.

In-office whitening treatments work much more quickly. You could see dramatic results in as little as one hour. With such a short treatment time, you will have no trouble getting your teeth to your desired shade in time for that big date, job interview, or any other occasion on your calendar.

Dazzle At Special Events

Speaking of which, getting your teeth professionally whitened for a special occasion is a great way to make the event even more memorable. This is especially true if the event involves lots of pictures, like a wedding or graduation. With so many chances for your smile to be captured forever on film, you will want to look your best!

Enhance Newly Straightened Teeth

When you first finish orthodontic treatment, you will likely be eager to show off your teeth. Professional whitening treatments can make the new, straighter smile you have worked for all the more impressive. Teeth whitening costs are minimal compared to the cost of orthodontic treatment, so for a relatively small additional investment, you can brighten up your teeth and make sure everyone notices the improvements you have made.

Safer Whitening

Teeth whitening is not safe for people with untreated cavities, cracks in their teeth, and other structural problems. Unfortunately, you may not know that these problems exist before you start using at-home whitening treatments, leading to disastrous results.

In-office whitening is always done under the supervision of a dentist and is only offered after a thorough exam. If there are any problems in your mouth, your dentist will recommend that you fix those first so you can undergo your whitening treatment safely.

Less Gum Irritation

Drug store whitening strips and gels contain harsh bleaches that penetrate your tooth enamel to create a whitening effect. The problem is that these bleaches can easily irritate your gums if they make contact with them, causing unnecessary pain.

Dentists use tools like buffer gels and bite blocks when conducting in-office whitening treatments. These tools make the treatment more precise and help keep your delicate oral tissues out of harm’s way.

Custom Treatment Application

Over-the-counter whitening treatments are imprecise by nature. It is difficult for users to apply the gel evenly to each tooth, leading to mismatched shades of white in the final result.

In-office teeth whitening treatments are carefully applied by your dentist to produce a pleasing, uniform result. Your teeth will be exactly the right shade by the end of the process. Your dentist will even take the colour of your fillings, veneers, or other dental work into account to make sure that your natural teeth match these prosthetics.

Less Sensitivity

Whitening strips and trays are notorious for causing temporary tooth sensitivity after application. While this problem will go away after a while, it can make hot and cold food and drink difficult to consume in the meantime.

Professional whitening treatments are formulated to cause less sensitivity than over-the-counter treatments. Your dentist can also apply a fluoride gel after your whitening treatment to help counteract any damaging effects from the bleach.

4 Natural Teeth Whitening Methods

Still want to work on whitening your teeth at home? Try these four natural whitening treatments.

Charcoal

Charcoal may be black, but it’s also a natural abrasive that can help lift some of those surface stains that are causing your teeth to look yellow. Carefully rub ground charcoal onto your teeth for about a minute, then brush away the residue.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is an ingredient in many toothpastes, and it works great on its own too. Mix some baking soda and hydrogen peroxide together into a paste, then brush your teeth with that paste. Brush your teeth again after you are done.

Fruit

Some fruits contain natural acids that can help whiten teeth. Rub the peels from citrus fruits like oranges or lemons onto your teeth or crush some strawberries into a paste and apply it to your teeth. Keep doing this for at least one week, and make sure you brush your teeth each time to avoid damaging your enamel with the acids.

Oil Pulling

Oil pulling may not have much evidence to back it up yet, but it can help naturally whiten your teeth. Swish some coconut oil around in your mouth for 10 to 15 minutes, then brush your teeth afterwards.

Get Professional Teeth Whitening in Mississauga Today

You could get the brilliant white smile you have always wanted in just one hour with professional whitening at Trillium Smile Dentistry. In-office Zoom whitening is one of our most popular treatments and produces incredible results in just one office visit. Contact us today to book an appointment and see the difference it can make for yourself – you will be shocked at how easy it is.

Are you thinking about getting Invisalign treatment in Mississauga? At Trillium Smile Dentistry, we see countless patients each month who are interested in straightening their teeth using this incredibly convenient and discrete treatment option. Our lead dentist, Dr. Zahra Tousi, has more than 10 years of experience in Invisalign treatment and is considered one of the best Invisalign dentists in the area.

We know how important it is for patients to find an Invisalign provider who they can trust during this months-long journey to a straighter, more beautiful smile. Consider the criteria below when making your decision to ensure that you choose an Invisalign dentist you will be truly happy with.

7 Factors for Choosing an Invisalign Dentist in Mississauga

1. Online Reviews

Invisalign dentists who are good at what they do will have plenty of glowing reviews to help you verify their skills. Dentists with mediocre reviews will probably not be able to provide the superior aesthetic results you want to achieve. Similarly, dentists with just a handful of reviews (even if they are extremely positive) may not have the consistent track record you want to see. Look for dentists with many reviews that speak highly of their Invisalign services in particular.

2. Referrals from Family and Friends

Have any of your friends or family members undergone Invisalign treatment recently? If so, ask them which dentist provided that treatment. If they are happy with the results they got, they will be just as happy to recommend that provider to you. They can also give you more detailed information about what to expect during treatment with that dentist.

3. Costs

Some dentists charge more for Invisalign treatment than others. Higher costs are not necessarily a bad sign since dentists often charge more for treatment based on their skill and reputation. Still, it is important to choose an Invisalign dentist whose services you can fit into your budget.

4. Experience

Not all dentists regularly perform Invisalign treatment. Those who frequently do are extremely comfortable with and knowledgeable about it. They know how to get the best possible results and achieve the shortest treatment times, both of which will have a big impact on your overall satisfaction during this process.

5. Customer Service

Invisalign treatment is a long and involved process, so you want to be sure you will get good customer service during this time. Look for an Invisalign provider who is happy to answer all of your questions, discuss how your treatment is going, and offer advice to help you keep your teeth healthy and your treatment on track.

6. Contact Hours and Availability

Invisalign treatment is less likely to require unplanned appointments than treatment with traditional metal braces, but there may still be times when you need to get in touch with your dentist at odd hours. Your Invisalign dentist in Mississauga should offer convenient, flexible hours, including at least some time on weekends. This not only makes it easier to contact them in emergency situations but also allows you to book appointments at times that are most convenient for you.

7. Certifications

Dentists who want to offer Invisalign treatment must obtain certain certifications to work with the Invisalign brand. A dentist who does not have these credentials may be working with inferior technology and materials or may not have the skills needed to secure this recognition.

9 Questions to Ask to Find the Best Invisalign Dentist

1. Are They a Specialist?

General dentists can provide Invisalign treatment with just a few short certification courses, but they will never match the level of beauty and precision that a specialist can achieve. Your Invisalign dentist should proudly proclaim they are an Invisalign specialist and have a portfolio of successful case outcomes to prove their expertise.

2. Do They Treat Children and Adults?

Both children and adults can be treated with Invisalign, but treating children is slightly more complex. As a result, not all dentists will accept child patients for Invisalign treatment. Be sure to check what age range your Invisalign dentist is comfortable working on if you are interested in straightening your child’s teeth.

3. Do They Charge for the First Visit?

Most reputable Invisalign dentists provide an initial consultation appointment for free. They do this because they are confident that they can use this time to prove their professional value to you. A dentist who charges for this first appointment may not be as confident in their skills as one who lets their consultation efforts speak for themselves.

4. Do They Offer Guarantees?

Invisalign treatment is a significant investment. Providers who offer guarantees on their work ensure that you will be satisfied with the results you get in return for that investment. Ask your dentist whether they ate willing to guarantee their work and what specific promises they are comfortable making. A dentist who is capable and confident may offer you some sort of seal to help put your mind at ease.

5. Are They Using the Latest Technology?

There have been many advancements in clear aligner therapy over the years, including advanced 3D imaging that greatly improves the precision of the treatment. Your Invisalign dentist should use as many of these new innovations as possible to deliver an outstanding patient experience.

6. Do Their Estimated Fees Include Retainers?

Some Invisalign dentists only include the cost of their services in the estimates they give to their patients. The retainers needed to complete the treatment may add several hundred dollars to the total cost. Be sure to ask your Invisalign dentist what the full cost of your treatment will be before making your final commitment.

7. Do They Make You Feel Comfortable?

You will be seeing your Invisalign provider regularly over the course of your treatment, so it is important that you feel at ease in their presence. Think about whether you can relax around them and bring up any questions or concerns you have about your treatment. A good Invisalign dentist will make both of these things easy for you.

8. Do They Have a Great Reputation?

A great Invisalign provider will have a great reputation to match. Speak to some of your prospective provider’s former patients to get their opinion on that dentist’s skill and approachability. If few of them have good things to say, consider this a red flag.

9. Are They Flexible Regarding Payment Options?

Invisalign treatment is expensive. Many patients cannot afford to pay the entire cost of their treatment up-front. A good Invisalign provider will offer financing options to help make their services accessible to more patients. With these options available, you will not have to delay treatment until you have enough money saved up.

Book Your First Appointment for Invisalign in Mississauga Today

Googling ‘Invisalign near me’ will not find you the world-class Invisalign provider you deserve to have handling your case. Instead, contact Trillium Smile Dentistry and let Dr. Tousi help you achieve the smile of your dreams. As a highly respected Invisalign dentist in the Mississauga area, she meets all of the guidelines listed above and more. Call us today at 905-828-9894 or visit us online to book your free consultation appointment and see how well-equipped our clinic is to meet your Invisalign needs.

Dental implants are a most popular tooth replacement options available today. However, there are still many myths surrounding them that make some people hesitant to consider getting them. If you are looking to replace one or more missing teeth, it is important to separate fact from fiction regarding these incredible prosthetics. To help you do so, we have assembled a list of 15 of the top myths we have heard about dental implants and the procedure required to get them.

Top Myths About Tooth Implants

1. Dental Implants Are Only for Cosmetic Purposes.

It is true that dental implants offer stunning aesthetics, but this is not the only benefit they provide. They are considered the number one tooth replacement option due to the way they anchor directly to your jawbone, just like a natural tooth would. This allows them to stimulate the jawbone during chewing and speaking activities and helps prevent the devastating bone loss that would usually happen after a tooth is lost.

2. Tooth Implants Look Fake.

Dental implants may not be made of organic tooth material, but they look just like real teeth regardless. In many cases, dental implants actually look better than the tooth they are replacing. Gleaming white porcelain implants are especially beautiful and convincing-looking.

3. Tooth Implants Are Only for People Who Have Lost All Their Teeth.

Tooth implants can be used to replace a single tooth or all your teeth – whatever you need. You can even replace a single-tooth implant crown with a multi-tooth implant bridge later on if the need arises. You may need to have additional implants placed to support larger bridges.

4. Dental Implants Are for Elderly People.

People of all ages can get dental implants. All you need is enough dense jawbone to anchor the titanium screws that will support the implants. Elderly people are actually less likely to have enough jawbone to support the implant procedure, but bone grafts can be applied to make them better candidates for the surgery.

5. Dental Implants Are Not As Strong As Natural Teeth.

Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that fuses into your jawbone through a process called osseointegration. Because of this, they are able to provide very similar strength and function to natural teeth. You should be able to enjoy all of your favourite foods with an implant, even hard or chewy items.

6. Tooth Implants Have a Low Success Rate.

Tooth implant surgery has a very high success rate. Some people are not ideal candidates for tooth implants and would be more likely to have their implants fail, but these people are usually not approved for the process in the first place. Your dentist will tell you if implants are a viable choice for you and suggest things you can do to make yourself a better candidate, such as quitting smoking.

7. Tooth Implants Are Invasive and Painful.

Getting dental implants does require oral surgery, but the process is relatively easy and painless for most people. You will be given anesthesia during the surgery and pain medication afterwards to control your discomfort. Most people return to their usual activities in just 2-3 days.

8. Dental Implants Require Special Care.

Dental implants do not need any special care. If you brush and floss regularly and attend regular dental appointments, your implants should last for decades without any problems. You may eventually need to replace the crown that sits on top of your implant, but you will not need to undergo another tooth implant procedure to do this.

9. Tooth Implants Are Not Affordable.

Tooth implants are among the more expensive options for tooth replacement, but many patients do not realize that they may not have to pay the full cost all at once. Your dentist likely offers some form of financing to help patients who cannot afford to pay for their care immediately. Your dental insurance or HSA may also cover some or all of your tooth implant costs.

10. Tooth Implants Are Not Worth It.

Dental implants restore your smile, self-confidence, and dental function. They make it possible for you to live life the way you did before you lost your teeth. Many patients say that getting implants was one of the best decisions they ever made.

11. Dental Implants Are Still Experimental.

Dental implants have more than 70 years of clinical research behind them and are proven to be extremely safe and effective. Millions of people have received implants and are very happy with the results. Some of them have had their implants for several decades without any problems.

12. Dental Implants Are Not a One-Day Procedure.

While you will not be fully recovered for many months after your surgery, the procedure is often completed in one day. You will feel no pain after a few days. The only exception to this is when you need bone grafts to support the implant screws. The grafting process will need to be completed several months before your surgery can begin, lengthening the process.

13. Tooth Implants Are Not for Older People.

Tooth implants are an excellent tooth replacement for people of all ages. Older people who have suffered some bone loss may need bone grafts to support the implant screws properly, but they can safely undergo implant surgery once they receive those grafts.

14. Implants Are Easy to Spot.

Tooth implants are very discreet. With the screw hidden below your gums and capped by a gleaming high-quality porcelain crown, your implant will look just like any other tooth in your mouth. Most people will never know that an implant is not a real tooth unless they are told this is the case.

15. Tooth Implant Surgery Is Risky.

Like any surgery, tooth implant surgery does involve some level of risk. However, very few people experience complications during or after this procedure. If tooth implant surgery might be especially risky for you, your dentist will warn you that you may not be a good candidate for the procedure.

Visit the Experts for Long-Lasting Dental Implants in Mississauga

It is normal to be apprehensive about making big permanent changes to your body, but getting dental implants could make a drastic positive difference in your life. Our staff at Trillium Smile Dentistry will make sure you have a comfortable experience before, during, and after your dental implant procedure. Contact us today at 905-828-9894 or online to book your first appointment and discuss all of your implant needs and concerns.

Many cosmetic dentistry treatments are available to help people improve the appearance of their smile, but few are as simple and flexible as dental veneers. These tiny prosthetics are the perfect solution for almost any cosmetic dental problem a person can have.

Considering getting dental veneers of your own? This guide will give you all the information you need to make your decision.

What Are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are thin tooth-coloured pieces of synthetic material that dentists place on the surface of their patient’s teeth. This gives those teeth a new, fresh appearance that still blends in with the rest of their smile.

Veneers are a permanent cosmetic enhancement. They cannot be removed, so it is important to be sure you really want them before getting them. Your dentist can help determine if you would be a good candidate.

What Do Dental Veneers Look Like?

Dental veneers look like enhanced versions of natural teeth. They may be used to give your teeth a more aesthetically pleasing shape, colour, or size. They can also cover up chips, cracks, pits, and stains that cannot be removed. They can even make your teeth look straighter than they really are.

Once your veneers are applied, they will look just as white, straight, and uniform as you have always wanted them to be.

How Do Dental Veneers Work?

Dental veneers work by camouflaging your natural teeth under a synthetic cover. The veneer sits on top of your natural tooth, transforming what that tooth looks like when viewed from the front. Underneath, the real tooth remains intact and can still carry out all of the same functions it did before it was altered.

Veneers can be applied to multiple teeth at once, or just one at a time. Many people choose to get veneers on their front teeth but not on the rest. Some dentists even offer partial veneers that you can get to cover up discoloured spots or odd-shaped areas on your teeth.

Types of Dental Veneers

Traditionally, two different types of veneers are used:

Application Methods

Veneers may be applied to the teeth in two different ways.

What Does the Process Entail?

Getting veneers typically requires three appointments.

Appointment One: Dental Veneer Diagnosis and Planning

At your first appointment, you and your dentist will discuss what kind of veneers you want and where they will be placed.

Your dentist will also examine your teeth and gums to make sure you are a good candidate for veneers. If you have any untreated tooth decay or gum disease, you will need to receive treatment for these problems before you get your veneers.

Appointment Two: Getting Temporary Dental Veneers

Your dentist will place your temporary veneers on your teeth with a weak bonding agent and ask you to wear them for a few days. At the end of this period, you will be asked to give your feedback on your new look. This information will help your dentist perfect the colour and shape of your permanent veneers before they are cemented to your teeth.

Appointment Three: Placing the Dental Veneers

Your dentist will numb your mouth again and perform a deep cleaning of your teeth before bonding the veneers to their surface. During this process, they will remove approximately 0.3 to 0.5 mm of your enamel on each treated tooth. They may also make some small adjustments to your veneers to make their shape, size, colour, and other features better match the rest of your teeth and your bite.

Do Dental Veneers Hurt?

No, dental veneers do not hurt. Your dentist will numb your mouth during the placement process so you will not feel anything while they shave down your enamel.

Afterwards, some patients report mild sensitivity in their treated teeth. This is because the teeth with veneers on them no longer have as much enamel on them to insulate them against extreme temperatures. Most patients hardly notice the difference and are able to enjoy all of the same foods as they did before the procedure.

How Long Do Veneers Last?

High-quality dental veneers can last up to a decade and sometimes even longer. Their total lifespan will depend on how well you take care of them.

Taking Care of Your Dental Veneers

To help your veneers last as long as possible:

Recovery and Aftercare

Getting veneers is a minimally invasive procedure that should not significantly disrupt your life. After your anesthesia wears off, you should be able to resume your normal activities almost immediately.

Rejuvenate Your Smile with Stunning Dental Veneers in Mississauga

Veneers are an investment in your smile that is sure to bring you joy for many years. Get yours from the best dentist for porcelain veneers in Mississauga. Contact Trillium Smile Dentistry at 905-828-9894 or online to book an appointment with Dr. Tousi, one of the leading cosmetic dentistry experts in the GTA. We know you will love your new smile.

Tooth loss is an extremely common dental problem for Canadians, especially older individuals. Unfortunately, this loss can lead to many other problems, including difficulty speaking and eating as well as low self-esteem.

A dental bridge is a versatile, visually impressive, and cost-effective solution for replacing one or more missing teeth. Our guide to dental bridges will tell you everything you need to know, including whether you might benefit from getting one.

What Is a Dental Bridge?

Dental bridges are dental prostheses that are used to disguise missing teeth in a person’s mouth.

Dental bridges look like small rows of false teeth. They may be made from porcelain, ceramic fused to metal, or other materials. The teeth on each end of the row are hollow and resemble dental crowns. These false teeth are called retainers and are fitted over your natural teeth to keep the bridge in place. The teeth they are fitted to are called abutment teeth.

The teeth in between the retainers are solid and do not connect to the teeth or gums below them. These teeth are called pontics. Depending on your needs, there may be just one false tooth on your bridge’s pontic or many.

What Do Dental Bridges Look Like?

A permanent dental bridge is almost indistinguishable from the teeth around it. It should fit into your natural alignment and look just like the teeth it has covered and replaced, matching their colour, shape, and other attributes.

Most people will never know that a bridge is not a real row of teeth unless you tell them. You can smile with confidence and trust your bridge to help you make a winning first impression.

When Is a Dental Bridge Necessary?

Dental bridges are never necessary, but they can significantly improve a person’s quality of life. Using them to replace lost teeth allows you to speak and chew the way you did before those teeth were missing. They may also boost your self-confidence and help you feel at ease when smiling and laughing.

Bridges are particularly recommended for people who are not good candidates for implants due to gum disease, bone loss, and other problems. A bridge helps these people regain some lost aesthetics and function without compromising their dental or overall health.

Your dentist may also recommend a bridge if you have teeth on either side of your missing tooth that would benefit from being crowned. By choosing a bridge, you can protect those weaker teeth while also replacing the missing one.

4 Dental Bridge Types

When looking to get a bridge, there are four main types.

Procedure for Dental Bridges

Getting a dental bridge often involves two steps.

The procedure for implant-supported bridges is a bit different. Instead of getting your teeth prepared for placement, you will need to undergo implant placement surgery. Once your new implants have healed, your bridge can be attached to the screws. This process usually takes a few months from start to finish.

How to Care for a Dental Bridge

You can avoid dental bridge problems by:

Dental Bridge vs. Implant: Which is Best?

Dental bridges and implants are both possible options for replacing a missing tooth. Which is better? This depends on your needs.

Implant Benefits

Implant Drawbacks

Dental Bridge Benefits

Dental Bridge Drawbacks

How Much Does a Dental Bridge Cost?

Dental bridge costs vary depending on your dentist, the materials used, and the type of bridge you select. Maryland bridges are typically the most affordable, while implant-supported bridges are the most expensive. Ask your dentist about the different dental bridges and how much each option might cost you. They will be happy to help you fit the cost of this treatment into your budget.

Get High-Quality, Long-Lasting Dental Bridges

If you are interested in replacing one or more missing teeth, Trillium Smile Dentistry can help. Let our experienced team install a beautiful new dental bridge or implants that will restore your dental functions and your confidence. Contact us today at 905-828-9894 or online to request your first appointment and get the process started.