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Dental cleanings are one of the most important oral health procedures you will receive at your dentist’s office. They keep your teeth clean and healthy, your gums free from disease, and your smile looking bright.

However, many people find them uncomfortable or even frightening to go through. If you are one of these people, our comprehensive guide to dental cleanings will let you know what to expect and will help put your mind at ease during your next dentist’s appointment.

What is Dental Cleaning?

Dental cleaning is the process of scraping plaque and tartar off of a patient’s teeth. Cleanings may be performed by dentists or dental hygienists and may involve a variety of tools, including polishers and metal or ultrasonic scalers.

Dental cleanings are essential to good oral health. They help prevent gum disease and tooth decay, and they even make your teeth look whiter afterward.

What Happens During a Dental Cleaning?

A typical dental cleaning happens in 6 stages.

1. A Physical Exam

All dental cleanings begin with a quick examination of your mouth. This step helps your dentist or hygienist determine how much tartar you have on your teeth, which tools they will need to use, and approximately how much time it will take to get the job done.

2. Removing Plaque and Tartar

Once your oral health needs have been assessed, your dentist or dental hygienist will carefully scrape the plaque and tartar off your teeth using a scaling instrument. This is the longest part of dental cleaning as well as the most important.

How long does a dental cleaning take? It depends, but most people are in the chair for at least a half hour. By the end, your teeth and gums will be free of tartar and feel smooth to the touch.

3. Polishing

When all the tartar has been removed from your teeth, your dentist or hygienist will polish your teeth with a special tool and a gritty paste. This process will scrape away any remaining particles of tartar and make your teeth look whiter and shinier than before.

4. Expert Flossing

Once the toothpaste has done its job, your dentist or hygienist will carefully floss any remaining plaque from between your teeth. Their expertise allows them to reach every nook and cranny in your teeth and gums, including those hard-to-reach spots you may miss during your own flossing routine. This ensures that your mouth is as clean as possible when you leave your dentist’s office.

5. Rinsing

After your cleaning is complete, your dentist or hygienist will give you a cup of liquid fluoride solution to rinse with. You will be asked to swish this solution around in your mouth and then spit it into the office’s sink. This will remove any debris from your mouth and give your teeth a small fluoride boost.

6. Application of Fluoride Treatment

Depending on your needs, your dentist may end your cleaning with a fluoride treatment to help strengthen your teeth. The fluoride will be applied to your teeth in either foam or gel form. You will then be asked to keep that foam or gel on your teeth for a few minutes before rinsing it off.

Other Potential Steps

During one of the two cleanings you should receive each year, you will also need to get dental X-rays done. These X-rays will help your dentist assess your oral health in greater detail and identify problems like tooth decay, tooth resorption, and bone loss.

Depending on your age, decay risk, and other factors, your dentist may recommend additional procedures during your cleaning appointment. For example, many young children have sealants applied to their molars during a dental cleaning to help protect their teeth while they learn to master brushing and flossing.

Who Should Get a Dental Cleaning and Why?

Everyone should visit their dentist for a dental cleaning at least once every 6 months. Some people with heavy tartar build-up, severe gum disease, or other oral health problems may need more frequent cleanings.

Adhering to this schedule keeps your teeth smooth and makes it difficult for bacteria to stick to them. This protects your teeth and gums from disease and gives you the best chance of maintaining good oral health for life. Seeing your dentist frequently also allows them to catch and treat any oral health problems you may be developing as early as possible.

Possible Complications and Risks

Dental cleanings are completely safe when they are performed by a qualified dental professional. However, performing a cleaning improperly may injure your gums or damage your enamel.

Do not attempt to perform a dental cleaning on your own teeth or on a friend’s or family member’s teeth. If you do not have the correct training, you will probably cause more harm than good. Leave the job to the professionals who have the tools and expertise needed to do it safely.

Dental cleanings may also be uncomfortable for some people, especially those with a history of gum disease. Any pain you experience is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. Your teeth may also be slightly sensitive for a few days after your cleaning. Both the sensitivity and the pain should subside within a week of your cleaning appointment.

Get a Stress-Free Dental Cleaning in Mississauga

Are you due for your next dental cleaning? Trillium Smile Dentistry is the place to go. Our friendly staff understands that cleanings make many patients nervous, so we do everything we can to help you relax and unwind while you are in our care.

We are always happy to answer any questions you may have about dental cleaning costs, the tools we use, or any other aspects of our services. Contact us today to book your next dental appointment and see what a pleasant experience a dental cleaning can be.

If you think your child is too young to worry about cavities, think again. Tooth decay can set in as soon as your child has a single tooth in their mouth.

While baby teeth eventually fall out and composite fillings can repair most of the damage that decay causes, it is still important to keep your children’s teeth healthy. Dental decay can cause severe pain and lead to life-threatening infections. Our guide will help you protect your child’s teeth from decay and set them up for better dental health for life.

Cause of Tooth Decay in Babies

Babies can develop tooth decay the same way adults do. When they consume sugary substances, including formula and breast milk, the bacteria in their mouths break those substances down into acids. These acids eat away at their tooth enamel and eventually cause tooth decay.

Babies’ teeth have very thin enamel, so they can develop dental cavities much more quickly than adults. This is especially likely to happen if a baby is given a bottle of milk or formula to take to bed each night. The sugars in the milk stay on their teeth all night, giving their oral bacteria plenty of time to cause damage.

Signs of Tooth Decay in Babies

Tooth discolouration is the most noticeable sign of tooth decay in babies. You may notice patches of yellow, brown, or even black on your baby’s teeth. Milky-looking white spots are also a bad sign. These spots may be signs of one of the earliest tooth decay stages.

Some babies with tooth decay will cry or express pain when their teeth are exposed to hot, cold, or sweet things. However, many do not. Always have a dentist examine your child’s teeth if you spot discolouration, even if they do not seem to be in pain.

How to Prevent Tooth Decay in Babies

When Should Kids Start Brushing Their Teeth?

Most children can start brushing their own teeth as soon as they are able to spit out the toothpaste after – usually around 2 or 3 years old. However, you should supervise your child while brushing until you are confident that they can do it properly on their own. For most children, this will happen when they are around 8 years old.

Cause of Tooth Decay in Young Children

Just like babies and adults, children get tooth decay when the bacteria in their mouth feed on the carbohydrates in their food or drinks.

Young children are particularly vulnerable to decay because many of them eat diets high in sweet or starchy foods. In addition, their oral hygiene is usually not as good as that of adults. They may fail to brush their teeth thoroughly or skip doing it altogether. This is why it is important to supervise their brushing and flossing until they are old enough to do it themselves.

How to Prevent Tooth Decay in Young Children

Other Ways to Avoid Tooth Decay in Children

For a Healthy Mouth at Any Age, Visit Trillium Smile Dentistry

Visiting the dentist every six months for a cleaning and check-up is a vital part of any oral health routine. Get your children used to these visits early by visiting our friendly staff here at Trillium Smile Dentistry. We will be happy to examine your child’s teeth for signs of decay, schedule them for white composite fillings to repair any damage we spot and give you tips on how to avoid future decay. Contact us today to book an appointment for your child and get them the quality oral health care they need to thrive.

Also Read:

• A Complete Guide to Tooth Decay
• 8 Things You Should Know About Tooth Decay
• Tooth Decay: Symptoms & Treatment

If you are considering getting Invisalign, you may have heard about products called Invisalign chewies. What are these products, and how do they complement standard Invisalign treatment? Here’s everything you need to know about Invisalign chewies and their function.

What Are Invisalign Chewies?

Invisalign cheques are small, hollow foam cylinders that aid in Invisalign treatment. They are also sometimes called aligner tray seaters. When you bite down on these soft, springy items while wearing your aligners, they help nudge your aligners to fit more snugly against your teeth. Chewies come in many colours, making it a little more fun for kids and teens to use them.

Are Invisalign Aligner Tray Seaters Included in the Cost of Treatment?

Invisalign tray seaters are not included in typical Invisalign treatment. However, your dentist may recommend that you use them during your treatment and may even be able to offer you some samples to try out. You can easily purchase aligner tray seaters online from many different retailers, so you will always be able to get more when you need them.

How Do You Use Them?

Using aligner tray seaters properly is key to getting good results from them. To do this:

Do not place the whole chewy in your mouth when attempting to fit your aligners. You may accidentally choke on the chewy or swallow it.

You should also never use a chewy that has not been recently sanitized. Always keep more than one chewy on hand in case the first gets dirty. If you drop your chewy while using it, clean it thoroughly before putting it back in your mouth.

Benefits of Using Invisalign Chewies

Invisalign chewies augment your treatment in many ways. Using them regularly can help you:

Chew with Caution

Invisalign chewies are extremely helpful treatment aids, but they can also be very dangerous. Because they are so small and pliable, it is easy to choke on them.

To stay safe, be sure to always hold onto your chewies when using them. Never place the whole chewy directly in your mouth and chew it like a piece of gum. Remember, it only takes a moment for an accident to happen.

You should be extra careful when giving Invisalign chewies to kids. Although chewies are fun, many children misuse them. Ask your child’s orthodontist if they think your child is old enough to use a chewy safely before entrusting them with one.

Invisalign Chewies FAQs

How Do Chewies Help with Invisalign?

Invisalign chewies improve the fit of your aligners by eliminating gaps and air bubbles that get caught between the aligners and your teeth. This makes your aligners more comfortable to wear and may help your treatment progress more quickly.

How Often Are You Supposed to Use Chewies?

Most people who use chewies employ them every time they put their aligners back in their mouth. In some cases, your orthodontist may recommend that you use chewies just once per day.

Do You Reuse the Chewies?

Yes, you can and should reuse Invisalign chewies. Be sure to clean yours before each use so you do not ingest any bacteria when doing so. You should also replace each chewy when it starts to become thin and worn. This ensures that the chewy will provide enough resistance to be effective.

How Do You Clean Invisalign Chewies?

Invisalign chewies should be cleaned gently but thoroughly with soap and water after each use. If you do not have access to soap, a quick rinse under a faucet will suffice for the time being. Be sure to disinfect your chewies at least once per day.

Where Can You Get Chewies for Invisalign?

Some orthodontists sell Invisalign chewies for their patients’ convenience. You can also purchase chewies from dental and orthodontic supply stores or online at various retailers.

Are There Any Alternatives to Invisalign Chewies?

Yes. Movemints are small mint candies that are specifically designed to help seat Invisalign aligners properly. There is also a small Y-shaped product made of silicone called Munchies that works similarly.

Consult Us for the Best Invisalign Treatment in Mississauga

Using Invisalign chewies can significantly improve your Invisalign treatment experience, but choosing a skilled Invisalign dentist is even more important. Trillium Smile Dentistry is the place to go for Invisalign treatment. Contact us today for more information on our Invisalign prices, treatment timelines, and other key details you need to decide if this treatment is right for you.

Also Read:

• 10 Invisalign Tips for the Best Results
• How to Choose the Best Invisalign Dentist in Mississauga

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.

Tooth decay is a common yet serious condition that can lead to many complications for your teeth, gums, and overall health. Thankfully, there are many ways to treat tooth decay and stop it from progressing to its more dangerous advanced stages. Keep reading to learn more about tooth decay and its symptoms and learn some tooth decay tips from our expert team.

What is Tooth Decay?

Tooth decay is a form of dental disease that can damage the surface and internal structures of your teeth. It is caused by oral bacteria that feed on the sugars in the food you eat. This causes them to secrete acids that break down the enamel and other structures of your teeth. The soft, sticky craters this process leaves behind are known as dental cavities.

Tooth decay can show up in three places:

Symptoms of Tooth Decay

Some common signs of tooth decay include:

Note that these problems may be caused by other dental issues as well. Always see a dentist when you experience any symptoms of dental disease.

Diagnosis

Tooth decay is usually diagnosed during routine dental exams. You may also visit your dentist for an emergency appointment if you have a severe toothache that may be caused by advanced decay.

During your appointment, your dentist will ask you about any symptoms you have experienced and how long they have been going on. They will also examine your teeth and apply a metal probe to any suspicious spots to see if the probe sticks. If it does, decay is likely present in this area.

In most cases, your dentist will also x-ray your teeth. This will help them see inside your teeth, allowing them to determine the extent of the damage and discover any hidden decay.

Treatment Options

There are several different ways to treat tooth decay. Depending on your needs, your dentist might recommend:

Is Tooth Decay Reversible?

Early tooth decay can sometimes be reversed, but only with very good care. You will need to keep the area with the decay extremely clean and apply additional fluoride to help your tooth rebuild its enamel.

If you have early decay that you want to try to reverse, ask your dentist for guidance. They can offer tips on how best to do it and apply high-strength fluoride treatments to help you achieve this goal.

Not all cavities can be treated this way, and the treatment is not always successful when attempted. Once decay has broken through to the dentin, it cannot be reversed. Act quickly to give yourself the best possible chance of healing your early decay.

Complications

Tooth decay can lead to many unpleasant complications if it is not treated, including:

When Should You See a Dentist?

You should always see your dentist if you notice any symptoms of tooth decay. Your symptoms may well pass quickly or be attributed to other problems, but it is best to investigate the matter to be sure. The sooner you get treatment for any cavities you may have, the more tooth structure you will be able to preserve.

Get Outstanding Care for Tooth Decay from the Best Dentist in Mississauga

Tooth decay can strike anyone at any time, but regular care from good dentists can keep it at bay. If you are worried about tooth decay, visit Trillium Smile Dentistry – the best dental clinic in Mississauga for dental health and cosmetic enhancements. Whether you need treatment for existing tooth decay or want to learn more about tooth decay prevention, our team will give you the care and knowledge you need to keep your teeth healthy. Contact us at 905-828-9894 or book an appointment online today.

Tooth decay is one of the most common oral health problems worldwide. Every time you eat, the sugars in the food you consume feed the bacteria that live in your mouth. When these bacteria eat these sugars, they secrete acid that damages your teeth and promotes decay.

Regular brushing and flossing help keep these bacteria at bay, but these habits may not be enough to fully prevent decay. To do this, you will need to better understand the mechanisms behind tooth decay. The following facts will help you get started.

8 Important Things to Know About Tooth Decay

1. Tooth Discolouration May Be the First Sign of Decay

Tooth stains are a common problem and are usually harmless. However, some stains are actually signs of decay. Advanced decay can look like yellow, brown, or black spots on the teeth. Stains that appear in the pits and fissures of your teeth are particularly likely to be decay. You should also be on the lookout for patches of white that were not present before, as these may be early indicators of enamel breakdown.

2. Saliva Is Key

Your saliva is your body’s best defence against tooth decay. Not only does it help to regulate the pH levels in your mouth, but the calcium and phosphate it contains can also help rebuild damaged enamel. You can take advantage of these natural mechanisms by stimulating your salivary glands with sugarless gum.

3. Timing and Dietary Choices Both Contribute

You know that certain foods are more likely to cause tooth decay. However, many people do not realize that food timing and frequency matter just as much as food choices when it comes to preventing decay. The more frequently you eat during the day, the harder it is for your saliva to keep up with the acid the bacteria in your mouth will produce. Similarly, eating before bed without brushing your teeth afterwards allows bacteria to feast on the leftover food particles all night, swiftly accelerating decay.

4. Dental Plaque Buildup Can Cause Bone Loss

Dental plaque that is not cleaned off your teeth can seep into your gums and cause gum disease. If this condition goes untreated, it will eventually develop into periodontitis and spread into your jawbone as well. Your bone will then begin to break down. As more and more of your bone wears away, your teeth may start to wiggle, shift, and even fall out.

5. There May Be Even More Consequences Than You Expected

Tooth decay is usually treated with dental fillings, but this is not the only way to treat this problem. Highly advanced decay might require a dental crown, a root canal, or even an extraction. When these treatments are called for, you may need additional work done to restore your smile. Cosmetic options like bridges can be used to replace a missing tooth. Front teeth veneers can also disguise some of the aesthetic problems created by decay.

6. Children and Teenagers Have the Highest Risk of Cavities

Children’s tooth enamel is very thin compared to that of adults, so decay can break through it more quickly. Teenagers usually have all their permanent teeth in place, but they also tend to consume lots of sugary drinks and snacks that contribute to decay. Both children and teens also tend to have poor oral hygiene compared to adults.

7. Having No Pain Does Not Mean You Have No Decay

Many people think that they do not need to worry about tooth decay unless they are experiencing pain. This is a common misconception. In reality, it’s usually only advanced decay that results in pain. This is because, by that point, the decay may be getting close to the tooth’s nerve. Teeth in this condition cannot always be saved, and when they can, it usually takes a root canal to do so. Visiting your dentist regularly allows them to catch developing decay before it becomes severe, giving you a much better chance of keeping your teeth intact.

8. Untreated Cavities Only Get Worse

While very early decay can sometimes be reversed, cavities are rarely discovered at this early stage. By the time they can be detected, they require treatment. Delaying that treatment only gives the decay a chance to grow and destroy more of your tooth structure. If your dentist identifies a cavity at one of your routine dental visits, it is important to get it filled as soon as possible.

Get Your Tooth Decay Treated by Mississauga’s Top Dental Team

Tooth decay is a fact of life for most people, but you can manage it easily with the right dental team on your side. Whether you need a few dental fillings or are interested in veneers to disguise damage from decay, the team at Trillium Smile Dentistry can help. Contact us at 905-828-9894 or book an appointment online to get professional help for your tooth decay today.

Have you ever thought about an aspect of your smile that you would like to fix? Perhaps you chipped a tooth in your childhood and never got it fixed. Maybe you were born with porous, easily stained enamel that never responded to whitening treatments as you hoped. You may even have teeth that are too small or oddly shaped for your liking.

Veneers are the perfect solution to all these problems and more. These cosmetic prostheses allow you to hide your natural teeth behind shells of synthetic material that are shaped to your exact specifications. Our guide will explain this popular cosmetic treatment, including how veneers work, why you might want them, and how to care for them once you get them.

What Are Veneers?

Veneers are thin slivers of synthetic material that are placed on top of the front portion of a tooth. They are created using impressions of your teeth and high-tech laboratory equipment and are shaped according to your treatment plan.

Veneers are a popular option because they allow you to camouflage stained, misaligned, or misshapen teeth. Dental veneers for the front teeth are much more common than ones made for back teeth.

Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Veneers?

To be a good candidate for veneers, you must:

If your teeth or gums are not healthy enough for the procedure, your cosmetic dentist will guide you on how to prepare for get your veneers.

There are also a few potential drawbacks to getting veneers.

It is important that you are prepared to accept these drawbacks if you want to proceed with getting veneers.

Types of Veneers

Two types of veneers are typically used in most procedures:

Top Benefits of Getting Dental Veneers

There are many reasons to choose veneers for your next cosmetic dental enhancement.

Front Teeth Dental Veneers Procedure

When you show interest in veneers, your dentist will set up an initial appointment to discuss the procedure with you.

During this visit, they will examine your teeth and discuss your expectations for treatment. It is important that you understand what veneers can and cannot accomplish before proceeding with treatment. Your dentist will also discuss the cost of your veneers so you can determine how to fit the expense into your budget.

Once you have decided to get veneers, your dentist will make a second appointment to begin the procedure. Your dentist will remove some enamel from your teeth to prepare them for the veneers. They will then take an impression of your teeth to get a perfect representation of their shape. These will then be sent to a lab where the veneers will be fabricated.

When your finished veneers arrive, your dentist will schedule an appointment with you to install them. During this appointment, you will see what the veneers will look like in your mouth. Your dentist can then adjust the shape and colour of the veneers as needed to meet your expectations.

When you are happy with the result, the veneers are bonded to your teeth using dental cement. This process is permanent, so be sure that you are truly satisfied with your veneers before proceeding to this final step.

How Long Do Dental Veneers Last?

Most dental veneers last between 5 to 7 years, and some can last 10 years or more. If you want yours to last as long as possible, be sure to take excellent care of them as soon as they are installed.

How Do You Care for Veneers?

Veneers are a relatively low-maintenance cosmetic dental treatment. Follow the tips below to keep yours clean, intact, and firmly in place.

Visit the Best Dentist for Porcelain Veneers in Mississauga

Ready to create the smile you have always dreamed of? Trillium Smile Dentistry makes it easy to get stunning dental veneers in Mississauga. Our staff will walk you through the entire procedure from start to finish to ensure that you receive results you are happy with. Contact us today at 905-828-9894 or through our online form to book your initial appointment and discuss your needs with one of the best cosmetic dentists in the GTA.

Also Read:

Top Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry to Bring Back Your Smile

Taking children to the dentist is rarely an easy task. Between scheduling issues, unique dental concerns, and managing your child’s anxiety, you may find that these appointments are far more challenging than your own.

Visiting a good children’s dentist (also known as a pediatric dentist) can make this process significantly easier. These professionals are trained in treating young patients and can employ strategies that will make each trip to the dentist less stressful. Here are ten ways a children’s dentist can improve this experience for both you and your child.

10 Ways a Children’s Dentist Can Help with Your Kid’s Dental Needs

1. Be Patient with Your Child

Many children experience a lot of anxiety around dental appointments, especially when they are very young. The experience of visiting the dentist is new to your child, and they may resist going or exhibit challenging behaviours while at the office.

Children’s dentists offer gentle reassurance to get your child to relax inside the clinic. They know this may take extra time, and many will schedule slightly longer appointments for child patients to account for this.

2. Treat Tongue-Tie in Babies

Tongue-tie is a common problem in children. It is caused by a frenulum (the tissue that anchors the tongue to the bottom of the mouth) that is too short, restricting the movement of the tongue. This may make it difficult to breastfeed, swallow, or speak.

A children’s dentist can quickly cut the frenulum on a tongue-tied baby using a small handheld laser. This procedure is painless and involves minimal bleeding, allowing you to easily correct this anatomical problem while your child is still young.

3. Promote Good Oral Hygiene

Oral hygiene is just as important for children as it is for adults. In fact, it is even more crucial. Good habits established in childhood will often continue into adult life.

Your child’s dentist will take the time to educate them on topics such as tooth decay, hygiene habits, and healthy eating. The more your child knows about why oral health and dental care are so important, the more likely they are to take care of their teeth and gums in the future. The dentist will also provide more gentle dental cleanings and may allow your child to take breaks during the procedure when needed, making it less stressful for them to have the tartar cleaned from their teeth.

4. Prevent Cavities

When your child’s oral hygiene is good, they will develop fewer cavities. With regular dental visits, any decay that develops will also be caught and treated early.

A children’s dentist will care for your child’s oral health throughout their development and teach them to do the same. They will diagnose and treat any cavities your child has, then offer advice on how to prevent these problems in the future. They can also administer preventive treatments like fluoride varnish and sealant application to strengthen your child’s teeth and make them more resistant to decay in the future.

5. Guide Your Kids Through the Teething Process

Teething can be a difficult time, especially for first-time parents. It is devastating to see your child in pain when you feel powerless to help them.

A children’s dentist can guide you through the teething stage. They can answer all your questions about topics like when your child will begin teething, how long it will last, which teeth will erupt first, and how best to manage your child’s pain. Not only does this give you actionable information you can use to navigate this situation, but it may also relieve some of your own anxiety surrounding this process.

6. Help Break Your Child’s Bad Dental Habits

Oral habits like thumb-sucking and pacifier use are developmentally appropriate at a certain age, but they cannot go on forever. If your child does not stop these habits around age 2, the alignment of their teeth may be affected.

Dentists know how important it is to break those habits early and keep your child from continuing them as their permanent teeth begin to erupt. They can guide you through different strategies meant to help you wean your child off this behaviour, giving you the best chance of curbing it before it can take a toll on your child’s teeth.

7. Screen Your Child’s Orthodontic Needs

By the time your child is around 7 years old, many of their adult teeth will have erupted. Their dentist can examine these permanent teeth to predict the final alignment of your child’s bite and let you know how likely it is that they will need braces. Many parents find this advanced warning very helpful.

8. Help with Dental Emergencies

Active children are prone to dental injuries from falls, rough contact during sports, and other physical impacts. Because of this, it is not unlikely that your child will need emergency dental care at some point before they grow up.

Most children’s dentists also serve as emergency dentists with options to book urgent appointments when needed. You will know exactly where to take your child when a dental emergency happens, ensuring timely treatment and giving you valuable peace of mind.

9. Encourage Lifelong Oral Care

Early experiences are an extremely important part of your child’s development. If your child’s first few dental visits are stressful and frightening, that impression may stick with them for life and make it hard for them to access the dental care they need.

A child-friendly dentist can give your child a positive outlook on dental care that will set them up for good oral health for life. These professionals create a fun, comfortable atmosphere for your child’s dental care, giving them that all-important positive foundation.

10. Engage Your Kids in Their Own Dental Health

Most children are fearful of unknown experiences, but they are also curious by nature. A children’s dentist knows how to harness that curiosity to make dental appointments more engaging and less scary.

They might let your child touch and hold their tools before the dentist uses them in your child’s mouth. If they are particularly anxious, it may help for them to see the tools used on a parent first to show that they are safe and effective. This gives your child the chance to learn more about how dentistry works and why it is never a scary experience with the best dentists.

Visit Top Children’s Dentists at the Best Dental Clinic in Mississauga

You take your children’s dental care seriously, and so do we. At Trillium Smile Dentistry, our children’s dentists do everything they can to provide a superior experience for their young patients. We also offer direct billing, so you can easily use your dental insurance to cover your children’s eligible dental expenses. Call us at 905-828-9894 or contact us online today to book an appointment for your child and set them up for better oral health for life.

Also Read: 10 Reasons Why You Should Choose a Family Dentist

Do you and your children have a family dentist? If not, you should begin looking for one. Family dentists do much more than just clean and examine your teeth: they are your partner in the journey to improve your family’s oral health. Here are some of the top reasons it is worth your time to establish a relationship with a dentist for your family’s oral health needs.

Top 10 Benefits of Having a Family Dentist

1. Reduce Dental Anxiety

Do you become anxious when thinking of going to the dentist? Many people do, and it may be challenging for them to fight through the feeling for long enough to go to their appointment.

Having a family dentist builds predictability and familiarity in your dental visits. You know you will always see the same familiar faces in the usual office, which reduces some of the stress of the visit. This is especially important for children who are reluctant to go to the dentist. If they never feel comfortable in the dentist’s chair, they will try to avoid visits for as long as possible. This may cause them to miss out on preventive care like routine cleanings and oral exams that could reduce their likelihood of developing dental problems in the future.

2. Your Dentist Knows Your History

If you visit a different dentist every time, the dentist treating you will not know anything about your medical history. Your family dentist, on the other hand, keeps an extensive file on your medical history. They know things like:

This allows them to give you the best possible care and avoid triggering any adverse reactions to the products they use.

3. Convenience and Flexibility

It can be difficult to get every member to see a dentist regularly in today’s busy families. You will need to work around school hours and activities when booking appointments. If you call last-minute, the dentist might not have enough slots left that day to see everyone at once, forcing you to make multiple trips.

Your family dentist will be happy to arrange all of your family’s dental appointments with one phone call. They may even offer to schedule them back-to-back for added convenience, or at the same time if possible, through other dentists in the office. Many are open during evenings and weekends to help you find the best time for your visit.

4. Prevent Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is extremely common in Canada, affecting nearly all Canadian adults at some point in their lives. However, it is not inevitable. With good home care and regular visits to your dentist, you can avoid developing cavities in your teeth.

A family dentist is best suited to help you and your children reduce your chances of tooth decay. They can chart any existing or developing cavities, apply fluoride treatments to slow the decay, and offer personalized guidance to help you improve your oral hygiene routine and eating habits.

5. Prevent Gum Disease

Gum disease is a serious oral health problem. Bleeding, painful gums are bad enough, but the problems do not end there. If the infection sets into your jawbone and begins to cause bone loss, your teeth may start to shift around and fall out. This is one of the leading causes of tooth loss, especially in older people.

Gum disease is preventable and can even be reversed in its early stages. Seeing your family dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups will help you ward off gum disease and keep your teeth healthy and intact for as long as possible.

6. Consistent Access to Services

If you are not a regular patient at a particular dental office, you might have trouble getting appointments when you need them. This is often seen when attempting to book an appointment several months in the future.

Having a dedicated family dentist eliminated this problem. Not only will they allow you to book ahead of time, but they will often suggest that you do without you even having to ask.

7. Brighter Smiles

Maintaining bright, white teeth is an important part of personal grooming for both children and adults. Teenagers are especially likely to feel self-conscious about stained or yellow teeth. Getting regular dental cleanings at your family dentist’s office will help your whole family maintain brighter smiles all year long.

If you have a special event coming up or just want to achieve an even brighter white, you can also ask your family dentist about professional whitening treatments. Using these, your dentist may be able to make your teeth several shades lighter still.

8. Preventive Care

Preventive dental care plays a significant role in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. People who receive regular dental care are less likely to develop severe problems like advanced tooth decay, periodontitis, or dental abscesses.

Your family dentist will see all your family members on a regular basis. They can spot problems before they develop into severe issues and make the appropriate interventions to keep them from becoming worse. They can also clean any built-up tartar off your teeth and suggest things you can do at home to better care for your oral health.

9. Emergency Dental Services

Most children are extremely accident-prone, and their teeth are often easier to dislodge or break than an adult’s teeth would be. If they were to get hit in the head or jaw, there is a decent chance that some dental damage may be done.

Having a family dentist allows you to rest easy, knowing that if something does happen, you know where to go to get your child’s teeth examined and fixed. Considering that timing is critical to achieving the best results in many cases, this is no small advantage.

10. Access to A Range of Dental Services

Each member of your family needs different types of dental care. From orthodontic screenings and cavity prevention to tooth extraction and implant placement, you will need a dentist that can do it all.

A good family dentist in Mississauga offers services for patients of all ages. Whether you need tips on how to care for your baby’s first few teeth or need to have a crown placed on a severely damaged tooth, you can go to the same dental office you always visit and have all of your family’s dental needs addressed.

Book Your Family Dentist Appointments with the Best Dentist in Mississauga

Having a family dentist can make a significant difference in the oral health of you and your children. Find yours today at Trillium Smile Dentistry. Dr. Tousi and her team are always happy to take on new patients of all ages, and with our sterling reputation, you can be sure that your family will receive the quality dental care they need. Contact us today at 905-828-9894 or fill out our online form to set up your first round of appointments today.