Fluoride is a mineral that exist naturally in soil, water and various foods. Fluoride works by strengthening the tooth enamel making teeth stronger and more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria and sugars in the mouth. All people ingest the mineral to some extent on a daily basis. In addition, approximately 40% of Canadians receive fluoride in their community water supply. Although most people receive fluoride from food and water, sometimes it is not enough to help prevent decay. Your dentist or dental hygienist may recommend the use of home and/or professional fluoride treatments for the following reasons: Deep pits and…

Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings that are applied to the grooves (called pits and fissures) on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth and act as a barrier to prevent cavities. The majority of tooth decay occurs on these surfaces because brushing and flossing can’t always get into all of the nooks and crannies of the back teeth. Sealants protect the chewing surfaces from tooth decay by keeping germs and food particles out of these grooves. The likelihood of developing pit and fissure decay begins early in life, so children and teenagers are obvious candidates. However, adults can benefit from…

A crown (or cap) is a dental restoration that covers the entire visible surface of an affected tooth. If a tooth is damaged but not lost, a crown can be used to restore its shape, appearance and function. A tooth that has been fixed with a crown looks and works very much like a natural tooth. Although there are several types of crowns, porcelain are the most popular because they best resemble your natural teeth to provide a beautiful long-lasting smile. Your dentist or dental hygienist may recommend a crown for the following reasons: To repair broken or fractured teeth. For cosmetic enhancement. To restore…

Over time, teeth often become discoloured and stained by food, beverages and tobacco. Professional Tooth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment that can dramatically enhance the beauty of your smile. There are two types of professional whitening, in-office and home treatment. The most popular method is using a home tooth whitening system that will dramatically whiten your teeth. Both professional options are stronger and more effective than over-the-counter products. Since tooth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is important to evaluate replacement options for any old fillings, crowns, etc. Your dentist or dental hygienist may recommend teeth…

A veneer is an ultra-thin, durable, tooth shaped porcelain shell that covers the front side of a tooth. Veneers can improve the appearance of teeth that are permanently stained, poorly shaped, chipped, worn, or poorly spaced. They are custom made in a dental laboratory then bonded onto the front of teeth to create a durable, beautiful and attractive smile. Your dentist or dental hygienist may recommend veneers for the following reasons: Create a beautiful, white smile. Fix crooked teeth. Reshape teeth. Correct uneven or unwanted spaces. Repair chipped or worn teeth.

A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) dental restoration that consists of one or more prosthetic teeth that bridge the gap created by missing teeth. There are several types of fixed dental bridges, including traditional fixed bridges, cantilever bridges and resin-bonded bridges. The porcelain fixed bridge is the most commonly used and best resembles the look and feel of your natural teeth. This type of bridge consists of an artificial tooth (or teeth) fused between 2 crowns that go over the anchoring teeth on either side of the gap. Dental bridges are highly durable and can enhance your smile for many…

Dental implants are a stable and secure surgical option for replacing one or more missing teeth. A dental implant uses an artificial root usually made of titanium. The implant is surgically inserted into the upper or lower jawbone and an artificial tooth is attached to the implant. The implant acts as an anchor to hold the replacement tooth in place. The teeth attached to dental implants are durable and natural looking to help enhance and restore your smile! Your dentist or dental hygienist may dental implants for the following reasons: Replace one or more missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth. Resolve joint pain…