Category: Emergency Dental

Five Important Occlusal Disease Facts You Should Know

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A lot of people have not heard about occlusal disease. It is a dental condition wherein the teeth do not meet properly. If left untreated, people suffering from this disease may feel pain and discomfort. This blog post will cover what you need to know about occlusal disease and how it impacts your mouth and oral health. 

How to know if you have an occlusal disease?

When your teeth are not in the right position, it can lead to tooth wear and eventually decay. It is hard to diagnose if you have one. The best way to know if you have this disease is to visit your dentist for an exam. If you experience the signs of occlusal disease below, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist immediately.

1. Headaches

It is common for patients not to mention headaches to their dentists. Unfortunately, when you have headaches it means that your facial muscles are tired because of teeth grinding. This situation is often associated with an occlusal disease.

2. Facial pain

When a patient is affected by the occlusal disease, they chew unnaturally because their teeth are in different shapes and positions. As a result, they can experience facial pain and jaw pains.

3. Tired facial muscles

Because of the difficulty in chewing, the jaw muscles become tired and may lead to extreme pain.

4. Tooth sensitivity

Continuous wear and tear can expose your teeth’ inner pulp as the enamel wears away. Consequently, your teeth will be more prone to temperature changes and other elements.

Why does a healthy and properly aligned bite matter?

A properly aligned bite is essential for healthy teeth and gums. When teeth are improperly aligned, it can lead to a variety of problems, such as the following:

  • Crowded teeth
  • Bruxism or teeth grinding
  • Difficulty in speaking
  • Protruding jaw
  • Biting the inner cheeks
  • Lips not closed properly
  • Breathing problems

What causes this to happen?

To treat occlusal disease, it is important to understand what causes it. Many factors can contribute to the development of this condition. By understanding the causes of occlusal disease, you can necessary steps to prevent this from happening. 

  • Erosion

This happens when your teeth wear away because of acidic substances which are found in carbonated drinks and fruit juices. 

  • Abrasion

When you use your teeth for biting other things and opening bottle tops, it can cause loss of enamel. 

  • Dental attrition

When you chew a lot this causes enamel to wear down. This is normal since it is part of the ageing process. In addition, attrition is common for people with bruxism or teeth grinding. 

  • Toothpaste abrasion

One of the causes of tooth enamel loss is when you brush too hard. When you brush your teeth, make sure to do it gently to avoid damaging your teeth.

Possible Treatments

There are several occlusal disease treatments. The type of treatment will depend on the severity and extent of the condition. Choosing the right dentist will help in solving the dental problem. Your dentist will first examine your bite and take X-rays before recommending a course of treatment.

Here are some of the treatment options:

  • Tooth equilibration – realignment of your teeth to have a more even bite.
  • Braces – helps correct overbite, crossbite, and underbite.
  • Tooth restorations – crowns and veneers can help restore the shape of teeth.

Schedule an appointment

If you have been experiencing any of the symptoms listed, it is important to schedule a visit to your Markham dentist. They can help diagnose what might be going on and provide treatment options. You don’t want this issue getting out of hand when there are solutions available at your fingertips. 

Dental Implants Procedure: Simplifying How It’s Done

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Markham Dentist - Forestbrook Dental

A missing tooth is one of the common reasons why some patients do not reveal their smiles. Especially if the gap is at the front, smiling seems nearly impossible. Sadly, some people find tooth gaps or missing teeth unappealing. There is in fact, an underlying problem with missing teeth other than its looks. Good thing, dental implants are effective tooth replacements letting you keep your confidence and oral health.

Dental implants

Teeth implants are screw-like posts that dentists attach on the jawbone under the gums to act as the new tooth root. On top of the post is an abutment where the dentist can mount the artificial tooth, most likely a crown.

Since the post is attached to the bone, it provides quite a sturdy grip on the artificial bite. Most often, implants are more durable than natural teeth. Aside from the roots, the crown is specially made to look and feel almost like a real bite. 

Dentists would recommend a tooth implant for patients who need a reliable replacement after missing a tooth. It’s also best for seniors who seem uncomfortable with loose dentures and need a fixed mechanism to it. 

Nevertheless, do patients really need implants? 

Why do you need tooth implants?

If gaps between teeth are left open, it allows the other teeth to shift to different positions and would soon result in misalignment. From there, the patient might develop other oral diseases, like tooth decay or infection. Not to mention that the open socket is already susceptible to infection due to bacteria. 

If the missing tooth is a molar, the other teeth will shift to the back which could lead to premature ageing. Looking older than your age could be worse than smiling with a missing tooth. Aside from that, gaps in the mouth or loose dentures can create lisps making the patient’s speaking impaired.

Somehow, if there’s no tooth the jawbone begins to deteriorate. It loses its function and becomes frail and will become a reason for failing oral health. A tooth implant procedure will prevent these problems by filling in the missing tooth gap.

This is why the procedure is popular although it is invasive and somehow complex. 

The step-by-step dental implants procedure

The dental implants procedure is a rigorous and lengthy procedure to ensure the safety of the patient and the success of the operation. Since it entails multiple procedures other than the implantation itself, it could take months to complete the entire treatment. It also involves invasive procedures that require an oral surgeon to take over with the performance. 

Here are the steps following the tooth implant process:

1. Cutting the gum open

Before the dental implants surgery, the surgeon prepares by isolating the operation site and then giving anesthesia to the patient. This helps him relax during the procedure and sleep through it. After the preparation, the oral surgeon will cut the gum open with a scalpel to expose the jawbone underneath it. 

2. Drilling into the bone

The goal is to place the implant post in the bone. So, at this time the dentist or oral surgeon will drill a hole on the bone with a dental drill. 

3. Placing the implant

Then, the dental post is inserted deep into the bone. This will serve as a tooth root to the replacement dental prosthesis.

4. Temporary denture

At this point, the missing tooth gap is still present because the post is only in level with the gums. If necessary, the dentist will place a temporary and removable denture.

5. Waiting for osseointegration

After the fourth step, the dentist sends the patient home for recovery time. There’s a process during this period they call osseointegration. This process aims to let the dental post fuse with the bone and tissues of the patient to ensure a solid foundation. It might take a few months to succeed with this step before proceeding to the next procedure.

6. Attaching the abutment

Once the osseointegration is complete, the patient returns to have the abutment attached to the implant. The surgeon will reopen the gums and inserts the piece in the implant. Then, he will close the gum tissues surrounding the post but, not over the abutment. By this time, another recovery time takes place. 

7. Taking mouth impressions

After two weeks, the gums should have healed and the patient returns. This time, the dentist takes mouth impressions. These impressions are for making the patient’s customized dental crowns. 

8. Attaching the new tooth

Once they already have your crowns, it’s time to attach them on top of the implant to complete your new tooth. 

It always takes time to achieve a perfect work of art. So, if you have your implants appreciate it and care for it so it lasts forever. Call your Markham dentist now to know the dental implants cost and how you are going to be a candidate for the procedure.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare: 24 Hours After Treatment

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Markham Dentist - Forestbrook Dental

Dentists do not often suggest tooth removal unless it is the last resort to your dental issue. As much as possible, they would choose to save your real tooth to keep your smile beautiful and healthy. However, irreversible damages can happen to your teeth, especially if you don’t regularly visit your dentist. After the treatment, tooth extraction aftercare is vital in keeping the empty socket safe from infection. 

One of the reasons why dentists need to remove your tooth is due to an impacted wisdom tooth. Molar extraction can be simple or complex depending on the position of the tooth. Since wisdom teeth are the last to erupt, most of the time they get stuck between the existing tooth and the gums. This awkward position easily accumulates bacteria and leads to tooth decay. 

If untreated, tooth decay may spread the infection even below the roots. By this time, dentists can no longer repair the tooth and must remove it to prevent life-threatening risks.

After tooth extraction, your dentist will give you specific instructions on how to care for your mouth when you’re already at home. So, it’s important that you understand what happens if you don’t follow your dentist’s advise. Before going home though, be sure to ask your dentist questions regarding his instructions. You may also raise concerns that he wasn’t able to mention. This is to ensure that you would know what to do when you’re already in your house.

Tooth extraction aftercare

Within 24 hours after teeth surgery, follow this aftercare practice to speed up your tooth removal healing: 

  • Take your medicine.

It’s normal to feel pain after the surgery. Especially when the anesthesia starts to wear off, you will notice a slight discomfort in the extraction area. Aside from discomfort, the open wound is also susceptible to tooth extraction infection. That’s why dentists will prescribe pain-reliever and antibiotics to help with your recovery. 

  • Leave the gauze on.

After dental extraction, do not remove the gauze from the socket. You should leave it in place for a few hours to allow the blood clot to form. The clot will cover the wound and helps in speeding up the gum’s healing. If you dislodge the gauze before the clot forms, this might not manage the bleeding and will develop an infection.

  • Avoid strenuous activities. 

Take ample rest and do not return to your normal routine after a wisdom teeth removal. If you normally do exercise, you may skip it for a few days. Also, keep yourself from lifting or carrying heavy objects. These activities will only increase your blood pressure and make the open site bleed. 

  • No smoking.

Although smoke has no direct connection to your recovery, however, smoking creates the same pressure you do when using a straw. Similarly, spitting is also creating pressure. The pressure can easily dislodge the clot formation on the socket. Avoid doing these while your wound is still fresh or you will delay tooth extraction healing. 

  • Do not rinse your mouth.

Within 24 hours after the treatment, do not rinse your mouth yet. You will delay blood clot formation or dislodge it. However, after 24 hours, you can rinse your mouth with a warm saltwater solution to prevent infection.

  • Eat only soft foods.

Gradually return to your diet and start eating soft foods for the meantime. Hard and crunchy foods like crackers or rice will only intensify the pain and may disrupt healing. You may take soup, pudding, and porridge and slowly go back to your normal diet after a few days.

  • Apply a cold compress.

You can also manage wisdom tooth extraction pain and swelling by applying cold compresses on your cheek. Take pieces of ice and cover a towel around it before pressing it on the affected area. If you have an ice pack ready, the better. Do this around 10-20 minutes until the swell or pain subsides. 

  • Elevate your head when sleeping.

If you don’t usually do it, use two pillows when you sleep during this time. You should prop your head when lying down as lying flat will also slow down recovery. 

Return to emergency if: 

  • There’s a fever.
  • Persistent pain and worsening swell.
  • Bleeding that persists even after medication.
  • Foul taste.
  • Oozing discharge, like pus or blood.
  • Loose or shifting teeth.
  • Numbness or tingling in the soft tissues.
  • Difficulty in opening mouth.

The threat of infection after a tooth extraction is real and could get complex. Follow the instructions of your Markham dentist and seek him if there are signs of an emergency.

Effective care at Forestbrook Dental children dentist

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Markham Dentist - Forestbrook Dental

A fun experience combined with quality oral health

When looking for a children dentist, it is important to research your options. Some notable and worthwhile factors to consider are recommendations from people you know and even people you don’t (such as online reviews). The dental clinic’s location is another, since you will likely prefer it to be close to your home or your children’s school. Not all dentists are created equal—especially when it comes to handling the care of toddlers, youth, and teenagers.

Instilling healthy habits

Children have unique needs when it comes to visiting the dentist twice per year. They may still have baby teeth, for starters, which can pose less of a concern as they eventually fall out. However, it is important to ensure they are also practicing good oral health from a young age. Many children do not learn how to brush correctly to truly lift out all of the food particles that can be buried between teeth and lead to cavities, plaque, tartar, and gingivitis.

At Forestbrook Dental, we value the importance of teaching our young patients how to practice proper oral hygiene from the beginning. In fact, we recommend children start visiting our clinic from as young as two years old. Mastering the correct brushing technique is crucial to protect teeth and gums, as is flossing on a daily basis. We also offer important dental care to our patients, like sealants (in particular, applying them to the back molars that are the hardest to reach) to further help them avoid cavities.

Easing the stress of dental checkups

With that, we also use a gentle approach to take necessary X-rays of your children’s teeth. For some, this may be an uncomfortable and slightly frightening experience for kids, but we always go the extra mile and make the experience less as traumatic as possible. Should they have oral care needs that extend beyond regular checkups and possible fillings, we also offer consultations to examine them. Sometimes, our clinic can provide the treatment ourselves, while other times, we can refer you and your child to an orthodontist.

Our young patients actually enjoy visiting our dentists at Forestbrook Dental due to our friendly approach. While many children may be terrified of their dental checkups, we strive to make appointments fun and relaxed. What’s more, we also aim to keep our patients’ parents more relaxed by treating their children with respect and handling their unique needs with the utmost care.

Offering assessments and treatment options

We not only check the condition of your kids’ teeth each time they come to visit us, but actually monitor their progression from one appointment to the next. After all, growth spurts—as well as regular growth that kids experience well into their teens—affect more than just their height and weight. As they get taller and fill out more, their mouths and jaws will also change, and that means their teeth will often shift and adjust naturally. Adult teeth do not always grow in the same way as baby teeth.

Ultimately, your child may require orthodontics to help improve the position and placement of their new teeth. But there is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Our team may recommend traditional metal braces to children with crooked or gap teeth, teeth that jut forward, or if they have an underbite or overbite. Fortunately, for relatively minor cases, there is also Invisalign Teen—a comparable option that is removable and nearly invisible.

Priding ourselves on our bedside manner

With a kid-friendly team of dedicated and skilled dental professionals, we strive to make dental exams less stressful and more fun. Our ultimate goal is to help your children achieve healthy smiles while they are young and maintain them into the future as they grow and mature. Forestbrook Dental is a reputable children dentist in Markham proudly serving our local community and beyond.

We work to develop positive relationships with our patients and their families so everyone feels good about visiting our dental clinic. Although we understand you and your children have many commitments and responsibilities throughout the year, it is crucial to keep up with checkups twice annually. This will help ensure our dentists can catch any oral health concerns early, help your child develop good habits, and hopefully keep dental visits comfortable and familiar.

Broken Tooth Treatment: Dealing With It For The First Time

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Markham Dentist - Forestbrook Dental

Dealing with broken tooth treatment for the first time might be challenging for you. It can frustrate and enrage you in many ways. Not knowing what to do can sometimes make you feel anxious that you might be losing a tooth. When a dental emergency happens, leaving you with a broken tooth, the best thing to do is to seek help from your Markham dentist.

Our tooth is naturally strong. Enamel, which is the thin covering of the tooth is the hardest substance in your body. Dentists consider them durable and stronger than the bone itself. However, they can still chip, crack, or break. When this happens, Markham dentists usually recommend repairing it with a tooth filling, dental bonding, veneers, and others.

What are the reasons why you might need a broken tooth treatment?

  • Accidentally biting down on something hard can damage your tooth.
  • Being hit in the face or in the mouth is never a good thing.
  • Falling and hitting your face.
  • Old amalgam or silver fillings that cannot support the tooth’s remaining enamel. 
  • Tooth weakened by cavities will need a broken tooth treatment.

Minor tooth fracture may not initially hurt. You might only feel it when your tongue feels a sharpened area on your tooth. But if a large piece of your tooth breaks off then it might cause discomfort. 

A cracked tooth hurts because of irritation in the pulp. Under the tooth’s enamel and dentin is the pulp, containing the nerves and blood vessels of a tooth. Chewing on a cracked tooth can irritate the pulp. It can damage it in a way that it can no longer heal on its own. This results in tooth sensitivity to a change in temperatures inside the mouth. 

Large cracks in the tooth can lead to infection and pain that can spread to the bone and gums. Irritation in the tooth is noticeable when you chew because of the pressure that chewing puts on the tooth. 

What are the remedies for this?

  • Minor cracks on the enamel of your tooth will rarely need treatment. However, your dentist might polish it to smooth out the surface. 
  • Your dentist will repair a chipped tooth by reattaching the piece that broke off. Depending on the damage, he might also use a tooth filling or a dental crown. It is important to make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to avoid complications.
  • A cracked or broken tooth is sometimes remedied with a filling material. A severely damaged tooth will need a dental crown to prevent the crack from getting worse. If the pulp is damaged as well then you will need to undergo a root canal treatment. Root canal therapy removes the infected nerves and cleans the area of bacteria. This relieves the pain and restores the tooth to its normal function.
  • Also, you need treatment when your tooth is weakened by cavities. The best way to restore the tooth will depend on the evaluation of your dentist. Extensive tooth decay might lead to extraction when necessary in order to save the remaining healthy teeth. It’s important to look for options like dental implants and removable dentures to replace your missing tooth. There are dental services in  that you can inquire about.

Initial care for a chipped or broken tooth

If you have a broken tooth, make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. On your way there or before you go, here are some tips that you can follow.

  • Use warm water to rinse your mouth with.
  • Apply a piece of gauze on your mouth if there is bleeding in a specific area.
  • Cover your chipped tooth with dental cement for the meantime. This is readily available at most drugstores

Dealing with a broken tooth might be scary at first. The technique is to breathe and remain calm. There are many ways to address a broken tooth like a tooth filling and root canal treatment. You have nothing to worry about. See your dentist in Markham at once for treatment. 

 

6 Ways That Dental Bonding Can Change Your Smile

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Are you looking for a solution to your broken, decayed and discoloured teeth without breaking the bank? Then, dental bonding procedure is a solution for you. It’s less expensive compared to other teeth restoration treatments. But does it offer something else aside from the price?

What are the benefits of dental bonding?

Takes less time

Unlike other dental procedures, teeth bonding in London, Ontario requires only a single dental visit. It just means that the patient can save both his time and money to get his tooth treated. Moreover, he can go back to his daily routine without needing to rest for a couple of days.

Lets you keep most of your enamel.

Another advantage that it offers is that it requires the least amount of tooth enamel removed for the procedure. Thus helping you to keep most of your natural teeth even after the treatment is complete. 

Repairable

The composite resin used for tooth bonding material is also repairable. Unlike porcelain dental crowns, you don’t need to replace the entire material to solve the damage. You may inform your dentist about the problem so he can repair it on the same day. The dental bonding cost is much less compared to porcelain crown replacement.

Solution to tooth discoloration

Most dentists use it to restore and enhance a patient’s damaged or discolored teeth. Since the resin material matches the natural sheen of your teeth, it’s a great alternative to treat tooth discoloration. Your dentist only has to apply the resin and let it dry in place using ultraviolet light.

Improves unsightly tooth gaps

Most patients feel conscious about their tooth gaps. Although some are quite comfortable about it, those who don’t are free to get a dental bonding procedure. Your dentist may use a tooth-filling material to resolve some minor gaps in your teeth.

Mercury-free

The tooth-colored resin doesn’t contain mercury or other potentially harmful materials. Dental amalgam contains mercury which has adverse effects in a patient’s brain and kidneys. Most dentists prefer dental amalgam fillings because it’s the least expensive yet one of the most durable.

Does it require special maintenance?

Bonded teeth require the same level of attention as your regular teeth. You only need to maintain good oral hygiene to ensure that you get more than the actual dental bonding cost. You need to brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day. Rinsing your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash after brushing your teeth is advisable, too. Not only does it kill germs and bacteria, yet, it also helps penetrate those hard-to-reach places in your mouth.

Although the resin material used in the procedure is stain-resistant, it doesn’t possess the same quality as with dental crowns. So you might want to avoid foods and beverages that may stain your teeth. You may also want to quit smoking since the nicotine produced by tobacco often leaves a mark on your tooth, which can be difficult to remove. 

Moreover, avoid oral habits such as biting inedible objects. You should also avoid using your teeth as a tool to open something. Bear in mind that the bonding material used in the procedure is prone to chipping and other damage. If you notice any sharp edges on your bonded tooth, call your best dentist in markham so he can take a look at it.

How long does the bonding material stay intact?

The longevity of the dental bonding material used depends on the procedure as well as your oral habits. Generally, the material may last for up to three years for up to a decade before it needs any replacement.It’s always best to speak with your dentist to ensure your dental health. Although it may be a lot more affordable than other treatments, the dental bonding cost far outweighs its benefits.

Root Canal: Get Rid Of Tooth Sensitivity Permanently

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Markham Dentist - Forestbrook Dental

In the past, tooth extraction was the go-to treatment for damaged, infected, or injured teeth. Luckily, today, endodontists can save and repair your teeth through root canal therapy. This treatment involves removing the infection or damage from inside your tooth.

Root canals are in the dental pulp, which consists of blood vessels and nerves and connective tissue. During the endodontic therapy, inflamed or infected pulp is removed, cleaned, and disinfected to eliminate bacteria and prevent future infections. 

What is a root canal

Endodontics is a  branch of dentistry that deals with the inside of your tooth. Generally, your teeth are made up of three parts, which include:

  • Enamel: hard outer surface of your tooth 
  • Dentin: hard, yellow tissue below the enamel
  • Pulp chamber: The pulp consists of soft tissue 

However, due to infections, the pulp can become diseased or damaged. This is where a root canal therapy swoops in to save the day. This procedure comfortably treats discomfort that is caused by decay, toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold, and soreness. Generally, endodontic treatment is necessary for inflamed or infected soft tissue. The disease or inflammation results from a variety of causes. This includes: 

    • Deep cavities
    • Broken tooth
    • Repeated dental treatments on the tooth
    • Chipped or cracked tooth
    • Trauma or injury
    • Fractured tooth

These problems allow bacteria to enter the pulp and cause infections inside the tooth. Without treatment, pus pockets or tooth abscess build up at the tip of your root in the jawbone. If left untreated, the abscess can cause severe damage to the bone surrounding the bone or tissue or even lead to the extraction of your tooth.

How do you know that you need a root canal?

When the pulp becomes infected, it cannot repair itself, which causes the soft tissue to eventually die. The following are several symptoms that you need endodontic dental treatment.

    • You experience severe discomfort while biting or chewing. 
    • You have cheek swelling or tender gums. 
    • Your gums are darkening as a sign of deep decay. 
    • Your tooth is sensitive to hot or cold. 
    • There are pimples on your gums. 
    • You experience a toothache. 
    • There’s an abscess in the mouth.

Top 7 reasons you should get a root canal

  1. It prevents the infection from spreading. Generally, an infection in the root cavity causes toothaches or cavities. A canal treatment removes the bacteria causing the disease, which prevents the problem from becoming worse and offers permanent toothache relief.
  2. Final results are aesthetically appealing. Your dentist finishes a canal procedure by placing a dental filling, porcelain crown, or other restoration. The dental restoration protects your treated tooth and restores its full functionality.
  3. Saves your teeth for a lifetime. Unlike extracting your tooth, canal treatment allows you to maintain your natural teeth for a lifetime. However, you need to exercise proper oral care. Usually, after the procedure, your teeth return to their healthy state and function just like your natural teeth.
  4. Keeps the jawbone intact. Typically, a missing or lost tooth leads to degeneration of the jawbone over time. However, root canals can preserve your jawbone.
  5. Less painful during recovery. Root canal pain is less when you’re recovering as compared to having your tooth extracted. Additionally, endodontic therapy doesn’t require further dental work once the procedure is complete.
  6. Virtually painless. Due to modern dental techniques such as sedation dentistry and anesthetics, canal procedures are practically pain-free. In fact, according to the American Association of Endodontists, patients who choose root canals are likely to describe it as painless compared to having a tooth extracted.
  7. Efficient and cost-effective: Having your tooth extracted requires several follow-up dental visits for implants, dentures, or bridges. However, most dental insurance providers cover endodontic procedures, and treatment usually requires one or two dental visits.

Root canal treatment are successful

Root canal treatments have a 95% success rate. Usually, teeth fixed with canal procedures can last for a lifetime with good oral hygiene. Additionally, the final stage of a canal treatment involves the placement of a tooth restoration such as filling or crowns. Moreover, a root canal procedure not only repairs your tooth but also restores it to full functionality, just like your natural teeth.

Visit your nearest dentist markham today for a comfortable, safe, and effective endodontic therapy to keep you smiling confidently for a lifetime.

Ceramic Braces: The Invisible Orthodontic Treatment For Your Teeth

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Having straight teeth is a confidence booster allows you to flaunt your smile. Whether it’s a meeting, a party, or any other festivity, a gleaming smile makes you look beautiful. However, not everyone is fortunate to have genetically straight teeth.

People with chipped, misaligned, overcrowded, or overlapped teeth often lose their confidence. They become conscious of their appearance, and some don’t even smile. Yet, with ceramic braces, you need not hide your smile anymore. Rather, braces with ceramic and porcelain brackets let you wear your smile with full confidence.

The big decision: Choosing the perfect braces

Misaligned teeth not only make you uncomfortable, but they also signal potential orthodontic problems. Perhaps, you are also dealing with crooked teeth, jaw bite, or overbite. It’s natural to look for every possible solution to get flawlessly straight teeth.

However, the wide range of orthodontic treatments may overwhelm you. It might become difficult to choose the best treatment. Braces are still the best solution for misaligned teeth despite the popularity of some recent orthodontic treatments, such as caps or crowns and cosmetic teeth surgery.

It’s important to be aware of all the available orthodontic appliances to make the right choice. For years, dentists have recommended traditional and metal braces. But, today, you’ll find more comfortable and less visible braces, such as porcelain braces, which are also called white or clear braces.

●        Traditional braces

Traditional or metal braces have metallic brackets, wires, and elastic bands. The essential components exert pressure on the misaligned teeth and keep them placed in the right position. The dentist fixes the metal bracket to the teeth’s surface with the help of orthodontic elastics. However, they are the most noticeable braces.

●        Invisalign

Unlike metal braces, Invisalign or invisible aligners doesn’t use wires and brackets, making them more appealing aesthetically. Invisalign uses clear removable aligners to straighten your teeth. You get a new set of aligners every 15 days, and the dentist moves only a few teeth with each set.

●        Incognito sublingual braces

You have likely browsed search engines in incognito mode (to hide your identity) several times. Incognito braces or sublingual braces are similar to incognito browsing mode – they are hiding. Dentists fix these braces behind the teeth. Sublingual braces may cause speech impairment for some time.

Ceramic braces: A comfortable solution for crooked teeth

According to the Canadian Dental Association, today’s braces are small and invisible compared to traditional braces. Clear braces are invisible braces that let you flaunt your smile without any uncalled attention. Braces made from ceramic and porcelain are less noticeable, which makes them an amazing alternative to traditional braces. 

These braces have a similar shape and size as their metal counterparts, and they usually come with white archwires. Plus, the archwires are also frosted to blend with light-colored braces easily.

Archwires connect the ceramic brackets and apply pressure on the teeth to straighten them. Clear braces have bands or ligatures that are attached to the bracket’s hook. The elastic bands hold wires to the brackets to correct the teeth and jaw position.

Why should ceramic braces be your go-to option?

Here are some reasons why ceramic braces should be your go-to options.

  •         Less noticeable

The novelty of ceramic orthodontic braces is their invisibility. You may not be able to hide porcelain braces completely, but they are less noticeable when compared to other braces. White braces not only help with teeth alignment but also help you attain a beautiful smile.

  •       Small brackets

Compared to traditional braces, clear braces have small-sized brackets.  This makes the braces less visible and reduces the risk of irritant gums, pain, or discomfort.

  •         They work faster

Ceramic or enamel-colored braces take 18 to 36 months to straighten your teeth. Plus, porcelain braces help with severe teeth misalignment cases. If you’re not comfortable with fixed braces, you may opt for removable Invisalign clear aligners.

  •         Variety of colors

Clear braces give you the liberty to choose any color orthodontic band. You can even pick any of your favorite holiday hues, such as red, green, or yellow. Plus, you can select the same color wire for your braces as that of your teeth.

  •         Flexible payment plans

The treatment for the entire mouth may cost you anywhere between $3500 and $8000. However, the best thing is many dental offices offer payment plans so you won’t have to delay your treatment. Get your perfect smile back in a short span with porcelain braces.

Clear braces – a preventive treatment

Wearing braces help you get perfectly shaped teeth with a beautiful grin. While clear braces help you achieve both, they have more to offer besides cosmetic benefits. In case you don’t know, white braces prevent several long-term oral health problems.

Poor oral hygiene habits are the leading causes of gingivitis, tooth discoloration, tooth decay, and potential tooth loss. Misaligned teeth and jaw disorders affect the wear of your teeth, thereby affecting your chewing abilities.

Not to mention, cleaning your teeth becomes a daunting task when you have misaligned teeth. But, with clear braces, you don’t face much trouble when cleaning your teeth. So, you prevent tooth decay and other orthodontic problems.

Aftercare tips for ceramic braces

It is important to take care of your braces for an extended lifespan. While the brackets don’t stain easily, the ligatures become discolored with time. To protect your braces from stain, and maintain a clear appearance, it’s important to follow a healthy oral practice.

Dentists suggest making a few dietary changes when you start your porcelain braces treatment. They recommend consuming soft foods, such as mashed potatoes, yogurt, scrambled eggs, and fish. Not to mention, soft foods alleviate the discomfort associated with braces.

Also, it’s better to avoid highly pigmented food and drinks as they can leave stains on your braces. For instance, berries and red wine can lead to discoloration of teeth and leave marks on clear braces. Smoking may also stain the ligature.

Final Word

Whether you’re dealing with misaligned teeth or jaw disorders, you have a variety of orthodontic procedures available. Contact your good dentist markham today and ask if these clear braces are the most suitable option for your specific dental needs. 

10 Best Practices To Avoid Wisdom Tooth Extraction Complications

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Markham Dentist - Forestbrook Dental

Your dentist does not recommend tooth extraction procedure unless it’s the last option there is. One of the rare occasions that he performs this is when you have an impacted wisdom tooth.  This condition means that your mouth does not have enough space for the third molar to fully erupt. In some patients, their molars grow under the gums or only a portion of the tooth shows on the surface. Impacted wisdom teeth not only cause pain, yet they also attract bacteria to hide in between. With these reasons, you need to immediately book an appointment with your dentist for a wisdom tooth removal. 

Wisdom tooth extraction procedure

The dentist will scan the tooth to check the position of the molar and its roots which is necessary for treatment planning. There’s nothing to worry about dental pain or discomfort because the dentist will numb the surrounding gums before the wisdom tooth extraction. Next, he will make an incision on your gums so he can see the molar that needs extraction. Using his dental tools, he grips on the tooth and uses a rocking motion to remove it. If it’s difficult to remove it in one piece, he breaks the tooth first and removes the pieces one by one. Wisdom tooth removal is completed by closing up the gums through stitches. Sometimes this step is no longer required. 

Best practices to prevent wisdom tooth extraction complications

1. Eat more cold foods to contract blood vessels and encourage blood clot formation. 

2. Don’t rub the extraction site with your bare hands or tongue. 

3. Manage the bleeding by putting gauze pad or tea bag on the tooth extraction area. 

4. Don’t brush the extraction site or forcefully rinse your mouth so as not to disrupt blood clot. 

5. Gargle with salt water rinse after every meal to prevent bacterial growth in the mouth. 

6. Have a good rest and limit physical activities within 72 hours. 

7. Take only the prescribed antibiotics and pain relievers to speed up your recovery. 

8. See your dentist three days after the wisdom tooth removal for a follow-up checkup. 

9. Inform your dentist right away if you experience excessive bleeding or pain even after medication. 

10. Seek advice from your dentist before going back to doing strenuous activities. 

Caring for yourself after a wisdom tooth extraction in Markham, Ontario is vital to prevent complications. Follow your dentist’s orders and you will be away from any kind of infection after the extraction. 

 

Five Reasons Why A Tooth Extraction Is Necessary

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Top Five Reasons Why A Tooth Extraction Is Necessary - Forestbrook Dental - Markham Dentist

Nothing can be so excruciating as a toothache. It results in a painful and throbbing pain that is intolerable. What’s worse is that it also causes a terrible headache. The usual reaction each time a toothache strikes is to go to the dentist for a tooth extraction.

But before you decide on getting the procedure, take time to think for a moment. Permanent teeth once extracted are gone forever, unlike your baby teeth. Still, there are instances when it is necessary.

What is a tooth extraction?

A tooth extraction is a process wherein the dentist removes a tooth from the socket or dental alveolus. It doesn’t cause trauma to the surrounding tissues. A wisdom tooth extraction is the removal of the third molar tooth situated at the back of your mouth.  

There are two types of tooth extraction, the simple extraction and surgical extraction. Your dentist performs a simple extraction if the damaged tooth is visible in the mouth. He performs a surgical extraction if the tooth isn’t accessible or visible. Dentists use digital X-rays and intra-oral cameras for tooth extraction in Markham Ontario.

Top five reasons why you need a tooth extraction

For a dentist, tooth and wisdom tooth extraction should only be the last resort. There are cases when a tooth can still be saved through fillings or root canal treatment. However, if all other possibilities are already exhausted then a tooth extraction is the solution.

These are the common reasons why a tooth extraction procedure is necessary:

1.Presence of deep and severe tooth decay.

The presence of deep decay damages your tooth and infects the pulp. Your dentist or oral surgeon may suggest for a root canal treatment. But, if there is severe infection then tooth extraction is the answer.

2.Impacted molars.

There are instances when the gums do not erupt. This prevents the tooth from coming out. It usually happens to molars or wisdom teeth.

3.Loosened tooth due to periodontal disease.

Gum disease or periodontitis causes deep pockets around the teeth and gum recession. Your dentist performs an extraction if a tooth doesn’t have enough gum tissue to hold it.

4.Teeth overcrowding.

Overcrowded teeth affects your smile and your dentist extracts a tooth to correct it. Some dentists suggest the use of orthodontics for moderate cases of overcrowded teeth.

5.Fractured teeth.

Your teeth are made of bone-like tissue and the hardest substance of the body. However, it also becomes fractured.The molars are more prone to fractures since it is used for chewing. If a molar tooth gets fractured below the gum line, your dentist performs a wisdom tooth extraction to solve the problem.

Important tips to follow after tooth extraction

Finally, you’re relieved of the toothache! It also stops further infection and damage to your remaining natural teeth. Now, you need to be extra careful in following these tips to avoid complications.  Here’s what you should do after the extraction procedure:

  • Place an ice pack on the side of your face near the area.

Placing an ice pack will reduce swelling on the area. Put it for an interval of 15 minutes for the next one to two hours after the extraction.

  • Bite down on a piece of gauze.

Your dentist will give you a piece of gauze to bite on after the extraction. It will put pressure on the area and stop the bleeding. Change the gauze at least every 30 minutes and do this for at least an hour or so. If  the area doesn’t stop bleeding even after an hour put a wet tea bag on the area for the blood to clot.

  • Have ample rest.

Avoid any physical activity or strenuous exercise after your tooth extraction. Get ample rest and elevate your head in an upright position.

  • Avoid eating crunchy, hard or sticky food.

Don’t eat these food after a tooth extraction as it may irritate the area.

  • Don’t use a straw for drinking.

Avoid drinking with a straw for the time being as it means you have to suck which loosens the blood clots.

  • Rinse mouth with salt water solution after a wisdom tooth extraction.

Rinse your mouth with salt water to sanitize the area and do so with gentle strokes.

The cost for a tooth extraction ranges from $50 CAD to $900 CAD and this depends on the complexity of the procedure. Surgical extractions usually cost more than simple extractions. Meanwhile, wisdom teeth removal cost starts at $75 CAD.

You don’t have to bear the toothache and wait until it worsens before you act on it. Remember that tooth extraction is not the only solution but it is sometimes necessary. Talk to your dentist to learn more about this procedure.