#Drayton Valley dental office

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New Post has been published on Foothills Dental Centre Blog

New Post has been published on http://www.foothillsdentalcentre.com/blog/same-day-dental-implant-tooth-replacements/

Same-Day Dental Implant Tooth Replacements

To make life simpler for our patients in need of tooth replacement, we offer same-day dental implant in our office.

Dental implant  is the ideal solution to tooth loss. They’re permanent, durable, natural in appearance and function like real teeth. Unlike dentures, there are no messy cleaning products to use or fear of your teeth falling out after crunching into an apple or ear of corn. Just relax, enjoy your favorite foods and display your beautiful smile to the world.

Most significantly, dental implants sustain the jaw bone. When missing teeth fail to be replaced, the jaw bone withers and the structure of the face is altered. This occurs because the jaw needs to anchor teeth in order to remain healthy. Because the implants are secured into the bone, it allows the jaw to serve its purpose and maintain stability. Dental implants restore health, beauty and function to your smile, and we can install them in just one day.

In most dental practices, patients are referred to an outside oral surgeon to undergo the first phase of receiving dental implants. This brief procedure involves placing a small implant, known as the “post,” into the bone. The post serves as the anchor for the artificial tooth. The surgery is simple, but you would still be forced to travel to another practice, meet new doctors and prolong the process of receiving your new teeth.

Things are different at Foothills Dental. We are staffed with dentists who possess the expertise to perform the implant surgery in our office in the Hinton area, as well as install the artificial teeth. This way, you save time and are spared the hassle of visiting a specialist. Both phases are performed in one office visit, allowing you to experience convenient and quality same-day dentistry.

Once the posts are placed in the bone, your dentist will continue the procedure by securing a temporary artificial tooth onto the implant. The temporary restoration is replaced with permanent teeth shortly after.

General dentists who perform the surgical phase of dental implant installation need to have a great deal of training and experience along with the best equipment to ensure a smooth and comfortable procedure. At Foothills Dental, we have a staff that truly cares about your oral health needs and wants to make the experience as comfortable as possible. That’s why we offer personalized care and attention to those considering dental implants.

Depending on periodontal health, dental implants may not be a suitable answer to tooth loss. We would love the opportunity to evaluate your smile, answer any concerns and determine if dental implants could benefit you. To learn more about same-day dental implants in the Hinton area, give us a call today.

To schedule an appointment, call Foothills Dental Centre. Trusted and proudly serving Hinton, Edson, Jasper, Grande Cache, Spruce Grove, Whitecourt and the Drayton Valley.

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New Post has been published on Foothills Dental Centre Blog

New Post has been published on http://www.foothillsdentalcentre.com/blog/dental-practice-philosophy/

Our Dental Practice Philosophy

Our main goal at Foothills Dental is a healthy smile that inspires your confidence and leaves you feeling happy and comfortable.  Gone are the days when visiting the dentist was a stressful event. We offer  a wide range of comprehensive dental services including, but not limited to, preventive dental care, sedation dentistry, cosmetic and restorative dentistry, braces and dental implants.

Our dental practice is “patient-centered.” That means we provide individualized care for each and every patient. In this way, you are receiving not only the best and most accurate care possible, but also the care that meets your needs, concerns, and desires!

You will be involved in every step of the diagnosis and treatment planning stage. The Foothills Dental team will review your x-rays, intra-oral photos, and periodontal findings on a large-screen computer display so that you are able to make informed decisions regarding our recommendations for your oral health.

Each step of the way, we strive to make your visit a relaxed and comfortable one. Among the many comforts we offer, you will find heated neck cushions, blankets, your choice of music, Internet access, beverages, and even warm towels!

Everyone should have a choice in getting premier dental care and at Foothills Dental our reputation stems from our ability to provide this level of care to our patients. We take pride in our ability to provide substantial results through having a staff focused on compassion and friendliness. Our goal with every patient we see is to ensure complete understanding of the procedures and services we offer, including handling insurance and being accessible for extended hours.

The following are some of the reasons why people choose to come to us for their dental care needs,

We offer multi-lingual services at all of our convenient locations.

We educate and help our patients manage their dental hygiene.

We focus on building positive reinforcement with all dental experiences for young and old.

We perform top notch restorative and preventive care that extends the health of a patient’s teeth and gums.

We offer premium cosmetic dentistry that fits a patient’s lifestyle, health and confidence.

We use the latest methods and state of the art technology to provide the best results in all of our procedures.

Our level of customer service is surpassed by none, which allows us to increase awareness about the importance of oral hygiene and how it is beneficial to persons complete health.

Let us help your achieve and maintain your healthy, happy smile!

Here at Foothills Dental our philosophy is focused on providing premium dental health care to all of our patients. We strive to do this through a team effort while at the same time delivering individualized treatment designed around the needs of each patient we see. We also take pride in facilitating a professional and relaxed environment that we feel enhances a positive experience for our patients regardless of their age.

Furthermore, as a result of our continuing education, we offer a wide range of services for all of our clients dental needs. This fits together with our belief in educating our patients, on proper methods of prevention. This is a key factor in having a successful oral hygiene regimen. This makes our focus on ensuring the health of a patients gums and teeth an important aspect of our practice.

We want to see that each patient has the chance and ability to keep a healthy mouth by providing cleaning, fluoride treatments, flossing, and sealants, which help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Additionally, we make it a point to review the medical history of our patients in order to stay current with the state of the health over all.

As such, it helps our team to know and understand any and all medications a patient may be taking due to any form of health issue not directly related to their oral health. We are concerned, not only, about the condition of our patients’ teeth and gums, we additionally care about their complete health profile.

To schedule an appointment, call Foothills Dental Centre. Trusted and proudly serving Hinton, Edson, Jasper, Grande Cashe, Spruce Grove, Whitecourt and the Drayton Valley.

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New Post has been published on Foothills Dental Centre Blog

New Post has been published on http://www.foothillsdentalcentre.com/blog/water-fluoridation-safety-effectiveness-value-in-oral-health-care/

Water Fluoridation: Safety, Effectiveness & Value in Oral Health Care

By: American Association for Dental Research (AADR) 2014-02-25

Community water fluoridation (CWF) and other fluoride modalities historically have been and remains the cornerstone for the prevention and control of dental caries. There is extensive evidence on the efficacy and cost effectiveness of these interventions as well as assessments of the risks associated with fluoride ingestion.

In 2006 the National Research Council identified severe fluorosis as the only documented health effect of fluoride at 2 – 4 mg/L in drinking water. Concentrations recommended for CWF and current dosage schedules for other modalities ensure safety. Systematic reviews on fluorides have identified gaps in knowledge or the need to replicate some of the previous studies under current widespread use of fluorides. The objective of this symposium is to review evidence of effectiveness and safety, identify research gaps and consider implications for optimizing use of fluoride in public health and clinical practice.

To learn more about how fluoride affects your oral health or to schedule an appointment, call Foothills Dental Centre at (870) 865-7673.  Trusted and proudly serving Hinton, Edson, Jasper, Grande Cashe, Spruce Grove, Whitecourt and the Drayton Valley.

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New Post has been published on Foothills Dental Centre Blog

New Post has been published on http://www.foothillsdentalcentre.com/blog/protect-yourself-from-oral-cancer/

Protect Yourself from Oral Cancer

Did you know that every hour of every day someone dies from oral cancer? Because oral cancer is often found in the advanced stages, this disease has a low survival rate. Approximately 400,000 people worldwide are diagnosed with oral cancer, and only about half will still be alive in five years. With modern technologies, we can detect the early sign and help to save lives.  The Velscope uses a fluorescent light to detect lesions that are just developing.  It is a painless process that only takes a few minutes.  Any suspicious lesion would then be follow up on.  Sometimes a biopsy is required to look at the lesion on a cellular level to gather more information.  A cancer screening is done routinely since cancer cancer can develop at any time.Understanding basic facts and debunking common myths can help you preserve your oral health and protect your life.

Myth: Only people with known risk factors get oral cancer.

Although lifestyle choices, age, and gender can increase your chances of developing oral cancer, about 25 percent of oral cancer patients have no identifiable risks.

Fact: Early detection can save your life.

When patients are diagnosed before the cancer advances, the cure rate is 90 percent. Often, people don’t notice the symptoms, so the disease progresses. Unfortunately, oral cancer can have disfiguring effects on patients as well as compromise their quality of life as they fight cancer.

Myth: Dental checkups are not important for detecting cancer.

Because the initial signs of cancer can be mild, like a lesion that doesn’t heal or a sore throat, you may not recognize a problem. Your dentist will examine your whole mouth and look for anything unusual. If necessary, the doctor may recommend further testing to rule out oral cancer.

Fact: Smoking and alcohol consumption substantially impact oral cancer risks.

In combination with heavy alcohol consumption, more than 30 drinks a week, smoking is increases the odds of developing oral cancer by 75 percent. If you smoke more than one pack a day, you have 24 times the risk for oral cancer.

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New Post has been published on Foothills Dental Centre Blog

New Post has been published on http://www.foothillsdentalcentre.com/blog/dental-emergency-service/

Dental Emergency

We provide same day dental emergency service. We strive to see you on the same day that you call us. Your emergency is our priority!When a patient experiences a dental emergency, adherence to several steps should result in quicker care and relief:

If the patient currently sees a dentist, s/he needs to call his or her own personal dentist. Most dentists belong to a call group, meaning that they trade call with other dentists. Therefore, a caller may be directed to contact the dentist who is on call.

If a person with a dental emergency does not currently have a dentist of record, s/he should call the local dental association and ask for a listing of dentists who accept dental emergencies. The list is broken down by specialties and by time periods. Patients should expect to be charged for emergency care.

If the dental emergency requires an oral surgeon for immediate care, the hospital emergency room personnel will call the oral surgeon who is on call. Patients will be charged for these services.

These problems require an immediate Emergency Room visit:

Breathing difficulties

Fractured jaws

Loss of consciousness

These problems require a dentist’s attention:

Broke a tooth

Badly chipped tooth/tooth is bleeding (not the gums)

Bumped a tooth hard; it used to hurt; it got better, but now it hurts again

Chipped a tooth

Knocked out a tooth

Loosened a tooth, pushed in or hanging out of position

Have pain with swelling

Swelling of gums around teeth

Swelling around the wisdom teeth

Swelling around the eye

Swelling in the roof of the mouth

Swelling in the jaw

Experiencing toothache

These problems require a dentist’s attention but not immediate unless accompanied by pain:Treat before pain develops or your bite changes.

Broken or lost crown or cap

Broken or lost filling

Broken denture or appliance

What should I do for a toothache? This pain can be relatively simple or quite complicated. It can be simple because sometimes by biting or chewing, a person can tell which tooth is causing pain. More often than not, biting does not identify the offending tooth; and the pain can be referred to a distant location like the ear, the chin, the corner of the jaw, or even one side of the throat (the same side the pain is on). If a tooth is hypersensitive to thermal stimulation like hot or cold food or drinks or if spontaneous pain from the mouth occurs “out of the blue” or if tooth pain awakens you from sleep, then you most likely have a toothache and should see a dentist as soon as possible.

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New Post has been published on Foothills Dental Centre Blog

New Post has been published on http://www.foothillsdentalcentre.com/blog/braces/

Braces - HINTON, EDSON, JASPER, GRANDE CACHE, ALBERTA

HINTON, EDSON, JASPER, GRANDE CACHE, ALBERTA – The benefits of orthodontic treatment often go beyond the obvious physical changes of an improved bite and straighter teeth; it’s also a great way to improve a person’s overall self-image.   While having beautiful straight teeth is important, even more important is the need to alleviate any potential health problems associated with the teeth or jaw.  Crooked teeth or jaw problems may contribute to improper cleaning of teeth, leading to tooth decay and, possibly, gum disease or total tooth loss.  Orthodontic problems that go untreated can lead to chewing and digestion difficulties, speech impairments, and abnormal wear of tooth surfaces.  Over time, excessive strain on gum tissue and the bone that supports the teeth can affect the jaw joints leading to problems such as headaches or face and neck pain.

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that children get an orthodontic evaluation no later than age 7.  Though orthodontic treatment can be done at any age, timely treatment ensures maximum dental health.

Some patients may even be candidates for treatment with Invisalign, a revolutionary way to straighten teeth using clear, retainer type aligners that require no braces or wires!

If treatment is necessary, we will thoroughly discuss which treatment option is best suited for you!

Reasons for orthodontic treatment (braces) adults & children:

Breathing or swallowing problems – Mouth breathing can lead to snoring and sleep apnea.

Crossbite – One or more upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth (towards the tongue).

Crowding – Involving extra teeth or malpositioned teeth.

Deep Overbite – The lower front teeth bite into the upper tissue of the upper teeth.

Disfiguring of the face & mouth – Affects the development of the jaw and position of the teeth.

Jaw & jaw joint pain

Missing or extra teeth – Due to tooth decay, injuries, or inherited problems.

Overjet (protruding upper teeth) – Upper teeth that protrude beyond normal and are usually associated with a short lower jaw.

Self-image – An attractive smile can boost a person’s self-image and confidence.

Spacing between teeth – Teeth are missing or may be too small or too large.

Speech, chewing or biting problems

Underbite (lower jaw protrusion) – Lower jaw is longer than the upper jaw.

Specific to children:

Finger or thumb sucking – These habits can cause protrusion of the upper incisor teeth, and mouth breathing.

Teeth erupting out of position – Can be guided to proper alignment.

What does orthodontic treatment involve?

Orthodontic treatment involves three phases:

1.  Planning Phase – Your first couple of visits may include the following:

A medical and dental history evaluation.

Castings or “molds” of your teeth.

Computer generated photograph of the head and neck that will aid in planning.

Photographs of your face and mouth.

X-rays of the teeth and jaws.

After careful planning, your orthodontist will design and apply braces or fabricate custom-made appliances for you.

2.  Active Phase – Active treatment involves visiting your orthodontist on a regular basis for adjustments and following specific treatment requirements to ensure successful treatment.

3.  Retention Phase – When treatment is completed, the braces and/or appliances are removed and a new appliance is made.  Usually these retainers are removable and will maintain the changes made to your teeth if worn continuously until the teeth and bone are stabilized in their new positions.

Treatment and retention times vary depending on each individual case.  Your orthodontist will ensure you have a successful treatment for a beautiful smile that can last a lifetime.

Orthodontics can not only help straighten your teeth, giving you an appealing smile, but can greatly contribute to the health of your jaw, teeth and sometimes your overall health.

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New Post has been published on Foothills Dental Centre Blog

New Post has been published on http://www.foothillsdentalcentre.com/blog/hinton-edson-jasper-grande-cache-alberta-40/

After Dental Treatment Care Instructions - HINTON, EDSON, JASPER, GRANDE CACHE, ALBERTA

HINTON, EDSON, JASPER, GRANDE CACHE, ALBERTA -The following are post op instructions for the common treatment at the dental office.  Foothills Dental hopes that this information will be helpful to you.

Post Op Instructions – After Fillings

When anesthetic has been used, your lips, teeth, and tongue may be numb for several hours after the appointment.  Avoid any chewing until the numbness has completely worn off.

It’s normal to experience some hot, cold and pressure sensitivity after your appointment.  Your gums may be sore for several days.  Rinse three times a day  with warm salt water (put a tsp. of salt in a cup of warm water, rinse-swish-spit) to reduce pain and swelling.

Don’t chew hard foods or chew directly on your new silver fillings for twenty-four hours.  If possible, chew only on the opposite side of your mouth.  You may chew right away on white fillings since they set completely on the day of your appointment.

If your bite feels uneven, if you have persistent pain, or if you have any other questions or concerns, please call our office.

Post Op Instructions – After Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy often takes two or more appointments to complete.  A temporary filling or crown is placed to protect the tooth between appointments.  After each appointment when anesthetic has been used, your lips, teeth, and tongue may be numb for several hours after the appointment.  Avoid any chewing until the numbness has completely worn off.

Between appointments it is common (and not a problem) for a small portion of your temporary filling to wear away or break off.  If the entire filling falls out, or if a temporary crown comes off, call us so that it can be replaced.

It’s normal to experience some discomfort for several days after a root canal appointment, especially when chewing.  To control discomfort, take pain medication as recommended.  To further reduce pain and swelling, rinse three times a day with warm salt water (a tsp of salt in a cup of warm water, rinse-swish-spit).

If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them as prescribed, even if all symptoms and signs of infection are gone.  To protect the tooth and help keep your temporary in place, avoid eating all sticky foods (especially gum), hard foods, and if possible, chew only on the opposite side of your mouth.  It’s important to continue to brush and floss normally.

Usually, the last step after root canal treatment is the placement of a crown on the tooth. A crown covers and protects the tooth from breaking in the future.  If your bite feels uneven, if you have persistent swelling or pain, or if you have nay other questions or concerns, please call our office.

Post-Op Instructions – After Crown and Bridge Appointments

Crowns and bridges usually take two or three appointments to complete.  On the first appointment the teeth are prepared.  Temporary crowns or bridges are placed to protect the teeth while the custom restoration is being made.  After each appointment when anesthetic has been used, your lips, teeth, and tongue may be numb for several hours after the appointment.  Avoid any chewing until the numbness has completely worn off.

On rare occasions, temporary crowns come off.  Call us if this happens and keep the temporary so we can re-cement it.  It is very important for the proper fit of your final restoration that temporaries stay in place.

It’s normal to experience some hot, cold, and pressure sensitivity after each appointment.  Your gums may be sore for several days.  Rinse three times a day with warm salt water (a tsp of salt in a cup of warm water, rinse-swish-spit) to reduce pain and swelling.  Use medication only as directed.

To help keep your temporary in place, avoid eating sticky foods (especially gum), hard foods, and if possible, chew only on the opposite side of your mouth.  It’s important to continue to brush normally, but floss very carefully and remove the floss from the side to prevent removal of the temporary crown.

If your bridge feels uneven, if you have persistent pain, or you have any other questions or concerns, please call our office.

Post-Op Instructions – After Cosmetic Reconstruction

Remember that it will take time to adjust to the feel of your brand new bite.  When the bite is altered or the position of the teeth is changed it takes several days for the “brain” to recognize the new position of your teeth or their thickness as normal.  If you continue to detect any high spots or problems with your bite, call us so we can schedule an adjustment appointment.

It’s normal to experience some hot, cold, and pressure sensitivity.  Removing tooth structure and placement of new materials may result in a period of adjustment.  Your gums may also be sore for several days.  Rinse three times a day with warm salt water (a tsp of salt in a cup of warm water, rinse-swish-spit) to reduce pain and swelling.  Mild pain medication should ease your discomfort during the adjustment period.

Don’t be concerned if your speech is affected for the first few days.  You’ll quickly adapt and be speaking normally.  You may notice increased salivary flow.  Your brain may respond to the new size and shape of your teeth by increasing salivary flow.  This should subside to normal within a week or two.

Daily plaque removal is critical for the long term success of your dental work.  Maintain a regular oral hygiene route.  Daily brushing and flossing is a must.  Regular cleaning appointments in our office are also critically important.  We’ll use the appropriate cleaning abrasives and techniques for your specific cosmetic work.

It’s important to change habits to protect your new teeth.  Any food that could chip, crack, or damage your natural teeth can do the same to your new cosmetic restorations.  Avoid sticky candies, any unusually hard foods substances, (such as peanut brittle, fingernails, pencils, or ice).  Avoid or minimize your use of foods that stain such as tea, coffee, red wine and berries.  Smoking will quickly yellow your teeth.

Let us know if you grind your teeth at night or engage in sports so we can make you a custom mouthguard.  Adjusting to the look and feel of your new smile will take time.  If you have any problems or concerns, we always welcome your questions.  Thank you very much for choosing Arrowhead Dental Associates for your dental treatment.

Post-Op Instructions – After Tooth Extraction

After an extraction, it’s important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process.  That’s why we ask you to bite on a gauze pad for 30 to 45 minutes after extraction.  If bleeding or oozing continues after you remove the gauze pad, place another gauze pad and bite firmly for another thirty minutes.  You may have to do this several times.

After the blood clot forms it is important to protect it especially for the next 24 hours.

So Don’t:

•  Smoke •  Suck through a straw •  Rinse your mouth vigorously •  Clean the teeth next to the extraction site

These activities will dislodge the clot and slow down healing.  Limit yourself to calm activities for the first 24 hours, this keeps your blood pressure lower, reduces bleeding, and helps the healing process.

After the tooth is extracted you may feel some pain and have some swelling.  You can use an ice bag to keep this to a minimum.  The swelling usually starts to go down after 48 hours.

Use pain medication only as directed, call the office if it doesn’t seem to be working.  If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated length of time, even if all symptoms and signs of infection are gone.  Drink lots of fluid and eat only soft nutritious foods on the day of the extraction.  Don’t use alcoholic beverages and avoid hot and spicy foods.  You can begin eating normally the next day or as soon as it is comfortable.

Gently rinse your mouth with salt water three times a day beginning the day after the extraction (a tsp of salt in a cup of warm water, rinse-swish-spit).  Also, rinse gently after meals, it helps keep food out of the extraction site.  It is very important to resume your normal dental routine after 24 hours; this should include brushing your teeth and tongue and flossing at least once a day.  This speeds healing and helps keep your breath and mouth fresh.

Call us right away if you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling after two or three days, or a reaction to the medication.  After a few days you will be feeling fine and can resume your normal activities.

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New Post has been published on Foothills Dental Centre Blog

New Post has been published on http://www.foothillsdentalcentre.com/blog/bone-grafting-hinton-edson-jasper-grande-cache-cadomin-alberta/

Bone Grafting - HINTON, EDSON, JASPER, GRANDE CACHE, CADOMIN, ALBERTA

HINTON, EDSON, JASPER, GRANDE CACHE, CADOMIN, ALBERTA – Over a period of time, the jawbone associated with missing teeth atrophies or is reabsorbed. This often leaves a condition in which there is poor quality and quantity of bone suitable for placement of dental implants. In these situations, most patients are not candidates for placement of dental implants.

Today, we have the ability to grow bone where needed. This not only gives us the opportunity to place implants of proper length and width, it also gives us a chance to restore functionality and esthetic appearance.

Major Bone Grafting

Bone grafting can repair implant sites with inadequate bone structure due to previous extractions, gum disease, or injuries. The bone is either obtained from a tissue bank or your own bone is taken from the jaw, hip, or tibia (below the knee.) Sinus bone grafts are also performed to replace bone in the posterior upper jaw. In addition, special membranes may be utilized that dissolve under the gum and protect the bone graft and encourage bone regeneration. This is called guided bone regeneration or guided tissue regeneration.

Major bone grafts are typically performed to repair defects of the jaws. These defects may arise as a result of traumatic injuries, tumor surgery, or congenital defects. Large defects are repaired using the patient’s own bone. This bone is harvested from a number of different sites depending on the size of the defect. The skull (cranium), hip (iliac crest), and lateral knee (tibia) are common donor sites. These procedures are routinely performed in an operating room and require a hospital stay.

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New Post has been published on Foothills Dental Centre Blog

New Post has been published on http://www.foothillsdentalcentre.com/blog/hinton-edson-jasper-grande-cache-alberta-42/

PLAQUE: What it is and how to get rid of it - - HINTON, EDSON, JASPER, GRANDE CACHE, ALBERTA

HINTON, EDSON, JASPER, GRANDE CACHE, ALBERTA- People used to think that as you got older you naturally lost your teeth. We now know that’s not true. By following easy steps for keeping your teeth and gums -healthy plus seeing your dentist regularly-you can have your teeth for a lifetime!

Plaque: What is it?

Plaque is made up of invisible masses of harmful germs that live in the mouth and stick to the teeth.

Some types of plaque cause tooth decay.

Other types of plaque cause gum disease.

Red, puffy or bleeding gums can be the first signs of gum disease. If gum disease is not treated, the tissues holding the teeth in place are destroyed and the teeth are eventually lost.

Dental plaque is difficult to see unless it’s stained. You can stain plaque by chewing red “disclosing tablets,” found at grocery stores and drug stores, or by using a cotton swab to smear green food coloring on your teeth. The red or green color left on the teeth will show you where there is still plaque-and where you have to brush again to remove it.

Stain and examine your teeth regularly to make sure you are removing all plaque. Ask your dentist or dental hygienist if your plaque removal techniques are o.k.

Step one

Floss

Use floss to remove germs and food particles between teeth. Rinse.

NOTE! Ease the floss into place gently. Do not snap it into place-this could harm your gums.

Step two

Brush Teeth

Use any tooth brushing method that is comfortable, but do not scrub hard back and forth. Small circular motions and short back and forth motions work well. Rinse.

To prevent decay, it’s what’s on the toothbrush that counts. Use fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride is what protects teeth from decay.

Brush the tongue for a fresh feeling! Rinse again.

Remember: Food residues, especially sweets, provide nutrients for the germs that cause tooth decay, as well as those that cause gum disease. That’s why it is important to remove all food residues, as well as plaque, from teeth. Remove plaque at least once a day, twice a day is better. If you brush and floss once daily, do it before going to bed.

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New Post has been published on Foothills Dental Centre Blog

New Post has been published on http://www.foothillsdentalcentre.com/blog/hinton-edson-jasper-grande-cache-alberta-44/

Brushing and Toothpaste

The importance of brushing:

The single best way to remove harmful plaque (a thin, sticky film of bacteria) from teeth and gums is to brush teeth regularly and properly.

What is the proper technique for teeth brushing?

Because every mouth is different, there is more than one technique of brushing that has proven to be effective. Deciding which technique is most appropriate for you depends largely on your teeth position and gum condition. Consult your dentist to determine which brushing technique is most appropriate for your mouth.

Generally, most dentists recommend a circular technique for brushing. This includes brushing only a small group of teeth at a time, gradually covering the entire mouth. The importance of maintaining a circular or elliptical motion is emphasized as using a back and forth motion may cause the following:

a receded gum surface an exposed and tender root surface a wearing down of the gum line

Instead, dentists recommend the following method:

Step 1: Place the toothbrush beside your teeth at a 45-degree angle.

Step 2: Gently brush teeth only a small group of teeth at a time (in a circular or elliptical motion) until the entire mouth is covered.

Step 3: Brush the outside of the teeth, inside of the teeth, the chewing surfaces, and in between each tooth.

Step 4: Gently brush the tongue to remove bacteria and freshen breath.

Step 5: Repeat steps 1 through 4 at least twice daily, especially after meals and snacks.

What type of toothbrush should be used?

A toothbrush head should be small, about 1 inch by 1/2 inch,  and should have a handle suitable for firm grasping. The bristles of the brush should be soft, nylon, and rounded at the ends. This helps ensure that the brush bristles are reaching the spaces between the teeth as well as the surface. Some brushes are too abrasive and can wear down the enamel on teeth. Thus, in most cases, medium and hard bristles are not recommended. How often is brushing necessary?

Generally, brushing is recommended twice a day for at least three to four minutes each time. Patients generally think they are brushing long enough, when, in fact, most people spend less than one minute brushing. In addition, it is generally better to brush 3 to 4 minutes twice a day instead of brushing quickly five or more times throughout the day.

Dentists advise brushing your teeth during the day while at work, school, or play. Keeping a toothbrush handy, in your desk or backpack,  increases the chances that you will brush during the day.

What is toothpaste?

Also called dentifrice, toothpaste is comprised of the following cleaning ingredients (stated in approximate percentages):

humectant and water – 75 percent abrasive – 20 percent foaming and flavoring agents – 2 percent pH buffers – 2 percent coloring agents, binders, and opacifiers – 1.5 percent fluoride – .24 percent

Facts about toothpaste:

Brushing with toothpaste (particularly toothpaste with fluoride) helps to accomplish the following: remove plaque resist decay promote remineralization clean and polish teeth remove teeth stains freshen breath Which type of toothpaste is best? Fluoride is the most crucial ingredient in toothpaste. As long as the toothpaste contains fluoride, the brand, nor type (paste, gel, or powder) generally does not matter. All fluoride toothpastes work effectively to fight plaque and cavities, and clean and polish tooth enamel. The brand you choose should bear the ADA (American Dental Association) seal of approval on the container, which means that adequate evidence of safety and efficacy have been demonstrated in controlled, clinical trials.

Some toothpastes offer tartar control pyrophosphates to prevent the build-up of soft calculus deposits on teeth, while others offer whitening formulas to safely remove stains making teeth brighter and shinier. But, contrary to clever advertising and popular belief, fluoride is the true active ingredient that works the hardest to protect your teeth. The importance of brushing:

The single best way to remove harmful plaque (a thin, sticky film of bacteria) from teeth and gums is to brush teeth regularly and properly. What is the proper technique for teeth brushing?

Because every mouth is different, there is more than one technique of brushing that has proven to be effective. Deciding which technique is most appropriate for you depends largely on your teeth position and gum condition. Consult your dentist to determine which brushing technique is most appropriate for your mouth.

Generally, most dentists recommend a circular technique for brushing. This includes brushing only a small group of teeth at a time, gradually covering the entire mouth. The importance of maintaining a circular or elliptical motion is emphasized as using a back and forth motion may cause the following:

a receded gum surface an exposed and tender root surface a wearing down of the gum line

Instead, dentists recommend the following method:

Step 1: Place the toothbrush beside your teeth at a 45-degree angle.

Step 2: Gently brush teeth only a small group of teeth at a time (in a circular or elliptical motion) until the entire mouth is covered.

Step 3: Brush the outside of the teeth, inside of the teeth, the chewing surfaces, and in between each tooth.

Step 4: Gently brush the tongue to remove bacteria and freshen breath.

Step 5: Repeat steps 1 through 4 at least twice daily, especially after meals and snacks. What type of toothbrush should be used?

A toothbrush head should be small, about 1 inch by 1/2 inch,  and should have a handle suitable for firm grasping. The bristles of the brush should be soft, nylon, and rounded at the ends. This helps ensure that the brush bristles are reaching the spaces between the teeth as well as the surface. Some brushes are too abrasive and can wear down the enamel on teeth. Thus, in most cases, medium and hard bristles are not recommended. How often is brushing necessary?

Generally, brushing is recommended twice a day for at least three to four minutes each time. Patients generally think they are brushing long enough, when, in fact, most people spend less than one minute brushing. In addition, it is generally better to brush 3 to 4 minutes twice a day instead of brushing quickly five or more times throughout the day.

Dentists advise brushing your teeth during the day while at work, school, or play. Keeping a toothbrush handy, in your desk or backpack,  increases the chances that you will brush during the day. What is toothpaste?

Also called dentifrice, toothpaste is comprised of the following cleaning ingredients (stated in approximate percentages):

humectant and water – 75 percent abrasive – 20 percent foaming and flavoring agents – 2 percent pH buffers – 2 percent coloring agents, binders, and opacifiers – 1.5 percent fluoride – .24 percent

Facts about toothpaste:

Brushing with toothpaste (particularly toothpaste with fluoride) helps to accomplish the following: remove plaque resist decay promote remineralization clean and polish teeth remove teeth stains freshen breath Which type of toothpaste is best? Fluoride is the most crucial ingredient in toothpaste. As long as the toothpaste contains fluoride, the brand, nor type (paste, gel, or powder) generally does not matter. All fluoride toothpastes work effectively to fight plaque and cavities, and clean and polish tooth enamel. The brand you choose should bear the ADA (American Dental Association) seal of approval on the container, which means that adequate evidence of safety and efficacy have been demonstrated in controlled, clinical trials.

Some toothpastes offer tartar control pyrophosphates to prevent the build-up of soft calculus deposits on teeth, while others offer whitening formulas to safely remove stains making teeth brighter and shinier. But, contrary to clever advertising and popular belief, fluoride is the true active ingredient that works the hardest to protect your teeth.

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New Post has been published on Foothills Dental Centre Blog

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Sinus Lift - HINTON, EDSON, JASPER, GRANDE CACHE, CADOMIN, ALBERTA

HINTON, EDSON, JASPER, GRANDE CACHE, CADOMIN, ALBERTA – The maxillary sinuses are behind your cheeks and on top of the upper teeth. Sinuses are like empty rooms that have nothing in them. Some of the roots of the natural upper teeth extend up into the maxillary sinuses. When these upper teeth are removed, there is often just a thin wall of bone separating the maxillary sinus and the mouth. Dental implants need bone to hold them in place. When the sinus wall is very thin, it is impossible to place dental implants in this bone.

There is a solution called a sinus graft or sinus lift graft. The dental implant surgeon enters the sinus from where the upper teeth used to be. The sinus membrane is then lifted upward and donor bone is inserted into the floor of the sinus. Keep in mind that the floor of the sinus is the roof of the upper jaw. After several months of healing, the bone becomes part of the patient’s jaw and dental implants can be inserted and stabilized in this new sinus bone.

The sinus graft makes it possible for many patients to have dental implants when years ago there was no other option other than wearing loose dentures.

If enough bone between the upper jaw ridge and the bottom of the sinus is available to stabilize the implant well, sinus augmentations and implant placement can sometimes be performed as a single procedure. If not enough bone is available, the sinus augmentation will have to be performed first, then the graft will have to mature for several months, depending upon the type of graft material used. Once the graft has matured, the implants can be placed.

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New Post has been published on Foothills Dental Centre Blog

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Sedation Dentistry

A visit to the dentist can cause fear and anxiety. Patients who experience dental phobia may postpone or avoid vital dental appointment, and multiple dental visits are out of the question. Neglecting your oral health can lead to tooth loss, disease, and overall health problems. However, you can overcome dental fear with sedation dentistry.

At our office, we offer two kinds of sedation: Nitrous Oxide Sedation and IV sedation.

Nitrous Oxide Sedation involves a colorless, odorless gas inhaled through a nasal mask. Many people know nitrous oxide as laughing gas. We will control the amount of nitrous you receive to ensure your safety. Once you begin breathing the gas, you will feel relaxed, so the dentist can perform your dental work while you stay completely comfortable. The effects of nitrous oxide subside once we remove your mask, so if nitrous is the only anesthesia you receive, you will be capable of driving yourself home following the visit and can continue your daily activities as normal.

IV Sedaton. IV stands for intravenous. Medication that is administered intravenously is administered through the veins. Because of its rapid effects many patients prefer this option.  IV dental sedation induces a deep sleep-like state in patients in order to help them relax while dental work is being performed. This sedation dentistry technique can be used during nearly any dental procedure but is most often used with treatments such as dental implants, dental bridges, and dental crowns.

In IV sedation, sedatives are administered intravenously into the patient’s bloodstream. The medication works quickly, and the patient will begin to feel relaxed and drowsy within a matter of seconds. Oral sedatives and other sedation dentistry techniques often require at least an hour to take effect. Another advantage of IV sedation is that, if necessary, the amount of medication can be increased and its effects will be felt immediately.

Who should consider sedation dentistry? You may want to consider sedation dentistry if:

You are fearful or anxious of dental treatment and dental instruments

Local anesthetics do not have a numbing effect on you

You have a sensitive gag reflex

You suffer from any health issues, such as neck or back pain, which could lead to discomfort while sitting in a dentist’s chair

Sedation dentistry can give you the peace of mind you need in order to undergo dental work. You may enjoy better overall health, an improved self-image, and better quality of life with a healthy, beautiful smile.

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New Post has been published on Foothills Dental Centre Blog

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How to Floss Correctly

Dental floss is either a bundle of thin nylon filaments or a plastic (teflon or polyethylene) ribbon used to remove food and dental plaque from teeth. The floss is gently inserted between the teeth and scraped along the teeth sides, especially close to the gums. Dental floss may be flavored or unflavored, and waxed or unwaxed.

Technique:

Break off about 18 inches of floss and wind most of it around the middle finger of one hand and the rest around the other middle finger. If the floss is hard to get between your teeth, try using dental tape, which is thinner. Holding the floss between your thumbs and forefingers, guide it between two teeth by gently rubbing it back and forth. When the floss reaches the gum line, curve it around one of the teeth and gently slide it back and forth in the crevice between the tooth and the gum. Holding the floss tightly against the side of the tooth, rub gently up and down. Repeat for each tooth, including the backside of your last teeth, changing to a different part of the floss as you go along.

The American Dental Association (ADA) advises to floss once or more per day. It should be noted that overly vigorous or incorrect flossing can result in gum tissue damage. For proper flossing, the Association advises to curve the floss against the side of the tooth in a ‘C’ shape, and then to wipe the tooth from under the gumline (very gently) to the tip two or three times, repeated on adjacent tooth and on all other teeth too.

  Useful tips:

Don’t be discouraged with your first attempt. Flossing is a skill that is learned and after a while, it will take only a few minutes of your time. If you do not have good finger dexterity, you may find it helpful to use a commercial floss holder. Children may find it easier to use a loop of floss. Take a piece of floss about 10 inches long and tie the ends together, into a circle. Then hold the floss tightly between the thumbs and forefingers to floss. Most children cannot floss their own teeth properly until about the age of 10. Establish a regular pattern and time for flossing, so that you don’t miss any of your teeth. Remember to be gentle when inserting floss between your teeth and under the gumline. Flossing can injure your gums if done improperly. Your gums may bleed and be sore for the first few days that you floss. Your gums should heal and the bleeding should stop once all the bacteria are removed.

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New Post has been published on Foothills Dental Centre Blog

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Gum Disease

Gum disease may refer to:

Gingivitis

Periodontitis

Gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) (gingiva) around the teeth is a general term for gingival diseases affecting the gums. As generally used, the term gingivitis refers to gingival inflammation induced by bacterial plaque adherent to tooth surfaces.

Causes Gingivitis is usually caused by bacterial plaque that accumulates in the spaces between the gums and the teeth and in calculus (tartar) that forms on the teeth. These accumulations may be tiny, even microscopic, but the bacteria in them produce foreign chemicals and toxins that cause inflammation of the gums around the teeth. This inflammation can, over the years, cause deep pockets between the teeth and gums and loss of bone around teeth otherwise known as periodontitis.

People with a healthy periodontium (gums, bone and ligament) or people with gingivitis only require periodontal debridement every 6 months. However, many dental professionals only recommend periodontal debridement (cleanings) every 6 months, because this has been the standard advice for decades, and because the benefits of regular periodontal debridement (cleanings) are too subtle for many patients to notice without regular education from the dental hygienist or dentist. If the inflammation in the gums becomes especially well-developed, it can invade the gums and allow tiny amounts of bacteria and bacterial toxins to enter the bloodstream. The patient may not be able to notice this, but studies suggest this can result in a generalized increase in inflammation in the body cause possible long term heart problems. Periodontitis has also been linked to diabetes, arteriosclerosis, osteoporosis, pancreatic cancer and pre-term low birth weight babies.

When the teeth are not cleaned properly by regular brushing and flossing, bacterial plaque accumulates, and becomes mineralized by calcium and other minerals in the saliva transforming it into a hard material called calculus (tartar) which harbors bacteria and irritates the gingiva (gums). Also, as the bacterial plaque biofilm becomes thicker this creates an anoxygenic environment which allows more pathogenic bacteria to flourish and release toxins and cause gingival inflammation. Alternatively, excessive injury to the gums caused by very vigorous brushing may lead to recession, inflammation and infection. Pregnancy, uncontrolled diabetes mellitus and the onset of puberty increase the risk of gingivitis, due to hormonal changes that may increase the susceptibility of the gums or alter the composition of the dentogingival microflora. The risk of gingivitis is increased by misaligned teeth, the rough edges of fillings, and ill-fitting or unclean dentures, bridges, and crowns. This is due to their plaque retentive properties. The drug phenytoin, birth control pills, and ingestion of heavy metals such as lead and bismuth may also cause gingivitis.

The sudden onset of gingivitis in a normal, healthy person should be considered an alert to the possibility of an underlying viral aetiology, although most systemically healthy individuals have gingivitis in some area of their mouth, usually due to inadequate brushing and flossing.

Symptoms The symptoms of gingivitis are as follows:

Swollen gums Mouth sores Bright-red, or purple gums Shiny gums Gums that are painless, except when pressure is applied Gums that bleed easily, even with gentle brushing, and especially when flossing. Gums that itch with varying degrees of severity Receding gum line

Prevention Gingivitis can be prevented through regular oral hygiene that includes daily brushing and flossing. Rigorous plaque control programmes along with periodontal scaling and curettage also have proved to be helpful.

Diagnosis It is recommended that a dental hygienist or dentist be seen after the signs of gingivitis appear. A dental hygienist or dentist will check for the symptoms of gingivitis, and may also examine the amount of plaque in the oral cavity. A dental hygienist or dentist should also test for periodontitis using X-rays or gingival probing as well as other methods.

Treatment A dentist or dental hygienist will perform a thorough cleaning of the teeth and gums; following this, persistent oral hygiene is necessary. The removal of plaque is usually not painful, and the inflammation of the gums should be gone between one and two weeks. A gargling of brine water also helps. Oral hygiene including proper brushing and flossing is required to prevent the recurrence of gingivitis. Anti-bacterial rinses or mouthwash, in particular chlorhexidine digluconate 0.2% solution, may reduce the swelling and local mouth gels which are usually antiseptic and anaesthetic can also help.

Complications Recurrence of gingivitis Periodontitis Infection or abscess of the gingiva or the jaw bones Trench mouth (bacterial infection and ulceration of the gums)

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is the name of a collection of inflammatory diseases affecting the tissues that surround and support the teeth. Periodontitis involves progressive loss of the bone around teeth which may lead to loosening and eventual loss of teeth if untreated. Periodontitis is caused by bacteria that adhere to and grow on tooth surfaces (microbial plaque or biofilms), particularly in areas under the gum line. Dentists diagnose periodontitis by inspecting the tissues around the teeth with a probe and by radiographs to detect bone loss around the teeth. Although the different forms of periodontitis are bacterial diseases, a variety of factors affect the severity of the disease. Important “risk factors” include smoking, poorly controlled diabetes, and inherited (genetic) susceptibility.

Etiology Periodontitis is an inflammation of the periodontium -the tissues that support the teeth in the mouth. The periodontium is comprised of:

the gingiva, or gum tissue the cementum, or outer layer of the roots of teeth the alveolar bone, or the bony sockets into which the teeth are anchored the periodontal ligaments (PDLs), which are the connective tissue fibres that connect the cementum and the gingiva to the alveolar bone.

The primary etiology, or cause, of gingivitis is the accumulation of a bacterial matrix at the gum line, called dental plaque. In some people, gingivitis progresses to periodontitis – the gum tissues separate from the tooth and form a periodontal pocket. Subgingival bacteria (those that exist under the gum line) colonize the periodontal pockets and cause further inflammation in the gum tissues and progressive bone loss. Examples of secondary etiology would be those things that cause plaque accumulation, such as restoration overhangs and root proximity.

The excess restorative material that exceeds the natural contours of restored teeth, such as these, are termed overhangs, and serve to trap plaque, potentially leading to localized periodontitis. If left undisturbed, bacterial plaque calcifies to form calculus. Calculus above and below the gum line must be removed completely by the dental hygienist or dentist to treat gingivitis and periodontitis. Although the primary cause of both gingivitis and periodontitis is the bacterial plaque that adheres to the tooth surface, there are many other modifying factors. One of the most predominant risk factors of periodontal disease is tobacco use. Another very strong risk factor is one’s genetic susceptibility. Several conditions and diseases, including Down syndrome, diabetes, and other diseases that affect one’s resistance to infection also increase susceptibility to periodontitis.

Another factor that makes periodontitis a difficult disease to study is that human host response can also affect the alveolar bone resorption. Host response to the bacterial insult is mainly determined by genetics, however immune development may play some role in susceptibility.

Signs and symptoms Symptoms may include the following:

occasional redness or bleeding of gums while brushing teeth, using dental floss or biting into hard food (e.g. apples) (though this may occur even in gingivitis, where there is no attachment loss) occasional gum swellings that recurs halitosis, or bad breath, and a persistent metallic taste in the mouth gingival recession, resulting in apparent lengthening of teeth. (This may also be caused by heavy handed brushing or with a stiff tooth brush.) deep pockets between the teeth and the gums (pockets are sites where the attachment has been gradually destroyed by collagen-destroying enzymes, known as collagenases) loose teeth, in the later stages (though this may occur for other reasons as well) Patients should realize that the gingival inflammation and bone destruction are largely painless. Hence, people may wrongly assume that painless bleeding after teeth cleaning is insignificant, although this may be a symptom of progressing periodontitis in that patient.

Prevention Daily oral hygiene measures to prevent periodontal disease include:

brushing properly on a regular basis (at least twice daily), with the patient attempting to direct the toothbrush bristles underneath the gum-line, so as to help disrupt the bacterial growth and formation of subgingival plaque and calculus. flossing daily and using interdental brushes (if there is a sufficiently large space between teeth), as well as cleaning behind the last tooth in each quarter. using an antiseptic mouthwash. Chlorhexidine gluconate based mouthwash or hydrogen peroxide in combination with careful oral hygiene may cure gingivitis, although they cannot reverse any attachment loss due to periodontitis. (Alcohol based mouthwashes may aggravate the condition). regular dental check-ups and professional teeth cleaning as required. Dental check-ups serve to monitor the person’s oral hygiene methods and levels of attachment around teeth, identify any early signs of periodontitis, and monitor response to treatment. Typically dental hygienists (or dentists) use special instruments to clean (debride) teeth below the gum line and disrupt any plaque growing below the gum line. This is a standard treatment to prevent any further progress of established periodontitis. Studies show that after such a professional cleaning (periodontal debridement), bacteria and plaque tend to grow back to pre-cleaning levels after about 3-4 months. Hence, in theory, cleanings every 3-4 months might be expected to also prevent the initial onset of periodontitis. However, analysis of published research has reported little evidence either to support this or the intervals at which this should occur. Instead it is advocated that the interval between dental check-ups should be determined specifically for each patient between every 3 to 24 months.

Nonetheless, the continued stabilization of a patient’s periodontal state depends largely, if not primarily, on the patient’s oral hygiene at home if not on the go too. Without daily oral hygiene, periodontal disease will not be overcome, especially if the patient has a history of extensive periodontal disease.

Treatment of established disease

This section from a panoramic X-ray film depicts the teeth of the lower left quadrant, exhibiting generalized severe bone loss of 30-80%. The red line depicts the existing bone level, whereas the yellow line depicts where the bone was originally, prior to the patient developing periodontal disease. The pink arrow, on the right, points to a furcation involvement, or the loss of enough bone to reveal the location at which the individual roots of a molar begin to branch from the single root trunk; this is a sign of advanced periodontal disease. The blue arrow, in the middle, shows up to 80% bone loss on tooth #21, and clinically, this tooth exhibited gross mobility. Finally, the peach oval, to the left, highlights the aggressive nature with which periodontal disease generally affects mandibular incisors. Because their roots are generally situated very close to each other, with minimal interproximal bone, and because of their location in the mouth, where plaque and calculus accumulation is greatest because of the pooling of saliva, mandibular anteriors suffer excessively. The split in the red line depicts varying densities of bone that contribute to a vague region of definitive bone height. If good oral hygiene is not yet already undertaken daily by the patient, then twice daily brushing with daily flossing, mouth washing and use of an interdental brush needs to be started. Technique with these tools is very important. Aged persons may find that use of these interdental devices more necessary and easier, since the gaps between the teeth may become larger.

A dental hygienist or a periodontist can use professional scraping instruments, such as scalers and curettes to remove bacterial plaque and calculus (formerly referred to as tartar) around teeth and below the gum-line. There are devices that use a powerful ultra-sonic vibration and irrigation system to break up the bacterial plaque and calculus. Local anesthetic is commonly used to prevent discomfort in the patient during this process.

It is difficult to induce the body to repair bone that has been destroyed due to periodontitis. Much depends on exactly how much bone was lost and the architectural configuration of the remaining bone. Vertical defects are those instances of bone loss where the height of the bone remains somewhat constant except in the localized area where there is a steep, almost vertical drop. Horizontal defects are those instances of more generalized bone loss, resulting in anywhere from mild to severe loss of initial bone height. Sometimes bone grafting surgery may be tried, but this has mixed success. Bone grafts are more reliable in instances of vertical defects, where there might be a sufficient “hole” within which to place the added bone. Horizontal defects are rarely if ever able to be grafted properly, as there is nowhere to secure the bone.

Dentists sometimes attempt to treat patients with periodontitis by placing tiny wafers dispensing antibiotics underneath the gum line in affected areas. However, the general scientific consensus is that antibiotic treatment is of minimal value in treating bone loss due to periodontitis. It may help to recover about one millimeter of bone, but it is questionable if this is of significant therapeutic value.

Alternatively, regular subgingival flushing with an anti-calculus composition can dissolve subgingival calculus (tartar) thus facilitating natural healing without surgery. This process is widely used for supragingival tartar via tartar-control toothpastes. Subgingival application of an anti-calculus composition requires a subgingival syringe or an oral irrigator.

One such anti-calculus composition (Periogen) contains sodium tripolyphosphate, tetrapotassium pyrophosphate, sodium bicarbonate, citric acid and sodium fluoride.

In the composition, tetrapotassium pyrophosphate (TKPP) is a cleaning agent designed to clear away biofilms in order to facilitate chemical access to calculus. Sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) acts as the anti-calculus agent, activated by sodium fluoride (.04%), providing a chelating action on the structure of the calculus.

Sodium bicarbonate and citric acid are product activators which assist in dissolving the composition in water for periodontal delivery via a subgingival syringe or oral irrigator with a periodontal tip.

Assessment and prognosis Dentists or dental hygienists “measure” periodontal disease using a device called a periodontal probe. This is a thin “measuring stick” that is gently placed into the space between the gums and the teeth, and slipped below the gum-line. If the probe can slip more than 3 millimetres length below the gum-line, the patient is said to have a “gingival pocket” around that tooth. This is somewhat of a misnomer, as any depth is in essence a pocket, which in turn is defined by its depth, i.e., a 2 mm pocket or a 6 mm pocket. However, it is generally accepted that pockets are self-cleansable (at home, by the patient, with a toothbrush) if they are 3 mm or less in depth. This is important because if there is a pocket which is deeper than 3 mm around the tooth, at-home care will not be sufficient to cleanse the pocket, and professional care should be sought. When the pocket depths reach 5, 6 and 7 mm in depth, even the hand instruments and cavitrons used by the dental professionals cannot reach deeply enough into the pocket to clean out the bacterial plaque that cause gingival inflammation. In such a situation the pocket or the gums around that tooth will always have inflammation which will likely result in bone loss around that tooth. The only way to stop the inflammation would be for the patient to undergo some form of gingival surgery to access the depths of the pockets and perhaps even change the pocket depths so that they become 3 or less mm in depth and can once again be properly cleaned by the patient at home with his or her toothbrush.

If a patient has 5 mm or deeper pockets around their teeth, then they would risk eventual tooth loss over the years. If this periodontal condition is not identified and the patient remains unaware of the progressive nature of the disease then, years later, they may be surprised that some teeth will gradually become loose and may need to be extracted, sometimes due to a severe infection or even pain.

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New Post has been published on Foothills Dental Centre Blog

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Oral Cancer Screening

HINTON, EDSON, JASPER, ALBERTA -Every 3 minutes, cancer picks a fight with a Canadian. Foothills Dental can help you detect cancer early and possibly save your life!

  Here is some info on Oral Cancer….

Risk factors may increase a person’s chance of developing oral cancer. The factors that increase the risk of developing oral cancer include:

tobacco

cigars

cigarettes

pipes

chewing tobacco

chicha tobacco pipe

other smokables such as marijuana

alcohol

chewing betel nut, also known as paan

sun and ultraviolet radiation (for lip cancer only)

previous head and neck cancer

human papillomavirus (HPV) infection

other precancerous conditions

Early detection

Early detection means finding a cancer or precancerous condition at an early stage. In most cases, finding cancer in its early stage increases the chances of successful treatment.

The signs of oral cancer can often be seen in the early stages of the disease during a routine exam with your dental professional. Possible signs and symptoms of oral cancer include:

a sore that does not heal on the lip or in the mouth

a lump or thickening on the lips, gums or in the mouth

patches that are white or red (or both) inside the mouth or on the lips

bleeding or pain in the lip or mouth

loose teeth or dentures that no longer fit well

problems speaking clearly

a lump in the neck

If you have any of these signs or symptoms please do not delay…it could save your life!  Foothills Dental Centre has the Velscope Technology which can help detect signs of oral cancer at the early stages.