FAQ’s
What kind of problems can Cosmetic Dentistry fix?
- Replace missing teeth
- Whiten and give your teeth an even tone
- Change your teeth’s size, shape and alignment
- Fill gaps in your smile
What is bonding?
Bonding, or bonded restoration, is a painless treatment that is used to make minor repairs to a person’s teeth. Bonding is a relatively simple procedure, and if required, several teeth can be bonded in one appointment.
What areas will be checked in my first dental exam?
- Diagnostic x-rays (radiographs): to find decay, tumours, cysts, bone loss and tooth positions.
- Oral cancer screening: to check your face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.
- Gum disease evaluation: to check your gums and bone around your teeth for any signs of periodontal (gum) disease.
- Examination of tooth surfaces: to check for decay with special dental instruments.
- Examination of existing restorations: to check your fillings, crowns, veneers etc.
My dentures never stay in place, what are my options?
Denture stabilization options can include a denture reline, construction of new dentures, or stabilization with dental implants. To decide if implants are a plausible option, we focus on how rapidly a patient would like to see results, their feelings toward extended/multiple trips to the dental office, and the ultimate level of stability the person would like to see. We will also take into account the results of the patient’s health and bone level assessment.
Why is it important to have straightened teeth?
The benefits of proper jaw and teeth alignment go far beyond appearance. In general, straight teeth are easier to clean, lessening the risk of decay and other dental problems. Recent studies have repeatedly shown a link between orthodontic treatment and a lowered risk of cardiovascular disease. A proper bite allows proper chewing, which lessens the risk of digestion problems.
What is involved in an oral cancer screening?
An oral cancer exam is one more important reason to schedule regular dental check-ups. The oral cancer exam takes only minutes and is painless.
Signs of oral cancer:
- lumps or change in texture on mouth or tongue
- bleeding, numbness or sores that don’t heal
- white or dark red patches on mouth or lips
If you are experiencing changes in your mouth like these, visit your dentist immediately.
The exact cause is unknown, but risk factors include:
- smoking
- heavy alcohol consumption, particularly when combined with smoking
- prolonged and repeated exposure of lips to sunlight
- gender – men are diagnosed more often than women
- genetics
- poor diet
How often should you change your toothbrush?
You should change your toothbrush as soon as you notice any splaying of the bristles, every six months, or after a cold or flu. Using a “fresh” toothbrush will ensure that the time you spend on your Oral Hygiene is put to efficient use!
Is fluoride safe?
The levels of fluoride used in Dentistry are completely safe. Our Doctors and Hygienists believe that fluoride treatments are beneficial and important for optimum dental health. As in all of your dental care, you are in charge. Just let us know if you do not want to have fluoride treatments.
How can you help me to improve my smile?
From Professional Whitening to Cosmetic Veneers, Dr. Barker and Dr. Len offer many options for cosmetic and restorative dental care. We would love to meet you and offer you a free personal consultation.
Why are hygiene appointments usually booked every six months?
Hygiene appointments can and do vary in frequency from person to person, depending on your individual needs. Most adults will experience tartar buildup within three to six months of a dental cleaning. This tartar cannot be removed at home and if left in place will contribute to periodontal disease and tooth loss. Your Hygienist will work with you to determine the frequency of visits that keep your mouth tartar-free.
Do I need x-rays at each visit?
How often you need dental Xrays depends on your oral health. A healthy adult who has not had cavities for a couple of years probably won’t need Xrays at every visit. If your dental situation is less stable you may require more frequent Xrays. Digital dental Xrays deliver a very minimal amount of radiation and are a vital tool in diagnosing potentially serious periodontal disease and cavities at an early stage, when they are much more simply and inexpensively treated. If you aren’t sure why an Xray is being taken, you should ask.
Is professional whitening better than the whitening strips that can be bought at a drug store?
The whitening strips available in stores only whiten the tooth surface that they come in contact with. Most people have some staining or discolouration on the contours of their teeth, often from coffee, blueberries or red wine. These areas are not reached by whitening strips and can appear more obvious if only the fronts of the teeth are whitened.
At Johnston Road Dental, we have various methods of professional whitening, like ZOOM Whitening® and custom take home trays. We will help you choose the most effective and comfortable option for you.
Why do I need a crown?
Crown therapy is needed when natural tooth breakage or loss is too great to be repaired with a filling. Your dentist will discuss with you the best treatment to permanently restore your tooth to a healthy, functioning capacity that, if maintained with home care and hygiene visits, will last for years to come.
Do I really need to replace that missing tooth?
By replacing a missing tooth you restore proper function to the mouth and stop the teeth on either side from collapsing into the empty area. This will help prevent periodontal disease, tooth decay and will maintain your bite. An improper bite can lead to migraines, neuromuscular pain and an inability to properly chew food, which can affect your nutrition. When you lose a tooth, the bone in that area that used to hold the tooth in place will start to resorb or shrink. This can affect the bone levels on the adjacent teeth as well. The only was to prevent this bone loss is to have a dental implant and a crown placed. The forces that are exerted on that implant and crown during normal function (chewing) are transferred to the surrounding bone, which stimulates the bone, telling the body that it needs to keep the bone there.
When should I start brushing and flossing my child’s teeth?
Good dental care begins at birth. Gently wipe a clean, damp washcloth over your child’s gums daily to remove bacteria and get them used to the process. Once the first tooth comes in, use an appropriate toothbrush with water only to “brush” the entire mouth, including the new tooth. Move the brush gently back and forth in short strokes, making sure you reach the front, back and chewing surfaces of all teeth. No toothpaste is necessary before your child’s second birthday.
When should I bring my child in for their first visit to the dentist?
Your child should have his or her first visit at an early age to familiarize them with the office and the dental team. We suggest as a guideline that a “Happy Visit and Chair Ride” can occur around the child’s second Birthday. If you feel your child is ready earlier we’d love to meet them! The first visit should be a fun and positive experience, so please don’t wait until you suspect an issue to bring your child to meet us.
Are you accepting new patients?
Yes! We are always happy to meet new patients and are usually able to book a first visit very quickly.
