Sometimes the best thing you can do for yourself is a little self care. Even small things can add up and make a big difference in long-term health and well-being. And a great time to put some new habits in place is at the start of the new year. You don’t have to drastically change your life; however, making some small adjustments to develop healthy, sustainable habits will pay off in the long run.

One thing that people don’t think much about is how connected our overall health is. When one thing is out of tune, it can affect the operation elsewhere in the body. And a lot of big picture physical health starts with oral health. Good oral health begins with a dental checkup.

We’ve come up with a list of things you can do to improve and maintain your oral health throughout 2022. Small steps that can lead to long-lasting overall health.

#1 Start 2022 with a Dental Checkup

One of the best things you can do for your health, now and in the long-term, is get into a regular dental check up schedule. While it’s recommended to visit the dentist twice (or more) each year, your dentist will advise on the schedule that’s right for you.

There are plenty of reasons why it’s important to visit your dentist for a check up. They will:

• Clear off the plaque to prevent rot and infection
• Notice the beginning of any problems and advise on how to prevent further issues
• Fix dental issues before they become really painful and irreversible
• Help if you need things like mouth guards or devices to keep your teeth safe during sports/activities or while you sleep
• Schedule anything further that you may need like deep cleaning

#2 Make Small Changes to your Diet

What you eat and drink drastically affects your teeth, even if you are good at brushing and flossing. If you have a sweet tooth for sugary foods and drinks, smoke cigarettes, drink alcohol and coffee, or simply don’t get enough water each day, your mouth and teeth are the first to be affected.

For example, when you do drink an adequate amount of water daily, your salivary glands are activated, helping you break down food, which helps your body absorb more nutrients, which helps your organs and systems work more efficiently, which keeps you resistant to disease and illness. Water also keeps your digestion system moving nicely. And lastly, the saliva washes your teeth with calcium, fluoride, and phosphate.

Increasing the amount of water, limiting alcohol and sugar intake, reducing (or quitting) smoking all create a positive chain reaction throughout your body. The new year is the perfect time to revisit habits. Even more so, it’s the time to make small changes that lead to big results.

#3 Bring in Mindfulness

You’ve probably heard this buzzword before, and maybe you’re wondering how it applies to your oral health. Well, mindfulness helps bring you into the present moment; allowing you to engage in your behaviours and decisions with more clarity. The result is that a person will pay more attention to the little things that previously were habits done with little care.

An example of how this applies to oral health is perhaps you didn’t notice that you grind your teeth or clench your jaw when you’re stressed. Maybe you didn’t realize that you crave sugar or a drink when things feel overwhelming. Or maybe you didn’t see that you skipped out on tooth brushing on evenings that you were exhausted.

Mindfulness is a habit that builds over time; you might see how it can lead to little improvements, especially when it comes to oral health.

Making a visit to your dentist one of your first priorities of 2022 will help you get in the groove of good dental health. Once you go once, it gets easier to keep up with the routine. Put the next appointment in your calendar, create some accountability, and take your oral health – and overall health – into your own hands. If you are in South Surrey or White Rock and are looking for a dentist, we would love to meet you — reach out to schedule an appointment today!

Nadine Smith

The post Why You Should Start 2022 With a Dental Checkup appeared first on Semiahmoo Dental Centre.

Everyone has heard the line that sugar rots your teeth. It could very well be one of the first lessons drilled into your mind when you were child!

But is it really true? Does sugar really affect your teeth, or is this something parents say to scare their children into eating less candy?

The truth is that YES, sugar really does cause your teeth to rot. Here’s how:

After you consume something sweet, the sugar creates a reaction with the plaque bacteria already on your teeth which produces acid. It is this acid that dissolves the tooth’s enamel, wearing away at it and eventually resulting in tooth decay, cavities, or other problems that will need to be addressed by your dentist.

It wasn’t just a threat! Sugar really is bad for your teeth.

In order to keep your teeth in good shape and to maintain good oral health, it’s important to stay diligent. Here are a few tips to consider to avoid cavities caused by sugar, and to keep your teeth strong for a long time.

Be mindful of your sugar intake

Sugar hides out in high quantities in so much of our food – especially the packaged kinds. That’s why it’s important to read labels and get a real sense of how much sugar you are actually ingesting. You might be surprised once you start paying attention. Here’s a handy conversion: 4g of sugar equals 1 level teaspoon. Once you can visualize it this way, you might be horrified to learn that one can of soda, for example, contains around 40g of sugar. That’s right – that is 10 teaspoons of sugar! 

Other sneaky culprits include many “healthy” snacks – granola and cereals, trail mix, milk alternatives, yogurt. And the next time you buy a bottle of wine, spirits or beer, take a second to check the sugar content. It might surprise you! 

Get regular dental cleanings

As explained, it’s not only the sugar that causes the acidic reaction that eats away at the teeth, but the way that it interacts with existing bacteria in your mouth. In order to get plaque completely removed, and therefore eliminate the other needed component in the chemical reaction, you will need to have regular deep teeth cleanings from your dentist.

It’s also important to remember to maintain your oral health daily. That means brushing and flossing twice a day and at the very least, rinsing after each meal. Removing sugar before it has the chance to react to the bacteria on your teeth will help ensure that your teeth remain healthy and strong.

Another reason why it’s so important to visit your dentist regularly is so that they are able to see problems as they are starting, and to prevent them from becoming an issue that might even require surgery. 

If you do have cavities or other issues stemming from decay, it’s important to address them right away by following the advice of your dentist. When it comes to oral health, prevention is key! And that means both avoiding foods and drinks that will harm your teeth, and maintaining regular routines to guard against disease and decay.

Nadine Smith

The post What Does Sugar Do To Teeth? appeared first on Semiahmoo Dental Centre.

If you’ve never heard of endodontic therapy, you’ve probably heard of its more common name: root canal. 

Root canals are routinely performed in order to retain a tooth that has become infected or is severely damaged. 

Like many dental procedures, people often have anxieties and fears. Today, we’ll talk about root canals, why they are needed, and what to expect if you’ve been told that a root canal is your best option.

A root canal treatment, or endodontist therapy, involves removing injured or infected tissue — also called pulp — from inside the roots and crown of a tooth.  (“Endo” is the Greek word for “inside” and “odont” is Greek for “tooth.”)

It helps to know the basics of tooth anatomy. Under the tooth’s white enamel is a hard layer called the dentin and under that is soft tissue known as the pulp. The pulp is made of blood vessels, nerves, and other connective tissue. This tissue is vital as teeth are growing and developing. Once a tooth is fully mature it can survive without the pulp, because the tooth continues to be nourished by the tissues surrounding it.

When the pulp becomes infected or damaged, a root canal may be needed. The process involves removing infected or injured tissue (pulp) from inside the crown and roots of a tooth. 

Next, the canal is disinfected, shaped, filled, and sealed with a material called gutta percha. This natural rubber-like material is safe and long-lasting. Lastly, the tooth is sealed to prevent future infection. 

Root Canal Pain

People often avoid dental procedures because of a fear of pain. However, a root canal is done to relieve the pain a person is living with. There are a few common symptoms that might signal the need for a root canal.

• Severe pain while chewing or biting
• Tender and swollen gums
• A chipped or cracked tooth
• Sensitivity to hot or cold liquids and foods that lingers
• Clear decay or darkening of the gums

The treatment itself will either require localized anesthesia or for the patient to be “put under” (in extreme and/or complex cases). Pain management is a priority during the procedure and most patients report being relatively comfortable. 

Following the root canal, for the first few days, the affected tooth may feel sensitive. This is especially the case if there was pain or infection before, it may feel “strange” and uncomfortable in a way you are not used to. Your dentist will provide a plan on how to manage your pain following the procedure. 

How Do I Know if I Need a Root Canal?

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, or if your mouth, gums, or teeth are causing discomfort, the first step is to visit your dentist. They will provide a plan to relieve the pain, which might include endodontic treatment.

And try not to worry! There have been many advancements in the root canal procedure, from start to finish. And the end result will be well worth it, especially if you are already living with chronic pain. 

Nadine Smith

The post What is a Root Canal? appeared first on Semiahmoo Dental Centre.

Oral health is an important part of overall physical well-being. And part of that health care consists of dental cleanings.

We sometimes get asked if teeth cleanings are really that necessary. Some people feel like they are constantly coming to the dentist (even though it’s really only twice a year). For some people, going to the dentist can produce anxiety and it can bring up a lot of fear. For others, it feels like overkill to have to go so often, especially if they have good brushing and flossing habits.

However, it is important to keep in mind that the dentist is here to assist in your well-being and health. Not to torture you and not to waste your time. Yes, it can be an uncomfortable experience, but it’s also important to note that the better your oral health habits, the easier the trips to the dentist are.

Are Teeth Cleanings Necessary?

The short answer is… yes. Let’s talk about why.

The mouth, like many parts of the body, contains bacteria. Normally it is harmless. But since the mouth is the entry point into the respiratory and digestive tracts, without proper oral care, such as daily maintenance like brushing and flossing, as well as regular dental cleanings, heavy bacteria build up in the mouth can potentially lead to sickness and disease.

Other infections can occur in the mouth from a lack of proper care, like gum disease and tooth decay. The best way to stave off or prevent these conditions is to partake in every day oral health maintenance, and to see the dentist for regularly scheduled cleanings.

Dental Cleanings = Disease Prevention

The number one reason to see your dentist or go for regular (at least once a year, hopefully twice a year) deep teeth cleaning is to keep your teeth, gums and mouth in good health, and to prevent disease from occurring or spreading.

Regular cleanings mean that your dentist has the opportunity to examine the gum-line, and the inner and outer health of the teeth. Then the dentist can see if there are the beginning signs of anything to be worried about, such as tooth decay (cavities) and periodontitis (gum disease). Both of these conditions can lead to chipped and broken teeth, or even tooth loss. They may also require more serious interventions or even surgery.

But what’s even more important to remember: they are avoidable (more or less) with good oral health habits which include regular deep teeth cleaning from the dentist.

What Is A Deep Teeth Cleaning?

A deep teeth cleaning, also known as gum therapy or gum scaling and root planing, gets between the teeth and gums all the way down to the roots. During a standard dental cleaning, the front, back, and sides of the tooth are cleaned above the gum line. During a deep teeth cleaning, the dentist continues down to the root of the tooth, below the gum-line, removing tartar and other build-up from the “pocket” that may have formed between the root of the tooth and gums.

Dental cleanings and deep teeth cleanings are both important. If you are still hesitant, or to book an appointment, give us a call and we will be happy to connect with you.

Nadine Smith

The post Why Are Regular Dental Cleanings Important? appeared first on Semiahmoo Dental Centre.

We get asked a common question of patients from Surrey, BC, and across Vancouver and the Lower Mainland: How much do dental implants cost?

In short — the price varies from person to person. The range, typically from $1800 – $2500, depends on the person and the extent of the work that needs to be done, as well as some other options that the person and dentist agree upon.

Here is some more information to give you an idea of what to expect with dental implants. For a price quote, we would be happy to provide a consultation.

Have a question? Contact Semiahmoo Dental Centre Today

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are structures that are surgically placed in your jawbone, where they serve as the roots of missing teeth. The titanium implants fuse with the jawbone and create a very stable, long-lasting solution to some dental problems.

Dental implants require a surgery/procedure that replaces tooth roots with metal posts that resemble tiny screws, upon which missing or damaged teeth can be placed. The result is a set of teeth that look and function much like real ones.

With advancements in the field, implants can nearly exactly replicate the existing teeth and be a welcome alternative to dentures or bridgework.

Why Do People Get Dental Implants?

There are certainly advantages to replace missing teeth with dental implants. When you lose a tooth, the bone begins to shrink from underuse — there is no more chewing which makes the area decline. Dental implants help prevent bone shrinkage because they bring the chewing power back. Dental implants also prevent neighbouring teeth from moving toward the missing tooth spot, which can have a domino effect on the spacing of your teeth.

As mentioned, dental implants are also a longer-term strategy for oral care. While the initial cost may be more up front, they usually require fewer visits to the dentist long-term. Compared to bridges and crowns, implants wear down at a much slower rate.

Are Dental Implants Right For You?

There are many things to consider in deciding if dental implants are the correct procedure for your needs. Some of the deciding factors include:

• How many teeth are missing
• If your jawbone has reached full growth
• If there is adequate bone density and strength to secure the implants. If not, whether or not you are able to have a bone graft
• Have healthy tissue in general, and do not have health issues that will negatively affect your healing
• Are willing to commit several months to the surgery and healing process (in some cases)

Other things to note:

• Dental implant surgery can be an intensive and complex procedure, or multiple procedures, that take much time and care to heal from.
• Proper oral care is imperative post-surgery to prevent infection and complications.
• You will need a comprehensive dental exam that may include dental X-rays and 3D images taken in order to make models of your teeth and jaw.
• You will need to stick to a treatment plan, which will be tailored to your situation.

If you are curious about the cost of dental implants in Surrey, BC, we invite you to get in touch for a consultation. We look forward to hearing from you!

Nadine Smith

The post How Much Do Dental Implants Cost in Surrey? appeared first on Semiahmoo Dental Centre.

If you have taken the step to get veneers, then you probably have a beaming, bright smile that you love — and that you want to keep bright and beaming.

Many people invest in whitening treatments to give their teeth a boost of brightness. Do the same treatments work with veneers? And if not, how are you supposed to keep veneers white and bright?

That’s what we are going to answer today. First, a little information about veneers.

What Are Veneers?

This dental treatment is consists of very thin, custom-made shells that are applied to the top of existing teeth and bonded into place. They are designed to change the original tooth’s colour, size, shape, or length.

They are often a cosmetic treatment that enhances the appearance of teeth — making them longer, more uniform, and treating discolouration.

Veneers can be made of a couple of different materials, such as porcelain or resin, making them non-porous — unlike natural teeth, which are quite porous.

We all know that certain foods like coffee, wine, foods that contain food colouring, and smoking can stain teeth. As mentioned above, this is because natural teeth are porous, so absorb the colours and become stained. Veneers on the other hand are more like a hard shell. While they are more difficult to stain than regular teeth, they can become dull and discoloured over time.

Can I Whiten Veneers?

Traditional over the counter whitening treatments will not work the same way as they will on natural teeth. In fact, using a whitening treatment on veneers can result in uneven colours, especially if you don’t have veneers on all your teeth.

The best thing to do is to avoid foods and drinks that cause discolouration. However, that’s not always realistic. If you are a coffee and wine drinker, brushing your teeth, or at the very least rinsing thoroughly afterwards, will help avoid discolouration.

It’s best to use a soft bristle toothbrush with veneers to avoid damage and to avoid using toothpaste that contains baking soda. There is also toothpaste that is specially formulated for veneers that produce a polishing effect, which will give you a nice boost of brightness and smoothness. Going for your regular cleanings and checkups with your dentist is also necessary to keep your veneers in good shape.

Veneers are very strong and built to last a very long-lasting while being very resistant to changing colour. However, if your veneers are very old, there likely have been advancements to the material since you’ve first had them.

If you are noticing that your veneers are becoming dull and you are looking for whitening or brightening, there are options available to you. Simply give our south Surrey dentist a call and we will be happy to discuss your options. Or if you think that veneers might be right for you as a way to get the teeth you’ve always wanted. We want everyone to have the smile they dream of, and we will help you achieve it.

Nadine Smith

The post How to Whiten Composite Veneers? appeared first on Semiahmoo Dental Centre.

If you have ever woken up with a sore jaw, you might be one of the millions of people grinding their teeth at night.

Teeth grinding, or bruxism is a serious habit that is made all the trickier that it often happens when a person is asleep, making it hard to stop. In fact, a person might not even know they are grinding their teeth until serious symptoms appear.

But there are ways to quit! Though it’s tough to go “cold turkey.” It might take some time to eliminate the habit altogether. Here are few suggestions to help reduce grinding your teeth at night.

Suggestions to Help Reduce Grinding Your Teeth At Night

1. Reduce Stress

Teeth grinding is often a symptom that a person is living with a lot of stress. And in many cases, this stress is not being effectively dealt with, so it comes out as teeth grinding at night.

Therefore, one of the best and most effective ways to stop grinding teeth at night is to do things that reduce stress. This is different for everyone. It might include getting more exercise, meditating, or going to therapy. One of the best ways is to mindfully “wind down” at the end of the day, whatever that may look like (a warm bath, reading a book) so that crawling into bed is a stress-free zone.

Less stress generally means improved health and wellbeing in general, which is a great step toward eliminating teeth grinding.

2. Focus on Your Jaw

One symptom of grinding your teeth is a clenched jaw throughout the day. Building awareness of the muscles in your jaw can help reduce tooth grinding at night. You can also massage your jaw, especially if it is sore, which helps bring your awareness to the area. With time, focusing on loosening the muscles around the jaw can lead to less clenching and grinding at night.

3. Use a Mouthguard

While a mouthguard might not prevent a person from grinding their teeth, it will reduce the damage. When a person grinds their teeth, the teeth wear down over time. This can lead to weakened, damaged, or cracked teeth, and major dental work down the road.

A dentist can fit a custom mouthguard to a person, which is a great choice, or drugstores sell them over the counter. Whatever option works with a person’s budget. A mouthguard is often a necessary step in preventing damage to teeth, while a more permanent solution is found to grinding.

Teeth grinding can impact a person’s oral health and lead to a variety of symptoms and side effects, including:

• Headaches
• Sore jaw
• Pain in the face and ears
• Worn down teeth, especially molars
• Loose teeth
• Cracked and damaged teeth
• Broken existing dental work

If you suspect you are grinding your teeth at night, or if your dentist notices the signs and symptoms of grinding, it’s important to take steps to reduce the habit. If not, there can be consequences later on that are painful and costly. Start by looking at your stress levels and taking steps toward improving your health and wellbeing. If you have any questions or need a dental appointment in South Surrey, please contact us.

Nadine Smith

The post How to Stop Grinding Your Teeth? appeared first on Semiahmoo Dental Centre.