Category: Dental Services

Dental fillings are an important component of your oral health, especially if you have some tooth decay. Still, your dentist may suggest many different types of dental fillings for your unique needs. Here’s what you need to know about fillings from A to Z: 

Introduction to Dental Fillings

Before diving deeply into what type of fillings your teeth may require, it’s essential to know exactly what they are and why you may need them. 

What Are Dental Fillings? 

Dental fillings are a combination of substances that are used to fill a hole, crack, or crevice in a tooth. Most often, they’re utilized as filling material when you have a cavity (a hole in the tooth as a result of decay) or when you have cracks and wear on a specific tooth. It can restore the tooth structure and allow you to keep more of your natural tooth. 

Why Are Dental Fillings Necessary? 

A dental filling is used to mitigate the damage caused to the tooth when your dentist removes a portion of the tooth due to decay. If you leave the empty space in the tooth structure, it eventually becomes quite painful. You may even have to lose the tooth and opt for a dental implant instead. 

Common Materials Used in Dental Fillings

Your dental filling is not going to be a one-size-fits-all solution. Five major types of fillings can be used in your dental work, and we’ll delve into each one of them below: 

Amalgam Fillings

Silver amalgam fillings are a durable option that can last for more than a decade while remaining relatively cost-effective. They’re not made of pure silver but are an alloy made up of silver, zinc, tin, mercury, and copper. An amalgam filling is extremely durable and can withstand the daily wear and tear you put on your teeth. The major downside is that it doesn’t match tooth colour but it remains one of the most durable long lasting options.  Amalgam fillings are a great option in cases where strength and resistance to decay is needed.  

Composite Resin Fillings

These are also known as tooth colored fillings.  If you don’t mind spending a little extra money, composite fillings are a great way to match the colour of the surrounding tooth structure. Ideally, a composite resin filling is utilized on front teeth or those teeth that have high visibility in the mouth. They tend to be a little more expensive than a silver amalgam filling, and they also may not last as long.  One advantage of composite fillings is that they bond to existing tooth structure which often means that the preparation and removal of tooth structure can be more conservative.

Ceramic Fillings

Ceramic filling materials are one of the most durable options available to you. They can last upwards of fifteen years and are a great option for those who want tooth-coloured fillings. Staining is almost non-existent with ceramic. That being said, a ceramic filling is also quite expensive and rivals the price of a gold filling. 

Gold Fillings

Many people prefer the colour of gold to the silver fillings that are often used. Gold fillings are extremely durable and can withstand the pressure of chewing and biting. They’re also quite durable, lasting just as long as ceramic filling materials. One of the benefits of gold fillings is that they don’t corrode over time as some other types of metals do.   Gold fillings can come in the way of onlays, inlays or crowns which are made in the lab and then cemented by your dentist.  An older method was to directly place gold foil fillings which is very rare today mostly because the process can be traumatic to the nerve of the tooth.

Glass Ionomer Fillings

Last but not least, we have glass ionomer fillings. These are fillings designed for use below the gum line or where other fillings are difficult to place. One of the benefits of glass ionomer fillings is that they release a steady stream of fluoride which can protect the parts of the tooth that remain after the cavity is filled. The main downsides are that these fillings tend to be pricey (comparable to composite fillings) and usually do not last as long. 

Comparing the Different Types of Dental Fillings

Are you struggling to decide which dental filling materials will work best for your teeth? Because a filling can protect your tooth from further decay, it’s crucial to choose the ideal filling. 

Here’s a quick comparison that can help you choose the right material for your mouth:

Durability

First and foremost, you want a dental filling that’s going to last for the long haul. While composite fillings may last only five years or so, many of the other filling materials are good for a decade or longer. Gold, silver amalgam fillings, and ceramic are the best options for long-term benefits. 

Aesthetic Appearance

While some people like the look of metal fillings, others may prefer to match their filling to the natural colour of the tooth. This goal can be best achieved with composite fillings, ceramic fillings, and glass ionomer fillings. 

Cost

Cost is a deciding factor for many people who need fillings. Gold is easily one of the most expensive options, followed by ceramics which are often close in price. Composite fillings are going to be pretty expensive as well with glass ionomers compared to them. In the end, many people opt for silver fillings because they’re the least expensive. 

Procedure Involved

Some fillings will require more than one appointment to finish up the procedure. If your goal is to spend less time in the chair, then you may want to investigate  silver fillings, composites ore glass ionomers which are done the same appointment. Other types, like gold or ceramics, can take longer and may even require multiple appointments. 

Making the Right Choice: Things To Consider

All of the above items should be considered when contemplating which type of filling is the right fit for your mouth. Here are two more things you should think about before settling on a filling type:

Your Dentist’s Recommendation

You should always defer to the recommendation of your dentist. They know the ins and outs of the various filling materials and can guide you in choosing the right one. Talk with them about your concerns for your upcoming filling and what you’re leaning toward selecting. From here, they can offer sound advice about what’s best for your situation and budget. 

The Condition of Your Tooth

Your tooth may be in a condition that warrants one type of filling over another. For example, glass ionomers release fluoride that can protect the rest of the tooth. Silver amalgam fillings may require more space in the tooth, removing dental pulp that could have remained with other types of fillings. Be sure to consider the overall condition of your tooth when shopping for fillings. 

Caring for Your Dental Fillings

Taking care of your dental fillings is just as simple as caring for the rest of your teeth. Brush them twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss around the teeth, and be sure to see your dentist at least every six months to check up on how your teeth (and fillings) are faring. 

Conclusion

Fresh Dental can help you determine what the perfect material is for your dental fillings. If you’re unsure what the right move is for your dental health, call us today to set an appointment and consult with our team of experienced dentists! 

When it comes to protecting your smile, you need the right tools—and that starts with mouthguards. There are two major types of mouthguards that you might encounter: Night guards and sports guards. Dental patients often think they look similar and should be used for similar functions, but this isn’t entirely true. 

Decide which type of night/sports guards are the right fit for you in this detailed breakdown of what you can expect from each. 

What Is the Difference Between Sports Guards and Night Guards?

The reason that many people get confused between sports mouthguards and a dental night guard is that they do some similar things. Namely, they protect your teeth from unnecessary damage. While they both have an important role to play in maintaining your smile, it’s key that you use them for the proper application. 

Night mouthguards are primarily designed to prevent teeth grinding, while a sports guard is used to prevent impact injuries during contact sports. 

Let’s take a closer look at how each one works: 

Night Guards Help Prevent Teeth Grinding

Do you find that you have a habit of grinding and clenching in your sleep? You might not even notice it while you slumber, but you likely feel the effects of it in the morning. Jaw pain is a prevalent concern when you deal with this type of sleep bruxism. 

However, that isn’t all that nighttime grinding and clenching can do to your mouth. 

Repeated wear and tear on the upper and lower teeth can result in worn enamel on the surface of the tooth. Over time, you can wear through the important outer layer of the teeth and may start to see some sensitivity in the teeth. 

Chances are that you may even deal with a lack of sleep because teeth-grinding pain can wake you up out of even the deepest sleep. 

Sports Guards Help Prevent Impact Injuries

On the other hand, a sports mouthguard is designed to protect your teeth when playing contact sports. You never want to take a chance that a tooth will be knocked out or chipped when playing a sport like football or hockey. 

Even sports that are less likely to cause injury can benefit from a custom sports guard. Athletic mouthguards can be used in almost any sport to shield the teeth from accidental injuries, such as getting hit in the mouth by another player or falling. 

Sports Guards and Custom Guards

If you’re interested in getting a sports mouthguard, then it might be worthwhile to look into a custom mouthguard. These can be made to protect the upper and lower teeth, especially if you have braces that could damage the cheeks, gums, or lips. 

A custom-fitted sports mouthguard is essential to make sure that you protect your teeth in a way that fits your mouth. While you can buy pre-made sports guards, they will be more likely to protect tooth health if it’s tailored to the mouth it’s protecting. 

3 Reasons Not To Wear a Sports Guard As a Night Guard

A night mouthguard is often more expensive than a sports mouthguard, which means that many people will try to use sports guards as night guards. This isn’t the ideal situation, though, and it may not really help with your sleep bruxism. 

Less Saliva and Bacteria Trapped

Sports mouthguards are not designed for long-term wear. Most of the time, athletes will wear them for just an hour or two at a time before taking a break. This means that the buildup of saliva and bacteria in the mouth usually is not such a huge deal. If you wear them all night long, bacteria and saliva could pose a problem. 

Night mouthguards are designed for you to wear for eight hours at night. They are uniquely designed to minimize saliva and bacteria trapped by the mouth guard.

Fitted Around the Gums

Sports mouthguards are designed to cover the tooth surface from the gums to the surface of the tooth that you use for biting. They protect you from impact at any point on the tooth. This is detrimental if you try to wear them for an extended period of time, such as overnight. 

A night guard is designed to only protect the biting surface of the tooth and does not reach all the way to the gums. If it did, bacteria could become trapped there and lead to gingivitis or other forms of gum disease. 

Jaw Pain

Last but not least, you may encounter more pain in the jaw if you use sports mouthguards instead of night guards. A mouthguard designed for sports tends to be padded to soften the blows that are sometimes made to the teeth. This additional padding means that it forces your jaw open wider.

For an hour or two at a time, this is no problem for most people. Keeping the jaw open this way for eight hours a night can lead to pain, though. 

In contrast, dental night guards are much thinner and don’t have the same result. They’re designed to be just thick enough to minimize the effect of your teeth grinding on the surface of the tooth. 

Your jaw will feel just well rested as it did if you didn’t have anything in place overnight. 

Looking for a Teeth Guard? 

Whether you need a dental night guard or one designed for contact sports, you need to get the help of a skilled dentist to custom-fit your guard. This allows you to have the comfort you need and to protect your teeth to the best of your ability. Allow our experienced dental clinic in Winnipeg to help you get the right mouthguard. 

Fresh Dental offers both night mouthguards and sports mouthguards to protect your smile through every event and circumstance. No matter what you may need, reach out to us today to learn more about how we can help you! 

WINNIPEG, MB:  The team at Fresh Dental, an established and innovative dental clinic located at 2195 Pembina Highway, is headed to the bowling alley.  While bowling is not traditionally in the job description for dental professionals, the Fresh Dental team consistently invests in off-site team-building activities to draw its staff closer together.  

Offering a state-of-the-art facility, cutting-edge technology, and a dedicated team of highly trained dentists, Fresh Dental provides routine dental care, pediatric dentistry, implants, oral surgeries, and more to residents of Fort Garry and beyond.  The clinic is fully accessible, and languages spoken by staff members in addition to English include German, Hebrew, Afrikaans, Korean, and Russian.  All patients are welcomed and treated with dignity, compassion, and the utmost level of professional care.  

Dentists Dr. Jeffrey Bergen (Dr. B), Dr. Lindi van Jaarsveldt (Dr. Lindi), and Dr. Alex Serebnitski (Dr. Alex) believe that there’s more to a great dental practice than just professional skills.  They are committed to building a truly cohesive and exceptional dental team that knows and supports each other even outside the walls of the Fresh Dental clinic.  In return, they experience increased energy, vitality, and positivity in their daily interactions with patients and each other.  

“We strive to cultivate long-term patient relationships through a high standard of individualized care,” says Dr. Alex Serebnitski, “but we can only do that best when we truly feel nourished both individually and as a team.  That’s why we invest time and resources in off-site staff activities like kayaking, bowling, and more–to bring us all together and inject a healthy dose of something different into our routine.”  All Fresh Dental staff members are encouraged to attend and participate in team-building experiences.  

Fresh Dental is currently accepting new patients and may be adding to its staff team in the future.  For more information about Fresh Dental and the services it provides, visit https://freshdental.frstage.ca.

When it comes to visiting the dentist, many people wonder what they could face upon arrival in the reclining chair. From tooth decay to gum disease, knowing the most common dental problems and their solutions can put your mind at ease. There isn’t necessarily just one sign of poor oral health; there are many things that our patients typically have in common.

This detailed guide to your most common dental problems will help you to better prepare for your next dental appointment:

Tooth Decay

Perhaps the most common concern for dental health is tooth decay, often referred to as dental cavities or dental caries. If your dentist pronounces that you have tooth decay, it means that a sticky substance known as plaque has built up on the surface of the tooth.

This could be the result of poor oral hygiene from a lack of brushing and flossing. The sugary and acidic foods you eat build up on the outside of the tooth, known as the enamel. Enamel erosion often leads to tooth decay, but it can be avoided with some simple at-home actions.

For example, you can stick with a routine of brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day. Try to minimize your intake of sugary beverages or foods that could get stuck in the teeth between your brushings. Parents of younger patients may want to consider sealants to help protect the tooth’s enamel from decay.

If you’re unable to prevent tooth decay in the first place, you can rest assured that the treatment is relatively easy. Dentists typically fill the cavities to keep the problem from worsening.

Gum Disease

Another issue caused by dental plaque is gum disease. It occurs when you have plaque buildup in the space between the tooth and gums. Most of the time, it results in swollen gums and minor irritation.

Left untreated, gingivitis segues into periodontitis which is a more serious version of gum disease marked by receding gums, bleeding gums, and difficulty chewing. In the most advanced gum disease, you may even lose the tooth altogether.

Treating gum disease isn’t as easy as placing a filling. Instead, your dentist may try to scale the plaque out from between the tooth and gum. This can sometimes reverse the progression of gum disease. A dentist may also prescribe antibiotics for a tooth infection.

Periodontal Disease

If your gum disease is not treated early, it can transform into a much more serious issue: Periodontal disease. This takes the infection one step further, from the gums and into the jaw, where it can cause pain.  The result is inflammation throughout the entire body that wreaks havoc on your immune system and overall well-being.

To start treating periodontal diseases, your dentist may set you up with more regular dental cleanings and check-ups where they can scale the area between the teeth and gums more closely. It may take several visits to remove the buildup in these pockets. They may also issue you an antibiotic to lower inflammation and infection throughout the body.

Of course, this should all go hand-in-hand with good oral health practices like brushing twice a day and flossing, particularly along the gum line. If you use tobacco products of any kind, this is a good time to kick the habit before it worsens your periodontal disease.

Receding Gums

Another issue that goes directly with the two previous common dental problems is receding gums. In this case, your gums may recede to the point where the nerve ending of the tooth is exposed. As you might imagine, this can cause immense pain.

Proper brushing habits can go a long way toward helping eliminate the issue of receding gums. However, if it persists, you may need a gum graft surgery to restore your gum line and minimize discomfort.

Tooth Sensitivity

One of the most common dental problems that people make an appointment for is tooth sensitivity. When you have difficulty eating certain foods, it might be time to see a dentist. In particular, this usually means that you have trouble eating foods that are either very hot or cold.

Sometimes, an increase in sensitive teeth surfaces when the enamel of the tooth actually sustains some damage or wear and tear. Instead of  the enamel protecting the nerve endings of the tooth, cold or hot foods actually touch the nerve and cause discomfort.

This is something that you may be able to lessen at home with some good oral health products designed specifically for tooth sensitivity.

Cracked or Broken Teeth

Unlike tooth decay which is often caused by poor oral hygiene, cracked or broken teeth can happen to anyone at any time. A cracked tooth can surface from playing rough contact sports, chewing on something too hard for the strength of your enamel, or through any other sustained injury.

Unfortunately, you may not know right away that a tooth is cracked. Instead, you might notice little changes in your oral health, such as sensitive teeth or pain. When you start to feel discomfort of any kind in the mouth, you should contact a dentist to be on the safe side.

The treatment for a broken tooth depends on the severity of the crack. Your dentist may be able to put on a crown at best or remove the tooth at worst.

Crooked Teeth and Other Cosmetic Issues

Of course, many people will come to see the dentist for issues that are seemingly unrelated to their dental health. Crooked teeth are one of the leading causes of dental appointments, but there are other cosmetic reasons to visit the dentist as well. For example, you might have yellow teeth or gaps between teeth.

Many dentists also offer orthodontic treatment to help alleviate issues related to the spacing of your teeth. The most common are braces, but retainers and other devices can also be used. You may even be able to use invisible retainers that realign how your teeth are structured without the bulk of metal brackets and wires.

Veneers are another option for dealing with gaps between teeth or minor alignment issues. These adhere to the outside of the tooth and are a long-lasting solution.

Last but not least, your dentist may recommend teeth whitening if you’re concerned about the appearance of your teeth. This is a perfectly safe treatment that can improve the appearance of yellow teeth, brightening them by a few shades in a single session. Extremely discoloured teeth may require multiple sessions to achieve the desired results.  However these treatment may increase tooth sensitivity although usually this is temporary and can be minimized with use of desensitizing toothpaste.

Missing Teeth

Whether you had to have a broken tooth removed or a tooth simply fell out due to an injury or gum disease, you might not want to deal with the appearance of a missing tooth. To this end, your dentist can help you fill in the gap in your smile with dental implants.

In most instances implant crowns look exactly the same as the rest of your teeth and even function the same as natural teeth. If you’re missing multiple teeth, you may be able to opt for a bridge that covers a span of several teeth.

It may take several visits to get your new implant in place, but it will be well worth the time invested when you can have a smile that you are truly happy with.

Tooth Erosion

While similar to dental caries, tooth erosion is slightly different. Instead of plaque wearing away at tooth enamel, erosion occurs when the acidic foods in your diet rest on the teeth and eat away at the enamel. If your diet consists of foods with high acidity you may be at risk for tooth erosion.  Examples include citrus fruits, vinegars and soda.

Keep in mind that those that suffer from dry mouth lack the saliva that clears away some of these harmful chemicals, making erosion more likely in this population.

What can be done for tooth erosion to improve your overall oral health? Perhaps the only effective treatment for erosion is to manage the symptoms. A dentist can apply resin to the tooth to try to protect it from further decay, place veneers over damaged enamel, or place a crown.

No matter what you do, you won’t be able to turn the tide of tooth erosion. The only thing you can do is prevent it from worsening.

Bad Breath

One of the most embarrassing issues for many people is bad breath or halitosis. This can impact your confidence and your social life if you don’t take care of it early on. Unfortunately, the cure for bad breath is not as easy to pinpoint as one might imagine. 

Many things can impact the state of the mouth and the smells that come from it.

For example, dry mouth allows residue from your meals to linger and causes odours. Bad breath can also be caused by poor oral hygiene, like not brushing and flossing. An infection in the mouth, acid reflux, and even certain types of medication can all contribute to halitosis.

Sometimes, it can be easy to pinpoint the source of the smell when you eat odiferous foods like onions. However, it may not be that clear-cut. Have your dentist do a thorough cleaning and check-up to determine what could be causing your overall bad breath.

Oral Cancer

You should also use your dentist appointment to manage symptoms related to oral cancer. A dentist can identify any lumps and bumps that are out of the norm in the mouth, including around the lips, tongue, and even the tonsils. If you have mouth sores that don’t heal on their own or continue to resurface, it might be time to let a dentist take a look.

Anyone can have oral cancer, but it’s most common in those who smoke or use chewing tobacco. Alcohol consumption can also fuel the flames of oral cancer and sores within the oral cavity.

Like all cancers, oral cancer can be treated if caught early enough. This is reason enough to schedule regular dental appointments.

Impacted Teeth

Another common dental problem that makes people uncomfortable at best and in pain at worst is an impacted tooth. This means that your tooth hasn’t been able to come through the gums, usually because it lacks the space that it needs. Instead, it may try to crowd out the other teeth around its designated location.

You won’t be able to tell if you have an impacted tooth right away because it’s hidden below the gum line. However, you’ll certainly feel it if you have a tooth that’s impacted. It can cause substantial pain in your jaw and gums. You may even have difficulty opening your mouth due to this pain.

Sometimes impacted teeth can be left alone if they are not causing any problems but otherwise the treatment for an impacted tooth is either to help the tooth to come through the gums or remove the impacted tooth via oral surgery.

Get the Dental Check-Up You Need

Don’t wait until you’re in pain to take control of your oral health. You need regular dental check-ups to catch some of these problems right from the start. Fresh Dental can take care of all your oral health conditions under one roof, allowing you to get the treatment you need to start living your best life with a smile you’re happy with.

Reach out to us today to learn more about how we can help you with any discomfort, pain, or cosmetic issues that you may be facing.

The back molars, also known as wisdom teeth, are normally the last adult teeth to erupt from your gums. People between the ages of 17 and 21 typically experience wisdom tooth growth in the top and bottom corners at the back of the mouth.

Oftentimes people do not have adequate space for wisdom teeth which may lead to gum issues, bad odours, higher risk of cavities and even cyst formation.

That’s why it’s sometimes integral to receive wisdom teeth removal surgery to ensure your other teeth aren’t at risk.
Here’s everything you need to know about wisdom teeth removal:

Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are vestigial structures that were useful to our early human ancestors for their coarse and rough diet which included foods like nuts, roots, and uncooked meats. However, as humans have evolved and developed tools for food preparation, our diet has become softer and easier to chew. Consequently, the need for wisdom teeth has diminished.

Why I Might Need To Get My Wisdom Teeth Removed

Some patients have all four wisdom teeth erupted without causing problems, but in most cases, wisdom teeth can grow at an angle or get impacted in the jawbone or under your gum tissue. As a result, you can experience many issues.

You may consider having a wisdom tooth removed due to the following:

• Dental pain at the back of your mouth
• Food and debris getting trapped around your wisdom teeth
• Developing gum disease around your third molars
• Tooth decay due to a partially erupted wisdom tooth
• One or more impacted teeth
• Cyst (fluid-filled sac) development around the wisdom teeth

Most dentists will recommend wisdom teeth extraction as a preventive measure to ensure no problems arise down the road.

Problems With Impacted Wisdom Teeth

If your nearby teeth are impacted, you may experience numerous dental problems, such as:

• Pain
• Trapped food and debris
• Gum disease
• Tooth decay
• Damage to the surrounding bone
• Cyst development
• Complications with other orthodontic treatments

Preventing Future Dental Problems

While it can be difficult to determine future dental issues that may result from wisdom teeth, there are some reasonable concerns for preventative removal surgery:

• Symptom-free wisdom teeth can host diseases.
• If there isn’t enough room in the mouth, wisdom teeth may grow in awkward angles and become harder to clean.
• More serious wisdom teeth complications are less likely in young adults.
• Older adults may struggle with surgery and post-surgery complications.

What Is the Best Age To Remove Your Wisdom Teeth?

According to the ADA (American Dental Association), wisdom teeth typically grow in people ages 17 and 21, making this the ideal age to have your wisdom teeth removed. Sometimes it is recommended to have your wisdom teeth out at an even younger age as it may be easier and less traumatic to have the teeth removed before the roots are fully formed. It can take some time for all four wisdom teeth to grow in, and the process can often be uncomfortable. If you notice significant pain, contacting your dentist immediately is a good idea.

How Wisdom Teeth Get Removed

To remove wisdom teeth, your oral surgeon will administer a local anaesthetic to numb your teeth and gums. For impacted wisdom teeth, your surgeon will expose them through an incision, giving them easy access for removal.
If your wisdom teeth are visible and fully erupted, your surgeon will loosen and pull them from their tooth socket. Then, they’ll clean the area and possibly place stitches, which will dissolve on their own in a week or two. There may be some instances when stitches aren’t required, but the wounds will need monitoring.

Risks

Wisdom teeth removal won’t often result in serious long-term complications, but there may be instances when patients experience:

• Infection
• Dry socket (loss of the blood clot that results in exposed bone)
• Damage to the jawbone, nerves, nearby teeth, and sinuses

How To Prepare for Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Your dentist can perform a wisdom tooth removal procedure in the office. Although, if your tooth is severely impacted or requires an intensive surgical approach, you may be referred to an oral surgeon. Regardless of who provides the surgical treatment, you’ll receive local anaesthesia to ensure you’re comfortable during the oral surgery.

Questions To Ask Your Dentist
It’s perfectly normal to ask your dentist questions regarding wisdom tooth removal surgery, such as:

• How many wisdom teeth will be removed?
• What type of anaesthesia is provided?
• How long will the procedure last?
• Have my impacted wisdom teeth caused damage to other teeth?
• Is there a risk of nerve damage?
• How long will the recovery phase last?
• How complicated do you expect the surgery to be?

In Preparation for Surgery
A wisdom tooth extraction is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home after it’s over.

There are a few things you will need to do and plan out before your surgery:

• If any sedatives have been prescribed, be prepared to have someone take you home after the procedure, as driving after taking these medications is dangerous.
• If undergoing sedation or general anaesthesia, your surgeon may have some strict instructions regarding when to stop eating and drinking before surgery.
• Ensure your teeth are brushed before extraction.
• If you take prescriptions, consult your dentist to determine whether you need to avoid taking them before the wisdom teeth removal.
• You’ll may be bedridden for the next few days following surgery, so ensure you have soft foods and liquids stocked-up at home.

How Long Does the Operation Take?

Wisdom teeth extraction can vary from patient to patient, but the average removal can take up to one hour. More complex wisdom teeth extractions can take longer.

How To Recover After the Wisdom Tooth Removal?

Aftercare for wisdom tooth removal can vary, but you can follow these general guidelines to ensure a smooth recovery:

• Get as much rest as possible, especially for the first 48 to 72 hours.
• Avoid any strenuous activities, such as exercising or heavy lifting.
• Use a cold compress or ice pack on your face to reduce swelling.
• Use an antimicrobial mouthwash to gently soak your incisions and keep your wound clean.
• Don’t swish liquids, as this can dislodge blood clots and lead to dry sockets.
• Brush the rest of your teeth, as usual.
• Take your prescribed medications, including antibiotics and pain relievers.

What Food Can I Eat?
There are many foods that you can eat after a wisdom tooth extraction, such as:

Soft foods: Pasta, rice, eggs, mashed potatoes, pudding, and yogurt
Cold foods: Ice cream, smoothies, apple sauce, and frozen yogurt

Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods, as those can irritate your surgical sites. Lastly, avoid drinking through straws and smoking; the suction can dislodge your blood clots.

Should I Take a Break From School/Work?

Most people will take up to three days off work or school after wisdom teeth extraction. If your job requires heavy lifting and strenuous activity, you may need to book off some extra recovery time.

Do you require a professional dentist that can remove wisdom teeth in Winnipeg? Fresh Dental is here for you. We provide an assortment of dental treatments, such as dental implants, root canals, and, you guessed it, wisdom tooth extraction. Contact us today to book your appointment!

There’s no denying it: Flossing is one of the most important oral hygiene habits to practice. Unfortunately, many people either don’t floss correctly or don’t floss at all. Flossing is essential to remove harmful bacteria and reduce plaque build-up between teeth.

Find the Right Floss

Most floss types are thin, nylon strands that get pulled between teeth in an up-and-down motion. You can find a standard waxed floss that will do the trick. There’s also unwaxed floss available on the market with polytetrafluorethylene to make it easier for the floss to glide between teeth.

There are plenty of options out there besides the traditional string floss; you could buy charcoal floss or dental tape. While marketing efforts pawn off charcoal floss as the next best oral health tool, it’s best to use it sparingly; too much charcoal can wear down your enamel over time.

Dental tape comes in a large sheet of plastic material with thin fibres running through it. Most people have difficulty using this type of dental product, but it does help remove food debris and plaque. There are also disposable floss picks available that some people find easier to use.

Remember, whenever you see a seal of acceptance from the American Dental Association (ADA), it means the product is generally safe to use.

Use the Right Flossing Technique

Implementing a proper flossing technique can work wonders when trying to remove plaque and food particles.

How To Floss

Don’t worry. Many people struggle with nailing the best flossing technique. Here’s a step-by-step guide to flossing with string floss:

• Remove roughly 18 inches of floss from the container.
• Wrap one end of the floss around your index finger and the other end between the index and thumb of your alternate hand. Ensure there are 5 cm/2 inches of floss for your teeth.
• Glide the floss up and down your teeth.
• Try to avoid driving the floss into your gums
• Curve the floss into a C shape to reach the spaces between your teeth and gums.
• Repeat these steps as you move from tooth to tooth from one side of the mouth to the other. Make sure to use a different part of the floss each time.

Floss Once a Day

You should regularly floss your teeth once a day, along with brushing twice daily for 2 minutes (remember that fluoride toothpaste!). Keeping up with a flossing routine will ensure you stay on top of your oral health and decrease the risk of dental issues like cavities or gingivitis.

Be Consistent

The hardest part about flossing your teeth is being consistent. Remember, it doesn’t take that much time out of your day, and the sooner you get it done, the faster it’s over with. Think about all the money and pain you’ll save on cavity fillings and other dental work.

Be Gentle

Try to avoid flossing between your teeth too hard. Too many rough back-and-forth motions could dig into your gums and damage them. If you’re just now getting into the habit of flossing, you may see some slight gum bleeding, but that’s okay. It’s just a natural part of beginning your new oral hygiene routine. However, if you notice that you constantly have bleeding gums after brushing or flossing, it could mean that you’re applying too much pressure.

Don’t Neglect the Back Teeth

Sometimes you might get caught up flossing the front teeth because you don’t want people to see the bits of broccoli you just had for lunch. Other times, you may just have difficulty reaching the back of your mouth. The point is that you shouldn’t neglect your back teeth when flossing. If you struggle with flossing your back teeth, try using a disposable floss pick.

Tired of Floss? Try a Water Flosser

If you can’t get the handle of regular floss, you could try a water flosser. Water flossers are handheld devices that shoot water between your teeth. A water flosser needs to be plugged into an electrical outlet, and you’ll have to keep the water tank filled, but it’s a fun alternative if you don’t like flossing between your teeth. Keep in mind that water flossing is not as effective as manual flossing and should ideally be adjunctive to the latter.

While flossing and brushing your teeth is the key to fantastic oral health, you should still visit your dentist in Winnipeg for routine check-ups and teeth cleaning. Our dental office is always here when you need our services. Contact us to book your next appointment, and we’ll assure you walk away with a smile.

It may come as no surprise, but regularly brushing your teeth twice a day removes plaque and can prevent future oral health problems. Despite this obvious knowledge, many people don’t practice consistent teeth brushing. With so many toothbrushes available, knowing which option is the best for you can be challenging. 

Should you use an electric or manual toothbrush? 

Both kinds of toothbrushes have perks. Below, we’ll review the pros and cons of electric and manual toothbrushes to determine which one might be your best option:

Electric Toothbrush 

An electric toothbrush (or powered toothbrush) is a battery-operated device that vibrates and rotates while cleaning your teeth. WebMD states electric toothbrushes can cover a larger area faster than a manual toothbrush. While manual toothbrushes can get the job done, it can take longer to clean each tooth, which may deter users from brushing for the recommended time. 

There are three types of electric toothbrushes: 

• Oscillating Rotary Toothbrushes: These brushes come with a small, circular, oscillating head that rotates back and forth while cleaning each tooth. Some oscillating models feature vibrating and pulsing to help remove plaque and food debris between teeth.
• Sonic Toothbrushes: A sonic toothbrush has a vibrating head that moves bristles side-to-side at high speed. The vibrations of a sonic toothbrush are fast enough to produce a low hum and offer up to 50,000 movements per minute.  
• Ultrasonic Toothbrushes: Ultrasonic brushes use a high-frequency vibration called “ultrasound” to remove plaque and food buildup. They can provide over 1.2 billion movements per minute. 

Electric Toothbrush Benefits 

The vibrating and oscillating head on an electric toothbrush works exceptionally well at covering all areas of your teeth and gums, and the benefits don’t stop there:

Removing Plaque

Electric toothbrushes are more effective for removing plaque and bacteria from your mouth. Regularly brushing your teeth with an electric brush can help improve your oral health, retain your teeth for longer, and remove stains, making them look whiter and cleaner. According to Colgate, an 11-year study showed that using an electric toothbrush can result in 22% less pocket depth and gum recession and 18% less tooth decay. 

Built-In Timers

Many electric toothbrushes come with built-in timers. Why? To alert you after you’ve brushed for the recommended 2-minute time. These alerts ensure you don’t brush for too long but long enough to achieve better oral hygiene and health. 

Better for Limited Mobility

Compared to a regular manual toothbrush, electric toothbrushes do most of the work for you. This addition is a benefit for people with limited mobility issues, like carpal tunnel, arthritis, and more. 

Beneficial for Orthodontic Appliances 

People with orthodontic appliances, such as braces, may find that electric toothbrushes make brushing much easier. An electric toothbrush can help those with braces remove plaque, food debris, and stains while undergoing orthodontic therapy. 

Less Waste

According to OralB, you should typically replace your manual toothbrush or electric toothbrush head every 3 to 4 months. That’s a lot of waste when considering how many brushes you go through in a year. But with an electric toothbrush, the waste is minimized as you don’t need to throw out a full brush. 

However, when using a single-use electric toothbrush, you will have to replace it once the bristles wear out. 

Cost-Effective 

While an electric toothbrush may seem like an unnecessary expense, it’ll save you some money in the long run. Not only does it come with long battery life, but it also requires less maintenance and yields positive brushing results. Instead of discarding and replacing a manual brush, you only have to worry about replacing the electric toothbrush head. 

Brushing Potential 

Numerous electric toothbrushes come with different settings, which make for effective brushing techniques. If you have sensitive teeth, you can use a gentler mode or take advantage of the pulsing and vibrating features to get into those hard-to-reach areas.

Fun for Kids

Every parent knows how hard it is to keep their kids on a regular oral hygiene routine. No child is interested in brushing their teeth with a manual toothbrush, but a powered toothbrush is a whole other level of fun. Electric brushes can help kids become more engaged while brushing and keep them interested in practicing healthy habits. 

Electric Toothbrush Cons

While an electric toothbrush has several benefits, it has some drawbacks: 

High Cost

Since electric toothbrushes require batteries, they’ll be generally more expensive than traditional, manual brushes. They also require a head replacement, which can be pricey, depending on the model. 

Risk of Damage

A battery-powered electric toothbrush requires charging, and you must be careful not to overcharge the brush as it can put the device at risk of damaging the battery. 

Manual Toothbrush 

A manual toothbrush is a hand-held brush that’s typically made out of hard plastic. This type of toothbrush has soft bristles for cleaning gums and areas between the teeth. A person must manually manipulate the brush to gently massage the gums and brush gums to remove plaque and food debris. 

Manual Toothbrush Benefits 

Manual toothbrushes have been around for decades, which means they’re a classic for a reason. While manual brushes may not have as many benefits as their electric-powered counterparts, they still provide an array of advantages:

Affordability

Manual brushes are considerably less expensive than electric toothbrushes. These toothbrushes are also available at many stores with various features and prices. 

Easy to Maintain

Just rinse it, and it’s ready for the next time you need it—no charging is necessary.

Speed Control

Most electric toothbrushes come with a consistent speed depending on the model. Manual toothbrushes rely on you to control the speed. You can decide what pace and how much pressure to apply when brushing specific areas in your mouth, making for greater control. 

Easier to Travel With 

A manual toothbrush can easily fit in a suitcase or travel bag, which makes it more convenient to pack. They’re lightweight and easy to travel with, and you don’t have to worry about damaging them as you would with an electric toothbrush. 

Manual Toothbrush Cons 

Manual brushes can provide many benefits, but there will always be significant drawbacks when compared to going electric:

Rough Brushing

A study found that many people who use manual toothbrushes tend to brush their teeth harder than with electric brushes. Applying too much pressure can cause gum abrasion and other oral health issues. 

No Timer

Without a 2-minute timer, most manual toothbrush users brush for less than 45 seconds. This is one advantage powered toothbrushes have over manual, as it indicates how long users should brush. 

Harder to Use

For people with arthritis, disabilities, or issues with dexterity, manual brushing may cause some discomfort. These brushes aren’t as user-friendly as the electric models. 

Which Toothbrush Is Right for You?

Both manual and electric toothbrushes are effective at cleaning your teeth, but if we had to choose which method works best, we would say that electric toothbrushes are the go-to. An electric toothbrush can make brushing a lot easier and serve as a better plaque-removal option. 

Talk to your dentist if you’re unsure which toothbrush is best for you. 

Don’t let the threat of cavities and gum disease get the best of you. Stay on top of brushing your teeth twice daily and make regular appointments with your reliable dental clinic. When you book an appointment with us at Fresh Dental, we ensure you get the best treatment possible, whether for routine cleanings, fillings, and more. Contact us today!

One major lesson we learned as a kid is that frequent snacking on sugary foods and beverages can cause cavities, especially if you aren’t brushing and flossing twice a day. It can be hard to deny those sweet treats, which is why cavities are among some of the most common oral health problems. You’ll likely get at least one cavity during your life if you don’t take proper care of your oral hygiene. 

If you don’t treat a cavity, it can get larger and start to corrode the deeper layers of your teeth, often becoming painful and irritating as the cavity forms. 

But how do cavities form, and how can you differentiate the signs of a cavity from a less serious problem? 

What Is a Cavity?

Over time, food and bacteria can build up on your teeth and form plaque. If you aren’t committing to a regular brushing routine, the plaque can produce acids that erode the outer enamel on the surface of your teeth. If you allow the plaque to continue building up, it can eat away at the enamel and create cavities. 

A cavity is a hole in a tooth that develops from tooth decay. If left untreated, it can grow and destroy your tooth. Cavities can also create further dental complications, such as a tooth abscess and/or gum infection. An infection that makes its way into your bloodstream can result in life-threatening diseases or conditions.

There are areas of the mouth that may be more susceptible to plaque development, such as:

• Chewing surfaces of the molars 
• Areas between your teeth
• The bottom of your teeth near the gums

If you’re continuously eating sticky foods, it may increase your risk of developing one or more cavities. 

Our team at Fresh Dental has narrowed down the common foods that cause cavities:

• Hard candy
• Potato chips
• Ice cream
• Soda beverages 
• Fruit juice 
• Coffee or tea with sugar
• Sugary foods like candy, gummies, cookies, cake, etc.

While cavities are most common among children, adults are still at risk. Some adults may experience receding gums that expose the roots of their teeth to plaque. If cavities develop at the root and continue to grow without treatment, it may result in tooth loss.

7 Signs You Have a Cavity

Tooth Sensitive to Sweets

According to the Journal of the American Dental Association, sensitivity to hot, cold, or even sweet foods is a symptom of early tooth decay and cavities. You may notice a lingering sensitivity when eating sweet foods or drinking sugary beverages. 

A lingering discomfort is almost always a telltale sign there’s damage to your enamel and marks the beginning of a developing cavity in your tooth.

Tooth Sensitive to Hot & Cold

As we mentioned above, sensitivity to hot and cold is a common indicator that you have a cavity. As tooth enamel begins to wear down, it can affect the hard tissue layer beneath the enamel called dentin. Dentin contains a collection of microscopic hollow tubes. 

If there isn’t enough tooth enamel to protect the dentin, hot and cold foods can irritate the nerve inside the tooth. Sticky or acidic foods can also affect the exposed dentin, creating the sensitivity you may experience. 

Blood When Brushing 

If a cavity forms between two teeth, you may notice blood while brushing your teeth. We know that’s the last thing you want to see when you spit out your toothpaste, so why does it happen? Gum tissue can grow into the space created by a recent cavity. Any time you brush over that space, you can cause the gum tissue to start bleeding. 

Pain When Chewing 

You may notice more pain while chewing as a cavity progresses and exposes the pulp of a tooth. Some people will start chewing on the side of their mouth that doesn’t have tooth pain. Constant chewing on the opposite side may also cause soreness when eating food. Difficulty chewing due to a tooth cavity is one of the last things you want to experience. 

Teeth Starting To Chip & Crack

As your tooth decays, the outer enamel corrodes until the dentin layers of the inner tooth are exposed. As those layers are unprotected, the dead or dying pulp produces a pigment that makes your teeth look darker and increases the risk of chipping and cracking. It’s pivotal to see your dentist as soon as you notice your cavity to ensure you don’t damage your teeth. Fixing a chipped or cracked tooth is an expensive procedure that you can avoid. 

Shifting of Teeth or New Gaps 

Cavities in the back section of your teeth can worsen over time and cause your teeth to shift. In some more extreme scenarios, you may even notice that a gap has formed in your front teeth. The sudden development of shifting teeth or gaps means that a cavity is probably to blame. 

White Spots on Teeth

The earliest warning sign of a forming cavity is the sudden appearance of white spots on the surface of your teeth. The white spots are caused by a lack of minerals on the surface of your teeth. If you notice these dots, you should seek treatment right away before it’s too late. Yes, a tad dramatic, but it’s true. A dentist can help reverse the damage to your teeth, especially when it’s so early in the cavity stage. 

What Can You Do To Prevent a Cavity?

Practising good oral hygiene is the first step to preventing tooth decay and cavities. If you’re not keeping up with brushing and flossing, your cavities could result in requiring monumental fixes. For example, if you allow a cavity to worsen and affect the tissue within the tooth, you may need a root canal treatment. A root canal is an invasive procedure that may require more than one dental office visit and can be pricey to fix.

So, how do you prevent a cavity and avoid intense dental procedures?

• Brush with fluoride toothpaste after eating or drinking. Waiting 30 minutes after eating to brush is generally advised especially if the food that was consumed is acidic.  You generally want to brush your teeth twice a day. Use dental floss to remove food particles between your teeth once daily. 
• Visit your dentist regularly. Routine teeth cleanings and oral exams can help reduce your risk of cavities and prevent issues early on. 
• Consider a fluoride treatment. Some dentists may recommend occasional fluoride treatments if they notice you aren’t getting enough through fluoride drinking water. 
• Drink more water. Many public water supplies have fluoride, which can help reduce tooth decay. 
• Avoid frequent snacking. Eating sugary foods and drinking beverages other than water can create acids that destroy your enamel. The more you snack, the more your teeth are under frequent attack. 
• Eat healthy foods. You can find many healthy foods for your teeth and increase your saliva flow, such as fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Consider dental sealants. A sealant is a thin coating painted on teeth to protect them against cavities. It seals off grooves that tend to collect food and protects against plaque build-up.
• Antibacterial treatments. If you’re vulnerable to tooth decay because of a medical condition, your dentist might recommend an antibacterial mouth rinse and other treatments to help reduce the bacteria in your mouth. 

When To See a Dentist 

It’s paramount to make an appointment with your dentist as soon as you notice one or more cavity signs. A lingering toothache, sensitivity, bad breath, and tooth stains are some of the most common identifiers. Take action before the cavity grows.

You should see your dentist every six months and get routine X-rays to determine if there are any cavities or other dental problems. This way, your dentist can stop any issues before they worsen. 

FAQs

How Common Are Cavities?

According to Canada Health, 96% of adults have a history of cavities. Cavities are also very common in children. 57% of 6-11-year-olds and 59% of 12-19-year-olds have had one or more cavities.  

Who Might Get a Cavity?

Cavities can develop at any age. However, those who don’t brush properly and often consume sugary foods or drinks are more prone to developing one or more cavities. Children are more likely to get them, but adults can have cavities that form around the fillings that were used to treat cavities from adolescence. Receding gums are also more prominent in adults, which can expose the lower parts of the teeth to plaque build-up.  

What Are the Types of Cavities? 

Tooth decay affects all layers of your teeth. It can take three years for a cavity to form, especially if your enamel is strong. As the decay progresses, it spreads to your dentine and pulp.

The common types of cavities include: 

• Smooth surface: This is a slow-forming cavity that dissolves your tooth enamel. You can prevent (and even reverse) a smooth surface cavity with regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings. 
• Pit and fissure decay: These cavities form on the top part of the tooth’s chewing surface and can also affect the front side of the back teeth. Pit and fissure decay often starts during the teenage years and progresses rapidly. 
• Root decay: Adults with receding gums are more susceptible to root decay. As gum recession exposes the tooth’s root, it becomes vulnerable to plaque and acid. This type of cavity is incredibly difficult to prevent and treat. 

What Causes Cavities?

Newsflash: If you have teeth, you’re at risk for cavities. However, properly caring for your teeth and gums can help decrease your chances. 

There are specific causes that can increase the development of a cavity, such as:

• Sugary foods and drinks
• Poor dental hygiene 
• A lack of fluoride
• Eating disorders
• Acid reflux disease
• Dry mouth

Don’t let a cavity ruin your smile. Our valued team at Fresh Dental can provide numerous services, such as dental implants, coloured fillings, crowns, teeth whitening, cleanings, and more! Make an appointment with us today. 

Are you in the process of considering dentures as a replacement for missing teeth? Dentures improve and assist your facial profile, making chewing, eating, and speaking easier. 

Different types of dentures serve different purposes. Some dentures replace a few missing teeth, while others might replace all of your natural teeth. Scheduling a consultation with your dentist will provide you with more information about dentures. But before your consultation, it’s beneficial to understand more about the different types of dentures to determine what option might work best for you.

Denture Options 

Complete Dentures 

Complete dentures, also known as full dentures, refer to the total replacement of the upper and lower sets of teeth. These dentures sit on the gums, unlike other dental bridges that are fixed or anchored to existing teeth.

Full dentures are made of acrylic resin and are fully removable from the mouth. They fit better when all your teeth have been removed and can be used about 8 to 12 weeks after removal.  

Partial Dentures 

Patients with some remaining teeth can benefit from a removable partial denture. Partial dentures appear as a pink-coloured base attached to a piece of metal that holds the denture in the mouth. Most partial dentures are also made from acrylic material and can help prevent other teeth from shifting over. 

Immediate Dentures 

You may be a good candidate for immediate dentures if you need a tooth replacement. Most immediate dentures can be used directly after the natural teeth have been removed. The point of an immediate denture is to help during the healing process. These Winnipeg dentures are easy to refit and adjust as the gums and jaw heal. 

Implant-Supported Dentures 

Dental implants are used in implant-supported dentures to ensure they’re supported securely. An implant-supported denture provides a solid foundation for your teeth as you chew and speak, keeping the denture in place. Typically, implant-supported dentures look natural and can last up to 10 or 20 years if properly cared for. 

Implant-retained Dentures 

Implant-retained Dentures are dentures that are kept in by implants but the support for the dentures is still mostly by the gums.  These are a good option for a lower complete denture that would otherwise be very loose without the implants.

So, Which Dentures Are Better?

Ultimately, the best dentures for you will heavily depend on your needs. Your dentist will be able to provide the options for you, but there are a few things to consider:

• Budget: As you’ve probably noticed throughout this list, some denture alternatives are pricey. Discussing your options with a professional dentist will help determine what you can afford.
• Requirements: Not every denture option is available to everyone. The dentures you get will depend on what works best for your mouth. In some cases, surrounding teeth may have to undergo removal to make room for denture placement. 
• Comfort: Typically, you can choose what type of denture you prefer, such as permanent or removable dentures. It’s pivotal to choose a denture that you’re comfortable with, as it will become part of your day-to-day life.  

Now that you know more about denture options, you can step forward toward bettering your dental care. Make an appointment with Fresh Dental today and learn more about our denture implants. Our team of experienced dentists strives to ensure each patient that enters the office leaves feeling more confident about their smile.

Undergoing oral surgery and receiving a tooth extraction can be an unpleasant experience. An even more unpleasant feeling is continuing your day-to-day with a missing tooth. Not only can it be uncomfortable, but it can also be inconvenient, especially when trying to eat or speak. It’s perfectly understandable why you’d want to fill that gap in your teeth as soon as possible. Your dentist will most likely recommend a dental implant, but when one receives an implant after extraction will vary from patient to patient. 

What Is Dental Implant Surgery?

Dental implant surgery is a procedure that replaces tooth roots with metal screws and is for people who need replacements for damaged or missing teeth. A small hole called an osteotomy is made in the bone and the titanium implant is carefully screwed into this hole at a predefined torque value.  Usually a healing cap is screwed into the implant to give the Dentist access to the implant after healing has occurred.  Healing usually takes 3-4 months.  During the time the bone grows into all the microscopic gaps on the surface of the implant which stabilizes it.  After healing a crown can be made and this crown would replace the healing cap.

A dental implant may be the right option for patients who:

• Have one or more missing teeth
• Have healthy tissues
• Have a jawbone that can support the implants
• Are unable to wear dentures
• Don’t have health conditions that can compromise the healing process
• Don’t smoke 

Immediate Implant Placement

Sometimes it’s possible to receive an immediate placement during the same appointment as the extraction. An immediate implant placement option may work for you if you’re free of gum disease and have a healthy jawbone that can support the implant. 

While immediate placement after extraction can help dentists reduce the number of surgical procedures, it also has drawbacks. For example, an immediate implant is a more complex treatment and may lead to a higher implant failure rate. 

Early Implant Placement 

Early implant placement, also known as immediate-delayed implant placement, often occurs 2-3 months after extraction. Why the long wait? Well, it’s to ensure that your gums are healed and give your body time to fight any potential infections. Because this procedure happens soon after a tooth extraction, it allows you to avoid the risk of receiving a bone graft. 

Delayed Implant Placement

Delayed implants happen more than 3 months after extraction. This implant option is necessary if gum disease or another condition has impacted the health of your oral tissues.  This approach is also usually the most predictable.  If you’re experiencing an oral problem after extraction, you may require a bone graft or another procedure before your tooth replacement surgery. 

How To Avoid Unnecessary Delays 

You may not have a choice if you want to speed up the time frame of your procedure. However, you can follow some specific steps to avoid unnecessary delays before receiving dental implants in Winnipeg. 

• Talk to your dentist: Discuss the possibility of a dental implant with your dentist. If it’s a viable treatment option, let your dentist know you’re interested. This way, they can start their preparation for the procedure. 
• Take care of your oral health: Practise good oral hygiene habits, especially if you’ve just had a tooth extraction. Brushing and flossing will reduce your chance of gum disease, which would delay your implant procedure. If you have diabetes or another chronic condition, try to keep it under control, as it can also affect your tooth replacement. 
• Avoid smoking: Smoking cigarettes can increase the risk of gum disease and other oral health issues that may impact your dental implant surgery. 

It can be hard to determine how long it will take to replace your tooth loss. It’s integral to stay patient and continue taking care of your oral health. 

Are Implants Worth the Wait?

Knowing that you may have to wait an extended period before receiving your dental implant can make you question whether the wait is worth it. Trust us, we understand that going that long without one or more teeth can be a lot to ask, but there are several reasons why waiting for your implant is worth it. 

• Unlike dentures or bridges, implants are designed to last a lifetime. 
• 95% of patients that undergo implants will have them successfully bond with their jawbone. 
• Implants are meant to mimic the tooth root, which stimulates your jaw and jawbone growth. 
• An implant can provide the foundation of a natural-looking crown. 
• Receiving implants reduces the risk of bone resorption, which occurs when you’re missing a tooth. 

Want to learn more about receiving a tooth implant? Contact your Winnipeg dentist today. Our clinic provides several dental services, including implants. We can assess your oral health and go over your tooth replacement options to ensure you maintain your beautiful, healthy smile.