FAQs

Yes! Flossing dislodges food and bacteria between teeth where toothbrushes cannot reach and reduces plaque.

If food, bacteria, and plaque are not removed from your teeth you are at a higher risk for developing tooth decay and periodontal issues.

Types of flossing tools

Regular Floss VS Floss Picks

Regular floss and floss picks seem to have similar results if you use good flossing techniques.

Traditional floss can be a bit easier to curve around the teeth (especially the molars), but with care and technique you should be able to achieve the same with floss picks.

You should brush your teeth at least 2 minutes twice a day. We recommend that you brush at least 1 minute on the top and 1 minute on the bottom. Get into a routine and always start and end in the same place; that way you will make sure not to miss any parts of your mouth. A good way to know if you’re brushing long enough is to use a timer!

Remember, if you don’t brush your teeth long enough, you may not be getting your teeth clean enough. If bacteria is left on the teeth it can lead to serious problems such as tooth decay, gingivitis or periodontitis.

The use of a mouthwash is fine to give yourself a fresh feeling. We recommend that you use an alcohol free mouthwash if possible.
Why? Well mouthwashes which contain alcohol can dry out the lining of your mouth and decrease salivary flow. These symptoms can contribute to increased bacterial growth and lessen the mouth’s natural defenses which allow cavities to grow at a quicker rate.

If you’re not sure what mouthwash is right for you always ask your Dentist or Hygienist for their best recommendation!

Here are some of our favorites:

• ACT
  
• Listerine alcohol free
  
• Tom’s fluoride mouthwash
  

In general, it does not matter what brand of toothpaste you use as long as it contains fluoride.  However, in some instances, certain people can benefit from different kinds of toothpaste.  For example, someone with wear and erosion on their teeth should use a less abrasive toothpaste and someone with a lot of staining should use a more abrasive toothpaste.  If you are unsure you can ask your Dentist or Hygienist and they will help guide you toward the most appropriate product for your needs.

Here are some of our favorites:

• Colgate
  
• Sensodyne
  
• Tom’s
  

Rinse your mouth with water after a meal or snack to neutralize acid and reduce bacteria by 30%. Chewing sugarless gum or gum that contains Xylitol has also been shown to decrease the incidence of decay by promoting saliva production.

Not entirely. Whitening toothpastes will reverse the effects of some surface stains, but not change the shade of the teeth themselves. The change is usually minimal.

There is some evidence that over-the-counter bleaching products do whiten teeth, however these products are not used under the supervision of your dentist.

There may be potential problems which require attention prior to whitening.

Also, the trays usually sold with these products do not fit as well as those that are custom made by your dentist. As a result, damage to your gums and teeth is possible.

Unfortunately, there is no proven technique that will quickly eliminate ulcers/sores and they can be difficult to treat. Ulcers and sores can occur as a result of trauma or a viral source. Generally they diminish and disappear in two weeks, but depending on their cause there are specific medications that can shorten their duration.

If you are experiencing pain and discomfort due to a mouth ulcer or canker sore you can try an over the counter product to help alleviate the symptoms. If symptoms worsen or last longer than 2 weeks you should see your Dentist immediately.

These are some over the counter products you can try:

Bad breath or halitosis, can be caused by many things. The most common cause is the presence of bacteria in your mouth and on your tongue. These bacteria produce odorous compounds. In some cases, the cause of bad breath can be from gastrointestinal origin.

Tooth decay is the softening of your tooth enamel caused by acids. These acids are created when plaque bacteria break down sugar in your mouth

Cold sensitivity can be due to a number of reasons. Some people are generally more sensitive to temperature changes. Other causes may be due to recession of the gum tissue, abrasion of the teeth, large metal restorations or decay. Treatments for this condition can include fillings, fluoride applications or the use of desensitizing toothpastes.

Your gums bleed as a result of inflammation caused by the presence of bacteria in your mouth. This inflammation is called gingivitis. Gingivitis causes red, puffy and bleeding gums. Gone untreated, it can progress into periodontal disease.