Patient Education Library

Myths and facts – Cavities

Fact or Myth? If you have a cavity you’ll know it – myth. Mild tooth decay has no symptoms; sensitivity begins to occur when the tooth decay is already causing damage to the nerve. Today’s dentistry prevents tooth decay with sealants and other conservative methods. 

Fact or myth? Sugar is the prime cause of cavities? A fact and also a myth. Acid is the main trigger in producing the bacteria that causes cavities. The bacteria is then fuelled by the consumption of carbohydrates. Sugar is a trigger in cavities but carbs as a whole are the main cause. Fact or myth? Cavities are the prime reasons for root canals – myth. Root canals are a result of nerve damage. An untreated cavity could lead to nerve damage but root canals are onset by a number of different factors. Fact or myth? Brushing and flossing are the best ways to prevent cavities. Fact.

Myths and facts – Dentistry

Fact or myth? Expensive toothpastes are always better than cheaper ones – myth. Different toothpastes are better for different teeth and situations. Sometimes moderately priced toothpaste can be more effective. Ask the dentist about what might be best for your teeth and always look for the ADA seal of approval.

Fact or myth? If a tooth is white it must be healthy. Myth – under the surface there maybe cavities, problems with the root or other abnormalities.

Fact or myth? Teeth whitening is harmful because it damages enamel. Myth – there are many modern teeth whitening processes that have minimal harmful effects. Teeth whitening is not for every mouth or person though. Consult the dentist before you proceed with whitening treatments.

Fact or myth? Dentists should be feared. Myth – with today’s advancements, technology and safety practices, there is nothing to worry about. Procedures are as quick and painless as ever.

Fact or myth? You should visit your dentist at least twice a year. Fact!

Bridges

A bridge is a non-surgical way to replace one or many teeth. A bridge uses the adjacent teeth as anchors to support the missing tooth or teeth. With today’s dental advancements – a bridge can be fabricated in a fairly short period of time, using a metal or nonmetal foundation. Don’t let that missing tooth affect the way you speak, eat and smile. Bridges yield immediate results that last a lifetime. Ask your dentist what type of bridge maybe right for you.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are titanium roots that are replaced within the jaw bones to resemble a tooth or a group of teeth. A screw is inserted through the gums and into the jaw bone. A porcelain crown is then attached to the screw to become the new tooth or teeth. They can be used to support dental prestices including crowns, dentures and bridges. Today’s treatments are so natural looking no one will know you had surgery. There is approximately a 95 percent success rate for all implants with modern advancements in dentistry some implants can be restored immediately with life like all porcelain crowns. For more details ask your dentist.

Veneers

Veneers are thin hand crafted porcelain shields worn on the front of the tooth which improves the appearance of teeth that are chipped, cracked, stained or worn. Veneers are as thin as contact lenses and are an aesthetically pleasing option of closing gaps, lengthening teeth and providing symmetry to make your smile more natural. Veneers are intended to last for many years without changing colour. They are one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in dentistry. Ask your dentist if veneers maybe right for you.

Teeth whitening

At a young age, our teeth are healthy and white but over time the enamel coating the tooth is slowly worn down causing our teeth to become stained and yellow which is why teeth whitening is becoming increasingly popular today. There are a few methods for whitening – they include at home and in office. With in-office treatments you will see faster results, receive the safest treatments for bleaching the teeth and yield the whitest smile. So don’t settle for teeth that have become stained from years of coffee drinking, tobacco use or just ageing. Ask your dentist about whitening options that maybe right for you.