Dental Hygiene

Dental cleanings, also known as professional teeth cleanings, are a type of preventive dental care in which a dental professional removes plaque, tartar, and stains from your teeth and gums. Plaque is a thin film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth, and if it is not removed, it can harden into tartar, which is more difficult to remove. Dental cleanings are an important part of maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss.

During a dental cleaning, the dental professional will use special tools to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums. They may also use a fluoride treatment to help strengthen your tooth enamel and protect against future cavities. They may also polish your teeth to remove any surface stains. Dental cleanings are typically done by a dental hygienist or dentist in a dental office, and the procedure usually takes 30 minutes to an hour to complete. It is generally recommended to have a dental cleaning every six months to maintain good oral health.

Invisalign

Invisalign stands out as a revolutionary dental treatment method, amalgamating the fundamentals of traditional orthodontics with the principles of minimally invasive dentistry. This innovative approach prioritizes the retention of natural tooth structure, a departure from the typical methods employed by conventional braces or clear aligners. Through its unique methodology, Invasilign ensures the preservation of as much of the original tooth structure as feasible while effectively achieving the desired alignment of teeth.

Utilizing state-of-the-art techniques and materials, Invasilign strives to offer patients an orthodontic solution that not only aligns their teeth but also enhances their overall dental experience. By prioritizing comfort, discretion, and efficiency, Invisalign aims to revolutionize the field of orthodontics, providing patients with a treatment option that not only delivers desired results but also minimizes discomfort and inconvenience typically associated with traditional orthodontic procedures.

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is achieved by use of various bleaching gels that most often use Hydrogen Peroxide as their active ingredient. At Brooklin Dental Centre we fabricate a custom tray that patients take, apply Opalescence PF whitening gel to, and wear at their convenience.

What are the side effects of whitening teeth?

The main side effect of whitening your teeth is temporary sensitivity. This can be reduced by using sensitive toothpaste while whitening, and taking breaks between application days. This is one of the main reasons we like the at-home whitening custom tray option; patients have the freedom and ability to decide how frequently and how much they want to whiten their teeth.

What is the difference between drugstore and dental office teeth whitening?

Drug store whitening strips use the same ingredients as dental office whitening gels, but since they do not come with a custom tray that can contain the material for the teeth, they are at a much lower concentration. Because it is at a lower concentration than professional systems, it takes significantly more applications to achieve results, and the results are usually less dramatic.

Botox

Many people complain of pain in their Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) caused by clenching or grinding at night or during the day. Sometimes this also leads to pain in the main muscles involved in these movements (the muscles of mastication): the masseter and temporalis.

Much like when you lift heavy weights daily and your muscles get larger and stronger, so too can these muscles of mastication.

Botox, or Botulinum Toxin, is a purified protein that when injected into muscles relaxes them and prevents them from overfiring.

It is used to relax these muscles, and to the extent that a patients Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) is caused by excessive clenching and grinding, relaxing these muscles can ease pressure off of the TMJ and also relieve muscle tension.

Does Botox hurt?

This treatment involves very tiny injections in large muscles, so it is quite pain-free. It may be useful to compare the feeling of the injection to “plucking a hair”.

Is it safe?

Botox is generally very safe, especially with the doses we use to treat TMD, tension headaches, and muscle pain. It has a long history of use (it has been used since the 1970’s to treat eyes conditions), and before treatment your dentist will screen you and take a medical history to ensure you are a good candidate.

Dental Restorations

Dental fillings are a type of dental restoration used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay. They are used to fill the hole left behind by the decay and to restore the tooth to its original shape and function. Fillings are typically made of a variety of materials, including silver amalgam, composite resin, porcelain, and gold. The type of filling used will depend on the location and size of the filling, as well as the patient’s preferences and budget. Fillings are typically placed by a dentist or dental specialist in a dental office, and the procedure typically takes just a few minutes to an hour to complete.

Root Canal Treatment

A root canal is a dental procedure that is used to remove infected or damaged tissue from inside a tooth. The tissue, called the pulp, contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue, and it helps to nourish and support the tooth. However, if the pulp becomes infected or damaged, it can cause pain, swelling, and tooth loss.

During a root canal procedure, a dentist or endodontist (a dentist who specializes in root canal treatment) will make a small hole in the top of the tooth and remove the infected or damaged pulp. The inside of the tooth is then cleaned and sealed to prevent further infection or damage. A crown or filling is usually placed on top of the tooth to protect it and restore its function.

A root canal treatment can be used to save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted. Most patients experience relief after the infected or damaged tissue is removed, and with proper care, a tooth that has had a root canal can last a lifetime.

Crowns

A crown is a cap that restores the look and function of a damaged tooth. It can act like a helmet and prevent a weakened tooth from breaking down. And since it is a restoration that is designed outside of the mouth and then cemented onto the tooth, it can be made to be any shade and shape, so it is very aesthetic and can improve your smile.

The most common reasons a tooth may be weakened are:

  • Large decay (cavities)
  • A root canal treated tooth that is no longer vital is more brittle (especially posterior teeth)
  • A cracked tooth in a patient who grinds and clenches their teeth
  • A large filling and very little natural tooth structure

Other situations when a crown may be required:

  • To change the shape, color, length of your teeth to achieve an aesthetic goal
  • To restore implants

Periodontal Splinting

Periodontal splinting is a dental procedure that involves attaching teeth together using a splint in order to stabilize and support loose teeth, or to treat gum recession. The splint is usually made of a strong, flexible material such as composite resin, and it is attached to the teeth using a dental adhesive.

Periodontal splinting is often used to treat teeth that have become loose due to advanced periodontal disease, trauma, or other factors. It can help to stabilize the teeth and prevent further damage, and it may also help to improve the appearance of the teeth. Periodontal splinting is typically performed by a dentist or periodontist in a dental office, and the procedure typically takes one to two hours to complete. After the splint is placed, the patient will need to follow a special oral hygiene routine to ensure that the splint remains clean and healthy.

Tooth Extractions

Tooth extractions are a type of dental procedure in which a tooth is removed from the mouth. Extractions may be necessary for a variety of reasons, including tooth decay that has damaged the tooth beyond repair, infection or abscess in the tooth, crowding of the teeth, or injury to the tooth.

There are two main types of tooth extractions: simple extractions and surgical extractions. Simple extractions are performed on teeth that are visible in the mouth and can be removed using basic dental instruments. Surgical extractions are more complex and are typically performed on teeth that are not easily visible, such as impacted wisdom teeth. Surgical extractions may involve making an incision in the gum tissue in order to access and remove the tooth.

Tooth extractions are typically performed by a dentist or oral surgeon in a dental office or clinic. The procedure is usually done using local anesthesia to numb the area, although some patients may choose to have sedation as well. After the extraction, the area will be covered with a dressing to help protect it and encourage healing. It is important to follow the post-extraction care instructions provided by the dentist to ensure proper healing and to minimize the risk of complications.

Dental Implants

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge in place. Dental implants are an option for people who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or some other reason. The implant is made of titanium, which is a biocompatible material that is accepted by the human body. When the implant is placed in the jawbone, it serves as a foundation for an artificial tooth or teeth. Dental implants can be used to replace one tooth or several teeth, and they can be used to support a denture.

Veneers

Veneers are thin tooth-coloured shells that are cemented onto the font of your teeth, and can change the shape and colour of them to achieve a more aesthetic smile.

They may be a good treatment option for severely discoloured teeth, chipped teeth, teeth that have small space between them, or that are not the desired length or symmetry.

Children’s Dentistry

Children often adopt the views their parents hold about a dental visit, so it is so important to set your child’s expectations up for a smooth and fun visit. We always recommend their first appointment be a cleaning and exam, and not to wait until they have a dental problem.

When they do need treatment, these are the ways we help make their experience relaxing and fun:

  • Kids shows on TV that they can watch during treatment
  • Laughing gas (a safe way to reduce anxiety and help kids feel calm)
  • A treasure chest they get to pick a toy from at the end of their appointment

Emergency Dental Care

Emergency dental care refers to the treatment of dental problems that require immediate attention in order to prevent further damage or discomfort. Examples of dental emergencies may include severe toothaches, broken or knocked-out teeth, and injuries to the mouth or teeth. If you are experiencing a dental emergency, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible in order to minimize any lasting damage.

We will always accommodate emergencies, however if you have an emergency outside of regular hours, and are unable to reach us, you can try calling a dental emergency room or a 24-hour dental clinic to get help. Some hospitals and urgent care centers may also have dentists on staff who can treat dental emergencies.

Ready to Smile?