Studies have shown, for example, that the amount of tooth you show when you smile has a great impact on how old you look. In the more youthful smile, the front teeth are longer and help create a line that comes slightly downward in the middle and up at the corners. In the older smile, the front teeth are worn so that the teeth appear straight across. Chips, discolouration and stains can also add years to a smile.
Thanks to modern dentistry, there are now ways to turn back the clock on your smile. Of course, we can't actually make you younger! However, we do offer a number of simple cosmetic smile-enhancing techniques that can make you look years younger. Cosmetic veneers, bonding and recontouring are painless, effective and lasting ways of redrawing your smile line without actually moving your teeth. You can think of it as putting false fronts on your teeth. It can correct overcrowding, close spaces, mask stains and hide chips and fractures. Recontouring the edges of teeth can even make a smile look more feminine or masculine.
There are a number of visual cues that contribute to first impressions, and a lot of them come from your smile. Cosmetic dentistry can help you project the kind of image you want people to see every time you flash those pearly whites.
Here's a simple lesson in dental economics that will help you put some dollars where there's sense. The longer you wait the more dental repair will cost. Consider that at 1996 prices, a one- surface filling will cost you about $80. If left untreated, the decay will spread and you'll need a full crown. Price tag: more than $600. If you wait even longer, you could end up with a root canal that can cost you even more.
Thinking of putting off that check up? One of the diseases we regularly check for is gum disease. In the early stages it's easy to treat. But left to run its course, gum disease can lead to several extractions and a bridge or partial denture. These treatments can cost in the thousands of dollars.
Eventually, this can all lead to having to get most of your teeth pulled because of unchecked dental disease. That will cost about $75 a tooth. Then you'll need dentures, and to that bill add the cost of periodic relines and replacements. You can see why it doesn't pay to wait.
This initial encounter should be as enjoyable as possible for your child so that going to the dentist will be something to look forward to. In this way your child will have a "library" of good dental experiences that will last him a lifetime of dental care. Barring any dental problems such as a cavity, a child's first visit can happen around the third birthday.
Our office is stocked with a variety of games and toys and we'll prepare an exciting Ride in the Chair. It's not Canada's Wonderland, but it's a relaxed and worry-free introduction to the dental environment. About a year later, your child can come in for another ride, but this one will include a full examination and cleaning. We may recommend a fluoride treatment and we can take radiographs, if necessary.
After that you should bring your child in for regular a check up appointment every six months or so for a cleaning and examination. We'll do our best to make these visits an event your child will look forward to for a lifetime.
Do I need a dental checkup?
Yes. Everyone needs regular dental checkups. The reason is simple, you can't easily examine the inside of your own mouth. Your dentist is trained to detect potential problems and provide appropriate treatment. Even if you brush and floss daily, your teeth and gums still need regular care from a dental professional.
What's involved in a dental checkup?
A checkup can include some or all of the following procedures: Screening
- your dentist looks for anything unusual and catches small problems before
they become big ones (e.g. early signs of gum disease, eroded fillings,
infections, oral cancer). Treatment - your dentist may be able to fix a
small problem right away. Cleaning- your dentist or hygienist removes tartar
buildup from your teeth. Advice - your dentist can give advice and answer
your questions based on the results of your checkup. Be a partner in your
dental health.
Brush your teeth carefully at least once every 24 hours. It takes about 2.5 to 3 minutes to do the job right. Floss your teeth daily. Flossing cleans those areas your toothbrush simply can't reach between the teeth and under the gumline.
Eat, drink, but be wary. Eat a well-balanced diet! Avoid sweet foods and drinks especially between meals. And please don't smoke. Smoking can promote serious dental problems like gum disease and oral cancer.
Check your gums. Check regularly for these signs of gum disease, the leading cause of adult tooth loss: red, puffy or tender gums; gums that bleed even slightly when you brush or floss; persistent bad breath. See your dentist if any occur.
Don't wait until it hurts. See your dentist for preventive checkups and professional cleanings. Regular visits are the best way to prevent trouble and unnecessary expense.