Children Dental Care

Is it safe to see the dentist during COVID-19? Yes!

Is It Safe to Visit the Dentist During COVID-19? Yes — visiting the dentist during COVID-19 is safe when proper infection control protocols are followed. Licensed dental clinics across Canada, including those in Calgary NW, have implemented rigorous safety measures to protect both patients and staff. Neglecting your oral health during the pandemic can lead to more serious dental issues that are harder to treat later. Why Oral Health Matters More Than Ever During a Pandemic A healthy mouth contributes directly to overall health. Research consistently shows that poor oral hygiene can increase susceptibility to infections, including respiratory illnesses. Conditions like untreated gum disease, tooth decay, and dental infections can compromise your immune response — making it more important, not less, to keep up with your regular dental care during uncertain times. Routine professional teeth cleaning and check-ups help identify problems early, reducing the need for more complex and urgent treatment down the road. If you're experiencing sudden tooth pain or swelling, don't delay — emergency dental care is available and is carried out under the same strict safety protocols. What Dental Offices Are Doing to Keep You Safe According to public health authorities, there have been no confirmed cases of COVID-19 transmission linked to dental office visits when proper protocols are followed. Licensed dental teams have adapted their practices to meet and exceed infection control standards. Here is what you can expect at a safety-compliant dental clinic: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Dentists, hygienists, and assistants wear masks, face shields, gowns, and gloves during all procedures. Enhanced sterilisation: All instruments are sterilised between patients, and high-touch surfaces are disinfected regularly throughout the day. HEPA air filtration and aerosol management: High-efficiency air filtration systems and aerosol reduction strategies minimise airborne risk during treatment. Pre-screening protocols: Patients are screened for symptoms before appointments, either by phone or upon arrival. Physical distancing in waiting areas: Seating arrangements and appointment scheduling have been adjusted to reduce crowding. Contactless check-in where possible: Digital forms and minimal paperwork reduce unnecessary contact. Hand hygiene stations: Sanitiser is available at entry points and throughout the clinic. What You Can Do Before Your Dental Appointment Patients also play an important role in keeping dental visits safe for everyone. Here are a few simple steps you can take: Stay home if you feel unwell. If you have symptoms such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, call your dental clinic to reschedule. Arrive on time — not early. This helps manage the number of people in waiting areas at any one time. Wear a mask to your appointment and remove it only when directed by your dental team. Inform the clinic of any recent travel or exposure to confirmed COVID-19 cases. Brush and floss before your visit to support good hygiene practices for your dental team. Don't Let COVID-19 Anxiety Put Your Oral Health on Hold It's understandable to feel hesitant about visiting any healthcare setting during a pandemic. However, postponing dental care often leads to worsening conditions that may require…

Read more about the article Dental Care for Your Child before Heading Back To School

Dental Care for Your Child before Heading Back To School

Back-to-School Dental Care for Kids in Calgary NW A back-to-school dental check-up is one of the most important things parents can do before the new school year begins. Even when a child's teeth look clean and white, decay can develop quietly between teeth and beneath the surface. Taking a few simple steps before school starts can protect your child's oral health and their ability to focus, eat, and smile with confidence. Why a Pre-School Dental Visit Matters Children who experience untreated tooth decay often miss more school days due to dental pain, difficulty eating, and infections. A professional dental examination before the school year begins gives your child's dentist the opportunity to catch problems early — before they become painful or costly. At Expressions Dental's children's dental care programme, our experienced team makes dental visits comfortable and stress-free for young patients across Calgary NW. Back-to-School Dental Checklist for Parents 1. Stock Up on the Right Dental Supplies Toothbrushes should be replaced every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are visibly splayed or worn. Worn bristles are far less effective at removing plaque and food debris from your child's teeth and gumline. Use this back-to-school season as a reminder to refresh your child's dental kit with: A soft-bristled toothbrush sized appropriately for your child's age A child-friendly, fluoride toothpaste in a flavour they enjoy — kids are far more likely to brush consistently when they like the taste Floss picks or kid-sized flossers to make flossing easier and more engaging A fun timer or app to encourage a full two-minute brush 2. Establish a Daily Oral Health Routine Children should brush their teeth twice daily — once in the morning and once before bed — and floss at least once each evening after their final meal. Consistency is key, and parental supervision is important, especially for children under the age of eight who may not yet have the dexterity to brush effectively on their own. A reliable routine prevents the build-up of plaque and reduces the risk of cavities forming during the busy school year. If your child attends school or after-care programmes, encourage them to rinse with water after eating if brushing is not possible during the day. 3. Schedule a Professional Teeth Cleaning and Check-Up Even the most diligent brushing at home cannot remove hardened tartar (calculus) that builds up along the gumline. A professional teeth cleaning in Calgary performed by a registered dental hygienist removes this build-up, reduces the risk of gum disease, and gives your child's teeth a fresh, clean start for the school year. Most children benefit from a professional cleaning every six months. 4. Ask About Dental Sealants and Fluoride Treatments Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, where decay most commonly begins in children. Fluoride treatments strengthen tooth enamel and help resist acid attacks from bacteria and sugary foods. Both are quick, painless, and highly effective preventive measures that your dentist can provide…

Read more about the article Five Ways To Get Your Kids Excited About Their Dental Care

Five Ways To Get Your Kids Excited About Their Dental Care

Five Ways to Get Your Kids Excited About Their Dental Care Getting children enthusiastic about brushing and flossing is one of the most effective things parents can do to prevent childhood tooth decay. Many children in Canada already have dental cavities before they reach kindergarten, making early oral health habits critically important. With the right strategies, daily dental routines can become something kids actually look forward to. Some parents assume that baby teeth don't need much attention because they eventually fall out — but this is a common misconception. Unhealthy baby teeth can affect speech development, proper chewing, and the alignment of incoming permanent teeth. Establishing great habits now protects your child's smile for life. Why Early Dental Habits Matter for Calgary Families Tooth decay is the most common chronic childhood condition in Canada, yet it is largely preventable. At Expressions Dental's children's dental care program in Calgary, our licensed dental team sees firsthand how early habits — both positive and negative — shape a child's long-term oral health. The good news: making dental care fun is easier than you might think. 1. Brush and Floss Together as a Family Children are natural mimics — they watch everything you do and want to join in. One of the most powerful ways to build a brushing habit is to make it a family activity. Stand side by side at the bathroom mirror and brush your teeth together at the same time each morning and evening. Model great technique: Show your child how to brush in gentle, circular motions, including along the gumline and across the tongue. Make it musical: Play a two-minute song or make up a fun brushing rhyme. This keeps kids engaged for the full recommended brushing time. Introduce flossing early: Floss your child's teeth for them when teeth begin to touch, then gradually teach them to do it independently as they get older. When children see dental care as a normal, enjoyable family routine rather than a chore, they are far more likely to carry those habits into adulthood. 2. Let Them Choose Their Own Toothbrush and Toothpaste A little autonomy goes a long way with kids. Let your child pick out their own soft-bristled toothbrush featuring their favourite colour or cartoon character. Pair it with a child-formulated fluoride toothpaste in a flavour they enjoy — many come in strawberry, bubblegum, or watermelon varieties that make brushing feel like a treat rather than a task. Soft bristles are essential for protecting young gums and enamel. Fluoride toothpaste is recommended by Canadian dental associations for cavity prevention — use a rice-grain-sized amount for children under three, and a pea-sized amount for ages three and up. Replace the toothbrush every three months or sooner if bristles look frayed. 3. Use Reward Charts and Positive Reinforcement Reward systems are highly effective for young children. Create a simple brushing and flossing chart and let your child add a sticker each time they complete their routine. After reaching a goal — say, two…

Read more about the article Healthy Snacks for Children’s Teeth

Healthy Snacks for Children’s Teeth

Healthy Snacks That Protect Your Children's Teeth The best snacks for children's teeth are low in added sugar, high in water content, and rich in calcium and phosphorus — nutrients that actively strengthen tooth enamel. Good dental health for kids goes well beyond brushing and flossing; the foods your child eats between meals have a direct impact on their risk of tooth decay. Choosing tooth-friendly snacks from an early age builds habits that protect your child's smile for life. Why Snack Choices Matter for Children's Dental Health Every time your child eats, bacteria in the mouth feed on sugars and produce acids that attack tooth enamel. This is known as a sugar attack, and it can last up to 20 minutes after eating. Frequent snacking — especially on sugary or sticky foods — means teeth are under repeated acid attack throughout the day, significantly increasing the risk of cavities. At Expressions Dental's children's dental care programme in Calgary NW, our team regularly sees the connection between snacking habits and cavity rates in young patients. Small dietary changes can make a meaningful difference. Best Tooth-Friendly Snacks for Kids Fresh Fruits Over Dried Fruits Fresh fruit is a far better choice for dental health than dried fruit. Dried fruits such as raisins may be nutritionally valuable, but the drying process concentrates natural fruit sugars like fructose into a sticky form that clings to tooth surfaces, prolonging sugar attacks. Fresh fruits like apples, pears, and grapes contain the same natural sugars, but their high water content dilutes the sugar and stimulates saliva flow — your mouth's natural defence against tooth decay. Choose: Apples, pears, watermelon, grapes, strawberries Limit: Raisins, dried apricots, fruit leather, and other dried or sticky fruits Smoothies — Best Served With Meals Smoothies can be a nutritious option, but blending fruit breaks down its cellular structure, making natural sugars immediately available to oral bacteria. This means a fruit smoothie can be more damaging to teeth than eating the same fruit whole. If your child enjoys smoothies, serve them at mealtimes rather than as a stand-alone snack. Drinking through a straw can also help reduce contact with tooth enamel. Avoid adding honey, fruit juice, or flavoured yoghurt, as these significantly increase sugar content. Cheese, Yoghurt, and Dairy Dairy products are among the most tooth-friendly snacks available. Cheese is particularly beneficial — it raises the pH level in the mouth, reducing acidity, and it delivers calcium and casein, a protein that helps fortify enamel. Plain yoghurt (without added sugar) also provides calcium and beneficial probiotics. Milk is an excellent hydrating snack that supports strong teeth and bones. Great choices: Cheddar, mozzarella, plain Greek yoghurt, milk Avoid: Flavoured yoghurts and sweetened dairy drinks with high sugar content Vegetables — Crunchy and Colourful Raw vegetables are ideal snacks for children's teeth. Crunchy vegetables like carrots, celery, and cucumber act as natural tooth cleansers, stimulating saliva and gently scrubbing tooth surfaces as your child chews. They are low in sugar, high in fibre and water,…

Read more about the article Some Facts About Cavities

Some Facts About Cavities

What You Should Know About Cavities and Tooth Decay Tooth decay is the most common oral disease in the world, affecting people of all ages — including children, teenagers, and adults. Cavities form when bacteria in your mouth produce acids that gradually break down tooth enamel. Understanding what causes tooth decay and how to prevent it is one of the most effective steps you can take to protect your long-term oral health. What Naturally Exists in Your Mouth? Your mouth contains a complex environment of substances and microorganisms that interact constantly. Here is what is present at all times and why each one matters for your dental health. Saliva Saliva plays a remarkably important role in protecting your oral health. It keeps your teeth and the soft tissues of your mouth moist, and continuously washes away food particles and debris. Saliva also contains minerals — including calcium and phosphate — that help strengthen and remineralise tooth enamel. Additionally, it neutralises harmful acids and provides a natural defence against certain bacteria and viruses that could otherwise damage your teeth and gums. Plaque Plaque is a soft, sticky film that forms on your teeth and is home to millions of bacteria. It begins accumulating almost immediately after you brush — within an hour, a measurable layer has already started to develop. When plaque is not removed consistently through brushing and flossing, it thickens and the bacteria within it produce acids that attack tooth enamel, leading to cavities. Unchecked plaque build-up is also a leading cause of gum disease. Regular professional teeth cleaning is essential for removing plaque that at-home brushing cannot reach. Calculus (Tartar) When plaque is left on teeth for an extended period, it absorbs minerals from saliva and hardens into a dense, calcified deposit known as calculus — commonly called tartar. Once calculus forms, it cannot be removed with a toothbrush or floss alone. Only a licensed dental hygienist or dentist can safely scale and remove calculus during a professional cleaning appointment. Our dental hygiene team in Calgary NW can help manage calculus build-up before it leads to more serious problems. Bacteria Your mouth naturally contains hundreds of different bacterial species. Not all bacteria are harmful — many beneficial bacteria actually help control and suppress destructive strains. However, when the bacterial balance is disrupted — often by a diet high in sugar and refined carbohydrates — harmful bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans can thrive, producing the acids responsible for tooth decay. How Does Tooth Decay Actually Happen? Tooth decay develops through a predictable process driven by acid exposure over time: Step 1 – Bacteria feed on sugars: When you consume sugary or starchy foods, bacteria in plaque feed on these carbohydrates and produce acids as a by-product. Step 2 – Acid attacks enamel: These acids lower the pH in your mouth and begin dissolving the outer layer of your teeth (enamel) in a process called demineralisation. Step 3 – Enamel breaks down: With repeated acid attacks — especially without adequate…

Read more about the article Teaching Kids about Better Dental Habits

Teaching Kids about Better Dental Habits

How to Teach Kids Better Dental Habits Building strong dental habits in childhood is one of the most important things a parent can do for their child's long-term health. Teaching kids to brush twice daily, floss regularly, and visit the dentist early helps prevent tooth decay, gum problems, and more serious oral health issues later in life. The good news is that with the right approach, healthy dental routines can actually be enjoyable for children. Why Starting Early Matters Children who develop consistent oral hygiene habits before age five are significantly more likely to carry those habits into adulthood. Early dental care also allows licensed dental professionals to monitor tooth development, catch cavities early, and guide parents on age-appropriate care. At Expressions Dental's children's dental care programme in Calgary, we work with families to make every visit a positive, supportive experience. Practical Strategies to Build Healthy Dental Habits in Kids 1. Model the Behaviour You Want to See Children learn by watching the adults around them. One of the most powerful things you can do is let your child see you brushing and flossing every day. Narrate what you are doing — explain why you brush before bed and why flossing removes the food that a toothbrush cannot reach. When good habits are normalised at home, children accept them without resistance. 2. Brush Together as a Family Make brushing a shared activity rather than a solo chore. Stand side by side at the sink, brush at the same time, and let your child "help" you while you help them. This simple routine builds connection and reinforces that brushing is something everyone does — not just kids. 3. Let Kids Choose Their Own Toothbrush Giving children a sense of ownership over their dental tools goes a long way. Let them pick a toothbrush in their favourite colour or featuring a beloved character. Consider toothbrushes with lights, sounds, or vibration timers — these make the two-minute brushing window feel like an activity rather than an obligation. 4. Create a Brushing Routine with Stories or Songs Turn brushing time into something your child looks forward to. Make up a tooth-brushing song together, or use the two minutes to tell a short, ongoing story. Some parents in Calgary NW use a dedicated brushing playlist or a fun app to keep the routine consistent and engaging night after night. 5. Introduce Flossing Early Brushing alone does not clean between teeth, where food debris and plaque commonly build up. Begin introducing flossing as soon as your child has two teeth that touch. Use child-friendly floss picks to make the process easier, and consider plaque disclosing tablets — these temporarily colour areas of plaque so children can see exactly what they missed. It turns flossing into a revealing game rather than a routine task. 6. Manage Sugar Intake Thoughtfully Sugary foods and drinks are among the leading causes of tooth decay in children. You do not need to eliminate treats entirely, but it helps to limit sugary…

Read more about the article Effect of Acidic Drinks on Kids’ Teeth

Effect of Acidic Drinks on Kids’ Teeth

How Acidic Drinks Damage Children's Teeth Acidic drinks — including soft drinks, sports drinks, and fruit juices — can permanently erode the enamel on your child's teeth, causing damage that cannot be reversed. Every sip of a low-pH beverage is considered an acid attack on tooth enamel, and the effects are cumulative. Understanding how acid erosion works is one of the most important steps Calgary NW parents can take to protect their children's long-term dental health. What Is Tooth Erosion? Tooth erosion is the chemical loss of enamel caused by acid. Unlike tooth decay, which is driven by bacteria, erosion is a direct chemical process that gradually dissolves the hard outer layer of the tooth. Common sources of acid that cause erosion include: Soft drinks and carbonated beverages (including diet varieties) Sports and energy drinks Fruit juices and flavoured drinks Acidic foods such as citrus fruits and vinegar-based snacks Stomach acid from acid reflux, frequent vomiting, or other medical conditions While fluoride in community drinking water has significantly reduced rates of tooth decay across all age groups, tooth erosion is a growing and largely preventable concern — particularly among children and teenagers. Why Even One Drink Can Cause Serious Damage Many parents assume that occasional soft drinks are harmless, especially if their child brushes regularly. Unfortunately, the science tells a different story. A single bottle of soda or one sports drink, sipped slowly over several hours, can cause extensive and irreversible damage to tooth enamel. Here is why prolonged sipping is especially harmful: Each sip resets the acid attack on the tooth surface Saliva normally helps neutralise acid in the mouth, but continuous sipping overwhelms this protective mechanism Once enamel is lost, the body cannot regrow it — the damage is permanent It is also important to know that brushing immediately after an acid attack will not undo the damage. Waiting 30 to 60 minutes before brushing is advisable because the enamel surface is temporarily softened by acid and brushing too soon can accelerate its loss. The "Triple Threat" to Children's Teeth Children and teenagers face a unique combination of risk factors that can dramatically increase the rate of enamel erosion: High-acidity drinks — Regular consumption of soft drinks, sports drinks, or juices Nighttime teeth grinding (bruxism) — Many children grind their teeth while sleeping, which wears down enamel mechanically and accelerates the effects of acid erosion Undiagnosed acid reflux — Stomach acid that reaches the mouth during sleep or at rest further exposes teeth to acid, often without obvious symptoms When these three factors combine, the rate of enamel loss can be significant — even in young children with otherwise healthy dental habits. If you notice signs such as teeth that appear increasingly translucent, yellowed, or sensitive to temperature, it is worth speaking to a licensed dentist as soon as possible. Our dental care for children in Calgary includes assessment for erosion and grinding, helping to catch these issues early. How to Protect Your Child's Teeth from Acid Erosion…

Read more about the article Teeth Cleaning Techniques For Children

Teeth Cleaning Techniques For Children

How to Properly Clean Your Child's Teeth: A Guide from Our Licensed Dental Hygienist Cleaning your child's teeth correctly — using the right technique for their age and stage of development — is one of the most effective ways to prevent cavities and gum disease from an early age. Because children have limited dexterity, they need hands-on guidance and age-appropriate brushing methods until at least age seven or eight. Starting these habits early protects both baby teeth and the permanent teeth that follow. In the video below, Mel, our licensed dental hygienist at Expressions Dental in Calgary NW, demonstrates exactly how to brush your child's teeth at every stage — from infants and toddlers through to school-aged children. [Video embed: Licensed dental hygienist Mel demonstrates children's brushing techniques] --- Why Brushing Technique Matters for Children Children's teeth are highly susceptible to decay. Primary (baby) teeth have thinner enamel than adult teeth, which means bacteria and acid can cause damage more quickly. Cavities in baby teeth can affect the spacing and health of incoming permanent teeth — making early prevention far more valuable than later treatment. Establishing a correct brushing routine also builds lifelong habits. Children who learn to brush and floss properly are significantly less likely to need restorative dental work as they grow older, including composite fillings or more complex procedures. Key Reasons Brushing Technique Matters Limited dexterity: Most children under seven to eight years old lack the fine motor skills to brush all tooth surfaces thoroughly. A parent or caregiver should assist or closely supervise brushing until the child can tie their own shoelaces reliably — this is a useful developmental milestone to watch for. Reaching all surfaces: Children frequently miss the back molars and the gumline — the two areas where cavities and early gum inflammation are most likely to develop. Forming positive habits: Brushing at the same time each day, with a consistent routine, helps children accept oral hygiene as a normal part of daily life rather than a struggle. Protecting primary teeth: Baby teeth hold space for permanent teeth and support proper speech and chewing. Keeping them healthy matters well beyond aesthetics. --- Age-by-Age Teeth Cleaning Guide for Children Infants (0–12 Months): Before the First Tooth Appears Oral care begins before your baby's first tooth emerges. After feedings, gently wipe your baby's gums with a clean, damp cloth or a soft silicone finger brush. This removes milk residue and begins to familiarise your child with the sensation of oral cleaning — making the transition to a toothbrush much easier. Toddlers (12 Months – 3 Years): First Teeth to a Full Primary Set As soon as the first tooth appears, begin brushing twice daily using a soft-bristled infant toothbrush. Use a rice grain-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste. At this age, a parent should do all of the brushing — toddlers do not have the coordination to clean their teeth effectively on their own. Brush for two minutes, covering all surfaces: outer, inner, and chewing surfaces Pay…

Read more about the article Make Your Child Love the Dentist

Make Your Child Love the Dentist

How to Help Your Child Feel Comfortable at the Dentist Helping your child feel positive about dental visits starts well before their first appointment — and the good news is, many children genuinely look forward to seeing the dentist when they are prepared properly. With the right approach, you can turn dental visits from something your child dreads into a routine they embrace. At Expressions Dental in Calgary NW, our licensed dental team works with families every day to make children feel safe, comfortable, and even excited about their oral health. Why Your Attitude Matters More Than You Think Children are remarkably perceptive. If you feel anxious or hesitant about going to the dentist, your child will pick up on those cues — often before a word is spoken. One of the most powerful things you can do as a parent is model a calm, positive attitude toward dental care. Visit the dentist regularly yourself and let your child know it is a normal, healthy habit. Brush and floss together at home to make oral hygiene feel like a shared routine rather than a chore. Use positive, neutral language around dental visits — avoid words like "needle," "hurt," or "pain" in conversation. Children who see their parents treating dental care as a routine part of life are far more likely to follow suit. Preparing Your Child Before the Appointment The unknown is one of the biggest sources of dental anxiety in children. When kids know what to expect, they feel more in control — and far less afraid. Read Books About the Dentist There are many wonderful children's books designed to walk young readers through a dental visit step by step — from the waiting room and the dental chair to the tools the dentist uses. These books normalise the experience and answer questions your child may not know how to ask. Play "Pretend Dentist" at Home Role-playing a dental visit at home can be surprisingly effective. Take turns being the "dentist" and the "patient," counting teeth and checking for spots. It makes the real experience feel familiar rather than foreign. Talk Through What Will Happen Walk your child through the visit in simple, reassuring terms: "The dentist will count your teeth, take a look inside your mouth, and give your teeth a really good clean." Keeping it straightforward reduces the chance of your child imagining something worse than the reality. Common Dental Treatments Children May Need Children's dental needs evolve as they grow, and regular check-ups allow our family dental team in Calgary NW to catch any issues early. Here are some of the most common treatments children may require: Teeth cleaning and check-ups: Routine professional teeth cleaning removes plaque and tartar that brushing at home misses, and reinforces good habits. Fillings: If a cavity develops, a tooth-coloured composite filling can stop decay from spreading and restore the tooth comfortably. Orthodontic assessment: As permanent teeth come in, your child's dentist may recommend an orthodontic evaluation to assess spacing and…