Dental Bridges

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…

5 Health Problems caused by Crooked Teeth

5 Health Problems Caused by Crooked Teeth Crooked or misaligned teeth are not just a cosmetic concern — they can directly affect your overall health. When teeth are not properly aligned, they become harder to clean, allowing harmful bacteria to build up and putting the rest of your body at risk. Here are five significant health problems that crooked teeth can cause, and what you can do about them. 1. Improper Digestion Your teeth play a critical role in the first stage of digestion. Each tooth is shaped for a specific chewing function, and when teeth are misaligned, that process breaks down. Crooked teeth make it difficult to chew food thoroughly, meaning larger food particles enter your digestive system before they are properly broken down. This incomplete breakdown reduces your body's ability to absorb nutrients effectively. Over time, poor nutrient absorption can weaken your immune system and negatively affect your energy levels and general health. Addressing misalignment is not just about aesthetics — it is about supporting your body's foundational functions. 2. Persistent Headaches and Jaw Pain When your teeth do not align correctly, your bite is thrown off balance. This places excessive strain on the muscles and joints that control jaw movement — particularly the temporomandibular joints (TMJ), which connect your lower jaw to your skull. Crooked teeth restrict the smooth movement of the TMJ, which can lead to TMJ disorder — a condition associated with chronic headaches, migraines, facial pain, and jaw clicking or locking. If you experience recurring headaches without an obvious cause, your bite alignment may be a contributing factor. At Expressions Dental, our licensed dental team offers TMJ treatment in Calgary NW to help relieve discomfort caused by bite misalignment. 3. Gum Disease One of the most direct consequences of crooked teeth is an increased risk of gum disease. When teeth overlap or are crowded, toothbrush bristles and floss cannot reach all surfaces effectively. Bacteria that survive brushing and flossing begin to accumulate along the gum line, leading to plaque build-up, inflammation, and eventually gum disease (periodontitis). Left untreated, gum disease can cause gum recession, bone loss, and tooth loss. Research also links advanced gum disease to systemic health conditions including heart disease and diabetes. Maintaining a consistent professional cleaning routine is essential — our registered dental hygienists in Calgary can help remove build-up in areas that are difficult to reach at home. Learn more about our periodontal care services if you are concerned about gum health. 4. Increased Risk of Tooth Decay and Damage The same crowding and overlapping that makes cleaning difficult also creates pockets where food debris and bacteria thrive. This concentrated bacterial activity accelerates tooth decay, leading to cavities — often in areas that are nearly impossible to clean with a standard toothbrush. Beyond decay, misaligned teeth that protrude or do not fit together properly are more vulnerable to chipping, cracking, and uneven wear. Teeth that absorb bite forces unevenly break down faster than properly aligned teeth. This structural damage can…

Read more about the article Replace Your Missing Tooth With Dental Crowns And Bridges

Replace Your Missing Tooth With Dental Crowns And Bridges

Dental Crowns and Bridges: A Reliable Solution for Missing Teeth Dental crowns and bridges are proven restorative treatments that replace missing or severely damaged teeth, restoring your ability to chew, speak, and smile with confidence. A crown caps a single damaged tooth, while a bridge fills the gap left by one or more missing teeth. At Expressions Dental in Calgary NW, our licensed dental team helps you choose the right option for your needs and budget. Leaving a missing tooth untreated can affect far more than your appearance. Over time, surrounding teeth can shift, your bite can change, and bone loss may occur in the jaw. Addressing the gap early with a crown or bridge protects your long-term oral health. What Is a Dental Crown? A dental crown is a custom-fitted cap that is placed over a tooth that is damaged, weakened, or aesthetically compromised. It fully encases the visible portion of the tooth above the gum line, restoring its shape, strength, and function. When Is a Crown Recommended? A tooth is cracked, chipped, or broken A tooth is severely decayed and cannot be restored with a filling A tooth has undergone root canal treatment and needs protection A tooth is misshapen or significantly discoloured A crown is needed to anchor a dental bridge Crown Material Options Crowns are available in several materials, each with distinct advantages: Porcelain crowns: The most natural-looking option. Porcelain reflects light in a similar way to natural tooth enamel, making it virtually indistinguishable from surrounding teeth. Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns: Combine the natural appearance of porcelain with the added strength of a metal substructure — a popular all-around choice. Gold crowns: Exceptionally durable and long-lasting, often recommended for back teeth where chewing forces are greatest. Your dentist at Expressions Dental will assess your bite, lifestyle, and aesthetic goals to recommend the most suitable crown material for your mouth. Learn more about our dental crowns in Calgary NW. What Is a Dental Bridge? A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that literally "bridges" the gap created by one or more missing teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth (called pontics) held in place by dental crowns on the natural teeth on either side of the gap — known as abutment teeth. How Does a Dental Bridge Work? The two teeth adjacent to the gap are shaped and prepared to support the crowns that anchor the bridge. A custom bridge — including the pontic and the two anchoring crowns — is fabricated to fit precisely, restoring the appearance and function of your natural teeth. Bridges are fixed in place and are not removed for cleaning like dentures. Bridge Material Options Porcelain bridges: Blend seamlessly with natural teeth for a discreet, cosmetic result. Porcelain-fused-to-metal bridges: Offer a balance of aesthetics and strength. Gold bridges: Preferred in some cases for durability, particularly in back teeth. Explore our dedicated dental bridges Calgary NW service page for more detailed information about the procedure, timeline, and what to expect. Crowns and…

Read more about the article About Mouth Guards

About Mouth Guards

What Is a Mouth Guard and Why Do You Need One? A mouth guard is a protective dental appliance that covers your teeth and gums to shield them from injury, impact, and the damaging effects of grinding or clenching. They are used in contact sports, during sleep, and in certain dental procedures such as teeth whitening. Whether you are an athlete, a parent of an active child, or someone who grinds their teeth at night, wearing the right mouth guard can protect your smile and prevent serious long-term dental damage. What Can a Mouth Guard Protect Against? Mouth guards serve several important protective functions. A well-fitted mouth guard can help prevent: Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth Tooth loss from impact or trauma Nerve damage requiring treatment such as root canal treatment Jaw fractures and neck injuries Concussions and cerebral haemorrhages by cushioning the impact when the lower jaw is jammed into the upper jaw Lacerations and bruising of the lips and cheeks, particularly for those wearing orthodontic appliances such as Invisalign Worn-down tooth enamel caused by nighttime grinding (bruxism) In short, a mouth guard is one of the most cost-effective ways to protect your long-term oral health. Types of Mouth Guards There are three main types of mouth guards available, each offering a different level of protection, comfort, and fit. 1. Stock Mouth Guards Stock mouth guards are pre-formed, ready-to-wear appliances available at most department stores and sporting goods retailers. They are the most affordable option, but they come with significant drawbacks. Because they cannot be adjusted to fit your mouth, they often feel bulky and uncomfortable, making it difficult to speak or breathe properly. Most licensed dentists do not recommend stock mouth guards as they offer the least amount of protection and rarely fit securely. 2. Boil-and-Bite Mouth Guards Boil-and-bite mouth guards are made from a thermoplastic material that softens when placed in boiling water. Once softened, you bite into the material to create a rough impression of your teeth, giving a closer fit than a stock mouth guard. These are widely available at sporting goods stores and offer a moderate level of protection. While they are a step up from stock varieties, the fit is still not as precise or as comfortable as a custom-made option. 3. Custom-Fitted Mouth Guards Custom-fitted mouth guards are made by your dentist using precise impressions of your teeth. Because they are crafted specifically for your mouth, they offer superior comfort, a secure fit, and the highest level of protection available. Custom mouth guards are the preferred choice recommended by licensed dental professionals — particularly for contact sport athletes, children in active sports, and individuals experiencing bruxism (teeth grinding) or TMJ-related jaw pain. At Expressions Dental in Calgary NW, our team can create a custom mouth guard tailored precisely to your bite and lifestyle needs. Sports Mouth Guards vs. Night Guards: What Is the Difference? While both types of appliances are called mouth guards, they are designed for different purposes: Sports mouth guards…

Read more about the article Dental Myth: Missing Teeth Are Always Replaced By Bridges Or Removable Dentures

Dental Myth: Missing Teeth Are Always Replaced By Bridges Or Removable Dentures

Missing Teeth Don't Have to Mean Bridges or Dentures — Here's What You Should Know A common dental myth is that bridges and removable dentures are your only options for replacing missing teeth. In reality, there are several effective tooth replacement solutions available today — including dental implants — and the right choice depends on your specific situation. Replacing a missing tooth promptly is important for your oral health, function, and appearance. Why Replacing a Missing Tooth Matters Each tooth in your mouth plays several important roles: chewing food properly, supporting clear speech, maintaining the position of your facial muscles and soft tissues, and keeping neighbouring teeth from shifting out of alignment. When a tooth is lost, this balance is disrupted — and without prompt treatment, it can lead to bone loss, gum changes, bite problems, and further tooth loss. The sooner you address a missing tooth, the better your long-term outcomes are likely to be. Our family dental care team in Calgary NW can assess your situation and recommend the most appropriate replacement option for your needs. Your Tooth Replacement Options 1. Conventional Fixed Dental Bridge A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that is cemented permanently to the natural teeth on either side of the gap. It is a well-established and reliable option when: One or two teeth are missing in the same area The adjacent teeth are healthy and structurally sound The surrounding bone and gum tissue are in good condition Because a bridge is fixed in place, most patients find it easier to adapt to than a removable appliance. It restores chewing function and prevents neighbouring teeth from drifting into the space. 2. Removable Partial or Full Dentures Removable dentures — either partial or complete — are a non-surgical option for replacing multiple missing teeth. A partial denture is used when some natural teeth remain; a full (complete) denture replaces all teeth on the upper or lower jaw. Removable dentures consist of artificial teeth set in a plastic or plastic-and-metal framework that rests on the gum tissue. They are typically recommended when: Multiple teeth are missing across one or both sides of the jaw The remaining teeth are not strong enough to support a fixed bridge A patient prefers a non-surgical approach It is worth noting that full dentures can take longer to adapt to, and some patients find them less stable or comfortable compared to other options. 3. Dental Implants — The Modern Standard Dental implants are widely considered the gold standard for tooth replacement. An implant is a small titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone, where it fuses with the bone over time to create a stable, long-lasting foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture. Implants offer significant advantages over traditional options: They preserve jawbone: Unlike bridges and dentures, implants stimulate the bone and prevent the bone loss that occurs after tooth loss. They don't affect adjacent teeth: A bridge requires shaping the neighbouring teeth; implants stand independently. They look and…