Dental Care

Read more about the article What services can a General Dentist provide?

What services can a General Dentist provide?

What Services Can a General Dentist Provide? A licensed general dentist is a university-trained dental professional who has graduated from an accredited dental school and holds a degree in general dentistry. General dentists provide a wide range of dental services — from preventive care and professional cleanings to restorative treatments and minor oral surgery. For most patients in Calgary NW, a general dentist is the primary dental care provider for the whole family. While general dentists are trained to handle the majority of dental needs, complex or highly specialised cases may occasionally require a referral to a dental specialist. Below is an overview of the core services you can expect from a licensed general dentist. --- Preventive Dental Care Preventive care is the foundation of good oral health. A general dentist will conduct regular dental examinations to detect problems early, review your oral hygiene habits, and recommend treatments before minor issues become costly ones. Routine Dental Check-Ups Regular check-ups allow your dentist to monitor the health of your teeth, gums, and surrounding structures. Early detection of decay, gum disease, or other concerns can save you time, discomfort, and money in the long run. Professional Teeth Cleaning Even with thorough brushing and flossing at home, plaque and tartar can accumulate in areas that are difficult to reach. A professional teeth cleaning performed by a dental hygienist removes this buildup, helping prevent cavities and gum disease. At Expressions Dental, we also offer Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) — an advanced, comfortable cleaning technique for a deeper clean. Digital X-Rays General dentists use digital X-rays to detect issues that are not visible to the naked eye, including decay between teeth, bone loss, and impacted teeth. Digital X-rays emit significantly less radiation than traditional film X-rays and produce instant, high-resolution images. --- Restorative Dental Services When teeth are damaged by decay, injury, or wear, a general dentist can restore their function, appearance, and strength using a variety of restorative treatments. Composite White Fillings Tooth-coloured composite white fillings are used to repair cavities and minor tooth damage. They bond directly to the tooth structure and are matched to the natural shade of your teeth, making them virtually invisible. Dental Crowns A dental crown is a custom-fitted cap that is placed over a damaged, weakened, or heavily restored tooth to protect and restore it. Crowns are also used following root canal treatment or to complete a dental implant. Dental Inlays and Onlays Inlays and onlays are indirect restorations used when damage is too extensive for a standard filling but not severe enough to require a full crown. They are fabricated from porcelain or composite resin and are bonded precisely to the affected area of the tooth. Dental Bridges A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring an artificial tooth between two crowned natural teeth or implants. Bridges restore your ability to chew, speak, and smile with confidence. Dentures and Partial Dentures For patients who have lost multiple teeth, a general dentist can fit partial…

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Read more about the article What Is Considered A Dental Emergency?

What Is Considered A Dental Emergency?

What Is Considered a Dental Emergency? A dental emergency is any oral health situation that causes severe pain, uncontrolled bleeding, or puts a tooth at risk of being permanently lost — and requires immediate professional attention. Common dental emergencies include knocked-out teeth, severe toothaches, broken or chipped teeth, and soft tissue injuries. If you are unsure whether your situation is urgent, it is always safer to call a dentist right away rather than wait. At Expressions Dental in Calgary NW, our licensed dental team is equipped to assess and treat a wide range of dental emergencies promptly. Understanding what qualifies as an emergency — and what to do in those first critical minutes — can make a significant difference in saving your tooth and relieving your pain. Common Dental Emergencies and What to Do Knocked-Out Tooth A knocked-out (avulsed) tooth is one of the most time-sensitive dental emergencies. If a permanent tooth is re-implanted within 10 minutes of being knocked out, it has the highest chance of surviving and functioning normally again. Every minute of delay reduces that chance significantly. What to do immediately: Pick up the tooth by the crown (the white part) — never touch the root. Gently rinse it with clean water if dirty — do not scrub or use soap. If possible, place the tooth back in its socket and hold it gently in place. If re-insertion is not possible, store the tooth in a small container of milk or between your cheek and gum to keep it moist. Call our emergency dentist in NW Calgary immediately and come in as fast as possible. Chipped or Broken Tooth A chipped or broken tooth can range from a minor cosmetic issue to a serious structural emergency, depending on how much of the tooth is affected. Even a small chip can have sharp edges that cut the inside of your mouth, while a severely broken tooth may expose the nerve and cause intense pain. What to do immediately: Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. Apply a cold compress to your face to reduce swelling. Save any broken pieces if possible and bring them to your appointment. Avoid chewing on the affected side until you have been seen by a dentist. Depending on the severity, your dentist may recommend a filling, a dental crown, or in more serious cases, root canal treatment to restore and protect the tooth. Severe Toothache A toothache that is intense, persistent, or accompanied by swelling, fever, or a bad taste in your mouth is a dental emergency. These symptoms may indicate a serious infection or abscess that can spread if left untreated. What to do immediately: Apply a cold pack to the outside of your cheek — do not apply heat, as this can worsen inflammation and pain. Take over-the-counter pain relief if needed, but do not place aspirin directly on the tooth or gum. Rinse gently with warm salt water to help reduce bacterial presence. Contact your dentist as…

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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…

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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…

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5 Dental DIY Trends You Need To Unfollow

5 Dental DIY Trends That Can Permanently Damage Your Teeth DIY dental trends circulating on TikTok and YouTube may look harmless, but many can cause permanent, irreversible damage to your teeth and gums. Unlike a licensed dental clinic, your kitchen sink offers no sterile environment, no professional oversight, and no way to undo the harm. Here are five dental DIY trends that patients in Calgary NW — and everywhere — should stop following immediately. Why DIY Dentistry Is Dangerous Your teeth are living structures supported by nerves, blood vessels, and delicate soft tissue. Dentistry requires years of clinical training, precision instruments, and a controlled environment to be performed safely. When social media makes dental procedures look simple, it creates a false sense of security that can lead to costly — and painful — consequences. 1. DIY Tooth Filing One of the most alarming trends to emerge on social media involves people using nail files, sandpaper, or handheld power tools to reshape or file their own teeth. This is extremely dangerous and can cause damage that no dentist can fully reverse. Dental enamel — the hard, protective outer layer of your tooth — does not grow back. Filing your teeth at home can: Remove enamel permanently, leaving teeth hypersensitive Cause uneven or misshapen teeth Expose the inner layers of the tooth (dentine), leading to pain and infection Result in tooth death requiring root canal treatment or extraction If you are unhappy with the shape of your teeth, a licensed dentist can offer safe, proven alternatives such as porcelain veneers or dental crowns that reshape teeth without causing harm. 2. DIY Teeth Whitening with Household Ingredients The internet is full of teeth whitening "hacks" involving lemon rinds, baking soda, activated charcoal, and hydrogen peroxide at unsafe concentrations. While these ingredients may seem natural or harmless, repeated use can seriously damage your teeth and gums. Risks of DIY whitening ingredients include: Citrus rinds and lemon juice: Highly acidic — erode enamel rapidly with repeated use Baking soda: Abrasive over time, wearing down enamel and increasing sensitivity Activated charcoal: Highly abrasive and not proven to whiten teeth safely Unregulated hydrogen peroxide: Can cause gum irritation, chemical burns, and tooth sensitivity Safe, effective whitening is available through your dentist. At Expressions Dental in Calgary NW, we offer Zoom teeth whitening and custom take-home whitening trays — both professionally supervised to protect your enamel while delivering real results. 3. DIY Aligners and Mail-Order Orthodontics Mail-order aligner companies and social media tutorials have convinced many people they can straighten their teeth without ever seeing a dentist. This is one of the most financially and physically costly DIY mistakes a person can make. Orthodontic treatment requires X-rays, a full dental assessment, and ongoing monitoring by a licensed professional. Moving teeth without proper clinical oversight can: Cause bone loss around teeth Lead to tooth root resorption (the roots shorten and weaken) Create bite problems that require extensive correction Result in tooth loss in severe cases If you are considering…

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Read more about the article Dental Care During Cancer Treatment

Dental Care During Cancer Treatment

Why Dental Care Matters During Cancer Treatment Cancer treatment — including chemotherapy and radiation — can have significant effects on your oral health, making regular dental care an essential part of your overall treatment plan. Patients undergoing cancer therapy are at higher risk for mouth sores, infections, dry mouth, and serious complications such as osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ). Working closely with both your oncologist and your dentist before and during treatment can help prevent these complications and protect your quality of life. Tell Your Dentist as Soon as You Receive a Cancer Diagnosis As soon as you are diagnosed with cancer, inform your dentist so they can update your medical history and coordinate your care accordingly. Be sure to provide your oncologist's name and contact information — clear communication between your dental and medical teams is critical for your safety. Your dentist may recommend completing any necessary major dental procedures before cancer treatment begins. This is because treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation can compromise your immune system and your body's ability to heal, making dental procedures riskier once treatment is underway. Procedures that may need to be completed beforehand include: Tooth extractions (including wisdom teeth removal if required) Root canal treatment for any infected teeth Treatment of gum disease through periodontal care Restoration of decayed teeth Report any mouth, teeth, or jaw pain to both your oncologist and your dentist immediately — do not wait for your next scheduled appointment. How Cancer Treatment Affects Your Oral Health Both chemotherapy and radiation therapy — particularly to the head and neck — can cause a range of oral health side effects, including: Dry mouth (xerostomia): Reduced saliva production increases the risk of tooth decay and infections. Mouth sores (oral mucositis): Painful ulcers on the soft tissues of the mouth. Increased infection risk: A weakened immune system makes bacterial and fungal infections more likely. Difficulty swallowing or chewing: Inflammation and soreness can affect eating and nutrition. Changes in taste: Chemotherapy can alter how food tastes during treatment. Maintaining good oral hygiene throughout your cancer treatment is one of the most effective ways to minimise these side effects. Regular professional teeth cleaning and monitoring by your dental team in Calgary NW can make a meaningful difference in your comfort and recovery. Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (ONJ): What Cancer Patients Need to Know Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) is an uncommon but serious condition that has been observed in some cancer patients receiving a class of medications called bisphosphonates, which are used to treat certain cancers that affect the bones. ONJ occurs when the jawbone fails to heal properly following a minor trauma — such as a tooth extraction — resulting in exposed bone tissue. Symptoms of ONJ Jaw pain or swelling Exposed bone in the mouth Gum infections or sores that do not heal Numbness or heaviness in the jaw Loose teeth without an obvious cause Risk Factors for Developing ONJ Radiation therapy to the head or neck Chemotherapy Anaemia Poor oral…

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Read more about the article Technologies Used By Dentists Today

Technologies Used By Dentists Today

Modern Dental Technologies Used by Dentists Today Dental technology has advanced significantly in recent years, making visits more comfortable, accurate, and efficient for patients of all ages. Today's licensed dentists in Calgary NW use a range of digital tools and imaging systems that were not available even a decade ago. Understanding these technologies can help you feel more informed and confident at your next dental appointment. 1. Digital X-Rays Traditional film X-rays are rapidly being replaced by digital X-rays, which offer several advantages for both patients and dental teams. Results appear almost instantly on a chairside screen, allowing your dentist to review and explain findings with you in real time. Importantly, digital X-rays emit up to 90% less radiation than conventional film X-rays, making them a safer option for routine dental imaging. Faster results: Images are available within seconds Lower radiation exposure: Significantly reduced compared to traditional film Easy to share: Digital files can be securely transferred between dental providers Improved image clarity: Enhanced diagnostic accuracy for detecting decay, bone loss, and other concerns 2. CBCT Scans (3D Dental Imaging) Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) is one of the most significant advancements in modern dentistry. Unlike standard 2D X-rays, CBCT scans produce detailed three-dimensional images of your teeth, jawbone, nerves, and soft tissues. This level of detail is particularly valuable when planning complex treatments such as dental implants, wisdom teeth removal, or root canal treatment. 3D visualisation: Full view of teeth, bone, and surrounding structures Precision treatment planning: Reduces guesswork before surgical procedures Single scan: Captures the entire oral region in one rotation Improved safety: Helps avoid nerves and anatomical structures during surgery 3. Patient Tracking and Management Software Gone are the days of paper charts and manual appointment books. Modern dental clinics use sophisticated practice management software to securely store patient records, track treatment history, and send automated reminders for upcoming appointments or recommended procedures. This digital approach improves accuracy, protects your personal health information, and makes your overall experience smoother from check-in to checkout. Digital records: Secure, paperless storage of your complete dental history Appointment reminders: Automated notifications via email or text Treatment tracking: Clear visibility into your care plan and progress Faster check-in: Efficient retrieval of patient information 4. Smart Toothbrushes At-home oral hygiene has also benefited from technological innovation. Bluetooth-enabled smart toothbrushes connect to a smartphone app to provide real-time feedback on your brushing habits. These devices can track how long and how well you brush each area of your mouth, alert you when you are applying too much pressure on your gums, and allow you to personalise brushing modes to suit your needs. Over time, this data can help you build healthier habits between dental visits. Real-time feedback: Identifies areas you may be missing Pressure alerts: Protects gums from overbrushing Brushing history: Tracks performance over days and weeks Personalised modes: Settings for sensitive teeth, whitening, and more How Smart Brushing Supports Your Dental Hygiene Appointments The data collected by smart toothbrushes can be a useful…

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Read more about the article Dental Care During Cancer Treatment

Dental Care During Cancer Treatment

Why Dental Care Matters During Cancer Treatment Cancer treatment can have serious effects on your oral health, making regular dental care an essential part of your overall treatment plan. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and certain cancer medications can cause oral side effects that range from dry mouth and infections to more serious conditions affecting the jawbone. If you are undergoing or preparing for cancer treatment in Calgary NW, coordinating with your dentist early can help prevent complications and support your recovery. Tell Your Dentist About Your Cancer Diagnosis As soon as you receive a cancer diagnosis, notify your dentist so they can update your medical history and adjust your care plan accordingly. You should also provide your dentist with your oncologist's name and contact information. This two-way communication between your dental and oncology teams helps ensure your treatments do not interfere with one another. Key steps to take when you are diagnosed with cancer: Inform your dentist promptly and share your oncologist's contact details Complete any major dental procedures before beginning cancer treatment, as advised by your doctor Report any mouth, teeth, or jaw pain immediately to both your oncologist and your dentist Schedule a thorough dental examination before starting chemotherapy or radiation therapy If you need to address dental concerns urgently before treatment begins, our team offers family dental care in Calgary NW and can help coordinate your care efficiently. How Cancer Treatment Affects Your Oral Health Cancer treatments affect the body's ability to fight infection and heal, which directly impacts your mouth, teeth, and gums. Common oral side effects include: Dry mouth (xerostomia) – reduced saliva increases the risk of tooth decay and infection Mouth sores (mucositis) – painful ulcers that can develop on the gums, tongue, and inner cheeks Gum inflammation and infection – the immune system's reduced capacity makes gums more vulnerable Difficulty chewing or swallowing – caused by soreness or jaw stiffness Increased risk of tooth decay – due to changes in saliva composition and oral hygiene challenges Maintaining excellent oral hygiene and attending regular dental appointments throughout your treatment helps minimise these effects. Our dental hygienist services in Calgary support patients in keeping their mouths healthy during medically complex periods. Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (ONJ): What Cancer Patients Should Know Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) is an uncommon but serious condition that can develop in some cancer patients, particularly those receiving a class of medications called bisphosphonates. These drugs are used to treat certain cancers that affect the bones. While the precise relationship between bisphosphonates and ONJ continues to be studied, the condition is characterised by the jawbone failing to heal properly — often following a minor dental procedure such as a tooth extraction. Symptoms of ONJ Exposed or visible jawbone in the mouth Jaw pain or swelling Gum infections or sores that do not heal Numbness or a feeling of heaviness in the jaw Risk Factors for Developing ONJ Certain factors may increase a cancer patient's likelihood of developing ONJ, including: Radiation therapy directed…

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Read more about the article The Rising Tooth Decay Rates Amongst Young Canadians

The Rising Tooth Decay Rates Amongst Young Canadians

Tooth Decay in Canadian Children Is on the Rise Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease affecting children in Canada, and rates have been climbing after decades of gradual decline. Research published by Toronto Public Health found that decay in five-year-olds rose from approximately 10% in 1999–2000 to 11.6% in 2005–06, with the proportion of children affected by two or more decayed teeth increasing from 9.9% to 14.6% over the same period. For Calgary NW families, understanding what drives this trend — and how to reverse it — is essential for protecting your child's long-term oral health. How Does Tooth Decay Develop in Children? Tooth decay occurs when naturally occurring bacteria in the mouth feed on carbohydrates left on tooth surfaces. These bacteria produce acids that gradually erode tooth enamel, creating cavities over time. Common foods that fuel this process include: Sugary drinks — juice, sports drinks, flavoured milk, and soft drinks Sticky or dried foods — raisins, fruit leathers, and gummy snacks Refined carbohydrates — crackers, white bread, chips, and baked goods Frequent snacking — exposing teeth to acid attacks repeatedly throughout the day When these foods linger on tooth surfaces — particularly in the grooves of back teeth and between teeth — the acid damage accumulates faster than saliva can neutralise it, leading to decay. What Is Driving Higher Decay Rates Among Canadian Children? Several interconnected factors are contributing to worsening childhood oral health across Canada, including in Calgary: Poor Dietary Habits Increased consumption of processed foods, sugary snacks, and sweetened beverages has dramatically raised children's exposure to decay-causing acids. Many parents are unaware that savoury snacks like crackers and chips can be just as harmful as sweets. Reduced Fluoride Exposure Calgary made the decision to remove fluoride from its municipal water supply in 2011, a change that many dental professionals believe has contributed to rising cavity rates in the city. Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and helps remineralise early-stage decay. Without it in the water, children who do not receive fluoride through other sources — such as fluoride toothpaste or professional fluoride treatments — face a higher risk of cavities. Inconsistent Oral Hygiene Routines Many children do not brush twice daily, do not floss, and are not supervised during brushing until their technique is reliable. Establishing good habits early — ideally from the first tooth — makes a significant difference over time. Infrequent Dental Visits Children should see a licensed dentist every six months for a check-up and professional teeth cleaning. These appointments allow early detection of decay before it progresses, and give families personalised guidance on home care. Missing or delaying these visits means problems go undetected longer. Limited Access to Dental Care Children from lower-income households often face barriers to regular dental care, including cost and lack of insurance coverage. Canada's Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is helping to address this gap for eligible families. Expressions Dental welcomes patients under this programme — we offer direct billing to make dental care as accessible as possible.…

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Read more about the article Talking to your patients about HPV Vaccine

Talking to your patients about HPV Vaccine

What Patients in Calgary Should Know About HPV and Oral Health Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most commonly transmitted viral infection in the world, and certain high-risk strains are directly linked to oropharyngeal (mouth and throat) cancers. Because most people infected with HPV show no visible symptoms, your dentist plays a critical role in early detection and patient education. The HPV vaccine is one of the most effective preventive tools available — and understanding it is an important part of your overall oral health. What Is HPV and How Does It Affect Your Oral Health? HPV is a family of over 100 virus types. Most strains are low-risk and may cause minor issues such as warts; however, 12 strains are classified as high-risk. These high-risk types — particularly HPV-16 — have been strongly linked to oropharyngeal cancers, including cancers of the mouth, tongue, tonsils, and throat. Oral HPV can cause: Oral warts and non-cancerous lesions inside the mouth Abnormal growths or tumours in the oral cavity Oropharyngeal cancers, including oral tongue cancer (affecting the front of the tongue) HPV is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, but some evidence suggests that skin-to-skin contact can also spread certain strains. Because the virus often presents with no outward symptoms, many people carry and transmit HPV without being aware of it. Signs and Symptoms of Oral HPV The majority of people infected with HPV will never experience noticeable symptoms, which is what makes it particularly challenging to detect without professional screening. When symptoms do appear, they may include: Oral warts or lesions — flat or raised growths appearing inside the mouth or on the lips Abnormal lumps in the mouth, throat, or neck area Persistent sore throat or difficulty swallowing Unusual patches — red or white areas inside the mouth that do not heal Hoarseness or changes in voice that do not resolve It is important to note that these symptoms do not automatically indicate HPV or cancer. However, any unexplained oral changes should be assessed by a dental or medical professional promptly. Why Your Dentist in Calgary NW Should Be Talking to You About HPV While tobacco and alcohol use remain major contributors to oropharyngeal cancers, HPV now accounts for an estimated 25% to 35% of all oropharyngeal cancers. This shift has placed dentists in a uniquely important position when it comes to patient education and early detection. Your licensed dental team is trained to identify early signs of oral changes that may be linked to HPV-related conditions. Regular dental visits create a consistent opportunity for oral cancer screenings — something many patients may not receive elsewhere. At family dental care appointments in Calgary NW, your dentist can assess the soft tissues of your mouth and throat for any abnormalities, answer your questions about HPV, and recommend the appropriate next steps. Your dentist may also discuss: Who should receive the HPV vaccine and at what age How regular dental hygiene appointments support overall oral health monitoring Lifestyle factors that may increase your risk…

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