Teeth Whitening

Top teeth whitening myths you need to know!

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Expressions Dental offers a wide variety of dental services including, Emergency Dental Services, Wisdom Teeth Removal & Teeth Whitening in Calgary. As professional dentists, it concerns us that there are many myths that surround dental treatments. What worries us most is that many people resort to DIY ways to relieve their dental worries due to such misconceptions. One such treatment that attracts faulty facts is the teeth whitening procedure. We acknowledge that there are a lot of fad whitening treatments out there which contributes to the existing problem of myths so we want to take this opportunity to address the importance of seeing a professional dentist for all your whitening needs and bust of a few teeth whitening Myths.

# Whitening will damage your teeth

This is untrue. Teeth whitening does not ‘corrode or melt’ the enamel when the procedure is done correctly. Inappropriate proportions or leaving it for a long duration can give poor results. It is true that few experience sensitivity immediately after the whitening, that subsides after some time. However, the use of over the counter experiments and DIY whitening products could cause tooth damage. To avoid damage to the enamel, make sure you choose a professional dentist who uses safe and approved methods for teeth whitening. We offer many options for Teeth Whitening in Calgary, including ZOOM! In office whitening treatment and custom made take-home whitening kits designed for your teeth alone.

# Teeth whitening is permanent

Teeth Whitening results aren’t permanent. Post teeth whitening, you will be required to maintain the results via a proper diet. Drinking coffee, tea, and red wine can cause your teeth to turn yellow. Avoiding foods/habits that cause staining and following a dentist-recommended routine is required to keep your teeth white longer. Touch-ups are required to keep your shiny pearls white.

# Whitening works on veneers & tooth restorations

No, it does not. The teeth whitening procedure is supposed to be performed on natural teeth before you go for restorations or crowns. Porcelain restorations and veneers are then matched to your whitened teeth. So, if you are planning to get veneers, crowns, or fillings, consult your dentist if you can wait until after teeth whitening to do them. Otherwise, you may need to get them redone after your teeth are whitened.

# All teeth whitening procedures deliver a Hollywood smile

Each of us has a different mineral composition of teeth. So, comparing your results with others is unrealistic. Some of us have genetically yellow teeth, while others have deeply stained teeth due to use of antibiotics like tetracycline. So, your dentist should determine the best possible whitening plan that suits your oral history for the best possible results.

Whitening isn’t the only procedure your favorite star has invested in for the dazzling smile you see on screen. Ask your dentist if your teeth would require whitening alone or need other procedures like porcelain veneers for achieving that Hollywood smile.

# The procedure is painful

Advanced methods of teeth whitening are safe and relatively painless. A professional dentist uses protective gel for your gums to shield them from the whitening agent that can irritate the soft tissue. However, you might feel sensitivity after the procedure which will subside. In case you have pre-existing sensitivity, your dentist would recommend the right plan that suits your oral history.
For more information about Teeth Whitening in Calgary or for other dental procedures or if you are looking for an Emergency Dentist, consult Expressions Dental.
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Is it safe to see the dentist during COVID-19? Yes!

The coronavirus pandemic has altered the world around us. Preventive protocols like physical distancing and covering mouth are now important to avoid the risk of Covid-19 infection. But, it is also important to maintain oral health. A cleaner and healthy mouth contribute to minimizing the chances of viral infections as it is well known that a healthy body is less prone to any infections. The pandemic has pushed many to neglect their oral health concerns and as the world starts to unlock, the question still persists- Is it safe to see the dentist during COVID-19?

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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC), there has not been one single reported case of COVID-19 transmission associated with dental offices so far. Just like any of us using masks on daily basis, washing hands, using sanitizers, disinfecting surfaces, the dentists to have already put all preventive protocols in action to ensure safety for their staff and patients. All safe dental offices have geared the patient & staff interaction to be straightforward and predictable by minimizing contact wherever possible, by using PPE kits and minimizing chairside adjustments, etc. Efficiency in all aspects of treatment and operations has now become critical. So, why neglect oral health when all the infection control procedures are in place! The dental community has been issued safety guidelines to follow, but here are a few things you can do to overcome the hesitation of seeing your dentists during the pandemic.

Yes, Please.

Before you make an appointment, here are a few questions you may ask to overcome the apprehension:
If patients are screened over the phone before their visit.
If the practice limits the number of people allowed in the waiting room at one time.
If they disinfect all surfaces including telephones, the EFTPOS machine, door handles, etc.

If all instruments/tools are sterilized after each patient.

If the staff have enough personal protective equipment?
If both staff and patients wear masks at all times?
If they have removed high contact items in the reception area like, magazines & toys.
If they have adjusted seating in the reception area to facilitate social distancing.

If the answer to all of these questions is “yes,” it means the dental office is doing everything to provide a safe environment & hence, you can feel at ease going to the dentist’s office.

Your Call
A safe dental practice puts infection control measures in action and you can see it for yourself in the initial visit. It’s then your choice to go ahead or not. So, here’s a list of everything you need to observe before you make an informed decision.

A safe dental practice:

● Records your detailed travel history and medical history.
● Sterilizes instruments for each and every patient.
● Uses disposable suction tips and instruments.
● Disinfects the dental chair, instrument panels, dental light unit and benchtops between every appointment.
● Places protective barriers over surfaces such as a headrest, x-ray units, etc.
● Uses Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
● Requests patients to undertake a 30-second preoperational antimicrobial mouth rinse with a 0.1% hydrogen peroxide solution before treatment
● Uses high-speed suction that reduces aerosols by 95% whenever possible.
● Uses rubber dam that reduces aerosol by 70% whenever possible.

We know it is not easy right now. Post lockdown, many businesses have reopened, including dental practices. Pandemic or not, dentists are trained to regularly disinfect and will continue to do so. Returning to your dentist is purely a personal decision, but making an informed choice by assessing the hygiene protocols will save you from neglect that can cost more than just money.

Come to Expressions Dental for all your Dental Needs!

Our team of dental professionals follow stringent safety protocols and are always here to help you get the expert dental care you need in Calgary even during the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak. Do you have questions about our safety procedures? Need more information? Interested in an appointment? You can contact us online or give us a call. See you soon!
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5 Health Problems caused by Crooked Teeth

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Crooked teeth are not just the cause for a self-conscious smile, but can also affect your overall health. Properly aligned teeth allow you to properly brush and floss, removing grit and bacteria that build in your oral cavity every day. Misaligned or crooked teeth make it difficult for bristles to get into the crevices. Harmful bacteria building on the teeth and gums leave the whole body at risk! Read on to discover some of the troublesome ways your crooked teeth can affect your health.

Improper Digestion

Misaligned teeth make it hard for you to chew properly. Human teeth are designed for different functions of chewing. Misaligned teeth hinder the function, leading to digestion problems. Proper chewing is necessary for the breakdown of nutrients for your body. Hence, crooked teeth can negatively impact your intake of nutrients causing a negative impact on your immune system and overall health.

Persistent Headaches

Crooked teeth throw your bite off-balance & put pressure on your jaw muscles. Temporomandibular joints connected to your lower jaw move smoothly when there is a perfect alignment of teeth. Crooked teeth restrict the TMJ’s smooth movement. This leads to a condition called TMJ disorder which gives way to chronic headaches & migraines.

Gum Diseases

Crooked teeth don’t allow bristles of the toothbrush to reach in all places, which leaves more room for bacteria to sneak in. Bacteria that survive the cleaning process start to build on and around the teeth which lead to deep pockets in your gums. The bacteria thrive in these pockets which leads the way to various dental complications like gum disease called periodontitis which can eventually lead to tooth loss.

Heart Diseases

Bacteria that thrive due to crooked teeth cause gum diseases & can travel through the bloodstream. When these bacteria reach the heart, it can result in cardiovascular diseases. Recent studies suggest that people with moderate to advanced stages of gum diseases are at greater risk for heart disease. Researchers have uncovered oral bacteria in the fatty deposits of people with atherosclerosis, a disease in which plaque builds up in the arteries. When untreated, these deposits can narrow arteries, causing a heart attack or stroke.

Respiratory Problems

Crooked teeth allow the breeding of bad bacteria in your mouth. Such bacteria in the mouth can reach the lungs and cause infections such as pneumonia. Studies have suggested a higher mortality rate from pneumonia in people with higher numbers of deep gum pockets which can be a result of crooked teeth. Crooked teeth can also cause airway problems such as obstructive sleep apnea.
Now you know that crooked teeth can not be ignored. Crooked teeth can be caused due to various factors like genetics, facial injury, habits like mouth breathing, etc. Certified dentists evaluate the underlying cause and formulate a custom plan to straighten up your crooked teeth. To save your pearly smile and overall health, consider getting orthodontic care today. For more information on our services or to schedule an appointment for your crooked teeth, please contact us today.
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Read more about the article About Mouth Guards

About Mouth Guards

blog3 Mouth guards cover your gums and teeth to help keep your mouth and teeth from harm. Mouth guards should be used to keep you safe when you play contact or highly physical sports. They also help to reduce the effects of teeth clenching or grinding. In all cases, the goal of mouth guard use is to help you keep your teeth from being chipped or broken, prevent nerve damage, and avoid tooth loss. Also, mouth guards are used for some tooth whitening procedures. A sports mouth guard can prevent serious injuries such as concussions, cerebral haemorrhages, incidents of unconsciousness, jaw fractures, and neck injuries by helping to avoid situations where the lower jaw gets jammed into the upper jaw. Mouth guards are effective in moving soft issue in the oral cavity away from the teeth, preventing laceration and bruising of the lips and cheeks, especially for those who wear orthodontic appliances. Types of Mouth Guards
  • Stock mouth guards – Low cost stock mouth guards can be found at most department stores and sporting goods stores. This type is ready to use, but they do have a few down sides. Most dentists do not advise their use. The drawbacks include trouble related to proper fit as well as the ability to speak and breathe comfortably. This type offers the least defence for your mouth and teeth.
  • Boil and Bite Mouth Guards: This type is made from a kind of plastic that can be reshaped when heated. Boil and bite mouth guards can often be found at sporting goods stores, and they may fit better than stock mouth guards.
  • Custom-fitted Mouth Guards: This type is made in a dental office or lab for the person who will wear it. It offers the comfort and protection. Custom-fitted guards are also the most costly type due to the use of special materials and the time and work needed.
Mouth Guards for Braces Wearers Injury to the mouth can damage invisalign or other fixed appliances. Because of this, it is especially important for those who wear braces to use protective mouth guards during sports. Your dentist or orthodontist can provide you with a custom-fitted mouth guard that will meet your needs. Care for your mouth guard Clean the mouth guard by washing it with soap and warm (not hot) water. Before storing, soak the mouth guard in mouthwash. Keep it in a well-ventilated plastic storage box when not in use. Make sure the box has several holes so the mouth-guard will dry. Heat is bad for mouth guards, so do not leave it in direct sunlight or in a closed automobile. Don’t bend the mouth guard when storing. One should not handle or wear someone else’s mouth guard. Contact us if there are any problems with the mouth guard. Feel free to contact our office to learn more about mouth guards and to schedule an appointment with our general dentist.
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Read more about the article Embarrassed To Show Teeth When Smiling?

Embarrassed To Show Teeth When Smiling?

Are you embarrassed to show your smile due to crooked, stained teeth, gum disease or bad breath?

Think about the following options:

1. Teeth whitening – It is a way to remove stains, bringing your teeth to a whiter color. Many dentists use in office whitening such as zoom, but there are also take home options available

2. Braces – Many people did not get orthodontic care growing up due to various factors. Now that they are adults, they may want to correct crooked teeth. Traditional braces or Invisalign are options available

3. Treatment for bad breath – No one wants to admit they have bad breath and sometimes we don’t even realize we do. The causes of bad breath can be from a variety of reasons, whether it be gum disease, tooth decay, sickness or personal habits. Each of these can be treated; if you come in for an appointment we can diagnose the best course of action, whether it be gum disease treatment, filling, root canal treatment, diet management or even to be referred to a specialist. Bad breath shouldn’t stop you from smiling anymore.

4. Veneers – Sometimes we don’t want to have to go through the whole process of braces just to close a gap and so an option to achieve a closed gap is to use porcelain veneers. Veneers can be used not only for closing a gap between teeth, but can also whiten stained or dis·col·or teeth or cover cracks, chips or serrations.

5. Regular dentist visits and teeth cleaning – The general perception of a dental visit is that the experience is painful and ends up being expensive. The thing is, the longer we leave an appointment the worse our dental hygiene becomes; meaning a higher likelihood of decay, gum disease, bad breath etc. The more regularly we visit a dentist the higher the likelihood of identifying problems early or potential problems

As can be seen, many of the things that keep us from smiling can be easily avoided or fixed. You don’t have to live in pain or discomfit as there are many options available to make you smile again. Not everybody is eligible for zoom, Invisalign, or veneers. For more information regarding your dental health, contact Expressions Dental.

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Read more about the article Does Teeth Whitening Cause Teeth Sensitivity?
Healthy woman teeth and a dentist mouth mirror

Does Teeth Whitening Cause Teeth Sensitivity?

Teeth whitening is one way to brighten your smile. It is a procedure that can be accomplished either in the dental office or at your own home. The downside to whitening your teeth is the sensitivity that sometimes develops. The properties of hydrogen peroxide – one of the main ingredients in most tooth whitening products may irritate the tooth nerve.

Tooth sensitivity is experienced as a rush or wave of pain usually as a response to cold air or water. If you suffer from tooth sensitivity then you may want to re-consider a whitening regime. However, there maybe ways to combat this issue and still allow yourself to whiten your teeth.

  • Follow the instructions of your dentist when using a professional product or the manufacturer’s instructions for the over the counter products. Never whiten your teeth for longer than recommended.
  • Sometimes just giving your teeth a short break between treatments can help to alleviate the symptoms.
  • Taking pain killers can help reduce the symptoms if taken before applying the whitening product. Taking it ahead of time may prevent the symptoms from surfacing.
  • See if you are using a product with a lower peroxide level.
  • Limit the cold drinks and foods while you are whitening.
  • Overuse of whitening products can also cause sensitivity. When used to excess, they have the potential to make your teeth very sensitive or even damage them.

If you tend to have teeth sensitive to whitening, talk with your dentist about the options available to you. If you try a product and experience painful sensitivity, stop using it immediately and consult with a dental professional. You and your dentist can decide together what product would best for you.

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Read more about the article Alternatives to Dental Veneers

Alternatives to Dental Veneers

If you are thinking of veneers as a possible way to make your teeth look better, it is good to first consider all the available options.

Here are some basic choices for the patients looking for brighter smile:

  • Tooth whitening – This is a conservative way to remove tooth discolorations. The basic structure of your teeth remains unchanged. Not all stains can be whitened with this approach. This approach will only provide a color change for your teeth, so if their alignment or shape isn’t already pleasing, it’s not the right solution.
  • Micro abrasion – It is a process where a thin outer layer of tooth enamel that contains blemishes is abraded and eroded away. It involves the use of a coarse polishing compound mixed with 5 to 10% hydrochloric acid.
  • Reshaping – Some patients choose to have their teeth actually reshaped in order to improve the look of their mouths. This is generally not effective for changing discolored teeth, but it is a similar service that some patients consider as opposed to filling in gaps with porcelain veneers.
  • Porcelain crowns – These are a good solution for teeth that are damaged, misshapen or decayed. Crowns can be used alone or with dental bridges and dental implants. A crown will improve a tooth’s size, shape, strength and appearance.

If any of these procedures sounds like something that could help you improve your smile, talk to our general dentists at Expressions Dental about these dental treatments and the risks and benefits.

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