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SINCE 1978

After a tooth extraction

To speed up the healing process, we strongly suggest following the recommendations outlined below. However, please remember that it is normal to feel some discomfort and to experience swelling in the lower part of your face after a tooth extraction.

On the day of the surgery

  • Keep the compresses in your mouth for an hour or two and apply firm pressure. Change the compresses every 30 minutes, as needed
  • Keep your head upright at all times
  • Apply a cold compress to your cheek at regular intervals (20 minutes an hour)
  • In case of bleeding, bite down on some gauze or a slightly dampened tea bag for about 20 minutes
  • Many patients experience bleeding and notice a reddish tint in their saliva
  • Limit physical activities

Things to avoid

  • Do not remove the scab as it helps to promote healing
  • Do not eat until the bleeding stops
  • Do not drink through a straw
  • Do not rinse your mouth or spit
  • Do not smoke or drink alcohol
  • Do not eat foods that are difficult to chew
  • Do not brush your teeth near the extraction area within 72 hours of the procedure

Pain

Take the medication prescribed to you, as needed. Also, take the antibiotics for the entire duration prescribed, even if you no longer feel any symptoms.

Suggested foods

The day of the extraction, only consume soft foods and warm beverages. Once you feel better, you can eat and drink as you normally would.

Starting the day after the surgery up until you’re fully healed

  • Rinse your mouth three times a day with a mixture of warm water and salt (1/2 tsp. of salt in 1 cup of water)
  • Brush and floss your teeth every day to remove plaque and to ensure better long-term results. Avoid brushing your teeth near the extraction area within 72 hours of the procedure
  • Avoid eating hard food (nuts, candy, ice)
  • It may be difficult for you to pronounce some words and you may have more saliva than usual. You should be back to normal in less than a week.
  • Bruises may appear on your skin. They will gradually disappear in five to seven days
  • You may also have difficulty opening your mouth. This discomfort will go away in about five days
  • If pain gets worse after three days, do not hesitate to call us

You should be feeling better and able to resume normal activities within a few days. If you experience pain, excessive bleeding, swelling that lasts two to three days, or a reaction to the prescribed medication, please call us right away at 613-764-3090

The informative zone

About the clinic

Casselman Dental Clinic offers comprehensive care

Current and future patients can find additional information about our services by navigating the menu on the left-hand side of the page. You’ll find post-operative care instructions and articles on oral health.

Our FAQ section provides answers to the questions we hear most often.

Offering top-quality service is important to us. Please give us a call if you require further information, would like to book an appointment or need emergency care.

LES FORMULAIRES

Make an appointment

Make an appointment

To make an appointment, please call us at 613-764-3090 or fill out the form below.

We will confirm your appointment (by phone call or email) or offer you a different appointment time within 24 hours.








    The Post-operative advices

    After minor oral surgery

    After minor oral surgery

    To speed up the healing process, we strongly suggest following the recommendations outlined below. However, it is perfectly normal to experience some discomfort and swelling after surgery.

    On the day of the surgery

    • Apply firm pressure on the compresses and keep them in your mouth for about an hour or two. Change the compresses every 20 to 30 minutes, as needed.
    • Put some ice on your cheek at regular intervals (20 minutes of ice per hour).
    • In case of bleeding, bite down on some gauze or a slightly dampened tea bag for about 20 minutes.

    Things to avoid

    • Do not rinse your mouth or spit
    • Do not drink through a straw
    • Do not smoke
    • Do not eat or drink hot food and beverages; choose cool, soft foods instead
    • Do not engage in vigorous activities

    Pain

    • During the first 24 to 72 hours following your surgery, take acetaminophen (Tylenol, Atasol), ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) or the painkillers prescribed to you, but avoid aspirin.
    • Rinse your mouth three times a day with a mixture of warm water and salt (1/2 tsp. of salt in 1 cup of water) the day after the surgery and until healing is complete.
    • Bruises may appear on your skin. They will gradually disappear in five to seven days.
    • You may have difficulty opening your mouth. This discomfort will go away in four to five days.
    • If pain gets worse after three days, do not hesitate to call us.

    You should be feeling better and able to resume normal activities within a few days. If you experience pain, excessive bleeding, swelling that lasts two to three days, or a reaction to the prescribed medication, please call us right away at 613-764-3090

    After having a crown or bridge installed

    After having a crown or bridge installed

    To speed up the healing process, we strongly suggest following the instructions outlined below. However, it is perfectly normal to experience some discomfort and swelling after surgery.

    Two appointments are needed to install crowns or bridges. During your first visit, we make an impression of the teeth to be replaced. Then, we install temporary crowns or bridges to protect your teeth until the replacement teeth are ready.

    On the day of the procedure

    • Take the medication prescribed to you, as needed

    Things to avoid

    • Do not drink hot liquids when you’re under anesthesia
    • Do not eat sticky or hard foods (chewing gum, candy)

    Suggested foods

    • Chew on the other side of your mouth

    Starting the day after the surgery up until you’re fully healed

    • Brush your teeth as you normally would, but be careful when flossing so that the temporary crown doesn’t fall off
    • If the temporary crown comes off, come and see us so that we can cement it back into place. The purpose of the temporary crown is to prevent other teeth from moving and ensure that your permanent crown can be installed properly.

    If you experience pain or have questions, call us at 613-764-3090

    After a tooth extraction

    After a tooth extraction

    To speed up the healing process, we strongly suggest following the recommendations outlined below. However, please remember that it is normal to feel some discomfort and to experience swelling in the lower part of your face after a tooth extraction.

    On the day of the surgery

    • Keep the compresses in your mouth for an hour or two and apply firm pressure. Change the compresses every 30 minutes, as needed
    • Keep your head upright at all times
    • Apply a cold compress to your cheek at regular intervals (20 minutes an hour)
    • In case of bleeding, bite down on some gauze or a slightly dampened tea bag for about 20 minutes
    • Many patients experience bleeding and notice a reddish tint in their saliva
    • Limit physical activities

    Things to avoid

    • Do not remove the scab as it helps to promote healing
    • Do not eat until the bleeding stops
    • Do not drink through a straw
    • Do not rinse your mouth or spit
    • Do not smoke or drink alcohol
    • Do not eat foods that are difficult to chew
    • Do not brush your teeth near the extraction area within 72 hours of the procedure

    Pain

    Take the medication prescribed to you, as needed. Also, take the antibiotics for the entire duration prescribed, even if you no longer feel any symptoms.

    Suggested foods

    The day of the extraction, only consume soft foods and warm beverages. Once you feel better, you can eat and drink as you normally would.

    Starting the day after the surgery up until you’re fully healed

    • Rinse your mouth three times a day with a mixture of warm water and salt (1/2 tsp. of salt in 1 cup of water)
    • Brush and floss your teeth every day to remove plaque and to ensure better long-term results. Avoid brushing your teeth near the extraction area within 72 hours of the procedure
    • Avoid eating hard food (nuts, candy, ice)
    • It may be difficult for you to pronounce some words and you may have more saliva than usual. You should be back to normal in less than a week.
    • Bruises may appear on your skin. They will gradually disappear in five to seven days
    • You may also have difficulty opening your mouth. This discomfort will go away in about five days
    • If pain gets worse after three days, do not hesitate to call us

    You should be feeling better and able to resume normal activities within a few days. If you experience pain, excessive bleeding, swelling that lasts two to three days, or a reaction to the prescribed medication, please call us right away at 613-764-3090

    The Patient section

    Advice For Healthy Gums

    Advice For Healthy Gums

    As kids, we’re all taught to brush our teeth regularly to keep them healthy. But what about our gums?

    The gum is the soft tissue surrounding the neck of teeth which also covers the jawbone. By covering the dental roots, it protects them against microbes. A healthy gum is pink and firm, it attaches around the neck of the teeth and does not bleed when brushing or flossing.

    Tips for keeping your gums healthy:

    • Using a soft-bristled brush, gently brush your gums each time you brush your teeth (with a vertical motion from the gum to the tooth).
    • Carefully clean molars and pre-molars (because these teeth are located in the rear portion of the dental arch, they are often neglected, making them more susceptible to plaque buildup).
    • Use dental floss every day to get rid of plaque between your teeth. Make sure the floss reaches just beneath the gumline (be gentle to avoid cutting the gum tissue).
    • Adopt healthy eating habits, focusing on fruits and vegetables and leaving out acidic and over-sweet foods.
    • Avoid tobacco.

    Many patients stop using dental floss because of bleeding or pain. However, this is not the solution, as the situation may worsen rather than improve. Bleeding is caused by bacteria found in plaque, causing swelling and bone loss. This is why regular flossing is so important. If pain or bleeding persist after a month, you should go see a dental professional.

    In fact, oral health treatments (teeth cleaning) and regular exams are really important to ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy. When left untreated, gum disease can affect the bone that keeps your teeth in place. To avoid complications and, ultimately, the extraction of a tooth, it is best to adopt a preventive approach and seek treatment before problems become worse.

    Teeth Should Not Be Sensitive !

    Teeth Should Not Be Sensitive !

    Dental sensitivity is described as a sharp and stabbing tooth pain, generally occurring when consuming cold foods or beverages. This is often caused by receding gums or enamel wear which expose the sensitive layer located under the tooth’s enamel: the dentin.

    Many factors can cause contact with the dentin and initiate pain:

    • Tooth decay
    • Gum disease
    • Damaged restoration
    • Sinus or ear infection

    This condition can develop suddenly or gradually at any age. Tooth sensitivity does not naturally increase over time and has various causes such as eating habits and oral hygiene. For instance, overbrushing or the consumption of acidic foods and drinks may increase tooth sensitivity.

    To hedge against tooth sensitivity, one must have an adequate oral hygiene. It is advisable to use a soft-bristled toothbrush as well as using toothpaste for sensitive teeth. Make sure not to apply excessive pressure during brushing and take time to gently remove any traces of dental plaque by flossing.

    Since eating acidic and sugary foods can result in pain, adopting healthy eating habits, focusing on fruits and vegetables, is recommended. Teeth grinding can also explain dentin hypersensitivity. Finally, routine checkups at your dentist remains the best way to keep a healthy mouth.

    If pain persists, seek advice from your dentist. They will be more than happy to determine the cause of your pain and provide appropriate solutions.

    The Importance Of Scaling

    The Importance Of Scaling

    Brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day is the best way to get rid of plaque. If it is not completely removed, it hardens and becomes tartar. When this occurs, only a dental professional can remove it.

    The role of dental hygienists is to provide therapeutic and preventive care aimed at ensuring optimal oral health. This includes detection, assessment, planning, and prevention to ensure good oral health habits.
    After a thorough oral examination, the dental hygienist removes tartar from your teeth with a small, purpose-made metal curette. Once the tartar has been eliminated, the hygienist usually polishes the teeth to clear away any stains visible on the tooth surface using a grainy paste applied to the electric rotary tooth cleaning tool. To also ensure that areas between the teeth have been properly cleaned, the hygienist ends the session with dental floss. The dentist will then perform a complete dental check-up.

    Scaling helps prevent certain gum diseases such as gingivitis, but also some problems like chronic halitosis (persistent bad breath). Another reason why professional cleaning should not be overlooked is that despite irreproachable oral hygiene, tartar can accumulate under the gums. If it transforms into advanced gum disease, bacteria can enter the bloodstream and reach other parts of the body.

    Since periodontal diseases and untreated gingivitis are the leading cause of tooth loss in patients over 35 years of age, regular cleaning are of utmost importance. Omitting to do so puts your gums at risk for serious problems.

    Caring for and repairing prostheses

    Caring for and repairing prostheses

    Dental prostheses are used to replace one or several missing teeth. If you need a prosthesis, it’s important to wear it, as it will contribute to your oral and overall health, in addition to embellishing your smile.

    Thanks to today’s technology, more beautiful, comfortable and functional prostheses are available. Although nothing could ever be as comfortable as your natural teeth, take good care of your prosthesis for optimal comfort and a beautiful appearance:

    • Follow the recommendations for cleaning and maintaining your prosthesis
    • Make sure it’s always properly adjusted
    • Check it regularly for any cracks or weakness in the structure; if needed, have the prosthesis repaired before it gets damaged any further

    For prostheses to be comfortable, they need to be properly adjusted, repaired and maintained.

    1) Adjusting prostheses

    With time, prostheses can become uncomfortable. They may move while you chew or chatter as you talk. They can also rub against your gums, causing pain and injury.

    But what happened to your once-comfortable prosthesis? At first glance, it may seem to have become too big when in fact it’s your mouth that’s changed size. Here’s an explanation:

    Bone resorption: why prostheses become unstable

    When the jawbone is no longer stimulated by dental roots, it tends to lose some of its mass, gradually becoming thinner. This phenomenon is known as bone resorption. The gums have less contact surface to support the prosthesis properly, making it unstable. And, as long as there are teeth missing, bone resorption will continue.

    The denturologist can adjust your prosthesis for improved stability, using one of these procedures:

    Relining

    Relining a prosthesis involves adding acrylic inside the prosthesis to increase its contact with gums. By filling the voids between your gums and the prosthesis, it will be better supported inside your mouth.
    The prosthesis’ appearance remains unchanged because the teeth and pink acrylic base aren’t touched; only the interior surface is modified.
    This technique is a quick, affordable and effective solution to stability problems. Relining can extend the useful life of your prosthesis.

    Rebasing

    Rebasing consists of reshaping the prosthesis. The denturologist changes the pink acrylic base but the teeth are kept and placed on the new base, which is perfectly adjusted to your gums. This procedure can only be done if the teeth are still in good shape.

    Because the prosthesis has to be reshaped, rebasing takes a bit more time. Depending on the work to be done, it could take one or several days to complete. But the wait is worth it! Once ready, your new prosthesis will be perfectly adjusted, stable and comfortable again.

    2) Repairing prostheses

    Prostheses can usually be repaired. However, we recommend letting the denturologist take care of any repairs needed, because he or she has the expertise and the materials to do the job right. Attempting to repair a prosthesis yourself could have an adverse effect on the device and your health. Over-the-counter glue is toxic and it does not provide for reliable, long-lasting results.

    Your denturologist’s know-how will ensure your prosthesis is comfortable, esthetic and durable.

    Repairs are possible if:

    • The prosthesis has broken in two
    • It’s cracked or worn out
    • A tooth has come loose
    • A tooth or a hook is broken (on a partial denture)
    • A tooth is missing
    • A tooth has to be added following a new extraction

    Repair procedure:

    The denturologist will assess the condition of the prosthesis to determine if it can be repaired. Most of the time, repairs can be done in one day.

    • If the prosthesis has broken in two, the two parts are temporarily glued together
    • A mould is made of the prosthesis using silicone or plaster
    • The prosthesis is broken once again and the resin is ground down where it broke. The aim is to create enough space for new resin to be filled in so that it fuses to the old resin
    • Both parts are placed on the silicone or plaster mould and the void is filled with new resin
    • The prosthesis is hardened and reshaped using a resin drill
    • Finally, it’s sanded and polished for a smooth, shiny finish

    If the prosthesis is old (more than five years), the teeth are too worn out or a major adjustment is needed, the effectiveness and durability of the repair cannot be guaranteed. In this case, we recommend completely replacing the prosthesis.

    3) Maintenance tips

    Cleaning your prosthesis

    Cleaning your dental prosthesis is essential. Just like with natural teeth, plaque accumulates on artificial teeth every day. If your gums, remaining teeth or the prosthesis are not cleaned properly, you could develop an infection or an illness, including:

    • Bad breath
    • Stains on the prosthesis
    • Gum disease
    • Cavities on remaining teeth
    • Loss of remaining teeth
    • Heart disease, diabetes, etc.

    Cleaning a prosthesis is simple, but should be done regularly and carefully.
    1) Remove the prosthesis before going to bed; this prevents bacteria from growing and gives your gums a chance to rest. Soak your prosthesis while you’re asleep

    2) Brush your prosthesis:

    • Use a soft-bristled brush that’s meant for cleaning dentures
    • Use water and a denture toothpaste that doesn’t contain abrasives

    3) Soak your prosthesis:

    • After brushing it, place your prosthesis in a daily denture care solution overnight
    • If your prosthesis has metal hooks, soak the prosthesis in warm water only so that the metal won’t tarnish
    • You can also mix equal parts white vinegar and water to soak your dentures in; this removes any accumulated tartar
    • By soaking your dentures, you’ll prevent the acrylic part from drying out and losing its shape

    4) We also recommend removing and cleaning your prosthesis after each meal. A light brushing with denture toothpaste will immediately remove any bacteria that could cause plaque. If you can’t clean your prosthesis after a meal, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water

    It’s important to remove food particles and tartar that accumulate on prostheses to keep teeth and gums healthy. A good cleaning routine will help your prosthesis last longer.

    Schedule regular appointments with your denturologist and your dentist.

    Check-up with your denturologist:

    • The denturologist will check the condition of your prosthesis. If there’s a crack or a weak spot, he or she can carry out the necessary repairs
    • He or she will clean and polish the prosthesis, giving it back its original shine
    • The prosthesis’ stability is checked. If it moves, doesn’t adhere as well or is causing you pain, the denturologist will adjust it. Depending on the case, rebasing or relining may be needed to make the prosthesis comfortable again
    • The denturologist will give you advice on how to care for your prosthesis

    Check-up with your dentist:

    • The dentist will check the condition of your gums and remaining natural teeth. He or she will also check the progress of bone resorption and the presence of oral disease
    • The dental hygienist will clean your remaining teeth. A professional cleaning eliminates tartar, which cannot be removed just by brushing the teeth

    Wearing a dental prosthesis is important for your self-esteem, but also for your overall health. If you don’t, you’ll suffer irreversible changes to your appearance: your face and mouth will sag, making you look much older. Furthermore, by not being able to chew properly, you may develop serious digestion problems. For all these reasons, it’s really important to have comfortable, properly adjusted prostheses that are worn regularly.

    Managing Dental Anxiety

    Managing Dental Anxiety

    What is anxiety?

    Anxiety is an abnormal and overwhelming sense of insecurity. It is characterized by apprehension, tension, sweating and fear in a given situation. Under stressful circumstances, the endocrine system produces cortisol, known as the stress hormone. All of the physiological manifestations occurring when one doubts his capacity to cope with a situation are generated by a high level of these hormones. Most of the time, the patient refers to nervousness. Anxiety differentiates from fear since the latter involves a real danger. We can pretty much say that we all had to cope with anxiety at least once in our lives.

    Relaxation, the Key to a Positive Experience

    Many patients suffer from dental phobias. For this reason, they avoid their dental treatment and jeopardize their oral health. Our role is to reassure you. We will explain how the treatment is performed and answer all of your questions. We know you might have had bad experiences that have left you with a high level of anxiety. In this situation, we can use conscious sedation to carry out your treatment more easily.

    Known as “hilarious gas,” inhalational sedation uses a combination of nitrous oxide and oxygen. It allows you to remain conscious throughout the duration of the intervention, in a state of well-being and relaxation. It’s very safe, the uptake is rapid and the dose is easily adjustable. The nitrous oxide is completely excreted from the body quickly after the treatment, and recovery time varies from 3 to 5 minutes. You can, therefore, resume your activities immediately after your treatment. This method is often used in anxious and uncooperative children as well.

    Keep in mind that you are not alone in your position. Many people suffer from dental phobia, but few are aware that there are ways to control it. If you are nervous or worried to the point of avoiding visits to the dentist, talk to him. He will not hesitate to recommend conscious sedation for a positive dental experience.

    FAQ

    FAQ

    Q?

    Why should I visit the Dentist?

    A.

    Regular checkups are important for cleaning, the detection of cavities and periodontal examination. Plaque and tartar can build up in areas that are not easily reached through home maintenance. These can be removed during a dental check-up to prevent cavities and gum disease.

    While semi-annual visits are sufficient for cleaning and detection of cavities, patients’ needs do vary and patients should discuss the frequency of visits with their dentist.

    Patients should also contact their dentist immediately, if their gums bleed, teeth become hypersensitive to temperature or pressure, or in the event of tooth pain or abscess.

    Q?

    Why should I have my wisdom teeth removed?

    A.

    Removing your wisdom teeth if they are not painful or causing a problem is optional. However, the surgery is often less complicated at a younger age (14-21 years old). During a consultation, your dentist can help you decide if removing your wisdom teeth is the right option for you.

    Q?

    What is the difference between a grey filling and a white filling?

    A.

    White fillings are made with composite resin; they are glued to your tooth in thin layers. Each layer is hardened with the help of a special light. When the last layer is hardened, we shape the filling so it looks and feels natural.

    Silver fillings are made with mercury, silver, copper and tin. These fillings have been used on people for more than 150 years and are easy to put in place. Studies have shown that silver fillings do not cause illness.

    Q?

    My gums bleed when I floss; should I stop flossing?

    A.

    Bleeding gums is a disease and, like any other disease, needs to be treated. Gums sometimes bleed when you first begin to floss. Bleeding usually stops after a few days but if bleeding persists, you should contact your dentist.

    Q?

    What is orthodontics?

    A.

    Orthodontics is that discipline of dental medicine that deals with the position of the teeth and the jaw, specifically with their development and with correcting anomalies if any, and this with a functional and esthetic purpose.

    Your dentist can therefore detect and correct any problems related to the function and/or alignment of your teeth and jaw. Your dentist or orthodontist can also improve the appearance of the face and the functioning of the joints.

    Some of these problems are hereditary but can also have been caused by an accident or trauma, or may simply have developed through time.

    Thus, if you notice that your teeth are crowded, it is important to consult your dentist in order to avoid chronic irritation of your gums, muscular tensions or chewing problems.

    If you have a bad occlusion, misaligned teeth, teeth too widely spaced, an upper or lower jaw that is too projected forward, or lips that don’t close completely, orthodontics is probably for you.

    Q?

    What is periodontal disease and the treatment?

    A.

    Periodontal disease (gum disease) is a serious bacterial infection that destroys the gums and the surrounding tissues of the mouth. Progression of this disease leads to tooth loss. It has been found that the bacteria found in periodontal disease are the same bacteria found in heart disease and stroke.

    The disease may progress painlessly, producing few obvious signs.
    Even if often subtle, the condition is not entirely without signs.

    • Certain symptoms may point to some form of the disease. They include:
    • Gums that bleed during and after tooth brushing
    • Red, swollen, or tender gums
    • Persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth
    • Receding gums
    • Formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums
    • Loose or shifting tooth
    • Changes in the way teeth fit together upon biting down

    Q?

    What is a dental abcess?

    A.

    A dental abcess is a bacterial infection that may be painful or not, and that usually contains pus. This kind of infection is found near the root of a tooth and/or on the gum.

    For an abcess to grow, the tooth must be fractured or there has to be a dental carie that has reached the pulp. A dental abcess left untreated can reach the jaw bone and cause serious complications.

    Q?

    What is Gingivitis?

    A.

    Gingivitis is a term used to describe inflammation of the gums. Gingivitis begins with plaque, a clear sticky substance that forms on your teeth every day. Plaque contains bacteria that multiply and if plaque is not removed, it then becomes harder, what we call tartar or calculus. The gums swell and usually you will see them turn more red in appearance. It is also possible to note that your gums will bleed when brushing and flossing.

    Gingivitis is a disease that can go unnoticed because it does not usually cause any pain or discomfort. The good news is that gingivitis is a disease that is avoidable and also reversible.

    Q?

    At what age should my child consult a dentist for the first time?

    A.

    The Canadian Dental Association recommends the assessment of infants by a dentist within 6 months of the eruption of the first tooth or by ONE year of age. The goal is to have a dentist examine and detect any potential problems before they occur in your child’s mouth. An exam every 6 months afterwards will ensure that the dentist notices any small problems easily.

    Q?

    What is the importance of follow-up visits every 6 months?

    A.

    The exams are important and their frequency varies between 6 months, 9 months and 1 year. At a young age, it is recommended to do an exam, often with the help of x-rays, every 6 months since changes in primary teeth are faster (a small carie on a baby tooth can quickly become serious, for example an abcess and cause pain that can be avoided with children).

    Then, the frequency of visits is determined by your dentist. This allows to inform you of potential problematic areas, it evaluates the bone and gingival condition of your teeth as well as the presence of caries. An oral cancer screening test is also practised and only takes a few moments.

    The Kid’s zone

    The Truth About Fluoride

    The Truth About Fluoride

    Fluoride is a mineral composed of fluorine combined with another element. It can be found in the soil, fresh or salt water, and the foods we eat. Fluoride has several virtues for oral and dental health, including the capacity to prevent tooth decay, and even eradicate developing cavities.

    To stop tooth decay from happening on a large scale at minimal cost, the Federal-Provincial-Territorial Committee on Drinking Water is seeking to include an adequate fluorine level in public drinking water. Children who drink water daily and who have a balanced diet benefit from the quantity of fluoride necessary to fight tooth decay. In case of a deficit, your dentist can advise you on the different options available, such as use of fluoridated toothpaste, mouthwash or gel.

    However, moderation is always the best policy! A fluoride overdose risks causing dental fluorosis in your child. An appreciable symptom of this disease is the formation of small whitish spots on the teeth. That is why it is always wise to obtain a dental professional’s opinion before changing our habits.

    Oral hygiene for babies under the age of two

    Oral hygiene for babies under the age of two

    Did you know that baby’s primary teeth are fully formed before birth? Baby teeth simply hide under the gums until they erupt. The first teeth appear around six months, with the final teeth coming in by age three. It goes without saying that healthy teeth start with healthy gums. That’s why parents need to start an oral hygiene routine with their baby.

    From birth to 6 months, simply rub baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth after each feeding. This will remove any sticky film and prevent plaque from forming. When teeth start to erupt, clean them with a soft-bristled brush and toothpaste the size of a grain of rice. Parents may find it challenging, but it is important to encourage baby to spit out the toothpaste after brushing.

    We recommend that babies first visit the dentist at 6 months, when their first tooth comes out, or around their first birthday. Subsequently, babies and toddlers should see the dentist every 6 months or as recommended by your dentist.

    Your Child’s First Visit to the Dentist

    Your Child’s First Visit to the Dentist

    It is strongly suggested the first visit to the dentist takes place within 6 months following the eruption of the first tooth. This means your child should visit us around one year of age. This being said, it is better to come and meet us when your child is able to cooperate.

    During the first appointment, the dentist and dental hygienist will put your child at ease, examine and clean his teeth and review brushing and flossing techniques with you.

    It is estimated that 50% of the population is afraid of dentists. It is important for parents not to transmit this fear to their children. Do not minimize your kid’s fears and bear with him. Information and a positive attitude will reassure your child and determine his attitude in the future.

    Your collaboration is important before, during and after the visit. The first visit aims to familiarize the child with the environment and create bonds and trust between the dentist and him.

    Before the first visit

    • Read your child one of the many books featuring a character who visits the dentist for the first time.
    • Explain what the dentist will do.
    • Go over the steps of the visit the day before the appointment.
    • Never tell a child that going to the dentist will be painless.

    During the visit

    • You may be asked to sit in the dentist’s chair and hold your child during the examination.
    • If your child is older, you may be asked to return to the waiting room once the initial contact is made.
    • Listen to the instructions and suggestions you are given on how to care for your child’s teeth.
    • Keep a positive attitude about the consultation at all times.
    • Ask for another appointment in six months.

    After the visit

    • Make sure that your child brushes her teeth at least twice a day or after every meal.
    • Floss your child’s teeth once a day.
    • Monitor what your child eats and offer foods that have a low sugar content.
    • Till the age of 10, make sure your child brushes his teeth before bed time.

    Obturate a primary tooth

    Obturate a primary tooth

    Primary teeth have multiple functions, including preparing the space for the permanent dentition. But their enamel is much thinner, which makes it more prone to develop cavities.

    Since some primary teeth may remain in place until the age of 12 years old, dental filling is inevitable if the tooth is cracked or infected.

    Filling is a solution that is both simple and inexpensive to treat tooth decay. It prevents the risk of having a very painful oral condition that could lead to very costly care, such as a tooth extraction. It also avoids unpleasant social situations.

    How to fill a tooth

    • The dentist removes the decay using an instrument dedicated to this purpose.
    • The dentist fills the space with a sealing material made of metal, plastic or other

    How to prevent dental decay in a child

    • See your dentist as soon as your child is old enough to stay relatively still, between 2 and 4 years old.
    • Make sure you instill your child the basics of a good dental hygiene at an early age.
    • Adopt healthy eating habits

    Your child’s first tooth has already erupted? Do not hesitate to contact us for advice.

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