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6 Types of Dental Floss

If you thought there’s only one type of dental floss, you’re in for a surprise.

What are the different types of dental floss?

Waxed Dental Floss

Waxed floss has a light wax coating, less likely to break. The wax could possibly make it a bit tougher to reach tight spots though.

Unwaxed Dental Floss

Unwaxed floss is a thin nylon floss made up of about 35 strands twisted together. It fits into tight spaces better than waxed floss, but it also has a greater chance of breaking or shredding.

Polytetrafluorethylene Dental Floss

Sounds pretty high-tech, doesn’t it? Polytetrafluorethylene floss is made of the same material found in Gore-Tex fabric. It easily slides between teeth and is less likely to tear or shred.

Dental Tape

Dental tape, like tape, is more flat and broad in shape. It comes waxed or unwaxed. People often find it more comfortable than regular floss.

Super Dental Flosses

Super flosses are made from yarn-like material. It has a stiffer section on each end that can be beneficial for those with braces and bridges.

Flavored Dental Floss

You may be able to find all of the above types of floss in flavored versions. The most common flavor would be mint, which also freshens breath. Kids may especially take a lot more interest in flavored floss. Whatever works, right?

Flavored floss is also perfect to take to school or work to freshen up after lunch and coffee breaks, when most people don’t brush.

Questions about dental floss? Ask your dentist at your next scheduled checkup and cleaning. If you’re located in Surrey, come see us at Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry! Book your appointment today: 604-593-8201.

 

Waterpik vs. Dental Floss

It goes without saying that flossing isn’t exactly everyone’s favorite thing to do, which is unfortunately why many people don’t floss. However, it goes without saying that if you want a healthy mouth, you have to floss. This is absolutely a non-negotiable.

If I have a waterpik, do I still have to floss?

A waterpik is a very cool device that adds some ease and excitement to your dental care routine. It uses a pulsating of water to expel bacteria from the pockets of your gums. So yes, they are a great addition to your bathroom counter, but can they completely replace dental floss? No. You still need it to clean between the tight spaces of your teeth.

Ideally you will floss to scrape off sticky film, get rid of food particles, loosen debris…and then use a waterpik to flush everything out. In other words, in the ideal world, you would use BOTH floss and a waterpik, but not just a waterpik.

Waterpiks are especially great for:

  • People with sensitive gums
  • People with active gum disease / gingivitis
  • People with diabetes because they are more at risk for gum disease and will experience less bleeding with a waterpik
  • People with braces, dentures, and other dental appliances

For family, cosmetic, and emergency dental in Surrey, please call us at Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry: 604-593-8201.

 

 

How Cavities Are Formed

There is an ongoing battle inside your mouth between bacteria and sugars on one side and saliva and fluoride on the other.

When you eat or drink something starchy or sugary, the bacteria in your mouth uses those remnants to produce acid. These acids are what begin to eat away at the hard, outer surface of your teeth – your enamel.

When white spots appear where minerals have been lost, this is a red flag that decay has begun. Luckily, tooth decay still has the chance to be stopped and reversed at this point (before things are too far gone) because there are minerals in your saliva, like phosphate and calcium. These are combined with fluoride from your toothpaste and your drinking water. This is what helps your enamel repair itself, as the minerals lost during an “acid attack” are replaced.

This battle between losing minerals and gaining minerals literally goes on all day long.

If the tooth decay goes too far and more minerals are lost, your enamel gets weak and cavities will start to form. When it gets to the point of an actual cavity, a dentist needs to step in and repair this with a tooth filling.

Be sure to get a dental checkup every six months to ensure you don’t have any cavities, yourself. If you do though, no worries! We can fill them for you and get you back in top shape! Call our dental clinic in Surrey BC today: 604-593-8201.

 

 

 

What is Malocclusion?

You may or may not have heard of malocclusion before, but it is commonly used by orthodontists to mean that your teeth are not properly aligned.

Your upper teeth should sit slightly over your lower teeth when you bite together. Your top molars should also fit into the grooves of your bottom molars. In addition to looking good aesthetically, this placement is also needed to prevent dental problems, such as shifting teeth.

When there are problems with your teeth not aligning or fitting together properly, your dentist will refer you to an orthodontist (unless they also provide traditional wire braces and/or Invisalign at their dental clinic).

Braces or Invisalign will:

  • Correct and prevent problems
  • Correct abnormal bites
  • Help with TMJ

Symptoms of malocclusion include:

  • Abnormal wearing of your teeth
  • Problems chewing food
  • Pain in your mouth or jaw
  • Frequently biting the inside of your cheek

What causes malocclusion?

There is no single cause, however, malocclusion is often hereditary. It could also be due to sucking your thumb or using a pacifier at a young age. The shape of your jaw could also affect this, or even a cleft lip or cleft palate.

Other reasons may include:

  • Lost teeth from injuries or accidents
  • Overcrowding of teeth
  • An abnormal bite
  • Impacted teeth
  • Teeth that are abnormally shaped
  • Poor-fitting crowns, braces, retainers, and/or other
  • Tumors in your mouth or jaw

Please call us at Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry to book a dental appointment in Surrey today at: 604-593-8201.

 

Pros & Cons of Brushing with Baking Soda

Most people have baking soda in their fridge to absorb odors, for baking and cooking, or even for cleaning. You may have noticed that some toothpaste brands are centered around it as well, or even read online that baking soda can be used by itself for teeth whitening to fight stains from tea, coffee, cola, and tobacco. But the question is…is it safe for your teeth?

Well, let’s take a look at the pros first. In addition to brightening your smile, baking soda:

  • Attacks the formation of plaque, preventing tooth decay and even gum disease
  • Helps fight bad breath by balancing out the acidic levels of food particles in your mouth
  • Helps treat sore mouth ulcers

And, now the cons:

  • Using baking soda by itself own can be quite messy (which is why people would prefer to use it as part of a toothpaste in a tube)
  • Baking soda on it’s own is not enough to prevent or fight tooth decay, as it isn’t able to kill bacteria
  • Baking soda can unfortunately wear away your tooth enamel, as it can be quite abrasive (which is why it is able to whiten your teeth)
  • Baking soda can be harsh on your gums
  • Baking soda can soften the adhesiveness of your dental glue, used for things like braces and retainers
  • You may not appreciate the grittiness or aftertaste

After reading this, you may be deterred from using baking soda on your teeth, or even baking soda toothpaste. It is best to discuss this with your dentist at your next visit. That said, if you plan to use it in the meantime, it is advisable to not use it more than two or three times a week. Also, don’t let it stay on your teeth for more than a couple of minutes.

If you are interested in professional teeth whitening in Surrey, BC area, we would love to help you! Call Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry today at 604- 593-8201 to book your appointment.

Natural Remedies to Soothe Your Toothache

It goes without saying that no one wants to get a toothache. They’re painful and can serve as an irritating distraction until you are able to get treatment. If you find yourself in this predicament and unable to see a dentist right away, you may be interested in trying these home remedies to soothe your toothache in the meantime:

Swish with Salt Water

If you dissolve salt in hot water, it can act as a natural antiseptic mouthwash. Let it cool down to a temperature that will not burn your mouth, then swish it for at least 30 seconds before spitting it out. This will help remove debris and food particles, which if left in the mouth, could further infect your tooth. The salt will attack the microbes in your mouth that are causing you pain.

Ice

Place ice cubes in a sealed plastic bag, then wrap a thin cloth around it. Press it against your cheek in the area where your toothache is. This can help with swelling as well.

Cold Food & Drink

Choosing cold food and drink can cool down nerve endings and reduce pain after a tooth extraction.

Cloves

Cloves can help numb the nerves of your tooth, which can ease the pain. This is because the primary chemical compound found in cloves called “Eugenol” acts as a mild anaesthetic. Cloves can be used whole, as clove oil, or in powdered form. You can inquire about usage at your local health store.

Garlic

Known for it’s antibiotic medicinal properties, garlic can provide relief for your toothache. You can either crush it and apply it to your tooth or chew a clove to release it’s oil.

So, hopefully one of more of these remedies can come in handy for you until you get a chance to see your dentist. If your toothache is caused by trauma, please see an emergency dentist asap.

Please call us at Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry for emergency dental services in Surrey today at: 604-593-8201.

What Do You Know About Oral Thrush?

What is oral thrush?

There really is no way to sugarcoat this – oral thrush is when a yeast infection develops inside your mouth. Alternate names are oral candidiasis and oropharyngeal candidiasis. It surprisingly occurs most often in babies and toddlers. Fortunately, the infection is typically mild and rarely causes serious problems.

What are the other symptoms of oral thrush?

It’s important to note that no symptoms may be present in early stages, but as the infection gets worse, one may experience:

  • White or yellowish bumps on the tongue, insides of the cheeks, tonsils, gums, and/or lips
  • Soreness or burning in the mouth
  • Bleeding if the bumps are scraped or irritated
  • Dry, cracked skin at the corners of your mouth
  • A cotton-like sensation in your mouth
  • A loss of taste or a bad taste in your mouth
  • Difficulty swallowing

What causes oral thrush in your mouth?

Oral thrush is caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida albicans. Note, that this is “overgrowth”, as it is normal for a small amount to live in your mouth without any issues. It’s when your immune system is compromised, that the fungus can grow out of control.

It is also possible to develop an overgrowth if you take certain medications that reduce the amount of beneficial organisms in your body, such as antibiotics.

People who suffer from cancer and are getting radiation or chemotherapy treatments can also be more susceptible to oral thrush. This is because these treatments can kill off healthy cells.

Other conditions that can weaken your immune system, such as leukemia, HIV, and diabetes can also increase the chances of developing oral thrush.

 How is oral thrush diagnosed?

Your doctor or dentist may be able to diagnose it just by looking in your mouth. In some cases, your doctor may take a biopsy.

How is oral thrush treated?

Your doctor may prescribe one of more medications such as fluconazole, clotrimazole, itraconazole, amphoteric B. Treatment usually takes a couple of weeks.

It’s so important to practice good oral hygiene during your treatment:

  • Brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush
  • Avoid scraping the bumps in your mouth caused by the oral thrush
  • Replace your toothbrush after the treatment for your oral thrush has concluded
  • Avoid mouthwash, unless instructed by your doctor

Concerned you have oral thrush? Make an appointment with your health professional today! Located in the Surrey, BC area? Come see us at Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry. Give us a call at to book your appointment: 604-593-8201.

 

How Harmful is Vaping for Your Health?

Vaping and e-cigs have gained a lot of popularity over the past decade, with many people thinking it is harmless compared to smoking regular cigarettes.

The fact of the matter is this – when it comes to any type of smoke inhalation, it goes without saying, you should not be doing it if you value your health.

When it comes to your health, vaping can lead to:

  • Inflamed gums (redness, tenderness & swelling)
  • Excess bacteria in your mouth that can lead to gum disease, decay, and cavities
  • Dry mouth and irritation of the mouth
  • Throat irritation
  • DNA damage (death of your cells)
  • Bad breath
  • Periodontal disease
  • Tooth and bone loss

As vaping is quite new, more research is needed to know further ways in which it can negatively affect you. That said, we’d say this is plenty of info to say no to this terrible habit.

It’s never too late to quit. Health is your greatest wealth!

For family or cosmetic dentistry in the Surrey area, please visit us at Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry! Call us today: 604-593-8201.

 

What are Receding Gums?

When the margin of the gum tissue around your teeth starts to wear away or pull back, exposing more of the tooth, or even the root of the tooth. Disease-causing bacteria can then build up between your gums and teeth.

What are the Symptoms of Receding Gums?

  • Exposed roots causing discomfort and sensitivity
  • Loose teeth
  • Teeth appear longer than normal

What are the Causes of Receding Gums?

  • Genetics
  • Poor dental care and/or brushing too hard
  • Periodontal diseases
  • Smoking, vaping, chewing tobacco, hookah
  • Changes in hormones
  • Having a misaligned bite
  • Crooked teeth
  • Clenching your teeth
  • Grinding your teeth

What Happens if this is NOT Treated?

If you leave this problem untreated, your tissue, teeth, and bone structure can be affected to the point you could lose your teeth. It occurs gradually, so people often don’t even realize it’s happening until they are told by their dentist or dental hygienist.

Can this be Treated?

It is absolutely necessary to have a deep cleaning at your dental office to remove tartar and plaque, as well as to smooth over the exposed root area. This makes it harder for bacteria to attach itself. You may also be prescribed antibiotics to kill off any remaining bacteria.

What if the Problem is Too Far Gone?

If you have excessive loss of bone and deep pockets, you may need to have gum surgery.

How Can I Try My Best to Prevent this from Happening?

  • Take great care of your health
  • Quit smoking
  • Get regular dental care
  • Always monitor your mouth for changes

Located in the Surrey area? Book an appointment at Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry today and keep your mouth in top condition! Call us: 604-593-8201.

 

Do You Know What Month it is?

October is National Dental Hygiene Month! Thirty-one days of the calendar year to place a special emphasis on the importance of oral health.

Oral health isn’t just brushing your teeth. It’s brushing them properly and thoroughly twice a day for at least two minutes, flossing, fresh breath, and healthy pink gums. Oh, and don’t forget the regular checkups and professional cleanings every six months. 

Read more about preventing bad breath, ways a healthy smile can enrich your life, and why you should never go to bed without brushing your teeth.

And remember, the way you take care of your mouth affects your overall health too.  For example, if you have an infected tooth, that infection can spread to your neck, jaw, sinuses, and possibly even your brain.Good dental health can never be underestimated.

You only get one set of teeth – take care of them!

Snap a picture of your healthy smile and upload to social media with the hashtag #DentalHygieneMonth.

If you are located in the Surrey, BC area, we would love to have you as a patient at our dental clinic. Call us at Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry today: 604-593-8201.

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