Stop Tartar in Its Tracks

Everyone develops plaque because bacteria are constantly growing in our mouths. This sticky, colorless film of bacteria that constantly forms on our teeth and gum line can harden into tartar if not removed by practicing proper oral hygiene. Not only can tartar threaten the health of your teeth and gums, it is also a cosmetic problem. Once tartar hardens and builds up on your teeth, only our doctors at Clareview & Belmont Dental Associates can remove it.

Proper brushing, especially with American Dental Association (ADA) approved tartar control toothpaste, and flossing is necessary to reduce plaque and tartar buildup. The top three ways to prevent tartar in addition to plaque is to brush thoroughly at least twice a day for two minutes, floss daily, and schedule at least two regular dental visits for professional cleanings and dental examinations each year.

If you have tartar buildup, it is time to schedule a dental checkup. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.clareviewbelmontdentist.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Clareview & Belmont Dental Associates here in Edmonton, AB, call 780-475-5922.

Let Us Explain, Novocain

When you think of the dentist’s office, our doctors at Clareview and Belmont Dental Associates are almost certain that you’re wondering about your pain-free options. Depending on the procedure at hand, you will either be given a local or general anesthetic. Local anesthesia allows the patient to remain awake, while general anesthesia allows the patient to sleep. If you are told you’ll be receiving a local anesthetic, “Novocain” probably comes to mind. Novocain is commonly used to suppress pain in patients who remain conscious. During your consultation, our doctors will determine if Novocain is appropriate for your treatment plan as well as if it is the best option for you.

Novocain is normally injected into an area during oral surgery and other dental procedures to numb the surrounding tissues. Like any medication, however, side effects include numbness around the injection site that can last for several hours, a tingling sensation around the injection site, as well as minor swelling around or near the injection site. Novocain is a good option for some, but not for others. Be sure to provide us with as much information about your medical history as possible so that you and our doctors can make an informed decision.

If you would like to discuss sedation options, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.clareviewbelmontdentist.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Clareview & Belmont Dental Associates here in Edmonton, AB, call 780-475-5922.

Xylitol and Tooth Decay

While strolling through the candy aisle at the drugstore have you ever noticed a sweet treat that contains xylitol? If so, you should grab it if you want to protect your teeth from decay. Xylitol is a naturally occurring alcohol found in most plant material, including many fruits and vegetables. It tastes sweet but, unlike sugar, it is not converted in the mouth to acids that cause tooth decay. Our doctors at Clareview & Belmont Dental Associates encourage the use of xylitol due to its unique and clinically proven dental benefits.

Xylitol prevents cavity-causing bacteria from sticking to the teeth. With the dental benefits of xylitol, the acid attack that would otherwise last for over 30 minutes after food consumption is stopped. Because the bacteria in the mouth that are causing cavities are unable to digest xylitol, their growth is greatly reduced. In addition to reducing cavities, xylitol also reduces plaque formation and increases salivary flow to aid in the repair of damaged tooth enamel. So next time you’re strolling through the candy aisle at a convenience store, you may want to look for a label that mentions this sugar substitute.

If you have questions about tooth decay, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.clareviewbelmontdentist.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Clareview & Belmont Dental Associates here in Edmonton, AB, call 780-475-5922.

Basics of Bruxism

If your teeth are worn, damaged, or sensitive, or if you have pain in your jaw, face, or ear, it may be time to visit us at Clareview & Belmont Dental Associates. These are common symptoms of bruxism, a condition in which you grind, gnash, or clench your teeth and the condition can have a variety of causes. Some experts view this issue as nothing more than a habit, but this habit can wreak serious havoc on your teeth, provoking you to endure invasive dental procedures in the future.

People with severe bruxism can break dental fillings or damage their teeth. Rubbing the teeth together can cause the outer layers of enamel to wear away, exposing dentin, which can lead to tooth sensitivity. Severe bruxism can also be the result of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders as well as unexplained facial pain. If one of our doctors determines that you’re a “bruxer” he or she will discuss the best way to treat the condition. The treatment of bruxism typically depends on the cause.

If you are suffering from symptoms of bruxism, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.clareviewbelmontdentist.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Clareview & Belmont Dental Associates here in Edmonton, AB, call 780-475-5922.