Spring Cleaning – For Your Mouth!
Spring FINALLY sprung here in Calgary! It’s wonderful to see everyone out and about, walking, riding bikes, running, kids back on the playgrounds where they belong! Windows are open and people are enjoying their yards again. The fresh air is invigorating and gets us up and motivated. With spring comes the urge to clean up, our houses, yards and garages. We get the itch to be active again and the opportunity to eat fruits and vegetables coming in season. At Chinook Mall Family Dental Clinic we want be put on your list of things to do this spring! With long winters here in Alberta you may be surprised to learn that the cold has done a bit of a number on your mouth, teeth and jaws. So it’s imperative to come see us twice yearly in our Chinook Mall dental office.
A few affects winter can have on your oral health are –
Oftentimes, people tend to clench their jaw while tensing up trying to stay warm in the cold weather also causing jaw and teeth erosion issues that may emanate tooth pain as well.
Cold air breathed in through an open mouth can cause teeth to contract and can allow the air to touch upon exposed sensitive areas especially along the gum line. After teeth have contracted from exposure to cold air, they will expand again once your mouth is closed. Over time, these expansions and contractions can cause hairline cracks in your teeth that you may not even know are there, but they’ll rear their ugly heads once they hit cold temperatures.
In the winter, it’s natural to want to cozy up with a cup of cocoa or enjoy a hot meal. If your teeth are sensitive, these hot foods and drinks can make your teeth hurt even worse.
With the holidays months behind us, sugar consumption is a very real threat to teeth. Sugar can make sensitive teeth hurt even worse, therefore making your indulgences a little more painful than just consuming extra calories!
Spring Clean Your Teeth Today!
What is expected in a dental cleaning?
Diagnostic services may include:
- Reviewing and updating medical history, including heart problems, cancer treatment, pregnancy, diabetes, joint replacement, medications, surgeries or any other major changes in health history
- Blood pressure check
- Oral cancer examination and screening
- Evaluation of gum tissue
- Checking biting, chewing and swallowing patterns
- X-rays, examination of teeth to detect decay
- Treatment planning
- Referral to specialists for specific treatment
Preventive services may include:
- Removal of plaque and tartar
- Stain removal
- Fluoride application
- Sealants
- Polishing of fillings or crowns
Educational services may include:
- Tooth brushing and flossing instructions
- Nutritional counseling
- Recommendations for future treatment: when to return for following hygiene treatment, periodontal (gum) concerns, restorative options, etc.
- Evaluation of possible cosmetic enhancements
- Evaluation of self-care effectiveness
On top of keeping your smile squeaky clean and making sure your oral health is in check, a professional cleaning appointment gives you the opportunity to have a conversation with your dentist about your daily dental routine or any concerns you may have. If you haven’t seen a dentist in the last six months, set up a thorough spring cleaning for your smile by calling into our office. Until then, enjoy the sun, rain, beautiful parks and green spaces our city offers!
