Cosmetic Dentistry | 416-922-1012 | 60 Bloor Street West, 10th Floor, Suite 1001, Toronto, ON M4W 3B8

Long-term Effects of Plaque Build Up

May 16th, 2012

Although your teeth may appear clean, the fact is they are always subject to a substance known as plaque. Plaque is a thin, sticky coating which adheres to tooth enamel, causing tooth decay and gum disease, if left untreated.

Today’s toothpastes and mouthwash solutions are effective in reducing the effects of plaque, and also help to lessen the amount that coats our teeth. Regular dentist checkups can also help remove the heavier deposits and treat any problems that may occur.

Plaque is highly acidic and can attack and erode tooth enamel.

Plaque forms as a result of the actions of different bacteria in a person’s mouth. When we eat, for example, it is common for food debris to be left behind; it isn’t always practical to brush and floss immediately afterwards, and bacteria in the mouth is attracted to the food remnants. As the food is eroded by the bacteria, it creates a coating on the teeth.

Plaque is highly acidic and can attack and erode tooth enamel. If left on the tooth for a period of time, it begins to harden and forms a new substance called tartar. Like plaque, tartar is also acidic and can continue to erode the tooth enamel. However, it is much more difficult to remove; often brushing and the use of a mouthwash are not sufficient to prevent tartar from building up, and a visit to a dentist is often required.

A dentist can remove tartar from a patient’s teeth using special tools, which is recommended, not just to protect teeth but also for aesthetic reasons, as tartar is unsightly and can make a person’s smile look discolored.

Without removal, tartar – also called calculus – can lead to more severe problems such as gingivitis, which is an early indicator of gum disease; patients with heavy build-up should seek dental help to remove it before it affects the health of the patient’s teeth and gums. Further delays in removal of the tartar could lead to eventual bone and tooth loss.

Patients can help prevent plaque build up and reduce the onset of tartar by regular brushing with a good toothpaste, rinsing with mouthwash and also by flossing regularly. Regular check-ups with a dentist for professional dental cleanings can help remove more stubborn deposits and preserve healthy teeth and smile!

To schedule your teeth cleaning to reduce plaque, contact our Toronto office at 416-922-1012.

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The Role Nutrition Plays in Maintaining Healthy Teeth

May 6th, 2012

Everyone knows the importance of proper nutrition and a good diet when it comes to maintaining physical health. However, the same level of thinking can also help with our dental health, and having good nutritional and eating habits will contribute to healthy teeth and gums.

A good, balanced diet can help to boost and maintain our body’s natural immune system; this can help to reduce the likelihood of developing oral complaints, while also helping to maintain healthy gums and strong teeth.

What we eat and drink can have an effect our oral health. Sweets, for instance, can stick to our teeth and leave behind sticky deposits which if not removed can lead to tooth decay. As such, it is important to maintain a good dental health regime to remove sticky residues that may be left behind. Fizzy drinks, such as Pepsi cola, can erode tooth enamel, due to the acidic nature of the beverage.

It’s also important to eat regularly, as research has shown that dental health can be affected by how often a person eats. Regular snacking on sweet or starchy foods can increase the activity of bacteria in a person’s mouth; this leads to heightened levels of acid in the mouth, which can erode tooth enamel. The more frequently a person eats, the more bacteria is stimulated, and the more acid is produced.

Saliva plays an important part in maintaining our dental health. Saliva can help to neutralize acid caused by eating, so rather than snacking consider combining foods into a larger meal. Saliva is a naturally occurring liquid in the mouth and can wash away food particles which may also be the target of bacteria, as well as helping to replenish teeth with essential nutrients to help withstand acid attacks.

Eating and drinking sensibly, adopting a good dental hygiene regime and making regular appointments with a dentist can all help to ensure that your smile remains healthy and strong, as well as remaining beautiful.

For more information on how you can maintain a healthy smile, contact our dental office, serving downtown Toronto, today!

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A Smile Makeover: Are Veneers My Only Option?

April 24th, 2012

A dental veneer, sometimes called a porcelain veneer, is one method of improving the appearance of a patient’s smile. A veneer consists of a custom-made shell that is bonded to the front of the tooth, covering it. The shell is color-matched to the surrounding teeth, so it appears natural. The shell itself is usually made of porcelain or a resin composite. If you are considering veneers, our cosmetic dentist will help you decide which material is more appropriate for you.

A tooth whitening system, when properly applied by a professional, can remove stains and restore the patient’s bright, white smile.

Placing veneers involves removing some existing tooth enamel to prepare the surface for the veneer. Patients who do not wish to permanently alter their teeth may opt for other options to improve their smile.

Another popular cosmetic solution for improving the appearance of your smile is a tooth whitening system recommended by your dentist. Veneers are commonly used to cover stained teeth. A tooth whitening system, when properly applied by a professional, can remove stains and restore the patient’s bright, white smile.

Dental bonding is another alternative to veneers. In bonding, a resin that is color-matched to the patient’s surrounding teeth is applied to the tooth, and then hardened with a bonding light. The bonding can then be trimmed or shaped to give the tooth the best appearance. Dental bonding is an excellent option for repairing chips in teeth, changing the shape of teeth, or repairing decayed spots on teeth. Tooth-colored fillings can also be used for repairing tooth decay.

Dental implants are another option for a smile makeover. Dental implants are posts that are surgically embedded into the gum line, where they fuse with the jawbone. The post is then covered with an artificial tooth that matches the surrounding teeth. Dental implants are an excellent way to permanently replace lost or decaying teeth. They do not harm surrounding teeth, and require little extra care after they heal.

If you are interested in enhancing your smile’s appearance in the Yorkville ON area, contact Nicholas Kemp Dentistry at 416-922-1012 to find out which option is best for you.

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Healthy Dental Habits to Follow

April 13th, 2012

Having good oral hygiene habits can help prevent tooth decay, tooth loss, and ensure that you keep a bright and healthy smile. Developing and maintaining good dental habits at home will even do more for your smile than routine visits to the dentist.

The first healthy dental habit you should follow is brushing your teeth two to three times per day, preferably after each meal. Use a soft-bristled brush (as opposed to medium or hard-bristled brushes, which can wear away tooth enamel and cause damage to the gums) and fluoride toothpaste. Avoid toothpastes that feel gritty, as they can be abrasive to the tooth enamel. When brushing, use tooth-wide circular motions and target the gum line. Don’t forget to brush your tongue, roof of your mouth, and the backs of your teeth. Change your toothbrush at least every four months.

The second foundational habit of healthy teeth is flossing daily to remove food particles and germs from between the teeth. Use about 18 inches of floss each time. When flossing, gently slide the string between your teeth and move it up and down to dislodge bacteria, then switch to the other side of the tooth. Floss between all the teeth that you can reach, and floss up into the gum line by following the curves of your teeth (but avoid snapping the floss up into the gums).

Along with flossing and brushing, rinsing your mouth with an antibacterial fluoride rinse can provide extra protection against tooth decay and bacterial build-up.

Your diet can play an important role in your dental health. It’s a good habit to avoid sticky sweets and soda, which can cause tooth decay. Avoiding staining foods such as coffee and red wine can keep your teeth bright and white.

Healthy dental habits also include visiting your dentist at least every six months for a routine cleaning and check-up. The dentist will be able to catch any underlying problems with your teeth, along with removing any tartar or plaque build-up that may have accumulated between visits.

To learn more healthy tips to follow and to schedule your next dental exam in Toronto, contact the office of Dr. Nicholas Kemp today.

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Custom Night Guards to Treat Bruxism

April 2nd, 2012

Bruxism is a term that describes grinding of the teeth and clenching of the jaw, usually during sleep. While almost every person grinds their teeth minimally during sleep, severe bruxism can lead to long-term problems, including breaking teeth, tooth loss, receding gum lines, or the development of bony ridges in the mouth. Your dentist can help prevent these problems by fitting you with a custom night guard.

A night guard is a customized dental appliance made to fit and cover the teeth of your upper or lower jaw.

A night guard is a customized dental appliance made to fit and cover the teeth of your upper or lower jaw. It provides a barrier between the upper and lower jaws, slowing the wearing effect of bruxism of the surface of the teeth. More importantly, a night guard can provide a corrected bite, alleviating the cause of the bruxism.

Most night guards are made of a molded plastic that is made from impressions of your teeth. The plastic will fit your teeth exactly, and is hard enough to endure the force of the teeth grinding. However, it is soft enough that the friction won’t harm the teeth.

Along with protecting the teeth and correcting the bite, a night guard alleviates pressure on the jaw joints. When a patient suffers from bruxism, the force of the grinding and clenching over the hours of sleep can cause extreme tension in the jaw, facial pain, and headaches. A customized mouth guard that prevents grinding will relieve this pressure on the joints and the surrounding tissues, which should help eliminate the headaches and facial pain.

Being fitted by the dentist for a custom night guard typically takes two appointments. The dentist will make a mold of your teeth and then will send it off to a lab to make the guard. Once the guard is made, you will have a fitting to make sure it is snug and comfortable. The durability of the night guard will depend on its thickness and on the severity of the patient’s grinding habit.

If you would like relief from the symptoms associated with bruxism in Toronto, contact Nicholas Kemp Dentistry at 416-922-1012 to schedule your consultation.

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Is Teeth Whitening Safe?

March 26th, 2012

Teeth whitening is one of the most common cosmetic dentistry procedures available. It is also one of the simplest and safest. Teeth whitening can provide dramatic results, giving you increased self confidence and a smile you can be proud of.

How Teeth Whitening Works

Teeth whitening is performed by a cosmetic dentist in the office, or can be administered at home with a special take-home kit. In most cases, a single, hour-long treatment in the office will lighten your teeth anywhere from five to ten shades.

The whitening agent used for in-office teeth whitening is stronger than that available over the counter. Because of its strength, it can cause irritation if it makes contact with your lips, tongue or gums. Before applying the whitening agent, your dentist coats any soft tissues with a protective gel to prevent contact with the whitener.

The whitener is applied directly to the teeth and left for about twenty minutes. Some whitening agents are activated with a special light for even more effective results. In one hourly session, the whitener is usually applied and removed two or three times. You will see results immediately, but they will become even more dramatic over the next few days.

Possible Side Effects of Teeth Whitening

Side effects of teeth whitening are infrequent and not severe. Irritation through contact with the whitening agent is more common with take home whitening, since your gums and lips are not as thoroughly protected as they are during in-office whitening. Your teeth might also be more sensitive after whitening. This effect is likely to diminish with time. If it is uncomfortable, ask your dentist to recommend a toothpaste made especially for sensitive teeth.

Overall, teeth whitening is very safe, with an extremely low risk of side effects. If you have questions about how teeth whitening works, what results to expect, or what issues you might experience with the treatment, please contact our office serving the Toronto area for an appointment or a consultation.

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Dental Bonding to Fill in the Gap

March 16th, 2012

Even an otherwise perfect smile can be marred by spaces between the teeth. Sometimes spaces should be treated with orthodontics to move the teeth into the proper place. In other cases, however, the spaces can be filled with cosmetic dentistry treatments. Our cosmetic dentist can help you determine the best type of treatment to correct the gaps between your teeth. This treatment could involve dental bonding.

What is Dental Bonding?

Dental bonding uses special composite materials as a restorative to fill areas where decay has been removed, reduce or eliminate gaps between the teeth, correct the shape of asymmetrical teeth, or replace bits of the tooth that are chipped or broken. It is also sometimes used to correct severely discolored tooth surfaces. Unlike dental crowns or veneers, bonding does not require off-site manufacture of a restoration.

The surface of the tooth is first treated so the composite resin will adhere to it. This preparation involves roughening the tooth surface slightly, and is not highly invasive. The composite is applied directly to the tooth in layers. Each layer is cured with a special light that hardens the material so it can stand up to normal chewing and biting pressures. After it has hardened, the cosmetic dentist shapes it to match the contours of your other teeth and to ensure your bite remains comfortable and normal. The resin is color matched to your teeth so, after the treatment is complete, you will have a natural, perfect smile.

When is Orthodontic Treatment Necessary?

Your cosmetic dentist might decide that fixing the gaps between your teeth will be better managed with orthodontic treatment. This might be a possibility if any of the following conditions exist:

You suffer from malocclusion, or a misaligned bite
The gaps between your teeth are very wide
You have other issues with your teeth, such as crowding

If orthodontic treatment is required, traditional braces or Invisalign might be recommended. The best way to determine the approach that will give you ideal results is to consult with our cosmetic dentist, Dr. Nicholas Kemp, serving the Toronto ON area. Call our office at 416-922-1012 to learn more.

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Bruxism and TMJ Disorder: What is the Difference?

March 5th, 2012

Bruxism, or tooth grinding and clenching, and TMJ disorder can be related, but they are not the same thing. If you grind your teeth, it could be because you have TMJ disorder, or it could be the cause of your TMJ disorder. In other cases, bruxism occurs separately from TMJ problems. Our dentist can determine the cause of your bruxism and whether or not the TMJ is misaligned.

What is TMJ Disorder?

TMJ disorder is a misalignment of the temporomandibular joint, also known as the TMJ. This joint is located where the lower jaw, or mandible, meets the temporal bones of the skull, in the vicinity of the ear. When this joint is misaligned, numerous symptoms can result, including:

Persistent and often severe headaches
Discomfort in the neck, jaw or upper back
Clicking in the jaw or ear
Discomfort in the ear

The misalignment of the joint can also cause you to inadvertently grind your teeth, especially at night. In other cases, a teeth grinding habit, caused by stress or malocclusion, can cause the TMJ to be gradually pushed out of position. Bruxism, then, can exist as a symptom or a root cause of TMJ, or can be completely unrelated to TMJ, or exist in the absence of a problem with the TMJ.

Treating Bruxism and TMJ Disorder

Once your dentist has diagnosed bruxism, TMJ disorder, or both, he can recommend treatment. Since teeth grinding usually occurs at night, the most common treatment is a mouth guard. This guard is custom molded to fit your teeth, and you wear it while you sleep to reduce the pressure on your teeth. It also helps prevent damage to your teeth when you clench or grind.

TMJ disorder can also be treated with similar orthotic devices. For more extensive treatment, your dentist might recommend alterations to your bite using orthodontics or restorations such as veneers or bonding to shift your bite into proper alignment. Changing your bite will also change the alignment of the TMJ, reducing the stress on this joint as well as the associated discomfort and other symptoms.

If you are experiencing signs or symptoms of bruxism or TMJ disorder in the Toronto area, contact Nicholas Kemp Dentistry at 416-922-1012 and schedule your consultation today.

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Sedation Dentistry: Will I Feel Groggy After Treatment?

February 27th, 2012

For those who feel nervous or anxious in the dentist’s chair, sedation dentistry can make it possible to overcome this anxiety and keep up with regular dental visits. Sedation dentistry is a safe, simple approach that allows you to spend your dental visit in a state of complete relaxation.

Sedation dentistry uses a mild sedative to give you a feeling of peace and calm while the dentist tends to your teeth.

How Sedation Dentistry Works

Sedation dentistry uses a mild sedative to give you a feeling of peace and calm while the dentist tends to your teeth. If you are concerned about feeling groggy after treatment, ask your dentist what sedation method he prefers.

If your dentist provides sedation in pill form, the sedative might take a few hours to work through your system. In this case, you should expect to feel a bit groggy after your appointment and should arrange to have someone else drive you to and from the office. If, however, your dentist uses nitrous oxide—a gas often used during dental work—it will pass through your system quickly, and you will be alert enough to drive almost immediately after you have finished your appointment. If you have any concerns at all about driving after sedation dentistry, it is best to make arrangements to get a ride home from the dentist’s office.

When is Sedation Dentistry Necessary?

Dentists commonly use anesthetics and various forms of sedation as they perform their work, especially if they must perform restorations, deep cleaning, extractions or other procedures that might cause the patient discomfort. Sedation dentistry, however, is aimed at patients who experience intense anxiety even during routine dental examinations.

Causes of this kind of dental anxiety include:

Past bad experiences with the dentist
An underlying anxiety issue
Long-term avoidance of the dentist, meaning that a large amount of work is necessary

Any of these issues, as well as others, could make you a good candidate for sedation dentistry. If you have any questions about sedation dentistry, how it works, or how to know if it is right for you, please call the office of Dr. Kemp in Toronto for an appointment.

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Dental Implants for Renewed Self Confidence and Peace of Mind

February 16th, 2012

Over the past few years, more and more options for those with missing teeth have been introduced to dentistry. Where before the only options were dentures or bridges, now dental implants are becoming more and more popular.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dentures and bridges replace only the visible portion of your missing tooth or teeth. Dental implants, on the other hand, replace the entire tooth, including the roots. Your implant dentist uses a metal piece made from titanium, which is implanted directly into the jawbone. Titanium has the special property of being able to bond with bone. As a result, the new titanium root will stimulate your jawbone in the same way a natural tooth root does.

The titanium root portion takes a few weeks to fully bond with the bone, and for the surgical incisions to heal. After the root portion is ready to support the forces of chewing and biting, the visible portions of the dental implants are added.

The biting and chewing surfaces of your new teeth are specially manufactured for your mouth only. They match the color and the shape of your original teeth, giving you a smile that looks perfectly natural and will last for many years.

Advantages of Dental Implants

Dental implants offer a variety of advantages over traditional dentures, bridges, and other restoration options. Among these are:

Dental implants are permanent
Implants remain stationary in the mouth, so you don’t have to worry about them shifting or accidentally falling out
Implants look and feel just like your natural teeth
Implants help stimulate your jawbone, preventing bone atrophy, which is common in long-term denture wearers

Dental implants will give you the assurance that your smile will remain attractive and your jaw will stay healthy even though you have lost teeth. You won’t have to remove your teeth for cleaning or worry that changing shapes in your jawbone will require you to have your teeth refitted on a regular basis. Dental implants are truly the most convenient, most natural-looking option for your missing teeth. Contact our downtown Toronto office at 416-922-1012 to schedule a consultation.

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