FAQ

Why is it important to have regular teeth cleaning?
Did you know "teeth cleaning" does more than just clean your teeth? Removing plaque is absolutely essential if you want to preserve your teeth. It builds up on the tooth surfaces and between the teeth. Brushing and flossing are, of course, vital, but everyone needs their teeth professionally cleaned on a regular basis. Remember – only a dental hygienist can completely clean your teeth.

Does the doctor check for oral cancer?
Yes, we do. Dentists and hygienists are your first line of defense in detecting and treating oral cancer. Each year in Canada, approximately 4,300 people are newly diagnosed with oral cancer. Worldwide, the problem is far greater, with new cases annually approaching 300,000. In Canada alone, a person dies from oral cancer every 8 hours. Men are twice as likely to develop oral cancer than women. However, the good news is, when found early, oral cancers have an 80 to 90% cure rate.

Is fluoride bad for you?
Fluoride is fine... in small amounts. Excessive fluoride can cause tooth enamel irregularities. Young children, especially, often swallow too much toothpaste while brushing. So parents, supervise your young kids while they brush. Kids (and even adults) often use way too much toothpaste (a pea-size drop is plenty). A little goes a long way.

My 12-year-old likes to chew ice. Is this harmful?
Tooth enamel is very hard, but that doesn't mean you can't break it. Try to avoid eating "hard foods" such as ice and popcorn. Don't crack nut shells with your teeth or chew on pits or bones. Opening packages with your teeth can also damage the enamel. Reach for the scissors and avoid the injury.

Why are soft drinks bad for your teeth?
Sugar and acids are your teeth's worst enemies. What are we talking about? Soft drinks, energy drinks, fruit juices, and candy. Because of the acid content, sugary soft drinks seem to be the worst. These soften the tooth enamel, making it highly susceptible to decay. Parents, watch your kid's consumption of these acidic and sugary foods and confections, because young children's enamel hasn't developed fully. This makes these products even more damaging for kids. Try a sugar-free, xylitol chewing gum after meals. Also, rinse your mouth with a high-quality dental mouthwash.

I think I grind my teeth at night. What can I do about this?
Do you wake up with your teeth together, pain in your jaws or a persistent headache? If so, you may be clenching or grinding (called bruxism) while you sleep. Persistent bruxing can damage teeth and cause them to get shorter and sensitive. It can also damage your temporomandibular (jaw) joints and even affect your hearing. If you suspect that you are a bruxer, call us today. Dr. Charlat may recommend a night guard or other oral appliance.

What is a TMJ disorder?
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, your jaw joints. The pain, discomfort, or tenderness in or around the jaw joints is called a TMJ disorder.

Signs that you might have a TMJ disorder are:

• Facial pain or tenderness
• Jaw pain
• Pain in or around the ears
• Neck pain
• Jaw stiffness
• Discomfort while chewing
• Headaches
• Difficulty opening and closing the mouth
• Jaw "locking up"
• Jaw makes a clicking sound
• Teeth that don't come together properly when eating or chewing

There are a variety of treatment options for TMJ. Be sure to ask us about these.

This is just a sampling of often-asked questions. Have one of your own? Don't hesitate to give us a call at (416) 415-2429 so we can assist you.