At Dentistry on the Bay, we believe that Preventative Dentistry is the most important aspect of dentistry. Preventing a dental issue from happening is much easier than treating something once it hurts or breaks.  It is also far less expensive, as costs for restorative dental care can quickly add up.

We always emphasise the importance of proper dental hygiene, which includes daily at-home prevention methods such as cleaning and flossing, as well as staying up-to-date with your professional dental cleaning schedule.  Standard dental check-ups, dental cleanings, fluoride treatments and dental sealants are among the best methods for maintaining a lifelong healthy smile.

Dental Check-ups & Dental Cleanings

We recommend visiting our office for dental check-ups and professional teeth cleanings at least twice every year.  This ensures that the gaps left by your daily oral hygiene routine are filled and your mouth stays in top shape.

Every dental check-up at Dentistry on the Bay begins with a dental hygienist thoroughly cleaning your teeth with special tools to remove built-up plaque and tartar. Then surface stains are removed, teeth are flossed and a fluoride rinse dispensed.

Once completed, your dentist will visit to perform a thorough oral exam to spot any dental issues before they turn into real problems. This includes a cavity, gum disease and oral cancer check. Regular dental check-ups are the best way to protect the health of your teeth, mouth and smile.

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants consist of a thin layer of composite resin that is applied to your teeth. This treatment provides added protection against the negative effects of the plaque and bacteria build up that can develop in patients prone to tooth decay, or those such as young children, who may not have the best daily oral hygiene routine.

Dental sealants are often used on the molars or premolars (your back teeth), as these teeth have deeper grooves and crevices that can be difficult to properly clean while brushing. Dental sealants are an effective way to help safeguard your teeth between dental check-ups and teeth cleanings.

Periodontal Therapy

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is the most common oral health issue in Canada.  When it comes to a healthy smile, your gums are as important as your teeth.  They protect the roots and support your teeth.

Plaque tends to build up the most along the gum line, and when this happens your gums may start to become irritated and infected.  You might notice redness, soreness or even swelling, which over time can lead to infections, receding gums and tooth loss.  Gum disease is among the leading causes for tooth loss.

Early periodontal disease can be remedied with diligent oral care at home, combined with professional dental cleanings.  However, if the gum disease is more advanced, a deep cleaning may be recommended to clear up the problem.

The technique of scaling is used to remove plaque from above and below your gum line, after which root planning works to smooth the roots of your teeth.  Root planning makes it more difficult for plaque to stick to the area allowing your gums to heal and firmly reattach to your teeth.

It is important to seek treatment as soon as possible to avoid further complications from periodontal disease.

Other methods of preventative dentistry

• Oral cancer screening
• Digital dental X-rays
• Fluoride treatments
• Mouthguards, Sportsguards & Nightguards
• Toothpastes & mouthwashes