Sylvan Smiles

Dentistry is the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions, disorders, and diseases of the tooth, gums, mouth, and jaw. Often considered necessary for complete oral health, dentistry can have an impact on the health of your entire body.

A dentist is a specialist who works to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health problems. Your dentist has completed at least eight years of schooling and received either a DDS (doctorate of dental surgery), or a DMD (doctorate of dental medicine).

Visiting the dentist regularly will not only help keep your teeth and mouth healthy but will also help keep the rest of your body healthy. Dental care helps prevent tooth decay, protects against periodontal disease, prevents bad breath, gives you a more attractive smile, and strengthens your teeth.

Your teeth may feel fine, but it's still important to see the dentist regularly because problems can exist without your knowing. Today's dentists offer many treatment choices that can help you smile with confidence.

During your first visit, consider if the appointment schedule is convenient, the office is easy to get to, the office appears clean, your medical history is recorded, the dentist explains oral health techniques, cost information is presented, and if the dentist is a member of the CDA.

Brush your teeth at least three times a day, floss at least once, use fluoride toothpaste, avoid sugary foods and tobacco, brush your tongue, and schedule routine checkups every six months.

The Canadian Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children first see a dentist as early as six months of age and no later than one year.

According to your dentist and the Canadian Dental Association, you should be brushing your teeth at least two times a day. Use a soft bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and spend at least a minute on the top teeth and a minute on the bottom teeth.

Your dentist recommends that adults and children should change their toothbrush every three months. Patients with gum disease are encouraged to change their toothbrush every four to six weeks.

Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease is mostly caused by plaque and bacteria buildup that is not treated in its early stage. Gingivitis is the beginning stage and is treatable. Advanced gum disease leads to tooth and bone loss and is permanent.

Yes! It's even more important that patients receiving orthodontic treatment visit their dentist regularly. With braces, food may be caught in places that your toothbrush can't reach, leading to bacteria buildup and cavities.

Simply call our practice! Our front desk staff will be happy to schedule your next dental checkup at your convenience.

A cavity is a small hole that forms inside the tooth and is caused by tooth decay. Cavities are formed when plaque build-up combines with sugars and starches in food, producing acid that eats away enamel.

A filling is a synthetic material that your dentist uses to fill a cavity after all the tooth decay has been removed. Fillings are made from composites, gold, or ceramic.

Children, teens, and adults should all see the dentist for a regular checkup at least once every six months. Patients at greater risk may need to visit more often.