Dental FAQs
Although people can experience pain with their teeth and gums for a number of reasons, the term Emergency in Dentistry is reserved for trauma cases, where bleeding and/or pain in the mouth is uncontrolled. Click here to learn more or call us at (519) 821-7439
Urgent dental care is treatment provided to repair damage to the teeth and gums and to avoid future damage, pain, infection and suffering. Click here to learn more.
We’ve always practiced with the highest standards of infection control, exceeding the requirements of Public Health Ontario. Due to the particular issues associated with COVID-19, we’ve adapted the ways in which we provide our care. Click here to learn more.
None. Both are terms that refer to the same thing. A “crown” is the clinical term for a protective covering that is applied to a compromised tooth to protect it. A “cap” is just another term used to describe it. As a crown protects a tooth much the same way a helmet helps to protect our head, the words “cap” and “crown” can both be considered accurate.
No. They are very different. A Post is a tiny metal building rod that is placed within a broken tooth to help build back the tooth and retain filling material when there is limited healthy tooth.
In contrast, an Implant is a biocompatible material, in the form of a post, that is surgically implanted into the gum and bone where the natural tooth was lost. Once healed, a ceramic crown, that looks like a natural tooth, can be attached to this implant.
Not at all. The natural root, and it’s healthy connection to the bone, remains in-tact. Root Canal Therapy is a procedure where irreversibly infected, necrotic and/or irreversibly inflamed nerve tissue is cleansed out of the root in an attempt to help the body heal from the damage the infected nerve tissue was causing, and more importantly to eliminate toothaches and pain for the Patient.
This term can be misleading. A “cavity” just refers to a hole or breakdown in a tooth’s outer shell (Enamel). In most circumstances, this usually isn’t noticeable at first, however once established, this hole will continue to enlarge slowly or quickly over time, depending on the unique environment in that person’s mouth. The bacteria located in almost all cavities feeds, grows, decays and threatens our tooth’s structure, as well as inner tooth nerve tissue over time.
Yes. Unfortunately, this happens frequently which is why staying on top of re-care appointments (dental check-ups and cleanings) is very important. Too often we have areas of breakdown in our teeth (as well as other problems in our mouths) that don’t become noticeable until it becomes very damaging. In the beginning our bodies can adapt, as the progression is slow. This is why a person may feel aches and pains one day and not another. However, when the larger breakdown occurs, portions of the tooth break/split, increasing heightened and prolonged sensitivity in the tooth.
It’s never a bad thing to seek a second opinion if you’re unsure about what’s being recommended. If your Dentist has your best interests in mind, they should welcome a second opinion. You must be comfortable that what is being recommended is safe and helpful, and you should trust the Dentist that is providing the treatment.
No. If you wish to see a new Dentist, you can simply sign a request form with the new Dentist’s Office you wish to attend. They will facilitate the transfer of any/all pertinent records that will help you continue your care seamlessly. Contact us today is you have any questions.