Causes for Sensitive Teeth

Does your jaw cringe while standing out in the cold? Do you wince while sipping hot beverages? If your teeth and gums feel sensitive, you might be brushing too hard or you may not be brushing enough. There are several factors that cause teeth to become sensitive, include oral care habits, and your nutritional diet. If you suffer from tooth sensitivity, schedule a dental appointment with our doctors at Bear Creek Dental to treat the problem.

During your appointment, our doctor will touch base on how often you brush and floss, what kind of foods you like to indulge in, and if you are a smoker or non-smoker. Each of these factors plays a role in tooth sensitivity, but treatment will depend on the cause. If your oral care routine needs some improvements, we can give you the proper tools to get your dental health back on track. Proper oral hygiene is the key to preventing sensitive tooth pain.

If you have questions or concerns regarding tooth sensitivity, please give us a call. To learn more about dental cleanings and all the services we provide, visit BearCreekDental.CA for more information. To schedule an appointment at Bear Creek Dental, located at Unit 201 10015 102 Ave, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8v 0z8, Canada, call 780-539-0404.

Common Types of Dental Fillings

At Bear Creek Dental we offer different types of materials to fill cavities. A filling is a way to restore a tooth that has been damaged by decay back to its normal shape and function. By closing off spaces where bacteria can enter, a filling also helps prevent further decay. When it comes to having a cavity filled, one of our doctors will discuss what type of filling is best for you, during a consultation. Meanwhile, here are some common types that we utilize.

• Composite resins – designed to look more like natural teeth, these tooth-colored fillings are a mixture of glass or quartz filler that provide good durability and resistance.


• Amalgam fillings – Sometimes described as silver fillings, these are made of metals that include mercury, silver, or tin and copper.


• Gold fillings – also called inlays or onlays are composed of an alloy of gold, copper, and other metals.

If you have questions or concerns regarding dental fillings or cosmetic dentistry, please give us a call. To learn more about dental cleanings and all the services we provide, visit BearCreekDental.CA for more information.  To schedule an appointment at Bear Creek Dental, located at Unit 201 10015 102 Ave, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8v 0z8, Canada, call 780-539-0404.

Prevent Tartar Accumulation

Plaque is a sticky, colorless film that contains bacteria and builds up on tooth surfaces after we eat a meal. The bacteria in plaque produce acids that attack tooth enamel and can damage gums and create cavities. If plaque is not adequately brushed and flossed away, it will turn into tartar, a hard, crusty deposit that only our doctors at Bear Creek Dental are able to remove.

Tartar can be yellow or even brown in color depending on how much buildup is on the teeth. While plaque can be removed by brushing and flossing, tartar, also known as dental calculus can only be removed with a scaling tool. Though these are sold at your local drug store, your best bet is to visit the dentist twice a year for routine cleanings so that tartar doesn’t turn into periodontal disease.

If you have questions or concerns regarding dental health, please give us a call. To learn more about dental cleanings and all the services we provide, visit BearCreekDental.CA for more information.  To schedule an appointment at Bear Creek Dental, located at Unit 201 10015 102 Ave, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8v 0z8, Canada, call 780-539-0404.

Avoid Cavities This Halloween

Halloween is a popular holiday that most children and adults look forward to. There are candy and sugar treats galore, and it’s the one day out of the year we can make an excuse to eat as much as we want. Though the sugar cravings are strong, it’s important to have some self-control for the sake of your smile. Too much candy may cause the tooth decay process to begin and leave your teeth with cavities that only our doctors at Bear Creek Dental can repair.

Sticky candies are detrimental to teeth because they will get stuck to enamel and in-between the teeth and gums. Additionally, consistently exposing your teeth to sugar will put your teeth at risk for a dental emergency, such as a broken or chipped tooth. After indulging, be sure to brush your teeth for at least two minutes with ADA approved toothpaste for at least two minutes. Once you are finished, floss your teeth and use a mouth rinse to prevent them from further damage.

If you have questions or concerns regarding dental health or tooth decay, please give us a call. To learn more about dental cleanings and all the services we provide, visit BearCreekDental.CA for more information.  To schedule an appointment at Bear Creek Dental, located at Unit 201 10015 102 Ave, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8v 0z8, Canada, call 780-539-0404.

Mouth Guards for Sports

If you and your family are getting active in sports this season, Bear Creek Dental can provide you with an important piece of safety equipment.  Athletes participating in any contact sport should wear some kind of mouth protection. A mouth guard helps prevent damage to the teeth and jaw, and also helps prevent injuries to the cheeks, tongue, and lips.

Sporting goods stores carry mouth guards, but they are generic in form and size.  These mouth guards often end up feeling bulky and uncomfortable, leading to child and teenage athletes in particular not wearing the protection at all.  A very ill-fitting mouth guard can even interrupt breathing and speaking. Custom mouth guards can be fit over braces and won’t interrupt normal activity, so visit Bear Creek Dental for a custom mouth guard fitting.  Get a mouth guard made of thin, hard plastic that protects your teeth and still fits comfortably.  This is an easy precaution to take to protect your mouth, and you can go right back to playing your best!

To learn more about custom mouth guards and all the services we provide at the practice, visit www.bearcreekdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors in Grand Prairie AB, call 1-780-539-0404.

Pediatric Dentistry

At Bear Creek Dental, we want the families from our community to know it’s just as important for children to have regular dental visits.  A child’s first dental visit should be scheduled between when the first baby tooth appears, and the child’s first birthday.  Baby teeth eventually come out, but their growth and development is important for overall oral health for the child and the development of their adult teeth. Baby teeth should be brushed and cared for like adult teeth, and it’s important to monitor their growth and development. 

Missing any tooth for too long can change the development of surrounding teeth and compromise the structure of the jaw bone, but regular checkups can keep a child’s tooth development right on track.  Our dentists are skilled and experienced in administering dental care to children.  If your child has seems nervous about seeing a dentist for the first time, we recommend going through a brushing routine with them at home, and talking about the dental visit before you arrive.  Once we get your child’s oral health off to a great start, we offer a full range of services for child patients including dental cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sealants.

We love to see good oral hygiene habits formed early, and make lifetime patients out of kids from our community!  To learn more about the services provided at the practice, visit www.bearcreekdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors in Grand Prairie AB, call 1-780-539-0404.

Infant Tooth Care

Baby teeth may be small, but they set the foundation for future teeth to come. To help prevent the buildup of plaque bacteria that can lead to decay, our doctors at Bear Creek Dental recommend regularly cleaning your infant’s gums with a damp washcloth following feedings. It’s important to start cleaning your child’s teeth before they come in to jumpstart a healthy smile.

Wipe the gums off after each feeding with a warm, wet washcloth or a dampened piece of gauze wrapped around your finger. In addition, take measures to prevent baby bottle tooth decay, a disease that causes severe, the swift decay of baby teeth. To help prevent it, do not put your baby to bed with a bottle of formula or a sugary drink, such as juice. The possibility of tooth decay is directly related to the number of times that sugar comes in contact with the teeth. Your child’s baby teeth act as placeholders for adult teeth. Without a healthy set of baby teeth, your child risks having trouble chewing and speaking clearly as they get older.

If you have questions or concerns regarding pediatric oral care, please give us a call. To learn more about dental cleanings and all the services we provide, visit BearCreekDental.CA for more information.  To schedule an appointment at Bear Creek Dental, located at Unit 201 10015 102 Ave, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8v 0z8, Canada, call 780-539-0404.

Eat Celery for Fresh Breath

Bad breath is a common condition that affects everyone periodically. To eliminate the odor we might catch ourselves chewing a piece of minty gum on the go, or taking a quick swig of mouthwash before we leave the house for a night out.  Here at Bear Creek Dental, our doctors understand that bad breath can be very embarrassing, but did you know that you can fight it by eating a piece of celery?

Celery fights bad breath because it is rich in fiber which fights Halitosis by breaking down plaque and sulfur compounds.  Therefore, celery is a great thing to eat to help clean your mouth. It is also effective to munch on a carrot or an apple. Snacks that include crispy fresh fruits and vegetables step up your saliva flow between meals to help wash away bacteria from the teeth, tongue, and gums that can cause bad breath. These snacks can also help alleviate bad breath caused by hunger or fasting.

If you have questions or concerns regarding bad breath, please give us a call. To learn more about dental cleanings and all the services we provide, visit BearCreekDental.CA for more information.  To schedule an appointment at Bear Creek Dental, located at Unit 201 10015 102 Ave, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8v 0z8, Canada, call 780-539-0404.

Osteonecrosis of the Jaw

Tooth extractions at Bear Creek Dental in Grande Prairie are generally a simple matter with minimal discomfort for the patient. However, in order to ensure the best outcome, it is important for patients to be fully open with us about their medical histories and current medications. Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) is a rare but serious outcome that people undergoing extractions should be aware of.

Following a simple extraction, a small bit of jawbone will be exposed at the base of the socket. Normally, the blood will quickly clot, sealing off the socket and locking in moisture. But in people on bisphosphonate medications, exposed jaw bone tissue may die (this process is what ONJ refers to). Bisphosphonate medications prevent bone resorption and are given orally to people with osteoporosis and through an IV drip to people on chemotherapy. The vast majority of cases of ONJ in medical literature occurred in people receiving bisphosphonates intravenously.

If a patient is battling cancer, we’ll work with them to plan any necessary dental work. Patients may need to delay beginning chemotherapy until after undergoing dental extractions, or we may be able to find a solution for their dental problem that doesn’t require tooth removal.

Bear Creek Dental is located at Unit 201 10015 102 Ave, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8v 0z8, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 780-539-0404 or visit Bear Creek Dental.

 

Permanent and Removable Bridges

Dental bridges are a highly adaptable means of replacing teeth. At Bear Creek Dental in Grande Prairie, our doctors are experts in dental restorations and are happy to discuss patients’ options with them. But in order to make patients more comfortable during the discussion, we wanted to provide some information about bridges on our blog.

The classically designed dental bridge is a series of crowns linked together. Two of the patient’s teeth would be reshaped into abutments so the ends of the bridge could be cemented over them, and the middle crown would be suspended between them. This design had the advantage of leaving the patients’ natural tooth roots intact and of being relatively easy to clean, since a patient could thread floss under the bridge. But it was developed at a time when dentists assumed all natural teeth would need to be replaced eventually and dentists were willing to extract or reshape healthy natural teeth to make room for a bridge.

Modern dentists try as hard as possible to preserve natural teeth. If a healthy tooth is in the way of a bridge, a dentist can fabricate a removable denture with a hole for the natural tooth. The removable denture is even easier to keep clean, but it has to be reshaped if the natural teeth shift position.

Bear Creek Dental is located at Unit 201 10015 102 Ave, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8v 0z8, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 780-539-0404 or visit Bear Creek Dental.

 

Nutrition for a Healthy Mouth

Our body is a machine that needs the correct fuel to run efficiently. When we consume foods and beverages that contain added sugars and harmful acids, we aren’t doing our oral health a favor. If you want your smile to be in optimal health, it’s important to feed it what it needs instead of what it craves. Our doctors at Bear Creek Dental encourage you to incorporate more whole foods into your diet.

The best thing you can do to prevent tooth decay is when snacking, select foods from the five food groups. The best food choices for the health of your mouth include cheeses, chicken or other meats, nuts, and milk. These foods are thought to protect tooth enamel by providing the calcium and phosphorus needed to remineralize teeth. Other food choices include firm/crunchy fruits and vegetables. These foods have a high water content, which dilutes the effects of the sugars they contain, and stimulates saliva flow to wash away food particles and acid.

If you have questions about dental health, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.bearcreekdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors in Grand Prairie AB, call 1-780-539-0404.

Periodontal Health

If your gums are in bad shape, how are they supposed to hold your teeth in place? Healthy gums are firm and pale pink in color. If yours are red, purple, swollen, or inflamed, it’s time to visit one of our doctors at Bear Creek Dental. If you don’t brush and floss on a regular basis, you’ll begin the process of tooth decay which can lead to potential tooth loss if not careful.

When you have healthy gums, your teeth are well supported by the tissue in your gums and your chances for long-term oral health are significantly increased. Because periodontal disease is linked to an increased susceptibility to systemic disease (bacterial pneumonia, diabetes, cardiovascular disease), it is important to prevent it as well as control it. Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly is important and helps remove the thin film of bacteria that builds up on your teeth each day and contributes to tooth decay.

If you have questions about preventive dentistry or oral care, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.bearcreekdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors in Grand Prairie AB, call 1-780-539-0404.

Rheumatoid Arthritis and Gum Disease

Patients should feel confident that their dentist is sensitive to their unique circumstances. We run a non-judgmental practice at Bear Creek Dental in Grande Prairie. When patients present with bleeding gums, we think it’s important for them to know of a possible factor: rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

While about 35% of the population has gum disease, nearly 70% of people with RA do. That statistic comes from a Johns Hopkins study that examined the relationship between RA and gingivitis. While it is true that people with difficulty moving their hands have a harder time maintaining their oral hygiene, gingivitis also was more common in people with RA who are still able to brush normally. Another study examined similarities between gum tissue and synovium, the joint tissue that RA causes the immune system to attack. It found that synovium shares genetic markers and the structure of key proteins with gum tissue.

Scientists are still unsure whether RA and gum disease fuel each other or result from the same thing. But they do know that people can reduce their chance of developing RA and gingivitis by not smoking. We also know that oral hygiene is still important regardless and can help patients with limited dexterity to pick dental hygiene products they can use.

Bear Creek Dental is located at Unit 201 10015 102 Ave, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8v 0z8, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 780-539-0404 or visit Bear Creek Dental.

 

Reasons for Tooth Extractions

We regularly save teeth at Bear Creek Dental in Grande Prairie. But there are times when circumstances require extractions. In order to help our patients understand when having a tooth removed is in their best interest, we put together this brief guide.

In teenagers, teeth are usually removed as a part of orthodontic treatment. Modern peoples’ jaws often do not grow large enough to accommodate all their teeth, resulting in them becoming jumbled or unable to erupt fully. Jumbled teeth are harder to clean and can contribute to jaw muscle strain. To allow teens’ teeth to form an arch, we sometimes remove a set of premolars and the back molars, also known as wisdom teeth.

Despite the use of root canals and anti-bacterial rinses, there are also times when teeth are too badly injured or infected to be safely left in a patient’s mouth. If a crown cracks, a new one may be made and placed over the tooth’s natural root. But if the root is also severely cracked, the tooth may be unsalvageable. If a baby tooth needs to be removed, a dentist may provide the patient with an oral appliance to keep the gap clear until the adult tooth grows in.

Bear Creek Dental is located at Unit 201 10015 102 Ave, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8v 0z8, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 780-539-0404 or visit Bear Creek Dental.

 

Central Sleep Apnea

Central sleep apnea may occur as a result of an underlying condition which is why it’s critical to seek treatment immediately. Common signs of central sleep apnea include abrupt awakenings during sleep accompanied by a shortness of breath, excessive daytime sleepiness, and/or difficulty concentrating. Snoring may not be as prominent with central sleep apnea like it is in obstructive sleep apnea, but if you experience any of the following, you should schedule a consultation with one of our doctors at Bear Creek Dental immediately. 

Snoring indicates some degree of airflow obstruction and is usually associated with obstructive sleep apnea but it can occur in central sleep apnea as well. Central sleep apnea may also occur as a result of other conditions, such as heart failure or stroke. Treatment for central sleep apnea may involve treating existing conditions, using a device to assist breathing.

If you have questions or concerns regarding sleep apnea management and treatment, please give us a call. To learn more about services we provide here at the practice, visit www.bearcreekdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors in Grand Prairie AB, call 1-780-539-0404.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

You may joke with your partner about how loud you (or they) snore, but loud snoring is no laughing matter. This is because habitual snorers are at a serious risk for health problems such as diabetes, stroke, and heart complications, in addition to obstructive sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when something partly, or completely, blocks your upper-airway during sleep. Our doctors at Bear Creek Dental can treat this problem.

Obstructive sleep apnea is more common in people who are overweight, but it can affect anyone. When obstructive sleep apnea occurs, our doctors at Vista Dental may suggest a Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) procedure as a last resort. UPPP is a procedure used to remove excess tissue in the throat to widen the airway. This sometimes can allow air to move through the throat more easily when you breathe, reducing snoring.

If you have questions or concerns regarding sleep apnea management and treatment, please give us a call. To learn more about services we provide here at the practice, visit www.bearcreekdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors in Grand Prairie AB, call 1-780-539-0404.

What Is TMD?

The temporomandibular joint is a hinge that connects your jaw bone (mandible) to the temporal bones in your skull, in front of each ear.  A general term for any problem or issue with this joint is temporomandibular disorder, or TMD. Bear Creek Dental can help patients prevent and recover from negative effects of TMD.

Patients that grind or clench their teeth often end up with a sore jaw.  Other patients experience injuries with facial trauma that cause jaw pain, or result in the patient feeling their jaw gets stuck or ‘locks’ in either an open or closed position.  A custom night guard keeps the jaw in a neutral position during sleep, and this helps many patients find relief from TMD symptoms.  For any pain, your dentist may recommend an over-the-counter painkiller or warm and cold compresses.  To prevent further discomfort, you may be assigned stretches for your jaw. 

Whatever your symptoms, you don’t have to suffer with discomfort in your jaw.  To learn more about TMD and the services we provide at the practice, visit BearCreekDental.CA for more information.  To schedule an appointment at Bear Creek Dental, located at Unit 201 10015 102 Ave, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8v 0z8, Canada, call 780-539-0404.

What Is Gum Grafting?

Gum grafting is primarily used to treat receding gums where tooth has been exposed. When plaque and bacteria build up at the gum line, the gums start to pull away from the teeth and stretch, forming little pockets around the buildup. Even when these little pockets are cleaned out, they remain at the gum line and cause the gums to recede.  The doctors at Bear Creek Dental can help you correct this by repairing deficient gums with a gum graft. 

A gum graft procedure consists of harvesting healthy tissue from the roof of the patient’s mouth and transferring it to the site that needs reinforcement. This gives the deficient gum a replacement, and encourages growth of new material around the graft.  Gum grafting can be performed when receding gums become unsightly, or to cover teeth that have been exposed by receding gums and become much more sensitive.  If you think you could benefit from a gum graft, please contact us.

To learn more about gum grafting and all the services we provide, visit BearCreekDental.CA for more information.  To schedule an appointment at Bear Creek Dental, located at Unit 201 10015 102 Ave, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8v 0z8, Canada, call 780-539-0404.

Different Types of Toothpaste

The type of toothpaste you should purchase should depend on your teeth. Toothpaste is a key part of your oral care routine. Along with your toothbrush and floss, toothpaste helps remove food debris and plaque from the teeth and gums. Different kinds of toothpaste have different properties and our doctors at Bear Creek Dental will help you choose the one that’s best for you.

• Anti-cavity: This type of toothpaste contains fluoride. Fluoride plays an active role in preventing decay, and it actively strengthens tooth enamel.


• Anti-gingivitis: If you spit blood in the sink, this is an early sign of gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease. Anti-gingivitis toothpaste help reduces oral bacteria and can be very effective at stopping gingivitis in its tracks.


• Desensitizing: If you’ve ever bit into an ice cream cone and felt a sharp pain in your tooth’s nerve, this type of toothpaste will provide relief by blocking the tooth’s pain signal to the nerve.


• Tartar-control: This toothpaste does exactly what it says, however, the best way to remove tartar is by scheduling a professional dental cleaning with one of our doctors.


• Whitening: This toothpaste contains chemicals that are able to help maintain the natural color of your teeth.

If you have questions about preventive dentistry or oral care, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.bearcreekdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors in Grand Prairie AB, call 1-780-539-0404.

Mouthwash and Your Oral Health

You may be surprised to learn that just like dental floss; mouthwash has the ability to clean between the teeth. It reaches the crevices the toothbrush can’t to prevent tooth decay, reduce plaque, and freshen breath. Mouthwash has a few beneficial properties and our doctors at Bear Creek Dental would like to explain some of them.

• Antimicrobial agents act directly on oral bacteria to help reduce plaque, decrease the severity of gingivitis and control bad breath.


• Fluoride helps reduce tiny lesions (tooth decay) on tooth enamel and make teeth more resistant to decay.


• Astringent salts can serve as temporary deodorizers that mask bad breath.


• Odor neutralizers act by chemically inactivating odor-causing compounds.

If you have questions about preventive dentistry or oral care, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.bearcreekdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors in Grand Prairie AB, call 1-780-539-0404.

Sjögren’s Syndrome

When people suffer from autoimmune disorders, the dentists of Bear Creek Dental in Grande Prairie are on their side. The mouth is one of the many body parts ravaged by Sjögren’s Syndrome, and we want patients to understand what it does to them and what they can do about it.

Sjögren’s Syndrome causes dryness in the eyes and mouth. It commonly appears in people who also suffer from lupus, most of whom are women over the age of forty. As it continues, it may also cause joint pain and patients may grapple with depression as a result of chronic pain. It is unknown what causes Sjögren’s Syndrome, but lupus often appears in people after an infection or other trauma.

Because Sjögren’s Syndrome causes dry mouth (also called xerostomia), people who have it struggle to clear their mouths of food debris. As a result, they are at risk for periodontal disease. While investigating for Sjögren’s, a doctor will take a sample of some salivary glands from the patient’s lower lip. If it is confirmed, patients will need to be treated for dry mouth through means such as throat moisteners and medication.

Bear Creek Dental is located at Unit 201 10015 102 Ave, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8v 0z8, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 780-539-0404 or visit Bear Creek Dental.

 

Sleep Apnea and Car Crashes

You probably knew that it was a bad idea to drive while tired. But did you know that you may have a problem your dentist can help with? Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OAS) is a common problem that is associated with everything from night time teeth grinding to heart disease, and a new study establishes a connection between OAS and car crashes.

OAS occurs when peoples’ throat tissues sag into their airways in their sleep. It can cause people to wake up, but it can also cause them to snore or get pulled out of deep sleep, leaving them feeling tired without knowing why. This is dangerous because the study found that once people are sleep deprived, they have difficulty determining their level of impairment. This is despite the fact that people with moderate sleep apnea are 13% likelier to crash their cars and people with severe sleep apnea are 123% likelier to do so.

We at Bear Creek Dental in Grande Prairie make custom-fitted night guards to help keep patients’ airways open during sleep. This protects their teeth from grinding, but it also helps them get better rest generally.

Bear Creek Dental is located at Unit 201 10015 102 Ave, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8v 0z8, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 780-539-0404 or visit Bear Creek Dental.

 

Dental Trauma

Accidents happen, but when a dental injury occurs, this can lead to physical and emotional trauma for the patient. Dental trauma is common and damage to the mouth can occur during sports injuries and even from a motor vehicle accident. Whatever the cause, our doctors at Bear Creek Dental are here to develop a plan to restore tooth function, improve overall appearance, and restore confidence that has been lost.

Examples of dental trauma include but are not limited to facial lacerations, knocked out teeth, broken teeth, or fractures to your jaw. A dental injury can affect the way you speak, chew, and smile. Dental injuries may cause psychological damage, as well as physical damage and, could leave a person feeling helpless. Our doctors at Bear Creek Dental assure you that you don’t have to feel this way. Depending on the severity of the damage, the patient may require oral and maxillofacial surgery to correct the problem.

If you have questions or concerns regarding dental injury, please give us a call. To learn more about dental health as well as services we provide here at the practice, visit www.bearcreekdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors in Grand Prairie AB, call 1-780-539-0404.

Athletes and Mouth Guards

Mouthguards are an essential piece of equipment in contact sports such as football, hockey, wrestling, baseball, and basketball. Imagine having a tooth knocked out in the middle of a game. Not only will it dampen your performance, but the healing time might put you on the bench for a few weeks. At Bear Creek Dental, we supply athletes of all ages with custom fitted mouth guards to ensure that you maintain your highest level of performance on the field, court, or rink.

Wearing a mouth guard helps protect teeth during sports and helps cushion a blow to the face, minimizing the risk of broken teeth and injuries to your lips, tongue, face or jaw. At Noah Dental Group, our custom fitted mouth protectors are individually designed to fit your mouth and your mouth only. First, our doctor will make an impression of your teeth and a mouth guard is then molded over the model using a special material. The thinness of the custom mouth guard allows for easy breathing and also allows for easy communication so that you can shout out your signals clearly.

If you have questions or concerns regarding mouth guards, please give us a call. To learn more about services we provide here at the practice, visit www.bearcreekdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors in Grand Prairie AB, call 1-780-539-0404.

Sleep Apnea and TMJ Connection

Did you know that headaches and snoring could be related? Did you know your dentist could help with both problems? The doctors of Bear Creek Dental in Grande Prairie have experience treating a variety of oral health problems. One of their skills is fabricating custom-fitted night guards to protect patients from sleep apnea and bruxism.

Obstructive sleep apnea is what happens when a person’s airways become clogged when they lie down. This is what causes snoring. In an attempt to keep the airways open, the body moves the jaw around, which puts pressure on the teeth and jaw joint. The joint which connects the lower jaw to the skull is technically called the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), and it’s one of the most complex in the body. When it is under strain, people can suffer symptoms ranging from headaches and ringing in their ears to shoulder pain and difficulty opening their mouths. They are also likely to suffer pain in their teeth, which are being worn down and, in the worst cases, might crack.

A custom fitted night guard helps solves all these problems by keeping the teeth of the upper and lower jaw from coming into contact with each other at night. The airways are less likely to be obstructed, removing the need to move the jaw, and the teeth aren’t being directly worn down.

Bear Creek Dental is located at Unit 201 10015 102 Ave, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8v 0z8, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 780-539-0404 or visit Bear Creek Dental.

 

White Spot Lesions

If you notice white discoloration on your teeth, that’s a bad sign. White spot lesions, also known as incipient lesions, are the beginning of tooth decay. At Bear Creek Dental in Grande Prairie, we want our patients to understand how white spots are formed so they’ll know how seriously to take them.

As bacteria eats food debris, it produces acid. The acid becomes stuck to the patient’s teeth and begins to wear away at the enamel. As its minerals are eroded, enamel takes on a glazed white appearance. This can also be seen on the back teeth of people with acid reflux, where stomach acid has worn away the teeth. As decay progresses, cavities will form in the teeth and the acid will get closer to the nerves, resulting in pain.

Fluoride treatments can help fortify teeth against acid, but regular brushing is required to deprive bacteria of a food source. They are most likely to accumulate near the gum line, in between teeth, and around orthodontic brackets. People should be especially vigilant about these areas because a white spot can form in as few as thirty days. If one does form and the decay is arrested, it may be possible for the tooth to undergo mineralization therapy or for the scar to be concealed with a veneer.

Bear Creek Dental is located at Unit 201 10015 102 Ave, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8v 0z8, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 780-539-0404 or visit Bear Creek Dental.

 

Digital X-rays

At Bear Creek Dental, we utilize the latest equipment in dental technology such as digital X-rays. Digital X-rays emit low amounts of radiation which protects patients from harmful exposure because they use 90 percent less radiation than film X-rays. X-rays are an important part of a patient’s dental visit, so it’s important that we provide our patients with the best.  

Here at Bear Creek Dental, we will review your history, examine your mouth and then decide whether or not you need X-rays. Dental X-rays are a useful diagnostic tool when helping our doctors detect damage and disease not visible during a routine dental exam. How often X-rays should be taken depends on your present oral health, your age, your risk for disease, and any signs and symptoms of oral disease. For example, children may require X-rays more often than adults because their teeth and jaws are still developing and their teeth are more likely to be affected by tooth decay than those of adults.

If you have questions or concerns regarding digital X-rays or dental technology, please give us a call. To learn more about dental health as well as services we provide here at the practice, visit www.bearcreekdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors in Grand Prairie AB, call 1-780-539-0404.

Diabetes and Dental Health

People who have poorly controlled diabetes are at a greater risk for developing dental problems. A patient with diabetes is more likely to have infections of the gums and bones that hold teeth together than those who don’t have the condition. Diabetes can cause a person to have a lack of saliva flow in the mouth, cavities, and periodontal disease. If you have diabetes and are due for a dental appointment, contact one of our doctors at Bear Creek Dental.

If you have diabetes, symptoms of dental problems include bleeding and sore gums, frequent infections, and bad breath. Whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, managing your blood sugar level is critical. The higher your blood sugar level, the higher your risk of tooth decay, gingivitis, and periodontitis. In addition, high blood sugar may cause dry mouth and make gum disease worse. The decrease in saliva can cause an increase in tooth-decaying bacteria and plaque buildup. You can prevent these problems by maintaining good blood sugar control, brushing and flossing and least twice a day, having a dental checkup every six months and especially by informing your dentist that you have diabetes.

If you have questions or concerns regarding diabetic oral care, please give us a call. To learn more about dental health as well as services we provide here at the practice, visit www.bearcreekdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors in Grand Prairie AB, call 1-780-539-0404.

Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening is the term for removing excess gum tissue from the surfaces of teeth.  At Bear Creek Dental, we remove gum tissue from patient’s mouths for aesthetics and for function.  We see many patients unhappy with their smiles, and even patients without any damage to their teeth feel like their gums keep them from enjoying their ideal smile.  When gum tissue is removed for function it is typically for making room to affix a restoration, like a crown, to a tooth.

Whether a crown lengthening procedure is done for function or aesthetics, it is a simple in-office procedure. Local anesthetic is used while your dentist removes excess gum tissue with either a scalpel or laser tools.  If tissue is being removed for a restoration to fit you may only require tissue to be removed from a couple of teeth.  Some people have more gum tissue than others and it results in a gummy smile, which can be corrected throughout the entire mouth.  The result is a visually pleasing ratio of teeth to gums that creates an even smile! 

To learn more about crown lengthening and all the services we provide, visit BearCreekDental.CA for more information.  To schedule an appointment at Bear Creek Dental, located at Unit 201 10015 102 Ave, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8v 0z8, Canada, call 780-539-0404.

Sealants for Pediatric Patients

Almost half of all children and adolescents in the United States have had cavities in their permanent teeth.  At Bear Creek Dental, we apply sealants for young patients to start protecting teeth early. Molars first come in at around 5-7 years of age, with a second set coming in between the ages of 11-14. It is best to have a sealant placed when the molars first come in to ensure they are protected early. 

In children and teenagers, most tooth decay occurs on the chewing surfaces of molars where the pits and grooves can trap food and bacteria.  Dental sealants are applied to surfaces of these back teeth much like paint. The plastic resin fills any pits and grooves on the surface, and then hardens. Now the surface is protected from bits of food being stuck, and bacteria cannot multiply and cause decay.  Sealants also protect tooth enamel from plaque and acids, and can effectively prevent cavities for up to ten years.

To learn more about dental sealants and all the services we provide, visit BearCreekDental.CA for more information.  To schedule an appointment at Bear Creek Dental, located at Unit 201 10015 102 Ave, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8v 0z8, Canada, call 780-539-0404.

Take Good Care of Your Toothbrush

Our doctors at Bear Creek Dental want you to take a look at your toothbrush. If the bristles are discolored and frayed, it’s time to replace it with a brand new one. Proper toothbrush care is important to your oral health because a toothbrush that is worn out won’t clean the mouth thoroughly. Allow us to remind you how to take good care of your oral care instrument.

The human body is constantly exposed to potentially harmful microbes, and particularly when you are sick, bacteria will contaminate your toothbrush. For effective plaque removal, and optimal oral hygiene, the American Dental Association recommends that consumers replace toothbrushes approximately every 3-4 months or sooner if the bristles become frayed with use. You should never share a toothbrush with a significant other and always store your toothbrush in open air away from other toothbrushes to avoid cross-contamination.

If you have questions or concerns regarding oral care, please give us a call. To learn more about dental health as well as services we provide here at the practice, visit www.bearcreekdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors in Grand Prairie AB, call 1-780-539-0404.

Sedation Options: Nitrous Oxide

If you have an oral surgery procedure or wish to take the edge off during a dental appointment, at Bear Creek Dental we have the sedation option for you. The type you receive will depend on the procedure, but in this post, we would like to discuss nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas. Nitrous oxide is a safe and effective sedative that is mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a small mask that fits over the nose.

Nitrous oxide is a type of sedation that isn’t meant to put the patient to sleep. Once nitrous oxide is administered, the patient will be able to hear and respond to any request that the dentist may have. One of our doctors will ask you to breathe through your nose, and within a few short minutes, you will begin to feel the effects. You may feel lightheaded, but ultimately you will feel calm and comfortable.

If you have questions or concerns regarding sedation dentistry, please give us a call. To learn more about dental health as well as services we provide here at the practice, visit www.bearcreekdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors in Grand Prairie AB, call 1-780-539-0404.

Teeth Whitening

At Bear Creek Dental we get a lot of questions from patients about teeth whitening.  Everyone likes to make a great impression with a nice bright smile and we are excited to offer an at-home whitening option to patients with serious staining to the teeth, and those with minor stains who want to achieve a dazzling white smile!

A consultation can help you determine how severe your stains are and what kind of results you can expect from a whitening treatment.  To whiten your teeth at home, we outfit patients with whitening gel and a set of custom trays for application.  A dentist takes an impression of your teeth, and from this impression two custom trays are made for your top and bottom teeth. 

The trays are made for you to take home and use by applying gel to the trays and then fitting them over your teeth. The dentist’s recommendation of how often to treat and how long each treatment should last may vary.  When following the dentist’s recommendations, most patients see results of teeth whitening 4-8 shades!

To learn more about teeth whitening and all the services we provide, visit BearCreekDental.CA for more information.  To schedule an appointment at Bear Creek Dental, located at Unit 201 10015 102 Ave, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8v 0z8, Canada, call 780-539-0404.

Cosmetic Periodontal Surgery

At Bear Creek Dental, we see patients who are unhappy with their smiles for a variety of reasons.  The look of your smile includes the gums, and even when a patient’s teeth are healthy they may feel their gums keep them from a perfect smile.  Cosmetic periodontal surgery is a chance for any patient to achieve the look they desire.

Cosmetic periodontal surgery is the process of sculpting a patient’s gum line.  A procedure can include removing gum tissue, grafting gum tissue, or both. Patients with excess gum tissue may have a gummy smile, and this can be removed with a scalpel tool or laser to expose more of the tooth.  Elongated teeth are the result of gums that have receded.  In these cases, gum tissue is harvested from a healthy location in the patient’s mouth and grafted onto the area lacking tissue.  The end result is an even, stunning smile!

To learn more about cosmetic periodontal surgery and all the services we provide, visit BearCreekDental.CA for more information.  To schedule an appointment at Bear Creek Dental, located at Unit 201 10015 102 Ave, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8v 0z8, Canada, call 780-539-0404.

Dangers of Snoring

Loud snoring may be comical for some, but it is dangerous for most. Snoring happens when the flow of air from the mouth or nose to your lungs makes the tissues of the airway vibrate. When this happens, the person isn’t taking in enough oxygen for the body to sleep quietly. Snoring can result in daytime sleepiness, frequent headaches, or worse, sleep apnea. Fortunately, our doctors at Bear Creek Dental can treat the problem.  

Snoring is often a symptom of obstructive sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea can result in disruption of sleep because a person tends to take pauses in breathing during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea is associated with increased health risks such as high blood pressure, stroke, or even death. If you or your partner snore during the night, it’s important to receive a proper diagnosis because doing so can save a life.

If you have questions or concerns regarding sleep apnea, please give us a call. To learn more about dental health as well as services we provide here at the practice, visit www.bearcreekdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors in Grand Prairie AB, call 1-780-539-0404.

Child’s First Tooth Loss

Children usually begin to lose their first tooth around the age of six-years-old and when this happens, it’s a monumental part of their oral health journey. When your child is about to lose a tooth, they may be excited, or they may be afraid of what it will feel like. At Bear Creek Dental, we can give you the right tools to prepare them for this moment and teach them how to take care of the rest of their baby teeth.  

Children and adults may be surprised to know that teeth usually fall out in the order that they erupted. This is why the two bottom teeth tend to fall out first. If your child loses a tooth due to trauma or decay, this can lead to complications such as malocclusion that may require orthodontic treatment down the road. After your child loses a tooth, they can soothe the gums by gargling with warm water. When it’s time to brush the teeth before bed, be sure to help them brush gently, as to not cause the gums to bleed.

If you have questions or concerns regarding pediatric dentistry, please give us a call. To learn more about dental health as well as services we provide here at the practice, visit www.bearcreekdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors in Grand Prairie AB, call 1-780-539-0404.

Oral Cancer Screenings

Bear Creek Dental wants the families from our community to be aware of oral cancer and how to prevent it.  Heavy smoking and drinking do increase the risk of oral cancer, but oral cancer can still occur if someone never smokes.  The human papilloma virus (HPV) was recently found to be responsible for most oral cancers that originated in the back of the mouth.  Because there is no way to predict cancer, you should ask about an oral cancer screening with each dental checkup. 

To screen for oral cancer, your dentist will conduct a visual exam, and use an ultraviolet light to see any irregularities inside the mouth. This can be done quickly in addition to any appointment.  Regular screenings are the best way to protect yourself, but always contact us if you notice any inexplicable pain, swelling, or numbness in your throat or jaw.

To learn more about oral cancer screenings all the services provided at the practice, visit BearCreekDental.CA for more information.  To schedule an appointment at Bear Creek Dental, located at Unit 201 10015 102 Ave, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8v 0z8, Canada, call 780-539-0404.

Caring for Invisalign

At Bear Creek Dental we offer Invisalign, the clear aligner system that straightens teeth without the metallic look of braces. Another perk of Invisalign clear aligners is that they require less maintenance and won’t prevent you from eating certain foods.  Although you won’t have to make too many changes, there are still guidelines you should follow to wear and care for your aligners!

You should remove Invisalign each time you eat, but if you do eat anything while wearing the aligners make sure to clean them thoroughly afterwards. It is also best to brush and floss your teeth before putting the aligners back in.  Ideally when wearing clear aligners, you would only drink water. Colorful drinks can stain the aligners and too many hot drinks can eventually warp the plastic.  If you do drink anything other than water while wearing the aligners you should rinse them with warm water afterwards. 

Cleaning clear aligners regularly is important for your teeth and straightening treatment.  Aligners can become discolored over time without losing their effectiveness, but the color can show on your own teeth and continue to darken.  Invisalign offers its own brand of cleaning solution, and there are several soaking solutions available over the counter, but brushing the aligners is also a sufficient cleaning option.  Do not use toothpaste to brush the aligners because subtle abrasive properties of toothpaste could harm the aligner.  It is best to use mild dish soap and a soft bristle brush to clean the aligners each time you brush your teeth.

To learn more about Invisalign and all the services we provide, visit BearCreekDental.CA for more information.  To schedule an appointment at Bear Creek Dental, located at Unit 201 10015 102 Ave, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8v 0z8, Canada, call 780-539-0404.

Flossing with Traditional Braces

Our doctors at Bear Creek Dental recently gave patients a lesson on how to brush with traditional braces, so naturally, we can’t forget about flossing. Flossing may seem difficult at first, but don’t be discouraged and don’t give up. Flossing will remove food particles that get stuck in between and cause bad breath. Next time you step in front of the sink to brush, utilize these tips.

• Use waxed floss, because unwaxed floss is more likely to get caught and shred in your braces.


• Use about 18 inches of floss and thread it carefully.


• Take the floss and gently thread it under the main wire of the braces before passing it between two teeth. Then remove the floss and re-thread it under the main wire to pass between the next pair of teeth.


• Be sure not to snap the floss. Simply move the floss up and down carefully against the side of each tooth.

If you have questions or concerns regarding orthodontic oral hygiene, please give us a call. To learn more about dental health as well as services we provide here at the practice, visit www.bearcreekdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors in Grand Prairie AB, call 1-780-539-0404.

Brushing with Brackets and Wires

If you’ve recently had traditional braces applied to your teeth, our doctors at Bear Creek Dental are here to help you keep them clean. Brackets and wires make brushing and flossing more difficult, but when there is a will, there is a way, and we are here to teach you the proper way to brush your teeth with braces.  

• Prepare to brush – take off elastics (rubber bands) and any other removable parts of your orthodontic appliance.


• Clean your braces – Use your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to clean around the wires and pins of your braces. Brush from the top of each wire and then from the bottom.


• Brush your teeth – Clean each tooth individually. First, place your brush at a 45-degree angle to the junction between the tooth and the gum, and then apply gentle pressure as you move in a circular motion. Do this for about 10 seconds. Use the same brushing action on all outer and inner tooth surfaces, tilting the brush as needed to better reach the insides of smaller front teeth.


• Floss once a day – Carefully thread the floss under or over the main wire of your braces, taking care not to get it stuck. Then thread the floss through the wire to reach in between the spaces of your teeth.

If you have questions or concerns regarding orthodontic oral hygiene, please give us a call. To learn more about dental health as well as services we provide here at the practice, visit www.bearcreekdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors in Grand Prairie AB, call 1-780-539-0404.

Keeping Up With Regular Dental Cleanings

The doctors at Bear Creek Dental encourage patients to maintain a great oral health routine at home, but it is still important to come into the office for biannual professional cleanings.  Even when you regularly brush and floss, some harmful bacteria grow in your mouth that cause gum disease and can only be removed by a dental professional. At a cleaning, our hygienists use professional tools to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria build-up from your teeth that is too tough to remove on your own.

The Academy of General Dentistry recommends you have a dentist or hygienist perform a dental cleaning every six months. It’s important to see a professional regularly to locate and monitor areas in the mouth that may need special attention, and a dentist can tell you if you may be missing a spot or skipping an important step in your regular oral care routine.  During a teeth cleaning, our hygienists thoroughly clean the area above and below the gum line with scaling tools to rid them of plaque and tartar. After the surfaces of the teeth are cleaned, the hygienist flosses between every one of your teeth and may apply fluoride if recommended by the dentist. If you need your teeth cleaned, don’t wait any longer!

To learn more about dental cleanings and all the services we provide, visit BearCreekDental.CA for more information.  To schedule an appointment at Bear Creek Dental, located at Unit 201 10015 102 Ave, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8v 0z8, Canada, call 780-539-0404.

Pacifiers and Teeth

Parents often struggle with weaning their child off a pacifier.  Infants are soothed to a sense of security by pacifiers, and when the time comes it is one of the hardest habits to break.  It can require a great deal of persuasion, but because of the effect they can have on the growth and development of the teeth and mouth children should stop using pacifiers by the age of two.  At Bear Creek Dental, we always welcome new patients, especially those who have yet to wean off of the pacifier.

Prolonged pacifier use can cause changes in the shape of the roof of the mouth, prevent proper growth of the mouth, and create problems with tooth alignment.  Narrowing of the roof of the mouth and misalignment of the jaws can also occur.  Using a pacifier too long can also lead to a variety of complications including tilting in of the bottom teeth, and slanting in of the top and front teeth. Until the age of two, any alignment problem with the teeth or developing bone is usually corrected within six months after pacifier use has stopped.  We can help and support parents having any trouble weaning their child off a pacifier before that age.

If you have questions about pacifiers and teeth development, visit BearCreekDental.CA for more information.  To schedule an appointment at Bear Creek Dental, located at Unit 201 10015 102 Ave, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8v 0z8, Canada, call 780-539-0404.

Bad Oral Habits

If you suffer from sensitive teeth, our doctors at Bear Creek Dental want you to review your oral hygiene habits. Bad habits such as nail biting, and opening packages with your teeth, can be detrimental to tooth enamel and the gums if not careful. Additional bad habits that can cause sensitive teeth include the following, and we encourage you to cut back on them immediately.

• You’re brushing too hard – over time, if you brush with too much force, you can wear down the protective layers of your teeth and expose the microscopic hollow tubes or canals that lead to your dental nerves. When these tubules are exposed, tooth sensitivity is a result.


• You’re eating too many acidic foods – If the pathways to your nerves are exposed, acidic foods will cause you pain.


• You have tooth decay – If you have tooth decay, it’s easy for bacteria to accumulate in these tiny crevices, which causes acid build-up and enamel breakdown.


• You’re a tooth grinder – Grinding your teeth can wear down your enamel. This exposes the dentin and causes sensitive teeth.

If you have questions or concerns regarding dental health or oral hygiene, please give us a call. To learn more about dental health as well as services we provide here at the practice, visit www.bearcreekdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors in Grand Prairie AB, call 1-780-539-0404.

Pulling a Tooth

At Bear Creek Dental, our doctors will do all they can to avoid pulling a patient’s tooth. There are some instances, however, when extraction is necessary. No one wants to hear that they need a tooth removed, after all, were supposed to keep our permanent teeth for a lifetime. Common reasons for tooth extractions include wisdom teeth and overcrowding.

Other reasons for tooth extraction include:

• Some people have extra teeth that block other teeth from coming in.


• Sometimes baby teeth don’t fall out in time to allow permanent teeth to come in.


• People getting braces may need teeth extracted to create room for teeth that are being moved into place.


• Some teeth may need to be extracted if they have the potential of becoming infected.

 

If you have questions or concerns regarding tooth extraction, please give us a call. To learn more about dental health as well as services we provide here at the practice, visit www.bearcreekdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors in Grand Prairie AB, call 1-780-539-0404.

Winter Lip Care

Dry, chapped lips are common in the winter. We at Bear Creek Dental want our patients to avoid this, which is why we’re providing a guide to proper prevention and maintenance.

The reason why chapped lips occur more in cold weather is that cold air cannot hold much moisture. Wrapping a scarf tightly around the face is the best way of preventing damage from wind. But inside, you have more options for increasing the air’s moisture and protecting yourself. Place humidifiers in the bedroom, office, and any other room where you have to spend a long time. Put on lip balm several times a day, including before you go to bed. But keep in mind that some people have bad reactions to menthol and other common lip balm ingredients, and change balms if redness increases.

Mouth breathing can also prevent the lips from getting enough moisture and should be avoided, if possible. It is also best not to wet the lips with saliva, as this evaporates rapidly and removes more moisture with it. Lastly, don’t try tucking the lips under the teeth, as this covers them in saliva and can cause tooth migration.

Bear Creek Dental is located at Unit 201 10015 102 Ave, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8v 0z8, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 780-539-0404 or visit BearCreekDental.CA.