Flossophy Dental

Tuesday, December 29, 2015

What is TMJ Disorder?

The temporomandibular joint is the jaw joint and you have two which work together as a pair, one in front of each ear. These joints are what allow you to chew, speak, and yawn. Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) are a complex and poorly understood set of conditions characterized by pain in the jaw joint and surrounding tissues and limitation in jaw movements. Fortunately, relief is available and here at Flossophy Dental, we use behavioral treatments first to change the way you use your jaw muscles.


Some symptoms of temporomandibular disorders include pain when opening or closing your mouth, trouble chewing, jaw becoming locked, headaches or ear pain, clicking or popping sounds when opening your mouth, and teeth grinding. Many of these symptoms can be often associated with other health problems, so only a medical professional can tell you if it is due to TMD.


If you are experiencing symptoms associated with TMJ disorder, give us a call. To learn more about the services provided here at the office, visit www.flossophydental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Flossophy Dental in Edmonton, AB, call 780-306-9333.

Wednesday, December 23, 2015

The Root Canal Procedure

 


Here at Maiden Lane Dental, a root canal is the treatment we use to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or becomes infected. During a root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp are removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. We know that this can be a scary procedure for some and we would like to ease your anxiety by providing you with a step-by-step guide on how we complete the process.

The area around the tooth is first numbed with an anesthetic to start the procedure. One of our dentists will then drill down into the tooth to create an opening into the canal. They will then be able to remove the infected tissue and clean the canal. After the infection has been removed, the space is filled with a sealant called gutta percha. Your tooth will then be placed with a temporary crown until you are able to be fitted with a permanent one.

If you have questions regarding an upcoming root canal procedure, give us a call. To learn more about the services provided here at the office, visit www.flossophydental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Flossophy Dental in Edmonton, AB, call 780-306-9333.

Here at Flossophy Dental, a root canal is the treatment we use to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or becomes infected. During a root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp are removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. We know that this can be a scary procedure for some and we would like to ease your anxiety by providing you with a step-by-step guide on how we complete the process.


The area around the tooth is first numbed with an anesthetic to start the procedure. One of our dentists will then drill down into the tooth to create an opening into the canal. They will then be able to remove the infected tissue and clean the canal. After the infection has been removed, the space is filled with a sealant called gutta percha. Your tooth will then be placed with a temporary crown until you are able to be fitted with a permanent one.


If you have questions regarding an upcoming root canal procedure, give us a call. To learn more about the services provided here at the office, visit www.flossophydental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Flossophy Dental in Edmonton, AB, call 780-306-9333.


 

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Your Diet and Your Dental Health

The health of our teeth and mouth are linked to overall health and wellbeing. Therefore, to prevent cavities and maintain good oral health, your diet – what you eat and how often you eat – are important factors. Changes in your mouth start the minute you eat certain foods, due to the bacteria in the mouth that converts sugars and carbohydrates to acids. These acids begin to attack the enamel on teeth and although we love to see you here at Flossophy dental, we would rather you eat a balanced diet to improve your smile naturally.


The best food choices for the health of your mouth include cheeses, chicken or other meats, nuts, and milk. These foods protect tooth enamel by providing the calcium and phosphorus needed to remineralize teeth. Other food choices include firm/crunchy fruits (apples and pears) and vegetables (celery and carrots). It’s important to limit your consumption of sugar containing drinks, including soft drinks, lemonade, and coffee or tea with added sugar. Exposing your teeth to abundant amounts of sugar can lead to tooth decay.


If you have questions about how diet affects your dental health, give us a call. To learn more about services provided here at the office, visit www.flossophydental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Flossophy Dental in Edmonton, AB, call 780-306-9333. 

Thursday, December 10, 2015

The Proper Flossing Technique

Gum disease begins at the gum line and between teeth which is why you should floss at least once a day. Flossing is an essential part of taking care of your teeth and gums and helps remove plaque from the areas between your teeth where the toothbrush can’t reach. Believe it or not, flossing is more than just running string between your teeth to get the foods particles out, there is a proper flossing technique and our staff at Flossophy Dental would like to share it with you.



  • Wind 18” of floss around middle fingers of each hand. Pinch floss between thumbs and index fingers, leaving a 1”-2” length in between. Use thumbs to direct floss between upper teeth.

  • Keep a 1”-2” length of floss tight between fingers. Use index fingers to guide floss between contacts of the lower teeth.

  • Gently guide floss between the teeth by using a zig-zag motion. Gently wrap floss around the side of the tooth.

  • Slide floss up and down against the tooth surface and under the gum line. Floss each tooth thoroughly with a clean section of floss.


If you have questions about how to maintain your oral hygiene routine, give us a call. To learn more about services provided here at the office, visit www.flossophydental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Flossophy Dental in Edmonton, AB, call 780-306-9333. 

Wednesday, December 2, 2015

How to Brush Properly

Even though we’ve been brushing our teeth for as long as we can remember, many of us might be surprised to learn that we’re not doing it properly. Our dentists at Flossophy dental can’t stand behind you while you brush at home, but they can provide you with the proper brushing technique to assure that you achieve the cleanest smile possible.



  • Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against the gums.

  • Move the brush back and forth gently in short (tooth-wide) strokes.

  • Brush the outer tooth surfaces, the inner tooth surfaces, and the chewing surfaces of the teeth.

  • Use the tip of the brush to clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, using a gentle up-and-down stroke.

  • Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.


Of course brushing your teeth is only part of a complete dental care routine. You should also make sure to clean between teeth daily with floss and visit us regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams.


If you have questions about how to maintain your oral hygiene routine, give us a call. To learn more about services provided here at the office, visit www.flossophydental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Flossophy Dental in Edmonton, AB, call 780-306-9333. 

Monday, November 23, 2015

Benefits of Waterlase Technology

If you are avoiding the dentist because you fear the sound of the drilling needle, fear no more, at Flossophy Dental we utilize Waterlase Technology. The Waterlase is a revolutionary device that uses hydrokinetic technology to cut teeth, bone and gum tissue with fewer traumas, while providing benefits such as fewer shots and less anesthesia as well as overall improved patient comfort.


The Waterlase is extremely versatile and can be used for a wide range of hard and soft tissue procedures. The Waterlase produces a laser beam that energizes an exact stream of water that, when directed at a tooth, is able to remove tooth enamel decay (the hardest substance in the body), bone and gum tissue precisely while leaving surrounding areas unaffected. Since cutting both hard and soft tissues with the Waterlase does not generate heat, vibration or pressure, many dental procedures can be performed nearly pain-free with fewer shots, less need for anesthesia, less use of the drill, and fewer numb lips.


To learn more about Waterlase technology and services provided here at the office, visit www.flossophydental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Flossophy Dental in Edmonton, AB, call 780-306-9333. 

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Family Dentist in Edmonton, AB

It is nice to find a dentist who can take care of the whole family. With the busy schedule many families have, one dentist for everyone is a big relief. Here at Flossophy Dental in Edmonton, AB, we treat patients of all ages. We are able to provide preventative care, restorative care, cosmetic care, and orthodontics for all stages of life.


Kids should begin seeing the dentist by the age of one, or sooner if their first tooth has arrived before then. Kids’ dental care is just as important, because their baby teeth are the place markers for their adult teeth. This is also why we provide sealants and mouth guards for our patients. We want to protect those chompers as best we can.


We have many options for restoration and replacement, such as crowns, bridges, dentures, and implants. We are able to restore the strength of your smile after injury or decay. In addition, we have cosmetic options that can shine that smile up, including ZOOM! whitening and veneers.


When it comes to orthodontics, we’ve got you covered. With choices like traditional braces and Invisalign, we can accommodate every age through the teeth straightening process.


Flossophy Dental is a place you can take the whole family to, for quality, experienced dental care. To learn more about the services we offer, give our Edmonton, AB office a call at (780) 306-9333 or visit our website, www.flossophydental.ca. We can’t wait to see your smile!

Tuesday, November 10, 2015

Inlays and Onlays for Strong and Beautiful Smiles

Is damage or decay ruining the look of your smile? It is time to take a restorative and cosmetic approach. Flossophy Dental here in Edmonton, AB is offering our patients restored confidence with dental inlays and onlays.


Dental inlays and onlays are like the in between option of dental crowns and fillings. They are for when there is more damage than a filling can fix, but not enough to need a full dental crown. An inlay improves the chewing surface of a tooth, minus any cusps. An onlay improves the chewing surface of a tooth, plus one or more cusps. Damage and decay can make a smile appear unhealthy and unappealing to the eye. Inlays and onlays restore a tooth to its former strength and let it shine. Inlays and onlays are able to be made of gold, porcelain, or a composite resin. The porcelain and composite resin options are able to blend right in with the rest of your tooth, so your smile will look brand-new!


If you are tired of hiding your smile due to the damage of decay or injury, there are restorative and cosmetic options available to you. Contact Flossophy Dental about inlays and onlays. To schedule an appointment at our Edmonton, AB dental practice, give our office a call at (780) 306-9333 or visit our website, www.flossophydental.ca

Wednesday, November 4, 2015

Mini Dental Implants in Edmonton, AB

Every mouth is different. In addition, everyone’s dental needs are different. Offering different options is one of the ways we show our patients that we care. Here at Flossophy Dental in Edmonton, AB, we offer our patients mini dental implants in addition to the full-sized ones.


Sometimes there is a case where a full-sized implant will not fit in the open space from a missing tooth. But our patients still want the best option for replacement. This is where mini dental implants come in. Being half the size of traditional implants, they are able to fit into smaller spaces. They are also able to be placed non-surgically due to their smaller size. This means a much quicker healing time, so permanent replacement crowns are often able to be placed the same day as the implant.


Mini implants are also great for stabilizing dentures. In this case, four to six mini implants are placed along the gum line, and the dentures are made to clip onto the top of them. They help dentures feel more secure and move around less. Most dentures are able to be altered so that they work with the mini implants.


If you are in need of a tooth replacement, or would like a more stable base for your dentures, mini implants may be the perfect option. Schedule a consultation with Flossophy Dental of Edmonton, AB by calling our office at (780) 306-9333 or visiting our website, www.flossophydental.ca

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Dental Bonding for Cosmetic Improvements

When you are not confident about your smile, it can be hard to want to show it off. This is why Flossophy Dental offers dental bonding in our Edmonton, AB dental practice. Dental bonding is a very popular procedure that can improve the look of many dental imperfections.


Chipped teeth, cracked teeth, discolored teeth, and even misaligned teeth can all benefit from dental bonding. Bonding is a procedure that takes a tooth-colored composite resin to smooth over dental imperfections to make them disappear. It is a popular choice for long-lasting teeth whitening.


To begin the bonding process, your dentist will lightly etch the surface of your tooth and then apply the resin. It will be molded over your tooth into the appropriate shape, than then hardened with a curing light. It is then polished so it shines like natural teeth. Your dentist is able to choose a composite resin that matches the shade of your teeth, so your cosmetic restoration will blend right in. A resin can even be chosen in a brighter shade for those who want their teeth whitened.


If you are looking in the mirror and are displeased with an aspect of your smile, consider dental bonding. To schedule a consultation here in our Edmonton, AB dental practice, call Flossophy Dental at (780) 306-9333 or visit our website, www.flossophydental.ca

Tuesday, October 20, 2015

Invisalign for Invisible Teeth Straightening

Straight teeth are a quality that many people desire. Unfortunately, we are not all born with that quality. Flossophy Dental of Edmonton, AB is offering Invisalign to their patients who want straight teeth but a more discreet straightening process.


Invisalign is the nearly invisible system for straightening teeth. The treatment consists of wearing clear, plastic tray aligners that gradually shift your teeth into place. The trays are switched out every two weeks with minor adjustments made to each set. You will meet with your dentist here about once every five weeks to make sure the plan is going accordingly.


The clear, plastic aligners are smooth, so they do not irritate gums and cheeks like traditional braces might. They are also more convenient than traditional braces, as you take out Invisalign to care for your teeth. You also do not need to watch what you eat; Invisalign is taken out for eating, as well.


Invisalign can be utilized to treat many cases that braces can. Most adult treatment durations last about one year. Teen Invisalign treatment is usually around two years in duration.


If you are looking to put your best smile forward, consider Invisalign for invisibly straightening your teeth. To schedule a consultation in our Edmonton, AB dental office, call us at (780) 306-9333 or visit our Flossophy Dental website, www.flossophydental.ca

Wednesday, October 14, 2015

Traditional Braces in Edmonton, AB

A straight smile offers both oral health benefits and cosmetic improvements. At Flossophy Dental in Edmonton, AB, we offer traditional braces for our patients looking to straighten their smile whether they need it for oral health reasons or they just want to improve the aesthetic look of their smile.


Traditional braces are made of very strong metal alloys that deliver smooth results. Metal brackets are bonded to the fronts of teeth and a wire is clipped in that creates continuous pressure on the teeth. The wire is switched out about once every month to gradually move teeth in the right direction. The end result is a beautiful smile!


Straight teeth are an improvement for your overall oral health. Teeth that are too crowded or spaced out can cause gum irritation, build-up of bacteria, and abnormal wear on teeth. They can also cause pressure that creates headaches and jaw pain. Moving the teeth into straight positions eliminates any weird positioning and allows each tooth to be cleaned thoroughly.


If you are unhappy with your smile or are tired of dealing with the consequences of crooked teeth, traditional braces may be the option for you. To schedule a consultation, call Flossophy Dental of Edmonton, AB at (780) 306-9333 or visit our website, www.flossophydental.ca

Wednesday, October 7, 2015

Treatment for Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea increases the risk of stroke, heart failure, heart disease, and liver problems. It is a dangerous condition but there are treatments. At Flossophy Dental in Edmonton, AB, we have been helping our patients regain a safe and restful night’s sleep with surgical procedures for sleep apnea.


Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition where the throat closes during sleep and interrupts breathing. Patients with this condition can stop breathing a few times a night or hundreds of times per night. The lack of oxygen increases the risk of dangerous conditions in the body’s systems plus it causes a person to wake up each time they stop breathing (which often they do not remember). It causes severe daily fatigue which also affects any sleeping partners constantly being woken up.


In our Edmonton, AB office, we offer several options for surgery that can open up the airway and allow flow of oxygen. The first is called uvulopalatopharyngoplasty. This procedure removes excess tissue from the throat. The second procedure is called maxillomandibular advancement. This moves the jaw forward to open up more space in the back of the throat. The third procedure is a last resort option. It is called a tracheostomy. A tube is placed into the throat so that breathing is possible through the night. It is covered during the day for normal breathing.


Our doctors are experienced in treating sleep apnea and are committed to finding a solution for you. If you are struggling with sleep apnea, call Flossophy Dental of Edmonton, AB at (780) 306-9333 or visit our website, www.flossophydental.ca.

Wednesday, September 30, 2015

Dental Implants for Permanent Replacement

Replacing missing teeth is important for the health of your mouth, jaw, and facial structure. While there are a few types of replacements out there, dental implants will make sure you have a new tooth set for a lifetime. Here at Flossophy Dental in Edmonton, AB, we aim to provide our patients with the highest quality of treatment, which is why we choose to offer dental implants.


Implants last for a lifetime, unlike alternatives like dentures and bridges. With good care, they should never need to be replaced. Also unlike dentures, implants are permanent so you do not have to deal with them moving around. They are single tooth replacements, as well, so there is no reduction of healthy teeth to place them, like bridges.


Dental implants are surgically inserted into the jawbone so it bonds to the bone like a natural tooth does. This makes it the strongest and most durable tooth replacement option on the market. You are able to use them just like a normal tooth. The crown placed on top is also able to look and feel just like a natural tooth, so the replacement tooth is undetectable in your smile.


If you are ready for a replacement that will end all replacements, ask your dentist about dental implants. To schedule an appointment with us in our Edmonton, AB dental practice, call our office at (780) 306-9333 or visit the Flossophy Dental website, www.flossophydental.ca

Wednesday, September 23, 2015

Eliminate Bruxism with a Night Guard

Teeth grinding (bruxism) can be caused not just by stress and anxiety but by sleep disorders, an abnormal bite, or teeth that are missing or crooked. Many people clench or grind their teeth to the point of destructiveness. Most people are completely unaware that they do it, because they often do it while they sleep. A night guard isn’t the most attractive dental appliance in the world, but if you are experiencing frequent headaches, jaw pain, and an angry sleep partner, it’s time to visit us at Flossophy Dental so we can fit you for one.


Once a dentist here at Flossophy Dental decides that you’re a solid candidate for a night guard, they will create one that’s custom-made for your mouth. A professionally made night guard for teeth is composed of soft material and slides over one row of your teeth. Once your dental night guard is in place, you can sleep soundly knowing that even if you do grind your teeth once you’re asleep, your upper and lower teeth will no longer make contact.


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If you grind your teeth or wake up with jaw soreness give us a call to discuss your options. To learn more about night guards and other services offered here at Flossophy Dental, visit www.flossophydental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Flossophy Dental in Edmonton, AB, call 780-306-9333.

Wednesday, September 16, 2015

Protect Yourself from Periodontal Disease

Many people think its normal if their gums bleed when they brush or floss, when in fact; it’s one of the earliest signs of periodontal (gum) disease. Swollen and bleeding gums are early signs that your gums are infected with bacteria. If nothing is done, the infection can spread. It can destroy the structures that support your teeth in your jawbone. Eventually, your teeth can become so loose that they have to be extracted. The good news is that periodontal disease is preventable, and reversible, and here at Flossophy Dental we can give your gums the treatment they deserve.


The three stages of gum disease – from least to most severe – are gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. Gum disease can be painless, so it is important to be aware of any of the following symptoms: swollen, red, tender or bleeding gums, gums that recede or move away from the tooth, persistent bad breath or bad taste in mouth, loose teeth and visible pus surrounding the teeth and gums.


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If your gums bleed when your brush/floss or you experience mouth pain on a daily basis, give us a call to discuss your options. To learn more about periodontal disease and other services offered here at Flossophy Dental, visit www.flossophydental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Flossophy Dental in Edmonton, AB, call 780-306-9333.

Wednesday, September 9, 2015

Teeth Whitening with ZOOM!

Many people are satisfied with the sparkle they get from daily brushing and regular cleanings at the dentist’s office, but if you decide you would like to go beyond this to make your smile shine; you should investigate all of your whitening options. There are many ways to whiten your teeth, including purchasing one of the many at-home treatment options available, but here at Flossophy Dental we utilize the ZOOM! whitening technique, to keep your smile healthy and bright!


ZOOM! is a bleaching process used to lighten the discoloration of enamel and dentin. The ZOOM! in-office tooth whitening procedure uses the ZOOM! Advanced Power Chairside Lamp – said to accelerate the bleaching process – to activate the 25 percent hydrogen peroxide whitening. As the hydrogen peroxide is broken down, oxygen enters the enamel and dentin to bleach the stained substances, leaving the structure of the tooth unchanged. The complete procedure takes less than an hour, but a regular teeth cleaning is recommended prior to the actual Zoom teeth whitening session.


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If you are searching for a brighter smile give us a call to discuss your options. To learn more about teeth whitening and other services offered here at Flossophy Dental, visit www.flossophydental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Flossophy Dental in Edmonton, AB, call 780-306-9333.

Wednesday, September 2, 2015

Restore Your Smile with Veneers

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Veneers are an excellent way to redesign your entire mouth. Dental veneers are a form of cosmetic dentistry in which a shell or layer of tooth-colored porcelain or composite is placed over the facial surfaces of your teeth to correct worn tooth enamel, uneven tooth alignment or spacing, discoloration, chips, or cracks. Here at Flossophy Dental, one of our doctors can provide you with veneers to help put the confidence back in your smile.


Dental veneers can be made from porcelain or from resin composite materials. Porcelain veneers resist stains better than resin veneers and better mimic the light reflecting properties of natural teeth. Resin veneers are thinner and require removal of less of the tooth surface before placement. You will need to discuss the best choice of veneer material for you with one of our dentists here at Flossophy Dental. If your natural teeth are functionally and esthetically adequate, dental veneers may not be an appropriate treatment for you.


If you are searching to restore your smile give us a call to discuss your options. To learn more about veneers and other services offered here at Flossophy Dental, visit www.flossophydental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Flossophy Dental in Edmonton, AB, call 780-306-9333.