Do You Love Your Smile?

Kelowna Cosmetic Dentistry The Mission people who are most happy with their smiles have healthy, straight teeth that sparkle when they laugh. If nature didn’t bless you with attractive teeth, you are not alone. Most perfect smiles you come across in V1W 3C6 were not always that way. They are the result of cosmetic dentistry performed by an experienced Kelowna aesthetic dentist.

At Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair in Kelowna, Stephen Malfair DDS provides the state-of-the-art procedures that deliver dazzling, flawless teeth for cosmetic dentistry patients. We treat patients from 35 to 65. You are never too young or too old to improve your smile; but it will definitely make you feel younger!

Two common smile problems are yellow enamel and chipped teeth.

Discolored Teeth

Few Kelowna people have pearly white smiles that stay that way forever. Even with consistent brushing, flossing and regular dental cleanings, our teeth darken as we age. Fortunately, the most affordable Kelowna cosmetic dentistry procedure is tooth bleaching. Picture yourself with a celebrity-caliber smile. It is possible with safe and affordable teeth whitening at Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair.

Damaged Teeth

Our teeth work hard for us day after day, year after year. Sometimes they get chipped or cracked in the process. If you would like to fix your tooth flaws, schedule a consultation by calling Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair at 250-860-8900. We use porcelain veneers every day to remedy tooth trauma. Cosmetic bonding has been used with fabulous results for many years and bonding is usually a fraction of the price of a crown.

Ask Dr. Malfair which of our Kelowna cosmetic dentistry procedures can be completed in one appointment. How about a same-day smile makeover?

If you have never been eager to show your teeth when you smile or laugh, now is the time to change that. Call Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair today at 250-860-8900 to schedule a smile design consultation.

Contact Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair:

250-860-8900

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

301-1890 Cooper Rd
Kelowna, British Columbia
V1Y 8B7

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Seven Ways You Can Break Your Teeth And How To Protect Them In British Columbia

Seven Ways You Can Break Your Teeth And How To Protect Them In British Columbia

Your teeth are among the most important structures in your body. They are responsible for tasks such as biting, chewing, and speaking.

Unfortunately, there are many ways in which you can accidentally break your teeth. This can lead to pain, discomfort, and long-term disability.

At Love Your Smile, we want you to be careful with your teeth. Let’s discuss the top seven ways you can break your teeth, so you know what to watch for and when to be the most careful with your oral health in mind.

1. Biting on Hard Objects

At Love Your Smile, we want you to be careful with your teethMany people have a habit of biting on hard objects, such as ice, pens, or pencils. While this may seem harmless, it can actually cause significant damage to your teeth. Biting on hard objects can cause your teeth to crack, chip, or even break. To avoid this, try to break the habit of biting on hard objects and stick to chewing on food.

2. Using Your Teeth as Tools

Using your teeth as tools is a common way people break their teeth. For example, using your teeth to open a bottle, tear open a package, or even cutting a piece of tape for that birthday gift can cause damage to your teeth. Always use the appropriate tools for these tasks and avoid using your teeth.

3. Grinding Your Teeth

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common condition that can cause significant damage to your teeth. Grinding your teeth can cause your teeth to become worn down, cracked, or broken. If you grind your teeth, talk to your British Columbia dentist at Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair about getting a mouthguard to protect your teeth.

4. Eating Sticky or Hard Foods

Eating sticky or hard foods such as a chewy caramel or a piece of hard candy can cause your teeth to crack or break. If you regularly eat these types of foods, try to chew them on the opposite side of your mouth to avoid putting too much pressure on one tooth. Avoid biting those hard candies, too. They taste great, but they can cause a lot of damage.

5. Playing Contact Sports

Playing contact sports such as football or hockey can increase your risk of breaking a tooth. Broken teeth can occur from personal contact, contact with the ground, or contact with equipment. Even soft equipment such as an inflated ball can cause damage. Make sure to wear a mouthguard while playing to protect your teeth from impact.

6. Ignoring Dental Problems

Ignoring dental problems such as cavities or gum disease can lead to weakened teeth. Weak teeth are more prone to breaking. Make sure to visit your British Columbia dentist at Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair regularly to keep an eye on your oral health and to address any dental issues before they become a problem.

7. Getting Into Accidents

Finally, accidents can happen and they can often result in broken teeth. Whether it’s a car accident, a fall, or running into a bar at the playground, make sure to seek dental care as soon as possible if your teeth are damaged. Quick reactions to damage can help ensure the best chances of saving a tooth and limiting damage.

There are many ways in which you can accidentally break your teeth. We encourage you to be aware of these risks and take steps to avoid accidents.

Remember to visit your dentist at Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair regularly for checkups and address any dental issues promptly to keep your teeth healthy and strong.

 

CONTACT LOVE YOUR SMILE – DR. STEPHEN MALFAIR:

250-860-8900

LOCATION (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

301-1890 Cooper Rd
Kelowna, British Columbia
V1Y 8B7


Let’s Talk About Your Smile in Kelowna

Let’s Talk About Your Smile I’m Stephen Malfair of Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair. My office is located at 301-1890 Cooper Rd in Kelowna. One of the best things about being a dentist is interacting with my patients. During initial dental consultations, I listen carefully to my patient’s short and long-term dental goals.

I enjoy discussing options and developing effective treatment plans tailored specifically to each person. Some of my patients desire a total smile makeover. I explain in detail the treatments available including teeth whitening, dental veneers, orthodontia, crown restoration, and dental implants.

If a patient is nervous about undergoing treatment, we discuss oral conscious sedation. Oral conscious sedation, sometimes called oral sedation dentistry, is a great option for anxious patients. Dental visits do not have to be painful!

After the treatment has been completed, it is very gratifying for me to see my patient’s reaction to their new smile.

I never get tired of creating dramatic smile transformations for the best patients in British Columbia!

If you have been considering a smile makeover, let’s talk about your smile. Call Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair at 250-860-8900 to schedule a cosmetic dentistry consultation.

CONTACT LOVE YOUR SMILE – DR. STEPHEN MALFAIR:

250-860-8900

LOCATION (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

301-1890 Cooper Rd
Kelowna, British Columbia
V1Y 8B7


Dry Mouth Can Cause Dental Problems

dry mouth treatment Kelowna

A decrease in saliva flow resulting in a dry mouth is a common problem, especially among older individuals. At Love Your Smile in Kelowna, we can help.

A dry mouth is not only uncomfortable, but it can cause tooth damage and bad breath. Saliva is necessary to keep the mouth lubricated, wash the food from teeth, and neutralize the acids that can cause plaque. Extensive decay can develop without saliva for dental patients with chronic dry mouth.

Symptoms of dry mouth include:

  • Dry, red, or grooved tongue
  • Persistent sore throat or hoarseness
  • Sticky feeling in the mouth
  • Saliva that seems thick and stringy
  • Bad breath
  • Struggles chewing, speaking and swallowing
  • Changes in taste
  • Difficulty wearing dentures (Mayo Clinic)

Contributing factors include medications and treatments, reduction in the body’s capacity to metabolize medication, chronic health issues, and poor nutrition.

For example, chemotherapy medication can lower saliva production, and radiation treatments to the head and neck can damage salivary glands, decreasing saliva production.

Other medical conditions include diabetes, stroke, or yeast infection in the mouth.

Decongestants, blood pressure medications, antidepressants, and painkillers (all used extensively in Kelowna) are some of the medications that can lead to dry mouth.

It is common for allergy-prone Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair dental patients to complain of dry mouth when they start taking antihistamines during the hay fever season.

The following can also contribute to dry mouth:

  • Snoring or breathing through the mouth
  • Drinking alcohol
  • Tobacco use (cigarettes, e-cigarettes, chewing tobacco)
  • Recreational drugs

If you experience dry mouth, paying special attention to your dental health is important. The first step is to talk to a professional. Call Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair to schedule an appointment with Dr. Stephen Malfair.

CONTACT LOVE YOUR SMILE – DR. STEPHEN MALFAIR:

778-760-2099

LOCATION (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

301-1890 Cooper Rd
Kelowna, British Columbia
V1Y 8B7


What Are Impacted Wisdom Teeth?

wisdom teeth Kelowna

Evolution isn’t always tidy and linear. For example, we have smaller jaws than our ancestors thousands of years ago, but most of our bodies haven’t adapted by generating fewer teeth. Two-thirds of us produce the same amount of teeth as early humans. These late-developing extra molars are called wisdom teeth and they pose unique oral problems. Luckily, Love Your Smile can safely take care of your wisdom teeth.

When a wisdom tooth tries to come in but is obstructed by the adjacent tooth, it becomes impacted and can result in:

It’s hard to clean partially erupted wisdom teeth. Since they have a high risk of tooth decay, dentists pay special attention to them. They can also cause cavities in the neighboring molars.

If they are causing issues, your dentist will recommend they be removed. Your dentist may also recommend extraction to prevent future dilemmas.

It is estimated that 85% of wisdom teeth need to be removed. Wisdom tooth extraction is a routine outpatient procedure. Most patients experience minimal pain and recover in a few days.

If your high-schooler still has their wisdom teeth and is going away to college this fall, we recommend an exam before they leave. You don’t want the teeth to start hurting them when they are away from their regular dentist or have them miss class to get them removed.

To schedule an exam and X-rays, call us at 250-860-8900.

CONTACT LOVE YOUR SMILE – DR. STEPHEN MALFAIR:

778-760-2099

LOCATION (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

301-1890 Cooper Rd
Kelowna, British Columbia
V1Y 8B7


What Sets Love Your Smile Apart?

V1Y 8B7 family dentist

At Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair, we aim to educate all our patients. We know that optimal dental health depends on accurate information.

General Dental Procedures

Suppose you need a cavity filled or want to restore a tooth with a dental implant. We make sure our patients understand all the details of their treatment. We also explain how to care for your teeth post-procedure. Constant communication, clear guidelines, and frequent follow-up ensure successful outcomes.

Creating Beautiful Smiles

We know that patients want a smile that is beautiful as well as healthy. We work to make patients aware of the numerous cosmetic dental procedures that can improve smiles dramatically. Procedures such as teeth whitening and veneers are simple but can have amazing results.

Keeping Smiles Healthy

At Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair, we believe in preventive dentistry. What does this mean? It means we would prefer to see you twice a year for an exam and professional cleaning. We can help you prevent tooth decay and gum disease so you never need a filling or gum grafts. In other words, you can keep your teeth healthy well into your retirement years. We can create a custom mouthguard to protect your teeth during sports activities. Remember, we are a critical part of your healthcare team. If you have diabetes, cancer, heart disease–or any other ongoing issue–we will help you prevent oral complications related to the condition. On a happier note, if you are planning to become pregnant, we will help you prevent potential dental problems due to hormonal changes.

We Serve the Kelowna Area

Stephen Malfair, DDS performs extraordinary work for patients who visit us from around the Kelowna area. Dr. Malfair’s friendly and professional care combined with continuing education and experience, will bring energy and compassion to your dental chair experience. Education is what you should be looking for. Schedule a consultation to learn for yourself at 250-860-8900.

If you are in the Kelowna area and are looking for an outstanding dentist with top-notch communication abilities, consider our practice. Our services include:

Cosmetic Dentistry
Dental Implants
Sedation Dentistry
Teeth Whitening

 

CONTACT LOVE YOUR SMILE – DR. STEPHEN MALFAIR:

778-760-2099

LOCATION (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

301-1890 Cooper Rd
Kelowna, British Columbia
V1Y 8B7


What’s New At Your Kelowna Dental Office?

Affordable Smile Makeovers In KelownaHello friends of Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair, today we’re talking about the modern dental office in British Columbia. Dentistry is a field of continual innovation. There are always new and improved ways to help Kelowna residents have the healthiest and most beautiful smile possible.

Many dental offices in the Mission, V1Y 8B7, and V1W 3C6 areas have found that switching to digital X-rays makes for more efficient appointments. Also, dental images can more easily be stored in a patient’s computer file and compared with past images.

Diode lasers are innovative instruments that allow your Kelowna area dentist to detect bacteria levels in your mouth as well as find and treat cavities.

For Kelowna patients interested in cosmetic or restorative dentistry, CAD (computer-assisted design) technology can allow procedures that involve crowns and bridges to be done in fewer appointments.

If you are considering a full smile makeover and want veneers, the newer, thinner veneers are just as strong and beautiful, but more of the original tooth is left intact.

I’m Dr. Stephen Malfair. I want my patients to have the best oral health possible. My practice, Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair, is located at 301-1890 Cooper Rd, and our caring dental team is always ready to welcome new patients. We offer the following services:

Cosmetic Dentistry
Dental Implants
Sedation Dentistry
Teeth Whitening
Porcelain Veneers

Call 250-860-8900 today to schedule an appointment!

The following online article was used as source material for this blog: “Advances in Dental Care: What’s New at the Dentist,” WebMD, http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/advances-in-dental-care-whats-new-at-the-dentist, accessed on February 1, 2012

CONTACT LOVE YOUR SMILE – DR. STEPHEN MALFAIR:

778-760-2099

LOCATION (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

301-1890 Cooper Rd
Kelowna, British Columbia
V1Y 8B7


How Oral Inflammation Affects Your Health

inflamed gums Kelowna

Swollen and painful gums are symptoms of periodontal disease, an inflammatory gum disease. Swelling occurs from an auto-immune response of the body reacting to an infection. Infections are noticeable through pain, redness, and warmth. If the infection is left untreated, it can influence the bone near the teeth. The body’s immune system wants to rid the bone of the harmful material the bacteria is creating. Over time, bone loss will arise.

Inflammation in the gums also is associated with atherosclerosis, the occurrence of fatty deposits inside the body’s arteries. Inflammation coincides with an increase of the blood protein CRP (C-reactive protein), produced by the liver. The more inflammation there is, the more the liver produces CRP. The more CRP present, the more likely cardiovascular disease is present, along with related issues. CRP production is also related to arthritis, auto-immune disorders, and intestinal dilemmas.

Scientists are currently looking into the relationship between periodontal inflammation and CRP levels and the effects outside of the oral cavity. Links have already been discovered between periodontal disease and pancreatic cancer, heart disease, and stroke.

If inflammation is left untreated, gums can develop pockets that provide the perfect breeding ground for infection. The longer the infection persists, the more likely bone loss will arise, eventually causing tooth loss.

It is vital to practice preventive dental care daily at home and have regular visits to the dentist. Dental appointments should include an exam, cleaning, and full mouth x-rays, along with the important knowledge and instruction on how to properly care for teeth and gums at home. It is also very important to see your dentist promptly if a tooth suddenly becomes sensitive or you observe any other changes.

Thanks for visiting our blog. For more specifics about inflammation or periodontal disease, give us a call.

 

CONTACT LOVE YOUR SMILE – DR. STEPHEN MALFAIR:

778-760-2099

LOCATION (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

301-1890 Cooper Rd
Kelowna, British Columbia
V1Y 8B7


Should Teens See a General or Pediatric Dentist?

when should my child transition from a pediatric to general dentist? Kelowna

Some parents in the Kelowna area bring their children to a pediatric dentist. Others use a general or family dentist for every member of their household.

What’s the difference between a pediatric dentist and a general dentist?

Pediatric dentists have specialized training to treat infants, young children, and adolescents. They use special dental tools created for smaller mouths. Some pediatric dentists have training in child psychology which can help make children feel comfortable during dental treatment.

When should my child transition from a pediatric dentist to a general dentist? Some parents transition their child to a general dentist as soon as all their child’s permanent teeth come in. Other parents have their children see a pediatric dentist until their late teens.

Does your teen feel comfortable at a pediatric dental practice?

Sometimes, when a child hits their early teen years, they feel uncomfortable at a pediatric dental practice. This is especially true if the office is furnished and geared toward toddlers and pre-teens. In this case, the teen may choose the right time to transition.

Above all, it’s critical that your child feels comfortable at the dentist. If your child starts feeling like they are too old to see a pediatric dentist, it’s time to switch to a general dentist.

We understand the oral health needs of your teenager

Remember that the team at Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair is willing and able to address adolescent dental needs. We are happy to treat your teenager through their adolescent years.

What dental issues should I be watching for during adolescence?

First off, pay attention to your son or daughter’s nutrition. As children become more independent, they start making more of their own food choices. If you visit any Kelowna-area middle school or high school during lunch, you will notice that some teens drink soda and energy drinks. Most of those teens most likely drank milk during elementary school. Make sure you get enough calcium to keep your teeth strong. Vaping and smoking take a toll on physical and dental health. Unfortunately, they are too common among the teen group in the Kelowna area.

Your dentist is an essential member of your teen’s healthcare team

Your dentist can help you understand how their diet and lifestyle impact their oral health. If your teenager struggles with an eating disorder, a dentist can address any related dental issues. If your teen is undergoing orthodontic treatment, your dentist can monitor their teeth closely during a time when it’s more difficult to keep teeth clean and free of tooth decay

Regardless of when you transition your teen to a general dentist, make sure they see a dentist at least twice a year. Continue to monitor their oral hygiene practices and set a good example. Watch out for destructive habits. Furthermore, make sure they wear a mouthguard when participating in contact sports.

The team at Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair has been serving families in the Kelowna area since 2004. We value the relationships we have developed with our patients and their families. If you are looking for an experienced, caring family and general dentist in the Kelowna area, give us a call to schedule a consultation.

 

CONTACT LOVE YOUR SMILE – DR. STEPHEN MALFAIR:

778-760-2099

LOCATION (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

301-1890 Cooper Rd
Kelowna, British Columbia
V1Y 8B7


When it Comes to Your Smile, Don’t Settle For Less

cosmetic dentistry Kelowna

Don’t Settle for a Smile You Aren’t Happy With

No one likes to settle for less than the best, especially with something as important as your smile. Stephen Malfair DDS at Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair in Kelowna has the solutions for your smile problems.

Fixing Small Chips and Cracks Can Work Wonders

You don’t have to live with crooked or chipped teeth. Porcelain veneers are a cost-effective and non-invasive way to correct misshapen or damaged teeth that are otherwise structurally sound. If you have a tooth that is beyond repair, don’t despair—a tooth implant may be the answer.

Lighten Up Your Smile!

You don’t have to watch your teeth become duller and more discolored every year, either. Whether you are young, older or somewhere in the middle, professional teeth bleaching works wonders to perk up your smile.

Not Your Grandfather’s Restorations

Modern dental restorations have many advantages over those in years past. There are stronger and more natural-looking materials. Many of our patients at Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair who have not had a filling for a while, are not aware that white fillings are available. You can even replace old amalgam fillings with white fillings and give your mouth a makeover!

With Cosmetic Dentistry, There is Never Buyer’s Remorse

I have been practicing dentistry since 2004. I have noticed that my patients who receive dental makeovers have only one regret; they wish they would have done it sooner! Patients with dazzling new smiles are surprised by how much confidence they gain. Because they love their smile, they smile more often.

Come in and see us at Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair.

Contact Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair:

250-860-8900

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

301-1890 Cooper Rd
Kelowna, British Columbia
V1Y 8B7