Dental health

Are Floss Picks As Good As Regular Dental Floss?

Posted on
Categories: Dental health, Family Dentistry, General Dentist, General Dentistry

are floss picks as good as regular floss? Mission

Are floss picks as good as regular floss?

Floss picks vs regular floss? While it’s better to floss with a floss pick than to not floss at all, it’s important to note that floss picks can only clean a part of the tooth’s surface. Dr. Malfair recommends traditional floss or dental tape. Here’s why:

A floss pick holds just a small section of floss stretched in a straight line. Looking down, a tooth is shaped somewhat round or oval, with occasional irregularities. A straight segment of floss just doesn’t make sense geometrically because it doesn’t conform to the contours of the tooth as well as traditional floss used correctly. By wrapping the floss completely around the circumference of a tooth, you can more capably clean that critical area around and just below the gumline. And your fingers are much more agile than a piece of plastic.

We have seen patients who are observant floss pick users who developed decay due to a tiny crack the floss pick missed day after day.

Here is a review on correct flossing:

1. Cut a piece of floss about 18 inches long and securely wind each end around your middle fingers.
2. Take hold of the floss with your forefinger and thumb leaving about two inches to work with. Thread the floss between two teeth.
3. Hold the floss firmly against the side of the tooth and move it up and away from the gumline. You want to clean the space between the tooth and gum without pulling more gum tissue away, so it’s vital to scrape up and out of the pocket.
4. Move the floss around the tooth to clean every surface—especially those that your brush can’t reach. You can use a “shoeshine” method if you like. As you use a section of floss, unwind from one hand to access a clean piece. With 18 inches, you should have enough to furnish a clean piece for each tooth. If you run out, that’s okay. Just toss the used piece and cut a new section.
5. Some people find it easier to commence on one end of the upper teeth and clean each gap one by one until they reach the end on the opposite side, and then repeat for the lower arch. Whatever method you select, make sure you clean around every tooth, including the back surfaces of the rear molars.
6. If you have never flossed before, your gums might bleed the first few times. The bleeding may be due to gum inflammation, the beginnings of gum disease. Keep flossing gently and the bleeding usually stops within a week or two.

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

Beating Horrible Halitosis

Posted on
Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental health, Oral health

Kelowna lowest price teeth bleaching

“My neighbor’s bad breath is scaring me.”

I’m Dr. Malfair with Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair. I’d like to take a few minutes to share with you some insight about halitosis.

Brushing just the teeth may not remove particles of food between the teeth and up in the gums. Bacteria can grow and stink from hidden floss-only locations. Gently brushing the gums, sides of the mouth and the tongue in addition to the teeth may make the difference.

Also, the food you are eating can impact the odor in your mouth. Onions, garlic, and coffee are likely to show up on the breath regardless of consistent brushing.

Illness, infection, and allergies can all cause dry mouth which in turn upset the control of bacteria in the mouth. Diabetes, kidney failure, radiation therapy, liver malfunction, dry mouth, or even a sinus infection can cause an odor. The bacteria balance in the mouth is ever-changing.

Finally, dentures or a removable appliance may also carry bacteria that needs to be cleaned and freshened up on a regular basis.

1. Brush and floss the teeth as well as brush the tongue, gums, and sides of the mouth.
2. Enjoy onions and garlic a little less.
3. Stay on top of health issues.
4. Keep dentures clean.

Again, I’m Dr. Stephen Malfair. Located at 301-1890 Cooper Rd Kelowna, British Columbia. We offer Sedation Dentistry, Porcelain Veneers, Cosmetic Dentistry, Teeth Whitening, and Dental Implants just to name a few of our services.

We work hard to exceed your expectations.

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

Your Smile Says Keep Trying!

Posted on
Categories: Dental health, General Dentist

gentle dentist Kelowna

Today’s article is for people who are frustrated because they haven’t been successful at making some changes that will benefit their oral health. We want to urge you to keep trying and assure you that the team of dental professionals at Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair is eager to help.

Keep Trying To Floss

Many men and women are observant about brushing and believe that it makes up for lack of flossing. This is a misconception. Flossing is the only way to clean food debris and plaque from the gumline. Failure to floss can lead to periodontal disease which can, in turn, bring about tooth loss. We encourage everyone to make it a habit to floss appropriately every day. If you are not sure how to floss correctly, any one of the courteous dental hygienists at Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair would be happy to teach you. (They’re the pros!) Call 250-860-8900 to schedule a professional dental cleaning a review on flossing.

Keep Trying to Overcome Dental Anxiety

Skipping dental checkups can have harmful, and in some cases, irreversible oral health consequences. Severe cavities or delayed diagnosis of oral cancer are two potential risks. If you are afraid of going to the dentist, you are not alone. This psychological disorder affects a significant portion of the population. Fortunately, there are many ways to manage this condition so you can undergo an exam and any necessary services. Talk to Dr. Malfair if you or a family member suffers from dental anxiety. Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair furnishes oral sedation and other help for apprehensive patients.

Keep Trying to Quit Tobacco

Smoking is just as detrimental for your teeth and gums as it is for other parts of your body. If you’ve tried unsuccessfully to drop the habit, it’s clear that you value your health and want to lower your risk for all the issues caused or exacerbated by smoking, chewing, or vaping.

Many smokers do not kick the habit the first time. But there’s hope! According to the CDC, there are now more former smokers than current users. Each of those former smokers was once right where you are. Keep trying!

Sometimes a little help can make all the difference. Call Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair at 250-860-8900 to schedule an appointment.

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

Which Is The Best Toothbrush For British Columbia Residents?

Posted on
Categories: Dental health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

Which Is The Best Toothbrush For British Columbia Residents?

One of the most important tools for maintaining oral hygiene is a toothbrush. However, with so many types of toothbrushes available in the Kelowna British Columbia market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for you.

Choosing the best toothbrush can depend on a lot of factors. Our team at Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair can help you decide which toothbrush is best for you. In the meantime, let’s take a look at a few different types of toothbrushes and see what they offer…

Manual Toothbrushes

Manual toothbrushes are the most commonly used type of toothbrush in Kelowna British Columbia. They are affordable and easy to use. They come in different sizes, shapes, and bristle types. Manual toothbrushes have a handle that you hold and a head with bristles that you use to clean your teeth.

We’re all familiar with this type of toothbrush. The bristles come in different varieties, including soft, medium, and hard.

Soft-bristled toothbrushes are the most recommended by dentists at Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair because they are gentle on the teeth and gums. Hard-bristled toothbrushes, on the other hand, can cause damage to your tooth enamel and gums.

If you have any questions about the bristles on your toothbrush, bring it in to Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair and let’s take a look. We may be able to recommend a better option for your teeth.

Electric Toothbrushes

Electric toothbrushes have become increasingly popular around British Columbia in recent years. They typically have a small motor that moves the bristles in a circular or back-and-forth motion to clean your teeth. Some electric toothbrushes come with different modes and settings for different cleaning options.

Electric toothbrushes are a great solution for people who have difficulty using a manual toothbrush or have limited dexterity. They are also more effective at removing plaque and stains compared to manual toothbrushes. However, electric toothbrushes can be more expensive than manual toothbrushes.

Sonic Toothbrushes

Sonic toothbrushes are a type of electric toothbrush that uses high-frequency vibrations to clean the teeth. These vibrations create a sonic wave that helps to dislodge plaque and debris from the teeth and gums. Sonic toothbrushes are more effective at cleaning than manual or electric toothbrushes and can help to whiten the teeth.

Sonic toothbrushes are a good option for people who have heightened sensitivity because they are gentle on the teeth and gums. However, they can be expensive compared to manual or electric toothbrushes.

Which Toothbrush is the Best?

The best toothbrush for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. However, there are some general guidelines that you can follow when choosing a toothbrush:

  • Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles to avoid damaging your teeth and gums.
  • Look for a toothbrush with a small head that can reach all areas of your mouth, including the back teeth.
  • Consider an electric toothbrush if you have difficulty using a manual toothbrush or want a more effective cleaning option.
  • If you opt for an electric toothbrush, choose a model with different modes and settings that suit your sensitivity.

Choosing the right toothbrush is essential for maintaining good oral hygiene. There are different types of toothbrushes available, including manual, electric, and sonic toothbrushes. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, and the best toothbrush for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Whatever type of toothbrush you choose, make sure it has soft bristles and a small head to effectively clean all areas of your mouth. Better yet; make a visit to Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair and let’s talk about how best to keep your teeth clean and healthy.

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

What If My Dental Insurance Doesn’t Cover Dental Implants?

Posted on
Categories: Dental health, Dental Implants

dental implant financing Kelowna

For years, the dental industry has been advocating implants as the preferable tooth restoration option in most circumstances.

But many dental insurance companies don’t cover teeth implants. The dental insurance industry seems to be stuck in 1970. For example, many insurers will cover dental bridges.

Clearly, dental insurers rarely make coverage decisions based on what is best for the patient.

However, you shouldn’t give up on tooth implants if your dental insurer doesn’t cover them. You may be able to get coverage for part of the procedure. Or your medical insurance may cover part of the treatment plan.

What to do if your dental insurance provider doesn’t cover dental implant procedures

  • Have your implant dentist provide a detailed implant treatment plan in writing
  • Armed with your treatment plan, talk to both your dental insurer and your medical insurance provider
  • Ask your dental insurance provider if they will give you an allowance equal to the cost of a bridge or standard dentures
  • Ask your dental insurance provider if they will cover the cost of the crown(s)
  • If your tooth loss has medical complications, your health insurance provider might cover some components of the implant treatment
  • Consider switching dental insurance companies–if your employer offers more than one dental option, contact the other provider(s) to find out if they cover implants
  • Pay for dental implants instead of premiums: consider not renewing your dental insurance and use the money saved toward the cost of implants
  • Look into dental implant-specific insurance–some companies are filling a need in the industry by offering dental insurance created specifically for tooth implants and related treatments
  • Ask Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair about financing and payment options

Tooth implants are a wise investment in your health and quality of life. If you need implants but your insurance doesn’t cover them, talk with 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

You Don’t Have to Live With Bad Breath

Posted on
Categories: Dental health, Dry mouth, Family Dentistry, General Dentist, General Dentistry

bad breath treatment Kelowna

Chronic bad breath can happen to anyone. Even individuals who practice impeccable oral hygiene can suffer from the condition.

Are you struggling with bad breath?

Schedule an examination and deep dental cleaning at Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair in Kelowna. Our dental hygienist will get all the plaque and calculus off your teeth. During your examination, Dr. Stephen Malfair will determine whether you have a dental problem that is contributing to your breath.

In addition to inadequate dental hygiene, the following can cause chronic bad breath:

  1. Dry mouth
  2. Digestive issues
  3. Systemic infection
  4. Gum disease
  5. Food particles on tonsils
  6. Bacteria on dentures or a broken crown

At Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair, we can help you with this unpleasant condition. Even if you think you brush and floss adequately, here’s a refresher course:

Brush for at least 2 minutes

People who have no idea how long they brush can set a timer (there is probably one on your smartphone). When you are finished with your teeth, don’t forget your tongue!

Floss carefully

Then take the time to carefully floss around each tooth to wipe away the plaque between your teeth and keep your gums healthy.

Some extra-careful oral hygiene pros brush after each meal to restrict particles of food from sitting on their teeth during the day.

Possible dental causes are: a cavity, a broken crown, or gum disease. If we suspect that your bad breath is linked to a non-dental malady, such as a respiratory infection, you will be referred to an appropriate medical professional.

Treating bad breath starts with a visit to Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair. In addition to general dental care, we provide a complete menu of dental services including Cosmetic Dentistry, Teeth Whitening, and Dental Implants.

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

Is Mouthwash A Must?

Posted on
Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental health, General Dentist

V1Y 8B7 after hours dental

If you’ve ever visited a grocery store dental aisle, you know that there are many different types of mouthwash. Some tout their germ-killing abilities, others emphasize their fluoride content, and some claim to whiten teeth while freshening the breath. These are all great benefits, but will they help meet your oral care needs?

Many individuals wonder if daily mouthwash should be part of their dental routine. Brushing and flossing are the two critical habits that have the greatest impact on dental health, so if you’re doing these two things, is mouthwash necessary?

I’m Dr. Stephen Malfair of Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair in Kelowna. When my dental patients ask about mouthwash, I tell them that as long as they follow the directions on the bottle, mouthwash may slightly benefit dental health, even if it doesn’t live up to every promise as touted. Rinsing with a mouthwash that contains fluoride can’t hurt your teeth, but allowing a bit of diluted toothpaste to stay on tooth surfaces after brushing probably has the same effect.

People who suffer from bad breath often believe that mouthwash can solve the issue. Actually, mouthwashes that contain alcohol can worsen the problem because they can cause dry mouth—a condition that can worsen bad breath. Mouthwashes without alcohol are often more effective for freshening breath. These products are often called fluoride rinses.

If you have severe bad breath, however, you should have your teeth checked out for plaque build-up. No amount of mouthwash can remedy a mouth full of plaque. If your teeth and gums are healthy and you still suffer from bad breath, it’s important to ascertain the cause. Bad breath can be an indication of a physical condition, so see your doctor soon.

Bottom line? Never substitute mouthwash for proper brushing and flossing. And if you use mouthwash, elect a brand that contains fluoride and no alcohol.

We like to tackle important issues such as dental products, cosmetic dentistry services, over-the-counter teeth whitening, sedation dentistry, invisible braces, pediatric dentistry, oral care habits, and more!

My practice, Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair, provides quality dental care to our valued patients. If you are interested in making an appointment, please call us at 250-860-8900. A member of my caring staff can answer any questions you have about our services.

Call today!

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

What Do You Do If You Get Something Stuck Between Your Teeth?

Posted on
Categories: Dental Crowns, Dental health, General Dentist

what to do if something is stuck between your teeth Kelowna

Individuals get food stuck in and between their teeth all the time. Most of the time it is not a problem to get the food unstuck with floss or a toothbrush and move on with your day. However, once in a while there is a pesky piece of food that seems almost impossible to get out of your teeth. So, what do you do if this is the case?

Sometimes, depending on the food that is stuck between your teeth and where the food is stuck, it can be dangerous and possibly damaging to your teeth to remove it on your own. Remember that you do not need to do everything yourself, and it is okay and oftentimes safer to seek professional help.

In fact, Dr. Malfair at Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair is available to help you when something is stuck between your teeth and is too challenging or dangerous to get out on your own. A dentist can carefully and safely remove the piece of food that is stuck and causing irritation or discomfort.

When to seek professional dental care to get food unstuck from between your teeth: 

It is important to seek care from a dentist if the food stuck between your teeth causes you pain. Also, if you get food stuck deep between your teeth, in your gums, or in a hard-to-reach location like the back teeth it is a good idea to see a dentist for help.

Trying to take action and fix the dilemma on your own in any of these situations can lead to consequences. For example, if a piece of food gets stuck in the gums and you accidentally push it farther in, making it harder to get out, you may cause your gums to get infected.

This happened to 41-year-old firefighter Adam Martin in January of 2020. Martin got a popcorn kernel stuck between his teeth that he continuously poked at and tried to get unstuck for months. The constant prodding with random sharp objects led to a potentially fatal blood infection that required open heart surgery to treat. After the surgery, Martin said, “If I had gone to the dentist in the first place, then none of this would have happened.”

The possible effects of trying to remove food from between your teeth on your own:

  1. Puncturing and/or infecting the gums
  2. Breaking or cracking the teeth
  3. Creating pain
  4. Causing existing pain to worsen

In conclusion, if you get food stuck between your teeth that does not easily come out by using floss or brushing your teeth you should take caution and seek professional dental help. It is much better to have a dentist safely remove the food than to try to do it yourself and end up in more pain or with an infection.

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

When It’s Better Not To Brush

Posted on
Categories: Dental health, General Dentist

enamel erosion Kelowna

Though thin and partially translucent, tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the body and has the critical job of safeguarding teeth from constant use and the continual assault of chemicals in food and drink. Enamel also safeguards tooth nerves from hot and cold food and beverages. That’s why enamel loss often causes tooth sensitivity.

Cuts heal. Bruises fade. Broken bones mend. The body’s ability to heal itself is truly incredible. But tooth enamel is different. When it’s gone, it’s gone.

The team at Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair encourages our patients to protect their tooth enamel for a lifetime of dental health.

This may seem counterintuitive, but sometimes it is better NOT to brush immediately after eating. Specifically, after eating acidic items. The acid weakens the enamel which can be further weakened by brushing. Waiting 60 minutes will allow the acid to dilute. Rinsing immediately after eating acidic foods is useful, however, because it washes away some food particles and speeds up the dilution of the acid.

Some people don’t realize that dry mouth can cause or exacerbate enamel erosion. The calcium and phosphate in saliva protect your enamel. When there is little saliva, the enamel is left unprotected. Chewing stimulates saliva production but constant snacking is not the answer for dry mouth. Chewing sugar-free gum and sipping water periodically can stimulate saliva production between meals without increasing the risk of or upping your calorie intake.

Furthermore, tooth grinding wears enamel away. If you are one of the many Kelowna residents who grind their teeth at night, it’s critical to get a mouthguard right away. People who grind their teeth are at high risk for enamel erosion and the cavities that can follow. Athletes should also safeguard their teeth on the playing field with a mouthguard. For more specifics, talk to Dr. Stephen Malfair at Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair about custom mouthguards.

If you sip soda, tea, or coffee all day, we suggest you switch to water to halt any enamel erosion that has already transpired. It may be a hard change to make – but if you are successful – your teeth will thank you for it.

Using teeth as tools can hurt enamel, as well. Take a moment to fetch scissors before tearing a package or ripping duct tape with your teeth. Do you really want to take a chance on chipping a tooth just to open a package of lunchmeat?

Chewing ice and hard candy can also hurt enamel. If you simply must have sugar, soft candy is best as long as it is not left to sit on teeth for long periods of time. If your molars are packed with gummy candy, it can lead to cavities that erode enamel just as efficiently as chipping it with hard candy. Many of the old-school hard candies we enjoyed as kids now come in soft versions. Enjoy them sparingly because constant sugar is bad for teeth. Period.

If you have already experienced enamel erosion or other dental problems, Dr. Stephen Malfair can help you protect what is left. To schedule an extensive examination, contact Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair in Kelowna at 250-860-8900!

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

Soft, Medium, Or Buzz Lightyear?

Posted on
Categories: Dental health, General Dentist

Affordable Dentistry in Kelowna At Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair, Dr. Stephen Malfair is often asked how to select the most basic tool of oral hygiene, the toothbrush. Picking a toothbrush can be as difficult as choosing a paint color, and there seem to be just as many choices.

If you have visited the dental section of your local grocery store or drugstore lately, you know what I am talking about. There are brushes with bristles of varying lengths, brushes that massage your gums, and brushes that change color when they are used up. (If I had to rate them purely on their fun factor, I would choose the Spiderman brush.)

Some toothbrush manufacturers claim their brushes freshen your breath or remove stains from your teeth. How do you pick the best one?

One vital factor is the firmness of the bristles. Hard bristles may be more effective for cleaning burnt steak off a grill or hard water deposits off a shower floor. However, this does not hold true for your teeth. Medium and firm brushes can break your gums. Soft and extra-soft bristles are plenty stiff enough to wash plaque, food particles, and surface stains from your teeth. Soft bristles also serve you with more flexibility for hard-to-reach nooks and crannies.

After having dental work or oral surgery, especially anything involving soft tissue grafts, make sure that you use an extra-soft brush and be careful!

When selecting a toothbrush for a child, make sure the brush feels comfortable in his or her hand. If the size and angle feel awkward, the child will be less likely to use it long enough to clean all areas of the mouth. Children do not necessarily need a child-sized toothbrush. Some kids can handle an adult-size brush better than a short, narrow child-size brush. If you are unsure, ask your dentist.

What about the electric types and water shooters? Some men and women like the feeling of pulsing bristles or a mini-squirt gun squirting away at the plaque. People with arthritis or other movement-inhibiting conditions can benefit from powered brushes which take some strain off hands and arm muscles.

Is your toothbrush doing the job? Schedule an exam at Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair.

At Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair, our caring dental hygienists instruct our patients and on proper brushing and flossing. If you haven’t experienced a dental deep cleaning at Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair, you don’t know how clean your teeth and gums can feel.

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