Family Dentistry

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

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

Afraid of the Dentist? 5 Ways to Reduce Dental Anxiety

Posted on
Categories: Family Dentistry, General Dentistry, Sedation Dentistry

dental anxiety treatment Kelowna

Talk to your dentist

There’s something about having knowledge on anything unknown that makes us feel less afraid or at least more self-assured handling the unknown. If you consider dentistry an unknown topic, maybe you can educate yourself by asking your dentist lots of questions. Find a dentist willing to listen to your fearful thoughts and concerns so they can better assure you there isn’t much to worry about. Usually when we talk about our fears someone with more information can help by reducing our anxiety. They may even eliminate it completely by showing our thoughts to be entirely irrational.

Meditate

Studies show how incorporating a 10-minute meditation routine can increase our overall feeling of wellness considerably. Think of meditation as a way for you to focus on the present moment and be comfortable with a subtle feeling of relaxation. This will provide a sense of peace we don’t always experience in our day-to-day lives. Ask yourself, “When was the last time I dedicated time to concentrate on the present moment and simply watch life pass, instead of trying to control everything.” With meditation, we can tune in to our natural way of being and more easily distinguish the difference between a real-life threat or an anxious thought.

Bring a friend or family member to your appointments

Sometimes modifying your environment in a way that’s more familiar will reduce anxiety. A great way of doing this is to bring someone familiar to your dental appointments who can offer emotional support. This could be a close friend or family member who understands how you feel. You should bring someone who is prepared to talk you out of negative thinking patterns. Your companion ideally will comprehend they are there for you and that this isn’t so much about the two of you hanging out socializing. Make sure they are up to the challenge!

Practice good oral hygiene

By having superb oral hygiene you can feel more confident about your next visit to the dentist. With excellent dental care you can go into the dentist with a lower chance of having a root canal or being diagnosed with gingivitis, the onset to periodontal disease. See why these conditions may worsen your nervousness? If you were diagnosed with gingivitis, your mind would have logical reasons for feeling anxious which is not what we want. However, if you’ve been doing the regular brushing and flossing as recommended then there isn’t as much to worry about.

Seek out a therapist

Are you feeling anxious all the time or just while at the dentist? Seeking out a therapist may help with dental anxiety. Your therapist may advise adjusting your daily routine to help fight both dental anxiety and any anxiety from day to day life. Or, your dentist may suggest specific techniques to focus on while at the dentist. The 3-2-1 technique involves naming 3 things you can hear, followed by 3 you can see and lastly, things you can feel. Then you reduce the numbers to 2, then 1. This is a valuable exercise you can do while in a dentist’s office or anywhere you may feel anxious.

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

The Link Between Gum Disease and Viral Infections

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

gum disease and COVID-19 risks Kelowna

The pandemic has increased public awareness of the danger of viruses and the importance of a strong immune system. We at Love Your Smile in Kelowna can help you understand the link between viruses and gum disease

Our Immune System Protects Against Serious Illness

The variation in the severity of COVID-19 illness is due, in part, to the strength of natural biological defenses.

Of course, you may be wondering why we’re discussing this in a dental blog. Does it have anything to do with dental health?

Actually, it does. Scientists have found a link between oral bacteria and viral infections.

Gum Disease is Caused by Bacteria

The oral bacteria in question is Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis for short). The “gingivalis” in its name gives you a clue to what type of bacteria it is. As you may have anticipated, P. gingivalis is the bacteria that causes gingivitis and the more advanced form of gum disease called periodontitis.

Your Mouth Produces Natural Viral Protection

Interferon lambdas are a family of proteins created by cells in the mouth. These proteins protect us from all types of bacterial and viral infections in addition to the coronavirus. The danger of P. gingivalis is that it makes Interferon lambdas less effective at protecting us.

This is how one of the researchers explained it:

“Our studies identified certain pathogenic bacterial species, P. gingivalis, which cause periodontal disease, can completely suppress interferon production and severely enhance susceptibility to viral infection. These resident oral plaque bacteria play a key role in regulating antiviral responses.” Juhi Bagaitkar, assistant professor, University of Louisville Department of Oral Immunology and Infectious Disease.

Oral Health and Physical Health Go Hand in Hand

As if you needed one more reason to prevent gum disease! Not only does gum disease put you tooth loss, it makes you more susceptible to the potential dangers of viruses. To recap: if you avoid gum disease, you protect your mouth from P. gingivalis. This lets you benefit from Interferon lambdas and the virus protection they provide.

Let’s discuss basic oral hygiene practices that can prevent periodontitis and keep your smile healthy:

  • Brush at least twice daily using appropriate brushing techniques
  • Use a fluoride toothpaste
  • Floss daily using the correct flossing method
  • Get a professional dental cleaning twice a year
  • Schedule twice-yearly dental exams
  • Take care of dental dilemmas in their early stages so they don’t progress

Has it been a while since you’ve had a dental exam and cleaning? We serve patients in the Mission, V1Y 8B7, and V1W 3C6 area. Our friendly team of dental professionals is here for and your family. We at Love Your Smile in Kelowna can serve all of your dental needs. Schedule an appointment 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

A Beautiful Smile is Timeless

Posted on
Categories: Beautiful smile, Cosmetic Dentistry, Family Dentistry, Invisalign

Your Smile Doesn’t Have to Show Your Age in Kelowna

At Love Your Smile in Kelowna we know that every stage of life has its pros and cons. For example, in our golden years, we may enjoy traveling, more free time and grandchildren. However, most  retirees do not welcome wrinkles, limited mobility or dental problems.

Fortunately, your smile can be healthy and pleasing throughout your life. With cosmetic and restorative dentistry, you can have a youthful smile at any age.

Regain Your Youthful Smile

Even if your teeth are showing visible signs of wear, we can help. Do you have any of the following concerns?

  • Enamel loss
  • Staining
  • Chips
  • Missing teeth
  • Broken dental work
  • Gum recession
  • Old amalgam fillings

At Love Your Smile in Kelowna, we serve you with a full array of dental services including dental implants sleep apnea, and cosmetic dentistry.

Could Your Smile Benefit From Adult Braces?

Would you like to straighten your teeth? Modern braces can correct all types of tooth alignment dilemmas. Overbite? Gap between your two front teeth? Crowded teeth?

Now, individuals of any age can have an extraordinary smile that looks as young as they feel. Let’s discuss some orthodontic options.

Invisalign

Invisalign uses clear aligners instead of metal or ceramic brackets. With Invisalign aligners, you switch aligners every couple of weeks as your teeth gently shift into place.

How can straightening teeth improve your life?

We all know that a an attractive smile improves one’s appearance. Everyone wants to look better. However, the benefits aren’t purely aesthetic.

  • Straight teeth can prohibit decay
  • If teeth are aligned properly, you are less likely to snore
  • Decreases the risk of periodontitis (advanced gum disease),
  • Straightening teeth can help you eat a healthier diet

Regardless of your age, it is not too late to enhance your smile–even if you have some missing teeth. Braces combined with tooth implants can transform a smile.

If you haven’t seen a dentist in a while, you will be interested to learn about the latest cosmetic dentistry treatments. Many procedures can be completed in one visit with us at Love Your Smile in Kelowna. We serve patients in Mission, V1Y 8B7, and V1W 3C6 seeking all kinds of services, including restorative dentistry and sedation dentistry. Contact us for an appointment 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

Why Sports Drinks Put Teeth At Risk

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

Kelowna Dental Financing

This post from Love Your Smile in Kelowna looks at the risks posed by those ubiquitous sports drinks. Many health-conscious people drink them regularly for hydration during workouts.

While it’s true that they help maintain electrolyte levels in the body – and pose fewer health risks than energy drinks – their acidity can erode tooth enamel. And when tooth enamel erodes, those pearly whites are more staining, discolouration, and decay.

Nobody wants darkened teeth, so next time you’re at the gym, try substituting water for sports drinks.

If you have already noticed staining or tooth discolouration and would like to do something about it, consider professional teeth whitening. We offer Zoom!® whitening, which can brighten your smile in a single office visit.

At Love Your Smile in Kelowna we have brightened countless smiles with teeth whitening. People from Mission, V1Y 8B7, and V1W 3C6 also come to us for cosmetic dentistry and dental implants. Contact us 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

ArticleID 4797

Dental Checkup: How Often?

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

When is the last time you had a dental checkup? At Love Your Smile in Kelowna, we recommend you have one every six months. If you have a higher risk for oral diseases, we recommend every four months.

Know The Risk Factors For Oral Problems

Most people are in a medium-to-low risk category for dental problems. However, if you use tobacco or alcohol, eat a lot of sugar, have an eating disorder, don’t brush and floss twice a day, or experience medical conditions that affect your mouth, you are likely in a higher risk category.

Dentists analyze many factors to determine the status of your oral health. We want you to have the healthiest teeth possible so you can enjoy a beautiful smile for life. The philosophy ‘”Ignore it and it will go away,” does not apply to a dental health problem.

At Love Your Smile in Kelowna, we believe that a healthy mouth is a happy one. People from Mission, V1Y 8B7, and V1W 3C6 come to our office for general and restorative dentistry. Contact us 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

ArticleID 16

Why Trust Your Dental Health To Love Your Smile?

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

Kelownaaffordable cosmetic dentistry

Good dental health means having healthy teeth and gums. Maintaining it is something that you have to work at every day. It can be a real balancing act: using the right oral care products, your personal oral care habits, and seeing us at Love Your Smile in Kelowna twice a year.

Your dental health strategy should include:

  • Daily Brushing and Flossing: You should brush and floss twice a day. Just before bedtime is especially important, because it cleans out the germs and plaque that build up during the course of the day.
  • Proper Brushing: It’s important not only to brush, but to brush properly. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush in a gentle, circular motion along the gum line. Take your time; a minimum of two minutes is recommended. Don’t forget to brush your tongue!
  • Using Fluoridated Toothpaste: There are dozens of choices when it comes to toothpaste. Whether you prefer mint flavoured or bubble gum, fluoride is the most important consideration. It is your best defense against cavities.
  • Limiting Sugary and Acidic Foods: Acidic fruits, teas, and coffee contributes to enamel erosion. Sugar converts into acid when it’s in your mouth. You don’t have to avoid these foods entirely, but choose carefully and minimize.
  • Seeing the Dentist Twice a Year: You saw this one coming, right? Your daily dental health care habits are essential, but so is the attention and care of a dentist. A professional teeth cleaning alone is worth the trip, but we can also identify issues before they become serious, and treat them.

At Love Your Smile in Kelowna we are humbled that people from Mission, V1Y 8B7, and V1W 3C6 trust us with their smiles. Our services include general and restorative dentistry. Contact us 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

ArticleID 8574

Fluoride Treatments: Not Just For Kids

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

fluoride treatment Kelowna

You rarely hear the word “toothpaste” without it being preceded by “fluoride.” Fluoride toothpaste is good for teeth, and at Love Your Smile in Kelowna, we encourage its use.

Fluoride is an essential mineral that helps your teeth stay strong. It is found in some foods and water and makes toothpastes more effective at fighting cavities. Fluoride helps teeth by making them stronger and more resistant to the harmful acid that is formed by bacteria.

If you wonder if you or your child is getting enough fluoride, talk to us about fluoride supplements. We will let you know if they are required and determine the precise supplement dosage.

At Love Your Smile in Kelowna, we are committed to maintaining the dental health of each of our valued patients. People come to us from Mission, V1Y 8B7, and V1W 3C6 for general and restorative dentistry. Contact us 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

 

ArticleID 7073

Take Care Of Your Toothbrush!

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

Kelowna Dental Patients Take Care Of Your Toothbrush!

The common household toothbrush. Every home has at least one, and at Love Your Smile in Kelowna, we hope our patients are all brushing their teeth after each meal. Regular brushing and flossing are still the most important things you can do for your dental health.

It has been said that each toothbrush can contain millions of bacteria. But when you’ve got a healthy immune system, they pose no threat.

That said, a few common-sense tips might keep any unnecessary germs from affecting your toothbrushes.

  • Be sure to store your toothbrush as far away from the toilet as possible, and close the toilet lid before flushing. Each flush of the toilet releases a spray of bacteria into the air, so it’s best to just eliminate the spray.
  • Bacteria like a moist environment, so store your toothbrush upright so it can dry completely between uses.
  • Replace your toothbrush every three to four months.

Brushing and flossing are the key to good oral health, and doing both each day will keep your risk for gum disease, cavities, and bad breath low.

At Love Your Smile in Kelowna, your dental health is our top priority every single day. Services include restorative dentistry and smile design. Schedule your next cleaning and checkup 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

ArticleID 4058