The Link Between Gum Disease and Viral Infections

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

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

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

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Dental Checkup: How Often?

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

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Why Trust Your Dental Health To Love Your Smile?

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

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Fluoride Treatments: Not Just For Kids

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

 

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Take Care Of Your Toothbrush!

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

7 Surprising Causes Of Bad Breath

bad breath treatment Kelowna

People with chronic bad breath understand the embarrassment and frustration associated with this ailment. If you’re among them, don’t hesitate to bring it up at your next appointment with Love Your Smile dentistry in Kelowna.

There are several possible causes of bad breath, including some that are often overlooked:

  1. Poor oral hygiene
  2. Digestive problems
  3. Systemic infection
  4. Bacteria on dentures
  5. Gum disease
  6. Food particles on tonsils
  7. Dry mouth

We can help you with this distressing issue. If your bad breath is the result of poor oral hygiene, you’re in luck—this is one of the least complicated types to treat. If you have visited our dental blog before, you know step one: make sure you brush for a full three minutes and floss before you climb into bed.

People who have no idea how long they brush can set a timer (there is probably one on your smartphone). In addition to cleaning tooth surfaces, scrub your tongue! Then take the time to carefully floss around each tooth to wash away the plaque between your teeth and keep your gums healthy.

Some people brush after each meal to prevent food debris from sitting on their teeth during the day. In addition to freshening your breath, this is really good for  your dental health!

At Love Your Smile in Kelowna, your dental health is our top priority. Services include smile design and children’s dentistry . 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

 

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Trust Dr. Malfair For Accurate Dental Info

Kelowna family dentistry

Dental patients are more informed than ever before and it’s not surprising that much of their knowledge about dentistry is gleaned from online sources. Proactive self-education can be beneficial for you and your family, especially if it helps with living a healthy lifestyle. We caution our friends and neighbors in the Kelowna area, however, not to take online dental information at face value. As the saying goes, trust but verify.

Misconceptions about medical treatment in general and dentistry in particular began circulating long before personal computers became ubiquitous, but the web has accelerated the speed and distance they can travel.

Some of the most prevalent dental myths are focused on the safety of x-rays, the risk of root canals, the facts about fluoride, and the effectiveness of alternative practices such as oil pulling.

In worst-case scenarios, patients delay or avoid necessary dental treatment because of something they encounter online. We encourage our patients to discuss all areas of concern with the team at Love Your Smile. You can count on us for accurate information and quality care.

At Love Your Smile, we are enthusiastic about keeping your smile healthy and beautiful for life. Our motives are straightforward and transparent. You can’t always determine who operates and funds online dental sites, so be careful out there!

Since 2004, Love Your Smile in Kelowna has provided distinctive general dentistry and dental aesthetics. 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

 


Infant And Toddler Teeth Q&A

Kelowna pediatric dentistry

Today’s post is for new Kelowna parents. It contains helpful guidance about caring for baby’s and toddler’s teeth.

How should I clean my toddler’s teeth?
For infants, gently wipe their gums with a piece of gauze or soft cloth. We do not recommend any toothpaste for infants.

When your child is three, a pea-sized amount (but no more!) is recommended. Young children rarely spit after you brush their teeth, they swallow. When your child’s teeth start to appear, you can use a very soft brush to softly wipe away food and liquid left on the teeth after feeding.

When should my child see a dentist for the first time?

We recommend that parents to take their child to a dentist before their first birthday, or when their first tooth appears. This is vital for their oral health and also to help them become comfortable with a dentist from an early age.

What should I do if my toddler has a toothache?
First, call your dentist to make an appointment. Some practices will let you come in without a pre-scheduled appointment for dental emergencies. Rinse the sore tooth and surrounding gums with warm salt water. Don’t put aspirin directly on the tooth. If your child will let you, use a cold compress on the outside of the cheek to relieve swelling. You can give your child acetaminophen unless your pediatrician advises against it.

How can I prevent my toddler from getting cavities?

  • Have your child get their first dental check-up before their first birthday, or when their first tooth appears.
  • Have your child get a dental check-up every six months or more frequently if your dentist advises.
  • Brush your child’s teeth gently but thoroughly before they go to bed.
  • If possible, brush your child’s teeth after meals, or have them rinse with water.
  • Don’t let your child sleep with a bottle unless it only contains water.
  • Don’t let your child drink juice all day – it is best to have juice along with a meal.
  • Limit or avoid sugary snacks – especially gummy types that stick to the teeth. (A fresh apple is better than a pack of fruit snacks).
  • Consume acidic foods and beverages with meals to protect enamel.
  • If your child sucks his/her thumb after the age of three, meet with your dentist or pediatrician.
  • If your child grinds his/her teeth, seek guidance from your dentist or pediatrician.
  • Make sure your child has a healthy diet with all the necessary vitamins and minerals.
  • If your child has special medical conditions, seek further direction from your pediatric dentist.
  • If you have acute tooth decay, seek additional advice from your pediatric dentist.
  • Follow your dentist’s or pediatrician’s recommendations regarding fluoride supplements and fluoridated water. Remember that too much fluoride is toxic.
  • Follow your dentist’s advice regarding dental sealants.
  • Monitor your child’s tooth development and see your dentist if anything appears unusual.
  • Protect your child’s teeth with a mouth protector when they start participating in sports.
  • Model proper dental hygiene every day. Your example is important.

Should I avoid dental x-rays of my child’s teeth?
No. Modern dental x-rays are extremely safe when proper protocols are followed. The diagnostic advantage greatly outweighs the almost non-existent risk of dangerous radiation exposure.

If child’s baby teeth are widely spaced, does that mean their permanent teeth will be too far apart?

No, this is normal and does not necessarily mean that their permanent teeth will be spaced too far apart.

At Love Your Smile in Kelowna, we provide general dentistry and dental aesthetics. 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