Are Your Eating Habits Sabotaging Your Oral Health?

dental enamel erosion treatment Kelowna

Most Kelowna residents know that frequently eating foods high in sugar can cause cavities. Therefore, it’s important to limit candy, soda, cookies, etc. Also, remember that frequency is as dangerous as the amount of sugar.

Research has found that a higher frequency in sugar consumption may lead to demineralization more than the amount of sugar consumed. In other words, eating sugary foods in small amounts on a regular basis can do more harm than eating the occasional sugar-laden dessert. (Healthline)

Tooth Enamel Varies in Density

Before we discuss the issue further, let’s review the miracle substance that protects our teeth: enamel. While enamel is the hardest substance in the body, it’s not invincible. In fact, it demineralizes (loses some of its density) when it comes in contact with sugar, acids and bacteria.

Let’s consider additional eating habits and how they can affect oral health.

Acid is as Bad as Sugar

First, let’s talk about acids. A plethora of both healthy and unhealthy foods and drinks are acidic. Soda pop and energy drinks are especially dangerous because they have sugar and acid, a dangerous combo. Plus, they provide virtually no nutrition. However, you probably don’t want to limit all acidic foods like citrus fruits and tomatoes. Many acidic foods and beverages are high in Vitamin C and other nutrients.

You can shield your teeth by eating these things as part of a meal to decrease the acidic effects. It is smart to eat a variety of healthy foods such as chicken, cheeses, chicken, other meats, nuts and milk. The calcium and phosphorus will support tooth remineralization.

Meal Timing Makes a Difference

The more frequently you eat the more often your teeth are subject to the decay process. This can be moderated by deciding on healthy snacks. And keep in mind, the later at night you eat, the more likely you will skip brusing and flossing altogether.

Enamel Erosion

While the enamel is soft, the tooth is exposed to losing a microscopic outer layer of enamel. If the onslaught continues, the much softer dentin underneath is exposed. The dentin erodes more quickly. Eventually, you may lose the tooth.

Understand Which Foods are Acidic

Broadly speaking, the normal diet is becoming more acidic. The list of acidic foods may surprise you. They include eggs, gravy, asparagus, chicken, cottage cheese, honey, fish, ham, butter, sour cream, aged cheese, and yogurt with active cultures. Generally, foods with a high sugar or artificial sweetener content are especially acidic. We don’t recommend cutting out the healthy foods. We just want you to be aware of them so you can make better choices.

If your teeth have become more sensitive in general, or in response to hot or cold foods or liquids, you may have enamel erosion. Call us to schedule an appointment and Dr. Malfair can examine your teeth and discuss it with you.

Is Your Go-To Beverage Affecting Your Teeth?

Now let’s talk about beverages. You probably already know that soda pop and wine are not good for your teeth. Kelowna teenagers that sip soda all day can have acid erosion while their young teeth should be at their healthiest. As mentioned, energy drinks have a multitude of teeth-damaging ingredients. Dentists are noticing the impact of their increasing popularity.

If you drink soda or energy drinks often, you may want to drink water or chew sugarless gum after downing a can. Increasing saliva production can energize the remineralization process.

Xylitol Gum

If you choose to chew gum to stimulate saliva production, a good choice is gum with Xylitol. Xylitol is a natural sweetener that was first discovered in birch tree bark but is also found in many fruits and vegetables. Unlike most other sweeteners (natural or synthetic), xylitol is actually beneficial for your teeth.

Several clinical studies have demonstrated that xylitol prohibits the growth of the bacteria that initiates tooth decay. It also diminishes plaque and strengthens tooth enamel.

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

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

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


Periodontal Disease Is Linked To Systemic Diseases

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What do your gums do?

The soft tissue in your mouth, like skin, has an essential job. It protects the roots of your teeth. It also provides a barrier for the connective tissues and ligaments that hold your teeth in their sockets. Plus the alveolar bone in which your teeth are anchored.

What is gum disease?

Gum disease starts with inflammation. Gums become swollen and tender. In its early stages, gum disease is called gingivitis. As the disease advances, the gums pull away from the teeth, creating pockets. This is called periodontitis or periodontal disease.

What causes gingivitis?

Bacteria are always present in the oral cavity. When it is left on the teeth and gums, it turns into plaque. Plaque is a thick coating of bacteria on your gums and teeth. Plaque accumulates if it is not removed by rinsing, brushing, and flossing. If plaque builds up in the pockets, the gums can start loosening. When plaque hardens, it is called tartar or calculus. You can’t brush away tartar with your toothbrush. You need to have a professional dental cleaning.

What are signs of gum disease?

  • Inflamed gums
  • Bad breath
  • Detached gums
  • A change in the color of gums
  • Loose or shifting teeth
  • Pain and tenderness
  • Pus between teeth and gums
  • Teeth that appear longer
  • Growing spaces between teeth
  • Changes in your bite

How does gingivitis threaten your health?

Gum disease boosts your risk of:

  • Stroke
  • Heart disease
  • Heart attacks
  • Diabetes
  • Cancer
  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • Osteoporosis
  • Asthma
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Low infant birth weight

Can periodontitis be prevented?

Yes. Proper dental hygiene, professional dental cleanings, and a nutritious diet can keep gums healthy.

For information on treatment for periodontitis, schedule a gum disease exam and consultation by calling 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


A Dentist’s Indispensable Tool: The X-ray

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Providing quality dental care is much easier for dentists when they have extensive, comprehensive information about their patients’ oral health.

Pictures are more useful than written notes. To go a step further: pictures that show what’s going on below the visible surface of your teeth are worth even more than a thousand words. So, along with a thorough visual examination, most dentists want complete and up-to-date X-rays.

The frequency of X-rays is largely determined by your age as well as the state of your oral health. Because children are growing and they experience more changes to their teeth, they usually need X-rays more often.

X-rays also help dentists find cavities, assess gum health, and identify any major changes to your teeth and mouth.

Safety is an important issue Dr. Malfair considers when ordering X-rays, because low levels of radiation are used to obtain the images. Many important precautions are taken to limit exposure, such as putting leaded aprons and collars on our patients.

It is crucial that women inform their dentist if they are pregnant because special considerations should be taken.

Along with basic dental health issues, we are happy to discuss the many cosmetic dentistry procedures available, such as dental implants, teeth whitening, and full smile makeovers. We want you to have the healthy, brilliant smile that you deserve!

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


Did You Know That You Can Change the Shape of Your Gums?

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Most dental patients know that cosmetic, restorative, and orthodontic dentistry procedures correct a multitude of smile flaws. There are treatments to reshape teeth, straighten teeth, correct damaged teeth, whiten teeth, and replace missing teeth. But what about your gums? Are you aware of how much your gums affect the look of your smile?

You Can Contour Your Gums

The shape and size of your gumline can make your teeth appear too large or too small or otherwise out of proportion. Gum contouring can fix gums that appear too low or too high in relation to the teeth and shape them for the perfect smile.

People who are unhappy with their gums might want to examine gum contouring. Many dentists and periodontists offer gum contouring surgery.

Gingival Sculpting

This procedure is also called gingival sculpting, gingival contouring or gum graft surgery, but don’t let the term surgery frighten you. Cosmetic gum contouring is performed using a precision laser. The procedure usually involves little pain and requires no recovery time.

Gum Contouring Can Treat Gum Recession

Gum reshaping is not always done for purely cosmetic reasons, it is also used to treat gum recession, a common condition that can lead to decay and tooth loss.

In gum graft surgery, soft tissue is often taken either from the roof of the mouth, the area surrounding the site of the grafting, or a tissue bank. Soft tissue grafts used to cover exposed tooth roots protect teeth from receding gums and can relieve sensitivity. Of course, gum grafts often increase the attractiveness of the smile in the process.

If you are seeking more specifics about gum contouring or other dental procedures, call Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair today at 250-860-8900 to schedule a consultation.

We provide quality dentistry to patients in Kelowna and the greater Kelowna area.

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


How Much Do You Know About Gum Disease?

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1. Which of the following are risk factors for gum disease (periodontitis)?

a. Pregnancy
b. Overbite
c. Diabetes
d. Genetics

2. Which of the things listed below are possible signs of gum disease?

a. Teeth that appear longer
b. A change in the way dentures fit
c. Loose teeth
d. Tender gums

3. Which of the items below are possible health problems linked to untreated gum disease?

a. Asthma
b. Low birth weight babies
c. Parkinson’s disease
d. Stroke

4. What percentage of men and women age 65+ have gum disease?

a. 5%
b. 12%
c. 25%
d. 50%

5. Which of the following procedures are used for gum disease?

a. Scaling and root planing
b. Gum grafting
c. Flap surgery
d. Flip surgery

Answers
1. All of the above. Pregnancy, menopause, or any other condition that causes hormonal changes is a risk factor as is any type of malocclusion.
2. All of the above. Note: some patients don’t observe any symptoms.
3. a,b,d.
4. c.
5. a,b,c.

Hi, I’m Dr. Malfair of Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair in Kelowna. Gum disease usually responds favorably to treatment—especially if caught early. If you haven’t seen a dentist in a while, or have been noticing issues with your gums or teeth, I invite you to call 250-860-8900 today to schedule an appointment.

Sources:
John Donavan, “5 Things You Didn’t Know About Your Teeth,” WebMD, December 15, 2015, http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/5-things-you-didnt-know-about-your-teeth#3, accessed March 20, 2017
“Periodontal (Gum) Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments,” National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/OralHealth/Topics/GumDiseases/PeriodontalGumDisease.htm, accessed March 20, 2017
“Diseases and Conditions Periodontitis,” Mayo Clinic, February 4, 2014, http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/periodontitis/basics/risk-factors/con-20021679, accessed March 20, 2017

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


Does Your Smile Make a Great First Impression?

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In a Match.com survey, over 5,000 single men and women were asked what they found most attractive in a potential dating partner. 60% of men and 71% of women said straight, white teeth and an attractive smile was the most valued feature.

and…

Research by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), found that a healthy, beautiful smile makes you appear more intelligent, successful, friendly, and interesting.

plus…

Research reveals that many people believe when meeting someone for the first time, an attractive smile makes a deeper impression than the first thing a person says.

Hopefully, we’ve successfully made the case that most people place great importance on the quality of a person’s smile.

Have you ever wondered how a more attractive smile could improve your life?

Our smile makeover patients at Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair in Kelowna have discovered the power of a beautiful smile firsthand. Not surprisingly, they not only appreciate their attractive smile for themselves, they feel more confident in their personal and professional circles.

I’m Stephen Malfair of Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair in Kelowna. I enjoy improving my patients’ lives by transforming their smiles.

It starts with a consultation where I work with each patient to design a custom treatment plan.

What would you like to change about your smile?

  • Tooth stains?
  • Crooked teeth?
  • Chipped teeth?
  • Missing teeth?
  • Gum recession?

There are cosmetic dental treatments that can correct each of these issues and more!

If not now, when?

There has never been a better time to enhance your smile. It’s an investment in yourself that will pay off every day.

We have performed smile makeovers for patients in all life stages. Clearly, you are never too young or too old to enjoy a healthy, attractive smile.

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

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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


Do You Have The Most Common Dental Problem?

Kelowna Teeth Whitening

Tooth decay is the single most common dental issue there is. Brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day goes a long way toward preventing it. That’s something we stress to all of our patients, at Love Your Smile in Kelowna!

Cavities form when acids in the mouth attack the enamel and dentin of the teeth. The acid is produced by bacteria in plaque, that sticky film that forms on the surfaces of teeth. When sugar is introduced it interacts with the bacteria in the plaque, and makes the acids, which attack the teeth and cause cavities.

That’s why it is so important to choose food and drink wisely. But it isn’t easy, is it? Sugar seems to be in just about everything. Health experts say the average person in the United States consumes about 19.5 teaspoons of sugar every single day! That is twice as much as is recommended by the American Heart Association.

Knowing how much sugar is in the food that you buy is vital: not just to your teeth, but to your overall health. Reading ingredient labels on processed foods is essential.

At Love Your Smile in Kelowna we want the best possible dental health for all of our patients. So cut back on sugar, brush your teeth at least twice a day, don’t forget to floss, and see us for a cleaning and checkup every six months. People from Mission, V1Y 8B7, and V1W 3C6 come to our practice for family and cosmetic dentistry. Schedule an appointment with 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