Restorative, Emergency & Cosmetic Solutions
Preventive & General Care
Cold Sore Treatments
How long do cold sore outbreaks typically last with treatment?
Once you notice that tingling or redness (the “warning tingle”), using antiviral creams or taking prescribed antiviral pills can usually shorten the outbreak to about one to one-and-a-half weeks. Without treatment, cold sores may last up to two weeks. Starting treatment at the very first sign helps the most.
Are over-the-counter remedies enough, or do I need professional care?
For most people who only get a cold sore once in a while, OTC creams (like docosanol) and lip balms help ease pain and speed healing. But if they’re large, very painful, frequent, or accompanied by fever, it’s smarter to see us. Prescription antivirals (e.g. acyclovir) work faster and can even prevent future outbreaks if taken early.
Filling & Sealants (Cavities)
Is the filling process painful?
Thanks to modern local anesthesia (“freezing”), you should only feel pressure or vibrations, not pain. We numb the area first, so you’re completely comfortable—even if we’re fixing a deep cavity.
How long do sealants protect against decay?
Sealants are a thin, plastic coating we “paint” onto grooves of your back teeth to block out food and bacteria. They typically last 3–5 years, and at each cleaning we’ll check and reapply them as needed to keep your teeth safe.
Mouth Guards
Which type is best for teeth grinding (bruxism)?
A custom night guard made from an impression of your teeth is the gold standard. It fits snugly, won’t slip around, and absorbs grinding forces to protect enamel—and your jaw—from damage.
Can a custom mouth guard prevent sports injuries?
Yes! A dentist-made athletic guard is stronger and more comfortable than “boil-and-bite” store versions. It cushions blows, keeping your teeth, lips, and jaw safer during contact sports.
Pediatric Dentistry
When should my child first see a dentist?
The Canadian Dental Association recommends a check-up by age 1 or within six months of the first baby tooth. Early visits help us catch any issues and teach parents the right brushing and diet habits.
How do you help anxious little ones feel comfortable?
We use a “tell-show-do” method: we explain in simple words, show them the tools on a model or puppet, and then do the exam. We also offer fun rewards, let them hold a mirror, and if needed, use gentle nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”) to keep things calm and even a bit fun.
Periodontal Disease Treatment (Gum Disease)
What are the early signs of gum disease?
Watch for gums that:
- Bleed when you brush or floss
- Appear red, swollen, or tender
- Cause persistent bad breath
Catching these early (gingivitis) means it’s fully reversible with a deep cleaning and good home care.
Can gum disease be reversed or only managed?
- Gingivitis (early stage) is fully reversible: we remove plaque/tartar and you brush/floss properly.
- Periodontitis (advanced) can’t be completely undone, but with regular cleanings and improved at-home care, we can halt the damage and keep your smile healthy.
Routine Dental Examination
How often should I get a checkup and cleaning?
For most healthy adults, a checkup and professional cleaning every six months is ideal. If you have a history of cavities or gum issues, we may recommend every three to four months to stay ahead of problems.
What exactly happens during an exam?
- Oral Cancer Screening – a quick look and feel for any unusual lumps or sores.
- Teeth & Gum Check – we probe around your gums to measure pocket depths and spot early decay.
- Scaling & Polishing – removal of built-up plaque and tartar followed by a polish to smooth the surfaces.
- Home-Care Review – we’ll talk through your brushing and flossing habits and suggest any tweaks.
Sedation Dentistry
Is sedation safe for anxious patients?
Yes—when administered by trained professionals and monitored properly, nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”) and oral sedatives are very safe. We’ll review your medical history to pick the right level and keep you comfortable.
What sedation levels are offered?
Minimal: Nitrous oxide inhaled through a mask—you stay awake and responsive but relaxed.
Restorative, Emergency & Cosmetic Solutions
Emergency Dentistry
What qualifies as a dental emergency?
- Severe, unrelenting toothache
- Uncontrolled bleeding after injury
- A knocked-out or broken tooth
- Swelling or signs of spreading infection
If you’re unsure, call us—we’ll help you decide whether to come in right away.
How quickly can I be seen for urgent care?
We strive for same-day emergency slots. Often we can have you in the chair within a few hours, depending on how busy we are.
Dental Crowns & Bridges
How long can I expect a crown to last?
Although many dental crowns last 10–15 years—and some patients report 20+ years of service—clinical studies show a 5-year survival rate of over 92% and a 10-year rate of about 84%. Longevity depends on factors such as crown material, biting forces (e.g., bruxism), remaining tooth structure, and consistent professional maintenance visits. Good oral hygiene and avoiding very hard foods help maximize lifespan, but individual results may vary, so regular check-ups are essential to monitor wear and address any issues early.
Will my insurance cover crowns or bridges?
Most dental plans cover a portion (usually 50–80%) of the cost for crowns and bridges. Exact coverage depends on your specific policy—our team can help verify your benefits before you commit.
Dentures
How do I clean and care for dentures?
- Remove them daily and brush with a soft denture brush and gentle cleanser (not toothpaste).
- Soak in a denture solution overnight to keep them moist and bacterially clean.
- Rinse thoroughly before wearing them again in the morning.
Will dentures affect my speech or eating?
At first, you may notice slight differences in pronunciation (“s” and “th” sounds) and chewing harder foods. Most people adapt fully within a week or two by practicing reading aloud and starting with soft foods.
Root Canal Treatment
Will a root canal hurt?
Absolutely not. After numbing, it feels much like getting a filling. You may have mild soreness afterward, but we’ll give you tips and recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to keep you comfortable.
How long does the procedure typically take?
- Single-rooted tooth (front tooth): about 60–90 minutes.
- Multi-rooted tooth (molar): sometimes split into two visits or up to 120 minutes total. In either case, it’s all done with your comfort and safety as our top priority.
Tooth Extractions
What is a dry socket, and how can I avoid it?
A dry socket happens if the blood clot that forms after extraction is dislodged, exposing bone and nerves. To prevent it:
- Avoid smoking or using straws (suction can pull the clot out).
- Eat soft foods and rinse gently with salt water as instructed.
How should I care for my mouth afterward?
- Bite on gauze pads for the first hour to control bleeding.
- Apply an ice pack to your face to reduce swelling.
- Stick to soft foods and avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting for 24 hours.
- Follow our salt-water rinse schedule to keep the area clean as it heals.
Teeth Whitening
What whitening options are available?
- Custom take-home trays: You wear trays filled with professional-grade gel for 30–60 minutes a day over 1–2 weeks.
- Over-the-counter kits: Lower-strength gels or strips you can buy—but they aren’t as strong or precise as what we provide.
How long will results last, and are they safe?
Under our supervision, professional whitening is very safe. Results typically last 6–12 months, depending on your diet and habits (coffee, red wine, smoking). Touch-up treatments are quick and easy. Important disclaimer: any existing cavities or areas of tooth decay must be treated before beginning a whitening procedure. If you bleach over untreated decay, the whitening agents can penetrate through softened enamel into the dentin and pulp, causing significant sensitivity or even reversible pulpitis. Addressing caries first—as recommended by the CDA—helps ensure a comfortable, pain-free whitening experience