The utilization of lasers in dental procedures has brought a number of good things for both the dentist and client. Unlike traditional dental procedures, the use of lasers allows the dentists to perform dental procedures with ease. Clients also prefer this over conventional treatment modalities as it involves fewer shots and likely no stitches.

Hard tissue laser is less traumatic, especially to kids. Naturally, kids are afraid of any procedure that involves the teeth. Through proper orientation and guidance, kids can actually view dental visits as something that is fun. When the need arises for their teeth to be filled or repaired, hard tissue laser treatments are the least invasive procedures currently on the market.

The use of this new technology allows lesser vibrations to be felt while the procedure is done. In traditional dentistry, vibrations are stronger and scary. Hard tissue laser treatments target certain areas of the tooth and not the healthy parts of the tooth.

Teeth are also subjected to less heat. This is the reason why some hard tissue laser patients do not need local anesthesia at all. Aside from this, when laser is used to prepare the teeth for a dental procedure like tooth filling, it creates an ideal bonding surface.

If you would like to learn more about the benefits of hard tissue lasers, please contact our team with questions or to book an appointment.

Did you know lasers are now being used in dentistry for the treatment of teeth and gum problems?

Soft tissue laser is being utilized in dental procedures to facilitate healing and repair. Tooth surgeries can become bloody if the affected area is too large. With the help of soft tissue lasers, blood vessels that are open are being closed after subjecting the tissue to laser therapy. Blood clotting is promoted and this process can stop bleeding.

Soft tissue laser promotes healing by increasing the circulation of blood in the area affected. Good circulation will guarantee that a good supply of oxygen is available in areas where it is needed most. When an ample supply of oxygen is found in the body’s circulation, wounds are repaired and healed faster. Coupled with good nutrition and dental hygiene, soft laser tissue will hasten healing.

With the use of soft tissue laser, swelling can also be prevented or minimized. Passing a beam of laser over the mouth area after procedures can at least help in the prevention of inflammation. In reality, lasers will stand in as an immediate relief from inflammation. The use of soft tissue laser in dental procedures can help alleviate impending signs of inflammation and infection.

Learn more about soft tissue lasers from the team at Kerrisdale General & Cosmetic Dentistry.

Unlike other restorative procedures, the ideal candidates for dental implants are those still in good general and oral health. For this reason, before undergoing the procedure, the dentist should check if the patient has adequate bone in his or her jaw. This is needed to support the implant. Hence, the best candidates should be free of any periodontal disease.

Periodontists are dental experts who are specialized in these types of dental implants. Both your dentist and periodontist can work together as a team to bring forth better result of the procedure. In the line of treatment, both your periodontist and dentist will discuss with you where and how your implant should be placed. Here is some information for you to better understand why and how the treatment is done.

Most dental implants are done for replacing a tooth or several ones. If you are missing a tooth, your dental team will advise you to an implant and a crown. If you are replacing several teeth, they will do implant-supported bridges. However, if you are going to replace all of your teeth, then you are going to need an implant-supported full bridge or full denture to replace them.

For successful dental implants, the patient may also require sinus augmentation or ridge modification. Sinus modification is done by raising the sinus floor and developing bone for the placement of dental implants. This is frequently done if the implants are to be placed on the upper jaw. On the other hand, ridge modification may be done when there are deformities in the upper or lower jaw which leave you with inadequate bone in which to place dental implants. Consequently, to correct the problem, the gum is lifted away from the ridge to expose the bony defect. Then, the defect will be filled with bone or bone substitute to build up the ridge. This procedure can greatly improve the appearance and heighten the success of implants.

Considering dental implants? Give us a call and we’ll be happy to help you understand more about dental implants or book you an appointment.

The two most common procedures done to correct missing teeth are by surgically implanting dental implants or fitting dentures. The question now is: “Which is better, dentures or dental implants?”

There’s no need to go through life with missing teeth. False teeth or dentures are the most common alternative which people choose. Though it may be good as well as cheaper than having dental implants, dentures are not ideal for everyone despite the improved quality over years and years of development. Dentures are not securely placed on your gums and might fall off anytime. What you have to do is to place denture adhesive to prevent this from happening. Someone with dentures may also experience discomfort when eating or speaking. Dentures promote infection and decay in other teeth if they aren’t fitted properly. If this happens, then you are going to be in need of a tooth filling on the abutment or adjoining tooth. Hence, dentures are given to those who have an already weak jaw and unhealthy gums.

Another way of fixing missing teeth is through surgically placing dental implants. These are only done to those still having healthy jaw and gums. Because dental implants are directly rooted on your jaw bone then there is a great possibility that you still can retain the usual function you had when you still have your natural teeth. If you could maintain good oral hygiene, dental implants can last for 20 years or more. You are not going to be of need of any replacement. You will not worry about your implanted teeth falling off. These are the reasons why when thinking over the choice between dental implants vs. dentures, there are many cons when you restore your teeth using dental implants.

To book an appointment or to learn more about dental implants and dentures, contact our team.

A smile definitely speaks volumes. With a smile, you can establish ties with strangers, build bridges with your family members, and inspire confidence in everyone that you meet. With that being said, you know that having a perfect smile is essential in one’s social life. No one can resist those beautiful, glittering pearly whites. However, not all teeth are alike and not everyone is born with perfect teeth. Consulting a cosmetic dentist can get quite expensive, but many people are willing to invest in a beautiful, healthy smile. Here are a few tips for a naturally white smile.

One of the most important tips for a naturally white smile is to eliminate whatever causes your teeth to have those ugly discolorations. Eliminate bad habits, such as smoking. Limit drinks such as coffee, red wine, and dark coloured sodas, as these tend to stain your teeth. Since teeth are porous, they absorb staining particles.

There are many teeth whiteners out there that you could purchase at your nearest drugstore. However, these ingredients tend to be harsh, since they contain bleaching agents. In some cases, they might do more harm to your teeth than good. One of the tried and tested tips for a naturally white smile is the use of baking soda. It is generally safe to use and is non-irritating. It is gentle to use on teeth, and is effective in the fight against plaque and bacteria. You could use baking soda on your teeth, as you would your normal toothpaste.

Another one of the more favorite tips for a naturally white smile is the use of strawberries. These are not only tasty, but they guarantee to eliminate stains you get from drinking too much tea and coffee. For a natural whitening solution, all you have to do is to mash the strawberry into a pulp, and rinse and brush your teeth, as you would normally do. Eating strawberries is also known to help whiten teeth, as well.

When it comes to whitening teeth, the natural method is the way to go. Not only are they effective at whitening, but they guarantee a gentle and chemical-free treatment, as well. If you want to get a healthier and brighter smile, it is best to follow these tips for a naturally white smile.

Smiling is a natural thing that we do especially when we are happy or pleased with something that we did, see, hear or feel. Apart from reflecting how we feel on the inside, there are several different benefits of smiling that we may not be familiar with. Smiling can positively affect our physical mood, social interactions, health disposition, and many different other things. Here 3 of the most notable benefits you receive when you smile.

One of the benefits of smiling is that it helps you interact with other people more pleasantly. Smiling creates a positive influence on others that can be infectious and lighten up a whole room. It makes you seem more trustworthy, approachable and enthusiastic. This makes conversations much easier, more pleasant and more open.

Secondly, smiling has several medical benefits! Smiling relieves stress and boosts your mood if you’re feeling down. It can also boost your immune system because when you smile, your body also relaxes and is able to function more properly. This also means that your blood pressure also lowers. Smiling also exerts less effort than frowning which means less wrinkles and fine lines. Studies have even shown that people who smile more live for longer compared to people who don’t smile as much.

Finally, one of the best benefits of smiling is that it gives you a naturally positive disposition. When you’re happy and smiling, your body releases chemicals called endorphins and serotonin which can induce a natural happy state of being. Smiling encourages you to stay positive.

Smiling should be a natural part of your day as there are too many benefits to just ignore. If you are uncomfortable with your smile because of some teeth problem, be sure to visit Kerrisdale General & Cosmetic Dentistry and they can help you get that winning smile you’ve always wanted.

Here at Kerrisdale General and Cosmetic Dentistry, we understand that our Vancouver dental  patients may suffer from dental anxiety and therefore can be extremely reluctant to contact us and book an appointment. Research has identified the Top 3 anxiety-causing reasons about dental visits – and here’s what we’re doing to make your every visit to Kerrisdale General and Cosmetic Dentistry, your Vancouver dentist, something to look forward to!

• Pain

Fear of pain is completely natural and the oral health care experts at your Vancouver dentist, Kerrisdale General and Cosmetic Dentistry understand that anxiety associated with needles and the idea of pain/discomfort in the mouth can convince patients they’re better off suffering from oral health care issues than coming to the dentist. However, we want to set the record straight. Most dental procedures are currently pain-free. If you require sedation and dislike needles, we’ll offer you alternative options or conceal the needle if necessary.

• Embarrassment

90% of patients in one recent study reported that embarrassment is the no. 1 reason why they don’t visit the dentist. If you’re worried that you’ve neglected your teeth and your oral health care, come in for an appointment and learn about your oral health care options at Kerrisdale General and Cosmetic Dentistry, your Vancouver dentist. We’re here to help and we promise we won’t lecture you! After all, we’re your oral health care partner and your oral health is just as important to us as it is to you.

• Control

If you don’t like feeling like you have no control over what happens in the dentist chair, come to Kerrisdale General and Cosmetic Dentistry, your Vancouver dentist, for a dental experience like no other. We promise to do our best to communicate with you, both online and offline. We’ll work out a system that allows you to alert us to any trouble or discomfort during a procedure.

At Kerrisdale General and Cosmetic Dentistry, our goal is to give you the best dental experience possible. Contact us today and find out why we should be your choice for Vancouver dentist.

Subscribe to the Kerrisdale General and Cosmetic Dentistry Dental Blog for more secrets straight from your dentist. We’re social, too! Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

If you’re suffering from a toothache, contact your Vancouver dentist, Kerrisdale General and Cosmetic Dentistry as soon as possible – your tooth may be abscessed and require emergency dental care. Come in to Kerrisdale General and Cosmetic Dentistry to avoid complications such as surgery or a tooth extraction if you experience any type of toothache.

The good news is, there are some tried and true toothache pain relief methods and here they are, brought to you by the caring team of oral health care experts at Kerrisdale General and Cosmetic Dentistry, your Vancouver dentist.

• Cold Compress

Applying a cold compress to your jaw should alleviate a toothache. The cold reduces blood flow to the site and therefore reduces swelling and pain. Apply a cold compress as often as necessary until the pain subsides.

• Pain Medication

Pain medication can help relieve a toothache but be sure not to exceed the recommended dose. Pain relievers such as aspirin and Advil typically contain anti-inflammatory medicine which can reduce the pain and swelling associated with a toothache.

• Warm Salt Water and Baking Soda

Salt and Baking Soda combine to make an excellent anti-bacterial mouth-rise that can help reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth and potentially reduce the swelling and pain that stems from a toothache.

• Clove Oil and Garlic

Pure clove oil, available in most drugstores, can act as a numbing agent if applied directly to the tooth. Don’t apply to the gums or apply too much as clove oil can be poisonous in too-high quantities. If you don’t want to use clove oil, a clove of garlic is an excellent substitute – simply hold it against the tooth for a few minutes and rinse with warm water afterward.

Your oral health is important and at your Vancouver dentist, Kerrisdale General and Cosmetic Dentistry, our team of oral health care experts want to share with you the most important oral health secrets that will give you a healthy smile you’ll be proud to show off everywhere.

• If your gums are bleeding, there’s a very high chance you have periodontal (gum) disease. Come for an appointment as soon as possible!
• An oral health care checkup at your Vancouver dentist, Kerrisdale General and Cosmetic Dentistry every 6 months applies only to healthy gums. If you don’t have healthy gums, you’ll want to schedule a checkup at least every 3 months.
• Pay attention to your back teeth when brushing/flossing. We’ve found that Vancouver dental patients at Kerrisdale General and Cosmetic Dentistry focus too much on their visible front teeth.
• Proper oral health care includes 10 minutes of careful brushing and flossing.
• Mouthwash that contains alcohol can dry out your mouth and actually worsen your bad breath.

Subscribe to Kerrisdale General and Cosmetic Dentistry’s blog for more dental secrets and contact us today to take care of your oral health care. We’re social, too! Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Dental extractions (removing teeth) may be a necessary procedure to prevent tooth misalignment in the case of wisdom teeth or to maintain the health of your other teeth and gums. Extractions nowadays are relatively quick and painless, so if you suspect you have a tooth that might require removal, contact your Vancouver dentist, Kerrisdale General and Cosmetic Dentistry today to book an appointment.

If it isn’t practical or possible to repair a tooth, our team of dental experts at your Vancouver dentist Kerrisdale Dental may be required to do a dental extraction. Teeth that are extremely damaged by cavities or extensively chipped/broken will generally be extracted if root canal therapy isn’t a viable option.

Dental extractions are a must for a tooth that’s suffering from advanced periodontitis or gum disease because the chances of the tooth infecting surrounding tissues are high.

Wisdom teeth that are impacted (i.e. won’t be able to develop normally) or that simply don’t have room to grow are generally extracted.

Please contact Kerrisdale General and Cosmetic Dentistry, your Vancouver dentist, if you have any questions or would like to book an appointment.