Historically, nobody has ever loved getting dental impressions. The process has been messy, uncomfortable, time-consuming and for those with a severe gag-reflex, just plain anxiety-inducing. We knew there had to be a better way, and we have found it. St. George Village Dental has recently purchased the Primsescan Digital Scanner, the newest technology changing the way dentists perform intraoral scanning.

“The challenge with traditional impressions was that not only were they messy to deal with, but we, as dentists, couldn’t always rely on the end product matching the initial impression we took,” says Dr. Shammick Kotecha, Dentist with St. George Village Dental. “Moving to a digital scanner offers a unique opportunity to remove the typical challenges faced with traditional impressions, while helping increase the comfort and speed to final product for our patients.”

Benefits of Digital Dental Scanners

New 3D scanners are really changing impressions amongst dentists and patients. Gone is the traditional putty needed for getting the right image of your mouth. Now, through the use of a handheld digital scanner, our dental team is able to process more than 1 million 3D points per second, getting accurate readings up to 20mm deep within the tooth. Here’s why digital impressions are changing the game for our patients:

1. Patient comfort: All patients, but especially those with a sensitive gag reflex, appreciate the new scanner. Not only does the digital scanner remove the need for the traditional messy putty material, but the entire process takes a fraction of the time of traditional impressions.
2. Accurate: Within seconds, the Primescan Digital Scanner enables our team to take millions of readings within the mouth, even at the very far corners, meaning better information being shared with the lab creating the restorative dental products. More information equals a better end product.
3. Time Savings: The flow of information between our dental office and the lab takes place in a matter of seconds and minutes rather than days. If there are any concerns with the digital impression, we can be alerted immediately and correct the problem. We area already seeing faster and more accurate turnarounds on all our restorations.

If you are looking for more information on the Primescan Digital Scanner and what that can mean for you, we invite you to talk with our team by calling 1-519-448-3733.

The earlier you start, the earlier they learn

Starting to clean your child’s mouth even before they have teeth helps to build the activity into a routine. An easy way to do this is to clean their mouth by running a clean, soft cloth wet with warm water over their gums and cheeks. Doing this helps to get rid of any food particles and sugars left behind.

Limit sugary snacks

Discouraging grazing on sugar-filled foods or sipping on sugary drinks between meals is a great way to protect your child’s teeth against excess sugar and acids.

Brush for them, with them, then beside them

When your child does start growing teeth, they will not have the motor skills to use a toothbrush so you will have to brush their teeth for them.

When the child is able to hold a tooth brush on their own, guide the toothbrush around their mouth with your own hand to get them used to the proper technique.

When the child is able to brush their own teeth effectively, brush your own teeth beside them to make it something that you can do together twice a day.

A special toothbrush can go a long way

For children who do not enjoy brushing or who fuss at the thought of doing it, buying a special toothbrush in their favourite colour or with their favourite cartoon characters on it can help to make the experience more fun.

At St. George Village Dental we love working with patients of all ages including children. We typically see patients as young as 3 years old. Give us a call to schedule your dental visit with us.

Written By: Helen & Jacquie, your dental hygienists

As dental professionals, we are often asked, ‘Are electric toothbrushes better than manual toothbrushes?’ Determining the best brush for effective plaque removal is determined on the specified needs of the patient.

Manual toothbrushes are cheaper than electric toothbrushes. They can be very effective at plaque removal if used properly. However, improper use can increase gingival or gum inflammation and increase sensitivity to cold and/or sweets. Many patients brushing with a manual toothbrush, brush for a 40 second duration applying pressure that leaves gums ‘tingling’. Unfortunately, plaque remains on tooth surfaces.

Studies have shown that electric toothbrushes reduce plaque by 21% more than brushing with a manual toothbrush. Gingivitis has been shown to be reduced by 11% over a three month period. Electric toothbrushes employ a 2 minute timer and pressure indicator that allow a greater focus on brushing. By reducing plaque in the oral cavity, cavity risk is reduced. Electric toothbrushes reduce inflammation of the gums, reduce sensitivity, remove plaque effectively and increase stain removal from tooth enamel.

Electric toothbrushes are ideal for those patients that have issues with manual dexterity, suffer from arthritis or experience carpal tunnel syndrome. Patients that have developmental disabilities or patients undergoing orthodontic treatment benefit from the use of an electric toothbrush. In these instances, an electric toothbrush is an effective proactive approach in achieving good oral health.

Optimal oral health is achieved by brushing for a 2 minute duration 2 times daily. Effective plaque removal requires focused brushing either with an electric toothbrush or a manual toothbrush. Daily flossing with floss, flossers or soft picks to remove plaque between teeth is essential to keeping gums healthy.

Dr. Kotecha or your dental hygienist can assist with your choice of dental aids. As always, a visit to your dental hygienist on a regular basis as prescribed by the dentist will enhance dental health.