Read more about the article How Often Should You Really Get a Dental Cleaning?

How Often Should You Really Get a Dental Cleaning?

When it comes to keeping your smile bright and your teeth healthy, regular brushing and flossing at home simply aren’t enough. Professional dental cleanings are essential—but how often do you really need to book one? Is twice a year enough for everyone, or do some people need more frequent care? At Expressions Dental™ Calgary, this is one of the most common questions we hear from our patients. Let’s explore how often you should schedule your dental cleanings—and why consistency matters more than you might think. The Standard Answer: Every Six Months For most people, a dental cleaning every six months is recommended. This allows your dental hygienist to: • Remove hardened plaque (tartar) that brushing can’t handle • Polish away surface stains for a whiter smile • Detect early signs of cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer • Catch minor issues before they become major (and costly) problems Why six months? Tartar tends to accumulate steadily over time, and waiting longer could lead to gum irritation, bad breath, and more serious oral health issues. But Not Everyone is the Same: Personalizing Your Schedule While the “every six months” rule works for many, some people should visit more often. Factors that can increase your need for professional cleanings include: ▸ Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease) • Patients with gum disease should typically come in every 3–4 months. • Frequent cleanings help control bacterial buildup that causes gum inflammation and bone loss. ▸ Smokers • Tobacco use increases plaque buildup and risks of gum disease and oral cancer. • Smokers often benefit from 3–4 month cleaning intervals. ▸ Diabetic Patients • Diabetes makes individuals more prone to gum infections. • Cleanings every 3–4 months help reduce risk. ▸ Braces or Invisalign Wearers • Orthodontic appliances make cleaning teeth more difficult. • Professional cleanings every 4–6 months are often recommended. ▸ Pregnant Women • Hormonal changes increase susceptibility to gingivitis. • More frequent cleanings during pregnancy can help protect oral and overall health. ▸ History of Frequent Cavities • If you’re cavity-prone, your dentist may suggest visiting every 4 months to keep decay in check. Why Regular Dental Cleanings Matter Even with diligent brushing and flossing, plaque can harden into tartar in hard-to-reach spots. Only professional tools can remove tartar effectively. Routine cleanings can help you: • Prevent tooth decay • Avoid gum disease • Maintain fresh breath • Catch oral health problems early • Enjoy a whiter, brighter smile Skipping your cleanings could lead to cavities, gum recession, and eventually tooth loss—not to mention more expensive treatments down the road. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Can I wait longer than 6 months between cleanings if my teeth feel fine? Even if you’re not experiencing pain, plaque and tartar are building up silently. Delaying cleanings risks hidden decay or gum issues progressing without symptoms. 2. Does insurance cover dental cleanings? Most dental insurance plans in Alberta cover two cleanings per year. Additional cleanings (if medically necessary) may also be covered with dentist documentation. We offer…

Read more about the article Chipped a Tooth? Here’s How Emergency Dental Care Can Help

Chipped a Tooth? Here’s How Emergency Dental Care Can Help

It can happen in an instant—a crunch on a hard candy, an accidental elbow during a game, or an unexpected fall. Whatever the cause, a chipped tooth can be both painful and unsettling. If you're in Calgary and you've found yourself in this situation, it's important to know you're not alone—and more importantly, that help is readily available. At Expressions Dental™, we understand the urgency and discomfort that comes with dental emergencies. In this blog, we'll walk you through what to do if you chip a tooth, how emergency dental care can help, and what to expect during your visit. First Things First: Is a Chipped Tooth a Dental Emergency? Not all chipped teeth are created equal. Some may be minor and purely cosmetic, while others may involve nerve exposure, bleeding, or sharp pain. Here are signs you should seek emergency dental care right away: • Persistent pain or sensitivity to hot or cold • Bleeding around the affected tooth or gums • Swelling in the mouth or face • Sharp or jagged edges that may cut your tongue or cheeks • The tooth is loose, cracked deeply, or has broken off completely When in doubt, don't wait. Call an emergency dentist immediately to assess the severity. What to Do Right After You Chip a Tooth Here’s a simple action plan to follow: 1. Rinse Your Mouth Use warm water to clean the area gently. This helps remove any blood, food particles, or bacteria. 2. Apply a Cold Compress If there’s swelling, use a cold compress or ice pack on your cheek for 10-15 minutes at a time. 3. Control Bleeding (if any) Apply gentle pressure with a piece of clean gauze or cloth if the gum is bleeding. 4. Find and Save the Tooth Fragment If you can, retrieve any broken pieces and store them in a clean container of milk or saliva. Bring it with you to the clinic—your dentist may be able to reattach it. 5. Avoid Eating on That Side Stick to soft foods and avoid biting down on anything hard until you've seen your dentist. How Emergency Dentists Treat a Chipped Tooth At Expressions Dental™ Calgary, our emergency dentists take a tailored approach based on the location, size, and severity of the chip. Here’s how we might help: Minor Chips (Cosmetic) For small surface chips that don’t affect the tooth’s structure or nerves: • Dental bonding: A tooth-coloured resin is shaped and polished to restore the tooth’s appearance. • Smoothing: Sometimes, minor rough edges can simply be polished for comfort and aesthetics. Moderate Chips When more tooth structure is lost: • Composite fillings or onlays may be used to rebuild the tooth. • Porcelain veneers can restore front teeth with larger chips for a flawless look. Severe Chips or Fractures If the damage exposes the inner pulp: • Root canal treatment might be necessary to remove infected tissue. • Crowns are then used to protect and restore the tooth’s integrity. • In rare cases, tooth…

Read more about the article The Ultimate Guide to Root Canal Treatment: Everything You Need to Know

The Ultimate Guide to Root Canal Treatment: Everything You Need to Know

Welcome to the most comprehensive guide on Root Canal Treatment you'll ever need! At Expressions Dental, we're committed to providing you with the best dental care, and that includes educating you on various dental procedures. So, let's dive right in! Table of Contents What is Root Canal Treatment? How Painful is a Root Canal? Why Do Root Canals Take 2 Visits? Is a Root Canal a Major Procedure? Do I Need a Crown After a Root Canal? Root Canal Recovery Time FAQs Conclusion What is Root Canal Treatment? A root canal is a dental procedure aimed at treating infection at the center of a tooth. It involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning the pulp chamber, and sealing it. For more details on what a root canal involves, check out our Root Canal Treatment Steps. Why Do Root Canals Take 2 Visits? Typically, root canals require two visits: one for cleaning and shaping the root canal, and the second for filling and sealing the tooth. The two-step process ensures that all infection is eliminated. Read more about what to expect during a dental visit. Is a Root Canal a Major Procedure? While it's more complex than a dental filling, a root canal is a standard procedure that many dentists perform. It's generally considered a minor to moderate procedure. For more on dental procedures, visit our Root Canal page. Do I Need a Crown After a Root Canal? In most cases, a crown is recommended to protect the tooth and restore its function. Learn more about dental crowns and their benefits. Root Canal Recovery Time The average recovery time is a few days to a week. During this period, you may experience some discomfort, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. For more on recovery, read our guide on Root Canal Recovery. FAQs Can You Eat After a Root Canal? Yes, but it’s advisable to wait until the anesthesia wears off to avoid biting your cheek. Stick to soft foods for the first few days. Learn more about post-procedure care. Do You Need Antibiotics After a Root Canal? Antibiotics are generally not required unless the infection has spread to other areas. What is the Average Age for a Root Canal? Root canals are most common among adults aged 30 to 50, but they can be performed at any age. What Not to Do After a Root Canal? Avoid hard and crunchy foods, and refrain from smoking or drinking alcohol for at least 48 hours. Are You Put to Sleep for a Root Canal? Sedation is optional and can be discussed with your dentist. Is it Better to Do a Root Canal or Extraction? A root canal is generally preferred to save the natural tooth. However, in severe cases, extraction may be necessary. Learn more about Tooth Extraction. When is it Too Late to Avoid a Root Canal? If the tooth is severely decayed and the infection has spread, a root canal may not be effective. How Long Does Root Canal Pain…

Read more about the article What services can a General Dentist provide?

What services can a General Dentist provide?

General dentists are students of dental sciences who have graduated from an accredited dental school and hold a degree in general dentistry. A general dentist will provide you with preventive dental check-ups, ensure any dental disorder is treated at the earliest, offer professional cleanings, and restorative services to name a few. A general dentist would ideally provide a wide range of dental services. However, on rare occasions when faced with a complex case, they may need to refer you to a specialist for further treatment. The following dental services would come in the realm of a general dentist: - Wisdom Teeth Extraction Since your wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to erupt, there is inadequate space for them to erupt properly in the gums. This may cause them to erupt partially, or grind against other teeth and cause discomfort. A general dentist can do a wisdom teeth extraction, though certain cases may be referred to an oral surgeon. If you are being bothered by a wisdom tooth, please search for general dentist Calgary NW to find your nearest dentist. Tooth Extraction At times, decay, or other uncontrollable causes can impair the function of your natural tooth. The damage could be to such an extent that it becomes difficult to restore them, requiring tooth extraction. Your general dentist can assess the health of your tooth and may suggest an extraction if restorative procedures are not possible. Restorative Dentistry Restorative dentistry includes adding strength to a weakened tooth through crowns, veneers, etc. This damage may be due to decay, dental or gum diseases, or other reasons. This is widely followed by dentists to save the natural tooth and prevent it from further damage.  Root Canal Treatment A tooth where decay has infected the pulp of the tooth needs to be treated by following a Root Canal procedure. In this the infected pulp is removed, the cavity filled with a tooth-friendly material, and finally, a crown (also called a cap) is placed on the tooth to add support to the damaged natural tooth. A general dentist can perform a root canal treatment, though they may need to refer you to an endodontist (root canal specialist) for complex cases. If you are suffering from a toothache, please search for a general dentist Calgary NW to visit your nearby dentist. Botox Treatment A general dentist can offer Botox treatment to reduce wrinkles, crows’ feet, and fine lines. Once a Botox treatment is given, the results are visible within 2 weeks and can last up to 4 months. Other Services A general dentist can also offer other services like in-office or at-home teeth whitening, sedation services, TMJ treatment, Micro Needling, dentures, and x-rays. Please reach out to your general dentist to know the entire range of services they offer.

Read more about the article What Is Considered A Dental Emergency?

What Is Considered A Dental Emergency?

Emergencies can come knocking at our door at any time regardless of whether we are ready for them or not. Dental emergencies can also be quite serious in nature and need immediate treatment and get dental emergency services. Some dental emergencies are as follows: - Chipped or Broken Teeth Accidents or other untoward incidents may cause the tooth to break or chip. It is possible to save a broken tooth if you visit the dentist quickly. For minor chips, the damage can be easily fixed by your dentist. However, for serious cases, a root canal or a cap may be required to lend support to the damaged tooth. Knocked-out Tooth A tooth that gets dislodged or knocked-out of its socket can be salvaged if you visit your dentist quickly. An adult, knocked-out, tooth which gets put back in its place in 10 minutes has a fair chance of being able to function normally again. The further the delay in visiting your dentist for a knocked-out tooth, the more difficult it becomes for your dentist to salvage the knocked-out tooth. Please look for ‘emergency dental services’ to find your nearest dentist. Toothache A toothache may be due to an infection in the gums or other reasons. If you experience a toothache, it is advisable to visit your dentist at the earliest. A cold pack can be applied on the face, at the spot of the toothache, however, warm packs should be avoided as it will worsen the toothache. Bitten Lip or Tongue If you accidentally bite your tongue or lip and you experience bleeding which does not stop, it is advised to apply pressure on the area with a clean piece of cloth and immediately see your dentist. Swelling in the lips can be treated by applying ice to it. Loose Crown or Fillings If your filling or an existing crown comes off, or becomes loose, it is suggested to visit your dentist at the earliest. This will ensure your dentist can prevent any further damage from occurring to the already weakened tooth. Placing sugar-free chewing gum over the damaged tooth can also provide temporary protection while you visit your dentist. Trapped Particles If you are unable to remove a particle trapped in between your teeth using a string of dental floss (sharp articles must not be used as it may damage the tooth or gums), visit your dentist so that they can remove the particle safely. Please search for ‘emergency dental services’ to find a dentist near you. Broken Braces or Wires If your braces come off for any reason, the wires may protrude and cause injuries to your cheek, tongue, or gums. To avoid such injuries, visit your dentist at the earliest so that they can take corrective action. These are a few common emergencies that occur mostly. However, dental emergencies can come in any shape or form. If any discomfort or pain in your mouth does not subside after 24 hours please search for emergency dental services to…

Top teeth whitening myths you need to know!

Expressions Dental offers a wide variety of dental services including, Emergency Dental Services, Wisdom Teeth Removal & Teeth Whitening in Calgary. As professional dentists, it concerns us that there are many myths that surround dental treatments. What worries us most is that many people resort to DIY ways to relieve their dental worries due to such misconceptions. One such treatment that attracts faulty facts is the teeth whitening procedure. We acknowledge that there are a lot of fad whitening treatments out there which contributes to the existing problem of myths so we want to take this opportunity to address the importance of seeing a professional dentist for all your whitening needs and bust of a few teeth whitening Myths. # Whitening will damage your teeth This is untrue. Teeth whitening does not 'corrode or melt' the enamel when the procedure is done correctly. Inappropriate proportions or leaving it for a long duration can give poor results. It is true that few experience sensitivity immediately after the whitening, that subsides after some time. However, the use of over the counter experiments and DIY whitening products could cause tooth damage. To avoid damage to the enamel, make sure you choose a professional dentist who uses safe and approved methods for teeth whitening. We offer many options for Teeth Whitening in Calgary, including ZOOM! In office whitening treatment and custom made take-home whitening kits designed for your teeth alone. # Teeth whitening is permanent Teeth Whitening results aren’t permanent. Post teeth whitening, you will be required to maintain the results via a proper diet. Drinking coffee, tea, and red wine can cause your teeth to turn yellow. Avoiding foods/habits that cause staining and following a dentist-recommended routine is required to keep your teeth white longer. Touch-ups are required to keep your shiny pearls white. # Whitening works on veneers & tooth restorations No, it does not. The teeth whitening procedure is supposed to be performed on natural teeth before you go for restorations or crowns. Porcelain restorations and veneers are then matched to your whitened teeth. So, if you are planning to get veneers, crowns, or fillings, consult your dentist if you can wait until after teeth whitening to do them. Otherwise, you may need to get them redone after your teeth are whitened. # All teeth whitening procedures deliver a Hollywood smile Each of us has a different mineral composition of teeth. So, comparing your results with others is unrealistic. Some of us have genetically yellow teeth, while others have deeply stained teeth due to use of antibiotics like tetracycline. So, your dentist should determine the best possible whitening plan that suits your oral history for the best possible results.Whitening isn't the only procedure your favorite star has invested in for the dazzling smile you see on screen. Ask your dentist if your teeth would require whitening alone or need other procedures like porcelain veneers for achieving that Hollywood smile. # The procedure is painful Advanced methods of teeth whitening are safe…

Is it safe to see the dentist during COVID-19? Yes!

The coronavirus pandemic has altered the world around us. Preventive protocols like physical distancing and covering mouth are now important to avoid the risk of Covid-19 infection. But, it is also important to maintain oral health. A cleaner and healthy mouth contribute to minimizing the chances of viral infections as it is well known that a healthy body is less prone to any infections. The pandemic has pushed many to neglect their oral health concerns and as the world starts to unlock, the question still persists- Is it safe to see the dentist during COVID-19? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC), there has not been one single reported case of COVID-19 transmission associated with dental offices so far. Just like any of us using masks on daily basis, washing hands, using sanitizers, disinfecting surfaces, the dentists to have already put all preventive protocols in action to ensure safety for their staff and patients. All safe dental offices have geared the patient & staff interaction to be straightforward and predictable by minimizing contact wherever possible, by using PPE kits and minimizing chairside adjustments, etc. Efficiency in all aspects of treatment and operations has now become critical. So, why neglect oral health when all the infection control procedures are in place! The dental community has been issued safety guidelines to follow, but here are a few things you can do to overcome the hesitation of seeing your dentists during the pandemic.Yes, Please.Before you make an appointment, here are a few questions you may ask to overcome the apprehension: If patients are screened over the phone before their visit.If the practice limits the number of people allowed in the waiting room at one time.If they disinfect all surfaces including telephones, the EFTPOS machine, door handles, etc.If all instruments/tools are sterilized after each patient.If the staff have enough personal protective equipment?If both staff and patients wear masks at all times?If they have removed high contact items in the reception area like, magazines & toys.If they have adjusted seating in the reception area to facilitate social distancing. If the answer to all of these questions is “yes,” it means the dental office is doing everything to provide a safe environment & hence, you can feel at ease going to the dentist’s office.Your CallA safe dental practice puts infection control measures in action and you can see it for yourself in the initial visit. It's then your choice to go ahead or not. So, here's a list of everything you need to observe before you make an informed decision. A safe dental practice:● Records your detailed travel history and medical history.● Sterilizes instruments for each and every patient.● Uses disposable suction tips and instruments.● Disinfects the dental chair, instrument panels, dental light unit and benchtops between every appointment.● Places protective barriers over surfaces such as a headrest, x-ray units, etc.● Uses Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)● Requests patients to undertake a 30-second preoperational antimicrobial mouth rinse with a 0.1% hydrogen peroxide solution before treatment●…

5 Health Problems caused by Crooked Teeth

Crooked teeth are not just the cause for a self-conscious smile, but can also affect your overall health. Properly aligned teeth allow you to properly brush and floss, removing grit and bacteria that build in your oral cavity every day. Misaligned or crooked teeth make it difficult for bristles to get into the crevices. Harmful bacteria building on the teeth and gums leave the whole body at risk! Read on to discover some of the troublesome ways your crooked teeth can affect your health. Improper Digestion Misaligned teeth make it hard for you to chew properly. Human teeth are designed for different functions of chewing. Misaligned teeth hinder the function, leading to digestion problems. Proper chewing is necessary for the breakdown of nutrients for your body. Hence, crooked teeth can negatively impact your intake of nutrients causing a negative impact on your immune system and overall health. Persistent Headaches Crooked teeth throw your bite off-balance & put pressure on your jaw muscles. Temporomandibular joints connected to your lower jaw move smoothly when there is a perfect alignment of teeth. Crooked teeth restrict the TMJ's smooth movement. This leads to a condition called TMJ disorder which gives way to chronic headaches & migraines. Gum Diseases Crooked teeth don't allow bristles of the toothbrush to reach in all places, which leaves more room for bacteria to sneak in. Bacteria that survive the cleaning process start to build on and around the teeth which lead to deep pockets in your gums. The bacteria thrive in these pockets which leads the way to various dental complications like gum disease called periodontitis which can eventually lead to tooth loss. Heart Diseases Bacteria that thrive due to crooked teeth cause gum diseases & can travel through the bloodstream. When these bacteria reach the heart, it can result in cardiovascular diseases. Recent studies suggest that people with moderate to advanced stages of gum diseases are at greater risk for heart disease. Researchers have uncovered oral bacteria in the fatty deposits of people with atherosclerosis, a disease in which plaque builds up in the arteries. When untreated, these deposits can narrow arteries, causing a heart attack or stroke. Respiratory Problems Crooked teeth allow the breeding of bad bacteria in your mouth. Such bacteria in the mouth can reach the lungs and cause infections such as pneumonia. Studies have suggested a higher mortality rate from pneumonia in people with higher numbers of deep gum pockets which can be a result of crooked teeth. Crooked teeth can also cause airway problems such as obstructive sleep apnea. Now you know that crooked teeth can not be ignored. Crooked teeth can be caused due to various factors like genetics, facial injury, habits like mouth breathing, etc. Certified dentists evaluate the underlying cause and formulate a custom plan to straighten up your crooked teeth. To save your pearly smile and overall health, consider getting orthodontic care today. For more information on our services or to schedule an appointment for your crooked teeth, please…

5 Dental DIY Trends You Need To Unfollow

DIY is often thought of as a way to cut corners. But, it becomes a scary proposition when it comes to Dentistry. The professional supervision & controlled environment of a dental office can never be the same as a kitchen sink. No matter how easy it is to rely on ‘Doctor Google', one should never attempt DIY's that pose health risks. Here are a few DIY Dental dont's you must never attempt. DIY Tooth Filing DIY Tooth Filing Tooth filing using nail files, sandpaper, handheld power tools, etc is an alarmingly unsafe idea that's been trending on social media platforms like Tik Tok and YouTube. Such practice causes irreparable damage and destruction to teeth. Dentists use proven tooth filing techniques that have been researched for years, if not decades. A DIY enthusiast attempting to file their tooth themselves could potentially remove vital enamel coating, causing the tooth to become hypersensitive, misshaped or even die. DIY Tooth Whitening The internet is full of 'crazy hacks', one of them being 'ways to whiten teeth using household ingredients'. Citrus rinds, baking soda, activated charcoal, are unfortunately the popular choices of the internet. However, resorting to quick fixes with these ingredients can cause long term damage to your teeth. These ingredients are harsh on the tooth surface causing dental cavities, sensitivity and gum problems in few cases. DIY aligners Aligning teeth is something one should leave to the professionals. Dentists carefully assess a patient's full medical & dental history, then design custom-fit aligners that work wonders without restricting the structures around the tooth. Remote alignment services or DIY Aligners lack one-on-one professional care. These unsupervised dental solutions come at low-cost but prove to be a costly mistake in the long run. Many Orthodontists have witnessed patients who have developed gum diseases, cavities and tooth loss due to direct-to-customer orthodontics. DIY Restorations Believe it or not, some people use materials like wax and store-bought adhesives to 'fix' their restorations. Glues have toxic compounds which can cause serious damage to the tooth and surround tissue. One must never try to poke, prod, and scrape cavities or restorations in an attempt to 'fix' them. Such attempts permanently damage the restoration or introduce infections or cause an abscess. DIY methods often bury the underlying cause and extend the amount of professional care needed which proves to be a costly affair in the long term. DIY Extractions Toothache isn't easy to handle, but DIY tooth extraction sounds like something nightmares are made of. Tooth extraction is a form of surgery, and surgery comes with the risk of complications. Only a certified dental surgeon must assess the underlying cause of toothache & attempt a tooth extraction. Few popular culture DIY extractions methods are, using pliers, using a string tied to a door, etc. Described as creative on the web, these methods are rather medieval which cause infection, excessive bleeding, gum damage, serious damage to other teeth and underlying bone. However easy or cost-effective DIY dental hacks might seem, it’s wise…

Read more about the article Dental Care During Cancer Treatment

Dental Care During Cancer Treatment

Your dental care is also an essential part of your overall cancer treatment. When you are diagnosed with cancer, make sure you let your dentist know about your treatment so he/she can update your medical history. Also, ensure to share your oncologist's name and number with your dentist. This is because your cancer treatment can have side-effects or can also interfere with your dental treatment. Before beginning any cancer treatment, your doctor may advise you to complete any major dental procedures. Any form of mouth, teeth or jaw pain or any dental problems must be reported immediately to your oncologist and dentist. Osteonecrosis of the jaw: Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) is an uncommon but severe condition that has occurred in some cancer patients receiving treatment using a particular drug called bisphosphonates. The link between the drug and the disease is only a suspect as of now. When the jaw fails to heal after a minor trauma like a tooth extraction, it leads to the development of ONJ. This may result in the jawbone being exposed. Pain, swelling, gum infections, etc. are the symptoms when you develop ONJ. The factors that may increase the risk of ONJ include: Radiation therapy to the head or neck Chemotherapy Anemia Poor dental health Poor nutrition Poor blood circulation An oncologist should manage bisphosphonate treatment by coordinating with your oral surgeon or your dentist. Before you begin your therapy, you should: Undergo a dental examination Complete your existing dental treatments and procedures Maintain good oral hygiene The treatment of ONJ includes: Frequent dental assessments Oral rinses Removable mouth appliances Surgery to remove injured tissue Do you have any queries regarding your dental health? Feel free to visit our dental clinic in Calgary or Call +1 (403) 252 7733 to consult our dentists.