We’ve all heard the saying, “You are what you eat.” While we often think about how our diet affects our waistline or energy levels, our food choices actually have an immediate and lasting impact on our smile.

You may be surprised to discover the foods that are bad for your dental health aren’t just the usual suspects, like sugary foods and sodas. Foods that you may think are acceptable for your body, such as certain fruits, vegetables, and even your daily coffee, could negatively impact your oral health.

To maintain your dental health and prevent your teeth from aging, keep reading to discover the best and worst foods for your teeth.

Why Diet Matters for Your Dental Health

Every time you eat or drink, you aren’t just feeding yourself—you’re feeding the bacteria in your mouth. Some bacteria are harmless, but others feast on sugars and starches to produce acid. This acid attacks your tooth enamel, the protective outer layer of your teeth.

Over time, frequent acid attacks lead to enamel erosion, cavities, and gum disease. Conversely, a diet rich in certain vitamins and minerals can actually help remineralize your teeth and reduce inflammation in your gums.

Best Foods for Your Teeth

To keep your smile bright and strong, try incorporating more of these tooth-friendly options into your daily meals:

Dairy Products (Cheese, Milk, Yogurt)

These are powerhouses for your teeth. They are rich in calcium and phosphates, which help rebuild tooth enamel. Cheese, in particular, stimulates saliva production and contains casein, a protein that creates a protective film over your teeth.

Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables

Apples, carrots, and celery are often called “nature’s toothbrushes.” Their fibrous texture scrubs the surfaces of your teeth, while the act of chewing stimulates saliva to wash away food particles.

Leafy Greens

Spinach, kale, and chard are packed with folic acid, calcium, and vitamins that support gum health and strengthen enamel.

Lean Proteins and Fatty Fish

Salmon and mackerel are high in Vitamin D, which is essential for helping your body absorb calcium. Lean meats and tofu provide phosphorus, another mineral critical for protecting enamel.

Nuts and Seeds

Almonds and walnuts are excellent sources of protein and minerals, without the high sugar factor of many other snacks.

Worst Foods for Your Teeth

While moderation is key, these foods that are bad for dental health should be limited to protect your smile:

Sticky Candies and Dried Fruits

Gummies, caramels, and even “healthy” dried fruits like raisins cling to the crevices of your molars. Because they can remain on teeth for a long time, they provide a constant food source for cavity-causing bacteria.

Starchy Snacks

Potato chips and white bread break down into sugars almost immediately. These soft starches get trapped between teeth and turn into acid-producing plaque.

Carbonated and Sports Drinks

Even sugar-free sodas are highly acidic. The combination of sugar and acid in regular pop is a double threat that can quickly dissolve tooth enamel.

Acidic Fruits and Pickles

While citrus is high in Vitamin C, the citric acid in lemons, limes, and grapefruits can erode enamel. Pickles are similarly dangerous due to their high vinegar content.

Hard Items (Ice and Hard Candy)

Your teeth are not tools. Chewing on ice or hard candies can cause micro-fractures, chips, or even broken teeth.

How to Protect Your Teeth When Eating These Foods

You don’t have to give up your favorite treats entirely! Use these tips to minimize the damage caused by eating foods that are bad for your dental health:

• Eat Treats with Meals: Saliva production increases during a full meal, which helps neutralize acids and rinse away sugar.
• Drink Water: After eating something sugary or acidic, rinse your mouth with plain water.
• Use a Straw: When drinking coffee, tea, or soda, using a straw helps keep the liquid away from the surfaces of your teeth.
• Wait Before Brushing: If you’ve eaten something highly acidic (like citrus), wait 30–60 minutes before brushing. Brushing immediately can actually scrub the softened enamel away.

Maintaining a Healthy Smile in Edmonton

Diet is a pillar of oral health, but it works best alongside professional care. At Janz Family Dental, we provide comprehensive general dentistry services to help you stay ahead of decay. Whether you’ve been binging on foods that are bad for your dental health, you need a professional cleaning to remove hardened plaque, or it’s just time for a check-up to catch early signs of erosion, our team is here for you and your family.

To book your next appointment, contact Janz Family Dental.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is fruit juice as bad for my teeth as soda? 

In many cases, yes. While juice contains vitamins, it is often very high in natural sugars and acidity. It is better to eat the whole fruit (which has fiber to help clean teeth) and drink water instead of juice.

2. Why does my mouth feel dry after drinking alcohol? 

Alcohol is a dehydrant and reduces saliva flow. Since saliva is your mouth’s primary defense against acid and bacteria, a dry mouth significantly increases your risk of cavities and bad breath.

3. Can I eat popcorn if I have dental work? 

Yes, but be careful! Unpopped kernels are a leading cause of cracked teeth and broken crowns. Additionally, the thin husks can get painfully stuck under the gumline, leading to irritation.

4. Are sugar-free sodas safe for my enamel? 

No. While they don’t have sugar to feed bacteria, they are still highly acidic. Regular consumption can lead to “acid wear,” making your teeth sensitive and more prone to chipping.

5. Is dark chocolate better for my teeth than other candy? 

Yes. Dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa) contains polyphenols that can help fight bacteria, and it washes off the teeth more easily than sticky candies or caramels.

You’ve just invested in a dental crown to restore the strength and beauty of your smile. Whether it was to protect a weakened tooth, restore a dental implant, or complete a root canal treatment, a crown is one of the most effective ways to regain full function of your bite.

However, a crown isn’t as simple as “set it and forget it.” To ensure your investment stays secure and functional for as long as possible, proper dental crown aftercare is essential. At Janz Family Dental, we want to help you maintain your radiant smile for decades. Here is everything you need to know about caring for your new restoration.

How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

On average, a dental crown lasts between five and 15 years. However, with meticulous care and the right lifestyle habits, it’s not uncommon for high-quality porcelain or ceramic crowns to last 20 years or longer.

The lifespan of your crown depends on a few key factors:

• Material: Porcelain-fused-to-metal, all-ceramic, and zirconia crowns all have different durability profiles
• Location: Crowns on molars endure more heavy lifting from chewing than those on front teeth
• Aftercare Habits: This is the most significant factor you can control when it comes to the lifespan of your crown

Immediate Aftercare: The First 24 to 48 Hours

If you received a traditional crown, you might have a temporary one while your permanent restoration is crafted. If you opted for our same-day dental crown service, your permanent crown will be placed immediately.

Regardless of the type, follow these steps in the first two days:

Wait for the Numbness to Fade

Avoid eating until your local anesthesia has completely worn off to prevent accidentally biting your cheek or tongue.

Stick to Soft Foods

For the first 24 hours, enjoy smoothies, yogurt, or lukewarm soup to allow the dental cement to fully bond.

Be Gentle with Hygiene

You should still brush and floss, but be extra careful around the new crown. When flossing, slide the floss out sideways rather than snapping it upward, which could potentially dislodge a fresh restoration.

How to Avoid Damaging a Dental Crown

While dental crowns are incredibly durable, they are not indestructible. To avoid damaging a dental crown, keep these rules of thumb in mind:

1. Kick the “Teeth as Tools” Habit

Never use your teeth to tear open packaging, bite your fingernails, or crack nuts. These lateral pressures can cause the porcelain to chip or the bond to break.

2. Watch Out for Crown-Cracking Foods

Be mindful of extremely hard or sticky foods. Items like ice cubes, hard candies, and popcorn kernels can crack the crown material. Meanwhile, sticky treats like taffy or caramel can actually pull a crown loose over time.

3. Protect Against Grinding

If you wake up with a sore jaw or have been told you grind your teeth at night, you are putting immense pressure on your crown. At Janz Family Dental, we can create a custom night guard to provide a protective barrier, ensuring your crown doesn’t wear down prematurely.

4. Maintain the Foundation

It’s a common myth that a crowned tooth cannot get a cavity. While the crown itself won’t decay, the natural tooth structure beneath and at the gumline remains vulnerable. Dental crown aftercare must include twice-daily brushing and daily flossing to prevent plaque buildup at the crown-tooth interface.

When to Call Your Edmonton Dentist

Even with the best care, accidents happen. If you notice any of the following, contact Janz Family Dental right away:

• The crown feels loose or wiggles
• You notice a chip or a sharp edge
• Your bite feels high or uneven when you close your mouth
• Persistent sensitivity to hot or cold that doesn’t go away after a few days

Visit Janz Family Dental in Edmonton

Regular professional cleanings and check-ups are the final piece of the puzzle. During your exam, our team will assess the integrity of your crown and the health of the surrounding gums to identify any minor issues before they require replacement. With proper care and attention, you can avoid damaging your dental crown and keep your smile looking great for years to come. 

Are you considering dental crowns? Contact Janz Family Dental to book a consultation and let us help keep your smile strong!

If you are missing a tooth, you know it’s about more than just a gap in your smile. It affects how you speak, what you can eat, and how you feel when you meet someone for the first time. At Janz Family Dental, we believe everyone deserves a full, functional smile they can be proud of.

One of the most reliable and time-tested ways to restore that smile is through dental bridges in Edmonton. In this post, we’ll break down exactly what the process looks like, what you can expect to pay, and how to make your investment last for decades.

What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a fixed restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. It literally “bridges” the gap by joining an artificial tooth (a pontic) to the adjacent natural teeth or dental implants (abutments).

Unlike dentures, which are removable, a bridge is cemented permanently into place. This provides a stable, natural-looking solution that prevents your remaining teeth from shifting out of alignment.

The Process: What to Expect

Getting a dental bridge at Janz Family Dental typically requires two appointments:

Preparation & Impressions

During your first visit, our dentists will prepare the “anchor” teeth on either side of the gap. This involves reshaping the teeth to accommodate a crown. We then take highly accurate impressions to ensure your custom bridge fits perfectly. You’ll leave with a temporary bridge to protect your teeth while the lab crafts your permanent one.

The Final Fit

Once your custom bridge is ready, you’ll return for your second appointment. We’ll remove the temporary bridge, check the fit and colour of the new one, and then permanently cement it into place.

How Much Do Dental Bridges Cost in Edmonton?

The cost of a dental bridge in Edmonton depends on several factors, including the number of teeth being replaced and the materials used (such as porcelain or ceramic).

In Alberta, dental fees are generally guided by the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. For a standard bridge consisting of two crowns and one artificial tooth (three units total), patients in Edmonton can typically expect a range between $2,800 and $5,000.

• Traditional Bridge: ~$2,500 – $4,500+
• Maryland/Resin-Bonded Bridge: ~$1,500 – $2,500
• Implant-Supported Bridge: Costs vary significantly based on the number of implants required

At Janz Family Dental, we follow the current Fee Guide to ensure our pricing is fair and transparent. We also offer payment options and can help you navigate your insurance coverage to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?

With proper care, a dental bridge is a long-term investment in your oral health. On average, bridges last five to 15 years, though many patients keep theirs for 20+ years with excellent oral hygiene.

To maximize the lifespan of your bridge:

• Brush and Floss Daily: While the bridge itself can’t decay, the natural teeth underneath can. Use a “bridge threader” or interdental brush to clean under the artificial tooth
• Avoid “Tooth Tools”: Don’t use your bridge to open packages or bite down on extremely hard items like ice or hard candy
• Regular Check-ups: Visit us for professional cleanings. We monitor the integrity of the bridge and the health of the supporting teeth to catch any minor issues before they become big problems

Restore Your Smile at Janz Family Dental

Whether you’re looking for a traditional bridge or want to explore other cosmetic dentistry goals, our team in Edmonton is here to help. We prioritize your comfort and use the latest technology to ensure your treatment is as stress-free as possible.

Ready to bridge the gap? Contact Janz Family Dental to book an appointment to discuss your options for dental bridges in Edmonton!

Losing a tooth, whether from an injury, decay, or aging, can affect more than just your smile. It can impact your bite, oral health, and your confidence. Thankfully, modern dentistry offers solutions to restore your missing tooth and your smile. Two of the most popular choices are dental implants and bridges, but how do you decide between the two? 

In this guide, we’ll compare dental implants vs. bridges, break down the pros and cons of each, and help you decide which option might be the best fit for your smile and lifestyle. Let’s jump in. 

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a long-lasting tooth replacement option designed to mimic both the look and function of a natural tooth. Here’s how they work: 

• A tiny titanium post is surgically placed into the jawbone
• Over time, this post fuses with the bone (a process called osseointegration)
• A custom crown is then attached to the post, completing your restored tooth

Benefits of Dental Implants

• Durability: With proper care, implants can last decades or even a lifetime
• Bone health: The implant stimulates the jawbone, helping prevent bone loss
• Natural feel: They look, feel, and function much like natural teeth
• No impact on adjacent teeth: Unlike some bridge designs, implants stand alone

What are Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge fills the gap left by a missing tooth by anchoring an artificial tooth, or teeth, to neighbouring teeth. 

This process involves: 

• Preparing the adjacent teeth to be crowned
• A false tooth being placed between them to “bridge” the gap
• The crowns on either side holding it in place

Benefits of Dental Bridges

• Faster treatment time: Bridges are typically completed more quickly than implants
• Non-surgical: No surgery is required, making them a great option for some patients
• Less expensive upfront: Usually more affordable upfront than implants

Dental Implants vs. Bridges: A Head-to-Head Comparison

	Longevity	Oral Health	Cost	Treatment Time	Maintenance
Dental Implant	Often lasts a lifetime with proper care	Helps preserve jawbone integrity and won’t impact surrounding teeth	Higher initial cost, but often more cost-effective long-term	Process can take several months due to healing	Care is similar to natural teeth—regular brushing, flossing, and routine check-ups
Bridge	Typically 10-15 years	Requires filing down adjacent teeth, which can impact their long-term health	Lower initial cost, but potential future replacement may add up	Usually completed in a few dental visits	Requires more meticulous cleaning under the false tooth and abutments

Which One is Right for You?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to bridges vs. dental implants, but here are some guidelines: 

Choose Dental Implants if:

• You want a long-lasting solution 
• You’re missing one or more teeth and want optimal oral health
• You’re seeking a natural feel and function

Choose Bridges if: 

• You want a quicker, non-surgical solution 
• You have limitations that make implants less ideal
• You’re looking for a lower upfront cost option 

Ultimately, your dentist will help tailor the best treatment plan based on your oral health, bone structure, smile goals, and budget. 

Ready to Restore Your Smile?

If you’re weighing dental implants vs. bridges, the team at Janz Family Dental is here to guide you every step of the way. We’ll answer your questions, assess your unique needs, and recommend the best choice for your smile.

For more information and to book your consultation, contact Janz Family Dental today!

Keeping your smile bright and healthy starts with regular dental cleanings, and if you’re in Edmonton, that starts with Janz Family Dental. That said, when it comes to dental hygiene services in Edmonton, one of the most common questions we hear from patients is, What will my insurance actually cover? In this blog, we’ll walk you through what most plans cover, what they don’t, and how best to make your benefits work for you. 

Why Dental Hygiene Matters

When it comes to dental care, preventative measures are the foundation for lifelong oral health. During your dental hygiene service in Edmonton, our specialist will:

• Scale away tartar and plaque buildup
• Polish your teeth to smooth surfaces and reduce bacterial buildup
• Apply fluoride for added enamel protection
• Perform a dental exam and x-rays as needed   
• Check for early signs of decay or gum disease

With regular visits—ideally every six months—you can keep your smile bright, and catch issues early, when they’re easier and less expensive to treat.

Dental Hygiene Services in Edmonton: What’s Typically Covered

While dental insurance plans can vary, most Edmonton-area plans share some common features:

Preventative Care is a Priority

Because preventative care is the cornerstone for overall health, most plans cover these services at a high level—often up to 80-100% depending on your policy. This includes: 

• Routine dental exams
• Professional dental cleanings
• Diagnostic x-rays
• Fluoride treatments 

Many plans let you claim dental cleanings in Edmonton twice per year in order to align with recommended and optimal dental hygiene schedules.

Coverage Limitations & Other Services  

While preventative dental care typically gets the most generous coverage, there are limitations to be aware of: 

• Annual maximums: Most plans have a yearly dollar limit on what the insurer will pay. Once it’s reached, you pay out-of-pocket.
• Waiting periods: Some plans require you to wait before certain benefits kick in, especially for non-preventive services.
• Percentage breakdowns: A common structure is 100% preventive coverage, 80% basic services, and 50% major procedures—though specifics vary by insurer.

Keep in mind that dental insurance in Canada is mostly private or employer-based—provincial health plans generally do not pay for routine dental care like cleanings. In Edmonton, basic dental cleanings and checkups aren’t covered by the provincial health plan alone.

What’s Typically Not Included

Even good dental plans have exclusions. Services you shouldn’t expect your standard plan to cover include:

• Cosmetic procedures (like whitening)
• Orthodontic work
• Dental implants
• Specialized mouth guards or splints
• TMJ treatment

These exclusions are standard across most policies, so it’s a good idea to check your specific benefits before scheduling non-urgent services.

Tips to Maximize Your Dental Benefits

When it comes to dental hygiene services in Edmonton, it’s important to stretch your insurance dollars as far as possible. Try to: 

• Use your benefits before the reset—typically Jan. 1.  
• Book preventative dental visits early in the year to ensure you get two dental cleanings approximately six months apart. 
• Ask your clinic about direct billing. Most clinics, including Janz Family Dental, offer direct billing to save you time and hassle.
• Understand your annual maximum and coverage breakdowns to avoid surprise bills.

Your Partners for Dental Hygiene Services in Edmonton

Investing in your dental hygiene isn’t just about sparkling teeth. Regular dental cleanings and routine checkups help prevent gum disease, cavities, and more costly procedures down the road. With most dental plans, you get solid coverage for cleanings and other dental hygiene services in Edmonton, meaning there’s no reason to skip out on your regular appointments. 

If you’re unsure of what your insurance covers, we’re happy to help you navigate your policy and benefits. Simply bring your details to your next appointment, and our friendly staff will help you get the most out of your benefits. 
Ready to book your next dental cleaning or hygiene appointment? Contact Janz Family Dental today!

Invisalign has become an increasingly popular, non-invasive way for people to achieve a straighter smile. It offers an effective, discreet alternative to traditional braces. To ensure you have all the necessary information, we have compiled our top Invisalign FAQs to help you make an informed decision.

The Basic Invisalign FAQs: What is Invisalign and How Does it Work?

What exactly is Invisalign? 

Invisalign is a brand of clear, custom-made tooth aligners designed to perform the corrective tasks previously done by metal braces. They’re virtually invisible, offering a discreet way to straighten your teeth.

How does Invisalign work to straighten my teeth? 

The process begins with your dentist taking X-rays and special 3D images or molds of your teeth. Based on these images, a personalized sequence of custom aligners is created. You will wear each set of aligners progressively over your teeth. 

As you move from one set to the next (typically wearing each set for one to two weeks), the aligners gradually exert pressure, pushing or realigning your teeth into their correct positions until the desired, straighter smile is achieved. The exact number of aligners and the total duration of treatment will depend on your specific needs.

Treatment Duration and Routine

How long does the entire Invisalign process take? 

Invisalign starts working from the very first set of aligners. For consistent patients, visible results can sometimes be achieved in as little as six months. However, some cases require longer treatment times to achieve the full alignment. Your dentist will provide a personalized estimate during your initial consultation.

How often do I need to visit the dentist during treatment? 

The Invisalign routine requires you to come in for appointments every 4–6 weeks to receive your new sets of aligners. Staying on this routine is essential for maintaining consistency and ensuring the treatment is effective and on schedule.

How do I get started with Invisalign? 

The first step is to arrange a consultation with a dentist in your area who is a certified Invisalign provider. The consultation will allow the dentist to determine if Invisalign is the right teeth correction option for you.

Comparison, Comfort, and Lifestyle

How do Invisalign aligners compare to traditional braces? 

The main advantage of Invisalign is aesthetics and lifestyle flexibility:

• Aesthetics: Unlike traditional metal braces, which can be unsightly, Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible and much less likely to draw attention, making them extremely popular for adults and teens.
• Eating: Invisalign allows for no food limitations, which is a major point in the Invisalign versus braces debate. You simply remove your aligners each time you eat and put them back on after brushing away any food debris or stains.

Are Invisalign aligners painful to wear? 

Some people do report mild discomfort, particularly when starting a new set of aligners, as your teeth are actively being altered. However, this discomfort is usually milder than the pain associated with traditional braces. Typically, your mouth quickly becomes accustomed to the aligners, and patients experience minimal overall discomfort.

Are there any side effects? 

When you first begin wearing Invisalign, you may experience a slight adjustment period. Some temporary side effects can include:

• Dry mouth
• A feeling of awkwardness when speaking

These effects are typically mild and don’t last long.

Can I have an allergic reaction to the aligners? 

While there have been very rare cases of patients reporting allergic reactions to their aligners, this is not common. You should always consult with your doctor before beginning treatment and continue to update them on your progress to prevent any complications.

Financial Questions

How much does Invisalign typically cost? 

Invisalign costs can start at around $3,500, but the total price varies depending on the complexity and length of your specific treatment plan.

Is Invisalign covered by dental insurance? 

Invisalign is often covered by insurance plans as a form of orthodontics. It’s crucial to check with your insurance company to find out the specifics of your coverage. If your insurance does not cover the full cost, you should ask your dentist about accepted plans and whether they offer any monthly payment plans.

At janz Family Dental, we offer direct billing to most major insurance providers and accept patients under the CDCP.

Why You Should Choose Invisalign in Edmonton

If you are looking for a way that allows you to eat what you want, without the brace face, and at a faster process, Invisalign may be for you. Invisalign is extremely popular for adults and teens, as it is a discreet way to get the straighter smile you have always wanted. Didn’t get all your Invisalign FAQs answered? Give us a call. We’re happy to address any additional questions you may have.

Call Janz Family Dental today to book your appointment and get the smile you always dreamed of!

As the holiday season unfolds, bringing a flurry of snowflakes and the warm glow of festive lights, we at Janz Family Dental wish to extend our heartfelt greetings to you and your loved ones. 

In the midst of this joyful season, we want to express our deepest gratitude for your continued support and trust in our team in providing general and cosmetic dentistry procedures for patients of all ages. We hope to continue to embrace the joy of the holidays this year without compromising dental health! 

Your Family Dentists in Edmonton

Janz Family Dental is more than just a dental practice; we are a part of the vibrant tapestry that makes Edmonton’s community so unique. Our team of skilled dental professionals is equipped to handle a wide range of dental health needs from: 

• Routine cleanings
• Check-ups 
• General Dentistry
• Corrective/Cosmetic Dentistry (Invisalign, Implants and more)
• To more complex procedures. 

We focus on delivering personalized care, ensuring each patient receives treatment tailored to their needs. Our field experience is measured in years, as are the countless smiles we’ve had the honour of caring for. 

Why Choose Janz Family Dental 

At Janz Family Dental, we do our best to get you an appointment the same day or the next. Whether you need a complete checkup, cleaning, filling, extraction, root canal or even implants, we can help put the sparkle back in your smile.

Available weekend and evening hours so you can find a suitable appointment time to fit your busy schedule. We will strive to schedule your appointment, and your children’s on the same date to make getting to the dentist easier. For your convenience, parking is free at our facility, and we also provide direct billing to most major insurance providers. 

A Family-First Approach

We strive to treat our patients like family. We’re a family dentist dedicated to providing general and cosmetic dentistry procedures for toddlers and seniors.

Janz Family Dental offers complete children’s dental services. We’ve worked with children of all ages and aim to make their next visit as pleasant as possible. Kids can slip on a pair of headphones and watch their favourite movie while their checkup is underway, and the prize jar is always full when they’re done. For more challenging cases, sedation is available at the parent’s discretion, utilizing laughing gas, a very light sedation method.

A Season of Smiles During the Holidays

At Janz Family Dental, we understand the importance of trust and reliability in healthcare. We are your trusted partner in maintaining and enhancing your dental health. Our team is here to support you through every step of your dental care journey, providing expert advice and compassionate care during the holidays. 
Book your appointment today and celebrate your smile this holiday season!

At Janz Family Dental, we know that when a tooth is damaged, decayed, or causing you discomfort, the choices can feel overwhelming. Do you need a simple filling? Is a root canal required? Or is it time for a dental crown to protect or restore your tooth? 

In this guide, we’ll look at these three core treatments and how our Edmonton team can help you make the choice that will preserve both your oral health and your confidence in your smile.

What is a Filling?

When you’re dealing with early decay or a small area of damage, a filling may be the ideal solution. At Janz Family Dental, this option means we’ll:

• Remove the damaged portion of enamel or dentin and clean the cavity.
• Restore the tooth with tooth-coloured material, such as composite resin, amalgam, gold, or ceramic, that will blend in and maintain function.

The goal is to halt further decay, restore normal chewing, and keep your natural tooth intact.

When is a Filling Appropriate?

• You’ve noticed a small pit, cavity, or rough spot on your tooth.
• You have sensitivity when biting into sweets or cold drinks.
• The structural damage is limited, and the tooth still has good vitality.

Why Choose this Route?

• It’s minimally invasive—we preserve as much of the natural tooth as possible.
• Recovery is quick—you’re often back to normal chewing almost immediately.
• It’s the right choice when decay is caught early and structural compromise is minimal.

However, it’s not always the full answer: if decay extends deeper or if the tooth has suffered a fracture or significant structural loss, a filling alone may not suffice.

What is a Root Canal?

When decay or trauma reaches the nerve of the tooth (the pulp), or infection sets in, a root canal treatment is the smart strategy to save the tooth rather than extract it. In our Edmonton office, this means we:

• Carefully open the tooth
• Remove the inflamed or infected pulp
• Clean and disinfect the root canal system
• Seal the space.

Afterwards, we restore the tooth so it can function normally again.

When is a Root Canal the Appropriate Choice?

• You’re experiencing persistent or intense pain when biting.
• You have lingering sensitivity to hot or cold.
• The tooth has darkened, or there’s swelling/gum tenderness near that tooth.
• X-rays show that the infection has reached the inner tissue or roots of the tooth.

Benefits of a Root Canal

• It allows you to keep your natural tooth, which helps maintain your bite, jaw function, and long-term oral health.
• With a proper restoration following a root canal, such a tooth can continue in service for many years.

That said, a root-canal–treated tooth is often weaker (because significant internal tissue was removed) and will usually need reinforcement. This is often where our Edmonton office will introduce a dental crown.

What is a Dental Crown?

A crown, also called a “cap,” restores and strengthens a tooth that has been significantly weakened by decay, root canal treatment, fracture, or large previous filling. At Janz Family Dental in Edmonton, our dental crowns are designed to fit and match your natural smile, while protecting the tooth underneath.

When is a Crown the Right Move?

• The tooth has large cavities or has previously had large fillings, leaving the structure compromised.
• A tooth has undergone a root canal and needs protection from fracture.
• You have a cracked or broken tooth, or one that is severely worn.
• You also want a cosmetic improvement in size, shape, or colour for a visible tooth.

What are the Advantages of Dental Crowns in Edmonton?

• A crown gives exceptional support and protection to a compromised tooth, helping it function fully and last longer.
• It restores form, appearance, and strength in one integrated solution.
• For visible teeth, it gives a polished aesthetic result while still being durable.

How Do You Decide: Filling vs Root Canal vs Crown?

At the heart of the decision is: how much damage is there? And what is the best long-term result for your tooth and your overall smile?

Key factors we at Janz Family Dental evaluate include:

• Extent of Decay or Damage: If the damage is small and in the outer tooth structure, we’ll opt for a filling. If it extends into the nerve, a root canal is preferred. If the tooth is fractured, heavily restored, or structurally weak, we’ll do a dental crown.
• Condition of the Tooth’s Nerve (Pulp): Vital (healthy) pulp means more conservative treatment is possible. Infected pulp means a root canal is essential.
• Remaining Tooth Structure: The more natural tooth you have left, the more options you may have. Once large amounts are missing, a crown becomes the wiser path.
• Function and Aesthetics: In back teeth, functionality is key. In visible teeth, strength and appearance both matter.
• Long-Term Durability and Cost-Effectiveness: While a filling may cost less upfront, if it fails early and you end up needing more extensive treatment, the total cost (financially and bodily) may increase. A crown, or root canal plus crown, may serve you better in the long run. 

While dental crowns do require more preparation than a simple filling, at Janz Family Dental, we offer same-day crowns to save you both time and money. 

Your Dental Crown, Filling, or Root Canal Solutions in Edmonton

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to restoring a damaged tooth. A filling, a root canal, or a crown each play an important role—and the right choice depends on the condition of your tooth and your long-term oral health goals. With careful assessment and skilled execution, you can preserve your natural tooth, restore function, and protect your smile with confidence.

If you’re in need of expert care for a failing filling, tooth pain, visible damage, or are considering a dental crown in Edmonton, we can help. Our experienced team will walk you through your options, explain the rationale behind each treatment, and help you choose what’s best for you. 
Contact Janz Family Dental today, because preserving your smile is what we do best.

When you hear someone mention same-day crowns, you may be wondering, are same-day crowns as good as regular crowns? At Janz Family Dental, where we offer state-of-the-art crowns, the answer is: in most cases, absolutely! 

Same-day crowns operate in the same way as traditional crowns, without the significant time commitment and risk of complications. But, as with many things in dentistry, the best option depends on your situation. Let’s dive a little deeper to help you decide if same-day crowns are for you. 

What is a Traditional Crown?

Traditional crowns require at least two separate appointments. During the first visit, your dentist prepares the tooth and takes a physical impression, or mold, of your mouth. You are then fitted with a temporary crown while the impression is sent to a dental lab. Here, skilled technicians create your permanent crown using materials like porcelain, metal, or a combination of both. This entire process can take one to two weeks or even longer.

The main advantage of traditional crowns is that they’re available in a wide range of material options and can be highly customized. However, the process involves more appointments, the inconvenience of wearing a temporary crown, and a significant waiting period.

What is a Same-Day Crown?

Same-day crowns, also known as digital dental crowns, are completed in a single visit. Instead of a messy physical mold, your dentist takes a high-tech digital scan of your mouth. A computer then designs the crown, and an in-office milling machine carves it from a solid block of ceramic. The crown is then adjusted and bonded into place during that same appointment.

The biggest benefits to same-day crowns are the convenience and cost savings of a single visit, and the elimination of the need for a temporary crown. The process is much faster overall. At Janz Family Dental, we use the latest digital technology to craft high-quality crowns that are designed to last. 

Benefits of Same-Day Crowns

Same-day crowns offer a number of advantages that make them a popular choice for many patients.

Ultimate Convenience

The most significant benefit is that the entire procedure is completed in a single visit. This means you only need to take one block of time out of your schedule for the crown to be created and fitted. You also avoid the hassle of dealing with a temporary crown or the need for a second appointment to have the permanent one placed.

Improved Aesthetics & Fit

Same-day crowns are made from a solid block of high-quality ceramic that is custom-milled to match your natural tooth’s exact shade and shape. Unlike some traditional crowns that are made with a metal base, these all-ceramic crowns provide a more natural and seamless appearance. Since you’re in the office for the entire process, your dentist can make immediate adjustments to ensure a perfect fit and bite.

Enhanced Comfort

The process for same-day crowns eliminates the need for messy, uncomfortable physical impressions (molds) of your teeth. Instead, your dentist uses a digital scanner to take a precise impression, which is a much more comfortable experience for most patients.

Comparing the Two: Same-Day Crowns vs. Traditional Crowns

So, are same-day crowns as good as regular crowns? In most cases, the answer is a resounding yes. Same-day crowns offer the same quality, functionality, appearance, and durability as traditional crowns. That said, the choice between traditional and same-day crowns often comes down to a few key factors:

Case Complexity

For highly complex cases, such as teeth with extensive damage below the gum line, a lab-made crown with specialized materials may be the ideal choice.

Material Options

While in-office milling systems use strong, tooth-colored ceramics, traditional lab crowns can be made from a wider variety of materials, including metals or porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM). If you value selection over simplicity and comfort, this may be the way to go.

Patient Priorities

If you prioritize convenience, fewer appointments, and avoiding a temporary crown, same-day crowns are an excellent option.

Patient Tips & Aftercare

Whether you opt for a same-day crown or a traditional crown, maintenance and upkeep are key to keeping your smile happy and healthy. For best results: 

• Maintain diligent oral hygiene (brush twice, floss daily).
• Avoid very hard or sticky foods, especially soon after placement.
• Visit us twice a year for routine checkups and cleanings.
• If you clench or grind your teeth, let us know—we may recommend a night guard.

Why Choose Janz Family Dental for Your Same-Day Crowns

At Janz Family Dental, your comfort and long-term oral health come first. Using advanced digital technology, we design crowns with exceptional precision for a secure, natural fit. Each crown is made from durable, high-quality materials that replicate the look and function of real teeth—giving you a lasting solution that saves both time and money.

If you’re still wondering, “are same-day crowns as good as regular crowns?” give us a call. Our friendly staff is happy to answer any questions you may have. For a personalized assessment of whether same-day crowns are right for you, contact Janz Family Dental.