How Your Smile Affects Your Self-Esteem

A great smile can significantly influence how you see yourself.

Those who have problems with their teeth, including discolouration, decay or misalignment, may often avoid smiling. They may refrain from engaging in social conversations or events or look away during an interaction. This behaviour can significantly affect one’s well-being, particularly young children, as feelings of embarrassment can prevent them from being their true self.

Rebuild Your Smile and Self-Image with Your Family Dentist in Edmonton

If you often hide your teeth and avoid showing off your smile, you may find yourself to be less approachable. That’s because you might be giving others the impression that you are unfriendly and unsociable. With several psychological and physiological benefits, it’s no wonder a great smile is essential to one’s self-confidence and social experiences. Here are four ways your smile affects you:

• It can improve your attitude. When you smile, your muscle movements cause your brain to release endorphins, which instantly make you feel better and lower your stress levels.
• It can make others happy. Studies prove that smiling is contagious. Seeing someone smile can actually trigger the muscles in your face to imitate that same expression, without you even realizing that you are doing it.
• It can make you look younger. A smile is your fountain of youth. You do not need costly, anti-aging creams and lotions to look younger. Research shows that people often judge a smiling face to look younger in age, whereas neutral expressions make people look their age and those who don’t smile look older.
• It can help build better relationships. Smiling can help prevent conflict and make others feel at ease in your presence. It can also make you more approachable and give the impression that you are open to conversation.

Smile Restoration and Enhancement by Your Family Dentist in Edmonton

Maybe you had an accident some time ago that caused damage to your tooth or maybe your teeth are crowded and misaligned. Whatever the case may be, if you do not feel comfortable showing your teeth, it’s time to regain your self-esteem.

We can help restore your smile and improve the way you see yourself. From teeth whitening and veneers to fillings and root canal therapy, our family dentist in Edmonton offers a wide range of dental treatment options that can help give you the smile you want and deserve.

We provide dental care services for kids and adults and are always ready to address any concerns you may have about your oral health. If you have a dental emergency, we will do our best to book you in as soon as possible so you can get back to a stress-free daily routine. For more information on how your family dentist in Edmonton can help give you those pearly whites you have always dreamed of, contact us today.

We are currently accepting new patients. Call us at 780-484-8573 to schedule your appointment or contact us online with your questions.

How To Care For Your Teeth As You Age

The reality of good dental care and life’s progress is that once you get rid of your baby teeth you don’t get any more second chances. Today, three-quarters of people over 65 retain at least some of their natural teeth, but older people still suffer higher rates of gum disease, dental decay, oral cancer, mouth infections, and tooth loss.

At the Janz Family Dental in Edmonton, we want you to enjoy your natural teeth for as long as possible and in as healthy condition as possible so you can continue to enjoy the quality of life you’ve earned. With that in mind, here are a few tips to keep your teeth, gums, and mouth clean and healthy:

• Floss first – removing caught particles will mean your brush does a better job.
• Brush your mouth – inside your entire mouth including your tongue to remove bacteria growing in your mouth not just on your teeth.
• Slow down – brushing your teeth, mouth and tongue for at least two minutes – try brushing to your favourite song start to finish.
• Pause – for 30 minutes after drinking or eating citrus fruits before brushing your teeth. Citric acid weakens enamel and brushing in this weakened state can cause damage.
• Vitamin C – Citrus fruits or taking 1,000 mg of vitamin C per day it will help destroy the types of bacteria that cause gingivitis (gum disease).
• Eat raw veggies – the crunch will help stimulate gums and scrape off plaque from your teeth.
• Regular Dental visits – check-up at least twice per year to look for changes in your oral health and to keep your smile healthy.

According to information from the Harvard Medical School:

• A prime target of cavities in older adults is around the neck of the tooth, adjacent to the gum line. Gum tissue naturally recedes with age, so the soft root tissue becomes exposed.
• Adults who grew up before the advent of fluoride products and dental sealants often have fillings from childhood and adolescence that eventually break down.
• Another key concern for older adults is a dry mouth or xerostomia, hundreds of medications list it as a side effect. This lack of saliva makes eating and swallowing difficult, causes bad breath, and leads to irritation and infection of oral tissues.
• Finally, there is evidence of an association between gum inflammation and conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and respiratory problems, all of which are more prevalent in later life.

At Janz Family Dental, we offer complete dental services for the entire family in a warm and friendly environment. Keeping your mouth healthy in old age requires diligent do-it-yourself care: brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing at least twice a day. Regular dental appointments are also important. If you have questions about our 24-hour emergency dental services in Edmonton, or about any of our professional dental services, call the Janz Family Dental at 780-484-8573 today to schedule your whole family a check-ups and cleaning appointment.

What To Do After You Chipped Your Tooth

At Janz Family Dental, as emergency dentist for Edmonton, we offer complete dental services for the entire family in a warm and friendly environment.

According to the Alberta Dental Association and College, dental emergencies include knocked out teeth, a tooth ache, bitten tongue or lip, objects caught between teeth, and a chipped or broken tooth. Teeth are remarkably strong, but they can chip, crack/fracture or break in several ways:

• Biting down on a hard object or food, such as a hard candy or a bone;
• Being hit in the face or mouth from a sports injury or accident;
• Falling and hitting your mouth;
• Having cavities that weaken the tooth; and
• Having large, old amalgam fillings that don’t support the remaining enamel of the tooth.

There is no way to treat a cracked tooth at home. If your tooth is broken, chipped, or fractured, see your dentist as soon as possible to prevent further damaged or infection, possibly causing you to lose your tooth. Pain from a broken or cracked tooth may be constant or may come and go. Many people feel pain when they chew because chewing puts pressure on the tooth. Until you can see your Janz Family Dental emergency dentist, try the following self-care measures:

• Rinse your mouth with salt water.
• If there is any bleeding in your mouth as a result of a chipped tooth, use a piece of gauze to apply pressure to the area
• If the tooth is painful, take acetaminophen or another over-the-counter pain reliever.
• If the break has caused a sharp or jagged edge, cover it with a piece of wax paraffin or sugarless chewing gum to keep it from cutting your tongue or the inside of your lip or cheek.
• If you must eat, eat soft foods and avoid biting down on the broken tooth.

Treatment options of a chipped tooth vary depends on the size and severity of the injury:

• Small chip: your dental professional might simply smooth and polish the chipped tooth, and no additional treatment will be needed.
• Medium chip: If your chipped tooth involves minor damage to the tooth enamel, your Janz Family Dental dental professional may place a filling, crown, or cap over the chipped tooth to restore its normal appearance and function, and to protect the inner layers of the teeth from irritation and infection.
• Large chip: If the chip is large enough to expose the tooth nerve, you will likely need a root canal to remove the damaged nerve, plus a crown or cap to replace the tooth.

After treatment for a chipped tooth, it is important to maintain a regular oral care routine that includes twice-daily tooth brushing and daily flossing as well as routine visits to your Janz Family Dental dental professionals.

If you have questions about our 24-hour emergency dental services in Edmonton, or about any of our professional dental services, call the Janz Family Dental at 780-484-8573 today to schedule your whole family a check-ups and cleaning appointment.

The Importance Of Regular Dental Cleanings – Advice From Your Family Dentist In Edmonton

Neglecting to take care of your mouth and teeth can lead to a number of oral health problems.

Visiting your family dentist in Edmonton on a regular basis is the best way to keep your teeth and gums clean, your breath fresh and your overall health in great shape. Top Reasons to See Your Family Dentist in Edmonton Regularly

1. It can prevent gum disease. By keeping the tissues around your teeth clean, you can protect against bad breath and gum infection. You will also reduce your chances of bone and tooth loss. Gum disease can be reversed and treated if detected early, which is why it’s important to visit your dentist for check-ups and cleanings at least twice a year.
2. It can detect oral cancer. Particularly if you are a smoker, you should visit your dentist regularly to be screened for oral cancer, which can be deadly if not caught early.
3. It can prevent cavities. Plaque and tartar, the leading cause of tooth decay, will eat away at your tooth’s enamel, which can lead to cavities. Your dentist can effectively remove the plaque and tartar in and around your teeth to help prevent tooth decay and holes in your teeth.
4. It can help you keep your teeth. If you suffer from a severe case of gum disease, plaque can damage the bone in your jaw, loosening your teeth and causing them to fall out. Your dentist will help control plaque buildup and prevent it from penetrating beneath the teeth.
5. It can give you a brighter smile. Certain foods and drinks will darken your teeth, which can lower your self-confidence and prevent you from smiling. Your dentist can effectively remove stains as they appear.
6. It can freshen your breath. Practicing good oral hygiene, including deep cleaning procedures will help ensure a healthy mouth and fresh breath.
7. It’s good for your overall health. An unhealthy mouth can lead to a number of health problems, including stroke and cardiovascular disease. Studies show that getting your teeth cleaned on a regular basis can help reduce your risk of developing serious health conditions.
8. Set an example for your children. If you want your children to understand the importance of good oral health, teach them at a young age. Take them with you when you visit the dentist for a cleaning, so they can see how well you do. Also, be sure to schedule their appointment with kids dentist as soon as their first tooth comes in to help them develop good oral care habits at a young age.
9. Save money. Staying on top of your oral hygiene now can help you avoid costly dental work later.

Practicing good oral hygiene and having regular dental check-ups and teeth cleanings play an important role in maintaining a healthy smile. When you schedule your annual routine exam and x-rays with Janz Family Dental, we will check for issues such as cavities and infections. Using proper scaling techniques, we are able to effectively remove plaque buildup and unsightly stains from your teeth caused by aging and certain foods and drinks.

For a thorough dental cleaning by your local family dentist in Edmonton, contact Janz Family Dental today. We are currently accepting new patients. Call us at 780-484-8573 to schedule your appointment or contact us online with your questions.

Child’s First Visit To Your Family Dentist In Edmonton

Your child’s first dental visit is usually a meet and greet with the dentist to break the ice and help them feel more comfortable in the environment. If it makes your child feel more at ease, the dentist may ask you to sit in the dental chair with your child during the exam. Next, your dentist will examine your child’s mouth for tooth decay and any other problems with their bite, gums, jaw and tissues. Your child may also require a teeth cleaning and a fluoride treatment depending on the condition of their oral health. To better help prepare your children for good dental care, your family dentist in Edmonton may provide you with information and suggestions on basic oral hygiene practices and dental developmental issues. Topics of discussion may include:

• How to help prevent plaque buildup and cavities
• How fluoride can help fight tooth decay
• How thumb sucking, tongue thrusting and lip sucking can affect oral health
• How to help provide comfort during teething
• How nutrition can affect oral health
• When to schedule dental checkups. Your dentist may recommend visiting twice a year to help your child feel more comfortable and confident with oral care. Regular visits can also help ensure their teeth are developing properly and any problems are caught and treated early.

Help Children Welcome Visits to Your Family Dentist in Edmonton Dental fear is common amongst toddlers and young children. Whether they are visiting the dentist for a dental checkup or cleaning, it’s important for you as a parent to help alleviate some of that anxiety. Talking to them about what they can expect and the importance of good oral care can give them peace of mind and set the tone for their oral health habits. Here are a few more tactics you can try to help them overcome dental fear:

• Spend time reading picture books about visiting the dentist. Visuals can better help your child understand what exactly a dentist does and why it is important for their overall health.
• Have them play “dentist” with a doll. Encourage them to open the doll’s mouth, look inside and clean its teeth.
• Bring with you one of your child’s favourite toys, which can be a great distraction in the waiting room and dentist’s chair.
• Rewarding your child for being so courageous and patient can go a long way. For example, planning a trip to the park after the visit can help your child stay positive.
• Showing them how cheerful and calm you are during your dental checkup can help ease their stress. Toddlers are perceptive and will take notice of how you react when visiting the dentist, so be sure to always put your best foot forward.
• Congratulate your child for being brave, and be supportive if they have a difficult time adjusting.

Janz Family Dental offers complete dental services for kids of all ages. During your child’s dental visit, they can slip on a pair of headphones and watch their favourite movie during their dental visit. We offer comprehensive dental treatments and procedures for the whole family, from toddlers to seniors. Whether you or your child requires a dental check-up or teeth cleaning, we can help you with all of your oral care needs. When you visit us, you will be asked to complete medical and health information forms concerning to ensure we are up-to-speed on a patient’s medical history.

What To Look For In A Good Pediatric Dentist

A pediatric dentist is a dental professional who provides dental care for children, all the way from their first tooth to their teen years.

Choosing the right dental clinic in Edmonton for your child’s pediatric dental care is an important task, as their oral health during childhood can have a significant impact on their oral health in adulthood. An experienced and knowledgeable pediatric dentist will be able to provide your child with teeth cleanings, examinations, preventative dental care, cavity repair, dental diagnostic services, and much, much more. There are two very important factors to consider when deciding on the right pediatric dentist: the overall atmosphere of their Edmonton dental clinic, and the pediatric dentist’s commitment to both parent and child dental education. Dental Clinic Atmosphere While looking around for a pediatric dentist, it can be a good idea to give the dental office a visit before taking your child in for their first appointment. A good pediatric dental clinic in Edmonton will have an environment that is welcoming and comforting to children. Ask for a consultation so that you can take a look at the waiting room and the rooms where your child will be seen. Ask yourself afterwards if the office staff was friendly to your child and if your dentist was willing to patiently answer their questions and concerns. A dental clinic that offers pediatric dental services should know how to cater to children and should only use tools and equipment suitable for a child’s mouth.

Commitment to Parent and Child Education

Dental clinics in Edmonton, especially ones that provide kids dentistry services, should be focused not only on dental cleanings and examinations, but also on dental education. A good pediatric dentist will be able to provide you with important information about taking care of your child’s oral health, and will be committed to educating your child about oral hygiene as well. Pay attention to how your dentist speaks to your child, and if they are kind and patient when they explain the importance of good oral hygiene habits. They should be willing to demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques, and to explain how certain foods and drinks can lead to the development of cavities. All of your questions should be met with detailed and informative answers.

Janz Family Dental: Your Pediatric Dental Clinic in Edmonton

For an Edmonton dental clinic with a kid-friendly atmosphere and a dental team that is committed to providing you and your child with everything you need to know about good oral health, look no further than Janz Family Dental. Our team of dentists, hygienists, and dedicated office staff has experience working with children of all ages. We strive to provide a welcoming, comforting atmosphere to help reduce dental anxiety.

At Janz Family Dental we provide a full range of family dental services, meaning you can conveniently book an appointment for the whole family to get a dental checkup and cleaning at the same time. We hope to see you soon!

3 Things To Look For In A Good Toothbrush

Though all toothbrushes have the same basic design — a handle, a brush head, and bristles — not all toothbrushes are created equal. There are some important components which separate an effective toothbrush from one that either does a poor job or can outright damage your teeth. To help ensure that your teeth are well cared for, the teeth cleaning professionals at Edmonton’s Janz Family Dental have put together this list of the 3 most important things to look for in a good toothbrush:

• Soft Bristles – Some people prefer stiff bristles because they feel that it provides them with a more thorough clean. After all, shouldn’t stiff bristles be better at scrubbing away plaque and food particles? Well, the problem is that using a
• Small Brush Head – Speaking of paying enough attention to every single tooth in your mouth, your tooth brush is going to need to be equipped with a brush head small enough to get into all of those annoyingly hard-to-reach places. Many tooth brushes on the market come with a brush head so big that it can be almost impossible to get it all the way to your back molars, and to effectively brush them as well. If your new brush doesn’t seem to reach as far back as it should, then it would be in your best interest to run out and pick up a new one with a smaller head.
• Comfortable Handle – On top of the brush head fitting comfortably in your mouth, the brush handle should also fit comfortably in your hand. It should be easy to hold the brush for the full two minutes so that you don’t quit brushing early just because the handle is digging uncomfortably into your hand. A non-slip grip handle is a great choice as well, as you don’t want to lose your grip in the middle of brushing your teeth.

Any More Questions? Ask an Edmonton Dentist The bottom line is that a good toothbrush will allow you to reach and effectively brush all of your teeth. It will also be comfortable enough to hold that you never skip on brushing your teeth just to avoid using it. If you’re still unsure about the best toothbrush for your needs, then, when you go in for your next teeth cleaning at Edmonton’s Janz Family Dental, you can ask your dentist or hygienist for a recommendation. Book an appointment with us today and we’ll be happy to help you find a good toothbrush that will keep your teeth healthy and clean.

Fluoride Facts: Is It Safe?

Taking an active role in your own health and educating yourself about treatments is an important part of getting the best care possible.

This becomes even more important for grownups when they have children. We all want the best for our kids, and that includes the best dental healthcare. Fluoride has been the topic of much discussion and debate, especially when it comes to kids dental care. The kids’ dentists at the Janz Family Dental in Edmonton have the answers and can help you ensure your children’s health comes first while receiving the best in oral healthcare.

HOW SAFE IS FLUORIDE FOR KIDS?

From tap water treatment to dental treatments, fluoride gets a confusing reputation. Here’s what you need to know about fluoride and the role it can play in your kids’ dental health:

• Fluoride is Beneficial – Fluoride can dramatically improve the strength of your teeth. Tests have reported that fluoride treatment can reduce cavities by 15-30% in children.
• Small Doses – The dosage is what can cause issues and become a cause for concern. Ensure your child is receiving fluoride treatment from an experienced professional, like the family dentistry team at Janz Family Dental. We are able to properly administer fluoride treatments in the correct, small doses and ensure that kids under our supervision follow directions.
• Age is Important – It is most important for children to receive treatments between the ages of 6 and 16. Treatment during this stage is important as primary and permanent teeth come in.
• Use Your Discretion – Be very cautious using fluoride with such young children. Ingestion is one of the major risks associated with fluoride use and young kids may not be fully aware or understand instructions to avoid swallowing the substance.

Visit a kids’ dentist in Edmonton to ensure that your child receives the proper fluoride treatment at the right time for their dental health. With regular checkups, teeth cleaning and proper procedures and treatments, we can help your family keep their smiles healthy. Our team is dedicated to making your children and entire family feel comfortable and confident about the dental care they are receiving. For a family dentist in Edmonton, contact Janz Family Dental. We are currently accepting new patients. Schedule your appointment at 780-484-8573 or contact us online with any questions.

10 Mistakes You’re Making When Brushing Your Teeth

What?!? You can make mistakes brushing your teeth? That’s right Edmonton. It sounds crazy but it’s true. Read the following tips to make sure that you’re cleaning your teeth the right way.

Mistake #1—You’re not using the right brush. Make sure that you choose a soft bristled (the softer the better!) brush that is the right size for your mouth. If you’re not sure which tooth brush is right for you, be sure to ask one of our knowledgeable dental hygienists at your next cleaning!

Mistake #2—You’re not using the right toothpaste. Whitening toothpastes can be hard on your teeth. Opt for simple fluoride toothpastes instead. If you want your teeth whitened, or professionally cleaned, visit Janz Family Dental in Edmonton.

Mistake #3—Your brush is dirty Tiny droplets of vaporized toilet water are all over your brush. Yeah. Gross. Store it far away from the toilet and rinse it before and after each use. And rinse it really well. Really well.

Mistake #4—Your brush is old Read mistake #3 and ask yourself, how long has this been going on? You should replace your brush at least four times a year.

Mistake #5—Your technique is off Do you brush side to side? You’re doing it wrong. Brush up and down in short strokes with the brush held at a 45-degree angle from your gums if you want to avoid damaging your enamel, or your gums for that matter!

Mistake #6—You’re not doing it long enough A proper brushing should take you about 2 minutes.

Mistake #7—You’re not doing it often enough If you want to avoid bad breath, tooth decay, gum disease and a whole host of other problems then you need to brush your teeth at least twice a day.

Mistake #8—You’re doing it too often Whoa, hold up, is there such a thing? Yup. Over-brushing can damage your tooth enamel, and hurt your gums.

Mistake #9—You’re not paying attention Most of us brush unconsciously and then end up missing the gum line, which is where plaque builds up. Watch yourself in the mirror to stay focused on the task at hand.

Mistake #10—You don’t floss If you don’t floss, tiny particles of food and gunk get stuck between your teeth and start to decay. Then the tiny decaying particles can start to cause tooth decay and gum disease. Nasty. Floss every night before you go to bed.

Call the Janz Family Dental in Edmonton for more helpful tips on teeth cleaning and oral hygiene. Don’t underestimate the importance of regular teeth cleaning and checkups. Schedule regular appointments with one of the dentists at Edmonton’s Janz Family Dental to keep your smile healthy. Book your next appointment today!