Best & Worst Halloween Candy For Your Teeth

It’s difficult to keep up with your children’s oral health when Halloween rolls around.

There are, however, things you can do to look out for their dental hygiene. At Janz Family Dental, children’s dentist in West Edmonton, we take pride in the care and maintenance of your children’s teeth. We know you can’t prevent your children from eating candy this Halloween, but you can at least encourage them to eat the right kind. Here’s a short list of the best and worst candies your kids can eat on October 31st.

BEST

The best candy for your children’s teeth would obviously be no candy at all. Since this is almost impossible during Halloween, here’s a list of treats that won’t rot their teeth:

1. Sugar-free candy

For obvious reasons, sugar free candy is your best bet to prevent your children’s teeth from falling out. With no sugar, there are less bacteria and acid to attack their teeth and cause them to decay.

2. Chocolate/dark chocolate

In the grand scheme of sweets and treats, chocolate is probably your best bet when it comes to avoiding tooth decay. This is mostly due to the fact that it washes off your teeth far more easily than most other candies. To take it a step further, dark chocolate has hardly any sugar, the calcium in dark chocolate can strengthen your teeth and the cocoa beans actually fight bacteria and plaque.

3. Powdered candy

Powdered candy, while not necessarily good for your teeth, is far less detrimental due to the fact that the powder dissolves quickly, allowing it less time to do any serious damage.

WORST

Alternatively, other types of candy, like the ones listed below, are terrible for your children’s teeth. Do your best to avoid these, or you’ll probably need to visit an Edmonton dentist soon after.

1. Gummy/sticky candy

Gummies tend to stick to your children’s teeth for a long time after their initial consumption. They cause sugar to get stuck in between your teeth, and if you don’t brush, could stay on your teeth overnight.

2. Hard candy

The problem with hard candy is that it stays in your mouth for long periods of time. This allows it to deliver a lot of sugar over time, which is highly detrimental to your children’s oral health. This Halloween, help your children avoid candy that’s bad for their teeth. To help maintain a happy and healthy lifestyle for your children, make an appointment with our family dentist in West Edmonton. We care about the health and well being of your family’s teeth, call us today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign

It’s easier than ever to find a method for correcting your teeth that’s right for you. More and more people in Edmonton have been asking their dentist about Invisalign as a teeth correction option. So you can be as informed as possible, we’ve compiled some frequently asked questions about Invisalign.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a brand of clear, custom-made tooth aligners that perform some of the corrective tasks previously done by metal braces.

How does it work?

Using special 3D images of your teeth, a set of virtually invisible, custom-made aligners will be created to wear over your teeth. As you progressively wear each aligner, your teeth will gradually shift to their right places. The exact number of aligners you will need and how long you will need to wear them depend on your dentist’s recommendation.

How do I get started?

Find a dentist in your area that carries Invisalign and arrange for a consultation to find out if it’s right for you.

How do Invisalign aligners compare to traditional braces?

Traditional, metal braces are famously embarrassing for people. The unsightly metal can distract those you interact with and cause unnecessary stress in social situations. With Invisalign, however, aligners are nearly invisible and much less likely to draw attention.

Are there any side effects?

When first starting Invisalign, there may be an adjustment to having them in your mouth. While Invisalign can create dry mouth and make speaking feel awkward, these effects are typically not severe or lasting effects.

Are allergies a problem?

There have been some cases of patients reporting allergic reactions to their aligners but these have been very rare. You should consult with your doctor before beginning to use Invisalign and continue to update him or her on your progress to avoid any complications.

Are they painful?

Some people do report mild discomfort when starting Invisalign. Your teeth are being altered, after all. Pain is, however, usually milder than the pain associated with traditional braces. Typically, your mouth becomes accustomed to the aligners and patients experience minimal overall discomfort.

Do they cause problems when eating?

They don’t. You can remove your aligners when you eat and brush your teeth.

Are they typically covered by insurance?

Invisalign is often covered by insurance plans as a form of orthodontics. Check with your insurance company to find out if you’re covered.

Janz Family Dental is a family-owned dental clinic in Edmonton that offers kids, family, cosmetic, and other dental services. Contact us today to find out more about why we should be your dentist in Edmonton.

The Benefits Of Using A Mouthguard For Sports

If you or your children play sports, a custom mouthguard provided by your family dentist in Edmonton is a must. Not only will wearing a mouthguard protect teeth against injury, but it can also prevent neck injuries, broken jaws, and possibly concussions.

The Canadian Dental Association strongly recommends them and some research indicates that those who wear mouthguards are 60 times less likely to incur an injury.

Types of Mouthguards

A mouthguard is typically worn only on the upper teeth. The ideal type is one that remains in place when you move, is comfortable to wear, and allows you to speak and breathe with ease. There are three basic types you can buy:

• Stock mouthguards. These ready-to-wear mouthguards are inexpensive and can be bought at most sporting goods stores. Unfortunately, they offer little protection, are uncomfortable to wear and make talking and sometimes even breathing difficult.
• Boil-and-bite mouthguards. This isanother type of store-bought mouthguard and it’s definitely more comfortable than a stock mouthguard. As the name suggests, the plastic apparatus that comes out of the box needs to be softened first in hot water and then bitten into in order to shape it to your mouth.
• Custom-fitted mouthguards. To get thistype of mouthguard, you’ll need to visit your family dentist in Edmonton. He or she will first make a mould of your teeth and then the mouthguard will be designed overtop. Custom mouthguards are more expensive, but they’re also the most comfortable to wear and offer the best protection.

If You Have Braces

Some people mistakenly believe that if you have braces or other dental appliances, wearing a mouthguard isn’t possible. However, nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, wearing a mouthguard during sports is doubly important if you have braces. Removable appliances (like retainers) should simply be removed before commencing athletic activities.

When to Wear a Mouthguard

Contact sports like football, rugby, hockey, field hockey, and lacrosse typically require that players wear a mouthguard. However, there are many other activities during which a mouthguard should be worn if you want to avoid a trip to the emergency dental clinic in Edmonton. Some of these activities include:

• Gymnastics
• Boxing
• Basketball
• Wrestling
• Martial Arts
• Skateboarding
• Biking
• Weight Lifting
• Volleyball
• Soccer
• Squash

It’s best to wear a mouthguard during any sport or activity in which there’s the potential for impact to the mouth by a person, an object or a hard surface.

Where to get a Custom Mouthguard

While almost every Edmonton dentist can provide you with a custom-made mouthguard, only Janz Family Dental will go the extra mile to put patients, both young and old, at ease. Contact us today to make an appointment, or simply keep our number handy should you ever require an emergency dentist in Edmonton.

Back To School Dental Health Checklist

Summer is over and the kids are headed back to school. You’ve probably already bought new clothes and school supplies, but have you considered your children’s dental hygiene? To protect your kids’ dental health, here are a few things you can do to provide a healthy start to the new school year.

Schedule a dental cleaning and checkup

Just like adults, kids should visit their dentist twice a year. Their teeth should be examined for any irregularities and a cleaning performed to get rid of plaque buildup. If your children are due for a trip to their local dental clinic in Edmonton, now’s a great to make the appointment.

New toothbrushes

Toothbrushes should be replaced every three months or sooner if the bristles have started to fray. Letting kids pick out their own brush is great way to keep them interested in their dental hygiene. While you’re at it, you can also pick out a fluoride-containing toothpaste in your children’s preferred flavour and a roll of dental floss.

Re-establish a daily dental routine

During the summer months regular routines often get thrown to the wayside. If this is the case in your household, now’s the time to re-establish healthy habits. For great oral health, children should brush their teeth twice every day and floss at least once.

Plan for healthy lunches and snacks

When it comes to their oral health, what your children do and don’t eat can make a big difference. You probably already know that too many sugary treats can lead to cavities, but starchy and acidic foods and drinks can be just as problematic. Reduce or eliminate pop, juice, chips and crackers from your children’s diet. Instead, offer the following tooth-healthy foods:

• Crunchy fruits and vegetables (apples, carrots, bell peppers, celery, etc.)
• Hard cheeses
• Nuts (almonds, walnuts, etc.)
• Plain yogourt
• Leafy greens
• Milk
• Meat and fish
• Eggs

Mouth guards for sports

If your children play sports—especially contact sports like hockey or football—then you should speak to their dentist about custom-made mouth guards. Wearing a fitted mouth guard is the best way to protect teeth from sports-related injuries.

Consider sealants

Children often have a difficult time brushing their teeth, particularly the ones at the back of their mouth. This makes them far more susceptible to dental decay. Sealants can help reduce the risk of developing cavities by coating the grooves in teeth that are susceptible to accumulating plaque. Speak to your children’s dentist to find out if a sealant is a good option for them.

A dental clinic in Edmonton for the whole family

If you’re looking for a family dentist that caters to all members of your household, look no further than Janz Family Dental. We provide a complete range of dental services in a caring and comfortable clinic. Contact us to make an appointment today.

Root Canal 101 From Your Dental Clinic In Edmonton

If you have ever wondered whether you require a root canal, you would likely benefit from exploring this common type of endodontic treatment.

Getting a root canal procedure involves a variety of steps. However, the treatment is not as intimidating as some people believe it to be.

Your Family Dentist Provides Important Information

Your first step should always be to talk to your family dentist about your dental concerns. By visiting the professionals at your dental clinic in Edmonton, you will be able to resolve your issues efficiently.

When Do I Need a Root Canal?

A root canal is performed when a tooth has an infected nerve or pulp. After examining your mouth, your dentist will tell you whether having this procedure is advisable. Here is a brief guide on how a root canal is implemented and why you might be a viable candidate for getting one:

• Toothache: The problem is typically identified when you visit the dentist with a toothache. You might experience pain when you chew. You could also feel sensitivity to hot and cold liquids. The discomfort may be so severe that you need to schedule an emergency appointment with your dentist.
• Pain: The pain that patients often associate with a root canal is not generally experienced during the treatment. This is a misconception that countless individuals have. In truth, the pain related to the procedure has more to do with the toothache that prompts an emergency dental visit.
• Why a Root Canal? A root canal not only resolves the symptom of pain; it can actually save your tooth. If the tooth has decayed to a certain point, it is at risk of falling out of the mouth. By getting a root canal and ensuing treatments, you might be able to save an infected, decaying tooth.
• The Procedure: The treatment itself is performed in several steps. First, you are given anesthesia, so that you do not feel discomfort during the root canal. Then, a barrier called a dental dam is placed in the mouth to keep the environment sterile. A hole is drilled in the tooth, and the affected tissue is removed. The root canals of the tooth are reshaped and disinfected, and the canals are filled with material. Later, a permanent filling or crown will be placed in or over the tooth.

Root Canal Treatment in Edmonton Getting a root canal is not the scary prospect that so many people think it is. If you have an infected or decaying tooth, you might require this procedure. When you experience a toothache or dental sensitivity, do not hesitate to visit Janz Family Dental. One of our capable dentists will examine your mouth and determine the best course of action. We are always happy to assist you and address any dental concerns that you may have.

If you have a toothache or have questions about root canal treatment, call our dental clinic in Edmonton at 780-484-8573. Please also feel free to reach us online.

Understanding The Health Dangers Of Dental Plaque And Gum Disease

You may know that plaque and gum disease can cause much destruction inside the mouth.

Once you develop gingivitis and periodontitis, you begin to lose gum tissue and bone. Ultimately, you could lose all of your teeth if the issue is not treated. This is not a condition to take lightly at any level. What many people do not realize is that plaque and gum disease can also affect other areas of your health. This is why it is critical to visit your dental clinic in Edmonton for regular exams and cleanings. Your dentist must periodically assess your oral health in order to help you maintain your overall health. Talk to your family dentist at Janz Family Dental for more information on preventing and combating dental plaque and gingivitis.

How Gum Disease and Plaque Affect Your Health

If you are still uncertain as to how dental plaque and periodontitis might have an adverse effect on your health, consider these points:

• Scientific Evidence: Researchers have discovered a correlation between plaque, gum disease, and other aspects of health. They have not yet determined the exact cause and effect. However, they have identified various links between these conditions and symptoms, and other health conditions.
• Health Dangers: The other health conditions linked to gum disease and plaque include heart disease, dementia, and diabetes. Additional associated health risks are rheumatoid arthritis and premature birth.
• How It Happens: Although scientists are still researching the topic, it appears that the problem begins with harmful bacteria present in the mouth. The bacteria escape into the bloodstream, where they are transported to internal organs. That is where other very serious health problems may begin to develop.
• Inflammation: One link between all of these health issues and poor oral health might be inflammation. Inflammation manifests as a result of periodontitis. Inflammation is also associated with such conditions as rheumatoid arthritis and heart disease.
• Diabetes: Another point worth noting is that diabetes could be a precursor to gum disease. Peoplewho have diabetes are at a higher risk of developing infections. Gum disease is an infection, which may partially explain the connection between diabetes and periodontitis.
• Symptoms: Pay attention to your oral health in between dental visits. If your gums are red, swollen, or tender, you might have gingivitis. Other symptoms to look for include bleeding when you floss or brush, loose gums and teeth, dental sensitivity in general, and bad breath that remains after you floss and brush. Should any of these symptoms arise, be sure to schedule an appointment with your family dentist.

Taking care of your gums and teeth is imperative if you want to stay healthy. Do not leave your oral health to chance. Talk to your dentist about keeping your mouth in good condition. If you detect the symptoms of gingivitis, book a dental visit as soon as possible. Make regular checkups and cleanings a top priority, so you do not needlessly endanger your overall health.

Call Janz Family Dental at 780-484-8573 to schedule an appointment at our dental clinic in Edmonton. You may also contact us online.

New Dentures In Edmonton – Now What?

If there’s any certainty about life is that it will change and while becoming a new denture wearer is a change, it’s not something that should end anyone’s enjoyment of the simple pleasures in life. Dentures can be a great way to replace missing teeth and provide you with the functionality and smile that you’ve been looking for.

At Janz Family Dental, we offer partial dentures used to replace one or several teeth as well as full or complete dentures to replace your entire upper or lower row of teeth. Your teeth can be extracted on the same day that you get your denture inserted so there is never a need to go without teeth for any length of time. For any new denture wearer continuing the lifestyle they have always loved is critical. Here are a few basic pointers to get you back to you:

• As with anything new, it will be and feel strange at first, so the best thing to do is to acknowledge that some adjustments will have to be made and to exercise a good amount of patience. New denture wearers should take smaller bites than they normally would, avoid biting hard with their front teeth, and keep excessively chewy foods off of the menu for at least the short term.
• As you, the new wearer, find that eating has become far easier and much more natural – anywhere between two weeks and three months – additional food items can be added to the menu, such as firmer vegetables, chewier meats, and fruits that require a bit more work to break down. Many denture wearers start using zinc-free adhesive products to help form a protective barrier that prevents seeds, nuts, or other food particles from irritating the gums at this time also.
• If speaking clearly with new dentures proves challenging, as it does for many new wearers because words containing “f” and “s” sounds can be awkward, it can be extremely helpful to practice speaking out loud while standing before a mirror and to read aloud to others as a means to gain greater confidence. Many new denture wearers find that biting down and consciously swallowing immediately before they begin to speak works wonders by setting the dentures into their proper position.

You also need to care for complete dentures and partial dentures as carefully as you would look after natural teeth. The Canadian Dental Association suggest that to properly care for your dentures you:

• Clean them every day – plaque and tartar can build up on false teeth, just like they do on natural teeth;
• Take them out every night – brush your teeth and gums carefully, using a soft toothbrush. Be sure to clean and massage your gums; and,
• Soak them overnight – they can be soaked in a special denture cleanser, in warm water, or in a mix of half warm water and half vinegar. If your denture has metal clasps, use warm water only for soaking. Soaking will loosen plaque and tartar. They will then come off more easily when you brush.

At Janz Family Dental, we offer a complete range of dental services – from dental check-ups and cleanings, to root canal treatment, Invisalign® braces, cosmetic dentistry, and partial or complete dentures. If you have questions about dentures or any of our services, contact Janz Family Dental at 780-484-8573 or visit us in Mayfield Square, Edmonton today.

Sugar & Cavities in Edmonton

Canadians have been told for years that sugar is the enemy to your teeth but that statement alone doesn’t tell the whole story when it comes to cavities, or does it?

At Janz Family Dental, we understand that a healthy smile always makes a good impression, whether you’re interviewing for a job, giving a presentation, or meeting old friends for dinner.

We offer gentle dental services and procedures for the whole family, from toddlers to seniors – and often get asked any number of questions, like can you reduce the risk of cavities by reducing your sugar intake.

According to the Canadian Dental Association, a cavity is a very small hole that forms on the surface of a tooth. Sugar actually indirectly leads to cavities. While our mouths contain many types of healthy bacteria, there are some not-so-helpful bacteria that feed on the sugars leftover from the tasty treats we consume throughout the day. Once they make a meal of these sugars, the bacteria excrete a mild acid that slowly demineralizes the outer enamel layer of our teeth.

So who is susceptible to cavities that result from sugar-eating bacteria?

Once your child has teeth, she or he is susceptible to tooth decay.

A 2014 study from the U.K. found that greatly reducing the amount of added sugar you eat can significantly lower your risk of dental decay. Researchers found that over time, people’s risk of cavities increased incrementally as the consumption of added sugars grew from about 0 percent to 10 percent of total daily calories.

The study authors recommend cutting the amount of added sugars to no more than 5 percent, with a target goal of 3 percent. This includes any sucrose, glucose, and fructose added to food, as well as the sugars present in honey, syrups, and fruit juices. In terms of actual diet, if eating 2,000 calories a day you would be limited to just 100 calories, or 25 grams, of added sugar. However, it’s not exactly how much sugar you’re eating that bumps up your tooth decay risk – it’s how often you’re eating it – because of how the decaying process works:

• Bacteria naturally attach to your teeth and coat them in a thin film known as plaque;
• When you eat sugars, they reach the bacteria, which feed on these sugars; and,
• They then turn the sugars into acid, which deconstructs the enamel of tooth and causes decay. This acid reaction starts each time sugar comes in contact with plaque.

“As long as you’re sipping it or snacking on it, the bacteria that can cause decay are changing that sugar into acid, and that acid is eroding the tooth,” says Carole Palmer, head of the division of nutrition and oral health promotion at the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. To reduce sugar induced tooth decay, eat sugary foods during your three main meals because there are natural sugars in healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, and grain and your teeth are naturally exposed at this point, not excessive exposed. Then brush your teeth after eating. Try not to graze on sweetened food or drinks throughout the day, but if you do, give your mouth a quick rinse after.

Remember, it’s not necessarily what you eat so long as it’s healthy, rather when it comes to cavities, how long your teeth are exposed to these sugars. Good oral health care, along with routine check-ups and cleanings at Janz Family Dental are a clear path to fewer cavities.

If you have questions about sugar and your oral health or any of our services, contact Janz Family Dental or call: 780-484-8573

Are Dental X-Rays Safe? Learn The Facts From Your Local Dental Clinic In Edmonton

If you have good oral health, you most likely visit your local dental clinic in Edmonton twice a year. If you have dental conditions that require frequent attention, you may see your dentist every few months.

Either way, regardless of how often your oral health is assessed, you can expect to receive dental x-rays as part of your treatment. Though they are recommended at different times for each patient, it’s common for your dentist to request them on a yearly basis. It’s no secret that x-rays require very low levels of radiation, but some people may be worried and wondering if they are actually safe. In fact, a routine exam will expose you to the same amount of radiation that you encounter on a day-to-day basis, such as a short airplane flight.

Here’s what you should know about dental x-rays:

• In comparison to other medical radiography procedures, dental x-rays release very low amounts of radiation.
• Today’s digital x-rays and digital photography technology is designed to provide excellent diagnostic abilities while emitting minimal radiation.
• Lead aprons and other shielding techniques ensure you are exposed to the least amount of radiation necessary during the procedure.
• X-rays and digital imaging equipment allow your dentist to see beneath your enamel and gums to determine problems early, which can mean fewer dental visits and expenses.

Thanks to today’s advances in x-ray technology, our Edmonton dentists are able to zoom in on a patient’s problem area, highlight and colour for improved definition, and incorporate the images into a digitized patient record portfolio for easy access during future visits.

How X-Rays Play a Crucial Role in Dental Treatment

As long as all standard safety precautions are met, x-ray equipment can actually eliminate unnecessary radiation. From a lower x-ray dose, better film and digital radiography to film holders, regular inspections and licensing and lead shields, several changes have taken place over the years to ensure reduced radiation exposure. Janz Family Dental is happy to offer dental x-rays as a way to obtain a high level of detail with your teeth, bone and tissues in the mouth.

Through this modern day technology, we are able to find cavities, look at the root of your tooth, check your bone health, determine if you have periodontal disease, inspect developing teeth and monitor the overall health of your mouth. If you are a new patient, we will ask you to complete medical and health information forms before taking dental x-rays.

Once we have a view of the condition of your oral health, we will be able to put together a treatment plan to ensure you get the best possible care with minimal disruption to your routine. If you have any concerns about dental x-rays, the team at Janz Family Dental is readily available to help you understand what’s involved in the process and the benefits of utilizing state-of-the-art dental x-ray equipment.

Contact Janz Family Dental today at 780-484-8573 to schedule your check-up appointment with a family dental clinic in Edmonton or contact us online with your questions and we will respond shortly.