WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GUM DISEASE

Gum Disease Risks

Gum disease is an infection that can cause tooth loss; it is associated with several serious health conditions including heart attack, stroke, and diabetes. After having an examination of your gums and bone you should ask your periodontist or dentist if you have gum disease. While genetics plays a role in gum disease you can still have gum disease even though your parents and siblings were never affected by it.

Gum Disease Symptoms

The presence of any of these symptoms warrants a complete examination for gum disease by a periodontist or dentist.

• Bleeding while brushing, flossing, or eating.

• Gum recession, which results in teeth looking longer.

• Loose teeth and shifting tooth positions where teeth no longer touch.

• Tooth loss, a consequence of gum disease.

Because gum disease can begin and progress without obvious symptoms, an examination of your gums and jaw bones is the only accurate way to determine if you have gum disease. This includes measuring the depth of the gum pockets and using x-rays to determine the bone level.

Health Conditions and Gum Disease

Gum disease is associated with many health conditions. For example heart attacks and strokes are more common when gum disease exists. Gum disease complicates blood sugar management for the diabetic and high blood sugar worsens gum disease.

As a woman, the hormonal changes during pregnancy impact your gums. Some research has suggested having gum disease can increase the risk that your infant will be born premature and or/ be low weight. You should ask your periodontist or dentist regarding oral health complications during pregnancy.

What You Can Do about Gum Disease?

• Early detection and treatment of gum disease by a periodontist can help you preserve your teeth and smile for life. A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of gum disease.

• Smoking is a risk factor for gum disease, oral cancer and many other diseases. It also adversely affects healing and increases the likelihood of an infection following any type of surgery. Your periodontist or dentist and other health professionals can help you quit.

• Brushing and flossing every day is a very important behavior to prevent decay and gum disease.

Information as per the AAP

Dr. Elizabeth Dimovski - Brampton Dentist

Call to book your appointment today 905-458-6620

How to spot trouble. A guide to common dental problems

How to spot trouble Here is a quick guide to common dental problems. You should visit your dentist if you have these warning signs.

Warning Sign	The Problem?
Bad breath that doesn't go away	The cause might be gum disease, food, drinking, smoking, medicine you are taking or a health condition. If you cannot get rid of bad breath with daily brushing and flossing, see your dentist.
Your gums bleed when you brush or floss	If you just started to floss, a little bleeding is normal. But if you bleed almost every time you brush or floss your teeth, see your dentist.
Dry Mouth	For women, menopause may be the cause. It is also a side effect of many common medicines. It does not feel good and it can make dental problems worse. You need to tell your dentist if you have this problem.
A tooth that is a little bit loose	A loose tooth could be caused by gum disease or by a blow to the mouth. In any case, it is a serious problem. You should see your dentist.
A sore mouth	A sore mouth might be caused by false teeth that don't fit well. It could also be from leaving false teeth in overnight. "Burning mouth syndrome" is a problem that affects some older women. Not eating the right kind of food may also be the cause.
Bleeding that you can't explain Mouth sores that don't heal in 7 to 10 days White or red patches in your mouth Feeling numb or sore inside your mouth	These symptoms may be signs of oral cancer. See your dentist right away.
Teeth that are sensitive to: Hot Cold Sweetness Pressure	Teeth can become sensitive all of a sudden, or it can happen over time. In most cases, this kind of pain means something is wrong. Check with your dentist

For more information visit the Canadian Dental Association!

Dr. Elizabeth Dimovski & Associates – We Protect Your Smile!

www.drelizabethdimovski.ca

905-458-6620

2 Philosopher’s Trail, Unit #1, Brampton, Ontario, L6S 4C9

Know about dental fluorosis and what causes it - Brampton Dentist

Dental fluorosis is caused by excessive amounts of high concentration fluoride exposure during tooth development. It often appears as faint white streaks on enamel in most mild cases and in the most severe cases will appear as a brown mottled spots on the teeth. Usually it is a combination of fluoride sources which lead to the over exposure.  Children between the ages of 1 – 4 are at critical age of exposure. A child is no longer at risk after the age of 8 because all of the teeth have been developed already.

Since fluorosis is permanent and will not go away over time there are some ways to reduce its appearance. Most cases of fluorosis are mild and cannot be seen easily, but for more severe cases there are options such as bonding resin on fronts of teeth affected or veneers. Unfortunately, teeth whitening will often make the stains and white streaks have an almost chalky appearance which will still stand out from the regular tooth colour. The best way to find a solution which will work best for your specific case is to meet with a dental professional.

 Brampton Dentists

Brampton Dental Office

2 Philosopher's Trail, Unit 1, Brampton, Ontario L6S 4C9
905-458-6620

Recreational drugs and the effects on your teeth!

Did you know that there are consequences for your oral health when you decide to use recreational drugs? It’s true! Here are some examples:

• Tooth loss: Using tobacco, ecstasy, amphetamines and methamphetamines, can lead to the constriction of the capillaries in your gums. This affects the attachment of the bone to the tissue of your teeth and may lead to tooth loss.

• Dry mouth: Marijuana, ecstasy, amphetamines, methamphetamines, heroin and replacement therapies may decrease the saliva production that occurs in your mouth. This will in turn, increase your risk for gum disease and tooth decay.

• Erosion and tooth decay: Ecstasy raises your body temperature and you will want to consume sugary liquids. Marijuana and heroin also cause sugar cravings. Frequent consumption of sugary drinks and sweets will weaken your tooth enamel. Vomiting after alcohol consumption may also erode your teeth.

Information as per the Ontario Dental Association

 Brampton Dentists

Brampton Dental Office

2 Philosopher's Trail, Unit 1, Brampton, Ontario L6S 4C9
905-458-6620

Food for Thought ... and Healthier Teeth!!!!

A balanced, nutritious diet is good for your general health as well as your dental health. Without the right nutrients, your teeth and gums can become more susceptible to decay and gum disease. Sugar is one of the main causes of dental problems. The average Canadian eats the equivalent of 40 kg (88 lb) of sugar each year. Here are a few ways to reduce your sugar intake, and help your teeth at the same time.

• Try to choose sugar-free snacks such as milk, fruit, vegetables, nuts, plain yogurt, sunflower or pumpkin seeds, cheese, melba toast, juice and salads.
• Add less sugar to your coffee or tea or try sugar substitutes. Try to avoid sugar-sweetened soft drinks and look for fruit juices and drinks with no added sugar.
• Pay attention to the list of ingredients when you are grocery shopping. Honey, molasses, liquid invert sugar, glucose, and fructose are all types of sugar.
• When you do eat sweets, there are things you can do to avoid harming your teeth: avoid sticky sweets that cling to your teeth and are harder to brush away; eat sweets with a meal, not as a snack, to improve the flow of saliva, which helps wash away and dilute sugar; and carry a travel-size toothbrush and use it after eating sweets.
• If you can’t brush, at least rinse your mouth with water or eat a fibrous fruit such as an apple or raw vegetables. Or chew a piece of sugarless gum. Trident gum, which is the first chewing gum to be recognized by the Canadian Dental Association, contains DentecTM(Xylitol). Xylitol is a naturally occurring sweetener that is found in plants, in fruits, such as raisins and strawberries and in vegetables such as lettuce, onions and carrots.

Dr. Elizabeth Dimovski - Brampton Dentists

Brampton Dental Office

2 Philosopher's Trail, Unit 1, Brampton, Ontario L6S 4C9
905-458-6620

Free Dental Treatment For Kids - Healthy Smiles

Good oral health is very important for a child's overall health, however, for some, dental treatment is not affordable. Ontario offers a dental program called Healthy Smiles for children 17 and under that do not have access to dental coverage. If eligible, children are covered under this programs at no cost.

Healthy Smiles Ontario is a government-funded dental program that provides free preventive, routine, and emergency dental services for children and youth 17 years old and under from low-income households.

The program includes regular visits to a licensed dental provider and covers the costs of treatment including:

• check-ups
• cleaning
• fillings
• x-rays
• scaling
• urgent or emergency dental care

Cosmetic dentistry, including teeth whitening and braces, are not covered by the program.

Your household is automatically enrolled in the program if you or your child receives benefits through:

• Ontario Works
• Temporary Care Assistance
• Ontario Disability Support Program
• Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities

Children are eligible for the program if they:

• Are 17 years of age and under
• live in Ontario
• come from a household with an income equal to or less than the levels in the table below

If you know a child under the age of 17 that may be in need of dental treatment be sure to contact the local Public Health Unit in your area for more information. You may also contact our dental professionals for more information.

Dr. Elizabeth Dimovski Dental Office  - We Protect Your Smile!

Dentist in Brampton

905-458-6620

DR. ELIZABETH DIMOVSKI 

Brampton Dental Office

2 Philosopher's Trail, Unit 1, Brampton, Ontario L6S 4C9

Thumbsucking and Pacifier Use

Thumbsucking is a natural reflex for children. Sucking on thumbs, fingers, pacifiers or other objects may make babies feel secure and happy and help them learn about their world.
Young children may also suck to soothe themselves and help them fall asleep.

How Can Thumbsucking Affect My Child's Teeth?

After permanent teeth come in, sucking may cause problems with the proper growth of the mouth and alignment of the teeth. It can also cause changes in the roof of the mouth.
Pacifiers can affect the teeth essentially the same ways as sucking fingers and thumbs, but it is often an easier habit to break.
The intensity of the sucking is a factor that determines whether or not dental problems may result. If children rest their thumbs passively in their mouths, they are less likely to have difficulty than those who vigorously suck their thumbs. Some aggressive thumbsuckers may develop problems with their baby (primary) teeth.

When Do Children Stop Sucking Their Thumbs?

Children usually stop sucking between the ages of two and four years old, or by the time the permanent front teeth are ready to erupt. If you notice changes in your child’s primary teeth, or are concerned about your child’s thumbsucking consult your dentist.

How Can I Help My Child Stop Thumbsucking?

• Praise your child for not sucking.
• Children often suck their thumbs when feeling insecure or needing comfort. Focus on correcting the cause of the anxiety and provide comfort to your child.
• For an older child, involve him or her in choosing the method of stopping.
• Your dentist can offer encouragement to your child and explain what could happen to their teeth if they do not stop sucking.

If these tips don’t work, remind the child of their habit by bandaging the thumb or putting a sock on the hand at night. Your dentist or pediatrician may prescribe a bitter medication to coat the thumb or the use of a mouth appliance.

More from MouthHealthy

• How to keep baby bottle tooth decay at bay
• When will my baby's teeth come through?
• How to care for your child's teeth
• 8 common concerns about your child's teeth

Information as per the American Dental Association https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/t/thumbsucking

DR. ELIZABETH DIMOVSKI 

Brampton Dental Office

2 Philosopher's Trail, Unit 1, Brampton, Ontario L6S 4C9

905-458-6620

What should my mouth look like on the inside?

Between dental visits check your mouth for warning signs of gum disease and oral cancer.



Warning signs of gum disease may include:
    * puffy, red, sore, shiny or sensitive gums
    * bleeding when you brush or floss
    * bad breath that won’t go away
Warning signs of oral cancer may include:
    * numbness and tingling
    * open sores that don’t go away within a week to 10 days
    * unexplained bleeding
    * lumps or thickening on the bottom or sides of your tongue, cheeks, or roof of your mouth.
If you notice any of these signs, or have any concerns, call your dentist immediately. 

Ontario Dental Association

Dr. Elizabeth Dimovski Dental Office

905-458-6620

BAD HABITS FOR DENTITION - Brampton Dental Office

Joanna SAYS!

There are a number of habits that can lead to damage of your tooth structure and surrounding tissues. Some damage can happen instantly as a chip or a crack and others can occur over a length of time. Listed below are a few of these habits:

- Nail Biting

- Chewing on ice

- Using teeth to tear or open items

- Holding items with your teeth for a length of time (toothpicks, pins, pens)

- Playing with oral piercings

- Clenching or grinding

It is important to understand how these particular habits can lead to tooth damage and to discuss with your dental professionals if you participate in any of them. Together you can work with them to help find ways to break these tendencies and if any harm has already occurred to your dentition how to restore it.

Brampton Dentist 905-458-6620

INFORMATION ON GUM DISEASE

Gum disease is an inflammatory condition that affects the soft tissue and bone around the teeth. Although it might have minimal or no symptoms, this disease is considered a serious health condition that may lead to tooth loss.

The best way to reduce your chances of having gum disease is to visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.

Some common warning signals of gum disease include:

Bleeding gums when brushing 

Redness and swollen gums

Loose and/or separating teeth

Bad breath

Receding gums that make the teeth look longer

Change in your bite

Dentures that do not fit anymore

For more information or if you think you might be at risk of gum disease contact our office or be sure to ask one of our dental professionals at your next dental visit.

Dr. Elizabeth Dimovski and Associates

Bramton Dentists
905-458-6620

INVISALIGN BRACES FOR ADULTS AND KIDS #Dentist #Brampton

Sure, there are other options out there for straightening your teeth, but none offer the level of comfort, convenience and confidence that you'll find with Invisalign®. And no matter what stage you're at in life, you'll appreciate how Invisalign's cutting-edge approach to treatment has minimal interference in how you live, but has a significant positive impact on how you look and feel about yourself.

The Clear Aligner are virtually invisible. 
They are smooth and comfortable aligners.

The aligners are removable for easy cleaning. 

You can eat what ever you want.

They do not require brackets or wires.

And it is easier to brush, floss and clean your teeth.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF STRAIGHTS TEETH

You may be surprised to know that the benefits of having properly aligned teeth extend far beyond a confident smile. According to the American Dental Association, straightening your teeth can actually significantly affect your overall dental health.1 Think about it — a smile can hardly be perfect if it's not a healthy one. Fortunately, with Invisalign®, having a confident smile and reducing your risk for tooth decay and gum disease go hand in hand.

HEALTHIER TEETH AND GUMS

Swollen, red gums can often be the result of having teeth that are crowded or too widely spaced. Unfortunately, these are also signs of periodontal disease. When teeth are properly aligned, it helps the gums fit more securely around the teeth, allowing for the strongest and healthiest defence against potential periodontal problems. With Invisalign, the comfortable/clear aligners, gently and gradually begin to move your teeth into the proper position without unsightly brackets and wires.

EASIER CLEANING

One of the biggest challenges of having braces is removing all the food that gets trapped in the brackets and wires. This can often lead to plaque buildup and eventually tooth decay. With Invisalign, the aligners are removable, so it’s easy to continue brushing and flossing the way you normally do.

OVERALL HEALTH 

Think of your teeth as a window to the health of your body. Your teeth and gums — and how they look to others when you smile—say a lot about your overall health. If you're taking good care of both, you're probably taking good care of the rest of you. Tooth decay and gum disease are caused by bacteria. Left untreated, they can cause mouth sores, tender or bleeding gums, bad breath, and possible tooth loss. Studies by the American Dental Association have shown that oral infections can also lead to other more serious ailments such as heart disease, stroke, pneumonia and diabetes5. Invisalign aligners make daily oral hygiene easier, thus reducing the risk of possible problems. And correctly aligned teeth can also alleviate the issues that can be caused by an improper bite, speech or chewing difficulties, jaw problems, and increased wear on the tooth enamel. Invisalign effectively addresses all of these orthodontic issues, so you'll have the confidence of a great smile and increase the likelihood of improved oral health. 

For more information on Invisalign be sure to call one of our dental professionals at 905-458-6620 or visit www.invisalign.com. 

Dr. Elizabeth Dimovski Dentist Brampton 905-458-6620

Single Tooth Implant done by Dr. Braganza and Dr. Dimovski - Creating Unforgettable Smiles

One of the best way to replace a missing tooth is by placing an implant. A dental implant is made mostly of titanium metal and it acts as an artificial root.  It is placed in the jaw bone and an artificial replacement tooth is attached to the implant. Especially in the aesthetic area (front teeth), placing an implant is usually the treatment of choice. Most front teeth are lost due to severe fractures, trauma, avulsed teeth in accidents or large cavities.

The implant (part in the bone), in the photo, was placed by our periodontist (dental specialist) and the crown (tooth part that is visible) by our dentist. The patient is very pleased with the outcome.

Implants can replace any missing teeth provided there is enough healthy bone and soft tissue to support the tooth. For more information The Canadian Dental Association has a site that explains the procedure and answers any questions you might have.

www.cda-adc.ca/en/oral_health/procedures/dental_implants/

Dr. Elizabeth Dimovski Dental

Dentist in Brampton

Dental Programs For Children in Need of Dental Treatment

Mira SAYS!

Did you know that good oral health is very important for a child's overall health, however, for some, dental treatment is not affordable?  Ontario offers two dental programs for children 17 and under that do not have access to dental coverage. If eligible, children are covered under these programs at no cost. The two programs are Healthy Smiles and CINOT (Children In Need Of Treatment).

If you know a child under the age of 17 that may be in need of dental treatment be sure to contact the local Public Health Unit in your area for more information. You may also contact our dental professionals for more information.

Dr. Elizabeth Dimovski Dental Office 

Dentist in Brampton

905-458-6620

Year End Party in Photos

Dr. Elizabeth Dimovski Year End Party

Dentist Brampton