Cosmetic Periodontal Surgery

Patients who are unhappy with their smiles for a variety of reasons come to Riverwalk Dental for a solution.  The look of your smile includes the gums, and even when a patient’s teeth are healthy they may feel their gums keep them from a perfect smile.  Cosmetic periodontal surgery is a chance for patients to achieve the look they desire.

Cosmetic periodontal surgery is the process of sculpting a patient’s gum line.  A procedure can include removing gum tissue, grafting gum tissue, or both. Patients with excess gum tissue may have a gummy smile, and this can be removed with a scalpel tool or laser to expose more of the tooth.  Elongated teeth are the result of gums that have receded.  In these cases, gum tissue is harvested from a healthy location in the patient’s mouth and grafted onto the area lacking tissue.  The end result is an even, stunning smile!

To learn more about cosmetic periodontal surgery and all the services we provide, visit www.riverwalkdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Riverwalk Dental located at Canada, Alberta, T1B 4Y2, Medicine Hat, 101-7 Strachan Bay, SE, call 403-456-4994.

Root Canal Therapy

When the tooth nerve becomes infected, the person suffering is likely to need a root canal. Root canal therapy is a treatment used to repair and save a tooth that has badly decayed. Our doctors at Riverwalk Dental understand that the term root canal can sound terrifying, but it’s actually more painful to live with a permanent toothache. To help you get a better understanding of the root canal procedure, we are here to explain.

Once an X-ray has been taken and the location of the infection is targeted, our doctor will numb the area around the tooth. Since the nerve is dead, anesthesia may not be required, but we can discuss sedation options with you if the procedure makes you nervous. A hole will then be drilled into the tooth and our doctor will clean any remaining bacteria and debris. Once the tooth is cleaned completely, a temporary dental crown will be placed. You will then need to follow-up to have a permanent crown applied.

If you have questions or concerns about root canal therapy, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.riverwalkdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Riverwalk Dental located in Canada, Alberta, T1B 4Y2, Medicine Hat, 101-7 Strachan Bay, SE, 403-456-4994.

Benefits of Dental Implants

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. If you are self-conscious because you have missing teeth, wear dentures that are uncomfortable or don’t want to have good tooth structure removed to make a bridge, talk to one of our doctors at Riverwalk Dental to see if dental implants are an option for you.

Dental implants come in different sizes and heights, including standard, and narrow (mini). The ideal candidate for a dental implant is in good general and oral health. Adequate bone in your jaw is needed to support the implant, and the best candidates have healthy gum tissues that are free of periodontal disease. Dental implants are made up of titanium and other materials that are compatible with the human body. They are posts that are surgically placed in the upper or lower jaw, where they function as a sturdy anchor for replacement teeth.

If you have questions or concerns about dental implants, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.riverwalkdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Riverwalk Dental located in Canada, Alberta, T1B 4Y2, Medicine Hat, 101-7 Strachan Bay, SE, 403-456-4994.

Diabetes and Sleep Apnea

We pay special attention to the unique needs of our diabetic patients at Riverwalk Dental. People with diabetes have many additional health concerns, including an increased risk of gum disease, but our services extend to obstructive sleep apnea (OAS), as well. The link between OAS and diabetes is not completely understood, but there is a very high correlation.

Being overweight is one of the biggest risk factors for OAS. It makes the patient’s soft tissues likelier to sag into their airways when they’re lying down. As a metabolic disorder, diabetes puts people at an increased risk for obesity, but the connection may be deeper than that. Scientists believe that the stress of disrupted sleep causes the body to release hormones which release more glucose, creating a vicious circle. Sleep apnea also raises the patient’s blood pressure, while diabetes causes painful nerve damage that is also disruptive to sleep.

There are several means of easing the symptoms of sleep apnea dentists can help with. Among them are providing CPAP machines, which are masks that help to regulate the wearer’s breathing. We can also help provide night guards to reduce nighttime teeth grinding, which is often an attempt by the body to keep the airways open.

Dr. Jared Palmer and his team operate Riverwalk Dental at 540 6^th Avenue SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2G 1K5, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 1-403-456-4994 or visit RiverwalkDental.Ca.

 

Reducing Children's Dental Anxiety

Riverwalk Dental proudly provides dental services to Calgary residents of all ages, including children. We hope that they will develop a lifetime of good oral health habits, but unfortunately, many children also develop a fear of dentists. That’s why we want to help parents ensure their children are comfortable visiting us and getting their teeth cleaned.

Ideally, children will be brought in for their first appointment as soon as their first tooth starts to erupt. Going to the dentist should always be a normal part of life. But in reality, children are often apprehensive around adults they don’t know well. If possible, it is best for children to be accompanied by their siblings so that older ones can set a good example and younger ones can see there’s nothing to be afraid of. If one of their guardians has their own issues with dental anxiety, it is probably best for another person to come with and explain things to them.

To get children ready, simply tell them the dental staff wants to give their teeth a good cleaning and make sure they are healthy. It’s unnecessary to explain complicated procedures we almost certainly won’t be doing and emphasizing a need to be brave signals you expect the visit to be uncomfortable. We can explain our procedures and instruments to your children in age-appropriate terms once they’re here.

Dr. Jared Palmer and his team operate Riverwalk Dental at 540 6^th Avenue SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2G 1K5, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 1-403-456-4994 or visit RiverwalkDental.Ca.

 

Dry Mouth Discomfort

Most of us have woken up in the morning with dry mouth at some point or another. The feeling of dehydration and dryness can leave the tongue feeling like sandpaper and our bodies feeling like we need to drink gallons of water. Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a condition in which the salivary glands in the mouth don’t produce enough saliva to keep the mouth wet. Fortunately, our doctors at Riverwalk Dental can treat the problem.

Saliva is the mouth’s primary defense against tooth decay, so without it, we are in trouble. Saliva allows us to wash the food away that we consume on a daily basis. If the mouth is lacking saliva, the patient will feel a persistent dry sensation, saliva that feels thick, bad breath, difficulty chewing, and/or a dry or a sore throat. Treatment of dry mouth will depend on the cause.

If you have questions or concerns about dry mouth, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.riverwalkdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Riverwalk Dental located in Canada, Alberta, T1B 4Y2, Medicine Hat, 101-7 Strachan Bay, SE, 403-456-4994.

How to Handle Halitosis

Bad breath is embarrassing, especially when others take notice. Halitosis is the medical term for chronic, persistent bad breath and at times, may be a sign of an underlying medical condition. To ensure the optimal oral health and keep your mouth as clean as possible, it’s important to visit our doctors at Riverwalk Dental twice a year for oral checkups. If mints and gum are only covering up the problem, but not solving it, give us a call so we can help.

If a daily dental routine of brushing and flossing isn’t reducing the odor in your mouth, you may be a victim of periodontal disease, cavities, and/or dry mouth. If you’re a smoker, tobacco can dry out the mouth leaving you with oral discomfort and bad breath. By drinking plenty of water, and cutting down on caffeine and cigarettes, you’re not only doing your breath a favor, but you’re making a wise decision for your oral health and periodontal health as well. Treatment for halitosis will depend on the cause.

If you have questions or concerns about dental health, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.riverwalkdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Riverwalk Dental located in Canada, Alberta, T1B 4Y2, Medicine Hat, 101-7 Strachan Bay, SE, 403-456-4994.

Crowns Save Teeth

At Riverwalk Dental our dentists place crowns to restore patient smiles.  Crowns are a common restorative option for teeth with cracks, chips or a significant amount of decay. The routine and non-invasive procedure can save a tooth before it reaches the point of needing to be extracted or replaced with an implant. 

Fitting a patient with a new crown can be completed in as little as two visits. This process begins with preparing the tooth by removing any decay begins by removing any decay from the damaged tooth.  A crown fits over the tooth like a little cap, and to ensure a great fit for the crown, your dentist may need to contour the tooth that remains.  When the tooth has been prepared, an impression of the mouth is taken and sent to a dental laboratory for the custom product to be fabricated.  We can provide a temporary crown to wear while your new crown is being made.  Once your custom crown is made, the crown will be cemented into place by your dentist at a second appointment. 

To learn more about crowns and all the services we provide, visit www.riverwalkdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Riverwalk Dental located at Canada, Alberta, T1B 4Y2, Medicine Hat, 101-7 Strachan Bay, SE, call 403-456-4994.

Apicoectomy

The doctors of Riverwalk Dental perform many root canals to save and repair teeth that are badly damaged or infected.  During a root canal, any inflamed or infected tissue is removed and the root canal system is thoroughly cleaned.  In most cases, a root canal will clear an infection and heal the tooth.  When an infection won’t go away or the canals become re-infected, our doctors can perform an apicoectomy.

An apicoectomy is the process of removing damaged tissue and sealing off a tooth’s root from any further infections.  The procedure involves a small incision in the gums, followed by removal of any infected tissue and finally the end of the root tip itself.  A root-end filling is placed there to act as a seal, preventing reinfection. The gum is sutured, and most patients only feel slight discomfort or swelling during healing.  If you have a tooth infection lingering after a root canal gone wrong, please contact us to discuss your treatment options.

To learn more about the apicoectomy procedure and all the services we provide, visit www.riverwalkdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Riverwalk Dental located at Canada, Alberta, T1B 4Y2, Medicine Hat, 101-7 Strachan Bay, SE, call 403-456-4994.

Wisdom Teeth Extraction

There’s a debate on whether or not we actually need to keep our wisdom teeth, but our doctors at Riverwalk Dental suggest removal with good reason. Wisdom teeth are the third molars located in the back of the mouth and typically there isn’t enough room for them to grow. When wisdom teeth erupt, they tend to push against the surrounding teeth causing pain. When they are impacted (under the gum) they can lead to infection.

Extracting wisdom teeth is best because they usually do more harm than good.  They’re useful for chomping on food faster but otherwise, serve no actual purpose. Once wisdom teeth are extracted, recovery takes about seven days. During this time you will need to follow post-op instructions to ensure that the stitches don’t come undone.

If you have questions or concerns regarding wisdom teeth extraction, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.riverwalkdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Riverwalk Dental located at Canada, Alberta, T1B 4Y2, Medicine Hat, 101-7 Strachan Bay, SE, 403-456-4994.

Oral Cancer Treatment

The oral cavity includes the lips, cheek lining, gums, the tongue, the hard palate, and the throat. Oral cancer is divided into two categories, one in the back of the throat, and the other in these oral extremities. It’s important to understand how serious oral cancer is and why you should visit us twice a year for an oral cancer screening.

If you notice a sore or irritation in the mouth that won’t go away, pain or tenderness in the mouth or lips, and/or difficulty chewing, consider an oral cancer screening. The goal of oral cancer screening is to identify mouth cancer early when there is a greater chance for a cure. Smokers and heavy alcohol users increase their risk of oral cancer and may benefit from screening, the most.

If you have questions or concerns about oral cancer, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.riverwalkdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Riverwalk Dental located at Canada, Alberta, T1B 4Y2, Medicine Hat, 101-7 Strachan Bay, SE, 403-456-4994.

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants act as a barrier to prevent cavities caused by sugar, plaque, or lack of proper oral hygiene. Because of the likelihood of developing decay in the depressions of grooves of the premolars and molars, children and teenagers are prime candidates for dental sealants. Here at Riverwalk Dental, our doctors offer this as a service to protect teeth from decay.

Dental sealant is a thin, plastic coating painted on the chewing surfaces of teeth – usually the back teeth (premolars and molars) to prevent tooth decay. Thorough brushing and flossing help remove food particles and plaque from smooth surfaces of the teeth, but toothbrush bristles cannot reach all the way into the grooves to extract food and plaque. Sealants protect these vulnerable areas by “sealing out” plaque and food. Because Children have newly erupted, permanent teeth, they receive the greatest benefit from sealants.

If you have questions or concerns about dental sealants, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.riverwalkdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Riverwalk Dental located at Canada, Alberta, T1B 4Y2, Medicine Hat, 101-7 Strachan Bay, SE, 403-456-4994.

Digital X-rays

Dental X-rays are often part of a regular dental checkup. Dental X-rays allow our doctors at Riverwalk Dental to closely monitor the health of your teeth and gums, so that the changes and problems can be detected early, when treatment is most effective.

With this digital imaging technology, there are a number of tools that will allow our doctors to take a very close look at the teeth and surrounding structures with efficient accuracy. As a benefit to the patient, the digital x-ray also provides nearly 80% less radiation than a standard X-ray. This is because digital X-rays are designed with the patient in mind.

If you have questions or concerns about digital X-rays, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.riverwalkdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Riverwalk Dental located at Canada, Alberta, T1B 4Y2, Medicine Hat, 101-7 Strachan Bay, SE, 403-456-4994.

Stress and Tooth Damage

Stress can be a major contributor to tooth damage. At Riverwalk Dental, we treat damaged teeth with everything from natural-colored fillings to replacement crowns, but the source of a patient’s stress must be addressed to ensure their long-term oral health.

One way in which stress contributes to tooth damage is by weakening the immune system. Periodontal disease is the result of bacterial infection in the gum pockets. As the gum ligaments decay, the teeth come loose, and as periodontal disease progresses, the teeth and jaw bones themselves experience decay.

Stress can also indirectly cause tooth damage by leading patients to develop a habit of clenching or grinding their jaws in their sleep (this behavior is called bruxism). The mechanical strain of doing this wears down and cracks enamel. It also pushes teeth out of place, making them difficult to brush properly and damaging the gum tissue holding them in place.

At its worst, stress can lead to the loss of whole teeth. That is unlikely to happen, but it is in patients’ best interest to get any gum inflammation under control and to seek treatment for bruxism. Our dentists at Riverwalk Dental are skilled at fighting infections and can customize night guards to protect patients from grinding their teeth.

Dr. Jared Palmer and Dr. Roger Chen operate Riverwalk Dental at 540 6^th Avenue SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2G 1K5, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 1-403-456-4994 or visit RiverwalkDental.Ca.

 

Acid Reflux and Tooth Decay

Acid reflux is one of the leading causes of tooth decay in adults. While the dentists of Riverwalk Dental can provide dental restorations to patients whose teeth have been ravaged by this disease, it is important for patients to understand which lifestyle factors put them at risk.

Stomach acid is highly corrosive. It is kept in check by the stomach’s mucous lining and by a sphincter which separates it from the esophagus, but acid reflux occurs when swallowing causes the sphincter to open. A patient is said to have Gastroesophageal reflux disease if this happens more than twice a week (this condition is also misleadingly called heartburn). Acid reflux is painful and causes ulcers, and in the worst cases, tumors, in the esophagus. If it reaches as far as the mouth, it tends to wear away the enamel of the back molars, which are the first teeth to be exposed to it.

To prevent acid reflux, patients should avoid foods and drinks with high contents of fat, alcohol, and caffeine. They should also avoid foods with citric acids, such as tomatoes, as well as onions and garlic, and avoid eating in large quantities before lying down. Smoking and slouching also increase peoples’ risk of acid reflux.

Dr. Jared Palmer and Dr. Roger Chen operate Riverwalk Dental at 540 6^th Avenue SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2G 1K5, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 1-403-456-4994 or visit RiverwalkDental.Ca.

 

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is one of the most common and least expensive of cosmetic dental procedures and we offer this as a service at Riverwalk Dental. Dental bonding is ideal for fixing teeth that have been chipped, cracked, or fractured. There are two types of dental bonding that our doctors can discuss with you – direct composite bonding and adhesive bonding.

Dental bonding has many advantages, one of them being that compared to veneers and crowns, it requires little to no removal of tooth enamel. To compare the two, direct composite bonding is the process where our doctors will use tooth-colored composites to close the gaps between the teeth. Adhesive bonding involves the process of attaching a restoration to a tooth. Because there are some limitations associated with dental bonding it is mostly used for small cosmetic changes.

If you have questions or concerns about dental bonding, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.riverwalkdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Riverwalk Dental located at Canada, Alberta, T1B 4Y2, Medicine Hat, 101-7 Strachan Bay, SE, 403-456-4994.

Diet and Dental Health

A healthy smile doesn’t depend on brushing and flossing alone, it begins with what you put in your mouth. If you’ve ever heard the phrase, “you are what you eat” our doctors at Riverwalk Dental want you (and your teeth) to shine brightly. What you eat has a huge impact on your oral health because the food and beverages come in direct contact with the teeth. If you haven’t already, try incorporating some of these foods into your diet to benefit you and your smile.

Crunchy fruits and vegetables are good for your smile because they are usually water based and help dilute sugars that have been left behind. Raw foods help clean the teeth, massage the gums, and generate more saliva flow to prevent tooth decay. Eating an apple as opposed to an apple pie is better for tooth enamel as apples contain xylitol which also helps prevent decay. Additionally, low-fat milk, cheese, and unsweetened yogurt are full of calcium and protein to keep teeth strong.

If you have questions or concerns about nutrition and oral health, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.riverwalkdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Riverwalk Dental located at Canada, Alberta, T1B 4Y2, Medicine Hat, 101-7 Strachan Bay, SE, 403-456-4994.

Bad Breath in Children

At Riverwalk Dental in Calgary, we treat whole families and are proud to be able to help children suffering from a number of oral health problems. One of those problems is bad breath, which indicates that children have a bigger problem and would benefit from a dentist’s examination.

As is the case with adults, the most common reason for bad breath in children is poor hygiene. Children need to diligently brush their tongues, as well as their teeth, or else odor-causing bacteria will eat food particles caught in their papillae and multiply. Bacteria can also grow out of control on children’s tonsils, where bacteria are able to feed on nasal drip. Children suffer from frequent sinus infections, which provide bacteria on the tonsils with plenty of food, and they may also have undiagnosed allergies.

Undiagnosed diabetes is another potential cause of bad breath, but a more common reason is dry mouth. Dry mouth is one of the most common medication side-effects, and it’s no mere inconvenience. The loss of saliva eliminates on of the body’s most important ways of keeping the mouth clean and patients need to either have the medication changed or compensate with throat moisturizers. Children who breathe through their mouths are also at risk for developing bad breath as a result of dry mouth.

Riverwalk Dental is located at 540 6^th Avenue SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2G 1K5, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 1-403-456-4994 or visit RiverwalkDental.Ca.

 

Inlays and Onlays

Riverwalk Dental provides a number of ways of fixing or replacing damaged teeth, including partial crowns. Known as inlays or onlays depending on their size, partial crowns are a middle-ground between fillings and whole-crown replacements, and are particularly useful for repairing damage to the back teeth from acid reflux disease.

The back teeth have both raised cusps and indentations. An inlay nestles into the indentations like a permanent sealant; an onlay replaces at least some of the cusps, as well. When a patient needs a partial crown, a doctor will drill away the decayed enamel and make an impression of the patient’s mouth. The impression is then used as the basis for the custom-fitted partial crown’s construction while the patient wears a temporary crown. Once the partial crown is complete, the patient will return to have it cemented in. The partial crown will be made of white porcelain, allowing it to blend in with the rest of the patient’s teeth and ensuring that it will withstand normal wear and tear. The patient need only maintain regular oral hygiene.

Riverwalk Dental is located at 540 6^th Avenue SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2G 1K5, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 1-403-456-4994 or visit RiverwalkDental.Ca.

 

Signs of a Failing Implant

Implants are one of the most valuable tools in dentistry and have a very high success rate, but it is possible for them to fail. When they do, it should be considered a dental emergency, and patients should be aware of the signs that they need help.

The most common cause of dental implant failure is inflammation of the gum tissue surrounding an implant, which is called peri-implantitis. Sometimes, this occurs immediately after implant placement when the dental cement leaks onto the surrounding gum. However, it is more common for it to happen years later as a result of periodontal disease. If the gum around an implant turns red or bleeds, the implant is at risk. The gum should never be allowed to deteriorate to the point where an implant can move.

It is also possible for an implant to fail immediately after insertion if it was placed on a nerve or there was insufficient bone tissue. When an implant is placed on a nerve, the patient will experience severe pain which will not improve, and the implant must be removed. Doctors assess bone tissue for stability prior to placing an implant and will monitor the growth of a patients jaw bone for two years after implant placement. If the bone continues to deteriorate, the implant placement is considered a failure.

Riverwalk Dental is located at 540 6^th Avenue SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2G 1K5, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 1-403-456-4994 or visit RiverwalkDental.Ca.

 

Cleaning a Fixed Bridge

When Riverwalk Dental patients undergo tooth restorations, they can be assured of receiving instructions on how to maintain their oral hygiene with their new teeth. Patients who get bridges have to learn a few new tricks, but they mostly just need to know how to floss when there’s a gap under a tooth instead of to either side.

There are some floss manufacturers who make specialty floss with stiffened ends which can be pushed through the gap separating the bridge from the gum line. However, it is more common for patients to use normal floss with a threader, which is a piece of soft plastic shaped like a sewing needle. With a threader, patients can draw floss through the bridge gap and loop it around, in the same way patients with braces slip floss past their orthodontic wires. If a patient’s bridge is supported by implants, they may have a larger gap for food debris can get lodged in, but such debris can be dislodged with another tool orthodontic patients are familiar with: the proxy brush. Also known as Christmas tree brushes because of their conical shape, proxy brushes can be mounted on normal-sized toothbrush handles and used in combination with flossing to keep bridges free of plaque.

Riverwalk Dental is located at 540 6^th Avenue SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2G 1K5, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 1-403-456-4994 or visit RiverwalkDental.Ca.

 

Sedation Dentistry

Riverwalk Dental has seen many patients put off dental work because of an anxiety or fear about the procedure. Anxieties like these are no reason to put yourself at risk by leaving dental issues untreated.  We aim to make the process as comfortable as possible for each patient. In addition to using local anesthetic in the area of a procedure, we are prepared to offer the following options for sedation:

• ·        Nitrous Oxide, also called laughing gas, is inhaled by the patient and causes a sleepy euphoria before the patient drifts off


• ·        Oral Conscious Sedation, or taking a sedative orally before the procedure, keeps the patient awake but they remain completely relaxed and experience no pain


• ·        Anxiolysis, also administered by taking a pill orally, is a lighter sedative recommended for moderately anxious patients


• ·        IV Sedation delivers medicine straight into your blood stream to work quickly, and the level of sedation can be adjusted during the procedure

Sedation also gives your dentist an opportunity to condense complex procedures that would typically take multiple visits into one.  To learn more about sedation dentistry and all the services we provide, visit www.riverwalkdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Riverwalk Dental located at Canada, Alberta, T1B 4Y2, Medicine Hat, 101-7 Strachan Bay, SE, call 403-456-4994.

Mini Implants

Riverwalk Dental offers many methods of dental restoration including mini implants.  Mini implants are about half the diameter of a traditional implant, and are relatively new to dentistry.  These new implants are important because their small size makes it possible for patients who were previously not able to receive implants in narrow places to have a fully restored tooth. 

Another common use for mini implants is the anchor a full upper or lower denture.  Between four and six mini implants are placed along the jaw bone.  The small size of these implants means they can typically be placed right through the gums into the jaw bone without an incision. No incision means no stitches, which shortens the recovery period. The restoration or denture can usually be placed a short time after, eliminating the often months-long process of waiting for the jaw bone to fuse around an implant.  Mini implants are also less expensive than regular implants.  Come see one of our dentists to find out if a mini implant is a good solution for you.

To learn more about mini implants and all the services we provide, visit www.riverwalkdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Riverwalk Dental located at Canada, Alberta, T1B 4Y2, Medicine Hat, 101-7 Strachan Bay, SE, call 403-456-4994.

Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Stains

Riverwalk Dental provides patients with tooth whitening treatments, but which kind of treatment is appropriate depends on the nature of the stain. If a stain is on the outside of the tooth or just slightly below the surface, it is called an extrinsic stain. But a stain could also be caused by damage to the pulp of the tooth, in which case it is called an intrinsic stain, and treating it could be more complicated.

Any kind of stain can be masked with a veneer or bonding. Since extrinsic stains are acquired from exposure to tar or dark liquids, dentists usually simply bleach them, but that won’t work on an intrinsic stain. Furthermore, damaged dental pulp might indicate a continuing infection which would threaten the patient’s health and comfort. Other possible causes include an excessive amount of fluoride exposure and the use of certain antibiotics, but we’ll need to use our imaging systems to determine whether a root canal or replacement of the crown is necessary. If there is no ongoing threat to the patient’s health, concealing the stain may be all that is required.

Riverwalk Dental is located at 540 6^th Avenue SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2G 1K5, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 1-403-456-4994 or visit RiverwalkDental.Ca.

 

Preventing Dry Sockets

Patients at Riverwalk Dental rarely have to struggle with a dry socket, but when they do, we’re here to help. We generally try to avoid extracting patients’ teeth, but sometimes, overcrowding or damage leaves us little choice. Although there is a risk of the empty socket drying out, we try to make sure our patients understand how to care for themselves until it closes and how we will address complications, should they arise.

When a tooth is extracted there is expected to be a small amount of bleeding, which will result in a clot. This clot is what protects the socket from infection, foreign debris, and dryness. Therefore, it is important for the patient to disclose to us all the medications they are on, as some may interfere with clot formation. The patient must avoid disrupting the clot until the socket closes after a few days. This means no sipping through straws, no sticky food, and brushing the area around the surgical site very gently.

Dry sockets are rare, but they are more likely if we had to make an incision into the patient’s gum and suture it shut. The appointment to remove the sutures will supply us with an opportunity to ensure everything is healing correctly, but patients who experience a dry socket should contact us right away so we may provide cleaning and moisturizing therapy.

Riverwalk Dental is located at 540 6^th Avenue SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2G 1K5, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 1-403-456-4994 or visit RiverwalkDental.Ca.

 

Basics of Bruxism

When you’re angry, or anxious, do you find yourself clenching your teeth together? Do you wake up with a sore jaw and ask yourself why? If you’ve answered yes to either of these questions, you may want to pay attention while our doctors at Riverwalk Dental discuss the basics of bruxism. Bruxism is the action of clenching or grinding the teeth and although this can occur during the day, it’s most common during sleep.

Bruxism takes a toll on tooth enamel because the action of grinding your teeth can wear it down.  Enamel can’t be restored once it’s lost, so it’s important to address this problem at the first sign of grinding.  Bruxism may cause tooth sensitivity, headaches, and aching jaws due to the overuse of the jaw muscles. When bruxism interferes with sleep, our doctors may suggest a night guard as a treatment option. Depending on the severity of malocclusion, orthodontic options may also be explored.

If you have questions or concerns about bruxism or night guards, please give us a call. Riverwalk Dental is located at 540 6^th Avenue SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2G 1K5, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 1-403-456-4994 or visit RiverwalkDental.Ca.

Traditional Braces

When you hear the term “orthodontics,” traditional braces are probably the first thing to come to mind. At Riverwalk Dental, we have a variety of orthodontic options for patients to choose from if they desire a straighter smile, but we’d like to take the time and explain the benefits of traditional braces. Depending on your level of self-discipline, they may or not be a better option than their clear alternative – Invisalign.

Traditional dental braces consist of brackets and archwires that are placed on the teeth, which use elastic ties to secure them. Though they are the least aesthetically pleasing option, patients can select from a variety of color choices to express their personalities through their smile. Traditional braces treat a wide range of malocclusion issues such as crowding, alignment issues, and irregular spacing. Though there may be mild discomfort once the brackets are placed, they are permanent until removed, so you don’t have to worry about misplacing aligners. The length of treatment varies from person to person, but once they come off, you’ll see that the duration was worth it.

If you have questions about our orthodontic options, please give us a call. Riverwalk Dental is located at 540 6^th Avenue SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2G 1K5, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 1-403-456-4994 or visit RiverwalkDental.Ca.

ZOOM! Whitening for a Dazzling Smile!

inquiries from patients just like you about how they can whiten their teeth.  We offer ZOOM! Whitening to patients looking to treat stained teeth or whiten their natural teeth.  When surface stains penetrate the tooth enamel, they can darken the color of the dentin, the hard tissue layer of your tooth under the enamel. Once the dentin is darkened, it can make the whole tooth appear yellow. Successful whitening systems go below the tooth enamel to reach the dentin.

ZOOM! Whitening combines whitening gel with an activator light to penetrate the enamel and break up stains at the dentin layer. Once the gel is applied to your teeth, the light activates and accelerates the whitening process.  When the chemical reaction lightens the color of the dentin, the whole tooth is free to become whiter. A dentist can tell you based on the level of staining on your teeth what results you can expect from ZOOM!  Patients have left the office after an hour treatment with a smile up to ten shades whiter!

If you are interested in a professional whitening system that delivers dramatic results, contact us to find out more about ZOOM! Whitening. 

WaterLase Technology

WaterLase is an impressive development in the tools dentists use every day, and has many benefits for patients.  Riverwalk Dental takes pride in offering the best dental technology for our patients.  The WaterLase device uses a combination of laser and water power to replace the traditional drill and scalpel tools.  The WaterLase can be used on both hard and soft tissue, and is so versatile that dentists can complete more work in a single session.  This powerful and precise technology helps dentists achieve great results without causing trauma to the mouth, which results in less pain and recovery time. 

When used on the gums, the WaterLase causes little to no bleeding and less swelling. The precision achieved using WaterLase is also important for teeth because the laser can target only decayed tissue without compromising the healthy tooth that remains.  Using WaterLase means fewer anesthetic shots and can even eliminate the need for anesthetic.  Patients who experience anxiety at dental appointments should also try this less invasive and virtually painless method.

To learn more about WaterLase and all the technology we use, visit www.riverwalkdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Riverwalk Dental located at Canada, Alberta, T1B 4Y2, Medicine Hat, 101-7 Strachan Bay, SE, call 403-456-4994.

Gum Disease: Periodontitis

Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that damages soft tissue and destroys the bone that supports your teeth. Periodontitis develops when gingivitis is left untreated and over time, may lead to tooth loss. If a patient’s gum disease reaches this point, our doctors at Riverwalk Dental will likely suggest periodontal therapy.

Periodontitis is treatable, but more importantly, it is preventable. Like gingivitis, periodontitis begins with plaque. The longer plaque remains on your teeth, the more damage it can do to your gums. Other factors include tobacco use, heredity, diabetes, and/or hormonal changes. Proper oral hygiene is critical in preventing periodontitis and so is proper nutrition. In addition to brushing and flossing, you should supply your body with nutrients to keep your gums healthy.

If you have questions or concerns about gum disease, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.riverwalkdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Riverwalk Dental located at Canada, Alberta, T1B 4Y2, Medicine Hat, 101-7 Strachan Bay, SE, 403-456-4994.

Gingivitis Prevention

While brushing your teeth, are you spotting blood in the sink? If so, this is the first sign of gingivitis and it’s time to visit our doctors at Riverwalk Dental. Gingivitis develops when the gums are inflamed and if left untreated, this condition can lead to a more serious form of gum disease called periodontitis. Both gingivitis and periodontitis can increase your risk of diabetes, heart disease, and other medical conditions. This is why prevention is your best option.

After consuming carbohydrates, if you don’t brush your teeth, plaque will begin to form. If left untreated, this plaque will turn into tartar which only a dental hygienist is able to remove.  The most common cause of gingivitis is poor oral hygiene, which is why it’s important to schedule professional dental cleanings twice a year. Though gingivitis is reversible, we encourage you to brush at least twice a day, floss at least once a day and use a mouthwash daily to kill bacteria.

If you have questions or concerns about gum disease, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.riverwalkdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Riverwalk Dental located at Canada, Alberta, T1B 4Y2, Medicine Hat, 101-7 Strachan Bay, SE, 403-456-4994.

Veneers

Veneers are among the most sought-after cosmetic restoration and are one of our specialties at Riverwalk Dental. They can be thought of as shields for the teeth which, by covering the fronts and tips, are able to mask chips, stains, and slight misalignments.

While previous generations of veneers required significant tooth reshaping, those of the Lumineers brand are thin enough to require very little change to the natural teeth. Once a patient’s teeth have been cleaned and smoothed, we will take a scan of them from which we can use software to design the custom-fitted shells. After being milled, the veneers can be cemented onto the patient’s teeth.

Being made out of porcelain, veneers have a very similar color to natural teeth, and Dr. Chen will consult with the patient to make sure the color is satisfactory. They are still vulnerable to decay and discoloration, so patients will have to maintain their oral hygiene. But they also create an immediate and lasting improvement in the teeth’s appearance and can somewhat improve bite function when being used to fill small chips and gaps.

Riverwalk Dental is located at 540 6^th Avenue SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2G 1K5, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 1-403-456-4994 or visit RiverwalkDental.Ca.

 

The Implant Procedure

Riverwalk Dental’s Dr. Roger Chen provides his patients with a number of technologically advanced treatments to replace missing or damaged teeth. One of the most effective of those is the endosteal implant. A permanent fixture in the mouth, this type of artificial tooth replaces the root as well as the crown.

The word “endosteal” refers to the endosteum, an inner layer of bone. An implant is a screw, usually made of titanium, which is inserted into the endosteum. Placing it requires an incision to be made into the patient’s gums, and it will take between three and six months for a new matrix of bone tissue to grow around the implant, fusing it into the jaw in a process called osseointegration. When osseointegration is complete, Dr. Chen will place an abutment on top of the implant, which will be exposed on the inside of the mouth. He will then take an impression or scan of the patient’s mouth which will be used as the basis for an artificial crown. Once the crown has been manufactured, it can be cemented over the abutment.

Though the implant process is long and requires the patient to have a certain amount of stable jaw bone, it is one of the best means of restoring bite function and appearance. The implant helps to maintain the structure of the jaw bone, preventing the patient’s face from warping, in addition to the other benefits of replacement teeth.

Riverwalk Dental is located at 540 6^th Avenue SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2G 1K5, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 1-403-456-4994 or visit RiverwalkDental.Ca.

 

Signs and Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

A temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome is a disorder of the jaw muscles and nerves caused by injury to the temporomandibular joint. This joint is the connection between the jaw bone to the skull. Located on each side of the head, your TMJ muscles work together when you chew, speak or swallow and include muscles and ligaments as well as the jaw bone. They also control the lower jaw (mandible) as it moves forward, backward and side to side. When these muscles become sore, our staff at Riverwalk Dental can provide you with relief.

Signs and symptoms of TMJ disorders may include pain or tenderness in your jaw, aching pain in and around your ear, difficulty chewing or discomfort while chewing, aching facial pain, and locking of the joint, making it difficult to open and close your mouth. You may also have toothaches, headaches, or ear aches. To treat the problem, you will need to schedule a consultation with your dentist. He or she may suggest a night guard, or dental work depending on the case.

If you wake up with aching jaw pain, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.riverwalkdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Riverwalk Dental located at Canada, Alberta, T1B 4Y2, Medicine Hat, 101-7 Strachan Bay, SE, 403-456-4994.

Invisalign Orthodontic Treatment

At Riverwalk Dental, we offer Invisalign to our patients who desire a straighter smile, but don’t want the interference of traditional metal braces. With Invisalign, your daily activities will never be interrupted because the aligners are virtually invisible. To help you decide if Invisalign is right for you, we’d like to explain what to expect during treatment.

From overbites to underbites, and open bites to gapped teeth, Invisalign treats many cases of malocclusion. Before beginning the treatment process, your doctor will then take 3D images of your teeth and map out a precise treatment plan. Once you receive your aligners, you will need to wear them 20-22 hours a day for the best results. The advantage of Invisalign over traditional braces is that you can remove them to eat, brush, and floss.  When your treatment is complete, you can opt for a Vivera retainer, a retainer that is custom-made using the same state-of-the-art technology as Invisalign clear aligners.

If you wish to inquire about Invisalign, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.riverwalkdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Riverwalk Dental located at Canada, Alberta, T1B 4Y2, Medicine Hat, 101-7 Strachan Bay, SE, 403-456-4994.

Understanding Dentures

We provide full-mouth restorations at Riverwalk Dental, which means we replace all the teeth in a patient’s mouth. While modern dentistry has created means of permanently affixing false teeth (prosthodontics), such as all-on-four implants, there are still many cases in which the patient benefits from dentures.

Dentures are distinguished by being removable, but they still require permanent changes to the patient’s mouth. Partial dentures, which only replace the front teeth, require the reshaping of the teeth on either side of them. Full-mouth dentures require all the remaining teeth in a jaw to be removed. This is often a sticking point for patients, but it’s usually done because the patient does not have the bone support for implants and should not or does not want to receive a bone graft.

As an office which values our patients’ comfort, we regularly adjust our patients’ dentures throughout their lives to ensure they are comfortable and working properly. If cared for properly, dentures can make a big improvement in the life of a person suffering from poor oral health.

Riverwalk Dental is located at 540 6^th Avenue SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2G 1K5, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 1-403-456-4994 or visit RiverwalkDental.Ca.

 

Thumb Sucking

At Riverwalk Dental, Calgary’s first-time parents often ask us whether their child’s thumb sucking habit is harming their oral health. The answer mainly depends on the age of the child. Thumb sucking is a common behavior in children under four, but as they begin losing their baby teeth, it could become a problem.

Very young children’s facial bones are not fully fused together and can shift back from the pressure put on them by sucking a thumb or a pacifier. But this does not remain true for children over about the age of five. Persistent thumb sucking can cause an overbite or other malocclusion, or even misaligned jaws.

Children over four should be coaxed out of their bad habits, but parents should be aware there could be an underlying psychological reason for their child’s need to self-soothe. When this isn’t addressed, children often develop a habit of thrusting their tongues against their front teeth as a substitute, which isn’t any better. There are orthodontic devices to discourage tongue-thrusting, but general practice is to use these as last resorts.

Riverwalk Dental is located at 540 6^th Avenue SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2G 1K5, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 1-403-456-4994 or visit RiverwalkDental.Ca.

 

Electric vs. Manual Toothbrushes

There are a vast number of products available to help patients with oral hygiene at home and most people understand the importance of regular brushing. However, they may not be aware of the difference between manual and electric toothbrushes. Which one would benefit them more depends on how they brush.

Studies do not show that there is any difference in the oral health of patients who use either kind of brush as long as they use it properly. This, however, is a very important qualifier, because very few people use manual toothbrushes the right way. Manual toothbrushes need to be used for two full minutes at a time, be held at a 45⁰ angle, and moved in a circular motion (or up and down on the backs of the incisors).

Electric toothbrushes drastically cut down on how much the patient has to move their arm and make tens of thousands of brush strokes per minute, instead of only hundred. It is easier to overbrush with electric brushes, but there is little risk of not doing it enough. Obviously, electric toothbrushes are much more expensive, but for people who can’t use manual toothbrushes or who have problems using them for the right amount of time, the investment may be worth it.

Riverwalk Dental is located at 540 6^th Avenue SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2G 1K5, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 1-403-456-4994 or visit RiverwalkDental.Ca.

 

Types of Teeth

Each of our teeth serves a specialized purpose. At Riverwalk Dental, we want our patients to be informed about their care, so we thought we’d provide this guide to explain why we may want to do certain kinds of work on their teeth.

Adult mouths naturally have thirty-two teeth, with sixteen in each jaw. In the back of each jaw are three pairs of molars, the grinding and chewing teeth. These are the largest, and the furthest ones back are the wisdom teeth, the last to erupt. In front of the molars are two pairs of premolars, which serve the same purpose but are smaller and only have one root, instead of two or three.

The canine teeth are the pointy ones used for piercing. They are important for stabilizing the jaw and maintaining the alignment of the other teeth. The four in front are called incisors, and besides being used to tear food, they are the key ones used in speech.

Riverwalk Dental is located at 540 6^th Avenue SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2G 1K5, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 1-403-456-4994 or visit RiverwalkDental.Ca.

Wisdom Teeth Function

Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that most people get in their late teens or early twenties. During this “age of wisdom” phase, sometimes teeth can be a valuable asset to the mouth when healthy and properly aligned, but more often they are misaligned and require removal. Some might think of wisdom teeth as spare tires because if you lost your teeth, the wisdom teeth would be extra teeth that come in and function like normal teeth. Here at Riverwalk Dental, our doctors can perform extractions depending on their position and stage of development.

So why do we have them? Anthropologists believe wisdom teeth or the third set of molars, were the evolutionary answer to our ancestor’s early diet of coarse, rough food – like leaves, roots, nuts and meats – which required more chewing power and resulted in excessive wear of the teeth. The modern diet with its softer foods, along with marvels of modern technologies such as forks, spoons, and knives, has made the need for wisdom teeth nonexistent; however, they don’t always need to be removed.

If your wisdom teeth are still present and they are beginning to bother you, give us a call to discuss your options. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.riverwalkdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Riverwalk Dental located at Canada, Alberta, T1B 4Y2, Medicine Hat, 101-7 Strachan Bay, SE, 403-456-4994.

Pediatric Dentistry

A pediatric dentist is a specialist in the field of dentistry dealing particularly with the oral healthcare of children, from infancy through the teenage years. Here at Riverwalk Dental, our doctors have the experience and qualifications to care for your child’s teeth, gums, and mouth throughout various stages of their life.

Children are not small adults. They are not always able to be patient and cooperative during a dental exam. Our doctors know how to examine and treat children in ways that make them comfortable. During your child’s first visit, we will examine their teeth and gums, do a professional cleaning, take any necessary x-rays, if age appropriate, and teach you how to remove plaque from your child’s teeth and gums. In addition, we will also take advantage of the opportunity to discuss the best ways to help your child develop good dental habits.

If you are searching for a pediatric dentist, look no further, we have the ability to accommodate your child’s needs. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.riverwalkdental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Riverwalk Dental located at Canada, Alberta, T1B 4Y2, Medicine Hat, 101-7 Strachan Bay, SE, 403-456-4994.