It is a commonly accepted among the majority of people that good habits begin at home. And when instilled at a young age, social graces such as table manners, proper etiquette and behaviour in public, respect for others/elders, and extending common courtesies will remain with these children well into adulthood and likely for their entire lives.
One of these good habits that can sometimes get overlooked, however, relates to proper dental care and hygiene. Natural teeth, in a manner of speaking, may be analogous to a precious commodity since their loss, to any degree and at any age, can have a negative impact on one’s health and quality of life; fortunately, such concerns and consequences can be alleviated or perhaps averted altogether through the combination of:
Good oral hygiene at home
Regular dental visits/check-ups
Establishing good dental care/hygiene practices early in life and continuing this diligence throughout childhood and adulthood will help in maintaining a healthy mouth, teeth, and gums. In turn, this increases the probability of avoiding any/all of the following:
Tooth decay
Gum disease
Persistent bad breath
Mouth pain/discomfort
Chewing and nutritional issues
Self-confidence issues (smile-related)
Unwanted dental procedures/expenses
Risk of other health concerns (heart disease)
Effective at-home dental hygiene includes more than just brushing after meals; it is the result of maintaining good dental care habits and lifestyle choices on a consistent basis. These would include:
Brushing for two to three minutes at least twice a day
Replacing a used toothbrush every three to four months
Using products (toothpaste, mouthwash) that contain fluoride
Flossing daily to clean the areas that toothbrushes cannot reach
Eating smart (including Vitamins A and C to prevent gum disease)
Limiting acidic or sugary foods/drinks and snacking between meals
Avoiding smoking or smokeless tobacco (tooth staining; oral cancer)
Wearing a mouth guard or a facial shield when participating in sports
Refrain from using the teeth for any reasons other than chewing food
For individuals who wish to learn more about good at-home dental care, consulting with a dental hygienist from the Family Dental Care clinic in Ottawa may prove to be of value. This could be a very prudent investment of time for the parents of younger children, who want to establish a foundation of good oral care for their entire family.
Regular Visits to Dental Office Are Important in Overall Dental Care for Families
The value of at-home dental care cannot be underestimated or overstated; yet good oral habits are not fully complete unless they include regular visits to a dental care clinic such as Family Dental Care in Ottawa. And in the same manner that at-home dental hygiene consists of more than just brushing, visit to the dentist include more than just cleaning the teeth.
During a routine check-up, the Family Dental Care dentists/dental hygienists will provide the following:
Teeth cleaning and teeth polishing (latter if/as required)
Gum examinations and dental x-rays (latter if/as needed)
Feedback on overall health of the mouth, teeth, and gums
Suggestions on maintaining/improving at-home dental care
Recommendations for preventative care (for adults/children)
Considerations or potential treatment options moving forward
Answers to general or specific questions about care/treatments
By investing the appropriate time and effort to care for their mouth, teeth, and gums, in conjunction with the professionals from Family Dental Care in Ottawa, individual patients and families as a whole can prevent unnecessary, unwanted, and likely expensive dental treatments while enjoying the many benefits of having a healthy mouth and in retaining their natural teeth.
For further information on the importance of good dental hygiene and the roles of the dental hygienist, the dentist, and the patients/parents in the overall scope of oral care please visit our Dental Hygiene page.
Looking for feedback and guidance on at-home dental care for yourself and your family? Call the Family Dental Care office in Ottawa today at 613-736-5000 to book a check-up with one of our hygienists.
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Are dentist offices considered essential?
Dentist offices are considered essential services in Canada. They provide necessary oral healthcare and emergency dental treatments that are critical for maintaining overall health and well-being.
Can dentist prescribe medicine?
Dentists in Canada are authorized to prescribe certain medications related to dental treatment, such as antibiotics, pain relievers, and other medications necessary to manage dental conditions.
Are all orthodontists dentists?
All orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists. Orthodontists are specialists who have completed additional training in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities.
Are dentist in demand?
Dentists are in high demand in Canada, as the population continues to grow and the need for comprehensive dental care increases. Dentists provide essential services to maintain oral health and address dental issues, making them a crucial part of the healthcare system.
Can I go to a dentist not near me?
You can choose to visit a dentist not located near you, as dental care may be more convenient or accessible elsewhere. However, it's recommended to consider factors like transportation, insurance coverage, and the quality of the dental practice when selecting a provider.
Are dentist cleanings necessary?
Regular dentist cleanings are necessary for maintaining good oral health and preventing dental issues.
Can dentist prescribe meds?
Dentists can prescribe certain medications, such as antibiotics or pain relievers, as part of dental treatment. The scope of medications a dentist can prescribe is typically limited to those directly related to oral health and dental procedures.
Are dentist called doctors?
Dentists are considered doctors in the field of oral healthcare. They have undergone extensive education and training to diagnose and treat various dental conditions, just like medical doctors.
Are biological dentists covered by insurance?
Whether biological dentists are covered by insurance depends on the specific insurance plan. Some plans may cover services from biological dentists, while others may not. It's best to check with your insurance provider to determine the coverage for biological dental treatments.
Are all dentists DDS?
Not all dentists are DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery). Some dentists may hold different dental degrees, such as DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine), depending on the dental school they attended.
Are dentist offices open on Martin Luther King Day?
Dentist offices may have reduced hours or be closed on Martin Luther King Day, as it is a federal holiday in the United States. The operating hours vary by practice, so it's best to check with your local dentist office for their specific holiday schedule.
Are all dentists doctors?
Dentists are healthcare professionals who have completed specialized dental education and training, but they are not medical doctors. Dentists focus on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of oral health issues.
Can dentist prescribe?
Dentists in Canada can prescribe certain medications for their patients, such as antibiotics, pain relievers, and medications to treat dental conditions. The scope of prescriptive authority for dentists may vary by province or territory.
Are there any 24-hour dentists near me?
The closest 24-hour dental clinic near you is Ottawa Dental Care, located just 10 minutes from your location. They offer emergency dental services and are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to address any urgent dental needs you may have.
Are dentist offices open on weekends?
Dentist offices are often open on weekends to accommodate patients with busy schedules. Many clinics offer Saturday appointments, and some may even have Sunday hours for emergency dental services.
Can dentist get you in the same day?
The dentist may be able to see you the same day for urgent or emergency dental issues, depending on the clinic's availability and the nature of the problem.
Are dentist offices open?
Dentist offices are typically open, providing essential dental services while following safety protocols to protect patients and staff during the pandemic.
Can I just go to any dentist?
You can go to any dentist, but it's best to choose one who specializes in family dental care and has a focus on preventive dentistry and patient education to ensure a comfortable and effective dental experience.
Are dentist offices open in California?
Dentist offices in California are generally open, as dental services are considered essential healthcare. Patients can visit dentists for routine check-ups, emergency treatment, and other dental needs while following COVID-19 safety protocols.
Are dentist in high demand?
Dentists are in high demand in Canada, as the population continues to grow and the need for dental care increases.
Can you just walk into a dentist?
While some dentists may accept walk-in patients, it is generally recommended to schedule an appointment to ensure availability and provide the best care.
Are all dentists board certified?
Not all dentists are board certified. Board certification signifies specialized training and expertise, but it is not a mandatory requirement for dental practice in Canada.
Are dentist consultations free?
Dentist consultations at Family Dental Care are not typically free, as the clinic provides professional dental services that require payment. However, many insurance plans may cover the cost of initial consultations.
Can dentist cause nerve damage?
Nerve damage is a potential risk during certain dental procedures. Dentists are trained to minimize this risk by using caution and following proper techniques. However, some procedures, such as tooth extractions or root canals, do carry a higher risk of nerve damage.
Can dentist charge for missed appointments?
Dentists can charge for missed appointments. Dental practices often have policies in place that allow them to bill patients for missed or cancelled appointments without adequate notice.
Are dentist offices open today?
Dentist offices are typically open during regular business hours, but hours may vary by individual clinic. It's best to contact your local dentist to confirm their current operating schedule.
Are dentist medical doctors?
Dentists are not medical doctors. Dentists are healthcare professionals who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of oral and dental conditions, but they do not have the same level of medical training as physicians.
Can dentist refuse to treat me?
Dentists may refuse to treat patients under certain circumstances, such as if the patient's medical condition poses a risk, the patient exhibits disruptive behavior, or the patient refuses to follow recommended treatment plans.
Are dentist bills tax deductible?
Dental expenses, including bills from dentists, are generally tax-deductible in Canada if they exceed 3% of your net income and are not covered by private insurance or other plans.
Are dental assistants covered under employee dentist malpractice insurance?
Dental assistants are typically covered under the employee dentist's malpractice insurance policy, which provides protection for the dentist and their staff against potential liability claims related to dental procedures.
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It is a commonly accepted among the majority of people that good habits begin at home. And when instilled at a young age, social graces such as table manners, proper etiquette and behaviour in public, respect for others/elders, and extending common courtesies will remain with these children well into adulthood and likely for their entire lives.
The value of at-home dental care cannot be underestimated or overstated; yet good oral habits are not fully complete unless they include regular visits to a dental care clinic such as Family Dental Care in Ottawa. And in the same manner that at-home dental hygiene consists of more than just brushing, visit to the dentist include more than just cleaning the teeth.
Parinitha Bhargav
Good habits must be started at a very early age. Oral care is one such good habit for a healthy lifestyle. Thank you for the advice shared.