NEW DENTAL BENEFIT PROGRAM FOR LOW-INCOME FAMILIES

JAN 13, 2023

The Canadian federal government has introduced a new dental benefit program aimed at making dental care more affordable for low-income families. If you have children under the age of 12 and struggle to make payments for dental services, you may qualify.

Click here to find out if you are eligible for the Canada Dental Benefit.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

JAN 1, 2023

As we look ahead into 2023, we are encouraged to reflect on the past 12 months and make commitments to better our lives in the months ahead. Our oral health is a big part of that, dental wellness can have a great impact on a person’s overall health and quality of life. Here are some simple new year’s resolutions that you can implement or improve upon:

1. Brush for at least 2 minutes. To make it easier, listen to a song or use your phone as a timer. Brushing for an adequate amount of time will ensure you’re cleaning effectively.

2. Brush at least twice daily. The best times are right after breakfast and right before going to bed. Doing this consistently stops plaque from forming and hardening, as well as preventing cavities and bad breath. Studies show that individuals who brush two or more times per day have a reduced risk of oral infections and gum disease.

3. Reduce consumption of foods/drinks that damage your teeth. Sugars found in candy, chocolate, and other sweets promote bacterial growth that causes cavities. Carbonated beverages contain acids that also erode tooth enamel. This will make you more sensitive to cold temperatures and air. As an alternative, try healthier snacks such as fruits, raw veggies, nuts, or low-fat cheeses. Drinking more water is also important, as staying hydrated comes with many positive side effects, such as helping your body produce adequate saliva.

4. Floss, floss, floss! Flossing removes food debris and plaque from areas that cannot be reached by a toothbrush. If you don’t floss, you miss a great majority of the bacteria that cause gum disease and systemic disorders, such as heart disease. There are a few methods that can help, outside of manual flossing, such as disposable floss picks or water flossers.

5. Visit your dentist at least twice a year. Seeing your dentist or hygienist at regular intervals not only identifies underlying dental health issues but also prevents them from happening in the future. For example, a small cavity caught early on during a routine hygiene appointment can be treated easily with a filling, before it develops into a deeper decay that could end up requiring a costly, time-consuming root canal treatment or an extraction.

Better dental health requires commitment. All you need to get started is to take the first step and Weston Village Dentistry is here to help! You may call, e-mail, or text us with any questions, concerns, or appointment requests. Our team will be happy to assist you.

If you are experiencing a dental emergency outside of our office hours, please contact the Dental Emergency Service at (416) 485-7121.