Aging and Dental Health

As you age, it becomes even more important to take good care of your teeth and dental health. One common misconception is that losing your teeth is inevitable. This is not true. If cared for properly, your teeth can last a lifetime. Your mouth changes as you age.

The nerves in your teeth can become smaller, making your teeth less sensitive to cavities or other problems. If you don’t get regular dental exams, this in turn can lead to these problems not being diagnosed until it is too late.

If you want to feel good, stay healthy, and look great throughout life, you might be surprised what a difference a healthy mouth makes.

Here are some tips for maintaining and improving your oral health:

• Brush twice a day with a toothbrush with soft bristles. You may also benefit from using an electric toothbrush.
• Clean between your teeth once a day with floss or another interdental cleaner.
• If you wear full or partial dentures, remember to clean them on a daily basis. Take your dentures out of your mouth for at least four hours every day. It’s best to remove them at night.
• Drink tap water. Since most contains fluoride, it helps prevent tooth decay no matter how old you are.
• Quit smoking. Besides putting you at greater risk for lung and other cancers, smoking increases problems with gum disease, tooth decay and tooth loss.
• Visit your dentist. Visit your dentist regularly for a complete dental check-up.

By adopting healthy oral habits at home, making smart choices about diet and lifestyle, and seeking regular dental care, you can help your teeth last a lifetime—whether you have your natural teeth, implants or wear dentures. (ADA)

Dr. Annabel Braganza – Peterborough Periodontist, Dental Implant and Gum Specialist

Dr. Annabel Braganza

Peterborough Periodontist, Gum and Dental Implant Specialist

1119 Clonsilla Avenue, Peterborough, Ontario K9J 5Y6

Call Us Today: 

705-741-1885

Do you have 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. Annabel Braganza – Peterborough Periodontist

Dr. Annabel Braganza - Peterborough Periodontist, Gum and Dental Implant Specialist
1119 Clonsilla Avenue, Peterborough, Ontario K9J 5Y6
Call Us Today: 705-741-1885

TYPES OF PERIODONTAL DISEASES IN CHILDREN - Peterborough Periodontist

Chronic gingivitis is common in children. It usually causes gum tissue to swell, turn red and bleed easily. Gingivitis is both preventable and treatable with a regular routine of brushing, flossing and professional dental care. However, left untreated, it can eventually advance to more serious forms of periodontal disease.

Aggressive periodontitis can affect young people who are otherwise healthy. Localized aggressive periodontitis is found in teenagers and young adults and mainly affects the first molars and incisors. It is characterized by the severe loss of alveolar bone, and ironically, patients generally form very little dental plaque or calculus.

Generalized aggressive periodontitis may begin around puberty and involve the entire mouth. It is marked by inflammation of the gums and heavy accumulations of plaque and calculus. Eventually it can cause the teeth to become loose.

Dr. Annabel Braganza - Peterborough Periodontist, Gum and Dental Implant Specialist
1119 Clonsilla Avenue, Peterborough, Ontario K9J 5Y6
Call Us Today: 705-741-1885

Proper way to floss

Flossing

Flossing removes plaque and bacteria that you cannot reach with your toothbrush. If you don't floss, you are missing more than one-third of your tooth surface. Plaque is the main cause of gum disease. It is an invisible bacterial film that develops on your teeth every day.

Within 24 to 36 hours, plaque hardens into tartar (also called calculus), which can only be removed by professional cleaning. Floss at least once a day, and plaque never gets the chance to harden into tartar. Getting into the habit of daily flossing is easier when you floss while doing something else like watching TV or listening to music, for example.

How to floss your teeth

Step 1

Take a length of floss equal to the distance from your hand to your shoulder.Wrap it around your index and middle fingers, leaving about two inches between your hands.

Step 2

Slide the floss between your teeth and wrap it into a "C" shape around the base of the tooth and gently under the gumline. Wipe the tooth from base to tip two or three times.

Step 3

Be sure to floss both sides of every tooth. Don't forget the backs of your last molars. Go to a new section of the floss as it wears and picks up particles.

Information as per the Canadian Dental Association

Braganza Periodontics – Peterborough Periodontist, Dental Implant and Gum Specialist

Dr. Annabel Braganza - Peterborough Periodontist, Gum and Dental Implant Specialist

1119 Clonsilla Avenue, Peterborough, Ontario K9J 5Y6

Call Us Today: 705-741-1885

Dental Cleaning - Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a teeth cleaning above and below the gum-line all the way down to the bottom of the pockets of the teeth. The scaling part is when your dentist, periodontist or hygienist removes all the plaque and tartar from your teeth and the root planing part is the smoothing out of your teeth roots to help your gums reattach to your teeth. For some, this deep cleaning, may take more than one visit to complete and may require a local anesthetic.

It is normal to have tooth sensitivity for up to a week as the gums are healing around the teeth after a deep dental cleaning. Your gums also may also be swollen, feel tender and bleed.

Your dentist or periodontist will also schedule a follow up visit to see how your gums have healed and measure the depth of your pockets. If they have gotten deeper, more treatment may be needed.

Good dental care at home is essential to help keep your teeth and gums healthy. Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft brush, clean between your teeth daily, eat a balanced diet, avoid using tobacco and see your dentist and/or periodontist regularly.

Braganza Periodontics – Peterborough Periodontist, Dental Implant and Gum Specialist
Dr. Annabel Braganza
Peterborough Periodontist, Gum and Dental Implant Specialist
1119 Clonsilla Avenue, Peterborough, Ontario K9J 5Y6
Call Us Today: 705-741-1885

Are Dental Implants Susceptible to Gum Disease?

One of the best ways to replace a missing tooth is a dental implant as they function just like your natural teeth. It is very important however, to remember that just as a natural tooth they are capable of becoming diseased. It is imperative to take care of them and keep them clean at all times with proper oral health home care and visiting your dentists or periodontist regularly. With proper care your dental implant can last a lifetime.

Signs of peri-implant diseases are similar to symptoms of gum disease: red or tender gums around the implants, or bleeding when brushing. And just like your natural teeth, implants require regular tooth brushing and flossing and regular check-ups from a dental professional. Other risks factors for developing peri-implant disease include previous periodontal disease diagnosis, poor plaque control, smoking, and diabetes. It is essential to routinely monitor dental implants as part of a comprehensive periodontal evaluation. (ADA)

Braganza Periodontics – Peterborough Periodontist, Dental Implant and Gum Specialist

Dr. Annabel Braganza

Peterborough Periodontist, Gum and Dental Implant Specialist

1119 Clonsilla Avenue, Peterborough, Ontario K9J 5Y6

Call Us Today: 705-741-1885

Best Toothpaste For You and Your Family!

With so many types, brands and flavours of toothpaste, it can sometimes be overwhelming choosing the right one for you and your family. Truth is, you can't really go wrong with any toothpaste as long as it carries the Canadian Dental Association Seal. Simple way to choose: The one you like enough to use every single day!

With this being said, different toothpastes offer different benefits in addition to cleaning your teeth. Some of which are: Tartar Control, Whitening, Sensitivity, Cavity Protection and Gum Protection.

For more information you can always contact one of our friendly dental professionals.

Braganza Periodontics – Peterborough Periodontist, Dental Implant and Gum Specialist

Dr. Annabel Braganza

Peterborough Periodontist, Gum and Dental Implant Specialist

1119 Clonsilla Avenue, Peterborough, Ontario K9J 5Y6

Call Us Today: 705-741-1885

Do You Use a Tongue Scraper?

A tongue scraper is a tool used to help clean your tongue. Although there's no strong evidence that tongue scrapers are any more effective than regular brushing of the teeth and tongue, it may help curb bad breath. Tongue scrapers come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and work by starting at the back of the tongue and pulling the scraper forward. This removes any excess plaque and odor causing bacteria.

Possible causes of bad breath include diet, dry mouth, gum disease, tobacco use or simply bad oral hygiene. Good oral hygiene and regular dentist visits are essential to a healthy mouth.

Other tips for avoiding bad breath include:

• Brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day
• Flossing once a day
• Scheduling regular dental visits.

If you're concerned about the cause of your bad breath, see your dentist.

Dr. Annabel Braganza – Peterborough Periodontist, Implant and Gum Specialist

705-741-1885

Braganza Periodontics – Peterborough Periodontist, Dental Implant and Gum Specialist

Dr. Annabel Braganza

Peterborough Periodontist, Gum and Dental Implant Specialist

1119 Clonsilla Avenue, Peterborough, Ontario K9J 5Y6

Call Us Today: 705-741-1885

Christmas, Alcohol and Your Smile!

With all the parties, get togethers and festivities around this time of year studies show an increase in alcohol consumption. Whether it be the celebration of the season or a Christmas cheer it’s important to take steps in protecting your teeth and smile.

Here are some simple steps to prevent damage to your teeth after alcohol consumption.

• Be sure to not over do it and when possible drink alcohol through a straw, as it will direct the alcohol to the back of the mouth staying away from the teeth.
• Always drink water between and after alcoholic beverages.
• Avoid fruit juice drinks.
• Wait at least an hour before brushing your teeth after alcohol consumption.
• And always use a soft bristle toothbrush.

These simple steps can help in protecting your teeth and your smile!

Braganza Periodontics – Peterborough Periodontist, Dental Implant and Gum Specialist

Dr. Annabel Braganza

Peterborough Periodontist, Gum and Dental Implant Specialist

1119 Clonsilla Avenue, Peterborough, Ontario K9J 5Y6

Call Us Today: 705-741-1885

If You Don't Use It You Will Lose It! Dental Insurance

Have you been putting off your periodontal treatment?

The end of the year is fast approaching and due to our busy lives, many of us have been putting off our periodontal treatment. Each year we receive an individual dollar amount maximum from our insurance company. If this amount is not used, by the end of the year, it does not roll over to the next and is unfortunately lost. Be sure to find out if you have any outstanding dental work so that you can get the best out of your dental coverage.

Remember: If you don't use it by December 31st, you will lose it!

Braganza Periodontics – Peterborough Periodontist, Dental Implant and Gum Specialist

Dr. Annabel Braganza

Peterborough Periodontist, Gum and Dental Implant Specialist

1119 Clonsilla Avenue, Peterborough, Ontario K9J 5Y6

Call Us Today: 705-741-1885

Protect your teeth and your smile! Information on mouth guards.

Mouth guards, also called mouth protectors, help cushion a blow to the face, minimizing the risk of broken teeth and injuries to your lips, tongue, face or jaw. They typically cover the upper teeth and are a great way to protect the soft tissues of your tongue, lips and cheek lining. Knowing how to prevent injuries like these is especially important if you participate in organized sports or other recreational activities.

When it comes to protecting your mouth, a mouth guard is an essential piece of athletic gear that should be part of your standard equipment from an early age. In fact, studies show that athletes are 60 times more likely to suffer harm to the teeth if they’re not wearing a mouth guard. While collision and contact sports, such as boxing, are higher-risk sports for the mouth, you can experience a dental injury in non-contact activities too, such as gymnastics and skating

There are three types of mouthguards:

• Custom-fitted. These are made by your dentist for you personally. They are more expensive than the other versions, but because they are customized, usually offer the best fit.
• Stock. These are inexpensive and come pre-formed, ready to wear. Unfortunately, they often don’t fit very well. They can be bulky and can make breathing and talking difficult.
• Boil and bite. These mouth protectors can be bought at many sporting goods stores and drugstores and may offer a better fit than stock mouth protectors. They are first softened in water (boiled), then inserted and allowed to adapt to the shape of your mouth.

The best mouth guard is one that has been custom made for your mouth by your dentist. However, if you can’t afford a custom-fitted mouth guard, you should still wear a stock mouth guard or a boil-and-bite mouth guard from the drugstore. If you wear braces or another fixed dental appliance on your lower jaw, your dentist may suggest a mouth protector for these teeth as well.

A properly fitted mouth guard may be especially important for people who wear braces or have fixed bridge work. A blow to the face could damage the brackets or other fixed orthodontic appliances. A mouth guard also provides a barrier between the braces and your cheek or lips, limiting the risk of soft tissue injuries.

Talk to your dentist or orthodontist about selecting a mouth guard that will provide the best protection. Although mouth guards typically only cover the upper teeth, your dentist or orthodontist may suggest that you use a mouth guard on the lower teeth if you have braces on these teeth too.

If you have a retainer or other removable appliance, do not wear it during any contact sports

Some tips for caring for your mouth guard:

• rinse before and after each use or brush with a toothbrush and toothpaste
• occasionally clean the mouth guard in cool, soapy water and rinse thoroughly
• transport the mouthguard in a sturdy container that has vents
• never leave the mouth guard in the sun or in hot water
• check for wear and tear to see if it needs replacing

Braganza Periodontics – Peterborough Periodontist, Dental Implant and Gum Specialist

Dr. Annabel Braganza

Peterborough Periodontist, Gum and Dental Implant Specialist

1119 Clonsilla Avenue, Peterborough, Ontario K9J 5Y6

Call Us Today: 705-741-1885