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Do You Have Tooth Decay? | Ottawa Dentist

Let’s face it – it is easy to maintain a healthy smile if we follow a few basic rules regarding dental hygiene. If you treat your teeth well, they’ll repay you by shining bright and strong. Unfortunately, many don’t follow the rules and your smile is affected. Tooth decay is something that happens when you eat sugary foods and neglect the daily dental duties. And if neglected long enough, bacteria eventually cause cavities to develop.

A cavity can appear on your teeth with no signs or symptoms, so it’s essential to see your dentist regularly to check on your oral health and catch tooth decay in the earliest stages. Pay attention to these warning signs your teeth may be decaying:

  • Toothache or pain when biting
  • Sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet, or sour foods
  • Brown, black, yellow, or white spots on the tooth
  • Bad breath or unpleasant taste in your mouth
  • Gum swelling

If you find that you do have rotting teeth, there are various ways to remedy the situation. A filling can fix a simple cavity. If it reaches the pulp, you will likely need a root canal. Things progress from there, from crowns to implants or even dentures if the situation calls for it.

When a situation is bad enough that an infection develops, schedule an emergency appointment with your dentist. It can develop into sepsis, which can damage tissues, fail organs or even kill you. The earlier you treat tooth decay, the better chances you can save your tooth.

Your smile is more important than making you look friendly. It also helps your entire body function. So, practice good dental hygiene, see your dentist regularly for checkups, maintain a healthy diet.

Schedule your appointment today. Call Dr. Doumit in Ottawa, Ontario at 613-232-8000 or visit www.urbandentalcentre.com.

Dr. Katia Doumit proudly serves Ottawa and all surrounding areas.

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Do You Take Milk in Your Tea? | Ottawa Dentist

There are loads of reasons to enjoy a cup of tea. To warm (or cool) your insides, to gather with friends, to even get a good night’s sleep. No matter your reason, tea has become a favorite for people around the world. The problem is one similar to other dark drinks – they can stain your teeth over time. But it still doesn’t matter – tea is going to be a staple in everyone’s lives. So, to celebrate International Tea Day, let’s take a look at the pros and cons of our beloved leafy beverages…

First, let’s take a look at the pros: Black and green tea contain fluoride, which we all know helps ward off tooth decay while preventing cavities by controlling bacteria and reducing acid in your mouth. After all, saliva production is key to washing bacteria from inside our mouths. In fact, when making tea, use tap water for an extra fluoride boost!

Tea also contains polyphenols, which are micronutrients from plant-based foods that reduce gum inflammation and disease. Polyphenols are killing bacteria, while combatting bad breath better than a mint. If that’s not enough, tea is great for our overall health as it’s antioxidant-rich option that can even help slow the growth of certain kinds of cancer, including oral cancer.

And while this healthy drink can tinge our teeth, it isn’t a permanent feature. After your cuppa, why not give your teeth a quick brush? Not only will a teeth-whitening session improve your smile, but daily dental hygiene is the best way to slow down the staining process.

Do keep in mind that sugar and acidic add-ins can erode your teeth and make you more prone to cavities. So, try to limit the lemon, sugar and honey.

Schedule your appointment today. Call Dr. Doumit in Ottawa, Ontario at 613-232-8000 or visit www.urbandentalcentre.com.

Dr. Katia Doumit proudly serves Ottawa and all surrounding areas.

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The Apple of My Eye | Ottawa Dentist

It’s one of the first solid foods we get to try as a baby. It is one of our favorite juices as a child and it is notorious for helping us dodge doctor appointments. Yes, the apple is one sweet treat that we have our entire lives, in all of its various forms. Originally from Central Asia and with 7,500 varieties available around the world, apples have become world-renowned as a go-to fruit. So much so, this Saturday (September 19) is International Eat an Apple Day. But it isn’t just the sweet snack that has captured our hearts – apples also have loads of health benefits that range from our bones to our heart, but it also greatly improves our smile. It’s true – this crispy fruit is fantastic for producing saliva, which is our natural way of keeping our mouths clean and bacteria free. Additionally, the fibers within the apple play an added role in cleaning our teeth in a way similar to a toothbrush. Now, it’s not a substitute… Apples are a healthy snack but shouldn’t replace your daily dental hygiene routine. These are just natural ways that you can improve your smile while enjoying a tasty treat. So, how do you celebrate International Eat an Apple Day? By enjoying this delicious fruit in all of its autumnal glory. Snack on an apple with a bit of peanut butter or a slice of apple pie. In fact, because this fruit is international, why not try some German apple cake or Polish apple pancakes? Even the French and the English got in on the fun by making a popular fermented drink called cider. So, have yourself an apple party, spin a globe and take an appley trip! If you would like more information about the benefits of apples, call Dr. Katia Doumit in Ottawa, Ontario at 613-232-8000 or visit www.lesplanadedental.com. Dr. Doumit proudly serves Ottawa and all surrounding areas.
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Improve Your Smile with a Picnic | Ottawa Dentist

As the world slowly begins to open up again and we are delving into the warm summer months, it is a good idea to grab a blanket and head outside to soak in some vitamin D. Not only does the sunshine improve your overall health but having a bit of a picnic while soaking it all in can also improve your smile. After all, June 18th is International Picnic Day – why not celebrate with a healthy smile? Here are just a few of the picnic foods you can enjoy that will simultaneously brighten your smile: Traditional. If you are going for a more family-friendly option, there are lots of choices that can benefit your dental health. Cheeses and proteins can help strengthen your teeth, fruits and veggies can help scrub them and encourage saliva production, which is key to rinsing cavity-causing bacteria while you eat. Wine and cheese. If you have a more sophisticated palette, you may opt for a nice wine and cheese pairing. Well, you’re in luck – cheese is full of calcium, which strengthens your teeth enamel, and red wine also had dental benefits. But be careful – too much acidic red wine will begin to break down your tooth enamel and begin to stain your teeth. When you’re out and about, it is important to maintain some type of hydration at all times so make sure to pack plenty of water in your picnic basket. And while you may not have a toothbrush handy, popping a piece of sugar-free gum after your snacks will also help keep your mouth clean while you bask in the warm summer sunshine. Enjoy your picnic! If you would like more information about improving your smile, call Dr. Katia Doumit in Ottawa, Ontario at 613-232-8000 or visit www.lesplanadedental.com. Dr. Doumit proudly serves Ottawa and all surrounding areas.
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Halloween Dental Tips | Ottawa Dentist

As we swiftly approach the spookiest holiday of the year, we are reminded that there is about to be an onslaught of sugar about to hit your healthy smile. Yes, Halloween is one holiday that is not only about scary monsters, but lots and lots of sweets. In order to protect our smiles, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene while we celebrate with all of your little ghosts and goblins. When it comes to eating candy, not all are created equal. Do your best to avoid sour candies, the acidity really damages tooth enamel. Candies that are sticky are also not the best choices, especially if you have dental appliances like braces or dentures. The best options will always be the chocolate ones – not only is dark chocolate good for you, but chocolate melts easily and doesn’t stick to your teeth as much as chewy candies. After you celebrate the season with some scrumptious sweets, take the time to look after your smile. If you don’t have a toothbrush handy, be sure to rinse the excess of sugar left on your teeth off with a bit of water. If you do have one, give your teeth a quick brushing. Leaving sugar to sit on your teeth for long periods of time will likely cause damage to your smile over time. Having good oral hygiene habits will keep your smile healthy and bright, making your dental appointments a breeze. Halloween is a great time of year and should be celebrated to the fullest. Just make sure you do everything in moderation and practice healthy dental habits.
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Should You Follow the Trends? | Ottawa Dentist

Everyone does their best to try and stay healthy as much as we can. Our lives are busy, and it feels like the world never stops for a second. And when a new trend develops, especially when it comes to our health, we will contemplate giving it a go. One of the latest trends coming down the pipe is flavored water. You know the ones – it seems like everyone is on a water-drinking kick these days and brands like La Croix are heading the revolution. But are these drinks really better for us? Depends on how you look at it… We know that drinking water is essential to keeping our bodies hydrated and working properly. It isn’t the most delicious option available, but we need to drink it. So, drinking these fizzy cans of delightful tasting water is perfect! Not quite. Yes, it is better than say, a regular soda. No sugar to develop into cavities. In fact, there is no sweetener involved at all. But it is still fizzy. And it’s the fizz that is at the root of the problem. The carbonation and flavoring are acidic, which will begin to break down your tooth enamel. And as that enamel breaks down, your teeth are susceptible to cavities. Now, there is no need to fret too much – the fact that you are minimizing your sugar intake and drinking more water is going to be great for your overall health. Just don’t make carbonated water the substitute for the real thing. Drink in moderation and you should be A-OK. If you would like more information about carbonated beverages, call Dr. Katia Doumit in Ottawa, Ontario at 613-232-8000 or visit www.lesplanadedental.com. Dr. Doumit proudly serves Ottawa and all surrounding areas.
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The ABCs of Dental Fillings | Ottawa Dentist

We all try to do our best to maintain a bright, healthy smile. But there are times when life steps in and accidents happen. Whether it be because of poor dental hygiene or one of life’s little tricks, dental issues should not be ignored. In fact, the sooner you get it taken care of, the better. Depending on the nature of your toothache, you may be presented with getting a filling as a treatment option. Composite fillings, along with silver amalgam fillings, are the most widely used today. Because composite fillings are tooth-colored or white fillings, it is a great option to restore your smile in a very natural-looking way. Now, keep in mind that while they do remedy the situation, fillings are not created to become a permanent fixture in your mouth. Replacement is likely, but it won’t be for quite a while due to their durability. So, what constitutes the need for a dental filling? If you have any of these issues with your tooth, or teeth, chances are you will need a composite filling or two:
  • Chipped
  • Gapped
  • Cracked or broken
  • Decayed
  • Worn
Another great advantage is that composite fillings are done in a day. Your tooth is numbed, decay is removed, the space is cleaned and carefully prepared before the new filling is placed. The composite filling will then be precisely placed, shaped, and polished. Keep in mind, it is normal to experience sensitivity to hot and cold when composite fillings are first placed, but it will subside as your tooth acclimates to the new filling. Good oral hygiene practices, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new fillings. If you would like more information about fillings, call Dr. Katia Doumit in Ottawa, Ontario at 613-232-8000 or visit www.lesplanadedental.com. Dr. Doumit proudly serves Ottawa and all surrounding areas.
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Would You Like Some Cheese with Your Wine? | Ottawa Dentist

This time of year is always filled with fun evenings spent with close family and friends. And what better way to celebrate these gatherings than with some chilled wine and a fantastic cheese plate? Not only does they go hand in hand, but certain varieties can actually improve your smile. It’s true! So, in honor of National Wine and Cheese Day, let’s take a look at how these delicious pairings are great for your grin…

You may not immediately think of wine when you are looking for ways to enhance your smile. In fact, wine would be one of the last things you think of due to the staining red wine causes, but research published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry has shown that red wine and wine with grape seed extract can prevent cavities. Why? Because it slows the growth of bacteria, which is how we develop cavities, gum disease and tooth loss. Keep in mind that red wine will cause your teeth to become dingy over time, so make sure to keep up your dental hygiene routines to keep those stains at bay.

When it comes to cheese, the benefits to our teeth are plentiful. Not only is it made with calcium, which is ideal to strengthen your teeth, but keeps cavities away at the same time. When we eat, we lower the pH levels in our mouths, becoming more acidic. Cheese helps to maintain an acidic level that is safe for teeth. Is one cheese better than the other? The best options are aged cheddar, Swiss, blue, Monterey Jack, brie, Gouda, and processed American cheese.

If you would like more information about the effects of wine and cheese on your teeth, call Dr. Katia Doumit in Ottawa, Ontario at 613-232-8000 or visit www.lesplanadedental.com.

Dr. Doumit proudly serves Ottawa and all surrounding areas.