Is laser dentistry painful?
Laser dentistry is not a completely painless procedure. However, it is less painful than traditional dental procedures that use drills or scalpels. The laser energy this procedure produces is precise and can target specific areas without causing damage to surrounding tissue. The use of lasers helps to minimize bleeding, swelling, and discomfort. Many patients report little to no discomfort during and after laser dental procedures. However, this may vary depending on the type of dental procedure you are having and your pain tolerance. It is always best to consult with your dentist regarding any concerns you have about pain or discomfort during or after a laser dental procedure.
Foothills Dentistry is your premier family and general dental practice, servicing patients in Calgary, AB, and surrounding communities. We are committed to excellence in dental care and work with you to improve the health, function, and beauty of your natural smile.
Practicing Preventive Dental Care
Learning the proper ways to maintain excellent dental health is beneficial for your smile in the long run. At Foothills Dentistry, our team believes patient education is one of the best tools we can equip our patients with. Knowing how to care for your smile properly may help reduce your risk of severe dental health problems.
During your visit, we explore age-appropriate ways to improve your teeth and gum health. We take the time to answer any questions you may regarding your dental health. Through patient education, open and honest communication, and personalized dental care, we can help build beautiful, healthy smiles.
While preventive dental care is to be performed in our Calgary dentist office, it is also to be performed at home to achieve a healthy smile. We recommend that patients develop a proper oral hygiene routine and practice it twice daily.
The Importance of Regular Dental Visits
Many dentists recommend patients visit the dentist every six months. Regular dental visits are essential to maintaining optimal dental health. Biannual visits to our Calgary dentist office allow our dentists to perform the necessary testing and treatment needed to keep your smile in excellent condition.
During your regular visit, Dr. Shruti Chahal will evaluate the teeth, gums, and jaw for any signs of dysfunction. Dysfunction of your oral cavity can present itself as gum disease, tooth decay, oral cancer, or other complex dental issues. When these issues are left untreated, they can affect the integrity of your teeth, gums, and jawbone. Identifying and treating dental issues during the earliest stages of development give patients the best chance at restoring their dental health. Our goal is to prevent the development of oral disease and equip our patients with the tools and knowledge they need to maintain a healthy, functional smile.
Your routine dental visit may include:
- Dental exam
- Dental caries screening
- Periodontal screening
- Oral cancer screening
- Consultation with Dr. Chahal
- Dental X-Rays (if needed)
- Dental cleaning (if needed and time allows)
General Dental Care For All Ages in Calgary, AB
After a thorough examination, our dentist will recommend the most appropriate treatment for you. We offer comprehensive dental care treatments for patients of all ages.
We have a full range of general dentistry services that we can tailor to match your dental health needs.
- Dental Fillings
- Emergency Dentistry
- Family Dentistry
- Laser Dentistry
- Root Canals
- Sedation Dentistry
- Tooth Extraction
- IV Sedation
FAQs
What does a dental exam include?
A dental exam typically includes a visual examination of the teeth, gums, and mouth. The exam also includes professional teeth cleaning. Your dentist or hygienist will also check for signs of oral cancer, tooth decay, and gum disease. They will also take X-rays to check for issues not visible during the visual examination. Your dentist may also discuss any concerns or issues with your teeth and recommend treatment or further examination.
When will my dentist recommend an oral cancer screening?
Most dentists recommend oral cancer screening for adults aged 18 and over. The best time to get this screening is after a routine dental checkup. Regular oral cancer screenings are important because they can help detect the early stages of the disease. Oral cancer screenings increase the chances of successful treatment if your dentist detects it before it has spread too far. Early detection also increases the likelihood that an individual will receive prompt medical care.
What kind of X-rays does a dentist do?
Dentists typically use two types of X-rays: intraoral X-rays and extraoral X-rays. Intraoral X-rays take photos of the inside of the mouth. Your dentist will use them to view individual teeth and the surrounding bone. On the other hand, your dentist will take Extraoral x-rays outside the mouth and use them to view the jaw and skull. Some examples of extraoral X-rays include panoramic X-rays and cephalometric X-rays. These X-rays show images allowing the dentist to diagnose and treat dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and impacted teeth.
How long can dental fillings last?
Dental fillings can last anywhere from 5 to 20 years. The lifespan of a filling depends on factors such as the type of filling material, the location of the filling in the mouth, and the patient’s oral hygiene habits. For instance, a composite resin filling may last 5-10 years, while an amalgam filling (silver) can last 15 years or more. A gold filling can last for more than 20 years. Good oral hygiene ensures your dental filling lasts as long as possible. Brushing twice daily and flossing daily will keep plaque away from the affected area and prevent premature damage or decay.
Does it hurt to get a root canal?
Root canals are generally not painful procedures. Your dentist will perform this procedure under local anesthesia to numb the area. However, each patient’s experience is unique. Some patients may feel pressure or mild discomfort during the treatment, but it should be manageable. After the procedure, some patients may also experience sensitivity and mild discomfort. You can manage any discomfort after the procedure with over-the-counter pain medications. The dentist may also give you specific instructions on how to care for the tooth after the procedure.
What will the ER do for a tooth infection?
If you visit the ER for a tooth infection, they will primarily focus on managing your pain and addressing any potentially life-threatening symptoms. The ER nurses and doctor may offer you antibiotics to help control the infection and prescribe pain relievers. However, ER doctors do not have the equipment or qualification to provide dental treatments. Therefore, after addressing the immediate symptoms, the ER usually advises you to see a dentist as soon as possible for proper dental care.
Schedule A Consultation
If you are searching for an experienced family dentist in Calgary, AB, visit our team at Foothills Dentistry. We combine advanced technology, patient-focused dental care, and thorough treatment planning to deliver exceptional dental care. We work with patients of all ages, so visiting our dental office is convenient for you and your family.
To explore our services and take charge of your dental health, schedule a consultation today. To schedule your appointment, call or request an appointment online.