How do dental services change as I get older?
Kids: Preventive Care For a Healthy Start
By providing your child with routine oral care from the start you are setting them up for lifelong good oral hygiene habits. We are able to provide a range of dental services for children at Brandon Dental Centre.
From the very first visit, we help keep your child's mouth and teeth clean and manage any dental concerns before they become a larger issue. We provide regular cleanings and exams and review proper preventive hygiene techniques at each appointment to ensure their teeth receive appropriate care at home.
For children at a higher risk than average of tooth decay, or for those that have special circumstances or needs, restorative dental services or customized treatment plans may be recommended.
Teens: Orthodontic Treatment For Alignment Concerns
We want your child's dental to grow with them as they enter their teen years. We will continue to make preventive care a focus of our treatment while also looking ahead to other potential issues.
As many teens are concerned about their appearance at this age and having a healthy, white smile, we will educate them about the connection between dental hygiene practices and the appearance of their smiles.
If orthodontic care is needed, teens will be referred to an orthodontist for assessment and perhaps require treatment with braces, clear aligners, a retainer or other appliances.
Adults: Restorative Dental Care to Repair
While all dentists try to relay the importance of regular oral hygiene, many adults are suffering from some form of dental disease. Preventive care should continue to be top of mind for adults, including at-home care and regular visits to dentists for hygiene cleanings.
Another possible treatment as a patient enters adulthood is wisdom teeth extraction surgery. Sometimes, oral surgery, specialized care, appliances or other treatments will be recommended for specific issues such as TMJ Disorder or sleep apnea.
If restorative services such as crowns, bridges or fillings are required, we are happy to offer these and address any questions and concerns you may have.
Seniors: Keeping Up With Your Changing Needs
You will change as you age, your lifestyle and health needs will change as well. This could lead to various conditions as well as new medications that can affect your oral health. This can increase your risk of developing dental health problems, including:
- Dry mouth (caused by medications)
- Need for tooth replacements or dentures
- Tooth decay or cavities
- Oral cancer
- Gum disease or periodontitis
You may notice your teeth are getting less sensitive to things like pain from cavities or hot or cold temperatures. This is because the nerves in your teeth can shrink as you get older. Conversely, if gum tissue recedes this could cause your teeth to become more sensitive as root tissue is left exposed.
The buildup of plaque and wear on your tooth enamel can also leave you susceptible to other problems. A dentist can examine your smile and help address these by recommending appropriate treatments such as dental implants, restorative services, a gum graft, gum therapy or oral surgery.