Oral Hygiene & Prevention in Winnipeg

It goes without saying that early detection and prevention are key to good oral health that can last a lifetime. Regular dental examinations enable us to evaluate any risks and tailor an oral health care and dental cleaning just for you.

At Reflections Dental Health Centre in Winnipeg, we begin with a comprehensive soft tissue examination and screen to screen for oral cancer, and detect for periodontal disease. Then, we'll complete a detailed charting of cavities, existing restorations that often includes fillings, crowns and other pre-existing tooth conditions. Please allow about one hour.

Treating Dry Mouth

From bad breath to a sticky or dry sore mouth, blisters, mouth ulcers and waking up thirsty at night – patients who suffer from dry mouth don't notice until their saliva flow has dropped by 50%.

If dry mouth is one of your concerns, rest assured that there are many treatments available at Reflections Dental Health Center including oral rinses and lozenges. Make sure to book your appointment and let us develop a personalized treatment plan for you.

Gum Disease Therapy

It may surprise you to learn that gum health doesn't just impact the health of your mouth – it impacts the overall health of your entire body. So, it's important to understand the factors that can increase your risk of gum disease. For example, did you know that smoking and side-effects of certain medications can cause gum disease?

With regular check ups we can spot the signs early and help prevent further infection. For patients who require periodontal therapy we offer everything from root planning, root scaling, deep cleanings, soft tissue treatments – even surgery where necessary. Your Reflections Dental Health Centre team can show you what to look out for. Ask for a consultation any time.

Oral Health Maintenance

• How often should you visit the dentist?
• Do smokers have to visit the dentist more regularly?
• What if you're a patient with special needs?
• When should a toddler visit the dentist?
• Do babies need to see the dentist?

Your Reflections Dental Health Centre team can answer these and many other questions. While we like to think that every patient is unique, we've put together some general guidelines.

Generally speaking, we recommend that children and adults have their teeth cleaned every 6-12 months however how often a patient should visit their dentist depends entirely on the health of their teeth and gums.

For patients who are concerned that they may be at risk because of age, tobacco use, rate of accumulation of deposits, personal oral hygiene practices, or medical conditions such as diabetes – a more aggressive oral health maintenance plan may be required.

Supportive Periodontal Treatment

Supportive periodontal treatment is a cleaning procedure performed to thoroughly clean the teeth. It is also a great way to help keep the oral cavity in good health and reduce the progression of periodontal disease and gingivitis.

Top 4 Benefits of Supportive Periodontal Therapy

1. Tartar removal – Tartar (calculus) and plaque buildup, both above and below the gum line, can cause serious periodontal problems if left untreated. Even using the best brushing and flossing homecare techniques, it can be impossible to remove debris, bacteria and deposits from gum pockets. Our dental hygienists are trained to spot buildup that could lead to periodontal disease.
2. Aesthetics – It's hard to feel confident about a smile marred by yellowing, stained teeth and puffy red swollen, bleeding gums. Supportive periodontal therapy can rid the teeth of unsightly stains and return the smile to its former glory.

3. Fresher breath – Periodontal disease is often signified by persistent bad breath (halitosis). Bad breath is generally caused by a combination of rotting food particles below the gum line, possible breakdown of connective tissue and bone stemming from gum infection, and periodontal problems. The removal of plaque, calculus and bacteria noticeably improves breath and alleviates irritation.

4. Identification of health issues – Many health problems first present themselves to the dentist. Since prophylaxis involves a thorough examination of the entire oral cavity, the dentist is able to screen for oral cancer, evaluate the risk of periodontitis and often spot signs of  other medical problems. Recommendations can also be provided for altering the home care regimen.

Supportive periodontal therapy can either be performed in the course of a regular dental visit or, if necessary, under local anesthetic. Supportive periodontal therapy is recommended twice annually as a preventative measure, but should be performed every 3-4 months on periodontitis sufferers.

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