Dental & Oral Health Frequently Asked Questions

Plaque, Cavities, Gum Disease, Gingivitis, Periodontitis... Your Questions & Our Answers

How does plaque cause tooth decay?

The bacteria in plaque reacts with sugar in the foods we eat to produce acids that can attack and weaken tooth enamel (the hard, protective covering on our teeth), opening the way for cavities to develop.

What is a cavity?

A cavity is the space inside a tooth that remains once decay is removed. There are three different places where a tooth can experience decay. Decay on the biting surfaces of the teeth occurs when plaque becomes trapped in the grooves. This is most common in children because they often miss these areas when brushing. Decay between the teeth occurs when plaque is left to build up on these hard to reach surfaces. Decay at the root surfaces of the teeth occurs if you have suffered gum recession or bone loss, often associated with gum disease, or periodontitis.

How does plaque cause gum disease?

If plaque is left to build up, the bacteria produce toxins that can irritate the gums and damage teeth. The earliest stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. This is an inflammation of the gums, which may cause swelling, tenderness and bleeding when brushing or flossing.

Who is at risk for gum disease?

Gum disease can affect any age group, including children. However, it most often affects adults. In fact, about three out of four adults over age 35 have some form of gum disease now or have had it in the past. Your risk of getting gum disease increases if you smoke or have certain medical conditions. It is therefore vital to keep your dentist informed of your general health.

What should I do if I think I have gingivitis?

Fortunately, with proper oral care every day and regular visits to the dentist, you can help prevent gingivitis from ever developing. It is best prevented and in most cases quickly healed, by following a routine to remove plaque every day – this is a two step process of brushing with a soft bristled toothbrush and cleaning between teeth. Together they prevent plaque from building up on tooth surfaces and under the gum line. Gingivitis is not a permanent condition. It can be reversed, because no permanent damage has occurred to the bone supporting the teeth.

What is tartar?

Every time you brush, you remove the plaque that is constantly forming on your teeth. If you allow plaque to build up, it can harden into tartar (also called calculus) which can then only be removed by your dentist or hygienist.

How do I keep my teeth naturally whiter between dental visits?

Everybody wants to have white teeth and there are many products available that lighten teeth – using a chemical process, called bleaching. In fact, we have devoted a whole section to tooth whitening. However, brushing your teeth regularly with toothpaste will remove some of the stain that builds up on the teeth, as a result of drinking coffee, tea, and red wine.

What is periodontitis?

Left untreated, gingivitis may progress to a more severe form of gum disease called periodontitis, or periodontal disease. Periodontitis damages the bone and gums that support the teeth. Once periodontitis develops, the damage can’t be reversed: only a professional treatment program and an improved level of daily oral care at home can keep it from getting worse. If you have periodontitis your dentist will provide you with a program for maintaining your teeth and gums, to halt the progress of the disease.

What symptoms should I be looking out for?

Periodontitis may initially occur without many visible symptoms, therefore regular dental exams are critical for early diagnosis. Common symptoms of periodontitis are red, swollen gums that have started to pull away from the teeth, creating pockets. This is often associated with tooth sensitivity, a feeling of intense pressure between the teeth or bleeding when brushing or flossing. In more advanced stages, you may experience gum recession, root decay, pus between teeth and gums, and loosening or eventual loss of teeth.

How do I help prevent periodontitis from developing?

By adopting a thorough oral care routine at home and regular professional cleanings at your Dentist, you can help avoid periodontitis. Here are some useful tips: Brush thoroughly twice a day, with a soft bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste – preferably in the morning and before bed. Clean between your teeth daily to remove plaque from areas your toothbrush can’t reach. Visit your dentist and hygienist regularly – at least once every six months, for a cleaning and exam. Avoid smoking and using tobacco products.

Why Choose AXIS Dental?

  • Celebrating over 35 years of making you smile
  • Free Teeth Whitening or Custom Sports Guard with Complete Dental Examination & Cleaning
  • Dentists & Dental Specialists under one roof
  • Free consultation on select dental treatments
  • Affordable Dental Care and Financing Options
  • Insurance billed directly
  • Children's playroom with toys and video games
  • Low radiation Digital X-Rays
  • Complimentary Hot Towel Service and Massage Chairs
  • Free Care Pack following every appointment
  • Open 7 Days a Week & Evenings
  • Conveniently located. Free Parking.

Book Your Dental Appointment

We understand that for some, your previous experience with a dentist may not have been entirely positive. We’re determined to change that by providing you with quality service that’s specifically tailored to your needs. We ensure you have a pleasant and stress-free experience with us. Call 905.452.7111 or book appointment online.

Business Hours

We’re open 7 days a week and evenings. We take great pride in providing you with a comfortable, clean and modern dental facility led by a team of highly skilled and dedicated professionals.

MON to FRI: 7:30am to 8:00pm
SAT: 8:00am to 4:00pm
SUN: 9:00am to 4:00pm

Dental Emergency

We can treat dental emergencies within 2 hours during business hours.

You don’t have to wait to book an appointment with us.

Financing Options

No need to delay your dental treatment. Our financing options and payment plans offer affordable monthly payments. Available options include interest-free terms from 3 to 12 months.

For more information, please call 905.452.7111 speak to Nidia at Ext: 329 or Julie at Ext: 236.

Insurance

Direct Billing: We bill, process and accept payments directly from insurance companies.

We recognize that insurance forms and policies can be complicated. It is our goal to help simplify this part of your dental visit.