Your St. James, Winnipeg Invisalign® Provider
Today, our dentists in Manitoba share how dentistry helps each member of your family achieve optimal dental health from kids to teens and adults to seniors.
How Dental Services Change as We Get Older
Kids
It's essential for children to have an excellent oral care routine because it helps them establish a strong foundation for lifelong dental health. Our dentists offer a vast range of dental services for kids at Assiniboine Dental Group.
Beginning with their first appointment (recommended at six months of age) and during their school-aged years, we help them keep their smile healthy. We are able to provide regular exams and cleanings and show them proper preventive hygiene techniques at every visit to help make sure their teeth get the appropriate level of care at home.
For kids that have a higher than average risk of developing tooth decay, or for children that have special needs or circumstances, we might recommend restorative dental services or customized treatment plans.
Teens
As teens develop and grow more independent, their dental care will need to grow with them. Preventive dental care will continue as they see the dentist every 9 months or so.
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
Many adults develop early-stage gum disease, which has the potential to cause painful swollen gums and other oral health problems. Preventive care should still be a priority, which should include at-home care and routine dental appointments for hygiene cleanings.
In early adulthood, many people have to get their wisdom teeth removed. In some situations, oral surgery, appliances, specialized care, or other treatments will be needed for specific conditions such as sleep apnea or TMJ Disorder.
If restorative services such as crowns, bridges, or fillings are required, we will be able to provide you with these and answer any questions and concerns you might have.
Seniors
As you get older, your teeth and mouth will naturally change, and you might have new medication requirements. This can increase your risk for 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.
A 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.