Dental Milestones

Over the course of a lifetime teeth go through cycles of being built up and broken down; gradually acquiring stains and being worn down. Even pushing too hard with your toothbrush or brushing too long can be counterproductive. By age 30, your ivories have been used and abused. With proper dental care they will continue to serve you well. Here are some common rites of passage worth celebrating:

Braces

More than half of Canadian kids between ages 10-14 wear braces. In addition, more adults, even some approaching middle age, are seeking orthodontic correction. Invisalign is a popular option that offers a more modern choice that is less visible.

Cavities

Cavities can develop at any point in a person’s life. Many people experience tooth decay as youngsters, but some don’t get any cavities until adulthood. It is almost certain that by the age of 30, the majority has developed at least one. Even those with the best oral hygiene routine and regular trips to their dental clinic may still end up with dental caries. If you think you have a cavity it is very important to schedule an appointment with your dentist immediately. The decay may worsen and spread to the root, resulting in a more serious condition.

Wisdom teeth removal

The wisdom teeth are the final set of molars that erupt in the far back of the mouth. They typically emerge in a person’s late teens to mid-twenties. If these late teeth come in properly aligned, they offer a valuable asset. Unfortunately, about 85 percent of people need to have them surgically removed. When wisdom teeth are misaligned the result can be crowded or damaged adjacent teeth, jawbone, or nerves. Impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth can also cause problems. Partial eruption allows an opening for bacteria making the tooth more prone to infection, decay and disease. Don’t wait to visit your dental clinic if you or your children are approaching or encountering any of these milestones. Book an appointment with one of our experienced dentists to ensure your teeth are in good standing!