Family Dental Clinic in North Bay

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We provide quality care with a warm approach — just like we would for a
member of our own family.

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Our Technology

Cutting-edge care for optimal health

At our clinic, innovation enhances every treatment. 3D scanning, digital imaging, and advanced diagnostic tools allow us to deliver more precise, faster, and more comfortable care. Discover how technology is transforming your dental experience.

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Our Services

Explore our full range of personalized dental care services

Welcome to your dental clinic, where your oral health is our top priority. Whether you need a cleaning, specialized surgery, or cosmetic care, our experienced team is here to provide services tailored to your needs.

We’re here to help you get the care you need.

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Patient Info

Find all the information you need

At Guy Dentistry, we strive to make your dental experience as smooth and pleasant as possible. Below, you'll find everything you need to get started or stay informed about your care — from new patient forms to post-operative instructions.

To download or print a PDF:Click on a "View PDF" button above, then click the downward arrow icon at the top right of the window to download the form, OR click the print icon at the top right to print it.If you need help accessing a ressource, please email our office at [email protected] or call us at (705) 476-5181.

New Patient Information

What Happens on My First Visit in Detail?

Let’s break down the various components of a comprehensive dental examination:

Dental Health Interview:
We listen attentively to your concerns, past dental experiences, and expectations. Your input helps us understand any recurring problems and tailor our approach accordingly. We also inquire about your perception of your smile, as aesthetics matter too.Comprehensive Medical History:
Understanding your health history is crucial to provide safe, effective dental care. We need to know your medical conditions, medications, allergies, etcDigital Camera Pictures and iTero 3D Scanning:
Those are pictures and 3D images allow us to document your oral condition.
- We capture details of teeth, soft tissues, and any visible abnormalities.
- We digitally scan your upper and lower teeth and gums as well as your bite with a 3D camera.Examination and Charting of Teeth and Existing Restorations:
We create a detailed chart of your teeth,
- We chart missing teeth
- We inspect and chart teeth for stains, chips, cracks, cavities, malformations, excessive wear
- Existing dental restorations (fillings, crowns, etc.) are evaluated and charted.Soft Tissue Exam (Oral Cancer Screening):
We carefully examine various areas in your mouth, including cheeks, palate, throat, tongue, floor of the mouth, and lips.
- Our goal is to identify any abnormalities, such as ulcers, oral cancer, cysts, benign tumors, or signs of cancer from other parts of the body.
- Regular screenings are essential for early detection and better treatment outcomes.Periodontal Exam:
We evaluate gum tissues for color, contours, and texture.
- Signs of gingivitis (redness, swelling, bleeding) are noted. Healthy gums appear pink, have a stippled surface, and do not bleed.
- A periodontal probe measures gingival pockets and recessions around each tooth.
- We assess plaque buildup, furcation defects, and tooth mobility.Digital Radiographs (X-rays):
These play a crucial role in assessing oral health.
- Bitewings detect cavities between teeth and assess bone loss.
- Periapicals focus on individual teeth, identifying issues like abscesses and root fractures.
- Panoramic images assess overall mouth health, including impacted teeth and jaw alignment.Evaluation of Your Bite:
We assess how your upper and lower teeth function in relation to each other.
- Improper alignment, heavy contacts, excessive wear, and headaches are considered.
- Jaw-Joint and Muscle Assessment:
We palpate jaw muscles for tenderness, perform joint loading tests, evaluate jaw movement range, and listen for joint sounds. This helps identify potential jaw-related issues.Treatment Plan Consultation:
We provide a printed summary of necessary treatments and estimated costs.
- Treatment options, consequences of not receiving treatment, and preventive measures are explained.
- We discuss financial aspects and estimated dental benefit coverage.
- Your active participation throughout the process is encouraged.Feel free to ask if you have any further questions or need additional information

Canadian Dental Care Plan

Our office is a CDCP provider

1. Before scheduling you an appointment, we will need to validate your CDCP coverage effective date.
2. Due to the complexity of the program, we cannot provide coverage details and information to you unless we have all your information.
3. Once we confirm coverage, we will schedule an initial exam to determine your oral health care needs.
4. Remember to bring your CDCP membership card when you come for your appointment.

THE CDCP DOES NOT COVER THE FULL COST OF YOUR CAREOur office follows the current Ontario Dental Association Standard Fee Guide. 100% of the CDCP fee DOES NOT EQUAL 100% of the current ODA fee guide.
Before each appointment, we can provide you an estimated amount, not covered by the CDCP, that you will be responsible for paying
You will be expected to pay this portion at the time services are provided

Who is eligible for the CDCP?

To qualify for the CDCP, a patient must:
■ Not have access to dental insurance;
■ Have an adjusted family net income of less than $90,000;
■ Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes; and
■ Have filed their tax return in the previous year.The federal government has committed to rolling out the CDCP coverage in stages.
■ Starting in mid-December 2023, letters were mailed to seniors aged 87 and above who may qualify, followed by those aged 77 to 86 in January 2024, then those aged 72 to 76 in February 2024 and those aged 70 to 71 in March 2024. These letters include a personalized application code and instructions on how to apply.
■ Seniors aged 65 to 69 may apply in May 2024.
■ Children under age 18 may apply starting in June 2024, and
■ All remaining eligible Canadian residents can apply starting in 2025.

What does dental insurance include?

Not having access to dental insurance is defined as:
■ No dental insurance through your employer or a family member’s employer benefits, including health and wellness accounts;
■ No dental insurance through your pension (previous employer) or a family member’s pension benefits;
■ No coverage through a professional or student organization; or
■ No dental insurance purchased by yourself or by a family member through a group plan from an insurance/benefits company.NOTE: Any Canadian resident is still considered to have access to dental insurance if they choose to opt out of existing benefits, like those listed above.

Which procedures are covered by the CDCP?

Not all procedures will be covered by the CDCP, and each province will have its own CDCP fee grid created by Health Canada. Lists of covered services will be similar to the Non-Insured Health Benefits Program (NIHB) for First Nations and Inuit.Examples of services that could be covered under the CDCP include the following:
■ preventive services, including scaling (cleaning), polishing, sealants, and fluoride
■ diagnostic services, including examinations and X-rays
■ restorative services, including fillings
■ endodontic services, including root canal treatments
■ prosthodontic services, including complete and partial removable dentures
■ periodontal services, including deep scaling
■ oral surgery services, including extractions

How much will be covered by the CDCP?

The CDCP fee grid is not the same as the provincial fee guide, and the fees will be less than those in each province’s fee guide. Family income levels will determine what percentage of coverage of the CDCP fee guide each patient will receive.■ Below $70,000 net income- eligible for 100% of CDCP fee. Patients may face additional charges as described below.
■ $70,000 to $79,999 net income- eligible for 60% of CDCP fee. Patients may face additional charges as described below.
■ $80,000 to $89,999 net income- eligible for 40% of CDCP fee. Patients may face additional charges as described below.Should I cancel my appointment and wait for the CDCP?We strongly recommend that you continue with your regularly scheduled appointments. If you cancel, you will have to deal with wait times, and we do not know what will be covered, so we are not sure if what you need done will be covered.”

Office Policies

Appointments

We see all patients on an appointment basis. Your appointment time is reserved exclusively for you; we do not double book our patients. We respect your time and will make every effort to remain on schedule. We ask that you please try to arrive on time for your appointment.If you cannot make your appointment, we need at least 48 hours notice so we can offer this time to another patient.There is a 75$ charge for missed or short notice cancellations.

Payments

Payment is expected at the time services are rendered. We accept cash, Interac, Visa, American Express and Mastercard.

Dental Benefits

We will submit insurance claims electronically on your behalf. If your insurance company does not accept claims electronically , an insurance form will be given to you for your submission by mail.It is your responsibility to understand your dental benefits, provide us with accurate insurance information and inform us when there are any changes.Provided your information is accurate, most insurance companies reimburse you electronically within a few business days. We will submit a pre-authorization to your insurance company to determine your dental benefits before beginning major treatment. For more information go to our page “information for patients with dental benefits” where you will also see a link to a more detailed ODA article about dental benefits “Dental Benefits Explained”

CDCP

THE CDCP DOES NOT COVER THE FULL COST OF YOUR CARE
- Our office follows the current Ontario Dental Association Standard Fee Guide. 100% of the CDCP fee DOES NOT EQUAL 100% of the current ODA fee guide.
- Before each appointment, we can provide you an estimated amount, not covered by the CDCP, that you will be responsible for paying
- You will be expected to pay this portion at the time services are provided.

Patient Financing

We are happy to provide financing through Dentalcard.
- If you require some or all of your treatment financed you can go to their website and fill out an online application.
Enter the User Name: 51165 and Password: 705-476-5181

Dental Prevention

Tooth Decay, Risk Levels and Preventive Strategies

Tooth decay, also known as "caries", is one of the most common conditions we encounter at our office. Often advancing without pain, it can affect various areas of the teeth, including biting surfaces, interdental spaces, areas beneath fillings, or exposed tooth roots. If left untreated, decay can lead to discomfort, infection, tooth destruction, and ultimately, tooth loss. Its impact extends beyond dental health, influencing overall well-being.Your risk for tooth decay depends on specific "contributing factors" that influence decay development (see Contributing Factors below). While some of these factors are controllable, others are not. At our practice, we assess your risk during the initial examination and every preventive appointment using CAMBRA- Caries Management by Risk Assessment (Link to CAMBRA literature). This proactive, evidence-based approach focuses on preventing and managing cavities by carefully evaluating any contributing factors and balancing them with "protective factors" or measures (see Protective Factors below).By identifying and addressing concerns early through CAMBRA, we aim to minimize the risk of decay, reduce the need for invasive treatments, and help you maintain optimal oral health and a confident smile

Protective Factors
- Proper brushing and flossing
- A healthy diet low in sugar
- Limiting sugary between meal snacks
- Using toothpastes and mouth rinses high in fluoride
- Drinking fluoridated water
- Consuming products with xylitol
- Seeing the dentist regularly for check-ups and preventive care
- Use of Antibacterial mouth rinses.Contributing Factors
- Poor oral hygiene, heavy plaque on teeth
- Gingivitis
- Teeth that trap food, Deep pits and fissures, untreated cavities
- Receded gums and exposed root surfaces
- Multiple fillings, crowns and/or bridge work
- Partial denture wear
Dietary
- Frequent consumption/snacking of high sugar/starchy foods, candies, gums and drink
- Limited exposure to fluoride
Habits:
- Smoking,
- Recreational drug use
Health conditions
- GERDs, Acid reflux,
- Chemotherapy or radiation therapy
- Poor dexterity that limits proper brushing and flossing
- Reduced salivary function
- Mouth breathing
- Strong family history of dental decay

Prevention by Risk Level

Once we have assessed your risk by weighing all factors, we will recommend oral hygiene strategies to protect your teeth and prevent further dental caries. Based on the criteria outlined below, you will be categorized as having either a Low, Moderate, or High Risk for decay.

• Low Risk Prevention
• Moderate Risk Prevention
• High Risk Prevention

Prevention for patients with Low Decay Risk

Home Care
- Brush twice daily
- Use a soft toothbrush with an over-the-counter fluoride-containing toothpaste
- Consider using a Power-assisted toothbrush : See The Benefits of Electric Toothbrush vs. Manual
- Floss daily to clean between teeth ; if you cannot floss use a Gum Soft-Pick
- Instructions on how : CDA brushing and FlossingDietary Tips
- Limit between-meal sweet snacks and sugary drinks. It's the duration of sugar exposure to your teeth that matters, not the quantity consumed.
- Avoid acidic foods and beverages between meals.
- End your breakfast, lunch, or dinner with cheese, nuts, seeds, or peanut butter to reduce mouth acidity.
- Do not brush your teeth immediately after eating. Brushing while acid is present can wear down tooth enamel. Waiting an hour allows saliva to neutralize the acid, making it safe to brush.
- To neutralize acids post-meal, rinse with a mixture of 1 tsp baking soda in a cup of water.
- Consider chewing xylitol-containing gum after eating.Professional Care
- Please keep regular preventive maintenance visits at 6 to 12 month intervals:
- Get new bitewing radiographs (X-rays) about every 24-36 months to check for cavities.
- Get a fluoride varnish treatment after your teeth cleanings.
- Complete any necessary restorative dental work, such as fillings or crowns.
- If suitable, have sealants placed on the chewing surfaces of your molars to prevent bacterial infection and dental decay.
- If you think you grind and clench, consider a Bruxism Splint
- If you play contact sports protect your teeth with a sports guard

Prevention for patients with Moderate Decay Risk

Home Care
- Brush twice daily
- Use a soft toothbrush with an over-the-counter fluoride-containing toothpaste
- Consider using a Power-assisted toothbrush : See The Benefits of Electric Toothbrush vs. Manual
- Floss daily to clean between teeth ; if you cannot floss use a Gum Soft-Pick
- Instructions on how : CDA brushing and Flossing
- Consider a high-fluoride toothpaste -such as Colgate PreviDent 5000 toothpaste (5000 parts per million fluoride)
- X-pur Opti-Rinse 0.05% or .2% sodium fluoride rinse- rinse with 10 ml (one cap full) once or twice daily after you have used your fluoride toothpaste.Dietary Tips
- Limit between-meal sweet snacks and sugary drinks. It's the duration of sugar exposure to your teeth that matters, not the quantity consumed.
- Avoid acidic foods and beverages between meals.
- End your breakfast, lunch, or dinner with cheese, nuts, seeds, or peanut butter to reduce mouth acidity.
- Do not brush your teeth immediately after eating. Brushing while acid is present can wear down tooth enamel. Waiting an hour allows saliva to neutralize the acid, making it safe to brush.
- To neutralize acids post-meal, rinse with a mixture of 1 tsp baking soda in a cup of water.
- Use Xylitol candies or gum four times daily. X-Pur or Pur.Professional Care
- Please keep regular preventive maintenance visits at 6 to 12 month intervals:
- Get new bitewing radiographs (X-rays) about every 24-36 months to check for cavities.
- Get a fluoride varnish treatment after your teeth cleanings.
- Complete any necessary restorative dental work, such as fillings or crowns.
- If suitable, have sealants placed on the chewing surfaces of your molars to prevent bacterial infection and dental decay.
- If you think you grind and clench, consider a Bruxism Splint
- If you play contact sports protect your teeth with a sports guard

Prevention for patients with High Decay Risk

Home Care
- Brush twice daily
- Use a power-assisted toothbrush with a high-fluoride toothpaste -such as Colgate PreviDent 5000 toothpaste (5000 parts per million fluoride)
- Consider using a Power-assisted toothbrush : See The Benefits of Electric Toothbrush vs. Manual
- Floss daily to clean between teeth ; if you cannot floss use a Gum Soft-Pick
- Instructions on how : CDA brushing and Flossing
- Consider a high-fluoride toothpaste -such as Colgate PreviDent 5000 toothpaste (5000 parts per million fluoride)
- X-pur Opti-Rinse 0.05% or .2% sodium fluoride rinse- rinse with 10 ml (one cap full) once or twice daily after you have used your fluoride toothpaste.Rinses
- Baking soda rinse (or similar neutralizing product)- Use four to six times daily during the day. You can make this yourself by shaking up two teaspoons of baking soda in an eight-ounce bottle of water.X-pur Opti-Rinse 0.05% or .2% sodium fluoride rinse- rinse with 10 ml (one cap full) once or twice daily after you have used your fluoride toothpaste.
- Peridex- Rinse for one minute, once a day with an antibacterial mouthrinse Peridex, which has an active ingredient called chlorhexidine gluconate at 0.12 percent. Use this once daily just before bed at night (10 ml for one minute), but only for one week each month. You must use this at least one hour after brushing with the 5,000 ppm fluoride toothpaste.
- Recaldent paste - contains calcium and phosphate (e.g., MI paste). Apply it several times daily to your teeth.Dietary Tips
- Limit between-meal sweet snacks and sugary drinks. It's the duration of sugar exposure to your teeth that matters, not the quantity consumed.
- Avoid acidic foods and beverages between meals.
- End your breakfast, lunch, or dinner with cheese, nuts, seeds, or peanut butter to reduce mouth acidity.
- Do not brush your teeth immediately after eating. Brushing while acid is present can wear down tooth enamel. Waiting an hour allows saliva to neutralize the acid, making it safe to brush.
- To neutralize acids post-meal, rinse with a mixture of 1 tsp baking soda in a cup of water.
- Use Xylitol candies or gum four times daily. X-Pur or Pur.Professional Care
- Please keep regular preventive maintenance visits at 3 to 4 month intervals:
- New bitewing radiographs (X-rays) should be taken every 6 to 18 months to check for cavities.
- Get a fluoride varnish treatment after your teeth cleanings.
- Allow us to review your use of chlorhexidine, Prevident and oral hygiene at that visit.
- Complete any necessary restorative dental work, such as fillings or crowns.
- If suitable, have sealants placed on the chewing surfaces of your molars to prevent bacterial infection and dental decay.
- If you think you grind and clench, consider a Bruxism Splint
- If you play contact sports protect your teeth with a sports guard

Crowns and Bridges

Possible Complications

Although rare, crowns and bridges can lead to potential complications. These may include:- Tooth Irritation: Temporary sensitivity to temperature is common. In some cases, the nerve may become damaged and require a root canal.
- Infection and Gum Issues: Infection or gum problems can occur at the crown and bridge site or affect surrounding teeth.
- Wear and Damage: Excessive biting force, grinding, or clenching can cause the porcelain on crowns or bridges to chip or crack over time.
- Loosening: Crowns and bridges may detach from the teeth due to decay or excessive force.
- Decay and Cavities: Supporting teeth beneath crowns or bridges remain susceptible to decay, requiring proper care.It’s important to discuss these risks with your dentist. To minimize complications, maintain good oral hygiene and regular check-ups. If you grind or clench your teeth, a dental splint may also be recommended to protect your dental work.

Resources

Informed Consent for Crowns and Bridges

Understand gum disease and how to manage your condition between visits.

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Surgery

General

Our clinic performs dental extractions as required, tailored to each individual case. Reasons for tooth extraction can include severe decay, infection, overcrowding, impacted wisdom teeth, or preparation for orthodontic treatment. We prioritize safety, patient comfort, and minimally invasive techniques. Routine extractions are managed on-site, while more complex cases, such as those involving wisdom teeth, the need for moderate to deep sedation, or those with medical complexities, are referred to specialists.

The process involves the following steps:- Informed consent: Explanation of the consequences of tooth loss, your options, and the possible risks and complications
- Local Anesthesia: The dentist administers local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth.
- Tooth Removal: Using specialized instruments, the dentist loosens the tooth and gently removes it.
- Ridge preservation: We may recommend a bone graft to maintain the ridge's shape and size. This is particularly crucial if you are considering an implant. Typically, we refer this procedure to a specialist.
- Stopping the bleeding:After the tooth is removed, the dentist will place a piece of gauze over the extraction site and ask you to bite down to help stop the bleeding.
- Post-Extraction Care : To ensure rapid healing and to avoid complications that could be both harmful and painful to you, please follow these instructions carefully

Possible Risks and Complications

Tooth extraction is a surgical process that, whether routine or complex, entails certain risks. Although most extractions are completed without significant complications, any that arise are usually minor and manageable. Potential risks include, but are not limited to:- Swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the area of surgery.
- Stretching of the mouth corners, which may result in cracking and bruising.
- Possible infection necessitating further treatment.
- Dry socket, characterized by jaw pain starting a few days post-surgery, often necessitating additional care; this is more common following lower extractions, particularly wisdom teeth.
- Potential damage to adjacent teeth, notably those with large fillings or crowns.
- Numbness or altered sensation in the teeth, lips, tongue, and chin due to the proximity of tooth roots (especially wisdom teeth) to nerves, which may be bruised or damaged. Sensation usually returns to normal, but in rare instances, the loss may be permanent.
- Trismus : restricted jaw opening due to inflammation or swelling, most often following the removal of wisdom teeth. It can also stem from jaw joint discomfort (TMJ), especially if TMJ disorders and symptoms are pre-existing.
- Bleeding - significant bleeding is uncommon, but persistent oozing is expected for several hours.
- Formation of sharp ridges or bone splinters at the socket's edge, which may necessitate further surgery for smoothing or removal.
Incomplete removal of tooth fragments to prevent damage to critical structures like nerves or sinuses, leaving small root tips in place.
- Sinus involvement: The roots of upper back teeth are frequently near the sinus, and occasionally a root fragment can be displaced into the sinus, or an opening may form into the mouth, requiring additional care.
- Jaw fracture : although quite rare, it can occur with difficult or deeply impacted teeth.

Surgery: Post-op Instructions

To ensure rapid healing and to avoid complications that could be both harmful and painful to you, please follow these instructions carefully.

A. Bleeding
- Bite firmly on gauze pack that has been placed until you arrive home, or for at least one hour, then remove it gently. If after removal, bleeding begins again, place another damp gauze pack directly over the tooth socket and bite firmly for 30 minutes.
- Biting on a tea bag that has been moistened and wrapped in a piece of gauze also helps stop bleeding.
- It is not unusual to have a slight oozing for up to 24 hours. You may find a blood stain on your pillow in the morning.
- Keep your head elevated with several pillows or sit in a lounge chair.
- Do not spit, suck through a straw or rinse your mouth for 24 hours, since this promotes bleeding.
- Do not smoke for 12 hours because this will promote bleeding and interfere with healing.B. Pain Medication
Some discomfort is normal after surgery. It can be controlled but not eliminated by taking the pain medication.- If medications were prescribed, fill the prescription as soon as possible and start taking them as directed.
- If you were not given a prescription pain can be controlled with either ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Alternating the two provides very effective pain relief. That is, take ibuprofen (e.g., 400 mg), then 2 or 3 hours later take acetaminophen (e.g., 500 mg) and then 2 or 3 hours after that take ibuprofen again and so on. This alternating schedule provides continuous pain relief while taking advantage of the different ways these medications work.
- Always follow the recommended dosage and consult your dentist or doctor if you have any underlying conditions or concerns which may prevent you from safely taking the medication.
- Always take your pain medication with a whole glass of water and with a small amount of food if the pills cause nausea.
- Do not drive or drink alcohol if you take prescription pain pills and that some antibiotics can temporarily nullify the effects of oral contraceptivesC. Antibiotics
It is normal to have some gum swelling and infection around the extraction site for several days or longer.- We will only prescribe antibiotics if you have facial swelling or persistent infection
- If you were prescribed Antibiotics before or after the procedure and start to feeling better, it is crucial you still complete the full course as prescribed, This is to ensure the infection is fully treated and to prevent resistance.D. Diet
It is important to get adequate nutrition to help the healing process. Eat normal regular meals as soon as possible after surgery. Cold, soft food such as ice cream or yoghurt may be the most comfortable for the first day.E. Oral hygiene
Do not rinse your mouth or brush your teeth for the first 24 hours after surgery. After that, rinse your mouth with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon salt in 8 oz warm water) every 4 hours. Brush your teeth, but avoid the area of surgery.F. Swelling
To help prevent swelling ice packs should be applied to the face adjacent to the surgery site. Apply the ice packs for 20 minutes on and 5 minutes off until bed time on the day of the surgery. Ice is not particularly beneficial after the first day. Swelling peaks at about 48 hours after surgery and then starts to go. Significant swelling beyond this period could mean infectionG. Postoperative Check-up
The surgery site may need to be examined to make certain that healing is progressing normal. If stitches have been placed in the area of your surgery, you will need to have them removed in about 1 week. An appointment will be made for you.If you suspect any problems with healing, do not hesitate to call the office at 705 476-5181 or Dr. Guy 705 499-3210

Resources

Root Canal Treatment

General

When a tooth's nerve, or pulp, becomes infected, leading to pain and swelling, you may choose between a root canal or tooth extraction. The pulp, which comprises nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue, has limited healing ability when damaged by deep decay, excessive wear, or trauma, leading to its death. A dead pulp can cause pain, infection, and swelling, which, if left untreated, may spread to the bone surrounding the tooth. A root canal can save the tooth by removing only the diseased nerve, preventing further complications or the necessity for tooth extraction.

Possible Complications

1. Difficulties achieving profound anesthesia or numbness due to the infection
2. Incomplete cleaning and shaping the of root canal system due to complex anatomy or tooth calcification
3. Breakage of instruments in the root canals
4. Perforation of the rootThese complication may require further corrective treatment, referral to a specialist or extraction of the tooth.

Care Following Root Canal Therapy

Here are some instructions to help you recover smoothly after your root canal treatment:A. Numbness
- Local Anesthesia: You may feel numb for 2-3 hours after the procedure. Be cautious not to bite your lip, cheek, or tongue while the numbness persists.
- It can normal to experience Fleeting episodes of pain once the anesthesia wears off.B. Eating
- Stick to a soft diet, avoiding hard crunchy foods that can put pressure on the treated tooth.C. Oral Hygiene
- Brushing and floss as normal: Continue brushing at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, being gentle around the treated area.
- Flossing: Floss daily to remove debris and prevent plaque build-up.D. Pain Control
- In the majority of cases you should expect the tooth to be sensitive for 2 to 4 days. Pain should decrease with time.
- If medications were prescribed, fill the prescription as soon as possible and start taking them as directed.
- If you were not given a prescription pain can be controlled with either ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Alternating the two provides very effective pain relief. That is, take ibuprofen (e.g., 400 mg), then 2 or 3 hours later take acetaminophen (e.g., 1,000 mg) and then 2 or 3 hours after that take ibuprofen again and so on. This alternating schedule provides continuous pain relief while taking advantage of the different ways these medications work.
- Always follow the recommended dosage and consult your dentist or doctor if you have any underlying conditions or concerns which may prevent you from safely taking the medication.
- Always take your pain medication with a whole glass of water and with a small amount of food if the pills cause nausea.
- Do not drive or drink alcohol if you take prescription pain pills and that some antibiotics can temporarily nullify the effects of oral contraceptivesE. Antibiotics
- It is normal to have some gum swelling and infection around the tooth for several days or longer.
- We will only prescribe antibiotics if you have facial swelling or persistent infection
- If you were prescribed Antibiotics before or after the procedure and start to feeling better, it is crucial you still complete the full course as prescribed, This is to ensure the infection is fully treated and to prevent resistance.F. Managing Jaw Discomfort
- If you experience jaw discomfort, warm compresses used on the affected side can help alleviate pain .If you suspect any problems, do not hesitate to call the office at 705 476-5181 or Dr. Guy 705 499-3210

What comes next?

Follow-up
Immediately following the root canal your tooth needs to be restored with, at the very least, a filling to seal the opening. However the tooth can be brittle after a root canal and should have a crown placed over it to protect it against fracture. After about 3 to 6 months you should return for a recall visit so the dentist can evaluate the root canal treated tooth.LimitationsRoot canal treatments are successful in 95% of cases, often allowing the tooth to last a lifetime, provided the gums are healthy and the tooth is properly restored. It's essential to continue caring for your teeth and gums to maintain their health, with regular checkups being a crucial component of your dental prevention plan.Despite technological advancements, there is still a 5% chance of root canal failure, which may result in ongoing pain and infection. Failure can be due to various factors, including complex root anatomy, undetected cracks, heavy biting stress, or poor patient healing. In such cases, retreatment, root-end surgery, or even tooth extraction may be necessary.Dentists have limited control over these factors, which is why they cannot offer a warranty or guarantee of success for root canal treatments.

Resources

Dental Implants

General

A dental implant is a viable option for replacing a missing tooth. These are manufactured devices surgically placed in the upper or lower jaw, serving as anchors for replacement teeth. Made from titanium and other biocompatible materials, implants look and feel like natural teeth, fitting securely when you chew and speak.There are several types of dental implant-supported prostheses. Our office, in coordination with the oral surgeon, will handle single-tooth and smaller multiple implant cases. If you require full implant-supported dentures, we will refer you to a prosthodontist for specialized care. Here’s a brief overview:

The Single Tooth Implant Process

Dental implant treatment consists a surgical and a restorative phase. At our office, the process begins with a referral to an oral surgeon for the surgical phase, which includes an examination and consultation. Not everyone is a candidate for implants. The surgeon will review your medical history, as health is a more significant factor than age. For instance, chronic illnesses such as diabetes or leukemia may impede healing after surgery. Additionally, tobacco users are at a higher risk of developing gum disease, which can weaken the bone and tissues necessary to support the implant. The surgeon will assess the area, examine bone quality, and perform a special type of X-ray known as CBCT to evaluate bone density. Adequate jawbone is required to support an implant. If your jawbone is not dense or voluminous enough, implants may not be an option. In some cases, a bone graft procedure might be necessary. Based on the assessment results, the surgeon will determine if implant treatment is suitable for you. If it is, they will proceed with the surgical phase after obtaining your informed consent.1- Bone Graft:
If you require a bone graft, it will be the first step in the process. Bone graft surgery may be performed as a separate procedure or in conjunction with the removal of the tooth to be replaced. Bone grafts provide a crucial foundation for the successful placement of implants, ensuring stability and longevity. There are various types of bone grafts: autografts (sourced from your own body), allografts (obtained from a tissue bank), xenografts (derived from animal tissue), and synthetic alternatives.During the procedure, the oral surgeon administers anesthesia, removes the tooth, positions and sutures the graft material and barriers in place, and provides postoperative care guidelines. Although bone grafting is an additional step in the implant procedure, which can increase the overall cost and extend the healing period (typically between 4 to 12 months), it is vital for the long-term success of the dental implant.2- Surgical Stage:
During the implant surgery, the surgeon may sedation and will administer anesthesia to place the implant. The implant is inserted with the top flush with bone surface. After placement, they may insert a screw to prevent debris entry and then suture the gum over the implant, or they might attach a "healing abutment" for the gum to heal around. The implant should remain undisturbed for three to six months to allow "osseointegration," the bonding of the implant with the bone. Post-surgery swelling or tenderness is typical, and pain medication may be prescribed for relief.3- Surgical follow-up:
Following the integration period, the patient revisits the surgeon to either have the implant uncovered, if it was initially covered, and to have a healing abutment placed. An additional 4-6 weeks of healing may be required before moving forward. If an abutment was placed during the surgery, the surgeon will assess the torque strength to confirm bone integration. If the integration is deemed sufficient, the surgeon will give authorization to proceed with the restorative phase.4- Restoration Stage:
The restorative phase usually requires at least two visits. During the first appointment, the dentist attaches a coping to the implant and takes an impression or mold. This is sent to the dental lab along with essential details. The impression informs the lab of the implant's precise location in the bone, allowing for the creation of a custom "tooth" that seamlessly matches the surrounding teeth in size, shape, color, and fit. After the lab completes the restoration, it's returned to the dentist. During the second visit, the dentist places the restoration, a procedure that typically takes 30 to 60 minutes and rarely needs anesthesia.Our collaborative approach guarantees the best possible results for our patients.

Resources

Periodontal Disease

General

Periodontal disease is an inflammation or infection of the bones and gum tissues, or collectively "the supporting structures," of the teeth. It can lead to tooth loss and increase the risk of other serious health issues. It is crucial to make the necessary changes to halt, control and manage this disease.Gum disease is :
- primarily caused by the body's reaction to bacteria in plaque,
- affects approximately 75% of adults,
- is progressive, meaning it worsens if not treated, and
- often progresses with little pain.The following table lists signs and symptoms, risks factors and possible health problems for gum disease :

How do we get it?

The likelihood and severity of Periodontal disease largely depend on an individual's health and lifestyle. See Table "Risk factors of Periodontal Disease" which highlights several health and lifestyle factors that increase the risk of gum disease. Generally, anything that weakens the body's immune system or its ability to heal will reduce its capacity to combat periodontal disease.Smoking
As shown above, smoking is a major risk factor in the development and progression of periodontal disease. Tobacco suppresses the body’s ability to fight infection. Tobacco users are twice as likely to develop periodontal disease and are more likely to lose teeth than non-smokers. The severity of periodontal disease is related to the amount of daily tobacco exposure and the number of years of exposure.

Diagnosing

The Periodontal examination is a routine part of every adult examination to alert us to early problems. We not only check for the signs and symptoms of periodontal disease but measure gum pockets. Periodontal probing is the cornerstone of the periodontal exam.To measure, a probe is used, which has a rounded tip and millimeter markings, is gently moved around your gumline to measure, in millimeter increments, the distance from the gumline to the deepest extent of the pocket that surrounds your tooth. Six measurements are recorded around each tooth. When gums are healthy, pockets will measure anywhere from 1 to 4mm. As part of a proper periodontal assessment we may require additional radiographs to assess bone levels around the teethIf signs and symptoms are significant and probing depth are consistently greater than 4mm around the majority of your teeth, we will recommend the appropriate treatment for you.

If Left Untreated

Without gum therapy, the progressive destruction of your gums will continue. You may experience or eventually suffer from bleeding, swollen gums, receding gums, loose teeth, bad breath, painful infections, and tooth loss.

Overall Health

Evidence now links gum disease to a variety of health concerns. As shown above, there are increased risk of numerous health problems associated with periodontal disease, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, osteoporosis, and lung infections. Pregnant women who do not treat their gum disease are at a higher risk of delivering preterm, low birth weight infants. These risk factors and health concerns are supported by numerous studies. We would be pleased to provide you with additional information about the connection between your oral health and overall health.Article: Alzheimer's Gum disease link

Treatment

The goal of periodontal treatment is simply to control the bacteria that causes periodontal disease and the body’s response to it. With treatment we attempt to create an environment that is stable (no disease progression) and maintainable (all areas can be cleaned well by you and your hygienist)Scaling and Root PlaningUsing hand and ultrasonic instruments, scaling and root planing involves the removal of the bacteria and deposits (plaque and tartar) that have accumulated above and below the gum line in the periodontal pockets. The root surfaces of the teeth are planed (smoothed) to promote healing and to help prevent future bacterial reattachment. Most of the time, scaling and root planing is done in two to four visits. For patient comfort, the gums can be numbed using a local anesthetic. One-quarter of the mouth is usually treated at the time and treatment of each quarter can take 45 minutes to an hour (three to four hours for the entire mouth). Most patients report minimal discomfortOral Hygiene InstructionYour daily home care is the most important factor in controlling gum disease. So during scaling and root planing appointments, we will review oral hygiene techniques that are aimed at improving your ability to control plaque and to help avoid bacteria from reinfecting the pockets. You also will receive advice on the modification of certain risk factors associated with periodontal disease.PeriostatPeriostat is a low dose Doxycycline(20mg) which is used in conjunction with Scaling and root planing to help reduce the body’s response to the inflammation. Although doxycycline is typically used as an antibiotic in higher doses, at lower doses it helps slow the breakdown of collagen (the main constitute of bone, ligament and gum tissue), by inhibiting the action of the collagenase enzyme. At low doses Doxycycline has none of the negative side effects of regular dose antibiotics.
It is recommended for a period of 3 to 9 months on those with moderate to severe periodontal disease.Directions for use: Twice daily, 1 hour prior to morning and evening meals. Take the capsule with a full glass of water.Information on Periostat
Periostat Product sheetPost Treatment CareFor several days after a scaling expect Teeth to:
· Be sensitive to temperature,
· Be sensitive to pressure and biting and
· Feel loose
· Gums to be tender and bleed more readilyEating to prevent periodontal diseaseRe-Evaluation
Four to six weeks after completion of scaling and root planing, a periodontal re-evaluation must be completed. The purpose of this exam is to assess the response to treatment and determine if there is a need for further treatment. In some cases it may be necessary to refer you to a periodontist (gum specialist) to continue treatment.

Resources

Dentistry for Children

PRIMATY TEETH ARE IMPORTANT !

Your child's first set of teeth, called "primary teeth" are more important than most people realize. Healthy and cavity-free primary teeth are crucial in:
- speech development.
- proper feeding and nutrition. Oral issues can affect a child's physical and mental growth and development.
- the guidance and positioning of permanent teeth. They also act as "space-savers" in the jaw for they reduce the need for future orthodontic work.
- the development good self-esteem.

• First Visit
• Common Dental Issues
• Dental Treatments
• Resources

Your Child's First Visit!

Your child's first dental visit sets the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health. That’s why we strive to make it a comfortable and enjoyable experience—often calling it a “tickle visit” to keep things light and reassuring. If the first visit is not an emergency, here’s what to expect:- Friendly Introduction – We’ll welcome your child, show them around the office, and introduce them to some of our equipment, including the dental chair, light, mirror, and explorer (dental pick).
- Gentle Examination – We’ll assess their mouth, teeth, and gums to ensure everything is developing properly.
- Habit Evaluation – We’ll check for behaviors like thumb or finger sucking that may affect their oral health.
- Fluoride Assessment – Identifying their fluoride needs to help protect their teeth.
- Parent Guidance – We’ll provide parents with tips on effectively cleaning their child’s teeth and gums.
- Personalized Care Plan – Every child is unique, so we’ll suggest a schedule of dental visits tailored to their individual needs.By creating a reassuring and fun first dental experience, we help children build confidence and set the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles!Making Dental Visits Enjoyable for ChildrenCreating a positive experience at the dentist can help your child feel comfortable and develop healthy habits for life. Here are a few ways to make dental visits stress-free and even enjoyable:- Keep it Positive – Avoid sharing or letting your child overhear scary stories about the dentist.
- Stay Calm – If you have dental anxiety, try not to express it in front of your child. Your reassurance can help ease their nerves.
- Make It Familiar – Bring your child along for your dental visit or an older sibling’s appointment so they can observe the process in a relaxed setting. Allow them to play while they watch.
- Use Books to Prepare Them – Reading children’s books about dental visits can help set expectations and ease fears. A great recommendation is The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist by Stan and Jan Berenstain, which explains the experience in a fun and engaging way.By taking these steps, you can help your child approach dental visits with confidence and a sense of curiosity rather than fear.

Dental Treatment

Dental Sealants
Dental sealants may be recommended for your child if he or she has any newly erupted molars and premolars . Dental Sealants are a white or clear plastic material that is applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth. The sealant acts as a barrier to protect these chewing surfaces. The chewing surfaces are very prone to decay because they have small depressions, called pits and fissures, where germs and food can pack. Sealants should be applied as soon as these teeth appear in the mouth and before they have a chance to decay.Dental Filings
White fillings or Composite Resin- To achieve an aesthetic result most cavities on front teeth are filled with white filling. Smaller cavities on back teeth can also be restored with white fillings. But compared to amalgam, white filling is generally weaker , takes longer to place, costs more and requires some cooperation from the child, as it must be placed in a dry environment without saliva.Silver or Amalgam Fillings- Most back teeth are done with Silver filling. It is required for decay between teeth, which requires a larger restoration. Silver filling is strong, durable, cost-effective and can be placed in minutes. In baby teeth, Silver fillings generally longer lasting than white fillings. Silver fillings contain various metals such as silver, copper, tin and mercury. Mercury is necessary to chemically bind the compounds together to form a hard, stable material.Stainless steel crowns are needed when decay has destroyed a tooth to such a degree that there is little of the tooth remaining. Amalgam or silver fillings are not recommended for large fillings in "baby" teeth because if this large filling fractures there is a greater chance that a pulpectomy or extraction will be necessary. Stainless steel crowns are highly recommended on primary ("baby") molars so they will have the benefit of a much more durable and reliable restoration.Extensive Decay or Infection
Pulpectomy- Deep decay may reach the nerve and to restore this a pulpectomy is required. This procedure involves removing the infected nerve tissue and placing medicament directly over the nerve tissue of the roots. The tooth is then restored in the most appropriate manner (i.e. an amalgam or stainless steel crown. Because of the difficult root structure of baby teeth, the procedure has only an 80 per cent success rate.Tooth extraction may be necessary if there is extensive damage, pain, infection or where an abscess has formed.Space Maintainers- If a child loses a primary back tooth prematurely, crowding of the future permanent teeth may occur. A space maintainer may be recommended to prevent teeth moving and allow adequate space for the permanent tooth to erupt. Even with a space maintainer, crowding may need to be corrected later with orthodontic braces. However, a space maintainer is not usually required for missing front teeth, as these tend to align themselves correctly in most cases.Nitrous Oxide Sedation
If your child requires one or two short visits to complete small fillings or an extraction and is a little anxious nitrous oxide sedation maybe recommended. Nitrous Oxide will calm them enough to safely complete the procedures.Hospital Dentistry
However if work is more extensive or cooperation is poor it may be recommended your child’s treatment be referred for dental treatment to be done under deep sedation where an anesthesiologist will put your child to sleep utilizing a general anesthetic so the dentist can do all necessary dental work. The main advantage of having your child placed under general anesthesia is all procedures can be done at once. This is much easier on your child than enduring the long hours in the dental chair, or repeated visits. It is so important young children develop a health attitude toward dentistry and dental visits. Dental visits must remain positive or at least negative ones minimized. Numerous long visits to do extensive treatment can negatively impact a young child’s attitude to dentistry. These attitudes can affect them for life and in turn have a negative impact on their future dental health.

Resources

Sterilization

Sterilization

What is done:*
1. We use gloves and masks whenever treating patients. Hands are washed with soap and water and are dried thoroughly or rubbed with a hand sanitizer before we glove.
2. In the operatory all surfaces exposed during the procedure are sprayed and wiped down using high level disinfectants.
3. All water and suction lines are disinfected between patients and nightly to remove the bacterial growth.
4. Plastics, rubber dams, papers, gauze, foam trays, gloves or anything else disposable are discarded after the procedure.
5. Sharps, needles, glass and scalpels, are disposed of in a puncture-proof container at point of use.
6. All handpieces (or drills) are lubricated and sterilized.
7. All instruments used during treatment are reprocessed (or sterilized) at the Steri-Center and are either placed into an instrument cassette or bagged in a sterilization pouch. The instruments are pre-washed in an instrument washer to remove stubborn debris and then placed into an Autoclave.
8. We verify sterilization effectiveness mechanically, chemically and biologically.
9. Every load is logged by time, date, the contents and whether it was successful
10. The time/date stamp, sterilizer and load # of the cassettes and/or pouches used on you are recorded in your chart.
11. All sterilization equipment is inspected and maintained on the schedule recommended by the manufacturer
12. As per the RCDSO, we conduct an annual audit using the Public Health Ontario’s Infection Control and Prevention Checklist for dental offices . If any deficiencies are revealed we take immediate action to correct them.Your health matters to us so, you can be assured we are taking the latest precautions to make your visit safe.*This is for information purposes only and in no way implies our office is superior to any other office in this respect.

Digital Radiography

General

Digital radiographs are vital in evaluating oral health, offering insights that aren't apparent in a visual exam.Advantages of Digital Radiography:
- X-ray radiation exposure is reduced by as much as 90%.
- Enhanced details and image adjustments on the computer significantly aid diagnosis.
- Images are stored in the electronic chart for quick access when needed.
- It eliminates the use of chemicals found in conventional development processes.Our practice has a ScanX digital radiographic system and a Vatech Digital Panorex Machine

TMD, Bruxism and Dental Splints

General

Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) refers to a group of conditions affecting the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) and the muscles controlling jaw movement. This disorder can lead to discomfort and pain in the jaw, face, neck, and even shoulders. Common symptoms include jaw soreness, headaches, and difficulty opening or closing the mouth.What is TMD?
One of the primary contributors to TMD is bruxism, which refers to the grinding or clenching of teeth, often done unconsciously. This condition can occur during the day (awake bruxism) or at night (sleep bruxism). Bruxism not only wears down tooth enamel but also increases jaw muscle tension, contributing to TMD. Common symptoms include tooth sensitivity, tight jaw muscles, jaw pain, and headaches. Additionally, bruxism can be especially harmful to teeth, leading to tooth wear, cervical notching, and fractures. In many cases, it may even cause damage to the pulp (tooth nerve).

• Bruxism
• Splint Use and Care Instructions
• TMD Self-Care & Exercises
• Resources

Splint Instructions for Use and Care

Bruxism Splints or Night Guards play a crucial role in managing both TMD and bruxism. These devices, typically made of hard or soft plastic, are custom-fitted to your teeth by a dental professional. When worn, night guards help reduce the impact of teeth grinding and clenching by providing a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth. This helps to prevent tooth wear and damage, alleviate jaw pain and muscle tension, and reduce headaches associated with bruxism and TMD.Benefits of a Bruxism Splint
1. Prevents Dental Damage: Protects teeth from the harmful effects of grinding, reducing wear and preventing fractures.
2. Alleviates Jaw Pain and TMJ Disorders: Helps redistribute the forces exerted during grinding, reducing strain on the jaw muscles and joints.
3. Improves Sleep Quality: Reduces grinding, leading to more restful and uninterrupted sleep.Appointments for a Bruxism Splint
1. Initial Consultation and custom impressions: Your dentist will evaluate your symptoms and take impressions of your teeth and a wax bite. These records are sent to a dental lab where the splint is custom-made to fit your teeth perfectly.
3. Fitting Appointment: Once the splint is ready, you'll return to the dentist for a fitting. The dentist will ensure the splint fits comfortably and make any necessary adjustments.
4. Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments may be needed to monitor your progress and make any further adjustments.

Splint Instructions for Use and Care

Congratulations on getting your bruxism splint! This is an excellent way to manage TMD and protect your teeth from the damaging effects of bruxism. Your splint should fit securely, with all your opposing teeth touching it evenly and without undue force or pressure on any individual tooth. Here are some important use and care instructions to help you get the most out of your splint and ensure its longevity.

Instructions for use
Please wear the splint at night to protect your teeth and jaw muscles
If you are experiencing any jaw muscle and/or joint problems you may want to consider daytime wear to resolve these issues.We will schedule a follow-up appointment for two weeks time to check and correct any issues you might have with the fit and/or bite of the splint.
Call to schedule an earlier appointment if:
- You feel the bite changed drastically, It can be normal for the bite to change as tense muscles start to relax,
It should chip or crack,
- You feel continuous pressure or strain on an individual tooth when wearing the splint.
- You feel sore spots, sensitive teeth or sore jaw muscles.
you experience anything unusual regarding your teeth, gums, tongue, etc.Care Instructions
DO:
- Brush and floss your teeth before use. Trapping food debris and plaque under the splint can lead to tooth decay and/or gum problems
- Clean and rinse your splint with a soft brush after each use. If you would like you can also brush it with a mild dish soap.
- Periodically soak you splint with Denture cleaner (Polident® or Efferdent®)
- Keep your appliance in the box provided when not wearing
- Clean this box periodically in warm soapy water to prevent bacterial or fungal growth.
- Bring your splint with you during your regular dental checkup so we examine it for any needed repairs or adjustments. If you have any dental procedures done so we can insure proper of it following the procedure.DO NOT:
- DO NOT clean your splint with toothpaste as it will scratch it
- DO NOT clean it with boiling water. This will alter your splint and render it unusable
- DO NOT let children or pets get a hold of your splint.
- DO NOT attempt to file or alter the splint any way. All such adjustments should made by the dentist. only.Call us at (705) 476-5181 if you have any questions regarding the use and care of your splint.

TMD SELF-CARE

The following self-care instruction may help in the management of your TMD issues. TMD self-care is appropriate when symptoms are mild or intermittent and can often improve with simple home remedies. However, if symptoms persist, worsen, or significantly impact your daily life, it's important to consult a healthcare professional lie a dentist or physiotherapist for a proper diagnosis and a treatment plan.

Habits and Posture
- Monitor and try to correct the habits, posture and jaw use patterns that may be contributing to the problem
- Avoid tooth contact when the jaw is not being used for other function such as speaking and chewing. Place the tip of the tongue behind the top teeth and keep the teeth slightly apart
- Avoid clenching, grinding, gritting, tapping of the teeth or tensing or holding the jaw muscles rigid– especially during daily activities such as driving, studying, computer work, social situations, reading, working or athletic activities
- Avoid opening wide or moving jaw around excessively
- Avoid habitually manoeuvring the jaw into positions to assess its comfort or range.
- Avoid habitually clicking the jaw if one is present
- Avoid habits as resting your jaw on your hand or cradling the telephone against your shoulders
- Avoid sleeping habits that strain your jaw muscles or joints, by not sleeping on your stomach and if you sleep on your side, keeping your neck and jaw aligned. If sleeping on your back, use a small pillow or rolled towel to support your lower back.
- Try to hold your head straight. Good head, neck and back posture help you to have good jaw posture.
- Try to support the jaw during yawning by providing mild pressure underneath the chin with the thumb and index finger or back of the handHeat and Ice Therapy
Apply moist heat, ice or a combination of heat and ice to the painful areas. If the heat increases your pain than use the combination or just the ice.a. use moist heat for 20 minutes two to four times each day. Moist heat can be obtained by wetting a towel with very warm water. It can be kept warm by wrapping it around a hot water bottle or placing a piece of plastic wrap and heating pad over it. It also can be rewarmed in a microwave oven or under the very warm water.
b. Use the combination of heat and ice two to four times each day. Apply the heat as recommended above for ten minutes then lightly brush the painful area with an ice cube wrapped in a thin washcloth. Repeat this sequence four or five times.
c. Apply ice wrapped in a thin washcloth to the painful area until you first feel some numbness then remove it (usually takes about ten minutes).Diet
- Do choose softer foods that can be chewed without pain.
- Do cut foods into smaller pieces and avoid foods that require wide mouth opening and biting off with the front teeth.
- Do chew on both sides of your mouth
- Don’t chew gum or eat hard (raw carrots ) or chewy foods (caramels, steak, bagels).
- Avoid caffeine, because it stimulates your muscles to contract and hold more tension in them.Stress Management
Learn and practice techniques that can manage and reduce your stress such as yoga poses, deep breathing, guided imagery and meditation.Medication
Short term use of medications may be helpful. Take only as needed
NSAIDS: such as Advil or Motrin
Muscle relaxants: such as Robaxin

TMD Exercises

Practice the exercises as described below.EXERCISE ONE
The first exercise is an isometric one and should help the muscles that move your jaw work together better. Do six repetitions, six times each day.
- Open your mouth the width of your index finger.
- Place your finger on the top of your lower front teeth and press down.
- Do not allow your jaw to move, Resist the pressure of your finger with the muscles of your jaw.
- Keeping your mouth open the same distance, place your finger under your chin. Apply upward pressure and resist it with the muscles of your jaw.
- Now try pressing from each side.
- Use only one finger for pressure.
- Apply the pressure for only five seconds at a time.EXERCISE TWO
This exercise will help you to open your mouth without causing popping, grinding, and pain in the joint. Practice it until you know how wide you can open with comfort. Then, stick to those limits.
- Place your tongue against the roof of your mouth.
- Open as far as you can without allowing your tongue to move. If you hear any popping or grinding, close until the noise stops.
- Repeat the exercise, opening only as far as you can without making any noise.The following exercises, which stretch and strengthen your head and neck muscles, also relieve pressure on your nerves. Practice them several times a day.

Resources

Our Informational Sheet on Bruxism Splints

Quick reference on bruxism splints you can print anytime.

• See PDF

Privacy Policy

Our Privacy Policy

Last updated: July 1st, 2025
At Guy Dentistry, protecting your personal information is a top priority. This policy explains what information we collect, how we use it, and the measures we take to ensure its security. By using our website and services, you agree to the practices described below.

1. Company Identification
Company Name: Guy Dentistry
Data Protection Officer (DPO): Michael Guy
Contact Email: [email protected]
Mailing Address: 175 Lakeshore Dr, North Bay, ON, P1A2B3, Canada2. Information Collected
We collect the following information through the online appointment form integrated with the Koobex platform:- First and last name
- Email address
- Phone number
- Reason for consultation or selected service
- Appointment preferencesTechnical data such as IP address, device, and browser information may also be automatically collected by Koobex or our website.3. Purpose of Collection
The personal information collected is used for the following purposes:- Appointment scheduling and confirmation
- Communication with patients for follow-ups or reminders
- Service improvement through aggregated and anonymized statistics4. Sharing of Information with Third Parties
Your personal information is shared with the Koobex platform, which manages online appointments. Koobex acts as a data processor and handles the information in accordance with its own privacy policies and legal obligations.No personal information is sold to third parties. However, some data may be shared with:
- Secure data hosting providers
- Analytics or marketing service providers, if applicableYour data will never be transferred outside Canada without a prior risk assessment.5. Data Retention
We retain your personal data only as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined above, unless a longer retention period is required or permitted by law. Once data is no longer needed, it is securely deleted or anonymized.6. Your Rights
In accordance with Law PIPEDA, you have the following rights:- Right of Access: Request a copy of your personal information.
- Right of Correction: Request correction of inaccurate or incomplete data.
- Right to Data Portability: In certain cases, request to receive your data in a structured format.
- Right to Withdraw Consent: Withdraw your consent for future use of your data.
- Right to Erasure: Request deletion of your data, subject to legal or contractual obligations.To exercise any of these rights, contact us at [email protected].7. Data Security
We implement technical and organizational security measures to protect your personal information from unauthorized access, disclosure, or use, including:- Secure connections (HTTPS)
- Hosting data on secure servers
- Strict access controls for employees and contractors8. Use of Cookies and Similar Technologies
Our website may, in the future, use cookies or similar technologies to:- Enhance your user experience
- Collect anonymous site traffic and usage statisticsCurrently, our website does not use any cookies directly. If third-party tools (such as analytics or advertising tools) are integrated in the future, their cookies will be governed by their own privacy policies.You can manage cookie preferences through your browser settings, including blocking or deleting existing cookies.9. Changes to This Policy
This privacy policy may be updated to reflect legal or operational changes. The date of the last update is shown at the top of this page. We encourage you to review this policy regularly.10. Contact
For any questions, requests, or concerns about this policy, please contact:- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: (705) 476-5181